Builders have found a new way to rejuvenate and improve the overall look of their custom bikes. After focusing during years on the rear wheel and experimenting with diameter and width to the point of exhausting all possible rideable options, the new cool thing is to use taller front wheels. And in many cases, not all, it’s both an aesthetic improvement while keeping the bike perfectly rideable. Hence the 23″ and 26″ front wheel pushing for a new generation of tires and fenders. Continue reading ‘Front Wheel Size Matters. New 23″ And 26″ Front Fenders.’
Archive Page 279
Front Wheel Size Matters. New 23″ And 26″ Front Fenders.
Published by November 28th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.Norton Back In The USA. Launching 3 New Commando Versions.
Published by November 27th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Norton Motorcycles, the famous British brand and a name synonymous with the British sport motorcycling culture, is back in the USA and announced the appointment of industry veteran Dan Van Epps to head-up its operations The first Norton motorcycle, the ‘Engerette’, rolled out of its Birmingham England factory in 1902. The company has been producing the new 961 Commandos for almost two years, and the orders have been well beyond expectations. We’ve had to ramp-up production much earlier than anticipated to grow on pace with our customer’s requests”. Dan Van Epps the new CEO of Norton Motorcycles USA and was formally CEO of Ducati North America. Continue reading ‘Norton Back In The USA. Launching 3 New Commando Versions.’
Nostalgic Panhead Or Knucklehead Look For Your New Evo Or Twin Cam Engine
Published by November 27th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Add a touch of retro, Panhead or Knucklehead style, to your Harley-Davidson of after-market Evo or Twin Cam engine thanks to these Rocker Boxes from XZotic.
These cover kits are compatible with the original Evo or Twin Cam components. Each kit includes front & rear rocker box assemblies and gaskets (except rocker box to cylinder gaskets) and mounting hardware.
Panhead style (chrome): For Evo Big Twin engines (from 84 to 99 (except FXR models), FXR models from 84 to 00 and Sportsters from 86 to 03. For Twin Cam models from 99-10. Knucklehead style (natural & Partially polished): For Evo models from 94-99 and Evo Sportsters from 86-03. For Twin Cam models from 99-10. See your Custom Chrome /Jammer Catalog Dealer. (picture copyright Cyril Huze)
World’s Most Expensive Motorcycle. 1929 Brough Superior. Auctioned $455,000.
Published by November 26th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Brough Superior (1919-1938), the brand nicknamed the Rolls Royce Of Motorcycles, has always been the epitome of exclusivity, luxury, elegance, style and extraordinary design. And a private collector proved it again by getting a 1929 model for the outstanding price of 286,000 UK pounds or about US$455,000 during a European auction at the Haynes International Motor Museum. The previous record for the top price achieved by a motorcycle at auction had previously been held by a 1915 overhead camshaft Cyclone board track racer, which sold for 278,400 UK pounds. Classic motorcycles have soared in value in recent years because the reasoning is that very rare items are often considered a money refuge by rich collectors during periods of economic uncertainty and recessions. Continue reading ‘World’s Most Expensive Motorcycle. 1929 Brough Superior. Auctioned $455,000.’
One Man’s Dream. The John Britten Bike Story.
Published by November 26th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Videos.John K. Britten (1950 –1995) was a New Zealand mechanical engineer who designed a world-record-setting motorcycle with innovative features which are still ahead of contemporary design. He continues to be an inspiration to many. He produced revolutionary machines to his own design made of light materials and using engines he built himself, which became famous around the world. His Britten motorcycles won races and set numerous speed records on the international circuits, and astounded the motorcycle world in 1991 when they came a remarkable second and third against the factory machines in the Battle of the Twins on the Daytona International Speedway.
This trailer is from a fascinating video capturing all the drama, the dreams and the nightmares, the triumphs and the tragedies. It is the legend of the man from “Down Under ” who dared to challenge the might and wisdom of the world’s great motorcycle production factories and captured a nations imagination en route. Very inspiring. You can order online the only DVD available telling the story of John Britten and his bike by going to Britten DVD.
New RevTech Heavy Duty 6 Speed Transmission
Published by November 26th, 2010 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
A Custom Chrome exclusive, the all-new, RevTech 6-speed transmission for Softails is available in right and left-side drive, with your choice of three different finishes – polished, black, and natural.
The left-side drive transmissions are offered with a stock end cover, or an optional kicker that has a fully-machined forged aluminum kicker cover, and precision-machined shafts with specially-designed ratchet gears. The LSD transmissions feature all-new 356-T6 cast aluminum cases, with forged trap doors. Continue reading ‘New RevTech Heavy Duty 6 Speed Transmission’
What’s new for 2011 at the big wheel-style SS Trike Company? President Jason Nieman promises to roll new optional accessories, the first one being a large capacity trunk with integrated backrest that holds 13 gallons or 3,000 cubic inches. It attaches to the rear of the SS Trike with a couple of standard bolts in 1 minute or less. It holds 1 full face helmet with room for additional items. Continue reading ‘SS Trikes New Options’
New York Company Claims To Own The Daytona Beach Bike Week Trademark
Published by November 25th, 2010 in Editorial and Events.
After paying $87.50 a small New York company was granted the State trademark for the name “Daytona Beach Bike Weelk intends to take all legal actions to protect its rights on any businesses that produce T-shirts and other merchandise bearing the Daytona Beach Bike Week name without its approval. The Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, the association that has managed the annual Bike Week event through an agreement with the city since 1988 has hired the law firm Cobb Cole to contest this company rights and block the New York company’s bid to obtain a federal trademark. Continue reading ‘New York Company Claims To Own The Daytona Beach Bike Week Trademark’
The Secret Life Of Paul Teutul Senior
Published by November 24th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
All top TV executives will tell you that men in jeans, men with tattoos, men who curse, men who weld, men with power tools, men who like to smash and build things into fantasy toys, make high rated TV reality shows. They will add that their objective is to increase the number of male viewers because men watch much less TV (except News) than women. And since the TV series “American Chopper” is still able to pull an average of 2.2 to 2.8 million viewers per episode, 70% of them being male, the show got a hit TV Reality formula and is not going to fade away anytime soon…
Of course, I know in advance the type of reactions, positive or negative, that an interview of Paul Teutul Senior will provoke. The dividing lines between you as always been and will always be around these questions. What is the true contribution, if any, of the TV show to the motorcycle industry, to its participants and overall to all fans of custom motorcycles? Is the yelling relation between father and son, and now the rivalry between their competing shops, in itself the only dynamic of the show? Or did the show was good for the industry in its first episodes years ago on the Discovery Channel but no more because The Learning Channel latest version has drowned in a non-motorcycle drama?
As an introduction to Paul Teutul Senior interview I will only add 2 things. First, true personality of any individual in the public eye is often very different from its perception by the public at large through only a big or TV screen . Second, Paul Teutul Sr. is of course perfectly aware of the controversial nature of the show for some of you, but didn’t refuse my interview. I thank him for accepting to open up to all my readers and to reveal a little bit more than you know about his personality. (all photography courtesy to Cyril Huze, copyright The Discovery/TLC/David Lang) Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Paul Teutul Senior’
Short History. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies.
For more than two centuries, days of thanksgiving were celebrated by individual colonies and states.
It wasn’t until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.
X-Ray Not. Men’s Privacy Brief Radiation Blocker.
Published by November 24th, 2010 in Editorial and Merchandise.
I never thought that I would be writing in my Blog about men’s underwear! My excuse is that many of you are traveling during this Thanksgiving weekend and reading me on their digital devices while facing an overreaching (pun intended) government TSA. So, I bring you (I hope) a smile with these TSA Proof Briefs to protect you from radiation and pawing agents.
These briefs have a leaf in the front (from a fig tree) that supposedly blocks the radiation from airport x-ray machines. You could probably get the same result with some tin-foil in your pants, but you would risk a 3rd screening in a private room…Seller states that these briefs block/diminish Alpha, Beta, T-Wave, Tera hertz radiations (whatever it means) from remote strip cameras, insure privacy of medical and body scanner images, and wait, ultimate reason to wear them, proudly made in USA. Washable too, but only in cold water! Please, don’t call or email me when you get in trouble wearing them at your next security check. $19.85. At Rocky Flats Gear.
US Government NTSB Pushing Again For Mandatory Helmet Use
Published by November 23rd, 2010 in Accessories, Editorial and Events.
The NTSB – National Transportation Safety Board – hopes that all US States will have mandatory helmet laws. At this day 20 states have such laws. The NTSB points out the fact that there was 4,400 deaths nationwide for 2009 and says that a law requiring all riders to wear a helmet will reduce that number. And while the NTSB states motorcycle deaths have increased over the last decade, the MTSA – National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – shows they’re lower than they’ve been in years. As a matter of fact, the number of deaths went down in 2009 versus 2007 and 2008 with each year showing over 5000 motorcyclist deaths. Continue reading ‘US Government NTSB Pushing Again For Mandatory Helmet Use’
Harley-Davidson Saddlebag Organizers
Published by November 23rd, 2010 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
If you are a Harley tourer and is as organized as I am, you need a pair of Saddlebag Organizer Trays to hold and protect all your road accessories and necessities, from registration to glasses, from cel. phone to iPad, from wallet to GPS and all the necessities you think you need to carry with you on the road.
Optional accessories for these trays are also available, like 12v outlet chargers, custom foam kits, etc. They fit all stock Harley-Davidson saddlebags from 1993 to present. At Hard Bagger. Tel: 951-834-2557.
Panheads, Knuckleheads, Ford Roadsters And Ford Coupes. By Tom Fritz.
Published by November 23rd, 2010 in Editorial and Painters.
Authorized Harley-Davidson artist Tom Fritz is proud to announce the completion of his latest painting and official release of “Percussion Discussion”. A ’54 Panhead, 3- and 5-window Ford coupes, a ’32 Ford roadster, a ’40 Ford coupe. several Harley-Davidsons and Hot Rods. Striped club sweaters, white t-shirts, and cuffs. Self-appointed experts sharing answers without ridicule. No jokes. No mocking. This isn’t art about flash-in-the-pan trends. It’s about pure ethic, traditional aesthetics, and style fraught with truth. Continue reading ‘Panheads, Knuckleheads, Ford Roadsters And Ford Coupes. By Tom Fritz.’
Motorsport Aftermarket Group Acquires The Cycle News Brand
Published by November 23rd, 2010 in Editorial.
You remember that Cycle News, a printed weekly motorcycle newspaper for more than 40 years ceased publication August 31, 2010. Motorsport Aftermarket Group (MAG), a family of leading brands and businesses in the motorsport industry, announced today that it has acquired the Cycle News brand. In addition to acquiring the name brand, MAG also announced the hiring of Paul Carruthers to return to his position as Editor of Cycle News. In the press releasr, no mention was made about how MAG intends to relaunch Cycle News, if there will be a print edition or just an online presence. As far as I know, it’s the first time that MAG invests in the publishing business. The MAG companies include Performance Machine, Vance & Hines, Kuryakyn, Mustang Seats, Burly Brand, etc.
Soundcheck. Listen To Doobie Brothers’ Pat Simmons.
Published by November 22nd, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Pat Simmons, co-founder in 1970 of classic rock legends The Doobie Brothers, is a very familiar face, as is his wife Cris Sommer, in all major motorcycle rallies around the country. A true biker since the late 60’s, he is extremely knowledgeable about motorcycles, especially the pre WWII brands and models on which he works when not touring, and is an avid collector of all memorabilia from this era. Over the years, the Doobies have sold well over 30 million CDs and continue to sell their catalog to new, young fans who have only recently discovered the band. At the same time, during 4 decades, bikers have never stopped digging into their music and their songs are probably the most played in any motorcycle event you attend here in the US and abroad.
Pat and his bandmates, musicians Tom Johnston, John Hartman, and Dave Shogren, just released “World Gone Crazy” which is their first studio album in 10 years. To the surprise of many skeptics who don’t believe that an aging band can produce any fresh music, the “buzz” in the industry is that this album is one of the major releases of the year (watch the video of the first song “Nobody” after the jump)
The group just returned from a very successful promotional tour in Europe, is now touring the US and got the good idea to give a concert on my turf in West Palm Beach, FL. After the traditional soundcheck and before walking on stage, Pat sat down with me to talk motorcycles…and of course music. (all photography Pat Simmons copyright Cris Sommer) Continue reading ‘Soundcheck. Listen To Doobie Brothers’ Pat Simmons.’
Stiletto. A Hawaiian Custom Pro-Street
Published by November 22nd, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
During this long and deep recession many motorcycle shops have closed, many more are surviving and very rarely new ones are opened. So, when I was contacted by a less than one year old shop called Kingdom Customs eager to know if I could help, I was intrigued. Even more when I saw their first big project and learned that Kingdom Customs is located in Hawaii, the newest of our 50 States (since August 21,1959) on the island of Oahu (where is located the State Capital of Honolulu.) I have sold quite a few custom parts to individuals and shops located in Hawaii, but acknowledge that I have very rarely seen the customs produced there. Continue reading ‘Stiletto. A Hawaiian Custom Pro-Street’
New 2011 Renegade Cabo Phantom Wheel
Published by November 21st, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
Bold yet subtle this wide-5 fluted spoke billet wheel will get your bike extra looks from Bobber to Bagger, either a daily rider or a bike show diva.
Deep black flawless powder coating finish with highlights individually hand polished to a high luster finish. Sizes and widths are available for most Harley-Davidson models and of course custom builds. From 16” to 26” diameters and widths from 2.15” up to a very fat 14”.
MSRP prices start at just $1149.00, probably cheaper than a good wheel that you would want to customize yourself by sending it to a good powdercoater and polisher. All details online at Renegade Wheels or call714-998-7241.
Harley-Davidson Apparel To Fatten Bottom Line
Published by November 21st, 2010 in Accessories, Editorial and Merchandise.
The India market is huge, and waiting for Harley-davidson models to be more affordable for them when bikes will be assembled locally, many Indians can now start living the American Way Of Life and make a fashion statement by wearing the Bar & Shield logo. Currently the India Harley merchandise revenue stands at 5%. However Harley-Davidson is very confident that this percentage will become very high in India. Anoop Prakash, who is the managing director of Harley Davidson India says that “The size of the Indian retail industry is huge, growing at a very fast pace and offers strong demand for merchandising and branded products. We see huge opportunity for Harley riding gears and fashion merchandises”. And of course, due to cheap India labor you can expect, more gear and merchandise to be produced in India…with probably part of the production being imported in the US.
The main reason to show you this velocity stack is that not many are sold in black. You can avoid the cost of gloss black powdercoating or anodizing by ordering this one sold with a mesh screen “Rabbit Ear Breather Mount & Bolt Kit”
For the following Harley models and carburetors. S&S “E”&”G” 99-07 Twin Cam w / bolt kit. S&S “E”&”G” 93-99 Evo w / bolt kit. CV & Fuel Injection models 99-07 Twin Cam w / bolt. CV & Fuel Injection models 84-99 Evo w / bolt kit. Mikuni 42 mm 99-07 Twin Cam w / bolt kit. Mikuni 42 mm 92-99 Evo w/ bolt kit. Price: $365.95. Online at Novello Designs.
1- All drugs have two names, a trade name and a generic name. Examples: Tylenol is the trade name for generic name Acetaminophen. Aleve is also called Naproxen. Amoxil is also called Amoxicillin and Advil is also called Ibuprofen.
The FDA has been looking for a generic name for Viagra. After careful consideration by a team of government experts, it recently announced that it has settled on the generic name of Mycoxafloppin. Also considered were Mycoxafailin, Mydixadrupin, Mydixarizin, Dixafix, and of course, Ibepokin… Continue reading ‘Medical Jokes Of The Week’
Harley-Davidson Removable Boom Audio Cruiser Amp and Speaker Kit
Published by November 19th, 2010 in Accessories, Builders, Editorial and Electrical.
This new Audio and Speaker Windshield-Mounted kit ($399.95) is a black and chrome enclosure that mounts to the inside of the detachable windshield, resting below the cross brace to maintain a low-profile appearance.
The waterproof enclosure conceals two 3.5-inch speakers behind a rich black grille. Simply unplug the speaker enclosure wiring, and the unit can be removed with the detachable windshield.
A compact, two-channel stereo amplifier mounts on the frame down tubes, and the 1/8-inch stereo auxiliary input connects to most portable audio players, some of which can be easily housed in a convenient Boom! Audio™ Tank Pouch (sold $39.95).
The integrated hand control features volume up/down buttons and a backlit on/off button, and is designed for easy operation with the rider’s right thumb, even while wearing gloves. Complete kit includes all wiring and mounting hardware. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Removable Boom Audio Cruiser Amp and Speaker Kit’
Custom Moto Guzzi. Bella Motocicletta.
Published by November 19th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Italian Moto Guzzi, the oldest European manufacturer in continuous motorcycle production (now owned by Piaggio). Many of their models on the roads of the old continent. But I don’t think you will see many with a such a radical and beautiful chopping treatment.
I love the result, and it’s the work of a young and talented Swedish custom Builder named Adam Nestor (doesn’t sound very Swedish to me.) My Swedish translator is riding, so if you understand the language, you can learn and see more by making a jump to Wheel Magazine Sweden, then please report back to me with all details.
One of the weirdest contraptions I have seen in a long time. Part skateboard, part Segway, part mini tank, the DTV Shredder features a normal skateboard deck and trucks, which are mounted to a powerful motor, and two tank threads — mounted below and to the sides of the deck — capable of going over snow, sand, dirt, ice, and nearly any other non-paved surface you can think. All this at speeds of up to 30 mph, or plenty fast enough to give you some gnarly injuries should you happen to shred a bit too hard. Hey, you can customize it depending of the application you intend. BPG Werks.
1- Harley Davidson Taps 3 New Advertising Agencies. When last August Advertising Agency Carmichael Lynch fired its 30-year client, Harley-Davidson made a statement saying it was not going to initiate a search for a new creative shop but would continue to work with a number of roster shops. Mark-Hans Richer, Harley’s chief marketing officer commented on the breakup by declaring: “Our strategies have been moving away from a singular consumer target and from a one-size-fits-all agency solution.” Retaining baby boomer clientele as long as possible, convincing youth – more women – minorities to ride one of their models. How? What is (are) the USP(s)? (Unique Selling Proposition) that the new ads will contain for each targeted segment? Harley-Davidson is turning to an unconventional marketing technique known as “crowdsourcing” as the source of its main creative marketing development. The company will draw on the ideas of thousands of its brand enthusiasts from around the world to help guide the marketing direction. I am impatient to see what will be the new multiple ideas and concepts that these agencies are going to develop for very different clients with very different taste and motivations without conflicting with each other. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
