Many of the Custom Motorcycle and Car Builders you know by name, including your writer, have been helped bring their visions to life thanks to the skills of master fabricator Brendon Thmpson. He was mentored in the techniques of forming sheet metal by Don Baumunk the owner of Fat Katz where he spent 13 years. Under his own colors – Elite Metal Designs – he continues to produce a line of custom gas tanks and fenders for most manufacturer models and of course enjoy forming sheet metal for one-off wild projects. Custom 12 gauge front fenders start at $225 and stamped gas tanks at $899 retail. Check his new website at Elite Metal Designs.
Archive Page 280
Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication. All Visions Welcomed.
Published by November 18th, 2010 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Since the early 1990’s, the number of female riders has increased exponentially. For all manufacturers women are their new “emerging market.” Depending of the brand, female buyers and riders may represent 10 to 18 percent of the clientele. And even during these long recession years there is no perceived economic, social or cultural reasons while this trend will not continue during the next decade. Quite the opposite, and it is a topic that I would like to develop in future posts.
Writers have noticed too and more books are written by men and women focusing on these ladies enjoying motorcycling for the simple and unique pleasure of casual riding but also embracing many other linked activities like racing, publishing, raising money for diverse charities, promoting the sport to other women, building motorcycles, painting them, engraving chrome or designing parts and gear conceived for them. Continue reading ‘Biker Chicz Of North America’
Triumph Motorcycles To Enter Indian Market
Published by November 18th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial, Events and Merchandise.
For all motorcycle manufacturers India looks more and more like the new El Dorado. After Harley-Davidson and BMW, UK based Triumph Motorcycles’ officials confirmed that they want to enter the Indian market and the company to get its share of the second largest two wheeler market in the world.
For all foreign manufacturers it’s a 10 to 20 years strategy susceptible to bring new motorcycle sales after a globally drop of almost 50% from its peak three years ago. Seems like no major manufacturer has any hope that the US and European markets will rebound soon enough to insure their future. Continue reading ‘Triumph Motorcycles To Enter Indian Market’
The Secret Life Of Jerry Covington
Published by November 17th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Although Jerry Covington had already built his first chopper when he was 18 and was continuously feeding his passion for motorcycles with frequent trips to the shop of Denver’s Choppers to admire their long creations, he professionally entered the custom world by working on hot rods and muscle cars. Building custom bikes for himself remained his hobby until he realized that each of them got offers from buyers and that he could nicely complement his custom car business with the creation of one-off custom motorcycles. It was 1993, perfect timing to ride the big wave of motorcycle customizing that started at this time…
Strong of his experience with metal fabrication acquired on cars, Jerry had no problem being noticed by the motorcycle industry when he started demonstrating his skills at building from scratch 2 wheeled creations. Although his bike culture was acquired around long choppers and low riders Jerry’s shop, Covingtons Cycle City in Oklahoma, is now very diversified offering both customized Harley-Davidson models, hand built one-off custom motorcycles in all styles, a Nada listed production line of Bobbers and also a quite extended catalog of proprietary parts from triple trees to exhausts to billet wheels. Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Jerry Covington’
Drop Your Harley-Davidson Bagger Seat 3 Inch With This Bolt-On Kit.
Published by November 17th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
You would prefer your bagger lower for looks and better control or you suffer from a short inseam and need to sit closer to the ground for better footing. This bolt-on drop seat conversion kit will easily drop the factory seat height by 3 inch without altering clearance and suspension. It works on all Harley-Davidson touring models from 09 to 11. Here how it works. These year models have their frames bolted together beneath the seat at 4 frame points. You simply remove all outer components, unbolt the factory rear/upper chassis section, bolt on the new Patent Pending FBI replacement sub-frame then re-mount your stock fender, bag mounting brackets, bags, etc. It’s a complete bolt on basic install with no cutting or welding and it should take you less than 3 hours. Continue reading ‘Drop Your Harley-Davidson Bagger Seat 3 Inch With This Bolt-On Kit.’
(Via Rogue, Sturgis Freedom Fighters Hall Of Famer)
In June 2009 the city of Boston enacted an ordinance calling for a $300 fine if an EPA stamp, required for manufacturers to install on new motorcycles, is not “readily visible” to law enforcement officers on a running or parked motorcycle within the City Limits. It has not yet been enforced and no tickets were issued due to the Motorcyclists’ legal activism. Continue reading ‘Bikers. Welcome To Boston!’
Zipper’s Muscle-Series Twin Cam Engines
Published by November 16th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Zipper’s crew knows everything about the anatomy of a big muscle engine and they can build any of your choice tailored to your specific application.Tell Zipper’s how much muscle you want and they will custom built it following your wish list. It will be hand built with the finest components available to be powerful, durable and of course beautiful.
Basic available displacements for Twin Cam are from 107″ to 124″, EFI or carburated. Zipper’s Muscle-Series Engines 410-579-2828.
Holiday Pinup Greetings Cards
Published by November 16th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Merchandise.
Pinup greeting cards have more chance to put a smile on the face of their recipients and be kept for a long time, let’s say than those showing Santa Klaus jumping from roof to roof or snow falling on a frozen lake. So, fashion and motorcycle photographerJimmy “The Greek” Gianatsis took some of his Calendar Kittens and took some pictures of them (un)dressed in holidays spirit. You an choose from Christmas, Motorcycle, and “Get Well” themes, along with Greeting Cards featuring your favorite racers pinups in World Superbike and MotoGP attire! Cards are available individually, and in boxes of 10 Card Sets. Order now at Fast Dates.
Who said that a cylindric shaped oil tank must be installed horizontally? Vertically, it will add a very nice visual touch to your custom. But, please measure first especially if you want to install it under your seat and use an electric starter.
This one is spun from .125″ thick aluminum and is 9″ tall and 5.375″ wide (included ribs.) Oil tank is fully TIG welded and pressure tested to 20 psi. Each of them is made to order, an advantage if you need slightly different measurements to fit your application.
Comes in a standard brushed finish with 2 options for the filler neck, a push-in style or screw cap. (If you’re running it on a British bike, you will need to restrict the return line.) $405.00 (shipping continental US included) 7 Metal West.
China Cheap Exports. US Versus China In A Rap Battle
Published by November 16th, 2010 in Editorial, Events and Videos.The US is accusing China to devaluate its money, or at least to not let it float, helping China products reach our shores at a very low price. China is accusing the US Federal Reserve’s plan to purchase $600 billion in bonds creating a US dollar devaluation and later igniting inflation. Although last week in Seoul countries members of the G20 agreed to “refrain from competitive devaluation of currencies”, no practical decisions were made and a so-called “currency war” is going on. China Cheap labor plus devaluated currency is unfair to the US. But don’t except big tariffs imposed on imported China products because China is the US main lender. To help you understand the mess in which we are, a video clip parody produced by an Asian company. In it, Barack Obama et Hu Jintao are accusing each other to be responsible for this currency war where each country is using currency devaluation to help its exports. Funny and better than any American news network?
Kerker 2-Into-1 Super Megs Exhaust System
Published by November 16th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
Since a couple of years 2 into 1 exhaust systems are very popular again. This Dyno proven performance and very clean looking model from Kerker. It is provided with a bracket bolting directly to the transmission side cover, which may help in some cases prevent exhaust flexing and cracking of the head pipe/muffler assembly. Included with each system is a three piece heat shield that has a unique design that provides full coverage for the front and rear head pipes and collector. Offered in either triple chrome-plated or black ceramic coated mild steel finish. For more information on this exhaust and others, see your local CCI dealer or visit Custom Chrome.
New School Vintage Front End
Published by November 15th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
In collaboration with Perse Performance, RoosteR Custom Motorcycles is releasing this throwback classic suspension with some modern twists. First, the company worked closely with Penske’s engineering department to provide the best shock for a variety of riding styles and feels. From his experience with Racing, Penske has conceived several models to meet every rider need. It goes from the PS-8900 shock, a single adjustable, low cost, entry level shock to the PS-8970 model coming directly from Formula One and able to separate high and low speed compression adjustment like no other shocks on the market. Continue reading ‘New School Vintage Front End’
A Visit To The National Motorcycle Museum Of Anamosa
Published by November 14th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Motorcycle museum fans in America have some wonderful choices. About half a dozen public motorcycle museums have great experiences to offer. But one, the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, Iowa, is somewhat unique and now in a brand new, larger setting. It holds an amazing collection of over 300 motorcycles from over 100 years of our great sport. Continue reading ‘A Visit To The National Motorcycle Museum Of Anamosa’
Chopper Dave 66X Air Cleaner
Published by November 14th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
If you roll vintage, classic or retro (I let you make the distinction), this Chopper Dave cast aluminum air cleaner may be the one you want to not breathe like everybody else.
It measures approximatively 4″ across and is composed of two cast aluminum halves with a center mount. Made in house by Dave himself at his Long Beach Casting Co. and available to fit the following carburetors: Keihin CV, Bendix/Keihin, Linkert, S&S Super B. S&S L, S&S Super E/G series.
The 66X Air Cleaner comes polished, ready to install, including a proprietary washable air cleaner element made by UNI filter. Price of (almost) exclusivity? (On purpose, Dave is casting in small quantities) $175.00. Chopper Dave Casting Co.
Five Killed In California Crash Involving 12 Motorcycles
Published by November 14th, 2010 in Editorial and Events.I usually don’t post about motorcycle accidents. They are all tragic and this one is particularly horrific. If I publish the circumstances it’s because it involves one car fleeing the scene of the accident and I hope that it may help find the driver of this car. Five people were killed and six others seriously injured when a car struck a group of 12 motorcycles Saturday at 1 pm local time on a California desert highway east of San Diego. A gold Honda Civic tried to pass them, police said, but a Dodge Avenger swerving to avoid hitting the Honda struck the motorcycles head on. The gold Honda Civic left the scene without stopping and police want to talk with that driver. Two male and two female motorcyclists were dead before paramedics got there. The sedan driver suffered major injuries and his female passenger was killed. Both were from Mexico. Motorcyclists belong to a club called Saddletramps celebrating this month its 10-year anniversary. Anyone with information is asked to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Robert Maddox welds jet engines on everything on wheels. Here is his 250 lbs twin jet engine motorcycle drag bike. 2 Videos. Hmmm…
This 1924 BMW R32 model is still extremely stylish, was equipped with a 486 cc side valve air cooled flat twin engine pushing this machine up to an impressive speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) thanks to a very light dry weight of 244 pounds (106 kg.) It was one of the first motorcycles to use a wet sump oiling system. Considered by collectors the most desirable BMW motorcycle model, an original restored R32 in good running condition can be negotiated at a price of $165,000.
Arlen Ness Big Wheeler 21″ Front Fender
Published by November 12th, 2010 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
You already know that the front of your Harley-Davidson FLT Bagger will be greatly improved if you switch your wheel to a 21″ x 3.50″.
Of course, it will cost you a new tire and front fender. This one called the “Big Wheeler”is a direct stock replacement fender that you can install on FLT’s on 1987 to 2010 models.
Retail $224.95 At Arlen Ness Online Store.
Harley-Davidson Forgoes $25 Million In Tax Incentives
Published by November 11th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
This Thursday evening spokesperson Bob Klein announced that Harley-Davidson has advised the Wisconsin Department of Commerce that it will not pursue the Enterprisee Zone Tax Credit of $25 million that the company could have earned during the next 9 years for keeping operations in Wisconsin.
So, the immediate question is, why Harley would refuse the corporate welfare (free money at the expense of the taxpayer) sought after by so many companies to fatten their bottom lines? Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Forgoes $25 Million In Tax Incentives’
Harley® Hammock Rider and Passenger Touring Seat
Published by November 11th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
This new touring seat from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories® is designed to isolate both rider and passenger from harsh road conditions. The sling-like fabric suspension system that is integrated into the seat pan is manufactured from a unique blend of flexible, durable fibers. The fabric acts like a hammock, providing two inches of suspension above the seat pan under two inches of traditional foam. This internal suspension prevents “bottoming out” and provides a 30 percent improvement in comfort. Continue reading ‘Harley® Hammock Rider and Passenger Touring Seat’
Not every day or even every year that you see a trike where 2500 hours of labor were invested. And the reason is not only the body fabrication work to stretch and widen it, but also because of the trials and errors required to fit 2 TV’s, 2 cameras and 2 amps producing around 1000 watts… Continue reading ‘Thumper Road Glide Trike’
1- Harley-Davidson Plant In India. As you all know, in 2011 Harley Davidson will assemble his motorcycles in India. All Harley Davidson bikes are presently imported. The company plans to setup an assembly line in Haryana, but until now didn’t disclose the models that will be assembled locally. Information leaked states that the Sportster models 883L and 883R will be the first to be fully assembled in India. It seems logical to appeal to the largest number of clients with the lowest prices and the smallest sized motorcycles. Now that the information is out, I wonder why anyone in India would buy a Sportster model right now, knowing that prices will be half what they are now when the Haryana plant will be operational in 2011. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Teenager Yasuyoshi Chikazawa, a.k.a. Chica, got hooked to motorcycles when a friend let him ride his motorcycle in the streets of Osaka. Passion for American motorcycles got fed via looking at the customs featured in American magazines like Easyriders. Although Haley-Davidson motorcycles sold in Japan are 2 to 3 times more expensive than in the US, Chica succeeded in acquiring a used FXE. But because labor rates are prohibitive Chica had to learn how to fix, fabricate parts and maintain his own motorcycle. He went to work for a Honda then a Harley dealer in Kyoto and rapidly realized that his custom motorcycle dreams could only be fully expressed in America where, as he imagined, everything is possible and permitted (it was before CARB and EPA start their enforcement patrols,) Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Chica’
Indian Versus Harley Motorcycles. The Great Rivalry Goes On.
Published by November 10th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The rivalry between Indian and Harley is part of motorcycle history and lasted during most of last century’s twenties, thirsts and forties. What about putting again both brands in a race in America. It will happen again between May 12th and 14th 2011 with “The Great Indian Versus Harley Race” with planned rides through the California Gold Country, Yosemite, and surrounding area. Continue reading ‘Indian Versus Harley Motorcycles. The Great Rivalry Goes On.’
Another storage idea coming from JIMS USA. An unusual place to carry and hide a variety of small items such as your bike registration, insurance papers, cash, keys, etc. This “bike pocket” is easily attached to any stock Twin Cam, cam cover and is ideal for custom bikes with no storage. The unique adapter ring allows for a simple twist on/off entry for quick access.
JIMS® Bike Pocket is available in Chrome, Polished or in Black Anodizing and can be ordered in either a smooth finish or milled ring and bolt pattern finish. JIMS® Bike Pocket is manufactured from top quality aluminum here in the USA and is a perfect stocking stuffer for the upcoming holidays. Both styles range in MRSP from $133.50 to $155.00 depending on finish. For more information go to JIMS USA or call 805-482-6913
Aluminum Ribbed Fenders. Natural, Brushed, Copper or Brass?
Published by November 9th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
These Brit-Style aluminum ribbed Chopper Fenders look extremely good on a custom, either a Harley, Triumph, BSA, Honda, Yamaha etc. What about sturdiness to avoid cracking with vibrations? Most steel fenders are .035″ thick, most aluminum are .060″ and these aluminum ones are .090″ are less than half the weight of comparable steel fenders (meaning 2 to 3 pounds less.) They come from a small company in Greenfield (Milwaukee), Wis called 7 Metal West and its owner got the killer idea to sell them in many sizes including the ones fitting properly around most vintage tires (give your exact measurements) and in finishes from natural, brushed, brass and copper. I must mention that these fenders, due to the many ways that they can be mounted, can’t be warranted for passenger use. Call Dan on my behalf at 414.477.0380 after visiting 7 Metal West
