Brooklyn Invitational 2010. Chopper Dave and Mark Nelson with guys from White Knights riding at high speed through the streets of Brooklyn …
Archive Page 283
Chopper Dave And Buddies Riding New York Streets At High Speed
Published by October 26th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Events and Videos.Avon Motorcycle Tyres At Sema Preparing To Celebrate 100th Anniversary
Published by October 26th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
The SEMA Show in Las Vegas (the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world) is only a week away, and Avon Motorcycle Tyres will share a brand new 2500 square foot booth with Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels and Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels.
Part of the brand new, larger booth presentation at SEMA this year, Avon Motorcycle Tyres will be on site to showcase their tire products in anticipation of the company’s 100 years of manufacturing motorcycle tires, celebrated in 2011. Avon will showcase two stunning custom motorcycles by accomplished airbrush artist and custom sport bike builder Carlos Avelar. Continue reading ‘Avon Motorcycle Tyres At Sema Preparing To Celebrate 100th Anniversary’
Harley-Davidson Pan Neck & Knuckle Neck
Published by October 26th, 2010 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Just out of John Grant’s foundry and ready for machining. several cast necks in different flavors.
Top left is replica stock Harley Panhead neck. Top right is Panhead neck with lock removed to look like late Knucklehead necks. Bottom left is steel neck raked to 56 degrees (custom order) and a replica Panhead neck in stainless steel.
Axle Plates and Wishbone Sidecar Loops also available. Ready to Weld. Designed for 1948-1968 Rigid Frames. All you need to do (huh) is cut, bend and weld your tubes. Made in America. Hardtail Choppers.
Thug Glide. Best Of Show Biketoberfest Rat’s Hole Show.
Published by October 25th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
If you visit quite a few bike shows like I do, you noticed that the number of participants competing in the Bagger Class is getting bigger and bigger. To the point that in some of them the number of ultra customized baggers is larger than the number of Bobbers… After more than 20 years where custom motorcycle builders have exhausted themselves doing almost all possible modifications to embellish and improve a stock Softail Harley-davidson, the subject of all attentions is now the Harley Touring bike. Of course, it helps that Baggers are so popular with the growing motorcyclist segment of Baby Boomers, that they are bought at the dealership by those having a little bit or much more money to spend than the average biker. Continue reading ‘Thug Glide. Best Of Show Biketoberfest Rat’s Hole Show.’
Motorcycle Sales Down 18.3% For Year 2010 Until September.
Published by October 25th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
According to the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) USA total motorcycle sales (all segments) is down 18.3% from January to September 2010 versus same period last year. The quarterly sales data claims 555,440 total units sold year to date, compared to 679,806 units from the same time last year. On-highway motorcycles sales, the largest motorcycle, is down 14.3% with 265,095 sales, 44,327 less units from last year. Scooters sales are down 10.9%, at 2856 units off. Dual-sport sales showed a similar decline, down 13.8%. The worst segment is ATV, down 23.6%,Art-Deco License Plate Bracket
Published by October 24th, 2010 in Accessories, Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Curved license plate sidemount brackets are not new, but like with all motorcycle parts, a couple of new twists or in this case bends, and you get a totally new accessory. Continue reading ‘Art-Deco License Plate Bracket’
Biketoberfest 2010. Flash Back Video.
Published by October 24th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial, Events and Videos.Biketoberfest 2010. A 9 minutes video to make you regret of not being there. . The bikes, the girls, the reverse gear burnout by Bert Baker at the Broken Spoke Saloon, etc…(Produced by Jack Mcintyre at Bikerpics)
Fat Tire Conversion Kit For Harley-Davidson Rocker Models
Published by October 23rd, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Heartland USA specializes in wide tire conversion systems for stock Harley-Davidson models. And because some continue to like it fat in the rear, the company has addressed the issue for those owning a Rocker and Rocker C wishing to go from a “small” 240 mm stock rear tire to a more beefy 280 mm, Heartland proposes a new easy kit utilizing the factory swingarm and frame and not requiring any offset kit. As a matter of fact, in addition to this new Rocker Kit you will just need a new 280 mm wheel. The conversion system includes 1- Leather Solo Seat 2- 12″ Wide Steel Fender (several design options) 3- Billet Aluminum Struts (Chrome) 4- Steel Rock Guard. For all Rocker models 2008 to present. $2599. Heartland USA.
Fast Motorcycle Industry News
Published by October 23rd, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
1- Jesse James West Coast Choppers. It took quite a few days to all People and Show Biz Gossip online magazines, including TMZ, to get confirmation that Jesse James is closing for good West Coast Choppers in Long Beach. As a matter of fact a few of them called me a couple of hours after I broke the news in my Blog on Saturday October 16, all asking me to disclose my source, which I refused. None of them is giving me credit for the scoop… Retaliation for refusing to talk? Now, I can also publish that Cisco Burger opened in April 2006 next to the Long Beach shop will remain open for business, that Jesse intends to open a new establishment in Austin, TX where he resides and works, and that he may beefing up a national Burger franchise. New jobs coming to your city… Don’t call me for my source if you don’t intend to give me some credit and send some traffic to my Blog. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’Did You Know That Your Riding Boots Are Not Waterproof?
Published by October 23rd, 2010 in Editorial and Merchandise.
Thunder, rain sorm, soaked from head to toes. Isn’t leather waterproof? No. Your feet know this. One of the merits of my Blog is that, like you, being in contact with all the industry vendors, I learn quite a few things on topics that never crossing my mind.
I am not going to explain to you the techniques of water proofing a boot, but at least I can show you 2 new official Harley-Davidson models claiming that in wet riding your feet will stay comfortable and dry. Both made of waterproof full grain leather, the Hustin (on the left) has a full length cushion sock lining, a YKK locking inside zipper, an oil resistant rubber outside, with a shat height of 11” and a heel height of 1.5”. The Felix (on the right) features an Hydro-Guard waterproof membrane, a Vibram rubber outsole, a shaft height of 6.5” and heel height of 1.75”. Other models available online at Rocky Top Leather
Not many keep the “school bus” turn signals on their Harley-Davidson bikes. That you choose to relocate them or not, or even not to use any anymore, you need to hide the place where the factory installed them.
So Covington Customs designed this new finned turn signal eliminator to cover the area left after removal. CNC machined from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum with a choice of finish in chrome, black with machined edges, or black with diamond cut edges.
Design is matching all the finned Covington accessories. Hardware included. Made in the USA. For more information go to Covington Customs or call 580-256-2939.
This Weekend. Arlen Ness 40th Anniversary Open House.
Published by October 22nd, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Just a reminder that it happens this weekend. The Arlen Ness Open house starts tomorrow Saturday October 23rd from 9am to 6pm and continues Sunday 24th from 10am to 4pm at the headquarters 6050 Dublin Blvd, Dublin CA.
You will be able to meet with “Tig” & “Juice” from the TV series Sons Of Anarchy, to meet product specialists from many favorite vendors, to get free installation on some of these products, to get 40% discounts on some items, and to participate in Victory 2011 models demo rides.
Call for details: 925-479-6300. Arlen Ness.
Second Annual Brooklyn Invitational Custom Motorcycle Show And Exhibition
Published by October 22nd, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The annual event took place on Sept 18th, 2010 at Root Studio in Brooklyn, New York. Riders and Enthusiasts came from near and far to make their way to Brooklyn, for a beautiful weekend in one of the East Coast’s premier cities. Two of the invited builders, Max Schaff along with Chris Lindig , and photographer Ken Nagahara rode their bikes 3000 miles from Oakland California and back again just for the show. Continue reading ‘Second Annual Brooklyn Invitational Custom Motorcycle Show And Exhibition’
Stuttering Cat – as explained by a 4th grader…
A teacher is explaining biology to her 4th grade students. “Human beings are the only animals that stutter,” she says. A little girl raises her hand. “I had a kitty-cat who stuttered.” The teacher, knowing how precious some of these stories could become, asked the girl to describe the incident.
“Well”, she began, “I was in the back yard with my kitty and the Rottweiler that lives next door got a running start and before we knew it, he jumped over the fence into our yard!” “That must’ve been scary,” said the teacher. “It sure was,” said the little girl. “My kitty raised her back, went “Ffffff!, Ffffff!, Fffffff!,” but before she could say ‘Fuck!’, the Rottweiler ate her!” The teacher had to leave the room… (sent by Troy at Accutronix)
Easyriders 2010-2011 Custom Bike Show Tour. New Formula.
Published by October 21st, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The baddest Bike Show Tour around the country debuting this Saturday October 23rd (10 am 8pm) in Greenville, SC has a new formula, adding more entertainment to the traditional custom motorcycle competition. The objective is of course to increase traffic and to make each show a must visit family event.
First, a children’s area complete with fun games, activities and even an arcade to keep the kids having a good time. Surprises include autograph sessions and meet and greets with popular Disney and Nickelodeon stars. Second, a special area for the ladies which will include free give always, complimentary gift bags, instructional information for first time riders and more. Third, the Limpnickie Lot (next generation of Custom Builders) will be featured in the Easyriders Tour with many of the members showcasing on stage their new creations. Continue reading ‘Easyriders 2010-2011 Custom Bike Show Tour. New Formula.’
Metalsport Clear Wheel Program
Published by October 21st, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
Very spectacular and not for the masses. What do you want more from a custom motorcycle wheel? This front clear wheel is made out of 1.1″ thick polycarbonate (yes it’s very, very strong but requires gentle cleaning) and is offered as a combo with a rear solid aluminum chrome wheel.
The clear front wheel is 21 x 4″. The chrome rear wheel is 18 x 5.5″. For 2009 to present Harley-Davidson touring models. At last count at time I upload this post, only 5 complete sets remain available. This very special package was for sale for a MSRP of $5250. Now on sale for $3920 per set. Call Lonny at 562-776-9594. Metalsport Wheels
If you want to know what kind of radical custom motorcycle you could legally ride in the US, just look at Europe, a continent where each country has very strict automotive regulations and in addition must respect euro emission standards. Although the custom bike you are looking at is still in the final stage of approval under the aforementioned rules, no doubt it will be because each of its component has already been individually approved for use in all Europe. Continue reading ‘Fat Attack Lowrider’
International Motorcycle Show Series Becomes AMD US World Championship Of Bike Building Affiliate
Published by October 20th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Advanstar’s Progressive Insurance sponsored International Motorcycle Shows (IMS) are to stage World Championship of Custom Bike Building Official affiliate event custom bike shows this season, with a total prize fund on offer of over $90,000.00.
The show series kicks-off at Dallas, TX. on November 12-14, then moves on to San Matteo, CA., November 19-21; Seattle WA., December 10-12 and then Long Beach, CA. December 17-19 before resuming in the New Year at Novi, near Detroit, MI., on 7-9 January; Washington DC 14-16 January; the Jacob Javitts Center Manhattan, NY. on 21-23 January; Cleveland, OH. 28-30 January; Minneapolis, MN. February 4-6; Chicago, IL. February 11-13 and Greenville, SC. on February 25-27. Continue reading ‘International Motorcycle Show Series Becomes AMD US World Championship Of Bike Building Affiliate’
Taking A Trip On Your Motorcycle To Wherever You Land
Published by October 20th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.This clip from the 1969-1970 NBC adventure/drama “Then Came Bronson” is about a nomadic vagabond (Bronson played by Michael Parks) searching for the meaning of life and helping hand when he can. During his travels on a 1969 XLH Harley-Davidson Sportster he shares his values with the people he meets along the way. This TV series preceded the movie Easy Rider and shares with it the same theme and values. In this clip, Bronson rides to nowhere in particular…Where would you ride if you had no family or work obligations?
Is our destiny a sequence of events that is inevitable and unchangeable, or do we control ours by choosing different paths throughout our life? Were Bert & Lisa Baker meant to study in the same university in the same class, to receive the same Mechanical Engineering diploma, to work for the same employer, to become a couple, to business partner to create in very short years the V-Twin Motorcycle Drivetrain Authority? If it was predetermined destiny, it must have been fore-ordained by the God of V-Twin. The storyline of their destiny (or fate?) is very well recounted in their own website at The Baker Story, An american One.
Baker Drivetrain made its first professional appearance in 2000 with a small display (facing mine) at the Cincinnati V-Twin Expo. Armed with the necessary theory, protocol, and experience acquired during 14 years as a Senior Project Engineer to Manual Transmissions at General Motors, and supported by a partner wife already planning the manufacturing and marketing of their brand new revolutionary product, Bert Baker introduced his 6-speed overdrive transmission concept that all the custom motorcycle industry worldwide will adopt in the following months, inluding o.e.m. manufacturers… Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Bert Baker’
Darwin Motorcycles RLX Project
Published by October 20th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Designed and in the process of being built by Darwin Motorcycles with a full carbon fiber body created by specialists at Rahal Letterman Racing, this American Muscle/Sport Bike/Cafe Racer will be used to raise funds for the Steel Anchor charity organization (U.S. Naval Hospital medical research efforts). It will also serve as a prototype for a very limited series. Continue reading ‘Darwin Motorcycles RLX Project’
Vintage Looking Titmouse LED Lights
Published by October 19th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
In the series I want my bike to look more vintage than yours, these cool Titmouse LED lights that you can install anywhere you can drill a 1/2 inch hole. It’s a bright dual function LED light (run & brake or run & turn) with 3 wires measuring 1 5/8″ long 1 5/8″ diameter and 1″ diameter at the back with 1/2″ stainless mounting bolt. Available in brass or aluminum. Screen is optional but included. Price per light is $115 in aluminum, $135 in brass. It is sold by a small shop in Northern California called OLD STF. Tel: 530-870-8065.
Harley-Davidson Third Quarter 2010 Results. Some Progress.
Published by October 19th, 2010 in Builders and Events.
This morning at 7am EST before market opening, Harley-Davidson reported its third-quarter 2010 results. Harley-Davidson President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Wandell stated “With our strategic focus on future growth initiatives and continuous improvement, we are positioning Harley-Davidson to succeed at today’s volumes, as well as to grow and restore greater profitability longer term.
Income and Earnings: $93.7 million, or $0.40 per share, compared to income of $56.4 million and earnings per share of $0.24 from continuing operations in the year-ago quarter. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Third Quarter 2010 Results. Some Progress.’
American Chopper. Senior Versus Junior In The Courthouse.
Published by October 19th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
If some of you think that the legal battle between Paul Teutul Sr. and Paul Jr, is fake, made only to increase their TV show ratings, you need to read about the legal arguments that each party, via their respective lawyers, presented last week in a courthouse of White Plains, New-York
In January 2009, after a new on-air firework between Paul Sr. and Paul Jr., Senior fired Junior. To avoid a breach of agreement with the Discovery channel, owner of The Learning Channel, son and father signed a letter of agreement by which: “Junior shall extend to Senior, upon Senior’s request, an option to purchase all of his shares in Orange County Choppers Holdings, Inc. for fair market value as determined by a procedure to be agreed to by the parties as soon as practicable.” Continue reading ‘American Chopper. Senior Versus Junior In The Courthouse.’
Bracing For The Vikings
Published by October 18th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
From the fertile imagination of John Grant who must have Viking ancestors, this rear fender brace in cast stainless steel. Not for every bike or biker, far from it, but it can inspire some of you for some customizing work.
It will work on rear fenders from 6″ to 7 1/4″ total width. This is a do it yourself part. Simply mount to top of rear fender. Measure your own support bar to fit the bike it will be installed on. John can pre fab these with customer supplied dimensions. These braces come polished as featured. $200 with free shipping in continental US. For orders or info, contact Hardtail Choppers at 360-750-6780.
Lady Luck Chopper Wins Big In Las Vegas
Published by October 18th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
This year Las Vegas Bikefest (Sept 30-Oct 3) was celebrating its 10-year anniversary with about 30,000 bikers traveling to Sin City to enjoy all the biker events. One of the crown jewels of the long weekend of festivities is the “Artistry In Iron Bike Show” where 20 of some of the best custom builders are invited to compete for the title of Las Vegas Champion. Voting is done by show participants and when it was time to count the ballots the clear winner was “Lady Luck”, a very clean and sophisticated green little retro Chop built by Chris Richardson of LA Speed Shop in Alhambra, CA. Chris started his shop 4 years ago, but has already about 15 years of experience customizing cars and bikes for himself and friends. Built in a record time of 6 weeks, details on the bike show that Chris Richardson must have dreamed this custom during a long time and that he knows how to execute detailed fabrication and assembly under time pressure. Continue reading ‘Lady Luck Chopper Wins Big In Las Vegas’
