Motorcycle Cannonball 2010, the ultimate motorcycle ride across America on pre-1916 motorcycles. A lot of videos have been shot to immortalize this amazing motorcycle event and its riders. I have a preference for this one shot by Cycle World because in less than 5 minutes it expresses very well the tenacity of all participants, their expertise at maintaining and fixing their cantankerous machines by the side of the road either under pouring rain or by 110F heat, and of course the beauty of the landscapes they crossed. Watch…
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Motorcycle Cannonball. An Incredible And Beautiful Journey Across The USA.
Published by October 1st, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.Opening Of Harley-Davidson Lebanon
Published by October 1st, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
A total of 800 Lebanese Harley-Davidson owners convinced the company to open a full service dealership in Beirut, Lebanon. As a matter of fact, Harley opened a 1st showroom 70 years ago with lots of up and downs due to political conflicts and war. Marwan Tarraf, the new dealership owner made a 2.5 million investment, and is now able to offer the same services as any other dealerships and will also organize events and tours in a country renowned for its dramatic scenery and wonderful climate. The Harley-Davidson Beirut Lebanon Showroom is located in Kantari, Michel Chiha Street.
Cyril Huze Blog 4th Anniversary. Looking Back And Forward.
Published by September 30th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
One of the earliest promises that I made 4 years ago when I launched the Cyril Huze Blog on September 30, 2006 was to offer an online place allowing publication on a whim, when the mood strikes, when the influential people talk, when a new custom motorcycle or part is released, etc. A digital place updated by me several times a day and by you my readers through your comments.In 2007 this Blog was already one of the first places to look for happenings of the day in our custom motorcycle industry and for your instant reactions as bikers and consumers. In 2008 it became and remains by far The Number One Daily Source For Custom Motorcycle News in terms of true readership (source Google Analytics.) True readership means number of Human Visitors, not Server Logs erroneously counted as readers by some digital medias. Logs are created by web robots like computer scripts that traverse the web 24/7 to index sites, steal emails, send spam (80% coming from China & Russia), install malware and spyware, load advertising pop up windows and many other uses. (A LOG to an internet server is not always a human visit. A HIT is never a human visit but simply the number of graphics/pictures/links/html’s downloaded when somebody visits a web page.) Continue reading ‘Cyril Huze Blog 4th Anniversary. Looking Back And Forward.’
Replacement Speedometer for 2003 Indian Motorcycles
Published by September 30th, 2010 in Accessories, Builders, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
The new Indian Motorcycle Company of Kings Mountain is helping owners of Indian Spirit, Scout and Chief Motorcycles produced in 2003 replace their speedometer with a new one branded with the Indian logo and an exact fit to the original motorcycle.
Auto Meter Products was the OE speedometer manufacturer for Indian Motorcycles produced in 2003 and partnered with the new Indian Motorcycle Company to offer this new speedometer featuring new anti-fog lens and waterproof button redesign.
If a customer needs to order a replacement speedometer, they can now go to or call a current Indian Motorcycle Dealer and place an order. The customer will be able to get the correct mileage installed on the replacement speedometer. MSRP is $199.99. To locate a dealer go to Indian Motorcycle.
Complete New Technology S&S Panhead 93″ Engine
Published by September 30th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
For vintage and classic bike lovers, the original Harley-Davidson Panhead is probably at the top of the list of the coolest looking engines ever made.
But we also all know its weaknesses, reason why S&S Cycle offers a full line of modern technology Panhead 93″ engines, all faithful to the original appearance, either in alternator or generator style, for old original Harley or new custom chassis.
As a matter of fact, the S&S Panhead line-up includes 11 different versions to satisfy all your true vintage or vintage looking wishes.
The one featured here is for 1965-1969 Harley generator chassis with Supper E Carburetor. They are all offered with a two year warranty. S&S Cycle Panhead 93″ Engines.
Baker Drivetrain “Try It Before You Buy It” Program.
Published by September 29th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
An interesting and smart initiative from BAKER Drivetrain. The company is launching a “Try It Before You Buy It Program” reserved to all Dealers worldwide, and evidently benefiting all retail clients.
They offer a program to provide you Dealers and at the same time your customers with an opportunity to try out some of their most popular products. Because there is no substitute for education and first hand experience, between now and December 31st, 2010, BAKER is offering a discount on a demo unit to your preferred Dealer service department, giving you the opportunity to have it installed for a demo ride on your bike.
As usual, the experts at BAKER Drivetrain offer superb free technical assistance and are able to answer any questions or concerns regarding installation, fitment, etc. Each demo product purchased is backed by the unbeatable BAKER warranty. All dealers who participate in this program will be added to the BAKER Drivetrain Website and Facebook page as Preferred Demo Dealers, so that you the customers know where to go for a “Try It Before You Buy It.” Call 877-640-2004.
The Secret Life Of Keino Sasaki
Published by September 29th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
A master manipulator of motor and metal Keinosuke “Keino” Sasaki belongs to a handful of Japanese born Custom Builders living and working in the US. For his 16th birthday Dad brought back home an abandoned scooter in the street. Keino helped his dad take it apart, put it together, and remember vividly the sense of accomplishment he felt during the process and his excitement when he rode the scoot for the 1st time. Not having enough passion to pursue a career as a teacher, Keino took part time jobs in a bike shop and restaurant, then got full time employment during 2 years at the Mitsubishi car manufacturing plant where he was an assembly line worker, just a way to save enough money to come to the US. Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Keino Sasaki’
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger Signs Bill Requiring EPA Label Exhaust Systems
Published by September 29th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial, Events and Exhaust.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a Bill Tuesday that targets motorcyclists who remove federally mandated, factory-installed emission control devices and replace them with custom aftermarket parts. EPA states that the legislation is aimed at quieting the deafening roar of modified rides and at reducing emissions.
The new law will make it a crime to operate in California (or titled in California?) a motorcycle manufactured after Jan. 1, 2013, that does not meet federal noise-emission control standards. Motorcyclists whose vehicles lack the proper U.S. Environmental Protection Agency label will face fines of up to $100 for a first-time violation and up to $250 for subsequent infractions. The initial ticket can be voided if the individual makes the required corrections.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration California is home to more than 10 percent of the country’s registered motorcycles,
California Scooters Doing The Mexico Baja. Twice.
Published by September 29th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
When about 10 months ago I reported on the launch by California Scooter Co. of a new line of retro-modern style Scooters with a traditional motorcycle layout inspired by the Mustang, you all agreed with me that they looked pretty cool and that they offered a fun and affordable alternative and/or complementary mean of transportation. No one had any doubt about the functionality of these single cylinder 150 cc custom machines for city or short rides, but what about very long grueling miles. A group of 5 friends, 4 men and 1 woman, decided to ride these California Scooters along the Baja Peninsula, a 2000 mile round trip from South California to Mexico Cabo San Lucas and back, and see how they would perform under demanding conditions, distance, rough pavement, dirt and intense heat. . Continue reading ‘California Scooters Doing The Mexico Baja. Twice.’
El Toro Blanco. A Buell Or Sportster Conversion Job. $12,995.
Published by September 28th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Of interest to a lot of readers owning a Buell or Sporster. With such a bike as a donor, Lightning Rod Motorcycles propose to do a conversion like the one you are looking at. El Toro Blanco took its new appearance by using a rigid Paughco frame with a 35-degree neck rake, keeping a Buell engine and front end, using the factory 7/8 handlebars and is equipped with ZX-10 hand controlsG and GSXR steering damper. The bike rolls on 21 x 3″ front and 21 x 3.5″ 60-spoke wheels keeping the Buell rotors and but using ZRX1200r Tokiko caliper. Continue reading ‘El Toro Blanco. A Buell Or Sportster Conversion Job. $12,995.’
All Charges Dismissed For Posting Video Recording Of Motorcycle Traffic Stop On YouTube
Published by September 28th, 2010 in Editorial, Events and Videos.
On April 10, 2010 I posted an article and video about Anthony Graber Charged With felony For posting Traffic Stop Video On YouTube. He was speeding on I95, had a camera installed on his helmet, recorded a police officer pulling a gun on him as he was stopped, was briefly detained in jail, then was accused of violating Maryland’s wiretap law for taping police and posting the video on YouTube. Anthony Graber was also charged with having a camera on his helmet, “a device primarily useful for the purpose of the surreptitious interception of oral communications.” If convicted on all charges, Graber faced up to 16 years in prison. Continue reading ‘All Charges Dismissed For Posting Video Recording Of Motorcycle Traffic Stop On YouTube’
Hot-Rodder To The Exhaust Tips. Lake Pipe Caps.
Published by September 28th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
Wanting to give your bike a 60’s hot rod look? Just use the parts that hot rodders were using at that time or the ones specifically adapted for motorcycle use. Like this “Lake Pipe” exhaust cap with weld-on flange kit created by Rudy Chapelle, a builder working on both cars and bikes, for use on 1 1/4″ pipes.
Kit includes 2 weld-on flanges and 2 louvered polished billet caps and necessary hardware. For sale through your preferred Dealer via Custom Chrome.
Could A Harley-Davidson MX Attract New Young Customers?
Published by September 28th, 2010 in Builders and Editorial.
On the topic of what Harley-Davidson should do to attract young customers, Mike Hanlon from MeanStreet Products reminded me that in 1978 the company tested the market with a motocross model built by Aermacchi. It was called the MX250 and featured an Italian 250 cc 2 stroke engine. It was built for the race track and offered to the public only during year 1978. Is this type of bike, but with an American made motor, ONE of the ways Harley-Davidson could build brand loyalty with the youth, ?
The AMA Hall Of Fame Website has a very interesting article about this Harley MX250. Read it then tell me if you think that it could be a great idea that the Milwaukee management should re-evaluate. (pictures courtesy AMA)
Motorcycle Cannonball. Motorcycling Won.
Published by September 27th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
After 3294 miles on the road on pre-1916 motorcycles there are no written words to express the joy and pride of all the participants who arrived on the Santa Monica Pier this Sunday at 1 pm. A huge digital ovation from me and from all my readers. Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Cannonball. Motorcycling Won.’Motorcycle Cannonball Update. Part 10. They Arrived.
Published by September 26th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
After having to go through 55 traffic lights while riding through Los Angeles, the first “Cannonballers” crossed the finish line on the Santa Monica Pier, CA at 1 pm Pacific Time this Sunday September 26, 2010. Full report coming soon…(picture Mike Tomas)
Final Results At Arrival In Santa Monica After The Jump. Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Cannonball Update. Part 10. They Arrived.’
Harley-Davidson CEO Keith Wandell Answers To Critics.
Published by September 26th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In an address last Thursday during a meeting at the Harley-Davidson Museum, CEO Keith Wandell said that through a succession of labor agreements over the years, Harley management had lost control of costs.
As an example, he mentioned that employees at the Harley Menomonee Falls Plant were making an average $32 per hour in wages and with all benefits added were costing the company $75 per hour. Wandell made reference to the auto industry, and in particular to General Motors, a company unable to remain profitable under the burden of its payroll, pension and benefit costs. He also agreed that part of the blame is on the management for failing to innovate and produce attractive products at reasonable prices. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson CEO Keith Wandell Answers To Critics.’
New Motorcycle World Land Speed Record. 376.156 mph.
Published by September 26th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Bonneville Sal Flats, Utah. As of yesterday September 25th, 2010 Ack Attack is now the fastest motorcycle on the planet. Driver Rocky Robinson piloted his streamliner at a new world land speed record of 376.156 mph and Kilo record of 376.363. Ack Attack exit speed was an awesome 394 mph!
The Bub 7 Streamliner (owner Denis Manning) piloted by Chris Carr was the former record holder with a speed of 367.382 mph. Now that Rocky Robinson is again the fastest motorcycle rider in the world, his objective is to be the first one to reach the 400 mph speed on 2 wheels.
Building Custom Bicycles In New York City
Published by September 26th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Videos.The Classic Harley-Davidson Royalite Bublebags Are Back.
Published by September 25th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Remember the classic Harley-Davidson/Royalite saddlebags of the 50’s and 60’s. They appeared in 1952 on the Harley K models and in 1954 on Panheads and were also popular on Duo-Glides and Sportsters. Continue reading ‘The Classic Harley-Davidson Royalite Bublebags Are Back.’
The oldest and largest motorcycle event just celebrated its 70th Anniversary and will probably go into history as one of the best biker parties in many years. That you participated or not in this year’s celebration I am pretty sure that there are many things you still don’t know about the Black Hills Rally. And if you were in Sturgis you know that the event is too big for you to see everything, to enjoy all attractions and ride all the scenic road miles. Continue reading ‘Sturgis 70th. The Book.’
Motorcycle Cannonball Update. Part 9.
Published by September 24th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
At 2 stages from arrival on the Pier of Santa Monica, it’s time to give a special tribute to the only 2 women of the Cannonball. On the left, American Cris Sommer Simmons, riding “Effie” her beloved 1915 Harley-Davidson, (Class 3) And on the right German Katrin Boehner riding the oldest motorcycle of the Run, a 1907 J.A.P. (Class 1). No doubt that both women are going to complete the cross country ride this Sunday and consequently have their names enter history books and become the absolute reference for all lady riders looking for role models. Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Cannonball Update. Part 9.’
Harley-Davidson Drops 24% In Brand Value
Published by September 24th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Interbrand just released its 11th annual ranking of the 100 Best Global Brands. The company uses a very respected methodology analyzing the many ways a brand touches and benefits an organization, from attracting top talent to delivering on customer expectation.
Three key aspects contribute to a brand’s value; the financial performance of the branded products or services, the role of brand in the purchase decision process and the strength of the brand to continue to secure earnings for the company. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Drops 24% In Brand Value’
Add-On Gear Position Indicator
Published by September 24th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
This is the latest and improved version of the GIPRO-DS series gear position indicator. It can be installed on most bikes equipped with a diagnostic system connector. There are no buttons, no programming wires. The unit is fully automatic and works on a different principle than competitive products on the market. It reads the gear position information directly from the ECU, which makes it faster and more reliable than other gear indicators sold today. Continue reading ‘Add-On Gear Position Indicator’
Return To Simplicity. The Performance Machine Seven Wheel.
Published by September 23rd, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
If during the last years you had an overdose of skulls and flames all over custom parts including wheels offerings you are not the only one. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. But apparent simplicity, like these new wheels from Performance Machine may require sophisticated machining and treatment. Continue reading ‘Return To Simplicity. The Performance Machine Seven Wheel.’
Motorcycle Cannonball. Update 8.
Published by September 23rd, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Yesterday evening Wednesday September 22nd, riders arrived in Gallup, NM after 193 miles under pouring rain and 2 route changes because of unnanounced road work! All riders who started in the morning are accounted for. Since departure in North Carolina only 5 riders left the Endurance Run: Matt Olsen, Urban Hirsch, Bill Price, Drino Mille, and Bill Campbel. As a surprise to the organizers most machines are running better every day due to the fact that almost all riders work hard at fixing bugs at stage arrivals, with some participants fully rebuilding their engines overnight! But yesterday’s humidity created multiple problems to the vintage machines. No doubt, these guys and gals with their crews are some of the best Wrenches in the business. Today, more rain in the forecast? Magnetos getting wrapped in plastic… Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Cannonball. Update 8.’
