A new promotion from Harley-Davidson to convince you to buy one of their 2010 models. Riders who test ride any new Harley-Davidson motorcycle at a participating dealership between April 1, 2010 and June 30, 2010 will be entered in a drawing to win a Harley-Davidson motorcycle of their choice (EXCLUDES CVO MODELS) and an exclusive trip to Milwaukee to customize their new ride at the Willie G. Davidson Design Studio. The custom motorcycle will be signed by Willie G. and certified as one-of-a-kind by the Harley-Davidson Museum® Archives. In addition, daily drawings will be held to award $500 Harley-Davidson gift cards. You can schedule your test ride online with your local participating Harley-davidson dealer. Just go to Harley-Davidson 2010 Super Ride.
Archive Page 309
Test Ride A 2010 Harley. Win A 2010 Harley.
Published by April 3rd, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.Roll Up, Roll Up, It’s Thrills. It’s Spills. It’s the Amazing Wall Of Death.
Published by April 3rd, 2010 in Editorial.
Wall Of Death shows are still a staple for entertainment during our big rallies. Derived directly from US motorcycle board track or motordrome racing in the early 1900s, the very first carnival motordrome appeared at Coney Island amusement park (New York) in 1911. The following year portable tracks began to appear on traveling carnivals and in 1915, the first motordrome with perpendicular walls were seen. You can find a lot of info online, but to read a brief history, follow this link forwarded to me by reader Mike Greenwald. Wall Of Death Brief History.
Time for you to show your customizing skills.
Save image file.
Print it.
Color it.
Show it to your kids.
If they don’t like the coloring…
Repeat!
You have all weekend.
Happy Easter to all bikers.
Custom Chrome 40th Anniversary Speedway Harley Bagger
Published by April 2nd, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
As I reported before, this Harley Bagger is one of the 2 customs that Custom Chrome commissioned to celebrate its 40th Anniversary. Built by Kirk Taylor from Custom Design Studios, I had the opportunity to check it out while I was at the Dealers Expo in San Jose, CA. This bike showcases what can be done with a little bit of hard work and of course after doing some shopping in the Custom Chrome catalog. For a few added tricks and a paint job, you will have to contact Kirk… Continue reading ‘Custom Chrome 40th Anniversary Speedway Harley Bagger’
If you are a shop owner, maybe you have already lent a lift & some tools to a good client wishing to do some work on his bike. If you did, I am certain that it was an exceptional gesture. But do you know that a new shop concept seems to emerge from our recession. The “Do It Yourself Shop” especially conceived, equipped and staffed to offer bikers a workshop where anyone can come to do their own maintenance. A place where they can find all the tools and manuals they may need, and if requested, assistance provided by on-site technicians. Is there a need? Continue reading ‘Do It Yourself Motorcycle Shop. Interested?’
New Wimmer Ultra Sucker Air Cleaner
Published by April 2nd, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Wimmer Custom Cycle specialty is intakes and this “Ultra Sucker” air cleaner is the latest addition. It is designed to work with all American V-Twin motors, both with carburetors and fuel injection systems including DBW. Wimmer states that it provides better airflow, so increasing engine performance. CNC machined in the US and offered either in chrome, polished or black anodized. It works with 2 types of top breathing systems or the new IBS totally enclosed system. A “lifetime” filter is available in 4 different colors (red, blue, black and purple). Rain socks are also available for nasty weather riding. You can mix and match to achieve your desired look. Wimmer Machine.
I think it’s quite beautiful. This Indian Chief Trike is a joint project between Hannigan Trikes and the Indian Motorcycle Company. As Indian states “an awesome example of beauty and beast.”
I am told that it took a great deal of time in development and engineering. And I believe it. Sweet, and for now it can be seen only at the Indian Flagship dealership of Indian Motorcycle Charlotte.
Today, when you keyword “Cyril Huze” or whatever you are searching on the Internet, you can say you’re “Topekaing.” For one day, today April 1st, Google has changed its name to Topeka. Topeka is the city in Kansas that recently changed its name to Google for one month in hopes of being selected as a one of the cities to receive a new ultra fast fiber-optic network. The April Fools’ Day prank has become an annual tradition of the search engine giant, which has previously promised its users the ability to predate e-mails and obtain free high-speed wireless Internet through their home plumbing systems.
The Story Of The World’s First 30” Front Wheeled Harley-Davidson Bagger
Published by April 1st, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
Last January, when I published the stated first 30” wheel, it provoked a lot of passionate comments in my Blog . Both regarding its size and the tire necessary to dress it. Controversy amplified when I informed you that its first use will be as a Bagger front wheel. Like many professionals, I had the opportunity to check out this 30” front wheeled Harley-Davidson Bagger while visiting the V-Twin Expo in February (Couture Wheels was also exhibiting a new 30″ wheel in the new products section). Right away, I asked Tim Mc Namer from Ballistic Cycles, the custom shop behind this project, to tell me about “Paradigm” and the way it was conceived. Here is the story.
“The idea to get involved with Harley Baggers first started off around February of 2009. At that time we were mainly known for our custom one-off, long and low smooth-lined flowing look, no kickstand, air-ride bikes, but we could see the huge market with custom Baggers and knew it was something we needed to get involved in. As much as we love our one-off custom bikes, and the looks we get while riding them or taking them to shows, nothing beats the open road comfort of a Bagger. Combining the two, and bringing the best of both Worlds, was exactly the route we wanted to go. Continue reading ‘The Story Of The World’s First 30” Front Wheeled Harley-Davidson Bagger’
Hitler Wants To Ride A Harley To Sturgis
Published by April 1st, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.The Art Of Scott Jacobs. The Complete Works.
Published by April 1st, 2010 in Books, Editorial and Painters.
Scott ’s brand new 400-page coffee table book detailing his incredible career spanning over 30 years isl available to the public.
This is the most comprehensive retrospective of his life and artworks ever compiled including interviews, pictures of ALL his paintings, pictures and comments by celebrity collectors, stories and family photos. In pre-ordering through Scott Jacobs’ Studio your book will be hand signed and dedicated to you and your loved ones by Scott. Price is $64.95. Call: 858-756-6725. Scott Jacobs Studio
Insurance Institute For Highway Safety. Safety Courses Don’t Reduce Motorcycle Accidents
Published by March 31st, 2010 in Editorial.
Riders training not preventing collisions? A motorcycle safety study to be released this week by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (a U.S. non-profit organization funded by auto insurers in 1959) found that young riders taking safety courses before getting their motorcycle licenses doesn’t reduce their likelihood of crashing.
The safety research group, funded by the insurance industry, says insurance collision claims for riders younger than 21 are 10% higher in states that require them to take training courses, compared with states that do not require such courses. The Insurance Institute says the difference “isn’t statistically significant,” but goes against the long-held idea that injuries and deaths can be drastically reduced by safety courses.
AMD European Championship Of Bike Building
Published by March 31st, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
During last weekend Custom Chrome Europe Dealer Show in Mainz, Germany (show 12th edition and company 40th anniversary) 119 custom motorcycles were competing in the AMD European Championship Of Bike Building. Top 3 winners get a free trip to Sturgis to compete in the World Championship. I hope to feature some of these bikes very soon. Featured here is the top winner in the Free Class Categry: an Italian shop called Garage 65 (Marco Cinquini & team) with their Kosmo Drive bike. It’s a hub-steered very radical ride still being refined and rolling on racing rubbers from Moto-GP racing. Continue reading ‘AMD European Championship Of Bike Building’
Picture Of The Week. Harley-Davidson Hot Rod Limousine
Published by March 31st, 2010 in Builders and Editorial.
Of course, works well for parades and weddings, but also to compete in the Rat’s Hole Show to win a trophy in “Most Unusual Class”
Let’s just regret that the Harley driving force didn’t receive the same radical hot rod treatment. (sent by Jeff Nicklus)
Custom Softail Harley Trike In A Box
Published by March 31st, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
This Softail is sold as a kit or as a turnkey package as pictured and comes complete with Independent Suspension, trike chassis, main body which includes trunk lid, hinges and remote operated latch and carpet, custom seat, rear fenders, rear taillights, and license plate frame. Custom options consist of matching spoke wheels with tires, Vance and Hines exhaust, electric reverse, etc. Continue reading ‘Custom Softail Harley Trike In A Box’
Harley-Davidson New Australian Headquarters
Published by March 30th, 2010 in Builders and Editorial.
Since I love architecture, I can’t resist showing you the new Harley-Davidson headquarters in Sydney, Australia. Architects at Tony Owen Partners gave the building very futuristic lines, but inside they tried to express the curves of the motorcycles. Sort of… Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson New Australian Headquarters’
New Stretched Motorcycle Bags And Fenders. The Way Harley-Davidson Makes Them.
Published by March 30th, 2010 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Harley-Davidson makes its touring bags out of ABS (PPO/PA Plastic). Most after-market companies make theirs out of fiberglass and some out of carbon fiber. Continue reading ‘New Stretched Motorcycle Bags And Fenders. The Way Harley-Davidson Makes Them.’
“He Who Dies With The Most Toys Wins”. Even when riding wearing a full-face helmet and sunglasses Brad Pitt can’t escape the paparazzi. Which is a way for us to keep track of the number of custom motorcycles he keeps in his Hollywood Hills home.
The latest one looks like a Jesse Rooke Customs (to be confirmed), and for sure his new bike rolls on Roland Sands/PM wheels (picture Top Speed).
Sometimes, looking in my digital files, I find a motorcycle that I forgot to feature when it appeared on the custom scene. This one last year at he AMD World Championship Of Bike Building. Not my style, but some of you like the “radical over the top” look. What will surprise you is that it is was built in Madrid, Spain by a shop called Team Sable using a 1971 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead platform! How strange, like the name. It’s called Barro (Mud!) although it doesn’t fit the profile of dirt track racing. (picture HRF)
Motorcycle Rigid Frames Best Friend
Published by March 29th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
Too old for riding a rigid? Back issues? Maybe shocks installed under your solo seat may help turn your grimaces into a smile. Chopper Shox is one of the original seat suspension companies and provides kits for domestic and foreign Motorcycles offering a superior ride over traditional springs. You can even order depending on your weight. You choose your seat pan, front mount style, adapter plate and springs finish (Stainless Steel springs , Polished Copper , Black Nickel and 24 Karat Gold Plated Springs.) Chopper Shox are universal in fit and can be used with all frames, battery trays and oil tanks. Any question, call 702-683-5143 (Nevada) or visit Chopper Shox Builder Kits.
Ol’ Rusty By Custom Motorcycle Builder Steve Brew Garn
Published by March 29th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Is it a new trend for some? I already know of a few custom motorcycle builders who are devoting some time designing and building one-off bicycles. Is it because as teenagers it’s the way they learn their welding skills? A little bit more time on their hands because business has slowed down? The request of some bicycle manufacturers acknowledging the fresh ideas and craftsmanship that they can bring to them? Continue reading ‘Ol’ Rusty By Custom Motorcycle Builder Steve Brew Garn’
As I announced on March 11, 2010 a company called Warbikes LLC out of Midland, TX is producing an online video series for historic warplane and custom motorcycle enthusiasts. The whole purpose of this project is to honor the flying machines that helped make America what it is today by producing custom motorcycles able to capture the original spirit of adventure and of self-reliance. For this project, custom builder Ralph Randolph from Knockout Motorcycles Co – a former pilot _ was chosen to handcraft all the warplane-themed motorcycles. Continue reading ‘Flying A Custom Motorcycle’
Hooligan Wheel For Bad Boys With Bad Bikes
Published by March 28th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
European love performance bikes. Especially Germans. So, they produce a lot of cool parts still rarely seen here except on high end custom bikes because of an unfavorable exchange rate between the Euro & the US dollar (1.33). Still, many fall in love with their wheels, often seen on Harley-Davidson V-Rods. Like this bad boy wheel from NoLimit in Germany that you can order as you see it here or just partly black.
NoLimit wheels are said to be polished by a special process that makes aluminum surface more dense, looking better and longer. In all widths you may need from 17″ to 21″. Imported in the US by Sculpture Cycles in Mesa, Arizona..
If a product has “Fix It” written all over it, I can’t avoid looking at what it can be in case it can be used at the shop. As a matter of fact you can use it at work, not on a bike, but on you.
Scraped, burned or cut yourself? Of course it happens all the time. Jack Black Mr. Fix It is an antimicrobial wound rescue to avoid abrasions to turn into something very nasty, like infections and diseas, cause by germs like escherichia coli and staphylococcus.
Not cheap, probably because of the cool packaging, but still cheaper than a trip to the doctor plus some antibiotics. Keep one in the tool box. Jack Black Mr. Fix It.
Arlen Ness Bike Show Is April 17-18.
Published by March 27th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The 4th Annual Arlen Ness Bike Show is scheduled for April 17-18 at the San Mateo County Event Center, San Mateo, CA. A show including a Swap Meet Space, a lot of vendors and of course a Bike Show with the best of California custom builders. There will be 42 bike categories covering all styles of motorcycles from Pro-Street to Chopper to Bobber to Antique. Exhibitors call 952-746-7786. Arlen Ness Bike Show.
Custom Harley-Davidson Gauge Kits For Softail And Bagger Models
Published by March 27th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
These custom Harley-davidson gauges deserve your customizing dollars. Nu Image already manufactures very cool stainless steel gauges for many models, but I am showing you only the most recent face kits, these ones for 2000-2010 harley-davidson Harley Softails and Baggers. They outfit your stock gauges, are installed and serviced by their trained technicians, and I must add manufactured in Southern California. Many different designs like “Flames”, “Mechanical Gears”, “Skulls” with or without some red in it and an optional notched bezels for some bling bling. For Softail & Road King, from $249.95. For Baggers from $399.95. At Nu Image.
