Cyril Huze Post

Archive Page 33

Indian Motorcycle Wins Third Straight In Harley-Davidson Charlotte Half-Mile

Published by Cyril Huze April 2nd, 2017 in Editorial, Events and Racing.

Yesterday evening, April st 2017, defending American Flat Track Grand National Champion Bryan Smith scored his first victory of the season in the AFT Twins class presented by Vance & Hines on Saturday evening at The Dirt Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway. It was a dominant win for Smith (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle backed by Allstate Scout FTR750) beating fellow Indian Motorcycle rider Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle Rogers Racing Indian Scout FTR750) by 3.769 seconds to put an end to his rival’s win streak going into the break.

The evening also marked Indian Motorcycle’s third consecutive 1-2 finish, which could’ve very well been another back-to-back podium sweep if Smith’s teammate Brad Baker on the No. 6 Indian Scout FTR750 hadn’t suffered the bad luck of a mechanical before the halfway mark. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Wins Third Straight In Harley-Davidson Charlotte Half-Mile’

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2017 Reduced Reach Hand Control Levers

Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2017 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.

Not everybody has big hands and certainly not most women. SoftBrakes’ new Reduced Reach Clutch lever for 2014-17 and newer touring bikes with hydraulic clutch is certain to enhance the ride experience for many riders. The unique lever reduces the stock 4” pull to grip by a full 1” providing smoother, easier operation. Quick response is a necessity of motorcycling…

Reduced Reach Levers are available in polished $49.95, black $56.95 and chrome $64.95. All sales are on an exchange basis only and the exchange must be polished not powder coated or chrome. Call 208-561-5031. SoftBrakes.

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The Adventures Of Sparky and Clutch (Episode 2)

Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2017 in Builders.

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Triumph Street Tracker Kit From Standard Motorcycle Co.

Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2017 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

So, you want to be a Hooligan Racer? (many asked me how to become one) or you just want to look like one? Jason Paul Michael from Standard Motorcycle Co. in Orlando. asked for some advice to Roland sands and built his own kit to turn his Triumph Street Twin in an Hooligan tracker.

“Yeah Breh, go fast, turn left and count to three. If you still see the wall, get ready, cause your gonna hit it.” That was Jason’s introduction to Flat Track Racing, care of Roland Sands on the way to Perris, with a Sprinter filled with Indian Scout RSD Hooligan racers. He and Leticia were headed out with Roland to meet up with the Suicide Machine Co. and some of the other local Hooligans from the SoCal Area to get their first crack at Flat Track Racing. In a conversation, in his own language, Jason told me about his first experience on the dirt and at the shop where he perfected his proprietary kit to make the Triumph Street a serious tracker and contender in any Hooligan race. Jason told me:

”It was my first time on a flat track and I was nervous as hell. Cameron, Roland’s No. 1, offered me a rip on his CRF450 prior to taking one of the Indian Scout and I was stoked he did… By the second lap, I was exhausted, but something in me just kept me pushing. I was immediately addicted. A Junky in training. Flat track, for me, was the first thing I’d experienced that truly silenced the world around me allowing me to finally relax.”

Having been bit and being one of Triumphs go-to guys, Jason was on the phone the following week and a Street Twin arrived shortly there after. Inspired by Super Hooligan rules, Jason and the crew wanted to build the bike in the vein of what would be raced. Stock bikes with rad mods. Jason’s goal? To build the first Street Twin Hooligan bike, and then offer a kit so anyone could convert their own into one and experience the same awesomeness he did the first time he Flat Tracked. What you see is essentially a stock bike that can be 100% competitive in a race scenario. That is unless you’re Jason who managed to wad it up the first day out on the track with Johnny Lewis of Ten Training. Fortunately, we snagged these photos prior to the incident. Continue reading ‘Triumph Street Tracker Kit From Standard Motorcycle Co.’

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Kuryakyn And The Sturgis Buffalo Chip Debut Signature Build At Donnie Smith Bike And Show

Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2017 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Kuryakyn® and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip® kicked off the Midwest’s biggest bike show with a bang, debuting the 2017 Rock, Rumble & Rebellion signature build in front of a packed house at the 30th annual Donnie Smith Bike & Car Show. Representing seven days of electrifying racing in August at the Buffalo Chip Moto Stampede™, the sleek, industrial appearance of the 2017 Harley-Davidson® Street Glide® strikes a balance of refinement and straight-up rawness.

“As an aftermarket company, we were honored to take on the challenge of representing the Buffalo Chip’s 35th anniversary last year with a bike build,” said Holger Mohr, Kuryakyn President. “As enthusiasts first and foremost, this year’s focus of bringing racing back to the Chip is equally exciting for us. The Kuryakyn design team came up with an authentic race theme that truly embodies the ‘rumble’ in Rock, Rumble and Rebellion. There’s no better way to introduce our newest products to core Kuryakyn customers, and we’re proud to do it alongside the Buffalo Chip on the biggest stage in the motorcycle industry.”

One of the main focal points on the purpose-built bagger is the freshly reimagined Hypercharger™ ES air cleaner. Symbolizing the evolution of one of Kuryakyn’s most iconic products, the Hypercharger ES features a radical new design with state-of-the-art electronic throttle response butterfly engagement. The integrated servomotor actuates the butterflies with every twist of the throttle, creating an interactive experience with the motorcycle that’s unlike anything available.

Additionally, more than 35 Kuryakyn accessories are featured on the build including select pieces from the new Mesh and Riot collections, as well as the soon-to-be-released Precision line of engine chrome for the Milwaukee-Eight®. Renowned custom shop Gilby’s Street Dept. of River Falls, Wis., laid down a monochromatic race-inspired paint theme that marries everything together to create a cohesive push-pull of mechanical grit and class. Continue reading ‘Kuryakyn And The Sturgis Buffalo Chip Debut Signature Build At Donnie Smith Bike And Show’

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Joke Of The Week

Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2017 in Editorial.

A Psychiatrist versus A Bartender

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always had a fear of someone hiding under my bed at night. So I went to a shrink and told him: “I’ve got problems. Every time I go to bed I think there’s somebody under it. I’m scared. I think I’m going crazy.”

“Just put yourself in my hands for one year,” said the shrink. “Come talk to me three times a week and we should be able to get rid of those fears.” “How much do you charge?” “One hundred fifty dollars per visit,” replied the doctor. “I’ll sleep on it,” I said.

Six months later the doctor met me on the street. “Why didn’t you come to see me about those fears you were having?” he asked. “Well, $150 a visit, three times a week for a year, is $23,400.00. A bartender cured me for $10.00. I was so happy to have saved all that money that I went and bought a new pickup truck.”

“Is that so?” With a bit of an attitude he said, “And how, may I ask, did a bartender cure you?” “He told me to cut the legs off the bed. Ain’t nobody under there now.”

It’s always better to get a second opinion

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How To Build A Sportster Café Racer Only With Harley-Davidson Custom Accessories

Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2017 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

How many Sportster owners want to ride light, fast and loaded with hard-edged, retro-custom attitude . Many, of course. Less is more because less is faster. That was the simple philosophy of the original bikers in 1960’s England who stripped motorcycles down to the bare essentials and put their machines to the test street-racing from coffee shop to coffee shop. The bikes became known as Café Racers and the stripped-down style became iconic. A Café Racer has signature features to define the look and feel: a low-slung handlebars, rear-set foot controls and a narrow profile. Harley-Davidson is now selling Café Custom accessories to create this style of motorcycles starting from a Sportster.

Designed to transform the style, attitude and performance of the Roadster and other Harley-Davidson Sportster models, the new Café Custom accessories leverage the popular retro-custom look influenced by vintage Café Racers and the current garage-built bike scene. Café Custom accessories – including a sleek tail section with solo seat, clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot controls – may be installed as a complete package or individually, and combined with additional Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories items to complete a personal custom vision.

“The new Harley-Davidson Café Custom accessories dramatically alter the look of a Sportster, but they can also transform the riding experience,” said Harley-Davidson Senior Product Manager Rebecca Krueger. “The low bars, rear-sets and the seat positon put the rider in an aggressive, athletic posture. When blitzing back roads or snaking through an urban jungle, riders feel connected to the motorcycle and the pavement because their weight is shifted lower and forward over the front wheel of the bike. Curbside, the look is unmistakably classic. These Café Custom parts provide the perfect foundation for a uniquely personalized Sportster.”

Café Custom accessories can even evoke a craving for more power. “During testing we found the control and confidence a rider feels in the café riding position ignites an instant desire for more-potent Sportster performance,” said Krueger. “Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories can unleash the potential of a Café Custom Sportster with the no-compromise Screamin’ Eagle Stage IV Street Performance Kit and the new Screamin’ Eagle Fully Adjustable Front Fork Kit and Screamin’ Eagle Fully Adjustable Piggyback Shocks.”

Since not every Sportster owner has a fully-equipped garage – or the time and expertise required to scratch-build a custom motorcycle – Harley-Davidson Café Custom accessories have been designed to provide factory-quality fit and function with no cutting, welding or fab work required for installation. Continue reading ‘How To Build A Sportster Café Racer Only With Harley-Davidson Custom Accessories’

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Work Stand For Harley-Davidson Four Speed Transmissions

Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2017 in Accessories and Customs.

Rare enough to mention, Lowbrow Customs created a simple work stand for use while maintaining or completely rebuilding your 1936 to 1985 Harley-Davidson four speed transmission.

This four speed transmission work stand allows you to clamp the stand in your bench-mounted vise, allowing for easy access to all angles of your tranny, all while keeping it at a secure and convenient work height.

Made in the USA with American steel and black powdercoated for oil and rust resistance, The Four Speed Transmission Work Stand is SKU 007590 and price at $29.95.

Lowbrow Customs already offers a large line of motorcycle engine stands and specialty tools for other motors. For more details or to place your order, call toll-free 1-855-456-9276 or visit Lowbrow Customs.

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The Wild Gypsy Tour Festival. An Event For Women By Women At The Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2017 in Editorial and Events.

The Gypsy Tour Festival is a women’s only festival during The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally at the legendary Buffalo Chip. Experience the first-ever all-women’s camping and motorcycle festival kicking off the 77th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on August 4-7, 2017 in South Dakota.

Women from all over the world will gather in the mecca for motorcyclists to launch the historical event with live entertainment, private campgrounds, exclusive moto-related classes taught by industry experts, all women-led group rides through the landmarks of the country, and various activities including shooting guns on the range and racing on the flat track.

“It’s a private party at the world’s largest party,” said Leticia Cline, one of the founders for The Wild Gypsy Tour. “It’s also unique in the fact that this is the first event of its kind for the Sturgis Rally, and because of that we’re creating history for women and the motorcycling community by bringing in a revival of new faces to this already well-established event.” Festivities with admission include: Continue reading ‘The Wild Gypsy Tour Festival. An Event For Women By Women At The Sturgis Buffalo Chip.’

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MagnaFlow Bandit Exhaust System For Softail Models

Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2017 in Customs and Exhaust.

As all custom systems, The Bandit is designed to deliver upgraded power and turn heads. It features cutting edge contrast design of the exposed muffler tips and embossed MF bands in gloss black or brushed stainless steel finishes will instantly transform the look of your bike.

Durable Magna-Black coated 1 ¾” stainless steel head pipes will not blue or rust and come equipped with 12mm and 18mm O2 sensor ports for maximum tuning options.

The Bold 2 ½” full coverage heat shields give your bike a dynamic stance. The Bandit is available in show chrome or deep black finishes. Made in the USA by MagnaFlow.

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Sturgis Museum Names 2017 Hall Of Fame Special Award Recipients

Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2017 in Editorial and Events.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum will honor Willie G. Davidson with its Lifetime Achievement Award and Buffalo Chip’s Rod Woodruff with its J.C. “Pappy” Hoel Outstanding Achievement Award during this year’s rally. The museum also will induct Colleen Barnett-Taylor and Mike Taylor, Cory Ness, Mark Shadley, Jim Thiessen, Terry Vance and Woodruff into the 2017 Hall of Fame. The award ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 9 at The Lodge at Deadwood in Deadwood, SD.

Willie G. Davidson. Considered the patriarch of motorcycling, and as current Chief Styling Officer Emeritus and Brand Ambassador for The Motor Co., Davidson’s artistic vision and passion for riding have shaped Harley-Davidson’s brand identity for more than 50 years, the museum noted in its announcement.

Colleen Barnett-Taylor started her career at Barnett Clutches & Cables while working for her parents, Charlie and Afton Barnett. She “has been a driving force and integral part of the company,” the museum said. Husband Mike Taylor joined Barnett in 1968. Together, they have operated Barnett since 1975 and owned the company since 1993.

Cory Ness is the chief designer behind Arlen Ness Enterprises and runs the day-to-day business of the company. “At only 10 years old, he disassembled his bicycle, painted it, chromed its parts and entered it in the Oakland Roadster Show,” the museum stated. “The first motorcycle he turned his talents to was a wrecked CB350. After building it back up, Cory sold it before even getting a chance to ride it. He was 14.”

Mark Shadley and Shadley Bros. Motorcycles have been shaping the perception of custom motorcycles since the early 1970s, the museum said. “The quality, detail and innovation of his custom-built bikes have made him well-recognized by both the motorcycle industry and his peers.”

Jim Thiessen, founder of JIMS, has generated trust with riders, record-breakers, racers and certified Harley-Davidson mechanics around the world who use JIMS products on a daily basis, the museum noted. “Today, JIMS is one of the industry’s leading producers of performance parts, accessories, tools, transmissions and high-performance engines, all aimed at enhancing the Harley rider’s experience.”

Terry Vance, 14-time NHRA national champion, created a company (with co-founder Byron Hines) that would be “a pillar of the motorcycle aftermarket,” the museum said, “and they used their unrivaled achievements in racing to build a brand that would unmistakably stand for quality and performance.”

Rod Woodruff, since 1981, has been directing the action the Sturgis Buffalo Chip Campground, treating millions of rally-goers to rock concerts, camping and entertainment. “Rod Woodruff is the man who brought Rock ‘n’ Roll to the Black Hills, and now hosts a 10-day concert series” during the rally on his 600 acres in rural Meade County. In addition to his induction into the Hall of Fame, he receives the Pappy Hoel Award, a designation reserved for individuals who have played a special role in the founding, maintaining and/or promoting of the museum and Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the Aug. 9 event are available for $45 (tables of eight for $350) by calling the museum at 605-347-2001 or by purchasing them online at the museum website.

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Ace Cafe Orlando To Open spring 2017

Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2017 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Construction of Ace Cafe Orlando Rolls Toward Spring 2017 Opening. It’s the first North American outpost of the world’s most celebrated London-based motor-diner. The new destination in Central Florida Will Feature full-Service restaurant, bars, live music Stages, retail Stores, dealership, gallery and more…Construction workers are in high gear completing the 35,000-square-foot parcel bringing more than 175 new jobs to the local economy. The Orlando Ace expects to draw over 400,000 people to downtown annually.

Since 1938, Ace Cafe London has been a mecca for those passionate about cars, bikes and rock ’n roll culture. The original location on London’s North Circular Road began as a simple roadside cafe for truckers, then evolved into a popular destination for rock ‘n roll-loving teens riding motorbikes during the ’50s and ’60s. Today, the Ace has a multi-generational appeal from motorsports enthusiasts from all over the world.

Ace Cafe Orlando is located on a three-acre parcel in downtown Orlando at the corner of West Livingston Street and Garland Avenue, now known as “Ace Corner.” The Ace is renovating and refurbishing three 100-year-old buildings – once home to Harry P. Leu’s supply company – preserving the structures’ authenticity and even repurposing its original materials (for example, every table inside the Ace is made from the wood and heavy timbers reclaimed from the barn on property) – while also evoking the essence of the original Ace Cafe London. “We’re thrilled to welcome Ace Cafe to downtown Orlando,” said Thomas Chatmon, Jr., executive director of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board and Community Redevelopment Agency. “This entirely-new destination’s unique blend of restaurant, bars, retail, live music and event spaces will entice a variety of demographics to downtown. The Ace’s economic impact will be immeasurable.”

Much larger than its London namesake, Ace Cafe Orlando spans two floors and will feature a full-service restaurant, two kitchens, four bars, a coffee bar, a communal counter, a mezzanine that overlooks the main floor dining area and stage, and private and semi-private spaces for groups both large and small. Rounding out the offerings inside the Ace are Rockers Speed Shop (selling official branded Ace gear and apparel); a BMW motorcycle dealer; Dainese D-Store (Italy’s most famous high-tech riding gear and accessories brand); EagleRider motorcycle rental company (the world’s largest motorcycle tourism company); and Stonebridge Motorgallery, selling an ever-changing line-up of original motorsports and rock ’n roll-inspired artwork, photography, sculptures, and memorabilia, as well as collectable vintage and one-off custom motorcycles. World-renowned artists including Michael Lichter, David Uhl, Antonio Merinero and Makoto Endo, as well as local favorites, will be represented. Continue reading ‘Ace Cafe Orlando To Open spring 2017’

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The Next Big Thing In The Motorcycle Market? The Italian Volt Electric Motorcycle.

Published by Cyril Huze March 28th, 2017 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Italian Volt is an Italian Limited Company established in 2016 with for designers veterans from Lamborghini and Bertone. Objective is to offer a powerful electric motorcycle that you can customize with exclusive features for the luxury segment. The company is ending the prototyping phase and expects to take pre-orders in the Q3 of 2017.

The Volt offers a minimum 80% charge in 40 minutes, a battery capacity up to 15KW/h, a range of 124 miles (200 km), acceleration of 0 to 60 miles (97 km/h) in 4.6 seconds, a maximum speed of 110 mph (180 km/h) for a gross weight of 540 lbs (245 kg)

All the VOLT bike (frame, swingarm, bodywork) is 3D-printed, letting you choose between 3 versions (Roadster, Scrambler and Cafe Racer) in the color of your choice. Each Volt version is fitted Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes. A fully customizable riding profile let you select different torque & engine brake settings

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Biker’s Choice To Distribute New RSD Bob Job Seat For Dyna

Published by Cyril Huze March 28th, 2017 in Editorial.

Dyna owners looking for a classic design custom seat blended with a stripped-down, with minimalist look without giving up comfort or function can now get the new RSD Dyna Bob Job Seat through Biker’s Choice.

The RSD Bob Job Seat is a direct bolt-on part, making it easy to install. The ergonomic shape allows the rider to sit comfortably and firmly when riding. The pan is made from marine-grade fiberglass and injected with controlled density polyurethane foam. It features black distressed vinyl with raised detailing and the RSD metal logo. The seats are manufactured by Mustang Seats for Roland Sands Designs.

Available in black, the RSD Bob Job Seat with a diamond pattern retails for $399.95 and with a pleated pattern for $409.95. They can be ordered through your local Tucker Rocky | Biker’s Choice dealer.

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The Quail Motorcycle Gathering On May 6 Announces Kenny Roberts As 2017 Legend Of the Sport

Published by Cyril Huze March 28th, 2017 in Editorial and Events.

Each year The Quail Motorcycle Gathering selects a Legend of the Sport in recognition of achievements in racing and contributions to the sport of motorcycling. The Quail Motorcycle Gathering has announced two-time AMA Grand National Champion and three-time World 500 Grand Prix Champion Kenny Roberts as its “Legend of the Sport” for the 2017 event.

With a racing career spanning 13 years, multiple championships, and dozens of race wins, Kenny Roberts has left an indelible mark on the sport of motorcycle racing in the United States and around the world. A product of rural Central California, Roberts quickly found success as a dirt track racer, earning the AMA Rookie of the Year Award in 1971. The following year he won the first of his 32 career Grand National wins, and in 1973 won the first of two straight AMA Grand National Championships. Along the way Roberts became just the second racer to complete the AMA Grand Slam by winning a mile, half-mile, short-track, tourist trophy and road race event in both the 1974 and 1975 seasons.

Witness this celebration only at The Quail Motorcycle Gathering on Saturday, May 6, 2017. Attendees can save $20 by purchasing discounted pre-sale tickets online at Quail Lodge Tickets. Full price tickets will also be available at the gate on the day of the event.

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Super Sleeper. A Blings Cycle’s Mile-Eating Performance Dyna Super Glide.

Published by Cyril Huze March 27th, 2017 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Enter the huge Blings Cycle shop and among all projects going on, a common thread between almost all of them: performance. Doesn’t matter the style discussed and approved by the client, all Master Builder Bill Dodge’s bikes brings a bit of fresh air into a custom world often looking pretty but not necessarily very attractive for acceleration, handling and speed when confronted with the road or the highway… Bill is deeply a hardcore performance guy who likes smooth rides and giant miles to go from one rally to the other. And most of his creations show it.

He is a strong defender of simplicity and the enemy of the “more chrome the better” philosophy that has polluted the custom building industry during too many years. He knows exactly what can and what should be done to any stock or badly customized motorcycle to turn it into a very desirable machine, resurrecting the true meaning of “motorcycling” in anything he touches.

Client Johny Brooks from Colorado is also into performance, racing all types of sport cars across the USA like the Porsche GT3R in the IMSA series, the Dodge Viper in the Pirelli World series and even bikes in the Colorado 500. He wanted first to buy one of Bling Cycle’s bikes sitting on the floor. Having a much better idea to provide what his client was looking for (performance), Bill opposed. As some of you can see from the pictures, the donor bike was a Harley Super Glide. Precisely a 2004 model year which was initially offered by the factory in a large variety of trim levels to fill the intermediate niche between the smallest and largest Harley models. A Dyna chassis debuted in limited production in 1991 with the legendary FXDB Sturgis model, then evolved with a better braking and suspension. To this day, it remains one of the favorite of all asphalt addicts who want to enjoy the smooth engine rubber mounted system.

Pointed in the right direction, Johny Brooks was easily convinced that Bill Dodge would create the powerful and reliable large displacement motorcycle he was craving for. High horsepower equals also an other well known name in the industry: Kendall Johnson whose equipment – Sunnen Head Machine, flow bench, 150 Dynojet dyno with Loadbrake – is unequaled when it’s time to build a high performance package. So, while Bill was imagining a new Dyna Super Glide chassis, Kendall created a bad to the bone 117” stroker tested at a 145 lb.-ft. torque, 147 lb.-ft. at the rear wheel… Continue reading ‘Super Sleeper. A Blings Cycle’s Mile-Eating Performance Dyna Super Glide.’

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Cafe Racers Japan

Published by Cyril Huze March 26th, 2017 in Editorial and Videos.

Until now, I turned down all very long videos because they consume too much bandwidth and slow the loading of other articles. But of course, sooner or later, I had to make an exception. Here is a 15 minute short film about a day in the life of the fashion conscious Rockers of the Cafe Racers scene in fascinating Tokyo.

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Thought Of The Day

Published by Cyril Huze March 26th, 2017 in Editorial.

“When people start telling you that you’re crazy, you just might be on to the most important innovation in your life.”

Larry Ellison

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Atlanta Flat Track Racing. A three-Way Indian Motorcycle Podium.

Published by Cyril Huze March 26th, 2017 in Editorial, Events and Racing.

One week after giving Indian Motorcycle its historic first victory in American Flat Track competition at Daytona International Speedway, Jared Mees on his Indian Scout FTR750 made it two in a row Saturday evening March 25, 2017 with his win at the Atlanta Short Track presented by Indian Motorcycle.

The three-time Grand National Champion was part of a podium sweep for the Indian “Wrecking Crew” in front of a near-capacity crowd at Dixie Speedway in Woodstock, Ga.

For Brad Baker it was sweet redemption to take the number two spot on the podium after a rough Daytona. Bryan Smith, 3rd place, went into Atlanta hoping for a win, but in the end the defending champ was happy to leave the first two rounds second in the points as the series heads to longer circuits.

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Custom Builder Jim Nasi Rotating License Plate Holder

Published by Cyril Huze March 25th, 2017 in Chassis and Customs.

A short video to show you what you may have missed in Daytona during Bike Week. The way Custom Builder Jim Nasi makes its rotating license plate holders. Smooth. Enjoy…

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2017 Daytona Bike Week. Spike In Number Of Motorcycle Related Trauma Admissions.

Published by Cyril Huze March 25th, 2017 in Editorial and Events.

A high number of intensive care patients were admitted during this year’s Bike Week, making it one of the most dangerous Bike Weeks that Daytona Beach has seen in years. During the 10-day event (March 8-19), 69 motorcycle related trauma patients were received by the only trauma hospital for Flagler and Volusia counties, the Halifax Health Medical Center. The second highest of trauma admissions was during Daytona Bike week 2016 with a number of 54.

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New Air Cleaners From S&S Cycle For The Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring Models

Published by Cyril Huze March 24th, 2017 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.

Harley-Davidson promises a new more comfortable and performance experience with the all-new Milwaukee-Eight™ engine, ninth in the lineage of the company’s iconic Big Twin engines. You already know that more of this feeling experience can be delivered with the different exhaust systems provided by S&S Cycle, and now with the new Milwaukee-Eight air-cleaners kits above and below. These kits are for stock bore engines and in different designs are offered from $159.95 to $299.95. Order online HERE or call 608-627-1497, or through your S&S dealer.

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The 30th Annual Donnie Smith Bike And Car Show Is This Weekend. March 25-26, 2017.

Published by Cyril Huze March 24th, 2017 in Editorial.

After Daytona Bike Week, motorcycle and classic car enthusiasts are ready to kick off the 2017 riding season and enjoy moto heaven at the Midwest’s largest custom bike and car show this weekend presented by Dennis Kirk.

The event is attracting an ever-growing number of builders, customizers and businesses seeking to connect with bike and car enthusiasts. The broad range of experts at the show offer visitors a unique experience to learn from specialists, see the latest innovations, shop, hunt through the parts extravaganza and win prizes.

The new Tattoo Expo and Contest can also be found at the 225,000 sq. ft. show. The event will take place at the St. Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul, Minn., 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, March 25 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 26, 2017. Tickets for the Donnie Smith Bike & Car Show are on sale at the St Paul RiverCentre Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at Ticket Master Children under the age of 12 are admitted free.

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Fast Motorcycle Industry News

Published by Cyril Huze March 24th, 2017 in Events and Legal.

Harley-Davidson CEO Matt Levatich 2016 Base Salary Up 15%. His salary is $1,041,660, 15% lower than former CEO Keith Wandell when he left the company. Securities filings describe his salary in 2016 as based on “his individual performance, accomplishment of key initiatives and positioning his salary in relation to similar companies.” Levatich’s total compensation also increased from roughly $6.5 million to $9.4 million, largely due to the award of new performance shares that will not actually be paid out until 2018. Levatich and other executives will be granted shares of the company’s stock depending on how the company performs over the next three years. Those measures included the percentage of first-time motorcycle buyers choosing Harley, weighted at 15 percent, and net income and return on invested capital, both weighted at 42.5 percent. Executives can earn zero to 300 percent of the initial target depending on performance.

Missouri Lawmakers Are Considering Measures To Repeal Most Of Missouri’s Helmet Law For Motorcycle Riders. One proposal would allow licensed operators 18 and older to ride without a helmet if they have medical insurance coverage of at least $1 million. House Republican Shane Roden of Cedar Hill says the insurance requirement isn’t fair to motorcyclists, but is an attempt at compromise. A Senate bill requires anyone under 18 to wear the gear, and makes the same demand of anyone over 18 who is using an instruction permit to operate a motorcycle. One of the House measures bumps the age restriction up to 21 and calls for the operator to have completed a motorcycle safety education course, and to have possessed a motorcycle license for at least two years. Currently, 19 states and the District of Columbia have universal helmet laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear protective headgear. 28 states require some motorcyclists to wear a helmet. Three states, including Missouri neighbors Illinois and Iowa, have no helmet use laws.

New Royal Enfield Twin-Cylinder Has Been Spotted In Testing. This Twin-Cylinder Continental GT 750 cc is an entirely new product offering from Royal Enfield, a manufacturer intending the climb the ladder in terms of displacement and one day to challenge Harley and Indian in the USA. The new model was tested in Europe and now in India where it should be launched 3rd quarter of 2017.

Every Segment Of The Transport Industry Is Going Electric. The latest example is Zero electric motorcycle manufacturer partnering with the recreational watercraft segment. Precisely with a new Sacramento-based startup called Free Form Factory to create “the world’s first electric, stand-up personal watercraft”. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’

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New Stepped Design Rear Bars For Harley-Davidson Street And Road Glide Models

Published by Cyril Huze March 23rd, 2017 in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.

The new Kuryakyn® Rear Turn Signal Bar is a clean, sleek direct replacement for the factory unit on select Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® and Street Glide® models. The bullet-style signals and bar are made from quality cast aluminum available in chrome or gloss black finish.

A smooth, stepped design forms to the contours of the rear fender and features full top coverage to eliminate the grab-handle look of the stock bar. Included in the kit are stylized deep-dish bezels with red lenses and clear incandescent bulbs that offer full run-turn-brake functionality.

The Rear Turn Signal Bar utilizes the stock plate illumination and mount, and is compatible with Kuryakyn Curved License Plate Mounts (P/N 3157 – Chrome, 3147 – Gloss Black), sold separately. The streamlined bullet housings also accept Kuryakyn Bullet Style L.E.D. Rear Turn Signal Conversions (P/N 5448, 5449, 5459 or 5460, sold separately) for an easy L.E.D. upgrade in place of the incandescent bulbs. Fits: ’10-’13 & ’15-later FLTRX/S, and ’10-’17 FLHX/S • P/N 5406 – Chrome, 5407 – Gloss Black MSRP: $179.99.

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The Adventures Of Sparky and Clutch (Episode 1)

Published by Cyril Huze March 23rd, 2017 in Editorial.

The Adventures and Sparky and Clutch is a comic strip developed by the author of Discovering the Motorcycle – The History. The Culture. The Machines. After Armand Ensanian completed his acclaimed 510 page book on all that motorcycling has to offer, he was looking for a much lighter themed project that would educate those new to motorcycling in a humorous format.

Sparky and Clutch are millennials that literally discover the motorcycle. Their adventures are based on the real life experience of the author over his fifty years of riding and repairing bikes. They are introduced to the basics of motorcycle mechanics, its culture, and vast riding experiences. Follow Sparky and Clutch as they dive into this wonderful world on two wheels. Illustrated by Alan Bessen,

The Adventures of Sparky and Clutch make an ideal medium for introducing motorcycling to younger audiences as well. Armand gave me authorization to publish each episode, one per week. Below is the first one.

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