Published by Cyril Huze October 25th, 2009
in Accessories, Editorial and Events.
Good initiative of the Harley-Davidson Museum in partnership with the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) to present a feature exhibit of the history of helmet as function and piece of art. No, it’s not about the controversy of choosing or not to wear a helmet but an exploration of its evolution. Until November 8th at the Harley-Davidson Museum “The history Of Helmets” comes alive through artifacts from the Harley-Davidson Museum Archives.
On October 28 at 7 pm there will be an insightful panel discussion and participants will probably learn that the first motorcycle helmet was reported to have been invented by Gottlieb Daimler in 1885, and at this time not built with speed in mind. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Helmet Project’
Published by Cyril Huze October 24th, 2009
in Editorial and Painters.
The newest painting of artist David Uhl was inspired by his visit last month at the Reno Air Races. Meaning that it takes him only one month to paint such a masterpiece? Some of you, like me who is a big fan of David’s work, will recognize the model as the same lady featured in the “Ruth” painting. Again I regret that a Blog doesn’t authorize me to show the finesse of the details, the beauty of the light and the glamour projected by “Miss Behaven”. Taking orders for the signed/numbered canvas giclee prints in 3 different sizes: 12 x 16″ starting at $375 framed, 18 x 24 and 24 x 32″. Contact Greg Rhodes on my behalf, Uhl Studios, 303-913-4840
Published by Cyril Huze October 24th, 2009
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
As reported on my post last Tuesday October 20, attorneys for Billy Lane, 39 filed a motion asking Brevard Circuit Judge Robert Burger to give the crash victim’s family another chance to say what kind of punishment they think he should receive and to reduce Lane’s prison sentence. For attorneys Greg Eisenmenger and Robert Berry this motion was justified because at time of sentencing on October 14, 09 the victim’s brother, Byron Morelock, and nephew, Sean Morelock, declined to recommend a prison sentence to Circuit Judge Robert Burger. The family believes that Billy Lane would better be able to benefit society if he were not incarcerated. Yesterday, the motion filed was rejected by Judge Burger. Billy Lane is currently serving his 6-year prison time at the Avon Park Work Camp in Florida (picture Billy Lane at sentencing 08/14/09).
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2009
in Editorial and Merchandise.
Thanks to reader Nicker, a couple of masterpieces in very small scale. And you wondered what happened to all these leftover watch parts…Author unknown, but seems to be in Brazil. Tell me if you know. Will credit him or her.
Added October 23, 7.15 pm. The artist is Jose Geraldo Reis Pfau (thank you “Fluke”)
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
![fastnewscyrilhuzeblog11[1]](http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/fastnewscyrilhuzeblog1111.jpg "fastnewscyrilhuzeblog11[1]")
Jesse James will restart his “No-Love Party” on November 14th. Well, it is is Long Beach, full of rods, rads, smoke and fun the Jesse’s way – Despite the dwindling of leisure dollars and maybe due to the cancellation of The Love Ride, Las Vegas Bikefest (Oct 1-4) got relatively good attendance numbers with an estimated 30,000 participating bikers – Consumer spending is a key indicator of how well motorcycles, considered a luxury item by many financial experts, sell. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2009
in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2009
in Editorial.
Fort Lewis, Washington State.
This US soldier is crying 4 members of his Unit killed while fighting in Afghanistan
I was moved by this picture. You should be too.
(picture Janet Jensen/AP/SIPA).
Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2009
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
When Buell officials thanked the company’s customers, employees and dealers for an unforgettable ride, it meant that it’s was over for the only American sport bikes brand. After Erik Buell made his emotional good-bye speech, President Jon Flickinger said a limited number of motorcycles were available for sale through authorized dealerships and that production will end definitively on October 30. But is it really over? Since the dramatic news of Thursday October 15, many things have happened. Continue reading ‘Buell Motorcycle Company. Is It Really Over?’
Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2009
in Customs, Editorial and Merchandise.
Never wait december to buy a calendar for yourself or as a gift for the new year. The reason being that most calendars are more than 12 months, and the 3 ones I am featuring here are 16-month and started in September. And since they are all about the most amazing motorcycles of the year (and occasionally the prettiest girls around), you don’t want to miss any month… Continue reading ‘The 2010 Sexiest Motorcycle Calendars Are Here’
Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Exhaust.
In 2009 is it possible to ride your Harley-Davidson Bagger with enough rumbling noise to feel like you are still riding a Harley, but quiet enough to satisfy all EPA & CARB certifications in any US states you live or ride in? From BUB, the home of the world’s fastest motorcycle at 367.382 mph, these BUB 7 Stealth Mufflers for all law abiding riders looking for the perfect balance between performance, sound quality and minimum emissions. These mufflers have a 4 inch body and will fit 1.75″ or 2″ header systems of Harley FLH 2009-2010 (FL models from 1995 to 2008 are also 50 state legal). Available in Chrome or Black Ceramic finish with Chrome or Black Teflon coated slash cut end caps. Mufflers have the option of two mounting positions –slash up or slash down. And I know that you want to hear how they sound. So, just make the jump HERE, then visit BUB Performance Exhausts.
Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2009
in Editorial.
![joke112[1]](http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/joke1121.jpg "joke112[1]")
Why Italian Grandfathers Pass Their Handguns Down Through The Family:
An old Italian Mafia Don is dying. He calls his grandson to his bedside. “Elio, I wanna you lissina me. I wanna you to take-a my chrome plated .38 revolver so you will always remember me.” “But grandpa, I really don’t like guns. How about you leave me your Rolex watch instead?” “You lissina me, boy. Somma day you gonna be running da business, you gonna have a beautiful wife, lotsa money, a bigga home and maybe a couple of bambinos.” “Somma day you gonna coma home and maybe finda you wife inna bed with another man. Whatta you gonna do then? Pointa to you watch and say, ‘”Time’s Up ?”
Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2009
in Builders and Editorial.
Since Bruce Rossmeyer tragic disparition in a motorcycle accident on July 30th, his family, wife Sandra and his 5 children share responsibilities to manage the Rossmeyer Enterprises. The business entity comprises 13 Harley-Davidson dealerships or stores located in 5 different states and 3 local Florida car dealers. A couple of months before his death Bruce told me that he was thinking of selling or close 3 of his businesses in South Florida. The Harley dealerships of Pompano and of Sunrise, and the clothing store of Boca Raton (already closed before Bruce death). Continue reading ‘How The Rossmeyer’s Family Is Managing The Harley-Davidson Businesses’
Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
One more in the garage. Brad Pitt loves Samurai choppers and Rad Cafe Racers. So, logically he is a very good client of custom builder Shinya Kimura. The only part you will probably recognize is the Ducati engine (1974). All the rest is pure old japanese crafsmaship where the name of the game is mastering mechanical complications. The oil cooler sits next to the headlight giving the bike an asymmetric look. (I remind you that Asymmetry, or Hacho, is one of the distinctive factors found in Japanese art). Will Brad Pitt gets unnoticed riding this Cafe Racer in the streets of Los Angeles? Of course not. It’s not the purpose. Just for the love of mechanical art.
Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2009
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
![lowbros1[1]1](http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/lowbros111.jpg "lowbros1[1]1")
![lowbros21[1]2](http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/lowbros2112.jpg "lowbros21[1]2")
In case you don’t know, the Boys at Lowbrow Customs specialize in the “hard to find” that you will have a ton of difficulties to uncover. For example they came across these quite cool new vintage NOS bubble shields available in two different styles, Standard and Grand Prix. The Grand Prix bubble shields feature a nice aluminum accent edging that really sets them off. Available in assorted colors, get one while they last…And the beauty is that they fit the Biltwell helmets that they carry. And the new ones in Black Megaflake and Brite Silver Megaflake are pretty cool too with a new red contrast stitching and a beefier goggle strap on the back. Many more “treasures” at Lowbrow Customs
Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2009
in Editorial.
I retype the letter sent by Mick Jagger to Andy Warhol, a leading figure of the pop art movement, when ordering artwork for a new Rolling Stones album. Custom Motorcycle Builders, wishing you that all your clients who order a custom bike talk to you in the same terms used by Mick Jagger. Clients, be our Mick Jagger, you will get a better bike.
April 21st, 1969.
Andy Warhol, 33 Union Square NY, NY 1003
Dear Andy, I’m really pleased you can do the artwork for our new hits album. Here are 2 boxes of material which you can use, and the record. In my short sweet experience, the more complicated the format of the album, e.g. more complex than just pages or fold-out, the more fucked-up the reproduction and agonizing the delays. But having said that, I leave it in your capable hands to do whatever you want……..and please write back saying how much money you would like. Doubtless, a Mr. Al Steckler will contact you in New York with any further information…He will probably look nervous and say “Hurry Up”, but take little notice. Love, Mick Jagger.
Unfortunately I don’t own this historic letter (but own a Jagger signed picture). But to all those who intend to order a custom bike, follow my advice. Take the time to choose and know your Builder. You hired the Builder to do what he or she does best. Pay him or her well, get the hell out of the way and don’t obsess. And be happy with what you get. Cyril.
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
This one can get you a A+ at a design school and a guaranteed F grade at the Harley-Davidson Design Dept. I bet that you will never see this one on the road in 10, 20 or 30 years. Instead you could see many design variations inspired by it in many cartoons and sci-fi movies. Did you find the handlebars? But wait, I know that some of you could find at least a little bit of inspiration for some bodywork or headlight/taillight/brake light design. The author of this hubless concept motorcycle is named Miguel Cotto (not the boxer) and I know nothing else about him.
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2009
in Customs, Editorial, Events and Exhaust.
A manufacturing arrangement has been signed by Rinehart Racing and Clearline Industries LLC by which Clearline will extend its previous involvement of polishing, finishing & chroming Rinehart Performance Exhaust Systems. The previous manufacturer was Bub Enterprises. Manufacturing of the product line will take place at Clearline’s corporate and manufacturing headquarters in Traer, Iowa as well as in Minneapolis, MN. With the expiration of the previous exclusive manufacturing and distribution with LeMans Corp., the parent company of Drag Specialties, Rinehart now assumes the exclusive management of the manufacturing and distribution processes of its motorcycle exhaust line. Continue reading ‘Rinehart Racing And Clearline Industries Partner For Performance Exhaust Manufacturing’
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2009
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
![billylanesentence[1]](http://www.cyrilhuzeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/billylanesentence1.jpg "billylanesentence[1]")
Following his August 14, 09 sentencing regarding the vehicular homicide case in connection with a September 4, 2006 crash that left Gerald Morelock dead, Billy Lane is currently serving a 6 years prison time at the Avon Park Work Camp in Florida. Lane’s attorneys Greg Eisenmenger and Robert Berry just filed in 18th Judicial Circuit Court a defense motion to reduce this sentencing. If you remember, during sentencing, the victim’s brother, Byron Morelock, and nephew, Sean Morelock, declined to recommend a prison sentence to Circuit Judge Robert Burger. Instead they recommended a punishment that would use Lane’s celebrity status to help save the lives of young people through a foundation they plan to create. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Sentence Reduced For Billy Lane?’
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2009
in Builders, Controls, Customs and Editorial.
It was the 1st custom part I noticed on Icon, the new Lorenzo Cycles chopper model built by Eddie Trotta. Proof that you can re-invent the floorboard. They were used instead of pegs for the rider, not for the passenger (although they can) and I thought they were looking pretty cool. Eddie told me that they were recently released, So, now you know where to find them. Thunder Cycle Design.
Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2009
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Who would have thought 6 years ago that American Chopper, the Teutul saga, would be plebiscited by the public for a 6th season. On Thursday October 22 at at 9pm (ET/PT) a new series will show the struggle of Paul Teutul Sr. running his motorcycle business while Junior and Mikey are no longer working at the shop. The scenario (yes, there is one) is the following: how Senior and his employees are going to forge ahead with the business of building bikes? Continue reading ‘OCC American Chopper Gets An Encore.’
Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2009
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
It’s the turn of Polaris to announce bad news regarding their 2009 On-Road Division, primarily Victory motorcycles, third quarter results. Sales decreased 56 percent during the third quarter of 2009 when compared to the same period in 2008. Victory retail sales to consumers declined more than the industry wide sales of heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycles over 1400cc, down 20% during the 3rd quarter 2009 when compared to quarter last year. Continue reading ‘Victory Motorcycles 3rd Quarter Sales Down 56%’
Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2009
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In addition to the overall economy, 2 parameters influence rally attendance. Gas price and weather. The way to know that gas price is no more an issue this year in Daytona is that nobody talk about it anymore. Weather was almost perfect, sunny and extremely warm on Thursday & Friday then with lower much more comfortable temperatures in the low 70’s on Saturday. So, no excuse on this front to explain this year’s shy attendance and depressed mood floating above Volusia County. I don’t care what the city & county official statistics are going to say in a few days. Visitor numbers are one thing, rally goers spirit is more important . And I am telling you, Thursday Harley horrible financial 3rd quarter results and Buell story depressed many rally goers and members of the industry present in Daytona. Continue reading ‘Biketoberfest 2009. Or How Harley-Davidson Depressed Many.’
Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2009
in Editorial.
Digital news, blogs, social medias, video & music on demand, e-commerce, affiliate & viral marketing, organic searches, mobile & smart phone applets, etc…. All these terms describe how information is searched, delivered and received wherever you are at anytime of the day. And since you are among the average 212,000 monthly readers of this Blog, you demonstrate that information technology has forever changed and that news have higher value when they can be delivered on demand with opportunity for you to react, comment, and become yourself, if such is your choice, a member of the journalistic community. Continue reading ‘Cycle Source First US Chopper Publication To Offer Both Print & Digital Format’
Published by Cyril Huze October 17th, 2009
in Builders, Chassis and Customs.
From Fat Katz this new “rejuvenated” Bobber gas tank. I loved it at first sight because it’s exactly in the line of what I have done as one-off tanks on my latest customs. It’s called the Ridgeback because of the ridge running on top (just an idea: why not request for same on rear fender…) and has a slight arch on the bottom for a refreshed Bobber look. Made of stamped 16 gauge steel, I promise you that this one will require none to minimum body work. Available in different widths and lengths for a perfect it to your frame. call Don on my behalf at Fat Katz Gas Tankz & Fenderz (CA time) at 530-273-2212.
Published by Cyril Huze October 17th, 2009
in Builders, Customs and Events.
Friday in Daytona started by quick text message exchanges between Lorenzo Lamas, business partner Chad Greulach, Eddie Trotta and myself so that we could resolve our Biketoberfest schedule conflicts for an unveiling of Icon, the 1st limited edition model of the Lorenzo Cycles line. We all ended up on time at Eddie’s big rig on International Speedway except that Lorenzo succeeded several times to escape our vigilance, too happy to spin around the speedway on Icon and to do a couple of fast stints on the long bridges of Volusia county. Well, finally I spent some time with Lorenzo & Eddie talking about the business of custom motorcycle building (an endless topic…), detailing Icon and listening to Lorenzo Cycles plans for the next 12 months. Continue reading ‘Lorenzo Lamas. Eddie Trotta. Day One For An Icon.’
From the mind of Brian Elliott in his small machine shop in Illinois called “Black Sunshine Custom”, this interesting taillight that you can order in several configurations, by itself, with an horizontal or vertical license plate support and even an attached oil filter! Why not to save space? Evidently Brian style breathes hot rods, metal flake, jockey shifting, foot Clutching, and kick start choppers. The light grooved aluminum housing is 2.25″ OD tapering in the back to 2″. Light comes from an LED cluster to laugh at vibrations. Comes with 3 wires. From $149.00 to $320.00 with plate and oil filter. 
A stretched Bobber is already an oxymoron. What about having this Bobber built by an Irish shop using an Italian engine? If there is a case of fusion of styles, this custom motorcycle is a perfect illustration. Oh, you never heard about 