Industry insiders consider this “Concours D’Elegance” as one of the best events of the year, and I agree with them. Sadly, I learn that because of the effect of the world economy, which you can translate by “due to difficulty getting sponsors”, this event is postponed to 2010. This show taking place at the gorgeous Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay down the coast from San Francisco is a very costly enterprise not only because of its location, but because of very rare motorcycles being transported from all over the world to this show. But due to its excellent reputation, expect to see an even bigger and better show in 2010. Legend Of The Motorcycle.
Archive Page 360
Legend Of The Motorcycle 2009 Is Canceled
Published by March 18th, 2009 in Builders, Editorial and Events.Mike Garrison Named Midwest Vice-President of Manufacturing.
Published by March 18th, 2009 in Customs, Editorial, Engines and Events.
Mike Garrison is best known as the former owner & senior designer of “Engenuity Motors” which were known for their flawlessly smooth appearance & top of the line quality. Mike has over 30 years experience in all aspects of high performance motor manufacturing. Utilizing decades of knowledge he will continue to channel his expertise to insure that the Ultima Motors line is the best there is. Continue reading ‘Mike Garrison Named Midwest Vice-President of Manufacturing.’
Indian Motorcycle Expands In France, Monaco, Luxembourg And Belgium
Published by March 17th, 2009 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Indian Motorcycle announced the appointment of its first exclusive importer/distributor in Europe. The well known Paul Chedid Automotive Group has formed Indian Motorcycle France to promote the selling of the Indian Chiefs, Indian Motorcycle Accessories and Indian Motorcycle Apparel in France, Monaco, Luxembourg and Belgium. For over twenty years, the Chedid Automotive Group has imported many prestigious American automotive brands including Cadillac, Hummer and Corvette. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Expands In France, Monaco, Luxembourg And Belgium’
Just wanted to wish everyone a happy and safe St. Patrick’s Day.
Today. read my news with a delicious Irish drink in your hand (such as Irish stout, especially Guiness, Irish Whiskey or Irish Cream). But please drink responsibly. Cyril.
New bikes are inspired by the past, and a lot of new custom parts follow the same path… Retro simplicity for this new velocity stack whose body is spun aluminum (proof it’s a new piece) with machined black anodized base and old school brass wire cover. The complete unit is 5” long and you choose the adapter corresponding to your carburetor (CV, S&S E or G, Mikuni 42 to 48 mm). Velocity stack $199.00. Adaptor $99.00. See your Custom Chrome Dealer or order online in the Custom Chrome eStore (delivery to the dealer of your choice).
22nd Annual Donnie Smith Bike Show Is March 28/29th
Published by March 17th, 2009 in Builders, Customs and Events.
The Midwest is still freezing. Backyard/garage/pro-builders have been grinding, welding & wrenching all winter. They can’t wait to see how their new creations are going to be received. And the Donnie Smith Bike Show, already in its 22nd edition, is one of the first they can attend to promote their custom sleds. As usual, there will be a vendor’s row with major brands showing their ware, some cash money to be made for the winners in the 42 classes competing in this mid-western bike show. 2 weeks to go to finish your bike on time for the weekend of March 28/29th at the St Paul River Center in St Paul, MN. Send me pics of the best new bikes (picture by Tom Zimberoff)
Florida motorcyclists interested in the progress of HB-1161 should note the bill received a favorable recommendation by a 17-2 vote in the House Roads, Bridges & Ports Policy Committee on March 11. House Bill 1161, sponsored by Representative Greg Evers (R-Baker), would provide criminal penalties for anyone who commits a moving violation that causes serious bodily injury to, or causes or contributes to the death of, a person operating or riding in a motor vehicle or operating or riding on a motorcycle. The bill awaits action in the House Public Safety & Domestic Security Policy Committee, the Economic Development & Community Affairs Policy Council, and the Full Appropriations Council on General Government & Health Care. If you haven’t already contacted your reoresentative in support of HB-1161, use thee Find Your Legislators feature on the Florida Senate Website for his or her contact information (info transmitted by Rogue)
Daytona Biker Fusion Raised Over $24,000 for Soldier’s Angels
Published by March 16th, 2009 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
I guess the only thing missing (maybe not) in my former posts about the Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse’s Biker Fusion party during Bike week, was the amount raised. Now you know that more than $24,000 were raised (donated by sponsors, provided by auctions, including a $10,000 donation from Seminole Tribe of Florida leader Max Oceola). The proceeds went to “Soldiers Angels” an organization whose philosophy is “May No Soldier Go unloved.” Sgt. 1st Class Toby Nunn spoke on behalf of all of the soldiers and heroes Soldier’s Angels supports. Ami James and Russell Mitchell took on the roles of auctioneers and raised thousands of dollars in the live auction of custom skateboards by Buck Wild and of Hard Rock Fender Guitars especially designed by Billy Lane and Ami James. And I remind you that Billy donated a 1976 Harley Shovelhead to Leon Roy a recipient of the “Purple Heart”. And of course, next year we will do better (picture Ami James Autioning A Custom Fender Guitar).
Malcolm Smith Protest To Support Kids Who Love To Ride
Published by March 16th, 2009 in Editorial and Events.
As you know by my former post, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 is banning the selling of off-road motorcycles and ATV’s to children younger than 12 because the bikes could contain high levels of lead. Consequently, about 13,000 dealers were required to remove dirt bikes from their show floors, an estimated 100 million valued stock (The federal consumer agency is reviewing an appeal made by manufacturers of motocross and dirt bikes). Continue reading ‘Malcolm Smith Protest To Support Kids Who Love To Ride’
The most efficient (I guess) commercial for a motorcycle awareness campaign. Produced and run in Australia. Can we do better?
Harley-Davidson Rocker Conversion By Heartland USA
Published by March 16th, 2009 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
I remember the day when I published the first authorized pictures of the new Harley FXCW Rocker. Immediate comments were “I adore” or “I hate it” (mostly because of the seat), with no reaction between these 2 extremes. Somebody commented that it was a good base for aftermarket improvement and customization. And here I show you an interpretation of the Rocker made by Heartland USA, a company specializing in easy after-market kits usually requiring little labor, no drilling, just bolting-on custom parts specifically conceived for your specific HD model (slogan is: the cure for the common Softail…). Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Rocker Conversion By Heartland USA’
Ace Trike. Romance And Panache Of A Bygone Era.
Published by March 15th, 2009 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Cycle Car is the name that Europeans used for Trike and they were very popular in England, France, Italy. Germaby & Austria between 1910 and the late 1930’s. As a matter of fact they offered a big tax advantage – reduced registration and annual license versus small cars or “voiturettes” of the time – propelling them to become hugely popular. Pete Larsen in Seattle loved so much the legendary Morgan three-wheeler of the 1930’s that he decided to create an American version that he named the ACE (stands for American Cycle-Car Endeavor). As you can see, this trike is theater on the road, a way to make a statement and to salute the past. Continue reading ‘Ace Trike. Romance And Panache Of A Bygone Era.’
“Cyril, I just got back from Daytona. Today, it is minus 10 F in South Dakota. It is hard to believe that there can be a 100- degree difference between two spots in our country. It’s too bad that we didn’t get to meet up in Daytona, but there is always next year. Have a nice day. Best regards” Matt Olsen, AMCA Youth Coordinator, Carls Cycle Supply
Gas Tank. Do It Yourself With A Little Help From Paughco
Published by March 14th, 2009 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Most of purchased after-market steel gas tanks are modified to fit your frame and/or your style. So, why to pay for a full finished and welded gas tank when your 1st task will be to cut, reshape and re-weld it. Paughco is now offering a number of their gas tanks in kit form. You can purchase tank halves separately or in pairs along with all the hardware required to custom fabricate your own tank. And you can do it without breaking the bank. Symmetrical styles are sold each, meaning each half individually, and they start at just $74.95 each. The Sportster style is of course a single shell and those tanks that require a matching right and left side are sold in pairs. Of course, tank bungs, tunnels and appropriate fittings are also available. By Paughco.
A Letter From Jesse James To My Readers
Published by March 13th, 2009 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
“In an effort to focus 100% of our talent, facilities and resources on manufacturing the worlds finest motorcycles. Effective immediately West Coast Choppers will no longer sell parts to the public. Effective 3/13/09 all orders and Po’s will be canceled. With exception to orders that were prepaid. These will be filled in a timely fashion. El Diablo’s, CFL’s, and Dominators will all be available as complete motorcycles only. WCC will also continue to customize Harley Davidson’s on a limited basis for select dealerships.
“Jesse James is back to building motorcycles at West Coast Choppers”. I will have my hands on every motorcycle ordered. West Coast Choppers will continue to lead the way by focusing on customer service and superior quality. Thank you for your business and continued support” Jesse James, West Coast Choppers, 718 W. Anaheim St, Long Beach Ca. 90813. (562)983-6666
Complement Of Information Saturday March 14, 12.10 pm EST: In the comments below and by direct emails to me, some of you think that Jesse james is going to continue to sell his parts to dealers through distributors. This morning I contacted Jesse and he just confirmed to me, in his own words that: “everyone is officially cut-off, including the distributors”.
Myrtle Beach Rally Has A New Home. New Bern, North Carolina
Published by March 13th, 2009 in Editorial and Events.
The Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association announced that the 69th Annual Spring Rally will be held in New Bern, North Carolina on May 15 & 16. The rally site is the New Bern Fairgrounds, a 40 plus acre site located at 3700 East US 70 Highway in New Bern. The Association said it had given the issue serious consideration and wanted to go where they would be welcomed with open arms. So the event is now called the “Spring Rally Of New Bern”. The city is located at the confluence of two rivers, is the second oldest town in North Carolina. One of its many features is the picturesque downtown waterfront district and New Bern is only a 30-minute motorcycle ride to the beaches. More info at The Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association Website.
Wire Plus Powersports Electronics just released their new, state-of-the-art “Classic Black Face” Round Digital Instrument Panels. These new line of round digital instruments includes a vast array of functions: speedometer, tachometer, trip odometer, all indicator light functions and new flat panel construction that measures 2.5” round with all electronics onboard. (No external brain box) The unit features super bright display technology for “true daylight” readability with a light sensor for auto-dimming at night. Offered in either all chrome housing including bracket, clamp and ring with just black overlay or an all black housing, clamp and bracket. Various riser and T-bar mounting options are available (1”, 1 ¼”, 1 ½” T-Bars and between 1” Risers). MSRP: $399.99. Wire Plus
Willie G. Davidson To Receive Eyes On Design Award.
Published by March 12th, 2009 in Editorial and Events.
Willie G. Davidson, Senior Vice President and Chief Styling Officer at Harley-Davidson Motor Company and grandson of Harley-Davidson founder will receive this year’s EyesOn Design Award presented by the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology. Regarded as the most prestigious award in automotive design, each year’s EyesOn Design Award winner is chosen by the industry’s top designers and EyesOn Design award winners from previous years. Willie G. joined Harley-Davidson in 1963; his creations include the design of several of Harley-Davidson’s most admired motorcycles. His artistic vision and passion for riding have made him a legend among throngs of enthusiasts worldwide who consider him the patriarch of motorcycling. Willie G. will accept the award with his wife, Nancy, during the EyesOn Design 2009 weekend events in Detroit, June 19-21 2009.
West Coast Choppers Bear Trap II Floorboards
Published by March 12th, 2009 in Builders, Controls, Customs and Editorial.
What you are looking at is a complete revamp of the original West Coast Choppers FTW Bear Trap style that I introduced to you 1 year ago. Second version features full front boards and new matching iron for the passenger. The new boards feature billet steel frame and unmistakable Bear Trap lip. The highly polished stainless steel foot plates have a rugged industrial look with the WCC logo integrated into the design. Sold separately, the front boards run $650.00 including WCC shift arm and brake pedal with pivoting Bear Trap style actuating control plate. The matching passenger boards retail for $550.00. Both are designed for 1980 to 2008 FL touring/bagger models. West Coast Choppers.
I don’t care what you ride if you ride and what you build if you build. And it would be a mistake to think that in Daytona this year all the bikes were in the category of vintage or new and old school style. High tech aggressive sleds are still being built as I found out all along the week. Continue reading ‘Apocalypse Now’
Video Of The Old Indian Motorcycle Factory In Springfield
Published by March 11th, 2009 in Editorial.Thanks Melissa,
A Visit To The Indian Motorcycle Flagship Dealership
Published by March 11th, 2009 in Builders and Editorial.
Last Spring I visited the site of the future Indian Motorcycle Flagship Dealership while it was still in construction 20 miles west of Charlotte, NC, located directly along I-85 at exit 22. Then, there was a grand opening on October 4 and the Charlotte dealer became the world’s 1st New Indian Motorcycle dealer. Mark Moses, owner and general manager, had a large part in the design direction for this flagship dealership and his building, in & out, is the template for all major-market Indian stores already opened since last October or to be started in 2009. (During the “Gilroy” years, Mark was owner and general manager of Indian Motorcycle Toledo). Continue reading ‘A Visit To The Indian Motorcycle Flagship Dealership’
Genevieve Schmitt Launches 2 Online Magazines For Scooters And Trikes.
Published by March 11th, 2009 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
I guess you know. The 2 fastest growing segments of the powersports industry (although not dominant) are scooters and trikes. So Genevieve Schmitt, an award-winning motorcycle magazine editor with more than 20 years of experience working in both the television and print mediums just launched Scooter Riders Now and Trike Riders Now. The “scootering” and “trikering” lifestyles have of course their own specificities, parts, accessories and clothing. Genevieve created each site to encourage interaction, inviting readers to share their riding stories, to send their testimonials on the scooter or trike they ride, the accessories and equipment they use. Genevieve Schmitt, an expert motorcycle rider, (also publisher since 2006 of Women Riders Now) will personally test new models and publish their reviews inviting readers to comment and share their own experience. FYI, her company, Solitude Ranch Communications, provides television and video production services, freelance writing services, and marketing communication services. You can reach her at: gschmitt@womenridersnow.com (by the way, Genevieve was one of the firsts to interview me and shoot me riding for a TV show and it was a long time ago..)
First Annual New Orleans Bike Week Is May 7th To 10th
Published by March 10th, 2009 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Slowly, the good life is back in New Orleans. “The Big Easy” will have its 1st Bike Week from May 7th to 10th and the “center stage” will be the 26,000 square foot of the Broken Spoke Saloon with the French Quarter as playground and starting point for scenic riverfront and plantation rides. Broken Spoke Saloon Jay Allen with have some of his hottest barmaids from the Black Hills in Sturgis transported to the heart of the one and only New Orleans. And you know, like me, that no city throws a festival like the “Big Easy”. The all-inclusive event will feature a huge Easyriders Bike Show, motorcycle daredevil demonstrations, a Budweiser burn out, bike build-offs, live headliner music and much more. All events will appen or start from theNew Orleans Convention Center, Sugar Mill & Heritage Park in the French Quarter’s Warehouse District. More details at Bike Week New Orleans.
Biltwell co-founder Chris Collins created his seat pans to be both functional and comfortable. The shape and curvature of the company solo seat was hand hammered to include a narrow profile, a short, supportive nose, gently sloping sides and a subtle rear kick to keep you from sliding off your ride. The pan is stamped from heavy gauge high-tensile steel and features ribs and indents for added rigidity and stiffness. The four threaded mounting bosses are TIG welded into position and the entire seat pan is powder coated for beauty and weatherproofing. Continue reading ‘Solo Seats By Biltwell’
Intro clip on the Fix My Hog DVD Series. 20 year Harley Davidson certified master mechanic Bob LaRosa shows you some of the DVDs that Fix My Hog has to offer on Harley-Davidson maintenance and performance. More info at Fix My Hog.
