This new oil linen painting by my preferred automotive artist David Uhl was on the cover and inside flap of this year Official Indy 500 program with a narrative of the event as well. He tells me that it was quite a challenging piece to compose. Here the story.”In 1912 a young Italian racer named Ralph DePalma led the Indianapolis 500 competition by a huge margin only to be plagued by engine failure with only 3 laps to go. The big grey Mercedes (#4) expired on the last lap, leaving Ralph and his mechanic Rupert Jefffkins as only option pushing the car home. Obviously it made the crowd go wild, not only for Joe Dawson who ultimately won the race (#8), but also because of DePalma incredible persistence and sportsmanship”. David Uhl.
Archive Page 389
Funny that we always do a Grand Opening not when we open, but when we are ready to do a Grand Opening. For a shop, it means to have at least a couple of customs completed and a couple in progress on the lifts. Vinnie (Vincent DiMartino) and Cody (Connelly) are now ready to show you their shop and organize a party on June 7th starting at 1 PM. Of course, food and drinks will be available. In addition to meeting with the duo and crew, listening to a band, the afternoon will be filled with attractions like motocross jumping and the “circle of death” with Cody Ives. The address is: V-Force Customs
469 RT-17K Suite 3
Rock Tavern, New York 12575 and there is a map on the V-Force Customs Website.
Hidden Wiring System. Almost.
Published by May 28th, 2008 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Our custom motorcycles are more and more minimalistic, but we still have to wire them. So, manufacturers of wiring systems work hard at making components with a small footprint. Like Wire Plus introducing their New Z1 Mini Mid Frame Systems. The company states that these new systems have the smallest power modules ever. They are specifically designed for Bobber and Chopper style bikes with round oil tanks or springs under the seat with no place to hide anything. These modules are supplied with a billet aluminum cover with holes for viewing the onboard diagnostic LED’s and measure just 1.8” W x 2” H x .95” Deep. They mount anywhere in the oil tank area and are vibration resistant and waterproof/ All Wire Plus modules feature solid-state breakers (that will never burn out) and a replaceable start relay that can be purchased at any auto parts store. Wire Plus.
I love blogging anytime and anywhere I want. And I am ready to spend extra cash for any good tech stuff helping me to do so. But this idea of “geek pants” is so stupid that it’s very entertaining These “modern shaped trousers” have a built-in wireless keyboard, built-in rocking speakers into the knees, back pocket mouse, and for you gamers there is a joystick controller located just behind the front zipper!!!! Please, call fashion police! Then, you are free to send me your jokes like “I have been looking for a way to play with myself and type at the same time”, “no more punching the keyboard when you are angry”, “good for surfing porn”, etc. By the way, how do you wash these pants with all the circuitry? Invented by a Designer named Erik De Nijs who understands how to get a lot of ink in the medias…and no sales (I hope). Keyboard Pants.
J&P cycles is hiring both in Iowa and Florida and encourage you to apply online. And if you don’t see listed the job you are looking for, you can still apply because J&P Cycles is keeping all applications on file during 1 year, and is reviewing resumes as new positions become available. Go To J&P Cycles Jobs.
Exile Monster Pipes For Softails Now In Black.
Published by May 27th, 2008 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
Exile Cycles now offers their new Monster Pipes for ’86 – ’08 Harley Davidson Softails in high-temp ceramic black! They are also available in a show-chrome finish or in raw steel to coat as you choose. Offered in two styles, Monster Drag Pipes and Monster Shotgun Pipes, they feature heavy 16 gauge steel tubing. The 1¾” header pipe continues inside the true 2½” outer body to maximize scavenging pressure, resulting in significant performance gains. This double layer construction also helps resist discoloration. Each set includes removable louvered-core baffles with polished billet end-tips, and all the necessary brackets and hardware. The Exile logo is carved into each pipe so everyone will know you’re running the real deal! Exile Monster Pipes are priced at $599. For Dealers, exclusively through Drag Specialties. For retail direct sales go to Exile Cycles.
I never did motorcycle ice racing. And you? I guess Tobias Guckel and Sepp Schmidt from TGS Motorcycles in Germany know something about it. This ultra light custom (try to count the number of frame holes) is based on a rigid frame with single sided front end, oil in frame, and is powered by a 93” S&S Shovelhead engine and a 6-speed transmission! (Do they race very long icy German highways?). For traction, the tires are from Metzeler in 18 x 4.5” in front and 18 x 5.5” in rear equipped with Ice-Speedway-Spikes. “Ice Racer” is equipped with a double chain drive, and a twist clutch for fast shifting. I guess more for indoor shows (how many miles of carpet they already destroyed?) than for ice. TGS Motorcycles.
Mean Street Products continues to innovate and just released a new set of legs called the Blade Rider Front End. For a radical change (no round or spike shapes), notice the angle cuts at the bottom and the blade shaped triple tree (I know, not very noticeable on this picture) for an unusual and striking look. I think that the company has now the most extensive collection in the world of custom forks. As always, steering stem is stainless steel with adjustable nut system, slider tubes are in steel alloy, front axle is semi-hidden, fender mounts are billet aluminum, and raked trees are available in 3, 5, 6, and 7-degree rake. You can even pick your length and Mean Street will do it just for you. Available in polish, black and chrome. Mean Street Products.
Women’s Day At Sturgis Top 50 Rally Park
Published by May 25th, 2008 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Top 50 Rally Park, Independent Cycle Inc., and Legend Air-Suspension have joined forces to celebrate and honor women bikers by continuing the new Sturgis tradition of Top 50 Rally Park’s “Women’s Day” Thursday, August 7, 2008 at the Top 50 Rally Park.
The exclusive event celebrates the independence, freedom and adrenaline that inspire women to ride their own motorcycle, not just hang on for the ride. The highlight of the day is the Bike for Breast Cancer Awareness – EWC Top 50 Rally Park Charity Ride. This year’s event will benefit Brenda Fox, a motorcycle journalist and spokesperson for women in motorcycling. Brenda has been battling with breast cancer issues and rising medical bills. This year’s ride and charity auction proceeds will assist her in getting through this difficult time, allowing the industry to give back to the woman who has helped so many motorcycle builders and parts manufacturers. Continue reading ‘Women’s Day At Sturgis Top 50 Rally Park’
Scott Meyers New Owner Of American IronHorse Motorcycles
Published by May 24th, 2008 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Yesterday Friday a U.S. bankruptcy judge in Fort Worth agreed to the sale of American IronHorse Motorcycles to Scott Meyers for $6.7 million. The total cost of the acquisition by Scott Meyers will be in excess of $8 million because it includes liabilities in the form of warranties on existing bikes. So, it’s very good news for all IronHorse dealers and motorcycle owners because the new IronHorse will honor all existing warranties. Evidently, by doing so, the new owner wants to rebuild a very tarnished company’s image. Scott Meyers is 54, a CPA by training, a former CEO of group of defense contractors called Alliant Techsystems, and owns 2 IronHorse dealerships in Minnesota and Montana. To run the new IronHorse, he will move to the existing factory in Fort Worth, TX. Meyers said the purchase is being financed by $2.5 million of his own money and a $6.7 million line of credit from Textron Financial, IronHorse’s main lender and a unit of Textron Corp.. To re-launch the business, he intends to pursue a strategy of producing limited edition high quality models. American IronHorse. (picture Scott Meyers).
Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays)
If you missed it, it’s the way it feels.
The Sturgis Broken Spoke Saloon is probably one of the most famous saloons in the world. If you still didn’t visit it while participating to the rally (how is it possible?), it’s a “Museum that serves beer” boasting a mind-boggling collection of motorcycle memorabilia, including the several dozen vintage machines, almost all in running condition. There you can get married (call ahead, please), escape the summer heat in the big open room with ceiling misters, watch the crowd of famous and less famous, or just kick back, have a cold one and watch the contests and listen to free concerts. Here the bands list: Head East (Saturday, August 2nd), Kentucky Headhunters ( Sunday, August 3rd), Head East (Monday August 4th), The Marshall Tucker Band (Tuesday August 5th), Bouncing Souls (Wednesday, Aug. 6th), TBA (Thursday, Aug. 7th), Shooting Star (Friday, Aug. 7th). And if you still look for a place to stay during Sturgis Bike week, go to Broke Spoke Campground.
To replace your original equipment linkage or to complete your bike “holes theme” using other Battistinis accessories, these shifter rods are 9 1/4″ long. With the adjustment in length provided with Heim joints, they should work with most Harley-Davidson models and custom applications. Battistinis Custom Cycles.
“Dear Cyril, My name is Mike Wilson, and I am the managing partner of the 360 Brake Company. I wanted to take the opportunity to clear up some confusion regarding our company, answer questions we have received, and give you some updates on where the 360 Brake company stands.
What happened to the Baldwin Wilson Development Company (BWDC)?
As you know the 360 Brake came to the market with much fanfare in March of 2006. Through mismanagement and poor business practices the company and its shareholders found themselves in debt and near bankruptcy. In July of 2007 the shareholders took control of the company away from its President, Tim Wilson (no relation to me). They hired an independent consultant, Dale Needleman, to run the companies affairs and try to initiate a turn around. We came up with the only solution available that we believed could help. We would purchase the patent pending rights to the brakes design, and in turn pay BWDC a royalty out of brake sales. Through this royalty the shareholders, customers and creditors of BWDC would have the ability to be paid off over time based on the success of our new company.
Are the 360 Brake Company and BWDC the same company?
No. Many people in the industry are confused about the relationship between 360 Brake Company and BWDC. We are not the same company. Our company, Providence Ventures, LLC was formed in October 2007 after purchasing the rights to the brake and did a name change to adopt the name 360 Brake Company, LLC. It is not much different then the story with Indian Motorcycle. Continue reading ‘The 360 Brake Company Answers All Your Questions’
Last month Harley-Davidson said it will cut its work force by 8 percent and trim bike shipments by the thousands. Yesterday Wednesday the company said it has sold $1 billion in bonds, providing the cash necessary if the market outlook would deteriorate even more. Proceeds are used to repay commercial paper borrowings and for general corporate purposes. Harley-Davidson.
You already know about the quality of Duane Ballard’s work, especially his hand-tooled seats that I already featured here. Because of the customization old school trend, the tool bag is getting popular again…and is re-discovered as a must on our bikes to carry a few wrenches and spark plugs we may need from time to time. Right? So, Duane wants you to know that he can custom make a tool bag for your bike in any size and shape to match your custom seat. His bag work is crafted for your tool bag to retain its shape whatever you want to store in it. Get creative about the design you want, then call Duane on my behalf at 603-781-7505 or visit first his website at Duane Ballard Leather.
Have you been to London? If yes, have you visited the legendary Ace Café? If you didn’t answer yes to both questions and are going to the Sturgis Rally, you will have an opportunity to get a taste of what this famous bikers place is all about.
Dealer World Inc, publisher of American Motorcycle Dealer (AMD), Dealer World and International Dealer News magazines, as well as owner/operator of the AMD Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building, announced today that it has reached an agreement with Ace Cafe London Ltd to bring the legendary gathering spot for millions of motorcyclists, the Ace Cafe, to Champions Park on Lazelle St.. The Ace Cafe will be a part of the Champions Park entertainment complex along with The Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building, Champions Park vendor row and the S&S Cycle 50th Anniversary celebration. The Ace Cafe will be open the entire week of the Sturgis Rally – Sunday, August 3rd through Saturday August 9th from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Champions Park and the Ace Cafe will be located at 3rd and Lazelle St in Sturgis.
Originally opened as a 24-hour road side cafe in 1938, the Ace Cafe quickly began to draw motorcyclists who would hang out, fix bikes and listen to music. The height of the site’s popularity came in the 1950’s and 60’s with the “Ton Up Boys” and “Rockers” who established the Ace Cafe as a cultural center for rock and roll and motorcycles in England. The Ace Cafe was also the birthplace of many motorcycle clubs and the legend of “record racing” where riders would race one another by dropping a coin in the jukebox and race to a certain point and back before the end of the song. The cafe was closed in 1969 and re-opened in 1997 by Mark Wilsmore, with a major refurbishment in 2001. The Ace Café will be celebrating its 70th Anniversary at Champions Park on Lazelle St. More info at AMD Championship and Ace Café London.
I think it’s a pretty good idea coming from the guys at HardStreet. Bag brackets are specific to your brand and model. But what if these brackets were adjustable and become universal when you go from a Harley XL to a Dyna or to a Softail, and then turn around and mount them to your Big Dog, Indian or ….whatever! HardStreet also released an universal fit bracket kit with metric hardware for all metric motorcycles (Left picture is adjustable bracket. Right is standard Softail bracket)
“Hello to all. I would have preferred not to have to write this at all, but I feel the need to do it. Personal matters should be kept personal, but when it is not and the information is very false, I think people should have the opportunity to find out the truth. Letters were sent to many people, businesses and blogs by “people” representing Brenda Fox, in particular a person with a tag of “WebMama” going by the name of “Hope”. Of course, I assume it’s not her real name, as I called her place of work and they have no knowledge of her. Since I can’t discuss with her, obviously she is very unaware of the facts herself, yet is compelled to send out false info to people she doesn’t know at all, people I work with, many of you friends.
Those of you who know me, know who and what I am all about, the truth is that I have done everything in MY power to help Brenda for a very long time now, longer than the ten months ago when I found out about her present condition. Brenda is a wonderful person, and she is up against a lot. I encourage you all to help her in any way you can, as I will continue to, but I offer and encourage any and all of you to feel free to call me at the shop at Goldammer Cycle Works or email me to discuss this further if you are interested in knowing the truth.
I am sorry to have to bring this up at all., While I am far from perfect, I have tried to be a certain type of person my whole life, and when anyone starts to preach otherwise, I get more than offended. While I have many regrets, I feel no guilt. Thanks for your time”. Roger Goldammer.
Big Dog Lays Off 20 employees And Will Introduce New Models
Published by May 21st, 2008 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
During an economic slow down, the best thing a motorcycles manufacturer can do is to closely monitor its retail sales to avoid an overloaded factory inventory, keeping a realistic production in phase with the market. And unfortunately it can mean reducing your work force to adjust to deteriorating economic conditions. Effective yesterday Big Dog Motorcycles was obliged to cut 20 more jobs out of over 200 jobs in 2007. A total of 50 jobs were lost since mid 2007. The layoff affects all areas of Big Dog’s Operations. A low dollar is an incentive for Big Dog to try to expand abroad to Canada and other markets. The company plans to introduce 2 new models later this year. Big Dog Motorcycles.
Updated at 3.00 PM EST: After reading my post and your comments, Paul Hansen, Marketing Director of Big Dog Motorcycles wrote to me the following:
“Hi Cyril – Yesterday’s layoff was a terribly difficult, but necessary decision. You laid it out very well in your blog this morning; I know you need to cover it – as bad news as it is, we appreciate your positive tone. Some comments are concerning and negative, which should be no surprise when you consider the state of the industry and the world of the internet. However, I would like to respond to the comments from “Mike” and “Tony” regarding our liquidation of parts. Continue reading ‘Big Dog Lays Off 20 employees And Will Introduce New Models’
You probably know and use Wikipedia, the Web-based, free-content encyclopedia written collaboratively by volunteers (you and me) and sponsored by the non-profit Wikimedia Foundation. It contains entries both on traditional encyclopedic topics, on current events and people with articles subject to be modified and changed by nearly anyone. Buzz Kanter, publisher of American Iron Magazine, using the same principle and free Wiki, just launched Motorcyclia an online encyclopedia focusing on all aspects of motorcycles, motorcycling and motorcyclists. He tells me that he hopes that Motorcyclia will expand in an ever-growing resource of information about motorcycling history, tech, models, people, events, destinations, competition, etc.
Foo Fighters at Harley Davidson’s 105th Anniversary Celebration:
Published by May 20th, 2008 in Editorial and Events.
Singer-guitarist Dave Grohl and his band Foo Fighters will perform as part of the 105th Anniversary Celebration for Harley-Davidson on August 29th. The concert will takes place at the Roadhouse at the Lakefront located at Veteran’s Park in Milwaukee, WI. An anniversary celebration ticket is not necessary for admission to the Foo Fighters. However, celebration ticketholders will need to purchase the $27.50 ticket to attend the Foo Fighters. Former Nirvana drummer Grohl formed the Foo Fighters in 1995. Three of the group’s six albums have won Grammys for best rock album. Its most recent album, “Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace,” was released last year and reached No. 3 on the Billboard 2007.
2009 Indian Chief Motorcycle. More Details Revealed.
Published by May 19th, 2008 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
As the launch date draws near (although it is yet to be announced), more details about the renaissance of this iconic American motorcycle brand are being revealed.
1-Dealers: At present, Indian dealers are already staged for opening for Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, with an additional 12 applications being processed. Given the ultra premium nature of the Indian Motorcycle brand, Indian will be very selective in judging the quality and number of dealers. By the end of 2008, it is expected that no more than 30 dealerships will be in place, primarily in top motorcycle markets. Each major market will also have a new stand-alone flagship dealership of about 10,000 square foot. It is likely that these new structures will not be completed until sometime in 2009. 2-Merchandising: The emotional appeal, value and power of the Indian brand will soon result in the launch and merchandising of a high quality line of motorcycle apparel and accessories. Indian Motorcycle Apparel will launch the line this summer. Items will be available for purchase through dealerships, at specialty retail stores and of course on the Indian Motorcycle Website. 3-Strategy: Chairman Stephen Julius, President Steve Heese and General Manager Chris Bernauer, an eleven-year veteran of Harley-Davidson, reaffirm that the Indian Motorcycle team is maintaining a sharp focus on product development, design and engineering excellence. VP of Engineering Nick Glaja, a former Principal Engineer of Powertrain Technology at Harley-Davidson and his team have already logged thousands of hours developing, evaluating and refining each and every engineering detail. Rigorous testing continues until each component has proven its durability and performance. Mr. Glaja says “Our goal was quite simple: to focus on the premium nature of this brand and build the finest Indian motorcycle ever. We took a ‘clean sheet’ approach to the engineering of this world class American legend to ensure a solid engineering platform. Benchmarks were set high and we believe our customers will be very happy.”
I remind you that the 2009 Indian Chief features a redesigned 105 cubic inch PowerPlus V-Twin powertrain with electronic closed loop sequential port fuel injection. A new charging system provides increased capacity for the EFI. Engine cylinders are Nikasil plated, eliminating the need for cast-iron liners. A new crankshaft eliminates “scissoring”. The exhaust system is a new design with integrated 3-way catalytic converter and heated oxygen sensors. All body parts are e-coated and the frame and swingarm are e-coated and powder coated for enhanced corrosion protection. A six-speed transmission delivers power through the belt drive to a 16-inch wheel out back. Stopping is achieved via Brembo 4-piston calipers, with 11.5” dual rotors. For 2009, Indian will offer four Chief models: Chief Standard, Chief Deluxe, Chief Roadmaster and Chief Vintage. As befits these limited-edition motorcycles, base prices will range from $30,999 for the Standard to $31,999 for the Deluxe and$33,999 for the Roadmaster to $35,499 for the Chief Vintage. You can see all Chief models at Indian Motorcycle.
Evil Engineering 17” LSD Belt Drive System
Published by May 19th, 2008 in Builders, Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Built to handle “Balls-To-The-Wall” raw power Evil Engineering is releasing a very custom primary system for very custom applications. Their new stretched primary has a 17” crank shaft to transmission main shaft center distance with a lowered starter design. These extreme features allow for extreme modifications by badass builders. The 17” LSD is made to stand up to high torque custom applications. A 7” Evil Clutch is standard with every belt drive. The LSD is available with a 2” or 4” pulley set-up. You must specify right-side or left-side drive and raw or polished finish when you order. Select anyone of the four available custom pressure plate designs to customize your package. Offsets are also available if you run a wide tire. The LSD belt drive will assemble with a Baker Torque Box or Billet 5-speed. Evil Engineering.
