Sold individually or packaged as a Zipper’s Kit with a pre-mapped Power Commander tuner, Zipper’s now offers products to significantly improve performance and sound of the Indian Scout and Indian Scout Sixty.It includes:
1- Premium 4” SuperZip mufflers. They feature a louvered baffle design that promotes early and mid-range torque, while allowing maximum HP at the top end. The result is an extremely flat torque curve, with an upwards kick right where you ride for instant acceleration while cruising. These mufflers have a deeper tone with a much more aggressive sound. An extra coat of nickel is applied before chrome plating for a deep shine and the 4” black tips add to the overall robust look of the SuperZip mufflers. Installation is very simple as no extra hardware or brackets are needed. Continue reading ‘Zipper’s Performance Parts For The Indian Scout. 15 Extra HP. 17 Extra FT/LB Torque.’
In its 30th year, the Donnie Smith Bike and Car Show presented by Dennis Kirk is the largest custom bike and car show in the Midwest. The show draws some of the nation’s most prestigious brands, top competitors and tens of thousands to the RiverCentre in Saint Paul, Minn. It is widely known as the annual kickoff to the riding and cruising season and features a unique mix of competitions, shopping and entertainment in a fun, family-friendly environment with 35 classes of custom motorcycles, 16 classes of cars, one of the largest swap meet on the planet, a tattoo expo and other entertainment. Right now, anyone, from amateur to pro, can enter a custom project, register to sell goods or set up a tattoo display at Donnie Smith Bike Show. All events will take place at the St. Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul, Minn., 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sat., March 25 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun., March 26, 2017.
Outrageous Motorcycles. Well over half the show, 135,000 sq. ft., will be dedicated to motorcycles, paying homage to the machines that started the show in 1987. Over $7,500 in cash awards will be presented to the top baggers and customs with awards also given for best paint, display, lighting, antique, bagger, bobber, chopper, pro-street, sport bike and a judge’s choice. Some of the biggest guns in the biker world including Donnie Smith, Rod Woodruff, Kevin Baas and the Kennedy High School Chopper class, Dave and Jody Perewitz and Pat Patterson will be in attendance. The inclusionary show allows anyone to enter. Enter the bike show by filling out the entry form located HERE. Deadline for entry is March 10, 2017, but the show historically sells out, so early entry is encouraged. Continue reading ’30th Anniversary Annual Donnie Smith Show. More Custom Bikes, Cars, Parts and Tattoos.’
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Inc. (“SMRi”) has reached a settlement in its trademark infringement litigation against Kent Mortimer and his companies, which arose out of misuse of SMRi’s STURGIS trademarks. “After months of negotiations, two mediations, and over two years of litigation in federal court, we are pleased to settle this case,” Dean Kinney, chairperson of SMRi, said. “We are looking forward to focusing more of SMRi’s efforts and resources on growing the Rally and bettering the Sturgis community.”
SMRi filed its suit against Kent Mortimer and his company, Mortimer Enterprises, in 2014 after discovering Mortimer, through his former business Renegade Classics, was selling, to retail stores in Georgia and elsewhere, unauthorized apparel bearing the term “Sturgis Rally Week,” which infringes SMRi’s rights in its Sturgis Bike Week®, Sturgis® Motorcycle Rally™ and Sturgis® trademarks. Continue reading ‘Settlement Reached In “Sturgis Rally Week” Infringement Case’
“This Motus rides like a dream, but will they be around in 5 years? We hear that a lot. And, it’s a fair question. Customers buying a Victory in 2016 or a Pontiac in 2007 probably didn’t consider their purchase risky from those brands. But, why not?
As entrepreneurs, patriots, motorcycle nuts, we are saddened by the demise of Victory Motorcycles, but not surprised. Polaris is an incredible American company making the best business decisions for shareholders, as they should. Maybe similar to decisions General Motors made with Pontiac.
Conceived in Polaris’ boardrooms to grab some of the (then growing) v-twin market, Victory remained target fixated as demand for heavy cruisers shrank by half. At the same time, the European brands grew like wildfire by offering appealing bikes in other segments, and there was no American competition. While Victory marketing showed intriguing sportbike concepts under the fuzzy brand promise of an “inextinguishable passion for American performance”, Victory dealers only offered 800 pound/90hp cruisers. Continue reading ‘Open Letter From The Founders Of Motus About The Demise Of Victory Motorcycles’
Riding alone just got a whole lot more comfortable with these Solo Front Seats from Drag Specialties Seats. These seats are made from high-quality automotive-grade vinyl and molded flexible urethane foam for durability that remains comfortable for years to come.
The carpeted seat bottom ensures a perfect fit that won’t damage your ride’s paint. Available in smooth, single diamond and classic stitch for 86-03 XL models, these seats include all mounting hardware. Measure 15″ L x 10″ WMade in the USA, the suggested retail price is $169.95 for smooth and $179.95 for classic and single diamond stitch. At your local Drag Specialties dealer.
This mid-weight cowhide motorcycle jacket features two large exterior pockets which unzip to reveal a total of six additional pockets, including two waterproof phone pockets.
Unzip the jacket to discover two horizontal and two zipper vertical interior pockets as well. From keys to wallet, phone to gloves, small essentials stay in place. Two front vertical vents and two back exit vents let the rider control airflow for warm-weather comfort.
This jacket also features body armor pockets at elbows and shoulders (body armor sold separately) and light padding at the back, waist and shoulders.
Designed for comfort on the bike, the Synthesis jacket features an action back, slightly pre-curved sleeves, and two side zipper gussets. The jacket shell has a matte finish with embroidered leather patches on the right sleeve and left chest plus 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material in the jacket piping for enhanced visibility in low light conditions. It is available in S to 5XL and Tall sizes. Available at more than 750 authorized retail locations in the United States and online.
Smaller Polaris Sprit Lake Workforce. Following January 15th Polaris decision of winding down Victory motorcycles operations to strengthen its position in the powersports industry, a much smaller Spirit Lake Workforce is expected, Polaris will eliminate first temporary positions, then gradually reduce the number of full time workers by not replacing personnel lost through retirement or resignation. On Tuesday January 24th, Polaris will release its fourth quarter and full-year 2016 financial results. It will be very interesting to know what will be 2017 guidance regarding Indian motorcycles and the Slingshot.
A 100% Tax On Imported 51cc and 500cc Motorcycles Is Being Proposed. The Office of United States Trade Representative requested comments regarding its proposal to include tariffs on imported European Union motorcycles with an engine size between 51cc and 500cc The deadline to submit comments is Jan. 30. The American Motorcyclist Association (AMS) opposes the proposed 100% tariff because it will cause serious and potentially irreversible harm to American small- and medium-sized business owners selling the vehicles. Additionally, consumers will be denied access to certain models of competition and recreational motorcycles that contribute to the lifestyle and well being of millions of American families. Manufacturers that will be impacted: Aprilla, Beta, BMW, Ducati, Fantic, Gas Gas, Husqvarna, KTM, Montesa, Piaggio, Scorpa, Sherco, TM and Vespa.
Two women Held After They Were Filmed Riding A Motorcycle. Not in the US, of course, but in Iran where women face discrimination in all spheres of life. “The women exploited the opportunity presented by the absence of police at a national park to commit an “obscene act” worsened by a viral footage of them seen riding” officials said. In the video, the women wearing headscarves and loose clothing were seen being followed down a road by several male motorcyclists, chanting and whistling. The 2 women will be judge for “breaking “revolutionary norms and values” In a fight against oppression, Iranian women call on Western tourists to violate hijab law.
Consolidation At MAG (Motorsport After Market Group). Motorcycle-Superstore Integrated In J&P Cycles. Under pressure to make its retail operations more profitable, MAG is folding the Motorcycle Superstore into J&P Cycles with customer sales operation in Texas with inventory held in Louisville, KY. Between 40 and 60 people from the Motorcycle-Superstore are expected to be laid off. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Belgium Fred “Krugger” Bertrand is a well known custom builder with a strong reputation for being a problem solver, both in terms of motorcycle design and engineering. Never afraid to challenge conventionalism and to explore the unfamiliar, his creations are always very unique, getting him plebiscited by his fellow builders when he competes in the AMD World Championship Of Custom Bike Building (he has been World Champion and several times a very close contender) and comissioned by major manufacturers for the production of brand concept bikes. With ease, he jumps from Harley to Ducati to BMW and to Yamaha platforms, working his magic to create each time simple solutions to quite complex motorcycle architectures,.
All Fred’s customs have a racing pedigree, most often with a vintage DNA, all carrying the name of a well known or obscure race track. The one featured here is called LADD, a drag strip in Alaska belonging to the US Air Force and used by speed freaks during the late 50’s. And I guess, Fred had in mind the machine he could have raced there, at least in terms of design. LADD was commissioned to Krugger as a corporate custom bike by Sansen & Gangi, “The Belgium Jewelers”, and built to be ridden by Oliver Gangi one of the partners, himself already individual owner of one of his customs. In the Krugger’s mind, jewelry and a custom motorcycle share the same objective of apparent simplicity in the final appearance, but require a high level of finition, of details and many hours of labor. Continue reading ‘LADD. Krugger’s Vintage Style Shovelhead Racer.’
Just released, Classic Motorcycles. The Art Of Speed is the story of the most groundbreaking motorcycles of the past century. It compiles the best of the best machines from the legendary marques still alive or defunct. From Triumph to Harley-Davidson to Vincent to Ducati to BMW to Indian, but also less known like Thor, Mitchell, FN, Militaire, Mars, Megola, Motosacoche, etc.
Owning this book is like having a full museum on your book shelf or coffee table. It is authored by Patrick Hahn with all motorcycles featured in studio by Michael Lichter and Tom Loeser using light-painting technique. Each bike story is completed by period ads and associated historic photography. Exactly 220 color and 12 black & white photos in a 224-page hard cover book, size 12” x 9.75”. A must own. $38.00. Order on Amazon at Classic Motorcycles/The art Of speed.
Your gas tank may belong to the peanut category or even bigger the gas station may still be far away. Instead of a regular saddlebag, you may prefer one including a fuel bottle holder. I know, some may prefer to fill it up with whatever, but it’s your choice. These solo saddlebags are available for your Softail or Sportster or rigid frame bike, and attach on the left side on your swingarm or frame tubes with four leather buckle straps.
Made with genuine cowhide leather in different colors and finish or military grade canvas with high quality stainless steel hardware. Double stitching with heavy nylon thread and interior leather reinforcement to keep the bag in shape for a very long time. They come with 1 La Rosa Design 30oz Fuel Bottle. Made in The USA. MSRP from $189.99 to $244.99. At La Rosa Design.
With the slogan “Get Going Again”, Italian brand FB Mondial is back in business and is launching The Hipster, a 4-stroke motorcycle offered in 125 cc and 250 cc.
The original FB Mondial (FB stands for the 2 brothers Fratelli and Boselli) was a motorcycles manufacturer (1948-1979) well known for its high-quality sporting motorcycles and a string of Grand Prix racing successes during the 1950’s. Exactly 10-time world champion titles. Continue reading ‘Italian Motorcycles Manufacturer Mondial Is Back With The Hipster Model’
Originally designed by Charles B. Franklin, and introduced as a 1920 model, the Scout rivaled the Chief as Indian’s most important model. In 1927, with the Scout 45, the engine went from 37 cubic inch or 610 cc to 45 cubic inch or 740 cc. The reason for engine displacement increase was the strong competition from the Excelsior Super X model.
In print ads, Indian’s Springfield factory was promoting the Scout 45 using a test made on March 2, 1927 by a certain Bob Armstrong who performed 2 times in a row an acceleration from 5 to 65 mph in just 10 seconds.
in 1928, the Scout 45 was replaced by tanother Charles B. Franklin design, the Model 101, the first Indian model equipped with a front brake. It became legendary for its exceptional handling.
It will replace the Harley stock outer primary on all 2007-up Touring models. It’s a multi-piece design for easy visual inspection and driveline maintenance.
As almost always with Ness parts, the “10-Gauge” theme of this cover can be extended all over your bike with multiple other custom parts.
Available in black or chrome and sold with chrome hardware. MSRP $799.95. At Arlen Ness.
Harley-Davidson FLH touring models with heel toe shifting on the inner primary case seem to be notorious for rattling due to vibration from worn shifter shaft bushings. The typical service life of the shifter shaft bushings is 20,000 miles or less. Once the bushings are worn and the shifter starts rattling, wear is increased on all shifter parts from the shift rod ends to the transmission lever and oil seal.
JIMS® No. 5518 Shifter Pedal Shaft Bushing Tool easily removes both worn bushings and installs the new bushings to their proper depth without removing the inner primary, making shifter shaft bushing replacement a 20 minute job.
Made in the USA and featuring JIMS® lifetime tool warranty, JIMS® No. 5518 has a suggested retail price of $90.00. For use on all 1985-present FLH touring models. Online at JIMS USA.
Some custom parts, if not sexy, are quite effective at improving your riding comfort. Managing wind is the objective of these Kuryakyn Lower Tree Deflectors.
They redirect downward wind and water passing through the forks and noticeably reduce noise levels, moisture and turbulent upward airflow between the tank and fairing.
These Triple Tree Wind Deflectors are durable stamped steel, mount discreetly to the lower tree beneath the fairing for a clean look that’s hardly noticeable. There is a reason why these are a hit with the Harley-Davidson® crowd and continue to be a top seller for Kuryakyn since their introduction in 2009. They flat-out work!
Now available for 14-’17 Indian Chieftains & Roadmasters and ’10-’17 Victory Cross Country, Cross Country Tour, Magnum & ’10-’14 Cross Roads Models, MSRP $49.95 in chrome for Indian and chrome or satin black for Victory. Kuryakyn Wind Deflectors.
Last December 30, I published 1 photo, the only one I had at the time, of this custom 6-cylinder 1982 Honda built by Swiss Peter Bieri. I was able to join him again, to get a few more pictures of his creation, and got the following words from him.
“I grew up with motorcycles. My dad had a bike shop and teached me all the related things from metal work to service. All I know today about motorcycles I’ve learned from him. But instead of making career in the motorcycle industry I started an apprenticeship in the metal industry. Then afterwards I studied business mathematics at the University. Today I work in the finance industry but on weekends I am working in my father’s bike shop or build my own bikes.
Since I can remember my father has a 6 cylinder Honda CBX. As I was a kid we often drove together, and as I got my driving license I drove this beautiful bike myself. The Honda CBX is a beauty, with a clear focus on the engine. The engine smoothness and the wonderful torque have always fascinated me. The sound is incredible, especially at high revs – indescribable. I started my project with the intention to create a stylish and high-tech bike with nice lines around the unique 6-cylinder engine. The bike had to feature high standards in terms of technology but preserve the old-timer look. The bike was in a very bad shape which wasn’t an issue because I only needed the engine and the frame. Continue reading ‘Custom 1982 Honda’
Eating Out. When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw in $20, even though it’s only for $32.50. None of them will have anything smaller and none will actually admit they want change back. When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators.
Money. A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn’t need but is on sale.
Bathrooms. A man has six items in his bathroom: toothbrush and toothpaste, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel. The average number of items in the typical woman’s bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.
Argument. A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.
Future. A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
Marriage. A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn’t. A man marries a woman expecting that she won’t change, but she does.
Dressing Up. A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the trash, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail. A man will dress up for weddings and funerals. Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week’
In addition to the classic Plain and retro Grill face headlights, Performance Machine offers a Crossbar design.
These 5 3/4” billet aluminum headlights are offered either Halogen (5 models) or LED powered (2 models)
They are available for all bottom mounted headlights from 1984 to 2016 FXST and other select models and applications. Multitude of mounts in different shapes and lengths sold separately from many vendors and distributors.
Choice of finish, Chrome, Contrast Cut or Black Ops (a textured matte finish) From $449.95 (halogen) to $629.95 (LED). At Performance Machine.
American Flat Track just announced an exclusive television partnership with NBC Sports (NBCSN) for the 2017 season. All 18 rounds, from the season-opening DAYTONA TT to the American Flat Track Finals in Southern California, will air in one-hour, tape-delayed telecasts on Thursday nights throughout the summer and fall.
Entering its 64th consecutive season, American Flat Track is the most historic form of American motorcycle racing and 2017 marks the dawning of a new golden era for the sport. The series boasts two diverse and highly-competitive classes and is headlined by powerful, twin-cylinder motorcycles in the AFT Twins class, with spirited single-cylinder machines battling it out in AFT Singles.
American Flat Track will debut inside Daytona International Speedway on a one-of-a-kind race course built on the famous tri-oval at the “World Center of Racing.” The DAYTONA TT will serve as the first battleground for the great American war brewing between Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles, marking the first time the big American factories have competed head-to-head on the race track since the 1950s.
“American Flat Track is America’s original extreme sport and NBCSN is the perfect platform to bring it back into the limelight,” said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. “We’re delighted to be partnering with NBC Sports Group, one of the most respected sports media organizations in the world. This partnership represents a huge milestone for the sport and a goal that we have been working toward for a long time.” Continue reading ‘All 18 rounds Of 2017 American Flat Track To Air Weekly On NBC Sports’
The final sales numbers for December are in and 2016 will officially go down in the record books as the best year of retail sales for Triumph Dealers in North America in Hinckley Triumph history. For the month of December, Triumph dealers literally smashed the previous sales record with retails up a stunning 39% over the previous December record and up a jaw-dropping 89% over December 2015. Totals for the entire calendar year were more of the same, with overall 2016 retail sales in North America beating the market growth rate by more than 15%, eclipsing 13,000 units for the first time in history and easily shattering the previous annual retail sales record.
“There is no greater testament to the tireless work and outstanding Brand representation of our dealer partners than seeing this kind of success on the sales floor,” said Matt Sheahan, COO of Triumph Motorcycles America. “We want to thank our dealers for their efforts and our new customers for joining the Triumph Family. We are looking forward to riding with you in 2017!”
Triumph’s global headquarters are located in Hinckley, Leicestershire, England, solely owned by Bloor Holdings Ltd. Triumph Motorcycles America Ltd., its North American subsidiary, is based in Atlanta, Ga., and is home to the motorcycle industry’s first 24/7 Customer Support team.
New S&S Hog throttle bodies are available for 2002-2017 Harley-Davidson® Big Twins with cable operated throttles. You can choose either the 58mm size for stock or mildly built engines, or the whopping 66mm for big inch engines. The benefit is of course more air flow for improved performance . S&S Stealth air cleaners are available to fit these Throttle Hogs.
They feature – A simple one-piece design for easy installation and stock appearance – Compatible with stock sensors, fuel rail, and throttle cables – Wrinkle black powder coat finish matches stock – Sealed, stainless steel throttle shaft with dual roller bearings for smooth operation and no air leaks.
Kits include hardened steel flanges and seals. Sold outright. No stock throttle body exchange required. For more information contact your local dealer or go to S&S HOG Throttle Kits.
Glamis, is a vast 45-by-six mile natural sandbox and home to the imperial Sand Dunes. It borders California, Arizona, and Baja California del Norte, Mexico. As many as 1.5 million off-road racers roll out annually to pit their skills against the dunes in the ultimate gas pumping, horsepower-filled, sand shred sessions. The original inspiration for the Doonies was the daring young freestyle motocross men and their dune flying machines. Now in its trilogy edit, the Doonies3 crew journeyed back to Glamis Sand Dunes blank canvas of infinite sand dunes for an even more insane collection of the most outrageous Monster Energy machinery. Watch this spectacular video of dirt bikes, Harleys, Monster Trucks, snowmobiles and a plethora of desert vehicles ripping through the world renowned off-road nirvana made up of massive sand dunes and pure high-octane action.
Built for the ride, the Walker Jacket by RSD features an all-new Matte Buffalo leather main body that has a soft and supple feel. This new premium leather also requires very little break in period so it’s comfortable from the
start.
This simplistic Café Racer style jacket offers:
• Classic riding fit with rotated, pre-curved sleeves, dropped back length, and relaxed collar opening
• Zip pockets and cuffs
• Side adjustable waist tabs
• Satin poly lining with custom RSD numbers heat emboss
• Soft lined electronics security pocket
• Stretch mesh cargo stuff pockets
• Armor ready shoulder, elbow and back protector pocket
• Colors: Black, Brown
• Sizes: S – 3XL
It may be a huge surprise to most. Not so much for some insiders of the motorcycle industry who started to wonder after Polaris bought the Indian brand, how the company would be able to position the Victory brand versus Indian. And it appears that Polaris never succeeded to give Victory its own identity and strong image. In a challenging market, the result was poor sales compared to Indian.
Today, the Chairman and CEO of Polaris, Scott Wine announced * That Polaris Industries is winding down Victory motorcycles operations to strengthen its position in the powersports industry * That the competitive pressures of a challenging motorcycle market have increased headwinds for the Victory brand *That the decision will not affect any other Polaris units * That Polaris remains committed to maintaining its presence in Spirit Lake, Iowa. * That one-time costs associated with supporting Victory dealers in selling their remaining inventory will be recorded in 2017 income statement. The full official statement is below.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision for me, my team and the Polaris Board of Directors,” said Polaris Industries Chairman and CEO Scott Wine. “Over the past 18 years, we have invested not only resources, but our hearts and souls, into forging the Victory Motorcycles brand, and we are exceptionally proud of what our team has accomplished. Since inception, our teams have designed and produced nearly 60 Victory models that have been honored with 25 of the industry’s top awards. The experience, knowledge, infrastructure and capability we’ve built in those 18 years gave us the confidence to acquire and develop the Indian Motorcycle brand, so I would like to express my gratitude to everyone associated with Victory Motorcycles and celebrate your many contributions.” Continue reading ‘Polaris Shuts Down Victory Motorcycles. Effective Immediately.’
In 1948, during its introduction, who would have thought that the Overhead Valve (OHV) Panhead model would still influence motorcycle styling, would remain one of the most desirable machines for custom builders’ work, and even push third-party engine manufacturers to produce upgraded Panhead-styled engines in bigger displacements than the Harley original.
In addition to its beautiful aesthetics, some may argue that The “Captain America” chopper used by Peter Fonda as well as “Billy Bike” ridden by Dennis Hopper’s character in the 1969 movie Easy Rider, both using a Panhead engine, have largely contributed to the its iconic status. Immediately popular with bikers who bought one of the Panheads produced until 1965, year after year the legend grew and this model continues to be one of the most sought after classic Harleys.
Restore and preserve one, or customize it, but only if you don’t betray its soul… When builder Bill Dodge found this 1956 Panhead, he was in shock, horrified to see it turned into a very poorly re-built chopper. So, for his client/buddy James Chase, he did what a good professional is supposed to do. To return the Pan, if not to its original appearance, to the 50’s era original spirit and to the motorcycle original persona. Continue reading ‘A 1956 Harley Panhead Crafted By Bill Dodge’
1- Premium 4” SuperZip mufflers. They feature a louvered baffle design that promotes early and mid-range torque, while allowing maximum HP at the top end. The result is an extremely flat torque curve, with an upwards kick right where you ride for instant acceleration while cruising. These mufflers have a deeper tone with a much more aggressive sound. An extra coat of nickel is applied before chrome plating for a deep shine and the 4” black tips add to the overall robust look of the SuperZip mufflers. Installation is very simple as no extra hardware or brackets are needed. Continue reading ‘Zipper’s Performance Parts For The Indian Scout. 15 Extra HP. 17 Extra FT/LB Torque.’
