Published by Cyril Huze December 6th, 2007
in Books, Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Barnett Magazine positions itself as the best looking magazine on the newsstand. And I agree that the layout and the pictures are very nice. A new special issue on the shelves in February may become the prettiest one ever for the magazine. Reason why? It will showcase all the bikes of the 2007 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building. The pros of the industry will get this issue distributed to them during the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati, and retail clients will find it in newsstands during 6 weeks from mid-February to end of March. The publisher promises a very luxurious and spectacular edition which will also will include a “Builders Parts Guide”, a lot of them used on the bikes featured.
Published by Cyril Huze December 6th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
From his headquarter in Minnesota, Fred Proctor, General Manager of Viper Motorcycle Company sent me the following update on their next production. In the business environment that we know, it is exciting to see a company ready to bring new American made models to the market. I want to add that Viper is a publicly held company and that its stock holders have hung in with the management, fully believing in the success of the new 2008 line about to be released.
“Viper has had a limited number of bikes released since 2004. Viper decided in 2005 to develop and market their own proprietary engines, (which were developed in partnership with the Al Melling Design Group). Viper continues to offer its proprietary frames, air ride systems, drive systems, and swingarm technology on their current line of bikes. Viper will be into full production as of February 1st, 2008, with 4 models. The Diamond Back, the Diablo, the Diablo Deluxe, and a new Rigid Chopper. All models are RSD drive, 6-speed. Viper has strived to offer and present a new American Made Motorcycle to the customer looking for a unique custom, but not straying from an OEM format. The 2008 Cincinnati V-Twin Show will be Viper production run bike introduction” (These 2 pictures are an exclusive preview of the 2008 model called "Diamond Back, and I think it looks cool. I am ready to test ride one. Cyril). Viper Motorcycle.
Published by Cyril Huze December 5th, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
Sometimes, I wonder. Does Harley-Davidson really need to license an iconic motorcycle name to a company selling a line of bean bags and bean bag chairs? I guess it’s like the Elvis Presley name. Some obsessed fans would mortgage the house to buy any junk memorabilia. You already understood that I am not a potential client for orange & black bean bags (a pink color is available for the ladies!). They even offer a line of kid’s bean bags for what they call “the little biker in your life”. And the best is the “LoveSac/MovieSac” to do it on the Harley Logo. No, there is no battery induced vibrations in the Sac. Next year, I am sure. So, why do I report about this? To tell you that for Christmas I would prefer that you support your preferred custom builder by buying from him some new parts for your custom bike. Or at least a few tee-shirts. He deserves it. Harley Bean Bags
Published by Cyril Huze December 5th, 2007
in Editorial and Engines.
S&S Cycle® announces a new Bonneville speed record set by S&S Engineering Manager Jeff Bailey during the week of September 11-15, 2007. Using an S&S SB100 in a 1999 Buell® X1 chassis, Bailey made runs that averaged 172.591mph establishing a new record in the APS/PG-1650 class. The engine in Bailey’s bike is essentially all stock, having only benefited from extensive tuning and careful preparation. The bike was equipped with an XR750TT –replica front fairing and a tail section from famed light-weight body work manufacturer AirTech. The only other modifications to the bike came from an extended swing arm and Works Performance rear shock and adding 65 pounds of lead and steel for ballast to improve traction and stability.
Published by Cyril Huze December 5th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
13 new models of custom wheels in stock for Harley-Davidson 84 to 08 and all Victory models. The same models available for the very sought after by custom builders 23” front wheel, and up to the size you need when wrapping a rear wheel with a 360 mm tire. They are all offered in chrome, polished, black powder coat and black contrast cut (black in contrast to polish). Add a two year warranty with a life time warranty on the structure of the wheel. And if you want other proofs of their reputation know that Arlen Ness, Big Bear Choppers, APC, KC Creations Swift, etc have their signature wheels cut by this same company. Forge-Tec Motorcycles.
Published by Cyril Huze December 4th, 2007
in Books, Builders, Customs and Editorial.
A few years ago during a trip together to a bike show in Italy, Jesse James told me that he wanted to be the "new bad boy". It was before his first Motorcycle Mania and Monster Garage TV series. Quite a TV appearances and hard cover books later, Jesse acquired the image he wanted. He builds beautiful bikes for the love of it, and yes, for the money. Why do you think he had his back tattoeed with a giant $100 bill and one of his hands palm tattoeed with the words "Pay Up Sucker!". Yes, I can also testify that he is a wise guy and that has a cold sense of humor. We would not survive in this business without it. Right? So, this new hard cover book published on time for the holidays is as much a portrait of Jesse James as it is a photographic documentary on the process of building his bikes from the ground up. From the welding to the sandblasting, from the polishing to the painting, from the assembling to the test riding, roaring along the Long Beach highways. Expect to see beautiful grease stained portraits by photographer Nathaniel Welch. Everything to comfort Jesse’s image as a gear head hero. Jesse James And His Beautiful Machines.
Published by Cyril Huze December 3rd, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
Renowned auction house Bonhams & Butterfields will again host an auction of rare and historic motorcycles at Legend of the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance next spring, and consignments are now being accepted. The announcement comes after Bonhams’ successful auction at the Concours last May when their inaugural “Legends Auction” garnered nearly $1-million in sales, which is quite a remarkable sum for a first time motorcycle sale. Already consigned for the 2008 auction is the famous 1903 Rex Single once owned by Harold Williamson that won the historic 875-mile Land’s End to John O’Groats Run in Great Britain over 100 years ago. Now in its third year, the annual Legend of the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance will take place on Saturday, May 3rd, 2008 at the ocean-side Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, California, just south of San Francisco. For more information on this unique world event, visit Legend Of The Motorcycle. To consign a motorcycle or related memorabilia in the auction please e-mail the year, make and model of your motorcycle(s) to: info@legendofthemotorcycle.com
Published by Cyril Huze December 2nd, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
I had the pleasure to meet several times with Jay Leno, but since it was not in California, I never had the opportunity to have him show me his collection of hundreds of cars and motorcycles kept and maintained in his Burbank warehouse. Jay just bought an Elvis Presley package (30th anniversary commemorative bike from Bruce Rossmeyer, with a painting from David Uhl and a bronze sculpture from Jeff Decker). So, he took all 3 to visit his very special garage with emphasis on presenting his numerous collectible motorcycles. David tells me that Jay is very humble, genuine and knowledgeable and I agree with him. Jay maintains a website with updated videos about his machines. Jay Leno’s Garage
Published by Cyril Huze December 1st, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
The following is a letter I received from Jeff Tinnion, publisher of the magazine Street Chopper. By your comments, let him know what you think..
“Dear Industry Partners, Street Chopper magazine has enjoyed a rich history since its inception in 1969. Feedback from our readers and marketing partners over the past year has taken Street Chopper in a fresher, more exciting editorial direction to create a more visually impacting publication. In an attempt to put out a publication that is relevant to the marketplace, Source Interlink Media has decided to decrease the monthly frequency of Street Chopper in 2008 to a bi-annual publication. They are going to take the savings and increase the package size of the two issues of Street Chopper for 2008 in an attempt to convey more valuable information to the readers. These issues will retain the top-notch photography that you have come to expect from Street Chopper in the past year and will be jam-packed with the lifestyle that makes Street Chopper a standout on the newsstand. This move will bring greater value to the advertisers, as the pair of 2008 Street Chopper issues will be distributed on the newsstand for a period of ninety days as opposed to 28 days with the old system. This strategy will allow Street Chopper to address the marketplace for a longer duration. Unchanged is the heart and soul of what Street Chopper consistently delivers to our loyal audience. We believe these proactive changes are going to allow Source Interlink Media’s American Motorcycle Group to produce several new titles to continue to strengthen our role as the market leader. Should you have any questions or need any further information, please feel free to contact me. We look forward to continuing to serve you and help you with your marketing objectives” Sincerely, Jeff Tinnion Publisher Source Interlink Media, American Motorcycle Group.
Published by Cyril Huze November 30th, 2007
in Editorial.
The "King of the Daredevils".is dead at the age of 69. In the 70’s, Evel Craig Knievel brought the spirit of P.T. Barnum to daredevil motorcycle jumps. Dressed in his signature red, white and blue jumpsuit, Knievel would race his motorcycle up steep ramps and over obstacles like in 1968 the fountains in front of Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. Or in 1975 jumping above a row of 13 double-decker buses at London’s Wembley Stadium. Often he crash landed, thrilling viewers while breaking dozens of bones. His most famous stunt was an attempted jump I 1974 over Idaho’s Snake River Canyon in a rocket-powered motorcycle in 1974. The attempt failed when the craft’s parachute opened prematurely, but Knievel survived. He retired in 1981 and his son Robbie Knievel succeeded him as the family motorcycle daredevil. Evel Knievel received a liver transplant in 1999, due to hepatitis C presumably contracted through blood transfusions after his many crashes. Evel was diagnosed with the incurable disease pulmonary fibrosis a couple of years ago. He said that he was prepared to accept that and that he has lived a full life and enjoyed it all. Evel Knievel will forever remain the "King of the Daredevils”
Published by Cyril Huze November 30th, 2007
in Customs, Driveline, Editorial and Engines.
In honor of the company’s 50th anniversary, the catalog has been named Catalog 50. The catalog was designed with a retro theme and contains a lot of historical photographs and tidbits of S&S heritage (Many of the historical images in the new catalog are actual family photos). At just under 700 pages, this is the largest S&S catalog ever. Most notable among them, is the all new S&S X-Wedge™ engine and the new S&S and Rolling Thunder chassis that go with it. A close second is the new P-Series engine with styling from the 50’s and 60’s, but with modern performance. An additional feature of “Catalog 50” is that the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is listed for nearly all parts in the book. “Catalog 50” is just the start of the S&S 50th anniversary celebration. The official anniversary party runs June 27-29, 2008 in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The price of this collectible catalog is $19.95. You can order one through your local dealer or at S&S Cycle Shop
Published by Cyril Huze November 30th, 2007
in Editorial.
For those who don’t know but heard/read this word, Venturi” means air flow acceleration. And better air flow means better accelerations. It’s the objective of these new Roland Sands Design air cleaners with a design which will remind you some wheels of…. Performance Machine. Available in Contrast Cut™ and brilliant chrome finish, the bolt on system utilizes an internal high-flow K&N filter shielded behind a stylish stainless steel racing mesh. The CNC machined backing plate features internal breathers with no exposed hardware for a clean look that enhances air flow through the carburetor or throttle body. Available for Big Twin Engines with stock CV carburetors as well as EFI Softail, Dyna Glide and FLT models and for bikes running S&S E or G carburetors. Available through your Drag Specialties Dealer. Roland Sands Design.
Published by Cyril Huze November 29th, 2007
in Books and Editorial.
Some custom motorcycles get the legendary status by their designs and their builders, but legendary motorcycles are not necessarily custom motorcycles. They are made famous because of their owners or and/or stories associated with them. Author Basem Wasef got the excellent idea to profile the bikes that have achieved their mythic status in the last century. For example, James Dean’s first and last bikes, Kenny Robert’s Yamaha TZ750 Dirt Tracker, Dick Mann’s BSA Gold Star and Matchless G50 TT, Elvis Presley’s Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Freddie Spencer’s 85 Honda GP bike, Von Dutch’s Originals, Burt Munro’s Munro Special, Evil Knievel’s HD’s, Steve McQueen’s Great Escapes, Easy Rider’s Captain America, and many others. Their stories recounted here in intimate details make Legendary Motorcycles a riveting read for both casual enthusiasts and passionate aficionados. Even my 17 years old son read it from A to Z. This beautiful hard cover book includes 26 chapters illustrated with original photography and rare historic images. 176 pages, 152 color photos. (Reminder: in 26 days, it’s Christmas). Legendary Motorcycles.
Published by Cyril Huze November 29th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Well before the retro trend, I always loved the mix or aluminum with copper or brass, not only on bikes but also for my home decoration (will not show you today). But in my own humble opinion, too much copper or brass can be very tacky. And I see this excess on many new vintage custom bikes. Joel Felty, the head of Headwinds, got the good idea to release a brass & aluminum headlight with just enough brass on it to give your bike a true classic look. It’s a 5 3/4" headlight (I never go above this size on my bikes) with spun aluminum housing and a brass plated clamp ring and bracket. The brass part has been clear coated to prevent oxidation. It will install on a ¾” wide mounting block sold also by the same company. Available at Headwinds.
Published by Cyril Huze November 29th, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
To all Canadian bikers. Biker TV will present a half hour special on the recent 3rd edition of the Canadian Biker Build Off held in Toronto. It will air Saturday, December 8 at 9:30AM on Canada’s E! Channel. Sunday, December 9, at12:30PM for friends in the Maritimes and repeating on Men TV Thursday 1at 10.30PM. An opportunity to see the best Canadian Builders competing for the 2007 Canadian Champion title. I was the guest of honor of this show. So, don’t miss it!
Published by Cyril Huze November 28th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
All motorcycle builders love cars, and car customizers love bikes. And we all work on our own rides. Some even work professionally on both at the same time. But what are the personal 4-wheel rides of the custom builders you know? I know quite a few of them and today I give you the answer for Arlen Ness. Contrary to popular belief, his 1st claim to fame was not a motorcycle, but a customized mercury 51 published in his high school paper. Arlen dreamed of a Ferrari Testarossa (if I remember well, after his first trip to Italy). But he preferred a black 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB in an all steel body customized to look a lot like…a Testarossa. Then, a 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud that Arlen bought 38 years ago to celebrate his first sucesses. He says that at the time, he spent more on it than on his first house! Add a silver metallic 1987 Porsche 911 Turbo tricked out with racing goodies. Then, a Dodge Viper driven to work during a certain time by Cory, sold by him and bought back later by Arlen. Then, a dropped and chopped 1956 Ford F150 that he sold, bought back on Ebay and going now through restoration. One of his favorite toys? He hesitates between his red 1995 Lamborghini Diablo VT and his custom 1932 Ford Roadster. By the way, a collection, like a custom motorcycle or car, is never finished…
Published by Cyril Huze November 28th, 2007
in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Clymer(R), publisher of the leading family of do-it-yourself repair manuals, announced the addition of its all-new Harley-Davidson VRSC Series 2002-2007 Manual to its extensive line of motorcycle repair manuals. Clymer motorcycle repair manuals provide step-by-step procedures based upon complete disassembly of the motorcycle. This hands-on experience, combined with extensive research, results in a manual that is both detailed and user-friendly. Hundreds of original photos and illustrations guide the reader through every job, simplifying repairs and reducing repair costs. This manual includes the following chapters: general information; troubleshooting; lubrication; maintenance and tune-up; engine; clutch; transmission; shift mechanisms; fuel, exhaust and emissions systems; cooling system; electrical system; wheels, hubs and tires; front suspension and steering; rear suspension; brakes; and body and frame. In addition, the manual includes color-wiring diagrams for all models; a quick reference section with frequently used specifications on specially marked pages; and a comprehensive table of contents and index to find information quickly. For additional information, visit Clymer Website.
Published by Cyril Huze November 28th, 2007
in Driveline, Editorial and Engines.
Even if you are not racing, the unsung hero of the driveline is the often forgotten clutch. For over a decade, Bandit Machine Works has been recognized in our industry as one of the best clutch and complete driveline specialists. Their new Modular Belt Drive Systems offer racing quality and performance applied to your custom bike. They are available in 2" (my preference), 2.5", 3", 3.35" and 4" wide belt, with optional oil filter incorporated to the motor plate. Pulleys are solid billet, not cast, and they are offered with optional offsets (an offset of up to 1.5" is abailable without the need to use spacers), with different models for left side or right side drive setup. For cosmetics, many billet covers and belt guards to chose from. Bandit Machine Works.
Published by Cyril Huze November 27th, 2007
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
They will have more time to devote to their families and …to read my Blog. 5,400 Harley-Davidson workers are out of work this week as the company cuts production because of poor sales. The production is halted at plants in Wisconsin, Kansas City, Mo., and York, Pa. This measure was announced in September and workers had time to prepare for a week without paycheck (but with benefits still in place). Sign of devotion to their employer, most workers are OK with the decision to idle them during one week. In October, Harley-Davidson reported its third-quarter profit fell 15.3 percent amid a continued sluggish U.S. market for motorcycles. The company expects next year to be also difficult as domestic buyers become more cautious about their spending given the rise in oil price and slumping real estate values. Harley-Davidson expects full-year shipments to be between 328,000 and 332,000 units, down from 349,196 units last year.
Published by Cyril Huze November 27th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Out of Vancouver, Jason Glatt of Suicidal Cycles built this bike for his friend Dave who let him do pretty much what he wanted. Result is this long sled with build in-house frame & sheet metal, a part HD/part S&S Flathead Power engine, a Pro-Fab transmission brake to avoid clutter on the rear wheel, a home made long girder, a modified BDL and wheels from D&D. Paintwork was done by Troy Donahue, another fellow Canadian based in British Columbia. I hear that Dave is so happy with this one that he commissioned Suicidal Cycles to build him another one. No problem, Jason has a long Canadian winter front of him to complete it. .
Published by Cyril Huze November 26th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Painters.
“It takes 20 years to be an overnight success”. It’s what John Parham, owner of J&P Cycles, could tell you if you meet him today. And it’s what he told me 10 years ago (just change the number). J&P Cycles is, since quite a few years, the undisputed largest aftermarket motorcycle parts retailer in the United States. Not only selling parts for Harleys like many still think, but also for Metric Cruisers, for Indians and for Vintage Bikes & Restoration. His strategy since the start of his company in 1984? Offer retail clients more competitive prices, a very wide range of parts to cover all the needs of those who love to tinker with their bikes, a very high orders filling rate (90%), an exceptional 120-day money-back guarantee on all items, a team of sales people who are bikers before they are salesmen and are available 24/7 to answer all your tech questions. Today, J&P Cycles operates out of a 150,000 sq.ft facility in Anamosa, Iowa where the company started, and also out of a new 47,000 sq. ft. building (store, showroom, installation, warehousing) in Ormond Beach, Florida (on the grounds of Bruce Rossmeyer’s Destination Harley). By the way, John Parham is a true mid western biker with a passion for vintage bikes, hence this just completed commissioned painting by David Uhl where John sits on one of his favorite bikes: it’s a very rare 1919 Indian Big Valve Daytona Board Tracker raced by famous racer Dewey Sims. The painting is the newest work of artist David Uhl and is so beautiful and period correct that I hear that posters could to be offered to the public. J&P Cycles Online.
Published by Cyril Huze November 26th, 2007
in Accessories, Editorial and Electrical.
Crime Scene Choppers is introducing a new line of products called “Rapide” (a French word meaning “fast”). The Rapide line features a distinctive scallop design and a matching grill. The Rapide taillight featured in this post uses a super-bright 48 LED lamp (included) for unsurpassed visibility. The LED unit is wired for both “stop” and “run” functions. A chrome 3-hole fender mount base is included, along with all stainless hardware. A chrome side mount license plate and taillight bracket is available separately. The Rapide taillight is available in two different finishes; a satin aluminum bucket with highlighted scallops and a polished brass grill, or all chrome. The full line includes a style-coordinated air cleaner and headlight. Crime Scene Choppers.
Published by Cyril Huze November 25th, 2007
in Books and Editorial.
You bought it (or stole it) pretending it was to read the articles. But, of course, it was for all the beauties inside. Hugh M. Hefner, editor in chief of Playboy Magazine, got the very good idea to gather 600” Playmates Of The Month” in a collector’s edition book sold with an impressive velvet-lined and embossed briefcase. These 600 centerfolds appear chronologically exactly the way they were published in Playboy Magazine. Starting with Marilyn itself, it’s a breathtaking view of female beauty evolution from the voluptuous blondes of the 50’s to the tawny beach girls of the seventies to the groomed and toned women of today. $315 for 600 beauties in a briefcase. Guys, I am sure you spent much more for much less. Ladies, make him happy. Soon, it’s Christmas. Hardcover 750 pages. Playboy. The Complete Centerfolds
Published by Cyril Huze November 24th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Viper positions itself as a designer and manufacturer of motorcycles for affluent enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance and cutting edge technology, with over 80% of a Viper created with parts manufactured by Viper for Viper, right down to the wiring harness. Ok, Viper. I heard you. But when you state that “Viper motorcycles are real customs” I am not sure that myself and other true custom builders will agree. Maybe Viper motorcycles are a little bit more custom than some offered by mass producers (I am sure it’s what you really meant), but evidently not as custom as the true one-off bikes we are crafting. Anyway, Viper is going to release a new model in December. Stay tuned. Viper Motorcycles
Published by Cyril Huze November 23rd, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
The next charity event at the Playboy Mansion called “Leather And Lace” will be held October 4, 2008. But if you want to get extra privileges, meaning the VIP treatment with extra parties, discounts on hotels/motorcycle rentals and CD’s of the party,, you will have to belong to the “Motorcycle Charity Club”. Different types of membership are offered and to know more you will have to go MySpaceMotorcycleCharity. At the same time you can check 200 pictures of the 2007 edition.
Published by Cyril Huze November 22nd, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
During Biketoberfest Boardwalk Show I stumbled on this little gem in white, red and black built by Zsolt Muller of Hungary’s Muce Choppers. Evidently, the inspiration is coming from the Salt Flat racers of the 50’s & 60’s. The one-off frame uses the engine as a stress member, a black coated 1991 rebuilt Sportster engine. The curved pipes are stainless steel and emphasize the flowing lines of the frame. The front end was hand made at the shop and uses a mountain bike shock. Bars are also Muce work and are featured with an internal throttle. Both wheels are 19 x 2 1/5" dressed in Mitas tires. And if you wonder about the headlight, it comes….from an old Russian moped. See more at Muce Choppers Hungary
