Until the end of December, buy a Harley-Davidson or Buell and get a three-month deferred Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) scheme on all of their 07-08 models. Of course the package is designed to make the company’s motorcycles more accessible and affordable to a wider scope of riders. It’s quite unusual to offer such an incentive on former year models, proof that HD dealers still need to move a lot of 2007 bikes. To benefit from the deferred PCP package, Harley-Davidson customers will need to provide a minimum deposit of 15 %, while Buell customers will need to provide a 20% deposit.
Archive Page 407
Harley-Davidson And Buell New Financing Scheme
Published by November 21st, 2007 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
"Hey Cyril, over the past years Hogpics.com was taking riding pics in Daytona on the Loop (by the lake). This year someone took his usual spot, and John emailed me back yesterday that he didn’t shoot Biketoberfest. Could you please post the question on the Blog, so we can figure out who the photog was, and where the pics are posted? I’ve shot emails around to Bikerpics.org and a few of the others that I know with no success. Thanks in advance and have a good Thanksgiving. Ride hard, Marc Ruben. mruben@the-beach.net"
Turkey Day. Thank you For Your Funny Emails.
Published by November 20th, 2007 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
In keeping with the holiday theme of giving thanks, I want to thank all those who, involuntarily, send me funny emails all year long. Below a few I want to share with you.
1- Question: Who may I contact in regards to a corporate charitable donation? Reply: Cyril Huze doesn’t know how much you want to give to his corporation, but he is very flattered. Please make your check out to Cyril Huze Custom Inc. at the address below” 2- Question: Cyril, your custom bikes are gorgeous. But out of my range of prices. Can you build a custom bike cheaper for us little people? Reply: Cyril has no height requirement for his clients and our prices have nothing to do with size. Out of curiosity, how tall are you? 3- Question: Mr. Huze, Season Greetings from Canada. I write from Toronto where right now it’s still very cold in April. If I send you my bike now, can it be ready for me to ride in June? Reply: Which season are you greeting in Canada at this time of year? If you celebrate Christmas in April, Cyril could have your bike ready just after Easter of your calendar. 4- Question: Mr. Huze, I am a psychologist in Chicago. I want very much a bike from you. But I cannot find out exactly the bike I want. I would like you to help me with a full analysis. When would be a convenient time to meet with you in Florida? Reply: Cyril will be available in 2 weeks. Please, anticipate spending 2 or 3 days in our city. Cyril needs a minimum of 2 or 3 sessions with his clients to fully analyze them. 5- Question: Cyril, thank you for telling me that your bike called “El Mirage’ has an overall length of 8 ft 20”. May I ask you a last question? What is the distance from tire to tire? Reply: We measured again, and strangely the distance from tire to tire is the same as the overall length we already gave you. Please, don’t hesitate to ask us for any other measurement. 6– Question: Thank you for emailing your parts price list. Are those today’s prices? Reply: Yes, yesterday’s prices are outdated, and tomorrow’s prices will be available tomorrow. 7- Question: My name is Joyce and I would like to be mr Huze assistant to handle his secretarial needs, her my telephone number at 561-345-7888. please give it to him. Reply: Cyril Huze has reviewed your email application. “Mr” should start with a capital letter and a period placed after it. There should be a period after “number”. The word “here” is misspelled. The word "please" should also start with a capital letter. So, on his behalf I regret to advise you that he doesn’t intend to fire me” . Happy Thanksgiving to everybody and ride safe.
Spade Velocity Stack In Stock Again
Published by November 20th, 2007 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
I designed this velocity stack to look cool on many styles of bikes, retro or high tech. But it seems that you don’t want to wait when we run in back order. This post to tell you that they are in stock again for both CV & S&S Carburetors E or G. Machined from a solid block of 6061 aluminum, highly polished, then beautifully chrome plated (now also available in raw aluminum if you intend to powdercoat or paint it). It includes a non restrictive screen and mounting hardware to the carburetor. Being a velocity stack it will improve air flow. To order, call 561-392-5557 or go online to: Cyril Huze Webstore.
Daytona 2nd Builders Breakfast Is March 4th, 2008
Published by November 20th, 2007 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
It will be held at Bruce Rossmeyer’s Destination Harley in Ormond Beach during Bike Week. Again in 2008 the Daytona event will benefit Boggy Creek Camp for Seriously Ill Children. Join the most recognized Builders for a casual breakfast and lively auction. Like during the 2007 event, the auction will feature one of a kind items donated or hand made by the Builders on site. This is your chance to grab a piece of collector’s history and do it for a terrific cause. To participate you must make your reservation now Tickets are for sale online at: Bruce Rossmeyer Website.
It was about 6 years ago, I think, that Battistinis created their first line of drilled parts: grips, then pegs. It expanded to foot controls, wheels, headllights, dashes and now to floorboards. These black semi circular floorboards bolt on directly as replacement on all 1980 and up FLT & Touring Harley-Davidsons. Made out of aluminum, they are longer than the stock ones: 18" x 5". What’s next to be drilled, Rikki? Battistinis USA.
How do you go from being a Marine to covering motorcycle rallies with a camera? By falling in love with the roar of motorcycles and the smell of their exhaust! It’s what photographer Jack McIntyre tells me while remembering his first experience in Daytona for Biketobefest. He even adds that what he saw and felt was his greatest feeling, other than sex! Being already an experienced photographer while in the US army, Jack decided to complete his photographic equipment and began to hit all possible local events and the major rallies all over the country. After a few years of this routine, jack decided that the web was the fastest and most powerful way to share his photographic memories. And of course, he was right. Although he describes his first website as amateurish, Biker Pics became a destination point for all those who wanted, through pictures, to live again the event to which they just participated, and for those who wished that could have been there. And there is a reason. Jack brings back with him not hundreds but thousand of pictures of each rally. He is so obsessed with not missing any interesting shot that he starts very early in the morning and will not stop shooting until the last biker walks out of the bar. And if you want you and your bike being shot by an excellent photographer, it’s easy to recognize Jack McIntyre during a rally. He has always with him 1 or 2 beautiful models ready to make the shot even more interesting for you and for him. Check out his site at Biker Pics and have fun with it. It’s an electronic picture magazine constantly being updated, with a little bit of video too. .
Baker Drivetrain Goes In Reverse
Published by November 18th, 2007 in Builders, Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Do trikes need a reverse? Yes. Lehman just announced an agreement with Baker Drivetrain. The Lehman trikes will use a new Baker F6R reverse to modify the original Harley-Davidson 6-speed transmission At this time, Harley-Davidson Dyna (06-08) and and FL & Softails (07-08) are the only trikes which will be available with Baker reverse system. The reverse gear will be available for shipment to dealers and factory conversions during the first week of December. The reverse is selected with the foot shift lever and a safety switch. Dealer installation of the reverse is relatively straightforward for those familiar with the Harley-Davidson 6-speed transmission. Dealers who prefer factory conversions can depend on quality installations by Baker with a limited 3 year/unlimited mileage warranty. Please, just don’t add a beep beep when you go in reverse with your trike. It’s annoying. Just look behind you.
The New Party Place. Harley-Davidson Museum.
Published by November 18th, 2007 in Editorial and Events.
Are you looking to get married highway style, or need to organize a convention/trade show, fundraiser, or just need to celebrate a special event or birthday? The Harley-Davidson Museum, scheduled to open in Milwaukee’s Menomonee River Valley in the summer of 2008, has begun marketing itself as a meeting destination that can accommodate any event, small or big. The museum’s indoor event spaces are equipped to handle as many as 1,050 people. For outdoor events, the museum’s open green spaces can accommodate as many as 15,000 people. The museum grounds, which will be open to the public, will feature picnic and seating areas in outdoor spaces, allowing people to gather and enjoy the unique museum architecture and Milwaukee riverfront. And the food? I already know what to expect from a HD paper plate dinner. But if your event requires better than paper plates, Harley promises to hire great chefs to treat you like in an upscale restaurant. I remain available for any HD gourmet food testing. Harley Museum Special Events.
Pepper Massey New Director Of The Sturgis Rally.
Published by November 18th, 2007 in Editorial and Events.
The City of Sturgis has announced that Pepper Massey will continue as Director of the Sturgis Rally Department, moving from interim to permanent beginning September 26, 2007. Pepper joined the Rally Department as Interim Director on June 25, 2007. Pepper’s background in public relations, communications, event planning and marketing, coupled with over 25 years experience in the motorcycle community, provides her with a strong contact base and unique skill-set that will enable her to work effectively with both the industry and city to take the Rally to the next level.
For you, long distance riders, a new throttle control a little bit different from the ones you may know. This one is supposed to be extremely simple to install, 15 minutes on stock grips (different models for Harley-Davidson & Metrics) and a little bit longer when using after-market grips. You know the objective: reduce your fatigue and strain on hand and wrist. While cruising, the rider is able to remove hand from throttle grip, throttle opening will remain as set. The friction nut has a left-hand thread. It must be adjusted so that it makes light contact with the rubber throttle sleeve. To Engage: While rolling on the throttle, the friction nut can be gripped between the small finger and palm of hand. This action tightens the nut and provides sufficient friction to set throttle to the desired opening. The friction is such that the rider may still open and close the throttle. It simply has a slight stiffness to it. To Disengage: While rolling off the throttle, grip friction nut between small finger and palm of hand. The throttle should open and snap closed freely when correctly disengaged. Note: The Grub Screw is set to provide the necessary resistance on thread of friction nut. This may be adjusted periodically to take up wear. Several designs in chrome & black. Kaoko Cruise control.
A sponsorship alliance has been signed between the 2 companies. Harley-Davidson recommends premium gasoline for all their motorcycles. Now they recommend that you refuel at a Shell gas station. Harley will soon place all 14,000+ Shell-branded stations on the motorcycle maker’s online Harley-Davidson Ride Planner, where riders will find Shell V-Power premium gasoline. Riders will even be able to get an aerial view of the station and its surroundings prior to the trip. As part of this alliance, Shell also will proudly be the exclusive fuels sponsor of the Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration in August 2008. No, refueling with premium gas from another brand will not void your warranty.
DeepSickness Bars For Wicked Custom Bikes.
Published by November 16th, 2007 in Accessories, Editorial and Frames.
Greg at Greg’s Custom Cycles has a taste for bikes and parts with an aggressive stance. So, he created a line called "DeepSickness" already including a monster front end and several sets of bars. The model shown here is a tri-point design offered pre-drilled or already prepared for internal throttle use. 1 1/2" DOM steel tubing, 32" wide, with different height options (standard risers are 6"). Sold in raw steel, chrome or powder coated the color of your choice. At Greg’s Custom Cycles.
Oakley. The Success Story Of A Former Motorcycle Parts Rep.
Published by November 16th, 2007 in Accessories, Editorial and Merchandise.
Everybody loves success stories. And me even more when the guy behind it comes from the motorcycle industry. In 1975, a motorcycle parts salesman named Jim Jannard languished at his dead-end job in California. Along the way, he developed a space-age meterial called “Unobtanium” that he sold for motorcycle grips. He quit his job, and with $300 he started Oakley, named after his pet English Setter. He marketed his grips to local riders at motor cross events. The material was an immediate hit, and in the late 70’s, with the BMX scene taking off, he modified the design for them as well. With a lot of design ideas in his head, he created a pair of motocross goggles with his logo prominently displayed. They, too, were a huge hit, but by then the young genius was thinking of sports sunglasses, a market which until then did not exist. Oakley has been the most successful sunglasses company in the last 30 years, creating technological breakthroughs, spawning hundreds of imitators and basically re-inventing the concept of sunglasses. Oakley has made sports eyewear into a technological marvel. Lightweight, durable and impact resistant, the lens, coatings and frames are all designed with advanced materials, blocking all UV light while creating extensive visual clarity and the contrast needed for athletes. Each pair of Oakley’s today can have over a hundred patents built into the frames and lens Due to the extreme competition of the sunglass market, Oakley’s designers invent new techniques and materials in ultra-secret bunkers. The last few years has introduced not only more advanced sports eyewear, but wearable technology such as MP3 players and cell phone technology. Oakley.
Back To The Future. Odyssey Girder..
Published by November 15th, 2007 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
Take the old and legendary girder front end. Keep its spirit but make it as high tech as possible by using the best of modern technology to machine it out 7075 T6 billet aluminum. Don’t count the number of CNC hours and if you have vision & talent you will arrive to this massive beauty. Suspension is via oleo pneumatic shock from Fournales. It comes with optional LED’s and very soon with a carbon fiber headlight. Available in mid or wide glide, in lengths of 25.5”or 29.5” in highly polish or black anodizing. A front end for a project where you want to mix the old with the new with the unseen before. To order via the website of French custom builder Bertrand Dubet at Odyssey Motorcycles. Or you can email to him in English at: info@odyssey-motorcycles.com
I have to tell you the truth. When Ridley appeared on the motorcycle scene, I was belonging to the group of those who classified their bikes as made for novices and women. Then, 3 years ago during Bike Week, I had the chance to ride one through the Daytona Bike Week traffic. And I enjoyed very much the no clutch/no shift of this automatic transmission motorcycle. I remember that riding it back well past midnight along a deserted International Speedway Avenue I did some accelerations which satisfied my taste for speed almost as much as would have had any other “gears” bike. I even liked the look of the bike. So what’s new with the Oeight (08) models? Eight distinct designs from $13,995 to $25,995, no 6th gear, of course, but a parking brake for security (seems evident to me with an automatic transmission), and a new twenty-five months factory backed warranty through its 60 dealers. For model information and specifications, visit Ridley Motorcycles. .
Marilyn Stemp, Executive Director of Iron Works Magazine is one of the sweetest ladies of our motorcycle industry. Very discreet but very efficient, she is one of those you will always see helping others during most charitable events. From her North Carolina office she shares her thoughts about riding to work, even in winter.
"As falls moves into winter, riders in the northern parts of the country tend to move to a mindset of hibernation. When I lived in the northeast, that process was well on its way by November. In fact we assumed that the riding season would be finished by Thanksgiving and began to prep the bikes for winter storage, unless we wanted to hone our ice-racing skills. Here in the Carolinas, the weather allows for more optimism, as riding right through the winter remains a possibility, so we keep the bikes ready to take advantage of nice days when mother nature allows. I’ve lately been talking with riders who have clocked up mega-miles on motorcycles over the years, asking them how it happened that they rode so many miles, how they incorporated riding into their lives. They’ve been kind to share their philosophies with me and I’ve been impressed by the variety of the responses.
Some riders have made it a quest to rack up as many miles as they can, taking an annual cross-country trip and hitting every poker run to keep the clock rolling. They wear their miles like a badge of honor. Others don’t even notice, they simply ride for the pleasure of it. Some commute by motorcycle or ride everywhere they go, using their bikes as transportation in these times of high fuel prices, and high miles are a consequence of this. I can relate to this frugal approach.
Weather is a deterrent for some. Others ride if they want to ride, dealing with less than favorable weather if necessary, going on two wheels in any case. Then there’s the fair-weather-only crowd who keep the bike parked when there’s the slightest chance of rain because, as we say in the south, they’re so sweet they might melt if they get wet. Hmmm, I know some of these people and I don’t think that’s the reason.
As I’ve been thinking about the coming winter, the advice I heard more than once from the high mile riders hit home: "Don’t worry about the weather," I was told. "Just get some good riding gear and go." The second most repeated comment: "Ride with someone who thinks like you, or ride alone." That advice addresses safety as much as enjoyment.
So are you getting ready to hibernate? Or are you like Cyril, blessed with south Florida weather in the winter months? If you’re a high mile rider, has that happened by intent or do you simply ride everywhere because it’s your first choice in transportation? Does the weather hold you back? I’m a proponent of emphasizing the economy of motorcycles, not only related to gas mileage but in traffic reduction, ease of parking, even leaving behind a smaller carbon footprint. Andy Goldfine at RIDE TO WORK has compiled all the rationale you need to keep riding your bike for transportation. Maybe it’s just me, but when I see all the cars clogging up the highways of this country, I have to wonder why the EPA is worried about motorcycle emissions. Aren’t there any motorcycle riders working for the EPA?" Marilyn Stemp, Executive Editor Iron Works Magazine
Liquidation Auction At Ultra Motorcycle Company
Published by November 13th, 2007 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
In a document I received today, Ultra Motorcycle Company states that it is reducing manufacturing operations and moving its assembly location. And they offer a liquidation auction of their equipment (frame shop, fabrication machine tools, paint and motor shop), unsold bikes (from 2005 to 2007) and chassis with no minimum and no reserve with bids starting at 9 AM on Friday November 16 at their location 3810 Wacker Drive, Mira Loma, California. For more information and preview details, contact Bar None Auction at 916-383-2000.
Airstream Basecamp For You & Your Bikes
Published by November 13th, 2007 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Here a trailer paying homage to Airstream’s past and taking styling cues from Airstream founder Wally Byam’s original 1935 Torpedo. Modern-looking and sleek this streamlined trailer is a springboard for outdoor adventures, not a living room on wheels. Park and open out the back: a tent option, engineered by outdoor products giant Kelty, gives you sleeping room on the ground to go with the two bunks inside the trailer. Basecamp also provides room to carry your "toys" with you…motorcycles, mountain bikes, cycles, ATV, kayaks, rafts, skis, and more. The Basecamp is roomy enough to sleep two, includes a sink, a cooking area and a ramp. Wrap around windows and skylight increases spaciousness and visibility. Very light to tow. Only problem: this beautiful piece will set you back $26,000. Hey, Mike (Corbin), I am sure you can make one like that for less than half this price. Airstream Basecamp Trailer
Transportation Secretary Mary Peters Rides With Us?
Published by November 13th, 2007 in Editorial and Events.
Our Transportation Secretary is a woman. Good. She is also a biker. Very good. She seeks to educate riders and lower motorcycle deaths. Excellent. "Our nation’s greatest traffic highway safety challenge is motorcycle fatalities," says Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, noting that biking deaths are rising while other vehicle fatalities are declining”. The federal government has just unveiled a broad program to cut motorcycle death rates that have doubled in the past 10 years as aging baby boomers hit the open road. The Department of Transportation’s initiative includes a national training standard for beginning riders and added training for police officers who enforce traffic laws. "We have a significantly disproportionate representation of motorcycle fatalities," Peters says. Motorcycles represent 2.5% of all registered vehicles but 11.3% of traffic deaths. Another trend: The share of motorcyclists ages 50 and older who die in wrecks has grown from 14% to 24% since 1997”. Helmet laws have been repealed or modified in many states the DOT’s new effort does not call for new helmet laws. Instead, the initiative focuses on: •Training. DOT will develop national standards for entry-level motorcycle riders to achieve what Peters calls a baseline of competency. •Enforcement. DOT will create a training program to teach police officers about specific efforts to reduce crashes. •Education. Public service announcements will feature Peters on the importance of helmets and other protective gear. A "Share the Road" campaign will remind drivers to be alert for motorcyclists. Department Of Transportation.
McQueen’s Machines. The Cars And Bikes Of A Hollywood Icon.
Published by November 12th, 2007 in Books and Editorial.
Steve McQueen died in 1980 at age 50 of cancer. At the time of his death, he had around 50 meaningful cars and 100 meaningful motorcycles, a lot of parts and basket cases, and a knack for choosing classics. McQueen wasn’t just some star who liked to drive fast (yes, he got stacks of speeding tickets that he always succeeded not to pay) but was a serious motorhead. Steve McQueen was so bike and car crazy that studios issued cease and desist orders for him to stop racing. Contrary to studios requests, author Matt Stone in his new book “McQueen Machines” explains that as McQueen became a bigger star he began to use his influence to get cars and bikes in films. Racing through the streets of San Francisco in "Bullitt," on a motorcycle in "The Great Escape," in a Formula One car in "Le Mans," or bouncing over the sand in a dune buggy in "The Thomas Crown Affair". He was Hollywood’s King of Cool when it came to cars and motorcycles. Even Sterling Moss the legendary racer thought McQueen would have been a pretty good full-time racer had his day job not gotten in the way. In this new book you will find cool color photos of the star and of his machines and a bunch of talk about engines and RPMs. With a foreword by Steve’s son, Chad McQueen, photos from the family archive, and a wealth of details about the star’s amateur racing career, his movie stunt work, and his passion for car and motorcycle collecting, “McQueen’s Machines” is a very good book about a man’s driving passion and an excellent gift idea for your Christmas.
There are quite a few companies selling pipe kits to design (and weld) your own exhaust. But 7th Phase Inc. is the only one I know offering a stepped pipe kit. A lot of trouble saved. Something very useful when you need to be different and/or when you need clearance in some places. Their kit includes 12 x 2 1/4" in pieces in straight, 70 and 90 degree bends in different lengths and collars. 7th Phase Inc.
Love Ride 24. The Largest One Day Charity Event In The World.
Published by November 12th, 2007 in Editorial and Events.
It happened yesterday in California. My correspondent “Sheriff” tells me that the forecast was wrong. It didn’t rain on the 20,000 participants and it was a success. The Love Ride was founded 24 years ago by Glendale Harley-Davidson owner Oliver Shokouh as a way to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy and local children’s charities. Since then, the Love Ride Foundation has given over $20 million to organizations. This last Sunday’s Love Ride was a whole new ride heading to the Fairplex in Pomona to cap the festivities of an inaugural California Bike Week. And yes, Jay Leno was serving again as Grand Marshall and Gregg Allman did his thing on stage. The intention of Oliver Shohouh is to create a destination bike event that rivals Daytona or Sturgis, while continuing to grow support for the charities assisted by the Love Ride Foundation. .
Sprocket Gas Cap By Covington Customs.
Published by November 11th, 2007 in Accessories, Editorial and Frames.
Shaped like a sprocket you will have no difficulty unscrewing this one. Sold vented or not vented, in polish or chrome, with a steel or aluminum bung to be welded to your gas tank. And if you ride a factory Harley still equipped with its factory gas tank, an adapter is also available. Covington Customs
While riding, never look at the rear, or you gonna fall….
Asuza California, November 8th, 2007. Picture taken by "Sheriff" from Sheriff Media Group Sweden
