Published by Cyril Huze October 8th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Should I remind you that the 15th edition of Biketoberfest is October 18 to 21? Hey, I was there during the 1st edition and didn’t miss one of them. It was a time when you didn’t have to make an hotel reservation, room prices were low and cops were friendly with loud pipes. Maybe this 15th edition is going to be almost as friendly. The reason I say this is that during the last week I received exactly 5 calls from hotels telling me that they would love that I stay with them and that if I stay 3 nights (yes I will) they will negotiate a deal. So, I am telling you. Biketoberfest 2007 is going to be smaller, more friendly, with less traffic and more time to enjoy all the festivities that I will not list here. Just go to Bikertoberfest for the calendar of events. Since I will report for this Blog, and if you have something very special to show me in Daytona, please email to me in advance at editor@cyrilhuzeblog.com.
Published by Cyril Huze October 8th, 2007
in Accessories, Editorial and Merchandise.
If you already got all what you need and do not know what to get (or ask) for Christmas, here is a limited edition (only 200) high polished stainless steel "Flying Eagle" to decorate your shop, office or home. The beast is 28" tall with a 12" black marble base. Since it’s a special order you need to order now with a 50% deposit. But I warned you, it will set you (or her) back $3,995.00. Image Motorcycle Products.
Published by Cyril Huze October 7th, 2007
in Brakes, Customs and Editorial.
I had the opportunity before to introduce you to the W8LESSROTORS these very light weight Metal Matrix Composite Brake Rotors. What’s new? The company went to DOT testing and it was discovered that they stop 55% quicker than DOT requirements. And for your pleasure, these rotors can be ordered with carriers and blades in many anodizing accents matching the colors of the EK chains. Fast braking, no rust, no warpage and custom colors. Who needs more. To order, contact on my behalf Ray Wheeler at 831-594-7783 or through their Website.
Published by Cyril Huze October 6th, 2007
in Editorial.
Xtreme Charge is a Next Generation 12-volt battery charger, providing users with the industry’s most advanced charging and maintenance system to date. This new charger will charge any 12-volt lead acid battery, safely and simply, through the application of a patented PULSE Technology which will increase average battery life by 2-3 times“. You don’t even have to turn it on. You just connect it to the battery, plug it in and your battery is charging. A unique charge algorithm built into the charger coupled with advanced battery evaluation capabilities eliminates the need for users to identify battery type or chemistry. You don’t need to select and set any specific charge criteria prior to charging. So, no more worry about charging in an improper or potentially unsafe manner. The suggested retail is $99.95. Contact John Bell at 954-970-3394. Xtreme Battery Charger.
Published by Cyril Huze October 5th, 2007
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
"Get Down to Daytona” is a contest for women organized by Harley- Davidson. Here how it works. Women submit a video about their greatest motorcycle mentor for a chance to win an expense paid road trip from Atlanta to Daytona Bike Week with Karen Davidson, great-granddaughter of William A. Davidson. The video must be an artistic 90 second or less video highlighting their greatest motorcycle mentor story. Videos should be submitted to www.harley-davidson.com/womensride and will be accepted until 6 p.m. CST November 15, 2007. To be eligible, women must have received their motorcycle license after November 14, 2005 and must own a Harley-Davidson or Buell motorcycle. Six finalists will be voted (by men & women) and posted to www.harley-davidson.com/womensride. Then, 3 "Get Down to Daytona" winners will be announced December 14, 2007. These lucky ladies as well as one guest each will receive an expense paid road trip from Atlanta to Daytona in March 2008 as well as a 3-night stay in Daytona during Bike Week. Hey, I helped a few women access to the sport. Will I be mentioned in some videos?
Published by Cyril Huze October 5th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
It was one year ago that I uploaded my 1st post telling you about my desire to create a Blog where I could share with you news, tech-tips, thoughts and all other things related to my passion for custom motorcycles. A web place allowing publication on a whim, when the mood strikes, when the influential people talk, when a new motorcycle or part is released, etc. A strong web presence permanently updated by me and by you through comments which are never filtered or censored. 564 posts and 3498 comments later, motorcycle enthusiasts, manufacturers and journalists from all over the v-twin industry and beyond have made this Custom Motorcycles Blog the # 1 in the world in terms of real traffic volume and number of daily pages visited. In a content saturated world, advertisers have also discovered the unique power of this Blog to present, display and promote their brands and products and also value it as a way to improve their products by listening to your comments. Blogging with real news, not copying and pasting info taken from other sites, is hard work that I enjoy very much. Even, if practically it means writing more than one post every day (mostly at night) wherever I am (thanks to Wi-Fi), searching and cropping pictures, calling or emailing industry leaders to fact check my info and of course fixing computer programming glitches (thanks to my son Damien at Wake Interactive). This Blog is a little bit like my diary and for sure a form of social networking around the same passion for motorcycles. With me you can make it even bigger and stronger by sending more news (true, I don’t publish junk news or any news), suggestions (I am always listening), writing comments (yes, I read them all) and for you advertisers, advertsing in it. One of the earliest promises about the internet was that it would put some of the power of the media back in the hands of regular people. Take it now.
Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2007
in Editorial and Engines.
The all-new S&S P-Series engine represents a trip back in time for styling with all of the modern reliability you have come to expect from an S&S Proven Performance engine. Available in 93ci high compression and 103ci high compression versions, the P-Series is not a reproduction engine, but rather a modern version of the classic engine. Updated oiling, valve train and case design negate all of the issues of the past and allow for cross country reliability. The P-Series will be available in generator and alternator/generator designs to fit your classic or custom build. Orders can be placed. The P-Series 93ci Alternator/Generator P/N 106-0821 will have an MSRP of $8195.00
Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
I love when my readers send me weird pictures related to the motorcycle industry. Some I cannot publish for reasons you can imagine. Some, like this one coming from Asia has to be seen by all my readers. I consider this "motorcycle" a very good example of creativity even if it ranks at the lowest level of functionality. Does it run? Yes. Problem is how to handle this one. I would love to find out and be able to ride it down main street during Daytona Biketoberfest. Media exposure guaranteed. Keep the pictures coming.
Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Eisenmenger, attorney for custom builder Billy Lane has asked a judge to throw out blood alcohol results in his DUI manslaughter case. Lane is accused of driving drunk and killing Gerald Morelock when he hit the motorcyclist in September 2006. Lane’s attorney has filed motions asking that the blood samples not to be allowed as evidence, because Lane did not consent to a blood sample and because they believe the results were tainted by improper care of the sample. Eisenmenger contends that law enforcement authorities have failed to refrigerate the blood samples and that it may have sparked bacterial growth that led to a false high blood-alcohol level reading against his client. Eisenmenger is requesting that his expert witness, Largo toxicologist Lawrence Masten, independently re-test the samples. Prosecutor Tom Brown said the state is confident in the blood evidence.
Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Here is the new work of French Custom Builder Bertrand Dubet from Odyssey Motorcycles. Not much info yet on this new piece of rolling art. Here what I know. Stainless steel frame, 3D billet girder front end, fuel and oil tank were all hand fabricated by Bertrand. Engine is 147 cu from Ingenuity Motors. Automatic transmission. Performance Machine wheels (Casino model), mid controls and calipers. Shocks by Fournales. Odyssey Motorcycles.
Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2007
in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Kustomwerks is a national distributor of after-market motorcycle parts and among other goodies they carry a full line of “Wild Cards” fenders and gas tanks. Theirheavy-duty front fenders are made from 0.080" (14 gauge) steel and are formed in one piece for added strength. The company states that they won’t crack or split like 2-piece welded fenders. They come with a phosphate etched finish to prevent corrosion, and provide a good surface for primers to adhere. They are supplied non-drilled so that you can position it to look right for your bike. To complete installation, they also offer these very cool and unusual "Royal Crown" spacers. They don’t sell direct retail but you can call on my behalf 800/498-4711 for a Kustomwerks motorcycle dealer referral in your area.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Adrian Blake is a journalist who has interviewed many people in our industry, included your favorite motorcycles blog writer. And of course he knows that when we have to answer questions about our motorcycle obsession, we talk and talk and talk again… (Especially me). So, Adrian decided to create “Ride” a brand new live talk show featuring custom builders, parts manufacturers, racers, industry movers and shakers, , , etc. The show is intended to be an engaging, 30-minute discussion about motorcycling that will air every two weeks. Its unique real-time format allows callers from anywhere in the world to join the discussion. If you can’t listen to the live show, subscribe to the “RSS feed” through iTunes and other feed readers listed on the Ride Website. Or, download archived shows directly from the site. The special one-hour show will debut at 3 PM EDT on Wednesday October 24.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2007
in Editorial and Merchandise.
In the serie biker humor on tee-shirt, a new statement for which you take full responsibility. I am not sure that it is the right tee to wear when you will meet her for the 1st time at the next bike rally, but you can try. If she really gets excited when she reads this, it may be very good for you. To show your sharp sense of humor, you have other options by going to T-Shirt Insanity.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
“The Glass Ride” is full scale glass sculptor replica of a “chopper” motorcycle with kiln cast and blown glass components. It received popular support during and after the 67th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Classic. The exhibit has been extended through October 19th to allow more visitors to view this one-of-a kind piece in its American debut. The artist is Joe Stanaway, a Helena, Montana native, who completed his Masters in glass and architecture glass design from the Edinburgh College of Art, where he unveiled “The Glass Ride” in December, 2006. Joe says of his work and himself: “I find it easy to be drawn into the look of custom motorcycles. They are very much like glass; the extraordinary use of sculpted chrome polished to a mirror finish, the heavy clear coating over a beautiful buffed petrol tank giving it a transparent glass -like quality”. The sculpture is exhibited at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is located at 999 Main Street in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is open to the public from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors 65+ and free for children 12 and under. Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Big Twin West and Cycle World International Motorcycle Show will exhibit “The Art of Function,” a collection of custom bikes from Roland Sands Designs. Since entering the custom-building scene in 1996, Sands has pushed the envelope with his custom projects and centered his bike builds around the concept that form follows function. By weaving together real-world use and immaculate design, each of Roland’s bikes have resulted in a variety of aftermarket products specifically geared for looking good and performing better. The Big Twin West “Art of Function” display features a retrospective of Sands bike building history, which details the development of this concept and evolution of his aesthetic through his custom builds and aftermarket products. Big Twin West is October 25/26 at the University Of Phoenix Stadium, Phoenix, AZ. Registration HERE.
Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2007
in Editorial and Engines.
His name is Fausto Simoes, works out of Quebec where he specializes in aluminum & steel parts, and is one of the best kept addresses in the industry. We collaborated before and his work is impeccable. So, you need to know about his new oil tank model. It’s for Twin Cams (2000 up), bolts on directly on a stock Harley Softail without any modification or welding, is 5” diameter, features cool groove faces, and includes the battery box. You can contact Fausto on my behalf at 450-201-0787 or through his website called Motoxcycle
Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
When building a bike or just tinkering with it, you are always making a mess of your garage. And it’s a pain to wheel the house upright vacuum out to the garage. You need a wall-mounted bagless vacuum made just for workshops. It packs a powerful 12-amp motor, 5-gallon tank and a 30-foot hose. The Hoover vacuum provides enough suction and small attachments to get under shelving, lift, workbenches and standing cabinets. The hose and attachments are easily stored near the vacuum. By the way, you won’t have an excuse for not cleaning the car and it may save your marriage. It costs $150 and only 15 minutes to install on your garage wall. A great vac for the money. Hoover GUV Garage Utility Vacuum
Published by Cyril Huze September 29th, 2007
in Accessories, Editorial and Merchandise.
Juicy Couture is not a clothing brand adopted by many motorcycle ladies. But slap a skull with a crown and wings on lambswool fingerless gloves and, with winter coming, our companions will want them to ride with you (or alone). Hey, guys, don’t worry. They are only $65.00, less than the price of one of your mirrors. These fingerless gloves are screen printed and available in army green, black or charcoal. Imported by Juicy Couture.
Published by Cyril Huze September 28th, 2007
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
It had to happen. Steven Tyler, lead singer of Aerosmith, is around bikes since a long, long time. In collaboration with AC Custom Motorcycles, he launched Red Wing Motorcycle Company. Imbued with Tyler’s sense of style, each motorcycle is positioned as being as comfortable to ride as it is sexy. “You get on one of these bikes and you can ride for days,” Tyler said. “These bikes are sick, rugged, and just damn cool. And they’re amazing to look at. “These motorcycles were made to ride. With a 35% increase in horsepower to the rear wheel compared to a stock Harley Davidson, and every inch handcrafted and tailor engineered, they are as hot to drive as they are to look at”. The bikes are engineered by Mark Dirico with each facet of the bike purposefully crafted for a smooth, beautiful ride. Red Wing Motorcycles debuted at the New Hampshire International Speedway’s Sylvania 300 and are now available to the public. Each bike is backed by an extensive warranty and can be fully serviced by local Harley dealers. Bikes will be available in partnership with select dealerships across the East Coast through 2008 with a national roll out planned for later that year. To see the models go to Red Wing Motorcycles.
Published by Cyril Huze September 28th, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
You remember the days when you got your new bicycle and it had that cool sparkly banana seat? You want an old school toll roll? Here it is. George Griego brings back the feeling with this retro tool roll. It has the plastic pipe wrapped with leather and the cool wing design, but the lid and the sides have that cool sparkly vinyl. It comes with two 5/8" buckles and two 1" stainless steel Conchos. Available in red, white and blue with gold and green to follow very soon. Tool rolls are universal and will fit any bike and can be mounted above and below your headlight or on your frame. Made in Arizona by George’s Leather Design
Published by Cyril Huze September 27th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
PMC (Precious Metal Customs) extends its line of exhausts with this model called Shank. Like all other exhausts of their line they are made of Stainless Steel and polished to a high shine. Stainless naturally goldens after being run but can always be returned to a high chrome-like finish with a little polishing. One great feature, taken directly from Nascar Technology is the welded-on flanges. The flanges come with a high temp O-ring seal so there are no more snap rings or clamps to deal with. Thanks to these welded flanges, there is no need for any external mounting and it bolts rigid to the engine heads. Precious Metal Customs.
Published by Cyril Huze September 26th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Cincinnati V-Twin Expo was created with the intent to be the Dealers Only Trade Show focusing specifically on the V-Twin industry. During 7 years it has been the must place to visit to see the best products, to see and learn from the leaders who set the latest buying trends, to speak directly to the manufacturers, participate to informative seminars geared to deliver tangible results for dealers. And let’s not forget, the event is also the place for some of the hottest parties in the industry (organized or improvised). The 8th edition is February 2/4, 2008 and of course I will be there to report every day. Exhibitors/ dealers are invited to pre-register by going to V-Twin Expo
Published by Cyril Huze September 25th, 2007
in Accessories, Editorial, Electrical and Engines.
This small very clean looking part is used to install an ignition switch between the cylinders. Can be bolted on our Dreamliner Motor Mount and most Evo after-market motor mounts. An adapter is available to bolt it on an original Harley equipment 2-piece Evo motor mount. Ignition key is 3 positions, or use our flush mount Start Button. Both parts can be ordered HERE.
Published by Cyril Huze September 24th, 2007
in Editorial.
If CNN devotes a full feature to this topic, it must be big. Multi treatment laser procedure that will gradually erase tattoo with little or no scarring is a booming business . The process is painful, expensive and time-consuming. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that tattoo regret is common and big in the USA. In a study of a of 18 to 50-year-olds surveyed in 2004, 24 percent reported having a tattoo and 17 percent of those were considering getting their tattoo removed. In 2006, the number of people with tattoo regret seems to have doubled. The removal laser technique goes through the skin without damaging it and hits the pigment depending on which wavelength and which color you have, and it blows it into small pieces. The process is a lot more painful than getting the original tattoo, Yellow, green and purple, are harder to remove. Tattoos the farthest away from the heart are hardest to treat. So, the ankles are the toughest. No surprisingly, the most popular tattoos to be removed are the names of old boyfriends, girlfriends and former spouses.
Published by Cyril Huze September 23rd, 2007
in Editorial.
It’s Sunday. Let’s take a break and relax. Watch this superb, cute video that I just discovered thanks to my son Damien. Ladies, you are going to love it, too. DSL connection required. It’s called "Fight For Kisses". (In English & French).
Published by Cyril Huze September 22nd, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
I cannot resist showing you this new “tool of the trade”. It combines a black ballpoint pen, a non-drying orange highlighter, a 0.7 lead pencil, a stylus for PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a ruler with inches and centimeters and uses standard refills. Not enough to become a good bike designer, but it can help a little bit. Only $59.99 if you think you really need to carry one with you Stanley Multi-Functional Pen.
