Published by Cyril Huze March 8th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
It makes me happy to realize how much interest you all have in the Builders Breakfast Event held in Daytona where participating Builders & Bruce Rossmeyer contributed to raise $34,000 for the Boggy Creek Camp. Not only you commented in this Blog, but you also sent a lot of emails requesting details about the organization and how money was raised. Here the answer. First, participants paid $25 to have breakfast with us. Second, all builders donated clothing (mainly shirts and jackets) with bikers bidding on each item signed by the Builder concerned. A David Uhl painting was also auctioned. The art of Sara Liberte (a fusion of builder portraits with their machines) was also a big contribution to the money raised. It will be no surprise for you to know that the most sought after portait was the one of late Johny Chop. Each of his posters signed by all present builders was bringing $400.00. And I can tell you that I signed a lot. Sara Liberte Art.
Published by Cyril Huze March 8th, 2007
in Customs and Editorial.
The Berlin Wall, this iconic symbol of the cold war, was built in 1961 and dismantled in 1989. The infamous wall separated Germany and its families and became a propaganda disaster for East Germany and the communist bloc. On a less tragic note many East Germany Harleys “disappeared” from the motorcycle world. So, when I met in Daytona Wolfgang Knitterscheidt and asked him anout his beautiful 1929 DL sidecar Harley restoration I was only half surprised when he told me he uncovered it in ex East Germany. Wolfgang got it for a bargain but spent almost 3 years of his life making it 99% original (he is working on the remaining 1%). FYI, it was called a 3-cylinder because the generator was sticking up like a cylinder, has 20 HP with a 3-gear transmission. The original price was $230 and the actual value is a minimum of $55,000. I saw the bike being ridden hard with a passenger in the sidecar and this vision made me think again of the reason why most of us became custom builders: a brand called Harley-Davidson.
Published by Cyril Huze March 7th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
The concept of a Builders Breakfast during which bikers can mingle with the best custom builders in the world was created by Billy Lane from Choppers Inc. during the 2006 Sturgis Rally. The objective being to raise money for a great cause. Following the success of Sturgis, the 1st Daytona Builders Breakfast was held this morning at Bruce Rossmeyer’s Destination Daytona. Although Custom Builders have a tendency to be late to their professional meetings during Bike Week (yes, our nights are very short), all builders without exception were there on time at 8 AM to prepare this event. At 9 AM, hundreds of bikers all having given $25 to benefit Boggy Creek (a camp caring for ill children) had the opportunity to get an autograph and picture with their favorite builders. At the same time an auction was held and bid were very high to get some memorabilia offered by the present builders, Sara Liberte & David Uhl. It took us more than 3 hours to welcome all participants and satisfy everybody with signatures and pictures. I don’t have yet the final number regarding the money raised but it appears that at the time I write this post, it’s well above expectations. Something to make all of us feel very good during a long time.
Update: I was just advised that the breakfast raised $17,000. Due to generosity of Bruce Rossmeyer who decided to contribute personally and match dollar for dollar, the total amount raised is an outstanding $34,000.
Published by Cyril Huze March 7th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
Attending Builders: Billy Lane, Arlen Ness, Kendall Johnson, Cory Ness, Cyril Huze, Eddie Trotta, Matt Hotch, Aaron Greene, Paul Cox, Keino, Russell Mitchell, Russell Marlow, Jesse Rooke, Kim Suter, Jerry Covington, Donnie Smith, Dave Perewitz, Scott Webster, Fred Kodlin, Arlin Fatland, Paul Yaffe, Roland Sands, Michael Prugh and Jim Nasi.
Published by Cyril Huze March 7th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
Every day during Bike Week, magazines, manufacturers and custom builders organize parties. The first to start the week (on Tuesday) is the one organized by Freeway Magazine published in France & Italy. The ingredients are: a selection of custom builders impatient to show their new builts, a big pool (in which we didn’t jump because 70 Fwas the high of the day), and an extremely appealing buffet because (you guessed it) french people know a little bit about good food. The leading team of Freeway Magazine (one the most friendly andknowledgable journalists in the business) even invite other medias to participate to the event, which is a terrific opportunity for us.to get a lot of media coverage. Thanks again Zed, Charlie & Eric.
Published by Cyril Huze March 6th, 2007
in Editorial and Painters.
His name is Matthew Willoughby. He is one of the best artist painters in the country. And yes, his work is featured on some of my customs (picture from my bike Silverado). Although Matt doesn’t really need to be in Daytona to find new clients, during the 10 days of Bike Week, 10 hours a day, he is working hard at improving the looks of your ride. Working under a tent with the public watching each pinstripe you draw is no easy exercise. Only masters can do this. And I understand the crowd standing by for the free show. I met with Matt this morning at breakfast. He told me that he can still take a few jobs to be done before Sunday. If you are in Daytona, stop by his booth at Destination Daytona (Exit 273 on I95) to setup an appointment. If you need a full paint job at his studio after Bike Week, it’s also a great opportunity to meet with him and discuss your ideas. Matt Willoughby. Tel: 330-542-1320 or email: mwillodesign@sbcglobal.net
Published by Cyril Huze March 5th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
I realize that it is the 1st time I put in words my feelings about doing a big bike rally like Daytona Bike Week. Excitation (the atmosphere, noise, colors & smell), expectation (the bikes, parts, old and new friends), exhaustion (have you ever spent 10 hours a day every day under a tent as hot as a oven or as humid as a sponge talking to hundreds of people), apprehension (there is an end to all good thins and you know it’s over when bikers seem to ride in all the wrong directions outside Daytona). So, here I am again, realizing we are all 1 year older, checking first how all my friends are doing, reading again the calendar of events not to miss. Monday is the slowest day of the week, and I always take advantage of less traffic to make a tour of the vendor places from the Daytona Speedway to Beach Street, then from Main Street to Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach. I need to locate where everybody is (it changes every year) so that I can without hesitation zoom on a bike to anyone I need to see (cellular phone communications are still extremely bad during all week). Before and after hours I promise that I will try to spend some time updating you with new posts. Even if you are not there, I want you to feel like you participate to the 2007 edition. Later…
Published by Cyril Huze March 4th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
This post to remind all motorcycle enthusiasts that the 1st Daytona Builders Breakfast is Tuesday March 7th at 9 AM at Destination Daytona (US 1 and I95 in Ormond Beach). A few tickets are still available today directly at the Choppers Inc..booth at Destination Daytona. For $25 you will have breakfast with the most amazing Custom Builders in the world. In addition to have a great autograph/photo opportunity with your favorite Builder, your $25 will contribute to raise money for a meaningful cause. Proceeds will benefit Boggy Creek, a camp caring about very ill children. The Celebrity Builders confirmed are by alphabetical order: Chica, Jerry Covington, Paul Cox, Aaron Greene, Matt Hotch, Cyril Huze, Jerry Jurrens, Keino, Kendall Johnson, Brian Klock, Fred Kodlin, Billy Lane, Russell Marlowe, Russell Mitchell, Jim Nasi, Arlen Ness, Cory Ness, Dave Perewitz, Michael Prugh, Roland Sands, Kim Suter, Eddie Trotta. More info at Chrome Marketing Inc. Darcy Betlach 952-470-4297.
Published by Cyril Huze March 3rd, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
For me, there is nothing sexier than an attractive woman riding her own motorcycle. And since I love fashion, women clothing should also be motorcycle sexy. Yes, I love to look at your bike, at you and the way you are dressed (yes, I said dressed). In the eyes of a designer, everything should always flow harmoniously; match your personality and the style of your bike. I consider available riding gear quite poor both for men & women. Most often, or it’s good for the road but uncomfortable and unattractive, or it’s beautiful but not meant for the streets. Very few motorcycle apparel companies manufacture motorcycle clothing that I would qualify of both fit for riding and feminine. But from time to time I notice a piece of clothing that I find very fashionable. Like this “Rogue Woman Jacket” with its feminine rugged vintage look. Something about it that I find irresistible. Hey, I love motorcycles…and women. From the Icon Catalog.(Flash Required)
Published by Cyril Huze March 3rd, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
The dark side of Daytona Bike Week is when, almost every day, it is reported to our booths that another biker has been killed. Last year’s event saw a record number of biker deaths, and too often many drivers don’t see the motorcycles coming until it’s too late. Of the 21 motorcycle riders who died during last year’s Bike Week, nine were in accidents caused by a car or truck driver. That’s why the Bike Week Safety Task Force is trying to send a message to everyone who will be on the roads during this year’s Bike Week: "Look twice. Save a life." The campaign, already seen on six billboards, bus advertisements, temporary signs and fliers sent to local churches and homeowners associations, is aimed at local car and truck drivers, telling them what they can do to avoid collisions with bikers. Their suggestions include double-checking blind spots, avoiding driving distractions such as cell phones or food, and leaving a four-second distance between your car and a motorcycle in front of you. And, of course, paying special attention to oncoming traffic before you turn. Nationwide, motorists cause half of motorcycle fatalities.
Published by Cyril Huze March 2nd, 2007
in Editorial and Frames.
CCCS Inc. (the company creator of the original Concealed Hand Controls Systems) has just finished the first round of production of the very innovative “Simplified Air Suspension” (SAS). As you can see the design is extremely clean, and the new features offered are going to ease installation and improve the riding experience. The SAS doesn’t use any hose or fittings. No leak or breakage to fear. Why? Because the compressor is inside the cylinder housing. Another major benefit is that it allows you to keep your stock Harley-Davidson EPA compliant. SAS is available for 1999 and earlier & 2000 and up Softail type bikes. Simplified Air Suspension is the winner of Iron Works Magazine’s new product design and innovation for 2007. Learn more at the CCCS website.
Published by Cyril Huze March 2nd, 2007
in Editorial.
Deland, Florida is located 15 minutes west of Daytona Beach. It is a small very nice city that I know pretty well. As a matter of fact I was invited to the 1st and 2nd edition of the Deland Bike Rally, and enjoyed it. The historic downtown area has many museums, including the National Museum of Women in the Arts on Kingsbury Blvd. A short ride from the hectic scene at Daytona Bike Week is the Deland Bike Rally, held Saturday, March 3, on Woodland Boulevard in downtown Deland. The event features live music, vendors, food, free parking, restaurants and shops. There will be a Pro-Am bike show sponsored by Wide Open Cycles and Renegade Biker Magazine with trophies and prizes for Pro, Pro-Stock, Metric, Touring and Sportster class motorcycles. Other activities at the Deland Bike Rally are a performance by the Central Florida Motorcycle Drill Team. For more information on the rally and a schedule of events go to Deland Bike Rally.
Published by Cyril Huze March 1st, 2007
in Editorial and Frames.
Yes, you can improve the riding experience on your Chopper or Bobber. A company in Nevada offers a patented Chopper “Air-Shox” system that has the look of an air bag but is a rubber cushion shock with an air reserve without the hassle of on-board compressor. This “Air Shox” system features an aluminum body that is 4" eye to eye and 2.5" across. The coil-over shocks are 4" eye to eye and 1.75" wide. All kits come with all the necessary brackets and hardware to mount on your frame. They are available in numerous custom spring rates that can be tailored for the weight of the rider and the comfort desired. Master builder Carl Hanlon (a.k.a .Warden) from Guilty Customs out of Orlando installs this system on all his builds and is also the distributor to contact to get your own set. To help you even more, they can provide the matching seat pan and do your custom leather upholstery. If I tell you that the price is very reasonable, you will agree that it is a very smooth deal. Order at Guilty Customs.
Published by Cyril Huze February 28th, 2007
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
You are looking at the concept drawing of the new Twin Engine Rat’s Hole Trike scheduled to be unveiled this coming week during Daytona Bike Week. Ted Smith, owner/manager of the worldwide famous Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show commissioned Mike Beland from A1 Cycles to build this new “Cheese Hauler”. Mike is the man who built the amazing Twin Engine Bike that I featured in this Blog after he won the tallest golden trophy during Biketoberfest. On this project Mike Beland collaborated with Canni Design. This is the fourth Cheese Hauler to be built since 1969 and the first to be built since 2001. The Hot Rod style trike contains two 121” TP engines with the left engine running in reverse and an electric shifter. The bike is scheduled to be unveiled during Daytona Bike Week ’07 in the Rat’s Hole booth located on Beach Street from March 3rd through the 9th. It will then be on display at The Lagoon during The Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show on Saturday March 10th.
Published by Cyril Huze February 28th, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
On February 18th, I reported here that on the floor of the Dealer Expo 07, US Marshals were serving papers to companies exhibiting counterfeit motorcycle parts. Dave Scott, from Advanstar and Show Manager/Publisher of Big Twin West/Big Twin Dealer sent me the following info.
Santa Ana, CA-February 28, 2007- News of alleged counterfeiters at the Dealernews International Powersports Expo February 17-19 traveled fast. U.S Marshals served papers to several companies at this year’s show. Manufacturers claimed these exhibitors had violated intellectual property rights and filed lawsuits in protest. Advanstar Communications’ legal department will issue the following letter at the request of the customer, the body of which reads as follows:
Advanstar Communications, Inc. (“Advanstar”), the owner and organizer of Dealer Expo 2007 (“Dealer”), has received a complaint from (Company A) relating to violating (Company B). The complaint alleges improper use by (Company B) of (Company A’s) intellectual property on (Company B’s) product to be displayed at the upcoming Dealer Expo.
We want to remind everybody that Advanstar respects third parties intellectual property rights and willful disregard by an exhibitor of third parties rights can lead to a suspension of that exhibitor right to participate in future Dealer events. Any questions or concerns can be directed to Tracy Harris at tharris@advanstar.com
Published by Cyril Huze February 28th, 2007
in Editorial.
Harley-Davidson announced that it will manufacture 14,000 fewer motorcycles in 2007, the consequence of the 3 weeks strike at the plant in York, PA. A lot has been written about the reason of the strike, the consequences for vendors, workers and shareholders. If I write this post it is because today at lunch some friends were reminding me the time when to get a new Harley you had to go on a waiting list, and wait and wait. Lucky you if you were able to get yours in the color you wanted. Dealers were charging well over the MSRP price and bidding wars were raging in some dealerships. Harleys became hot commodities and I personally knew quite a few people speculating with them, meaning buying a handful of brand new ones for immediate resale at a profit. In the mid 90’s scarcity of Harleys available in showrooms had nothing to do with strike. But today, what will happen with 14,000 fewer units available (about the equivalent of a one-month production?) Personally, I think not much in terms of wait or price. But I hear others saying otherwise. Do you want to open the debate about the possible consequence of this Harley-Davidson strike ? Start commenting now.
Published by Cyril Huze February 27th, 2007
in Editorial and Painters.
Last month I wrote a post about the art of David Uhl. In this article that you can read again by clicking HERE I stated that I was a collector of his paintings (in the limit of my financial means) because of his talent at expressing motorcycle nostalgia with a very creative use of lights and shadows. David just sent me this new painting to commemorate Daytona Bike Week. It’s called "Buried Treasure" and he qualifies it as "Rockellian Silly" (in reference to the paintings of Norman Rockwell). A lot of you reading this Blog are buried in the snow upnorth.and can’t wait to arrive in Daytona to participate to the 2007 edition of Bike Week. So, here a Florida palette to keep you warm till’ I see you under the sun. David Uhl Studios.
Published by Cyril Huze February 26th, 2007
in Brakes and Editorial.
Good bye big rotors. Good bye brake calipers. Here the brand new 360 Brake, a completely contained brake system in a 5-inch hub spacer around the axle. It looks like no brake at all. How does it work? The circular piston and pads are activated by hydraulic pressure, all of which revolves 360° around the axle. You can think of it like the clutch on your tranny, but in reverse. Applying 360-degree of braking pressure delivers substantial greater braking power. Baldwin-Wilson Development, the company behind the 360 Brake, states that this new system offers a better control with smooth, straight line braking, and also an improved distribution of braking between the front & rear wheel. The company thought about the heat build up which is controlled with special rotor and pad materials that are cooled by the slots in the hub cover. These slots also play a roll in eliminating dust build up by way of the grooved rotor. The brake hub will fit ¾”, 1”, 20mm, and 18mm axles. Question: what wheels will it fit? Baldwin Wilson is modifying its system to fit the most popular custom wheels. Baldwin Wilson Development Corporation is an engineering enterprise located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Their tech support will assist you with installation and fitment questions. Call Chet Burozki 317-852-7867 or visit 360 Brake.
Published by Cyril Huze February 26th, 2007
in Editorial and Events.
Say the truth. In any rally around the country you and your friends lose a lot of time asking for directions to find the “hot spots” for custom builders, vendors, races, concerts, bars, restaurants, etc. And you always end up getting lost. If you want to get the most of a motorcycles event, you need a map and a plan. But not any map. A rally map conceived specifically for bikers to help them uncover what they want to see and experience. A company called Biker InCite has produced over 1.8 million Motorcycle Vendor and Event Maps for Daytona, Myrtle Beach, Laconia and Sturgis. Each map contains ride information, vendors and events listings, and a list of "Top Ten Things to Do”. Their maps are so good that Biker InCite has a partnership with V-Twin and Easyriders magazines to provide a smaller version of their rally maps for their survival guides in Daytona and Sturgis. These maps are free, but you need to know where to pick up your copy. Ready to enjoy Daytona Bike to its fullest? Just head to Biker City Guide.
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Published by Cyril Huze February 25th, 2007
in Editorial and Wheels.
It is amazing and uplifting to see all the time new companies joining our custom motorcycle scene. I discovered Pickard Wheels in Cincinnati during the V-Twin expo. Had no time to talk to them because they were video shooting a segment for Speed Channel. But I took a close look at their wheels, especially their Heavy Metal Series being at the top end of the industry in terms of quality & prices. Very good designs with a lot of attitude. Picking up a set of wheels has never been so difficult because of the very wide choice available. But it’s pretty good considering the fact that w all want our bikes to look very unique. Pickard USA.
Published by Cyril Huze February 24th, 2007
in Editorial and Frames.
How did you do these fenders? With some imagination and working from blanks to be able to cut our own wild ideas into metal. A company called B’COOL Products manufactures cut or uncut fenders for all popular large tire applications up to and including the 330 mm Avon as well the new 280/40-20 and also front fenders available for all 21" and 23" diameter front wheels. All B’COOL Products fenders are built to exacting specifications and are designed to fit the tire manufacturer’s cross-sectional tread profile (different from one brand to the other). Custom CNC Plasma cutting is also available saving valuable time and money to shop owners and do-it-yourselfer’s alike. B’COOL Products..
Published by Cyril Huze February 24th, 2007
in Builders and Editorial.
The 1st Daytona Builders Breakfast will be held March 7th at 9 AM at Destination Harley (US 1 and I95 in Ormond Beach). For $25 you will have breakfast with the most amazing Custom Builders in the world. In addition to have a great autograph/photo opportunity with your favorite Builder, your $25 will contribute to raise money for a meaningful cause. Proceeds will benefit Boggy Creek, a camp caring about very ill children. The Celebrity Builders confirmed are (by alphabetical order): Chica, Jerry Covington, Paul Cox, Aaron Greene, Matt Hotch, Cyril Huze, Jerry Jurrens, Keino, Kendall Johnson, Brian Klock, Fred Kodlin, Billy Lane, Russell Marlowe, Russell Mitchell, Jim Nasi, Arlen Ness, Cory Ness, Dave Perewitz, Michael Prugh, Roland Sands, Kim Suter, Eddie Trotta. Joining the builders are great corporate supporters like Custom Chrome, IronWorks & Easyriders magazines, Bikernet, White Water Manufacturing, Sara Liberte, etc. Celebrity photographer Michael Lichter will also be there to document the event. Very few tickets still available directly at Choppers Inc. More info at Chrome Marketing Inc. Darcy Betlach 952-470-4297.
Published by Cyril Huze February 24th, 2007
in Customs, Editorial and Events.
A lot of motorcycle shops and garage builders will participate to the upcoming 66th Daytona Bike Week with only one objective in mind: to win as many trophies & plaques during the 3 main Bike Shows: Rat’s Hole, Boardwalk & Harley-Davidson Ride-In Show. This last one is the only Bike Show organized by the factory and will happen March 7th at the Ocean Center Arena, 101 N. Atlantic Avenue. Registration is from 8 am to 11 am. Judging is by technicians from Harley. A $10 entry fee is donated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and each participant receives a special edition commemorative plaque designed by Willie G. Davidson. "Best of Show" winners in each of the judging classes will receive a $500 cash prize and a trophy. In addition, $500 cash prizes will be awarded to the top Sportster and top Big Twin motorcycles using Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories. There is no charge for spectators attending the Ride-In Show. For many, the big reward for participating is to shake hands with Willie G. Davidson.
Published by Cyril Huze February 23rd, 2007
in Editorial.
Since many of you have a weakness for skulls & bones, here the right way to start your day. Look attentively at the picture. The slice of bread out of this toaster has skull and crossbones grilled on it. I am sure that skulled toasts are going to be the start of very interesting conversations. The toaster itself makes a statement about who you are and maybe what you ride. It’s funky, funny and I would like to order one to offer to the lady who is cooking my breakfast during the 10 days of Daytona Bike week. But it’s made in Germany and I am still looking for the distributor in the US. Stay tuned.
Published by Cyril Huze February 22nd, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
If I say Liverpool England (and you are a baby boomer) you automatically think Beatles. But it is also where Davida Helmets are produced. And no helmet brand has ever captured more the spirit of motorcycling, tradition, freedom & adventure than Davida. With old classic and vintage motorcycles being the new rage Davida Helmets are back into the custom scene. I guarantee that you are going to see many pro builders wearing a Davida (with custom paint job) while riding their bobber or board track bikes (even when riding in a no-helmet state). Not only Davida Helmets are high quality head gear, but most of their designs capture the retro look and they offer custom paint jobs (moon and racer look are the best that you can buy from stock). Because of their rounded classic shapes, they are also the perfect base to do some pinstriping to match the one of your bike. They are a lot o distributors in the US (make an internet search). One of them is Glory Los Angeles. . .
Published by Cyril Huze February 22nd, 2007
in Accessories and Editorial.
Dewey’s Customs aluminum grips & foot pegs are a classic in the industry. But it’s not what this post is all about. Mr. Dewey wants you to put some spice in your life by using his 4” high salt & pepper shakers. It’s a very hot engine with one jug for pepper and the other for salt. They are machined on a CNC lathe and milled out of a block of 6061 T-6 billet aircraft type aluminum. They have a very smooth machined finish to make them look beautiful next to your china. Their craftsmanship is so beautiful that I put these shakers on my wish list for my next birthday. Dewey’s Customs.
