It looks like a giant hairdryer from the 70’s because its creator Rico Kersten loved the idea that one powerful radial fan could lift and move the vehicle/bike. Some wings on the bottom are used for steering and two big thrust reverse brakes stop it. The Beast Hoverbike was a winner in the Allegorithmics Contest with hope to be produced (or maybe not) in the second part of this century. But first, would be fun to see this solo pilot prototype on the road/in the air. Not yet…
Archive Page 43
New Narrow 2″ Open Belt System Featuring 2-Piece Motor Plate
Published by December 16th, 2016 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Belt Drives Ltd. is announcing a new 2″ wide open belt drive system for both Touring and Softail models from 2007-up. Each kit features a unique 2-piece motor plate design.. Kits come with a 52-69 pulley combination for a primary drive ratio of 1.326:1. The primary belt profiles and assemblies are unique to each model so, you cannot interchange from one to the other.
Front pulley face and new larger spring collar have matching patterns. The front pulley is angle cut and counter bored for a very clean open look. The 6 bolt diaphragm clutch configuration is new and provides a more positive feel while improving the overall appearance. Kits come with a custom side and top guard along with a new aggressive open dome. Additionally the spring and collar have been enhanced in order to provide more positive lock up for those big inch, high horsepower, high-torque engines. Continue reading ‘New Narrow 2″ Open Belt System Featuring 2-Piece Motor Plate’
12th Edition Of Custombike Show In Bad Salzuflen, Germany
Published by December 16th, 2016 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Trade Fair/Exhibition Center at Bad Salzuflen (Dec 1-3), had a record participation of vendors, part distributors, spectators and the largest ever exhibition of custom motorcycles. 300 exhibitors and 350 bike show competitors, 800+ of modified or customized motorcycles were squeezed in the 3 halls of the Bad Salzuffen Fair Center. A few shots of this CUSTOMBIKE (photos @ H. Roesler for C. Huze)
Continue reading ’12th Edition Of Custombike Show In Bad Salzuflen, Germany’
A group of American tourists entered a pub in Cork Ireland. One of the Americans said, in a loud voice, “I hear you Irish think you’re great drinkers. I bet $5,000 that no one here can drink 20 pints of Guinness in 30 minutes.” The pub was silent, but the American noticed one Irishman leave. No one took up the bet. Forty minutes later, the Irishman who left returned and said, “Hey Yank, is yer bet still on?”
“Sure” said the American, “20 pints in 30 minutes for a bet of $5,000 .” “Grand, ” replied the Irishman, “so pour the pints and start the clock.” It was very close but the last drop was consumed with 2 seconds to spare. “OK Yank, pay up.” said the Irishman.
“I’m happy to pay, here’s your money” said the American. “But tell me, when I first offered the wager, I saw you leave. Where did you go?’ “Well sir”, replied the Irishman, “$5,000 is a lot of money to a man like me, so before I took the bet I went to the pub across the road to see if I could do it.”
Indian Motorcycle Recalls Certain 2014-2017 Models For Potential Fuel Leak
Published by December 15th, 2016 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Indian Motorcycle is recalling 2014-2017 models for a potential fuel leak. Are concerned: Chief Classic, Chief Dark Horse, Vintage, Chieftan, Chieftan Dark Horse, Springfield and Roadmaster manufactured from April 15, 2013 to July 15, 2016. The very popular Scout and Scout Sixty are not affected. In the US, 23,746 motorcycles are recalled with more to be also recalled abroad.
The fuel rail may contact other components, causing the fuel rail to chaff and leak, and in presence of an ignition source this could create a fire. Indian is currently notifying all owners to have their dealer install a bracket that will limit the movement of the fuel rail. The fix is free of charge. You may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-369 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153),7. Indian’s number for this recall is I-16-03.
1985 BMW K100 Reborn As A Radical Motorcycle
Published by December 15th, 2016 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
The BMW K100 was a family of four-cylinder 987 cc motorcycles that were manufactured by BMW from 1983 to 1992. Quite ugly if you ask me. But at the time featuring some nice refinements including aluminum fuel tanks,,[14] adjustable headlights, high capacity 460 watt alternators, Hella accessory plug-in, and self-cancelling turn signal lights.
This one is a 1985 model fully re-engineered and handcrafted by Philipp Wulk and Matthias Pittner aka Impuls from Germany in collaboration with artist Fabian Gatermann who scanned the model in 3D and re-designed the frame and bodywork for a very nice and modern naked look.
New Ultra Low 3.5” Flare™ Windshield For Batwing Style Motorcycles
Published by December 15th, 2016 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
This week, Klock Werks adds a sportier, ultra low version of the Flare™ : the 3.5” windshield for 2014+ FLHT models. It is stated by the company as offering added stability and reduced head-buffeting. Previously, the 5” Flare™ was the lowest version available for these bikes
The hard-coated polycarbonate windshield, with its patented hips and flip, have revolutionized the air management market, and thousands of riders around the globe sing its praises. It improves stability and creates a nice, clean pocket of air that reduces wind-buffeting.
Campagna Motors Looking For Retail Investors To Expands Across The United States
Published by December 15th, 2016 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Canadian Campagna Motors, the maker of the T-Rex and V13R trikes, is launching a crowdfunding campaign under the Title III Regulation, offering retail investors to join the company for a market expansion in the US.
“Campagna is an innovative vehicle manufacturer that has been the reference in the trike market for the last 20 years and wants to expand and grow in the USA,” says André Morissette, CEO of Campagna Motors. “We chose the Title III route because it provided us with the possibility of engaging our large fan base to become investors and partners in the business, while allowing us to aim at raising the required capital in conditions that are interesting for both the investor and Campagna to realize our vision.”
Interested individuals can find out more about Campagna Motors’ vehicles and current crowdfunding campaign by visiting the platform Start Engine Campagna Motors.
Harley-Davidson Owners Allege That The 103″ Twin Cam Engine Is Defectively Designed
Published by December 14th, 2016 in Builders, Editorial and Legal.
Two Harley owners from Los Angeles County allege that the Twin Cam 103” engine equipping their motorcycles emit high heat, which can burn riders, and shorten the life of the engine.
A complaint was filed by attorneys Zimmerman Reed LLP and Boucher LLP on behalf of Michael Berke and Wolfgang Costelloon and all others similarly situated on December 2, 2016
The plaintiffs allege that they suffered damages from purchasing Twin Cam 103″ equipped motorcycles and that Harley-Davidson is responsible because the defendants did not warn that the engine is defectively designed.
They claim violation of the Unfair Competition Law and other counts and request a trial by jury, seeking an injunction against the defendants, ordering them to repair or replace the Twin Cam 103 engines, all legal fees and any other relief as the court deems just. The case is number 2:16-cv-08939 in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
1949 Indian-Vincent Factory Prototype Offered For 1st Time At The Bonhams January’s Las Vegas Auction
Published by December 14th, 2016 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In 1948 the manager of Indian Motorcycles, Ralph Rogers, and the director of Vincent HRD, Philip Vincent, agreed on a joint venture to manufacture and sell a hybridization of their machines to the American market. Two prototypes were created as a result: the better known Vindian – essentially an Indian Chief with Vincent motor, and the Indian-Vincent – essentially a Vincent Rapide with an Indian frame.
Both machines were one-off designs created at Vincent’s factory in Stevenage, England from two Chiefs shipped over from Indian’s Springfield, Massachusetts factory. Unfortunately, neither prototype was put into production before Indian’s demise just a few years later. Continue reading ‘1949 Indian-Vincent Factory Prototype Offered For 1st Time At The Bonhams January’s Las Vegas Auction’
Tribal Solo Rack For Victory Octane
Published by December 14th, 2016 in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Even small bikes may need a rack. This new one is for the Victory Octane.
It’s made of ¼” laser-cut aluminum with steel mounting bracket.
The rack is finished in flat black powder coating. All stainless steel mounting hardware is included. Retail price is $125.99 and it can be ordered at many dealers, online at Aeromach or by calling 800-990-9392.
Harley Tourer Saddlebags Makeover
Published by December 13th, 2016 in Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
LED Panels for ‘06-up Street Glide® and ‘10-up Road Glide® help you customize the rear end of your Street Glide® or Road Glide®. These LED panels combine style and function, blending in seamlessly to match the existing lines of the back of your tourer. Running lights, high intensity brake lights, and ultra-bright plasma amber turn signals dramatically increase visibility for safety.
Easy to install with simple plug-and-play connections. No drilling, splicing or special tools required. Lenses are easily removed for paint. Available in chrome and gloss black for ’06-’09 FLHX and ’10-up FLHX, FLTRX. Retail price is $329.95-$369.95.
Saddlebag Extensions for ’97-’13 FLHT/U, ’97-’13 FLTR/U, ’06-’13 FLHX and ’10-’13 FLTRX. They will help increase visibility from the rear and sides with built-in LED run, turn and brake lights. Under bags are radiused for less worry about leaning too far into corners as you would with most extended bags. These saddlebag extensions are an easy plug-and-play installation with only a few bolts needed. Available in The light housing is easily removed before paint. Retail price is $329.95-$359.95. At Ciro 3D.
9th Annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering Is Set For May 6, 2017
Published by December 13th, 2016 in Builders, Events and Videos.
The Peninsula Signature Events has announced May 6, 2017 as the date of The Quail Motorcycle Gathering. The 9th Annual event at Quail Lodge & Golf Club will feature an expansive selection of the finest and rarest vintage and modern motorcycles as well as leading motorsports and lifestyle vendors, food and beverages, live music and family entertainment.
Weekend’s activities kick off on Friday, May 5th as 100 motorcyclists weave their way throughout the Monterey Peninsula on The Quail Ride. Then on Saturday, May 6th, attendees will gather on the Quail Lodge lawn for the 9th Annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering. Alongside traditional classes, this year will include a special feature on Norton Motorcycles – celebrating 50 Years of the Norton Commando. Those interested in displaying a motorcycle on the lawn should fill out the application form here. Below a video of the 2016 event.
Tickets are now on sale for the 9th Annual event! Attendees can take advantage of holiday discounts by purchasing online through December 31, 2016. Tickets will be available online and at the gate through the day of the event. Tickets can be purchased at Quail Lodge Tickets. A limited number of rooms are available at Quail Lodge and are expected to book quickly. Rooms and rates are based on availability at the time of booking and cannot be guaranteed, and a two-night minimum stay is required. For more information and to make your reservation visit Quail Lodge.
Companies interested in event sponsorship or advertising in The Quail Motorcycle Gathering 2017 Program should contact April Morris, Sponsorship Sales & Logistics Manager by phone at -831-620-8835 or by email at April Morris.
Kevin Bean’re To Attempt A Coast To Coast Mini Bike World Record
Published by December 13th, 2016 in Editorial and Events.
Going after a 50cc mini bike long distance world record? Why not. Kevin Bean’re intends to ride coast to coast from Daytona to San Diego to add his name to the Guinness World Records. Kevin will ride with friend Tim Ford (not on the same bike!) for what is expected to be a 9-day 3000-mile trip, of course using mainly back roads.
This world record attempt is also the pretext to raise money for charity, the Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation, whose purpose is to advocate for ALD newborn screening in every state. ALD is a deadly genetic disease that affects 1 in 18 000 people. It most severely affects young boys and men with loss of muscle control and progressive dementia leading to death.
Kevin Bean’re and his riding companion intend to organize fund raisers along their way to San Diego and to carry some proposed legislation to several of the state capitals they will travel through. They also have plans to have individual pledges by the mileage that they accrue. There will be a page on the Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation website for donations. The coast to coast ride will start from Daytona on March 20, the day after Daytona Bike Week ends
Retro Mod Triumph Bonneville T120. Back To Basics.
Published by December 12th, 2016 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
All custom builders dream of attracting the attention of a major motorcycle brand to be commissioned on a custom project. All benefit for both parties, the manufacturer getting a show piece to exhibit all year long on its new models display, and for the builder getting a huge boost of notoriety and credibility. But it’s not necessarily easier to work for a manufacturer than for a private client. The briefing may come with light or heavy restrictions regarding style and modifications, and of course you better off succeed with a project ordered to enhance the brand and/or model image.
Receiving a call from Triumph may be the most exciting and stressing event of your professional life when you are a young British custom motorcycle shop. And Old Empire Motorcycles got this call… After several conference calls, the team OEM had to travel to the factory HQ for the official briefing. “We give you a brand new Bonneville T120. Build a piece of eye candy to be used during all the show we attend. But it needs to ride perfectly and to be available for road reviews” And Triumph added “don’t turn it into another modern Cafe Racer!” Later, the shop found out that Triumph was just about to launch the “Street Cup”, another Street/Cafe Racer in the lineup, and of course they didn’t want any image confusion between this new model and the Bonneville T120. Continue reading ‘Retro Mod Triumph Bonneville T120. Back To Basics.’
Vintage Style Clutch And Brake Levers. For 1” Or 7/8” Handlebars.
Published by December 11th, 2016 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
To go retro style to the tips of your fingers. These new drilled and bent clutch and brake levers could have been the stock offering on many classic and vintage bikes.
But these ones are CNC machined 6061 billet aluminum, looking much better than those in cast of the past. The lightweight levers feature ergonomic 3D machining.
They fit 1″ or 7/8″ handlebars (Remove PVC handlebar sleeve for 1″ bar applications.)
They come with a 10 mm brass cable adjuster (8 mm adjuster is an option) The cable clutch adjustment clip makes it easy to adjust the clutch cable. Stainless steel pivot pins and hardware. High quality “OILITE” bronze bushing on levers for super smooth action. Available in clear or black anodizing. Order online at Joker Machine.
“There’s going to be enough people in life that try to limit what you can do… Don’t limit yourself.”
Lorraine Wagner
Winners Of Victory Motorcycles’ Operation Octane Dealer Custom Build Conrest
Published by December 10th, 2016 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
26 Victory dealers from around the world participated to the Operation Octane custom built contest to create their own interpretations of the light, fast and affordable 2017 Victory Octane. Online voting public has decided the winners. “Evil Ethel” from Strokers Dallas and “Desert Racer” from IWAN-BIKES GmbH pick up 1st place prizes, “King Octane” from Coastal Victory and “Grifter” from Brisan Motorcycles named runner-ups
“Take a mean bike and make it meaner. That’s the vision we had in our mind for our evil Victory Octane that we call Ethel,” North American Champion Strokers Dallas says of Evil Ethel . I featured in details this creation in my website in September. Check it out HERE
North American Runner-Up Coastal Victory says of King Octane. “Keeping with the Victory brand tradition, we added fenders from a Victory Kingpin (modified to fit), had our painter (Rusty Nash) add a SIC custom paint job and topped the build off with a Ness Intake and Bassini 2-into-1 Exhaust,” Continue reading ‘Winners Of Victory Motorcycles’ Operation Octane Dealer Custom Build Conrest’
444 Series Shocks For Indian Scout
Published by December 10th, 2016 in Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
After more than a decade of ruling the roads with their road proven 440 Series shocks, Progressive Suspension is offering another breakthrough design, now available The Indian Scout and Scout Sixty
The technology is dubbed Frequency Sensing Technology (FST) for its unique ability to dynamically adjust damping as you ride. The result is more comfort, a superior performance no matter the road conditions, and of course longer (s)miles.
Fine tuning is done via a top mount threaded preload adjuster allowing for fine tuning with a simple twist of the cap.
Available in Standard and Heavy Duty in 11”, 11.5 & 12” lengths for all Indian Scout models 2015-up. At Progressive Suspension.
New Motorcycle Brand Vanguard Showing Its Running Roadster Prototype All Weekend At New York IMS
Published by December 9th, 2016 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Vanguard is showing this weekend the first running prototype of the Roadster during the New York IMS Show at the Javits Center in Manhattan. Vanguard is an entirely new and distinct premium motorcycle brand. with its first model designed, engineered and to be built in Brooklyn, NY. Vanguard Moto Inc. is conducting an equity crowdfunding campaign pursuant to Section 4(a)(6) of the Securities Act. All information is available at Start Engine Vanguard.
New Keg Risers For Springer Front Ends
Published by December 9th, 2016 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
Brass Balls Cycles released another custom part used on its custom projects. These Keg Risers are to attach 1” bars on Springer type front ends. Machined from 6061 T6 aircraft grade billet aluminum. Dimensions are: 2-1/2″ tall x 2″ diameter. Bars rise: 1-3/4″ from bottom of riser to center of the bars. Sold in set of 2 risers, including mounting hardware. $149.95 per set. At Brass Balls Cycles Online Store or one of their dealers.
2017 Verona Motor Bike Expo. January 20-21-22.
Published by December 9th, 2016 in Editorial and Events.
The upcoming international Motor Bike Expo will feature 670 exhibitors from all over the world with visitors expected to pass last year’s number of 155000. During 3 days, Verona in Italy becomes the capital of the motorcycle world with exhibitions by the largest manufacturers, the best custom parts vendors, the top custom builders, guests from the racing world, the most trendy mc fashion and accessories, etc. all spread on 6 different halls. Outside, the dynamic side of the show, international stuntmen competitions, riding lessons, demo rides, the Italian Drifting Championship, and much more. A must attend international motorcycle event. So, wherever you are Jan. 20-22, if you can go, go…
On the first day, God created the dog and said, “Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this I will give you a life span of twenty years.” The dog said, “That’s a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I’ll give you back the other ten?” And God said that it was good.
On the second day, God created the monkey and said, “Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I’ll give you a twenty-year life span.” The monkey said, “Monkey tricks for twenty years? That’s a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?” And God again said that it was good.
On the third day, God created the cow and said, “You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer’s family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years.” The cow said, “That’s kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I’ll give back the other forty?” And God agreed it was good. Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week’
Triumph Infor Rocket To Be Featured Tonight December 8 On Velocity Network
Published by December 8th, 2016 in Editorial and Events.
Triumph Motorcycles endeavour to reclaim the motorcycle land speed record in 2016 was thoroughly documented for Guy Martin’s hit TV show ‘Guy Martin: Fastest Man On Two Wheels’. The 45-minute special episode will air on the Velocity network tonight Thursday, December 8 at 10:00pm EST (7:00pm PST), giving viewers a chance to see the inside story behind Guy’s fastest challenge yet.
With Guy Martin piloting the purpose-built 1,000+ HP Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner, the aim is to exceed the current record that stands at 376.363 mph. While testing continued throughout the year with the hopes of a record attempt, course conditions stood in the way of going for a record run. A speed of 274.2 mph was recorded at the iconic Bonneville Salt Flats though, making the streamliner the world’s fastest ever Triumph.
The Triumph Infor Rocket features a carbon Kevlar monocoque construction and two turbocharged Triumph Rocket III engines producing a combined 1,000 bhp at 9,000 rpm. Developed between Triumph, Hot Rod Conspiracy and Carpenter Racing, the motorcycle is 25.5 feet long, 2 feet wide and 3 feet tall. Powered by methanol fuel, the bike is competing in the Division C (streamlined motorcycle) category. Continue reading ‘Triumph Infor Rocket To Be Featured Tonight December 8 On Velocity Network’
Joy Ride. Uhl’s New Painting Release For The Holidays
Published by December 8th, 2016 in Editorial and Painters.
It’s the second piece in David’s newest collection, the Holiday series. Last year, he released the first piece, “Timber Titan”.
This new piece, titled “Joy Ride” shows the absolute delight of being young, taking a bike for a spin (with or without permission and no matter the weather) and preparing for the holidays. (photo @ Polish photographer Adam Wawrzyniak)
Uhl Studio is taking orders now and will close the edition on January 1st.
Joy Ride-edition specifics:
Image size 20×26.5, $895 framed. Image size 24×32, $1,295 framed. Image size 30×40, $2,250 framed. Shipping is additional.
To order, contact Greg Rhodes 303-913-4840
Easy to imagine bikers scratching their heads front of this contraption. Yes, it’s a custom bike powered by a single 375 cc made from a 750 cc Italian Moto Guzzi. The design from Jeff Grunlach is based on his own one-off fabricated frame and includes Norton clutch and transmission, Honda wheels, forks and brakes.
280 lbs light, Jeff tells me he can push the bike to 75 mph, and that after riding it 3000 miles he only broke the chain guard due to a weak mount… Of course No unneeded parts on this one. Raw and rusted. Raven MotoCycles.
