Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2006
in Editorial and Exhaust.
From the mind of Joe McGlynn, these tri-bar distinctive exhaust flares fit inside 2" tailpipes (py popular demand they will be available very soon for 1.75" & 2.25" exhaust sustems). These nostalgic tips are held with a 1/4-20 stainless screw from underneath. Precision formed from .090" thick stainless steel and hand polished to a mirror finish. They will last forever. Sold individually through my Webstore.
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2006
in Builders and Editorial.
The Official website of Harley-Davidson just premiered its newest commercial ad campaign featuring a new and unreleased Guns N‘ Roses song called “Better”. The song belongs to the forthcoming album “Chinese Democracy” to be released before Christmas. I watched several times this Harley-Davidson commercial called “Black Sheep”. As a former adman, I can tell you that it is superb concept & production work. I would not be surprised if it wins a lot of advertising awards. View it by clicking HERE and tell me what you think.
UPDATE: the song you hear in this commercial is “Paradise City”, one of the first Guns N Roses hits. Seems like Harley is going to do a new version of this commercial with a new yet unreleased song of GNR called “Better”. Release date in unknown but should be before Christmas (Thank you Ben & Damien for telling me)..
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2006
in Books and Editorial.
During Biketoberfest I had the pleasure to join some of my fellow builders during the Rat’s Hole Show, to autograph the just released book Art Of The Bobber. Not only I am proud to be featured on the cover and also inside this book, but you also get pictures of the best Bobbers of 49 great builders. Before Choppers, there was the Bobbers. As these lean, mean machines come roaring back onto the scene in a big way, this book offers a look at where the Bobber came from, where it’s going, and what it’s all about.
With over 200 exclusive photographs of the most cutting-edge Bobbers, and biographies of the men and women who build these cool motorcycles. Edition includes a poster on the reverse of the book’s jacket. Pages: 224 Size: 10.5 w x 12 h. I am telling you: it’s time to begin your Christmas shopping Art Of The Bobber will make any biker very happy..
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2006
in Editorial and Engines.
S&S Proven Performance 160" Billet Pro Stock Engine has been nominated for The People Choice Award by the Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum. Designed and manufactured in the USA by S&S Cycle, this engine has been the choice of top drag racing teams. Currently, 5 out of 10 racers in the NHRA championship point standings are powered by the S&S Pro Stock Engine. The Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt National Museum has for objective to honor the best in American design.
During a gala in NYC October 18, the People Choice Award was presented to S&S Cycle by Fashion Designer Isaac Mizrahi.
Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2006
in Editorial and Electrical.
Anything but ordinary is their motto. The boys of Licks Cycles offer retro horizontal & vertical taillight assemblies already belonging to a lot of Bobbers. The package offered includes a heavy gauge side mount that is Tig welded then powder coated in glossy black and a plain red glass. As a bonus when you buy the package you get 2 interchangeable lenses to express your deep feelings (see picture) to the cop who just stopped you. They also offer a choice of brackets to fit most applications. At Licks Cycles.
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
Taking online customization to a new level, Victory Motorcycles of Spirit Lake, Iowa has recently extended the option to trick-out any of four models—but only for a limited time. Until 31 October 2006, visit the Victory Website and let legendary bike builders Arlen and Cory Ness walk you through the slick interface to help you to design a one-of-a-kind motorcycle starting at around $16,000 (the online system can help save money on a custom bike). From paint color to chrome accessories and graphics to touring packages, Victory’s custom program offers options to bikers who want an easy way to get a bike tailored to their personal style. Of note is the limited “blacked-out option” where wheels and other features can be blackened, for those who prefer making a more sinister-looking statement. A lot of us do. Right?
Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2006
in Editorial.
Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson is interested by tapping into the growing market of meat snacks. The formal announcement was made at a trade show in Las Vegas.
In January, Harley dealers will offer thick slices of smoked, lean steak, with original teriyaki and pepper flavoring. Why don’t they say Beef Jerky? Starting in 2007, I guess no Harley rider will be caught hungry as long as he has a few sticks of jerky in his saddlebags. .The general manager of merchandise for Harley said the venture is the first time the company has lent its name and logo to a food product.
Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2006
in Editorial and Videos.
A bike’s not finished until you put some miles on it with your bros. Choppertown-The Sinners is probably the best motorcycle documentary I have ever seen (in my opinion, much better than “Easy Rider” or “On Any Sunday”). The DVD film by Scott Di Lalla & Zack Coffman is taking the viewer inside the world of an average guy building his bike from the ground up, the old fashioned way, with the help of his friends. Then you will ride with the Sinners of South california on their awesome motorcycles, lowriders and hot rods. Real life, real adventures (including a bar room brawl), real bikers, real brotherwood. Add to this great editing, superb original soundtrack, and you get 93 minutes of pure pleasure to satisfy any gearhead. Not convinced? I authorize you to leave this blog to log on to Choppertown. There, you can even watch a teaser before ordering your DVD. It comes with extra clips and bonuses including a 12-page full color booklet.
Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2006
in Editorial.
I am a big coffee drinker. Can I go up to 1 gallon every day? (I wake up at 6 AM and leave the shop at 9 or 10 PM). And I like it very hot. Here a very cool idea from Stephen Reed to avoid burning your fingers, dropping your mug on your desk and spilling your coffee all over your keyboard while you are reading your preferred Blog (mine). It’s a ceramic mug with vertical raised ridges, using the air between your fingers and the mug to insulate you from the burning java. Very smart. Only one problem: difficult to print your logo on this one. I am a designer and in this Blog I will never pass on a good industrial design idea. Stephen Reed Industrial Design.
Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2006
in Brakes and Editorial.
Wilwood is not the most well known brand in the industry. But they make innovative brakes since 30 years and were the 1st to introduce cleanly-styled direct leg-mount caliper for the custom Harley=Davidson aftermarket. In case you don’t know, Wilwood is also the company chosen by Harley to fit their VR1000 AMA effort. I love their new Stealth Brake System. It works with a 18.75” diameter rotor for great stopping power, can be bolted directly to any 41 mm Wide Glide front end with stock fender mounts, and it works with or without a fender. Yes, you will need a custom wheel (in any design) to accept the Stealth system. But your brake system will be almost invisible, you will have exceptional braking power, and nothing will hide your one-off wheel. Visit Wilwood Stealth System.
Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2006
in Builders and Editorial.
On Saturday Oct 21st, during Daytona Biketoberfest, Cyril Huze was inducted into the Hall of Fame by IMBBA (International Master Bike Builders Association). In the Hall Of Fame, Cyril Huze joins fellow Master Builders Arlen Ness, Indian Larry Legacy (Paul Cox), Dave Perewitz, Matt Hotch, Eddie Trotta & Aaron Greene.
To reach “Hall Of Fame” status the Association requires from Custom Builders, among other accomplishments, that they have served the industry for a minimum of 15 years, have built bikes recognized by peers within the industry, have entered and won major & international bike shows, have created original concepts & designs, have trained others in the trade and contributed to charitable events. “Craftsmanship comes from the heart…not just from the parts”.
Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2006
in Editorial.
If you still don’t know him, you didn’t live the biker lifestyle long enough. For over 32 years, Charlie Brechtel has been playing his music in all major biker events. If the biker lifestyle would be music, it would be the great guitar licks of Charlie. A native of New Orleans, he is not just a player but a composer, arranger, songwriter and Producer. His songs are about translating the soul of the American biker in soulful rocking blues, A folk hero himself, he likes to write music and pay tribute to other folk heroes of our industry like David Mann and Indian Larry. His latest album called ‘Iron Buffalo” is a collection of 13 songs telling you stories about real people just doing their thing. Visit his website where you can listen to his new tracks, order a CD and also watch video clips of Charlie playing with legends like John Lee Hooker and Albert Collins. Charlie Brechtel Band.
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial.
Harley-Davidson dazzled Wall Street by announcing record third-quarter sales and profits, a result most analysts attributed to a more powerful new engine the company installed into several of its models. (Yes, torque & power is a big deal for us). In July Harley introduced 4 new 2007 bike models: 2 new VRSC models, the FXSTC Softail Custom, and a Limited Edition 50th anniversary Sportster.
With four new models and an all-new Twin Cam 96” engine with 6-speed transmission on Big Twin motorcycles, the 2007 model line has been a big hit with customers. Harley-Davidson predicted its rekindled lineup would yield 11% to 17% profit growth through 2009. Harley-Davidson (Symbol HOG) profit rose to $1.20 per share for the July-through-September quarter from 96 cents a year ago, on record revenue of $1.64 billion. Worldwide motorcycle sales improved 9% for the first nine months of the year over 2005. Shares are up about 40% over the past year
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial.
In this business we all work very long hours. What about 2 pretty ladies on your bed, always waiting for your return from the shop or the office. But, please, pay attention. These 2 kissing girls in their undies are on your bed, not in. They are printed on a soft comforter that you can wash & rewash without the risk that they will fade away. Due to a special printing process, it won’t rub off.
If you want to get one, it’s the argument to use with your wife or girlfriend. Your comforter is going to last almost forever. And the company making it is called Reality Bedding!!!
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Customs, Editorial and Frames.
Warning: shameless plug ahead. There are only 2 frames in existence with this configuration and a twisted curved downtube (look closer to see it). And you can only get this one because I keep the other one to build a custom bike for a (repeat) client. I know what to do with mine. A lot of different looks can be achieved with yours, from retro to high tech. It’s a 3" out, a minus 2" in the curved down tube (yes, I repeat, twisted like a Tikki pole, and don’t try to do this at home with your torch), 200 mm rear tire with a chain or 180 mm with a belt, left side drive, conical steering head with internal fork stops, , CNC machined transmission plate welded to the frame (no guessing), stainless steel rear axle, wiring loom in the backbone and post to run your electricity internally. The best of everything. Call 561-392-5557 or info@cyrilhuze.com.
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial and Electrical.
Last night I had a nightmare. After riding the 225 miles between my hometown & Daytona Beach (to participate to Biketoberfest), I was at the International Speedway exit filling up gas. Next to me were parked 2 nice Bobbers worth a closer look. Shock: both had a small GPS attached to the left side of the bars. It’s when I woke up. People are installing GPS on Bobbers and I didn’t know? No, it can’t be true. And no, it’s not true (please, don’t prove me wrong). It just happened that before going to bed for a few hours of sleep (remember, Biketoberfest is only 7 days away and of course we are running late with all our projects), a press release on my computer was talking about the advantages of a new biker GPS called the Tom Tom Rider! I love tech gear, but hate seeing people walking with Bluetooth earpieces, and I don’t want to see custom bikes harboring mini GPS on their handlebars. For what? To be sure that you are at Starbucks when you have a latte in your hand? To be sure that the place where you park in the morning is the place where you work? To be sure you don’t miss the next Cracker Barrel along the highway (if you don’t see the huge billboards well in advance, please don’t ride, you view is way too bad). I know there are those of us who are going to make the trip of their lives riding around the globe. But except these lucky ones, none of us should attach to their bikes anything they don’t really need. I tell you, a good map stained with coffee is still the way to go. I will compromise with Google Earth received on your cellular but only at one condition: don’t attach it to your bars, or anywhere else on your bike.
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Driveline and Editorial.
Email a great picture and talk to my primal instinct, and I will immediately read your email and follow the link leading to your website. I went to the PRIMAL website. Here what they tell me: “Its time to break the mold and live out loud. The time has come and the possibilities are endless”. Hey guys, I did it a long, long time ago. Then the pitch: “All our products can be custom made to your design ideas. Get the look you desire with PRIMAL motorcycle products. We deliver superior quality and style when you need it”. Sounds very good to me. I have ideas and always need something unique for my clients. I never heard before about PRIMAL, but the fact that they are backed by Team Industries, Inc. a 1200 person, vertically-integrated company that manufactures products designed in-house by creative engineers for the automotive industry should make us feel secure. Like all Builders, I have a liability concern. I just regret that their website shows only Open Belt Systems. And yes, they are very radical. Follow your instinct. Pay a visit to PRIMAL
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial.
It’s unwise to pay too much, but it’s more unwise to pay too little. When you pay too much you lose a little money, that’s all. When you pay too little you sometimes lose everything, because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing you bought it to do. The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot. It can’t be done.If you deal with the lowest bidder, it’s well to add something for the risk you take. From John Ruskin. Social Commentator. 1819-1900
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
New to the 2006 Fall Cycle Scene activities (translate Biketoberfest) at Daytona International Speedway will be the International Master Bike Builders Row. Four legendary builders from the International Master Bike Builders Association will have custom choppers on display along Lake Lloyd in the specialty vehicle area for viewing by motorcycle enthusiasts. The legendary Master Bike Builders Association builders participating include Eddie Trotta, Indian Larry’s Legend Cycles, Matt Hotch and Dave Perewitz. I was also asked to show up. And I will. The International Master Bike Builder Row is free to the public with access through the Turn 4 tunnel and will also contain numerous motorcycle vendors, concessions and merchandise. If there are any vendors interested in displaying on International Master Bike Builders Row, please contact Julie Dziak at (386) 947-6819.
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Chassis and Editorial.
Following my post of last week about the come back of Crocker Motorcycles, a lot of you seem to be interested and requested that I show a picture. Here it is. This is what is called the small tank version. Engine: 61” side valve. Bore & Stroke: 3 ¼” x 3 ½”. Horsepower: 55 HP at 3600 RPM. This one restored by Steve Huntzinger.
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial and Merchandise.
Rare to find a site where you can buy in one place tee-shirts, patches, books, stickers of a selection of the best names of the American Kustom Kulture.
Ok, the interface of the site Poster Pop is quite poor (Hey, I am a designer and don’r expect me to not mention this) but forget about the look of the welcome page. First read the artists’s bios, then browse the pages dedicated to artists like Von Franco, Coop, Kruse (my top 3 list), Forbas, Shag, Dirty Donny, and many others, and pick a tee, a sticker, a keychain of your favorite one.
Also, don’t miss the Limited Edition Vince Ray Tattoo Flash Sets press printed on Archival card stock.. .
Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2006
in Editorial.
During Biketoberfest, demo rides for Harley-Davidson, Victory, Boss Hoss and Bourget Bike Works.will be located in the Fan Walk area outside of Turn 4. Riders must hold a valid motorcycle driver license and DOT approved helmet in order to participate in the demo rides. No exception. Demo rides run Thursday, Oct. 19 through Oct. 21, 9 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Oct. 22, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
In Cologne, Germany, Harley-Davidson just unveiled a new prototype inspired by the flat track scene that Harley dominates since so many years. Dressed in racing orange this XR1200 is powered by the European version of the 1200 V-Twin motor pounding out 90 bhp. This prototype is the result of a close collaboration between Harley factory in Milwaukee and the European Product Team that recently brought us the “Night Rod Special”. This XR-1200 features a sophisticated electronically controlled air intake system, new designed Showa forks, and of course very powerful new brakes. Of course, the objective of this unveiling is to test the reaction of the media and of the public. No difficult to guess that Harley is testing new concepts able to attract a younger clientele interested by speed.
Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Editorial and Seats.
I am not much in bolt-on seats for any custom bike, but I must admit that there are a few available that I could use on my bobbers to both look great and save a lot of money.
Not necessary to wait for the boat coming from China with its new load of flakes vinyl seats. Flyrite Choppers has one of the best selection of spring solo seats with unusual patterns at a very reasonable prices.
The seats are made in the USA by the boys of Flyrite. This one, for example, is 13" x 9.5" (my preferred seat size) in brushed aluminum (love it), black & metallic blue. Sold with all the hardware: 2 springs, bracket, bolts, nuts & washers. Does your Bobber deserve one? On their site, quite a few other cool parts for all your Chopper or Bobber needs.
Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Editorial and Suspension.
With the return of the Bobber, retro front ends are everywhere (including on my bikes). Every week my fax machine is spitting pictures of new Springers, new Girders & new Spring Leaf type front ends. Made in America or, unfortunately, more and more manufactured in China. Most are “me-too” products without any plus, technically or aesthetically.
Then the MeanStreet brothers, Tim & Mike Hanlon, showed me the pictures of the new “Rumbler” front end. My reaction? Not for everybody (meaning not all retro bikes), but at least it’s different, original & quite cool. All what a custom builder wishes for his next project. In addition it is offered both in mid & wide glide, in any length (minus or over stock), and a choice of polish, chrome or black, or mix & match. MeanStreet Front Ends.
