Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Editorial and Videos.
“Tales of the Rat Fink” or the life of Ed Roth premiered September 16, 2006 at the Toronto International Film Festival. Made by filmmaker Ron Mann, with the voice of John Goodman as Roth. Goodman narrates the film looking down from heaven. Roth died at age 69 of a heart attack in 2001. I just hope that the film will heighten the general public’s knowledge of Ed Roth. He died from heart failure in 2001 at the age of 69. In the 60’s, Roth built several famous cars and motorcycles, but is best known for his cartoon RAT Fink creation. The ugly rat (is there a relation with the rat of the Rat’s Hole Shows?) is featured regularly on retro-style tees. Roth seems to have the same fate as his late contemporary pinstriper: Kenneth Howard a.k.a Von Dutch (whose logo is featured on clothing of people who don’t have a clue about who he was). Roth was part of the mythical golden age of hot rods, when young men in California dropped big engines into old Ford jalopies and took them racing on the dry lakes. Throughout the 1960s, he was one of the best-known car customizers. His "Outlaw" and "Beatnik Bandit" cars caught the attention of model company Revell, which hired him to design plastic model kits., He was also a prankster: when it was asked him to dress better for his public appearances, he showed up in a top hat and tails, which became his trademark uniform. In the 80’s, Roth relied mostly on his art, selling airbrushed tees and paintings. Roth’s influence is twofold: his futuristic cars inspired other builders to go beyond merely reshaping existing models, and his bizarre artwork was an inspiration for numerous underground comic and poster artists, many of whom remain popular today. More on official his site Ed Big Daddy Roth
Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
It’s 9 PM. Still at the shop listing the parts missing to finish on time a Bobber for Daytona Biketoberfest. Phone rings. A girl named Debra is on the phone asking me if I can identify any bike in less than 5 minutes. Huh, huh. Ask me to look right away at my email. I see 3 pictures of a guy front of his broken down bike. She screams at me: "Do you know? Do you know? Me: "The guy?" She says "No. It’s Brad Pitt. Tell me what bike he rides". With-out-he-si-ta-tion, I tell her. She says "How do you know?". I tell her "Why would you call me?". She asks "Why did he broke down?". I look again at the pictures, certain I will never be able to answer this one. I see oil all over the pavement. I tell her (so bright, I am) "The bike leaks a lot of oil". She says: "you are so smart, thank you, thank you so much". "But who are you?" I ask again. I work for celebrity magazine xxxxxxxxx (it sounds like gossip). We go to press in 1 hour. I needed the legend for the pictures. To all celebrities, I give this advice: riding a crapy bike and wearing a full face helmet will never protect you from tabloids.
Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2006
in Chassis and Editorial.
When the first Crocker road machines blasted onto the scene in 1936, it astonished the motorcycling community and single-handedly caused Harley-Davidson and Indian more grief than any event up to the British motorcycle invasion of the 1950’s. Founder Al Crocker invented machines that were well ahead of their time in design and function. The innovative styling was equally matched by record-breaking performance. So confident was Al Crocker with his magnificent machines that he offered to refund the full purchase price to any buyer who was beaten by a rider on a factory stock Harley or an Indian. No refund was ever given. The three speed transmission could withstand incredible amounts of torque. A unique proprietary engine featuring overhead valves was released to the public months ahead of Harley’s venerable "Knucklehead". About a hundred Crocker Twins were built before the economic climate of the times determined a new path for Al Crocker. Conservative estimates of an original Crocker’s value could be in the range of $200,000 U.S.
The Crocker is back and will be sold in kit form. Accurate Engineering has been contracted to produce the original motorcycle engine. Crocker Motorcycle Company will produce 100 kits as their 1st production run with deliveries starting in Spring 2007.
Published by Cyril Huze October 9th, 2006
in Books and Editorial.
I always have been a big fan of pinstriping. Pinstriping is the signature art of Kustom Kulture. Pinstripe Planet, authored by Herb Martinez, one of the art’s most respected practitioners, is a photographic and textual celebration of this unique decorative art form, a genuine instance of motor-Americana now making its mark around the globe. An historical and visual overview of pinstriping culture, the book takes readers into all the great pinstriping shops. Are featured great artists such as Art Schilling, Jimmy C, Steve Chazyeka, and Herb Martinez in the United States; Tom Plate, John Leeson and Neil Meillard in Europe; Makoto Kobayashi in Japan; and Simon Watts in Australia. It also provides a look at the origins of pinstriping and its revival at the hands of the great Kenny "Von Dutch" Howard, Tommy the Greek and Ed "Big Daddy" Roth. It’s the best pinstriping book I have ever seen & read. I got very lucky because I got one before everybody. But you can now reserve one for November 15 delivery.Remember, Christmas is not so far away. Just go to Pinstripe Planet .
Published by Cyril Huze October 9th, 2006
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
I am sad to learn that fellow custom builder Russ Tom passed away October 8th, 2006 while piloting a small helicopter. Russ Tom is best known for taking over his father motorcycle business Downtown Harley-Davidson in Seattle Washington in the late 1990’s. Russ Tom was a lover of motorcycles as well as other motor sports, especially drag racing. At a young age, with his father, Russ helped develop the “Coffin” gas tank that became a part of custom motorcycle history. He created his first chopper in 1972 (Honda CB 750), then used Harley Davidson models as his base for customization. He ended up, like most of us, building bikes from the ground up. I met Russ in the mid 90’s while competing in the same bike shows in Daytona Beach. I remember very well his creations like the Blue Hornet, Mean Streak and Beluga which, at the time, looked like nothing else on the show tour. In 2000 he started to pursue other interests in real estate, but still remained very active on the Northwest motorcycle scene. (picture Jim Gianatsis)
Published by Cyril Huze October 9th, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
For 2007, Harley-Davidson offers Patriot Special Edition paint jobs for a dozen models. Under my criteria, it’s not a true custom ride, but it’s got just enough military detailing to let folks know who is roaring by. A red and blue accent pinstriping, an American flag on the fender and your service seal on the gas tank, all laid over a jet-black paint job. You guessed it. Only serving military members, veterans and family members can apply to get one. Customers will need to provide proof of military service. Those serving need to show a military ID or official military orders; vets need a DD214 form (if you got a dishonorable discharge, you are out of luck). You can place an order until Jan. 15. For more information on Patriot Special Edition bikes, go to Harley-Davidson
Published by Cyril Huze October 9th, 2006
in Editorial and Frames.
Every week, land on my desk a lot of weird, funny, sometime useful samples or objects (to all manufacturers, please stop sending me the best chrome polisher in the world). About this one, I don’t know. It’s called Vibe Free by a company called Ride Vibe Free. The promise is to cut handlebar vibrations in all types of motorcycles, ATV’s, motocross, snowmobiles up to 60%.
At least directions are easy to follow: fill each side of your handlebar with the magic powder. Plug making sure you do not pack (important) and leave enough room (how much is not indicated) for the powder to move to absorb vibrations. Try it and let me know.
Published by Cyril Huze October 7th, 2006
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
It was during Las Vegas Bike Fest where 25 of the best builders exhibit their new creations inside the Cashman Center, then vote between themselves to elect the winner of “Artistry In Iron”. Greg Westbury amazed his fellow builders with his new creation called “Lucky” (yes, the headline could have been “Greg Westbury gets Lucky In Vegas”). It’s a new old school Bobber with Hot Rod attitude and intriguing details. Two months ago Greg was nice enough (I was supposed to compete against him but could not make it to Vegas), to email me pictures of his mockup. When I saw them, it was like Wow, and had to show them to my collaborators. For example the rear axle is held in place with aircraft quality helm ends screwed into the back of the frame and to take up chain slack there is an idler sprocket that runs in a track that is adjustable for chain tension.
After his win, I called Greg to congratulate him, and here what he had to say: “I needed to build something that is the opposite of what most people build today. Meaning, no super wide rear tire, no pipes that look like chrome spaghetti, no hidden rear axle, no hidden wiring, making every part visible but entertaining to look at. The more bikes I build the more I notice that the cutting edge bikes have a shelf life of about one year, and then they are dated. So my new way of thinking is to keep things traditional and back to basics”. Greg started building hot rod chassis and eventually complete cars almost 20 years ago. Then in 1999 he decided to build his first bike. Like all of us, Greg just hope he can figure out how to keep doing this for the next 40 years because it’s a very cool way to make a living. No surprisingly, Greg Westbury was picked by Hugh King for a next “Biker Build Off” against Brian Fuller. Learn more about Greg (by the way, we call him Mr. W) by visiting Westbury Custom Cycles.
Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2006
in Builders and Editorial.
I read a lot of posts and heard a lot of comments about Choppers Inc. Billy Lane’s tragic story. I didn’t intend to publish anything about it, but a lot of people have been asking what I think of Billy. So here is my first and last public comment about him. At some point in our lives, we all make mistakes with more or less consequence. Billy made some bad decisions, none of which he can take back. Billy, his friends, family & Gerald Morelock’s friends & family will all have to live with this tragedy for the rest of their lives. I personally know Billy from a time when he was a new builder and was still unknown in the motorcycle industry. Public image can be quite different from reality. I consider Billy a brother of my industry, a fellow builder, and I won’t kick a brother when he is down. Unfortunately, Billy cannot erase this accident. I am however convinced that as soon as it will be possible for him to do so, Billy will act proactively to turn the lesson of this tragedy into a positive message for others.
Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2006
in Editorial and Engines.
Relatively new on the Choppers scene, Joe McGlynn is a custom motorcycles enthusiast. with a passion for retro lines but designing his parts with the best AutoCAD software (most of his concepts are drawn on Alibre Design Software). McGlynn’s parts are inspired by hot rod 50s lines, but integrate graceful high tech curves that can only be possible in the age of high tech computer modeling.
His company Crime Scene Choppers just released its first catalog (what a great black & white picture worth hanging in my office) where you will find all the parts he released during these last 2 years, from the Hard Ass Solo Seat, to the Speedster Gas Cap & retro finned oil tank & filter (both used on my bikes “El Mirage” & “The Bravest”) to the new headlight bracket & motor mount. McGlynn’s success story does not surprise me because his parts are retro, original, and affordable.
During his spare time (meaning at night), he is also building an old school bike that you can see progressing by visiting him at Crime Scene Choppers. Can’t wait to see this one..
Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2006
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
I want to do some show biz, and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler wants to be a custom builder! He and Bruce Rossmeyer, CEO of 13 H-D locations, including the world’s largest HD dealership located at Destination Daytona, have teamed up to design and produce "The Steven Tyler Signature Series," a one-of-a-kind collection of Steven Tyler-inspired, custom designed motorcycles. Limited to 10 custom motorcycles, the exclusive Steven Tyler Signature Series is designed to capture and exemplify Tyler’s love for motorcyclingr. The series, manufactured by Hellbound Steel Motorcycles with Tyler’s personal style in mind, will feature several firsts in the custom motorcycle industry, including a specially designed logo and Steven Tyler signature components. The bikes will be individually serial numbered 1-10 and be NADA listed (this is good). Each motorcycle Signature Series will retail at $80,000.00 (I told you, he competes with me even on the prices) and includes a private reception for the motorcycle buyers with Tyler, including a round-trip air to Daytona Beach, FL during the 2007 Bike Week. To inquire about purchasing one of these 12 custom motorcycles, log-on to Bruce Rossmeyer then click on "The Steven Tyler Signature Series" link.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2006
in Editorial, Frames and Seats.
Every day, I receive numerous calls with requests about custom seats. Can you do one for me? (no, if I don’t have the bike with me). Can you do the seat pan? (no again, if I don’t have your bike with me). How much? (I don’t know because I don’t know what you want). Can you tell me how to do a seat pan? To this one, the answer is yes, yes, yes. And to know how to do it, you will not have to call me anymore. My upholstery shop is Jeffrey Phipps Custom Saddles. Jeff does all my seats upholstery with a seat pan that we make and provide to him. Jeff can make your seat pan (I repeat, only if you give him your bike), or if not, his website tells you how to make your own fiberglass pan.Then send it to him for a 1st class seat. For instructions and material necessary Log on to Jeffrey Phipps.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2006
in Editorial and Engines.
“This product is a great opportunity for more V-twin enthusiasts to easily experience the difference that S&S brings to the table,” said Kurt Peterson, Customer Support Manager for S&S. It will be available through the S&S dealers at the end of October with a choice of chrome, wrinkle black powder coat, or natural aluminum finishes. Engine shown has chrome finish with the optional blue filters (red filters are standard). This new intake is compatible with stock carburetors, S&S carburetors, and Delphi® fuel injection.I agree that it looks great and S&S states that it will provide performance improvements for a wide variety of bikes that have left the showroom with stock components. Installed on a stock 2006 Harley-Davidson® Dyna™ motorcycle, the stock air box being replaced with the new S&S Single Bore Tuned Intake allowed a gain of approximately 9 horsepower and 9 ft-lbs of torque. Mounting brackets are available in several configurations to fit a variety of engines. The mounting bracket also features passages for head breathing compatibility. This chrome-plated, billet aluminum mounting bracket is available for a number of engine types and it is designed to fit as close as possible to the cylinder heads, therefore improving fit and rider leg room For more details regarding fitment and compatibility, contact an authorized S&S Dealer or visit S&S Cycle..
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
How does it feel to be on your own riding on 2 wheels at more than 350 miles per hour? It is about 512 feet per second, so basically you’re looking at almost two football fields per second. I am talking about the new land speed record established by the Bub Enterprises two wheeled Streamliner owned by Denis Manning and ridden by Chris Carr. The Speed Meet event was held on the Bonneville Utah Salt Flats Sept. 3/7. The exact record (average of 2 passes) is a mind blowing 350.884 MPH. I met Chris Carr before and would really like to sit with him to ask more questions about being to the fastest man in the world, about speed sensation, about piloting such a machine. But here what he had to say: “The flags are going by, and you can tell the mile markers, but you have to focus hard on them to catch a wind direction because the flags float. You don’t have time to appreciate the speed because you have so much going on. I never thought about going 350, I thought about going as fast as I could, and getting it stopped, and having the thing still rolling when it got to the stop. You don’t have time to appreciate the speed”. Learn more by going to Bub Enterprises.
Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2006
in Editorial.
Look at this gold pinky ring. Inside is entombed one blue Viagra pill. I don’t know why I received this info. I swear I never ordered Viagra in my life, don’t carry it and don’t stock it (yet). But you are asking what it has to do with bikers? With the resurgence of choppers & bobbers during these last years, we saw the return of the gangster style. How many shops, how many bikes, how many custom parts, how many pieces of clothing carry a gangsta name. It’s all around you. So, I thought that this pinky ring would interest my fellow riders. First, it’s so gauche that it looks cool. You can get 2 different styles depending of the kind of impotent gangster you are. You don’t need to talk like the Godfather. Wherever you are, even riding with her behind you, or by your side, just flash your pinky ring. She will know that you are ready & able. Don’t forget to refill and never remove it: real gangsters never take off their pinky rings. Even after sex. Order online at Gentleman’s Secret
Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2006
in Books, Chassis and Editorial.
Famous motorcycles author Timothy Remus does it again. In a new DVD , Tim shows you how to build a ride-able Bobber.
With this new release, from start to finish, Tim documents the assembly of two new-school custom Bobbers.
The first one using an after-market rigid frame and matching sheet metal. The second is actually a Softail Harley-Davidson conversion. Both are very cool Bobbers, complete with early style paint job, powder-coated spoke wheels and solo seat. Both these projects can be built at home in your garage. 2 hours DVD runtime. Order directly from Tim through his online store Wolfgang Publications.
Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2006
in Editorial and Suspension.
Durfee Girders are back on the road. Those who have lived long enough in the custom chopper community know Durfee Girders, the attention to detail, strength, craftsmanship and pure aesthetic appeal of these retro front ends. “You can style a front end to look just about any way you want it, but if you want something that looks good, works properly and will last, look no further than the Durfee Girder,” says Paul Durfee, the son of the founder, Earl Durfee. Founded in 1969, Durfee Girders were built to stand the test of time, and is one of the best and highest quality girders on the custom market. "The Durfee Girder’s triangular structures and state of the art materials gives it the ability to withstand 58,000 pounds of compressive strength” says Durfee.
So, if you’re looking for something better and different than the same old glide that everyone else is using, Durfee has taken their famous girder and enhanced it with modern technology to produce the highest quality and most reliable custom front end for your motorcycle. The Durfee Girders can be built to fit the needs and wants of the individual builder. The base price for a Classic Durfee Girder is $1795.00 (powdercoated narrow glide) and $1995.00 (triple chromed narrow glide). Great choice of powdercoated springs, too. Visit Durfee Girders.
Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2006
in Editorial.
Your Bobber will have no difficulty fitting in the bed… " Now, we’re giving customers more of everything they love with the boldest Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 ever – with all-wheel-drive capability, 22-inch polished forged-aluminum wheels and an interior that will take your breath away." says Cisco Codina, Ford group vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service. The 2007 model is the ninth model to emerge from the alliance that was first forged in 1999. The new Harley-Davidson F-150 Super Crew is dressed in all black, with abundant chrome and sporting distinctive Harley-Davidson visual cues. Customers have the choice between 4×2 and all-wheel drive, with the capability to handle more challenging driving conditions and road. Uunder the hood is a 5.4-litre, three-valve Triton V-8 featuring a specially tuned exhaust system that delivers a more powerful, throatier rumble. It turns out 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365 foot-pound of torque at 3,750 rpm. I want the same, but only with my logo. You can dream by visiting Ford.Trucks.
Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2006
in Customs and Editorial.
It seems very serious. The revived Indian Motorcycles company will launch its new models in August 2007. Last July Indian Motorcycles announced that it has acquired big manufacturing space in Kings Mountain, west of Charlotte, North Carolina. In September it disclosed that it had raised $30 million to finance its new operations. Indian is America’s first motorcycle and America’s second most famous motorcycle company after who you know. The new executive chairman is an Anglo-Italian named Stephen Julius. To see what’s going on, visit their new Indian Motorcycles site.
Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2006
in Builders and Editorial.
In addition to designing parts, bikes, traveling the country to show them, I have decided to offer the custom motorcycles community a place where I can share with you thoughts, news, tech-tips and all other things related to our passion. 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. Traditional websites are not the answer. My website only displays my work on bikes and parts. I needed a Weblog: an online place allowing publication on a whim, when the mood strikes, when the influential people talk, when a new part is released, etc. A place permanently updated by me and by you through comments. Hence, the Cyril Huze Blog you are reading now. One of the first places to look for reactions to the happenings of the day in our industry and in all areas of interest. I encourage my industry to leak corporate tidbits and you to react with both passion & reason.
