Casting is the original and most widely used method of forming aluminum into products. This process is back in force to produce motorcycle parts, especially when you want to give your bike a retro vibe.
These 2 Lowbrow gas cap models, the Competition and the Tri-Bar Spinner replace the quite boring Harley factory gas cap on 1986 and later Harley-Davidson models and use the same threaded bung.
A smart feature of these vented cast aluminum gas caps is the ratcheting mechanism, which allows you to tighten the cap and then rotate it back right to the spot you want it to stay, keeping the design in line with your bike.
In 2015, the AIMExpo created The Championship of the Americas, a world class bike show focused on builders from all. This year again (October 13-16 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando) the winner will get a coveted entry, plus expenses, to represent the Americas win the 2018 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building during Intermit in Cologne, Germany. This year again (in Orlando October 13-16), the Championship will showcase the creativity of custom bike builders from as far north as Greenland all the way to the tip of South America.
The show will feature 4 classes based on different platforms as opposed to catering to the style de jour.
• Free Style. Which poses absolutely no restrictions on the builder.
• Retro Custom. Restricts the builder to pre-1984 drivetrains
• Street Custom. One of the most popular platforms – limits builders to major OEM engine and chassis configurations
• Performance Custom. Does not have to be street legal and allows full competition motorcycles to compete
Whether you are a professional builder or simply delight in personalizing your machine to reflect you, you are invited you to register and join at this year’s AIMExpo Championship Of The Americas.
I can’t believe that it’s already 10 years ago that I joined Russell Mitchell and crew in Los Angeles to celebrate Exile Cycles 10th anniversary. The 20th anniversary bash will take place on Sunday October 9th 2016 from 11am to 5pm at the old Western Town inside Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills, California. This is an awesome venue in the beautiful Santa Monica mountains just a mile or so from the world-famous Rock Store and minutes from the Malibu coast-line. There will be live music, bike show, vendors, craft beers, food-trucks and good-times. The Event is free, but, as usual, Exile Cycles will be accepting donations to aid the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Free Vendor Space. There is plenty of free vendor space so bring a table, bring a booth, bring a rig – whatever you like. Bring a bike, or just bring yourself! Either which way, Russell Mitchell will love you join him.
Product Donations Are Welcomed. If you can’t be there, but can find it in your heart to donate something for Exile Cycles raffle or auction, then please send it to the address below. Even just a couple of T-shirts will show you care. The LLS is such a great cause and any and every donation will be very gratefully received. If you are interested in exhibiting, or just have questions, then please drop a line at russell@exilecycles.com or call 818 706 1230
Baker Drivetrain is announcing the launch of the new Grudge Box Builder’s Kit described as “a more durable than Harley stock 6-speed transmission, tightly tuned and tough under late model power of 2007 and later Softail & Touring models and 2006 and later Dyna models (a Strip version is also available.) No case modifications are required for installation.
Cruise at 85mph with the overdrive 6th gear; lowering RPM on the highway for improved fuel economy, reduced vibration and less wear and tear on the rider. All versions have a .92 overdrive 6th gear (250 RPM reduction). The new generation OVERDRIVE can handle over 200+HP! Finishes available for gear case, top cover, door in raw, wrinkle black, polished and chrome. Continue reading ‘Pre-Launch Of Baker Grudge Box Transmission Builder’s Kit. Tougher Than Tough.’
Due to its popular success, lots of Indian Scouts are sitting in custom builders’ shops for radical makeovers. And a lot of owners with more limited customization budgets are craving for custom parts they can bolt-on themselves on their ride. Hence a plethora of new custom parts sought after as much abroad where the Scout is sold than in the US. Kuryakyn is marketing its just released Sprint Line by “Dirty Bird” John Shope and already found a European distributor (Custom Chrome Europe) and individual buyers.
When Kuryakyn received a call from CCE East Europe Sales Rep Marcel Masaryk who just bought a brand new Scout, no hesitation from its President Holger Mohr. He ordered the full Scout Sprint line to be shipped the same day to Croatia where Masaryk is based. What you see here is the result of the bolt-on makeover accomplished in one week, painting of body parts included. Continue reading ‘First Customized Indian Scout With Kuryakyn By John Shope Sprint Line’
RC Components has just released the new RCX Exhaust 4.5” Slip-on Mufflers for 2017 HD Touring models. These new mufflers are truly unique in design while offering an incredibly deep and smooth exhaust tone. Each muffler features a full length 4.5″ diameter muffler body with a precision tuned 3 inch stepped core baffle. This unique baffle design transitions from a 2.5 inch louvered core into a wrapped 3 inch perforated baffle, which works to produce a deep smooth rumble while providing you with increased horsepower and torque.
The RCX 4.5” mufflers have been engineered and tested to maintain the proper air/fuel ratio with no modifications required. Customize the look of these new mufflers with your choice of 10 unique RCX Exhaust tips. Each muffler is available in chrome or a rich ceramic black finish. Made in the U.S.A. | Lifetime Warranty Visit RC Components or call 800-360-0915 to speak to a sales associate. MSRP $669.95
Conceived for use on Harley-Davidson® Rushmore batwing fairings, these new Bahn mirrors not only add style but also, and more importantly, maximize your field of visionth asks to their wider profile than stock.
The contoured mirror heads are forged from premium 6061 aluminum and meet DOT-compliant size standards at 5’’ wide x 3-1/8’’ tall. A machined stainless steel ball and nylon socket provides smooth pivoting for easy adjustability and precise, firm positioning.
Available in black anodized “Tuxedo” finish, Bahn Fairing Mounted Mirrors are direct replacements for ’14-’16 Street Glides, and include a drill template for installation on ’14-’16 Electra Glide and Tri Glide models. MSRP: $189.99 • P/N 1814 – Bahn Fairing Mounted Mirrors, Tuxedo.
Yes, there is a Croatia Bike Week and it has been running during the last 22 years! After the horrible war of independence that effectively ended in August 1995 with a decisive victory of Croatia, this small country of 4.25 million at the crossroads of Central Europe, Southeast Europe, and the Mediterranean has fully recovered and is now one of the preferred riding destination of many Austrian, Italian, Greek & German bikers. Kudos to Boris Pratnekar, publisher of Biker’s World” the only Balkan-State Custom Motorcycles magazine for organizing the Croatia Bike Week and to Custom Chrome Europe stepping in as the sponsor for prizes and trophies awarded to the bike show winners.
To be mentioned: Charlie Beaton of “No Nonsense Choppers” and his son won both “Best Chopper” and “Best of Show”. The criteria “clean bike” was not an issue for the judges because the bikes were ridden about 7000 miles (12,000 km) on a trip through all Europe and on the route to Croatia. Charlie’s short comment: “I didn’t expect that!” The winner of the “Best Harley” trophy got awarded not just for his bike but for the fact that he was coming from Rock River/Illinois! Croatia Bike Week is held in the city of Pula whose surrounding region is known for its mild climate, smooth sea, and unspoiled nature. A few (try few) postcards, but now you know that this event exists. (photos @ H. Roesler)
Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, confirmed yesterday that on Sunday September 25th, its all-new Indian Scout FTR750 race bike will make its racing debut on at the Ramspur Winery Santa Rosa Mile AMA Pro Flat Track Race in Santa Rosa, California. The race takes place at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds at 1350 Bennett Valley Rd. in Santa Rosa, with gates opening at 11 am PDT.
The Indian Scout FTR750 is a clean-sheet design racing machine developed by the Indian Motorcycle Racing engineering and design teams. The bike is powered by a purpose-developed, high performance 750cc V-Twin engine and features a unique, ultra-light steel frame, large centrally located airbox and sleek lightweight carbon fiber body. Much like the design philosophy behind Indian Motorcycle’s family of production bikes, the design and engineering teams built the FTR750 to artfully combine state-of-the-art technologies with design elements from legendary Indian racing models from history.
The Indian Motorcycle FTR750 will be piloted in its debut by AMA flat track racing legend Joe Kopp. Joe is one of 15 riders to complete the Dirt Track “Grand Slam,” with victories on short track, TT, half-mile, and mile courses. In addition to his 2000 AMA Pro Flat Track Grand National Championship, he took the 1999 and 2000 AMA 600 Hotshot and Supertracker Championships. The Indian Scout FTR750 will feature Kopps’ #3 for the weekend. Continue reading ‘History In The Making. Racing Debut Of The New Indian FTR750 At The Santa Rosa Mile AMA Pro Flat Racing.’
Harley-Davidson is suing California-based GearLaunch, Inc. and 6 associated businesse – Gear Harley, TeeKiwi, TeeFuny, TeeSeason, Biker’s Corner and TeeDig – for trademark counterfeiting, infringement and dilution, cybersquatting, copyright infringement and unfair competition. Harley alleges the companies have sold 15,627 pieces of clothing that infringe on Harley’s logos. In particular, Harley said the clothing utilized the Bar & Shield, Willie G. skull and Number 1 logos.
In the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court’s Eastern Wisconsin district, Harley-Davidson states that by selling apparel without authorization GearLaunch is creating confusion in the marketplace and potentially damaging Harley’s brand, which it says is valued at $5.46 billion. In 2015, general merchandise, which includes apparel and riding gear, accounted for 5.5 percent of motorcycle segment revenue at $292.3 million.
Harley is seeking an order blocking the defendants from continuing to sell Harley branded merchandise, $2 million in statutory damages per product type for each of the six trademarks allegedly infringed on, $150,000 per work infringed on, all profits from the sale of infringing products, $100,000 per domain name deemed to constitute cybersquatting and other damages and attorney’s fees.
1. Chance to win a brand new motorcycle! We are giving away four bikes in four days!** (MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN) 2. $1,000 Shopping Spree Giveaway on Thursday!** 3. FREE BEER on Thursday, Friday & Saturday night!** 4. Over $100,000 in cash and prizes will be given away during the rally!** 5. Free shuttle is back from Golden Nugget to Rally Central!** 6. More entertainment! Bands all day and night on two stages at Rally Central! 7. Lots of free bike parking with easy access!
8. More Vendors and vendors right on Fremont Street! 9. More Food Trucks! We know you love ’em! 10. Extended hours to keep the party going later! 11. Improved vendor layout – making it easier for you to shop! 12. More activities – more fun stuff for you to watch and participate in at Rally Central! 13. More Bike Shows! Enter your ride** for a chance to win cool prizes or just come check them out! 14. More seating and cool zones to take a break and enjoy the music! 15. And so much more! Click here to see everything included with the registration packages!
**Must be registered with a Party, Ultimate or VIP Pass to be eligible. Check out what is available with each package. Registration for the 2016 Las Vegas BikeFest is NOW OPEN! Sign up today for your Party, Ultimate or VIP Package. Use Promo Code: LVBF12 to save $5. Go to Las Vegas BikeFest Tickets
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) informed its members that it appears that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPS) is reviving the 4-gallon minimum fuel purchase at blender pumps that dispense both E10 and E15. Everybody thought that this issue was put to rest in 2012!
As part of its E15 “Misfueling Mitigation Program”, the EPA is allowing retailers to sell fuel with 10 percent ethanol from the same pump used for blends of 15 percent ethanol. This creates a problem for motorcyclists, who could wind up with as much as a quart of E15 in their tanks even if they select the proper grade of fuel.
The ethanol lobby is promoting this approach offering this advice. “E15 can be sold on the same hose with gasoline (E0 to E10). Just require a minimum purchase of four gallons and apply a label stating ‘Minimum Fueling Volume 4 Gallons. Dispensing Less May Violate Federal Law.” The AMA spotted this minimum-purchase policy in 2012 and, with the voices of thousands of motorcyclists, made enough noise that the EPA backed away from it.
Since the average fuel tank for motorcycles holds less than 4 gallons, riders are unable to buy the required minimum of 4 gallons. And, even motorcycles with larger tanks could end up with a blend with more than 10 percent ethanol. Or, end up fueling what you think is safe fuel and end up with something much worse. Check out what some motorists experienced in Oklahoma recently. http://ktul.com/news/local/drivers-looking-for-answers-on-how-to-get-high-ethanol-gas-out-of-their-cars. AMA thought common sense prevailed at the EPA when on Dec. 17, 2012, the agency informed the AMA it had reversed its decision to require the 4-gallon minimum purchase. Continue reading ‘The Saga Of Ethanol E15 Continues’
Lithium-ion batteries have a unique cold starting procedure. To show you how it’s done, a Twin Power lithium-ion battery is placed in the freezer overnight to simulate a cold weather situation. Then was installed in a 2015 HD Harley Street Glide…
A woman was flying from Melbourne to Brisbane. Unexpectedly, the plane was diverted to Sydney. The flight attendant explained that there would be a delay, and if the passengers wanted to get off the aircraft, the plane would re-board in 50 minutes. Everybody got off the plane except one lady who was blind.
A man had noticed her as he walked by and could tell the lady was blind because her Seeing Eye Dog was laying quietly underneath the seats in front of her throughout the entire flight. He could also tell she had flown this very flight before because the Pilot approached her, and calling her by name, said, ‘Kathy, we are in Sydney for almost an hour. Would you like to get off and stretch your legs?’ The blind lady replied, ‘No thanks, but maybe Max would Like to stretch his legs.’
Now picture this. All the people in the gate area came to a complete standstill when they looked up and saw the pilot walk off the plane with a guide dog. In addition the pilot was even wearing sunglasses. People scattered. They not only tried to change planes, but they were trying to change airlines…
Launched in February as a Modern American Muscle model, the 2017 Victory Octane is not only a rush of adrenaline when you ride it, but also a great platform for customization. Quite a few pro-custom builders are currently working on it with the objective to reinforce its agressive stance, most of them logically choosing the Café Racer style approach. The Victory Octane featured here, one of the first to be completed, was taken from stock to custom using a different designing route.
When I interviewed him, the builder in question told me: “My normal way of thinking is, if everybody is turning left, left, left, then I’m gonna turn right, right, right. If they eventually start turning right, then I’m gonna to turn left or back up. What I had in mind for this project was something from my “evil side”. When I told my wife about it, she reminded me that I didn’t have an evil side. She always tells me that I am too much of a nice guy… We have 3 Old English Sheepdogs & the youngest one is called Ethel. So, I call this custom Octane “Evil Ethel the Demon Dog”… Continue reading ‘Evil Ethel. A High Octane Victory Customized By Who?’
In the next couple of years, a lot of custom bikes are going to feature copper throttle cables, brake and clutch lines. You can source them at Magnum Shielding, a company that has been a Tier-1 Harley-Davidson P&A supplier since 1992. These copper lines, cables and hoses are sold with polished chrome or black plated fittings. Magnum Shielding states the copper weave will never fade. Available for most Harley-Davidson models. Looking for a custom application? Call Customer Magnum Service department at 877-564-8248 or 585-381-8380.
The Flying Piston produces charitable events to assist in raising awareness and funds for non-profits and individuals in the biker community. During the 76th Sturgis rally, the second annual Flying Piston was held at The Buffalo Chip CrossRoads and brought together custom builders, industry veterans and regular riders together to benefit the next generation. Invited custom motorcycle builders were those featured in the Chip’s Motorcycles and joined industry notables to raise funds for technical education scholarships.
Among those attending were Buffalo Chip owner Rod “Woody” Woodruff, photographer Michael Lichter and Moonshiner Josh Owens. Emcee Bob Kay of AIMExpo interviewed the builders and offered a forum for sponsors to showcase their products. Top sponsors were Jekill & Hyde Exhaust and Yelvington USA, joined by Kuryakyn, Mustang Seats, Misfit Industries and Securecaps.
“We are grateful to all of our sponsors for their participation as well as the builders for taking time out of a busy week to join us,” said organizer Marilyn Stemp. “Vital input from diverse partners makes for results far greater than the sum of the parts.” Media Sponsor Cycle Source magazine promoted attendance and covered the event. Auction items were kindly provided by: Harley-Davidson Footwear, Mustang Seats, Sara Liberte, Artist Atomic Bob, Kicker Audio, Kuryakyn, Corbin Seats, Garage Leathers, Republic of Texas Rally, New-Line Engraving, Howard Knight, and Chris Callen of Cycle Source. Continue reading ‘In Sturgis The Flying Piston Custom Builders Breakfast Raised Tech Education Funds’
This 2-into1 header system performs at the top of its class by offering big power and awesome styling. The one-of-a-kind design of the RCX 2-into-1 exhaust features a multi-stepped header that flows into a chambered collector creating massive low and mid range torque. Tying this system all together is a large full-body 4.5” diameter muffler which creates a deep, aggressive tone and is customizable with 10 different exhaust tip designs. Each RCX 2-into-1 system is available in your choice of chrome or a rich ceramic black. Awesome sound, big power and unique styling is what you get with this new RCX 2-into-1 exhaust system. Equipped for both wide and narrow band O2 sensors. Made in the U.S.A. All RCX products carry a full Lifetime Warranty. For more information visit RC Components Shop.
The American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) announced that second generation road-racing legend Kenny Roberts Jr. has been selected with the coveted distinction of being “AIMExpo Champion” for the 2016 event, which will take place October 13-16 from the North Hall of Orlando, Florida’s Orange County Convention Center (OCCC). Roberts is the newest addition to AIMExpo’s growing list of legendary American racers and industry influencers that have served the role of official event ambassador to North America’s premier powersports event. Continue reading ‘Kenny Roberts Jr. Named “AIMExpo Champion” For 2016 Event This October 13-16’
You are unique. Same must be your bike. It’s fun to design your own seat and easy to have Danny gray create it as you imagined it. Choose the shape for your model, the material to cover it, the inlays you want, the stitching, etc. If you are able to make up your mind about your custom seat, Danny Gray will handmade it with old craftsmanship which made his reputation.
To start the process : • Go to Danny Gray Design Your Own and select your Harley model and year. • Choose your perfect seat from many styles depending on your needs • Optionally choose to add integrated AirHawk and/or rider backrests • Choose you own stitch design from our library of styles • Select your stitch color…choose the color thread that compliments your bike • Select your inlay material including Faux Alligator, Ostrich, and more to make your seat one-of-a-kind
Every seat is sculpted to maximize anatomical support. • Soft nose and hard rails assure a perfect integrated fit to your motorcycle. • Narrow leg pass assures you have a flat foot position when stopped • Proprietary seat pans provide torsional stability • Specially formulated foams are seat specific for balance, compression, float and response • Seats feature top grain cowhide leather, high-grade automotive vinyl, and/or breathable tech space mesh material. More info at Danny Gray or 888-443-5516, or email.
Twin Power continues to add to their growing line of aftermarket parts and accessories for V-Twin motorcycles. The newest addition is the Tension Reliever Manual Primary Chain Adjuster, designed to eliminate previous issues with keeping the primary chain at the right tension.
“An over-tightened primary chain is known to cause premature failure of the engine, transmission and primary bearing as well as to cause other complications,” says James Simonelli, Brand Manager for Twin Power. “This problem plagues 2006 Dyna as well as 2007 and later Harley Davidson® Big Twin models. These motorcycles came equipped with an automatic, ratcheting primary chain tensioner, which is the culprit.” Continue reading ‘Twin Power Is Launching A New Tension Reliever Manual Primary Chain Adjuster’
It begins today September 1st and is considered the largest free motorcycle rally in the Midwest with bikers riding back and forth between 5 participating dealerships, the Harley Museum and the Harley’s engine plant in Menomonee Falls where new 2017 models will be available for test rides.
The 5 participating dealerships are Milwaukee Harley-Davidson, House of Harley-Davidson in Greenfield; Hal’s Harley-Davidson in New Berlin; Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson in Thiensville; and Wisconsin Harley-Davidson, in Oconomowoc.
Each of them offers live music bands, promotions, discounts and crazy entertainment. One of the most spectacular ones will be he Juli Moody Stunt Show at Milwaukee-Harley Davidson where Olympic gold medalist Juli Moody will restrain four Harley-Davidson bikes, each pulling with more than 1,000 pounds of force in opposite directions. More info at The Milwaukee Rally.
Harley is eliminating about 200 employees at its U.S. plants. “We continually evaluate industry and market changes to provide the best products and services to our customers. To that end, we are adjusting our production plan to align with our 2016 guidance and we are making the necessary changes to right-size the company” said Bernadette Lauer, a Harley spokeswoman.
Harley-Davidson plans to eliminate 115 unionized positions at its York, PA Springettsbury Township plant. Workers were notified this Wednesday, Harley had about 2,000 hourly workers in Springettsbury Township as late as 2009. Now, about 950 members of IAM Local 175 work there. Harley will also eliminates 39 positions at its Tomahawk, Wisconsin plant. Layoffs will begin in October and should be completed by the end of the year. For 2016, Harley guidance was for 264,000 to 269,000 motorcycles sold worldwide. The company didn’t discuss specific number of units cut justifying these layoffs.
Wether you are into Hooligan racing or just want more power for your Harley-Davidson Sportster, these new S&S Hooligan Kits will give you an edge on the competition or friends.
It fits all Sportster models from 2000 to 216 and will take your Sporty 883 to 1200 cc or your Sporty 1200 the 1250 cc.
These S&S Hooligan Kits don’t require machining and rebalancing. They are an easy installation with bolt-in cams and premium tappets making most of the added displacement.
They use stock heads, pushrods and fuel system. Available in silver or black powder coat that matches stock finishes. More info at S&S Cycle Hooligan Kit(disclaimer: only for closed course competition. Not for street use)
Last August 23rd, while you were commenting on Harley-Davidson all-new Milwaukee-Eight motor, only the eighth big V-twin design in firm’s 102-year history, the Ness Crew was getting their hands on the brand new 2017 Street Glide with the objective to show you what you could do in 24 hours. Ok, your name is not Ness and you may need a little bit of help of your best friends. Anyway, you may want to follow this example going step by step depending of your budget and taste, privileging the parts the most attractive parts to you. I can’t show you a close-up of all bolt-on Ness custom parts fitting the 2017 Electra Glide, but there is a long listing after the jump. And Zach Ness told me, many more parts coming soon…
More pictures and parts listing after the jump… Continue reading ‘Quick N’ Easy Bolt-On 2017 Milwaukee-Eight Custom Street Glide’
Casting is the original and most widely used method of forming aluminum into products. This process is back in force to produce motorcycle parts, especially when you want to give your bike a retro vibe.
