Cyril Huze Post

Archive Page 6

The Edge. A Customized New Generation Harley Softail Platform With Some Bobber Touches.

Published by Cyril Huze March 5th, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Ask any official Harley dealer around the world who has participated or is currently competing in the mother factory organized “Battle Of The Kings”. For this very successful yearly 4th edition, exactly 274 dealers from 21 countries will all tell you that they badly want to be voted the “Custom King”. Evidently it’s a powerful way to attract lots of new clients looking for custom work and to sell them tons of genuine H-D parts. And of course, for H-D Milwaukee, a marketing tool to polish its image as “Home Of The Custom”…

But 2018 is a very different game. Not only because of the new budget allowed to each commissioned dealer ($7,400 of which at least half of it must be must be spent on choosing amongst 10,000 official H-D accessories), but because competitors choose their customization platform among a wider rage of models: Iron 883, Forty-Eight Roadster, Street 750, Street Rod, Street Bob and Fat Bob. Continue reading ‘The Edge. A Customized New Generation Harley Softail Platform With Some Bobber Touches.’

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In Retaliation For President Trump Planned Taxes On Imported Steel And Aluminum The European Union Preparing Tariffs On Harley-Davidson, And Other American Companies.

Published by Cyril Huze March 3rd, 2018 in Builders.

Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), a frequent supporter of Trump, denounced what he called ” a tax hike the American people don’t need and can’t afford.” And he urged the president to reconsider. The president is proposing a massive tax increase on American families,” said Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.). The planned tax on imported steel is 25% and aluminum 10%.
President Donald Trump escalated threats of a trade war this Saturday March 3rd, saying he would slap a new tax on European cars if the EU retaliated against his proposed steel and aluminum tariffs. UBS Investment Research estimates that 16% of Harley sales are made in Europe. For the company’s 115th anniversary celebration. Europe will be one of the main stages with an estimated 100,000 bikers from 56 countries expected to ride to Prague. Would Harley-Davidson survive a trade war? Other American brands targeted if necessary by the European Union include Levi Strauss and Bourbon Whiskey.

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“American Chopper” Paul Teutul Alleges He Is Broke And Files For Personal Bankruptcy.

Published by Cyril Huze March 3rd, 2018 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

American Chopper returned to TV after a 5-Year break. In the first episode on March 1st, Paul Sr and Jr talk again and helped each other install front forks… And now Paul Sr alleges he’s broke and had to file for Chapter 13 in New York just the day before, February 28. Quite a sense of drama… Paul Sr would own $1,801,729 in assets, and would owe 50 creditors $1,070,893.44. Teutul Sr would make $15,070.93 per month, but would spend $12,612.

Regarding his assets, Teutul would have listed his home in Montgomery, New York, a 2011 Chevy Camaro, 2010 Dodge Challenger, 2009 Chevy Corvette and a “few pistols” worth around $200. Teutul Sr would as also owe a $32,000 judgment against him, $151,230.98 in taxes to the Town of Crawford, NY as well as $21,000 to multiple credit card companies. The business Orange County Choppers belongs to him but it is claimed as having a $0.00 value…It is evident that Paul Sr is trying hard to protect his business, house and cars from all creditors.

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A Message From Zero Motorcycle’ CEO Sam Paschel

Published by Cyril Huze March 3rd, 2018 in Builders and Editorial.

The Following is a Statement from Zero Motorcycles’ CEO Sam Paschel On Harley-Davidson’s Investment in Alta and Entrance into the Electric Motorcycle Space:

“For the past 12 years, we have not just been selling motorcycles. We’ve been leading the movement and we’ve been helping to create the category of electric motorcycles. Competition is necessary for our category and the movement to grow. As the global leader in electric motorcycle sales and innovation, we welcome the challenge and believe our business will benefit from a respected brand entering the space. We have 12 years of R&D, manufacturing and sales experience that we will use to maintain our competitive advantage.”

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Indian Motorcycle Introduces 2018 Ultra-Premium Bagger With Stunning Paint Completed Entirely by Hand

Published by Cyril Huze March 2nd, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Indian Motorcycle announced its new ultra-premium bagger, the 2018 Chieftain Elite. This limited-edition bagger pairs custom-inspired paint that’s completed by hand with top-of-the-line amenities for the rider who demands the best of the best. Indian Motorcycle meticulously thought through the design to ensure every line, texture and material complemented the contours of this aggressive platform. The focal point of this bagger is the stunning, specialty paint featuring high-flake Black Hills Silver. As the name suggests, this paint was inspired by the silver mines in the Black Hills of South Dakota, which is near Indian Motorcycle’s custom paint facility in Spearfish, SD. A team of Indian Motorcycle experts mask the bodywork, lay the graphics, and hand-spray each Chieftain Elite. Each bike takes nearly 25 hours due to the time-intensive, painstaking processes that are completed by hand. Incredibly, no two bikes will look the same due to the level of human touch involved. There’s no question that this bold, one-of-a-kind bike will stand out in any crowd.

The 2018 Chieftain Elite has a commanding stance that’s punctuated by its 19-inch, 10-spoke, contrast-cut front wheel and marbled graphics package. It’s equipped with premium features, including a 200-Watt premium audio system, Pathfinder LED headlight and driving lights, a push-button power flare windshield, billet aluminum Select Driver and Passenger Floorboards, and genuine leather seats. New for this year’s Chieftain Elite are pinnacle mirrors and updated, smaller hand controls for improved ergonomics. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Introduces 2018 Ultra-Premium Bagger With Stunning Paint Completed Entirely by Hand’

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Seen At Zurich Swiss Moto (February 22-25)

Published by Cyril Huze March 2nd, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Events.

Harley-Davidson still enjoys a considerable share of the Swiss motorcycle market. During this 2018 event, big and reputable dealers like Baechli Harley-Davidson and Buendnerbikes came to show their new creations at proximity of the Official display and just across the Indian Motorcycle one. Swiss Moto, like Swiss Custom, is a show letting you understand the country’s market specificites. Even Big Daddy the Rat’s Hole Show made the trip to Zurich for a bike competition. (photos @ H. Roesler for C. Huze)

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Harley-Davidson Invests In Electric Motorcycle Startup Alta Motors

Published by Cyril Huze March 1st, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Harley-Davidson has made an equity investment in the Silicon Valley startup Alta Motors that makes lightweight electric motorcycles, tapping into a global push toward electric vehicles and looking to offer motorcycles that appeal to younger consumers.

“Earlier this year, as part of our 10-year strategy, we reiterated our commitment to build the next generation of Harley-Davidson riders, in part, by aggressively investing in electric vehicle (EV) technology,” said Harley-Davidson President and CEO Matt Levatich. “Alta has demonstrated innovation and expertise in EV and their objectives align closely with ours. We each have strengths and capabilities that will be mutually beneficial as we work together to develop cutting-edge electric motorcycles.”

Harley-Davidson has already announced the planned launch of its first electric motorcycle, informed by Project LiveWire™. That motorcycle is on track for release in 2019.

“Riders are just beginning to understand the combined benefits of EV today, and our technology continues to progress,” said Alta Motors Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder, Marc Fenigstein. “We believe electric motorcycles are the future, and that American companies have an opportunity to lead that future. It’s incredibly exciting that Harley-Davidson, synonymous with motorcycle leadership, shares that vision and we’re thrilled to collaborate with them.”

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Skate Art Street Bob

Published by Cyril Huze March 1st, 2018 in Builders and Customs.

“Vote and crown your Custom King” says again Harley-Davidson in 2018. This year. 250 official Harley dealers on 3 continents participate to the “Battle Of Te Kings” and can build their project on one of the 2018 Harley models. Contrary to former years when the Sportster was first imposed, then became the preferred platform of customization, the new Softail Street Bob with its new 107″ Milwaukee-Eight® engine, new front & rear suspension at a price that won’t break the bank, seems to be the choice of many dealers.

Looking at this year’s Battle Of The King production one can notice that many chosen themes and designs are quite Millennial Centric. For sure not the most comfortable rides, but those that youngsters are looking for. In this case a naked Street Bob featuring a skate board as a seat, a “holed” hand shifter, a half helmet covered headlight, gas tank logo en “Grip” de skateboard, “Psycho” ape hangers for attitude, Firestone tires, Trumpet exhaust. To this was added a lot of custom fabricated parts: the brass radiator, the modified gas tank, the ront and rear fenders. For an extra touch of retro this project was the opportunity to incorporate as much as possible of the new Harley Brass accessories lineup or to “brass” some essential parts. grips, fuel cap, forks, pegs, Derby cover, Time cover, Caches on front wheel axle, air filter. And to finish a rusty looking paint job. Harley-Davidson Portes De Bretagne

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Thought Of The Day

Published by Cyril Huze March 1st, 2018 in Editorial.

“Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions”

Winston Churchill

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Indian Motorcycle At 77th Daytona Bike Week

Published by Cyril Huze March 1st, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Indian Motorcycle®, announced a Daytona Bike Week lineup of activations packed with demo rides for 2018 models, custom bike displays, an exclusive rider’s group experience, and more. Carey Hart’s display of custom Chieftains, performance parts and accessories, and a Scout FTR750 photo opportunity are just a few of the offerings Indian Motorcycle will have available at its main footprint on Main Street.

Also, following one of the most dominant seasons in flat track history, Indian Motorcycle Racing will kick off the 2018 season opener at the Daytona International Speedway. The Indian Wrecking Crew of Jared Mees, Bryan Smith and Brad Baker, who finished first, second and third respectively in 2017, will be joined by privateers Kenny Coolbeth Jr., Henry Wiles and others for the 2018 season.

“We are thrilled to offer attendees a dynamic and unique Daytona Bike Week experience, including an exclusive look at Carey Hart’s custom bikes, the Scout FTR750, FTR1200 Custom and all of our 2018 models,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director – Marketing and Product Planning for Indian Motorcycle. “Daytona also marks a special time: the return of American Flat Track and a chance to watch the podium-sweeping Indian Wrecking Crew and new crop of privateers who have turned to the Scout FTR750 for this highly anticipated 2018 season.”

Below are highlights of the Daytona Bike Week action Indian Motorcycle has planned.

Display at Main Street (Main St. & N. Wild Olive Ave.)
Check out Indian Motorcycle’s 2018 lineup at the Main Street display along with custom Scout Bobbers from the Brooklyn Invitational and performance accessories. Get an up-close look at Carey Hart and P!NK’s Chieftains, custom-built by Hart, as well as his custom Springfield and sidecar that were featured in the Hot Bike Tour. There will also be a photo opportunity with AFT championship-winning bike, the Indian Scout FTR750. The display will also feature the Scout FTR1200 Custom. The Main Street Display will be open Friday, March 9 to Saturday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Demo Rides at Daytona International Speedway (International Speedway Blvd.)
Bike Week attendees will have the chance to ride the entire 2018 lineup of Indian motorcycles, including the Indian Scout Bobber and Indian Chieftain, among others. Ride multiple bikes, compare, and decide which Indian Motorcycle models best suit your riding style. Group demo rides are free and available to those with a valid motorcycle endorsement and proper attire. Demo rides will be running daily during Bike Week, Saturday March 10, to Saturday, March 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle At 77th Daytona Bike Week’

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Triumph Unveils The Spirit Of 59 Motorcycle Range

Published by Cyril Huze February 28th, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

The Spirit of 59 is the result of Triumph’s unique collaboration with legendary UK street artist Dean Stockton a.k.a. D*Face to create three art-inspired custom Modern Classics, Tempted to buy one? Unfortunately, you just can’t go to your nearest Triumph showroom and write a cheque. The limited edition models can only be obtained through an international draw. To stand a chance of winning it you will have to take a Triumph Modern Classic for a test ride between February 7th to April 30th. However, be sure to read the full terms and conditions on Triumph’s website before visiting the dealership.

The three motorcycles that are part of this collaboration are the Bonneville Thruxton R, a black Bonneville Bobber and a Bonneville T120. All the bikes have received a distinctive hand-painted design, making them an instant collector’s item. According to Stockton, the Thruxton R is a modern-day cafe racer and a real track weapon that looks the best when in motion. What better way to accentuate that than designing a chequered flag across its bullet-shaped front end.

With the Bobber, the artist wanted to pay homage to the air crew of World War 2, who used to paint nose cone art on their fighter planes. Hence a stealth black look with a yellow fighting Cat and a ‘Bobcat’ design on the fuel tank made perfect sense. Advertisement opens in new window

With the Bonneville T120, one of the most iconic British bikes for a generation, the artist chose to go for an Union Jack-inspired design. But instead of going for just any Union Jack design, D*Face went ahead with a refreshed version of it, which both encapsulates the spirit of the 60s yet feels contemporary.
Other than these aesthetic changes, all the bikes remain the same mechanically.

Speaking about the collaboration, the artist D*Face said, “Riding a custom bike is about standing for what you believe in. It’s about expressing that part of yourself that separates you from the rest of the crowd. Triumph has undoubtedly been a fundamental part of that culture for 59 years and I am delighted to be able to play a part in their story and British motorcycle history.”

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Fast Motorcycle Industry News

Published by Cyril Huze February 28th, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Daytona Carl Speed Shop To Close At End Of Bike Week. Carl Morrow,and his wife Diane will retire at the end of Daytona Bike Week and close their well known Daytona tuning and repair bike shop on North Beach Street. Carl made a name for himself with land speed records on the Bonneville Salt Flats and for developing his performance Typhoon Velocity Stack Carburetor to install on a wide range of bikes from small size engines to monster strokers.

Triumph Instead Of Harley-Davidson In The Action Scenes Of “Ant-Man And The Wasp”. It Seems That Harley-Davidson and Marvel’s long-standing partnership has come to an end. The presence of Harley-Davidson has been “taken for granted” in Marvel Comics’s pro-heroes. An American motorcycle for the American Superman’s archetype – what else could Captain America do? In the latest movie “Ant-Man and The Wasp” the participating motorcycles are no longer Harleys, but a Triumph Thruxton R model.

Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG) To Repurchase 15,000,000 Outstanding Shares. Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG) declared that its board has authorized a stock repurchase plan, which authorizes the company to repurchase 15,000,000 outstanding shares on Monday, February 5th. CEO Matthew LEevatich has sold 19,447 shares worth $940,387.

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Battle Of The Kings Finalist For UK/Ireland Region

Published by Cyril Huze February 27th, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

You know that every year Harley-Davidson organizes a custom build competition among its official dealers. This year in its 4th edition, the competition is between 274 dealers in 21 countries. Objectives: – for Harley, to show to the public its most recent models and the creative reserve inside its dealer network – for Dealers, to get more bike and o.e.m custom parts sales.

Dealers started to work in October 2017, had 3 months to complete a road-legal build, had to spend no more than 7,400 dollars (half spent on genuine H-D accessories), and could choose as a platform either a Sportster Iron 883, Forty-Eight Roadster, Street 750, Street Rod, Street Bob and Fat Bob.

The finalist for the region UK/Ireland Region is Syc Kustoms, the custom side of Sycamore Harley-Davidson of the UK as judged at at the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show. Named “The Alley Rat”, this custom Sportster Forty-Eight will now go head to head with the finalists from other regions at a Grand Final to take place at Milan’s EICMA exhibition in November 2018 where the “Custom King” will be crowned.

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The 183 MPH Tee-Shirt

Published by Cyril Huze February 27th, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.

Not always easy to find the long sleeves tee-shirt you like. What about this one if you are an Indian fan?

Add some red to your wardrobe with a tee paying homage to Burt Munro’s record 183.59mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats (it was August 26, 1967)

It features a large distressed print on the front with the words ‘BONNEVILLE’ across the chest and a small distressed logo on the back. There are printed white stripes around each sleeve with a woven patch on the right hand side one. 100% cotton slub jersey. Warranty 1 Year From Date of Purchase. Sizes S to 3XL. Indian Motorcycle Clothing Store.

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Loot Series Derby Cover

Published by Cyril Huze February 27th, 2018 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.

A new age look for this derby Cover machined with precision cuts to fit Harleys until 201. This Derby Cover is available in contrast black and shiny chrome including gasket. Dirty Bird Concepts will be coming out very soon with a complete Loot Line featuring this cut design.

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Hard Nine Sportster

Published by Cyril Huze February 26th, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

There is a wild Custom Builder in the ultra conservative city of Bern, capital of Switzerland. A man who is not afraid to publish onlinet his shop motto: “Hard Nine Choppers, The Real Shit Since 2002″. Danny Schneider got a strong background in Freestyle Moto Cross and in the Bern city streets is well known for his extremely hard riding antics on the bikes he has built during the last 15 years. Most of these customs are BMX, Cross, Sportbike influenced, always crossover bikes using antique engines. As in his famous 1942 “D’MX”, a custom Flathead that brought him notoriety and respect not only in Europe but abroad.

You understood. Danny Schneider runs his own show. If he can pay his bills, travel and meet new friends in rallies, what matters most to him is that he is doing something inspiring that he feels passionately about. In a very “policed” country about custom building options and very strict homologation rules, Danny Schneider succeeds at joining other Swiss customizers able to challenge neighboring reputable German custom builders, In one way, they contribute to the Swiss automotive tradition established by frame chassis specialists, engine tuners and racers like legendary Fritz Egli.

As you know now, Custom Chrome Europe commissions each year several builders to create bikes using parts easily found in their new catalog. Of course this “Bolt And Ride” program is essentially promotional for CCE, but offers us the opportunity to see what custom builders, almost always known for their radical one-off bikes, are able to produce when limited to the only choice that most of you have. Continue reading ‘Hard Nine Sportster’

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New 2018 Wheel Design From RC Components

Published by Cyril Huze February 25th, 2018 in Customs, Editorial and Wheels.

Called the Revolt Eclipse Wheel, it’s one of the 3 new designs released by RC Components for year 2018. It features 9 elegant spokes with smooth and twisted lines working together to give the illusion of speed when your bike is standing still. The accents highlight machine technique is used on the spokes with a smooth transition on the edge of the rim.

Sizes start at 16” to 26” for American V-Twin: Harley, Indian, Victory, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Honda and Yamaha motorcycles models. Options include ABS braking, front tire mounted and balanced, matching 13″ rotor for custom application or brake didc adapters if you want to use your factory rotors. Proudly made in USA. Launch price starts at $1125. RC Components offers a lifetime structural and finish Warranty.

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77th Daytona Bike Week. Harley-Davidson Activities.

Published by Cyril Huze February 24th, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Daytona Bike Week is the unofficial start of motorcycle riding season across the United States. It’s an annual celebration that brings people together, riders and non-riders, to embrace the sport of motorcycling. “As the official motorcycle of Daytona Bike Week, Harley-Davidson is excited to be back in Florida to kick off another great riding season,” said Chris Urban, Harley-Davidson U.S. Events Manager. “Daytona offers something for everyone – from bike shows and parties to racing and outstanding touring opportunities. Harley-Davidson is in Daytona to celebrate the freedom of riding and the bond of friendship. It’s the perfect way to kickstart our 115th Anniversary year.”

The first big event of its 115th anniversary year, Harley-Davidson will host its Harley Headquarters on the grounds of the Daytona International Speedway. At the Speedway, come experience free demo rides on 2018 motorcycles, including the new Forty-Eight® Special and Iron 1200™ models and Limited Edition 115th Anniversary models March 10 – 17 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Additionally, fans can enjoy special events, parties and displays throughout the 77th Daytona Bike Week.

Harley Headquarters at the Speedway: Official Harley-Davidson Bike Week activities are consolidated at one action-packed venue located at West International Speedway Blvd. on the grounds of Daytona International Speedway. Open March 10 – 17 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily with free motorcycle parking, this expansive Harley-Davidson location will offer:

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Demos: See and ride more than 100 new 2018 Harley-Davidson models including the just-released Sport Glide™ plus Limited Edition 115th Anniversary models and new Softail® and Touring models powered by the potent Milwaukee-Eight® engine. The demo fleet also includes the 2018 CVO™ models and bikes fully customized with Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories.

Milwaukee-Eight Display Truck: Experience the Milwaukee-Eight engine through technical displays and feel the rumble of this exciting V-Twin on the Harley-Davidson® JUMPSTART™ Rider Experience. Check out the customized Harley-Davidson Rebel Freightliner truck and a display of new items from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories.

See It/Try It/Buy It: Demo new Harley-Davidson helmets and riding gear when you demo-ride a bike. A selection of new Genuine MotorClothes will be available for purchase on site. Visit with Harley-Davidson fit consultants at the H-D1™ Fit Shop for any customization needs.

Harley-Davidson Museum®: The H-D Museum display is the only place in Daytona to get an official, collectible Willie G. Daytona T-shirt. Check out the new line of Harley-Davidson Originals; timeless, vintage-inspired clothing that celebrates Harley-Davidson’s proud history. Grab a seat and view recently unearthed, decades-old H-D Daytona beach-racing footage from the H-D Museum Archives Department.

H.O.G.® Rally Point at the Speedway: Join Pete Schwab, Todd “Thor” Robinson, Paul Blotske and other Harley-Davidson Staff members at the H.O.G. Rally Point. Relax in the H.O.G. members lounge and visit the H.O.G. Check In to pick up the 2018 event pin, with a design celebrating the Harley-Davidson 115th and H.O.G. 35th anniversaries (reserved for Harley Owners Group members only). Members who are participating in the H.O.G. ABC’s of Touring program can grab a photo at the H.O.G. booth to validate their attendance and receive the recognition.

NEW EagleRider Rentals and Tours: Stop by and learn how EagleRider – the exclusive U.S. provider of rentals and tours for H-D – can help riders join one of the planned. Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary Rides Home . Additionally, check out EagleRider’s expanded nationwide network of rental locations.

NEW Harley-Davidson Adventure Challenge Station: Participate in a new program open to all riders – the Adventure Challenge. Stop by to pick up the Adventure Challenge map for Daytona with riding routes, local points of interest, and other insider tips. Complete a specified route to earn a commemorative pin. Continue reading ’77th Daytona Bike Week. Harley-Davidson Activities.’

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Thought Of The Day

Published by Cyril Huze February 24th, 2018 in Editorial.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

Walt Disney

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Arch Motorcycle Unveils Limited Edition “Method 143” Model. Only 23 Units.

Published by Cyril Huze February 23rd, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

The latest creation from Keanu Reeves/Gard Hollinger’s Arch Motorcycle, the Method 143, is really badass. After the successful KRGT-1 and S models, the Method 143 continues Arch’s commitment to limited production, excellent design and engineering high-dollar price motorcycles. Add multiple customizing options. The Method 143 features a revolutionary carbon fiber mono-cell chassis, maybe the first of this type ever used by a motorcycle manufacturer. To it is attached a CNC machined billet aluminum swingarm.

Method 143 uses the extremely powerful, high torque 143 cubic-inch from S&S Cycles paired to a MotoGP-inspired titanium exhaust with a carbon fiber skin around its muffler. Fuel cell is integrated inside the frame. Front suspension is a set of Ohlins FGRT forks with an Arch Motorcycle proprietary setup. Rear suspension uses a pair of Ohlins rear shocks. If you have to ask for the price you probably can’t afford one… But I bet that the 23 units that Arch Motorcycle is building are going to find owners very fast.

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Two New Hard Saddlebag Latch Handles

Published by Cyril Huze February 22nd, 2018 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.

Two new options to replace the dull OEM saddlebag latches on ’14-later Harley-Davidson® Touring models. New Quick Draw and Zombie™ Saddlebag Latch Handles are direct replacements offering a different styling and ergonomics, with less curvature than the stock handles to rest at an easier access point.

Quick Draw Latch Handles: they feature embedded rubber pads and a wide profile on the front end for sure-fingered grip. Zombie Handles: they sport the Kuryakyn collection’s trademark sinister skeleton styling as a complementing match to Kuryakyn’s popular Zombie Levers for H-D Touring.

Both sets of latch handles are constructed from durable cast aluminum offered in chrome or gloss black finishes. Fitment: ’14-later Electra Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings and Street Glides. MSRP: $59.99 (pair)

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Harley-Davidson Unveils Two “New” Sportsters. A Forty-Eight Special And Iron 1200 Fuse.

Published by Cyril Huze February 21st, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Both Sportsters, the Sportster Forty Eight Special And The Sportster Fuse, got a throw-back design with a modern performance. These 2 new Sportsters are the latest in a line of 100 motorcycles the company plans to introduce by 2027. Maybe these 2 Sportster designs are part of the solution for Harley-Davidson, an iconic aging brand with declining sales…In this case it boils down to a garage-built attitude with high handlebars and cool graphics.

its introduction in 1957, Sportster motorcycles have been repeatedly reimagined, in the hands of both the Motor Company, custom bike builders and bike owners Sportsters turn into a bobber, a chopper, a scrambler, a café racer or as a hero on flat tracks and drag strips and road-race courses. The Sportster has always been an accessible entry-point motorcycle or first-time riders.

“Since its inception, the Sportster has offered the perfect combination of size, power and character that makes it appealing to so many different riders,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson V.P. of Styling & Design. “A Sportster is a relatively easy bike to strip down and reinvent. What we’ve done to create the new Iron 1200 and Forty-Eight Special is what Sportster owners have been doing with their own bikes for generations.”

New fuel tank graphics distinguish both the Iron 1200 and the Forty-Eight Special, and combine bold color stripes with a formal typeface, color and graphic elements originally popular in the 1970s. “The art on these two fuel tanks reflect contemporary trends we are seeing on custom bikes and in design in general, a move away from more complex and intricate art to a look that’s very simple and clean,” said Richards. “It’s also important to note that these graphics respect the shape of the fuel tank and in the case of the Sportster, that tank shape is a classic design element in its own right.”

Iron 1200™

The Iron 1200 recipe starts with power. A 1202cc Evolution® 1200 V-Twin engine delivers 36 percent more torque (73.0 ft. lbs. vs. 53.8 ft. lb.) than the 883 Evolution engine that powers the Iron 883, the original urban brawler in the Sportster family. The Iron 1200 brings more punch to the street fight – more power to blast away from green lights and more mid-range to muscle through traffic. More power means more rowdy fun. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Unveils Two “New” Sportsters. A Forty-Eight Special And Iron 1200 Fuse.’

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Harley-Davidson Applies For “Revelation” Trademark For Its Electric Motorcycle Motor Technology

Published by Cyril Huze February 21st, 2018 in Builders, Editorial and Legal.

We know that Harley-Davidson, like Indian, is extremely serious about mass producing electric motorcycles as soon as possible, possibly as a model year 2019. H-D just filed an application to trademark the name “Revelation” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for motorcycle powertrain, batteries and chargers. Milwaukee already uses similar sounding names like the “Evolution” and “Revolution X” for some of its v-twin engine models.

In 2016, about three dozen LiveWire electric motorcycles produced by Harley-Davidson were tested by about 6,800 riders at dealer events around the U.S and Europe. These demos brought the company a lot of information about what riders like in terms of design, and sound and their expectations regarding clutch-free acceleration, riding range and price.

Overall, the Livewire project received a very positive reception. Even the low-pitched whine was not an obstacle and didn’t bother many, especially under 40 riders who are more environment conscious and more open to any new technology. Maybe, Harley will even try to trademark its own-fabricated sound…

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2018 Daytona Bike Week Giveaway

Published by Cyril Huze February 21st, 2018 in Builders, Customs and Events.

The Official Bike of 2018 Daytona Bike Week )Match 9-18) is a 2010 Harley-Davidson Super Glide completely customized by George Sinsman of Chao Cycle in Long Island, New York. The bike was rebuilt in a Street Tracker style with the following new parts: A new Magnaflow 2-into-1 exhaust, Vance & Hines Fuel Pak, Memphis Shades front cowl, Joker Machine air cleaner and mirrors, Saddlemen Eliminator tail section, RacingBros Hard Drive piggyback rear shocks, EBC brake rotors, a Twin Power chain conversion kit, Ridewight spoked wheels, Metzeler ME888 tires, Roland Sands hand levers, BikeMaster LED headlight, and Acewell Gauges courtesy of Dime City Cycles. George didn’t stop there, as he enhanced the suspension performance with an inverted front end from a GSX-R750. He also included a set of Chaos Cycle’s own triple trees, machined by Revolution Performance. Continue reading ‘2018 Daytona Bike Week Giveaway’

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Sequential BAGZ™ Saddlebag LEDs

Published by Cyril Huze February 21st, 2018 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.

Among the multitude ways to improve your Bagger rear lighting, this new release from Custom Dynamics one of the leaders in “Everything To Light Up Your Ride”. These Sequential BAGZ™ LED Saddlebag lights were created to be installed just under the lip of the oen Harley-Davidson® OEM hard saddlebags,

With a “Plug & Play” installation, so no additional module required , those LEDs can function as running lights, brake lights or Sequential Red Turn Signals. Each unit offers 86 super bright dual intensity red LEDs, they are sure to get you noticed for all the right reasons..

Available in chrome or gloss Black finish with either a red or smoke lens Warranty against LED failure. MSRP $218.00 (pair). For more information, call Custom Dynamics® toll free at 1-800-382-1388 or visit Custom Dynamics or contact your local Drag Specialties dealer.

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Predator 2-Up Seat

Published by Cyril Huze February 20th, 2018 in Customs and Seats.

Find the right mix of aggressive styling and comfort with the Predator 2-Up Seat from Drag Seats. Molded from polyurethane foam for maximum comfort and styling, this seat has a 3/16” thermoformed seat base with rubber bumpers and fully carpeted bottom for a perfect fit that wont scratch your ride’s paint.

Solar-reflective leather in the seating area helps keeps the seat cool on hot days, with automotive-grade vinyl rounding out the sides. This seat features a double diamond stitch pattern with black stitching for added detail. Made in the USA, this seat includes all mounting hardware for 06-17 FXD, FXDWG and 12-16 FLD models. The suggested retail price is $334.95. More info at Drag Specialties Seat or contact your local Frag Specialties Dealer.

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