Add a touch of retro with a set of ribbed oil tank side covers.
They fit on all Harley Sportster models from 2004 to 2013.
Offered in many different finitions, from polish to chrome, from black to many other anodizing colors. MSRP 248 euros for the set. At Custom Chrome Europe or Greasy Coast Facebook.
Defunct Matchless Motorcycles was created in 1889 by the Collier brothers (they won the first Isle of Man TT Tourist Trophy race in 1907) and is one of the oldest British manufacturers on record. During many years, khaki enamel applied to the gas tank was the only option and the brand color trademark. The featured 1961 G-12 model featured here is a 2-cylinder 646-cc (35 hp) vertical twin that could not compete in term of performance with similar Triumph and BSA 124 models. Sales were poor, a prelude to Matchless (company name “Associated Motorcycles”) failing and becoming part of a new company, called Norton-Villiers in 1966. (Photo @ Doug Mitchel)
Smart Turn System is the first self canceling turn signal system for motorcycles that is able to accurately turn off the signal at the completion of a maneuver. As the system makes use of motion sensor technology it is able to reliably determine whether a rider has changed a lane, exited a roundabout or simply completed a turn at a crossroad – the turn signal is always canceled as the maneuver is completed.
A patented system collects movement data of the motorcycle and uses an algorithm to determine what kind of a maneuver is taking place – once it is finished, the system completes its job by canceling the turn signal.
The idea was born from a misfortunate situation that could easily have turned into one of disastrous consequences – “I was riding around with turn signals left on after a completion of a maneuver and a very attentive car driver cut me off from the side road – his assumption of me intending to make a right turn at the crossroad was soundly based on what he was able to see: a blinking turn signal.” says Miha Kovač, the CEO of the company. As he discovered that there is no reliable solution for this problem on the market, he started gathering a larger team of experts to address this problem and prepare an operational prototype of a turn signal cancellation device. Video after the jump.Continue reading ‘Motion Sensing Smart Self-Canceling Turn Signal For Your Motorcycle’
S&S Cycle has released a pair of short block engine assemblies designed to replace the tired bottom end on your 1984 through 1999 Carbureted and Fuel Injected 80″ Evolution big twin. Replace your entire stock lower end with an S&S Short Block assembly! A rock solid S&S flywheel assembly, installed in a set of bullet proof S&S Super Stock® crankcases. A stock replacement fitment with the added bonus of relocated oil pick up for better scavenging. Compatible with factory primary and gear covers, these short blocks are the ideal replacement for stock or high performance builds.
“S&S Short Blocks are a solid, bolt-in solution for a bottom end that is no longer rebuildable” explains S&S Marketing Manager, Patrick Garvin. S&S Short Block engines are built using the same premium quality, U.S. made components that are used in S&S complete performance engines, assuring you of superior performance and long, trouble free engine life.
Stock 3 ½ ” bore and 4 ¼ ” stroke. Premium quality U.S. made S&S components. Compatible with all stock and most aftermarket parts. Full one year parts warranty. Includes certificate of origin for new crankcases. For more information, visit S&S Cycle Short Block Replacement.
With more than 300 motorcycles on display, The Quail Motorcycle Gathering, features one of the world’s finest and rarest collections of vintage and modern motorcycles sponsored by leading manufacturers and top lifestyle, retail, and beverage companies ─ all hosted on the stunning green grasses of Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel, California. The Quail Motorcycle Gathering celebrates the Evolution of the Motorcycle, honoring both pre- and post-war eras of the world’s finest sports and racing bikes. Indulge in a weekend surrounded by the finest sports and racing motorcycles from around the world at the 8th annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering at Quail Lodge & Golf Club on May 14, 2016. Event features displays by leading manufacturers, dealerships and accessory and lifestyle vendors, culinary pavilions, brew tents, live entertainment and much more. Continue reading ‘8th Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering Is May 14, 2016’
These new Küryakyn® Radiator Grills for Harley-Davidson® Twin-Cooled High Output Twin Cams provide a nice touch of chrome to enhance fairing lowers. A clean chrome-finished ABS grill housing shrouds a black honeycomb-shaped metal screen insert that combats debris while leaving radiator airflow unrestricted.
Küryakyn Radiator Grills are literally a snap to install as stylish direct replacements for the dull stock black panels on ’14-later Twin Cooled Harley-Davidson Touring models. Fitment: ’14-’16 FLHTK, ’15-’16 FLHTKL, ’14-’16 FLHTKSE, ’16 FLTRU, ’15-’16 FLTRUSE, ’15-’16 FLHXSE & ’14-’16 FLHTCUTG. P/N 7681, MSRP: $69.99 (pair)
Every act of imagination of a custom builder makes the motorcycle world a more interesting place. All projects from Bill Dodge of Bling’s Cycles are captivating because inspired by the past but never dictated by any rules expect the respect he has for the most venerable Harley engines, from Flathead to Knucklehead to Panhead and Shovelhead.
The result is always custom builds with a retro vibe all over his own unique and timeless body style. Nothing more exciting for the observer and journalist than a new offbeat design.
This “Ice Cream” 1956 custom Panhead built for client Daniel Stringer is another demonstration of his craftsmanship abilities, of his eye for beautiful proportions, of his obsession with clean lines, visual simplicity and intricate details. A tight machine created to perform under today’s standards although equipped with a motor more than 1/2 century old. Continue reading ‘Ice Cream. A Sweet Panhead Chopper By Bill Dodge.’
Biker’s Choice added a new line of high-quality, made in the USA, Valve and Spring Kits to the Twin Power line of products. Twin Power is known for their high-quality parts and accessories designed for the Harley-Davidson® enthusiast. The line includes both replacement valve kits and complete engine kits for a wide range of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and Buell XB9s.
Each valve kit includes four stock size valves while the engine kits include four valves, a complete O.E.M.-style replacement spring kit, steel retainers, keepers and valve guide seals, where applicable. “From Knuckleheads to the latest Twin Cam models, we are committed to providing you with everything you need in one kit,” says James Simonelli, Brand Manager for Twin Power. “If you need to do a complete cylinder head overhaul, we have packaged everything you need under one part number which makes it easy to order what you need.”
The Davida helmets are handmade in the UK, with a full leather-lined interior and approved to the highest European standard for the road and Gold Label for the race-track. The company is very proud to have been commissioned to design and produce a range of Davida helmets for the new Rolling Stones Exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London, and to join the ranks of the many legendary artists who have produced work for the band during their 50 year music career. Using traditional techniques and all by hand, these special helmets are manufactured and painted in the Davida factory in Merseyside, using the Rolling Stones iconic Classic Tongue logo, both in the original red ‘Tongue and Lips’ design. Continue reading ‘Rolling Stones Davida Jet Helmet’
Before the end of this week, the Daytona PD is going to tell us how many bikes were stolen during the 75th anniversary rally. I bet much less that the number of helmets that has changed heads without consent, and we will never know the number.
Helmet locks are not new, but the one offered by Harley-Davidson is small enough to fit into your pocket, but big enough to fit around most any handlebar or engine guard (1.5″/38mm max) with no keys required. Simply set your own 4-digit code,
It will protect your helmet from grab-and-go theft, and also your jacket or bag. Slip the carabineer through your helmet D-ring, and close the outward-opening lock. Aluminum and zinc alloy carabineer is covered with a tough rubber coating to protect the surrounding finishes. $24.95 at your local Harley Dealer or Harley Online Store.
Do you need or not a horn on a motorcycle is not the topic of this feature. If you want to keep a horn on your factory Harley (you are supposed to…) John Shope’s Dirty Bird Concepts shop is offering the Up Town Series Horn & Horn Cover combo. Other horn cover designs were already sold by the custom builder, but without the horn.
The new Up Town Series, replace the existing horn and cover all at once and is available in three unique styles; The Stealth, The Bandit, and the G Spot. Each horn allows you to replace the existing factory horn while filling the gaps between the cylinders along with hiding those ugly wires.
Like other Dirty Bird Concepts custom parts, each horn cover is made from injection molded NYP Polymer and built to last. Easy to paint and available online for your 2002 to present Harley-Davidson motorcycle at Dirty Bird Concepts. Tel: 623-465-5263.
Harley-Davidson Losing Market Share? Two analysts on Wall Street are pretty certain that Harley-Davidson lost market share in the first quarter 2016. John Tomlinson, an ITG Research analyst, estimated in a report that Harley’s quarterly U.S. retail sales fell as much as 7% to 32,995 motorcycles. That followed a report on Tuesday by David Macgregor, a Longbow Research analyst, that said Polaris Industries Inc.’s Indian brand had a strong quarter and probably cut into Harley’s market share. Harley-Davidson (HOG) will report 1st quarter earnings on April 19. Polaris Industries Inc. (PII) will release its first quarter 2016 financial results on Thursday, April 21, 2016
Victory Motorcycles Is Returning To The Pikes Peak Race To The Clouds With New Project 156 And Empulse RR Electric Model. The Project 156 prototype bike will be ridden by 2014 Pikes Peak Heavyweight Champion Jeremy Toye and the Empulse RR electric prototype (raced in last year’s TT Zero at the Isle of Man) will be ridden by Cycle World’s Road Test Editor Don Canet in the Electric Motorcycle Class. Don was the rider in 2015 of Victory Project 156. “We are eager to bring the Victory Racing team back to Pikes Peak this year to help celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Race to the Clouds,” said Alex Hultgren, Director of Marketing for Victory Motorcycles.
New Royal Enfield’s 600-650cc Twin-Cylinder Motorcycle to Launch in 2017. Royal Enfield (Eicher Motors group) confirmed that the company will launch a new 600-750 cc twin-cylinder model currently code named the P61. Objective is to become the worldwide leader in the mid-size motorcycles segment, appealing to new clients in Europe, the US and Australia. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Harley-Davidson unveiled ‘Trophy Wall,’ the second commercial in the brand’s newest global marketing campaign: ‘Live Your Legend.’ The campaign shows how a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle can enable riders to create deeper bonds and share richer experiences – allowing them to live their own legend.“ ‘Live Your Legend’ is designed to inspire a new generation of riders to invest in experiences today that will build a richer legacy for themselves and those around them,” said Shelley Paxton, VP Global Marketing and Brand. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson New Marketing Campaign Shows How Harley-Davidson Can Create Deeper Bonds and Enrich Your Legacy’
The all-new AirMaster™ Graphic Windshields from Kuryakyn® are custom-formed from premium hard-coated polycarbonate that will not crack or shatter upon impact, unlike acrylic. Themed graphics are screen-printed behind a light smoke material using proprietary inks, making the images extremely durable and sharp. They are USA made.
AirMaster Graphic Windshields for Harley-Davidson batwing fairings measure 7 inches tall and are available in three different themed options. Sinister Zombie™ and smokin’ hot Flame™ graphics complement existing Kuryakyn product families for a cohesive appearance, while the new Catacomb design creates a menacing demeanor all its own. Fits: ’96 –’16 Electra Glides, Street Glides and Tri Glides. MSRP: $119.99
AirMaster Graphic Windshields for Victory measure 10 inches tall and feature an enlarged center scoop to enhance the fairing’s sharp lines and reduce turbulent airflow. Graphic options include the Zombie and Catacomb, as well as the new Tribal design only available for Victory. The screen-printed graphics fill the bottom portion of the windshields, leaving the top clear for an unobstructed view. Fits: ’10-’16 Cross Country, Cross Country Tour and Magnum models. MSRP: $169.99
The great recession of 2008 pushed Big Dog Motorcycles to definitively close its doors in 2011. Today, Matt Moore , a former Big Dog’s Director Of Sales, and his family own all the rights, trademarks, good will of the defunct company and after defining a new strategy to relaunch the brand, is offering a new K9 model in limited edition of 50 units for the 1st production year. Continue reading ‘Under New Ownership Big Dog Motorcycles Is Back With Limited Production Motorcycles’
On March 28th, riding a modified Indian Scout, English racer/tv host/daredavil Guy Martin reached a speed world record of 60.1 mph on his first attempt and 70.33 mph (5.2 G) on his second attempt on a special built Wall Of Death. Traditional Wall of Death setup ranges from 20 to 36 feet in diameter with riders along the vertical wall using the centrifugal force to ride at a typical speed of about 20 mph. To reach a world record over 60 mph, Guy Martin was riding a Wall Of Death with a 387 ft circumference. His machine was a modified new Indian Scout with Rental handlebars, lay-back risers, modified lower frame struts to accommodate foot-plates, 18″ wheels, a shortened rear fender and of course a special paint job for the televised event. Guy Martin also reached an absolute world record of 78.103 mph on a custom based BSA prepared by himself. Watch the short video.
The sissy bar, also called a “sister bar” in the 50’s and 60’s, is one of the accessories making a big come back. This genuine Harley-Davidson one-piece model mimics the stylized upper kick angle the of the old-school sissy bars and for a clean appearance doesn’t need separate side plates for installation.
Fits ’06-later Dyna® models (except FLD, FXDF, FXDFSE/2 and ’10-later FXDWG). ’13-later FXDB models equipped with a side-mount license plate require License Plate Relocation Kit P/N 67900130.. Can be equipped with Passenger Backrest Pad P/N 52631-07 (black) or 52300026 (brown). Gloss black finish. Requires separate purchase of appropriate Docking Hardware Kit. $199.95. Online at Harley-Davidson Store.
For most, the 101 Scout is the best Indian ever built and for sure one of the most iconic motorcycles. Racers in particular recognized the 101’s special qualities. Unfortunately this Indian model had only a four year production run. In this video, Jay Leno introduces you to his 1931 101 Scout and rides it, both hands off the handlebars…
Months of hard work paid off for a group of Black Hills area high school students this weekend. The group, participating in the 2016 Buffalo Chip Challenge, earned two first place awards April 2 at the prestigious Donnie Smith Bike & Car Show in St. Paul, Minn. The student-built Buffalo Chip Challenge bikes, a fully customized 2016 Victory Cross Country and 2015 Indian Chief Classic each earned first place honors in the open class. The students competed against professional custom bike builders, which makes winning these awards an even more remarkable achievement.
“Winning first place in competition against professionals was really exciting,” said Calvin Tohm, a junior from Spearfish Senior High School and member of Team Indian. “All of the hard work became worth it when they called us up there to accept the award. Going to the Donnie Smith Show taught me how to make a good first impression, and winning that award taught me to make the most of every opportunity.”
The program, developed by Sturgis Buffalo Chip® president Rod Woodruff and coordinated by Keith Terry of Terry Components, was designed to prepare the next generation of American motorcycle experts and cultivate motorcycle industry economic development. Mentors Randy Cramer of Dakota V-Twin and Chris Malo of Baggster provided hands-on instruction to students from start to finish to create signature builds that fit the style of their teams’ esteemed captains, Rusty Jones of Rusty Jones Customs and John Shope of Dirty Bird Concepts. Continue reading ‘Buffalo Chip Challenge™ Students’ Hard Work Pays Off At Donnie Smith Show’
You could expect it from S&S Cycle, the company with proven performance products. They just released their high performance Stealth Two Air Filter for the 2015-2016 Scout, 2016 Scout Sixty and 2017 Victory Octane models. The S&S Stealth Two air cleaner features increased filter area, a radiused inlet. and a 4 ply washable element. Together, they provide a smooth path for air to flow into the throttle body. Reducing turbulence and increasing flow equals providing more power!
It’s a bolt-on one-piece assembly increasing air flow by 127% (Dyno proven) and pairing nicely with most aftermarket exhaust systems. .Made in the USA and available through your local S&S Dealer. MSRP $149.95. For more information, visit S&S Cycle Stealth Two
If you visit Poland in Central Europe, the city of Poznan is probably one of the 2 (with the capital Warsaw) that you want to visit because of its famous Renaissance architecture with richly decorated attics and arcade loggias. The old town was destroyed during world war 2, then meticulously rebuilt. The city is also famous for its Motor Show , the largest automative trade fair in Poland featuring cars, semi-trucks campers and motorcycles.
The 2016 edition (March 31-April 3rd) attracted about 100,000 visitors and for the motorcycles exhibition 60 customs competing in the Custom Magazine sponsored bike show, and many more in the booths. The largest V-Twin part distributors were present (CCE, Parts Unlimited, Motorcycle Storehouse, etc) Regarding the Polish style, you can see some custom motorcycles built American style, the others being very often quite weird and built on motorcycle models from brands unknown in the western world…(photos @ H. Roesler)
Anyway, Custom Chrome Europe gave 3 “Pick Of Excellence”.
#1 “Onninen Model 13”, 2014 Twin Cam by BT Choppers.
#2 “Moonshine Tennessee”, 1996 Evo Piotr Jozwiak Custom Bikes Metal Art.
Men’s Gray Scout Script Tee, Indian Scout riders will appreciate this light gray tee, with large front graphic celebrating ‘The legendary Scout’. Made in California this tee uses a heavy weight single jersey. 100% Cotton
S to XXL.
Women’s Antique White/Red Tee. A lightweight 3/4 cotton jersey t-shirt in antique white, with contrast yoke and arm stripes in Indian red. The large back print celebrates the history of Indian Motorcycle and Board track racing. 100% Cotton. XS to XXL
“Battle of the Kings”, Harley-Davidson’s custom bike competition is going on with a record number of dealers all over the world competing for the bragging right of “2016 King Of Custom.”
Dealerships were supplied with a Sportster Iron 883 Dark to see who can produce in a time frame of 6 weeks maximum the best-looking custom bike. Most parts and components must be from the official H-D catalog and customization budget is limited to prevent dealers from creating such radical machines that they would not be recognizable as Sportsters by the public at large.
The Sportster was selected for its almost ability to be transformed into “performance art” and its attainable pricing, which makes the bike a realistic goal for nearly any rider with a moderate budget.
Already expert in Harley kit conversions for different H-D models, this new project was for Rick’s crew a good canvas to design and fabricate new bolt-on parts that Sportster owners will want to buy to achieve their own 883 custom look. In this case, Rick’s went for a Scrambler/Super Moto crossover design, a style that may attract many youngsters who prefer to tear up the asphalt instead of washing paint and polishing chrome…
Rick’s avoided excessive sheet metal work, but still had to do some reshaping on the gas tank for a more streamlined appearance, and of course on the rear section where the Iron 883 gets a refreshed tail end intentionally raw and rough around the edges. It has to be noticed that this new rear section was fabricated out of fiberglas to lower production costs when it will be offered in the coming months as a bolt-on kit. Swingarm was reinforced with support struts, a modification that Rick’s already introduced as an option for the modern rubber mounted Sportsters. Stock oil reservoir and side panels were retained. Continue reading ‘Custom King Iron 883 Sportster By Rick‘s’
Following my announcement of March 25th regarding the financial difficulties of custom shop Darwin Motorcycles, I had a couple of friendly telephonic discussions with owner Dar Holdsworth.
He explained to me the reasons of his troubled business and shared with me his business strategy to restructure it.
To confirm his intentions Dar Holdsworth just sent me the following press release.
“Brass Balls Cycles (d/b/a Darwin Motorcycles) confirms a restructuring agreement with an Austin, TX based investment team in order to better service customers and generate long-term sustainable growth for the company. The deal, which includes a working capital loan with undisclosed terms will provide financial stability as well as the implementation of operational changes.
Jason Havey, current COO of Onnit Labs, an internationally recognized health and wellness brand, has been appointed as CEO of Brass Balls Cycles. Founder Dar Holdsworth remains active in his role as president & chief designer. The two-time American Motorcycle Dealer (AMD) World Champion of Custom Bike Building (Production Manufacturer) winner plans to use the resources to maintain the company’s industry leading build quality, while improving the manufacturing process for speed, efficiency, and flexibility in delivery. Continue reading ‘Exclusive. Jason Havey Appointed CEO of Brass Balls Cycles Amidst Large Scale Financial and Operational Restructuring’