Cyril Huze Post

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What Said Harley-Davidson’s Chief Marketing Officer Mark-Hans Richer

Published by Cyril Huze October 31st, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

“I’m going to go heretical on you, and say that youth does not own cool. Youth does not own growth. Youth does not own innovation or disruption. Brands must not neglect the growth market of older consumers to focus solely on youthful audiences” said Mark-Hans Richer, Harley’s Chief Marketing Officer, at the Association of National Advertisers’ 2015 Masters of Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Building on this argument, Richer cited a recent study which pegged Millennials at a $200 billion buying power in America. “Contrast that, with the $3.2 trillion buying power of people aged 50-plus. The market potential in front of you today is 111 million 50+ adults. Ten years from now, it’ll be another 17 million. And ten years from then, it will be another 32 million and on and on and on” added Richer.

The numbers he cited are correct, except that when getting older, baby boomers spend less and less on motorcycles and more on other things and other leisure activities. And Harley can’t expect that today’s millennials who never rode can be convinced to ride for the st time when they reach 50…

During the last few years Harley-Davidson has aimed to expand its customer base with an emphasis on reaching a more diverse group of younger consumers, female and minorities. I agree that it doesn’t mean ignoring those reaching 50 who already ride. They will represent for a long time a growth market for all motorcycle manufacturers. But not the only one. Harley should recognize its competition on the 2 target categories of Millennials ((born between 1980 and 2000) and Boomers. Continue reading ‘What Said Harley-Davidson’s Chief Marketing Officer Mark-Hans Richer’

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Bahn Saddlebag Hinge & Latch Covers for Harley-Davidson

Published by Cyril Huze October 31st, 2015 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.

Both applications feature a symmetrical design with angled front and trailing edges that follow the lines of stock or extended saddlebags. Distinct precision-machined features on the premium chrome or black anodized “tuxedo” finishes produce a sweptback effect with the illusion of motion even when stopped.

Saddlebag Hinge Covers for ’14-later H-D Touring. The direct replacement forged aluminum covers retain full functionality of the stock hinges, reusing the factory hardware and key-lock mechanisms for easy bolt-on installation on ’14-later Electra Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, and Street Glides. P/N 6948 – Tuxedo, 6949 – Chrome, MSRP: $169.99.

Saddlebag Latch Covers for ’96-’13 H-D Touring. They hook up Harley’s pre-Rushmore hard bags with similar styling as the Hinge Covers, but are marginally wider to fully conceal the factory latch mechanism. The latch covers contain additional precision-machined accent lines on the top and bottom edges, as well as scalloped styling on the front and rear. A recessed area machined into the bottom of the latch eases opening of the lids. Reuse stock hardware and locks for a hassle-free install on ’96-’13 Electra Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, and Street Glides. P/N 6946 – Tuxedo, 6947 – Chrome, MSRP: $169.99 .

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Breaking News. Validity Of SMRI Sturgis Trademark Confirmed By Jury In Rapid City.

Published by Cyril Huze October 30th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

This evening Friday October 30, 2015 in a Rapid City Federal District Court presided by Chief Judge Jeffrey Vikena, a jury of 8 locals decided to side with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc (SMRI) in a trademark lawsuit brought against Rushmore Photo & Gifts, a local Black Hills Gift shop, and Wal-Mart. It is the result of a civil action started 4 years ago to cancel the trademark acquired by SMRI to license the Sturgis name with merchandise related to the August motorcycle rally. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Validity Of SMRI Sturgis Trademark Confirmed By Jury In Rapid City.’

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Custom Built For A surfer

Published by Cyril Huze October 30th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Heading to the shoreline to catch some big waves? Just ride with your surfboard kept in place by bespoke quick release board racks. This “surf bike” is based on a Kawasaki W650 (referring to the engine displacement), a model introduced in 1999 resembling British motorcycles of the early 1960s, notably the Triumph Bonneville. The W650 was lowered. received custom ace bars, a digital clock, custom stainless front and rear fenders, a Bates style headlight, Rizoma mirrors and indicators from Posh. The battery is now neatly nestled under the swing arm with the balance of the sparky stuff under the seat to achieve a less is more look. Built by Jeremy Tagand at Deus Customs.

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Ghosts In The Forecast

Published by Cyril Huze October 30th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

Halloween. Politicians, celebrities and public figures are fair game for your costumes. I know, it’s hard to come up with an original idea. But please, don’t wear a Caitlyn Jenner wig or an ISIS headscarf. Except if you insist to get a jerk reputation at the party.

Google published the highest number of searches made this week for Halloween costumes. 1. Harley Quinn. 2. Star Wars 3. Superhero 4. Pirate 5. Batman 6. Minnie Mouse 7. Witch 8. Minions 9. Joker 10. Wonder Woman

And for your information, US consumers will will spend about $6.9 billion for Halloween. $2.5 billion on adult, children, and pet costumes, followed by $2.1 billion on candy, $1.9 billion on decorations, and $330 million on greeting cards. Average spending will be $74.34 per person.

Happy Halloween To All.

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“The Walking Dead” Star Norman Reeds Scores Biker Reality Show On AMC

Published by Cyril Huze October 30th, 2015 in Editorial.

To “The Walking Dead” fans. Norman Reedus will host a new reality series that explores motorcycle culture in various American cities. Reedus, who plays the hunky but volatile Daryl Dixon on the zombie-themed drama, will travel the country on his bike and interview collectors, mechanics and motorcycle craftsmen. He will also make rest stops at biker bars and tattoo parlors.

Norman Reedus owns several motorcycles including a custom-made Triumph Scrambler that he rides to set while filming “Walking Dead” in Georgia. In the six hour-long episodes, he’ll be joined by fellow actors and musicians. “I’m able to decompress on a motorcycle. On a motorcycle, it’s a different kind of a vibe than anywhere else: You are wide open and it’s a feeling of freedom and isolation all at the same time.” said Reeds.

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LED Lamps For The 2015-Later Harley Road Glide

Published by Cyril Huze October 29th, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.

Blast darkness with the new Road Glide® LED Fog Lamp Mount Kit (P/N 68000183 Chrome, P/N 68000184 Gloss Black; $99.95) from Harley-Davidson®. Designed for 2015-later Road Glide motorcycles, the LED Fog Lamp Mount Kit replaces the turn signal mount and positions Daymaker Reflector LED Fog Lamps (sold separately) and the turn signals close to the fairing for an uncluttered profile.

The Daymaker Reflector LED Fog Lamps provide a supplemental pool of brilliant white light in front of the motorcycle. This kit will accommodate Original Equipment or accessory bullet turn signals and includes the left and right mounts and all required hardware. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson.

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Did You Know? The Harley-Davidson Topper Motor Scooter.

Published by Cyril Huze October 29th, 2015 in Builders and Editorial.

The Topper doesn’t belong to the classic Harley-Davidson image. It’s the only Motor Scooter that the Harley-Davidson Motor Company ever produced from 1960 (introduced in 1961) to 1965.

The United States Department of Transportation has always defined a Motor Scooter as a motorcycle that has a platform for the operator’s feet or has integrated footrests, and has a step-through architecture.

The Topper’s body was made of stamped steel, and the engine cover was in fiberglass. Storage was provided under the seat. Continue reading ‘Did You Know? The Harley-Davidson Topper Motor Scooter.’

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Fast Motorcycle Industry News

Published by Cyril Huze October 29th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

Progressive International Motorcycle Shows Now Offering A Business To Business Program. The International Motorcycle Shows are consumer motorcycle shows. The organization is launching a B2B (Business To Business) platform to help powersports retailers meet with parts, accessory and gear/apparel brands without having to travel too far from their stores to do so. “The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows’ business-to-business initiative is a unique opportunity for dealers who are strapped for time and personnel, as well as aftermarket manufacturers looking to leverage their presence at IMS,” said Tracy Harris, senior vice president of UBM Advanstar’s Powersports Group, which produces the IMS tour. The program is open to all powersports dealers nationwide, not just those in the 10 major markets where the tour will stop this upcoming season. Simply put, if you can get to an IMS venue, you can participate. The program will include business and new product presentations, training and the opportunity to visit the show floor to schedule meetings with desired brands. Vance & Hines and Performance Machine are two brands participating in all 10 markets. For more More info & registration at Motorcycle Shows B2B Program.

Leading Lessor Of Pre-Owned Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Chrome Capital To Rev Up Its Program After Receiving Cash Infusion. The Naples, Florida based company had some financial hiccups but is now ready to rev up its used Harleys leasing program thanks to raising the first $40 million of an $80 million senior credit line with co-lenders Allstar Bank of Commerce and Comvest Capital. Chrome Capital offers financing for used motorcycles through Harley-Davidson and independent dealers, and recently struck a deal with Polaris Industries Inc. to finance new motorcycle purchases at a limited number of its dealerships. The latest round of credit will help the company pay off some of its older debt, further expand its lease platform for its dealer partners and reach more dealers. “Two years ago, we had 250 to 300 dealers. We have almost 700 now,” said Patrick Pearson, Chrome’s marketing director. “We are now the exclusive leasing partner with Polaris for their Indian motorcycles,” said Peter Wasmer, Chrome’s CEO. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’

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Next Generation Triumph Motorcycles Unveiled

Published by Cyril Huze October 28th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

In London, England, Triumph Motorcycles just introduced five new Bonneville motorcycles. These new bikes are a result of a four-year development project from the ground up. A completely new, ground up chassis design unique to each motorcycle, incorporates all-new suspension and geometry for stunning handling, stability and neutrality tailored to the style and character of each motorcycle, making them easier to ride longer.

Starting out withthe fun and accessible rideability of the new 900cc Street Twin, to the timeless style of the now 1200cc Bonneville T120 and T120 Black, through to the significanly upgraded Thruxton and Thruxton R. It’s a range to cater for all tastes built specifically for the modern classic riding style, with more torque, more immediate and exciting power delivery with truly modern capabilities, including the pinpoint accuracy and instant throttle response of Triumph’s next generation ride-by-wire fuel-injection system, and liquid cooling that improves fuel economy. Each model has a totally new and unique exhaust system note that matches its character.

The New 1200cc Thruxton And Thruxton R. They are the ultimate modern classic Café Racers and feature Triumph authentic classic styling. They offer the power, braking, performance and handling to live up to their legendary name.

Building on the capability of the Thruxton, the Thruxton R is equipped with game-changing 1200cc high power ‘Thruxton spec’ engine. With a grunty power delivery and a massive peak torque figure of 112Nm at 4950 rpm – an amazing 62% higher than the previous generation Thruxton thanks to the new 8-valve engine. The all-new ‘low inertia – high performance’ six-speed engine features a lighter crank, higher compression and unique airbox.to a higher specification. The Thruxton R featuresBrembo monobloc calipers, Showa big piston forks, Ohlins rear suspension and Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa Tyres. Other features include ABS, traction control, slip assist clutch, ride-by-wire fuel-injection, fed by authentically styled twin throttle bodiesthrottle and rider modes.

The Bonneville T120 And T120 Black. Both keep the timeless style and iconic character of the original 1959 model. Powered by the all-new Bonneville 1200cc high torque engine, fed by beautiful, authentically styled, twin throttle bodies. The 1200cc high torque engine of the Bonneville T120 and T120 Black is built specifically for the modern classic riding style producing a massive peak torque figure of 105Nm at a low 3100 rpm – more than 54% higher than the previous generation T100. The exhaust system on the T120 and T120 Black, which has an authentic and clean straight through design, achieved by an ingenious twin skin design that covers the pipe run, through the cat box under the bike, and out again. ABS, traction control, slip assist clutch, ride-by-wire throttle and rider modes. Continue reading ‘Next Generation Triumph Motorcycles Unveiled’

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Küryakyn Inner Fairing Accents for 2015-later Harley-Davidson Road Glide Models

Published by Cyril Huze October 28th, 2015 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.

Küryakyn® offers a complete inner fairing overhaul with a host of new accents designed to tastefully customize the revamped cockpit. The following accents are made from durable injection-molded ABS available in chrome or gloss black finishes, with easy installation on all 2015-later Road Glides and 2016 Road Glide Ultras.

Tri-Line Stereo Trims. Available in two different applications to accommodate both 4.3 and 6.5GT BOOM! Box infotainment systems. The Stereo Trim Only (P/N 6964, Chrome; 6965, Gloss Black) frames the outer perimeter of both system display screens and includes a visor that extends from the top of the accent toward the rider to cover the bottom of the dash panel below the fairing vent.

Riders with 4.3-inch infotainment systems can choose the Stereo Trim with Face Plate (P/N 6966, Chrome; 6967, Gloss Black), which adorns the areas surrounding the screen and controls for a classic fully housed appearance that complements the entire lineup of Tri-Line inner fairing and body trim accessories. Stereo Trim Only MSRP: $29.99. Stereo Trim with Face Plate MSRP: $49.99. Continue reading ‘Küryakyn Inner Fairing Accents for 2015-later Harley-Davidson Road Glide Models’

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Indian Motorcycle® & King Baby® Announce Indian® By King Baby® Premium Jewelry Line

Published by Cyril Huze October 28th, 2015 in Accessories, Builders and Editorial.

The Indian Motorcycle collection features jewelry for motorcycle enthusiasts and include bracelets, pendants, rings, belt buckles, and key rings. King Baby® is world renowned for creating some of the most unique, highly-detailed, and most sought after premium jewelry collections. The Indian line is styled with the original aesthetic of Indian Motorcycle® and crafted in the USA. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle® & King Baby® Announce Indian® By King Baby® Premium Jewelry Line’

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S&S Announces Long Block Replacement Engines As An Alternative To Rebuilding Your Harley 80” Evo Big Twin

Published by Cyril Huze October 27th, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.

S&S cycle announced the introduction of V80 and V111 Long Block engines as an alternative to rebuilding stock 80” Harley-Davidson® Evolution® big twins. Both Long Block engines are set up to use your induction systems and the V80 will also work with stock ignition systems.
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The V80 is a great stock displacement engine for 1984-’99 big twins, that provides a little extra kick. For the rider who is looking for substantially more performance, the V111 Long Block’s 111 cubic inches makes it an excellent choice.

S&S Long Blocks will appeal to the Evolution owner who is faced with the choice of rebuilding his worn out stock engine or replacing it with a new power plant. “You spend a bunch of money rebuilding a stock engine and…well, you’ve still just got a stock engine. An S&S Long Block will deliver way more performance than a rebuilt stocker and is available off the shelf right now.” explains S&S VP of Marketing, David Zemla.

Both engines fit in a stock chassis without modifications, and both will run well with a re-jetted stock carburetor or re-calibrated EFI system. Of course, for maximum performance, an S&S Super E carburetor or EFI upgrade kit is recommended.

S&S Long 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 and S&S stands behind it with a two-year warranty. For more information, visit S&S Cycle Long Block Series

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Harley-Davidson Asks You To Burn Your Clothes And To Reconnect With Your Inner Child.

Published by Cyril Huze October 27th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.

This Harley-Davidson commercial produced in Germany won Advertising Cannes Festival “Lions Young Director Award” for Best Web Film on behalf of director Andreas Bruns. In 2 1/2 minutes, the film is telling the story of a white collar executive who strives to reconnect with his inner child. Working late, staring at office building bleak lights, the salaryman fantasizes of having a less boring life, of recapturing his child innocence and freedom. No worry, this man is going to find his way out because whatever is in you is out there. Just ride A Harley in the open space… A good commercial for a good strategy?

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Picture Of The Week

Published by Cyril Huze October 27th, 2015 in Editorial.

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Bolt On Custom Parts And Get A SpeedFreak Sportster Like This One

Published by Cyril Huze October 26th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

The “Bolt On and Ride” is a program by Custom Chrome Europe to promote the custom parts the company is distributing.

Each year, 5 very reputable builders are chosen to build custom motorcycles featuring, in addition of modified factory parts, those found in the CCE catalog.

To be commissioned is a great honor and each builder is being rewarded with his creation touring with CCE in all major shows all over Europe.

One of the 5 elected to produce a 2015 “Bolt On And Ride” CCE custom bike is world-class customizer Tobias Guckel from TGS Cycles, a multi-time European Champion, who became famous for his legendary series of ”Seppsters” I to III. (the II is an Ice Chopper Racer!)

Although Tobias Guckel has a weakness for the Cafe Racer style, during all his career he has shown great talent building both old school and high tech bikes, even succeeding mixing both styles. As a platform for his project, Tobias received a 2006 Sportster 883-R, an entry level bike and not exactly a racer, although the Sportster is born on the gritty dirt tracks and drag strips of the 1950’s. No hesitation about the way to muscle up a 883 XL. Tobias went to the evident best choice, a 1986-2014 S&S Cycle 1200 cc kit (3 1/2” bore cylinders & pistons) ready to assemble out of the box, a bolt-on job for because it doesn’t require to remove the motor from the frame. For old school appearance, Panhead style X-Zotic rocker boxes and a Vulcan Cam Cover were installed. A Keihin carb, a Joker Machine air cleaner and a wrapped BSL Drager Drag exhaust complete the motor makeover. Continue reading ‘Bolt On Custom Parts And Get A SpeedFreak Sportster Like This One’

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New Sherman Twin Cam Rocker Covers By EMD

Published by Cyril Huze October 25th, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.

Give a new strong personality to your Twin Cam engine with these new Sherman Rocker Boxes designed and machined by EMD (Esteves Motorcycle Design) The :Sherman” brand name is of course in reference to the battle tank used by the United States and some other Western Allies during World War II.

They are an easy and quick fix to the visually bland and boring HD factory covers. An industrial and brutish design that will work well with both old school and modern looking bikes. You will not ride faster but your motor will get a real edge with a new soul and charisma.

Made from die cast aluminum with CNC-milled gasket surfaces with identical dimensions and tolerances to OEM covers. For bolt-on installation, you can re-use the factory hardware. Offered in raw or “black cut”. An exclusive product from EMD. Special launch price of $249.00 for the pair for orders passed before October 31, 2015. My advice: at this price I would rush my order online at EMD USA or for more info call 818-268-3789.

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Fast Motorcycle Industry News

Published by Cyril Huze October 25th, 2015 in Events.

End Of The Funding Of The highly Unpopular Motorcycle-Only Roadside Checkpoints. The United States House of Representatives Transportation Committee passed a new long term highway legislation. The bill contains a few provisions near and dear to the motorcyclists of America. Most importantly, it ends the federal funding of the highly unpopular motorcycle-only roadside checkpoints. “Ending the checkpoints was, and was priority number one for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation,” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs for the MRF. Additionally, the bill re-launches the much-needed Federal Motorcycle Advisory Council (FMAC). The bill revives the FMAC for the purpose of developing recommendations to the sitting Secretary of Transportation on all things regarding motorcycles and motorcycle-related infrastructure.

The 32nd Love Ride Was The Last One. This past weekend and after 32 years, the Love Ride, the largest and longest-running one day motorcycle charitable fundraising event in the world, had its grand finale. It was the Love Ride’s final curtain call. Founded in 1984 by Harley-Davidson of Glendale dealer, Oliver Shokouh, the festival has since raised over $24 million in charitable funds for organizations such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), United Service Organization (USO), Autism Speaks, and long term support for the Glendale Community College. The 2015 Grand Finale’s beneficiary was the Wounded Warrior Project.

In the words of the festival’s founder, Mr. Oliver Shokouh: “It’s been my honor to serve these causes for decades. And I’m eternally grateful for the outpouring of support that so many gave this year as we ride off into the sunset with over $1,000,000 raised for Wounded Warrior Project and a total legacy of over $25,000,000 for charities to date. Lives are changed because of your attendance and participation over these years and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” For the last Love Ride, Grand Marshall Jay Leno — who has co-hosted the event with founder Oliver Shokouh for the last 26 years — led a field that included honorary marshals Peter Fonda (“Easy Rider”) and Robert Patrick (“Terminator” and TV’s “Scorpion”) as well as Harley-Davidson scion and Love Ride honorary chairman Willie G. Davidson. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’

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Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® Kick-Off 2015/2016 Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Competition

Published by Cyril Huze October 24th, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

The Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® (IMS), will kick-off the seventh year of its Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Competition, a custom motorcycle builder competition, in Portland, OR (Oct 31-Nov. 1, 2015), the first stop of its nationwide Tour. There will be a total 10 IMS Shows in 10 cities for a chance to win a piece of $100,000 in cash and prizes. About 400 custom built bikes are expected to compete in these shows. Four cash prize winners will be chosen at each show, with the inaugural U.S. Championship Round held in Chicago, IL (February 12-14, 2016.) The Championship Round will feature prizes up to five times that of the other cities, topping out at an impressive $10,000 in the Freestyle class.

This highly anticipated annual competition is proudly sponsored by J&P Cycles and Harley-Davidson, who be returning as the title sponsor of the Modified Harley-Davidson class. The Championship Round will feature prizes up to five times that of the other cities, topping out at an impressive $10,000 in the Freestyle class. This highly anticipated annual competition is proudly sponsored by J&P Cycles and Harley-Davidson, who be returning as the title sponsor of the Modified Harley-Davidson class. Continue reading ‘Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® Kick-Off 2015/2016 Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Competition’

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Solid Brass 5 ¾” Headlights

Published by Cyril Huze October 24th, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.

The gold-like appearance of brass (a metal alloy made of copper and zinc) has a retro appeal fitting well with many new old school type custom bikes.

These 5 ¾” headlights feature a housing deep drawn from a sheet of solid brass, not simply plated like others on the market. It implies that brass will tarnish for a more vintage look, or stay shiny if you polish it on a regular basis.

Each light comes complete with a 12-volt sealed beam, red high beam indicator and bottom stud mount.

Depending on your taste you can order the brass lights with either a chrome or black ring. Part #1300BRB features the black ring and #1300BRC comes with a chrome ring.

Both versions retail for $221.95. At Paughco or call 775-246-5738

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New Triumph Bonneville Models To Be Unveiled October 28, 2015. Teaser Video.

Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2015 in Builders, Events and Videos.

The Triumph Bonneville. With 50 years of heritage, one of the most famous names in motorcycling. The new “Bonnies” are coming with everything that comes with modern engineering. It is rumored that the three 2016 models are getting larger size engines (current offering is 865 cc), tweaked for new European regulations and maybe liquid cooled. To create the buzz, the Hinckley, UK manufacturer released this video showing some details of the new models keeping with the Cafe Racer and Bobber classic look.

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Double Winner Of The Championship Of Bike Building At Las Vegas Bikefest And Championship Of The Americas At Orlando AIMExpo

Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

On October 5 during Las Vegas BikeFest, Jeremy Cupp from LC Fabrications was selected by his peers as the 2015 Artistry in Iron champion with the Seven custom bike featured here. Jeremy built a flawless chassis from raw metal to house a motor constructed with a Ducati head mated to a Buell bottom end. He will be back in 2016 to defend his title. He received a custom made bracelet designed and presented by Steve Soffa and a check of $10,000.

On October 18 during the Orlando AIMExpo, Jeremy won again with the same custom bike the Freestyle Championship Of The Americas, earning an expenses-paid trip to compete in the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building in Cologne, Germany during next year’s INTERMOT motorcycle trade show. Old school craftsmanship at its best. Congrats to Jeremy Cupp.

At the AIMExpo, among the winners was Bill Dodge from Bling Cycles, who won the Retro Custom Class, Jim “Preacher” Goodrich from Preachers Hot Rod Cycles, who won the Performance Custom Class, and Dell Battle from Dangerous Dezigns, who won the Street Custom Class.

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Bolero Seat For Early Harley Sportsters

Published by Cyril Huze October 23rd, 2015 in Customs and Seats.

A new clean, thin but still comfortable seat for early Sportster models. Blending old and new it’s what most of Roland Sands custom parts are all about. Fitment is for 1982-2003 Sportsters. MSRP #329.95.

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Toe Rest Cruise Pegs For Indian And Victory Motorcycles

Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2015 in Controls and Customs.

The all-new Toe Rest Cruise Pegs from Küryakyn® offer a comfortable alternate foot position without the added bulk of traditional highway pegs. These minimalist toe rest mounts attach directly to the engine guard to allow positioning of the operator’s heel on the floorboard with the front of the foot resting just behind the engine guard for a comfortable cruising option.

The two-piece design fastens around 1-1/4” engine guards and can be easily adjusted to dial in perfect positioning without removal. A premium rubber compound provides a no-slip surface for added traction while also dampening vibration. For Indian Chief, Chieftain and Roadmaster models, as well as Victory Cross Country, Cross Roads and Magnum models (not recommended for Cross Country Tour or models with Victory Hard Lowers. MSRP: $99.99. Küryakyn® Toe Rest Cruise Pegs.

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What To Think Of Harley-Davidson Disappointing 3rd Quarter 2015 Results

Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

In a conference call, Harley-Davidson explained its poor performance due to a loss of market share due to new product introductions from competitors in the US, price-slashing by Asian competitors, a less lucrative product mix and unfavorable currency exchange.

Harley-Davidson sold more than half of America’s motorcycles last quarter (52.4% of all motorcycles in the US last quarter, down from 56.3% just a year ago) and that wasn’t nearly enough for investors. Harley-Davidson Inc (HOG) lost close to 12.93% during Tuesday October 19 trading day and 2.53% again on Wednesday. Despite having a famous brand, Harley Davidson’s reputation for quality suffered a big hit this year. The amount of recalls in the last 3 quarters (185,000 during last summer) outstripped recalls in the last three years. After $32.0 million in recall costs, plenty of investors were willing to cut their losses on HOG stock.

Harley-Davidson US Market Share Heavy Cruisers (2008-1015 YTD)
Harley-Davidson’s average motorcycle revenue per unit decreased $899 compared to last year’s third quarter driven by a less lucrative product mix and unfavorable currency exchange rate. A challenging business environment contributed to a 6.5% decline in net income, down to 140.3 million. Harley initially dropped its 2015 shipment totals in the first quarter from 282,000-287,000 motorcycles to 276,000-281,000 units. Now they’re cutting shipment totals again to 265,000-270,000 motorcycles worldwide in 2015. Continue reading ‘What To Think Of Harley-Davidson Disappointing 3rd Quarter 2015 Results’

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Sturgis, SD Citizens’ Alliance Asks for Help Building Bikers’ Scenic Byway

Published by Cyril Huze October 22nd, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

(From a PR) A group of vision-minded local residents, Sturgis Rally supporters, community leaders and ranchers are responding to the Meade County Commission’s efforts to provide vital access to I-90 by forming an alliance to help fund the construction of a 4.5-mile bikers’ Scenic Byway. Those who will enjoy the many benefits of the road, including avoiding long, hot rally traffic jams each year, now have the opportunity to help build one of the most sought-after scenic access roads in the Black Hills.

While the Meade County Commission has budgeted for part of the construction cost, the development is projected to be $1 million short. For this reason, the group is asking residents, suppliers, ranchers, truckers, tourists, rally businesses and motorcycle enthusiasts who would benefit from the new scenic byway to help contribute toward its completion. The roadway, aptly named “Fort Meade Way,” will safely offer visitors and residents alike an unfettered, scenic route between I-90 Exit 37 and Highways 34 and 79, Fort Meade Veterans Hospital, Bear Butte, and the rally campgrounds and concert venues east of Sturgis. The group is asking anyone who can contribute toward the construction of the new access road to do so at Biker Scenic ByWay

While many roads across the nation are funded through toll fees, the group is instead asking for one-time contributions of as little as $10. Those who will use the road daily, such as farmers, ranchers and businesses, may consider contributing more for the convenience the new roadway will afford. Continue reading ‘Sturgis, SD Citizens’ Alliance Asks for Help Building Bikers’ Scenic Byway’

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