Cyril Huze Post

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Polaris Reports Record Third Quarter 2015 Results. Motorcycle Consumer Retail Demand Up Over 60%

Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Polaris Industries Inc. today reported record third quarter net income of $155.2 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2015, an increase of ten percent from the prior year’s third quarter net income of $140.8 million. Earnings per share were a record $2.30 per diluted share for the third quarter of 2015 compared to $2.06 per diluted share for the same period in 2014. Sales for the third quarter 2015 totaled a record $1,456.0 million, an increase of 12 percent over last year’s third quarter sales of $1,302.3 million.

The Third Quarter Highlights: • Polaris Sales increased 12% year-over-year to a record $1,456.0 million (up 16% in constant currency)•North American retail sales increased 7% year-over-year • Net income increased 10% to $155.2 million year-over-year • Motorcycle consumer retail demand remained strong in the third quarter, up over 60%; motorcycle production rate improved sequentially from the 2015 second quarter • Maintaining and narrowing full-year 2015 sales and earnings guidance range to $7.37 to $7.42 per diluted share, an increase of 11% to 12% year-over-year based on full-year 2015 sales growth guidance of 10% to 11%

“Our record third quarter results continue to reflect the efficacy of our long-term strategy and the resiliency of the Polaris organization, as motorcycle growth accelerated, ORV share gains continued and our developing adjacencies built momentum. We accomplished this in a difficult environment, with the combination of weakening currencies and softening economies adding to the pressure we face from the sluggish oil and agriculture markets, all in the midst of the most competitive powersports landscape we have seen in nearly a decade. It is encouraging to see our Polaris team use these challenging times to get better and stronger, while displaying renewed determination to win across all our markets. Polaris has delivered solid financial performance in the first nine months of 2015, and despite facing stiff headwinds that show little sign of abating in the near term, our financial position remains robust and our growth opportunities plentiful.” stated Scott Wine, Polaris’ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Motorcycle sales increased 154 percent to $160.4 million for the third quarter of 2015 compared to same period last year due to continued strong demand for Indian motorcycles and the new Slingshot® roadster. Victory, Indian Motorcycle and Slingshot North American retail sales, combined, increased over 60 percent during the third quarter of 2015 driven by Indian Motorcycle and Slingshot, while North American industry midsize and heavyweight motorcycle retail sales were up low single digits compared to the third quarter of 2014.

Indian Motorcycles retail sales were up significantly in the third quarter with ongoing strong demand for all models. Product availability for Indian motorcycles improved during the 2015 third quarter as the Company continued to increase throughput at its Spirit Lake, Iowa, motorcycle factory. Victory retail sales in the third quarter of 2015 were lower than the prior year partly due to low product availability.
Retail sales for the new Slingshot three-wheeled roadster continued to outpace Company expectations during the third quarter. Polaris North American motorcycle dealer inventories, including Slingshot, during the 2015 third quarter increased about 30 percent compared to the same period in the prior year but remain below levels needed to meet current and backlogged retail demand. Continue reading ‘Polaris Reports Record Third Quarter 2015 Results. Motorcycle Consumer Retail Demand Up Over 60%’

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The Brook. A New Brand Of 125-250 cc Rigid Custom Motorcycles To Get Started With Motorcycling

Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Starting motorcycling with a big, heavy motorcycle can be extremely intimidating, probably even discouraging many. Not only youngsters, women, but also some adults… Launching a small cc’s motorcycles brand with a full custom appearance at a very reasonable price may be a great idea for all those not yet ready to order and ride one of the big Harley, Victory and Indian offerings.

A Swiss/German team just launched The Brook, an entry level brand offering “out of the box” custom factory bikes inspired by the current custom motorcycling scene. After 3 years of development searching for component suppliers and nailing down the production logistics, the final product is a quite appealing ride introduced October 17 to potential dealers who had the chance not only to see but also ride the Brook motorcycle around Lake Garda in Italy.

It must be noted that among the 4 partners, Michael “Brandy” Brandner and Radja Stritzko both from Mayhem-Kustomz are established European customizers with decades of experience in building full blown radical custom motorcycles. For marketing and production reasons, with partners Thomas Mergler and Oliver Arnold, it was decided that 2 models should be offered. One 125 cc for the 16+ market of younger riders and one 250 cc for the most adult/mature rider. Of course, it allows for the use of the same basic frame/bodywork platform, simplifying production and cost. The chosen motor is the popular among motorcycle manufacturers single-cylinder OHC 2-valve motor of Japanese heritage, but now offered as the powerplant of much more glamouros custom motorcycle. Continue reading ‘The Brook. A New Brand Of 125-250 cc Rigid Custom Motorcycles To Get Started With Motorcycling’

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Avon Tyres Introduces 15,000 Mile Limited Treadwear Warranty

Published by Cyril Huze October 21st, 2015 in Wheels.

Avon Tyres announced today a new 15,000-mile (24,000-kilometer) limited treadwear warranty program covering the popular Cobra touring and Storm 3D X-M sport touring tire lines.

“We develop industry-leading products, and stand behind them with great warranties like the new treadwear warranty program for the Cobra and Storm 3D X-M,” said Ken Warner, Vice President of Marketing for Avon Motorcycle Tyres North America.

If the tread wears to the treadwear indicators within the first 15,000 miles of normal use, the company will award a credit adjustment in the form of a prepaid card for the unused mileage. Available on tires purchased in the U.S. and Canada, the warranty covers the tire for a maximum of two years from the date of purchase.

Certain terms and conditions apply. The treadwear warranty applies to the original purchaser only when installed by a retail motorcycle dealership, and registered within 10 days of the original purchase. Incorrect inflation, off-road use, racing, sidecar application, dyno testing and deliberate or malicious damage will invalidate the warranty.

For warranty details, visit Avon Moto Mileage Warranty.

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Harley-Davidson Third-Quarter 2015 Earnings Fall. Stock Plummets In Pre-Market.

Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2015 in Builders and Events.

This morning Tuesday October 20 before Wall Street opening , Harley-Davidson Inc. posted a lower quarterly net profit as global new motorcycles sales fell more than 1 percent. Sales in the U.S. fell 2.5 percent. Net income of $140.3 million is down about 6.5% from $150.1 million from a year earlier. Harley-Davidson shares fell more than 8% at 8.15 a.m. ET in pre-market trading as its earnings fell below analysts’ forecasts.

In the wake of an increased competitive environment, the company said it will increase marketing and product development while allocating about $30 million to $35 million in the fourth quarter for “employee separation” and reorganization costs. An early retirement incentive program will be offered to eligible employees in advance of what Harley believes will be a global reduction of around 250 salaried positions across the company, largely completed by the end of the year. Adjustments in positions and structure will be made in essentially every part of the business to achieve the right focus and support the increased demand-generating investments.”

Company Highlights Four Focus Areas for Increased Investment In 2016, Harley-Davidson will increase its investment in customer-facing marketing by approximately 65 percent above 2015 levels. The company also plans to increase its investment in new product development by approximately 35 percent from 2015 levels. These changes represent an approximate $70 million increase in investment to drive demand compared to 2015.

These investments will be focused in four primary areas: • Increasing product and brand awareness • Growing new ridership in the U.S. • Increasing and enhancing brand access • Accelerating the cadence and impact of new products

“In the short term, because the third quarter did not unfold as we expected, we are lowering full-year shipment guidance. Matt Levatich, President and Chief Executive Officer, Harley-Davidson, Inc. said in a statement. The company now expects to ship 265,000 to 270,000 motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide in 2015, flat to 2 percent lower than in 2014. The latest projection was revised downward from previous guidance of 276,000 to 281,000. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Third-Quarter 2015 Earnings Fall. Stock Plummets In Pre-Market.’

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Polaris Starting Paint Facility In Spearfish, South Dakota To Provide Additional Capacity To Indian And Victory Spirit Lake Factory

Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

It was well known that Polaris (New York Stock Exchange under symbol PII) was under equipped to provide all additional paint work required by the volume of orders for new Indian and Victory models. During the last months, the company was looking for a location for a new liquid paint facility and announced yesterday that it purchased the facility and paint equipment occupied by Lehman Trikes at 125 Industrial Drive in Spearfish, South Dakota, prior to Lehman’s move to California. Polaris will employ approximately 80 people in a two-shift operation to paint Indian & Victory motorcycles at the 51,000 sq.ft facility. The company is still hiring new collaborators and production is scheduled to begin this quarter 2015.

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Joke Of The Week

Published by Cyril Huze October 20th, 2015 in Editorial.

A man calls his wife to advise that he has been invited to fly to Canada with his boss and several of his friends for fishing. “We’ll be gone for a long weekend. This is a good opportunity for me to get that promotion I’ve been waiting for, so would you please pack enough clothes for a 3-day weekend? And also would you please get out my rod and tackle box from the attic? We’re leaving at 4:30 pm from the office, and I will swing by the house to pick my things up … Oh ! And please pack my new navy blue silk pajamas.”

The wife thinks this sounds a bit odd, but being the good wife, she does what her husband has asked. Following the long weekend, he returns home, a little tired, but otherwise looking good. The wife welcomes him home and asks if he had caught many fish? He says, “Yes! Lots of Walleyes, some Bass, and Pike.” He continued, “But why didn’t you pack my new blue silk pajamas like I asked you to?”

You’ll love the answer.

The wife replies, “I did, they’re in your tackle box”.

NEVER, never, never, try to outsmart a woman !!!!!!!!!!!

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The DUU. Italian Design. American S&S X-Wedge Performance.

Published by Cyril Huze October 19th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

A common perception of the current V-Twin custom motorcycle scene is that all builders build new old school style motorcycles or do makeovers of classic and vintage bikes. Like other magazines, I am probably responsible for giving this impression. As a matter of fact, many builders in the US and even more abroad are dedicated to creating machines using only the best of today’s technology.

The DUU ( the Milanese word for number 2) is a perfect example of a very sophisticated custom motorcycle where quality is measured by the way the best performance parts are mixed together to produce the best of each other. Objective is to create a machine sweating performance even when standing still and of course offering a very pleasing aesthetic configuration.

The Italian duo behind custom shop CR&S is considered in Italy one of the best team of experts in motorcycle history and technology. Giorgio Sarti, engineer and journalist, is the author of most motorcycle books published in Italy, and Giovanni Cabassi owns one of the most important collection of historical motorcycles. Because of their knowledge, they could have leaned towards restoring old bikes. Instead, they build modern high end bikes hoping to contribute to the future of motorcycling. Continue reading ‘The DUU. Italian Design. American S&S X-Wedge Performance.’

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Orlando International AIMExpo Postcards (Part 3)

Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Events.

After 2 days reserved to the trade, the Orlando American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) kicked off its consumer weekend activities and saw the largest turnout in the event’s three-year history. Just days after brand new products were showcased to media and industry, the doors were opened to impatient consumers, riders and enthusiasts alike to experience the all-new offerings. Not only were consumers able to witness the new products, but they were also able to get an autograph of legend Malcolm Smith and to demo the 2016 bike models at AIMExpo Outdoors. A few more postcards from the event and a short video of the Garage Party offered by the soon to be open Orlando Ace Cafe.

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2015 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony At AIMExpo

Published by Cyril Huze October 18th, 2015 in Events.

Yesterday Saturday evening October 17 at the Orange County Convention Center’s Chapin Theater, after a VIP party, the Hall of Fame welcomed six new members: road racer John Kocinski, former Harley-Davidson CEO Richard Teerlink, off-road racer Rodney Smith, entrepreneur John Parham, dirt tracker Alex Jorgensen and Yamaha race team manager Keith McCarty. AMA also looked back on the accomplishments of Multi-time road racing champion and 1999 inductee Wayne Rainey, the new 2015 Hall of Fame Legend.

John Kocinski, who began racing as a teenager, won the AMA 250 Grand Prix Championship in 1987, 1988 and 1989 and took the 1989 600 Supersport win at Daytona International Speedway. In 1990, in his first full season with Team Roberts, he won the 250cc World Championship in Europe, claiming eight pole positions and notching seven wins on tracks he had never seen before.

In 1997, he won the World Superbike championship, scoring 10 wins on a Honda RC45, the bike’s crowning world title. Kocinski went on to record 18 AMA 250 GP wins. During his career, he raced on teams that included AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame members David Aldana, Erv Kanemoto, Eddie Lawson and Wayne Rainey, including Team Roberts assembled by Kenny Roberts. He officially retired from racing in 2002. Kocinski was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the Road Racing category.

Rich Teerlink was part of the executive team responsible for Harley-Davidson’s financial turnaround in the late 1980s. As president and CEO, Teerlink helped establish the company’s new mission, values, objectives and strategies. His approach included working closely with employees at all levels of the organization, as well as with union leaders. In addition, he believed a participative approach with dealers, suppliers and riders would lead to the development of mutually beneficial relationships.

Teerlink joined Harley-Davidson in 1981 as chief financial officer. That year, the company posted an operating loss of $15.5 million on revenue of $210 million. When Teerlink retired as chairman and CEO in 1999, Harley posted operating profits of $416 million on revenue of $2.45 billion and held nearly 50 percent of the U.S. market for 650cc and larger motorcycles. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the Ambassadors and Industry category.

Rodney Smith started riding motorcycles in the hills of Northern California with his family in the 1960s and ’70s. From there, he blossomed into a local motocross standout and then an international contender. Smith accepted an offer to race in Brazil in 1985 and won five Brazilian national championships. He then moved to the world level and finished third in the 1988 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme 250cc World Motocross Championships before returning to America in 1990.

Back in the United States, Smith turned his focus to off-road racing, where he became one of the most dominant riders of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Smith won 13 AMA-sanctioned national championship series, including five Grand National Cross Country titles, three AMA National Hare Scrambles titles and five AMA National Reliability Enduro Championships. He also excelled in the International Six Days Enduro, winning multiple gold medals, competing on the premier U.S. Trophy Team and twice earning top-American honors.

John Parham opened his first shop with a partner in 1975 in his hometown of Anamosa, Iowa. Four years later, he branched out with his wife Jill, starting J. Parham Enterprises. This company came to be known as J&P Cycles.

By the 1990s, J&P Cycles had grown into one of the largest motorcycle accessory mail order companies in the world.

Parham stayed on board to run J&P Cycles after selling it to Motorsports Action Group in 2001. At that time, he also focused additional energy and resources on preserving motorcycling history. In 2001, Parham relocated the National Motorcycle Museum to Anamosa, where it has continued to thrive and grow into one of the world’s foremost motorcycle museums. Continue reading ‘2015 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony At AIMExpo’

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Orlando International AIMExpo Postcards (Part 2)

Published by Cyril Huze October 17th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Events.

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Ace Cafe Orlando To Open Early 2016

Published by Cyril Huze October 17th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

At the AIMExpo where the London Ace Cafe is exhibiting, I had the opportunity to talk to the managing team of the soon to be launched Orlando Ace Cafe. After the usual couple of delays expected when you build such a big project while restoring downtown old buildings, the staff confirmed to me that a soft launch is scheduled at the end of January followed by a grand opening party early February 2016.

Inspired by the rich heritage and traditions of the London Ace Cafe, the spirit will remain the same. The Orlando establishment will embody the same values today as it did when it was built as a transport cafe in 1938, and which became a magnet for the Ton-Up Boys (and girls) and Rockers. Petrol and Rock ’n’ roll. The Orlando Ace Cafe intends to represent the most powerful fusion of yesterday’s and today’s bike and car scene.

The Ace Cafe brand has become a global phenomenom, that has not been achieved by chance. Every year, the Ace Cafe organizes events all over the world and is represented at numerous major motorcycle, auto and rock ’n’ roll events worldwide. There are now licensees operating in six different countries, all working together to promote Ace Cafe and its ethos! Orlando is The 1st Ace Cafe in the USA.

The Orlando team includes (from left to right in picture above) George Grigor, General Manager. Steve Glum, Chief Marketing Officer. Eric Forward, Chief Financial Officer. Mark McKee, Chief Gear Head. Mark Wilsmore is the managing director of the legendary Ace Cafe on the North Circular in London (photo Mark Wilsmore left with Steve Glum)

The Orlando building will house on several floors the Ace Cafe’s Rockers Retail shop (home to official Ace Cafe London & Ace Cafe Orlando apparel), a 3,000 sf motor-gallery overlooking an 80-foot length of windows along Livingston Street, where vintage and custom bikes from around the world will be displayed, as well as original pieces of motor-inspired art by some of the most creative artists in their field. The space will be doing double duty as a showroom and as a private event space, holding over 100 people. All of the bikes and art will also be available for purchase onsite, as well as on Ace Cafe Orlando. Continue reading ‘Ace Cafe Orlando To Open Early 2016’

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Orlando International AIMExpo Kick Off (Part 1)

Published by Cyril Huze October 16th, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

About 550 OEM and aftermarket exhibitors of the industry are on the floor of the Orlando Orange County Convention Center for the 3rd edition of the AIMExpo. Dealers and trade from the US and Canada were welcomed yesterday and today (Oct 15-16) to the unparalleled all-in-one platform – V-Twin & Metric – that brings every facet of the powersports marketplace together. Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 17-18) the show will be open to consumer visitors.

AIMExpo Show Director Cinnamon Kernes, and AIMExpo show creators Mike Webster and Larry Little have built what is now North America largest trade and retail show. The latest 2016 models are displayed for attendees to see and experience, both inside the OCCC, and on the demo ride courses at AIMExpo Outdoors!. A total of 17 OEMs are represented on the exhibitor floor. The 2015 AIMExpo is featuring a large V-Twin presence of manufacturers, part vendors and custom builders from Canada to the tip of South America competing in a bike show that will serve as a path to compete in the 2016 World Championship in Germany.

The 2015 AIMExpo is expected to draw 18,000 to 20,000 attendees and the Orlando Chamber Of Commerce estimates that the event will generate a local economic impact of of about $35 million. A few postcards from the opening day. More custom motorcycles and list of the retail events after the jump. Continue reading ‘Orlando International AIMExpo Kick Off (Part 1)’

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Zero Motorcycles 2016 Line Up Unveiled At Orlando AIMExpo.

Published by Cyril Huze October 16th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Offering faster charging, longer range, higher performance and great value are the objectives of all electric motorcycle manufacturers. At the AIMExpo, Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, unveiled their complete line of 2016 motorcycles. Following a record year in 2015, the California-based manufacturer promises to inspire an even broader range of riders with two new models, an innovative new motor design, faster charging and advanced lithium-ion cell chemistry powering the highest battery capacity and efficiency to date. Zero delivers even greater value by lowering the price on two base models while adding more features and performance throughout. “2016 marks our tenth year of pioneering electric motorcycles,” said Zero Motorcycles CEO Richard Walker. “In an industry where sales are pretty flat and breakthrough innovations hard to find, we continue to experience rapid growth by investing in technology that delivers excitement and a ride experience unmatched by anything.”

The 2016 announcement began with the introduction of two new motorcycles, bringing Zero’s offering to six distinct models. The supermoto-inspired Zero FXS promises to turn mundane city streets into an urban playground. It features 70 ft-lb of torque, weighs less than 300 pounds and boasts components specifically tailored to provide exceptional control and responsiveness on the street. Adventure riders demanding maximum performance will enjoy the new Zero DSR. With 106 ft-lb of torque, the versatile dual sport is quick on the pavement and demonstrates greater prowess on dirt roads and trails. Continue reading ‘Zero Motorcycles 2016 Line Up Unveiled At Orlando AIMExpo.’

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L.E.D. Saddlebag Extensions for Victory Baggers

Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2015 in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.

As far as I know, these are the industry’s first and only available saddlebag extensions with integrated L.E.D. functionality for Victory® models. These new Küryakyn’s L.E.D. Saddlebag Extensions provide a clean and affordable stretched saddlebag appearance with the benefit of additional full-time L.E.D. running lights. The red lenses with high-output L.E.D.’s provide greater rider visibility and are styled to match the factory rear lighting found on Victory baggers.

The housings feature a wraparound design that offers a sleek custom appearance to complement OEM trim while maintaining ample ground and muffler clearance. Installation requires no drilling and features hassle-free plug-and-play wiring. Available in chrome or gloss black finishes, Küryakyn L.E.D. Saddlebag Extensions fit ’10-’16 Cross Country, Cross Country Tour and Magnum models, ’10-’14 Cross Roads models with hard saddlebags, and ’12-’13 Hard Ball models. (NOTE: Will also install with Victory Hard Bag Saddlebag Bottom Rails, not recommended for use with aftermarket mufflers with larger diameter than stock.). P/N 7170 – Chrome, P/N 7171 Gloss Black (coming soon) MSRP: $269.99. K Küryakyn’s L.E.D. Saddlebag Extensions.

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Saddle Shield Heat Deflectors for Indian By Küryakyn

Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.

Indian® riders can tame high temps produced by the potent Thunder Stroke™ 111 powerplant with the new Saddle Shield Heat Deflectors from Küryakyn now available for all ’14-later Chief, Chieftain, and Roadmaster models.

The Saddle Shield Heat Deflectors redirect heat output from the engine and head pipes away from the rider’s inner thighs to improve overall cruising comfort.

The shields are ideal for short or extended rides, warmer riding climates, and also work wonders when stuck in stop-and-go traffic.
A reflective smoke finish provides a refined and aesthetically pleasing appearance that suits Indian Motorcycle styling.

Made from durable high-strength polycarbonate, the Saddle Shield Heat Deflectors bolt directly to the rear tank mount using existing hardware for hassle-free installation on ’14-later Indian Chief Dark Horse, Vintage, and Classic, as well as Chieftain and Roadmaster models. P/N 7181, MSRP: $79.99. Küryakyn Saddle Shield Heat Deflectors for Indian .

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Custom Motorcycles. Start Something Now.

Published by Cyril Huze October 15th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Do it your way, whatever your budget, your brand and bike model, whenever you have time. Building stuff is very rewarding on many levels. Nobody asking you to re-invent the motorcycle. When I saw these non-American low budget bikes built by 3 friends who are not full time professional builders in Barcelona, Spain (a country where you are not allowed to change the geometry or cut anything, unless it has been inspected and signed off by an engineer…) I thought it would illustrate my purpose. If you love motorcycles, start something now…

BMW r-100 rs

Yamaha sr 250

Kawasaki kz650

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But What Is The Legal Definition Of An Autocycle?

Published by Cyril Huze October 14th, 2015 in Builders and Editorial.

An autocycle is not a motorcycle and it’s not a car. 3 wheels, a steering wheel instead of handlebars, 1 or 2 car seats, an enclosed cockpit or not, a high performance engine, a gas pedal, the attocycle may feel like a car more than a motorcycle, but is not required to meet automobile safety standards. As demonstrated by the arrival and interest of several manufacturers from Polaris with the Slingshot to the Campagna T-Rex to Tanom Motors and several more attocycle boutiques, the autocycle seems to attract disparate demographics, from adrenaline junkies to well-to-do baby boomers looking for new thrills with a perceived extra comfort and safety versus riding a motorcycle. These manufacturers, without knowing the potential market size, are all convinced that this type of recreational vehicles could go mainstream

The US NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) regulations classify three-wheeled vehicles as motorcycles which have fewer regulations. But many US states want to classify those as described above as autocycles. To date, 26 states have enacted or are currently developing a classification for those specific setup three-wheeled vehicles. Some want to limit the classification to enclosed vehicles. The legal definition of an autocycle is still confusing. Continue reading ‘But What Is The Legal Definition Of An Autocycle?’

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Bahn Inner Fairing Accents for 2014-later Harley-Davidson Touring Models

Published by Cyril Huze October 14th, 2015 in Accessories and Customs.

Now available from Bahn™ is a trio of accessories designed to cohesively enhance the inner fairing for ’14-later Harley-Davidson® Electra Glides, Street Glides and Tri Glides. Bahn’s all-new Switch Panel Accent, Media Door & Side Panel Accents and Ignition Cover are machined from premium forged aluminum available in chrome or black anodized “Tuxedo” finishes.

Bahn Ignition Switch Cover for H-D Touring. Complete the inner fairing overhaul with the forged and machined aluminum Bahn Ignition Cover. Precision-machined textured accents enhance the smooth finish for a sleek appearance that encases the factory ignition switch with Bahn’s signature bold style. Installation does not require removal of the stock ignition switch for ’14-later Electra Glides, Road Glides, Street Glides, and Tri Glides. P/N 7347 – Tuxedo, 7348 – Chrome, MSRP: $69.99. Continue reading ‘Bahn Inner Fairing Accents for 2014-later Harley-Davidson Touring Models’

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A 2016 Classic Triumph Motorcycles Calendar With A 12 Months Supply Of Bonnies, Trophys And T-Birds

Published by Cyril Huze October 14th, 2015 in Books and Editorial.

For 2016 the crew at Wolfgang Publications brings you twelve of the most triumphant motorcycles ever produced. How about a perfect Triumph Cub from 1964 dressed in the correct blue and silver or a very rare 500cc Flathead from 1940?Then there is the 1966 TR6C, a 1970 TR6 and a Trophy Trial from 1973.

For pure competition bikes, the 2016 Classic Triumph Calendar brings you a beautiful 500cc Cheney and the 1968 250 Triumph ridden by Gary Nixon to a big win in the Houston Astrodome.

With photography by Timothy Remus and captions by Lindsay Brooke, this collection of Triumphs celebrates the wide range of two-wheeled wonders produced by the original Triumph Corporation. $19.95 + S&H. To order, just go to Wolfgang Publications.

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Jury Trial To Decide If The Sturgis Trademark Is Valid To Begin October 19, 2015 In Rapid City

Published by Cyril Huze October 13th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.

The jury trial to determine if the trademarked name “Sturgis” can be retained legally will begin on Monday, October 19th, in federal court. The long running 4 year legal battle between Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Inc. (SMRI) and Rushmore Photo and Gift (RPG) will finally be settled by a jury trial. Wal-Mart has been named as a co-defendant. The outcome will either allow SMRI to continue to enforce their licensing of “Sturgis” as it relates to all rally souvenirs or it will strip SMRI of their claimed rights to a trademark that RPG says they obtained by fraud.

In 2011 SMRI filed suit against RPG for trademark infringement by sales of unlicensed Sturgis motorcycle rally products. RPG sells their Sturgis products to Wal-Mart and many other retail stores. SMRI is the only entity that currently holds the rights to license or sell licenses for the name “Sturgis” in relation to the yearly motorcycle rally held each summer. Continue reading ‘Jury Trial To Decide If The Sturgis Trademark Is Valid To Begin October 19, 2015 In Rapid City’

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Solo Rack For Indian Scout

Published by Cyril Huze October 13th, 2015 in Editorial.

Strong sales of the Indian Scout get all the after-market vendors excited.

One new and useful part you may want is this Solo Rack whose simplicity will add function without altering your Scout style. Easy to install, it bolts under the factory seat and to the rear fender.

Laser cut from steel and then finished with quality powder coating in matte silver, flat black, glossy black or chrome. Measures 13″ x 5.5″ with a weight capacity of 11 lbs. (will not work with the Indian ”Extended Reach Seat” or “Driver Backrest Support.) MSRP $149.95.

Also available is a must have set of stainless steel spools with a groove to attach bungee straps. Includes stainless hardware and rubber washers to protect the fender. MSRP $95.99. At Aeromach.

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Joke Of The Week

Published by Cyril Huze October 13th, 2015 in Editorial.

An elderly couple was watching a Discovery Channel special about a West African bush tribe whose men all had penises 24 inches long. When the Black male reaches a certain age, a string is tied around his penis and On the other end is a weight. After a while, the weight stretches the Penis to 24 inches.

Later that evening as the husband was getting out of the shower, His wife looked at him and said, “How about we try the African String-and-Weight procedure?” The husband agreed and they tied a string and a weight to his penis.

A few days later, the wife asked the husband, “How is our little Tribal experiment coming along?” “Well, it looks like we’re about half way there,” he replied. “Wow, you mean it’s grown to 12 inches?” “No, it’s turned black.

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The “Unfinished’ Indian Scout By Roland Sands

Published by Cyril Huze October 12th, 2015 in Builders and Customs.

The new Indian Scout introduced at the 2014 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as a 2015 model is a “modern classic cruiser”, designed with modern technology but with visual references to the distinctive pre-1953 Indian style. But it’s a cruiser with a sport personality. The original versions of the Scout (1920 to 1949), have earned respect for agility and power, and for many, thanks to Burt Munro using a modified 1920 model to set land speed records, the Scout is either a racing bike, or thanks to the model 101, the best hill climber.

Roland Sands was one of the first professional builders to work on the new Scout. Because of his racing background and personal taste, each RSD custom version of the new Indian Scout draws an heavier inspiration from the past to carry Indian’s racing heritage. This “unfinished” completed machine screams I am a racer, no more a cruiser. And to arrive to such a result, Sands admits that you must be somewhat crazy to deconstruct a brand new factory Scout and fully rebuilt it with a new Chromoly frame inspired by the original Scout and very close in configuration to the one created for the Pikes Peak Project 156.

A very lightweight frame with a much more aggressive geometry than the factory new Scout version, slightly shorter and with less rake. The stock Dual Shocks with 3″ of travel were replaced by the same rear suspension “Panigale” package also used for the Project 156 (the Scout and the 156 share some mounting points, making the project somewhat easier) Continue reading ‘The “Unfinished’ Indian Scout By Roland Sands’

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Flying Monkey Striped Motorcycle Grips

Published by Cyril Huze October 11th, 2015 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.

A pen lowbrow-flying-monkey-grips-box chant for old motorcycles and the devil’s lettuce (don’t look in the dictionary, in urban language it’s weed, ganja, cannabis, marijuana, grass, pot) leads to such advances in motorcycling as the Flying Monkey Grips.

Co-molded Krayton rubber and a comfortable radius that fits your hand like a glove add the form that follows function with this grip inspired by JD of Flying Monkey Fabrication. His likeness graces the packaging, riding his trusty Shovelhead named The Electric Watermelon.

Flying Monkey Grips are available in a multitude of colors for both 1″ and 7/8″ handlebars to please those on society’s fringe, only $27.95 per pair in the color and size of your liking.

Get your pair today at Lowbro Customs or call toll-free. 1-855-456-9276 (24/7). Worldwide shipping.

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23 rd Annual Daytona Biketoberfest. The Bike Shows.

Published by Cyril Huze October 11th, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Thursday, October 15. Full-Throttle Magazine Bike Show. 9am – 12pm Registration. 1pm Awards. Trike Wars Bike Show 2pm – 4pm Registration. 6pm Awards. At Rossmeyer’s Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach, FL.

Thursday October 15. Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time. The Old School Chopper Show. . 20 classes. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cash Prizes. Live Music with Jasmine Cain, Big Rick & The Trouble Makers. All Chopper Time proceeds go to Veterans Home And Harni Foundation. Address is north of Daytona at 825 South Yonge Street (US1) in Ormond Beach, FL.

Friday October 16. Rat’s Hole Only Indian And Victory Ride-In Bike Shows. This year 2 shows. The Indian and Victory Custom Appreciation shows. Each show will have its set of custom trophies by the Rat’s Hole. Free to the public. At Indian dealership 290 Beach Street in Daytona

Friday, October 16. Baddest Bagger Dhow. 9am – 12pm Registration. 6 pm Awards. At Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson in Ormond Beach.

Friday October 16. Boardwalk Classic Bike Show. At the Daytona Beach Boardwalk.

Saturday October 17. The Rat’s Hole Show. 17 classes. Run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be held at the new Indian dealership 290 Beach Street in Daytona. Free to the public. Pre-enter your bike HERE.

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New Pro-Series Carbon Fiber Parts By Brass Balls Cycles

Published by Cyril Huze October 10th, 2015 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.

Brass Balls Cycles is adding high grade, vacuum infused carbon fiber and fiberglass parts to their existing product line. First to be available are quarter fairings for Harley Sportster and Dyna ($425), side covers for FXR ($285 per set) and touring bagger lids ($385 per set). These performance carbon fiber parts are vacuum infused resulting in extremely high quality and consistency.

Dar Holdsworth states that his carbon products are of superior quality because vinyl adhesive or veneers are not used. “Our carbon fiber does NOT use brushed on epoxy, similar to hand laid fiberglass. It’s 100% carbon fiber with aircraft grade epoxy.”

Standard color is black twill carbon. Custom carbon colors are also available. Allow 1-2 weeks to ship for standard black twill carbon fiber parts and 2-4 weeks for custom color carbon fiber parts. Ready for direct install as is or may be painted. Brass Balls Cycles will be introducing new carbon fiber parts in the next few weeks.

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