I wrote before about these bags conceived to hold the battery of your motorcycle, starter relay & circuit breakers and all what you need to wire your bike and hide all the clutter. Nash Motorcycle release a new version of these bags (models Ol Bag, Sancho Bag, or Half & Half Bag) to turn the 2-day job of wiring a bike into a 2-hour job. Continue reading ‘Nash Motorcycle Improved Juice Bags. More Punch.’
Nash Motorcycle Improved Juice Bags. More Punch.
Published by March 16th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Rockers Versus Mods In Dallas, Texas
Published by March 16th, 2010 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The 4th edition of “Rockers Versus Mods” is scheduled March 26-28th in Dallas, Texas There is enough of a rivalry between the scoots and the bikes to be fun, but there are no fights. Just taking the piss out of each other and talking a bunch of trash. Last year’s event drew 150 wild scooters, over 200 cool european cafe racer style bikes roaming together the city streets. There will be a legendary Rockers versus Mods photo opportunity/stand-off over the Trinity River. Jacqui Van Ham of The Vintage Advantage with a film crew in tow will represent Café Racer Magazine interviewing people, featuring rides for a documentary. The weekend will end up with a big party at the legendary Dallas Longhorn Ballroom. More info at Rockers Versus Mods.
Custom Motorcycle. Built It First. Have It Sketched After.
Published by March 16th, 2010 in Customs and Editorial.
As it should be Jeff Carr in PA is proud of his custom motorcycle. So, last Christmas his wife gave him a commissioned drawing of his bike by Jamie D. Boyd, an artist from Ontario, Canada. Jeff tells me that the drawing from this photo took the artist 4 months of work and re-work. Worth a blurb in my Blog. Need a drawing of your prize possession? Jamie Boyd 705-645-1661
Lorenzo Lamas Cycles Unveils The Badlander
Published by March 15th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
During Daytona Bike Week, the team of Lorenzo Cycles (Lorenzo Lamas/Eddie Trotta) unveiled a new Bagger named The Badlander. It’s the first time Eddie Trotta ventures into the custom Bagger world, and this model is the second one after the release of the Icon Chopper during Daytona Biketoberfest 2009. Continue reading ‘Lorenzo Lamas Cycles Unveils The Badlander’
Custom Chrome. Dealer Show And 40th Anniversary (Part2)
Published by March 14th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Yesterday, got a private tour of the new Custom Chrome facility in Morgan Hill, CA. As expected in the Silicon Valley, a beautiful high tech glass and steal building housing 80 collaborators belonging to the purchasing, marketing, tele-marketing (inbound and outbounds calls), international (Japan, Australia, South America), technical support and warranty & repair departments. Got a chance to put faces (and smiles) on the voices I hear on the phone while placing orders, saw how they work to get your parts delivered on time or to resolve your technical issues. I also enjoyed hearing (please don’t read this Holger & Steve) that they all daily read my Blog at work (must be during break time…huh). Continue reading ‘Custom Chrome. Dealer Show And 40th Anniversary (Part2)’
You can pre-order an Apple iPad, but you will not be able to hold it in your hands before April 3rd. Already considered a magical & revolutionary product at a unbelievable price (starting at $499), some can’t wait to touch it! So, here a good temporary business idea (until April 2nd), if you can get hold of only one iPad (bribe an Apple employee at the Cupertino headquarters?). Apple iPad.
During his first 8 months on the new job as Harley-Davidson new CEO, Keith E. Wandell’s pay package was $6.4 million. It included a base salary of $650,025 from his start day of May 1 through the end of 2009, a bonus of $780,030 and stock and option awards valued at $4.9 million. During the last quarter of 2009 has its 1st quarterly loss in 16 years with a loss of 218.7 million - A group of Harley Davidson fans based in Orlando plan to set a world record in Myrtle Beach this year. The group is called Rally for the Rugrats. According to their press release, the group plans to enter the Guinness Book of World Records by having the most Harley Davidson motorcycles in a single ride. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Toys for Tots Foundation and the Freedom Alliance Scholarship fund . The ride will take place during the Myrtle Beach Spring Harley rally and the start and end points will be announced soon. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Paughco Sportster Rubber Mounted Rigid Chopper Frames
Published by March 13th, 2010 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Own an Evo Sportster and want to turn it into a rigid chopper? Paughco has 2 new options to help you make the metamorphosis. The Single Loop Rigid Bobber frame is designed for 1986-2003 Sportster engines and features a distinctive 1 1/2” single loop downtube and 1 1/8” lower frame rails. A variety of rake, leg and stretch dimensions are available starting at just $986.95. For year 2004 and later Rubber Mount engines Paughco offers a no hassle chopper chassis that accepts all of the OEM mounting hardware. Available in a number of popular rakes and stretches, this frame has a 1 ½” backbone and 1 ¼” downt ubes. Prices on the Rubber Mount Chopper Chassis start at $1,295.95 For complete details call 775-246-5738 or visit Paughco. www.paughco.com.
The performance cruiser and custom market are evolving very fast, pushing manufacturers to offer better handling, more stable & durable tires with improve aesthetics. Avon’s answer is the new Cobra line integrating a technology called “Advance Variable Density Belt” that the company is using for its sport bike tires. It gives the Cobra the nimbleness once reserved for agile race bikes. For the experts, Avon’s technology utilizes a jointless belt of ultra-strong material. Around the carcass, strands are wound closely at the tire’s centre for stability and wear resistance. On the shoulders, fibers are progressively spaced, giving a compliant contact at lean. 20 sizes available. Fit power cruisers, tourers, customs. Info at: 800-624-7470. Avon Motorcycle.
Custom Chrome. Dealer Show And 1970-2010 Anniversary. A Short Retrospective (Part 1)
Published by March 13th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
This weekend, Custom Chrome Inc. CEO Holger Mohr and Marketing Director Steve Vieltri are welcoming about 250 motorcycle dealers, VIP’s and industry friends at the historic Dolce Hayes Mansion of San Jose, CA for the return of the legendary Custom Chrome Dealer Show and to celebrate with them the company 40th Anniversary.
We are in the Silicon Valley and like most technology companies CCI had humble beginnings in 1970 in a very humble backyard garage. What were you doing at this time? Hey, most of today’s top customizers were not even born! At that time, nothing was “Silicon” in the San Jose Valley, but the San Francisco Bay Area was the epicenter of the Kustom Kulture for both cars and motorcycles. As you probably know, the largest motorcycle clubs were also born here.
CCI, led by Nace Panzica and a group of friends, did most of their business polishing and chroming parts and started selling parts mainly for Japanese bikes since during this decade most choppers were Honda based. CCI then diversified with after-market Harley parts since the Milwaukee bikes were suffering of serious quality and reliability problems. First catalog was produced in 1973 and in 1975, the company reached the milestone of 1 million dollars of sales. Expanding its line of parts, custom Chrome then offered kit bikes, and its business expanded dramatically supported by the Harley boom of the late 80’s and 90’s. The company became the 1st distributor able to serve its US customers on both coasts with one-day shipping. Continue reading ‘Custom Chrome. Dealer Show And 1970-2010 Anniversary. A Short Retrospective (Part 1)’
Paul Teutul Sr Lawsuit Against Paul Teutul Jr. Judge Gives Them 60 Days To Settle Out Of Court.
Published by March 12th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Regarding the lawsuit opposing father & son, Justice Lewis Lubell gave yesterday both parties 60 days to resolve themselves all conflicting issues out of court. He asked them “if they want to continue draining money on lawyers or work out their differences like gentlemen?”
Paul Teutul Junior was fired by his father and the agreement signed at the time appears to the judge to be very ambiguous and subject to multiple interpretations (lawyers fault?). The different is about the real value of Orange County Choppers and the financial share going to each party. Continue reading ‘Paul Teutul Sr Lawsuit Against Paul Teutul Jr. Judge Gives Them 60 Days To Settle Out Of Court.’
“Hi Cyril – First, I want to thank you for helping put the word out about Ironspirit backrest plates over the past few years. Great blog! Unfortunately, with the current economic climate, we find running two businesses difficult at best.
Therefore, after 5 years, we have closed Ironspirit. To all our customers and friends in the industry, thanks for your past support. We still have some inventory and shirts available. Appreciate posting our alternate number 805.630.8793 for your other readers. Watch for Ironspirit to emerge again in a different form, like a Phoenix reborn from its ashes”. Jim & Dixie Van Landingham, Ironspirit
New Phantom Custom Wheel By Renegade Starts At Only $899.00
Published by March 11th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
In the custom motorcycle wheel beauty contest, a new entrant is this new design by Renegade Wheels. It’s called “Phantom Racine” (don’t ask me why?), and looks very light with its 9 fluted spokes in black anodizing with machined highlights.
Don’t forget that a slender spoke pattern provides a significant weight reduction and less rotating mass. If this “Black Is Bad” finish isn’t your look, you can also order these wheels in Renegade’s mirror like chrome and a wide variety of powder coated color.
Rims are available in 16” to 26” diameters and widths from 2.15” up to a massive 14”s. And the good surprise is that pricing for the new Phantom starts at just $899.00!.Info and order at 714-998-7241. Renegade Wheels.
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New Harley-Davidson Serialized Dark Edition Ultra Classic Electra Glide
Published by March 11th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
If you are touring a lot, have more pesos than the average, can pay cash and want to ride to the dark side, Harley-Davidson has added a new CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) flavor to its Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® models line. The CVO Ultra is powered by a black and chrome Screamin’ Eagle® Twin Cam 110™ engine and a 6-speed Cruise Drive® transmission, which is the largest-displacement V-Twin engine offered from the factory by Harley-Davidson. Continue reading ‘New Harley-Davidson Serialized Dark Edition Ultra Classic Electra Glide’
Custom Ape Hanger Handlebars For All Fists In The Wind
Published by March 11th, 2010 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
They are called “Dukes” (in 1″ tube) or “Big Dukes” (in 1 1/4″ tube), have a slight forward bend for some extra chopper attitude, are available in 6″ to 16″ high, drilled or un-drilled, for mounting on risers or directly on your triple tree (those with 3.5″ center to center holes) and sold raw, chrome or black powder-coated. I know, many types of ape-hangers are available on the market, but John Grant will make them to your exact custom dimensions at no extra charge! Worth mentioning. No? Call him on my behalf at 360-750-6780 or visit Hardtail Choppers (also worth checking: the smart Swift Kick Motorcycle Kicker Arm & Pedal).
Woke up at 4 am EST to catch a plane at 6.20 am From West Palm Beach, FL to San Francisco, CA for the Custom Chrome Dealer Show and 40th Anniversary celebrations. I am certain that pretty soon we will be able to go Wi Fi while flying at an altitude of 30,000 ft. But for most of today I will be silent. Great, I am going to zzzzzzzzz… and wonder how much you miss reading me (Be nice. Please say it in “comments” while I fly.) TTYL (talk to you later)
A Mini-Series On Custom Motorcycles Built To Honor Historic War Planes
Published by March 11th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Videos.A new website called Warbikes is launching a video mini-series offering viewers an up-close experience as a build team – fellow Builder Ralph Randolph & Crew at Knockout Motorcycles in Mesa, AZ – explores the unique history ad craftsmanship behind American military aircraft and then produce a custom motorcycle worthy of this heritage.
On Warbikes, you can follow the weekly progress, from inception to completion, and engage the team members with questions and recommendations. New Gunfighter episodes will be posted to the site every week. The 1st custom bike built by Ralph Randolph is based on the Air Force’s legendary WWII-era P-51D Mustang fighter plane. For those who don’t know Ralph is a 12-year veteran pilot with a major commercial airline. Fans are also encouraged to join the WarBikes Facebook Fan page for show updates, discussions, contests and additional information. Below the Warbikes show trailer.
Wire Plus Old School Power Control Module
Published by March 10th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Wire Plus Powersports Electronics introduces a new contrast style “Old School” seat post replacement assembly which includes billet housing, power control module and key switch. It is designed with a CNC machined ball-milled design on its teardrop shaped billet assembly and features a much more robust ignition key. The power control module has four separate power circuits, replaceable start relay and diagnostic LED’s, which can be viewed through holes in the face of the housing.It’s a solution for all riders that want to update their bikes look and performance, but have older style units that originally came on their Big Dog, Ultra, APC and many other custom production bikes. Installation is a breeze…This new assembly plugs right into the existing Wire Plus harness (not included). More info at Wire Plus Powersports Electronics or your local dealer.
Seems like many golfers still love to use or at least collect Harley-Davidson golf carts. It is said (could not verify) that Willy G. Davidson was the man who in 1963 decided to enter the golf cart market with his company offering 2 models in 3 & 4 wheels.
They were very different from what was used on the greens at that time. The colorful golf carts by Harley Davidson took over the golf cart industry by rage. 6 years later, in 1969 the Harley-Davidson golf carts division was sold to AMF (American Machine and Foundry Company) and in 1982 AMF sold the business to Columbia Par Car. The attraction for HD carts started to fade and production stopped. Since then, several companies produce cheap quality Harley-Davidson golf cart replicas. So, if you want an original one, have an expert in golf carts - not in golf - look at it first. And what do you think about this HD pre “bar & shield” logo?
The Long And Low Radical Pro-Street Custom Motorcycle Is Still Alive
Published by March 10th, 2010 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Mike Bauer has a background in drag racing (NHRA series) and engine building. Logically, when he retired he wanted to build something able to go fast and burn rubber. Hence this radical pro-street bike that many have seen last January at the Charlotte Easyriders Show (Best Of Show) and last Saturday at the Daytona Rat’s Hole Show (1st place Radical class) with many more soon to read about it in the April issue of V-Twin Magazine. Due to the unexpected death of his building partner, It took Mike Bauer 20 months to complete this machine featuring some of the most high tech components of the after-market custom motorcycle industry. After electing for a 121 ” TP Engineering motor, and a monster rear rubber, Mike had no choice but to run a right side drive with a RSD Baker 6-speed and chose a sanitary look all over: no rotors, no visible brakes on the wheels but a transmission brake, no controls on the bars, concealed cables and wiring and loud pipes from Seranno Designs. Mike Bauer Customs.
Annual Donnie Smith Custom Bike Show
Published by March 10th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The 23rd annual Donnie Smith Bike Show is scheduled for March 27-28th at the St Paul Minnesota River Centre. This show is the largest custom-bike show in the mid-west and is drawing some of the big guns in the biker world. Fellow builder Donnie Smith, a Minnesota native, is a well-respected Hall of Fame Master Builder who has influenced motorcycle design for more than thirty years. His company, Donnie Smith Custom Cycles, specializes in one-of-a-kind custom-built bikes. Continue reading ‘Annual Donnie Smith Custom Bike Show’
New Performance Machine Wheel Model For 2010.
Published by March 9th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
New for 2010, this new beautiful and simple wheel from Performance Machine with overlapping grooves on the rim . A picture being worth thousands of words I don’t have much to say except to remind you that:
PM Forged Aluminum wheels (strong & light) are the flagship of their line, that PM offers eleven sizes to give you most choices, and that this model is available in polish or chrome and Contrast Cut and/or Contrast Cut Platinum finish. Performance Machine.
Avon Motorcycle Tyres North America Launches A New Website
Published by March 9th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
The North America division of the English based company Avon Tyres, just launched a new motorcycle website. It offers company news, technical information and more including the latest on motorcycle events and contests, featured builders, featured riders and testimonials in a clean, user-friendly design. The site has been optimized for a variety of browser platforms making it simple to access and use by both the Mac and the PC user.
Continue reading ‘Avon Motorcycle Tyres North America Launches A New Website’
Custom Chrome 40th Anniversary Dealer Show. March 12-14, 2010
Published by March 9th, 2010 in Controls, Editorial and Events.
One of the Custom Industry main events this year is the 2010 Custom Chrome Dealer Show. Not only because motorcycle dealers can meet with top part manufacturers from all over the world to see the latest and hottest parts in the V-Twin Industry, but also because this year CCI celebrates its 40th Anniversary, meaning a more spectacular show than ever. Continue reading ‘Custom Chrome 40th Anniversary Dealer Show. March 12-14, 2010′
Two little boys, ages 8 and 10, were excessively mischievous. They were always getting into trouble and their parents knew all about it. If any mischief occurred in their town, the two boys were probably involved.
The boys’ mother heard that a preacher in town had been successful in disciplining children, so she asked if he would speak with her boys. The preacher agreed, but he asked to see them individually. So the mother sent the 8 year old first, in the morning, with the older boy to see the preacher in the afternoon. Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week. 2 Mischievous Little Boys…’
BUB 2-1 Slip-On Muffler For 2010 Harley Davidson Street Glide and Road Glide
Published by March 9th, 2010 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
If you are looking for a slip-on muffler for your 2010 Street Glide or Road Glide Custom motorcycle, the BUB 7 FL 2-1 slip-on muffler offers dual mounting capabilities (can be mounted with the slash up or down), exceptional finish and quality, and excellent performance gains. This muffler features an aluminum end cap in either chrome finish or black Teflon, a BUB laser engraved collector heat shield, has a tapered body finishing at 4” OD and a 2.5” high flow louver core baffle. $320. You can order direct factory online at Bub Enterprises or call 800-934-9739, 530-477-7490.
Red Bull® describes its energy drink as a functional beverage with a unique combination of ingredients, specially developed for times of increased mental and physical exertion. Can same be said about this motorcycle designed by Barrend Massow Hemmes?
Not in animal theme custom motorcycles, but at least I appreciate the way the bull horns are used as the front end.
To conclude my reports on Daytona Bike Week, a jump into the past.
From its inception in 1937 until the early ’60s, the Daytona 200 was run on the Florida beaten.
In 1948, LIFE covered the 12th annual races and reported in its April 19 issue. Now, with unpublished and rarely seen photos from the meet, LIFE opens a window on a long, loud weekend 60 years ago.
A weekend that thrilled thousands of racing fans, scandalized others, and saw 2 people killed and 30 more injured. See the 22 photos of Joseph Scherschel at Time & Life Pictures.
Daytona Bike Week 2010. Reinventing Itself.
Published by March 8th, 2010 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Daytona party ended yesterday on a warmer note. Not only because of the weather but also because of the lesson learned from this 69th edition. Yes, for financial reasons, many bikers could not make it to Daytona. Same for many friends of the custom motorcycle industry. Some new bikers come and go, some motorcycle businesses emerge and vanish and some are obliged to interrupt decades of continuous attendance to big rallies like Daytona. During one week, I have talked with many bikers & vendors, not only with those I met in Florida , but also with those I keep in touch with on a regular basis by phone and email. Even if they lost their bike or home because of evil loans and mortgages or put their motorcycle businesses on stand by because financing has dried, I can assure you that they all will be back at the first opportunity. And during this time the custom motorcycle industry adapts, diversify and reshapes itself, exactly like this 69th edition of Daytona Bike Week. Continue reading ‘Daytona Bike Week 2010. Reinventing Itself.’
Breaking News. 360 Brake Closing Its Doors. Looking For Strategic Alliance.
Published by March 7th, 2010 in Brakes, Customs, Editorial, Events and Wheels.
“Hello Cyril. I have attached a letter from me to the industry that will be going on to my website in a day or two, and if appropriate you can post on your blog. As importantly, I wanted you to know where we are, as you have always been a friend. Best of luck this year with all of your interests”. Dale E. Needleman, 360 Brake
“My name is Dale Needleman, and I am the President of the 360 Brake Company. I am writing to announce that the 360 Brake Company has sold all of its existing inventory and has elected not to order new inventory until the motorcycle industry rebounds. As a result, we will not be accepting orders for new brake sales until further notice, although we will try to continue to fulfill parts orders. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. 360 Brake Closing Its Doors. Looking For Strategic Alliance.’
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