New for 2012, the V-Twin Expo Introduces Road Iron Review

In its inaugural presentation, the Road Iron Review at the V-Twin Expo will present the leading Bagger builders and their industry leading machines.
Agoura Hills, CA— In a world-class trade show setting, 2012 V-Twin Expo attendees will visit a special new section dedicated to the forefront of our industry’s hottest trend— Baggers. Baggers built by the most premiere builders in the US today. 

By invite only, a select group of prestigious builders will present their brightest and best Bagger motorcycles. In addition to seeing the hottest new Baggers in this designated area at the 2012 V-Twin Expo, the builders will lead an interactive professionally moderated seminar for attending dealers. The Builders will cover the overall market opportunity including hot new product that sells, profitability tips on Bagger customization and installation plus phased build ideas to grow your business. Dealers attending the seminar should plan to leave with a competitive advantage. With Bagger builders like Arlen Ness, Paul Yaffe, Brian Klock, Drag Specialties’ Tom Motzko, Jim Nasi, Dave Perewitz, and Bad Dad already confirmed, the Road Iron Review is sure to be a show in itself. Watch for more information about these builders, the show seminar and added builders soon.

The 12th Annual V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati February 4-6, 2012 is not open to the public and focuses exclusively on the American V-twin motorcycle market. It is the only exclusive V-twin trade show attracting dealers from the US, Canada and world. The V-Twin Expo by Easyriders is wholly owned by Paisano Publications. The V-Twin Expo has not been combined with any other show or company.



Contact: V-Twin Expo
Phone: 952/443-4168
FAX: 952/443-3678
E-mail: vtwin-expo@reactionmanagementinc.com

Motorcycle Riders Explain Helmet Lawsuit

From: 8 News Now, LAS VEGAS -- Earlier this week, a dozen motorcycle riders filed a class action lawsuit challenging the enforcement of Nevada's helmet law. Thursday, with some four-stroke showmanship, they served that suit on those they accuse of violating their rights.
       Until now, the group has been tight-lipped about the motives behind the action. This suit is not about whether the government has the right to require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. The Nevada Supreme Court has already ruled on that issue and found that it does. Instead, the action accuses local police and prosecutors of selectively enforcing the helmet law and of using it to hassle bikers.


Read More (and video)

To read the complaint, go here (pdf)

Custom Chrome - New Dealer Website

September 30th, 2011: Custom Chrome today announces the launch of the companies’ new and improved dealer website, www.ccidealer.com. The new site will be rolled out to the Custom Chrome dealer network in early October with the look, feel and full functionality of everyday eCommerce websites plus some unique dealer only functions.

       Dealers will now be able to access higher resolution images and zoom into product detail to get a better look and feel for parts compatibility. Enhanced dealer self-services will include “Order History Lookup” and “Favorite Item” for speeding future order entry based on most often ordered parts. The site will include multiple payment options for qualifying dealers plus PayPal will also be available as a checkout option.
      Other enhanced features include “Inventory Level Visibility”; Re-order “Wishlist” and real time “Order Shipment Tracking” through various popular carriers. Dealers will also have the capability of setting up multiple users with different levels of access, making their daily operations easier to manage.
       “We feel confident that our dealers will find our new website and user interface system simple to use and another valuable tool provided to our Custom Chrome Authorized Dealer network in order for us to continue to be the preferred Industry Partner.” said Holger Mohr, CEO of Custom Chrome.  “Custom Chrome has long had a successful dealer only site but we decided it needed to change with the extraordinary growth of eCommerce being conducted worldwide and reflect the way people shop online at their own convenience.” 


The live date for the website will be the first week of October 2011.

Yamaha Recalls 2009-2011 V-Max for Oil Pump Problem

Yamaha is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 VMX17 (V-Max) motorcycles, including the YB, YCB, ZR, ZCR AG and ACG variants, manufactured from September 2008 through April 2011.

On affected motorcycles, high oil pressure can build up inside the oil pump causing it to malfunction.

The number of units affected is 2300.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Nevada Sued Over Motorcycle Helmet Law

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 28 (UPI) — Twelve motorcycle riders filed a class action lawsuit against Nevada's Clark County over enforcement of the state's helmet law, authorities said.
The suit was filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court against the county and five of its cities: Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite and Boulder City, the Las Vegas Sun reported.


Read More

Viper Motorcycle Company Announces Initial Viper Diamondback Rolls Out of New Auburn, AL Facility

AUBURN, Ala., Sept. 29, 2011—Viper Motorcycle Company, a wholly owned division of Viper Powersports, Inc. (otcqb:VPWI), announced today that it has sold the first 2012 Viper Diamondback produced at its new World Class Facility in Auburn, AL.

       Colbert Seagraves, Viper Motorcycle Company VP of Marketing and Racing Operations, stated, "Having our first bike roll out the door is a great feeling and having it sold as it leaves is even better. We are very proud of the fact that the first bike to come out of Auburn was sold by our Initial Platinum Dealer Tim Wellborn at the Wellborn Muscle Car Museum in Alexander City, AL and is being purchased by a repeat Viper customer, Mr. Chris Mulrennan. Chris purchased a pre-Ilmor Viper Diamondback in May 2007 and has ridden it over 12,000 miles. After seeing and riding the demo bike in June he made the decision to step up to the next level and purchase a 2012 Viper Diamondback Supercruiser with the Viper/Ilmor 152 C.I. state of the art power-plant."
       Chris Mulrennan had this to say about the Diamondback, "It is a beautiful motorcycle and has tremendous power. The Diamondback is in a class by itself, with the improvements they continue to make and the addition of the Viper/Ilmor engine they have hit a home run. I was not a traditional biker but had friends that rode and it looked like fun but all the bikes looked the same and I wanted something more behind the paint. I saw an ad in a bike magazine on the Viper Diamondback and decided to go to Daytona Bike Week and see it in person. After visiting with the Viper folks and seeing the bike I knew it was the one for me. I have been very happy with my 2007 Diamondback but after seeing all the improvements made to the 2012 model and riding the demo with the Viper/Ilmor engine I was sold and put in my order. What impressed me most was the power of the Viper/Ilmor engine along with the custom look, plus the reliability and dependability that is Viper."

New Screamin' Eagle Hydraulic Cam Chain Tensioner and High-Flow Oil Pump Upgrade

The new Screamin' Eagle Hydraulic Cam Chain Tensioner and High-Flow Oil Pump Upgrade Kit (P/N 25284-11, $499.95) from Harley-Davidson updates the cam chain tensioner of a Twin Cam 88 engine to the latest hydraulic design features on Twin Cam 96 and 103 engines.
The hydraulic cam chain tensioner is significantly more durable than the original spring-loaded tensioner, and is an ideal addition to an engine modified for improved performance. 2002-2006 models utilize a Twin Cam 96 single-row front roller chain and sprocket. 1999-2001 models use the Original Equipment front silent chain and sprocket to retain the cam position sensor function. Each kit includes an improved Screamin' Eagle High-Flow Oil Pump that provides increased oil pressure at high-operating temperatures. This kit increases the oil supply by 23 percent and scavenging by 50 percent when compared to the 1999-2005 Original Equipment oil pump, and reduces operating temperature of bearings to improve bearing life.

Fits 1999-2005 Dyna models, 2000-2006 Softail models and 1999-2006 Touring models. Installation requires separate purchase of Spacer Kit P/N 25285-08, Cam Service Kit P/N 17045-99D and Drive Gear Retention Kit P/N 25533-99A. 


Harley-Davidson
www.harley-davidson.com

Rocky Robinson Crashes Motorcycle at Bonneville

Rider sustained a broken shoulder and collar bone and gashes in his left leg. 
Rocky Robinson of Grass Valley holds the current land speed record for motorcycles. On Monday, he headed out to the salt flats of Utah to take on his own mark. He had barely started and only just reached 100 mph when disaster struck.

       The new traction control on his bike malfunctioned, and all power shifted to the rear wheel at once. Robinson attempted to recover, and the bike pitched to the left. Both were thrown into the air.



Read More

RSD/Victory: The Road To 200 At The Maxton Mile

Vendors React to Sparks Street Vibrations Closure After Nugget Shooting

From Reno Gazette Journal: 

The only change Jay Borowy, supervisor of the J&P Cycles vendor rig at Street Vibrations in Sparks, noticed after the motorcycle club shooting at John Ascuaga’s Nugget were his breakfast plans.

       Borowy and his co-workers were staying at the Nugget and were forced to relocate their usual breakfast at Rosie’s Cafe inside the hotel to a Starbucks. He said that morning they weren’t planning to change hotels, and customers still came to their rig in droves that morning.
“In general, not much has changed,” Borowy said then. “People are still out here. It’s an interesting thing to happen, but it seems like everything has moved right on.”

Read More:

Harley Davidson 2011

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Chris

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Chris's 2010 VW trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Pictures

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Action

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Motorcycle

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Green

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Black Color

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Pictures

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Sportbike

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Hot Model

National Motorcycle Thefts Down 24 Percent Since 2007

By National Insurance Crime Bureau
DES PLAINES, Ill., Sept. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- 
The National Insurance Crime Bureau today reported that in 2010, motorcycle thefts were down 24 percent from their 2007 total.  There were 65,678 motorcycles reported stolen in 2007 compared with 49,791 in 2010—a decline of 24 percent.  All data is from theft reports contained in the National Crime Information Center.  

       The top five makes stolen last year were:  (1) Honda, 12,260; (2) Yamaha, 9,853; (3) Suzuki, 7,869; (4) Kawasaki, 5,470; and (5) Harley-Davidson, 3,301.  Combined, these five brands accounted for 38,753 thefts in 2010, or 77.8 percent of the total.
       For 2010, the top five states with the most motorcycle thefts were:  (1) California, 5,662; (2) Texas, 4,394; (3) Florida, 4,148; (4) North Carolina, 2,649; and (5) Indiana, 1,925.  These five states accounted for 18,778 thefts, or 37.7 percent of the total.
        While overall thefts are down, reflecting the continuing decline in thefts of passenger vehicles and light trucks, so, too, are motorcycle sales. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, motorcycle sales between 2009 (520,502 units) and 2010 (439,678 units) were down 16 percent.  
        Not surprising, in 2010, the summer months of July (5,714) and August (5,380) saw the most theft activity.  The fewest thefts were recorded during the months of February (2,403) and December (2,763).  Over the entire period covered by this report, 2007-2010, July recorded the most thefts (26,352) while the fewest occurred in December (13,944).


        The complete motorcycle theft report is available here. (pdf)


        Consumers can visit the NICB web site and review our library of valuable theft and fraud awareness information, including tips on preventing motorcycle theft and fraud.  It's free and it just might help prevent you from falling victim to theft or fraud scams.  


        About the National Insurance Crime Bureau:  headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the NICB is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to preventing, detecting and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through data analytics, investigations, training, legislative advocacy and public awareness.  The NICB is supported by more than 1,100 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations.  NICB member companies wrote over $317 billion in insurance premiums in 2010, or approximately 80 percent of the nation's property/casualty insurance.  That includes more than 93 percent ($151 billion) of the nation's personal auto insurance.  To learn more visit www.nicb.org.
SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau

Harley-Davidson To Report Third Quarter Earnings Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Milwaukee, September 19, 2011 -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) today announced that it is scheduled to release its third quarter 2011 financial results before market hours on Tuesday, October 18, 2011. The public is invited to participate in a webcast conference call and downloadable slide presentation with Keith Wandell, President and Chief Executive Officer, and John Olin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Harley-Davidson, Inc. from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM (Central Time).

        It is suggested that webcast participants log on and register at least ten minutes prior to the start time here.  A replay of the audio webcast will be available approximately two hours after the call concludes.

The 14th Annual Custom Chrome Europe Dealer Show

Press Release:
Save the Date – March 24th- 25th, 2012

September 16th, 2011: Custom Chrome Europe has just announced the dates for the 2012 CCE Dealer Show being held in Mainz, Germany. The 14th Annual Dealer Show is set to take place traditionally during the last weekend of March.

       Custom Chrome Europe will bring together the best V-Twin aftermarket parts companies from around the world to showcase their products to V-Twin dealers from every corner of Europe on Saturday, March 24th. On Sunday the 25th, the doors of the Phönix-Halle will once again be open to the motorcycle riding public. The CCE Dealer Show serves for many as their first glimpse at the latest V-Twin parts for the coming season.

       Custom Chrome Europe is also pleased to once again bring their showcase event, the Custom Chrome International Bike Show Series - European Championship to the Phönix-Halle. For over a decade, the CCE Dealer Show has provided the industry and public with what in many cases is the first look at the finest custom motorcycles built for the coming year and is a highlight on the custom bike competition scene in Europe.

Custom Cycle Control Systems Slashes Prices by 15% on the New Improved Simplified Air Suspension/SAS for Softails

Henderson, NV- Custom Cycle Control Systems, Inc. announced today that it has reduced the price of their SAS/Simplified Air Suspension by 15% at both the dealer and consumer levels….MSRP is now $1,395.00. 



       Gary Farrell, Sales and Marketing Manager for Custom Cycle Control Systems stated, “We have lowered the price on our SAS system in order to stimulate sales at the dealer level during these tough economic times. Additionally, we are offering a 30 day money back guarantee and also a lifetime warranty on all machined parts on our newly engineered SAS unit”, Farrell concluded. If the rider ever experiences any problems, take off the SAS (it only take a few minutes), send it back and you’ll receive a reconditioned or new unit…no questions asked. If you have any problems with (most) other units on the market, (you have to take your bike in to a shop to have them find the leaks in the airlines or fittings, which is where 90% of the leaks are found).  
       The SAS is super easy to install and comes complete with mounting instructions. The SAS has no compressor to mount, no pressure hoses to run, no fittings to fail…All you have to do is replace your old shocks with a new SAS unit and wire an on/off switch directly to the battery. Stay EPA Compliant on stock HD’s by not having to move canisters to make room for an ugly compressor. Fits all soft tail Harley-Davidson’s as well as custom production bikes. Its water-resistant design is perfect for those that ride in inclement weather and they are manufactured right here in the USA. 
       Raise and lower your rear end at the touch of a button.  Add air pressure to improve ride quality during changing road conditions or while hauling added weight.  Also improving the ride quality is a “pre-set factory” dampening valve. At approximately 150 psi, the bike will be fully raised and the suspension will be resting on its piston bumpers at *maximum ride height*. After that your height will not change, but you can continue to increase air pressure for improved riding during cornering or with a passenger.  


Additional Features and Benefits Include:

• Price Reduced 15% (Dealer and MSRP)
• 3 Year Warranty…No Questions Asked!
• Money Back Guarantee
• Lifetime Warranty on Machined Parts
• Built-in compressor
• Cylinder Pistons and Rods are doubled sealed (Pneumatic seals and top quality    O-rings are forever protected and eliminate leaks)
• Pre-set factory dampening
• Easiest install on the market (no compressor to mount)
• Quick connect fitting with improved convenient breather line
• The pneumatic cylinders eliminate bottoming out
• Remote filtered air breather keeps compressor clean and dry
• All parts are CNC machined billet aluminum
• Adjustable air pressure from 0 to over 250 psi

Custom Cycle Control also offers a complete series of award winning "Climax Controls" or Complete Climax Hand Control/Handlebar systems. They have a wide variety of handlebar styles, gauge options and grip choices. Need something custom made - call them; they can accommodate just about any custom order. 


For those interested in obtaining more information on Custom Cycle Control Systems new SAS system, you can reach them at 866-438-2129, or 702-438-2129. Check them out online at www.customcyclecontrols.com or email them at info@customcyclecontrols.com. 

Wire Plus Introduces Power, Lighting Control Modules and Wiring Harnesses for Most Custom Production Bikes

Winfield, KS- Many custom production bikes that were being made in the 90’s –mid-2000’s are now experiencing electrical problems due to a variety of reasons. Bike owners can now go to a one-stop company for all of their electrical needs…Wire Plus. Over the last 16 years, Wire Plus has produced a wide variety of individual power and lighting modules and wiring harnesses at the builders and manufacturers requests. Finding electrical parts is no longer like “looking for a needle in a haystack” for these custom production bikes.

       Wire Plus’ sells their power control, lighting control and auto cancel modules separately or as part of a complete kit and can be plugged right into the existing harness with no hassle. Their power modules are submersible waterproof and very compact in size with harnesses that are engineered to be smaller than any other on the market. The lighting control module controls the operation of the front, rear turn signals, and provides load equalization and auto cancelling.  It also operates the rear turn signals as brake lights and running lights with one wire hook-up. Wire Plus’ main focus is on the reliability of everything that they manufacture. 

       Their pre-assembled wiring harnesses are designed for bikes with and without stock or aftermarket ignitions, electric or kick start and can be used with or without turn signals and a variety of other options. These mid-frame harnesses are for completely rewiring any manufacturers bikes...including older Harleys
       These replacement modules and wiring harnesses work on all of the following  models…  


American Iron Horse • American Performance Cycle/APC • Apollo Choppers
Big Bear Choppers • Big Dog • Brass Balls Choppers • CCI Kit Bikes • Confederate • Covington Cycle City • Create A Custom Cycle • Custom Works
DD Customs • Eagle • Echelon • Ecosse • Edmondson Custom Built
Hellbound Steel Motorcycles/HBS • Ironworks • Legends • Minneapolis Custom Cycles • Ness Bikes • Orange County Choppers • Paramount Custom Cycles • Patriot • Pro-One • Proper Chopper • Pure Steel • Raven • Red Hot • Red Horse • Ridley • Spencer Bowman Customs • Steed • Swift • V8 Choppers • Thunder Mountain Custom Cycles • Ultra Cycles

For those interested in obtaining more information on Wire Plus, you can reach them at (620) 221-2417 or check them out online at www.wire-plus.com or email them at sales@wire-plus.com. 

WyoTech Unveils Custom Orange County Choppers Bike at the School’s Daytona Campus

On Tuesday September 29, WyoTech’s Daytona campus is hosting an exclusive unveiling of the Orange County Choppers bike. Four students assisted in the build of the bike on the show, “American Chopper” on Discovery Channel. The local community is invited to view the bike first hand. Refreshments will be provided.

       The unveiling takes place at WyoTech-Daytona, 470 Destination Daytona Lane, Ormond Beach, Florida. 

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Gary A. Heil

Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Gary A Heil's 2007 Big Bear Sled Chopper converted to a trike under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

John and Jill Parham Retire From J&P Cycles: Industry Pioneers to Focus on National Motorcycle Museum

Anamosa, IA Sept. 14, 2011 — Powersports industry pioneer John Parham has announced that he and his wife Jill are stepping down as President and Vice President from J&P Cycles. The Parhams have handed over the management of the company they founded in 1979, and will be focusing on family and the National Motorcycle Museum.

        “As the motorcycle industry evolves and grows, so must our business,” explains Parham. “Jill and I feel it is time for the next generation to lead J&P Cycles to even greater success.” The family legacy of integrity, customer service and unparalleled passion for the motorcycle industry lives on as son Zach has been named VP and General Manager to head the team of professionals his parents built and assumes day-to-day management of J&P Cycles. John will also continue to serve J&P as a member of the Advisory Board of Directors.
        “I am so thankful for the opportunity to create and be part of the team that managed this business through all these years,” adds John. “Jill and I have met a lot of great people who have helped us overcome the challenges we faced along the way.” Started as a swap meet vendor from the back of the family’s Ford van, J&P Cycles has grown into one of the largest motorcycle parts and accessories retailers in the world. “Jill and I are so pleased with what our team has built at J&P Cycles, and we are confident in the management team moving forward,” says Parham.
        Comfortable that J&P Cycles is operating on a sound business foundation with a solid management team in place, John Parham can now dedicate more of his time to his two greatest passions — his family and the National Motorcycle Museum. Prior to stepping down from day-to-day management at J&P Cycles, John moved the National Motorcycle Museum to a larger facility in Anamosa, Iowa, last year. The new building displays the 325 motorcycles and collectibles in the world class setting and in the manner they deserve. J&P Cycles will continue to support the museum through the annual raffle bike fundraiser and various other promotions.
        “We are so thankful for all our loyal customers, suppliers and friends who have supported us over the past three decades,” says Parham. “Together we have created a wonderful success story that would make anyone proud.”
        The next chapter of this success story calls for John and Jill to attend future motorcycle rallies and trade shows, as well as the annual J&P Cycles Open House. “This wonderful industry has been an important part of our lives and our family,” Jill Parham explained. “We wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Free Miller Weld Setting Calculator For iPhone

Conveniently access suggested weld parameter settings and other handy tips for MIG, TIG and Stick welders. Available from the iPhone app store or on MillerWelds.com. The app is free.
       Get your weld parameter settings right from your iPhone with the Miller weld setting calculator app. The calculator will help you tune your machine for optimal results based on a few simple questions. Weld calculators are handy references for weld parameters, electrode/wire type, basic techniques, and process information for TIG, Stick or MIG.


Free Download Here

Harley-Davidson New Documentary Video

An exclusive look at the passion that drives the Harley-Davidson styling team featuring Willie G. Davidson and Casey Ketterhagan.

Introducing the Roland Sands Design Clarity Line

Ever wanted to see what your motor is doing?  With the RSD Clarity line, your motorcycles inner workings are on display while sealed tight behind articulately machined billet aluminum and transparent polycarbonate. Designed and machined with the form of the true working components in mind, the Clarity line adds that extra level of detail, clearly showing what is usually hidden. 
        The Clarity line includes the Clarity Air Cleaner, Clarity Derby Cover and Clarity Timing Cover.

        The Clarity Air Cleaner allows you to check out what your air intake is doing, exposing your fuel delivery system as no other intake system can.

        The Clarity Derby Cover is the next best thing to an open primary, giving you the same feel of a spinning clutch pack, yet fully enclosed.  Now you can show off your trick clutch.

        We’ve set out to expose the heart of the twin cam engine with the RSD Clarity Timing Cover. It’s finely machined billet housing and transparent polycarbonate lenses show you a view of the cam gears, chain and support plate, exposing the inner workings.

Features:

• Allows for viewing of internal components
• Direct stock replacement
• CNC machined from billet aluminum and polycarbonate
• Available in Black Ops™, Contrast Cut™ and Chrome
• Matching Air Cleaner, Derby Cover and Timing Cover
• Machined RSD logo
• Made in the USA
• Clarity Air Cleaner MSRP $499.95
• Clarity Derby Cover MSRP $229.95 - $239.95
• Clarity Timing Cover MSRP $399.95 - $409.95

For additional information, part numbers and pricing, please go to www.rolandsands.com/wp/2011/09/08/the-clarity-line

Harley-Davidson "No Cages" Ad Excitement

Harley-Davidson has a couple of new commercials out that are different. The theme is "No Cages." Now we all know what the term cages means. But take a look at this article from Clutch and Chrome and view the two new Harley commercials. Harley wants you to get out of your cage. Here's an excerpt:

"While the battle between those who love Harley-Davidson's and others who don’t (sometimes with a passion) one thing is for sure, the most famous motorcycle company in the world certainly knows how to produce a commercial. The latest advertisement set in the theme of 'No Cages' was seen this week in the season premiere of the highly popular FX motorcycle drama 'Sons of Anarchy'." -- Digits from Clutch and Chrome

Read more.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bill Robertson

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Bill Robertson's 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200C under Bikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Trikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

9-11 Stories - NYPD First Responder on a Motorcycle

I remember September 11, 2001. On the eve of the 10th anniversary of this tragic event, I encountered a report from Cape-Coral-Daily-Breeze.com by Meghan McCoy that lists many first-person stories from that day. One involved a motorcycle rider who was an NYPD first responder. Here's an excerpt:

"Andujar, who lived 75 miles northwest of the city, jumped on his motorcycle and traveled more than 100 miles per hour into the city. He said his was the only vehicle on the roadway and he encountered many roadblocks along the way. After showing his credentials he was allowed to continue." -- Meghan McCoy

Read more.

Jody Perewitz Blisters Bonneville Becoming First Women Ever To Run Over 200 MPH On An American V-Twin

With no prior experience on the famous Bonneville Salt Flats, Team J'Witz and Throttle Master Jody Perewitz, stunned enthusiasts and teams from around the globe at this year’s prestigious Bub Motorcycle Speed Trials in Utah. The event brought together the fledgling Team J'Witz and over 300 other racers from around the world to “ride the salt”, share the love of speed and enjoy the camaraderie of land speed racing.  

       The ground up custom built by Team J'Witz is constructed around a Daytec chassis using Performance Machine wheels & brakes. The American V-Twin is a 100ci Jim's Twin Cam assembled at R&R Cycle using a set of their custom machined heads and fine tuned by Dan Thayer. Other components that make up this record breaking motorcycle is a ProCharger, Daytona Twin Tec ignition system, Baker 5-speed transmission and a kick ass Perewitz/PPG paint job. 
       On Tuesday August 31, 2011 Jody & Team J'witz set a land speed record of 188.911mph. Previously at the Loring Timing Association event in Maine Jody made another world record pass at 164mph. Changes to the motorcycle were made before they set out to Bonneville which included mounting a partial streamline body.  This body allowed Jody & the motorcycle to be more aerodynamic with subsequent increases in MPH.
       This was only one of 2 goals set out by Team J'Witz. They wanted to set a land speed record as well as go over 200mph. Land speed records are not separated by male and female. Motorcycles are built for certain classes regardless of the gender of the rider. Wednesday September 1, Jody took her bike to the next goal. She made a pass at 203.111 mph! This speed made Jody the first woman in history to go over 200 on an American V-Twin!  

       The course at Bonneville is 5.5 miles in length. Riders have 2.5 miles to get up to speed, then the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) clocks your speed for a mile and you have 1.5 miles to slow down. On Jody's 200 run she entered the mile going 199 mph and exited the mile at 205 mph. The 203.111 mph is the average speed in the mile. Jody and her machine were going 200+ mph for over a mile!
       American Pride drives the J’Witz team and the machine was built with American power and products throughout. Given the level of sophistication and competition Jody’s success is a tribute to American ingenuity, quality and “can do” attitude. The Perewitz/Cycle Fabrications business has been based on American motorcycles for almost 40 years! Team J'Witz will be racing at one more event this year in Maine on September 17 & 18.

Be sure to follow Jody and her Team J'Witz on Facebook, www.facebook.com/teamjwitz

Harley-Davidson Declares Dividend

Press Release: 
MILWAUKEE, September 8, 2011 -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) announced today that its Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.125 per share for the third quarter of 2011. The dividend is payable October 14, 2011 to the holders of record of the Company's common stock on September 30, 2011.

Old Bikes & American Pickers at the Antique Motorcycle Swap Meet in Davenport, IA

Thanks, J&P Cycles

Harley-Davidson Introduces Next Evolution of the "No Cages" Crowd-Sourced Campaign

MILWAUKEE, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Last night, Harley-Davidson Motor Company launched the next evolution of the popular No Cages campaign during the season premiere of Sons of Anarchy on FX.  The spot, called "Liberation", adds to the portfolio of creative developed as part of Harley-Davidson's crowd sourcing strategy, introduced last year.

       "Liberation" highlights Harley-Davidson's new Twin Cam 103 engine, which is now standard on 2012 Touring, Softail and select Dyna motorcycles.
       "We are uniquely able to use crowd sourcing for all of our major creative because of the passion and advocacy of a broad customer base all over the world. This process has helped to liberate the creativity of our most passionate of fans," said Mark-Hans Richer, Harley-Davidson's Chief Marketing Officer. "This latest effort builds upon our momentum as the on-road motorcycles market share leader in the United States, as well as our leadership in sales to young adults, women, Hispanics and African-Americans and the growth we've made in international markets."
       Like previous No Cages creative, crowd-sourcing partner Victors & Spoils shared the Harley-Davidson creative brief broadly online, and the best idea was further developed and the creator rewarded. In this case, the idea selected for "Liberation" came from 30-year-old film maker and visual content creator Benjamin Swan of Sioux Falls, SD, who believes that collaboration breeds creation. "An idea lacks dimension until it is looked at from different sets of eyes," said Swan.

Harley-Davidson's
www.harley-davidson.com
SOURCE Harley-Davidson Motor Company

V-Twin Expo Welcomes Previous and New Exhibitors in 2012

Previous exhibitors looking forward to reconnecting with dealers at 2012 
V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati, OH February 4-6, 2012 while new exhibitors anticipate their first time show participation.


Agoura Hills, CA— Exhibitor registration for 2012 V-Twin Expo shows growth from the same period last year. “With over a dozen new exhibitors registered in August and dealer registration maintaining its current steady pace, we believe 2012 will be a great year in Cincinnati” said V-Twin Expo Show Producer Jim Betlach. “The overall industry seems to be stabilizing and with that comes the desire for exhibitors to get their products in front of the right buyer’s. We offer the best opportunity to make that happen. The V-Twin Expo brings the right buyer’s for their v-twin focused product” finished Betlach. 

Taking place in Cincinnati, February 4-6, 2012 at the Duke Energy Center, the V-Twin Expo delivers industry-leading exhibitors to v-twin focused dealers from across the US and beyond. The V-Twin Expo does not cater to all power sports dealers. Its focus is strictly the v-twin based dealer network. 
As in previous years, the V-Twin Expo will provide relevant educational opportunities on topics that matter to v-twin dealers: Profitability and Growth. Watch for upcoming announcements regarding new areas of interest planned for attending dealers in 2012. 


The 12th Annual V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati February 4-6, 2012 is not open to the public and focuses exclusively on the American v-twin motorcycle market. It is the only exclusive v-twin trade show attracting dealers from the US, Canada and world. The V-Twin Expo by Easyriders is wholly owned by Paisano Publications. The V-Twin Expo has not been combined with any other show or company.


V-Twin Expo
www.vtwin-expo.com

Harley-Davidson Presents $3 million to MDA

Contributions total $79 million since 1980.


MILWAUKEE, Sept. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Harley-Davidson's family of customers, dealers, employees and suppliers has presented a contribution of $3 million during the 2011 Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethon. Today's contribution marks the 31st year Harley-Davidson has supported MDA, and brings its cumulative fundraising to $79 million.

       Mike Kennedy, Harley-Davidson Motor Company's Vice President, North America Sales, along with representatives from the company's top U.S. fundraising dealerships, presented the check to MDA.
       "I am proud to represent the entire Harley-Davidson family today who continue to come together to Make a Muscle and Make a Difference for the families living with neuromuscular diseases," said Kennedy. "For 31 years, thousands upon thousands of members of the Harley-Davidson family have given their time, their love and their dollars to help fulfill the dreams of a brighter future for everyone with muscular dystrophy."
       Harley-Davidson fundraising activities for MDA included pledge rides, dealer fundraisers, motorcycle raffles, Black-N-Blue Ball fundraising dinners and commemorative pin sales. The funds raised helped support MDA summer camps, life-saving research and comprehensive medical care for children and adults with neuromuscular disease. Harley-Davidson's efforts have again placed the company among the top corporate donors to MDA this year.
       Joining Kennedy on the telethon broadcast were representatives from dealerships that hosted top MDA fundraising events this year. These dealers include the Pennsylvania Eastern Harley-Davidson Dealers Association, which holds the single largest MDA fundraising event in the country – the annual Ride for Life. The 2011 event raised nearly $1 million. Also participating in the broadcast were representatives from Kutter Harley-Davidson in Janesville, Wis; Motor City Harley-Davidson in Farmington Hills, Mich; and Sauk Prairie Harley-Davidson in Sauk City, Wis.
       Harley-Davidson has been a national sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association since 1980. This longstanding partnership started with the simple notion of "Bikers Ride for MD" and has resulted in millions of dollars being raised to help MDA and the children and adults it supports. For more information on the Harley-Davidson and MDA relationship, visit www.mdarides.org.

JIMS Air Fuel Ratio Diagnostic Sniffer Tool

The new JIMS AFR Diagnostic Sniffer Tool No. 777 allows you to accurately diagnose and record your current air to fuel ratio. JIMS has manufactured and assembled all the parts needed for a single part number, user-friendly, AFR diagnostic sniffer tool kit. Use with the Daytona Twin Tec (WEGO) or an equivalent AFR Monitoring System.
       Simply install the WEGO III sensor cable into the new JIMS manifold sniffer. The JIMS AFR Diagnostic Sniffer comes complete with heat wrap, wire taps, and clamp for securing the sniffer to the exhaust system. During testing, the JIMS AFR Sniffer had readings that were virtually identical to the readings from a wideband sensor mounted in the stock location near the cylinder head and accurate readings were obtained at above approximately 10% throttle. 
       JIMS AFR Diagnostic Sniffer Tool No. 777 is manufactured right here in the U.S.A. with an MSRP of $285.00. For more information please visit us at www.jimsusa.com, find them on Facebook, or call 805-482-6913.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Gail

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. This feature has been expanded to include Bikes Only and Trikes Only. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Gail Smith's 1999 Honda Gold Wing 1500 w/Lehman trike conversion under Trikes Only. There are no Women on Motorcycles, Men on Motorcycles or Bikes Only this week. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.

Harley-Davidson Rally Could Provide Needed Boost To Dealers

Brendan Conway, WISN 12 News Reporter
GREENFIELD, Wis. -- Labor Day weekend means the sound of tens of thousands of Harley-Davidson motorcycles will fill the air.
       As the annual Milwaukee Rally kicks into high gear, the company said sales are up for the first time in five years.
       "The motor company, they keep the enthusiast coming back to the products," said Harley owner Tom Derrico Jr.
       But while things are looking up at the factory, some dealers are concerned that a shortage of new bikes could cut into their own bottom line.


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Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to Sponsor Real-Time Accident Study

100 motorcycles, specially equipped with sensors and cameras, will be used in a first-ever MSF study to better understand motorcycle accidents. Here's an excerpt from an article published by Motor Sports Newswire:

"The first rider participating in the first-ever MSF 100 Motorcyclists Naturalistic Study rode off with a fully instrumented, data-logging bike from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) last week, marking the start of the year-long research project. Each of the 100 bikes, routinely being ridden in real-world traffic, and equipped with an array of data acquisition systems, will provide comprehensive, real-time, near-crash, pre-crash and actual-crash information that is unprecedented in motorcycle research."

Read more.