"Travelling epic distances is nothing new to BMW Motorrad adventurers, but while many ride tens, or even hundreds of thousands of miles, two American women have racked up a record few could even contemplate. Enter Ardys Kellerman and Voni Glaves, who are officially recognized as the first female BMW riders in North America to cover one million miles (1.6 million kilometers). The distance, which is more than 40 times the circumference of the globe, took decades to accumulate and between them, the women have used 31 different motorcycles." -- DigitsRead the complete article.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Two Women Riders Receive BMW Mileage Award
According to an article published in Clutch and Chrome, two female motorcyclists have received the million mile award from BMW. Here's an excerpt:
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Polaris Announces Investment in Electric Motorcycle Company
"We are excited to advance our electric vehicle capability by establishing Polaris as a business partner and part owner of Brammo, one of the most innovative and aggressive companies we have found in the electric motorcycle space," said Scott Wine, Polaris CEO. "Our companies share a passion for performance, and we look forward to exploiting the numerous opportunities created by pairing Brammo's industry-leading electric powertrain technology with Polaris' vast array of market-leading powersports products. This is a small, but important, investment for Polaris in an electric vehicle market that we feel is poised for significant growth."
Founded in 2002, Brammo has made its mark by developing electric vehicle technology tailored specifically for the motorcycle segment. Brammo currently offers the Enertia line of motorcycles, capable of speeds in excess of 60 mph and ranges up to 80 miles on a single charge. Brammo plans to expand their product line to include high-performance sport motorcycles capable of more than 100 miles on a single charge, as well as a full line of entry- to high-performance dirt and dual-sport motorcycles.
"We have always been impressed with Polaris' leadership within the powersports industry. Polaris is a company founded on innovation and quality and, as such, their decision to partner with Brammo is a resounding endorsement of our technology," said Brammo CEO and founder Craig Bramscher. "This is a terrific scenario for Brammo's customers, as we bring Polaris' legendary engineering, manufacturing, and customer service expertise to bear on our products."
In addition to potentially utilizing Brammo technology in its own products, Polaris will collaborate with Brammo to grow their core business. Polaris and Brammo each bring distinct competencies and assets to this relationship, and share cultures centered on a passion for excellence and innovation. This combination of capabilities and culture will allow Polaris and Brammo to create and seize opportunities that neither could capture independently.
About Polaris
With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER® for recreational and utility use, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric powered vehicles.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry, among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles. The Company has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with Victory motorcycles and the acquisition of the Indian motorcycle brand. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the Global on-road low speed vehicle industry with internally developed vehicles and the acquisition of Global Electric Motorcars (GEM). Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "PII", and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicles accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polarisindustries.com.
About Brammo
Brammo, Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the Encite(TM), Enertia(TM), Empulse(TM) and Engage(TM) motorcycles. Brammo are the current TTXGP e-grand prix champions of North America. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain(TM) systems including the Brammo Power(TM) battery pack and Brammo Power(TM) vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe and Asia. To learn more visit www.Brammo.com
SOURCE: Polaris Industries
Polaris Industries
Marlys Knutson,763-542-0533
marlys.knutson@polarisind.com
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Injection Molded Saddlebag Speaker Lids From Küryakyn
The wizards at Küryakyn and Kicker have come up with a replacement saddlebag lid that will have your bagger rockin’ like never before. Featuring high-tech, marine-grade 6” x 9” Kicker Speakers with separate mounted 3/4” tweeters & a dependable high pass cross-over for unbelievable sound. Chrome or Black waterproof speaker grills come on a black finish that’s fully paintable - or add Saddlebag Lid Covers (P/N4117) for undeniable style. Speakers are covered with FrogzSkin (Patent Pending) a protective screen designed to keep out water & debris & will not interfere with the quality of sound. These Saddlebag Lids are for riders who demand the ultimate in looks and function without sacrificing much storage.
Kicker Amplifier & Wiring Harness (P/N 871) required for installation (sold separately)
- 6” x 9” RW0869w speakers
- Max Recommended Amp Power (Peak/RMS): 300W/100W
- Frequency Response: 40Hz-5kHz(watts) 3/4” ks20 tweeters
- Max Recommended Amp Power (Peak/RMS): 190W/95W
- Frequency Response: 4500Hz-21kHz(watts)
New Fat Cat Pipe for 2012 Harley Dyna Switchback
Engineers at D&D work on the sound as much as the performance. At idle, the motorbike is deep, boomy and full of character. Once the throttle is cracked the sweet basso-profundo notes just keep on getting better. Not only does the pipe look good, it is a wonderfully sounding experience for the rider.
Our dyno testing shows an increase in torque and horsepower gain by as much as 10+ percent. It was tested with Zippers Hi-Flow Air Cleaner.
"Whether you are rocketing down to your local watering hole or heading out on a multi-day run, our Fat Cat performance pipe will get you up to speed quicker with greater efficiency," explained Dave Rash, the Pope of Pipe.
The 2012 Dyna FatCat Switchback 2-1 exhaust pipe comes with 4 baffle options for sound and performance. For 103-inch engines D&D has louvered and louvered wrapped baffles. For 106-inch to 113-inch engines D&D has big bore and big bore wrapped baffles. The wrapped baffle remove the high-end pitch but will not reduce performance. Customers have a choice of back cut or slant cut exhaust tips.
Call 817-834-8961 for details or log-on at www.danddexhaust.com.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Hawg Wired Hires Industry Veteran Kurt Peterson As VP Of Sales And Marketing
Peterson brings with him over 18 years of experience and education in the industry. A U.S. Army Veteran, Peterson has built a successful career in sales, marketing, customer support and relationship management within the v‐twin industry. His resume’ includes positions with Custom Chrome International as Media and Events Manager and Midwest Regional Sales Representative, S&S Cycle, Inc as Senior Sales Executive and Customer Support Manager, American IronHorse Motorcycles as Dealer Development and Events Manager, Drag Specialties as Sales Representative and Events Manager as well as extensive Dealership experience in the Minneapolis / St. Paul area.
"We continue to build up our small, yet highly refined team of high performance audio specialists by seeking out and hiring experienced and knowledgeable industry veterans such as Kurt,” said Paul Hughes, President of Hawg Wired. “The appointment of an industry insider such as Kurt to this important role is significant. Kurt will take over all aspects of our Sales and Marketing roles and work closely with the Hawg‐Wired team to build a strong dealer and distribution network that will continue to support and represent the Hawg Wired brand and care for our customers.”
Peterson is an avid v‐twin enthusiast and has designed and built several "one off" custom motorcycles throughout his career. In 2008, Peterson, the Customer Support Manager at S&S Cycle, Inc. was asked to complete and display his latest one off motorcycle design “Lil’ Evil” as one of the builders participating in the S&S Cycle, Inc. 50th Anniversary Celebration. That same year he was invited to compete as a competitor in the AMD Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building in Sturgis with that same bike. Peterson is also an avid AHDRA member and Drag Racer who still competes in the Street Pro Class on a limited basis.
“This is an exciting time for me,” says Peterson. “I’ve learned over my years in the industry and have treated every position I’ve held as an opportunity to increase my industry and product knowledge while partnering with some of the best product lines the market has to offer. The consumers experience with any upgrade they make, be it cosmetic, performance or audio MUST be the best they can possibly achieve or why do it? That experience starts with the manufacturer and works its way through the dealer and distribution channels selected by Hawg Wired to the end user. If any portion of that chain is weak or less than appealing to the consumer, they’ll steer clear no matter the quality of the product. Hawg Wired is considered to be “THE” high quality, high performance audio brand in the V‐Twin industry and I look forward to bringing increased value to the brands awareness. I am excited about this new opportunity and hope I can live up to my own expectations as well as those of Hawg Wired.”
SuperTrapp Acquires JayBrake
JayBrake (www.jbrake.com) is a leader in the manufacturing of performance motorcycle parts and accessories directed towards the American V-Twin market. JayBrake products include forward foot controls, handlebar controls, foot pegs, grips, brake calipers, and other motorcycle accessories to fit Harley-Davidson and American V-Twin motorcycles. JayBrake has been in business since 1981.
Kevin Berger, President of SuperTrapp Industries, Inc. stated, “We are excited about the addition of the JayBrake line and are confident that the combined talents and resources of the two brands will be of a great benefit to our customers and the market place. We also look forward to continuing the high level of quality, product development and customer service that JayBrake customers have come to expect over the last 30 years!”
Effective immediately, please direct all orders and order inquiries for JayBrake products to SuperTrapp at:
SuperTrapp Industries, Inc
4540 W160th St.
Cleveland, OH 44135-2628
216-265-8400
216-265-0130 Fax
JayBrake@SuperTrapp.com
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Not Many Harleys are Sold in China
Sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in China are far less than sold in Milwaukee, WI, home of Harley-Davidson. Liza Lin of Bloomberg Businessweek reports:
- "China’s population is almost 2,300 times greater than that of Milwaukee, where Harley-Davidson (HOG) is based. Yet after six years operating in China, the motorcycle maker still sells more bikes in its hometown. The reason: About 100 cities in the world’s most populous nation, including Beijing and Shanghai, have restrictions on motorcycles, including banning them from elevated highways and major thoroughfares to curb noise and thefts, according to the state-affiliated Society of Automotive Engineers of China." -- Liza Lin
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Bernie
Harley-Davidson Recalls 2009-2012 Touring, CVO Touring, and Trikes for Brake Switch Heat Problem
Harley-Davidson is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 touring, CVO touring and trike vehicles manufactured from June 6, 2008, through September 16, 2011. 25 models are included in the recall.The rear brake light switch may be exposed to excessive heat from the exhaust system.The number of units affected is 250,757.Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
BAKER Drivetrain Cash For Crap Program
Press release:
Have an old, tired, stock transmission? Was your custom chopper built with a knock off transmission that's impossible to service? BAKER wants to give you cash for it! The BAKER Cash For Crap Program kicks off this month and will be going on until November 21, 2011. Send us your old worn out transmission and we will apply a 15% off credit on your purchase of a BAKER OD6, DD6, DD7 or OD6R! Don't miss this opportunity to upgrade with the best of the best! Contact our expert sales staff today and ask about the Cash for Crap program!
1-877-640-2004.
BAKER Drivetrain
www.bakerdrivetrain.com
Strokers Dallas: Look For RF Proprietary Parts Line To Launch Early 2012
Rick Fairless and Strokers Dallas are proud to announce the hiring of product designer and developer Dylan Hoey. Hoey comes to Strokers Dallas with a history of aftermarket parts design and development from some of the industry's leading parts manufactures. In conjunction with Rick Fairless, Ford Stell and Gene Slater, the team will design and develop a proprietary line of parts for Fairless' ever expanding Strokers Empire.
"We are excited about the future of the motorcycle industry, and being a Victory dealer, it's only natural that we focus our attention on Victory Motorcycles. We want to offer the Victory consumer a choice when it comes to customizing their bike and we want that choice to be the Rick Fairless "RF" parts line." Fairless, Stell, Slater and Hoey are looking forward to a growing relationship and ever expanding custom parts line. "I am looking forward to working with Rick and the entire Strokers Dallas family and I am very excited about the what the future will bring.", says Hoey. Look for the RF proprietary parts line to launch early 2012.
Strokers Dallas
214-357-0707
www.strokersdallas.com
Harley-Davidson Earnings, Retail Motorcycle Sales Rise In Third Quarter
- Earnings Climb to $0.78 Per Share on Motorcycle Shipment Growth, Improved Motorcycle Operating Margin and Financial Services Results
- Worldwide Harley-Davidson Retail New Motorcycle Sales Rise, Led by 5.4 Percent Growth in U.S.
- Company Marks Continued Progress on Transformation Strategy
- Company Repurchases Shares
- Company Raises Guidance for Motorcycle Shipments
Income from continuing operations in the third-quarter 2011 rose 95.9 percent to $183.6 million, or $0.78 per share, compared to income of $93.7 million, or $0.40 per share from continuing operations in the year-ago quarter. Third-quarter operating income from Motorcycles and Related Products grew 78.0 percent on higher shipment volume and operating margin improvement, while operating income from Financial Services grew 21.9 percent on continued improvement in credit performance, compared to the third quarter of 2010.
Retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 5.1 percent worldwide in the third quarter compared to the prior-year period, led by a 5.4 percent rise in the U.S.
For the first nine months of 2011, Harley-Davidson income from continuing operations was up 63.5 percent compared to the year-ago period to $493.4 million, or $2.09 per share. Retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles through nine months grew 4.9 percent worldwide compared to the year-ago period.
“We are pleased with our sustained progress and we continue to realize strong momentum in the transformation our business,” said Keith Wandell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc.
“Two years ago we embarked on our strategy to focus solely on the Harley-Davidson brand, provide the flexibility required in today’s market and make Harley-Davidson lean, agile and more effective than ever at delivering remarkable products and extraordinary customer experiences. Today, we continue to see the positive results of the course we have charted,” Wandell said. “The changes underway in manufacturing, product development and retail capability will increasingly enable Harley-Davidson to be customer-led like never before.
“Harley-Davidson’s transformation involves a tremendous amount of highly complex, challenging work across every part of the organization. While much remains to be done, we are well down the road and everyone involved deserves much credit for bringing these changes to life,” Wandell said. “I continue to be impressed by the willingness of all employees, including the union leadership, to do the necessary things to transform our business to be a world class, sustainable operation."
Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales
On a worldwide basis, third-quarter retail Harley-Davidson new motorcycle sales grew 5.1 percent compared to last year’s third quarter to 61,838 units. Dealers sold 42,640 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the U.S., a 5.4 percent increase compared to last year’s third quarter. In international markets, dealers sold 19,198 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the third quarter, an increase of 4.4 percent compared to the year-ago period.
Through nine months, worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 4.9 percent compared to the prior-year period to 194,829 units. U.S. retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 4.7 percent to 127,930 units through three quarters compared to the year-ago period. In international markets, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 5.2 percent to 66,899 units for the first nine months of 2011 compared to 2010. Through nine months, industry-wide U.S. heavyweight new motorcycle (651cc-plus) retail unit sales increased 3.7 percent, compared to the year-ago period.
Harley-Davidson Motorcycles and Related Products Segment Financial Results
Third-Quarter Segment Results: Revenue from Harley-Davidson Motorcycles during the third quarter of 2011 of $922.3 million was up 15.5 percent compared to the year-ago period. The Company shipped 61,745 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide during the quarter, compared to shipments of 53,293 motorcycles in the third quarter of 2010.
Revenue from Motorcycle Parts and Accessories (P&A) totaled $235.7 million during the quarter, up 7.6 percent, and revenue from General Merchandise, which includes MotorClothes Apparel and Accessories, was $69.3 million, up 8.2 percent compared to the year-ago period.
Gross margin was 33.7 percent in the third quarter of 2011, compared to 34.9 percent in the third quarter of 2010. Third-quarter operating margin was 14.7 percent, compared to 9.3 percent in the third quarter of 2010.
Nine-Month Segment Results: Through the first nine months of 2011, the Company shipped 182,387 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors, a 9.9 percent increase compared to last year’s 166,013 units for the period.
Revenue from Harley-Davidson Motorcycles through nine months was $2.76 billion, a 13.2 percent increase compared to the year-ago period. Nine-month P&A revenue was $655.4 million, a 9.3 percent increase from the first nine months of 2010. General Merchandise revenue was $204.8 million, a 3.6 percent increase compared to the same period in 2010.
Gross margin through nine months was 34.0 percent and operating margin was 14.5 percent, compared to 35.5 percent and 11.8 percent respectively through nine months last year.
Financial Services Segment
The Financial Services segment recorded operating income of $62.0 million in the third quarter, compared to operating income of $50.9 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase in year-over-year operating income was largely the result of continued improvement in credit performance at Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Through nine months, operating income from financial services was $212.0 million, compared to operating income of $138.4 million in the first three quarters of 2010.
Guidance
Harley-Davidson continues to expect to ship 228,000 to 235,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide in 2011, including 45,500 to 52,500 motorcycles in the fourth quarter.
For the full year, Harley-Davidson now expects gross margin to be between 33.5 percent and 34.5 percent, compared to previous guidance of 34.0 percent to 35.0 percent. The Company continues to expect capital expenditures of between $210 million and $230 million, which includes $70 million to $85 million to support restructuring activities.
Restructuring Update
Harley-Davidson has lowered cost estimates related to the restructuring of its production operations and now expects all previously announced company-wide restructuring activities to result in one-time charges of $480 million to $495 million, including 2011 charges of $70 million to $80 million. The Company continues to expect to realize savings on a cumulative basis in 2011 of $210 million to $230 million from restructuring activities initiated since early 2009, and annual ongoing savings of $305 million to $325 million when the restructuring is fully implemented. Through the first nine months of 2011, the Company incurred restructuring charges of $49.0 million, including $12.4 million in the third quarter. During the third quarter, Harley-Davidson completed the consolidation of final assembly operations at York, Pa. Final assembly of all Touring, Softail, Trike and Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) motorcycles now occurs on a single assembly line.
Income Tax Rate
Through nine months, the Company’s effective tax rate was 30.4 percent, compared to 34.0 percent in the year-ago period. The 2011 effective tax rate through the third quarter was favorably impacted by a settlement of an IRS audit, as well as a change in the Wisconsin income tax law associated with certain net operating losses. In 2011, the Company now expects its full-year effective tax rate from continuing operations to be approximately 31 percent.
Cash Flow
Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.61 billion at the end of the quarter, compared to $1.55 billion at the end of last year’s third quarter. During the first nine months of 2011, Harley-Davidson generated $901.6 million of cash from operating activities. In the first nine months of 2010, the Company generated $1.17 billion of cash from operating activities. Capital expenditures through the first nine months of 2011 were $106.1 million.
Share Repurchase
The Company repurchased 2.5 million shares of Harley-Davidson, Inc. common stock at a cost of $90.8 million during the third quarter of 2011. At the end of the third quarter, there were approximately 232 million shares of Harley-Davidson common stock outstanding and 22.4 million shares remaining on board-approved share repurchase authorizations.
Read Full Report
Polaris Reports Record Third Quarter 2011 Results; 26% Sales Growth Drove EPS Increase of 38%
- Net income increased 43% to a record $67.6 million, or a record $0.95 per diluted share.
- All product lines and geographic regions experienced sales growth during the third quarter.
- Gross profit margin percentage increased 230 basis points to 28.3%.
- During the third quarter, the Board of Directors declared a two-for-one split of the Company's outstanding shares of common stock.
- Raising guidance for full year 2011 earnings to a range of $3.10 to $3.16 per diluted share, a 45% to 48% increase over full year 2010 based on expected full year 2011 sales growth of 30% to 32%.
Scott Wine, Polaris' Chief Executive Officer, stated that "Despite challenging economic conditions, we are pleased to report another record quarter of sales, net income and earnings per share. I am exceptionally proud of how the Polaris team continued to drive growth and productivity in the third quarter. Each of our businesses experienced strong sales growth in the period, primarily driven by sustained market share gains. North American consumer retail demand for Polaris products remains vital, increasing 16 percent. We also once again improved our profitability, with healthy gross profit margin and net income margin increases when compared to last year."
"I am also pleased to report that our Monterrey, Mexico manufacturing facility shipped their 10,000th side-by-side product in the quarter, marking an important milestone while demonstrating the schedule fidelity and focus on quality that is a cornerstone of Polaris operations. Additionally, integration of Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) and Indian Motorcycle Company is progressing according to plan, providing us with exciting new growth platforms."
2011 Business Outlook
The Company is increasing its previously issued sales and earnings guidance and now expects full year 2011 earnings in the range of $3.10 to $3.16 per diluted share, an increase of 45 to 48 percent over full year 2010 earnings of $2.14 per diluted share. Full year 2011 sales are now expected to grow in the range of 30 to 32 percent from 2010.
Wine noted, "Given our year-to-date results, the positive momentum exhibited by our businesses, and the strong performance of our 2012 model year products introduced earlier this year, we are raising our full year 2011 sales and earnings expectations. We expect 2011 will be a record year for Polaris, demonstrating our commitment to making growth happen in spite of adverse economic conditions.
"Looking ahead to 2012, we expect the overall economic climate to remain challenging. However, we believe our business is well positioned to offset these headwinds, as we continue to execute our successful long-term strategy, invest in product innovation, and seize additional opportunities to sustain our momentum. While our current success means the sales and earnings comparisons will be much tougher in 2012, at this early stage we expect to have another year of increasing sales, net income and earnings per share."
(snip)
On-Road Vehicle sales totaled $35.7 million, 77 percent higher than the same period in 2010, primarily due to Victory motorcycle sales increases. Sales of On-Road Vehicles to customers outside of North America increased 74 percent compared to the prior year's third quarter. Third quarter North American heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle industry retail sales were up mid-single digits percent over the prior year's third quarter, while Victory unit retail sales in North America increased upper-teens percent during the same period. In addition, a modest amount of On-Road vehicle sales related to the GEM and Indian Motorcycle Company acquisitions were recorded in the third quarter 2011.
Read full report
Monday, October 17, 2011
Samson Announces Free Shipping + 2012 "Cannons" Exhaust for Dressers and Road Kings
Samson Exhausts announced today that now through the end of the year, Samson will ship to their customers all orders over $199.00 in addition to their 10% discount when ordering directly over the phone or internet.
Additionally, Samson introduces their new 2012 “Cannons” exhaust, part of their Legend Series (two individual pipes on one side) for most Harley-Davidson Dressers and Road Kings. This high performance exhaust system has been designed and tuned to produce maximum horsepower, torque and awesome sound. Every exhaust manufactured by Samson is dyno tested before going into mass production for the ultimate in performance. The removable 2 ½” massive one-piece “full coverage” heat shields are pre-installed and the system is ready to bolt on right out of the box.
Additional Features and Benefits:
• Fits 2010-2012 Harley Davidson Dresser or Road King models (Spacers-Drag Specialties Part # 1622-0243) for left passenger foot peg is required for the FLHX Road Glide and FLTRX Street Glide)
• O2 sensor ports accept O.E.M. / Aftermarket Sensors
• Two stepped high performance system produces up to 20% more horsepower
• Mounting hardware included
• Equipped with 1 3/4" diameter x 10" long removable baffles
• Awesome deep tone (Listen to them on Samson’s website)
• Available in luxurious chrome or “sinister” black ceramic (special request)
• Limited 1 year warranty
• MSRP: $699.95
*$629.95 (*If ordering direct from Samson)
Check out Samson Exhaust’s entire product line at www.samsonusa.com or contact them directly at (888) 572-6766; Samson Exhaust, 655 Tamarack Ave., Brea, CA 92821…email them at info@samsonusa.com.
Rivera Primo 2011/12 Proprietary Mini Catalog Hot Off The Press
The new 2011/12 Proprietary Mini Catalog from Rivera Primo is ready to go out to all of their dealers. At 5 1/4" X 7" it makes the perfect hand-out, easily carried even on a motorcycle.
If you want to give your customers information on one of the best selling product lines in the industry, now is the time. If you snooze, you lose Just email Rivera Primo back with the quantities you want and they will send out the Mini Catalog for you to distribute to your valued customers at your counter.
Ben Kudon
ben@riveraprimoinc.com
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Motorcycle Picture of the Week - J. Marini
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Harley-Davidson Opens New Latin America Headquarters
MIAMI, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of the growing opportunity to introduce the unique Harley-Davidson experience to more customers worldwide, Harley-Davidson announced today the opening of a new permanent Latin America headquarters in Miami, Florida, USA.
"As part of its business transformation, Harley-Davidson is taking one of the world's most iconic brands to the many roads of the world," said Mark Van Genderen, vice president and managing director, Harley-Davidson Latin America during the grand opening event. "This new regional headquarters is part of that transformation, and confirmation that Harley-Davidson is committed to fulfilling the dreams of customers in Latin America from Tierra del Fuego to the Rio Grande."
Harley-Davidson's strategic growth plans include opening new markets and expanding in existing ones. The Company expects that sales outside of the US will exceed 40% of the total by 2014 and growth in the markets that make up the Latin America region are a key part of achieving that goal.
"Our new location will help us better and more quickly respond to our Latin American customer's needs," added Van Genderen. "Harley-Davidson's increased focus on customers outside of the US is an exciting time for us, since many Latin American countries have well-established motorcycle cultures and thousands of avid enthusiasts."
Harley-Davidson has long had a presence in the region. In fact, archive records show our motorcycles winning races in Sao Paulo, Brazil as far back as 1918. More recently, the Company established complete knockdown (CKD) assembly operations in Manaus, Brazil in 1998, to better serve the needs of customers in the fast growing economy. Harley-Davidson motorcycles have also been sold in Mexico dating back more than 80 years.
The Latin America regional office, (which had been based out of the Company's global headquarters in Milwaukee, USA) supports subsidiary operations in Brazil and Mexico, as well as operations in many other countries through the region's Latin America Direct Markets group. All Harley-Davidson functions critical to development and support for the markets are represented in the new headquarters including: sales, marketing, dealer development, and others.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson Inc. (NYSE: HOG), produces heavyweight custom, cruiser, and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycles parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. For more information, please visit Harley-Davidson's website at www.harley-davidson.com
SOURCE Harley-Davidson, Inc.
www.Harley-Davidson.com
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Harley Said To Be a A Solid “Buy”
The iconic motorcycle producer Harley-Davidson (HOG) has a solid "buy" rating on Wall Street and continues to trade below its intrinsic value due to under-appreciated corporate changes. Since the recession, management has cut back on production by around 40% from the 2006 peak and has been focused on keeping inventories lean.
Read more:
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How To Identify S&S Crankcases And Flywheels
Dennis Schaefer points out how to identify S&S crankcases and flywheels and what the serial numbers mean.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Bloomberg Receives Chopper from OCC
Just saw this article and video in All About Bikes about Mayor Bloomberg of NYC receiving a chopper from Orange County Choppers' Paul Teutul Jr. The bike was commissioned by Dan Tishman, CEO of the company now rebuilding the World Trade Center. Take a look.
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ted Hagen
Friday, October 7, 2011
Deeley Harley-Davidson Gives Staff A Free Ride
Eight years ago, when Mary Testani landed an IT job at Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada, friends were concerned. Ms. Testani came from a white-collar environment and knew nothing about motorcycles. But she’d heard great things about working at Deeley’s – and the place looked like fun.
“People said, ‘Oh, you’re going to be a biker chick,’” recalls Ms. Testani, 47, senior manager of business systems at the company’s location in Concord, Ont. “But that’s not the atmosphere. I realized very quickly that they’re regular business people. We work very nicely in the sandbox. The cowboy attitude is not well respected here.”
For the third consecutive year, Deeley’s has been named as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers. Any lingering stereotypes about a testosterone-driven culture are further squashed by the company’s human resources director, Michael Harwood. Women make up about 40 per cent of Deeley’s 149 employees in the company’s offices and distribution facilities in Concord and Richmond, B.C.
Read More:
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Lincoln Extends and Expands Successful Money Matters Customer Promotion
As part of this extension, the company also has expanded the program to include additional products. Both the POWER MIG 180 Dual and the new POWER MIG 256 will be added to the Money Matters product line-up, beginning Oct. 1. Rebates on the new additions are $100 for the POWER MIG 180 Dual and $200 for the POWER MIG 256.
In addition, Lincoln Electric has bundled its Tomahawk 625 plasma cutting system with a Torchmate 2x2 CNC plasma cutting table, offered with a $300 rebate. Torchmate was acquired by Lincoln Electric in 2011. The full Torchmate product line can be viewed at www.torchmate.com.
Along with the new products, Lincoln Electric continues to offer special pricing on six popular welding machines through the Money Matters program. Rebate offers are summarized here:
- POWER MIG 140C - $75 rebate
- POWER MIG 180C - $75 rebate
- POWER MIG 180 Dual - $100 rebate
- POWER MIG 216 - $125 rebate
- Square Wave TIG 175 - $150 rebate
- Outback 145 Engine-driven welder/generator - $150 rebate
- POWER MIG 256 - $200 rebate
- Ranger 225 Engine-driven welder/generator - $200 rebate
- Torchmate 2x2 / Tomahawk 625 One-Pak - $300 rebate
In each case, customers may select the rebate or FREE accessories with an even greater value, including a new Traditional Welding Gear Ready-Pak, containing a VIKING 1840 Series helmet, welding jacket, gloves, safety glasses and doo-rag. Accessory packages are dependent upon product purchased.
To learn more about the program, review the program rules, locate a participating distributor or to submit a claim, customers should visit www.lincolnelectric.com/moneymatters.
The Lincoln Electric Company, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is the world leader in the design, development and manufacture of arc welding products, robotic arc welding systems, fume control systems and plasma and oxyfuel cutting equipment. The company holds a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. For more information, visit www.lincolnelectric.com.
Paul Jr. Designs Uses Innovative Von Braun Exhaust Muffler
“Paul conveyed to me what his client did, how their products help people, and how the innovative technology behind Cepheid separates them from the other companies in their industry. We discussed his overall concept for the bike, and Paul asked me if I could help him incorporate an innovative muffler into the bike that would really capture and represent the brand. Given the bike’s unique proportions, I recommended a custom version of our Velocities model, which is super clean, highly technical, and reminiscent of a jet engine, which in turn highlights the speed of Cepheid’s systems. Paul was very enthusiastic, and as his clients entrust him to run with a project, he extended the same freedom to us. I think Paul Jr. designs did a wonderful job at capturing Cepheid’s unprecedented approach to medical diagnosis in a really fun and exciting way. And Cepheid is doing a fantastic job of helping people by developing, manufacturing, and marketing accurate yet easy-to-use molecular systems and tests. And Von Braun Exhaust is really thrilled to be a part of it.”
Source: Von Braun Exhaust
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Motorcycle Insurers Paying $5.7M In Settlements
BOSTON (Legal Newsline) - Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley announced settlements on Monday with three insurers for allegedly overcharging policyholders.
Fifteen insurance companies have settled with Coakley and agreed to return close to $40 million to Massachusetts consumers, including more than $5.6 million in additional insurance refunds for Massachusetts motorcycle owners.
"We are pleased that our investigation, which began with a single consumer complaint, has resulted in the return of nearly $40 million to Massachusetts motorcycle owners," Coakley said. "We are very concerned that the auto insurers in this state were able to overcharge so many Massachusetts consumers on such a large scale."
Monday's three settlements resolve allegations that the insurance companies illegally overcharged state consumers for years by using un-depreciated and inflated motorcycle values to calculate insurance premiums. Coakley's office reached similar settlements with 12 other insurance companies last year.
As a part of the newest settlements, Premier Insurance Company of Massachusetts refund $5,000,386, American Automobile Insurance Company will refund $571,394 and Electric Insurance Company will return $123,882 to policyholders in the state.
The three insurance companies are also required to collectively send out more than 14,000 refund checks in late October, with an average refund of approximately $400. According to Coakley's office, 1,424 refund checks will be over $1,000, 2,031 refund checks will be between $501 and $1,000, 2,627 refund checks will be between $251 and $500, 3,579 refund checks will be between $100 and $250, and 4,488 refund checks will be under $100.
The 15 settlements stem from a consumer complaint filed with Coakley's office from a consumer who owned a 1999 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic. The consumer's premiums were allegedly calculated as if the motorcycle was brand new and worth $20,000, but by 2003, the four-year-old motorcycle was worth significantly less than its original $20,000 price. By 2008, the nine-year-old motorcycle was worth less than $12,000. Despite this, each year between 2003 and 2008, the consumer's insurance company allegedly used the inflated $20,000 value to rate the policy, resulting in more than $1,500 in overcharges.
Hairy Bikers
Hairy Bikers
Delectable new HISTORY series premiering on Friday, October 14 at 10pm ET
Follows Chef Paul Patranella and Mechanic Bill Allen on an Adventure through America’s Heartland
U.S. version of the hit international format is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions
September 14, 2011 – Paul Patranella is a 4-star, classically trained French chef who loves motorcycles. Bill Allen, a renowned motorcycle mechanic, is passionate about food. These two long-time friends know that food is the ticket to the American experience and motorcycling is the only way to get there.
In Hairy Bikers, premiering Friday, October 14 at 10pm ET on HISTORY, Paul and Bill embark on an amusing and informative road trip along back roads to immerse themselves in local American history and long-standing traditions. But they don’t just cook and eat with the locals – they do everything it takes to put the meal on the table. They spear bullfrogs, trawl for shrimp and capture gators with a cross bow; they clean road kill, harvest wheat for beer, and track down wild boars.
In this 12-part series produced for HISTORY by BBC Worldwide Productions, also producers of the network’s hit series Top Gear, Bill and Paul explore the different old-school eating habits of various regions, from the southern Louisiana coast to South Carolina’s Low Country, from the Great Smokey Mountains to central Oklahoma and beyond. They learn folklore and age-old customs as they hunt, gather, cook, and eat side-by-side with a colorful assortment of local characters.
Back on the open road, the boys camp, fix up motorcycles, stop at roadside attractions, and swing by local biker events – all part of the Hairy Bikers mission to experience first-hand why eating and biking are some of America’s favorite pastimes.
Hairy Bikers - Biographies
- Bill Allen, 44, is the owner of Bill Allen Motorcycle Company, a premiere shop in central Texas where he’s known for his attention to detail. He is also a custom bike builder, musician and passionate cook. After graduating from the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Orlando, FL, he became crew chief in the super modified class of the American Drag Bike Association race circuit, setting 4 national records in his class for drag racing. He’s been cooking and throwing dinner parties with his best friend Paul Patranella for the past 20 years. Nearly every Sunday night, he and his wife host what they call their “home for wayward musicians” to support some of their “starving artist” friends.
- Paul Patranella, 41, studied at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin, TX. After four years as chef at one of Las Vegas’ most prestigious restaurants, he returned to Bryan, Texas to open Square One, where he helped promote fresh, local produce. From there he was hired as the personal chef for President George and Barbara Bush and head chef for the Bush Presidential Library. Now on his 14th motorcycle, he’s spent decades riding the back roads of Texas with his best friend Bill Allen.
The Hairy Bikers title has been sold in over 160 territories worldwide including Australia, China, Egypt, Italy, Norway, Slovenia, Taiwan and more, capturing the imagination of cooking enthusiasts and redefining the genre. The original Hairy Bikers on BBC Two in the UK has completed their 8th season, repeatedly demonstrating phenomenal success with viewers.
Hairy Bikers is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions for HISTORY. Executive Producer is Dawn Fitzgerald. Executive Producer for HISTORY is Julian P. Hobbs. Executive Producers for BBC Worldwide Productions are Elli Hakami and Jane Tranter.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ted Hagen
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