Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Doug

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 Doug's 1986 Harley-Davidson FLHTC 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.

Revive Your Ride

Custom Chrome Celebrates the Winner of their PYO/Bagger Nation Stretched Tank for Touring Models and Bonanza Handlebars by Fred Kodlin in the Revive Your Ride! WIN BIG Spring Giveaway




September 1st, 2011: Custom Chrome congratulates Chris Mostello, who won the PYO/Bagger Nation Stretched Gas Tank and a set of Bonanza Handlebars by Fred Kodlin as part of their 2nd place prize package in the recent Revive Your Ride! WIN BIG Spring Giveaway promotion. Created and funded by the aftermarket members of the MIC, the Revive Your Ride! WIN BIG Spring Giveaway was designed specifically to build excitement for two-wheeling and to bring the riding community back to motorcycle, ATV, side x side, service and aftermarket retailers.


        Custom Chrome of Morgan Hill, California is one of dozens of MIC aftermarket companies that helped make this year’s promotion bigger and better than ever with its donation of their Stretched Tank and Bonanza Bars.
        “Congratulations to Chris Mostello.” said Brian Marion, Marketing Manager for Custom Chrome. “We’re proud to have been a part of this year’s WIN BIG Spring Giveaway. Like last year, this promotion was a huge success, creating excitement about riding and bringing new and existing customers back into dealers. This year, there were even more incentives for customers, since they had the chance to win our proprietary PYO/Bagger Nation Stretched Tank for Touring Models and a set of Bonanza Handlebars designed by the world famous Fred Kodlin or one of a hundred other great products, including the $5,000 Grand Prize!”
        Revive Your Ride!, the industry’s first-ever collective promotional campaign, began in 2010. This year’s Revive Your Ride! WIN BIG Spring Giveaway Grand Prize was a $5,000 pre-paid debit card. In addition to the Grand Prize, more than 100 products were donated by MIC aftermarket member companies for giveaways, ranging from leather jackets and helmets to windshields and saddlebags to magazine subscriptions and much more. 
        The Custom Chrome PYO Stretched Tank features flowing and elegant lines that perfectly compliment the stance of your Bagger.  This tank is a full 6 gallon one-piece stretched unit.  It’s also designed with a custom steel dash with a cool pop-up gas cap.  The Custom Chrome Bonanza Bars are designed by acclaimed German designer Fred Kodlin.  
       “Congratulations to everyone who participated in the Revive Your Ride! promotion this year,” said Frank Esposito, MIC aftermarket committee chair. “Thanks to our MIC aftermarket members, this tremendous promotion again drove thousands of customers into dealerships everywhere, which was exactly what it was supposed to do. Although this was only the second year, we still saw a dramatic increase in participation from MIC member companies who donated $40,000 in cash, cool products and great services as giveaways. We are already looking forward to the fall promotion beginning October 1 through November 30 and hope to use the momentum from this promotion to make the next Revive Your Ride! event even better.”  

1947 Knucklehead Replica Awarded by National Motorcycle Museum, Anamosa, Iowa

The National Motorcycle Museum's annual motorcycle fundraising program offered a striking orange and black 1947 Knucklehead Replica. Thousands of entrants have been excited to know who would win the bike. In the witnessed December 30, 2011 drawing Mark Vance of Rockford, Illinois became the lucky winner. Mark is among thousands who donated to support the Museum and hoped to win. 

       Mark Vance first learned about the Knucklehead Replica the Museum was giving away back in August. "I procrastinated, but finally bought six tickets. It was mostly to support the Museum. I didn't expect to win," said Mark. "I was watching some TV on the December 30th when my cell phone rang. Hearing it was Jeff from the Museum I figured it was about my gift card not working. I tried to say something intelligent, but I was speechless when Jeff said I had won the bike!" 
        Mark is a long time motorcyclist from a motorcycling family. He started on a home-built mini-bike, then rebuilt a late 1960's Harley-Davidson 125 dirt bike with his dad, later moved on to bigger bikes. His main ride now is a Victory Jackpot. Mark's other passion is trap shooting. In addition to several Midwestern state championships he's won in the past few years, he's the 2009 U.S. Open Remington Nitro 27 Handicap Yardage Runner Up. 
       While a trip to Museum has been in Mark's plans ever since he was nearby at the J&P Cycles Open House a couple of years ago,  he says he'll be there soon to claim his 2011 Knucklehead. "I've looked over the Museum on the website, and that's where I learned about the raffle and decided to support the Museum. It'll be great to visit, meet Jeff, the director and see all the great motorcycles and memorabilia first hand and pick up my new bike!" 
        The Museum has tickets ready for its 2012 fundraiser bike. You can learn all about the National Motorcycle Museum and make your donation to get a chance to win by going to www.nationalmcmuseum.org. You might be ask lucky as Mark Vance. 
       Cruise into the National Motorcycle Museum, located at 102 Chamber Drive in Anamosa, Iowa, and experience the extensive display of over 320 motorcycles from around the world as well as thousands of photographs, posters, postcards and pieces of motorcycle memorabilia, plus a fabulous collection of antique toys. The Museum is open 9 - 5 seven days a week, year around and Museum Members are admitted free. Becoming a member is easy and quick. Admission is $8.00 except during special events. Children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. The National Motorcycle Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation. For more information, call 319-462-3925 or plan your visit to the Museum on the web at www.nationalmcmuseum.org.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Ray Latta

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Ray Latta's 2012 Honda Gold Wing GL1800 under Bikes Only. There are no Men on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Women on Motorcycles 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.

Corbin Announces Third Annual Rider Appreciation Day

Corbin announced today that they have recently submitted their permit application to the city of Hollister and are planning their 3rd Annual Rider Appreciation Day for Saturday, June 30, 2012 (the weekend before the Fourth of July).
        Hollister is the Birthplace of the American Biker…it’s where it all began! Last year, Corbin had thousands of riders show up to help celebrate our country’s birthday and take part in the festivities. This year Corbin, an industry leader, is also having a trade show right on their property and the vender space is FREE… register early to make sure you get a spot! For those venders who are ready to commit to attending, Corbin will add your logo to their promotional literature.

        If you would like to participate as a vendor this year, you can request an application via email. Please contact: joni@corbin.com. Corbin is sending all of their promotional material to the printer soon, so act fast!
Corbin is also working with Biker Bob to put on another custom bike show front and center on the Corbin lot. This year it will be bigger and better with special goodies being handed out to the winners. You've put a lot of work into your bike and here's your chance to garner a little attention for all of your efforts. Not just attention, but a nifty trophy or award to boot!
Six different classes will be judged:

• Street: Factory custom, non-bagger
• Custom: Chopper or exotic, 2-wheeler
• Sport: Streetfighters and more
• Touring: Baggers of all brands
• Trike: 3-Wheelers of all brands
• Best of Clubs: Patch Clubs' favorites

As always, Corbin will be running factory tours throughout the day and will also be offering a 10% discount on all Corbin products. Installation of Corbin goodies is always free at the Corbin factory. Early pre-registrations will get a free lunch ticket but supplies are limited so don't wait!
Additional Happenings:

• The Elks Club has confirmed they'll do Tri-tip sandwiches again this year. They say last year's event was one of their most successful fundraisers for the year!
• Boy Scouts of America will return to provide water, soda + energy drinks..these profits help Scouts get to the annual Jamboree
• The Backyard Blues Band will be returning to provide music for the Corbin event
• We have also booked the Charlie Brechtel Band to play our little party
• Pre-Registration has officially opened for 2012…Go to www.corbin.com to sign up
• Get your hotel reservations early…the town was sold out in 2011.

For those interested in obtaining more information on Corbin, you can reach them at 800-538-7035 or online at www.corbin.com. Visit Corbin Headquarters at 2360 Technology Parkway, Hollister, CA. 95023 or Corbin Florida at 1433 US Highway 1, Ormond Beach, FL 32174. Hollister Event information: www.corbin.com/rally/

Vendor application: www.corbin.com/rally/vendorapp.pdf

Ducati Recalls Hypermotard and Monster for Fuel Line Problem

Ducati is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Hypermotard and Monster motorcycles manufactured from June 25, 2011, through November 30, 2011.

The fuel lines contain micro-cracking due to insufficient drying of raw materials prior to extrusion.

913 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

AMSOIL Introduces New Motorcycle Octane Boost

New AMSOIL Motorcycle Octane Boost is a fuel additive formulated to increase octane levels in fuel for more powerful and efficient engine operation. It also cleans combustion chamber deposits for increased performance at startup, helping to eliminate engine ping or knock and providing more power at low acceleration. 
       AMSOIL Motorcycle Octane Boost typically responds better in lower octane fuel and in fuel that contains ethanol. When treated at 1.3 fluid ounces per Motorcycle Octane Boost increases the octane of gasoline up to 3 up to three numbers.    
       AMSOIL Motorcycle Octane Boost is primarily formulated for use in four-stroke air- or liquid-cooled motorcycles manufactured by Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Honda, Ducati, BMW, Triumph and all other four-stroke applications.  This street legal formulation meets the requirements for registration with the Environmental Protection Agency.


AMSOIL
800-777-8491
www.amsoil.com

Barnett Scorpion “Under Cover” Lock-Up Clutch

1998-06 Big Twins (except ’06 Dyna)
All new from Barnett is the Scorpion “Under Cover” lock-up clutch. This clutch has added capacity to handle today’s big inch motors and it is designed to fit under the stock primary cover- no modifications required!        

       This clutch features a fully adjustable billet aluminum lock-up pressure plate multiple sets of heavy duty coil springs for a wide variety of spring pressure options. The adjustable lock-up arms allow the use of lighter springs resulting in reduced lever effort. Also included is a steel hub, Carbon friction plates, and tempered steel plates. From mild to wild- street to strip, the UC lock-up will handle your high performance clutch needs and provide smoother shifting and a more progressive, controllable engagement. Fits 1998-06 Big Twins (except ’06 Dyna’s). Made in the USA.


Part #608-30-21098
MSRP: $700


Contact:
Barnett Clutches & Cables
2238 Palma Dr.
Ventura, CA 93003
Ph- 805-642-9435
www.barnettclutches.com

K&N’s New Street Metal Series High-Flow Air Intake Systems

K&N’s New Street Metal Series High-Flow Air Intake Systems provide a good looking appearance, offer increased airflow and deliver more horsepower and torque to your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.  As an example, the Hammer System gained an estimated 10.17HP AND 10.27LBFT of torque at the rear wheel on a stock 2010 HD Fat Bob 96CI.  It increases power by eliminating the stock OE air cleaner and replacing it with a complete High-Flow Air Intake System.  

The sturdy, cast aluminum backing plate mounts directly to the throttle body via a aluminum integrated internal-run breather system.   An original K&N High-Flow Air Filter is used, lowering restriction while providing long service intervals.  A durable mounting gasket is used to absorb vibration.  K&N High-Flow Air Filters are washable, reusable, pre-oiled and ready to ride.  

• No Fuel-management modifications necessary to obtain increased performance
• Kits are sold complete, with mounting hardware included
• Covered by K&N’s famous Million-Mile Limited Warranty
• RK Series Intake systems are street legal in most states. However, they are not legal for use in California and other states adopting California emission standards

‘99-‘07 HD Twin-Cam®FI/’08-11 Dyna®/Softail® 

K&N Engineering, Inc.

WWW.KNFILTERS.COM 

The Perfect Storm

“The Perfect Storm” from Küryakyn will transform a weak and quiet stock motor to a thundering beast that is both more powerful and more efficient. The key to unlocking the power is allowing the motor to breath. Power is achieved with the combination of a Kuryakyn High Flow Air Cleaner, True Dual Head Pipes, Crusher Mufflers and the TTS Master Tune engine management system.
The High Flow Air Cleaner and Crusher Exhaust system are the components that help to free up the motor and allow it to breath. Controlling it all is the TTS Master Tune, a revolutionary piece of equipment that gives you total control over your ECU that actually recalibrates the computer rather than trick it to simply add fuel. Reprogramming the ECU can be done using a laptop computer. Not only is overall power increased but the motor also becomes more efficient and consumes less fuel.





Küryakyn
www.kuryakyn.com

Polar Bear Grand Tour to the PIC-A-LILLI INN in Shamong, NJ on Feb. 12, 2012

Check out pictures and videos of the 14th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the PIC-A-LILLI INN in Shamong, NJ on February 12, 2012. It was a cold and windy day.

Motorcycle Picture of the Week - Doc Shumway

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Doc Shumway with his 2010 Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide under Men on Motorcycles. There are no Bikes Only, Trikes Only, or Women on Motorcycles 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.

Peter Starr, Motorcycle Filmmaker, Interviewed by Jay Leno

Peter Starr has been an international motorcycle racer, record producer, filmmaker, and producer of 40 motorcycle racing films. He's now written a book about all the years making those racing films. The title is "Taking it to the Limit - 20 Years of Making Motorcycle Movies." Here's a video interview by Jay Leno where Starr discusses his love of motorcycles and his new book. Watch the Jay Leno Interview.

Suzuki Recalls 2012 AN400, AN650, and DL650 Scooters and Motorcycles for Brake Switch Failure

Suzuki is recalling certain model year 2012 AN400, AN650, and DL650 scooters and motorcycles manufactured prior to December 17, 2011.

The lever-mounted brake light actuating switch(es) may fail.

1396 units are affected.

Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.

Michael Lichter Returns to Sturgis for Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip, the legendary campground and entertainment venue famous for its free-to-campers concerts during the Sturgis Rally, today announced that the annual Motorcycles as Art event will return to the Buffalo Chip’s 7,000 square foot Exhibition Center in 2012 with an all new exhibit titled, Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free. This exciting new exhibit features a collection of one of a kind custom motorcycles and artwork. Open daily to the public with free admission from August 4th through the 10th, 2:00pm to 10:00pm.

       Presented by the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and curator, famed photographer Michael Lichter in conjunction with Born-Free bike show creators Grant Peterson and Mike Davis, this year’s highly anticipated exhibit will be like no other in the history of Motorcycles as Art. Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free celebrates freedom of expression, contemporary motorcycle design and the vision of today’s most innovative artists and custom bike fabricators. This exhibition will look at what is behind the notion that motorcycle design is as much about the culture and times it was born of as it is about the machinery itself. It will do this by looking at an emerging movement within custom motorcycling. 

       “Over the last few years, custom bike building has been returning to its roots.” explains Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free Curator Michael Lichter. “Custom bike builders have been looking back to simpler times, to motorcycling in the 1950's-1970’s for inspiration. They are back in their small garages all across America getting their bikes to work better, look better, and represent who they are. They work by themselves and they work with their best friends. This new breed of builder is acknowledging the styles of the past as well as today’s engineering innovations and in doing this, they are breathing new life into old machines. Their creations reflect their personal stories, their friends and contemporary life they are part of. Paramount to all, they are building these bikes to ride – and they ride them hard.”

       The Born-Free ride-in bike show that began in Southern California in 2009 as an event that brought together like minded individuals with a love for choppers, old motorcycles and the culture that surrounds them, has now grown into something much larger. The show has become an epicenter for the fusion of past and present motorcycle design. It is with this shared vision that Motorcycles as Art Curator Michael Lichter and Born-Free creators Grant Peterson and Mike Davis have joined forces for the annual exhibition at the Buffalo Chip that will see more than 25-custom bikes and art that represent the Born-Free movement.
       “We are very proud and excited about this year’s exhibit,” says Sturgis Buffalo Chip Owner, Rod Woodruff. “Michael Lichter and his collaborating partners have brought together more then just a collection of one of a kind motorcycles and art for all rally goers to enjoy, they have captured the culture and vibe of a point in motorcycling history. Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free will be remembered as the exhibition that told the story of not only great motorcycles but of the people that build them.”


Sturgis Buffalo Chip
605-347-9000
www.buffalochip.com

It's a Site For Sore Eyes...

Press Release: At BAKER we’re really proud of our technical prowess. We will get buried in discussions of gear ratios, proper tooth angles, and technical applications whenever we can. However, for years the BAKER Drivetrain website has been lacking some of the real meat and potatoes kind of technical information that the real gearheads are craving. So we took the last year, assembled a team of the strongest technical and artistic minds in our company, and built an all new website that we’re positive will satisfy that hunger.


        Our goal with the new site was for it to be easier to use for our customers and dealers, have the best, juiciest kinds of pictures and diagrams that show off the technical side of our product lines, and most of all: be chocked full of the information that everyone has been clamoring for.
        We chose to divide the product lines up based on the same kind of categorizing we used in our most recent series of catalogs: by application type. From those drop down menus you can find product- specific pages that go into vast detail, with supporting imagery, about each innovation we make.  Extensive technical details on each page will layout everything from gear ratios of each product, to the kind of metal we make it from, to choices of case finish, and even suggested product upgrades. Each product page includes:

• Application pictures showing the product in use on a variety of bikes types
• Gearing information and options so you can build a tranny to match your riding style
• Finish choices so you can customize  the look of your transmission
• Warranty information to show the kind of unmatched support that BAKER offers.
• Installation instructions so you can see how easy it goes together before you even buy your BAKER
• Detailed CAD images showing everything from power flow to gear sequences and even vibrant cutaway illustrations showing the inner workings of our product lines
• Direct link buttons to our online store

                               
To add to the site, we’ve included easy to find contact information, direct mail links, helpful downloads,  BAKER history, a staff page where you can put a face with the name on the phone, and even a state-of-the-art dealer locator where you can not only find the nearest Baker Dealer but map yourself straight to their door with turn-by-turn directions. We also have a Live Chat feature where you can ring our doorbell and ask one of our techs in real time any Drivetrain questions you may have.

We didn’t leave a stone unturned with this new site. So send the wife to the mall, grab your favorite lotion and box of tissue and spend a few hours online with BAKER…


BAKER Drivetrain
www.bakerdrivetrain.com

Revolution Performance Business Card Drawing From the V-Twin Expo

OHIO: A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson and Easyriders Official After Party at the Bluestone

A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson has teamed up with Easyriders and The Bluestone to put on the Official After Party on Saturday, February 11th, 2012. The party will kick-off at 8 pm with live music by artists Union Rose, The Jack, and Jasmine Cane with appearances by the Hard Candy Girls.

       A.D. Farrow Co. will be featured at the Easyriders Bike Show Tour at the Columbus Convention Center. The company will once again host the Baddest Bike Competition with Columbus local radio station, The Blitz. The winner of the Baddest Bike Competition will have his/her ride displayed in the A.D. Farrow Co. Booth at the Easyriders Bike Show Tour at the Columbus Convention Center. Along with the Baddest Bike Display the booth boasts photo opportunities with Tommy Flanagan from the infamous Sons of Anarchy as well as the Hard Candy Girls.
       America’s Oldest Harley Dealer will be providing a round trip shuttle service from the Easyriders Bike Show Tour to its downtown store located at 491 West Broad and to Phillip’s Original Coney Island. The shuttle will take guests of the show to the dealership for free for its Second Annual Merchandise Madness Event.
       The Easyriders Bike Tour is just one event in which the company will be attending as part of celebrating its 100th anniversary on February 26, 2012. The company plans to celebrate being America’s Oldest Harley Dealer with a spectacular long series of events, including a 100th Anniversary Save the Date Party at the Bluestone on February 26th. The Party will serve as a Save the Date Reminder for a series of BIG events occurring June 13th-23rd.

Harley-Davidson Names CEO Keith Wandell Board Chairman, Increases Dividend

MILWAUKEE, Feb. 7, 2012 - Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) President and Chief Executive Officer Keith E. Wandell will assume the additional duties of Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors, effective immediately. Wandell was named Chairman by Board action.
       "Keith is a transcendent leader who has done an outstanding job of guiding Harley-Davidson in a period of extraordinary challenge and transformation," said Barry K. Allen, who has served as the Company's non-executive Chairman since 2009.

       "When Keith joined Harley-Davidson as CEO in 2009, the Board believed it essential for him to be able to devote his full energy to strategies to move the business forward, without the distraction of Board leadership responsibilities," said Allen. "With the Company's tremendous progress under Keith's leadership over the last three years, the Board believes the time is right to recombine the roles of Chairman and CEO."
       Additionally, the Board named Richard I. Beattie as Lead Director. Beattie has been an outside director of Harley-Davidson since 1996. As Lead Director, Beattie will head the oversight and monitoring activities of the Board that would otherwise be performed by a non-executive Chairman.
       Wandell joined Harley-Davidson in May 2009 as the Company's first outside CEO since 1981. Beginning in fall 2009, the Company embarked on a major new strategy to focus exclusively on the Harley-Davidson brand and transform the Company's approach to product development, manufacturing and the retail experience.
       "I am grateful for the confidence the Board has placed in me, since I first came to Harley-Davidson, to work with everyone in this great organization to build a bright future for our company," Wandell said. "On behalf of the directors and all our stakeholders, we express our deep gratitude to Barry for his Board leadership and we look forward to his continued guidance and contributions as a director."
       In other action, the Board approved a cash dividend of $0.155 per share for the first quarter of 2012. This represents a 24% increase over the Q4 2011 dividend ($.125) and a 55% increase over the Q1 2011 dividend ($.100). The dividend is payable March 2, 2012, to the holders of record of the Company's common stock on February 21, 2012.


Harley-Davidson
www.harley-davidson.com

Here Come The Judge

After unveiling the newest addition to its ever increasing line-up of bikes earlier this year in New York City, Minnesota-based Victory Motorcycles let a bunch of wild and woolly moto-journalists have a go at putting the 2013 Victory Judge through its paces. For that purpose, the journalists were invited to tony Palm Springs, CA, for a cloudy February day of unbridled riding through the dry – yet slightly freezing – high desert.

       The mountainous scenery along Highway 74 to Idyllwild was the perfect backdrop to what turned out to be a fun ride on an equally fun and powerful motorcycle. Equipped with Victory’s by now famous 106-inch Freedom engine and 6-speed transmission, the Judge is blessed by long gearing and an extremely wide power band, making the uphill ride to just below the snow line a veritable orgy of leaning into hairpin curves and plenty of torque across all gears when heading into the straight-aways.

       Although the marketing gurus have slated the Judge to compete in Harley-Davidson’s Fat Boy market, the bike seems to be more than just a cruiser, but also more than just a sport bike. A sport cruiser might be a good moniker, but maybe, after the bike has become available at US dealers in April, that is something that you, the reader, can be the judge of.

The 12th Annual V-Twin Expo

This weekend marked the 12th annual V-Twin Expo at the Cincinnati Duke Energy Center. The three-day event has become the world’s largest V-twin dealer show with thousands of dealers from all over the world in attendance to see the latest parts, products and accessories from the best of American motorcycle aftermarket. 

       This year’s Expo was packed with truly innovative new parts and products for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. If the products on-hand were serious, the dealers attending the Expo were equally dedicated to doing serious business. Everyone involved in the American custom cruiser and bagger scene filled the massive convention center to check out where the industry is going and to attend the many informative seminars held throughout the weekend.

       New for this year, a “Road Iron Revue” of wild custom baggers took center stage and drew a lot of attention. The V-Twin Expo is also the home of our annual “Excellence in Motorcycling Awards” to honor those individuals, companies and products and that go the extra mile in design and innovation. 

       We rushed back from the Expo to bring you the latest and greatest new parts and products that we found in our “New Product Showcase”. This stuff runs the gamut from go-fast parts and dress-up goodies, to engines, wheels and brakes, you name it. Look for it soon in the pages of V-Twin News.

List Of Excellence in Motorcycling Award Winners

• Industry Leader of the Year: Barry Willey, National Cycle
• Industry Trendsetter of the Year: Todd Silicato, Todd’s Cycle
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Ron Paugh, Paughco, Inc.
• Motor of the Year: Delkron Manufacturing, 120 Square Block Complete
• Wheel Design of the Year: Performance Machine, Paramount Wheel
• Performance Product of the Year: BUB Enterprises, EPA/CARB-legal CAT System
• New Product of the Year: Michelin, Commander II Tires
• Value Product of the Year: Saddlemen, S2600 Deluxe Sissy Bar Bags
• Tech Product of the Year: Cobra Engineering, Fi2000 PowrPro with CVT Technology
• Audio Product of the Year: Hawg Wired, Four In The Face 4-channel Audio System

Ron Finch "That's All You Get" Documentary

A Documentary project in Pontiac, MI by Danny Grinnell


Read More

Polar Bear Grand Tour Run to Franklin House Tavern in Schaefferstown, PA

Check out pictures of the 13th motorcycle run of the 2011-2012 Polar Bear Grand Tour season to the Franklin House Tavern in Schaefferstown, PA on February 5, 2012. This was Super Bowl Sunday.

Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ron505

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These pictures are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See a 2008 Yamaha Raider owned by Ron505 under Bikes Only. There are no Men on Motorcycles, Trikes Only, or Women on Motorcycles 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.

New Harley-Davidson Softail Slim Is A Clean, Old-School Custom

Stripped-Down, Narrow Styling with Less Chrome and Retro Details

MILWAUKEE (Feb. 1, 2012) – Pare down a Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycle to its essential elements and you have the Slim. From its trimmed front fender to its narrow rear end, Slim is a no-nonsense, back-to-basics motorcycle. Call it stripped. Call it old school. Call it lean and mean. What’s left is the elemental Softail profile and iconic Harley-Davidson style that recalls classic custom bobbers of the 1950s.

        “It’s time to make the engine the focal point of the motorcycle,” says Harley-Davidson Senior Designer Casey Ketterhagen, “so we put a Softail on a diet to get the proportions back in check. Scale down the rear with a narrow tire and chopped fender and the heart of the bike, the motor, once again becomes the focus. We left a gap between the nose of the seat and tank so the rider can see the top of the motor. I like to be able to look down and see what’s moving me.”
        To keep the rear of the motorcycle simple and clean, the Slim has combination stop/turn/tail lights and a side-mounted license plate. The rear fender struts are left uncovered, exposing the forged steel and fasteners. A thin formed-leather strap covers the fuel tank seam. The powertrain is finished with polished covers instead of chrome, and the black cylinders are left unhighlighted. The FL front fender is trimmed to expose more of the tire.

        “I’d personally like to strip the bike down even further,” says Ketterhagen, “but this is as far as we can go on a production model. The Slim is intended to be a direct interpretation of home-built customs of the 1940s and 50s, and we used a number of components that evoke that era, beginning with a Hollywood handlebar.”
        The Hollywood bar, identified by its wide bend and cross brace, was originally an accessory for Harley-Davidson models with a Springer fork. The name may have been coined because owners of that era who used the cross-brace to mount lights and bags had “gone Hollywood” with excessive accessorization. For the Slim, the cross-braced bar and louvered headlight nacelle are finished in gloss black. Other period styling cues include a gloss black “cat’s eye” tank console with a retro speedometer face, half-moon rider footboards, a round air cleaner cover, and gloss black wheel rims and hubs. The cover of the solo seat is stitched in a tuck-and-roll pattern.
        “The seat really gives you the feeling of sitting in the bike, rather than on it,” says Ketterhagen. “The bars are nice and low, too, so when you’re riding you have an unobstructed view forward, which reinforces the idea that this is a very elemental motorcycle, a real back-to-basics ride.”
        A counter-balanced Twin Cam 103B engine is rigid-mounted within the frame, creating a solid connection between rider and the machine. The Softail chassis mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame, but utilizes rear suspension control provided by coil-over shock absorbers mounted horizontally and out of sight within the frame rails. With the combination of a 23.8-inch seat height and rider footboards, the Slim comfortably fits a wide range of riders and offers light side-stand lift-off. A pull-back riser from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories can be installed to move the handlebar back two inches without changing control cables and lines.

Key features of the 2012 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim include:

• Rigid-mounted, air-cooled, 1690 cc Twin Cam 103B counter-balanced engine with Automatic Compression Release (ACR) rated at 98.7 ft. lbs. peak torque at 3000 rpm.
•  Powertrain is finished in Black powdercoat with polished covers.
•  6-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission.
•  Chrome, over/under shotgun exhaust with slash-cut mufflers.
•  Gloss Black round air cleaner cover.
•  Classic 5.0-gallon Fat Bob fuel tank.
•  Black “cat’s eye” console holds electronic speedometer with retro-style face.
•  Dunlop 16-inch (MT90B16) front and rear (MU85B16) tires.
•  Black, Steel Laced wheels.
•  Hollywood handlebar with cross-brace
•  Gloss black headlamp with chrome trim ring.
•  Gloss black nacelle with punched louvers.
•  Half-moon footboards with retro-style foot control pads.
•  Chopped rear fender exposes rear tire.
•  Trimmed FL front fender.
•  Side-mounted license plate bracket.
•  Combination stop/tail/turn tail lights.
•  Solo seat with black tuck-and-roll vinyl cover.
•  Forged rear fender supports are finished in Gloss Black powdercoat.
•  Gloss black “horseshoe” oil tank.
•  Paint color choices include Vivid Black, Black Denim, and Ember Red Sunglo.
•  Security Package Option (factory-installed option) includes: Harley-Davidson Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight custom, cruiser and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycle parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.

Harley-Davidson Seventy-Two Revives A Lean Look

Dark Custom Gets Some Color – A New Narrow Sportster in Sparkling Metal Flake Paint

MILWAUKEE (Feb. 1, 2012) – The Harley-Davidson Seventy-Two motorcycle is a metal flake dream machine, a Sportster on a trip back to the days when the cool kids rode a Sting-Ray and the big boys parked choppers in a row on the curb. Those motorcycles were long and lean; candy-apple color and gleaming chrome shimmering in hazy summer sunlight. From its Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint and ape bars to its narrow whitewall tires, the Seventy-Two is a respectful nod to that era, and to the influence of the custom culture that still percolates today along Whittier Boulevard, the legendary cruising street in East Los Angeles also known as Route 72. A new generation of custom builder is tapping into that era and making a fresh statement, not just in California but in garages across the country, even around the world.

        “In creating the Seventy-Two, we were also inspired by the vibe of the early chopper era,” says Frank Savage, Harley-Davidson Manager of Industrial Design. “Those bikes were colorful and chromed, but also narrow and stripped down to the essentials. You look at period examples and they are almost as simple as a bicycle. It’s a custom style that’s very particular to America and that California scene.”
        Metal flake, an iconic design element of the ‘70s, appeared in everything from dune buggy gel coat to vinyl diner upholstery, and on custom motorcycles. Harley-Davidson brings the sparkle back on the Seventy-Two with Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint. This new finish is created by applying a black base coat, followed by a polyurethane system that carries hexagon-shaped flakes that are more than seven times the diameter of metal flake used in typical production paint. Each flake is coated with a thin aluminum film and then tinted red. Four applications of clear coat, combined with hand sanding, create a smooth finish over the flakes.
        “The final touch to the Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint is a logo on the tank top and pinstripe scallop details on both fenders,” says Savage. “Each was originally created by hand, and we recreated that art in a decal for production, so they still have the appearance of hand-applied graphics in that they are not exactly perfect. The graphics are then covered with a final clear coat application.”
        A solo seat and side-mounted license plate bracket leave much of the chopped rear fender – and more of that paint – exposed on the Seventy-Two. The powertrain is finished in Gray powdercoat with chrome covers and a new round air cleaner with a dished cover. A classic Sportster 2.1-gallon “peanut” fuel tank adds a final period touch to the motorcycle.

Key features of the 2012 Harley-Davidson Seventy-Two include:

• Air-cooled Evolution 1200cc V-Twin engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), rated at 73 ft. lbs. peak torque at 3500 rpm.
• Powertrain is finished in Gray powdercoat with Chrome covers.
•   Paint color choices include Hard Candy Big Red Flake with period pinstripe details on fenders and fuel tank, Black Denim, and Big Blue Pearl.
•   Classic 2.1-gallon peanut fuel tank.
•   Dunlop white side wall 21-inch (MH90-21) front and 16-inch (150/80B16) rear tires.
•   Chrome Laced wheels.
•   Ten-inch mini-ape handlebar mounted on a two-inch high riser.
•   Chrome, eight-inch round air cleaner cover with center screw mount.
•   Chopped rear fender exposes rear tire.
•   Side-mounted license plate bracket.
•   Chrome, staggered, shorty dual exhaust with slash-cut mufflers.
•   Solo seat with black textured vinyl cover.
•   Handlebar-mounted speedometer with chrome cup.
•   Chrome rear fender struts.
•   Chrome coil-over pre-load adjustable rear shocks.
•   Forward foot controls.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight custom, cruiser and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycle parts, accessories, riding gear and apparel, and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's website at www.harley-davidson.com.

12th Annual V-Twin Expo by Easyriders Opens This Saturday

The V-Twin motorcycle industry’s largest dealer-only trade show opens this Saturday, February 4 though Monday the 6th in Cincinnati, Ohio. 
       With over 230 world-class V-Twin exhibitors, a steady stream of dealer registration from the US and abroad, PLUS Mother Nature spreading warm weather across the Midwest, the 12th annual V-Twin Expo is sure to be a year to remember. New Show Hours begin 9AM Saturday morning.
      This event is not open to the public, you must be a bona fide motorcycle retailer, manufacturer, or member of the press to attend. Don’t be fooled by other events purporting to be a V-Twin dealer show, there is only ONE V-Twin Expo.


V-Twin Expo by Easyriders
www.vtwin-expo.com

Kelli Murrow Promoted To Performance Machine’s Director Of Sales & Marketing

 January 31, 2012 La Palma, CA — For more the 40 years, Performance Machine has been rolling along as the industry leader in brakes, wheels and performance accessories because of passion synonymous with the brand. This well-oiled operation is known for both its innovation and attention to detail… a direct result of the top-notch people behind the brand, says company President Mark Finnie. “We are proud to recognize Kelli Murrow’s award-winning brand building by promoting her to Performance Machine’s Director of Sales & Marketing.”


       Kelli’s promotion comes just in time for all the all the craziness of a new catalog (the biggest in PM history), not to mention the trade shows, the recent expansion of RSD hard parts and the acquisition of Xtreme Machine Wheels. “Be careful what you ask for,” she jokes. “Seriously, I love what I do and I am fortunate to work with an organization packed with people who do too!” In nearly two decades since starting as the receptionist with Performance Machine, Murrow has seen the highs… and the lows of the powersports industry.
       “I have been fortunate enough to experience growth and the recession of our industry and I can tell you that it is true  — that which doesn’t break you really does make you stronger,’ says Kelli. “PM has worked diligently during the tough times and I am very, very lucky to have worked through the lows and happy to be in this position as we see growth once again.”

       To get a copy of the 2012 Performance Machine catalog and to learn the latest of what is being rolled out, be sure to stop by Booth #401 during the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati.


If you can’t wait until show time click on www.performancemachine.com, follow the blog at www.custommotorcyclepartsblog.com or like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PerformanceMachine

Küryakyn Courses Go Live

Time For Dealers To Put Their Thinking Caps On At PowersportsU
IRVINE, CA – January 27, 2012 – Küryakyn has been the industry leader in improving and beautifying motorcycles for more years than most dealerships have been around. However, this proud history doesn’t mean they are mired in tradition… far from it! In addition to bringing more than 300 new products to market every year, Kürykyn is also the latest leading brand to go live with an interactive online training program at PowersportsU (www.PowersportsU.com).

       Both Küryakyn and PowersportsU operate under the belief that education is an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. “But be warned, you will really have to put your thinking caps to earn your diploma from Küryakyn,” says sales manager Dan Gorowsky. “Because Küryakyn literally brings a new product to market every business day of  the year, there are four full courses in the latest PowersportsU learning program.”
        Depending on your focus, you can opt for the Metric module or the V-Twin version of the educational track. The good news is that you still only have to pass three of the classes to graduate, “but you might want to earn a little extra credit with your customers by taking the second product course,” suggests Gorowsky. Instead of a mortarboard, part of the swag used as incentives to Küryakyn graduates is a vintage baseball cap.
        In addition to the four new Küryakyn modules, PSU’s current roster of training courses includes Mustang Seats, Performance Machine, Progressive Suspension, Renthal and Vance & Hines. These programs also dovetail with brand‑specific, technically-oriented field training, conducted by Küryakyn at major events and rallies across the country.
        PowersportsU is free to any user. To find out more and register, visit www.PowersportsU.com.

Sudco International Introduces "Big and Small" Marketing Campaign for 2012

Sudco International, one of America's leading distributors of Original Equipment (OEM) quality stock replacement and high performance parts for classic and late model Japanese & European street & dirt Bikes, ATVs and personal watercraft, has just introduced a fun new marketing campaign for 2012. The campaign entitled "Big and Small"  features a attractive '60's diner waitress caring a food tray featuring both a "Big and "Small" hamburger order - with the sub headline "Whatever size your order, Sudco always treats you as our most important customer."

       "The idea in the marketing campaign is to let dealers and customers know that Sudco really appreciates their orders, no matter what size," explains Jim Gianatsis, creative director and photographer at Gianatsis Design Design Associates who produced the new 2012 marketing campaign for their client Sudco. "There are a few big distributors out there who require huge monthly order volumes, or minimums, if dealers want to buy from them. Sudco just doesn't think that's right, especially in the current economic climate, and for smaller dealers and repair shops who might only need a set of NGK Spark Plugs, an RK Chain, Sudco Piston Kit or a Vesrah Gasket Set to get their customer back on the road. Whatever size the order, it's just as important to Sudco as it is to the dealer."
       The Sudco marketing  campaign was photographed by Gianatsis, who also shoots the popular FastDates.com Motorcycle PinUp Calendars, with beautiful model, former Miss Teen Utah, Liz Leyda. Look for more pictures from the shoot on the Sudco.com website and in the next edition of the FastDates.com Calendars.
       For additional information and to order, contact Sudco direct. Dealers call Sudco for a copy of the Sudco Main Products Catalog featuring a compete line of stock replacement and high performance parts, including Keihin and Mikuni Carburetors, for dirt bikes, street bikes, ATVs and personal watercraft. The Catalog is also available digitally on their website. 


Sudco International
2410 South Sequoia Drive
Compton CA 90220
1-310-637-8330 
www.Sudco.com.

Major Motorcycle Rallies for 2012

In the off season, many riders like to plan rides to various motorcycle rallies. I have just updated my motorcycle rally article and schedule for 2012 to assist you.

Motorcycle rallies (biker rallies) are simply gatherings of riders and motorcycles at specified times and places usually with attendant vendors, food, games, and other activities.

Motorcycle rallies or biker rallies may last from a day to more than a week. Some major motorcycle or biker rallies are built around organized professional motorcycle races.

Motorcycle rally attendance varied widely from a low of a couple of dozen riders or less to huge organized rallies with hundreds of thousands of riders.

My updated article, Motorcycle Rallies (Biker Rallies) - Major Rallies for Motorcycles, gives basic information about motorcycle rallies. The second page of this article contains my list of the top motorcycle rallies.

The picture shows me raising my arm after I parked my bike on Main Street at the 1993 Sturgis Rally. That was the year of the great Midwest floods.