Go ahead and admit it….the world isn’t as honest as it use to be! Things “disappear” all the time. And if your a biker you’ve probably been the victim at least once. Things like helmets, gloves, bags, i-pods, phones and yes bikes too (if your really unfortunate). Well, if your going to try and keep that nice bike you’ve worked so hard for, you might as well look cool while doing it. Thanks to Master Lock’s newest product called “Street Cuffs“, you can. Here is some info on the cuffs: 1) Heavy gauge cast steel provides maximum cut and pry resistance.2) 3″ (8cm) cuffs fit fork legs or frames; 3) can be secured to sign posts, parking meters or another bike. 4) Push button keyless locking convenience. 5) Heat treated patented lock core is virtually pick proof. Price: $163.23 and comes with a $4,000 theft guarantee. Now if we can just get our state governments to put some teeth in convictions for theft, we’d be onto something!
Ok, lady riders. You’ve been asking for more gender specific websites, products and networking for your past time. Now, Sara Liberte and Jody Perewitz have answered your call. Their site www.garage-girls.com is a new website developed to meet the growing needs of women seeking information about motorcycles and their maintenance. The concept driving Garage-girls.com is to encourage women to maintain a balance between their motorcycle and body. They provide coverage on topics ranging from demonstration videos focused on motorcycle maintenance such as changing fluids, battery care, tire care, tool information, new product testing and ways to individualize and/or customize your motorcycles. Both Sara and Jody come with extensive experience in the industry.
Sara authored the book “How To Repair and Maintain American V-Twin Motorcycles”, and is a professional photographer and journalist specializing in the motorcycle and portrait photography fields with publications including Easy Rider Magazine, In the Wind, Hot Bike, Street Chopper and Iron Works. Jody Perewitz is the marketing coordinator for Perewitz Cycle Fab and daughter to builder Dave Perewitz. She has been responsible for taking the Perewitz name to an instantly regonized brand. Jody was co-author on the book “Dave Perewitz Chopper Master and King Of Flames”.
Most recently Jody and Sara have hit the show circuit with their “Garage Girl” Bike build and maintenance seminars.
They say “a picture is worth a thousand words“. Well, here’s our thousand! Can’t really determine if i like this or not, however you have to give them credit for creativity! And they use a H-D V-Rod engine.
Ok, seems like we’re on a roll here with some recent postings on Trikes! In a prior blog posting, we’d discussed the Cirbin V13R trike and now, we’re got TriRod Motorcycles and their unique ride. When we spoke with James Young recently at TriRod Motorcycles Inc., about their “2-1 Trike” creation (features a two wheels in front and one in rear design with Formula One race car suspension) i just couldn’t resist asking that stupid question “how does it handle though?”. Of course you can guess his response…”SUPER!“. From the video and executive summary information i’ve reviewed, i can’t imagine why anyone wouldn’t want to get their hands and legs around this vehicle! There are too many unique feature to list here. However one feature that stands out to me is that with this trike your not “sitting down in it” like a car/cage, but rather “astride it” like those of us that ride choppers like….way coooool.
As their materials read; “The vision to build an all new motorcycle with supreme race-like handling was based on pushing limits. The concept was to speak to motorcycle enthusiasts of every kind, automobile fanatics, gearheads, and generally those who like to live large. We wanted to build something so compelling that it would be absolutely undeniable.
The drive to create a machine of unparalleled handling performance led to a platform based on three wheels with two wheels up front, a wide track, low profile, and high-tech formula one type suspension. The most advanced materials were specified to keep the machine light and agile. The rider was put down low behind a v-twin engine with motorcycle handlebars and foot controls for a died-in-the-wool motorcycle cruiser riding stance and attitude. A light and rigid chassis was designed to ensure precise handling. The monster torque produced by the engine is transmitted to the road through a wide low profile rear tire.
With a working prototype and over 10 patent applications already in the works, you can bet this company and this bike will not only be turning heads but also minds (and opening some wallets) on what can be done with a 2-1 trike. They offer three models (F3 and X-Plor already rolling) and a price tag that is within reach of most consumers, as well as some creative paint and accent features. I’m just trying to figure out how i get one in my garage.
“Easy Rider” associate producer Bill Hayward, has died of a self-inflicted gun-shot wound, authorities said Thursday. The movie, which Time Magazine hailed as “one of the ten most important pictures of the decade” featured Academy Award® winner Jack Nicholson, Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper (who also directs) in this unconventional classic. Easy Rider continues to this day to touch a chord with audiences of all ages. Hayward has already been cremated and a memorial service was planned for April, said his friend Toby Rafelson. California - Hayward shot himself in the heart with a handgun in Castaic, California on March 9, county coroner’s spokesman Craig Harvey said. The suicide occurred in a trailer where Hayward was living.
Trikes. Cycles trying to be cars? Or Cars trying to be cycles? Hmmm. Personally, i like the look of “some” trikes, but the majority of traditional trikes we’ve seen leave alot to be desired. That is until we saw the Cirbin V13R Trike. With its lines and proportions reminiscent of the Hot-Rod scene (oh, yeah!) but updated with today’s design cues, the V13R (powered by a 1.25-liter Harley-Davidson V-Rod displacing 1250cc) and a 5-speed sequential gearbox it will definitely turn heads. The dash features a Speedo, Tach, and Fuel Gauge, and the bike has Daytime Running Lamps, hi and low bean headlights, brake and reverse lights, and turn signals. Almost like Henry Fords Model “A”, (where consumers got whatever color they wanted as long as it was black), you get a choice of only three colors-red, black, and silver. Consumers can choose between powder-coated and chrome for the wheels and chassis. While the MSRP starts at $40k, expect to pay close to $50-$55k range once outfitted with the nicey-nicey stuff. While i’m still prone to a ride that puts me in a “bikers stance” i can’t help but think, this bike will get some good reception from alot of people.
If you’ve seen the other film works from Scott Di Lanna and Zack Coffman (ie. Choppertown, The Sinners), you probably have some high expectations of their newest film called “Brittown“ The Brittown DVD is coming out next week (March 27th) and the premiere showing is in San francisco at the Roxie Cinema, (located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District, at 3117 16th Street between Valencia and Guerrero). Showtime is 6:30pm, 8:30pm and 10:30pm. There is FREE parking for motorcycles in front of the theater. Tickets are available online or at the door.
Regardless of what your views are in respect to the Hells Angels, you have to admit that this organization has been an integral part of motorcycling history as well as helping maintain the longevity of our motorcycling culture. They are truly a phenomenon. Their influence today seems be more “subtle” and the business part more “legitimate” as well as the participants more “mainstream” in their careers. With the milestone of the club having it’s 60th anniversary, the Hells Angels are throwing themselves a little party and inviting bikers from all parts of the world to come and participate. Hosted this Friday at Angels Roadhouse Bar and Grill in Yucaipa, California, the party boast that it will “be the biggest and the baddest“. Of course with that statement they’ve got the local authorities a bit concerned about the fact that the celebration can affect the Good Friday religious celebrations taking place the exact same day. However previous experiences such as the Hells Angels 50th anniversary shouldn’t worry anyone. But….”boys will be boys!”. Either way, guys (and gals), have a great time, and “be careful out there!”
Just saw this great cartoon posted at our friends Knucklebuster that threw me head-long into a major “remember when” brain tumble. The cartoon comes from Street Chopper magazine in 1979 and the guys are trying to get their hands on other cartoons for a project. Take a look and see if you can help recover a time when things were a bit simpler….all around!
Detail. Something that is often overlooked but never far from the mind of artist. Having seen the 2007 issue of the Urban Biker Goddess Calendar (UBG) it was good to see they have followed up this year’s calendar again focusing on the details of fine art and women riders. Composed of old favorites and new creations, this calendar is a 12-month celebration of the spirit of the female motorcycle rider, as seen through the computer generated artwork of Carole Bennett. Past or present, two-wheeled vehicles of all kinds are represented, including cruisers, choppers and sport bikes. “I’ve received all kinds of positive feedback regarding this art theme; there’s a dire shortage of popular art depicting women motorcyclists in a strong, positive light.” Carole’s art has received industry recognition, having been profiled as a “Featured Artist” in July 2007 by Helmet Hair Magazine.
When asked why this art theme has such significance to her, Carole’s response was “I have daughters, and now granddaughters; one daughter is a mechanic, and the other belongs to a motorcycle club. I wanted to create motorcycle art that reflects their strength, their dignity and even playfulness, but most of all, their value as people, as well as their ability to bond with these beautiful machines.” The 2008 Urban Biker Goddess Calendar may be ordered through the website at http://www.urbanbikergoddess.com.
Seems like the good folks at UK insurance provider MotorCycle Direct (MCD) have found a way to bring “sexy” to the somewhat stuff insurance industry. Just get nine of your sexiest employees to strut their “glamour girl” self for the camera and give-it-up for charity. The debut appearance of the ‘MCD Cover Girls‘ can be seen in the 2008 Motorcycle Direct calendar. The nine female employees (who volunteered) are the ‘face’ of Motorcycle Direct and proceeds from calendar sales will be given to the charity, Riders for Health. MotorCycle Direct is one of the UK’s biggest motorcycle insuranceproviders but the employees ditched their normal day jobs in Sales, Marketing and Customer Services to pose with a collection of stunning motorbikes including a Suzuki SV1000, a Triumph Daytona 675 and a Harley Davidson Fat Boy. The calendar is available in two formats; Bikers can register at www.mcdcovergirls.co.uk where they can either download a free copy or pay to receive a hard copy. All profits will go to the charity, Riders for Health.
You’ve undoubtedly heard the rumbling already with over 50 builders vying for bragging rights at S&S’s 50th Anniversary Event happening June 27th to June 29th, 2008. (with some preliminary events taking place on Thursday, June 26th as well). The official location will be at the Oktoberfest grounds adjacent to the Mississippi River in downtown La Crosse, WI, (other venues are offered throughout the region as well). Several motorcycle-related and general interest events are already planned such as S&S facility tours, the 50 builder/50 bike build-off for $50,000, dyno shoot-outs and street drags, historical rides, a La Crosse Area Harley-Davidson® sponsored ride, La Crosse City Brewery tours, riverboat tours and cruises, concerts, baseball games, fireworks, and much more. “When I think back to 1979, when I joined the business, who would have thought that we would have 50 builders from all around the world building motorcycles to participate in a competition celebrating our 50th,” said S&S Chairman of the Board, George Smith.
Just some of the builders participating: Kiwi Motorcycles, Kris Krome, Bill Dodge, Chica, Cook Customs, Sucker Punch, Kim Suter, Redneck Engineering, Donnie Smith, Brian Klock, Kendall Johnson, PCC, Rick Fairless, Scott Long, and the list goes on and on! George, you and your crew should be commended for building the best engines in the business and having probably one of the industries most anticipated event for 2008. See ya’ll there!
If you’ve been involved with cars at any point in your life, part of the care and maintenance probably consisted of washing and waxing it yourself for that “hot” friday night date. Well, now you can use the same high quality product on your favorite two-wheeled love. Motorcycle detailing no longer requires mixing different brand products with uncertain results.
Utilizing proven technology that has been reformulated for the motorcycle market, Meguiar offers six new surface care products that cover the major steps in the motorcycle detailing process, including washing, waxing, mist-and-wipe detailer, leather care, even plastic, bodywork and metal polishing. Whether you ride a sportbike, chopper or a cruiser, these products provide exceptional performance backed up by Meguiar’s industry-leading surface care technology and performance guarantee. The Meguiar’s motorcycle product line is available now at most Wal-Mart stores.
The Riders Choice Awards are unique in that the nominees and winners are chosen by everyday riders around the world, not by professional journalists. The awards reflect the judgment of the motorcycle buying public, not motorcycle industry insiders. Anyone could vote, there was no restriction on age, gender or country. Even non-riders could vote. No registration, nor email addresses were required. However, a system of storing and analyzing IP addresses was put in place to minimize duplicate voting. MBI Riders Choice - Star Awards
- Object of Lust — Ducati Desmosedici RR
- Best Concept Motorcycle or Scooter — Honda Evo 6
- Best Manufacturer’s Website — BMW Motorrad
- Best New in 2007 Scooter — Piaggio MP3 400
- Best New in 2007 Motorcycle — Triumph Street Triple 675
- Most Environmentally Friendly Motorcycle - ElectricMoto Corporation Blade XT
- Wish We’d Thought of That — KTM Bread Toaster
- Women Riders Booster of the Year — Lois Pryce (20,000 mile solo ride, Alaska to the tip of South America on a 225cc bike)
- Thumbs Up — Ewan McGregor/Charlie Boorman ( Enhanced image of motorcycle riders)
MBI Riders Choice - Fallen Star Awards
- Most Disappointing Motorcycle - Suzuki B-King
- Thumbs Down — Loud Pipes Save Lives
- What Were They Thinking — Babecage
- Worst Manufacturer’s Website — Cycleport/Motoport
More information about MBI, its members and the complete list of nominees will be found at the MBI web site http://www.mbiweb.org/.
Mean Street Products have over the years become known for releasing both quality made and innovative front ends for bike builders. Their newest release, called “The Blade Runner“, is no exception. This futuristic design uses styling cues such as sleet billet smooth-top triple tree clamps, billet lower legs, stainless steel steering stem with adjustable nut system, semi-hidden axle, single/dual disc billet mounts with tree rakes of 3, 5, 6 and 7 degrees. Pricing ranges from Polished $1732.00, Chrome $2266.00, Black $2266.00.
Go ahead and admit it….the world isn’t as honest as it use to be! Things “disappear” all the time. And if your a biker you’ve probably been the victim at least once. Things like helmets, gloves, bags, i-pods, phones and yes bikes too (if your really unfortunate). Well, if your going to try and keep that nice bike you’ve worked so hard for, you might as well look cool while doing it. Thanks to Master Lock’s newest product called “Street Cuffs“, you can. Here is some info on the cuffs: 1) Heavy gauge cast steel provides maximum cut and pry resistance.2) 3″ (8cm) cuffs fit fork legs or frames; 3) can be secured to sign posts, parking meters or another bike. 4) Push button keyless locking convenience. 5) Heat treated patented lock core is virtually pick proof. Price: $163.23 and comes with a $4,000 theft guarantee. Now if we can just get our state governments to put some teeth in convictions for theft, we’d be onto something!
Ok, lady riders. You’ve been asking for more gender specific websites, products and networking for your past time. Now, Sara Liberte and Jody Perewitz have answered your call. Their site 
Ok, seems like we’re on a roll here with some recent postings on Trikes! In a prior blog posting, we’d discussed the 
“Easy Rider” associate producer Bill Hayward, has died of a self-inflicted gun-shot wound, authorities said Thursday. The movie, which Time Magazine hailed as “one of the ten most important pictures of the decade” featured Academy Award® winner Jack Nicholson, Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper (who also directs) in this unconventional classic. Easy Rider continues to this day to touch a chord with audiences of all ages. Hayward has already been cremated and a memorial service was planned for April, said his friend Toby Rafelson. California - Hayward shot himself in the heart with a handgun in Castaic, California on March 9, county coroner’s spokesman Craig Harvey said. The suicide occurred in a trailer where Hayward was living.
Trikes. Cycles trying to be cars? Or Cars trying to be cycles? Hmmm. Personally, i like the look of “some” trikes, but the majority of traditional trikes we’ve seen leave alot to be desired. That is until we saw the Cirbin V13R Trike. With its lines and proportions reminiscent of the Hot-Rod scene (oh, yeah!) but updated with today’s design cues, the V13R (powered by a 1.25-liter Harley-Davidson V-Rod displacing 1250cc) and a 5-speed sequential gearbox it will definitely turn heads. The dash features a Speedo, Tach, and Fuel Gauge, and the bike has Daytime Running Lamps, hi and low bean headlights, brake and reverse lights, and turn signals. Almost like Henry Fords Model “A”, (where consumers got whatever color they wanted as long as it was black), you get a choice of only three colors-red, black, and silver. Consumers can choose between powder-coated and chrome for the wheels and chassis. While the MSRP starts at $40k, expect to pay close to $50-$55k range once outfitted with the nicey-nicey stuff. While i’m still prone to a ride that puts me in a “bikers stance” i can’t help but think, this bike will get some good reception from alot of people. 
If you’ve seen the other film works from Scott Di Lanna and Zack Coffman (ie. Choppertown, The Sinners), you probably have some high expectations of their newest film called 
Regardless of what your views are in respect to the 
Detail. Something that is often overlooked but never far from the mind of artist. Having seen the 2007 issue of the Urban Biker Goddess Calendar (UBG) it was good to see they have followed up this year’s calendar again focusing on the details of fine art and women riders. Composed of old favorites and new creations, this calendar is a 12-month celebration of the spirit of the female motorcycle rider, as seen through the computer generated artwork of Carole Bennett. Past or present, two-wheeled vehicles of all kinds are represented, including cruisers, choppers and sport bikes. “I’ve received all kinds of positive feedback regarding this art theme; there’s a dire shortage of popular art depicting women motorcyclists in a strong, positive light.” Carole’s art has received industry recognition, having been profiled as a “Featured Artist” in July 2007 by Helmet Hair Magazine.
When asked why this art theme has such significance to her, Carole’s response was “I have daughters, and now granddaughters; one daughter is a mechanic, and the other belongs to a motorcycle club. I wanted to create motorcycle art that reflects their strength, their dignity and even playfulness, but most of all, their value as people, as well as their ability to bond with these beautiful machines.” The 2008 Urban Biker Goddess Calendar may be ordered through the website at 
Seems like the good folks at UK insurance provider 
You’ve undoubtedly heard the rumbling already with over 50 builders vying for bragging rights at 
If you’ve been involved with cars at any point in your life, part of the care and maintenance probably consisted of washing and waxing it yourself for that “hot” friday night date. Well, now you can use the same high quality product on your favorite two-wheeled love. Motorcycle detailing no longer requires mixing different brand products with uncertain results. 
The Riders Choice Awards are unique in that the nominees and winners are chosen by everyday riders around the world, not by professional journalists. The awards reflect the judgment of the motorcycle buying public, not motorcycle industry insiders. Anyone could vote, there was no restriction on age, gender or country. Even non-riders could vote. No registration, nor email addresses were required. However, a system of storing and analyzing IP addresses was put in place to minimize duplicate voting.
