We call it “Self expression”. That opportunity each of us have to express our own taste, views, gripes or even prejudices. The medium we express it “on” however varies. Some do “it” on clothing, others on metal and still others on helmets. So we figured we’d start posting some pic’s of peoples helmets we’ve seen or owned ourselves and am asking those that use their own helmets as a form of expression to send us one or two pic’s so we can show the world. We’re thinking this could turn into a cool contest where some swag could be given away if we have enough participants. So how about it?!?
At some point in a shop owners/builders life we’re faced with a hard question we have to answer: “Do we close the working/building part of the shop to the public or keep it open”. It’s a double edge sword. The reason? It’s”bro’s” that stop by to “chat” that are the same ones telling people about our shop BUT it’s these same “bro’s” that take us away from what we make our living from, which is building and repairing. Don’t get me wrong, we love the “bro” who stops by and wants a quick answer on getting something worked out. Answers are given out with a sense of pride in helping a fellow biker and is given freely. Note: Freely.
When a “brother/sister” decides to stop by a shop and spend a few hours “jawboning” with the “crew” they are taking money out of that shops pocket. Period. Cause “time equals money“. Add on top of that not purchasing something and the “brothers” are adding insult onto injury for that shop. Shops know it’s NOT malicious but it happens regularly and it’s killing them. Supporters are killing the shops they love. People don’t hang out at the local garage “talking shop” all day. So, why do it to your local bike shop, which you love?
So, what’s a guy/gal to do if they really want to support their local shop in a positive manner? Here’s some advice.
1) If you stop by your local shop frequently, buy something! Anything! It doesn’t have to be hugh. A $5 part, can of oil, clutch cable or t-shirt to help offset the time your shop owner/mechanic spent with you.
2) If you’re having a shop fix a bike, build a bike, order a part etc for you and they call and tell you it’s fixed, completed or arrived, get over there in a timely manner and pay for it! These small shops live and die on cash flow. For the most part, shops aren’t cash flow deep or bankrolled heavily (you don’t see them driving Lambo’s, Hummers etc., do ya?). So, pay your bill and take your part or bike home.
3) Quit nickel and dime’n them! If you can’t afford to pay for something when you have it made, then don’t do it. Having a part(s) made and not being timely in paying your bill promptly hurts a shop more than you know. Many shops are now being forced to have customers pay up front before they build a part simply because of this problem. It’s only fair that you pay them the agreed amount and the agreed time.
Bike builders put their life into their shop. They work 12-16 hour days trying to live their dream of having a successful shop which takes them away from their family and loved ones. The least bikers can do if they really want to support their local shop is to respect their time. Shops deserve at least that much!
The four “B’s” come into alignment. A “bike builder” building a “bike” with a “band” as the “brand“. Whew, that was a tongue twister! When the producers of “Chopper Challenge” needed a “company” to feature in an upcoming episode of the motorcycle-building reality show on CMT, they opted for a different approach from their earlier shows. Every week, the 10-episode prime-time series presents a different bike builder constructing a custom motorcycle that incorporates a “brand” (ie. company) into the vehicle design. Previous shows included the Incredible Hulk, insurance company Geico and Time Warner Cable’s RoadRunner broadband service. “Chopper Challenge” will for the first time use a band as the featured brand. The band in question is South African post-grunge alternative act Seether. You’ll see and hear the band on the June 4 episode, where three of Seethers songs will be played. For the uninitiated: Chopper Challenge is a TV series that challenges nine celebrity master bike builders to create a sponsor-inspired, fully handcrafted, custom logo-branded motorcycle in 30 days with cameras following each and every move. The series combines the allure of the art of custom motorcycle crafting, the intensity of competition and the unpredictability and impulsiveness of reality
Questions: “When was the last time you saw school administrators ADDING shop class as an elective in high school OR heard a H.S. student telling about their newest project in shop and how they were having problems, OR bragging about their recent shop class accomplishment? Granted there are some “pockets” in this country (and others) that are holding firm and true to the continuing education of our young people in the fine art of working with their hands. An honorable skill and yet, a seemingly dying one if some of our education systems have their way. However, teachers/craftsmen like Kevin Baas at Kennedy HS (and i’m sure there are others stateside) are fighting the flow of putting every child behind a computer or having them hold a “white collar” job . Anyway to get around to the reason for this post. Our friends over at KnucklebusterInc had an interesting re-post on an article by Matthew Crawford titled “SHOP CLASS AS SOULCRAFT; Why do we devalue manual work when it’s so satisfying?” This article appeared in The Dallas Morning News, Sunday, September 24, 2006. It was worth reading then and even more relevant now!
Yeah, i know, bikers have this reputation for being “cool”, “hardcore”, “tough” “non-emotional” “non-conformist” etc, etc. However, what’s really underneath all the bravado, posturing and ego’s, (with most Bikers) is the willingness to give big, love hard, show tolerance and have fun. Stay with me here! Recently there have been situations where the biking community needed to step up to support friends and some industry known people. And this got me thinking…..”Why limit this to just our own community of riders? Why not try to do this with those around us on a daily basis? Those in our neighborhood.” Just maybe we could impact someone’s life that otherwise wouldn’t be touched by the biking community? Is changing a person’s (or a societies) impression of another group too much of a challenge? Too big a mountain to climb? IS it even desired by the community? So, why not just try and see. One simple gesture of kindness can go a long way. Here’s a list of things I thought could get the ball rolling….just in case you’d forgotten what a good gesture felt like
Write a letter to or stop by to see an elderly person
Share your skills with someone younger than your- i.e. photography, changing the oil, dicing an onion, riding a motorcycle, etc.
Make a donation (money, books, etc) to your old high school or college.
Call someone who’s sick and make them smile.
Go through your closet and donate clothing (not just your vests or old rally shirts) to a local clothing drive.
Talk to the shyest person you know.
Let someone ahead of you in line at the gas station, grocery store or in traffic.
Fix something for someone (their sprinkler, their car, their lawnmower, computer)
Do something nice for someone (but don’t let them know that it was you who did it).
Read a story or buy a book for a child (and it doesn’t have to be Hot Bike or Penthouse).
Pay the Toll/Parking for the car behind you.
Stick up for someone.
Plant a tree.
Donate Blood.
Volunteer at the local homeless shelter.
Tell the manager of a restaurant how great your waiter/waitress was.
Pull over and help someone that’s stranded on the side of the road.
Return the grocery cart for someone at the supermarket.
Give up your restaurant table to an elderly couple.
Offer to keep your friend’s children or dog.
So, how does this work? Easy, see below:
1. Pick one of these nice gestures and just DO IT.
2. Share your experience by- sending an Email, posting a Youtube or on your own Blog or at a Club Meeting.
3. Challenge your network of friends to perform one of these gestures as well. You can make it easy for them by sharing this list to make it easier for them to think of something to do.
So, how far can this go? Who know, but lets see.
I believe there are three kinds of individuals in this crazy world. Those that watch things happen; those that wish things would happen and those that do something to make things happen. Here is your chance to be the latter. We were over at Cyril Huze’s Blog today and saw that Brenda Fox, a Spokesperson for Women in Motorcycling, (as well as professional motorcycle test rider, journalist, stunt actor and high-profile motorcycle enthusiast) is dealing with breast cancer issues and needs help in getting the medical care she needs. As a person involved in this industry, i’m continually reminded that we don’t survive all alone; but rather it takes the help and support of others. Isn’t it time we as an industry started supporting our own more aggressively? Especially now in these times! So step up, get off your butt and help someone other than yourself. We all can afford to give something. Whether it’s the price of a Big Mac, a 12 pack of Bud’s or a carton of cigarettes to help someone else. You can go to the Woman Motorcyclist site and find the Paypal Donation on the left hand side.
Recently we were talking with a friend who is the owner of a new H-D Nightster who swore to us that the new line of “Dark Customs” have paint which is made “to scratch and wear off”. Of course we thought he had too many beers….but sure enough he was sober….seems a NY Times article written by Phil Patton quotes Ray Drea, who is the Sr. Director for Styling at H-D as saying “One of the paints is called “denim”. It is designed to be roughed and rubbed off.” So, now along with your jeans which are a bit dirtied, torn, frayed and worn, now your bike can be too. Seems the manufacturer (and possibly others) are following a trent of building “new old looking” bikes. Of course if your an “old dog” that has had a bike (or two, three etc) for any amount of time, your bike is already “roughed up and rubbed off“. It’s that way because the bikes are built to be ridden. Of course if a buyer wants a bike that looks like it’s already been to “hell and back” they can bring it over to our new “conditioning department” for some fine tuning and “breaking in“. And we’ll only charge you a extra 2k for it. Or if your really wanting that seasoned rider look, just order the bike raw, break out the rattle can’s, drink a few beers and have at it. Wouldn’t cost you more than $100.00 or so.
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.
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.
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!
Seems like See Lap Siu (inventor prodigy), had about enough of his kids playing “pretend” war, so he’s stepped up the old game to more of an “insurgents n’ infantry” level. Pretty much making obsolete the art of fantasy and pretend war for kids world-wide. Yep, his new ultra-realistic mechanical Toy Grenade is all you need now for hours of convincing fantasy maiming, killing and menace.
The grenade is filled with a mixture of powder, dye and compressed air and has a functioning pin that gives the “war dog” a few seconds to throw, duck and cover. The shell simply splits into two parts on detonation. “Dye will spread in the air over the intended target area” reads the patent. So, how about a version with polystyrene shrapnel? We can hear parents world wide giving a sigh of relief saying “Finally!”.
If your a woman (or man) that rides or is involved in the motorcycle industry, you’ve either met, read about, seen, read articles written by or heard people talk about “Katmandu” Palmer. She’s one of those true “Mid-Century Motorcycling Women”. We wanted to acknowledge her birthday (howbeit belated 28th of February). Part of the “litmus test” for the motorcycling industry is passion, commitment and longevity (as well as having to be a rider). Kat has these in spades. If your one of the very few that hasn’t read her articles in magazines (such as The Horse, Born To Ride, Cycle Source etc), then you’ve truly missed a true jewel of the industry. Her captivating “wordsmithing” is a commodity we’ve appreciated for years and unfortunately rarely see on the pages of many magazines. Our friend Keith Ball (Bikernet) has a great article written by Kat reminicing about her years in the industry. Take a browse over and send Kat a “happy B’day” email. Tell her “the Guilty Gang” sent ya!
We are deeply saddened upon receiving the news today of the passing of Chet Burozski here in Daytona on February 29th. Chet who has been involved in the motorcycle industry for years passed away while attending Bike Week. We have not received the full story on how Chet died as of this posting. However, as a friend of Chet’s, we at Guilty Customs are shocked at this news, and our heart felt condolences go out to Adam (his son) and the rest of the Burozski family. We have all experienced a great loss of a dear man. Few people in this industry have helped us here at Guilty Customs as much as Chet has. He will be greatly missed for his friendship and passion for the lifestyle we all embrace.
We call it “Self expression”. That opportunity each of us have to express our own taste, views, gripes or even prejudices. The medium we express it “on” however varies. Some do “it” on clothing, others on metal and still others on helmets. So we figured we’d start posting some pic’s of peoples helmets we’ve seen or owned ourselves and am asking those that use their own helmets as a form of expression to send us one or two pic’s so we can show the world. We’re thinking this could turn into a cool contest where some swag could be given away if we have enough participants. So how about it?!?
At some point in a shop owners/builders life we’re faced with a hard question we have to answer: “Do we close the working/building part of the shop to the public or keep it open”. It’s a double edge sword. The reason? It’s”bro’s” that stop by to “chat” that are the same ones telling people about our shop BUT it’s these same “bro’s” that take us away from what we make our living from, which is building and repairing. Don’t get me wrong, we love the “bro” who stops by and wants a quick answer on getting something worked out. Answers are given out with a sense of pride in helping a fellow biker and is given freely. Note: Freely. 
Questions: “When was the last time you saw school administrators ADDING shop class as an elective in high school OR heard a H.S. student telling about their newest project in shop and how they were having problems, OR bragging about their recent shop class accomplishment? Granted there are some “pockets” in this country (and others) that are holding firm and true to the continuing education of our young people in the fine art of working with their hands. An honorable skill and yet, a seemingly dying one if some of our education systems have their way. However, teachers/craftsmen like Kevin Baas at Kennedy HS (and i’m sure there are others stateside) are fighting the flow of putting every child behind a computer or having them hold a “white collar” job . Anyway to get around to the reason for this post. Our friends over at KnucklebusterInc had an interesting re-post on an article by Matthew Crawford titled “
I believe there are three kinds of individuals in this crazy world. Those that watch things happen; those that wish things would happen and those that do something to make things happen. Here is your chance to be the latter. We were over at 
Recently we were talking with a friend who is the owner of a new H-D Nightster who swore to us that the new line of “Dark Customs” have paint which is made “to scratch and wear off”. Of course we thought he had too many beers….but sure enough he was sober….seems a NY Times article written by Phil Patton quotes Ray Drea, who is the Sr. Director for Styling at H-D as saying “One of the paints is called “denim”. It is designed to be roughed and rubbed off.” So, now along with your jeans which are a bit dirtied, torn, frayed and worn, now your bike can be too. Seems the manufacturer (and possibly others) are following a trent of building “new old looking” bikes. Of course if your an “old dog” that has had a bike (or two, three etc) for any amount of time, your bike is already “roughed up and rubbed off“. It’s that way because the bikes are built to be ridden. Of course if a buyer wants a bike that looks like it’s already been to “hell and back” they can bring it over to our new “conditioning department” for some fine tuning and “breaking in“. And we’ll only charge you a extra 2k for it. Or if your really wanting that seasoned rider look, just order the bike raw, break out the rattle can’s, drink a few beers and have at it. Wouldn’t cost you more than $100.00 or so.
Ok, seems like we’re on a roll here with some recent postings on Trikes! In a prior blog posting, we’d discussed the 
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. 
Regardless of what your views are in respect to the 
If your a woman (or man) that rides or is involved in the motorcycle industry, you’ve either met, read about, seen, read articles written by or heard people talk about “Katmandu” Palmer. She’s one of those true “Mid-Century Motorcycling Women”. We wanted to acknowledge her birthday (howbeit belated 28th of February). Part of the “litmus test” for the motorcycling industry is passion, commitment and longevity (as well as having to be a rider). Kat has these in spades. If your one of the very few that hasn’t read her articles in magazines (such as The Horse, Born To Ride, Cycle Source etc), then you’ve truly missed a true jewel of the industry. Her captivating “wordsmithing” is a commodity we’ve appreciated for years and unfortunately rarely see on the pages of many magazines. Our friend Keith Ball 
