The Vagabond Chopper Company’s 2010 Chicks Rule & Boys Drool Tour, a traveling showcase dedicated to women motorcycle riders, recently rolled out their new 44-foot event trailer sponsored by Mitchell Motorcycle Transport. This rolling tribute to women bikers will offer a mix of on-site how-to seminars, fashion shows, book signings and special guest appearances with a feminine flare.

The tour officially kicked off during the 2009 Toys in the Sun Runwith featured guests the Motor Maids, Leslie Kay of Leslie Kay’s Insurance and Jeffrey Phipps of Jeffrey Phipps Custom Saddles. The Chicks Rule & Boys Drool Tour is a traveling display of what is available for women motorcycle riders, from clothing and parts to motorcycles styled with the woman rider in mind. The tour will feature Athena “Chickie” Ransom and her unique hand-crafted custom motorcycles as well as featured special guest appearances by an array of other unique women in the motorcycle industry.

Formulated specifically for women, it also gives men an opportunity to see “the other side” of a culture commonly associated with males. Validating the concept that women riders are more than just a “chick on the back” within the motorcycle industry, the tour also provides a forum for ladies to express her likes and dislikes in a setting that is not full of skulls, iron crosses and spikes.

The tour will include 12 national event stops throughout 2010 including the Heavy Hitters, Daytona Bike Week, New Orleans Bike Week, Sturgis Rally, and coming to an end at the 2010 South Florida Bikers Bash and Toys in the Sun Run. Look for the Vagabond set up at rallies near you. Or you can check out www.vagabondchoppers.com or www.chicksruleandboysdrool.com to see the tour’s scheduled stops for 2010. Go Athena!

Hey, thanks for coming back! Great to see there are a few of you out there that have taste and style! Seriously, thanks for visiting. If you know of stories you think people would be interested in, shoot us a line C'ya!

Three-time Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee and author of the newly published book, The American Motorcycle Girls: 1900–1950, Cristine Sommer-Simmons today announced that she will be riding in the Motorcycle Cannonball Run next year, (Sept. 10-26, 2010). Sommer-Simmons will be one of only two women riders in the cross-country endurance run of the century. The Motorcycle Cannonball Run is gathering momentum to launch a pack of riders on vintage motorcycles for an historic ride across America in September 2010.

The Cannonball Run is the brainchild of Lonnie Isam, Jr., promoter and owner of Jurassic Racing in Sturgis, South Dakota, The Motorcycle Cannonball Run of 2010 requires that participants ride classic pre-1916 motorcycles such Pope, Sears, Flying Merkel, Excelsior, Henderson, Indian, Triumph, and the Harley-Davidson’s Silent Grey Fellows. Sommer-Simmons will make the 3,320-mile transcontinental ride on September 10 on the east coast in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on her 1915 Harley Davidson.

“This is the thrill of a lifetime!” exclaims Simmons, “It’s an honor to be a part of such a historic and monumental race, and even more exciting to be the only American woman registered for the event!”

For more information about the Motorcycle Cannonball Run, visit www.motorcyclecannonball.com.

We found this over at our friends site Knucklebuster and wanted to share as a friend of ours is featured. This is Volume 2 of GodSpeed, which is a quarterly collection of photographs documenting bike builders, their work and their workspace. This latest issue features Kutty Noteboom, Rick Fodrey, John Copeland, Jeffrey Schad, Duane Ballard, Nelson Kanno, Josh Mills, Lock Baker and Yoshi Kosaka.

Independently photographed, designed, and published,  this volume is a 8×10 hard bound book with 160 Pages. While a little pricey ($75) and with photographs that leave something to be desired regarding quality, (but that may be contributed to copy quality to website too, as we’ve not seen the actual book) the composition and content is right-on which means you’ll have a kickin’ piece of art in your collection.

This recent issue of GODSPEED 45/06 features our friend Duane Ballard of DB Custom Leathers and his hot Honda Chopper that features a Freddy Hernandez frame wrapped around one of Duanes slick Honda 750 power plants.  Don’t think you can go wrong with this book and we’re ordering it when we get off this blog.

We’re all more than aware that with the economy still in such a state of “dis-repair” people need to get away from life’s issues and stress (aka why people are riding more).  So it was appropriate (and timely)  that Barnett’s Magazine did a special issue (October) focusing on “Budget Customs“.  When the magazine approached us on this special issue we were not surprised as we’ve been building bikes for the everyday guy for years.  So it wasn’t anything new to us as almost all of our bikes land in the mid 20’s. Complete!

So here is the bottom line people…”There are still a lot of us out here in motorcycle land that don’t build billets barge and trailer queen bikes“!  There are builders out here that build economical, dependable and cool bikes.  Which was quite evident in this issue in Barnett’s.  Thanks Barnett’s for reminding people. So guys, gals, go check them out.  They are a great magazine!

Being part of the Limpnickie Lot is something a lot of us in the group see as not only a great blessing but something that gives us the ability to “give back” to the community that so enthusiastically supports and embraces our efforts and more specifically our goals.  That goal is to bring motorcycles back to the grass roots where people not only ride but enjoy and understand their motorcycles.  Thus the reason (we believe) we’re gaining so much momentum.  One group that has been a major contributor of this resurgence is the AMCA (Antique Motorcycle Club of America).  For those that attended the 2009 Daytona Bike week (and the Limpnickie Lot specifically), you had the opportunity to see (and participate) in learning how to kick start a 1956 Harley Knucklehead and a 1945 Indian Chief. Something most people have NEVER done! We’re glad to announce that for the 2nd year in a row at the Limpnickie Lot, the AMCA will host an Antique Bike Show on Wednesday of Bike Week 2010. (March 3rd), and rally goers will not only be able to gawk over and fondle old machinery but interact with them in a way most never have….getting one started!  Our friends (and vintage motorcycle experts) Matt Olsen and Rocky Halter will be the guys guiding those interested in learning about these machines.

The AMCA Bike Show and the Kick-start Demo will run from 1 to 5 p.m. March 3 at the Limpnickie Lot in the Stone Edge Skate Park, 1848 S. Ridgewood Ave. in South Daytona. And as an added treat, (in case you can’t make it to the demo) plan on getting there on Friday, March 5, for the  Cycle Source Magazine Ride-in Bike Show with AMCA sponsoring the antique class and handing out the best Antique Chopper, Bobber, Survivor and Restored bikes.  Something everyone should see!

So, what do you get when you have legendary Freddy Hernandez (Freddy’s Frames) build you a custom single down-tube frame; a customers kickin’ little iron head donor bike; you design and develop your own springer front end for production and custom handlebars being built along with Jimmy back at the shop working on the build?  Well this! This little gem is going to be a head turner for sure.  We’ve already had a bit of drama on this with getting a frame to fit to parts getting ordered, but we’re definitely beyond that now. Now it’s just a matter of some custom fabrication for some parts and Jerome Reed (customer) will be rollin’ in style in a few weeks.  We’re stoked!

Yep, that’s right, those of us in the Limpnickie Lot have gotten through another year without any injuries and/or lawsuits and what better way to show our appreciation than to come out with a 2nd round of the, “Limpnickie Lot Builders Manual“.

Now you may remember we rolled out our first maiden catalogue last year at the Easyriders V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati to a load of surprised attendees and happy builders.  Now we’re doing it again and giving everyone enough time to consider their marketing budgets and to get their ads ready.  So, read closely guys and gals.  Deadline is January 15th so don’t delay.  We’ll be sure to kick some butt again this year and set the V-Twin Expo on it’s ears again.  So stay tuned.

Expanding on his relationship with Brian Klock and Klock Werks Kustom Cycles, Mike Tomas plans to move Kiwi Indian Motorcycle Co.’s new engine manufacturing, engine rebuilding and motorcycle restorations and repairs to Klock’s South Dakota facility in 2010. Tomas earlier this year moved all Kiwi Indian parts distribution Klock’s Mitchell, S.D., as part of a joint venture between the two companies.

“Brian and I are close friends who share the same work ethic and long-term vision about the future of our respective businesses,” said Tomas in a press release. The founder of Kiwi Indian remains the sole owner of the company currently based in Riverside, Calif.

Both Klock and Kiwi have participated in televised custom build-offs and continue to garner their share of magazine coverage. The two builders say they have a mutual respect between one and other and both have a desire to share designs and concepts in an effort to keep innovating.

“This is a project Mike, my wife Laura and I have talked about for three years, so in light of the economy, yes it’s a good move. But more so there’s an interest for both entities in working more efficiently and a desire to be gentlemen of the industry,” said Brian Klock. “I have long held Mike and his wife Carolyn in high regard for their upstanding moral outlook on business; thus Laura, I, and our team at Klock Werks are proud to be associated with them.”

Both companies are still financially strong, the release stated and the venture makes Kiwi’s parts line more centrally located providing access to parts distribution routes, and positions him to more easily reach many industry events.

“One warehouse, better shipping contracts, and improved customer service are all goals we hope for,” Tomas said. “Yes, growth and change are difficult in any setting, let alone a down economy. Our families and teams have prayed for guidance and thought the time was right. We all are smiling about this new venture and look forward to the challenges ahead. The camaraderie that is motorcycling lives on!”

Tomas added that his company has and will continue to put quality ahead of price. “Our level of product testing and development tops efforts of classic Indian companies around the world. Our parts are designed for the Indian owner that rides, including myself,” he said.

Kiwi Indian manufactured crankcases and Kiwi supplied cylinders were recently approved for SCTA land speed racing. The company’s catalog features a detailed collection of exploded view drawings of every assembly of the motorcycle, clear descriptions and accurate year of fitment, ever created.

Ok, you “want-to-be” film makers, commentators and up and coming actors.  Here is your opportunity to shine. RockMoto is rolling out a creative idea to get you want-to-be actors or film makers working on something that can put some cash in your pockets.  Create a short video about what can be done on a motorcycle or scooter with a single tank of gas in one day. In 5 minutes or less, show what you would do, where you would go, who you would meet in one day on one tank. If you don’t have access to a motorcycle or scooter, use what you have: a bicycle with a cardboard motorcycle outline, animation, anything that will get your idea across. All we ask is that if you do show a motorcycle rider or passenger, they are wearing protective gear – including a helmet, jacket, pants, gloves and shoes – and not breaking any laws. You’ll have to submit your work as a video response to their contest video on Rockmoto’s contest video listed on YouTube (www.youtube.com/rockmoto) by December 31, 2009. Oh yeah, and the prize: $1,000 cash for 1st place, $500 each for 2 runners up and $250 each for 3 honorable mentions.  If you want to find out more or have questions, email RockMoto at onetankoneday@rockmoto.com.  Good luck!

Who said it is hard “comin’ out?”  Really, all you do is walk right out and announce your status or intentions.  Pretty simple.  We’ll, that’s what Guilty Customs is doing by showing you our “stuff”. However that “stuff” just happens to belong (now) to Ted Clark (of Indianapolis IN) as this was Guilty Customs most recent creation made especially for Ted.

The story started when Ted saw the original “Lucille” in one of the many magazines that featured her and contacted Guilty to build one for him…but of course we just couldn’t build an “exact” replica of “Lucille” so we took some liberties. Liberties such as custom one off billet wheels and seat designed by CJ along with custom made exhaust, fender supports, and Guilty’s own battery box.  Rear fender was snagged from Pat at Lead Sled, cut down and then matted with those one off fender supports.  And who can miss that kickin custom built springer front end!  Which was made to Guilty’s spec’s by Paul at Bare Knuckle. (You may know these two guys as we are all part of the Limpnickie Lot).

Mating that front end up with an original goose neck Santee frame and we’re starting to get excited with all the possibilities too.  One feature that we wanted to really highlight on this build was the tank and fender stance, so this build included a more ”backbone” ridin’ tank vs the original “Lucille” tank and a tire huggin’ rear fender.  Again Steve O’Brian of Liquid Illusions of Sanford Fl came through for us and laid down the colors for this bike. Which unlike the first Lucille, has more white and copper-leaf involved overall.  All this couldn’t have been possible either without the superb craftsmanship of Jimmy at the shop as we have another bike hitting the road and a pleased rider also.

We were on a plane coming from Orlando to Charlotte NC when we heard the news of the death of Indian Larry in Salisbury, NC during a rally 5 years ago. His legacy is still felt today in the industry he loved and helped shaped from his shop in Brooklyn NY.  For the fifth year anniversary of Larry’s death, Cycle Source Magazine and  Indian Larry Motorcycles have collaborated to release a commemorative issue to be released in January 2010.

This special issue will feature never before seen pictures shot by New York photographer Clay Patrick McBride and a full color pull-out poster. The special edition takes a look at some of Larry’s most notable builds and memories from friends who shared his life. A chapter is also dedicated to the color characters working with Larry, (Bobby to Elisa to Paul Cox and Keino) and gives you an update on the “Chopper Shaman’s Family”. Distribution is limited but you can reserve your issue ($6.99) by going to the Cycle Source Magazine site.

Yeah, we know, we’re already heard it from our wives and kids too.  People are getting tired of hearing that Guilty Customs is featured in yet another magazine!  But we have to do something to remind you we’re out here patiently working our stubby fingers to a bone making some cool rides.  Who else is going to shamelessly plug our work, huh?

Anyway, just opened the mail and what did we find, but the December issue of Easyriders Magazine featuring none other than Ash Spurlin’s bike Errant 2.  Remember him from past posts on this blog?  Ash is the Special Ops guy that phoned us from Afghanistan last year to order up one sweet stretched retro behemoth of a bike for him. Of course standing 6′6″ you listen when Ash asks for a bike (with or without his big rifle).  To say the least, we’re stoked (again), that the folks at Easyriders chose Ash’s bike and Don Rogers did a slam up job in shooting the bike. Thanks Don!  Thanks Easyriders!  Ash, keep rollin’ buddy!  Jimmy, super job.

Ok, we’re suckers for cool things whether they are 2-4-6-8 wheels or no wheels at all. So, when we saw these pic’s from a friend, we just had to stop and look and eventually try to purchase one for ourselves.  Granted, as a builder we’re easily distracted by things that go “bump, bump” but not literally as these are used bumper cars from Long Beach Pike Amusement Park which were saved from the scrap yard by Tom Wright (a teckie builder in San Diego, CA), and turned into what you see here. Street legal whoopee machines!

Yep, that’s right; these little babies are street legal. Tim uses either  Kawasaki or Honda (no V-Twins as they rattle too much) motorcycle engines for power. These were transformed into the most awesome form of mini-car we’ve ever seen.

Here are a few of these little monsters “bumpin” around  California. A couple have been measured’ [not run] theoretically capable of 160 MPH which is terrifyingly fast in ANY machine.  Much less one with such a short wheelbase.  We’ve put our order in for one and can’t wait to start rocking Orange with it!  What do you think?

Granted, for the past few days we’ve been “stricken” by the flu bug and currently in Washington DC, just jones’n to get back to SoCal for a much needed rest. While mindlessly surfin’ we ran across this beauty. Well, suffice it to say, we could not resist an opportunity to get our hands on a real “period” piece bike that harkens back to the early days of custom choppers. This sweet 1966 Honda 450 is currently in the hands of (not for long as we’ve wired him a deposit!!!) of Grant Peterson of SoCal and was supposedly built around 1970 and painted by Raja, Roger Castano. The hardtailed frame is fully molded and paneled to match the peanut tank. There is a Randy’s springer on it that is 48 inches from the axle to neck and when we get it in our sweaty palms we’ll have to figure out the rake. And check out those Roadrunner rockers on the springer! Bike has 19″ spool front wheel, 16 in the back laced to the Honda drum. King and Queen seat, sissy bar, and if we say so, a heck of a lot of potential for a sweeeeet ride. Randy has several boxes of Honda stuff that comes with this so we can’t wait to get back to SoCal to pick it up. Randy says’ it’s been sitting since 1980, but we can guarantee it won’t be long before it’s seen cruisin’ the roads of Orange, CA. The motor is a later (non 4 speed)early ’70s 450. So, if you have any paint ideas, we’ll be taking any suggestions and will even probably be giving some free swag for the best ideas.  We’ll update you as we proceed.

Ok, some people say even a pig can root up a couple of truffles now and again. Well, this must have happened to Guilty Customs, as two builds done by the “Guilty Gang” (thanks Jimmy and Mike!), have ended up in two separate publications of that esteemed magazine, EasyRiders. (Also, you may remember the magazine also featured the “Errant” bike in it’s December 08′ issue. See HERE). The newest bike, Dais’d, is the featured center fold in the upcoming November 2009 issue.  Plus, to top that off, hot off the press from Easyriders is the 2010 Easyriders Swimsuit Calendar, with our sweetie model Sandy gracing the cover and the “Errant” bike being featured for January 2010.

What a way to start the year off!  Anyway, just wanted to give credit where credit was due to the guys as well as everyone else that helped get us some needed publicity for us here at Guilty Customs.  Don Rogers, your a super photographer. Jimmy and Mike, you guys are super and i could not do the work i do without you. Thanks for helping us build some killer bikes.

So, now what do we do to follow this type publicity up?  Well, just wait as we’re currently in discussions with MTV on something exciting too. Later!