February 21, 2017, 2:40 am
“Lower your bike, not your standards”
So says Merritt Island, Florida based Arnott Air Suspension on their new website - a site that features their ‘Ultimate Ride’ and ‘Smooth Ride’ system options. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, Arnott say they are the “leader in true onboard adjustable air suspension kits” and that dealers and their customers “should not be fooled by air cylinders or so-called ‘air assisted’ suspensions,” says Arnott’s Doug Taylor.
“Unlike many competitors, our TruAIR technology is true adjustable air suspension, not simple air cylinders, ‘air-assisted’ shocks or automotive cast-offs. We use monotube shock bodies for great looks and durability, and our ‘Ultimate Ride’ series features genuine FOX shocks. Our kits offer fast, on-the-fly adjustable air spring firmness, using a powerful onboard compressor.”
Applications include Tourers, Softails, Dynas, Sportsters, V-Rods, Tri-Glide trikes and Indian Motorcycle Cruisers, Baggers and Tourers.
www.arnottcycles.com
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February 21, 2017, 2:41 am
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E-H … “Reborn to be Wild” Part Deux?
After bravely trying to bring the brand back in the 1990s in an attempt to exploit Harley’s production shortfall at that time, Don Hanlon’s purpose-built Belle Plaine, Minnesota based Excelsior-Henderson factory hit the buffers in 1999 and filed for bankruptcy in 2000, despite making what were regarded at the time some good bikes (dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder anybody?).
News has now emerged that Denver, Colorado based Aaron, Bell International (ABI), an “independent investment bank” and M&A advisor, has been hired to explore options for a phoenix of the Minnesota based manufacturer.
In a press release that raises as many questions as it answers, ABI founder and president Ralph Bellizzi said: “We look forward to working with Excelsior-Henderson during this exciting time in America, with the resurgence of manufacturing pride and interest in motorsports.”
The release went on to say that the “convergence of several market factors has created a unique opportunity to reignite the heritage-rich Excelsior-Henderson brand. Recent motorsports industry reconfiguration, with Polaris Industries ending production of Victory Motorcycles to focus on its historic Indian Motorcycles, and Arctic Cat’s sale to Textron, combined with the strength of American motorcycle manufacturing and sales worldwide, make the market ripe for the re-emergence of the venerable “E-H” marque.”
Regardless of just how accurate an interpretation of current market conditions and opportunities those statements are, the release goes on to say that “Excelsior-Henderson’s deep, rich heritage is what elevates this opportunity well beyond the ordinary. As one of the original “Big 3” OEM motorcycle manufacturers along with Harley-Davidson and Indian during the early decades of motorcycling, Excelsior-Henderson’s heritage includes owners Henry Ford and Charles Lindbergh, and a long list of ‘firsts,’ being the first motorcycle to circumnavigate the world and officially ‘clocked’ at over 100 mph, to engineering and design innovations until ceasing production by owner Ignatz Schwinn of Chicago during the Great Depression.” [Bicycle magnate Schwinn bought E-H in 1911, but then closed it in 1931].
“In the 1990s, that engineering and design legacy was painstakingly carried forward with the rebirth of the brand and the development of a proprietary new Super X motorcycle by the Excelsior-Henderson Motorcycle Manufacturing Company. The company produced nearly 2,000 motorcycles featuring dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, closed-loop fuel injection, integrated cassette transmissions, anti-dive suspensions, and more. Owners of the motorcycles today are just as fervent about the brand as on the day they rode them off dealers’ lots.
“Despite discontinuing production in late 1999, the business opportunity remains relatively turn-key due to its intellectual property and intensely loyal, active customer base.”
Bellizzi said it’s impossible to overstate the unique opportunity this presents. “An offering like this is extremely rare. An entrepreneur or investor can essentially pick up where the previous company left off, bypass the most difficult barriers to entry, and build upon the established success of this heritage-rich brand in a highly lucrative industry. It’s literally a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
www.excelsiorhenderson.com
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February 21, 2017, 2:43 am
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PMI (Wiseco, ProX, JE Piston) sold for $150m
Dover Corporation has sold its Performance Motorsports International (PMI) division - owner of the likes of Wiseco, ProX Racing and JE Piston - to New York based private investor Kinderhook Industries, a diversified portfolio equity investor with around $2Bn. of capital under management.A new holding company – Race Winning Brands (RWB) – has been formed to trade the former PMI business, headquartered with Wiseco Piston at Mentor, Ohio. The deal is reported as being for some $150m., with Dover retaining a small percentage stake in the new holding company.
Commenting on the transaction, Dover's President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert A. Livingston, said: "This transaction provides the new owner the opportunity to leverage the strong leadership position PMI has built over the years and grow the business. At the same time, it allows us to focus on our higher growth core markets."![]()
Kinderhook, owner of the likes of NitroFill, Superwinch and Bestop, will install operating partner Brian Reese as CEO of RWB, with former Mr. Gasket CEO (ACCEL etc) Bob Romanelli, also a Kinderhook operating partner, as executive chairman.
Paul Cifelli, the Managing Director of new owner Kinderhook is quoted as saying: “A fundamental tenet of Kinderhook’s investment philosophy is identifying unique investment opportunities where our experience, abilities and network of operating partners can help create value. Race Winning Brands aligns perfectly with this investment philosophy. We are confident that Kinderhook’s proven ‘buy-and-build’ strategy will allow us to expand RWB’s leadership position in the automotive and powersports performance markets.”
Financing for the transaction was provided by a debt syndicate led by Antares Capital, Varagon Capital Partners, Madison Capital and NewStar Financial.
www.kinderhook.com
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February 21, 2017, 2:45 am
AIMExpo creates strategic partnerships with local dealers in new host city of Columbus, Ohio
Following the announcement that the 2017 American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) would be relocating to Columbus, Ohio, for the fifth annual event, two of the best known dealerships in the USA - A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson (A.D. Farrow) and Iron Pony Motorsports (Iron Pony) - “each expressed a desire to lend their local expertise to make AIMExpo’s move to the heartland of powersports a greater success,” says AIMExpo organizer MIC Events.![]()
A.D. Farrow is one of the most successful and storied Harley-Davidson dealerships in the United States, celebrating its 105th anniversary this year, first opening its doors in nearby Nelsonville, Ohio, in 1912. Now with three locations in the area, A.D. Farrow is Harley’s oldest authorized dealer.
“Columbus is everything our industry needs to have a great gathering,” said Bob Althoff, Dealer Principal, A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson. “First, it is a friendly place, and I sense a real anticipation on the part of folks hereabouts to roll out the red carpet for AIMExpo. Second, there is a concentration of riders here in central Ohio who will, I assure you, turn out in a big way. The visuals surrounding this year's AIMExpo will be a remarkable sight, and with perfect weather in late September, Columbus will be a terrific ride-in destination.” ![]()
Iron Pony Motorsports boasts one of the largest dealerships in the United States, representing 12 different manufacturers inside its 133,000-square foot showroom. The family-owned dealership has been in business since 1975 and is dedicated to making the user experience the best it can be. This includes aisle after aisle of OEM and aftermarket products, hosting a rental program through EagleRider Columbus, and offering its Iron Pony Riding Academy in association with Motorcycle Safety Foundation and Motorcycle Ohio safety instructors.
“The city of Columbus and the surrounding region is full of passionate motorcycle riders and powersports enthusiasts,” said Frank Lark, Vice President of Marketing at Iron Pony Motorsports Group. “We interact with them inside our dealerships and ride alongside many of these folks, so we know firsthand there is a real desire to have a show here in Columbus that is the caliber of AIMExpo. We’re thrilled to be working with the AIMExpo team to help build excitement and make 2017 the best year yet!” ![]()
As dedicated, high profile family-owned dealers, A.D. Farrow and Iron Pony will work alongside the AIMExpo team to integrate and build exposure for the event in the region surrounding Columbus. A co-branded presence at regional events, expanded advertising, marketing and social media campaigns, exclusive access for loyal customers of each dealership, and other initiatives will highlight the strategic partnerships.
“With 41% of U.S. powersports dealers within a 500-mile radius of the city, we’re looking to key local partners to help us tell the story of ‘Why Columbus’, and why dealers and consumers – both near and far - should visit AIMExpo,” said Larry Little, Vice President & General Manager, AIMExpo. “This strategic partnership with two of the most prestigious and influential dealerships in and around America’s 15th largest city is an important step in connecting the industry with the region, and in creating the setting for Columbus to become ‘Powerports USA’ to AIMExpo’s domestic and international visitors.”
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February 21, 2017, 2:48 am
American Motorcyclist Association CEO testifies against proposed motorcycle tariff
A proposed 100 percent tariff on European motorcycles would harm U.S. consumers by pricing affected models beyond the reach of American families, American Motorcyclist Association President and CEO Rob Dingman told a federal trade committee last week.
Dingman said motorcycles should be removed from the list of products included in the proposed tariff.![]()
“Many of the European-produced motorcycles in the affected categories are available at reasonable prices that allow for entire families to enjoy countless hours together outdoors, strengthening the family unit,” Dingman said during a public hearing of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s Section 301 Committee.
“A tariff that threatens to significantly raise the retail cost of these motorcycles or curtail their supply, holds the potential to cause irreversible damage to outdoor recreation and the families that participate in it.”
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative proposed the tariff on 51cc to 500cc motorcycles imported from Europe as part of its ongoing battle with the European Union over U.S. beef raised using hormones. The EU will not accept the beef, so the Trade Representative is seeking leverage in negotiations.
The tariff would affect motorcycles with engines displacing 51cc to 500cc from Aprilia, Beta, BMW, Ducati, Fantic, Gas Gas, Husqvarna, KTM, Montesa, Piaggio, Scorpa, Sherco, TM and Vespa.
There is no direct connection between motorcycles and the EU’s ban on the importing of U.S. beef products treated with hormones. The lack of an agricultural tie between the two products runs counter to sound trade policy, Dingman told the committee.
“American motorcyclists are unnecessarily caught in the crossfire of this completely unrelated trade dispute,” Dingman said. “Since my organization represents motorcycle-riding consumers, I can objectively and without vested commercial interest assure you that this action will do more to harm individual Americans than it will to leverage the European Union.”
Motorcyclists sent more than 10,300 e-mails to Congress on this issue, posted more than 9,400 comments to Regulations.gov, and sent nearly 5,300 e-mails to President Donald Trump. Of the comments submitted via Regulations.gov, 82 percent came from motorcyclists.
European makers of 51cc-399cc motorcycles used for racing provide nearly half the units available to U.S. consumers, and nearly a quarter of the market in the 400-500cc class. There are no significant U.S.-made options for consumers in those market segments.
In the on-road motorcycle segment, 100 percent of the models 300cc and smaller are imported to the United States from abroad.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative tried this same tactic in 1998 and 2008, but the efforts were thwarted when the AMA, the Motorcycle Industry Council and bike manufacturers and retailers rallied motorcyclists against the plan. At that time, the U.S. Trade Representative instead raised the tariff on a variety of European food products.
Others testifying against the tariff today included Carroll Gittere, President of Powersports Data Solutions; Iain McPhie and Ritchie Thomas of Squire Patton Boggs; John Hinz, President of KTM North America Inc. and Husqvarna Motorcycles North America Inc.; Mario di Maria, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas Inc.; Rick Alcon, owner of R&S Powersports Group; Tim Cotter, Vice President of MX Sports; and Tim Buche, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council.
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February 28, 2017, 3:10 am
Andreani DB4 suspension dynamometer
Taking the concept of suspension diagnostics to another level, Italian suspension specialist Andreani’s DB4 is a new generation professional dynamometer, optimized for suspension testing of motorcycles, cars and mountain bikes. ![]()
Thanks to the powerful 4kW AC-Motor, it allows you to test shock absorbers and forks in a wide range of speed and loads, choosing between several stroke settings.
Its advanced features allow any suspension operator to visualize a real time shock and fork load vs velocity graph, compare different click settings and valving options, measure dynamic suspension parameters and detect any operating anomalies.
The DB4 includes a state-of-the-art, real-time dedicated controller board that ensures a stable and reliable automation and deterministic data acquisition. The software provides an intuitive graphical user interface for data acquisition and simple but powerful tools for suspension analysis. It is compatible with the most common operating systems, and, as it is plug-and-play, does not require a dedicated laptop. ![]()
The graphs and numerical outputs of the software and its sophisticated algorithms allows you to fully define and characterize the suspension’s state of tune using peak velocity, load displacement and instantaneous velocity graphs. In addition to the viscous response of the suspension, the suspension dyno also provides gas preload, mean gas-spring rate and static friction outputs.
Custom versions of the software can include hysteresis analysis, dissipated energy and damping coefficient calculations.
ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com
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February 28, 2017, 3:12 am
‘Seventies Line’ retro style hand control options
If you are looking for high quality details for your retro build or conversion, Italian made and designed ‘Seventies Line’ handlebar controls by Kustom Tech are just what you need.
Available as brake and clutch levers for 1” and 7/8” handlebars, with 12mm (15/32”) or 14mm (9/16”) bore piston master cylinders, they are available in a selection of 14 different finishes from polished and raw to satin and black.![]() |
Italian made forged aluminium retro style brake lever and master cylinder assemblies – the ‘Seventies
Line’ by Alessandro Pacelli, Kustom Tech left to right: 20-800 (12mm Brake, polished); 20-803 (14mm,
Brake, Polished); 20-801 (12mm, Brake, Satin); 20-822 (14mm, Brake, black); 20-805 (14mm, Brake, Raw) |
Machined from forged aluminum, they are fully rebuildable and feature a retro style finned cover and smooth, ergonomically shaped lever; replacement levers and brass clutch and M110x1 thread brake cable register also available.
KUSTOM TECH
www.kustomtech.eu
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February 28, 2017, 3:13 am
MID-USA adds products for 2017
Hazelwood, Missouri based distributor MID-USA has unveiled its new 2017 ‘En-Cycle-Pedia’ catalog after another busy 12 months - adding further to its extensive own brand range, many new accessory brands, and a slew of products for Harley’s 2017 M-8 Touring models.
At over 1,100 pages, their 2017 catalog includes many specialty products that prove that it is the details that matter as well as the big ticket items - often the hard-to-source items that aren’t needed often make the catalogs from long established distributors such as MID-USA so invaluable for OEM dealers independent custom shops.
For 2017 additions include stock replacement, upgrade and custom electrical, frame and body items, front end components and set-ups, controls, wheels, exhausts, shocks, complete drivetrains and parts, engine components and fuel system parts.
www.mid-usa.com
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February 28, 2017, 3:13 am
‘Omega’ air cleaners for improved riding position
These ‘Omega’ air cleaners, designed and manufactured by Lake Havasu City, Arizona based accessory specialist Joker Machine, feature a compact design that adds “much needed leg clearance over the stock air cleaner and have a high flowing air filter for Sportster, Softail and Dyna models.”
At 4-3/16” wide and 3-3/8” tall, they sit off the bike by 3-5/8”, improving your riding position for a more comfortable ride. The high-flow K&N filter adds more horsepower and performance. They fit 2000-up Softail and Dyna, and 1991-up Sportster models (will not fit 2008-up FL throttle by wire models). Available in gloss black or chrome plated finishes.
They are CNC-machined from billet aluminum and available in gloss black or chrome plated finishes.
JOKER MACHINE
www.jokermachine.com
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February 28, 2017, 3:14 am
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Harley-Davidson appoints new directors to Board
Harley-Davidson, Inc. has announced the appointment of Troy Alstead and Allan Golston to the company's board of directors. Alstead is retired from Starbucks Corporation where he most recently served as Chief Operating Officer, and Golston is the President of the U.S. program for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
"We are delighted to have two new talented professionals join our board," said Michael Cave, non-executive chairman of the board of Harley-Davidson. "Troy and Alan bring valuable skills and have important perspectives as leaders in their fields that will be assets to the company."![]() |
| Troy Alstead |
Alstead is founder of Harbor O5 and the Ocean5 Foundation. He worked for Starbucks for more than 24 years in finance, operations management and international business roles. Prior to joining Starbucks, Alstead held various finance roles at NCR Corporation and Egghead Software. Alstead is on the board of directors of Levi Strauss & Co. and TopGolf. ![]() |
| Allan Golston |
Golston, who has been with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation since 2000, previously served as its Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. He is a certified public accountant and has held positions with Swedish Health Services in Seattle and the University of Colorado Hospital. Golston is a member of the board of directors of Stryker Corporation, and is a member of the Stryker Corporation Audit Committee.
The appointments of Alstead and Golston by board action brings the total number of directors to 13. Their terms will expire at the company's 2017 annual meeting of shareholders.
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February 28, 2017, 3:14 am
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Biker’s Choice catalog adds 3,500 new items
Tucker Rocky has released its 2017 Biker's Choice dealer catalog with more than 3,500 new products added to the product line.
Inside the 1,984-page desk-bender are “fantastic new products the company is proud to offer. Arlen Ness has added parts for both Victory and Indian motorcycles, and S&S is once again offering complete engines,” says Sr. Director of Marketing Dawn Zassick.
“Plus, the fast-growing Twin Power workshop staples and replacement components program has added many new products to their line, including clutch kits, valve and spring kits and the “Tension Reliever” manual primary chain adjuster, to name a few.
“Biker’s Choice is also proud to introduce more new premium brands to this year’s catalog line-up – leading brands such as suspension manufacturers American Suspension and Arnott, Drift Cameras, the internationally respected Koso Gauges range, race-bred precision manufactured Magura controls from Germany, Revere seats, LED accent lights by XK Glow and accessories from San Diego Customs.”
www.tuckerrocky.com
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February 28, 2017, 3:15 am
Vance & Hines to continue support of Flat Track racing
American Flat Track has announced a renewed, multi-year partnership with Vance & Hines as the Presenting Sponsor of the premier AFT Twins class. Beginning with the 2017 season, the class, which headlines the re-envisioned series and continues the legacy of the Grand National Championship, will now be known as AFT Twins presented by Vance & Hines.
“Vance & Hines’ involvement in American Flat Track racing has been tremendous,” said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. “Their continued support and willingness to help grow this high-intensity sport is greatly appreciated and we look forward to having them return for another season.”![]()
A company born from racing, Vance & Hines grew to be a leader in aftermarket motorcycle parts, from its distinctive V-twin exhaust systems to a wide range of products across the powersports world. The American manufacturer has been involved in a variety of motorcycle racing disciplines, NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle, AMA Superbikes, and more recently professional Flat Track racing. In 2014, Vance & Hines became the Presenting Sponsor for the former GNC1 class – now AFT Twins. The company was eager to offer their support of the new, golden era of American Flat Track and is excited to be a part of the sport’s expansion.
“There’s never been a better time to be involved in Flat Track racing,” said Terry Vance, Chairman of Vance & Hines. “The sport is growing rapidly, and more and more you see the youth in America buying all brands of 750cc twin-cylinder motorcycles. At Vance & Hines, we want to be out in front of that movement and, in my opinion, there’s no better place to do that than American Flat Track. We’re proud to return for the third year as the Presenting Sponsor of AFT’s premier class.”
www.vanceandhines.com
www.americanflattrack.com
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February 28, 2017, 3:16 am
J&P Cycles Iowa Rally
J&P Cycles say their Anamosa, Iowa location will become the largest motorcycle aftermarket store in the world during the weekend of June 24-25, 2017 as the J&P Cycles Iowa Rally celebrates its 38th anniversary by becoming the site of Hot Bike Magazine's National Garage Build-Off for custom motorcycles.
The competition is expected to draw the nation's top garage-built custom bikes competing for $3,000 and an invitation to the annual Hot Bike Tour, where their motorcycle will go up against famous builders in the Invitational Build-Off.![]()
Located at J&P Cycles' original store, the free rally includes motocross stunt shows from Cowboy Kenny's Steel Rodeo Tour, live music throughout the weekend, food, beer and opportunities to support Camp Courageous, a camp for kids and adults with disabilities.
In conjunction with the rally, the National Motorcycle Museum is opening a new exhibit, Dirt Riding in America. Located near the rally in Anamosa, visitors will be among the first to experience the exhibit and will see more than 450 vintage bikes on display in the museum's permanent collection.
The Iowa Rally is a chance for riders to get up-close and personal with reps from more than 50 companies offering motorcycling products. It's a chance to see the newest motorcycle accessories, and ask questions to experts from companies like Vance & Hines, Kuryakyn, Dunlop, Klock Werks, Metzeler, Mustang Seats, Rinehart Racing, and many more. Riders can even have selected parts installed on their bikes on site.
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February 28, 2017, 3:25 am
Your final warning – fun in DublinAlways one of the favorite AMD World Championship affiliate events, the biennial 2017 Carole Nash Irish Motorbike and Scooter Show will be hosted at the Royal Dublin Society show halls from 3 – 5 March, featuring the Deltran/Battery Tender sponsored, Zodiac International supported Irish AMD International Custom Bike Competition, the national/Irish Champion winning €3,000 cash to cover expenses for competing at the 2018 AMD World Championship in Germany.
The international winner gets €2,000 and qualification for the AMD World Championship. There are additional prizes of €1,800 in products from Zodiac and €500 from Bridge Garage (Zodiac’s Irish agents).
Additional show features in 2017 will include a 'Race of Gentlemen' in the sand arena, where the flat trackers will also be racing over the three days. The ‘Race of Gentlemen’ will be a homage to the 1930s racing in the USA between the legendary Harley-Davison and Indian teams, which have been re-enacted in California recently. ![]()
Rusty Pistons from the Czech Republic will sponsor the Rockabilly Stage (www.rustypistons.eu), and the show will deploy many of the now ubiquitous hallmarks of the current ‘Hipster Vibe’ – including a 3-station Barbershop with suitable memorabilia and décor, massage girls and a ‘Gentleman’s Club’ ambiance!
Ace Cafe London will be mounting their regular display of classic era authentic bikes with mods and rockers and the 59 Club memorabilia and staging the Ace Cafe Global Stunt Starz Competition with 25 top stunt riders from Ireland, UK and Europe battling it out for a €5,000.00 prize fund and the 'Ace of Aces' title.
At the time of writing, the two halls of the show are pretty much sold out as Ireland starts to share in the motorcycle market recovery seen elsewhere in Europe, resulting in a third hall being added as the 2017 ‘Dublin Show’ gets set for record exhibitor and visitor numbers. ![]() |
| The first E-bike to compete in the AMD World Championship, Noel Connolly’s remarkable ‘Strom’ finished 11th in the Freestyle Class in 2016 |
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| Former AMD World Champions Mick O’Shea and Don Cronin (‘Rondine’, 2013) won the Steet Performance Class in 2016 with ‘Road Fever’, a 1987 Ducati 750 |
The Irish market continues also to emerge on the international stage as a vibrant source of design and engineering craftsmanship and creativity. In 2013 the Irish Motorbike and Scooter Show affiliate winners Mick O’Shea and Don Cronin scooped the AMD World Champion title with the much admired ‘Rondine’ – an exquisitely customized 1971 Moto Guzzi.
This year they again spearheaded an Irish invasion at Cologne that saw Mick and Don take home the Street Performance class win with ‘Road Fever’, a 1987 Ducati 750, and saw Noel Connolly add to the Irish trophy cabinet with an 11th place in the Freestyle Class for the remarkable ‘Strom’ – the first ever E-bike to compete at ‘The AMD’.
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Thank you for your service...
Seen here at the recent V-Twin Expo, Cincinnati, there's a minimum of 120 years of V-twin parts and accessories industry experience here - from left, Jim Preisler, Khrome Werks; Jim Betlach, V-Twin Expo; Tom Motzko, Drag Specialties. The three were colleagues "back in the day" when they worked for Tom Rudd when he owned and operated Drag Specialties before it was part of Fred Fox's LeMans Group.
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Spectro partners with Analog Motorcycles
Spectro Oils of America has announced a partnership with noted Gurnee, Illinois, custom bike builder Tony Prust’s Analog Motorcycles.
Spectro say “these two great brands will work side by side on many of the great builds created by Analog founder Tony Prust, as well as showcase together at events across the United States.![]()
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“I first met Tony at the Barber Vintage Motorcycle Festival,” said Alex Josefson, President of Spectro Oils. “I was immediately drawn to the craftsmanship of Tony’s builds. He bases his designs and production on efficiency, quality and performance, exactly the values that the Spectro brand has always been about. What I didn’t know, initially, was that Tony was already a Spectro user and advocate – that made working together a no-brainer.”
Speaking about the collaboration, Tony said: “I have been using Spectro Oils for years and never had an oil related issue using their products. When it comes to vintage bikes, the Spectro brand of products has everything I need to keep these machines running at their optimum. We couldn’t be more pleased to have Spectro as the official oil of Analog Motorcycles.”
www.analogmotorcycles.com
www.spectro-oils.com
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Freshen up the look of tired wiring
With riders now eyeing enhancements for the riding season ahead, a timely reminder comes from Avon Lake, Ohio based protective barrier specialist Design Engineering (DEI) that wiring looms are among those areas of the motorcycle that are most at risk from the cold and damp of winter garage conditions.![]()
DEI says their protective Split Sleeve is a “great way to organize and add extra protection to exposed wire looms, hoses and cables. Featuring a clean, classy look that preserves sensitive parts from abrasion and the elements, the durable heat and solvent resistant Split Sleeve loom can be easily installed over existing installations, with no splicing needed”.
DEI motorcycle product specialist Brian VanKoevering says that “Split Sleeve won’t crack, hold moisture or look cheap like conventional plastic tubing. It is ideal for speaker wires, auxiliary lights, custom wiring harnesses and more. Use it to replace cracked, worn or just plain ugly old covers for a professional, tidy appearance that could be saving potential problems later.”
Available in a choice of widths, it is easily removed for service or wiring replacement and includes silicone tape to secure ends. Brian says that it provides “a great finishing touch for customizers running unconventional wiring or hose set-ups.”
DESIGN ENGINEERING INC
www.deipowersports.com
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New in the house at Motorcycle Storehouse
Crate-ready to replace the stock lower end of ‘84-‘99 1340cc/80” Evolution Big Twins, these “short blocks” include the bullet-proof S&S Super Stock crankcases for stock 3 1/2" bore cylinders with stock 4 1/4" stroke flywheels and rods installed by S&S and balanced to stock weight pistons.
Compatible with carburetor or fuel injection and all stock and most aftermarket components, the cases are available in a natural aluminum or wrinkle black finish.
The latest series of Biltwell’s Limited Edition helmets are “both retro and exclusive,” according to Motorcycle Storehouse, with Limited Edition designs only available for one year. Featuring a small outer shell to “offer the genuine 70s look,” they meet American D.O.T. safety standards.
Also seen here, these La Rosa genuine 9 ounce leather saddlebags with fuel bottle holder are available for Softail or rigid applications; black or green canvas versions also available.
MOTORCYCLE STOREHOUSE BV
www.motorcyclestorehouse.nl
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Hi-Output 2-into-1 ‘Short’ with stepped megaphone
California based exhaust and performance parts specialist Vance & Hines has updated its best-selling exhaust designs to include 2017 model year applications and additions, such as these Hi-Output 2-into-1 ‘Short’ seen here for ’06-‘17 Dyna and ’86-‘17 Softail models, ‘13-‘17 Breakout and Breakout CVOs, ‘09 CVO Softails and ’08-11 Rocker and Rocker Cs.
Delivering a “deep, throaty note” they have a CNC-machined billet end cap and are available with optional quiet baffle.
Available in chrome or black, Vance & Hines say that this “aggressively stout” 2-into-1 addition to their Hi-Output family is “engineered to be a compact version of our signature stepped megaphone” and is “perfect for the rider who demands the performance of a 2-into-1 and the distinctive sound of the Hi-Output.”
VANCE & HINES
www.vanceandhines.com
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World’s Fastest Female Motorcycle Racer appointed to prestigious Land Speed Racing Board
The world’s fastest female motorcycle racer, Valerie Thompson, has been appointed to the Bonneville 200 MPH Club board of directors during the January meeting of the National Hot Rod Association Museum in Pomona, California.![]() |
200 MPH Club Board of Directors at NHRA Museum meeting in Pomona, from left: Justin Walsh, Skip Hedrick, Mike Fevers, Donnie Cummins, Allison Dean (Office Manager), Jim Travis, Valerie Thompson, Larry Volk, Monte Wolfe, Dan Warner
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Thompson is a seven-time land speed record holder, team owner/driver and member of six different land speed racing 200 MPH Clubs. She made history at the 2016 Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials, winning the “The Fastest Time of the Meet” award with a speed of 304.263 mph (489.6 kmh) piloting the Team “7” Racing streamliner. Thompson is the first female rider over 300 mph, earning the title of “World’s Fastest Female Motorcycle Racer.”
Thompson joins 8 other board members who are responsible for the direction and business of the club. The Bonneville 200 MPH Club recognizes those drivers and motorcycle riders who are able to set class records over 200 mph against an existing record or minimum. The club recognizes records of the Southern California Timing Association, and international records of the FIA and the FIM set in the flying mile at the Bonneville Salt Flats. There are currently over 750 members since the founding of the club in 1953.
“We are delighted to have Valerie as our first female member of the board,” said Dan Warner, President. “Valerie’s many accomplishments, both on and off the track, make her a valuable new board member. I’m confident her unique insights and marketing expertise will be highly valued as we address a wide variety of issues for our members,” added Warner.
With a top speed of 208.812 mph, Thompson became a member of the Bonneville 200 MPH Club on her BMW S 1000 RR at the 28th Annual World of Speed event in September 2014. “Earning membership in the 200 MPH Club had been a dream of mine since I started racing. It was the result of many years of hard work and determination. I never imagined I would be invited to join the club’s board of directors,” said Thompson. She added: “I consider this appointment a real honor and high point of my career. I look forward to working with everyone on the board.”
Piloting the Team “7” Racing streamliner, Valerie re-wrote racing history at the 2016 Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials, earning the “The Fastest Time of the Meet” award with a speed of 304.263 mph (489.6 kmh). She is the first female rider of over 300 mph, earning the title of “World’s Fastest Female Motorcycle Racer.”
A seven-time land speed record holder and team owner/driver, she fields her BMW S 1000 RR in select land speed competitions. Valerie has earned membership in six different 200 MPH Clubs and is a lifetime member of the famed Bonneville 200 MPH Club. In 2017, she became the first female appointed to the Bonneville 200 MPH Club Board of Directors.
Valerie has also formed a new drag racing team in 2017 to compete in NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle series. Her many racing accomplishments have earned Valerie the moniker of “America’s Queen of Speed” by the worldwide press.
When the Dry Lakes racers of the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) first ventured to the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1949, they were laying the foundation for what would become the largest and fastest motorsports event in the world.
The original idea for the Bonneville 200 MPH Club was to recognize the accomplishments of drivers setting speed records of over 200 mph on the Salt Flats. Many members raced for decades before achieving a certified record over 200 mph necessary to receive the club’s trademark recognition – the famed Red Hat of the Bonneville 200 MPH Club.
To honor drivers gaining a 300+ mph record, a 300 MPH Chapter was formed with a Blue Hat to mark the accomplishment. For those few drivers accomplishing 400+ mph record speeds, a Black Hat marks the 400 MPH Chapter of the club.
www.bonneville200mph.org
www.ValerieThompsonRacing.com
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