Bikes and Builder Department

“I wanted a rugged, western theme to remind everyone of the Old West, but it still had to be rideable. I wanted metal, rust, and wood. I also wanted bullet holes, a saddle, a dynamite keg, a branding iron, poker chips and cards and guns. Good old Colt .45’s, but used in a manner that no one else ever has.”

"Ten days...that's how long a Black Hills man has to build a custom made motorcycle that normally takes months. Michael Prugh of Rapid City is competing against another bike designer on the Discovery Channel show "Biker Build-Off". The show is putting the South Dakota designer's skills to the test. Sleek, shiny, and powerful machines, they are the motorcycles Michael Prugh builds. But he's not used to putting a bike together under tight deadlines. "

"It's our birthday, we're ten years old! We are going to celebrate by holding an Open House on April 22nd 2006. Come and join us for some sex and drugs and rock and roll. O.K. so we lied about the first two, but there will be bands playing, beer flowing, and the lovely Purrfect Angelz dancing up a storm. The event will take place from noon to 6pm at our new shop in North Hollywood. "

"GERMAN cruiser specialist Thunderbike of Hamminkeln in Germany was the clear winner of this year's Official European Championship of Custom Bike Building, presented by Custom Chrome Europe at their 2006 Dealer Show at Mainz in Germany."

Harley-Davidson Department

Pickings Department

"Meet Timothy White, award-winning icon-making photographer, as he launches his new book "Indian Larry" at the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) on Friday, April 14, 2006, from 6 to 8 p.m. during the OMA's world-class exhibition The Art of the Motorcycle. "Indian Larry" is a major photographic tribute by White of the noted bike builder, stuntman and innovator in the world of custom motorcycles."

"If you're looking for a singular vision of motorcycle art, then, you've come to the right place step inside and have a look Enjoy your visit ! "

"Nicolas Chauvin started down the customizing road at the early age of 14. Having seen the movie, Easy Rider, he turned his attention to his 50cc motorcycle and customized it. Then he customized all of his friend’s bikes. It was obvious to everyone—including his parents—his talent needed to be shaped, and he was directed to art school. At the age of 20 he graduated from The School of Paris Art. Upon graduation, Chauvin entered the advertising agency world doing work as an airbrush illustrator. While creative, the work was not what Nicolas was drawn to, so he stepped into bike building with the passion it deserved. Working from his shop, Nicolas Chauvin Designs, in Neuilly sous Clermont, France, Chauvin has fast made a name for himself in the custom bike world. His bikes are one-of-a-kind, as he calls them, "sculpture on wheels" and very little of the bike is not designed and built by Chauvin. He has been featured in most of the major magazines around the world, participated in the Art of the Harley exhibit throughout Europe and is covered in The Art of the Chopper II by Tom Zimberoff."

"S&S 2006 WORLD BUILDER SHOWCASE - one of Nicolas's creations SATANICO PANDEMONIUM will be on S&S display at major US events:"

"Each one-of-a-kind is made with the best combination of original technique and beauty for the ultimate ride on "sculptures on wheels". In 20 years of experiment, Nicolas makes a name by himself by winning many Best of show in Europe and USA (including Best Champion Big Daddy Rat's Hole show Daytona'99) and having his work published in numerous magazines worldwide and prestigious books as "The Art of the Chopper II" (Tom Zimberoff), "The Art of the Harley" (Barbican Art Gallery) and "Bikers Variations" (Bernard de Tournadre) to name a few. His creations are exhibited in Art museum in UK London Barbican Art Gallery, Liverpool Museum and in Sweden at Kulturhuset beside Arlen Ness, Dave Perewitz, Rick Doss etc..."

Bikes and Builder Department

" Johnny Chop Passes - 3.29.2006 John Vasko, better known to his legion of fans as Johnny Chop, passed away yesterday from an apparent heart attack. Chop came into prominence on the Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-off series when he was the confidant, interpreter and right-hand man for Chica of Chica’s Cycles. "

"One lucky winner will take home two dream vehicles: a 2006 Big Dog Motorcycles K-9 and a 2006 Dodge Ram SRT10, a prize package valued at over $80,000 Big Dog Motorcycles, the largest manufacturer of chopper- style motorcycles in the world, announced a new sweepstakes with Dodge for 2006. Incredible, chance of a lifetime. We couldn’t pass up sharing this opportunity with our readers, besides the Bikernet truck is worn out. "

Harley-Davidson Department

"MILWAUKEE (March 27, 2006) - MILWAUKEE (March 27, 2006) – In the upcoming Spike TV original production “Blade: The Series,” inspired by Marvel’s popular Super Hero, the immortal lead character will ride a motorcycle from Harley-Davidson, one of the world’s most enduring legends. “Blade: The Series” premieres on Spike TV Wednesday, June 28 (10:00 PM – Midnight, ET/PT). “Blade: The Series” stars Kirk “Sticky” Jones (“Over There,” “The Shield”) as the title character who is half-man, half-vampire and employs his extraordinary powers in a crusade to save mankind from the demonic creatures who walk the night. Episodes will feature Jones, as Blade, in action riding the Harley-Davidson VRSCD Night Rod motorcycle. "

Chat Department

Bikes and Builder Department

"American Performance Cycles started in 1996 and soon became a well-known manufacturer of high class, affordable custom production bikes that are approved for sale and use in all 50 states. As APC’s reputation for value and quality spread throughout the motorcycle industry, so did the demand for parts to build them. Early on, APC became concerned with all of their venders and their ability to deliver products in a timely manner so they began buying all of their own equipment and got into the manufacturing of all of their own products. This successful business decision has allowed them to control their own destiny and today, they build bikes as fast as needed. Dealers and customers alike never wait for product. “Mike Sample Jr. stated, “We got tired of waiting for products from outside sources and now manufacture most of our own parts so that we don’t have to rely on anyone.”

In 1998, APC grew out of their original building located in Bullhead City, AZ and moved to their new ultra modern 50,000 square foot facility in Las Vegas, NV. CEO/President Mike Sample stated, “Our business philosophy is to make the very best custom production bikes that are affordable, rideable and reliable. That’s we have five distinct models that are all reasonably priced, but can be built with a variety of options to suit the most discriminating buyer.” Mike sample Jr., Vice President of APC added, “Three out of our five models are available in four different packages, ranging from a 96-inch S&S motor all the way to a show quality polished 124-inch S&S engine.” All APC bikes are easily registered, insured and are financeable through all major banks and lending institutions. "

"Here’s another take on the Buell idea, a Buell Sport Chopper. The owner took a Buell XB9S Lightning, removed the front fork, wheel and brakes plus the rear swingarm and wheel along with the Buell engine and built himself a frame that turns it into a sport chopper. It looks pretty decent, though, as even the owner admits, it’s not very comfortable after a while since the forward controls plus the long reach to the bars make for bad ergonomics. If the foot pegs were back under the rider, this might have some possibilities."

Pickings Department

Bikes and Builder Department

"DEPT 85 WAS BUILT BY JOE CURTES (GARAGE 864) AND CHUCKY FRYMAN (HUNTINGTON BEACH MOTORCYCLES) FOR LAURENT V. LV IS A LONG TIME BUDDY OF JOE'S AND RUNS BURTON SNOWBOARDS OUT HERE ON THE WEST COAST. HE CAME TO US WITH A VISION FOR HIS RIDE AND WE DELIVERED A BITCHING BIKE."

"It may not be the World’s Fastest Indian, but it might be the World’s Most Loved Indian. Sometime back in the late 1960’s or early 1970’s (I don’t think anyone remembers exactly when) my Uncle Leroy got a call from an old friend who told him; “If you want this thing come get it out of my way.” The thing he was referencing was a 1940 Indian that was being stored in pieces in his barn. When I say in pieces, that’s exactly what I mean."

"Since opening his doors in 2000, Nick Genender at NYC Choppers has made a specialty out of just this kind of bike, and with lots of NYC Choppers parts already in the FatBook that Manhattan shop was a natural. Nick didn't have to be asked twice. Given the opportunity he ran with it, big time."

Harley-Davidson Department

"Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) is excited to announce its live entertainment performing at CLUB H.O.G. Wild West: 23rd Annual Rally in Billings, Mont., June 30 through July 1, 2006. The rally will take place at Montana's MetraPark, where entertainment headliners include Sugarland, Shelly Fairchild, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Drew Davis Band and Creedence Clearwater Revisited."

Pickings Department

"LA CROSSE , WI (March 25, 2006) S&S Cycle announces the release of a new service manual to cover the Super Stock and Super Sidewinder engine families This manual--second in the series--is designed to guide a technician through the intricacies of servicing both the S&S Super Stock and Super Sidewinder engines. Through a proven method of comprehensive instructions, complete specifications, high-quality photography, the manual is the basis for servicing and maintaining an S&S engine. Covered in this version will be the 88ci and 96ci Super Stock engines and the 100ci, 107ci and 113ci Super Sidewinder engines. Considered to be the most popular S&S engine sizes ever sold, the manual has been in high demand since the introduction of the Super Sidewinder Plus version. MSRP for the manual (PN 61-1001) will be $20.95 and it can be purchased at any Authorized S&S Dealer or through the S&S website at ww.sscycle.com ."

Bikes and Builder Department

" OSHAWA -- Sitting atop Mike Yurko's custom-built DeWalt chopper, one almost feels invincible. The bike -- which boasts a 15-inch rear wheel, the biggest tire on the market, and 170-horsepower with a supercharged motor -- rode away with top honours at the 34th annual International Rat's Hole Bike Show in Daytona on March 11, beating 500 other bikes from around the world to win the category, Best of Show."

"We've seen a Louis Vuitton car, how about a LV-logoed motorcycle? How do you get people to check out your chic Los Angeles boutique? How about a $130,000 Louis Vuitton Von Dutch Kustom Cycle. This cycle was created for Mary J. Blige will be on display at Terra, a store on Third Street between The Grove and The Beverly Center through April. Terra offers complimentary cappuccino/espresso and private label bottled water, gift wrapping, concierge service, alterations and special order services. Preparing for the celebs, they also have electronically secured entry and paparazzi/privacy blinds."

Harley-Davidson Department

"MILWAUKEE (March 23, 2006) - Harley-Davidson (NYSE: HDI) today announced the next step in its market entry into mainland China, with the appointment of Beijing Feng Huo Lun (FHL) as the first authorized Harley-Davidson dealer there. Operating as Beijing Harley-Davidson, the dealership will offer Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, related products and after-sales service."

Pickings Department

"The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Government Relations team met with federal Environmental Protection Agency officials in February to discuss motorcycle-emissions regulations. AMA Vice President for Government Relations Edward Moreland, AMA Washington Legislative Assistant Peter Nonis and AMA Legislative Affairs Specialist Imre Szauter met with EPA technical officials at the agency's headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan seeking clarification on current EPA regulations related to "kit" and "custom" motorcycles."

Chat Department

Bikes and Builder Department

"Von Dutch Kustom Cycles, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, (www.vondutchkustomcycles.com) has been unanimously selected by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce to build the official custom bike for the 2006 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Von Dutch Kustom Cycles, with it’s winning bike design, the Cruelworld Softail Chopper, was awarded this prestigious honor, beating out numerous motorcycle companies, manufacturers, OEM’s and custom builders. The bike, which has been built for the 66th Annual Sturgis Rally, will be raffled off for charity through the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation and Sturgis Rally Charities."

Pickings Department

"Harley-Davidson and Philosophy is an anthology of 14 articles by 12 authors; most are professors, some are philosophers. All seem to be motorcycle enthusiasts. In the book's foreword, R.K. Stratman states, "I am not a philosopher ... After reading several of the essays I felt intimidated." "

Bikes and Builder Department

"The Carlini Heritage: The Carlini name took hold in 1969 in Detroit when Tony had a small shop and worked his ass off to build a wild name in the industry. The crazed psychedelic Italian from the tough motor city streets made a name for himself quick. He became a Hamster, moved to Laguna Beach, California, designed the Carlini Torque Arm, tank/paint savers and dealt in exotic cars. A work-alcoholic he pushed his son, T.J., to keep up from the moment he was able to push a broom. "

"The latest bike by Fred Krugger, built as a promotion for the new "Racer" frame, will be introduced at the European Championships in Mainz next weekend. Fred can make this frame for any engine/gearbox combination and for fat or narrow rear tires. In this case the rear wheel is an 18" with a 240 Metzeler tire."

Harley-Davidson Department

"With a new six-speed powertrain, standard fuel injection and other upgrades for 2006, Harley-Davidson's chopper-style Dyna model, the FXDWGI Wide Glide, is living wide on the Hog. Just don't expect the deluxe treatment in concert with this much attitude."

"GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 20, 2006) - Two-time defending NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines rode his Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines V-Rod to a semifinal round finish Sunday at the 37th annual ACDelco NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. It was what the team considered to be the lone highlight at a track that has normally been the site of so many momentum-building performances in the past. Fans at Gainesville Raceway have seen the first Harley-Davidson victory (2004) and the first six-second run (2005), just to name a couple of historic moments. "

"The Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 is a case in point. To create it, Ford dressed up an F-150 SuperCab pickup with a billet-style grille meant to evoke chopper brightwork, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and plenty of Harley badges inside and out. It's the only F-150 that offers full-time all-wheel drive."

Pickings Department

"Dave Nichols is one of the most influential men in the V-Twin business. He runs Easyriders and V-Twin magazines and was the point person to put together V-Twin TV."

"Branscombe Richmond catches up with Jim Nasi at V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati, OH. Jim talks about building, builders and the Phoenix weather."

"Jessica Prokup, Editor of RoadBike magazine is interviewed by Thunder Bob. She gives us the 411 on Daytona Bike Week. The April edition of her magazine is chock full of metric-related happenings as well as a comprehensive checklist of spring prep steps to help you get your sled ready for the riding season ahead.

Chat Department

"I love my Harley. I hate whiners."

"Last Sunday, I started giving her little bits of antifreeze, because I hear they say that's real bad for dogs and cats."

Bikes and Builder Department

"In the same style as all press launches, we were introduced to the new machine before our ride, and for me it was the first time I had seen the newest Boulevard in person. Kicked back on the sidestand in the meeting room, the M109R has a striking presence, with its long, low, solid appearance. It is also very wide, and with its butch inverted front fork, massive 240-section rear tire and swooping bodywork, there is no doubt Suzuki has come up with their own unique version of what a power cruiser should be."

"It's no wonder when his itch for a traditional classic chopper began to burn, he visited James Vadner and Earl Small's. Their minds met on the concept of a paneled-enhanced classic Atlas rigid with a red, white, and blue, Marine-related theme."

"2005 O School Choppers - ready for Laughlin River Run, custom rigid, 80" Evo, 6 speed, powder coat frame and wheels black, 2000 sporty 4 gal tank, drags and controls, custom OSC seat, drag pipes, registered in Nevada. Green paint with orange flames, amazing cond. "

Pickings Department

""Never Plead Guilty" I am Mark Brandon Read, but most characters like to call me "Chopper." There are a few obscure theories as to how I got my nickname, some reckon it is from an old cartoon, some say it is because I use to cut off the toes of others, while there are those that say it is because I had someone cut my ears off in jail. Maybe they are all right! Maybe they are all wrong! Who really cares. For the record, it is because someone cut my ears off when I was in Melbourne's elite bluestone college - more commonly known as Pentridge. For some insane reason, some upstanding members of that institution were out to hurt me. I summoned all my manners to politely suggest to the screws that I be transfered from H division. They declined and said there was no way I would be getting a transfer, so I made the simple decision that ears off = transfer. Believe me, it works."

Chat Department

"DAY ONE - It's sad to say that over twenty four hours after getting back, dismounting and throwing the cover over my faithful steed, life seems to be falling back into normal. Was it only four days ago that I set out on my first real motorcycle adventure to visit the legendary Daytona Bike Week?"

Bikes and Builder Department

"After more than a year of coaching, Tribal Motorworks proudly announces the completion of the student-built Schoolyard Motorworks bike. Tribal Motorworks sponsored the revolutionary educational partnership with a local school district. Students at Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District's Career-Tech Center (CTC) in Traverse City, Michigan collaborated with Tribal Motorworks to design, build and market the professional-quality candy red and black bobber."

Harley-Davidson Department

"By James B. Kelleher. CHICAGO (Reuters) - Harley-Davidson, the U.S. motorcycle maker, insists it isn't nervous. But analysts and others who watch the company say it's in the middle of a coming-of-age drama that might be called "Uneasy Rider." As the Baby Boomers who transformed Harley's rumbling, lumbering bikes from countercultural totems into American icons enter their senior years -- the leading edge of the generation is turning 60 this year -- they're increasingly in the market for knee and hip replacements, not Harley's notoriously bone-shaking bikes. That's forcing the Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based company to scramble to find new customers among women, blacks and Hispanics -- groups that have not been traditional Harley-Davidson riders. The quest has involved the development and rollout of new products, like the 883 Sportster Low, built for smaller, lighter riders, and new marketing efforts, like Harley's TV ad campaign during the NCAA tournament this spring."

Pickings Department

"Next, I drew up a more finalized draft," Chis said while at his drawing table. "I got lucky cause he liked it without changes. Usually I don't take the art this far without client pre-approval to save me from redos. At this stage we discussed other colors and metal finishes that he'd like to see in the final art. I then printed copies of the black and white art and hand colored them with the two paint schemes. Besides the paint and wheels, I colored the exhaust and oil tank different on each version since he wasn't sure which way he wanted to go. The coloring could have been done on the computer, but I decided to hand paint them."

Chat Department

"LA Calendar Motorcycle Show - July 15,16th 2006. The Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show Weekend takes place every 3rd weekend in July at the Queen Mary Event Park in Long Beach / Los Angeles"