CUSTOMS•CLASSICS•CHOPPERS•BAGGERS•BOBBERS•TRACKERS
APRIL 2017
HOTBIKE.COM
100-YEAR-OLD BIKES RACING CROSS COUNTRY
10
PLACES TO TOUR BEFORE YOU DIE
SEVEN WAYS TO WAKE YOUR BIKE UP RIGHT
GROUND-UP SPORTSTER BUILD
APEHANGER & TRIPLE TREE INSTALL
DIGITAL SPEEDO HOW-TO
METAL SHAPING TECHNIQUES
THE 2017 FATBOOK COVER BIKE ™
2 0 0 9 DY N A® FAT B O B ® ~ C U STO M I Z E D BY S U B U R BA N M OTO R S H - D®
FEATURING PARTS FROM • Arlen Ness • Bassani • Ciro • Drag Specialties • Drag Specialties Seats • Joker Machine • Klock Werks • Koso • L.A. Choppers • Performance Machine • Pirelli • Russ Wernimont • Speed Merchant • Trask • Wasp
Our 2017 FatBook cover bike — a stunning, custom Dyna with modern flair — is an outstanding showcase of what may be accomplished with a little inspiration. Visit your Drag dealer to get into the FatBook and plan your own modern custom. See the complete parts list at: dragspecialties.com/bike-builds
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NEW
BLACK BACK IN BLACK Blacked out and bolt-in big block power for your bike. Durable powder coat finish on the outside and internals supported by a two year warranty. Available from your local dealer.
111", 124", & 143" for 1984-2017 Big Twins sscycle.com • Made in the USA DISCLAIMER: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLE. Not legal for sale or use on any EPA pollution controlled motor vehicle.
24 6 / HOTBIKE.COM
30 36
ON THIS PAGE
Nate McDonald catches the Busted Knuckles Stunt Tour in full effect.
ON THE COVER
Michael Lichter shoots some action from the Motorcycle Cannonball.
CONTENTS APRIL 2017
Volume 49 • Number 3
DEPARTMENTS Major Ranting ...................................................8 Editor’s Note ...................................................10 Candy Shop ..................................................... 12 Garage ............................................................... 14 Closet ................................................................. 16 Geeked .............................................................. 17 Tales from the Dyno ..................................... 18 Interrogation ..................................................20 Past Blast......................................................... 78 Used and Abused.........................................80 Readers’ Rides............................................... 82 Hindsight ......................................................... 86 Speed’s Spotlight ......................................... 88 On the Web .................................................... 92 Hotness ............................................................ 98
TECH FIRST-TIME BUILD
TC Bros. Hardtail Conversion Part I ....... 68
BAR HOPPING
Vindikta Avenger Handlebar Install....... 70
GOING DIGITAL
Dakota Digital MCL-5400 Series Speedometer ................................................. 72
PLANISHING ACT
#hotbikesnapfab .......................................... 74
CORRECTED GEOMETRY
Kraus Motor Co.’s Dyna Triple Tree Install ....................................................... 76
FEATURES FOREFRONT
Break Lites Breaks The Mold On Operation Octane ..........................................24
CHOPPED
From Cupcake To Hate, The Evolution Of A Custom...................... 30
BAGGED
32-inch All Star Straight Out Of Texas ...36
48 60
SINCE 1971
MODIFIED
A pair of rare FXR3s with some help from above .................................42
ICONIC
Rick Krost Builds A Classic Pan For A Returning Vet.............................48
STREET RIPPER
The Speed Merchant’s Award-Winning FXDL ..................................54
CHRONICLE
Motorcycle Cannonball IV ......................... 60
APRIL 2017 / 7
MOTOR MOUTH
READING INTO RIDING
Y
es, Hot Bike is a custom motorcycle magazine, yet we pride ourselves on featuring bikes that are actually rideable. Those crazy big-wheel baggers and no-holds-barred bike builds that grace these pages are riders. But they look so pretty, you say. Agreed, but after they get stuffed into our studio or dragged to one of our favorite photo spots (and make the show circuit), most of them actually rack up some serious miles. I know it’s hard to believe, but it’s true. I have said time and time again that if a motorcycle is built and never ridden it is relegated to being a two-wheeled sculpture. And that’s not what we are into around these parts. Sure, non-rideable bikes are cool to some, but c’mon, man, why don’t you just build a real metal sculpture that you don’t have to push around? This issue is about getting out and riding. That’s why many of the items we feature in this particular month’s magazine are about real-world riding. Things like full-face helmets, com systems, and Kevlarlaced riding gear are not thought of as “cool,” I know, but anyone who has peeled off more miles than going to the local watering hole to pose next to their bike knows you have to be properly suited and booted before you head out on the highway. Luckily over the past few years we have seen many companies producing riding gear that doesn’t make us bikers look like we are some European streetbike goons. As of late there are many garments that have all of the latest tech packed into a streetable appearance. Companies like Schampa, Roland Sands Design, Speed & Strength, Icon, Scorpion, Bell, Biltwell, Simpson, Dixxon, and many more all are JEFF G. HOLT EDITOR IN CHIEF
JEFFREY.HOLT@BONNIERCORP.COM @JEFFGHOLT
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#JEFFGHOLT
getting the facts that we don’t want to be all leathered up while riding, but we want to be properly protected. Modularly outfitting your bike for different levels of travel has never been simpler as well. With new designs from Harley-Davidson, JD Fab, Boosted Brad’s, BMC, Conely’s, Deviant Fabrication, Certified OKC, IMZZ Elite, FXR Division, and Leather Pros easily removed luggage, fairings, and backrests make it a simple task to have what you need for any length ride in any sort of weather. This is a very good thing indeed. Well, guys and gals, dig right into this issue and John Z., the Brown Bear, a.k.a. Ed Subias, and I will show you a plethora of the best in custom motorcycles, the companies that support them, and the folks who build and ride them! HB
“THIS ISSUE IS ABOUT GETTING OUT AND RIDING. THAT’S WHY MANY OF THE ITEMS WE FEATURE IN THIS PARTICULAR MONTH’S MAGAZINE ARE ABOUT REAL-WORLD RIDING.”
EDITORÕS NOTE
R.I.P. VICTORY
MOTORCYCLES
W
hen Victory Motorcycles announced it will cease production in 2017, it came as a blow to the entire motorcycle industry. For the past 18 years, Victory, and later Indian Motorcycles, has been the stand-alone David against the mighty Goliath of H-D. The smaller brand size, combined with the backing of the much larger Polaris, acted as an advantage and it was able to respond to market demands faster with numerous mini-model changes and class-leading one-off customs and special projects. For years on social media, mention the term Victory Motorcycles and it was immediately followed up by an instant debate between diehards and converts claiming loyalty to the death. What usually acted as the tipping point for most Victory buyers ended up being a company slogan that rings true, “Ride one and you’ll own one.” It was kind of that simple. They were great bikes to ride. I, like most of the marketplace, was skeptical about the Victory line when I first started at Hot Bike. After all, they were different, had strange model names, and had no previous experience with the parent company of Polaris. That all changed one year in Sturgis when me and four of my coworkers had to transport four Cross Country bikes 1,000 miles in two days to start the Hot Bike Tour. On that trip we hit everything from the worst rain I have ever ridden in of my life, to perfect weather, winding roads, and scenic highways. After 48 hours, I walked away with a new respect, admiration, and love of the bike that never really left me.
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GOODBYE, VICTORY MOTORCYCLES. YOU WILL BE MISSED. Victory Motorcycles didn’t follow the rules, and that’s what made it great. Not many companies would not only support but embrace its own factory stunt team. Victory basically let Tony Carbajal and Joe Dryden do anything they wanted! During one of the scheduled stunt shows, Joe walked into the display booth, ripped off the signage and tags, and began to wheelie and do burnouts on a brand-new bike. That single act was a great representation of the badass attitude and confidence that Victory had about its products. The factory-backed race programs were also another source of inspiration, such as Project 156, Electric Victory Isle of Man TT, land speed bikes, and NHRA Pro Stock bikes. Victory was never afraid
to take on giants of any sport and win doing it. Competition is always good, and the loss of Victory Motorcycles won’t go unnoticed. While it’s likely that Polaris will now have more time and resources to focus on Indian, my hope is that same competitiveness and willingness to try anything will also transfer over. Without competition, the marketplace becomes stale, and the entire American V-twin industry can only become stronger with more players. Goodbye, Victory Motorcycles. You will be missed. HB JOHN ZAMORA EDITOR
JOHN.ZAMORA@BONNIERCORP.COM FACEBOOK.COM/HOTBIKEJOHN @JOHNZPICS
#SOCALRPM
LEAD THE WAY The front end of the motorcycle sets the standard for the rest of machine. Start your build proper with Arlen Ness front end accessories designed and engineered to not only improve style but also enhance the ride of the motorcycle. From billet fork legs & boots to an industry first billet engine brackets, we got every angle of your front end covered.
7 & 7 RAKED TRIPLE TREES
FRAME GRILLS
DIRECT BOLT-ON TURN SIGNNALS
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OFFERINGS FOR THE RIDE
01 DEVIANT FABRICATION
02 LEATHER PROS
03 HARLEY-DAVIDSON 04 JD CUSTOMS AND FABRICATIONS
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Carbon Fiber FXRD Fairing
Retro T-Sport Bags
Detachable Sissy Bar
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Clamshell Saddlebags
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02
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05 07 06
09 08
05 LUCKY DAVE’S
06 BAD DAD
07 BURLY BRAND
08 HARLEY-DAVIDSON
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Dyna Seat
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Summit All-In-One Kit
Tank Bag
Messenger Bag
9 CERTIFIED OKC Carbon Fiber Quarter Fairing certifiedokc.com
COMPILED BY THE HOT BIKE STAFF
10 GIVI
11 ROKFORM
12 CONELY’S
13 SADDLEMEN
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First Aid Kit
Motorcycle Phone Mount
Retro T-Sport Fairing
Step Up Seat
10 11
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15 16
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17
14 SAN DIEGO CUSTOMS Traveler Bar Bag
18
15 AVON GRIPS
16 PRO PAD
17 LE PERA
18 RIVER ROAD
19 ARLEN NESS
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Heated Grips
Eclipse Rack
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Tempest Rain Suit
Mid Glide Fairing
sandiegocustoms.com APRIL 2017 / 13
GARAGE
TOOL TIME
1 We first noticed that the bike had low tires, so we checked the air pressure with the Motion Pro Tire Gauge. motionpro.com
WORDS AND PHOTOS: JEFF G. HOLT
SEVEN 2 LUCKY WAYS TO READY YOUR RIDE
W
e took one of our favorite bikes out of the deep freeze and decided to get it roadworthy. It is a rather new machine with less than 10,000 miles on it, but as we all know when a bike isn’t ridden certain detrimental things can happen. Here’s what we did to combat Old Man Winter’s whippin’ on our motorcycle.
3
4
During the fluid change we swapped out the old oil filter with this offering from K&N. It has a hand wrench-off feature so it can be installed and removed with a 17mm wrench or socket.
After the fluid change we checked all the torque specs we could access with the Pittsburgh 3/8-inch click-type torque wrench. harborfreight.com
knfilters.com
We also treated the inactive gasoline already in the bike with some Royal Purple Max Clean fuel treatment to ward off the harsh effects of today’s petrol. royalpurple.com
5 All winter long we kept our cycle’s battery constantly charged and ready to go with the 12-volt Battery Tender Junior. batterytender.com
6 We always maintain a clean and properly polished bike. This time we opted for using Hogwash Metal Polish and Rat Wax cleaner and protectant. hogwashbrand.com // ratwax.com
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7 We knew it was time to change the stagnant fluids. We used a gang of Bel-Ray lubricants along with the Harley-Davidson Low Profile Oil Drain Pan. harleydavidson.com // belray.com
VERSATILE RIDING JACKETS
AS WORN BY THE HOT BIKE STAFF
MEN’S
CLOSET
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
ROAD WARRIOR 3-IN-1 LEATHER JACKET
T
his mid-weight cowhide jacket has a removable hooded vest that can be worn separately or under the jacket for extra warmth. The Road Warrior also has body-armor pockets located at the shoulders and elbows, as well as an action back and pre-curved sleeves and a venting system that includes vertical intake and exit vents, shoulder venting, and two-way zipper cuff vents. There is even an interior pocket system with a waterproof cell phone pocket.
CARHARTT
FULL SWING CRYDER JACKET
T
his jacket has a proprietary Rugged Flex technology with four-way stretch movement. The under-arm Freedom Gussets and Flex Elbow design also mean less restriction while riding. Inside the jacket is an abundance of Thinsulate insulation, which provides warmth without the weight, while Carhartt’s Rain Defender durable water repellent makes moisture bead up and roll right off of the outer shell. $149.99 // carhartt.com
WOMEN’S
$525 // harleydavidson.com
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
LADIES’ SCROLL SKULL 3-IN-1 LEATHER JACKET
O
utside of this jacket is a lightweight goatskin leather exterior. For warmth and versatility, the full-sleeve fleece hoodie is added as well. There is also a removable polyester stretch fleece full-sleeve hoodie for even more warmness on those cold days. When things heat up, two sleeve vents and a back horizontal exit vent make things breezy. To keep that body safe and road-rash free there are body armor pockets at elbows, shoulders, and back. $475 // harleydavidson.com
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CARHARTT
WOMEN’S CARHARTT BROWN WEATHERED DUCK WESLEY COAT
T
he 100-percent cotton weathered duck women’s coat has a fleece lining in the body and quilted nylon lining in the sleeves, providing extra layers of insulation. The jacket also has an adjustable draw cord at the waist to keep the thing from flapping around at speed. This good-looking jacket includes two chest and two interior pockets to store valuables and ancillary riding gear. $120 // carhartt.com
WORDS AND PHOTOS: HOT BIKE STAFF
ELECTRONIC GOODIES
GEEKED
GARMIN ZUMO 595LM
THE KING OF GPS UNITS
T
his black box is way beyond any GPS we have ever encountered before. It has a glove-friendly, sunlightreadable 5-inch dual-orientation touchscreen made tough for the harshest of weather. Unlike the maps app on your smartphone, the Zumo has Garmin Adventurous Routing, which finds curvy or hilly roads, limits major highways, and has rider alerts for sharp curves, state helmet laws, speed cameras, and more. It also has Bluetooth built in for hands-free calling and smartphone notifications right on your Zumo screen. You can also control music from any MP3 player or smartphone and stream Pandora, Spotify, and iTunes music services if that’s your thing. $899 // garmin.com
FEATURED JACKET - DEFENDER
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TALES FROM THE DYNO
WORDS AND PHOTOS: HOT BIKE STAFF
For a video of this product in action check out hotbike.com.
STEALTH EXHAUST STOCK DYNO GRAPH 69.81 HP 90.88 TQ
W
e strapped the Stealth 2-into-1 Stainless Steel Exhaust ($899) onto a stock 103ci Harley-Davidson Dyna Lowrider to see just how much power this beautiful set of pipes provides. Used in conjunction with an upgraded intake and Vance & Hines FP3 tuner, the bike gained some good power of 85.01 hp with 104.88 pound-feet of torque over the stock base numbers of 69.81 hp and 90.88 pound-feet.
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+GAINS +85.01 HP +104.88 TQ
SOURCES: STEALTH PIPES INC. stealthpipesinc.com VANCE & HINES vanceandhines.com
>> All that’s missing is you, your bike and GEICO Motorcycle insurance.
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INTERROGATION
STEVE EDGAR
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS. Smart-ass, ruggedly-handsome, total-dirtbag. WHAT DO YOU RIDE? 2007 FXD. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST BIKE? 1969 XLCH. WHAT IS YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE BIKE? My current favorite is Grady Nichols’ 2015 FXDL. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK IN THE MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY? The passion. I love it. WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FUTURE OF THE MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY IS? The future is the youth. I see these 20-year-old kids ripping Dynas and bringing the motocross skills to the street. It’s pretty amazing. SHOP: LOCATION: WEBSITE: HANDLE:
Speed-Kings Cycle Fullerton, CA speed-kingscycle.com @speedkings_cycle
“I SEE THESE 20-YEAR-OLD KIDS RIPPING DYNAS AND BRINGING THE MOTOCROSS SKILLS TO THE STREET. IT’S PRETTY AMAZING.” 20 / HOTBIKE.COM
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LIFE ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR? Progression. Being able to take what is handed to me and move forward, no matter what that may be. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST REGRET TO DATE? I do not live with regrets. Every day is what you make it. There is always time for change. You gotta earn it. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? #FueledByHaters. You have to be in anything you are inspired to do. At the end of the day I love what I do. I grew up not knowing what I wanted to be when I became an adult, so I made the job I wanted. ANY LAST WORDS? A big thank-you to Jeff Holt and Hot Bike magazine for the opportunity. Thank you to Mr. Ryan Loughridge (@_loughridge_) for always having my back with the lens. My wife, Amy, for always pushing me. Rory and Lainee for understanding what I do and the help when needed. My man Otto for his words of wisdom. At the end of the day I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the customers who support me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you who have become #SpeedKingsEquipped. HB
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FOREFRONT
SPORTBIKE-IFICATION BREAK LITES BREAKS THE MOLD ON OPERATION OCTANE
V
ictory announced a competition to see who could build the best Octane by choosing 21 different dealerships to create custom versions. MOMS Boston was selected to build an Octane of their own and through a collaborative effort with Break Lites Motorsports in Peabody, Massachu-
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setts, came up with a game-changing idea: Take a sport cruiser and go full sport with it, incorporating elements of sportbikes into the build. The first obstacle was the front suspension. OEM was good, but this bike deserved amazing. Gregg DesJardins from Gregg’s Customs made triple
trees to incorporate use of an inverted front end with radial mount brakes. We measured and measured and found the best suspension to use was that of the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa. The over length of the forks was nearly identical, and the dry weights of the motorcycles were also similar.
WORDS: MARK TEMPESTA PHOTOS: GREGG CAPARELL
Second obstacle was the lines of the bike. If this was to be a sport-cruiser we needed more sport and less cruiser, so we ditched the rear fender. Once removed, the job became coming up with a tail cowling that complemented the lines of the fuel tank. No less than seven different models were considered until we found
the perfect donor. We choose the Honda CBR600RR tail cowling because of its simplicity, width, and size. Fabricating a tailsection to work like OEM proved to be extremely difficult. Imagine putting a Nissan bumper on a Camaro. After we decided which tail to use, Phil Bicknell welded it up. The good part is that
we were able to unbolt the subframe to let Phil take his time with it while still moving forward with the build. The swingarm and rear wheel were pretty straightforward. Take a rear wheel that has over a 1-inch axel size, reduce it to the 3/4-inch axel size of the Octane, and then work on the spacing and cenAPRIL 2017 / 25
FOREFRONT | 2017 VICTORY OCTANE terline of the wheel issues. Obviously we didn’t have a rear pulley, so we had to convert to chain drive, which finding a front sprocket was literally torture. Finally we were able to get in touch with Aaron Colton, fellow Victory Octane owner, who pointed me in the right direction. We loved the headlight bucket fairing from Victory but wanted more of a contemporary standard sportbike feel, so the LSL urban headlight assembly was a welcome addition. Unfortunately, that left the gauges and the optional Victory tachometer kit hanging out over the gauges, which looked awful. Since the Indian Scout is virtually the Victory Octanes cousin, it was a reasonable assumption that the gauges would be somewhat similar. So we ordered the Indian Scout gauge mount and made a custom bracket to mount the tachometer over the speedometer. For handlebars we chose Trask V-line handlebars because they fit great and looked great too. We took the opportunity to internally wire the handlebars and move all the connections from the original headlight bucket to under the tank to tidy it all up. The exhaust was built by TOCE
FOR MORE ON THIS BIKE VISIT HOTBIKE.COM
26 / HOTBIKE.COM
performance. They make some of the best-looking and best-sounding sportbike exhausts, so choosing anything else would have been a mistake. To complete the “sportbike-ification” of this Victory Octane our last piece to the puzzle was some trick rearsets from VooDoo Industries and a rear brake master cylinder piggy back reservoir from PSR-USA. For the final finish, all our powdercoat went to GoodHues Custom Powdercoat-
ing, while all the paint went to Backyard Kustoms, and the seat went to Designs by Cesar, and in less than a week later we were assembling the bike. With the help of the Break Lites team, including my eight-year-old son, we were able to get the bike assembled, wired, and running within 48 hours and photographed within 72 hours. None of this would be possible if we didn’t use the best people and the best team. This bike wouldn’t have made it without them. HB
“MOMS BOSTON WAS SELECTED TO BUILD AN OCTANE OF THEIR OWN THROUGH A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT WITH BREAK LITES MOTORSPORTS IN PEABODY, MASSACHUSETTS.”
FOREFRONT
SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION BUILD TIME
MOMS Boston Break Lites Motorsports (978) 535-5388 breaklites.com 2017/Victory/Octane Break Lites 1 month
ENGINE 2017/Victory/1200cc YEAR/TYPE/SIZE BUILDER Victory CASES Victory CYLINDERS Victory HEADS Victory ROCKER BOXES Victory CAMS Victory THROTTLE BODY Victory AIR CLEANER Trask high-flow air filter EXHAUST TOCE Performance custom 2-into-1-into-2 system TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE GEARS CLUTCH PRIMARY DRIVE
2017/Victory Victory Victory Victory
FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH
2017/Victory Stock
SUSPENSION FRONT END TRIPLE TREES REAR SHOCKS
2015/Suzuki/Hayabusa Forks Gregg’s Custom Billet FOX Racing OEM Replacement
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT BUILDER/SIZE Yamaha/R1/17 x 3.5 finished in chrome TIRE/SIZE Dunlop Qualifier/120/70/17 CALIPERS Brembo radial mount front calipers sourced from 2015 Suzuki Hayabusa ROTORS 320mm Slotted and cross drilled REAR BUILDER/SIZE Yamaha/R1/17x6 finished in chrome TIRE/SIZE Dunlop Qualifier/190/50/17 CALIPER Radial mount rear caliper ROTOR 245mm Slotted and cross drilled PULLY Chain drive conversion with RK 530 MAX-Z chain in black and chrome finish SPROCKETS Zipper’s Performance front sprocket 22t, Vortex rear sprocket 54t FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER PPG COLORS Viper Electric Blue with Snow White Racing Stripes PAINT/GRAPHICS Backyard Kustoms PLATING/POLISHING Classic Components POWDERCOATING GoodHues ACCESSORIES FRONT FENDER REAR FENDER
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2008/Suzuki GSX-R1000 Tail cowl conversion from 2008 Honda CBR600RR DASH Gauge relocation to triple tree mount GAUGES Victory Tachometer Kit HANDLEBARS Trask V Line FOOT CONTROLS VooDoo Industries rearsets with modified mounting brackets HEADLIGHT LSL Urban Headlight with M3 LED TAILLIGHT Integrated taillight from 2008 Honda CBR600RR TURN SIGNALS Gregg’s Customs billet shorty LED SEAT Designs by Cesar, factory seat recovered in leather and suede
CHOPPED
rage against the machine FROM CUPCAKE TO HATE, OM THE EVOLUTION OF A CUST
I
normally build clean, kick-only old-school choppers with the heavy metalflake paint that one might call flashy, which resulted in my last build devolving to its very own hater and later named “Cupcake.” When I was invited to Artistry In Iron for the second year in a row in Las Vegas, I wanted to throw a curveball at the competition. I feel like in order to compete in these shows you need to build a Knuckle, Pan, or even a Shovel to get anyone to look. So I did the oppo-
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site and decided to use an S&S 111-inch Evo, Baker six-speed, and a BDL open belt drive to make a ground-pounding badass hell on wheels combination. My friend and I used to hang out at his dad’s repair shop in our teens, and his father had a ’70s metric Pentagram wheel hanging on his wall I was always drawn to. Years later I couldn’t get it out of my head and knew I had to do something about it. After all the smack talk about Cupcake I thought “The Hate Machine” was an ap-
propriate name for the new bike. I chose to keep my head down and let the work do the talking, since that’s really the only thing that matters anyway. After discussing ideas with my friends Ray Tourigny, Chris Moos, and Kevin Babineau, we came down with a solid game plan for the tight deadline build. I own and operate a motorcycle service shop in the small town of Windham, Maine, called Forever Two Wheels. I started FTW in the late summer of 2013
WORDS: NICK BEAULIEU PHOTOS: TANK
after leaving a tech position at an H-D dealership in New Hampshire. I do everything from oil changes, repairs, parts to custom bike builds, and one-off fabrication. Fixing motorcycles pays the bills, but building custom motorcycles is where my heart is. I threw the idea out of doing the star profile downtube to Chris and he made it happen. The downtube had to be machined at an offset, so when it was cut at 45 degrees on the bottom it was a perfect star shape. After Chris’s friend Gary spent
four days machining the downtube, it showed up by UPS only to be tossed on the floor by the delivery guy, which bent a point of the downtube and it had to be cut again. Jim Quinn killed it machining the star profile axle blocks, stainless exhaust end caps, and Pentagram wheels. I give him a lot of credit, as my no-talent drawings are terrible. My partner in hate, Ray, worked beside me on the Cupcake bike and didn’t hesitate when I asked him if he wanted in on
this project. We kept joking around saying we hated everything we did on the bike. After Ray was halfway through building the one-off aluminum gas tank I think he really started to hate it. After the frame was built I reached out to Kris Klein in Iowa for one of his signature Girder front ends. It was a no-brainer. They are truly badass, and the lines matched the wheels perfectly. I sent out the aluminum tailsection for Curt at Bare Bones Leather to do his magic. He did a two-toned black seat with stainless APRIL 2017 / 31
CHOPPED | 2016 FTW
eyelets and braid with the name of the bike, and around the tailsection says, “Built With Love, Made to Hate,” which was something that I had written down on the whiteboard in my shop during the early stages of the build. Kevin is another good friend who helped me a lot with custom machining on Cupcake and continued the role on The Hate Machine by making the oil tank, handlebar, and battery box parts and putting in long hours that played a big part in the build. I lined up John at Metal Innovations to handle the paint on the frame, foot controls, front end, and wheels. With less than a week until leaving for Vegas all the parts had been finished and started final assembly. The bike went together without any hiccups and made it to its spot at Artistry In Iron with hours to spare. I’m pleased with the finished product and wouldn’t change a thing. I have learned that sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone and let your hard work do the talking. HB
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BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK CUTTHROAT STEALTH $300
PINION VEST $160
SHEARED BEAVER JACKET $651
BLACKBRANDMC.COM
TEMPTRESS $200
CHOPPED
SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION BUILD TIME
Nick Beaulieu Forever Two Wheels (207) 807-1332 forevertwowheelsmaine.com 2016/FTW/“The Hate Machine” Nick Beaulieu/Ray Tourigny 6 weeks
ENGINE YEAR/TYPE/SIZE BUILDER CASES CYLINDERS HEADS ROCKER BOXES CAMS THROTTLE BODY AIR CLEANER EXHAUST
2016/S&S/111-in. Evo FTW Brushed Finish S&S S&S S&S S&S S&S S&S Pentagram Stack/Kevin Babineau Brushed Stainless, Nick at FTW
TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE GEARS CLUTCH PRIMARY DRIVE FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH SUSPENSION FRONT END LENGTH SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
2016/Baker 6-speed N1 Drum Hydro Cover/Brembo Master BDL Belt Drive 2016/FTW Pentagram 34°/2 in. up Kris Klein Girder 29 in. Hardtail Rigid
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT Pentagram BUILDER/SIZE Jim Quinn/21 in. TIRE/SIZE Pirelli Night Dragon CALIPERS N/A ROTORS N/A REAR Pentagram BUILDER/SIZE Jim Quinn/18 in. TIRE/SIZE Pirelli Night Dragon/18-in. 150mm CALIPER Performance Machine ROTOR Performance Machine PULLEY Performance Machine
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FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING POWDERCOATING
Metal Innovations Flat Black/Metalflake Silver Silver Detail Brushed Aluminum Cobra Powdercoating
ACCESSORIES REAR FENDER GAS TANK HANDLEBARS GRIPS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT LICENSE MOUNT SEAT
Ray Tourigny Ray Tourigny FTW Speed Dealer Brembo FTW JW Speaker FTW FTW Bare Bones Leather
6
BAGGED
BIG, BAD BOOSTED 32-INCH ALL STAR STRAIGHT OUT OF TEXAS
WORDS: ART STEELE PHOTOS: JOHN ZAMORA
W
ith this build, All Star Baggers set out to show the rest of the world that Texas is a new force to be reckoned with in the big-wheel world. Never Enough was going to be our first bike ever to lay frame. To ensure we had all the bases covered, we employed Kory Souza to oversee the construction of the chassis so we could keep with our motto of “built to ride motorcycles.” We decided to find the best parts available that supported our vision and determination to create a 32-inch laying frame machine and rolling piece of artwork. We wanted an industrial feel without giving up any elegance. Instead we came up with more of a steampunk feel and began the build.
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For starters, all the unpainted metal was planned to be Cerakoted Burnt Bronze to transfer heat as well as give the bike a more rugged appearance. Since everything is bigger in Texas, we contacted Matt at TOL and had him send us the longest bags and fenders they had, and with a little All Star magic we molded the side covers into the bags. We opted to do a one-off tank rather than modify the stock one and sent all the bodywork to paint to Steel Vision Design where Eric Carr laid down a stunning Candy Tangerine and graphics. Then it was put into the hands of Lee Diaz to work his magic. He created
the theme we were looking for after about 140 hours of airbrushing every gear graphic. I have to say Lee outdid himself on this project. The handiwork of master seat builder James Carter was this stunning piece. For wheels, we used our exclusive Metal Sport C-Nasty 32-inch 3-D wheel to set off the front end of the bike, since size does matter. This build could not have come to life without the help of friend and fellow shop owner Mike Porumb of CMPMC. We were running short on our deadline, and the bike was still at paint, so Mike opened up his shop to us and gave us a lift to build this monster in only one week’s time, and it was ready when the painted parts became ready to install. The bike was assembled from thousands of Cerakoted parts and wires to a functioning motorcycle in just seven short days at another shop and in another state for that matter!
APRIL 2017 / 37
BAGGED | 2012 ROAD KING Now the bike is rolling the streets and winning shows all over the country: Baddest Bagger Lone Star Rally, Cabbage Patch Bagger Build Off, and the Rat’s Hole Best of Show in Daytona. Some people would say we built a show bike. We say we built just another streetbike that wins shows. HB
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CAREY HART
There are unlimited ways to customize the look of your bike. But only one option for getting superior performan ce everytime you crank it up. Bel-Ray lubricants. Getting the job done since 1946. Visit belray.com to learn more.
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BAGGED
SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION ENGINE YEAR/TYPE/SIZE BUILDER CASES CYLINDERS HEADS ROCKER BOXES CAMS IGNITION EFI CONTROLLER
Art Steele/Nick Morale All Star Baggers (469) 802-9890 allstarbaggers.com 2012/Harley-Davidson/Road King Nick Morale, Dustin Deleon, Kory Souza
2012/H-D/107-in. CMP turbo All Star Baggers H-D CMP ported and polished H-D H-D H-D Accel stealth coils Thunder Max
TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE 2012/H-D GEARS 6 CLUTCH Hydraulic clutch by Performance Machine PRIMARY DRIVE Tech Cycles open primary FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH SUSPENSION FRONT END TRIPLE TREES SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
2012/FLHX Stock Arlen Ness Hot Legs HHI Short Neck H-D Air FX
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT BUILDER/SIZE Metal Sport All Star Bagger C-Nasty 3-D/32 in. TIRE/SIZE Vee Rubber/140/40-32 CALIPERS N/A ROTORS N/A REAR BUILDER/SIZE Metal Sport All Star Bagger/16 in. TIRE/SIZE 16 in. CALIPER H-D ROTOR H-D PULLEY H-D
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FINISH/PAINT COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING
Candy Tangerine Eric Carr & Lee Diaz Burnt Bronze Cerakote
ACCESSORIES FRONT FENDER REAR FENDER CHIN SPOILER GAS TANK HANDLEBARS RISERS GRIPS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS FOOT PEGS FLOORBOARDS HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT TURN SIGNALS LICENSE MOUNT BAGS BAG LATCHES SEAT
B-Cool TOL All Star Baggers All Star Baggers/Kory Souza Carlini Carlini Roland Sands N/A TOL Mid-Controls RSD N/A Glenndyne Design Yaffe N/A All Star Baggers TOL Performance Machine James Carter
NO STOCK BIKES For over 45 years when others have been busy trying to fit in we’ve been busy trying to stand out. Our Arlen Ness hard parts line for Sportster® models is no exception; from performance to style each product isdesigned to remove “stock” from anyone’s description of your two-wheeled machine. There’s only one of you, your bike should be no different. www.ARLENNESS.com
STAGE 1 BIG-SUCKER™ W/BEVELED COVER
THE BEVELED BILLET COLLECTION
DIRECT BOLT-ON FAIRING KIT
BIG BRAKE ROTOR KIT
ARLEN NESS BY MAGNAFLOW® LOWDOWN EXHAUST
ARB E.O. D-639-4 WWW.ARLENNESS.COM DISCLAIMER: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLES
MODIFIED
HOLY RO JD CUSTOMS BUILDS A PAIR OF RARE FXR3S WITH SOME HELP FROM ABOVE
B
oth of these 1999 H-D FXR3s were refurbished together. One came from Colorado and the other from Texas. As soon as they both landed in Bakersfield, California, JD Customs got to work. Both bikes were stripped down and cleaned up, top to bottom. They rebuilt the front ends and then ran them out to Kenny Pifer and his team at Boulder Choppers in Henderson, Nevada, for a complete motor rebuild (port and polished heads, new pistons, new gaskets, and cams). Once they had them back in Bakersfield, they began to fabricate and install the JD Customs parts, including brackets, JD Customs FXRT fairing and lowers, and JD Customs FXRT
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clamshell hard bags. Next, they installed 10-inch Bidwell risers with bars and some JD Customs hand guards and original H-D FXR Tour-Paks. Once the two bikes were built, they completely disassembled them for paint and took them to a good friend, Andrew Babish, and his team at Paint By Bondo for new paint to match the original H-D production colors. When reassembling them, you could really see they were something special. They finished their final assembly the night before they hit the road with some club brothers for the 76th Annual Sturgis Rally. After a couple thousand miles both ways, the bikes were officially broken in and proving to show why FXRs
WORDS: JOSHUA “SHEPHERD” KIRSTINE WORDS: DEAN SHADLEYPHOTOS: PHOTOS:JOHN TIMOTHY REMUS ZAMORA
OLLERS
are truly special motorcycles. One of the cool realities with both Pablo Villa and Jerry “JD” Dove’s FXRs is that they were bought and refurbished as seen for less than $10,000 each. JD explains: “We are just bikers who are personally fabricating quality and affordable custom parts for bikers just like us. Club bikes are not built to show; they are built to ride. We ride all of our bikes even when going to a show. The club members that love our products are blue-collar guys just like us, so everything has to be affordable and reliable because these parts are going to get used, as we all ride a lot.” The story of JD Customs starts with JD growing up on the streets of Oildale in Bakersfield, California. “I was running in
the streets, running from the law, and running my life into the ground,” JD says. In 1993, by God’s grace and the order of the court, JD was given the opportunity to go to a one-year Christian discipleship program instead of serve that time in the state prison system. During that time, the word of God came alive, and God began to shape the old man into a new one. JD’s new beginning took another huge step when his love for riding motorcycles and for Jesus brought him to join Soldiers for Jesus Motorcycle Club (SFJMC) in 1999. SFJMC is an international Christian motorcycle club, which exists to glorify God by teaching God’s holy word, training up faithful disciples, and testifying of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the biker and motorcycle club community. HB APRIL 2017 / 43
MODIFIED SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL GENERAL 1999/Blue FXR3 OWNER Jerry Dove SHOP JD Customs & Fabrication LLC SHOP PHONE (661) 747-7762 jdcustomsandfabrications.bigcartel.com WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL 1999/Harley-Davidson/FXR3 JD Customs FABRICATION BUILD TIME 5 months ENGINE YEAR/TYPE/SIZE BUILDER CASES CYLINDERS HEADS ROCKER BOXES CAMS THROTTLE BODY AIR CLEANER EXHAUST
1999/Harley-Davidson/80 in. Boulder Choppers H-D 80 in. H-D 80 in. Port and polished H-D 80 in. H-D E.V. 27 Andrews CV E Crusher White Brothers
TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE GEARS CLUTCH PRIMARY DRIVE
1999/5-speed H-D H-D H-D
FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH
1999/FXR H-D Stock
SUSPENSION FRONT END LENGTH TRIPLE TREES SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
H-D 2 over stock H-D H-D 12-1/2 Progressive 412
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT BUILDER/SIZE H-D/19 in. CALIPERS H-D H-D ROTORS REAR BUILDER/SIZE H-D/16 in. CALIPER Stock H-D ROTOR PULLEY H-D FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING POWDERCOATING
House of Kolor Flames/candy paint Paint By Bondo/Andrew Babish JD Customs & Fabrication LLC JD Customs & Fabrication LLC
ACCESSORIES FRONT FENDER REAR FENDER GAS TANK FAIRINGS BAGS WINDSCREEN DASH GAUGES HANDLEBARS GRIPS MIRRORS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT TURN SIGNALS LICENSE MOUNT SEAT
H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 JD Customs FXRT Fairing Klock Werks FXRT H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D/10-in. Biltwell risers H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 Moto Illusion H-D FXR3 FXDXT Blinker Bar JD Customs Mustang
MODIFIED SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION BUILD TIME
Pablo Villa JD Customs & Fabrication LLC (661) 747-7762 jdcustomsandfabrications.bigcartel.com 1999/Harley-Davidson/FXR3 JD Customs 5 months
ENGINE YEAR/TYPE/SIZE BUILDER CASES CYLINDERS HEADS ROCKER BOXES CAMS THROTTLE BODY AIR CLEANER EXHAUST
1999/Harley-Davidson/80 in. Boulder Choppers H-D 80 in. H-D 80 in. Port and polished H-D 80 in. H-D EV 27 Andrews CV H-D high-flow SuperTrapp with JD Custom brackets
TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE GEARS CLUTCH PRIMARY DRIVE
1999/5-speed H-D H-D H-D
FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH
1999/FXR H-D Stock
SUSPENSION FRONT END LENGTH TRIPLE TREES SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
H-D 2 over stock H-D H-D 12-1/2 Progressive 412
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT H-D/19 in. BUILDER/SIZE H-D CALIPERS ROTORS H-D REAR BUILDER/SIZE H-D/16 in. Stock CALIPER H-D ROTOR H-D PULLEY
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FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING POWDERCOATING
House of Kolor Flames/Candy paint Paint By Bondo/Andrew Babish JD Customs & Fabrication LLC JD Customs & Fabrication LLC
ACCESSORIES FRONT FENDER REAR FENDER GAS TANK FAIRINGS BAGS WINDSCREEN DASH GAUGES HANDLEBARS GRIPS MIRRORS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT TURN SIGNALS LICENSE MOUNT SEAT
H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 JD Customs FXRT Fairing 11-in. Clearview bags FXRT H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D/10-in. Biltwell risers H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 H-D FXR3 Moto Illusion H-D FXR3 FXDXT Blinker Bar JD Customs H-D
Photos: Larry Pangilinan
Introducing the all new Covert 3-in-1 Helmet
HALF SHELL
3/4 OPEN-FACE
FULL-FACE
Covert Versatile 3-in-1 Road Helmet Meant to disrupt the norm, this radical design can be converted to work with any type of bike. We started with a half helmet and added an integrated drop-down sun visor for protection from sunlight. A rear comfort sleeve allows you to convert the helmet to a ¾ open-face and then attach the included front mask and you’ve got one, aggressive “bad ass” looking helmet. MATTE BLACK $209. 95 | RATNIK GRAPHIC $229. 95
Additional colors and styles are available. Visit SCORPIONUSA.COM to view our 2017 collection and to locate an authorized dealer near you. Dealer Inquiries contact us at 888-672-6774
SCORPIONUSA.COM
ICONIC
48 / HOTBIKE.COM
Boardtrack
Classic
RICK KROST BUILDS A CLASSIC PAN FOR A RETURNING VET WORDS: GABE WINGARD PHOTOS: STEVEN SPOONS MODEL: LEZZA TOVAR
R
ick Krost developed a unique boardtrack platform 12 years ago, after he had been building and restoring motorcycles for a couple decades. He had an idea to build a vintage product line of components around his boardtrack platform. Rick developed this chassis around his US Choppers business. He does not consider himself a for-hire bike builder but instead the owner of a parts/chassis company. However, this does not stop him from building a bike or two a year. The thing that sets Rick apart from other builders is his proclivity for that vintage style. When it came to building this bike, it was always a dream to own one of the old-style boardtrack racers of the 1914 for Gabe Wingard. Gabe found Rick’s company online while serving in the US Navy overseas. When returning to the US, he contacted Rick and told him that he had been saving for four years and was ready to build the bike of his dreams. He and Rick then began to discuss the specs of this build. Rick had Gabe look over all of his past builds to get an idea for a one-off boardtrack racer. The build started with US Choppers boardtrack frame and was then sent to the cutting table where the wheelbase was shortened to 58 inches, which is 4 inches shorter than the stock frame. The frame height was shortened 3 inches to accommodate the idea of dropping the tank down over the Pans and also lowering the height of the seat. Rick left the rake at 30 degrees, which allowed stability at both higher speeds and enough balance for drop-knee cornering. MARCH APRIL 2017 2017 / 49
ICONIC | 1954 PANHEAD
All of this was done still leaving room for the vintage drivetrain, and what better to use than an original H-D Panhead? “I am a stickler for using all authentic OEM vintage drivetrains,” Rick said, “so what you see are tried-andtrue original OEM parts.” The front end may be one of the most unique parts of this build using a late ’30s/early ’40s Harley-Davidson hill climb fork that came from an old codger that Rick horse-swapped with. This classic look would not be complete without the Lakeside Custom Cycles open chain primary to give it that old feel along with the custom jockey shift, foot clutch, and kickstart. The bike took around three to four months to complete and many trips for Gabe out to see Rick and discuss the build and help when he could. The bike has been completed now for five years and is a constant favorite of everyone who sees it. You can’t take this bike out without stopping and talking to everyone who sees it. It’s great to see that the old style has not died out with all these fancy big-wheel bikes and trailer queens you see at every bike week across the US. This bike handles as great as it looks and is everything but a trailer queen. HB
“I AM A STICKLER FOR USING ALL AUTHENTIC OEM VINTAGE DRIVETRAINS, SO WHAT YOU SEE ARE TRIED-AND-TRUE ORIGINAL OEM PARTS.”
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FOR MORE ON THIS BIKE VISIT HOTBIKE.COM
ICONIC
SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION BUILD TIME
Gabe Wingard US Choppers (949) 394-8609 us-choppers.squarespace.com 1954/Harley-Davidson/Panhead Rick Krost 3 months
ENGINE YEAR/TYPE BUILDER CASES CYLINDERS HEADS ROCKER BOXES CAMS THROTTLE BODY AIR CLEANER EXHAUST
1954/Panhead Pacific Coast Cycles H-D H-D 1964/Outside Oiler H-D Sifton S&S Super Custom made Twisted Choppers
TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE 1954/H-D GEARS H-D CLUTCH Harley foot clutch PRIMARY DRIVE Lakeside Custom Cycles open primary FRAME YEAR RAKE/STRETCH
1915 4.5-in. short wheelbase (58 in.)/frame height shortened 3 in.
SUSPENSION FRONT END LENGTH TRIPLE TREES SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
H-D hill climb OEM H-D Hardtail Hardtail
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT BUILDER/SIZE Performance Machine/21 in. TIRE/SIZE 90/90-21 CALIPERS Performance Machine ROTORS Performance Machine REAR BUILDER/SIZE Performance Machine/21 in. TIRE/SIZE 90/90-21 CALIPER Performance Machine ROTOR Performance Machine sprotor
52 HOTBIKE.COM 52 // HOTBIKE.COM
FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING PINSTRIPE
H-D Olive Drab w/ clear Rick Krost Rick Krost Ken’s Pinstripe
ACCESSORIES REAR FENDER GAS TANK HANDLEBARS GRIPS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS FLOORBOARDS HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT LICENSE MOUNT SEAT
7 Metal West US Choppers US Choppers Low Brow Customs Kustom Tech H-D Repop H-D West-Eagle Motorcycle Products West-Eagle Motorcycle Products West-Eagle Motorcycle Products US Choppers
Show Off Your Assets !
FORM AND FUNCTION WITH ELEGANCE FENDER CONVERSIONS - MOTORCYLE ACCESSORIES
RIPPER
DONE RIGHT
DYNA THE SPEED MERCHANT’S AWARD-WINNING FXDL
54 //HOTBIKE.COM HOTBIKE.COM
WORDS AND PHOTOS: JOHN ZAMORA
W
hen it comes to the current Dyna trend, it can either be good, bad, or some kind of ugly. With so many options and companies popping up all competing for the same customer dollars, it was only a matter of time until the cream started rising to the top. One of those companies that continues to produce solid, quality work is The Speed Merchant from Long Beach, California. Owner Brandon Holstein has gained a reputation as one of those quality, proud, independent brands and one of the leaders in the industry who continues to innovate and not imitate. He explains how this custom 2016 Dyna came to be: “Jerry and I have some history together. He’s owned many motorcycles over the years. About 10 years ago, I had built him a 103-inch Panhead. It’s a bike that still remains a classic today. Unfortunately, almost two years ago Jerry got into a bad accident on another of his bikes, and it laid him up for a long time. Once he started to heal up enough to walk again, he started to get the itch. So about six months ago he hit me up to start this project.” That “itch” can be a powerful thing, and when Jerry bought the bike it went from dealer to shop with no stops along the way. “He bought a brand-new Harley-Davidson FXDL and delivered it to my shop without ever riding it,” Brandon says. “So we got to start with a brand-new platform.”
APRIL 2017 / 55
RIPPER | 2016 FXDL FOR MORE ON THIS BIKE VISIT HOTBIKE.COM
From there the typical builder snowball effect began to take place. “As with most builds, you start with a modest amount of modifications,” he says. “As the build moves along, things get added and ideas change a bit. This one wasn’t any different, though the ideas were always pretty in tune with the direction of the bike. As we waited for the paint, Jerry decided to add a few key elements that I think help make this bike what it is. We added the 124-inch S&S motor for one. Then we searched out an aluminum
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swingarm that was available and wouldn’t take three months to get. We also decided that with this motor upgrade we needed some better brakes. We kept it simple by keeping it classic with some PM brakes that we anodized in gold to match the rest of the gold accents.” When the bike was finally all assembled, Jerry started getting antsy to see the final outcome. “As Jerry’s leg got better and better, he was more and more anxious to ride,” Brandon says. “So I did my best to get the bike completed before
the San Diego Customs open-house weekend. With just enough time to spare, I was able to complete it and won best Dyna.” So was Jerry impressed? Here’s what he had to say about the final product: “Brandon kicked ass on my Panhead and on my Dyna. He is a true craftsman that takes pride in his work—not to mention his taste on what looks good. I can’t say enough about Brandon’s talent.” We’d say that would have to be an overwhelming yes. HB
INVESTMENT-CAST STEEL ONE-PIECE TOP CLAMPS
STAINLESS STEEL 5/16-18 ALLEN CAP HARDWARE
BLACK OR CHROME FINISHES AVAILABLE
TIG-WELDED 4130 CHROMOLY RISER CONSTRUCTION 12”
10”
8”
make every inch count THERE’S A NEW RANGE OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE RISERS FOR DYNAS, FXRS AND CUSTOM BIG TWINS IN THE BILTWELL ARSENAL. INTRODUCING MURDOCK PULLBACK. SAME BULLETPROOF CONSTRUCTION AND ROAD-TESTED DEPENDABILITY AS OUR ORIGINAL MURDOCK RISER, BUT WITH TWO INCHES OF BACKSWEEP AT THE BAR CLAMP. REDUCING THE REACH ALLOWS BIKERIDERS TO FINE-TUNE THEIR ERGONOMICS FOR MORE COMFORT AND CONTROL. MURDOCK PULLBACK RISERS FIT MOST TREES WITH 3.5-INCH MOUNTING HOLES AND ACCEPT ONE-INCH O.D. HANDLEBARS. AVAILABLE AT BETTER MOTORCYCLE SHOPS WORLDWIDE, AND BILTWELLINC.COM.
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RIPPER | 2016 FXDL
SPECIFICATIONS GENERAL OWNER SHOP SHOP PHONE WEBSITE/HANDLE
YEAR/MAKE/MODEL FABRICATION BUILD TIME
Jerry Howe The Speed Merchant (562) 424-1848 thespeedmerchant.net/ @thespeedmerchant 2016/Harley-Davidson/FXDL The Speed Merchant 4 months
ENGINE YEAR/TYPE/SIZE 2016/S&S/124-in. High Comp BUILDER S&S CASES S&S CYLINDERS S&S HEADS S&S ROCKER BOXES S&S CAMS S&S 640 THROTTLE BODY S&S 58mm AIR CLEANER S&S EFI CONTROLLER Power Vision EXHAUST One-off stainless steel w/ Burns Stainless muffler TRANSMISSION YEAR/TYPE 2016/H-D GEARS 6-speed CLUTCH Barnett Scorpion w/ billet shell and lock-up pressure plate PRIMARY DRIVE H-D FRAME YEAR/TYPE RAKE/STRETCH SUSPENSION FRONT END LENGTH TRIPLE TREES SWINGARM REAR SHOCKS
H-D Stock Gold coating by Top Line Tubes Stock H-D Roaring Toyz anodized gold K-Tech Razor IV
WHEELS, TIRES, AND BRAKES FRONT BUILDER/SIZE H-D/19 in. TIRE/SIZE Michelin CALIPERS Performance Machine ROTORS H-D REAR BUILDER/SIZE H-D/17 in. TIRE/SIZE Michelin CALIPER Performance Machine ROTOR H-D PULLEY H-D FINISH/PAINT MANUFACTURER COLORS PAINT/GRAPHICS PLATING/POLISHING POWDERCOATING ACCESSORIES FRONT FENDER REAR FENDER GAS TANK DASH GAUGES HANDLEBARS RISERS GRIPS MIRRORS HAND CONTROLS FOOT CONTROLS FOOTPEGS
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HEADLIGHT TAILLIGHT TURN SIGNALS LICENSE MOUNT SEAT
Paint by Bondo Black and Root Beer Gold leaf and lettering by Hot Dog Danco Anodizing Specialized Coatings H-D H-D H-D H-D H-D ProTaper from Hardcase Hardcase 11 in. The Speed Merchant H-D H-D H-D Flo Motorsports on driver and The Speed Merchant on passenger H-D Kuryakyn Alloy Art Drag Specialties The Speed Merchant/Saddlemen
Revolution Performance Bolt-On Big Bore Kits are custom made, all aluminum cylinders with nickel silicon carbide plating for less friction, better oil retention, incredible reliability, and more horsepower.
This dyno proven kit comes complete with custom made forged aluminum Wiseco pistons with ArmorGlide® skirt coating, enhanced 2016 ring technology, tool steel wrist pins, clips and complete gasket set. This powerful combination is simply the most reliable way you can add big power to your American V-Twin!
Learn more www.revolution-performance.net
Distributed by:
MOTORCYCLE CANNONBALL IV WORDS AND PHOTOS: MICHAEL LICHTER
I
s this the definition of madness? Ninety-one people signing up for something that will cost a fortune, take much of their time for more than a year (or two) in preparations, and then consume every last ounce of energy for 16 sleep-deprived exhausting days? The Jeff Decker sculpture awaiting the winner at the finish was highly coveted, but no, that wasn’t why they did this.
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Actually, there isn’t a reason they did this, but rather there were at least 91 different reasons riders signed up for this insanity. One unique reason for every rider. To generalize, it just sounded like fun for many, while for others it was the challenge. One common theme was that riders just “had to be part of it,” especially since this year’s event, named “The Race of the Century,” was limited to motorcycles that were a minimum of 100 years old in a first-time attempt for a group of 100-year-old motorcycles to cross this vast land. The bikes were coming out of museums and private collections, out from displays and off pedestals, even though many hadn’t been used for anything more than leading a parade or an exhibition lap around a local track. They knew they would be enduring all sorts of road and weather conditions, as they would steadily mark off each and every one of the 3,306 miles it would take to get from Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Carlsbad, California. Yes, this madness did happen, it was as crazy as you can imagine, and it was filled with the most amazing stories that will be remembered right to the grave. The route was divided into 15 stages that had a much-needed rest day sandwiched in the middle. The first day was short at 154 miles, as was the last at 101 miles, but most were around 230 with several up there at 262, 264, and 272. Sure, that doesn’t seem like a lot to ride in a day, but then try it on 100-year-old Iron or how about the 13 riders who attempted this on single-cylinder single-speed (no transmission) bikes? There were actually three classes of bikes, so in addition to class one, class two was multi-cylinder single-speed bikes and class three included all multicylinder multi-speed bikes.
CHRONICLE | MOTORCYCLE CANNONBALL IV “TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA HOW DIFFICULT THIS REALLY IS, BY THE END OF THE FIRST DAY, 27 OF THE 90 BIKES AT THE START DID NOT COMPLETE EVERY MILE.”
The scoring was dependent on the bike that completed the most miles. As there were many bikes that did every mile, the win then went to the lowest-class bike. In the event of more than one bike in a class doing every mile, it would go to the oldest bike and then to the oldest rider. Plain and simple—or not (as it turned out). To give you an idea how difficult this really is, by the end of the first day, 27 of the 90 bikes at the start did not complete every mile. One of these bikes simply burst into flames and only a charred skeleton was left. (Imagine how this felt after all the work just to make it to the start!) Most of these bikes ended up limping in on one of the MCR (Motorcycle Cannonball Run) chase trucks long after everyone else had crossed the line. And then the work gets underway. As happened every evening, the tools came out and the riders, mechanics, and support crew dug in. Some nights, there were cylinders being honed, top ends, bottom ends, entire engine rebuilds, and engine swaps. The camaraderie between riders and crews was clear as tools were loaned, shops and expertise shared, and in one case, after Rowdy Schenck blew up his 1915 HarleyDavidson, Mike Bell offered his spare engine that he had for his own backup with which Rowdy finished the entire run only missing 138 of the 3,306 total miles.
62 / HOTBIKE.COM
CHRONICLE | MOTORCYCLE CANNONBALL IV So on top of trying to keep these bikes running, you also have to keep track of where you’re headed. Easy enough with sat nav and Garmins, but riders are not allowed to have any sort of navigation device on their bike or with them. The only thing they are allowed is an electronic odometer that they reset each morning to zero. Then with the instructions they are given each evening that they tape together into a long scroll (typically 15 to 20 pages long), they go into a little box mounted on their handlebars so they can just roll the scrolled instructions as they go through them. I say instructions and not directions because they don’t tell you where you are or where you are going. They don’t reveal the towns you are riding through. They simply say stuff like: “Mile 27.3 left at the McDonald’s,” “Mile 129.6 left at the Y,” or “Mile 241.6 right at the stop sign.” Talk about being on your game. Of course, riders would make wrong turns, and that’s when it got real interesting having to do all the math in your head the rest of the day. Don’t forget, you’re keeping track of pumping oil into the engine as you have to do on these total loss engines.
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CHRONICLE | MOTORCYCLE CANNONBALL IV
Everyone was thrilled that they had made it, regardless of the total number of miles they rode. In fact, 84 riders rode over the finish line of which 22 rode every mile of every stage—all 3,306 miles. But then there was the acknowledgement that this adventure was coming to an end. The shared experiences would be relegated to memories and great bar stories, but the bonds that were made will live on. It doesn’t matter that riders came from nine different countries (14 overseas riders) and everyone would be returning home in the coming days. The friendships made will last for years, and many will certainly ride together again. Madness or not? I’d say you have to be a bit mad, but then why not? It was worth every bit of the money and energy expended. Check motorcyclecannonball.com for updates and details on the 2018 run. HB
DRAG SPECIALTIES PREMIUM PERFORMANCE BATTERIES
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TECH
WORDS AND PHOTOS: DAVID ROE
SKILL LEVEL // MODERATE
Here is the stock 1200 Sportster Craigslist purchase for only $2,500. It was ready to be turned into a whole new custom ride.
FIRST- TIME BUILD TC BROS. HARDTAIL CONVERSION PART I
T
C Bros.’ Tim and Tyler Cobb motivated me to take on a first-time build. TC Bros. is a great parts supplier for the do-it-yourself builder. They want to help you create a budget-friendly project so any motorcycle enthusiast can build their own dream bike. First things first, I needed a plan. I was going to buy a Harley-Davidson Sportster that was in good working condition, and then I would completely dismantle it, chop off the rear section, and convert it into a one-of-a-kind custom bike. TC Bros. and many other top manufactures make it really easy to add an array of parts and accessories that enhance the look, feel, and performance of your Sportster. After just a couple hours of removing parts, the Sportster was getting down to the frame.
With the frame cut in two I discarded the back half. To ensure a strong weld I took my frame and drilled “rosette” plug weld holes underneath the backbone and underneath the two lower frame rails. Be sure to sand down the ends of the tubes to allow for a good contact weld.
68 / HOTBIKE.COM
I used the detailed TC Bros. instructions to measure for cuts on the backbone and two lower frame rails.
Anticipating the start of the build, I ordered up the hardtail kit, oil tank, mounts, struts, and fender.
Here is how the frame looked together, but I needed to reinstall the engine into the front portion of the frame using stock mounts and hardware. Then I joined the hardtail kit. You should have a 1/8 gap for all the weld points. This allows rooms for the weld to penetrate. Note that the frame is now 2 inches longer and will require a larger 1-1/8 x 137 drive belt.
With the motor mounted in the frame acting as a jig, a local expert welder put the first weld on the three connecting joints. You will have to take the motor out to finish the welds on the underside. TC Bros. provides a half-inch threaded rod and bolts to place in between the rear axle. This is used to keep the frame from warping inward when welded.
After some initial research, it did not take me too long to find a 1997 XL1200 with only 10,000 miles. The best part was that it was only $2,500. Unfortunately, the bike was stored outside so there was a little rust, pitted chrome, a worn-out seat, and the tires were showing signs of drying out from baking in the sun. However, since I knew I would be replacing many of these parts, those problems were of no concern to me. The first step was to tear the motorcycle down to the frame. If this is a first-time deal, I would recommend investing in an owner’s manual to help you through the hurdles you might encounter. TC Bros. also provides you with detailed and easy-to-understand instructions. Don’t get carried away and rush into the project. Take your time, label your parts, take pictures, and use plastic baggies to keep parts organized and smaller ones from getting lost. The extra time you take will save you from a great deal of frustration. Once in bare frame it is time to put the TC Bros. hardtail frame into action. They are designed to easily fit into the front half of your stock frame. When using this weld-on hardtail kit, the original VIN is maintained on the stock steering neck, so there is no need for a special construction title. A few simple measurements are taken to pinpoint the cut locations on your frame so you can marry it to your new hardtail. Next, you loosely mount the engine into the front stock portion of the frame. Then you slide the hardtail kit into place and tighten the engine into place with the stock mounts. The engine acts as a jig holding everything in place. If you measure correctly there should be a 1/8 gap at the weld points. The detailed directions TC Bros. provide will also walk you through the drilling of rosette holes to ensure a strong weld. The next step is to weld as much as you can with the engine in place. Final welds will take place after you dismantle the bike from the mockup stage. I used a local expert that gave me a fair price of $75 to weld the three points of the frame. Check out Part II in the next issue of Hot Bike. Look for the build videos posted on hotbike.com. HB SOURCES: TC BROS. tcbros.com HARBOR FREIGHT harborfreight.com
P O T E T H RCE SOU T HE F OROJE T DYN E R P OWION VIS
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TECH
WORDS AND PHOTOS: JEFF G. HOLT
SKILL LEVEL // INTERMEDIATE
O
ne of the first things bagger riders do is swap out the handlebars—especially those of us who ride Road Glides and want to upgrade to something a little sportier. That is where the fine folks at Vindikta come in with their made-in-the-USA Avenger handlebars made just for Road Glides. Vindikta machines a slot in the riser cross tube that allows you ample positioning while keeping the stock risers. The bars are 12.5 inches high, 37 inches wide, and have 8.5 inches of pullback. We strapped them on our buddy Mark’s 2016 Road Glide while he was getting some other performance work done at IMZZ Elite. Here’s how it went. HB
BAR HOPPING
1
stock bars were removed and the new Vindikta bars VINDIKTA AVENGER HANDLEBAR INSTALL pwereTheinternally wired and set into place.
2 p The stock bagger controls from H-D were also loosely fastened to the new Avenger bars.
3 p Once Mark found where he felt the bars were best, the crew at IMZZ tightened the Vindikta
Avenger bars into place using the stock H-D risers.
SOURCES: VINDIKTA vindikta.myshopify.com IMZZ ELITE imzzelite.com
4
FIRST-GEN 39mm DUAL-DISC UPGRADE specs using plenty of threadlocking compound on all of the Torx bit screws. p Mark then readjusted all of the H-D hand controls to his liking and tightened them to factory
70 / HOTBIKE.COM
Once the clutch was finally adjusted, the bike was ready to ride!
april 21 - 23
Circuit of the Americas
april 28 - 30 road atlanta
May 12 - 14
virginia international raceway
june 2 - 4
road america
august 25 - 27
june 23 - 25
utah motorsports campus
pittsburgh international race complex
july 7 - 9
september 8 - 10
mazda raceway laguna seca
august 11 -13 sonoma raceway
new jersey motorsports park
september 15 - 17
barber motorsports park * schedule subject to change
TECH
WORDS: ROBERT MARTIN AND WILL STEENROD PHOTOS: ROBERT MARTIN
SKILL LEVEL // ADVANCED
SEE THIS SPEEDO IN ACTION ON HOTBIKE.COM/VIDEOS
DAKOTA DIGITAL MCL-5400 SERIES SPEEDOMETER
W
e recently installed a set of 10-inch Burly Brand Jail Bars on our 2013 Iron 883 Sportster and were forced to either relocate the stock speedo or ditch it entirely. There are a few options we could’ve tried to relocate the stock speedometer, but we weren’t really big fans of them. So we decided to ditch the 7-pound hunk of steel and aluminum for a slick, compact digital speedometer from Dakota Digital. Dakota Digital has been making gauges for cars, trucks, off-road vehicles, and
p The stock speedometer (left) vs. Dakota Digital’s MCL-
5400. Its an obvious space saver and the perfect remedy for our application.
72 72/ /HOTBIKE.COM HOTBIKE.COM
motorcycles for more than 25 years, and they’re all made in the USA. The MCL5400 features were almost up to par with the stock speedo, which has your odometer and trip odometer, left and right turn signals, high beam, neutral, low oil pressure, and check-engine light. The only thing we wish it had was a low-gas indicator. We also had our mileage added onto the speedometer before it was shipped to our offices. It comes in flat black or chrome, and you can also choose between two mounting bracket options. We went with the bar
mount bracket (BKT-5004-K), which is available in different diameter sizes to fit most applications. When it comes to installation, you will need to know a thing or two about wiring. The wiring connections that come with this speedo were no match for the Sporster’s OEM connectors. So before we cut, spliced, and soldered, we downloaded the OEM wiring diagram for this particular year, make, and model and carefully routed the wires back together. Follow along as our pal Will shares some helpful tips to make this wiring a little easier. HB
p Whenever I do electrical work I always like to have an
OEM wiring diagram. It will come in handy.
p It being a universal kit, I had to cut the speed signal
connector off to tap it into the stock speed sensor.
p The kit came with ample wire length. Even with the
taller bars there was plenty of wire to route the harness and leave enough room for steering. SOURCES: DAKOTA DIGITAL dakotadigital.com
p Lifting the tank made for easy access to the wiring har-
ness. It also will make routing the new wiring a lot easier.
Stealth Starters:
p The wire from the stock speedo…a sacrificial lamb.
· Sleek design & concealed mounting holes for unique look on custom bikes · 46% more cranking torque compared to stock starters
Heavy Duty Charging Systems: p Unfortunately I had to cut the H-D connector off the
stock instrument cluster.
· Forged steel rotor & thicker spline for maximum engagement · Encapsulated magnets for vibration resistance and durability
Petcocks: · Swivel outlet for universal positioning · Outflows stock and modified units · Fits most OEM and aftermarket applications excluding fuel injected models p Cutting the stock connector meant a lot of soldering.
Double- and triple-checking your work is never a waste of time.
Grind-Free Jackshafts: · 3-Piece “Grind Free” design eliminates banging & grinding common on 3” open belt drives · Jackshafts also available for 1990-2006 Harley Davidsons® (except 2006 Dyna)
TECH
#HOTBIKESNAPFAB
1 p There are lots of brands and variations of the planishing ham-
mer, but certainly the constant is the pneumatic cylinder that does the hammering.
WORDS AND PHOTOS: BIG JOE
PLANISHING
ACT! I n the last few issues we’ve covered mallet shaping with a shot bag and a shaping stump. This issue we’ll jump off from there and go into using a planishing hammer to smooth it all out. My go-to planishing hammer is a PH-24A from Baileigh Industrial. HB
7 p We’ll step back for a minute and use what we learned about mallet shaping. I formed two round, dished parts out of 16-gauge aluminum and 18-gauge steel using both stretching and shrinking techniques on both the stump and shot bag to rough out the basic shape.
8 p For demonstration purposes I chose to use a round disk, but
these techniques would also work for shapes for a fuel tank, fender, tailsection, etc.
4 p There typically is also an ability to tweak the lower anvil to adjust the gap between the hammer and anvil.
9 p When choosing the bottom die you may be inclined to choose
a lower die to match or be tighter than the radius of the malletshaped panel.
2 p The tooling attached to the cylinder is the hammer, and the die
below it is the anvil in this relationship. Most planishing hammers include multiple lower dies with different radiused surfaces. Here are a few examples and a wooden die that I made for shrinking.
3 p Most hammers will have a way to regulate the air pressure and/ or hammer speed. This hammer has a regulator, moisture trap, and oiler.
74 74/ /HOTBIKE.COM HOTBIKE.COM
5 p To understand how to adjust your hammer you will just need to try different gauges of material with different radius dies and just use the hammer and see how the material is affected. Just a part of learning your machine.
10 p In this tutorial, however, we are using the planishing hammer to smooth out the rough shape we have already created. I’m not attempting to use the planishing hammer to add shape to this piece. We’ll look at that in a future issue. So I’m choosing a lower die that has a slightly flatter radius (L) than the radius of the part (R).
6 p In order to properly adjust the gap you will want to hold the
hammer up to see what the adjusted gap is.
11 p Just like shrinking with the stump we will start planishing the
outer circumference of the dish first and work our way inward.
12 p QUICK TIP: When using the planishing hammer it always works best when your work piece is lubricated. A little bit of WD-40 sprayed on both sides does the trick.
Carlini Apes are designed for the best side profile style 13 p As I work the piece in the planishing hammer I draw it in and out
of the hammer following the radii keeping the piece moving as long as the hammer is hammering.
14 p I’m holding the piece firmly and applying downward pressure
keeping the work piece against the lower die. After making our way around the circumference of the work piece we will see it begin to smooth out.
1.50'' Menace Ape 15 p We do this again but now drawing the piece further into the
hammer nearing the center. Take care not to hammer the piece in one spot too long because this can create a flat spot. The right combination of hammer pressure and spacing between the hammer and lower die will make this possible. If the hammer is dragging or takes a lot of effort to move the piece in and out of the machine the gap may be too tight. Adjust accordingly. Like any metal-shaping technique, working with a planishing hammer takes practice. The more you do it the better you’ll get to develop a rhythm when using it. After sufficiently working the piece you can see how the planished left side of this dish is beautifully smooth in comparison to the right-side sack of walnuts.
1.50'' Gangster Ape 16 p With some more time on the planishing hammer you can see
the results. Both the aluminum and steel dish are both as round and smooth as a Kardashian! In the next instalment we’ll look at using the English wheel to make a similar part. If you have any questions or have any techniques you’d like to see discussed, shoot me an email at joe@snap-fab.com. Until next time, hammer it out!
WWW.CAR LI NIDESI G N .COM
TECH
WORDS AND PHOTOS: JEFF G. HOLT
SKILL LEVEL // INTERMEDIATE
H
arley-Davidson tends to make its bikes more like cruisers than performance machines. This is not a bad thing unless you want to do some serious canyon carving and get a more aggressive feel out of your bike. Well, Kraus Motor Co. has figured out the math and machining to give your bike the sweetest spot of rake and trail. Now all of you 49mm fork-owning performance Dyna riders can revel in real riding satisfaction. HB
SOURCES: KRAUS MOTOR CO. krausmotorco.com IMZZ ELITE imzzelite.com
1 p Like the full line of Kraus components, these trees are
beautifully-made-in-the-USA performance products thoughtfully designed and CNC-machined in-house.
CORRECTED GEOMETRY KRAUS MOTOR CO.’S DYNA TRIPLE TREE INSTALL
2 p We removed the 49mm front end from our 2015 Dyna to access
the stock H-D triple trees.
5 p The bottom Kraus tree was installed into the neck of the Dyna
with ease.
76 76/ /HOTBIKE.COM HOTBIKE.COM
3 p The top and bottom stock H-D triple trees were removed from
our Dyna.
6 p Kraus supplies all new hardware, making it a breeze to mount
the trees.
4 p The Dyna’s OE neck bearings were inspected for wear, cleaned,
re-greased, and installed onto the Kraus triple trees.
7 p The beefy billet Kraus top tree (which comes GPR stabilizer-ready
from the factory) was put on the Dyna and properly aligned.
8 p The black-anodized Kraus CNC-machined top nut was snugged into place.
9 p The 49mm front end was then slid into the new Kraus trees.
10 p Plenty of blue threadlocking compound was used on all of the stainless hardware.
11 p Once the front end and new trees checked out to be straight, all
of the fasteners were tightened to Kraus’ specifications.
12 p The Kraus geometry-corrected triple trees installed easily, and
we can attest to the fact that our Dyna felt so much better in turns and at speed than it did with the stock trees. If you are looking to make your H-D handle better, do yourself a favor and check out these CNC-machined beauties. You won’t be sad you did.
PAST BLAST
FROM THE HOT BIKE ARCHIVES
APRIL 1989
T
his issue of Hot Bike was jam-packed with the story of S&S Cycle and featured a myriad of Shovelheads. We also got our mitts on the new Buell, a set of 80-spoke wheels, and slapped in a three-speed automatic tranny. And check out that teased hair and leopardprint capri pants on our cover model! Her whole ensemble is so late ’80s! We are sure Melanie Griffith and Madonna would have been very proud.
OTHER THINGS THAT WENT DOWN IN APRIL 1989
The 1,100,000,000th Chinese person is born, and thousands of Chinese crowd into Beijing’s Tiananmen Square demanding greater political freedom.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar plays his last game as a Laker.
78 / HOTBIKE.COM
George W. Bush becomes CEO of Texas Rangers, and Troy Aikman is drafted to the Dallas Cowboys.
Oliver North’s Iran-Contra trial case goes to the jury.
Mike Tyson beats up a parking attendant when he asks him to move his car.
Massachusetts declares April 24 “New Kids on the Block Day.”
SEPTEMBER 6-10, 2017
Top Builders Ride Their Creations
Ride-In Shows
Live Music Vendors
Daily Rides Food Parties and More!
Even show bikes are meant to be ridden! Join top builders as they ride their creations alongside Hot Bike, Baggers and Street Chopper magazine editors in the Hot Bike Tour, the rally that rolls, September 6-10, 2017. Enjoy dozens of daily rides, shows, vendors, food and nightly parties in a 5-day celebration of throttle-twisting freedom. Ride one day or all five, but don’t miss out!
RIDE A DAY OR BE A LONGRIDER. GET THE DETAILS AT
HOTBIKE.COM/TOUR OR CALL 877-413-6515 Official Motorcycle Rental Partner
USED AND ABUSED
AS ABUSED BY JEFF G. HOLT
THE BLACK WIDOW PROFESSIONAL SHOP KIT
I
moved into a new house in Los Angeles and was in need of a lift and some other tools in which to work on my bikes. After searching high and low I came across the Black Widow brand and its Professional Shop Kit. This kit features the Black Widow Prolift air-operated 1,500-poundcapacity motorcycle lift, the Black Widow deluxe wheel balancer/truing stand, a tire bead breaker, and a motorcycle dolly. But the folks at Discount Ramps didn’t stop there with all the good stuff at a low price. They also included a Black Widow shop stool, 2-inch tie-down strap kit, a rechargeable LED work light, and a Battery Tender Junior battery charger/maintainer. For the money I initially thought the deal was too good to be true, but I took a chance and ordered the kit anyway. When it arrived a few days later I unpacked it and got to work setting up my garage space. The lift was as good as anything I have worked on before, and my small garage compressor lifted and lowered
80 / HOTBIKE.COM
it with ease. The rear right side of the lift was slightly bent, but I could tell by the abrasions on it that the shipping company most likely did it. I heated it up with a torch, and after some banging on the underside I got it straight. The motorcycle dolly perfectly cradled my engineless FXR making it much easier to move when I needed it out of the way. All the other parts of the kit have also been in constant use since day one, and the LED shop light has saved more than a few floor-bound fasteners from getting lost forever. All in all, I can say that the Black Widow Professional Shop Kit has almost everything a guy or gal needs in one quality kit to service and store a motorcycle. If you are in the market for some DIY shop tools, I would not hesitate to have this setup gracing your garage. HB $1,379 (AS TESTED WITH FREE SHIPPING) DISCOUNTRAMPS.COM
COMPILED BY THE HOT BIKE STAFF
I
purchased this 1996 883 Sportster just over 12 months ago as a project. It had a few kilometers on it but now boasts a 1200 top end, rebuilt gearbox, and re-laced rims. I am quite partial to the café look, so I discarded the standard bars and replaced them with a set of Clubman Ace drop bars. I also added a 2-into-1 304 grade stainless exhaust for a better look and sound, rear footpegs, and 13-1/2inch shocks. I wanted something different and not off the shelf, so I added half a rear fender from an ’88 FXR and some 1.2mm sheet metal wrapped around the LED taillight. Rodney “Barney” Barnes applied the paint, and Dave from Austarp in Lyndhurst covered the seat for me. Although I have 5 kilometers of dirt road (more like rocky moon craters) to travel before I hit the bitumen, it’s comfortable to ride, has plenty of power, and turns a head or two—just what a boy wants really!
MICK HOLLIS AUSTRALIA
FAT BOY SLIM
THE POWER VISION CX FOR INDIAN MOTORCYCLES IS A PERFORMANCE TUNER AND DATA MONITOR THAT OFFERS THE LATEST IN FLASH TECHNOLOGY. WWW.FLASHYOURINDIAN.COM
I
have owned my 1995 Fat Boy for eight years. I bought it from an insurance salvage auction with front-end collision. I installed a new front end along with new sheet metal with House of Kolor’s custom paint done by The Wizard. It has reptile skin-type graphics laid in that change colors. The wheels, calipers, rotors, and pulley are by Performance Machine, and it has Progressive fork springs. The motor has some upgrades, such as S&S carb with Hypercharger intake, Andrews cam, higher-compression pistons, Crane ignition, Screamin’ Eagle pushrods, and a Vance & Hines 2-into-1 pipe. I mounted rear turn signals on the struts with LED signals in the front mirror stems, braided lines and cables, and pretty much chrome everything. Most of the chrome is ball-milled design. I did all work except paint job myself. I enjoy getting Hot Bike every month during the long New Hampshire winters.
KEN HARVEY MILFORD, NH
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ADVERTISING David Roe, Director of Sales and Operations, American Motorcycle Group; 724/312-3207 Chris Long, Associate Director, Marketing & V-Twin 760/707-1073 Katelynn Kovaleff, Western Regional Sales Director 760/707-0087, fax: 760/707-0101 Ross Cunningham, Eastern Regional Sales Director 212/779-5042 Brad Banister, Western Advertising Manager 323/228-7011 Chris Siebenhaar, Account Executive 760/707-1070 John Simanovich, Marketplace Account Manager 760/707-1054 Jeff Roberge, Detroit Advertising Director 248/213-6154 John W. Scafetta, Sales & Marketing Operations Manager Jeoff Haertle, Advertising Coordinator/Sales Administrator Sadie Huemmer, Associate Director, Digital Advertising Ray Gonzalez, Digital Campaign Manager Mary Hannah Hardcastle, Digital Campaign Manager Joy McGivern, Advertising Services Manager Kim Putman, Director, Human Resources Connie Lau, Business Manager
MARKETING Leigh Bingham, Consumer Marketing Director Corie Windust, Marketing Manager Ashley Roberts, Sales Development Manager Corey Eastman, Consumer Engagement Director Tonia Troncone, Consumer Events Manager
PRODUCTION Rina Viray Murray, Group Production Director Erich Schlitz, Production Manager
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Tomas Franzén, Chairman Lars Dahmén, Head of Business Area, Magazines Eric Zinczenko, Chief Executive Officer Joachim Jaginder, Chief Financial Officer David Ritchie, Chief Operating Officer Elizabeth Burnham Murphy, Chief Marketing Officer Sean Holzman, Chief Digital Revenue Officer John Graney, Vice President, Integrated Sales John Reese, Vice President, Consumer Marketing David Butler, Vice President, Digital Operations Perri Dorset, Vice President, Public Relations Jeremy Thompson, General Counsel
THIS PRODUCT IS FROM SUSTAINABLY MANAGED FORESTS AND CONTROLLED SOURCES.
pick rd us a Precision Fit - Swag Bag Rear End Packages
6”
4.5”
Body Kits 23/26/30” Front Fenders Bolt on Triple Trees 23/26/30” Front End Packages Air Suspension Kits
www.PICKARDUSA.com 972.231.1298
THE LIST
10
TOP 1
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Deals Gap, North Carolina, USA Tail Of the Dragon 86 / HOTBIKE.COM
BUCKET LIST RIDES 4
ah, USA Br yce Canyon, Ut ase The Grand Stairc
2
5
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PHOTOS: ED SUBIAS AND HOT BIKE STAFF
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#TeamUrban
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SPEEDÕS SPOTLIGHT
WORDS AND PHOTO: JOE KRESS
LICENSED TO TUNE
T
alk about a win/win situation. How about getting a Dynojet Power Vision tune, specific to your bike, without having to actually buy that Power Vision? Sound good? It is, and for that you can thank Dynojet and authorized tuning
specialists like Speed’s Performance Plus. “Riders will want to know all about this,” says SPP’s Jamie Hanson, beginning an explanation of what’s going on here. “It’s Dynojet’s Power Vision Tune License Program, and with it riders have a money-saving option like never before.” We all know the necessity of a custom tune for a Harley, especially when that bike’s been modified in any way. The Tune License Program opens up a whole avenue toward that tune at a considerable up-front savings, since it eliminates the need to actually purchase that Power Vision. A little background: For years the guys at Speed’s Performance Plus have done those necessary custom tunes to stock and modified bikes alike using a Dynojet Power Commander. The Power Commander, an add-on “piggyback” tuner, takes output from the bike’s factory computer, the ECM, and adjusts it accordingly. And it worked great. Still does. In the hands of a competent tuner, engine management can be precisely adjusted and calibrated from idle to full throttle with changes—big and small— made at every 250 rpm step along the way. “And this year,” Jamie adds, “Dynojet’s released an updated software program allowing even closer tuning with the Power Commander.” But then came the Power Vision. Unlike a Power Commander, the Power Vision’s a “flash tuner.” It actually reprograms the factory ECM. And with touchscreen manipulation and no need for a computer hookup, Dynojet’s made it easy to use. Offering even more flexibility and control over ECM calibration, a Power Vision can also function as a scanning tool to check and clear codes, and used in conjunction with an Autotune module and wide-band sensors there are endless things you can
88 / HOTBIKE.COM
monitor on the fly. Instant readouts for real time air/fuel ratios, for one. Another plus is that the Power Vision doesn’t have to stay on the bike. To do any tuning you simply plug the unit into the data port, and when you’re done disconnect it and tuck it away. Of course it’s possible to leave that Power Vision mounted. Custom brackets and cables are available to do just that, and when left in place there’s a wealth of information always right at your fingertips. A Power Vision can store a number of completely different tuning maps, too, all easily accessible. “For everyday riders and pro-tuners alike it’s the most powerful tuning device we’ve seen yet,” Jamie says. All this doesn’t come without a price. A Power Vision device can cost a couple hundred bucks more than the familiar Power Commander, a limiting factor for many. Which brings us to the Power Vision Tune License Program, taking the cost of that Power Vision completely out of the picture. Since the Power Vision actually recalibrates the factory ECM, and once it’s done its thing it can come off the motorcycle, that opens up a whole world of possibilities and Dynojet’s explored them. “What this means,” Jamie explains, “is that we can use our shop Power Vision to do the tune. The customer doesn’t have to actually buy one of his own if he doesn’t want to.” What is required is the one-time purchase of a Power Vision License, but with that license all the various built-in
Power Vision features will be available, excepting, of course, those on-the-fly readouts since the actual Power Vision won’t be there. But you can create custom tunes from scratch or start with one of the Dynojet pre-loaded tunes available in the device or from the website, and the Power Vision has a built-in Autotune mode too. All of this is available with a Power Vision license, and in the event a licensed bike comes back for a re-tune, with a new set of pipes or a big-bore kit for instance, SPP’s Power Vision will remember that bike and no additional licensing fees will be required. “And that licensed bike doesn’t have to come back to us for a re-tune, either,” Jamie adds. “While the specific license will be stored in our Power Vision [which is able to store thousands of individual motorcycles, their VIN, and the purchased licenses] we give each rider a thumb-drive with his license in it along with his custom tune.” With that you can go to any participating Dynojet dealer, anywhere in the country, and that license will be honored. Interesting, isn’t it? Sure, having your own Power Vision has its benefits. But so does the Power Vision Licensing Program, yet another SPP/Dynojet option for that perfect, and necessary, custom tune every Harley needs. HB SOURCE: SPEED’S PERFORMANCE PLUS speedsperformanceplus.com (605) 695-1401 – MN (605) 695-2272 – SD
HIGHPIPE FESTIVAL June 9-11, 2017 Lakeshore, CA
The spirit of the golden age of motorcycling rolls on at HighPipe, a celebration of simple do-it-all motorcycles, from canyon carving to fire-road flying. Get away from it all (tent or RV camp, or stay in the lodge) and get back to grassroots of motorcycling at the China Peak Ski Resort high in the Sierra. HighPipe festival features a mix of fun, scenic rides accessible to both modern-day and vintage machines, along with live entertainment, bike shows, contests, demos, food, drinks and more!
All Motorcycles Welcome! For more information, visit: www.highpipemoto.com
Sponsored by:
Official Motorcycle Rental Partner
SUPER COUPON
72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET
ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown
SAVE 66%
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
$5
99
8
$ 99
comp at
$17.97
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
17 FT. TYPE I A SAVE MULTI-TASK LADDER $161
ITEM 62514 62656 67646 shown
SUPER COUPON
$11 999
Customer Rating
$
13999
20% OFF
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, StormCat, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17.
SAVE 79%
1000 LB. CAPACITY Customer Rating MOTORCYCLE LIFT
comp at
• Lift range: 7" - 30"
$49
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
'S DOLLY MOVER 60497/93888 shown
• 1000 lb. capacity
ITEM 69904 68892 shown
SUPER COUPON $
$299
Customer Rating
179999 $399.99 17
comp at
$
32 PIECE SCREWDRIVER SET
comp at
SAVE $330
18499
ITEM 61888 68885 shown
SAVE 50%
$
comp at
1499 $20.13
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE RAPID PUMP® $ 3 TON ALUMINUM 90 RACING JACK Customer Rating
comp at
SUPER COUPON
12 VOLT DELUXE BATTERY MAINTAINER AND FLOAT CHARGER
ITEM 63161/62813/61911 shown
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
29 PIECE TITANIUM NITRIDE COATED SPEED STEEL ITEM 62281/61637 shown HIGH DRILL BIT SET
Customer Rating
R COUPON
SAVE SUPE 99 83%
$14
$9
99
SAVE 75%
$
comp at
1999 $59.99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ª
SUPER COUPON
10 FT. x 17 FT. PORTABLE GARAGE
Customer Rating
$
SUPER COUPON
$16999
SAVE $113
$
19999$283.50
comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at
1999 $59.98
calling 800-423-2567. Cannot or HarborFreight.com or byes after 30 days from original LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores t or coupon or prior purchas Original be used with other discoun Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. per day. one coupon per customer purchase with original receipt. Limit . 6/14/17 through Valid coupon must be presented.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
1 TON CAPACITY FOLDABLE SHOP CRANE ITEM 69445/61858 69512 shown
ITEM 62859/63055 62860 shown
99
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
$16999 $17999 $259.99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69645 60625 shown
$9
IN AMERICA
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$169
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$13.67
4-1/2" ANGLE GRINDER
99
$499.99
8
1 SELLING JACKS
ITEM 68052 shown 62248/62530
$446.61
Customer Rating
#
• Weighs 56 lbs. • 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
comp at
comp at
SAVE 56%
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF WELDING WIRE AND ACCESSORIES
comp at
$1049.99
$599 $ 99
comp at
170 AMP MIG/FLUX WIRE WELDER
42999
SUPER COUPON
1099 $19.97
SAVE $296
$14999 $17999
ITEM 61259/90764 shown
Customer Rating
reight.com or by calling our stores or HarborF t or coupon or prior LIMIT 7 - Good at used with other discoun 800-423-2567. Cannot be from original purchase with original receipt. be purchases after 30 dayss last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must Offer good while supplie 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day. presented. Valid through
$
$
ITEM 69091/61454 61693/62803 67847 shown
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097
SUPER COUPON
99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 59%
Customer Rating
$15999
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$799
SUPER COUPON
2.5 HP, 21 GALLON, 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR Customer Rating
SAVE $750
Customer Rating
1439
SAVE $240
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
20 OZ. GRAVITY FEED SPRAY GUN
$999 $
• 704 lb. capacity ITEM 69397/61427 63308/95272 shown
$281.87
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Nontransferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 47016 shown 67181/62300
30", 5 DRAWER TOOL CART
ANY SINGLE ITEM
• 300 lb. capacity • 23 configurations
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $169 • Includes Ram, Hook and Chain
$
$9999
17999$269
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
FREE
12 TON SHOP PRESS Customer Rating
WITH ANY PURCHASE
• Pair of arbor plates included • Raise and lower table for the best working distance possible
7 FUNCTION DIGITAL MULTIMETER
ITEM 33497 60604 shown
SAVE $79 SUPER COUPON 9 9 $13499
$99
comp at
ITEM 90899 shown 98025/69096
$
$179
VALUE
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
4000 PEAK/3200 RUNNING WATTS Customer Rating 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATORS ITEM 69729/63080/69676/63079 shown ITEM 69675/69728/63090/63089 CALIFORNIA ONLY
2500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$289
Wheel kit sold separately.
$
33999
comp at
ADJUSTABLE SHADE AUTO-DARKENING WELDING HELMET ITEM 61611 46092 shown
$3999 $4999
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 50%
comp at
$79.99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 38%
• Accuracy within ±4%
ITEM 38391/62376 62306 shown
$
59
$39
99
99comp at $64.99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 62434/62426 62433/62428 62432/62429
YOUR CHOICE
Customer Rating
DRIVE 1/4" 3/8" 1/2"
SAVE 77%
ITEM 2696/61277 807/61276 62431/239
$
$399 $599 $9.98
comp at Customer Rating
by calling HarborFreight.com or or prior at our stores or discount or coupon LIMIT 7 - Good receipt. be used with other 800-423-2567. Cannot days from original purchase with original must be Original coupon purchases after 30 last. Non-transferable. per day. s er supplie custom while per Offer good 6/14/17. Limit one coupon presented. Valid through
Blade sold separately.
Customer Rating
SAVE comp at $140 $29999 $399.99 LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 61670 97841 shown
59
comp at 999 $249.99
$
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 59%
ITEM 98800 • 500 lb. capacity
$
2199
$1699
comp at
Customer Rating
$
SUPER COUPON
TRIPLE BALL TRAILER HITCH
MULTI-USE TRANSFER PUMP
SAVE SUPER COUPON 99 69%
SUPER COUPON
3199
comp at
$65.62
SUPER COUPON
44", 13 DRAWER INDUSTRIAL QUALITYT INE ROLLER CAB 44/63271
ITEM 69387/627 68784 shown Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
$34999
$499
SAVE Customer Rating comp at $ 99 $12.39 59%
6
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
18 PIECE SAE AND METRIC T-HANDLE BALL END Customer Rating HEX KEY SET
comp at
SAVE 47%
37999 $679.99
calling 800-423-2567. Cannot or HarborFreight.com or byes after 30 days from original LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores t or coupon or prior purchas Original be used with other discoun Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. per day. customer purchase with original receipt. 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per through Valid d. presente coupon must be
700+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com • 800-423-2567
ITEM 62961/63144 61364/66418 shown
$19
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $ • Weighs $ 245 lbs. 330
$42
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 61914
$4799
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$13499 $19999 $339
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $202
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $204
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$25999
certified tires
MOTORCYCLE STAND/ WHEEL CHOCK
• 1800 lb. capacity
ITEM 61969/61970/ 69684 shown Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 62648/62666 90154 shown • DOT
$9
SUPER COUPON
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW WITH LASER GUIDE
Customer Rating
99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
YOUR CHOICE
1999 $44.35
SAVE 60%
ALUMINUM MOTORCYCLE WHEEL CLEANING STAND
$439
comp at
Item 62429 shown
Customer Rating
TORQUE WRENCHES
Item 239 shown
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
1195 LB. CAPACITY 4 FT. x 8 FT. FOLDABLE HEAVY DUTY TRAILER
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
3-IN-1 PORTABLE POWER PACK WITH JUMP STARTER
99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
• 70 dB Noise Level
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 63476/61258 shown 61840/61297/68146
comp at
SIZE MED LG X-LG
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $149
SAVE $70
$4999 $8999 $119.99
MECHANIC'S GLOVES
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
16
45
SUPER COUPON
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the "comp at" price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
$
ITEM 62476/63167 63166/96645 shown
SUPER COUPON
299 $1 999
17
comp at
$24.97
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/14/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
WEBSLINGER
W
elcome to the first installment of my new monthly column, Webslinger. As the name implies, I am heavily involved with the Hot Bike website and digital side of things.
My first day on the job as online editor was roughly 3-1/2 years ago, and my job was to get a handle on this “interweb” stuff, since the print side of things is how we primarily reached our audience. Our online and social media footprint was minuscule, and our followers numbered in just a handful of thousands. As a team, the other editors of Hot Bike and I started pumping out online articles, postings, videos, photos, and whatever else we thought was cool. We started to see our audience base really grow, and it was at this time I noticed something about our print readers and our digital viewers. On the whole, it was two completely different groups of people. While I was out covering a bike show/rally I would get the lifelong Hot Bike magazine subscriber asking me in a grizzled voice why I was constantly on my phone. “Are you on the horn with your ol’ lady?” is what I kept getting questioned. When I responded with, “Oh, just updating the Hot Bike social media,” they gave me a really bewildered look. They really weren’t sure what social media was or had ever went online and viewed our site hotbike.com. After showing them some examples of our content that can be accessed with a mobile device, they were
“GROWING UP IN THE AGE OF SMARTPHONES, INSTANT GRATIFICATION, AND DISPOSABLE EVERYTHING HAD SHELTERED THEM FROM THE COOLNESS OF A PRINTED MAGAZINE THAT YOU CAN HOLD IN YOUR HANDS.” 92 / HOTBIKE.COM
genuinely interested. Truth be told, I was sure to always show a video of a beautiful Hot Bike girl modeling with a custom bike to get their attention—haha! They made mental notes to bookmark our website and also get Facebook and Instagram accounts. On the other side of the Hot Bike viewership spectrum was the younger rider who I would meet at a local bike night, Harley stunt show, concert, or flattrack race. They would ask me about some ultra-trick Dyna part or wheelie video they had seen on our social media outlets. As we would get deeper in the conversation I would mention to them that we did a review or feature on a certain product or bike in the magazine. What came next was always a bit of a surprise. They would mention that they didn’t even know Hot Bike “did magazines” too. Growing up in the age of smartphones, instant gratification, and disposable everything had sheltered them from the coolness of a printed magazine that you can hold in your hands. After pulling out the latest issue of Hot Bike from my backpack and giving it to them, they were starting to understand the more tactile and immersing experience one gets with a magazine and also how some of the Hot Bike content was only in the magazine and they
ED SUBIAS
ONLINE EDITOR
ED.SUBIAS@BONNIERCORP.COM @EDSUBIAS #BROWNBEARRACING
were missing out. Fast-forward a couple of years and millions of followers on our digital outlets. There is no longer such a separation in our audience. Web and social media has enlightened the more mature reader with what is going on in the custom V-twin world, and they have embraced the idea of instant Hot Bike. Meanwhile the younger generation has discovered the coolness factor of the printed medium and search it out on the newsstands. Different generations of the Hot Bike audience brought together with the common passion of custom V-twins, riding, and the lifestyle—I don’t need some fancy analytical web data chart to tell me how awesome that is. HB
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MODEL: CASEY ROWE PHOTO: STEVEN SPOONS
HOTNESS
HOT BIKE (ISSN: 8750-3212) (USPS 848-620), April 2017, Volume 49, Issue 3, is published Jan/Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov/Dec and Sturgis SIP (in June), 11 times a year for $25.95 by Bonnier Corporation, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices. Copyright 2017 by Bonnier Corp. All rights reserved. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of Bonnier Corp. Mailing List: We make a portion of our mailing list available to reputable firms. If you would prefer that we don’t include your name, please write us at the Harlan, IA address. POSTMASTER: Send address changes and all UAA to CFS, non-postal and military facilities: to Hot Bike, PO Box 6364, Harlan IA 51593-1864. Subscription Rates: $25.95 for one year, $51.90 for 2 years and $77.85 for 3 years. Please add $12.00 for Canadian addresses and $24.00 per year for all other international addresses. Canada Post Publication agreement #40612608. Canada Return Mail: IMEX Global Solutions, PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2
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MCH-GPS17
• Factory-Match, GPS-Powered Compass, Altimeter, Ambient Air Temperature • Plugs directly into ’96-13 Harley Touring Models, replacing OE Ambient Air Temp gauge • GPS Technology provides quick and precise compass information • Chrome or Black Bezel option, selectable to match OE Gauges • 8 user-selectable color options: Stock Match, Red, Green, Blue, Teal, Magenta, Amber, White
New application fitting 2014+ models! MCL-3014 Gauges • Direct-replacement 4-gauge kit fitting ‘14-16 Harley Touring Models • High-Brightness Red or Blue LED Lighting • Includes Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel Level, Oil Temp and Voltmeter. 2015 SEMA Award• Additional readouts include Gear Position, OE indicators and much more! • MBM Add-on modules available to add Single/Dual Air Pressure or Boost Powersports
Product of the Year
MVX-2000 Series • New MVX Application, fitting decades of models using the classic 5” tank mounted gauge: Road King, Softail, Dyna, Deuce • 31 User-selectable Pointer, Backlight and LCD Message Center Colors: Red, Green, Blue, Teal, Magenta, Amber, White • 4 Face options available: Black/Red, Black/Gray, White/Red, White/Gray • 2 bezel options: Chrome or Black Visit our website for more information. MVX-8K Series • MVX Application fitting ’96-13 Harley Touring Models • Direct Plug-in integration for simple installation • 31 User-selectable Pointer, Backlight and LCD Message Center Colors: Red, Green, Blue, Teal, Magenta, Amber, White • 4 Face options available: Black/Red, Black/Gray, White/Red, White/Gray • 2 bezel options: Chrome or Black Visit our website for more information. MCL-3000 Series High-Brightness LED package fits ’96-13 Harley Touring Models.
Da k o ta dig it al .c om/ H B P. 888. 8 8 1 . 0 5 3 6
MCL-2000 Series High-Brightness LED system fits Road King, Softail, Dyna and Deuce models across many years. Visit our website for more information.