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Prowler?s New CL-E 107? Engine now available at MC Advantages– Prowler?s New CL-E 107? motors are available from the Classic Series Engines. Engines are available in basic or show polish, assembled or unassembled. The 107″ motor features a 4″ bore and 4 1/4″ stroke. The quality forged rocker boxes, forged oil pump, and roller rockers help to complete these high quality motors. For excellent reliability, looks and performance be sure to go Prowler. Prowler products include Belt Drives, the new Patented 6 speed BAR transmission, and the Classic Series CL-P, CL-SH and CL-E Engines. Look for more information about the new Classic Series 107? Engines coming soon!
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PR Contact:
Lauren Thorson
MC Advantages
1-800-726-9620
www.MCAdvantages.com
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME 2009 INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED– February, 2009 ? for more information, contact Christine Paige Diers, (605) 347-2001 – – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the Hall of Fame inductees for 2009.
Jack Kirchgesler, J.C. ?Pappy? Hoel Outstanding Achievement Award ? Jack Kirchgesler owned the Rapid City Harley Davidson dealership ? Mat-Kirk Cycle – from 1941 until 1963. During that time, Jack was a major supporter of motorcycling in the Rapid City area. He sold the first police motorcycle to the city of Rapid City, and was even a motorcycle police officer for a time. Jack was also involved in supporting motorcycle clubs in the Black Hills. Jack passed away in March of 2008.
James Clark ? James Clark had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and a lifetime of experience in improving sealing technology for HD engines. His ideas eventually lead him to create James Gaskets, Inc. Known throughout the industry as the ?Godfather? of gaskets, his reputation for producing superior gaskets combined with his professional and personal integrity earned him the respect of industry leaders and built James Gaskets into the world-renowned company that it is today. James passed away in September of 2007.
Cookie Crum has been riding on two wheels since she was in high school. She started riding the Wall in the Motor Drome at the age of 18. She spent several years traveling with the show. Later, Cookie and her husband owned a Harley Davidson dealership in Medford, Oregon. She?s encouraged countless riders ? both men and women ? and has assisted in the formation of a number of clubs and organizations.
Lou Kimzey ? Lou Kimzey was the creator and publisher of Easyriders, the first lifestyle biker magazine on the market. He also served as CEO of Paisano Publication and was editorial director of a number of monthly magazines. Lou was a co-founder of A.B.A.T.E., which at that time was an acronym for ?A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments,? but has since become known as ?American Bikers Aimed Toward Education.? Lou passed away in 1997.
John Lehman ? John Lehman is the founder of Lehman Trikes. It was 1984, and John wanted to share his love of motorcycling with his wife Linda. Linda wasn?t comfortable riding on two wheels with her children, so John began to construct the forerunner of today?s modern three-wheeled motorcycle.
Dale Walksler ? Dale Walksler is the founder, owner and curator of the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Walksler?s collection of rare and antique motorcycles is unparalleled. He is also responsible for developing and launching ?The Time Machine,? an online video library where viewers can watch restorations of old motorcycles, learn.
WILLIE G. DAVIDSON TO RECEIVE 2009 LIFETIME DESIGN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD– Grandson of Harley-Davidson Motor Company founder chosen for EyesOn Design Award.
Willie G. Davidson, Senior Vice President and Chief Styling Officer at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, has been chosen to receive this year’s EyesOn Design Award presented by the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology.
Regarded as the most prestigious award in automotive design, each year’s EyesOn Design Award winner is chosen by the industry’s top designers and EyesOn Design award winners from previous years.
Willie G. is the grandson of one of the original founders of Harley-Davidson Motor Company. He attended the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, where he was a classmate of Jack Telnack, the father of the Taurus automobile at Ford Motor Company. Willie G. joined Harley-Davidson in 1963; his creations include the design of several of Harley-Davidson’s most admired motorcycles. His artistic vision and passion for riding have made him a legend among throngs of enthusiasts worldwide who consider him the patriarch of motorcycling.
Willie G. will accept the award with his wife, Nancy, during the EyesOn Design 2009 weekend events in Detroit, June 19-21 2009.
In addition to the award presentation, this year’s EyesOn Design 2009 weekend activities will include one or more charity rides. At present, the EyesOn Design Leadership Committee is working with A.B.C. Harley-Davidson Motorcycles of Waterford, Mich., to organize two rides. One would originate at A.B.C. and terminate at the Saturday night black tie event, Vision Honored, at which Willie G. will receive the Lifetime Design Achievement Award.
The second ride may also originate at A.B.C. Harley-Davidson on Sunday morning, Father’s Day June 21, and terminate at the EyesOn Design car show at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Mich.
New Mustang Coming, Owners Quick to Customize– Recent SEMA research highlighted owners who drive specific models of popular enthusiast vehicles, namely the Chevrolet Corvette. That spotlight resonated well with readers and has prompted similar features for future articles.
With the 2010 Ford Mustang release quickly approaching and the manufacturer?s announcement of an affordable entry-level model starting at $20,995, consumers looking for an affordable sports coupe could find the Mustang a bargain. Members of the specialty-equipment industry that specialize in Mustangs or modern musclecars, or companies looking for new market opportunities should understand the enthusiast profile of current Mustang owners.
Nearly half (46%) of these owners typically begin customizing their vehicle within the first three weeks of ownership.
This group consists of automotive magazine subscribers and visitors to popular vehicle-specific online forums, so it should come as no surprise that 91% of them made at least one performance part or accessory purchase last year.
Most of the ‘Stangs were purchased more than a year ago (81%) and in used condition (73%), understandable since the vehicle was introduced four decades ago and maintains the status of a collector car. Many of the top products purchased are performance related, but some deal with maintenance and reconditioning.
Enthusiasts were also asked about the products that they plan to purchase next. Of the items on the horizon, the focus of products was on braking, appearance and exhaust. Total brake kits (35.2%) or individual brake components (26.8%) topped the list, followed closely by custom paint (24.6%), performance tires (23.2%), exhaust kits (20.4%) and headers (19.7%).
Emphasizing motorsports and high performance should be a key ingredient to reaching these customers. Almost half watch stock-car (NASCAR) racing while nearly one out of every five (21%) participate in drag racing. For comparison, the general consumer base of the Automotive Lifestyles survey?consisting of more than 3,000 people?yielded an 11.8% rate of participation.
? Zack Krelle
HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES HERITAGE OF AFRICAN AMERICAN RIDERS– The Harley-Davidson experience hits Daytona Bike Week.
MILWAUKEE (Feb. 25, 2009) ? On March 6 and 7, Harley-Davidson will show its support of ?Bikers on the Boulevard? by hosting several activities during Daytona Bike Week. Scheduled activities include music, prize drawings and an open bike show.
Riders during Daytona Bike Week have been congregating along Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard in the heart of Daytona?s Midtown Black Heritage District during Bike Week for decades. Although it is uncertain exactly when this tradition began, some locals say the gathering goes back to the 1960s or even before. In honor of this rich tradition, Harley-Davidson will be celebrating at the historical intersection of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard (Second Avenue) and Pearl Street.
?We are looking forward to another successful year and the opportunity to continue to support Harley-Davidson riders and enthusiasts who have always supported us,? stated Karina Jaramillo-Saa, manager of market outreach, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. ?Bikers on the Boulevard celebrates the brotherhood and spirit of riding and we are excited to be a part of it.?
Various 2009 Harley-Davidson models will be on display, including the Screamin? Eagle Fat Bob, the Road King Classic, the V-Rod Muscle and the Screamin? Eagle Road Glide. Harley-Davidson will ride in style as it cruises the boulevard in Daytona Beach.
For the complete schedule of Harley-Davidson events, please visit www.harley-davidson.com
Performance Jobbers Report?It?s Not All Gloom and Doom– As the front line of the specialty-equipment industry, the jobber/retailer sees what is happening in the marketplace before nearly everyone else. SEMA has begun a targeted information-collection program aimed at industry jobber/retailers. The program involves attending industry WD events and visiting jobbers in their businesses and then reporting the findings monthly. What we’re currently hearing is that not all jobber/retailers? businesses are really struggling. In fact, nearly 30% of the performance parts related jobber/retailers we have spoken to over the past six weeks say their business is up. Another 40% say their business is holding steady.
Keep in mind that these are primarily companies that emphasize performance parts and typically have no more than one or two locations. Interestingly, the jobber/retailers that report doing okay attribute their success to increased customer service. Without a doubt, the number-one concern on the minds of these businesses is cash flow. As they are looking for information to help their businesses, the topics in some way are related to improving cash flow?topics such as space planning and merchandizing, business strategy and expense control. When asked about current consumer trends, the number-one comment is that the casual consumer is gone, but the enthusiast is still buying. Jobber/retailers are seeing enthusiasts delay some of their purchases and, in some cases, buying less-expensive products. When it comes to the product brands they select to sell, what their customers ask for is number one, but equally important is the technical support they get from the brand manufacturer.
The story is a little different when it comes to whom to buy those products from. Now price enters the picture, but it takes second place to service and support. Jobber/retailers are concerned about getting the parts they need quickly and if there are issues or questions can they get prompt, reliable assistance.
Some of the jobber/retailers we have talked with are changing their business focus in order to survive. For instance, there was a truck-accessory shop owner who has seen a host of his competitors go out of business and has resorted to targeting only fleet customers. Another one that specializes in custom upholstery shifted to restoration business when its car-dealer customers disappeared.
TESTICLE THERAPY– Two women were playing golf. One teed off and watched in horror as her ball headed directly toward a foursome of men playing the next hole.
The ball hit one of the men. He immediately clasped his hands together at his groin, fell to the ground and proceeded to roll around in agony.
The woman rushed down to the man, and immediately began to apologize. ‘Please!!!! Please!!!! allow me to help. I’m a Physical Therapist and I know I could relieve your pain if you’d allow me, she told him.
‘Oh, no, I’ll be all right. I’ll be fine in a few minutes,’ the man replied. He was in obvious agony, lying in the fetal position, still clasping his hands together at his groin.
At her persistence, however, he finally allowed her to help. She gently took his hands away and laid them to the side, loosened his pants and put her hands inside. She administered tender and artful massage for several long moments and asked, ‘How does that feel’?
He replied: It feels great, but I think my thumb’s still broken…..
–from Ross
2009 V-Twin Expo EXPLODES WITH ENTHUSIAM– 9th Annual V-Twin Expo attendees and exhibitors glow with encouraged determination, and passion for v-twin industry.
Agoura Hills, CA? V-Twin dealers and exhibitors alike left the 9th Annual V-Twin Expo with renewed passion, enthusiasm and confidence for the v-twin industry. Attendees spent last weekend in Cincinnati attending the 9th Annual V-Twin Expo held February 7-9, 2009 to see and hear in person the state of industry from dealer colleague?s and industry veterans.
?Dealer after dealer shared stories of growth year after year with other dealers and exhibitors. Service was a big proponent for the growth dealers are experiencing. Our show floor was busier all day Saturday with dealers than in years past. Leaving the 9th annual Expo, I would use one word to describe the dealers and the exhibitors? Engaged? explained Show Producer Jim Betlach. ?I think everyone went into the show a bit hesitant, but left with a renewed enthusiasm for the industry we all love? finished Betlach.
The theme of the show was dedication by both the dealers and the exhibitors. ?Those attending are the businesses I will be doing business with 8 years from now. If you were at the Expo, you are in this for the long term.? stated v-twin dealer Michelle Storts, Owner of Hocking Hills Motorcycle Ranch. ?I was inspired by the new product available, the seminars and by the sheer determination of our industry to see through rough waters? added Storts. ?I left the Selling to Women seminar knowing three things I could do immediately to increase my sales? finished Storts ?That in itself was awesome?.
The 9th Annual V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati was deemed a success from all? exhibitors, press and most importantly the dealers. In 2010 the V-Twin Expo will celebrate its 10th Anniversary. Please mark your calendars to join the celebration February 6, 7 and 8th, 2010 at the Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati.
The V-Twin Expo hosts over 370 exhibitors and thousands of v-twin dealers in Cincinnati. The V-Twin Expo remains the one show to attend for v-twin dealers.
The V-Twin Expo by Easyriders focuses exclusively on the V-twin motorcycle market, takes place in Cincinnati and is the v-twin industry?s premier trade show. It has held strong over the past nine years in terms of exhibitors, exhibit space and V-twin dealers attending the Expo. The Expo attracts dealers from the US, Canada and world.
MAN CODE OF THE WEST DISCOVERED– 1: Under no circumstances may two men share an umbrella.
2: It is OK for a man to cry ONLY under the following circumstances:
– (a) When a heroic dog dies to save its master.
– (b) The moment Angelina Jolie starts unbuttoning her blouse.
– (c) After wrecking your boss’ car.
– (d) When she is using her teeth.
3: Any Man who brings a camera to a bachelor party may be legally killed or beaten severely by his buddies.
4: Unless he murdered someone in your family, you must bail a friend out of jail within 12 hours.
5: If you’ve known a guy for more than 24 hours, his sister is off limits forever unless you actually marry her.
–from Jim Waggaman
TWINS, GIRLS OF BIKERNET COMING TO THE CANTINA–Jessica and Alysa Burgess. 22 years old. We are twins from Union, South Carolina.
I will be shooting the Twins this month, are you interested in using them for a layout, cover, anything let me know.
–Darrell 8506879405
BIKERNET ISLAND REPORTER CHECKING IN–Waikiki, cool foto. Jimmy Buffett yesterday_hank foto
–Chris T.
FATBOB REPORT, AMCA EUSTIS, FLORIDA EVENT DRAWS THE CLASSICS–Just a note from sunny Florida, the kick-off meet for the AMCA was this weekend.
I am at the kickoff meet of the AMCA. The sunny Florida weather is a relief for my Midwestern ass. The vintage sleds abound from 100 point restos to original paint. The bobber craze is obvious, but I’m biased. They out number the other bikes.
Dale from Wheels through time museum has built a ’36 knuckle in a VL frame. The master of vintage resto now the master of bobbers. The owner of the cover bike on How to restore your Harley-Davidson, was also enjoying the sun, David Monahan. David is seen here with his original paint ’37 Knucklehead.
The scene here is reminiscing of the old days, before the wide tires and bling. It’s like trying to compare a P51 to a F16 both aircraft, but worlds apart.
The sunshine chapter of the AMCA hosted the annual winter meet. Eustis is close to Daytona, and I’m going over to see Negotiable Tim at the Jam-On swapmeet. I am getting old I guess, ’cause I can get enough of Daytona in a day and could live at the antique scene. Old school ruled before it was old, long live oil drippers.
–FATBOB
JIM ZIEMER HOSTS INFLUENTIAL CHINESE DIPLOMATS FOR DISCUSSION, HARLEY-DAVIDSON MUSEUM VISIT– On Feb. 9, two top-ranking Chinese diplomats?Zhou Wenzhong, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the U.S., and Huang Ping, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China ?scheduled time during their brief visit to Milwaukee to speak with Company leaders and explore the Harley-Davidson Museum. They were accompanied by their wives and other members of the Washington D.C. embassy and Chicago consulate diplomatic staff.
China is the largest motorcycle market in the world. Approximately 20 million motorcycles were sold in China in 2008. And, as Harley-Davidson looks to grow worldwide retail sales, selling motorcycles in China represents a significant long-term opportunity for the Company.
“Currently, motorcycle use in China is strictly for basic transportation or utilitarian purposes. Leisure riding is not yet a part of the culture,” said Tim Hoelter, Vice President, Government Affairs. “If you compare Harley-Davidson motorcycle riding to the motorcycle riding in China, the only similarity between the two experiences will be that both occur on two wheels. Therefore, we must educate Chinese leaders about the benefits and possibilities of leisure riding in their country.”
Because millions of small, underpowered motorcycles are used in China for everyday commuting, highly restrictive regulations govern their use in densely populated areas. For example, 70 major cities are entirely closed to motorcycle traffic.
Harley-Davidson leaders seek to influence Chinese authorities to reduce the restrictions to heavyweight motorcycles because they are used in an entirely different way. Last week’s visit was part of an ongoing effort by Company leaders to make Harley-Davidson motorcycles more accessible to customers in China. Past diplomatic efforts have eased some restrictions and paved the way to open authorized dealerships in Mainland China; dealerships are currently open in Beijing, Shanghai and Qingdao.
By hosting this discussion at the Museum, Company leaders allowed these influential Chinese visitors to explore the spirit of adventure, community and personal expression that are at the core of Harley-Davidson leisure riding.
“Efforts such as last week’s visit move the Company forward in helping Chinese leaders understand leisure riding culture,” said Rod Copes, Vice President and Managing Director, Asia-Pacific. “We are developing the relationships necessary to influence Chinese leaders to reduce these restrictions and support growing sales in a region with such significant sales opportunities.”
CHANGING TIMES, HUH?–Incredible, just read this short Sunday Post and you absorb a real sense of change. We are rapidly becoming more multi-cultural and a world economy. Harley recognizes the market potential in China. Saxon and Victory are working quickly with Europe and Australia. Shipping is going to become a key element for business growth and survival.
It’s so dynamic and fascinating to watch what this globe soars through in just a decade. Obama put the challenge to us to improve our education and think outta the box. Harley-Davidson is moving quickly to expand their market overseas.
Bikernet is attempting to expand our reach for the industry and the future of motorcycling. We’re going to reach out of the motorcycle market with SEMA into the automotive world and outside the box to spread the word with video segments. The lovely Sin Wu is going to enroll in a community college to study film editing. Hang on, we’re gonna have some fun with these. I can see it now, Bikernet shop girl-on-girl pornos shipped all over the world?
Let’s Ride
–Bandit
