Motorcycles as Art exhibition

Michael Lichter's 14th annual Motorcycles as Art exhibition

THIS year the annual exhibition held at the Buffalo Chip during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and curated by Michael Lichter, has the title ‘Built for Speed - Race Inspired Motorcycles and Art’. 

Once again Michael is co-curating his Motorcycles as Art exhibition with Paul d'Orleans of the Vintagent (www.thevintagent.com), with this year’s theme being race inspired design and art. To reflect this theme each custom bike in 'Built for Speed' reflects a branch of racing; speedway, flat track, drag, board track, GP, and land speed racing, and will be displayed beside the racing machines suggesting the origins of each style. The motorcycles will be displayed among race inspired pieces of art including paintings, photography, helmets and prints.

Built for Speed will feature 32 motorcycles, a combination of custom builds and factory-loaned machines. The customs are from Revival Cycles, Arlen Ness, Blings Cycles, Fat Dog Racing, Brawny Built, Klockwerks, DC Choppers, Dan Rognsvoog with Skip Schulze, Dime City Cycles, John Reed, Ken's Factory (Japan), Baas Metal Craft, Custom Design Studios, Carl's Cycle, Medaza Cycles (Ireland), Harlot Cycles, Led Sled Customs, Paul Cox Industries, Bare Knuckle Choppers, Roland Sands Design, Skeeter Todd, Tator Gilmore, Warren Lane and Zach Ness. While the factory-built machines include a custom Street 750 from H-D, Indian's Spirit of Munro streamliner, a land speed racer from Confederate Motorcycles, Icon's Iron Lung road racer, George Smith's Tramp (replica) from S&S, Deus Ex Machina's DAKDAAK Honda CRF 450X and Clem Johnson's original Vincent Barn Job from John Stein. 

The art work being exhibited along with the bikes comes from the likes of Conrad Leach, Darren McKeag, David Uhl, Eric Hermann, Harpoon, Jeff Nobles, Marc Lacourciere, Michael Lichter, Richie Pan, Scott Jacobs, Scott Takes, Susan McLaughlin and Paul d'Orléans, Tom Fritz, Trish Horstman and an all new ‘21 Helmets’ display of race inspired Bell Helmets from SeeSee Motor-Coffee in Portland.
Built for Speed - Race Inspired Motorcycles and Art will run at the Buffalo Chip from Saturday August 2 to Friday August 9, and admission is free.

www.buffalochip.com

Polaris Industries

Polaris reports record second quarter results

POLARIS Industries Inc. has reported record second quarter sales for 2014, at $1,014 million, an increase of 20 percent over last year’s second quarter sales of $844.8 million.
Scott Wine, Polaris’ Chairman and CEO, said: “The second quarter results, our 19th consecutive quarter of record earnings performance, exemplify our commitment to delivering high quality, innovative products and a first-class purchase experience that our consumers expect. Our strong financial performance in the quarter was driven by outstanding retail sales growth, up 15 percent in North America, driven by market share gains in our side-by-side vehicle product line and continued growth of our Indian motorcycle business.

"Net income for the second quarter was up 21 percent to $96.9 from $80m for the year-ago quarter. Between strong demand for our existing offerings and our industry leading product innovation, we believe sales and earnings will continue to accelerate in the second half of the year, supporting our confidence and decision to again raise full year sales and earnings guidance for 2014.”
Sales for the motorcycles division, which includes Victory Motorcycles and Indian Motorcycles, increased 107 percent to $103.1 million in the 2014 second quarter compared to same period last year due to continued strong demand for the new model year 2014 Indian motorcycles.
Consumer retail demand for Polaris motorcycles, driven by Indian Motorcycle retail sales, was up approximately 50 percent during the 2014 second quarter, while second quarter North American industry heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle retail sales were about flat versus the 2013 second quarter.
The re-launch of Indian Motorcycle continued during the 2014 second quarter as additional dealers began retailing the bikes and awareness of the brand’s revival continued to gain momentum.
Victory retail sales in the 2014 second quarter were down mid-single digits percent largely due to a product recall in May. Sales of Polaris motorcycles outside of North America almost doubled in the second quarter of 2014 as compared to the year-ago period driven by strong retail demand for Indian motorcycles.
Gross profit increased 21 percent to $304.9 million compared to $252.3 million in the second quarter of 2013. As a percentage of sales, gross profit margin improved 20 basis points to 30.1 percent of sales for the second quarter of 2014, compared to 29.9 percent of sales for the same period last year. The pressure to gross margins from the negative currency movements of the Canadian dollar and weaker product mix during the 2014 second quarter was more than offset by lower product costs and higher pricing.

Fat Baggers, Inc.

Fat Baggers, Inc. celebrates 10 years

IT may seem as if the trend for heavily modified Baggers is a recent one, but that is clearly not the case, given that Fat Baggers, Inc. (FBI) is celebrating 10 years in business in 2014. "I am very proud of what we have accomplished over the past ten years,” said company President and CEO Gary Chipp, “and I am excited for what the future holds!" 

Phil Day has joined Fat Baggers Inc. as Production Manager

The company was started by Chipp in 2004 when he launched with his original ‘Fat Tire Kit’ for use on Bagger models. Over the years the range of parts available has continued to expand and now includes complete high-end touring motorcycles as well as parts and accessories. Today FBI occupies a 35,000sqft facility with its own paint, graphic and design team, a full machine and fabrication shop, frame manufacturing facility, powder coating facility, and fiberglass and injection molding departments.
A significant change to the business this year was the appointment of Phil Day, formerly the owner of Daytec, to the role of Production Manager at FBI. Day brought with him over 20 years of experience in the motorcycle industry, specifically in frame design and production, as well as suspension and handling, and when he was running Daytec he was responsible for the design of the frames used by FBI for its proprietary line of high- end Baggers.
“I have worked with Phil since 2007 and am excited about new product opportunities,” said Chipp at the time of Day’s appointment to the role at FBI.
“I am excited to be here and anxious to continue the tradition of producing quality frames,” said Day, “and with the recent changes in the industry, I feel there is great opportunity in applying what I have learned to FBI.”
The addition of Day to the team at FBI is not the only significant change as the company marks its 10th anniversary, but Chipp has announced that he will be opening Fat Baggers Europe in September. The new operation will be based in Sweden and will be distributing Fat Baggers products across all of Europe, as well as being the European reseller of the FBI Motor Co. line of production motorcycles.  

FAT BAGGERS, INC.
Chariton, Iowa, USA
Tel: 641 774 7499
sales@fatbaggers.com
wwww.fatbaggers.com

Polaris' 'Slingshot'

Slingshot three-wheeler announced by Polaris

POLARIS, the parent company of both Victory Motorcycles and Indian Motorcycles, is celebrating its 60th anniversary by releasing details of a new vehicle. The company is describing its new Slingshot as a three-wheel roadster. 

“Slingshot was designed to deliver head turning exhilaration on two dimensions,” said Mike Jonikas, VP of Slingshot. “First is the exhilaration that you can see, hear, and feel while riding in Slingshot. Second is the exhilaration you feel when people turn their heads to stare at Slingshot’s unique and exotic styling.”
The Slingshot has two wheels at the front behind which is side-by-side open air seating for two. The Slingshot is powered by a 2.4-liter, dual-overhead cam engine and a five-speed manual transmission, all of which is carried in a steel spaceframe that is matched to an aluminum swingarm, with final drive being via a carbon fiber reinforced belt.
Drawing on its motorcycle heritage, Polaris has equipped the Slingshot with electronic stability and traction control, three-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and LED taillights, while from its ATV range is has taken key safety features such as forged aluminum roll hoops, and three-point seat belts. 

Polaris will be offering two version of the Slingshot; the base model features titanium metallic paint, 17in alloy wheels upfront, and an 18in wheel in the rear. The premium model called Slingshot SL features red pearl paint, larger 18in forged aluminum wheels upfront and a 20in wheel in the rear, and a blade windscreen for wind protection. It also features a media console with a 4.3in LCD screen, back-up camera, Bluetooth integration, and a six-speaker audio system.

www.polarisslingshot.com

Arlen Ness

More touring options from Arlen Ness

ARLEN Ness is continuing with its products for Touring bikes with the introduction of Deep Cut frame grills. The USA made grills are machined from billet aluminum and match the Deep Cut range of accessories from Arlen Ness. The bolt-on piece is available in a choice of chrome or black anodized finishes, mounts to the front frame tubes and works with the stock engine guard. 

A second part that is offered in Deep Cut style along with the choices of Slot Track and Beveled is the Arlen Ness billet aluminum ignition switch cover. It has been designed to fit ‘07-‘13 FLT, ‘14 FLT, and ‘12-up international model FLTs.

Bodywork-wise Arlen Ness has a choice of two replacement saddlebag designs for use on Touring models; Big Bags and Down-N-Out.
Big Bags are the original Arlen Ness replacement bags. They are longer than stock for a better look and increased storage. Produced using a state-of-the-art computer controlled injection process, which produces a smooth and finished product on both inner and outer surfaces, every saddlebag goes through a 13-hour post cure cycle in computer-controlled ovens to ensure maximum strength and temperature stability over a wide heat range.
Once finished the bags are jig drilled and lid tested to ensure proper fit and function with the factory lids. Big Bags are available in a ready-to-paint primer finish and sold in pairs for ‘93-‘14 FLT applications. Lids and mounting hardware are not included.

To finish off the bags, Arlen Ness has billet latches available, which will work with OEM or aftermarket saddlebags, and accept the factory locks. They are offered in a range of styles to match other parts from the company. 

The Arlen Ness Down-N-Out bags are 6in longer and 2in lower than the company’s original Big Bags and feature a patent-pending taper on the lower section of the bag for a clean new look and an extra 2in of ground clearance.
Constructed from high quality composite materials and oven cured over a wide heat range to ensure stability and durability, each bag has hand-placed fibers strategically located to provide the highest structural integrity possible and a maximum strength to weight ratio. Each bag is fit and lid tested and passes a 14-point quality control process. 

Down-N-Out bags are designed to fit factory lids and hardware and are available in a primed, ready to paint finish for use on ‘93-up and ‘14 FLT applications.
To work with the bags, Arlen Ness offers its stretched Down-N-Out fender kits as a direct replacement for ‘98-up FLT Bagger models. Like the bags, the fenders are constructed from high quality composite materials and oven cured and supplied primed and ready to paint. 
Each kit includes a billet Ness LED license/taillight assembly with turn signals that mount in the recessed area of the fender. Also included are exhaust extensions and chrome heat shields, and hidden steel fender support brackets and flexible hidden antenna for clean installation. Options on the fenders include 
dual, single or no exhaust cut-outs. 

A second rear fender option for use on ’97-onward FLT Baggers and ’14 Softails is the Arlen Ness Bagger-Tail fender kit. The pre-drilled composite fender is a direct replacement for the factory part and fills the gap between the fender and the bags. The fender works with stock tires and tires up to 200mm wide. The kit is supplied with a Ness LED license/taillight assembly with turn signals that mount in the recessed area of the fender with the whole light assembly plugging into the factory harness for simple installation.
Recommended for use with either Ness Big Bags or saddlebag extensions, the kit has hidden steel fender support brackets and flexible hidden antenna are included for a clean installation, and there is the option of cut-outs for dual exhaust, single exhaust or no exhaust cut-outs.

ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES
Dublin, California, USA
Tel: 925 479 6350
contact@arlenness.com
www.arlenness.com

S&S Cycle

S&S EZ Loader DIY fuel injection calibration

S&S Cycle has launched its EZ Loader to help riders easily tune the electronic fuel injection of their H-D motorcycles without the need for expensive dyno testing.
With the EZ Loader users can select and load S&S Cycle developed and dyno proven tune files into the bike’s ECM. The calibrations were developed exclusively for S&S Step 1 (intake and exhaust) and Step 2 (Cams) Proven Performance products.
The S&S EZ Loader can be loaded with new calibrations as the user upgrades the bike’s engine with the S&S 'Steps' process. Start with Step 1: for example the S&S Stealth air cleaner and Super Sidewinder 2-into1 exhaust. Use the S&S EZ Loader to select the parts, then the calibration, load it and go. When more power is required it is simply a case of move to Step 2 and install a set of S&S MR103 cams, select the calibration that matches, load it and ride.

The S&S EZ Loader comes with a USB cable and instructions, and is pre-loaded with all available S&S Step 1 and 2 calibration files (at time of production). Calibrations and firmware stored on the device can be updated anytime online when the Loader is connected to a computer.
The EZ Loader, which automatically recognizes the vehicle model it is installed on and only shows available calibration files, can be used on ‘11-‘14 103ci Harley-Davidson EFI big twins with Delphi module. Alongside tuning it can also be used to read and clear error codes and re-calibrate the speedo.
S&S Cycle is working on developing more calibrations and models, and will release details on them when they become available.
A video demonstrating the EZLoader is available to watch at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IshZxVWu4E

S&S CYCLE
Viola, Wisconsin, USA
Tel: 608 627 1497
sscust@sscycle.com
www.sscycle.com

Remus Innovation

Remus exhaust for Dynas

 

REMUS, the Austrian aftermarket exhaust specialist, has strengthened its growing Harley-Davidson range of pipes with the introduction of a range of slip-on mufflers for use on the Dyna range of models that offer an increase in both torque and power. 

Custom slip-ons

Designed to fit the ’07 onward Super Glide Custom and Street Bob, ’05-’08 Low Rider and Wide Glide ’07-’08, there are three options available. The first option is the Custom which includes a catalytic convertor but no end cap. The same design is also offered with the company’s MCS system that allows the rider to change the exhaust volume via a remotely mounted switch. The third option is the Straight-thru that includes a slash-cut end cap that can be mounted up or down. All three designs can be ordered in a choice of chrome of black stainless steel finishes.

Sniper end caps fitted

End cap options for the Custom exhaust are Slash Cut, Perforated, Tapered, Straight Cut and Rolled Up, all of which are available in chrome or black and the Snipe end cap, which is only available in black.

 
REMUS INNOVATION
Baernbach, AUSTRIA
Tel: +43 (0)3142 6900 0
office@remus.at
www.remus.at

Harley-Davidson

Harley falls "short of expectations" in flat second quarter; full-year shipment growth forecast revised down


Harley-Davidson dealers worldwide sold 90,218 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the second quarter of 2014 compared to 90,193 motorcycles in the year-ago quarter.
In the U.S., dealers sold 58,225 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the quarter, compared to sales of 58,241 motorcycles in the year-ago period. The Company believes second-quarter U.S. retail sales were adversely affected by prolonged poor weather across parts of the U.S. and soft Sportster motorcycle sales ahead of the highly anticipated arrival of Street motorcycles in dealer showrooms.

In international markets, dealers sold 31,993 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the second quarter, compared to 31,952 motorcycles in the year-ago period, with sales up 7.0 percent in the EMEA Region and 1.5 percent in the Asia Pacific Region, and down 10.4 percent in the Latin America Region and 18.0 percent in Canada.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Keith Wandell said that "U.S. retail Harley-Davidson sales fell short of our expectations in the second quarter.
"Because we are committed to managing supply in line with demand, we are reducing our full-year shipment plan and now expect shipment growth of approximately 3.5 to 5.5 percent over last year." The Company previously had forecast full-year shipment growth of approximately 7 to 9 percent.
"We believe the underlying demand fundamentals of the business remain intact," said Wandell. "We continue to see a strong response to the new Rushmore models as well as great interest in the Harley-Davidson Street 750 and 500, which began to hit dealer showrooms in late June."
Through the first six months of 2014, dealers sold 147,633 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles worldwide, compared to 144,447 motorcycles in the year-ago period, with retail unit sales up 1.1 percent in the U.S., 10.1 percent in the Asia Pacific Region and 7.5 percent in the EMEA Region, and down 2.1 percent in the Latin America Region and 13.5 percent in Canada, compared to the year-ago period.
In financial terms net income rose 30.3 percent ($354.2 million) for the quarter on consolidated revenue of $2 billion ($271.7 million on $1.79 billion in second quarter of 2013), with diluted earnings per share growing by $1.62 (33.9 percent) year-over-year

'sales up 7 percent in Europe'

 Through six months, Harley-Davidson 2014 net income was $620.1 million on consolidated revenue of $3.73 billion, compared to six-month 2013 net income of $495.9 million on consolidated revenue of $3.37 billion. Six-month 2014 diluted earnings per share were $2.82, up 28.2 percent from EPS of $2.20 in the year-ago period.

"Harley-Davidson's second-quarter results reflect the financial strength of the Company and brand, including the benefits of continuous improvement throughout our operation," said  Wandell. "As a customer-led organization, our employees, dealers in 90 countries and suppliers are focused every day on providing outstanding products and experiences for customers around the world."
Operating income from motorcycles and related products grew 32.3 percent to $473.3 million, compared to operating income of $357.7 million in the year-ago period. Operating income in the quarter benefited from higher motorcycle shipments and higher gross margin compared to the prior-year period.
Revenue from motorcycles grew 16.2 percent to $1.48 billion, compared to revenue of $1.27 billion in the year-ago period. The Company shipped 92,217 motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide during the quarter, in line with guidance and a 9.0 percent increase compared to shipments of 84,606 motorcycles in the year-ago period.
Revenue from motorcycle parts and accessories was $271.6 million during the quarter, up 0.7 percent, and revenue from general merchandise, which includes MotorClothes apparel and accessories, was $76.4 million, down 6.5 percent, compared to the year-ago period.
 
Through six months the Company shipped 172,899 motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide, an 8.2 percent increase compared to the year-ago period. Six-month revenue from motorcycles grew 14.7 percent to $2.79 billion, revenue from parts and accessories increased 3.5 percent to $469.7 million and revenue from general merchandise decreased 8.7 percent to $140.5 million, compared to the first six months of 2013. Gross margin through six months was 38.6 percent and operating margin was 24.1 percent, compared to 36.8 percent and 20.8 percent respectively in the year-ago period.

Operating income from financial services was $74.4 million in the second quarter of 2014, a 0.4 percent increase compared to operating income of $74.2 million in last year's second quarter. Second-quarter financial services results reflect improved net interest income, partially offset by a higher provision for credit losses. Through six months, operating income from financial services was $137.6 million, compared to operating income of $145.7 million through six months of 2013.

Warr’s Harley-Davidson

90 years of looking to the future

2014 sees Warr’s Harley-Davidson celebrate its 90th anniversary. The company, which is Europe’s oldest Harley dealership, is already looking forward to its centenary as it announced ambitious plans to completely redevelop its central London premises in order to meet the growing demand for its services

WARR’S Harley-Davidson first opened its doors on London’s famous Kings Road in 1924, and today the business is still family owned and continues to operate from the same address as the day it first opened.
The Warr’s story began with a cycle shop at 661 Kings Road when Captain Frederick Warr started working for himself in 1924 after having seen active service in World War I and then returning to employment in the army after the war due to the lack of work elsewhere. Within a year of opening the shop he had expanded his operation to include motorcycles. During that time the Motor Company had its European operation based in an office on Newman Street in London, and so Frederick, having seen how reliable the early Harley-Davidsons were during his time in the Royal Artillery, visited the Company’s agent and became an authorized dealer. 

When asked why his grandfather chose to work with Harley-Davidson when there were so many other brands available at that time, John Warr, the current Managing Director of Warr’s, said: “He was already a motorcyclist at that time, and being in the Royal Artillery he witnessed the move from horses to automotive power, and that included motorcycles, and there were a lot of Americans involved in that process, so he was exposed to Harley-Davidson motorcycles. While there were lots of options for American bikes at that time, he chose to go with Harley-Davidson simply because he liked them, and because of his exposure to them during his army service.”
When World War II started Frederick went back into service putting the family business on hold until his return from the war effort, by which time he was joined by his son Fred Jnr, who had also seen active service, in his case with the Royal Air Force. It was Fred Jnr’s exposure to WL45 bikes during his time in the RAF that led him to join his father in the family business. However, it was a difficult time for them as the war effort had forced the British government to introduce rationing, a restriction on what goods people could buy that stayed in place until 1954.

The rationing had a very deep impact on the Warr’s family business as imports of new motorcycles from the US were not allowed during the time of rationing. However, the war effort did mean that there was a ready supply of army surplus motorcycles available, and buying, selling and servicing them kept the Warr’s shop running in the years after the war had ended. Once the supply of ex-army machinery began to dry up, Fred Jnr decided he would travel to the States to source Harleys direct from the factory. Travelling by sea on the Queen Mary, Fred Jnr landed in New York and then traveled by train to Milwaukee where he met with William H. Davidsons on the banks of Lake Michigan. As a result of that meeting Fred was able to secure the first new Harleys to be imported into Britain since 1939 and the outbreak of war. His first shipment of motorcycles from the US were 1957 model Sportsters in late 1956.

The tradition of working in the family business is continued today by John Warr, who joined the company in 1981 just as the Kings Road site was redeveloped, causing the showroom to be relocated to the nearby Waterford Road. His joining the business also coincided with the management of H-D buying the company back from AMF and the introduction of the Evo motor. These two changes led to a resurgence in people’s interest in Harley-Davidsons at a time when Fred Jnr was looking to retire, making John’s timing perfect to take Warr’s Harley-Davidson on to the next stage of its history.
Today Warr’s Harley-Davidson is well known for its custom builds based around new Factory models, and it was under John’s guidance that this strand of the business first developed. When he first joined the operation Arlen Ness products were beginning to come onto the marke,t and Warr’s began to look at fitting these parts to new bikes before they went on sale.
Realizing that he could generate greater profits if he did not have to buy custom parts in, John began to explore options for doing as much custom work as possible in-house, and today Kings Road Customs is a business within Warr’s H-D, which has become well known for its Softail based Bobbers, but the style of builds that have passed through the workshop include everything from traditional Choppers to Cafe Racers.
It is not just custom builds and regular service work that passes through the Kings Road workshop as Warr’s does regular restoration work on older H-D models and has an extensive collection of old Harley models as part of its museum. 
The Warr’s museum is made up of older Harley motorcycles that the family has acquired over the years. Talking about it, John said: “The museum is an obvious extension of our passion for bikes, but it is also good business. We utilize them having them on show as museum pieces, but it also endorses the fact that we know what we’re talking about and that we really like Harleys too.
“They are also a solid investment, we’ll never lose money on them. It has also led to us acquiring over time a huge stock of vintage Harley parts that we are known for worldwide, and that gives us additional sales opportunities.”
However, the bikes are not simply bought as investments as John was quick to point out: “I’ve got a 1912 Silent Gray Fellow Harley-Davidson sitting in my office. It’s there because I like it, not because we’re short of storage space. It’s an example of how we couple a passion for the brand with excellent customer service, and it works as witnessed by our high level of returning customers. They realize we’re just as passionate about Harleys as they are!”
Having a collection of old bikes and displaying them in-store is not the only example of how Warr’s Harley-Davidson differs from the vast majority of motorcycle dealers. The business also takes a different view to clothing sales, so much so that at one time it had a separate retail outlet at a different site just to sell Motor Company clothing. John said of that aspect of the operation: “The Warr’s Boutique developed because H-D has always had a nice collection of clothing. In the mid-90s, when I became the Managing Director, we took the decision to open a separate store near Sloane Square just for H-D clothing. That was very successful and ran for about 10 years, we only closed it due to the excessive cost of the rent on the property. We realized we could transfer the experience of shopping there to right here in the store, and that’s why we have the Boutique now on the mezzanine level. Through having that store on Sloane Square we learnt how to run a clothing business - in a location like that you simply cannot afford to make mistakes.
“Unlike other motorcycle dealers we have made a feature of the apparel, we merchandise it like a clothing store and rotate stock. We keep everything fresh and current. We treat it almost as a separate business, but that works as we are the biggest retailer of H-D clothing in the UK, and the biggest retailer of Harley T-shirts outside of America,” concluded John.
The changes to the business continued under John’s guidance with him being able to buy back the original site at 661 Kings Road and oversee the building of a state-of-the-art facility. Created by architects Kilburn & Nightingale, the new showroom was soon winning awards for its innovative design, which featured ideas that were considered new at that time, such as polished wooden floors and exposed brick work walls.
When talking about the showroom, John said: “This is a venue as much as it is a motorcycle dealership, we get tourists visiting every day of the week. If any Harley enthusiast comes to London, then they’ll make a point of visiting us too.”
Visitors were one thing that was not in short supply at the beginning of June when Warr’s Harley-Davidson held an Open Day to celebrate its 90 years in business, and at the same time announced its ambitious plans for the future. A key part of the celebrations was the unveiling of designs for a new facility to be built on the existing Kings Road site.
Over the next two years the current building will be demolished and completely rebuilt as a far bigger facility. However, rather than relocating, or relying on the business’ second showroom 14 miles away at Mottingham, Warr’s will continue to trade at 661 Kings Road, as the plan is to carry out the redevelopment in two halves to provide continuity for the business and its loyal customers.
“We have a big site here, and when this facility was built we did what was needed then, and now we are looking ahead and things need to change again,” said John of his master plan for the showroom. “We need more space and we’re going to take the opportunity to redevelop the entire site and create a stunning new showroom.
“Fourteen years ago, when this building was designed and built, it was done so that we could put an extra story or two on top, but given the high level of property prices now we have had to start with a clean sheet this time. The new plans include going down into the ground two stories as well as going further up above ground.
“We are going to be very careful with the new design. Although it will be considerably bigger we don’t want to create a showroom that feels like an aircraft hangar. We want to retain the character of the current building and the atmosphere we have.”
Not only will the new build include more space for motorcycle and apparel sales, it will also house a larger custom and restoration workshop, an on-site deli-style café, a dedicated museum area along with motorcycle rental facilities and a club room for the local HOG chapter. However, perhaps the most surprising aspect of the new design is the inclusion of 22 residential properties on the upper stories of the building, which will have a view of the river Thames.

“When it’s complete it will be a temple to Harley-Davidson. It always has been, but it will be even more so,” said John. “With this new build we’re fortunate that we’re not starting from scratch, we know what works and how to make it work better, and that’s what we’ll be doing. The strength of experience I have with the team here means it will be absolutely perfect!”
With such ambitious plans ahead it looks like Warr’s will continue to be not only a successful Harley dealership, but also a tourist destination for many years to come with a state-of-the-art showroom taking pride of place when the business celebrates its 100th anniversary in ten years’ time. 

WARR’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON
London, UK
Tel: +44 (0)20 7736 2934
www.warrs.com

Paughco

Trike body kits from Paughco

PAUGHCO’S trike bodies are easy to install bodywork sets for use on trike frames.
The company is currently offering two styles, Truck Bed or Hot Rod. 

Truck Bed style kits are heavy gauge formed sheet steel, and the Hot Rod bodies are .100in rolled and formed aluminum. Both kits are designed to bolt directly to the stock rear frame horns and offered to fit a wide variety of chassis applications from ‘58-‘84 FL four-speeds to ‘93 – ‘04 Sportsters, ‘96 and later Dynas and ‘86-‘11 Softails. All kits are supplied with mounting hardware and supports.
The Hot Rod bed does not come with taillights or license frame. 

PAUGHCO
Carson City, Nevada, USA
Tel: 775 246 5738
info@paughco.com
www.paughco.com

Revolution Performance

Refurbished Twin Cam A and B crankshafts

REVOLUTION Performance, which is well known for both its big bore kits and crankshaft repair service for Twin Cam, Evolution and XL motors, not only claims to offer the fastest turnaround time for crankshaft repair in the business, but is now also supplying fully refurbished Twin Cam A and B model crankshafts. 

As a new option for 2014 Revolution Performance is able to supply refurbished crankshafts for ‘99-‘05 Twin Cam models, and is currently sourcing inventory for other models. Crankshafts are also available for the RevTech Gen3 100 and 110-inch motors.
The company’s refurbished crankshafts are supplied trued, welded and plugged, along with new crank pins, bearings and honed connecting rods.
Also new for 2014 from Revolution Performance is the option of complete engine rebuilding on Twin Cam, Evolution, XL and Buell motorcycles.

REVOLUTION PERFORMANCE
Plymouth, Wisconsin, USA
Tel: 920 892 2109
info@revperf.com
www.revperf.com

Barnett Clutches & Cables

New Barnett Scorpion clutch baskets and accessories

BARNETT’S Scorpion one-piece billet clutch baskets are machined from 7075 forged aluminum, hard anodized, and include all hardware and instructions. Said to be superior to the stock basket, they are available for ‘90-‘14 Big Twins, ‘91 onward Sportsters, and ‘70-‘84 Shovelheads. 

The Scorpion clutch baskets accept the stock type clutch assembly or, for the increased performance, a Scorpion high capacity clutch can be installed.

Ring gear conversion kits and starter shaft assemblies are also available, including a new 106-tooth replacement ring gear and starter clutch for the ‘06 and later Dynas and ‘07 and later Big Twins.

Barnett Clutches & Cables
Ventura, California, USA
Tel: 805 642 9435
info@barnettclutches.com
www.barnettclutches.com  

Yuasa Battery

Yuasa GYZ batteries

LAUNCHED at the V-Twin Expo earlier this year, Yuasa claims that its new GYZ line of batteries have the highest CCA of any motorcycle battery (500 CCA on GYZ32HL), and that they offer more amp hours for more accessories.

The new batteries have large heavy-duty flush terminals constructed to allow front and top connections and fit requirements with built-in brass nuts for up to 50 percent better conductivity than stainless steel.
Internally the GYZ range has absorbed glass mat (AGM) separators to absorb electrolyte, making the batteries non-spill, while the taller plates provide extra surface area for more power. The through-partition construction used creates a shorter current path with less resistance than traditional over the partition construction, and this results in more cranking power. A leak-proof valve relieves excess pressure as a safety flame-arrestor and the heat bonded cover eliminates leaks and corrosion.

YUASA BATTERY
Laureldale, Pennsylvania, USA
Tel. 866 431 4784
www.yuasabatteries.com

Drag Specialties Seats

Drag Specialties seats selection

DRAG SPECIALTIES now has a version of its 2-Up Predator seat available to fit Victory touring models. The new seat not only features custom stitching, it also has a unique shape that uses flexible polyurethane foam for comfort on long cross-country rides.
The company’s patented solar-reflective leather used in the seating area is claimed to reduce surface temperature by as much as 25 degrees, offering a cooler seat, higher durability and longer life over conventional leather or vinyl.

Carpeting is used on the bottom of the 3/16in ABS thermoformed seat base to protect the bike’s paint, and the seats will also fit with OEM sissy bars.
The 2-Up Predator seat fits most ‘10-‘13 Victory Cross Country and Tour, Cross Roads and Hardball bikes.
Continuing with its selection of seats for Harley models, Drag Specialties Seats has a new Touring option. Along with crusade stitching, this seat has an improved shape, using flexible urethane foam. The solar-reflective leather, carpeting on the 3/16in ABS thermoformed seat base and rubber bumpers help protect paint and are all standard.
The driver area is cut narrow in the front and is approximately 1in lower than the stock seat, and it works with Drag Specialties Seats driver backrest kit/pads and the OEM frame-mounted driver backrest mechanism and backrest pad. The seat is available to fit ‘09-‘14 FLHT, FLHX, FLHR, FLTR and FL trike models. 

Another seat option that employs solar-reflective leather in the seating area is the Low Solo seat for use on Dyna models. This seat is said to have a lower profile and improved fit. In addition, optional rear pillions are available in matching styles and feature EZ on and off system for simple install and removal. All Dyna Glide Low Solo seats come smooth or with a flame-stitched design, and are available to fit most ‘96-‘14 Harley Dyna Glide FXD, FXDWG and FLD models.

Included in the selection of new saddle options from Drag Specialties Seats is the small low-profile spring solo seat. It features a heavy steel contoured base with black finish, and includes an adjustable front seat hinge and two rear mount studs for springs. The inner construction of the seat is made of 1/2in closed-cell foam, and a variety of leather or vinyl styles are available. 

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS
Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
Tel: 608 758 1111
drag@dragspecialties.com
www.seats.dragspecialties.com

PARTS EUROPE
Wasserliesch, GERMANY
Tel: +49 (0)6501 9695 2000
www.partseurope.eu

Pingel Enterprise

Greaseable FL shifter shaft and heel shift eliminator

PINGEL Enterprise’s latest release is a greaseable shifter shaft, which the company says allows the shift linkage to operate more smoothly and with less resistance.
The new shaft prevents shift linkage drag and lock-up on ‘01 – ‘14 Harley-Davidson FL models that do not have a grease fitting on the shaft, and can also be used as a direct replacement on ‘82 – ‘00 models. The Pingel shaft will accept any stock or aftermarket shift lever that fits the stock shaft. Manufactured from stainless steel, the exposed end is polished to match the chrome shift lever. 

Pingel’s heel shift spacer kit eliminates the heel shifter to provide increased floorboard space. Machined from billet aluminum and polished, the spacer kit will fit ‘84-‘14 FL models, and there is a second version for ‘86-‘14 Softail models. 

PINGEL ENTERPRISE
Adams, Wisconsin, USA
Tel: 608 339 7999
info@pingelonline.com
www.pingelonline.com