Harley-riding anthropologist Barbara Joans will sign copies of her memoir, "Bike Lust: Harleys, Women and American Society" 2001, at Scotts Valley Motorcycle Center 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The signing is part of an open house at the center, featuring female motorcyclists and safety demonstrations from law enforcement.
"I think there's a misconception that women don't drive motorcycles," said David McBrayer, owner of Scotts Valley Motorcycle Center. McBrayer organized the event to provide "insight into what many people don't realize is a shared sport."
Joans' book gives a take on two-wheeling from her vantage point as a female motorcyclist and academic. When she's not on her Harley-Davidson Low Rider, Jones serves as director of the Merritt Museum of Anthropology and chair of the Department of Anthropology at Merritt College in Oakland.
Bay Area photographer and motorcyclist Christina Shook will sign books alongside Joans. Shooks' coffee table book, "Chicks on Bikes" 2009, chronicles the culture and lifestyle of female motorcyclists. Through photos and stories, "Chicks on Bikes" covers young female racers, wind-roughened seniors, grease-covered mechanics and motorcycle fashion designers.
Female ownership of motorcycles is now the fastest-growing segment of new motorcycle owners, according to a 2008 Motorcycle Industry Council Owner Survey, and the demographic recently crossed the 10-percent mark, increasing from 9.6 percent in 2003 up to 12.3 percent in 2008.
Lt. John Hohmann from the Scotts Valley Police Department will give riding demonstrations 1-3 p.m. during the safety portion of the event, which will continue until 4 p.m. A Scotts Valley Fire Department member will hold CPR training and discuss first-aid techniques specific to motorcycle accidents.
"With motorcycle accidents, you often have internal injuries that are hard to recognize," said McBrayer, who explained that first responders to motorcycle accidents often don't realize first aid is a bit different when the accident victim is wearing a helmet. "There's a need for an understanding of how important it is to have basic first-aid skills."
Jenny Lefferts, CEO of Mad Maps Inc., is also expected to make a special appearance at Saturday's open house. Mad Maps publishes backroad touring maps and travel guides featuring scenic byways and drives for motorcycles and ATVs.
The number of American households that own motorcycles jumped 26 percent between 2003 and 2008, while the overall number of U.S. households increased roughly 5 percent, according to the Motorcycle Industry survey. Transportation climbed to second place as a reason owners gave for purchasing a motorcycle.
Showing posts with label Motorcycle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motorcycle. Show all posts
Monday, December 7, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Changing Hands Of Royal Enfield Indian Motorcycles
Production of Royal Enfield motorcycle is still prevalent even though it is the most-backdated model of motorcycles ever. The company began in Redditch , Worcestershire and dissolved in’71 however, India is the only place where production is still carrying on. Thus, the’63 model was named The Royal Enfield Indian Motorcycle and was then sold to America.
While Royal Enfield was most popular for its production of motorcycles, it made numerous other things, like rifle parts, lawnmowers, and bicycles. Their logo was a picture of a cannon with the motto “Made like a gun, goes like a bullet.
By’55, the Indian Enfield started producing Bullet motorcycles with license from a UK based Brand, and by’62, they were constructing complete bikes. Even when the Royal Enfield suspended in’71, the Indian company in Chennai continued the productions and bought the rights to the name “Royal Enfield” in’95 and it is 2009 and they are still in business.
The Indian Motorcycle Company in America experienced the most trying times, in the year’50. A company called Brockhouse Corporation had been financing the unsteady Indian company and purchased it in the same year. Some unlucky management choices led to splitting of the Indian unit into two: one for the sales, and one for manufacturing.
The producing sector could not meet the retooling costs for an overhead valve engine, and it closed in’53. Some Indian purists consider that to be the end of the “real” Indian motorcycles. But the sales arm of the company did not fold.
The Brockhouse Corporation had the rights to the name and after the Indian manufacturing failed, they began importing Enfields and marketed them as Indian from’55 to’70. This was an example of “badge engineering” but it was not successful. Even though the dealers still went on with the matchless Indian name after’59, the Indian name was removed from the motorcycles.
Quarrels as to who will earn the brand name became a big issue during that time of Indian Motorcycle history. The Enfield Chief was still produced in’60 – a rebadged Enfield 700 cc twin fitted with the fender guards, saddlebags and other Indian paraphernalia.
In’60, the Indian name was taken by Associated Motorcycles of Britain. But in’63 the US distributorship of Associated Motorcycles was absolutely taken by the Berliner Motor Corporation and all the hints of Indian name were silently removed for good. Until’99, the particulars of the agreement were lively through trademarks and branding disputes.
In the mid 60s, Floyd Clymer took the sales arm of the Indian company. He was a racer, author, motorcycle dealer, and a magazine publisher. Clymer tried to repair the Indian brand for the last five years or so, by fitting Indian nameplates to Italian Velocette-based bikes and also had prototype built based on the original Indian V-twin design. However, unfortunately, the prototype was the only one ever made.
The Indian scout motorcycle is a common favorite with bike enthusiasts all over the world. To learn more about accessories including Indian motorbike buckles click on the links.
While Royal Enfield was most popular for its production of motorcycles, it made numerous other things, like rifle parts, lawnmowers, and bicycles. Their logo was a picture of a cannon with the motto “Made like a gun, goes like a bullet.
By’55, the Indian Enfield started producing Bullet motorcycles with license from a UK based Brand, and by’62, they were constructing complete bikes. Even when the Royal Enfield suspended in’71, the Indian company in Chennai continued the productions and bought the rights to the name “Royal Enfield” in’95 and it is 2009 and they are still in business.
The Indian Motorcycle Company in America experienced the most trying times, in the year’50. A company called Brockhouse Corporation had been financing the unsteady Indian company and purchased it in the same year. Some unlucky management choices led to splitting of the Indian unit into two: one for the sales, and one for manufacturing.
The producing sector could not meet the retooling costs for an overhead valve engine, and it closed in’53. Some Indian purists consider that to be the end of the “real” Indian motorcycles. But the sales arm of the company did not fold.
The Brockhouse Corporation had the rights to the name and after the Indian manufacturing failed, they began importing Enfields and marketed them as Indian from’55 to’70. This was an example of “badge engineering” but it was not successful. Even though the dealers still went on with the matchless Indian name after’59, the Indian name was removed from the motorcycles.
Quarrels as to who will earn the brand name became a big issue during that time of Indian Motorcycle history. The Enfield Chief was still produced in’60 – a rebadged Enfield 700 cc twin fitted with the fender guards, saddlebags and other Indian paraphernalia.
In’60, the Indian name was taken by Associated Motorcycles of Britain. But in’63 the US distributorship of Associated Motorcycles was absolutely taken by the Berliner Motor Corporation and all the hints of Indian name were silently removed for good. Until’99, the particulars of the agreement were lively through trademarks and branding disputes.
In the mid 60s, Floyd Clymer took the sales arm of the Indian company. He was a racer, author, motorcycle dealer, and a magazine publisher. Clymer tried to repair the Indian brand for the last five years or so, by fitting Indian nameplates to Italian Velocette-based bikes and also had prototype built based on the original Indian V-twin design. However, unfortunately, the prototype was the only one ever made.
The Indian scout motorcycle is a common favorite with bike enthusiasts all over the world. To learn more about accessories including Indian motorbike buckles click on the links.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
new old bike
I wasn't too sure where this would fit in on this site, but here it is anyway. I built this bike last year. Built the frame, tanks, bars etc... I sold it a few months ago, but I have a ton of pictures and all on the build. Thought some on here might enjoy it!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Harley Davidson – The Road to Success
Some say the world is all about the survival of the fittest, that it is the basic law of nature that applies to all that exists in this world. Harley Davidson stands with all its pride, showing the rest what it takes to among the best. Its motorcycles have inspired generations and have given rise to biking as a culture. With Harley Davidson’s taking over Indian roads we decided it was time to give you a heads up on the company’s humble beginnings and the road it had to take to get till here.
Beginning: The story of Harley Davidson (commonly abbreviated as HD) began in 1901, in a small town of Milwaukee, in the Wisconsin state of the USA. William S. Harley, who had only completed high school at the time, developed plans and drawings for a single cylinder motorcycle of 116cc which he had intended for use in a regular pedal bicycle frame. He then spent the next two years along with his childhood friend Arthur Davidson using a workshop at Milwaukee to translate the drawings into a reality. In 1903, the work on the bike was completed and so began the legend. As it was the first bike they had developed, it had several flaws, one of which was the fact that it could not climb relatively modest hills without using the pedal, and so like any other great inventor; they dismissed it as a valuable learning experiment.
Harley_Davidson 1907
With their limited budget, they soon began work on their second machine in which they integrated a much bigger engine of 405cc’s. The bike had a loop-frame design which made it among the most advanced bikes of its day. They also received help from a friend named Ole Evinrude, who was at the time, building petrol engines for use in automobiles. The parts of this prototype bike were made at the local rail shops and it was put together in a shed 3 meters wide and 5 meters long, tiny compared to what their factories are today. In September 1904, the fully functional HD placed fourth in a motorcycle race held at the local park. By April 1905, these motorcycles were in production on a very limited basis. The same year they managed to sell about 3 of these bikes from a total of around 12 that were built in the same backyard shed.
The First Factory: The next big step in the history of the HD came in the form of their first factory on Chestnut Street in Milwaukee. This location is where you would find its headquarters even today. The same year around 50 motorcycles were produced. By 1907, William S. Harley had acquired a degree in mechanical engineering and decided to carry out an expansion of the factory with the addition of a second floor and later with additions of Milwaukee’s pale yellow colored bricks. With the additional floor came an increased production and they were rolled out 150 bikes in 1907.
The V-Twin Engine: At the Chicago Auto show in 1907, they showcased a prototype version of the 45 degree V twin engine which featured an 879cc engine which produced about 7 horsepower, this was twice of what the old single cylinder motorcycle could produce, the V twin bike also boasted of a top speed of about 97km/h. During the September of 1907, the company was officially incorporated and they began selling their motorcycles to police departments. This market has since then proved vital to HD.
This rise in demand drove up production to 450 machines annually in 1908 and by 1909, it was increased to 1,149 units. This engine to this day is what makes HD’s stand out from the crowd, apart from its advantages in terms of performance, it had a unique sound, one that was loud and almost wild when revved up and smooth and thumping when on the cruise. Several hundreds of patents were applied on the engine that made sure that there was no one else in the world who could make bikes with this distinctive and appealing noise.
The birth of the V-Twin and the Logo: 1911 was the year when Harley Davidson had designed the trademark bar and shield logos which it used on all its bikes to this day. The same year, there were around 150 manufacturers of motorcycles in the US out of which only just a handful managed to survive even a few years. By 1911, a new improved V-twin model was launched and it featured mechanically operated intake valves as opposed to vacuum operated ones. It had a total displacement of 810cc. The engine, in comparison to the old V-twin was smaller, yet it produced more power. This engine layout proved to be highly successful and due to the high demand, production of bikes with such engines were increased and by 1913, a large majority of the bikes produced sported these engines, with the single cylinder showing a decline in sales. The same year, the old brick factory was demolished and in its place, a new 5 story concrete building was built, this newer building also took up the neighbouring blocks leading to a massive boost in workspace. HD also entered their bikes in motorcycle races and they soon became the dominant bikes on the track. The following year in 1914, production rose to 16,284 machines.
Harley Davidson and the Military: 1917 saw the entry of the United States into the world war and this made Harley Davidson’s factories go into overdrive as they were requested by the military to produce bikes for the war. This had significance in history as it was the first time a motorcycle was used for combat purposes. They contributed about 15,000 machines to the military forces.
Soon after the war, Harley Davidson became the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Their motorcycles were being sold in 67 countries at the time. Production hovered at around 28,000 units a year. This superior achievement provided the impetus for HD to bring in changes to its motorcycles. Several improvements were put in place such as the trademark teardrop gas tank and a 1200cc V-Twin engine, also added was a front brake which was previously unavailable on HD’s.
Challenging times: The great depression, a period of severe economic standstill almost brought Harley Davidson down to its knees. Sales of bikes which stood at about 21,000 in 1929 went straight down to 3,700 in 1933. Several other manufacturers of motorcycles and automobiles had to shut down their factories in order to avoid bankruptcy, but Harley Davidson marched on, proudly unveiling their new bike line-up in 1934. At the end of the whole economic ordeal, Harley Davidson was one among the only two motorcycle manufacturers who managed to survive the depression. A few years later came World War II prompting Harley Davidson to produce motorcycles for the military just like in WWI; their engines were tested to their limits by the military and only a few have ever given up, it was this fact that boosted the commercial sales of Harley Davidson at the end of the war. In total about 90,000 machines were produced for the military and Harley-Davidson were awarded by the Army for their Excellence in Production.
BMW’s against Harleys: During the war, the Germans came up with their solution to the Harley in the form of BMW bikes. These bikes overcame the problems that were present at the time with HD’s such as engine overheating and damage to the chain and belt drive system when used off-road. The solutions were quite ingenious, BMW simply took the V-Twin engine and placed it differently creating the boxer engine where the engine heads hung out of either sides of the bike, this provided superior cooling and made the BMW’s run 56°C cooler than the Harley’s. Also used were shaft drives which proved to be a much more reliable and clever solution to the problems faced by belt or chain driven systems as they were sealed and protected from the elements.
Harley Davidson, under request from the US military created a bike featuring all of these solutions and came up with a new model named XA, it featured shaft drives and a boxer engine and shared no parts with other Harley Davidson’s. This was the same time the Jeep was introduced which could carry much more people and equipment over even the worst terrain. XA’s then were eclipsed by the Jeep and hence never made it into full production. But the earlier HD’s continued to be used by the military albeit for limited escort, courier and policing roles.
Competition and Stained Reputation: Harley Davidson fought stiff competition from Japanese and other manufacturers who imported bikes to the US that had tried to be better than the HD in all ways possible. This led HD to request the US Tariff Commission to impose a 40% tax on imported machines. The same request backfired at HD after they were charged with unfair competition and restrictive practices. The Hollywood movie industry also contributed to damaging Harley’s image with many movies depicting bikers who ride Harley’s as outlaws and gangsters, they were also associated with the infamous Hells Angels gang and several other groups of outlaws which were known to wreak havoc throughout cities with violent and at times, insane crimes.
Near Bankruptcy and Insults: In 1969, The AMF or American Machinery Foundry bought the company, in an effort to revive sales, AMF streamlined production and slashed the workforce which resulted in a labor strike and also lowered the quality of bikes. In essence, at that time, Harley’s were expensive, inferior in performance, handling and build quality when compared to the Japanese motorcycles. The resulting decline in sales almost made HD go bankrupt and the Harley Davidson name was ridiculed in several ways such as “Hardly Ableson” and the nickname “hog” also seemed insulting.
The Revival of the Brand: AMF found no other way to revive the brand and eventually sold the company in 1981 to a group of thirteen investors for about 80 million US$. This led to a massive overhaul of its functioning with a more stringent inventory control system. Harley Davidson at that time claimed that imported motorcycles, specifically from the Japanese, threatened domestic manufacturers of their very existence due to the sheer volume of bikes that were being imported and sold. The US International Trade Commission conducted an investigation into the claim and in 1983, the US president Ronald Reagan imposed a 45% tax on all imported bikes over 700cc’s. This prompted Japanese manufacturers to offer help to Harley Davidson which was eventually rejected.
The New Direction: The new management also decided that Harley Davidson should make its own footsteps and not follow others, hence rather than trying to make better motorcycles than the Japanese, HD made bikes that had a timeless appeal to them, the designs of the new bikes were inspired by their older machines with added input from owners about common customizations. Several components of the bike, like brakes, shock absorbers, carburettors and wheels, were outsourced from foreign manufacturers who made high quality components. The results seemed obvious, the bikes improved in terms of quality and combined with the classic HD looks and design, buyers soon returned. Outsourcing the manufacture of components also proved to be profitable to HD and hence the amount of overseas made-parts was increased while keeping its Made-in-America essence.
Accusations and Workers Strike: The new improved bikes saw record sales for HD and in order to increase growth, Harley Davidson expanded the number of dealerships throughout the US, even then there were waiting lists for almost a year for its most popular models. HD also recorded sales not when the bikes were actually sold, but when they were handed over to a dealer; this practice made it possible for the manufacturer to record high sales figures buy making it compulsory for dealers to accept a specific amount of bikes that were more than actually needed. This led to accusations of stock price manipulations by investors. The workers strike in 2007 took place after a the work contract of 2,700 employees expired, the employees wanted higher wages and benefits, this strike had caused the shut down of all production at the York facility.
Invading India – Mangoes in exchange for Harley’s: Harley Davidson had been researching for quite a while about the possibilities towards importing its bikes to India. The plans were delayed for several years for the single most reason why foreign manufacturers in general hesitate to come to India – Taxes. Also there was no emission norms specified at the time for bikes that were larger than 500cc. By 2007 Kamal Nath, the minister for commerce and Industry came to an agreement with the US authorities whereby Harley Davidson’s could be imported into the country in exchange for the export of Indian Mangoes.
With import duties at 60% and taxes of another 30%, it became obvious that a buyer in India would have to pay double the price. HD felt that demand was high enough in the country that it could overcome all those down sides.
Vrod
Looking Back: No one ever said that the world would be an easy place to live in, let alone run a business. Harley Davidson came through all of the ups and downs that were thrown at it, with flying colours. The iconic status of the brand has given rise to cult followers and several Harley Owners Groups can be found in all continents across the globe. What makes all its bikes so unique simply lies in its timeless, classic and simple design that appeals to all ages and races. Its macho sounding V-Twin that has been sound-patented ensures that there is only one brand that can produce the thumping machines we all know and love, its Harley Davidson and it’s here to stay.
Beginning: The story of Harley Davidson (commonly abbreviated as HD) began in 1901, in a small town of Milwaukee, in the Wisconsin state of the USA. William S. Harley, who had only completed high school at the time, developed plans and drawings for a single cylinder motorcycle of 116cc which he had intended for use in a regular pedal bicycle frame. He then spent the next two years along with his childhood friend Arthur Davidson using a workshop at Milwaukee to translate the drawings into a reality. In 1903, the work on the bike was completed and so began the legend. As it was the first bike they had developed, it had several flaws, one of which was the fact that it could not climb relatively modest hills without using the pedal, and so like any other great inventor; they dismissed it as a valuable learning experiment.
Harley_Davidson 1907
With their limited budget, they soon began work on their second machine in which they integrated a much bigger engine of 405cc’s. The bike had a loop-frame design which made it among the most advanced bikes of its day. They also received help from a friend named Ole Evinrude, who was at the time, building petrol engines for use in automobiles. The parts of this prototype bike were made at the local rail shops and it was put together in a shed 3 meters wide and 5 meters long, tiny compared to what their factories are today. In September 1904, the fully functional HD placed fourth in a motorcycle race held at the local park. By April 1905, these motorcycles were in production on a very limited basis. The same year they managed to sell about 3 of these bikes from a total of around 12 that were built in the same backyard shed.
The First Factory: The next big step in the history of the HD came in the form of their first factory on Chestnut Street in Milwaukee. This location is where you would find its headquarters even today. The same year around 50 motorcycles were produced. By 1907, William S. Harley had acquired a degree in mechanical engineering and decided to carry out an expansion of the factory with the addition of a second floor and later with additions of Milwaukee’s pale yellow colored bricks. With the additional floor came an increased production and they were rolled out 150 bikes in 1907.
The V-Twin Engine: At the Chicago Auto show in 1907, they showcased a prototype version of the 45 degree V twin engine which featured an 879cc engine which produced about 7 horsepower, this was twice of what the old single cylinder motorcycle could produce, the V twin bike also boasted of a top speed of about 97km/h. During the September of 1907, the company was officially incorporated and they began selling their motorcycles to police departments. This market has since then proved vital to HD.
This rise in demand drove up production to 450 machines annually in 1908 and by 1909, it was increased to 1,149 units. This engine to this day is what makes HD’s stand out from the crowd, apart from its advantages in terms of performance, it had a unique sound, one that was loud and almost wild when revved up and smooth and thumping when on the cruise. Several hundreds of patents were applied on the engine that made sure that there was no one else in the world who could make bikes with this distinctive and appealing noise.
The birth of the V-Twin and the Logo: 1911 was the year when Harley Davidson had designed the trademark bar and shield logos which it used on all its bikes to this day. The same year, there were around 150 manufacturers of motorcycles in the US out of which only just a handful managed to survive even a few years. By 1911, a new improved V-twin model was launched and it featured mechanically operated intake valves as opposed to vacuum operated ones. It had a total displacement of 810cc. The engine, in comparison to the old V-twin was smaller, yet it produced more power. This engine layout proved to be highly successful and due to the high demand, production of bikes with such engines were increased and by 1913, a large majority of the bikes produced sported these engines, with the single cylinder showing a decline in sales. The same year, the old brick factory was demolished and in its place, a new 5 story concrete building was built, this newer building also took up the neighbouring blocks leading to a massive boost in workspace. HD also entered their bikes in motorcycle races and they soon became the dominant bikes on the track. The following year in 1914, production rose to 16,284 machines.
Harley Davidson and the Military: 1917 saw the entry of the United States into the world war and this made Harley Davidson’s factories go into overdrive as they were requested by the military to produce bikes for the war. This had significance in history as it was the first time a motorcycle was used for combat purposes. They contributed about 15,000 machines to the military forces.
Soon after the war, Harley Davidson became the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Their motorcycles were being sold in 67 countries at the time. Production hovered at around 28,000 units a year. This superior achievement provided the impetus for HD to bring in changes to its motorcycles. Several improvements were put in place such as the trademark teardrop gas tank and a 1200cc V-Twin engine, also added was a front brake which was previously unavailable on HD’s.
Challenging times: The great depression, a period of severe economic standstill almost brought Harley Davidson down to its knees. Sales of bikes which stood at about 21,000 in 1929 went straight down to 3,700 in 1933. Several other manufacturers of motorcycles and automobiles had to shut down their factories in order to avoid bankruptcy, but Harley Davidson marched on, proudly unveiling their new bike line-up in 1934. At the end of the whole economic ordeal, Harley Davidson was one among the only two motorcycle manufacturers who managed to survive the depression. A few years later came World War II prompting Harley Davidson to produce motorcycles for the military just like in WWI; their engines were tested to their limits by the military and only a few have ever given up, it was this fact that boosted the commercial sales of Harley Davidson at the end of the war. In total about 90,000 machines were produced for the military and Harley-Davidson were awarded by the Army for their Excellence in Production.
BMW’s against Harleys: During the war, the Germans came up with their solution to the Harley in the form of BMW bikes. These bikes overcame the problems that were present at the time with HD’s such as engine overheating and damage to the chain and belt drive system when used off-road. The solutions were quite ingenious, BMW simply took the V-Twin engine and placed it differently creating the boxer engine where the engine heads hung out of either sides of the bike, this provided superior cooling and made the BMW’s run 56°C cooler than the Harley’s. Also used were shaft drives which proved to be a much more reliable and clever solution to the problems faced by belt or chain driven systems as they were sealed and protected from the elements.
Harley Davidson, under request from the US military created a bike featuring all of these solutions and came up with a new model named XA, it featured shaft drives and a boxer engine and shared no parts with other Harley Davidson’s. This was the same time the Jeep was introduced which could carry much more people and equipment over even the worst terrain. XA’s then were eclipsed by the Jeep and hence never made it into full production. But the earlier HD’s continued to be used by the military albeit for limited escort, courier and policing roles.
Competition and Stained Reputation: Harley Davidson fought stiff competition from Japanese and other manufacturers who imported bikes to the US that had tried to be better than the HD in all ways possible. This led HD to request the US Tariff Commission to impose a 40% tax on imported machines. The same request backfired at HD after they were charged with unfair competition and restrictive practices. The Hollywood movie industry also contributed to damaging Harley’s image with many movies depicting bikers who ride Harley’s as outlaws and gangsters, they were also associated with the infamous Hells Angels gang and several other groups of outlaws which were known to wreak havoc throughout cities with violent and at times, insane crimes.
Near Bankruptcy and Insults: In 1969, The AMF or American Machinery Foundry bought the company, in an effort to revive sales, AMF streamlined production and slashed the workforce which resulted in a labor strike and also lowered the quality of bikes. In essence, at that time, Harley’s were expensive, inferior in performance, handling and build quality when compared to the Japanese motorcycles. The resulting decline in sales almost made HD go bankrupt and the Harley Davidson name was ridiculed in several ways such as “Hardly Ableson” and the nickname “hog” also seemed insulting.
The Revival of the Brand: AMF found no other way to revive the brand and eventually sold the company in 1981 to a group of thirteen investors for about 80 million US$. This led to a massive overhaul of its functioning with a more stringent inventory control system. Harley Davidson at that time claimed that imported motorcycles, specifically from the Japanese, threatened domestic manufacturers of their very existence due to the sheer volume of bikes that were being imported and sold. The US International Trade Commission conducted an investigation into the claim and in 1983, the US president Ronald Reagan imposed a 45% tax on all imported bikes over 700cc’s. This prompted Japanese manufacturers to offer help to Harley Davidson which was eventually rejected.
The New Direction: The new management also decided that Harley Davidson should make its own footsteps and not follow others, hence rather than trying to make better motorcycles than the Japanese, HD made bikes that had a timeless appeal to them, the designs of the new bikes were inspired by their older machines with added input from owners about common customizations. Several components of the bike, like brakes, shock absorbers, carburettors and wheels, were outsourced from foreign manufacturers who made high quality components. The results seemed obvious, the bikes improved in terms of quality and combined with the classic HD looks and design, buyers soon returned. Outsourcing the manufacture of components also proved to be profitable to HD and hence the amount of overseas made-parts was increased while keeping its Made-in-America essence.
Accusations and Workers Strike: The new improved bikes saw record sales for HD and in order to increase growth, Harley Davidson expanded the number of dealerships throughout the US, even then there were waiting lists for almost a year for its most popular models. HD also recorded sales not when the bikes were actually sold, but when they were handed over to a dealer; this practice made it possible for the manufacturer to record high sales figures buy making it compulsory for dealers to accept a specific amount of bikes that were more than actually needed. This led to accusations of stock price manipulations by investors. The workers strike in 2007 took place after a the work contract of 2,700 employees expired, the employees wanted higher wages and benefits, this strike had caused the shut down of all production at the York facility.
Invading India – Mangoes in exchange for Harley’s: Harley Davidson had been researching for quite a while about the possibilities towards importing its bikes to India. The plans were delayed for several years for the single most reason why foreign manufacturers in general hesitate to come to India – Taxes. Also there was no emission norms specified at the time for bikes that were larger than 500cc. By 2007 Kamal Nath, the minister for commerce and Industry came to an agreement with the US authorities whereby Harley Davidson’s could be imported into the country in exchange for the export of Indian Mangoes.
With import duties at 60% and taxes of another 30%, it became obvious that a buyer in India would have to pay double the price. HD felt that demand was high enough in the country that it could overcome all those down sides.
Vrod
Looking Back: No one ever said that the world would be an easy place to live in, let alone run a business. Harley Davidson came through all of the ups and downs that were thrown at it, with flying colours. The iconic status of the brand has given rise to cult followers and several Harley Owners Groups can be found in all continents across the globe. What makes all its bikes so unique simply lies in its timeless, classic and simple design that appeals to all ages and races. Its macho sounding V-Twin that has been sound-patented ensures that there is only one brand that can produce the thumping machines we all know and love, its Harley Davidson and it’s here to stay.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Guidepoint Launches GPS Theft Recovery System for Motorcycles and Powersports Vehicles
Guidepoint Launches GPS Theft Recovery System for Motorcycles and Powersports
Vehicles
MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading telematics supplier
GuidePoint Systems today announced the launch of an all-new version of its
award-winning GPS-enabled theft-protection system for motorcycles and
powersports equipment.
The Madison Heights, Mich.-based telematics supplier said it is introducing
GPS Xtreme at the SEMA Show (Booth #38058) in Las Vegas this week. The new
powersport theft-recovery system is water-resistant, dustproof and features
the latest in advanced power management.
"Theft of motorcycles and powersports equipment is an epidemic," Guidepoint
CEO Rand Mueller said. "We've designed the new GPS Xtreme to protect against
thieves by making it the most advanced system on the market in terms of
reliability, durability and the latest in GPS technology. By combining it
with our 24/7/365 response centers, we can respond to thefts and tampering
quickly and with pinpoint accuracy."
Exposure to the elements and dead batteries can render an otherwise adequate
security system inadequate. The new GPS Xtreme features expanded
water-resistancy so it can be submerged for up to 30 minutes. The unit's
casing is also dustproof to protect its electronic components from even the
tiniest particles of dust.
GPS Xtreme also features the latest in advanced power-management, which allows
the unit to draw as little as 50 microamps of power without sacrificing a
moment's protection. If the unit senses motion, it immediately enters
full-power mode and sends an alert to Guidepoint's 24/7/365 response center.
About GuidePoint Systems: Sold through more than 2,500 new and pre-owned
dealerships nationwide, Guidepoint integrates GPS, advanced wireless
technology, the Web and 24/7/365 response centers to deliver a variety of
services to vehicle owners and fleet managers. Rated the #1 stolen vehicle
tracking solution in 2007 by international research firm Frost & Sullivan,
Guidepoint also offers a variety of driver safety, convenience, fleet
management and vehicle tracking services. Visit www.guidepointsystems.com or
call 1-877-GPS-FIND for more information.
SOURCE GuidePoint Systems
Brian Edwards, VP, of GuidePoint Systems, +1-616-262-7484,
brian@guidepointsystems.com
Vehicles
MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading telematics supplier
GuidePoint Systems today announced the launch of an all-new version of its
award-winning GPS-enabled theft-protection system for motorcycles and
powersports equipment.
The Madison Heights, Mich.-based telematics supplier said it is introducing
GPS Xtreme at the SEMA Show (Booth #38058) in Las Vegas this week. The new
powersport theft-recovery system is water-resistant, dustproof and features
the latest in advanced power management.
"Theft of motorcycles and powersports equipment is an epidemic," Guidepoint
CEO Rand Mueller said. "We've designed the new GPS Xtreme to protect against
thieves by making it the most advanced system on the market in terms of
reliability, durability and the latest in GPS technology. By combining it
with our 24/7/365 response centers, we can respond to thefts and tampering
quickly and with pinpoint accuracy."
Exposure to the elements and dead batteries can render an otherwise adequate
security system inadequate. The new GPS Xtreme features expanded
water-resistancy so it can be submerged for up to 30 minutes. The unit's
casing is also dustproof to protect its electronic components from even the
tiniest particles of dust.
GPS Xtreme also features the latest in advanced power-management, which allows
the unit to draw as little as 50 microamps of power without sacrificing a
moment's protection. If the unit senses motion, it immediately enters
full-power mode and sends an alert to Guidepoint's 24/7/365 response center.
About GuidePoint Systems: Sold through more than 2,500 new and pre-owned
dealerships nationwide, Guidepoint integrates GPS, advanced wireless
technology, the Web and 24/7/365 response centers to deliver a variety of
services to vehicle owners and fleet managers. Rated the #1 stolen vehicle
tracking solution in 2007 by international research firm Frost & Sullivan,
Guidepoint also offers a variety of driver safety, convenience, fleet
management and vehicle tracking services. Visit www.guidepointsystems.com or
call 1-877-GPS-FIND for more information.
SOURCE GuidePoint Systems
Brian Edwards, VP, of GuidePoint Systems, +1-616-262-7484,
brian@guidepointsystems.com
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Motorcycle madness
For those who choose four-wheeled transportation and might regard riders as renegades, visiting the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show at the San Mateo Event Center this weekend should be an eye-opening experience.“This is like a traveling motocross circus,” said Robert Pandya, spokesman for the exposition now in its 29th year. The show that commenced in Dallas, began its West Coast swing Friday in San Mateo and will continue through Nov. 22 before traveling to Long Beach and subsequently, Seattle.
Now in his fourth year, Pandya himself got into motorcycles not for the passion or sport of it, but purely for their economic utility. As a student with little money, a bike was an attractive alternative for him.
According to Pandya, that bad-ass biker image is mostly a thing of the past as motorcycles are becoming increasingly recognized as viable alternatives to cars.
“All that is now is a shrinking stereotype,” said Pandya when asked if people could expect to see renegade biker gangs roll through the event center. “This is a family show. It’s about educating novices and experts in a welcoming environment. You can’t even buy bikes here, so there’s no pressure like if you were at a dealership.”
Pandya said that the proverbial image of bikers as gang members actually began at the end of World War II, ironically enough in central California. The combination of a surplus of cycles and returning servicemen hyped up on the adrenaline from war consummated that lasting image.
“Today the Bay Area is actually the most ‘European’ metropolitan area in terms of transportation options,” said Pandya when asked about the various markets throughout the country. “This show draws from hundreds of miles and is a highly educated market for motorcyclists.”
By his estimate, Pandya is convinced California has the greatest integration of all types of motorcycles, followed by Washington state. Those varieties, including cruisers, touring, sport, dirt bikes and the scooter will all be showcased this weekend, giving those looking for a high performance race machine, or even a frugal economical commuter, something of interest.
“I have seven motorcycles,” said Pandya. “They’re like shoes. You need the right pair for the job.”
In addition to the major original equipment manufacturer showcases, there will also be demo events, a seminar stage “hub,” training groups, lifestyle booths, vintage clubs with their respective bikes and a women’s center dedicated to educating the fastest growing category in the market. Pandya stressed that since experts and enthusiasts present these categories, not salespersons trying to make commission, the environment becomes truly accessible to everyone.
When talking bike trends, Pandya noted that because they aren’t as susceptible to fluctuation in trends as consumer vehicles are, don’t expect to see much in the way of electric or hybrid motorcycles.
Though bikes have always been more efficient than cars, they typically have everything exposed as well. In turn, this makes designing a hybrid bike not as simple as just downsizing the technology, it must be built to brave the elements as well.
Because the California Air Resources Board and the Environmental Protection Agency are clamping down tighter on emissions and efficiency standards, resulting in more miles per gallon and lower emissions, there tends to be more promotion of motorcycle efficiency than before, even when in reality there hasn’t been huge jumps in green technology.
“Alternatives are still really slim, but when gas prices hike up again expect to see an increase,” said Pandya.
At bare minimum, finding parking in a city with a motorcycle is still easier than with any four-wheeler.
While the motorcycle industry may be close to shaking off the bad-boy image — even though manufacturers like Harley-Davidson have adopted it — don’t expect Hell’s Angels to return to the depths just yet. The most devout followers are hardly ever moved by outside influence.
For more information about the Cycle World International show visit www.motorcycleshows.com or call (800) 331-5706.
Z
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Saturday, November 21, 2009
The Pope And A White Motorcycle Helmet
You'd think this is a funny story coming up. A bit like a man and his dog walks into a bar, but it's not. A group of Colombian motorcycle riders are trying to draw attention to the 3,000 hostages still being held in Colombia, Gaza, Mexico & Guatemala.
A caravan of motorcycles, called the "Freedom Caravan" is making its way through Southern Europe at this moment. They started in Spain, then France and Italy.
The caravan arrived in the Vatican City and were received by the Pope. The Pope was asked to be the intermediary with the hostage takers. So far, the Pope agreed to pray for the release of the hostages.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Motorcyclists don’t forget aging veterans in Anderson County
ANDERSON COUNTY — Donna Campbell waved as more than 500 motorcyclists rumbled past her outside the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office for the third annual “You are not Forgotten” bike run.
Campbell, 40, of Anderson shot a video of the motorcyclists as they drove away to deliver items to veterans at the Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home. Those items included sweatshirts, pants, socks, books and board games.
Campbell is a member of the Cloud of Thunder Motorcycle Ministry in Anderson, which is one of the groups that participated in the ride.
“The vets need the help,” she said. “A lot of bikers put this on for them.”
The event was sponsored by the Teufelshunde U.S. Marine Corps Motorcycle Club of Anderson County. Sunday, there were 2,000 people, including riders and supporters, gathered at the nursing home for the event, said Randy Price, road captain of the motorcycle club.
The event also raised $2,000 for the nursing home through donations and and the sale of items, including food.
The Anderson County Young Marines provided the colors for the event outside the nursing home and the Sons of Confederate Veterans blew a 21-gun salute. Members of the Flying Tigers Skydiving Team parachuted into the event.
This year’s bike ride was held in honor of Calvin “Ed” Fitzgerald of Anderson, an Army veteran who fought in Vietnam. Fitzgerald was a veteran at the nursing home and became ill a few years ago. He asked to see motorcycles before he died in 2006. His request created the event, Price said.
Price said that he was pleased with the turnout on Sunday.
“This shows the camaraderie the vets have,” he said. “We should never take our freedoms for granted.”
Sherry Fleming, recreation director at Richard Campbell Veterans Nursing Home, said patients will use the donated items throughout the year. She said they have been looking forward to the event for a while.
“A lot of them really like it,” she said. “They enjoy seeing the bikes come out and talking to the riders.”
Rider Jerry Bostic, 62, of Pendleton sat on a lawn chair with his wife, Jane, outside the nursing home as they watched the event. He said he is a Army veteran who fought in the Vietnam War.
Bostic said that it was a wonderful event.
“I enjoyed it thoroughly,” he said. “I’m a veteran and I support the veterans. I thought coming out would be showing my support.”
Angela Stringer, a spokesperson for Anderson County government, said she was impressed with the bike ride and ceremony.
“It is great to see this many bikes and people support this and know this many people in the county appreciate the debt that was paid,” she said.
Richard “Papa Smurf” Taylor, president of Cloud of Thunder Motorcycle Ministry, said that 25 people from his ministry came out for the ceremony. Members of his church made a large clothing donation to the nursing home.
Taylor also participated in the motorcycle ride on Sunday.
“It was wonderful,” he said. “It was one of the greatest feelings in the world.”
Photo Gallery
You Are Not Forgotten bike ride
Several hundred motorcyclists rode from the Anderson County War Memorial to the Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home on Sunday in support of veterans.
Motorcyclists rumble through downtown Anderson on their way to Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home during the "You Are Not Forgotten" bike ride on Sunday.
Campbell, 40, of Anderson shot a video of the motorcyclists as they drove away to deliver items to veterans at the Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home. Those items included sweatshirts, pants, socks, books and board games.
Campbell is a member of the Cloud of Thunder Motorcycle Ministry in Anderson, which is one of the groups that participated in the ride.
“The vets need the help,” she said. “A lot of bikers put this on for them.”
The event was sponsored by the Teufelshunde U.S. Marine Corps Motorcycle Club of Anderson County. Sunday, there were 2,000 people, including riders and supporters, gathered at the nursing home for the event, said Randy Price, road captain of the motorcycle club.
The event also raised $2,000 for the nursing home through donations and and the sale of items, including food.
The Anderson County Young Marines provided the colors for the event outside the nursing home and the Sons of Confederate Veterans blew a 21-gun salute. Members of the Flying Tigers Skydiving Team parachuted into the event.
This year’s bike ride was held in honor of Calvin “Ed” Fitzgerald of Anderson, an Army veteran who fought in Vietnam. Fitzgerald was a veteran at the nursing home and became ill a few years ago. He asked to see motorcycles before he died in 2006. His request created the event, Price said.
Price said that he was pleased with the turnout on Sunday.
“This shows the camaraderie the vets have,” he said. “We should never take our freedoms for granted.”
Sherry Fleming, recreation director at Richard Campbell Veterans Nursing Home, said patients will use the donated items throughout the year. She said they have been looking forward to the event for a while.
“A lot of them really like it,” she said. “They enjoy seeing the bikes come out and talking to the riders.”
Rider Jerry Bostic, 62, of Pendleton sat on a lawn chair with his wife, Jane, outside the nursing home as they watched the event. He said he is a Army veteran who fought in the Vietnam War.
Bostic said that it was a wonderful event.
“I enjoyed it thoroughly,” he said. “I’m a veteran and I support the veterans. I thought coming out would be showing my support.”
Angela Stringer, a spokesperson for Anderson County government, said she was impressed with the bike ride and ceremony.
“It is great to see this many bikes and people support this and know this many people in the county appreciate the debt that was paid,” she said.
Richard “Papa Smurf” Taylor, president of Cloud of Thunder Motorcycle Ministry, said that 25 people from his ministry came out for the ceremony. Members of his church made a large clothing donation to the nursing home.
Taylor also participated in the motorcycle ride on Sunday.
“It was wonderful,” he said. “It was one of the greatest feelings in the world.”
Photo Gallery
You Are Not Forgotten bike ride
Several hundred motorcyclists rode from the Anderson County War Memorial to the Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home on Sunday in support of veterans.
Motorcyclists rumble through downtown Anderson on their way to Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home during the "You Are Not Forgotten" bike ride on Sunday.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
History of the Motorcycle
American, Sylvester Howard Roper (1823-1896) invented a two-cylinder, steam-engine motorcycle (powered by coal) in 1867. This can be considered the first motorcycle, if you allow your description of a motorcycle to include a steam engine. Howard Roper also invented a steam engine car.
Gottlieb Daimler - First Gas Engined Motorcycle
German, Gottlieb Daimler invented the first gas-engined motorcycle in 1885, which was an engine attached to a wooden bike. That marked the moment in history when the dual development of a viable gas-powered engine and the modern bicycle collided.
Gottlieb Daimler used a new engine invented by engineer, Nicolaus Otto. Otto invented the first "Four-Stroke Internal-Combustion Engine" in 1876. He called it the "Otto Cycle Engine" As soon as he completed his engine, Daimler (a former Otto employee) built it into a motorcycle.
The Harley Davidson Motorcycle
Many of the nineteenth century inventors who worked on early motorcycles often moved on to other inventions. Daimler and Roper, for example, both went on to develop automobiles.
However, inventors such as William Harley and the Davidsons brothers continued to develop motorcycles and their business competitors were other new start-up companies such as Excelsior, Indian, Pierce, Merkel, Schickel and Thor. In 1903, William Harley and his friends Arthur and Walter Davidson launched the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. The bike had a quality engine, so it could prove itself in races, however, the company planned to manufacture it as a transport vehicle. Merchant, C. H. Lange, sold the first officially distributed Harley-Davidson in Chicago.
Gottlieb Daimler - First Gas Engined Motorcycle
German, Gottlieb Daimler invented the first gas-engined motorcycle in 1885, which was an engine attached to a wooden bike. That marked the moment in history when the dual development of a viable gas-powered engine and the modern bicycle collided.
Gottlieb Daimler used a new engine invented by engineer, Nicolaus Otto. Otto invented the first "Four-Stroke Internal-Combustion Engine" in 1876. He called it the "Otto Cycle Engine" As soon as he completed his engine, Daimler (a former Otto employee) built it into a motorcycle.
The Harley Davidson Motorcycle
Many of the nineteenth century inventors who worked on early motorcycles often moved on to other inventions. Daimler and Roper, for example, both went on to develop automobiles.
However, inventors such as William Harley and the Davidsons brothers continued to develop motorcycles and their business competitors were other new start-up companies such as Excelsior, Indian, Pierce, Merkel, Schickel and Thor. In 1903, William Harley and his friends Arthur and Walter Davidson launched the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. The bike had a quality engine, so it could prove itself in races, however, the company planned to manufacture it as a transport vehicle. Merchant, C. H. Lange, sold the first officially distributed Harley-Davidson in Chicago.
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