After the post on Chris Flechtner's Speed Shop Special #6, Jim Gianatsis, who took those great photos of Chris' bike, wanted to remind me the calendars that spun off the LA Calendar show, are 20 years old now and still going strong! Has it been that long? I admit, I've had more than a few of these calendars in my own garage. I still remember finding the garage door repairman … [Read more...]
BMW Planning R1200 GS Lifestyle Events
BMW is planning to take R1200 GS advertising in a new direction: The effort will veer from advertising and focus on lifestyle events, PR, celebrity endorsements and digital media. BMW says the point is to make the R 1200 GS a halo-motorcycle for the entire brand. There aren't any details yet so it's anybody's guess exactly what they'll do, maybe Ewan Mcgregor and … [Read more...]
Premium Motorcycles – Will You Pay More for Quality if Only You Know the Difference?
Are you willing to pay more (assuming you have the cash) for high quality (premium) parts and pieces that substantially boost performance and handling of a new motorcycle even if no one else notices the difference? If it makes the ride better, handling surer, acceleration quicker and increases durability but leaves no outward sign, is it worth it? How about a premium version … [Read more...]
American Honda Sets Up Shop in the USA
While relaxing in the vast reading room of The Kneeslider research library, I came across this vintage ad from Honda Motor Company announcing the establishment of American Honda Motor Company. The ad reads: Gentlemen: We have the honor to inform you that, owing to the rapid increase in the volume of our trade with your country and your many requests, we have recently … [Read more...]
Marisa Miller on Harley Davidson Muscle
Harley Davidson is about to launch a series of ads for the V-Rod Muscle featuring supermodel Marisa Miller. What's not to like? Harley Davidson press release: To emphasize the non-traditional pairing of sophisticated style and brute strength, Harley-Davidson chose to launch the new 2009 V-Rod Muscle in a distinctly non-traditional way—by teaming up with American … [Read more...]
No Rules Buell 1125CR
With our recent post on no rules racing and the current flap over Matt Mladin's crankshaft, I thought this new ad for the Buell 1125CR was appropriate. The words are on a scale from, "Follow the rules" to "Write your own." The Buell is positioned well into the "Write Your Own" side of the scale. Neat and very timely. … [Read more...]