Here's one answer to the "anti-trend" segmentation of the motorcycle market, a 1991 Honda CR500R resto-mod by Jason Meyer. If you look at the photos, you see a spotless, better than new, off road bike built just the way the owner likes it. It's almost 20 years old and he's got something you can't buy in any showroom. Jason has to build on a budget, but this bike looks great, … [Read more...]
US Highland – Build to Order Motorcycle Manufacturing in Tulsa Oklahoma
Many of us would like to see more motorcycles built in the U.S. and it looks like we'll be seeing just that in a few months. Tulsa, Oklahoma based US Highland will be manufacturing motorcycles right in the heartland of America, building the whole bike, even manufacturing the engines, in Tulsa. For those of you familiar with Highland, you might be saying, "Hey, wait a … [Read more...]
Vento 400 Cafe GT – 348 Pound 400cc 3 Cylinder Urban Commuter from PTS Motors
There's a strong contingent of riders always asking the same questions, "Why build every new motorcycle with a big engine? Why not build something smaller, affordable and light that still looks cool? We want a real motorcycle, not a scooter." OK, check out the Vento 400 Cafe GT from PTS Motors. If you think a light (348 pounds), nimble commuter with a 34 horsepower 400cc 3 … [Read more...]
Harley Davidson Expands Tire and Wheel Protection Program to 24 States
Harley has been testing out a tire and wheel protection program in 4 states and things have been working out pretty well, so they're expanding to 20 more states. The program covers the costs associated with the repair or replacement of tires and wheels, including labor and taxes, towing, lodging and meal reimbursement. If you're buying a new Harley or just a set of tires or … [Read more...]
Motorcycle Builders Continue to Evolve and Adapt
Last weekend, a new Ducati dealer opened in New York, Ducati Hudson Valley, the owner, Orange County Choppers. No matter what you think of OCC bikes or the dysfunctional family act they put on for the benefit of the TV cameras, I think it's a smart move. Custom bikes, especially of the high dollar sort they are famous for, are not moving so well and getting into a dealership … [Read more...]
Harley Davidson Super Ride – Try Before You Buy
Late last year, a survey of motorcycle shoppers reported that the inability to test ride a motorcycle had a big impact on whether or not the shopper would eventually become a buyer. Harley Davidson is addressing the issue head on with the Harley Davidson Super Ride program. Participating dealers are offering the program from April 1st to June 30th. After test riding the … [Read more...]