Rich Grabbe, producer of the DVD “Free to Wander” (you can preview HERE) held their release party Saturday February 21st, and from what we’re hearing the party was a huge success. It was definitely a bikers party….(aka buckets full of beer,mayhem, girls, moshing, and smashed beer bottles) along with the playing of the FTW film. With “The Trip Daddy’s” playing to a full house at Shady Jacks Saloon the place was pretty much “asses and elbows”. Many of the guys that appeered in the film were present, from Chicago, to Los Angeles To as far north as Canada. The Free To Wander release party was a continuation of the the films sentiment. Stay free, keep wandering, keep riding, and most of all have as much fun as possible in this carnival ride we call life! Congrats Rich! Looking forward to hearing more about the party and catching up with you during Bikeweek.

Hey, thanks for coming back! Great to see there are a few of you out there that have taste and style! Seriously, thanks for visiting. If you know of stories you think people would be interested in, shoot us a line C'ya!

Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse and Biker Fusion organizers announced today that this year’s Daytona Bike Week Fusion event and fund-raiser will benefit Black Hawk Medevac units in Afghanistan. The event will be held on Thursday, March 5th at the Dog House on Main Street, Daytona.

Black Hawk Medevac Units include amazing men and women that serve as medics, pilots and crew that save lives by treating and transporting our wounded heroes. When a soldier is wounded, the roar of a U.S. Blackhawk helicopter with its large red cross underneath means they just might survive. The arrival of the Hawk means a soldier knows they are getting out and the Medevac members know the chances of saving a wounded soldier are best if he receives medical attention with a crucial “golden hour”. These heroes see another side of the war up close. They live in remote bases that almost never have any creature comforts including showers.

The funds raised at Biker Fusion will sponsor Soldier’s Angels backpack care packages. Each backpack is approximately $50 hard cost and include logo blanket, sweat pants, logo zipper hooded sweatshirt, logo t-shirt, socks, cotton knit boxers, knit beanie cap, 60 min phone card, toiletry kit in logo bag, snack and never forget coin. Additional items such as computers, ipods, and other ‘cool’ items are also included when funds allow. Due to the remote locations of the Units, the backpacks will be shipped to a Convoy Support Center that will deliver them. Additional backpacks will be distributed to our wounded heroes that include a handmade blanket, adaptive sweat pants, logo zipper hooded sweatshirt, logo t-shirt, socks, cotton knit boxers, knit beanie cap, global phone card and toiletry kit in logo bag.

To raise funds, Biker Fusion will auction off one-of-a-kind Hard Rock Fender Guitars specially designed by event hosts, Ami James, Christian Clayton, Shelly Rossmeyer and Billy Lane. Additionally, Biker Fusion message cards will be available for donations at any level. The Fusion cards have an image provided courtesy of reknown photographer, Michael Lichter, and supporters are encouraged to write a message to the Black Hawk Medevac soldiers and to wounded soldiers the Hawks will share them with. Each backpack will be stuffed with the cards.

Biker Fusion is a chance for the general public to mix with the industry elite for a great cause. All proceeds go to Soldier’s Angels and there will be a live auction, featuring Hard Rock Fender Custom Guitars, bikini contest, and a limited amount of admission tickets sold to the general public for a $25 donation. It is always a good time and even better when we see the outpouring of support for our soldiers serving overseas.

Soldier’s Angels “May no soldier go unloved” mission is to “Provide care and comfort for our Soldiers” and offers a multitude of programs and projects to support the effort. For more information, please visit www.soldiersangels.org.

Biker Fusion – Daytona Bike Week is sponsored by Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse, R&R Promotions, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Destination Daytona, The Dog House, American Honey, 360 Brake, Baker Drivetrain, Wild Turkey, Spectro Oils, Hot Leathers, Love Hate Choppers, Choppers Inc, Sucker Punch Sally’s, Rise Above Consulting, Biker Design, Two b Printing, Stevensons Cycle, Brass Balls Bobbers and Stripper Juice.

As with any “generational change”…..things change. The interest, music, lifestyle, priorities, communications, etc. The same can be said with the motorcycle industry. The 50′s had the rough homemade “motorbikes” soldiers made after coming home from the war. The 70′s had motocross and choppers made from honda/harley/bsa and ridden everyday. The 80′s had the influx of crotch rockets, road racing and the start of “touring” bikes. The 90′s and early 2000′s had the billet and trailer queens. Now we’re facing the “Next Generation” (people under 35 yrs old) of riders (and builders) that have a passion for building utilitarian bikes that are aesthetically pleasing, mechanically sound and unique. If you want a visual of this group check out the “Limpnickie Lot” group. This next generation demographic is something that the major manufactures, whether they are motorcycle related or not, are having to get their heads around. At a recent panel discussion at the Easy Rider V-Twin conference in Cincinnati, Guilt Customs was fortunate enough to be a panelist (along with some industry legends) addressing “Marketing to the Next Generation“. While we won’t give all the data that we presented, here is a look at this “Next Generation”.

37% minority
49.3 million people make up this group
$1.4 trillion buying power
62% are married
29.7 million are parents
81% are employed full time
36% invest in stocks/options
30% of the internet using population
19 hours. Is what they spend engaged in some form of media every day
59% send instant messages
67% use social networking sites
72% watch videos online
43% read blogs
20% create blogs
10% visit a “virtual” world
8% are divorced

Everyone knows that the Guilty Truth Blog is more about bikes and the motorcycle lifestyle, but one trend we keep seeing pop up at a lot of events and in mag’s is Body Painting. That simple art of taking a woman’s body (curves and all) and putting paint on it to make them look like they have clothes on. The styles can range from as simple as a bathing suit to as elaborate as multiple layered suits. Again, all an illusion. Simple, unique and well, quite distracting. Initially made popular in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, body painting combines the best of both worlds. Granted, you’re basically looking at naked women, but because they’re covered with a layer of paint, you don’t feel like a total pervert. “Hey honey, i’ve got three cans high gloss paint, can you help me for a minute on a project…..”

One thing about technology that we like is that it’s constantly changing. Changing it’s use and integration into our everyday lives. If you have visited our site recently you’ll see a “tweeter” panel on the right side that gives you a chance to follow the Guilty Gang’s exploits on a more real-time basis. Some are funny, some just random thoughts, others, well just stupid. But one thing for sure, it’s not boring. If your a “tweeterer” then let us know and follow us and we’ll do the same. It’s fun and fast moving. Click HERE for the Twitter for GuiltyOne

Someone once said “great ideas come from necessity” and my favorite “man, why didn’t i think of that!” Well, the newest concept in motorcycle maintenance has arrived. Privateer’s Garage offers shared garage space with all the professional tools and equipment needed to maintain or repair your motorcycle. Including fully stocked Matco toolboxes! Whether you own a sportbike, cruiser, ATV or an off-road motorcycle, Privateer’s Garage is the answer for those frustrated with lack of space and tools. Equipped with 8 Stalls (all with stands), 2 motorcycle lifts, a tire changer, lifts, Drill Press, Compressed Air, factory maintenance manuals and a full selection of parts and equipment, motorcycle owners can use this garage space for as little as $25 per hour. Monthly and annual memberships are also available. Privateer’s Garage offers a variety of accessories and apparel by some of the industry’s leading names.

Kyle Indermuehle, President, explains the concept behind Privateer’s Garage;

“Being a motorcycle enthusiast myself, every time I worked on my bike doing oil changes, installing new tires, or prepping for a big trip, I was frustrated by not having enough space or a proper garage area to do the work. Inevitably, I wouldn’t have the right tool or part and would have to make one or several trips to a store to buy it. Another frustration was disposing of used oil and tires. This concept grew out of the thought that other people might like to have a proper garage facility to work on their bikes, too.” “As a mechanical engineer, I value the importance of having the right tool for the job,” says Technology and Operations Chief, Josh Davis. “At Privateer’s Garage, customers will always have the right tool.”

They are scheduled to open in March.

via: RoadracingWorld

So, where does one start in trying to capture both the energy, spirit and people that make up the Easy Rider V-Twin Expo? First we can start by saying that the Limpnickie Lot was the happening place! And that’s not just us talking either. Conversations about the “Lot” whether in the elevators, on the escalators, in the restaurants or walk ways was commonly overheard and encouraging words and support from industry leaders and legends only reinforced the decision that was made to push forward with this venue. Media coverage by various TV shows, online and print magazines were constant throughout the days. Even Jay Barbieri from American Thunder and the crew got involved as they filmed and held interviews with a number of builders for their new format TV show on Speed Channel.
With the builders represented and promoting the new “Limpnickie Builders” catalogue, (featuring parts from each participant), along with high energy video and audio as well as live skateboarding exhibits happening right on the main floor, the attendees were both inquisitive, some puzzled and others delighted to see how much fun some builders can still have.
The panel discussions that covered “Marketing to Women” as well as “Marketing to the Next Generation” brought a lot of attendees as well as needed attention to these two growing areas as did the panel discussion presented by Keith Ball of Bikernet on recent legislation facing the industry. Attendance, while down was not a deterrent to people asking questions, finding out about the newest products and generally networking with their friends and associates in the industry. Overall the show still represents the determination and indomitable spirit that this industry has represented over the years, regardless of the economic situation we find ourselves in. Sorry we don’t have any pictures yet, but we will shortly and will post.

As a parent of a special needs child (our daughter has Angelman’s Syndrome), we are especially tuned into events/causes that focus on bringing awareness. The following news release from Women Motor Cyclist tells of their upcoming event. Noted motorcycle industry spokesperson Brenda Fox will be the Grand Marshall.

Project Independence is an organization founded on the premise that parents of an autistic child (or any special-needs individual for that matter) will not be around forever to offer needed care the goal of the organization is to raise awareness and create a better understanding of what autism is. It strives to offer opportunities for Autistic individuals to become independent and productive rather than require help from others. Project Independence is staffed entirely by volunteers (e.g., no salary paid to anyone) all the money-every cent-is donated to families in need dealing with Autism. Supporting the ride will help raise awareness for Autism and helping those in the area coping with autism. The ride is based on the philosophy of a “good time for a good cause” two things the Cajuns love to deliver! The ride includes an overnight poker run that departs from Cajun Harley-Davidson in Lafayette, LA and travels to Natchez, MS, a truly beautiful and scenic ride. Cards are drawn at departure in St. Francisville, LA (where a great many ante-bellum plantation homes are located including the renowned Myrtles, very haunted!) with the final card drawn in Lafayette. The ride includes an arrival party at Doc Big Love’s in Natchez, great food, motorcycle raffle and a concert that is sure to be remembered. Guaranteed a Cajun good time!

Donations are accepted at: www.womenmotorcyclist.com
(Paypal button is on the left side after entering site)

Project Independence Carol Mesa 985-237-0429.
www.projectindependence.org.
www.womenmotorcyclist.com

Yep, you got it right, the Limpnickie Lot Builders will have a booth, catalogue and skateboard half pipe at this years Cincinnatti V-Twin Expo for 2009. The same Next Generation revolution that swept the nation in 2008 is coming to Cincinnati Ohio this year for the Easyrider V-Twin Expo… but this time it’s all business. Starting in Daytona’s Spring Bike Week the Limpnickie Lot threw down a flag for the Next Generation and the differences in the culture they share. From Punk Rock and Heavy Metal to skateboarding to hand built parts, the Limpnickie Kids started getting it on, as a group, and kept it going all year.

As the group toured the country this past year, (having great times, meeting the best people) they came to realize what a fantastic opportunity to use their network to help each other keep American Manufacturing alive and well in the motorcycle Industry. By setting up their own booth in Cincinnati this year and developing the first ever “Limpnickie Lot Builders Manual” they are on the door step of a new beginning. The Builder’s Manual is a collection of Next Generation Builders, artists and performers, all in one convenient catalogue. Complete with bios on cutting edge artists and Vaudevillian performers, some of the best hand made American Parts on the market today and tons of pictures from the year they had on the road, this is more than a retail piece, it’s a road map to who they are and what they do.

The Limpnickie Lot booth (on the first floor of the Duke Center) will be a 20×20 complete with a video presentation taken from all 2008 events and a full size, 8×16 half pipe with professional skateboard performers. Along side of the theatrics the builders themselves will be on hand to deliver the Builder Manual to shop owners and answer questions about the collection of parts from the catalogue that they will have on display. You can see a digital version of the first “Limpnickie Builder Manual” at http://www.limpnickielot.com/lnbm/index.html or just stop by and get one in person during the expo. Support the Kids with the funny name and visit the Limpnickie Lot, at Booth# 2619 during the Easyrider’s V-Twin expo in Cincinnati from February 7-9th. For more information on the Limpnickie Lot see their website at www.limpnickielot.com

Independent Cycles has chosen Custom Chrome as its dealer network to help spread they reach worldwide. This pairing unites the industries innovator of air suspension and one of the worlds most aggressive and successful aftermarket parts distributors. “With almost forty years of experience behind them, a strong will to support its dealer network and an experienced management team in place, this was an easy choice for Independent to make”, said Jesse Jurrens, founder and owner of Independent Cycle, Inc.

“The addition of this proven product line and the fostering of yet another industry relationship shows our commitment to growing this company and it’s ability to support our customers”, said Steve Veltri, Vice President of Sales and marketing for Custom Chrome.

“Custom Chrome is committed to aggressively expanding its product offering through quality manufacturers and industry relationships to improve its support of the brick and mortar dealer network worldwide” said Kurt Peterson, Media & Events Manager for Custom Chrome. While the addition of Legend Air Suspensions is complete and inventory is in place both here and in Europe; the two companies will continue to expand this relationship with the addition of other Independent Cycle Inc. products and design collaborations for future offerings.

TAM Communications’ print magazine MotoSports Retailer, has expanded into a free Web 2.0 interactive blog and web site for everyone in the motorcycle business. TAM Communications president Buzz Kanter recently announced MotoSports Business will become the first nationally circulated motorcycle trade magazine to replace its print edition with a web site. “There are so many new products and changes in business these days, it’s almost impossible to keep up with it all,” Kanter said. “We are using the speed and power of the Internet to help keep the motorcycle industry current.” Content runs as long as is needed to properly cover the subject and it can be updated hourly, seven days a week. Hmm. Sounds familiar. Didn’t we have a few other mag’s attempt this too a while back?