30-Plus New Products From the V-twin Expo
Every year on Super Bowl Weekend, everybody from the V-twin industry gets together in Cincinnati, Ohio, for the V-twin Expo. It is the place where all of the aftermarket companies, both big and small, introduce their new products. There is everything from new windshields to heated seat covers to new fuel-injection systems introduced at the show--and it is all Harley-Davidson (or American V-twin) based.
This year, it was difficult to narrow down all of the new bagger parts to the space we had set aside. In other words, there were a lot of new products for baggers. There was everything from new chassis kits to a new sidecover that incorporates a beverage holder. We could take up a bunch of space talking about the show and how great it was, but we're pretty sure that you're more interested in seeing the new gear for your bike, so before we get too wrapped up in the introduction, here are the parts...
Radial Mount Brembo Calipers
In an effort to both increase braking performance and add style, RMD Billet showed off their new radially mounted caliper setup. Combined with a new lower leg design that can be added to stock frontends, this high-performance system will stop you quicker than any stock setup. Superbikes use radial mount calipers because they work. The new leg/brake design reduces frontend flex and vibration during heavy braking.
For more information, call (507) 348-8877, or visit www.rmdbillet.com.
Hidden Oil Cooler
Due to ever-stringent EPA and global environmental laws, today's bikes come increasingly leaner from the factory. While good for emissions, a lean fuel mixture causes motors to run hot. While excess heat can be uncomfortable, it's also not the greatest ally for your motor or the engine oil. Oil Bud from Clarke Mfg. Inc. is a new, two-chamber oil cooler that fits out of sight under the framerails. Real-world testing on the hot streets of Vegas showed more than a 35-degree difference in oil temperatures between bikes ridden side by side. A built-in thermostat begins to open at 180 degrees and is fully open when the oil reaches 205.
For more information, call (406) 457-2458, or visit www.budsbikerparts.net.
Drinks at Your Fingertips
Riding down the road on a hot summer day many times leaves a rider thirsty, leading to fatigue and dehydration. Sure, you can pull over and grab the drink bottle that's stored in your saddlebag. There are a few bolt-on options to hold a drink bottle, but Reno Cycle Worx has come up with a composite sidecover with an integrated drink holder. A refreshing drink is right at your fingertips, allowing you to ride farther and more comfortably.
For more information, call (701) 232-6095, or visit www.renocycleworx.com.
Sculpted Pipes
Adding a nice set of slip-on exhausts is an easy way to improve both the looks and performance of your bike. BUB is no stranger to the world of H-D performance pipes and setting land speed records. The new Brouhard by BUB slip-ons feature three-dimensional sculpting along the body. Pipes are available in chrome or black, with the black pipe we saw having a flat finish.
For more information, call (530) 477-7490, or visit www.bubent.com.
Yuill Love It
The brothers Yuill, Mark and Brad, have almost four decades of high-level automotive racing experience. They have applied what they learned on the track with a complete motor upgrade to unleash the power inside your Twin Cam motor. The heart of the Yuill Bros. package consists of intake, exhaust, cams and EFI controller. Each part was designed to work together for optimal motor performance.
For more information, call (775) 848-8600, or visit www.yuillbros.com.
Shield Not Included
When it's time to upgrade or replace those stock rubber floorboards, look no farther than Concept & Design Cycle. This Canadian manufacturer uses state-of-the-art computer technology to design innovative bike parts. Here is the unique Gladiator floorboard model. Also available in passenger size, these beefy floorboards also offer some vibration control with the raised rubber nubs. They are sure to make you stand out in a crowd.
For more information, call (888) 633-1028, or visit www.cdc-cycle.com.
A Better Mousetrap
In 2002, H-D switched from using cleve block bushings in their swingarms to sturdier spherical bushings on touring models. Custom Cycle Engineering has developed a swingarm conversion kit that replaces the stock cleve block-style swingarm bushings with spherical bearings. The conversion covers all the FLT (and FXR) models from 1980 to 2001. This conversion dramatically enhances the handling and tracking by reducing stiction at the swingarm pivot. This allows the swingarm to react quicker to harsh road conditions, keeping the wheel in contact with the road.
For more information, call (800) 472-9253, or visit www.customcycleengineering.com.
Bright Accent Lights
Swint LED Lights introduced their latest in LED lighting: the MicroChrome accent light. These small, bright lights can be used to add some needed light or decoration to your favorite ride. LEDs last longer and use less power than traditional incandescent bulbs. For a custom look, the lights are available in seven different colors.
For more information, call (707) 569-0326, or visit www.swintledlights.com.
Style and Function
Designed to fit '01-and-later fuel-injected bikes, this fuel tank accepts the factory fuel pump and EFI gas line. Matt Risley Innovation tanks are built using 16-gauge, cold-rolled steel and then nickel-coated. MRI tanks are made to be used as a stock replacement tank that utilizes your stock Harley-Davidson fuel-injection components. All the legwork is already done for you, all you need to do is take off your stock tank, swap out the components and bolt the tank back on using your stock bolts.
For more information, call (623) 434-8884, or visit www.mattrisleyinnovation.com.
Are You Cool?
New from B'Cool Products are their 21-inch conversion fenders designed for the front of FL models. These 12-gauge TIG-welded fenders are metal-finished for a hassle-free installation. They are wider and longer to eliminate the offset mounting brackets. More styles are also available.
For more information, call (613) 925-0704, or visit www.bcool.ca.
Bag Bling
For those looking for new ways to be seen while having style, Panelite offers these saddlebag light accessories. Constructed of stainless steel, these pieces have imbedded LEDs on the side and back of the bag. They easily install between the stock saddlebag guard rails with hidden fasteners. Saddlebag Lite Panels are also available in different colors and styles.
For more information, call (800) 331-7952, or visit www.panelite.com.
Lowdown Plate
Auto-Gem makes great lighting solutions for all sorts of Harley-Davidson models right here in the good ol' USA and now makes the Lowdown license plate mount to go along with their Shotgun lights, which replace 1992-through-present FL bag mount/license plate bars.
For more information, call (800) 360-1955, or visit www.auto-gem.com.
See No Evil
Metalsport Inc. makes and supplies some of the hottest wheels in the industry. Designs range from mild to wild to these clear wheels that are hard to put into any category. The clear wheel is made from aerospace-grade plastic that is scratch-resistant. Matt Hotch and Eddie Trotta are but two builders who have built customs around these wheels. For extra coolness, go with the optional 360 Brake that eliminates rotors and calipers from cluttering the wheel. Wheel sizes are available from stock up to 26-inchers.
For more information, call (562) 776-9594, or visit www.metalsportwheels.com.
Where's the Brake?
360 Brake has released a newly updated and tested braking system that's like no other on the planet. Thanks to a complete braking system contained in the wheel hub, at first glance the bike appears to have no brakes at all. In addition, the 360 Brake allows you to show off your custom wheels. The 360 Brake system utilizes a circular piston and pads activated by hydraulic pressure to deliver 360 degrees of braking power to the rotor. The unit is designed for 1-inch axles with a 3⁄4-inch and metric reducer bushings sold separately. They use most standard master cylinders (minimum 9⁄16 for a single brake or 11⁄16 for a dual brake installation), saving some extra time and money.
For more information, call (317) 875-0360, or visit www.360brake.com.
Customize Your Tour-Pak
Custom Dynamics has lighting products designed to make your bike jump out of the darkness. For added visibility to your Tour-Pak-equipped bike, try the 48 LED taillight bulbs with your choice of smoked or clear lenses. The LED third brake light adds an extra brake light that gets you seen. Add a Shorteez antenna, and you're ready to roll.
For more information, call (800) 382-1388, or visit www.customdynamics.com.
Redneck Undresser
From the minds at Redneck Engineering comes their convertible bagger line of chassis, frames and complete bikes. Go from a drop-seat custom boulevard cruiser to full-on touring machine in minutes. The hidden shock design gets them out from behind the removable bags to increase capacity and eliminate the gap between fenders. The complete frame-mounted fairing assembly was designed to be quickly and easily removed. Complete bikes are available with either 88- or 103-inch balanced H-D Twin Cam motors along with Baker six-speed RSD transmissions.
For more information, call (864) 843-3001, or visit www.redneckengineering.com.
Cool Pipes
The black, ceramic-coated Big Shot Duals by Vance & Hines are a True Dual design that increases both looks and performance. Chrome badges and end caps highlight the dark look of the exhaust that includes full coverage heat shields. A set of optional quiet baffles is also available. Another nice example of a new pipe is the big V&H Monster Ovals.
For more information, call (562) 921-7461, or visit www.vanceandhines.com.
Banana Boards
The extremely comfortable Cyclesmiths floorboards are curved in front and back for a great look with a high-grip, riveted footpad. Two lengths are available: 14- or 19-inch lengths as well as matching passenger floorboards, brake pedal pad and shifter peg. Designed to work with floorboard-equipped bikes from 1980-2007, these boards will fit the late spacing used on all five-speed models with floorboards.
For more information, call (909) 987-3890, or visit www.cyclesmiths.com.
EZ-Up Center Stand
The EZ-Up center stand mounts to the frame with two bolts and allows the rider to apply the stand without dismounting the bike. To take the bike off of the stand, simply move into gear and ride away--it's as simple as that. The EZ-Up is available in three sizes based on suspension height: the CS-1 will fit standard suspensions, the CS-2 for lowered suspensions and the CS-3 is ideal for bikes that have been lowered at both ends. WheelDock's black powdercoated center stand is available for '89-and-later H-D FLH and FLT models and is offered in either a chrome or gloss black foot lever finish.
For more information, call (405) 743-8080, or visit them online at www.wheeldock.com.
Billet Tour-Pak Rack
Just one of many products from Rivco, this stylish billet aluminum rack fits nicely on top of the H-D Tour-Pak and mounts in the same holes as the factory rack. It's laser-cut from billet aircraft-quality aluminum and then triple chrome-plated. A set of matching saddlebag lid racks are sold separately.
For more information, call (888) 801-8222, or visit www.rivcoproducts.com.
CycleVisions' Electra Light Tech Trim
The Tech Trim is a windshield trim with integrated, sequential amber turn signals (16 run-turn LEDs). CycleVisions has created a simple and easy way to add some personal flare to your bike while simultaneously improving your overall visibility. The Tech Trim is also available as a solid strip without lights for those who are a bit reserved when it comes to auxiliary lighting. CycleVisions' Tech Trim plugs directly into '96-'08 FLHT or FLHX models with only two holes needed to be drilled for complete installation. The Tech Trim is available in chrome or black finishes to better suit your styling needs.
For more information, please call (619) 295-7800, or visit them online at www.cyclevisions.com.
Seven Gears?
Adding to their already impressive line of transmissions, Baker showed off their new DD7 transmission that is packed with a direct drive and close ratio seven speeds. Look for a review soon in an issue of Hot Bike Baggers.
For more information, call (877) 640-2004, or visit www.bakerdrivetrain.com.
CycleVisions' Bag Lites
The slick, chrome-plated, circular LED Bag Lites offer one unique feature that definitely separates them from the pack. The lighting kit includes a run-turn-brake controller (only controls these lights), which illuminates the turn mode in amber and the run and brake functions in red.
The Bag Lite kit comes complete with required gaskets and simple plug-in wiring that will fit '96-and-newer eight-pin connectors. These lights are perfect for custom applications where the stock turn signals have been removed. The Bag Lites can be mounted to any flat surface and require drilling of a 13⁄4-inch hole in the saddlebag.
For more information, please call (619) 295-7800, or visit them online at www.cyclevisions.com.
Production FBI
One of FBI Motor Company's production bike offerings for 2008 is the Razor Glide. With four color and five wheel options as well as a ton of other possible parts from the Fat Baggers catalog, you have plenty of trick choices while ordering a bike.
For more information, call (641) 774-7508, or visit www.fbimotorco.com.
Inner Coordination
For many, the sock interior of the H-D fairing is yet another canvas ready to decorate. Among the Hell's Foundry bagger line of parts is the new inner fairing that looks more like a fine automobile dash. The composite-hide material, available in several colors, adds texture, depth and style to the dash.
For more information, call (866) 999-HELL, or visit www.hellsfoundry.com.
Far-Out Baggers
Jim Nasi, who has a reputation for fantastic metal fabrication in the custom-motorcycle realm, has been busy making nothing short of the most stunning bag tops and sidecovers for FL-based bikes, showing he can do wondrous things in fiberglass as well.
For more information, call (800) 964-NASI, or visit www.jimnasicustoms.com.
Bagger Frontend Kit
Cleaning up the front of your bike couldn't be easier or more stylish for that matter. Pickard is offering a package deal that includes your choice of any 21x3.25-inch chrome wheel design and a raw, smooth-top/radius, one-piece fender. Polished 3D billet fender mounts are also included, which adapt to the stock H-D lower leg with proper fender spacing. Take a minute to browse though Pickard's wheel menu, and you will be amazed at the selection and value that their frontend kit offers.
For more information, call (972) 231-1298, or visit them online at www.pickardusa.com.
Get Blown
ProCharger now offers a compact and lightweight centrifugal supercharger kit for your 2007-and-later Harley bagger that will add up to 65 percent more power to your stock or already hopped-up motor within four to six hours of installation time.
For more information, call (913) 338-2886, or visit www.procharger.com.
Wheel Revolution
Renegade Wheels was showing off their entire wheel line, including their new offerings for 2008 together with the all-new Scottsdale as well as their state-of-the-art, multipiece black and chrome versions of the Tahoe, Monterey, Aspen and Phoenix.
For more information, call (714) 998-7241, or visit www.renegadewheels.com.
Heat Demons
If you plan on spending a considerable amount of time on your bike or if you live and ride in a cold climate, make it a point to consider Heat Demons grip warmers for your digit defrosting needs. The Heat Demons install inside the handlebar, are compatible with any grip and offer four custom heat levels, which are shown on the included LED display. The weatherproof grip warmers are available in black or chrome and can be mounted to any set of 7⁄8-inch- or 1-inch-diameter handlebars.
For more information, call (763) 571-9193, or visit them online at www.symtec-inc.com.
AMFD's RideMaxx and RideTuner EFI Controls
Three separate modes within the RideMaxx deliver maximum power, fuel efficiency and overall user-friendly performance gains with very little effort. Riders can simply plug in the RideMaxx unit into the ECU and control the settings on the wireless, handlebar-mounted RideTuner. The RideMaxx is a preset unit, which works immediately after its brief install process--the bike will run smoother with more power and less backfiring problems.
Of course, custom tuning can be achieved through preconfigured software maps that can be further customized on any dyno of your choice. New maps can also be installed into the unit with ease through RideMaxx's wireless Bluetooth capability.
For more information, call (866) 930-2930, or visit www.americanmicrofuel.com.
On the Streets
If you are a pimp or player, Urban Industries Inc. has the wheels for you in 2008--covered in hundred dollar bills, y'all. These guys are huge in the sportbike market, have progressive designs as well as finishes and are branching out with some V-twin offerings.
For more information, visit www.urbanii.com.