Online database now with document search by key number
For some time now, retailers and motorcyclists have been able to search for manufacturer certificates, service information or parts reports for motorcycle tires in an online database created specifically by Bridgestone.With the latest technical expansion of this database, Bridgestone is now the first motorcycle tire manufacturer to offer a release search based on key numbers.The database with the new search function is accessible athttps://motorradfreigabe.info.
When equipping motorcycles, the right tires are crucial for the highest possible safety on the road. The corresponding recommendations for the respective model are therefore crucial. Depending on the vehicle, the accessible documents can serve as a basis for registering the tires with a technical inspection body or as information about the recommended tires.
Bridgestone helps customers find the correct tire recommendation using the online database. Users can search by vehicle model, type or, from now on, also with the HSN/TSN numbers.
The database with a new search function is accessible at https://motorradfreigabe.info . Documents for almost 4,000 vehicles from 74 different manufacturers are currently available there. Almost 800 documents for the new Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 are currently available online. This means customers receive optimal support when choosing tires and motorcycle tire dealers receive an important advantage when it comes to individual purchasing advice.
“The approval for motorcycle tires is crucial for driving safety. “We want to support exactly this with the optimized search function of our online tool,” says Wolfgang Terfloth, Head of Sales for Motorcycle Tires Bridgestone Central Europe. “We attach great importance to meeting the wishes and needs of our customers in the best possible way and thus offering an optimal service that delivers the necessary safety, quality and reliability.”
If you have any questions, Bridgestone technicians can be reached between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. by telephone on 06172 408255 or by email at mc-technik@bridgestone.eu . The contact options are also available directly on the tire release website.
Online database now with document search by key number
For some time now, retailers and motorcyclists have been able to search for manufacturer certificates, service information or parts reports for motorcycle tires in an online database created specifically by Bridgestone.With the latest technical expansion of this database, Bridgestone is now the first motorcycle tire manufacturer to offer a release search based on key numbers.The database with the new search function is accessible athttps://motorradfreigabe.info.
When equipping motorcycles, the right tires are crucial for the highest possible safety on the road. The corresponding recommendations for the respective model are therefore crucial. Depending on the vehicle, the accessible documents can serve as a basis for registering the tires with a technical inspection body or as information about the recommended tires.
Bridgestone helps customers find the correct tire recommendation using the online database. Users can search by vehicle model, type or, from now on, also with the HSN/TSN numbers.
The database with a new search function is accessible at https://motorradfreigabe.info . Documents for almost 4,000 vehicles from 74 different manufacturers are currently available there. Almost 800 documents for the new Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 are currently available online. This means customers receive optimal support when choosing tires and motorcycle tire dealers receive an important advantage when it comes to individual purchasing advice.
“The approval for motorcycle tires is crucial for driving safety. “We want to support exactly this with the optimized search function of our online tool,” says Wolfgang Terfloth, Head of Sales for Motorcycle Tires Bridgestone Central Europe. “We attach great importance to meeting the wishes and needs of our customers in the best possible way and thus offering an optimal service that delivers the necessary safety, quality and reliability.”
If you have any questions, Bridgestone technicians can be reached between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. by telephone on 06172 408255 or by email at mc-technik@bridgestone.eu . The contact options are also available directly on the tire release website.
If 1 kilogram of hydrogen gives a car a range of (around) 100 kilometers, an H2 tank for the electric drive can also be accommodated in the limited installation space of a motorcycle. It is much more demanding to accommodate a complete fuel cell system in the frame structure, which is required “on board” to convert the hydrogen into electrical energy.
A German-Czech consortium of research institutions and manufacturing companies is now taking on this challenge: By the end of 2025, a drivable motorcycle will be built as a demonstrator that meets the strict European approval standards and certification regulations.
The hydrogen bike is intended to serve as inspiration for the mobility of the future. Due to its agility and compactness, the two-wheeler is interesting for inner-city delivery services and parcel deliverers. It enables CO 2 -neutral mobility and helps reduce noise emissions. The advantage over battery-electric solutions is the greater range and shorter refueling times.
Division of labor
In the Hydrocycle project, the partners from the Czech Republic are working on vehicle development and are driving forward the work packages of vehicle structure, ergonomics and packaging (accommodating the technology in the available installation space). The German project partners are concentrating on the powertrain. The company WätaSwärmetauscher Sachsen GmbH is developing a new generation of fuel cell stack as the basis for the drive train; the Fraunhofer IWU supports with the reference factory.
H2 the development of new manufacturing technologies and the improvement of the stack functionalities. The Chemnitz research institute is also responsible for the dimensioning of the system and the packaging. The IWU is also responsible for a smooth interface between vehicle and fuel cell system development.
Project background
Hydrocycle contributes to the European Union's hydrogen strategy. From 2030 onwards, the EU guidelines call for hydrogen from renewable energies to play a key role in the transport sector so that the Union becomes climate neutral by 2050.
With their project, the project partners Fraunhofer IWU, WätaSwärmetauscher Sachsen GmbH (Olbernhau), 1to1design (Prague), Czech Technical University (ČVUT, Prague) and ÚJV Řež (Husinec) are following a call for funding for joint Czech-Saxon joint projects in the area of sustainable and mobility Transport systems for people and goods.
Text & image credits: Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU
If 1 kilogram of hydrogen gives a car a range of (around) 100 kilometers, an H2 tank for the electric drive can also be accommodated in the limited installation space of a motorcycle. It is much more demanding to accommodate a complete fuel cell system in the frame structure, which is required “on board” to convert the hydrogen into electrical energy.
A German-Czech consortium of research institutions and manufacturing companies is now taking on this challenge: By the end of 2025, a drivable motorcycle will be built as a demonstrator that meets the strict European approval standards and certification regulations.
The hydrogen bike is intended to serve as inspiration for the mobility of the future. Due to its agility and compactness, the two-wheeler is interesting for inner-city delivery services and parcel deliverers. It enables CO 2 -neutral mobility and helps reduce noise emissions. The advantage over battery-electric solutions is the greater range and shorter refueling times.
Division of labor
In the Hydrocycle project, the partners from the Czech Republic are working on vehicle development and are driving forward the work packages of vehicle structure, ergonomics and packaging (accommodating the technology in the available installation space). The German project partners are concentrating on the powertrain. The company WätaSwärmetauscher Sachsen GmbH is developing a new generation of fuel cell stack as the basis for the drive train; the Fraunhofer IWU supports with the reference factory.
H2 the development of new manufacturing technologies and the improvement of the stack functionalities. The Chemnitz research institute is also responsible for the dimensioning of the system and the packaging. The IWU is also responsible for a smooth interface between vehicle and fuel cell system development.
Project background
Hydrocycle contributes to the European Union's hydrogen strategy. From 2030 onwards, the EU guidelines call for hydrogen from renewable energies to play a key role in the transport sector so that the Union becomes climate neutral by 2050.
With their project, the project partners Fraunhofer IWU, WätaSwärmetauscher Sachsen GmbH (Olbernhau), 1to1design (Prague), Czech Technical University (ČVUT, Prague) and ÚJV Řež (Husinec) are following a call for funding for joint Czech-Saxon joint projects in the area of sustainable and mobility Transport systems for people and goods.
Text & image credits: Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU
Having the right battery charger for your Harley-Davidson is important so that your battery can survive the winter, or rather as many winters as possible.
This will have happened to most of us. At some point in the fall you parked your Harley-Davidson in the garage, winterized it and thought everything was fine. It's supposed to start again in the spring and it doesn't make a sound the first time it tries to start.
An active alarm system draws electricity
What could have happened now, either the alarm system drained the battery over time, or your battery couldn't cope with the cold. It can sometimes suffer from old age or is simply broken. There could be other reasons for the failure, but at some point they will simply be over. However, if you treat them well, you can extend their life by a few years.
Of course, it always depends on the circumstances; some of the following tips are generally quite useful.
Simply remove the fuse - but then the alarm system is no longer active. Cold temperatures can still cause problems for the battery.
Remove battery and store warm and dry.
However, the recommendation is a battery trickle charger
When purchasing a starter battery, pay attention to quality with a high starting current.
In my experience, if you ask your buddies, they usually recommend an original Harley-Davidson AGM battery; it has a high starting power and enough power to bring the V2 back to life. When it comes to an alternative aftermarket battery, some use Yuasa or East Penn batteries. You really shouldn't save money on batteries, they sometimes fail when you least need them, so you should really pay attention to quality here.
The Harley-Davidson 1 Amp Battery Charger
If you are looking for a good charger for your Harley, the small and very proven 1 amp charger is sufficient. The price is around €84, but at times it is difficult to obtain.
Why the Harley-Davidson charger?
The advantages of the Harley-Davidson battery charger
With the trickle charge function, not only ensure that the starter battery does not discharge over the winter, but also extend the life of your battery by years. Other chargers can certainly do the same thing, but as I just discovered with the Pan America, the plug is there to conveniently connect the charger, but that's probably only possible for Harley-Davidson chargers. This has to do with the Can bus, which recognizes what kind of device is connected to the so-called SAE plug.
Harley-Davidson battery charger plug (SAE plug)
You cannot supply power to the battery via this connector unless you have a compatible device. The alternative is actually just to re-lay a separate cable to the battery. For my part, I now have the right HD charger, which I currently have attached to my EVO so that I don't have to worry about attaching a newer Harley-Davidson to the charger in the future.
After all, Harley-Davidson even offers a 5-year guarantee on the 1-amp battery charger. Now I know what it's like when you don't have the operating instructions in your head and I'm happy to list the information below.
What’s included – unboxing
Multilingual operating instructions, including German.
Pole terminals on SAE plugs fused with 2 amps, the total length is approx. 60cm
1 amp Harley-Davidson battery charger on SAE plug, the total length is approx. 2.25m
Attention, don't just connect the charger, read it first!
It may not seem like it, but even small chargers need to be operated correctly so that no damage is done to the battery.
The Harley-Davidson 1 Amp Battery Charger has six (6) modes: Standby, 12V, 12V AGM, 12V LITHIUM, 6V and Force. Some charging modes require three (3) to five (5) seconds. Long press to activate the mode. These Pressed Had* modes are advanced loading modes that require your full attention before selecting.
It's important to understand the differences and purposes of each charging mode. Always check with the battery manufacturer to confirm the correct charging mode for the specific battery installed. Only use the charger once you know the appropriate charging mode for your battery and you really know what type of battery you have installed.
In standby mode, the charger does not charge and does not supply any power to the battery. The energy saving function is activated in this mode, which means that only minimal power is drawn from the mains connection. CanBus is activated. In standby mode, the orange LED lights up. - No electricity.
12V
For charging wet, gel, EFB, MF and calcium batteries with 12 volts. If this is selected, the 12 V white LED lights up. – 14.5V I1A| Batteries up to 30 Ah.
12V AGM
For charging 12V AGM batteries. If this is selected, the 12V AGM white LED lights up. – 14.8 | 1 A | Batteries up to 30 Ah.
12V lithium
For charging 12-volt lithium-ion batteries, including Lithiurn iron phosphate. If this is selected, the 12V lithium blue LED lights up. For use with batteries with battery management systems (BMS) only. – 14.6V | 1 A / Batteries up to 30 Ah.
6V / Hold for 3 seconds
For charging wet, gel, EFB, MF and calcium batteries with 6 volts. If this is selected, the 6V white LED lights up. – 7.25 VI 1 A | Batteries up to 30 Ah
Force mode (forced charge) Press and hold (5 seconds)
To charge batteries with a voltage lower than 1V. Press and hold for five (5) seconds to activate Force Mode. Then the selected charging mode will operate in force mode for five (S) minutes before switching back to standard charging in the selected mode. – 1A | Batteries up to 30 Ah
There are other chargers from Harley-Davidson. If you need a little more current, you can use the 5 amp device. If you have several vehicles parked together, you can find the dual mode battery charger for up to 4 batteries in the Harley-Davidson portfolio.
Questions and answers about the battery for your Harley-Davidson
How long does a battery have to charge?
Under normal circumstances, with an appropriate battery charger, an intact battery needs approx. 12 hours to be sufficiently charged.
How powerful should a battery be for a Harley-Davidson?
A Harley-Davidson starter battery should have sufficient starting current. Harley-Davidson engines usually have a very large displacement, which requires a lot of power, especially when cold.
Why an AGM battery?
Electrochemical processes take place in batteries. Electrolytes transport electrical charge. An AGM battery binds the electrolytes into a fiberglass fleece. One of the most important points is that it is not as susceptible to vibrations, where a short circuit can quickly occur with conventional batteries as they get older. AGM batteries do not leak and can withstand tilted positions.
How long does a battery usually last?
With good care, it is not uncommon for batteries to last longer than five years. In Harleysite Facebook comments, there have been reports of batteries lasting as long as 12 years when properly cared for using a battery trickle charger.
Avoid deep discharge
One of the biggest dangers to a battery is when it becomes deeply discharged. This can happen if consumers continue to run after a long period of idle time; digital clocks and especially alarm systems are known for this.
Charge the battery without a 220 volt connection?
What to do if you don't have a 220 volt connection nearby? For example, there is a battery charger from Optimate that has a DC-DC connection. The OptiMate DC-DUO 12V 2A charger can be connected to a car battery and then used to charge a motorcycle battery.
Text & image credits: Harleysite – Some links are affiliate product links.
Having the right battery charger for your Harley-Davidson is important so that your battery can survive the winter, or rather as many winters as possible.
This will have happened to most of us. At some point in the fall you parked your Harley-Davidson in the garage, winterized it and thought everything was fine. It's supposed to start again in the spring and it doesn't make a sound the first time it tries to start.
An active alarm system draws electricity
What could have happened now, either the alarm system drained the battery over time, or your battery couldn't cope with the cold. It can sometimes suffer from old age or is simply broken. There could be other reasons for the failure, but at some point they will simply be over. However, if you treat them well, you can extend their life by a few years.
Of course, it always depends on the circumstances; some of the following tips are generally quite useful.
Simply remove the fuse - but then the alarm system is no longer active. Cold temperatures can still cause problems for the battery.
Remove battery and store warm and dry.
However, the recommendation is a battery trickle charger
When purchasing a starter battery, pay attention to quality with a high starting current.
In my experience, if you ask your buddies, they usually recommend an original Harley-Davidson AGM battery; it has a high starting power and enough power to bring the V2 back to life. When it comes to an alternative aftermarket battery, some use Yuasa or East Penn batteries. You really shouldn't save money on batteries, they sometimes fail when you least need them, so you should really pay attention to quality here.
The Harley-Davidson 1 Amp Battery Charger
If you are looking for a good charger for your Harley, the small and very proven 1 amp charger is sufficient. The price is around €84, but at times it is difficult to obtain.
Why the Harley-Davidson charger?
The advantages of the Harley-Davidson battery charger
With the trickle charge function, not only ensure that the starter battery does not discharge over the winter, but also extend the life of your battery by years. Other chargers can certainly do the same thing, but as I just discovered with the Pan America, the plug is there to conveniently connect the charger, but that's probably only possible for Harley-Davidson chargers. This has to do with the Can bus, which recognizes what kind of device is connected to the so-called SAE plug.
Harley-Davidson battery charger plug (SAE plug)
You cannot supply power to the battery via this connector unless you have a compatible device. The alternative is actually just to re-lay a separate cable to the battery. For my part, I now have the right HD charger, which I currently have attached to my EVO so that I don't have to worry about attaching a newer Harley-Davidson to the charger in the future.
After all, Harley-Davidson even offers a 5-year guarantee on the 1-amp battery charger. Now I know what it's like when you don't have the operating instructions in your head and I'm happy to list the information below.
What’s included – unboxing
Multilingual operating instructions, including German.
Pole terminals on SAE plugs fused with 2 amps, the total length is approx. 60cm
1 amp Harley-Davidson battery charger on SAE plug, the total length is approx. 2.25m
Attention, don't just connect the charger, read it first!
It may not seem like it, but even small chargers need to be operated correctly so that no damage is done to the battery.
The Harley-Davidson 1 Amp Battery Charger has six (6) modes: Standby, 12V, 12V AGM, 12V LITHIUM, 6V and Force. Some charging modes require three (3) to five (5) seconds. Long press to activate the mode. These Pressed Had* modes are advanced loading modes that require your full attention before selecting.
It's important to understand the differences and purposes of each charging mode. Always check with the battery manufacturer to confirm the correct charging mode for the specific battery installed. Only use the charger once you know the appropriate charging mode for your battery and you really know what type of battery you have installed.
In standby mode, the charger does not charge and does not supply any power to the battery. The energy saving function is activated in this mode, which means that only minimal power is drawn from the mains connection. CanBus is activated. In standby mode, the orange LED lights up. - No electricity.
12V
For charging wet, gel, EFB, MF and calcium batteries with 12 volts. If this is selected, the 12 V white LED lights up. – 14.5V I1A| Batteries up to 30 Ah.
12V AGM
For charging 12V AGM batteries. If this is selected, the 12V AGM white LED lights up. – 14.8 | 1 A | Batteries up to 30 Ah.
12V lithium
For charging 12-volt lithium-ion batteries, including Lithiurn iron phosphate. If this is selected, the 12V lithium blue LED lights up. For use with batteries with battery management systems (BMS) only. – 14.6V | 1 A / Batteries up to 30 Ah.
6V / Hold for 3 seconds
For charging wet, gel, EFB, MF and calcium batteries with 6 volts. If this is selected, the 6V white LED lights up. – 7.25 VI 1 A | Batteries up to 30 Ah
Force mode (forced charge) Press and hold (5 seconds)
To charge batteries with a voltage lower than 1V. Press and hold for five (5) seconds to activate Force Mode. Then the selected charging mode will operate in force mode for five (S) minutes before switching back to standard charging in the selected mode. – 1A | Batteries up to 30 Ah
There are other chargers from Harley-Davidson. If you need a little more current, you can use the 5 amp device. If you have several vehicles parked together, you can find the dual mode battery charger for up to 4 batteries in the Harley-Davidson portfolio.
Questions and answers about the battery for your Harley-Davidson
How long does a battery have to charge?
Under normal circumstances, with an appropriate battery charger, an intact battery needs approx. 12 hours to be sufficiently charged.
How powerful should a battery be for a Harley-Davidson?
A Harley-Davidson starter battery should have sufficient starting current. Harley-Davidson engines usually have a very large displacement, which requires a lot of power, especially when cold.
Why an AGM battery?
Electrochemical processes take place in batteries. Electrolytes transport electrical charge. An AGM battery binds the electrolytes into a fiberglass fleece. One of the most important points is that it is not as susceptible to vibrations, where a short circuit can quickly occur with conventional batteries as they get older. AGM batteries do not leak and can withstand tilted positions.
How long does a battery usually last?
With good care, it is not uncommon for batteries to last longer than five years. In Harleysite Facebook comments, there have been reports of batteries lasting as long as 12 years when properly cared for using a battery trickle charger.
Avoid deep discharge
One of the biggest dangers to a battery is when it becomes deeply discharged. This can happen if consumers continue to run after a long period of idle time; digital clocks and especially alarm systems are known for this.
Charge the battery without a 220 volt connection?
What to do if you don't have a 220 volt connection nearby? For example, there is a battery charger from Optimate that has a DC-DC connection. The OptiMate DC-DUO 12V 2A charger can be connected to a car battery and then used to charge a motorcycle battery.
Text & image credits: Harleysite – Some links are affiliate product links.
V-TEAM Handlebar American Bikes is taken over by MEC GmbH
For those who know Harley-Davidson bikes, the name V-Team is well known, especially when it comes to specialized handlebars. The company V‑TEAM American Bikes + Products GmbH, registered since 2004, enjoys an excellent reputation both nationally and internationally. It had long been known in insider circles that the company's founder, Peter Streitepohl, wanted to withdraw from the business. Now it is official: MEC GmbH has taken over the renowned company.
MEC GmbH, which already owns the brands KessTech valve exhaust systems and Cult-Werk Custombikes/Parts, is expanding its portfolio to include the V-Team brand.
For MEC GmbH, V-TeamKessTech manifold systems, which are also part of the product range. This long-standing business relationship between V-Team and KessTech was certainly a decisive factor in the decision to integrate V-Team in Obertheres at the KessTech production site. V-Team's production site will therefore be relocated to Obertheres at the turn of the year, and production will begin there in February. Employees are currently being trained and it is planned that V-Team's special machines will also move to Obertheres. This offers KessTech the advantage that all processes and developments of new products can take place under one roof in the future.
The sale of V-Team's current inventory is currently ongoing, and production of the common handlebar models will begin as a priority from February. The V-TEAM website remains active and orders can be placed as usual.
From the middle of the year, after the transition phase has been completed, V-Team plans to once again produce individual handlebars based on customer requirements - one of the company's strengths. Peter Separatepohl will accompany the transition in the interests of his long-standing customers and support both the production processes and the training of the new team of skilled workers.
MEC GmbH plans to present all three companies at the 2023Custombike trade fair in Bad Salzuflen. A new 2-1 KessTech flap system for Dyna models and a new KessTech flap exhaust system in black chrome for the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models from 2023/2024 have already been announced.
V-TEAM Handlebar American Bikes is taken over by MEC GmbH
For those who know Harley-Davidson bikes, the name V-Team is well known, especially when it comes to specialized handlebars. The company V‑TEAM American Bikes + Products GmbH, registered since 2004, enjoys an excellent reputation both nationally and internationally. It had long been known in insider circles that the company's founder, Peter Streitepohl, wanted to withdraw from the business. Now it is official: MEC GmbH has taken over the renowned company.
MEC GmbH, which already owns the brands KessTech valve exhaust systems and Cult-Werk Custombikes/Parts, is expanding its portfolio to include the V-Team brand.
For MEC GmbH, V-TeamKessTech manifold systems, which are also part of the product range. This long-standing business relationship between V-Team and KessTech was certainly a decisive factor in the decision to integrate V-Team in Obertheres at the KessTech production site. V-Team's production site will therefore be relocated to Obertheres at the turn of the year, and production will begin there in February. Employees are currently being trained and it is planned that V-Team's special machines will also move to Obertheres. This offers KessTech the advantage that all processes and developments of new products can take place under one roof in the future.
The sale of V-Team's current inventory is currently ongoing, and production of the common handlebar models will begin as a priority from February. The V-TEAM website remains active and orders can be placed as usual.
From the middle of the year, after the transition phase has been completed, V-Team plans to once again produce individual handlebars based on customer requirements - one of the company's strengths. Peter Separatepohl will accompany the transition in the interests of his long-standing customers and support both the production processes and the training of the new team of skilled workers.
MEC GmbH plans to present all three companies at the 2023Custombike trade fair in Bad Salzuflen. A new 2-1 KessTech flap system for Dyna models and a new KessTech flap exhaust system in black chrome for the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models from 2023/2024 have already been announced.
The GP Limited belongs to Thunderbike's GP series and once again underlines the sporty appearance of its breakout conversions.
The entire front end is made from many individual components that are created in Thunderbike production. The lower fork tubes with the radial brake caliper holders and the solid axle clamp are milled from solid solid material, as are the fork clamps and the handlebar mounts. The inner workings of the telescopic fork, which comes from Bitubo, can be fully adjusted in terms of rebound and compression as well as spring preload. The Grand Prix fork accommodates a 23-inch monoblock wheel that has flared brake disc mounts. Two 340 mm floating brake discs are braked by Brembo monoblock brake calipers.
Exclusive design of the GP series: white meets gold
When selecting the color scheme for the design, after a short, intensive brainstorming of ideas, the preference quickly emerged for white as the main color, which was considered essential for this GP series. The special detail of the gold-colored wheels was specifically selected, while the majority of the color scheme was deliberately left open. This freedom in the choice of colors led to the creation of a motorcycle that now reveals its individual class and character as “The White High-Flyer”.
Optimized performance: The Grand Prix fork and Brembo braking power
The Grand Prix fork represents a remarkable fusion of design and technology and is specifically designed to accommodate a 23-inch monoblock wheel. The precise, flared brake disc mounts are not only an eye-catcher from an aesthetic point of view, but also optimize the performance of the wheel through improved heat dissipation.
When selecting the braking systems, nothing was left to chance: two floating brake discs with a diameter of 340 mm are kept in check by high-quality Brembo monoblock brake calipers. This combination provides unparalleled stopping power and ensures precise handling, even in the most demanding driving conditions.
Aesthetics meets innovation: the choice of paintwork in the GP series
The decision to paint was made in an atmosphere of creative synergy. Ingo and Andreas, both with a deep understanding of the importance of aesthetics in motorcycle design, came to a unanimous decision after a short but intensive brainstorming session. White, the symbol of purity and precision, should be the dominant color of this GP series.
The color white provides a clean and simple base that symbolizes both the start of a race and the beginning of an adventure. It emphasizes the motorcycle's fine lines and flowing design, giving it an attractive look that attracts attention on the track and in traffic alike.
Customer request in focus: gold accents in a tailor-made motorcycle design
The customer, whose preferences and wishes were the focus of the customizing process, brought in the request for gold-colored wheels. Gold, traditionally associated with victory and success, creates a striking contrast to the pristine white of the machine.
Aside from this specific requirement, the customer gave the experts free rein to design the rest of the color scheme. This trust in the designers' expertise and artistic vision has allowed the motorcycle to now be known as "The White High-Flyer" - a designation that highlights the bike's uniqueness and head-turning character.
The GP Limited: A masterpiece of speed and style
The GP Limited, now complete in its white glory with gold accents, embodies speed, style and exclusivity. Every detail has been carefully planned and implemented to create a driving experience that is unparalleled on both a visual and technical level. From the lustrous paint to the flawlessly machined components, every element contributes to the overall aesthetics and performance, making the motorcycle greater than the sum of its parts. It's a tribute to motorcycle culture, a work of art on wheels ready to conquer the streets and make the hearts of enthusiasts beat faster.
The GP Limited belongs to Thunderbike's GP series and once again underlines the sporty appearance of its breakout conversions.
The entire front end is made from many individual components that are created in Thunderbike production. The lower fork tubes with the radial brake caliper holders and the solid axle clamp are milled from solid solid material, as are the fork clamps and the handlebar mounts. The inner workings of the telescopic fork, which comes from Bitubo, can be fully adjusted in terms of rebound and compression as well as spring preload. The Grand Prix fork accommodates a 23-inch monoblock wheel that has flared brake disc mounts. Two 340 mm floating brake discs are braked by Brembo monoblock brake calipers.
Exclusive design of the GP series: white meets gold
When selecting the color scheme for the design, after a short, intensive brainstorming of ideas, the preference quickly emerged for white as the main color, which was considered essential for this GP series. The special detail of the gold-colored wheels was specifically selected, while the majority of the color scheme was deliberately left open. This freedom in the choice of colors led to the creation of a motorcycle that now reveals its individual class and character as “The White High-Flyer”.
Optimized performance: The Grand Prix fork and Brembo braking power
The Grand Prix fork represents a remarkable fusion of design and technology and is specifically designed to accommodate a 23-inch monoblock wheel. The precise, flared brake disc mounts are not only an eye-catcher from an aesthetic point of view, but also optimize the performance of the wheel through improved heat dissipation.
When selecting the braking systems, nothing was left to chance: two floating brake discs with a diameter of 340 mm are kept in check by high-quality Brembo monoblock brake calipers. This combination provides unparalleled stopping power and ensures precise handling, even in the most demanding driving conditions.
Aesthetics meets innovation: the choice of paintwork in the GP series
The decision to paint was made in an atmosphere of creative synergy. Ingo and Andreas, both with a deep understanding of the importance of aesthetics in motorcycle design, came to a unanimous decision after a short but intensive brainstorming session. White, the symbol of purity and precision, should be the dominant color of this GP series.
The color white provides a clean and simple base that symbolizes both the start of a race and the beginning of an adventure. It emphasizes the motorcycle's fine lines and flowing design, giving it an attractive look that attracts attention on the track and in traffic alike.
Customer request in focus: gold accents in a tailor-made motorcycle design
The customer, whose preferences and wishes were the focus of the customizing process, brought in the request for gold-colored wheels. Gold, traditionally associated with victory and success, creates a striking contrast to the pristine white of the machine.
Aside from this specific requirement, the customer gave the experts free rein to design the rest of the color scheme. This trust in the designers' expertise and artistic vision has allowed the motorcycle to now be known as "The White High-Flyer" - a designation that highlights the bike's uniqueness and head-turning character.
The GP Limited: A masterpiece of speed and style
The GP Limited, now complete in its white glory with gold accents, embodies speed, style and exclusivity. Every detail has been carefully planned and implemented to create a driving experience that is unparalleled on both a visual and technical level. From the lustrous paint to the flawlessly machined components, every element contributes to the overall aesthetics and performance, making the motorcycle greater than the sum of its parts. It's a tribute to motorcycle culture, a work of art on wheels ready to conquer the streets and make the hearts of enthusiasts beat faster.
The Wunderlich fairing guard EXTREME for the Harley Davidson Pan America
Protect the Pan America
(Grafschaft-Ringen, November 6th, 2023) Wunderlich recommends preventive protection of the sensitive cladding, because there is a risk of damaging it when maneuvering in a garage or public parking spaces.
The fairing bar reliably protects the faired stem and the area around the headlight, thus reducing the risk of expensive damage. In the event of a fall or tip over, the forces acting are optimally distributed via the protective bar structure to the resilient mounting points, so that force and moment peaks are reduced. Visually, the EXTREME fairing guard integrates perfectly into the flyline of the bike and underlines its striking appearance.
All details at a glance
The Wunderlich fairing guard EXTREME is made from 25 millimeter precision steel tube. It consists of two pipe segments that are formed on CNC pipe bending machines and then neatly welded. Assembling is easy to do. With Wunderlich brand logo.
In conjunction with the Wunderlich headlight and radiator protection as well as other adventure protection components, the EXTREME fairing guard forms a well-thought-out all-round concept to increase passive safety for your bike.
The Wunderlich fairing guard EXTREME for the Harley Davidson Pan America
Protect the Pan America
(Grafschaft-Ringen, November 6th, 2023) Wunderlich recommends preventive protection of the sensitive cladding, because there is a risk of damaging it when maneuvering in a garage or public parking spaces.
The fairing bar reliably protects the faired stem and the area around the headlight, thus reducing the risk of expensive damage. In the event of a fall or tip over, the forces acting are optimally distributed via the protective bar structure to the resilient mounting points, so that force and moment peaks are reduced. Visually, the EXTREME fairing guard integrates perfectly into the flyline of the bike and underlines its striking appearance.
All details at a glance
The Wunderlich fairing guard EXTREME is made from 25 millimeter precision steel tube. It consists of two pipe segments that are formed on CNC pipe bending machines and then neatly welded. Assembling is easy to do. With Wunderlich brand logo.
In conjunction with the Wunderlich headlight and radiator protection as well as other adventure protection components, the EXTREME fairing guard forms a well-thought-out all-round concept to increase passive safety for your bike.
Rick's Clubstyle Parts – ride 'em to hell and back!
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Club style is still on the rise: The fact that the power bikes based on the Milwaukee Eight Softail, which are stylistically based on the modified FXR and Dyna models of the Evo and Twin-Cam era, are about more than just visual improvements is worth a special effort by the Rick's Motorcycles team! Rick's Clubstyle Parts are developed with a focus on function, performance, durability and easy assembly.
They impress with their well-thought-out construction and state-of-the-art manufacturing methods, which result in a high-quality finish and well-thought-out details down to the last detail. Here are the latest Rick's “Clubstyle” custom parts and established Rick's “classics”, which can be perfectly adapted for this style.
Rick's club style riser
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
The Rick's club style look starts with the solid milled risers. Risers that contain a lot of innovation. Together with the matching Rick's handlebars and the elaborately designed “Performance II” triple clamp, Rick's Clubstyle risers offer the optimum in function, steering stability, as well as quick and easy assembly.
Made from high-strength 7075 aluminum, the risers, which are available in several versions, fulfill a variety of functions: The stable, even solid construction prevents these risers from twisting. Both when mounted on HD series triple clamps and in combination with Rick's “Performance 2”. For this purpose, the lower part of the handlebar clamp is designed as a stable “torque bar” and is manufactured with a form-fitting fit with the riser halves and screwed internally.
The visible additional strut also leads into the torque bar with a tight fit. Seen from the front, the handlebar clamp appears closed, but the clamp is only visible from the rear. This construction enables unrivaled precise and direct steering with maximum dimensional stability and stiffness. Even at the maximum riser height of 11.5 inches, there is no longer any torsion.
A generously dimensioned cable duct is integrated into both risers, which can accommodate the wiring harness extension (including plug) offered by Harley-Davidson for handlebar conversions, as well as any additional cables that may need to be inserted for the exhaust system, air suspension or other accessories that need to be controlled. The cables to be covered are fixed in the channels with clamps. All the necessary holes in the Rick's 32 mm (1 1/4”) handlebars are already installed, and towards the fittings and grips the handlebar diameter tapers to the usual 25.4 mm (1”) for Rick's “Good Guys” grips.
The compact digital instruments of the “ST” are integrated into the handlebar clamp – tilted towards the driver with a pullback of around 35 mm for better reading of the instruments and optimized seating position. Variants for the “Low Rider S” speedometer and without instrument mounts (for Softail models with tank-mounted instruments) are also available.
Towards the fork bridge - whether it's the standard bridge or the new Rick's “Performance 2” bridge – the cables are covered by another cover. A super-clean solution that leads the cables under the fork bridge into the wiring harness under the tank.
The assembly of the handlebars and cables can therefore be carried out completely; the covers are only installed at the end and cover the cables cleanly. Numerous decorative millings give the new Rick's risers a distinctive CNC milling design, which can be found in other Rick's club style components. The risers are available in heights of 7, 8.5, 10 and a radical 11.5 inches - with TÜV approval for all sizes.
Also available: An offset adapter – Rick's term relocation plate or “relocation plate” – with which the Rick's risers can be moved a full 40 mm towards the driver for shorter riders. For series and Rick's triple clamps.
Rick's Clubstyle: “Performance 2” triple clamps
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails.
The perfect complement to the club style risers: Rick's “Performance 2” triple clamps. Although the new Rick's risers can also be mounted on the Harley-Davidson triple clamps, they only develop their full effect with the new Rick's “Performance 2” triple clamps, which ideally complement the function and appearance of this riser. In addition to the stylistically adapted, delicate CNC milling of the upper bridge, it offers additional clamping surfaces for the upside-down fork standpipes, which can be pushed 0-10 mm further down if necessary.
This significantly increases the ground clearance and possible lean angle. Similar to the risers, made of high-strength 7075 aluminum, the Rick's triple clamps are black anodized and extremely light. The risers are rigidly screwed to the fork bridge - for standard bridges, the Rick's riser kit already contains a corresponding rigidization kit, which integrates the lower screw heads of the risers. Optimized for a clean look, the rigid connection ensures perfect and immediate transmission of steering movements. The Low Rider ST and S Rick's bridges are already available, other M8 Softail models on request.
Rick's Clubstyle: Clubstyle handlebars
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Matching Ricks “Clubstyle handlebars” made of high-quality aluminum – and appropriate wall thickness to ensure strength – are available in two sizes. Clamp diameter is 32mm (1 1/4 inches). Towards the handlebar ends the diameter tapers conically to the usual 25.4 mm (1 inch) to install fittings and grips, preferably Rick's “Good Guys”. All necessary cable glands are already ready for installation on these handlebars. For the right club style look, we recommend the adjustable Rick's “Good Guys” hand levers, which are supplied in a set with interchangeable short and long end pieces.
Rick's club style crash bars - not just for stunt professionals
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Anyone who has ever seen a motorcycle stunt show knows it: crash bars protect the engine and rest systems when stunt professionals perform breathtaking acrobatics up and down on bikes balanced on the rear wheel. Often self-made, specially adapted for the respective stuntman's show, crash bars have always been a popular accessory for club style customization. Or for a performance excavator. Even if the normal Harley owner won't be showing a stunt performance at the next Rick's events, with the newly developed Rick's "Clubstyle Crashbars" you are protected in the event of an accident. And like so many Rick's developments, the crash bars are extremely well thought out and multifunctional.
Crash bar sets for the front and rear are offered ready for installation: The individual components of the crash bars are laser cut, TIG welded and coated with high-quality plastic. The set for the front is attached to both frame tubes - two holding points at the top and bottom: This means that the front crash bar frame also serves as a frame stiffener for the standard chassis and provides additional stability.
The end pieces of all crash bars are CNC-milled from aluminum as replaceable “crash pads” and can be quickly replaced if necessary. Here in black with engraved Rick's logo, colored versions are already available. An investment that can definitely pay off the next time you “grease it away” on slippery surfaces.
In addition to protection for the engine; The Rick's crash bars can also be used as “highway pegs” on long journeys, or as headlight holders for modern LED additional headlights/position lights, such as the Kellermann “Dayron”, which can also be switched to “yellow” and the flashing function when the indicators are activated .
The rear crash bars, almost identical on both sides with base tube and replaceable crash pad, protect panniers, primary drive and exhaust system: They can also be used as passenger pegs. Or – if you have the courage for it – for stunt acrobatics…? The Low Rider ST and S variants vary in width. In terms of appearance, Rick's club style crash bars are a real highlight and their solid functionality is impressive. You don't have to be a stunt professional to put a set on the Milwaukee Eight Softtail...
Rick's Clubstyle: indicator holder ST fairing kit
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Even those who don't trim their Low Rider ST to “club style” will love the new Rick's turn signals for the ST fairing! Below the unique fairing (on the standard bracket) the tiny Atto Integral LED indicators inserted into specially developed Rick's housings are almost invisible. Unless they flash powerfully, you can't miss them. Of course with ABE, easy to assemble and in the well-known solid Rick's Motorcycles quality.
More “braking power” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Not just for “club style” customizing, but an enrichment for many customizing styles: Rick's “Wave” brake discs. The development was inspired by many years of experience with Rick's design brake discs and accessory brake discs from other manufacturers - and is a typical Rick's combination of the best materials and targeted design. The requirement: Optimize braking performance while simultaneously increasing service life.
A little basic knowledge in advance: Floating brake discs are less susceptible to distortion under maximum load and provide better braking performance because the brake discs virtually center themselves between the brake shoes during the braking process. The “Wave” shape is intended to improve cooling while reducing unsprung masses. This can be an important factor in the load on the brakes, especially with the heavy “Big Twins” from Harley-Davidson, if you often ride in a “forced” style or if you tackle mountain passes with your loaded bike.
Rick's Wave discs are intentionally styled less aggressively than comparable competitors, therefore also offering more friction surface. Evenly distributed holes instead of elongated holes underline this - and reduce the background noise. The discs are floating on 10-spoke “Steve” inner stars and 10 floaters each, which distributes braking forces and heat dissipation to more points than in the series – or comparable products. The inner star is specially coated, the floater rivets are flattened on the outside and highly tensioned.
Rick's “Wave” do not wobble or rattle, but still allow the brake discs to expand as needed when heated by heavy braking. The construction of the disc with an inner core made of stainless steel ensures long-lasting and consistently reliable function. Matching brake caliper adapters for radial piston brake calipers such as Brembo are also available. Rick's Wave brake discs are available in 292, 300 and 330 mm diameter. Further sizes for the current HD model range are in development, as are further designs suitable for Rick's design bikes.
Rick's club style: steel front fender
Closer to the wheel and protection for the dip tubes.
Rick's steel mudguards are available in a variety of variations for all Harley-Davidson model series and years - and, thanks to their high-quality construction, are sought-after custom parts for refining all Harleys. Rick's fenders are also an ideal choice for “club style” conversions: The steel mudguard is narrower and shorter over the front wheel than the standard part and offers additional protection for the open fork surfaces of the 43 mm upside-down fork.
The baffles integrated into the fender design draw dirt and moisture away from the dip tubes and sealing rings, thereby reducing wear and the risk of damage from foreign objects. The fact that Rick's front wheel mudguards are optically perfectly adapted to the respective wheel sizes is a well-known fact that cannot be repeated often enough.
Rick's Clubstyle: License plate holder for “Clubstyle” customs
Tidy rear view for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Rick's Motorcycles offers one of the widest ranges of license plate holders, holders and base plates: Laterally offset, centered, long and short versions for European or international applications, base plates for Germany, Austria and Switzerland - all manufactured in proven Rick's quality. “Club stylers” often prefer the traditional version mounted in the middle of the fender, in the case of the Low Rider S and ST models they also prefer the standard fender, if the rear fender and the style-defining panniers are retained.
The tried and tested Rick's slide-in license plate holder with Kellermann's Atto 3-in-1 function tail, brake light and indicator combination is adapted using a special mounting adapter for Low Rider S, ST and ST Touring models, which inconspicuously takes the place of the standard tail light. The Rick's slide-in license plate plate can now be installed at five heights and also perfectly integrates the required reflector - if you want to attach it. Angles and distances comply with EU homologation regulations.
Rick's Clubstyle Parts – ride 'em to hell and back!
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Club style is still on the rise: The fact that the power bikes based on the Milwaukee Eight Softail, which are stylistically based on the modified FXR and Dyna models of the Evo and Twin-Cam era, are about more than just visual improvements is worth a special effort by the Rick's Motorcycles team! Rick's Clubstyle Parts are developed with a focus on function, performance, durability and easy assembly.
They impress with their well-thought-out construction and state-of-the-art manufacturing methods, which result in a high-quality finish and well-thought-out details down to the last detail. Here are the latest Rick's “Clubstyle” custom parts and established Rick's “classics”, which can be perfectly adapted for this style.
Rick's club style riser
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
The Rick's club style look starts with the solid milled risers. Risers that contain a lot of innovation. Together with the matching Rick's handlebars and the elaborately designed “Performance II” triple clamp, Rick's Clubstyle risers offer the optimum in function, steering stability, as well as quick and easy assembly.
Made from high-strength 7075 aluminum, the risers, which are available in several versions, fulfill a variety of functions: The stable, even solid construction prevents these risers from twisting. Both when mounted on HD series triple clamps and in combination with Rick's “Performance 2”. For this purpose, the lower part of the handlebar clamp is designed as a stable “torque bar” and is manufactured with a form-fitting fit with the riser halves and screwed internally.
The visible additional strut also leads into the torque bar with a tight fit. Seen from the front, the handlebar clamp appears closed, but the clamp is only visible from the rear. This construction enables unrivaled precise and direct steering with maximum dimensional stability and stiffness. Even at the maximum riser height of 11.5 inches, there is no longer any torsion.
A generously dimensioned cable duct is integrated into both risers, which can accommodate the wiring harness extension (including plug) offered by Harley-Davidson for handlebar conversions, as well as any additional cables that may need to be inserted for the exhaust system, air suspension or other accessories that need to be controlled. The cables to be covered are fixed in the channels with clamps. All the necessary holes in the Rick's 32 mm (1 1/4”) handlebars are already installed, and towards the fittings and grips the handlebar diameter tapers to the usual 25.4 mm (1”) for Rick's “Good Guys” grips.
The compact digital instruments of the “ST” are integrated into the handlebar clamp – tilted towards the driver with a pullback of around 35 mm for better reading of the instruments and optimized seating position. Variants for the “Low Rider S” speedometer and without instrument mounts (for Softail models with tank-mounted instruments) are also available.
Towards the fork bridge - whether it's the standard bridge or the new Rick's “Performance 2” bridge – the cables are covered by another cover. A super-clean solution that leads the cables under the fork bridge into the wiring harness under the tank.
The assembly of the handlebars and cables can therefore be carried out completely; the covers are only installed at the end and cover the cables cleanly. Numerous decorative millings give the new Rick's risers a distinctive CNC milling design, which can be found in other Rick's club style components. The risers are available in heights of 7, 8.5, 10 and a radical 11.5 inches - with TÜV approval for all sizes.
Also available: An offset adapter – Rick's term relocation plate or “relocation plate” – with which the Rick's risers can be moved a full 40 mm towards the driver for shorter riders. For series and Rick's triple clamps.
Rick's Clubstyle: “Performance 2” triple clamps
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails.
The perfect complement to the club style risers: Rick's “Performance 2” triple clamps. Although the new Rick's risers can also be mounted on the Harley-Davidson triple clamps, they only develop their full effect with the new Rick's “Performance 2” triple clamps, which ideally complement the function and appearance of this riser. In addition to the stylistically adapted, delicate CNC milling of the upper bridge, it offers additional clamping surfaces for the upside-down fork standpipes, which can be pushed 0-10 mm further down if necessary.
This significantly increases the ground clearance and possible lean angle. Similar to the risers, made of high-strength 7075 aluminum, the Rick's triple clamps are black anodized and extremely light. The risers are rigidly screwed to the fork bridge - for standard bridges, the Rick's riser kit already contains a corresponding rigidization kit, which integrates the lower screw heads of the risers. Optimized for a clean look, the rigid connection ensures perfect and immediate transmission of steering movements. The Low Rider ST and S Rick's bridges are already available, other M8 Softail models on request.
Rick's Clubstyle: Clubstyle handlebars
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Matching Ricks “Clubstyle handlebars” made of high-quality aluminum – and appropriate wall thickness to ensure strength – are available in two sizes. Clamp diameter is 32mm (1 1/4 inches). Towards the handlebar ends the diameter tapers conically to the usual 25.4 mm (1 inch) to install fittings and grips, preferably Rick's “Good Guys”. All necessary cable glands are already ready for installation on these handlebars. For the right club style look, we recommend the adjustable Rick's “Good Guys” hand levers, which are supplied in a set with interchangeable short and long end pieces.
Rick's club style crash bars - not just for stunt professionals
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Anyone who has ever seen a motorcycle stunt show knows it: crash bars protect the engine and rest systems when stunt professionals perform breathtaking acrobatics up and down on bikes balanced on the rear wheel. Often self-made, specially adapted for the respective stuntman's show, crash bars have always been a popular accessory for club style customization. Or for a performance excavator. Even if the normal Harley owner won't be showing a stunt performance at the next Rick's events, with the newly developed Rick's "Clubstyle Crashbars" you are protected in the event of an accident. And like so many Rick's developments, the crash bars are extremely well thought out and multifunctional.
Crash bar sets for the front and rear are offered ready for installation: The individual components of the crash bars are laser cut, TIG welded and coated with high-quality plastic. The set for the front is attached to both frame tubes - two holding points at the top and bottom: This means that the front crash bar frame also serves as a frame stiffener for the standard chassis and provides additional stability.
The end pieces of all crash bars are CNC-milled from aluminum as replaceable “crash pads” and can be quickly replaced if necessary. Here in black with engraved Rick's logo, colored versions are already available. An investment that can definitely pay off the next time you “grease it away” on slippery surfaces.
In addition to protection for the engine; The Rick's crash bars can also be used as “highway pegs” on long journeys, or as headlight holders for modern LED additional headlights/position lights, such as the Kellermann “Dayron”, which can also be switched to “yellow” and the flashing function when the indicators are activated .
The rear crash bars, almost identical on both sides with base tube and replaceable crash pad, protect panniers, primary drive and exhaust system: They can also be used as passenger pegs. Or – if you have the courage for it – for stunt acrobatics…? The Low Rider ST and S variants vary in width. In terms of appearance, Rick's club style crash bars are a real highlight and their solid functionality is impressive. You don't have to be a stunt professional to put a set on the Milwaukee Eight Softtail...
Rick's Clubstyle: indicator holder ST fairing kit
“Performance Clubstyle” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Even those who don't trim their Low Rider ST to “club style” will love the new Rick's turn signals for the ST fairing! Below the unique fairing (on the standard bracket) the tiny Atto Integral LED indicators inserted into specially developed Rick's housings are almost invisible. Unless they flash powerfully, you can't miss them. Of course with ABE, easy to assemble and in the well-known solid Rick's Motorcycles quality.
More “braking power” for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Not just for “club style” customizing, but an enrichment for many customizing styles: Rick's “Wave” brake discs. The development was inspired by many years of experience with Rick's design brake discs and accessory brake discs from other manufacturers - and is a typical Rick's combination of the best materials and targeted design. The requirement: Optimize braking performance while simultaneously increasing service life.
A little basic knowledge in advance: Floating brake discs are less susceptible to distortion under maximum load and provide better braking performance because the brake discs virtually center themselves between the brake shoes during the braking process. The “Wave” shape is intended to improve cooling while reducing unsprung masses. This can be an important factor in the load on the brakes, especially with the heavy “Big Twins” from Harley-Davidson, if you often ride in a “forced” style or if you tackle mountain passes with your loaded bike.
Rick's Wave discs are intentionally styled less aggressively than comparable competitors, therefore also offering more friction surface. Evenly distributed holes instead of elongated holes underline this - and reduce the background noise. The discs are floating on 10-spoke “Steve” inner stars and 10 floaters each, which distributes braking forces and heat dissipation to more points than in the series – or comparable products. The inner star is specially coated, the floater rivets are flattened on the outside and highly tensioned.
Rick's “Wave” do not wobble or rattle, but still allow the brake discs to expand as needed when heated by heavy braking. The construction of the disc with an inner core made of stainless steel ensures long-lasting and consistently reliable function. Matching brake caliper adapters for radial piston brake calipers such as Brembo are also available. Rick's Wave brake discs are available in 292, 300 and 330 mm diameter. Further sizes for the current HD model range are in development, as are further designs suitable for Rick's design bikes.
Rick's club style: steel front fender
Closer to the wheel and protection for the dip tubes.
Rick's steel mudguards are available in a variety of variations for all Harley-Davidson model series and years - and, thanks to their high-quality construction, are sought-after custom parts for refining all Harleys. Rick's fenders are also an ideal choice for “club style” conversions: The steel mudguard is narrower and shorter over the front wheel than the standard part and offers additional protection for the open fork surfaces of the 43 mm upside-down fork.
The baffles integrated into the fender design draw dirt and moisture away from the dip tubes and sealing rings, thereby reducing wear and the risk of damage from foreign objects. The fact that Rick's front wheel mudguards are optically perfectly adapted to the respective wheel sizes is a well-known fact that cannot be repeated often enough.
Rick's Clubstyle: License plate holder for “Clubstyle” customs
Tidy rear view for Harley-DavidsonMilwaukee Eight Softails!
Rick's Motorcycles offers one of the widest ranges of license plate holders, holders and base plates: Laterally offset, centered, long and short versions for European or international applications, base plates for Germany, Austria and Switzerland - all manufactured in proven Rick's quality. “Club stylers” often prefer the traditional version mounted in the middle of the fender, in the case of the Low Rider S and ST models they also prefer the standard fender, if the rear fender and the style-defining panniers are retained.
The tried and tested Rick's slide-in license plate holder with Kellermann's Atto 3-in-1 function tail, brake light and indicator combination is adapted using a special mounting adapter for Low Rider S, ST and ST Touring models, which inconspicuously takes the place of the standard tail light. The Rick's slide-in license plate plate can now be installed at five heights and also perfectly integrates the required reflector - if you want to attach it. Angles and distances comply with EU homologation regulations.
New motorcycle accessories for Harley-Davidson Softail models
WUNDERKIND-Custom has introduced a new product line for Harley-Davidson's Softail models.The brand is expanding its already extensive range to include additional ergonomic design parts that promise more comfort and a harmonious look.
“Beautiful Harleys deserve beautiful accessories and that's why we have launched a range of motorcycle accessories for the Softail series from model year 2018. “It’s not just about a more harmonious look, because the milled parts, some of which are very elaborately constructed, also have great practical benefits,” says Managing Director Christian Mehlhorn.
Individually adjustable brake and clutch levers in an elegant design were developed for better usability in the handlebar area. There are matching handlebar grips with vibration-reducing rubber and different grip ends as well as handlebar mirrors with replaceable scratch protection. A highlight are certainly the simple LED handlebar fittings indicators, which cleverly and elegantly replace the beefy originals. The whole thing is complemented by a protective grille for the oil cooler. Overall, these are all parts that beautifully complete the look of the front.
If you have trouble with the look of the original footrest system, you should take a look at the replacement footrests from the German manufacturer. The same applies to the pillion pegs. The interchangeable pegs for the driver and pillion passenger don't just look good. Thanks to their non-slip rubber, they offer your feet more support when wet. However, if you want more legroom, you can swap the entire footrest system for a forward footrest system. This offers numerous adjustment options and helps to adapt the sitting position to your own needs.
There are also custom parts for the rear that prove to be slimmer solutions. The protruding original indicators can now be exchanged for small and elegant LED indicators from the accessory specialist. These can be easily inserted into the original struts and mounted at the existing attachment points. Their discreet size and classic design alone bring about a clear visual change. But the rear can be made even slimmer: In addition, the previous retaining plate at the end of the fender including the license plate, reflector and lighting can be removed, and then one of the new license plate variants from WUNDERKIND-Custom can be installed.
You can choose from a medium license plate holder or a side license plate holder. Both have integrated license plate lighting and can be supplemented with a reflector.
Stylish replacement covers for the timer and derby as well as designer covers for the axle on the rear wheel round off the range of accessories.
As usual, all accessories have been developed in-house, manufactured from high-quality materials and tested internally to ensure the highest quality and safety standards. All custom parts comply with the StVO or have a parts certificate and are compatible with a large number of motorcycles from the same model family.
New motorcycle accessories for Harley-Davidson Softail models
WUNDERKIND-Custom has introduced a new product line for Harley-Davidson's Softail models.The brand is expanding its already extensive range to include additional ergonomic design parts that promise more comfort and a harmonious look.
“Beautiful Harleys deserve beautiful accessories and that's why we have launched a range of motorcycle accessories for the Softail series from model year 2018. “It’s not just about a more harmonious look, because the milled parts, some of which are very elaborately constructed, also have great practical benefits,” says Managing Director Christian Mehlhorn.
Individually adjustable brake and clutch levers in an elegant design were developed for better usability in the handlebar area. There are matching handlebar grips with vibration-reducing rubber and different grip ends as well as handlebar mirrors with replaceable scratch protection. A highlight are certainly the simple LED handlebar fittings indicators, which cleverly and elegantly replace the beefy originals. The whole thing is complemented by a protective grille for the oil cooler. Overall, these are all parts that beautifully complete the look of the front.
If you have trouble with the look of the original footrest system, you should take a look at the replacement footrests from the German manufacturer. The same applies to the pillion pegs. The interchangeable pegs for the driver and pillion passenger don't just look good. Thanks to their non-slip rubber, they offer your feet more support when wet. However, if you want more legroom, you can swap the entire footrest system for a forward footrest system. This offers numerous adjustment options and helps to adapt the sitting position to your own needs.
There are also custom parts for the rear that prove to be slimmer solutions. The protruding original indicators can now be exchanged for small and elegant LED indicators from the accessory specialist. These can be easily inserted into the original struts and mounted at the existing attachment points. Their discreet size and classic design alone bring about a clear visual change. But the rear can be made even slimmer: In addition, the previous retaining plate at the end of the fender including the license plate, reflector and lighting can be removed, and then one of the new license plate variants from WUNDERKIND-Custom can be installed.
You can choose from a medium license plate holder or a side license plate holder. Both have integrated license plate lighting and can be supplemented with a reflector.
Stylish replacement covers for the timer and derby as well as designer covers for the axle on the rear wheel round off the range of accessories.
As usual, all accessories have been developed in-house, manufactured from high-quality materials and tested internally to ensure the highest quality and safety standards. All custom parts comply with the StVO or have a parts certificate and are compatible with a large number of motorcycles from the same model family.
Design meets performance: Kodlin exhaust systems powered by Zard!
KODLIN “NEXT LEVEL” EXHAUST SYSTEMS
New at Kodlin Motorcycles: Harley-Davidson “Milwaukee Eight” 2-in-1 systems for Softail and Touring models. New bikes and “Kodlin powered by Zard” exhaust systems premiere at European Bike Week 2023.
Club style, power customs, race style Bagger – Fred and Len Kodlin have the right answer for every style. And the finest components! New at Kodlin Motorcycles: Exclusive exhaust systems in collaboration with the Italian luxury manufacturer Zard, who elaborately manufactures these “performance” styled systems in stainless steel and titanium exclusively for Kodlin Motorcycles.
Fred Kodlin created the prototypes of these systems elaborately by hand for the current trends in customizing, Zard supplied the inner workings of the design systems - developed over years of research and production experience - and manufactures the exhaust systems exclusively for Kodlin motorcycles.
Zard's racing DNA and 30 years of experience in development and manufacturing are reflected in the unique look of the Kodlin "Next Level" systems: Visible weld seams of the finest quality and high-quality spring connections derived from racing show the exceptional handwork and highly specialized manufacturing processes which have been incorporated into these hi-tech systems. Kodlin “Next Level” exhaust systems are true works of art made of metal, manufactured to the highest standards.
The stainless steel systems are already extremely durable and designed for reliability - with the TITAN variants, which are even more complex to process, there is also the weight saving thanks to the lightweight metal, which is otherwise only used in space travel and extreme aviation applications.
Fred Kodlin is now bringing this material into the custom scene: “We developed these systems for the popular “club style” conversions to M8 “Street Bob” and “Fat Bob” - these can be completely converted by our team, but are also suitable for quick and easy installation at official Harley dealers and customizers who want to offer their customers authentic “club style,” explains Fred, “and the era of performance and race baggers is just beginning, as we can now see in Europe. ” Kodlin USA in California has its ear very close to the scene and will sell the sensational systems worldwide after successful “49 State Emission Compliance” tests.
Racing performance look at its finest for the premium customs from the Kodlin Custom forge set new standards - also in terms of performance and reliability. Matched and ready for installation for the M8 Touring models from model year 2017 and M8 Softails from 2018, all systems are delivered with a Euro 5 certificate. An absolute highlight on the exhaust accessories market, now available from Kodlin Motorcycles.
The new Kodlin “Next Level” exhaust systems powered by Zard will be on display for the first time during the EUROPEAN BIKE WEEK 2023 in Velden/Wörthersee – of course on the latest Kodlin custom bikes in Casino/Velden. The big Kodlin Motorcycles custom bike presentation can be seen from September 5th - 9th, 2023 in Casino Velden, lots of new Kodlin customs are guaranteed!
Address: Kodlin Motorcycles Custombike Show, Casino Velden, Am Corso 17, A-9220 Velden am Wörthersee, Austria
KODLIN “NEXT LEVEL” EXHAUST SYSTEMS – Selected highlights
+ Exclusive Kodlin Hi-End exhaust system in collaboration with ZARD
+ Extremely sporty look thanks to the polished “bare metal” race look
+ 2-in-1 version
+ For HD “Milwaukee Eight” Softail (2018 onwards) and Touring (2017 onwards) models
+ Optionally manufactured in stainless steel or lightweight TITANIUM
+ Visible weld seams of the highest quality
+ precisely manufactured connections on the series cylinder heads
+ High-strength spring tensioning of the components in racing quality
+ First-class workmanship
+ Powerful sound for all “Milwaukee Eight” displacement variants
+ Finest internal Zard components for long service life
+ 3 Lamda probe connections (2 large ones for broadband probes
for tuning, including adapter for OEM sensors)
+ Riveted “Kodlin powered by Zard” nameplate
+ Easy to install and adapt to “Milwaukee Eight” on-board systems*.
+ Euro 5 report
*Mapping of the Kodlin Hi-End exhaust system with the corresponding standard or mounted custom air filter at Kodlin Motorcycles or appropriately equipped Harley dealers and custom shops. www.kodlin.com
Design meets performance: Kodlin exhaust systems powered by Zard!
KODLIN “NEXT LEVEL” EXHAUST SYSTEMS
New at Kodlin Motorcycles: Harley-Davidson “Milwaukee Eight” 2-in-1 systems for Softail and Touring models. New bikes and “Kodlin powered by Zard” exhaust systems premiere at European Bike Week 2023.
Club style, power customs, race style Bagger – Fred and Len Kodlin have the right answer for every style. And the finest components! New at Kodlin Motorcycles: Exclusive exhaust systems in collaboration with the Italian luxury manufacturer Zard, who elaborately manufactures these “performance” styled systems in stainless steel and titanium exclusively for Kodlin Motorcycles.
Fred Kodlin created the prototypes of these systems elaborately by hand for the current trends in customizing, Zard supplied the inner workings of the design systems - developed over years of research and production experience - and manufactures the exhaust systems exclusively for Kodlin motorcycles.
Zard's racing DNA and 30 years of experience in development and manufacturing are reflected in the unique look of the Kodlin "Next Level" systems: Visible weld seams of the finest quality and high-quality spring connections derived from racing show the exceptional handwork and highly specialized manufacturing processes which have been incorporated into these hi-tech systems. Kodlin “Next Level” exhaust systems are true works of art made of metal, manufactured to the highest standards.
The stainless steel systems are already extremely durable and designed for reliability - with the TITAN variants, which are even more complex to process, there is also the weight saving thanks to the lightweight metal, which is otherwise only used in space travel and extreme aviation applications.
Fred Kodlin is now bringing this material into the custom scene: “We developed these systems for the popular “club style” conversions to M8 “Street Bob” and “Fat Bob” - these can be completely converted by our team, but are also suitable for quick and easy installation at official Harley dealers and customizers who want to offer their customers authentic “club style,” explains Fred, “and the era of performance and race baggers is just beginning, as we can now see in Europe. ” Kodlin USA in California has its ear very close to the scene and will sell the sensational systems worldwide after successful “49 State Emission Compliance” tests.
Racing performance look at its finest for the premium customs from the Kodlin Custom forge set new standards - also in terms of performance and reliability. Matched and ready for installation for the M8 Touring models from model year 2017 and M8 Softails from 2018, all systems are delivered with a Euro 5 certificate. An absolute highlight on the exhaust accessories market, now available from Kodlin Motorcycles.
The new Kodlin “Next Level” exhaust systems powered by Zard will be on display for the first time during the EUROPEAN BIKE WEEK 2023 in Velden/Wörthersee – of course on the latest Kodlin custom bikes in Casino/Velden. The big Kodlin Motorcycles custom bike presentation can be seen from September 5th - 9th, 2023 in Casino Velden, lots of new Kodlin customs are guaranteed!
Address: Kodlin Motorcycles Custombike Show, Casino Velden, Am Corso 17, A-9220 Velden am Wörthersee, Austria
KODLIN “NEXT LEVEL” EXHAUST SYSTEMS – Selected highlights
+ Exclusive Kodlin Hi-End exhaust system in collaboration with ZARD
+ Extremely sporty look thanks to the polished “bare metal” race look
+ 2-in-1 version
+ For HD “Milwaukee Eight” Softail (2018 onwards) and Touring (2017 onwards) models
+ Optionally manufactured in stainless steel or lightweight TITANIUM
+ Visible weld seams of the highest quality
+ precisely manufactured connections on the series cylinder heads
+ High-strength spring tensioning of the components in racing quality
+ First-class workmanship
+ Powerful sound for all “Milwaukee Eight” displacement variants
+ Finest internal Zard components for long service life
+ 3 Lamda probe connections (2 large ones for broadband probes
for tuning, including adapter for OEM sensors)
+ Riveted “Kodlin powered by Zard” nameplate
+ Easy to install and adapt to “Milwaukee Eight” on-board systems*.
+ Euro 5 report
*Mapping of the Kodlin Hi-End exhaust system with the corresponding standard or mounted custom air filter at Kodlin Motorcycles or appropriately equipped Harley dealers and custom shops. www.kodlin.com
You have to be a bit crazy to convert a Harley-Davidson Pan America so radically and unleash the maximum power of the HD Revolution Max Motor.
Sascha Körte is a salesperson at Harley-Davidson Weser-Ems / Börjes American Bikes in Augustfehn. And he's a little crazy too. Passionate Harley-Davidson driver and always on the last track. He actually works the asphalt of the northern German lowlands with a Harley-Davidson E-Glide Police. This bike has been completely rebuilt and was of course tuned for maximum torque and plenty of power in the Börjes Tuning Center.
THE AMERICAN STREETFIGHTER HAS CAUSED A LOT OF EXCITEMENT ON THE NET!
The image has fueled plenty of speculation, from the brand's renewed demise to the two-wheeled dream, at least for those still waiting for the Bronx today.
In autumn 2022, Dynojet tuning professional Marco Gertje was locked up by his colleagues “for a weekend” with a Pan America in the tuning cellar in Augustfehn. The goal was to optimize the mapping of the Pan America. The cold start and starting problem that occurred intermittently on some models should be resolved.
In addition, there was suspicion that the Revolution Max engine from Harley-Davidson could be capable of significantly more than what it was given at the factory. That's quite a bit of effort, because the Pan America has different driving modes, each with their own programs. After countless tuning runs on the test bench, he managed to give the Revolution Max engine a really clean cold start.
The interview with Sascha Körte on YouTube
The entire starting behavior has changed, even the starting noise no longer rattles as much. He couldn't resist modifying the S-Mode a little. After a few days of concentrated work, Marco returned from the basement with a big grin. An extraordinary mapping and a significant improvement in performance and drivability were achieved.
Sascha Körte was then asked by the Tuning Center team to test drive the new mapping for the Pan America, the Sportster S and the Nightster and to report back his experiences and requests for improvements to Marco Gertje.
It started with the comparatively harmless tuning of the Pan America 1250 Special, which culminated in an escalated maximum tuning.
The test drive then suddenly led to a change of heart. Sascha wanted a Pan America for himself. After the test drive, it was ordered immediately and he couldn't sleep peacefully for a while. In addition to tuning, a radical conversion also had to be thought out. The idea of a street fighter was always buzzing in his head, the absolute opposite of his E-Glide Police.
The Börjes workshop team rebuilt the entire rear and had a rear fender specially developed for the Pan America made. The fairing with windshield including headlights were removed and replaced with an LED round headlight with a small mask. The crash bars, radiator covers and handguards were also removed.
There are many small detailed solutions to discover
The series exhaust system was carried out by a Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde flap exhaust system replaced, which is partly self-made by Börjes Schmiede. This system originally belonged to a Sportster S. Kellermann also supplied the brand new Jetstream LED indicators for the rear area and a license plate holder was added. The remaining plastic parts were painted. A K&N air filter now ensures sufficient air supply and the bike handles well with a V-Team handlebar.
A home-made holder was used as a holder for the display/speedometer. The handlebar end mirrors and the front indicators come from the Ricks forge. Many other details have been changed, the list of which would go beyond the scope here. And because Sascha is a little crazy, he asked his tuning colleague to please use full power - but still drive well. Said and done.
The result was an American streetfighter with a radical design and unbridled power from standstill to top speed. And I was able to test this part extensively at the spring meeting in Augustfehn.
My Streetfighter test drive and first impression
I have ridden many different Pan America 1250 Special models. She's certainly not slow in the series and her new character is a real revolution in terms of performance development in combination with Harley-Davidson.
Sascha took the Pan America with the powerful 1250 cc Revolution Max engine and converted it into a street fighter, which at first makes you wonder if that's even possible. Yes, of course, that actually works really well, with my 1.83 tall I sat on the Streetfighter like a glove, slightly leaning forward, my hands went to the widely spaced handlebar ends of the specially made V-Team handlebars, which felt really cool.
When I drove off with her for the first time, you immediately noticed that everything here was just waiting for the right command from the driver. A very precise response and it is noticeably full of tension. A slight twist of the electronic throttle and she wants to go brutally.
Everything trimmed for grip
I wasn't ready yet and had to check the situation first because the tires and grip felt completely different when I turned the steering. I was driving at around 15 degrees and had full grip, but I didn't expect that to be a good sign.
Sascha has mounted the AVON SPIRIT ST tires , the Michelin Anakee is easier to steer and certainly lasts longer, which is probably not a priority with the Streetfighter, it's all about grip. Let's keep in mind: seating position is great despite the wide handlebars, starting behavior is great, throttle response is very precise, mega grip and the most noticeable thing for me was the gears.
STREETFIGHTER WITH AVON TIRES
AVON SPIRIT ST
An extraordinary switching experience
The Streetfighter has the quickshifter installed, but that alone doesn't do it. Through the mapping, they have produced a switching experience that I have never experienced before. Not only does the gear just fall into place, there is an indescribably good and soft feeling when the gear is shifted.
Very striking, anyone who has the comparison will immediately notice the precise and smooth entry into the next gear. Seen from that point of view, everything was perfect, but there was still something to be discovered in terms of performance development. It goes like hell, in third gear the front still goes up and I'm by no means a lightweight.
You can see it very well on the performance diagram, it starts at 2000 revolutions, about 300 earlier than in the series. At 2500 rpm the curves meet again briefly and then it goes away. It pulls hard, at around 6800 rpm you have the feeling that more thrust is coming, but you can't see that on the performance curve, in the series it feels like it's at 6300 rpm, but then the Streetfighter is already gone.
At 8000 revolutions the series becomes a little quieter, the Streetfighter pulls through to 9200 and screams for the next gear. It's hell what comes out of the engine and even that's not the end, it would turn even more, Sascha told me. You have to pull yourself together if you want to go through the curves in accordance with the law. Accelerate out of the curve through the S-curve with load changes. I would say that many burners only see the taillights from it.
The longer travel is not a problem, the upside down fork does a very good job. When braking, you notice that Brembo music is playing in the double disc brake system at the front. She pulls you back out of the shooting inferno when it's needed.
The American Streetfighter is the perfect corner chaser
This is a pure street fighter, it's not about the top speed, it's supposed to sprint and steal corners, with its top set-up it does that perfectly. When it comes to street fighters, appearance also plays a role. The rear was changed and various parts were painted, a lot can be done with good paint.
The seat has been shortened, but not finished yet. Sascha is still working on his Streetfighter, it was more of a coincidence that I drove the device. I'm pretty sure that a new trend can emerge here, there are enough crazy people like Sascha who want to have fun with projects like this and who would have thought it, Pan America is actually the template for it.
To this day, Harley-Davidson has let the Streetfighter and BRONX issue fizzle out. And this despite the fact that they actually have the basics on the shelf. The water-cooled Revolution Max engine has incredible power and can be put on the road with different characters.
The Sportster S is designed more for torque, but is already very sporty and the Pan America with its 152 hp goes a little crazier when you drive it.
If Harley-Davidson doesn't manage to get a streetfighter on the road, they just build it themselves; for Harley bikers, it's probably the least of their problems.
You have to be a bit crazy to convert a Harley-Davidson Pan America so radically and unleash the maximum power of the HD Revolution Max Motor.
Sascha Körte is a salesperson at Harley-Davidson Weser-Ems / Börjes American Bikes in Augustfehn. And he's a little crazy too. Passionate Harley-Davidson driver and always on the last track. He actually works the asphalt of the northern German lowlands with a Harley-Davidson E-Glide Police. This bike has been completely rebuilt and was of course tuned for maximum torque and plenty of power in the Börjes Tuning Center.
THE AMERICAN STREETFIGHTER HAS CAUSED A LOT OF EXCITEMENT ON THE NET!
The image has fueled plenty of speculation, from the brand's renewed demise to the two-wheeled dream, at least for those still waiting for the Bronx today.
In autumn 2022, Dynojet tuning professional Marco Gertje was locked up by his colleagues “for a weekend” with a Pan America in the tuning cellar in Augustfehn. The goal was to optimize the mapping of the Pan America. The cold start and starting problem that occurred intermittently on some models should be resolved.
In addition, there was suspicion that the Revolution Max engine from Harley-Davidson could be capable of significantly more than what it was given at the factory. That's quite a bit of effort, because the Pan America has different driving modes, each with their own programs. After countless tuning runs on the test bench, he managed to give the Revolution Max engine a really clean cold start.
The interview with Sascha Körte on YouTube
The entire starting behavior has changed, even the starting noise no longer rattles as much. He couldn't resist modifying the S-Mode a little. After a few days of concentrated work, Marco returned from the basement with a big grin. An extraordinary mapping and a significant improvement in performance and drivability were achieved.
Sascha Körte was then asked by the Tuning Center team to test drive the new mapping for the Pan America, the Sportster S and the Nightster and to report back his experiences and requests for improvements to Marco Gertje.
It started with the comparatively harmless tuning of the Pan America 1250 Special, which culminated in an escalated maximum tuning.
The test drive then suddenly led to a change of heart. Sascha wanted a Pan America for himself. After the test drive, it was ordered immediately and he couldn't sleep peacefully for a while. In addition to tuning, a radical conversion also had to be thought out. The idea of a street fighter was always buzzing in his head, the absolute opposite of his E-Glide Police.
The Börjes workshop team rebuilt the entire rear and had a rear fender specially developed for the Pan America made. The fairing with windshield including headlights were removed and replaced with an LED round headlight with a small mask. The crash bars, radiator covers and handguards were also removed.
There are many small detailed solutions to discover
The series exhaust system was carried out by a Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde flap exhaust system replaced, which is partly self-made by Börjes Schmiede. This system originally belonged to a Sportster S. Kellermann also supplied the brand new Jetstream LED indicators for the rear area and a license plate holder was added. The remaining plastic parts were painted. A K&N air filter now ensures sufficient air supply and the bike handles well with a V-Team handlebar.
A home-made holder was used as a holder for the display/speedometer. The handlebar end mirrors and the front indicators come from the Ricks forge. Many other details have been changed, the list of which would go beyond the scope here. And because Sascha is a little crazy, he asked his tuning colleague to please use full power - but still drive well. Said and done.
The result was an American streetfighter with a radical design and unbridled power from standstill to top speed. And I was able to test this part extensively at the spring meeting in Augustfehn.
My Streetfighter test drive and first impression
I have ridden many different Pan America 1250 Special models. She's certainly not slow in the series and her new character is a real revolution in terms of performance development in combination with Harley-Davidson.
Sascha took the Pan America with the powerful 1250 cc Revolution Max engine and converted it into a street fighter, which at first makes you wonder if that's even possible. Yes, of course, that actually works really well, with my 1.83 tall I sat on the Streetfighter like a glove, slightly leaning forward, my hands went to the widely spaced handlebar ends of the specially made V-Team handlebars, which felt really cool.
When I drove off with her for the first time, you immediately noticed that everything here was just waiting for the right command from the driver. A very precise response and it is noticeably full of tension. A slight twist of the electronic throttle and she wants to go brutally.
Everything trimmed for grip
I wasn't ready yet and had to check the situation first because the tires and grip felt completely different when I turned the steering. I was driving at around 15 degrees and had full grip, but I didn't expect that to be a good sign.
Sascha has mounted the AVON SPIRIT ST tires , the Michelin Anakee is easier to steer and certainly lasts longer, which is probably not a priority with the Streetfighter, it's all about grip. Let's keep in mind: seating position is great despite the wide handlebars, starting behavior is great, throttle response is very precise, mega grip and the most noticeable thing for me was the gears.
STREETFIGHTER WITH AVON TIRES
AVON SPIRIT ST
An extraordinary switching experience
The Streetfighter has the quickshifter installed, but that alone doesn't do it. Through the mapping, they have produced a switching experience that I have never experienced before. Not only does the gear just fall into place, there is an indescribably good and soft feeling when the gear is shifted.
Very striking, anyone who has the comparison will immediately notice the precise and smooth entry into the next gear. Seen from that point of view, everything was perfect, but there was still something to be discovered in terms of performance development. It goes like hell, in third gear the front still goes up and I'm by no means a lightweight.
You can see it very well on the performance diagram, it starts at 2000 revolutions, about 300 earlier than in the series. At 2500 rpm the curves meet again briefly and then it goes away. It pulls hard, at around 6800 rpm you have the feeling that more thrust is coming, but you can't see that on the performance curve, in the series it feels like it's at 6300 rpm, but then the Streetfighter is already gone.
At 8000 revolutions the series becomes a little quieter, the Streetfighter pulls through to 9200 and screams for the next gear. It's hell what comes out of the engine and even that's not the end, it would turn even more, Sascha told me. You have to pull yourself together if you want to go through the curves in accordance with the law. Accelerate out of the curve through the S-curve with load changes. I would say that many burners only see the taillights from it.
The longer travel is not a problem, the upside down fork does a very good job. When braking, you notice that Brembo music is playing in the double disc brake system at the front. She pulls you back out of the shooting inferno when it's needed.
The American Streetfighter is the perfect corner chaser
This is a pure street fighter, it's not about the top speed, it's supposed to sprint and steal corners, with its top set-up it does that perfectly. When it comes to street fighters, appearance also plays a role. The rear was changed and various parts were painted, a lot can be done with good paint.
The seat has been shortened, but not finished yet. Sascha is still working on his Streetfighter, it was more of a coincidence that I drove the device. I'm pretty sure that a new trend can emerge here, there are enough crazy people like Sascha who want to have fun with projects like this and who would have thought it, Pan America is actually the template for it.
To this day, Harley-Davidson has let the Streetfighter and BRONX issue fizzle out. And this despite the fact that they actually have the basics on the shelf. The water-cooled Revolution Max engine has incredible power and can be put on the road with different characters.
The Sportster S is designed more for torque, but is already very sporty and the Pan America with its 152 hp goes a little crazier when you drive it.
If Harley-Davidson doesn't manage to get a streetfighter on the road, they just build it themselves; for Harley bikers, it's probably the least of their problems.