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‘RIDE, RACK AND REST’ IS DEBUTED BY THUNDER MOUNTAIN CUSTOM CYCLES AND HEARTLAND USA DURING DAYTONA BEACH BIKE WEEK– DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 8, 2005) – Thunder Mountain Custom Cycles, Inc. and Heartland USA have partnered together to develop a truly innovative passenger seat, luggage rack and backrest in one. The ‘RIDE, RACK AND REST’ made its debut Tuesday evening of Bike Week at a press party hosted by Thunder Mountain Custom Cycles’ Daytona Beach location.
The new product has been developed to address the style, safety and comfort concerns of riders. With the introduction of the 180 and 240 rear tires, customers now have fewer options for carrying a passenger or a small bag for weekend trips. Thunder Mountain Custom Cycles and Heartland USA have researched the needs of their customers and created a product that solves those issues while keeping quality high and costs low.
Using the same-patented system invented for the removable second seat, the ‘RIDE, RACK AND REST’ offers a visually appealing design with true versatility. The rack is constructed of bent rod and welded steel plate – two readily available, cost effective materials.
The passenger seat easily converts to an ergonomically correct rider backrest making the now exposed luggage rack available for carrying the custom accessory bag. Made of water resistant material and zippers, the bag offers expansion pockets, tie down “D” rings, a stylish design and back pack fasteners allowing it to be easily converted from an accessory bag to a backpack. Additional features of the bag include internal storage for glasses, cell phones, gloves, maps and more.
The product is designed for the TMC Cycles Blackhawk and Baditude 240 models and is expected to be available this April. For more information or to find a dealer near you, contact Thunder Mountain Custom Cycles at (888) 805-6467 or visit them on the web at www.TMCCycles.com.
BIKE MAKES DISPLAY NEW BIKES AT SPEEDWAY–
By CECIL G. BRUMLEY
Business Writer
News Journal Online
March 04, 2005
DAYTONA BEACH — The naked and the powerful will roar into a wave of chrome and steel across the sea that is Bike Week.
For the production builders of the two-wheeled rides, Daytona International Speedway will be the stage for all that is motorcycles.
Asked which manufacturers will be at the Speedway, the communications office of Speedway owner International Speedway Corp. replied, “All of them.”
They weren’t kidding. For the list, just go tohttp://www.daytonaintlspeedway.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=716.
Buell, which will be displaying bikes and offering demo rides at the Speedway, is touting its “naked styling,” company spokesman Doug Terfehr said. “The Buell Lightning XB9SX CityX streetfighter is the ultimate ‘naked’ sportbike, the category’s fastest growing segment, jumping 111 percent in sales since 1998.”
With naked bikes, the mechanical elements of the motorcycle, including the engine, exhaust and frame, are easy to see, Terfehr said. “The urban CityX (pronounced city-cross) takes that naked styling concept to the extreme by not only exposing the engine, but also the see-through Hero Blue translucid airbox cover and flyscreen to put the bike’s mechanical details on display.
But while Buell goes naked, Boss Hoss will be displaying its power, company spokeswoman Michelle Nisenboim said. “The 502s (502 horses) are hot.”
All three trikes the company builds also are big sellers, Nisenboim said, “because of their body style and the ability to customize them.”
Like many manufacturers, though, Boss Hoss will be showing off as many bikes as possible at the speedway.
Yamaha will be bringing all of its models to the Speedway, a company spokesman said. “There’s not one bike we’re doing a big premier on this year.”
Another production builder, Kawasaki, has two new units it’ll be featuring this year at its Speedway display, company spokesman Doug Freeman said. They are the Vulcan 1600 Nomad, which is a 1,552cc displacement cruiser, and the Z750, a “throw-back” street motorcycle.
Also, Freeman said, Daytona Bike Week will be the first appearance for Kawasaki’s Custom Cruiser Tour, a compilation of just completed, customized Vulcan cruisers that show individual riders what can be done to literally individualize their own motorcycles.
“They’ve been designed by the top folks in the aftermarket and represent several hundred thousand dollars worth of rolling stock,” he said.
If you can’t get your fill of new bikes at the Speedway, and believe only Harley-Davidson makes real bikes, check out the Harley show at the Ocean Center starting Thursday.
But the displays aren’t limited to just fixed areas. There will be displays throughout the area. For example Apex Trikes of Warrington, Pa., will be at 2306 Atlantic Ave., across from the Hawaiian Inn in Daytona Beach Shores.
Rogue
Christine’s Kickstart – Learn to Ride Motorcycles–How to Ride a Motorcycle; featuring Christine?s KickSTARTTM Series? a comprehensive and inspiring instruction manual for the novice to intermediate motorcycle rider. Benefits both motorcycle instructors and students featuring instructional tips and troubleshooting advice. Also a resource guide for the motorcycle lifestyle and culture, in general. A uniquely developed curriculum based upon 20 years of experience taught by the American Motorcycle Driving School Inc. and five-generation motorcycle family. Also available, an accompanying 120 minute, interactive instructional DVD, featuring celebrity interviews, detailed instructions, proper riding demonstrations, and practice set-ups.
This book and DVD is the first of its kind. Never before has a book and DVD been available to dictate step-by-step, systematic set-up and practice parking lot diagrams. This is the first instructional book written by a female. Her experience and credentials are unmatched. Finally there is a true, beginners guide, written from a real teachers perspective and targeted at true novices and self-taught riders, addressing their actual concerns. This book has blazed the road, setting a new industry standard for beginner rider training.
Written by, Motorcycle InstructorChristine Firehock
Special Consultant, Motorcycle InstructorDiana L. Marafioti
American Motorcycle Driving School, INC.AMA, 2004 MVP AWARD Winner
Accredited by the BBB, for 20 years of Excellence in Customer Service
SIMON MILWARD DIES IN AFRICA– It is with great regret that we must tell you that Simon Milward, the former General Secretary of the Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA) has died in a road accident in Africa while on a round the world charity fund-raising motorcycle ride.
Simon, who set out on what he called The Millennium Ride at the beginning of 2000 was raising funds for charities providing medical assistance via motorcycles in poor countries.
He had reached the West African state of Mali in West Africa on his way back to Europe when the accident occurred. Details from the authorities are minimal at present but we shall post more on MAG’s website as information becomes available.
Initiatives have been made to repatriate his body and we shall post bulletins on the website to advise of further arrangements.
Anyone wishing to recognize the selfless work Simon so enthusiastically committed himself to, may like to visit his website for details regarding donations to his charities. http://www.millennium-ride.com
All of us at MAG UK wish to express our sympathy to Simon’s family and his many friends around the world. His loss leaves a huge gap in all our lives.
Ian Mutch
MAG President
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM & CHILDREN?S HOSPITAL JOIN FORCES–March 2005 – – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is excited to announce that it has joined with Children?s Care Hospital & School in a fundraising effort to benefit both non-profit organizations, scheduled on Wednesday evening, 10 August 2005 at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish, South Dakota.
The event, V-Twin Kids & Chrome, A Grand Affair, will include an exclusive dining experience, silent and live auctions and will boast the who?s who in motorcycling. Those unable to attend the dinner can still be a part of this incredible event by participating in the raffle. Two custom motorcycles, donated by Independent Cycle and Thunder Mountain Customs, with a combined value of $110,000, will be raffled as part of the event.
Children?s Care Hospital & School, with centers in Rapid City and Sioux Falls, is a non-profit organization providing cutting-edge family-centered services to children with special healthcare and educational needs. The children range from severely disabled, needing care in a residential setting, to children with mild challenges, served in their homes, schools, and daycares by outreach staff. Diagnoses include cerebral palsy; traumatic brain injury; spina bifida; autism; Down Syndrome; behavioral challenges; and learning, motor and speech delays. Children?s Care believes all children deserve the help they need to reach their greatest potential.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame was established in 2001 to preserve the great history of motorcycling and to honor the men and women who have made a positive and significant impact in our sport and lifestyle. Located in downtown Sturgis, it is dedicated to education, and the preservation of important artifacts documenting the history of motorcycling and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This world-class, non-profit museum continually rotates its exhibits and collection of national and international marquees. With an increasingly impressive selection of unique motorcycles and exhibits, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum has been listed as one of the ?10,000 Places To See Before You Die? by author Patricia Schultz.
For more information on how you can participate in this exciting new event check out the web site at http://www.kidsandchrome.com.
SONS OF LIBERTY RIDERS E-NEWS–
Bikers Declare Victory And Lift Myrtle Beach Boycott
ABATE of South Carolina, Inc.
www.abatesc.com
843-345-5926
Bikers Declare Victory And Lift Myrtle Beach Boycott
South Carolina, September 25, 2003 – Bikers lift the boycott of Myrtle Beachand Horry County after achieving political objectives. The boycott wasimplemented by ABATE of SC in the wake of the horrible accident that claimedthe lives of two motorcyclists when a public official failed to yield rightof way and was not charged.
ABATE of SC has voted to lift the boycott of Myrtle Beach following changesin the Horry County Council and the City Council of Myrtle Beach voting 6-1to spend $10,000 to tell the motorcycle community that Myrtle Beachis “Biker Friendly.” Right of Way Bills S418 and H3653 have also beenintroduced in the South Carolina Statehouse to increase the penalties forthose who injure, maim, or kill while violating current right of way laws.Motorcyclists and other concerned citizens are currently working hard togain passage of these right of way bills.
ABATE of South Carolina would like to thank all national and statemotorcyclists rights organizations that supported the boycott. ABATE of SCnow requests that those who supported our efforts now lift the boycott andwork with us to gain passage of right of way bills both in South Carolinaand beyond.
ABATE of South Carolina is a State Motorcyclists Rights Organizationdedicated to defending the rights of all motorcyclists who choose to ride inSouth Carolina. ABATE of South Carolina also encourages all motorcyclists toregister to vote and become active in the political process. ABATEencourages motorcyclists to voluntarily obtain motorcycle rider training.Many individual members of ABATE are actively involved in local charities.
Contact information:
FastFred Ruddock
State Coordinator Elect
ABATE of South Carolina
843-345-5926
ff@abatesc.com
. Survey on VFR website – pass the word please
Virginia Freedom Riders now has a survey on our website http://www.vfr-race.com/survey/survey.php?sid=29 Please take a moment and complete it. We are collecting this info from residents as Virginia as well as residents of other states. Only take it once, and answer as honestly as you can. We will collect the results and use them in our fight for freedom in the Commonwealth.
Please pass the word and get the message out to all motorcyclists and motorcyclist organizations you can think of. We would like to have at least 1000 Virginia citizens participate in this survey and as many out of state motorcyclists as possible.
Spread the word!
Penny
ON THE ROAD AGAIN?– One fan hopes to make sequel to ‘Easy Rider’ — finally.
James Sterngold, Chronicle Staff Writer
Friday, March 4, 2005
Hollywood — The 1960s may be long gone, but can its most celebrated movie anthem, “Easy Rider,” make a comeback?
This trippy, cinematic tone poem about two toked-up drug dealers searching for the soul of America has drifted into Hollywood lore in part because it was such a pure expression of the times and seemed, legally as well as creatively, one of a kind, inimitable. It was famously made on the fly by a group of new age Hollywood hipsters — Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper and Jack Nicholson — and the producers of “The Monkees” television series.
But after their collaboration spoke enigmatic truths to an alienated generation, they stopped speaking to one another for the most part, tying “Easy Rider” into legal knots that have only added to the movie’s aura. Any notion of an “Easy Rider” franchise, and there have been plenty of failed efforts to recapture the film’s magic in sequels or remakes, seemed as dead as the film’s three main characters, all killed off at the movie’s dark conclusion.
Or so it seemed.
A semi retired litigator from Cincinnati with a passing resemblance to Fonda’s “Captain America” character, a head full of dreamy ideas and no filmmaking experience has probably the best chance yet to give the new millennium a new “Easy Rider.”
Indeed, it may take an outsider like Phil Pitzer, 60, backed by an improbable group of partners, to make the long-awaited sequel. And Pitzer’s vision, like the original, may turn out to be as much a pure expression of this moment in time, if in a slightly different sense. His plan calls for as many as three sequels, plus video games, merchandise, a possible television series, themed restaurants, concerts, even a line of motorcycles.
“This is not just about making a movie,” said Pitzer, who now lives in Aspen, Colo., most of the time. “I’m at a stage in my life when I want to make a difference.”
He added, “See, I’m a totally laissez-faire guy. I’m apolitical. Yeah, I may be a little weird. I may not be the most normal cat. But, hey, let me be. That works, you know. That’s the kind of thing this movie will be about. It’s about allowing people to be free and not impose your will on them. I mean, it’s de Tocqueville.”
He also has a simpler, more business-oriented vision.
“You have to have killer music, kick-ass motorcycles,” said Pitzer. “I’ve done my focus groups. I think a lot of people will dig it.”
If his approach is simple, there are some who argue that simplicity may be the key to getting the notoriously impossible movie made.
“If he wasn’t so naive he might have never made it this far in the first place,” said Michael Mailer, son of the writer Norman Mailer and an independent producer who has joined Pitzer on the project. “Seeing all the problems and the history of this thing, a lot of people in Hollywood wouldn’t have bothered. But Phil is out to make a movie. He’s obsessed with the movie, but you need to be.”
Whether anyone watches it or not, just getting the project under way would be an accomplishment, given the number of times people have tried and failed to make a sequel to “Easy Rider.”
There was the version, described in an interview by Bert Schneider, one of the original producers, which cast the story as a post apocalyptic fantasy. There was one written by screenwriter Sean Jacques, working with Lauren Lloyd — the producer of the fast-paced movie “Cellular” — in which Peter Fonda’s character, Wyatt, or Captain America, is not dead, but in jail on murder charges, and then becomes a cult hero.
And there was the plan by David Kaplan, a real estate investor committed to transcendental meditation who briefly owned the rights. He wanted a script that would have taken the motorcycle journey to a resort in North Carolina, owned by Kaplan, connected with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
“I wanted to publicize my resort,” said Kaplan, who has since sold the rights to the group that includes Pitzer.
Pitzer is both more and less ambitious. On the one hand, he said, the movie has to be entertaining. He plans on spending about $10 million on production, a modest sum by Hollywood standards, and focusing on the pure fun of motorcycles and rock music. And yet he also insists that the film must tap into the zeitgeist, in this case expressing the anxieties of the post-Sept. 11 world.
His story focuses on the family of Fonda’s character, Wyatt, including a sister and a brother, a few in-laws, Wyatt’s grouchy father, an illegitimate son and their own quest for America.
Hollywood, of course, has seen plenty of rich guys who have thought it would be a boatload of fun to make a few movies and perhaps date some stars. Usually, they are sent packing after being separated from a considerable amount of money. But show business cynics who want to dismiss Pitzer as a hayseed ripe for a run through the Hollywood spin cycle may have to think again.
True, he has no credits, no agent and no studio contacts. Not a maitre d’ in town knows his name. And he acknowledges that “Easy Rider” may be the toughest of all films to build on.
But Pitzer has a pit bull’s persistence and a nose for an opponent’s vulnerabilities, and he is convinced that after two and a half years of struggle and some legal skirmishing with the famously reclusive and wily Bert Schneider, he now owns the rights.
“This is the score of a lifetime,” said Pitzer, who claims that the original movie transformed his life from the moment he saw it in a theater in Kentucky 36 years ago. “Honestly, I still don’t know if this is a good thing or a bad thing. But I can tell you, it’s a thing.”
In a rare interview, Schneider, who produced and helped finance the original movie along with his fellow “Monkees” producer, Bob Rafelson, dismissed the claims but also acknowledged that Pitzer may be on to something. Schenider was engaged in a legal struggle over the rights for years. He settled with Columbia Pictures only in 1992, in an arrangement that gave him and his partner the rights to do sequels and remakes, but gave most of the other rights to Columbia.
“We own the rights,” said Schneider. “We never put them on the market.”
But then he agreed that Pitzer might actually have an option, after a previous owner, a businessman named Glenn Tobias who tried to produce a sequel, failed to repay a loan to David Kaplan. Tobias then had to hand the rights over to Kaplan.
“Whether anything can come of it, I don’t know,” said Schneider. “Every once in a while someone has come around and wanted to so something, but it could never happen without us. That’s just the truth.”
Pitzer and his financial partner, James Hunting, a real estate investor, have spent a considerable amount of time and money making certain that the rights they bought from Kaplan are rock solid.
“Dude, we have the rights,” he said, adding that he expects soon a judgment against Schneider confirming his ownership. Pitzer added that if and when he makes the new “Easy Rider” Schneider and Rafelson will still receive what could amount to millions of dollars because of an interest they retained from the previous sale.
Pitzer has assembled an unusual team for the unusual job, including a sometime Republican political consultant to write the script and Michael Mailer to produce the movie. Everyone who has spoken with him describes Pitzer as a man possessed.
“When I met Phil for the first time he was sitting in a banquette at the back of the Polo Lounge in these dark shades with his long hair, and I just said to myself, ‘Oh no. Save me from this wannabe,’ ” said Michael Harbert, the Republican operative and an experienced writer for television police dramas like “Law and Order.” “But after I listened to him for a half-hour I knew he was right, that he knew how to bring this franchise back. It was really clear that all this guy wanted to do was to make this movie.”
Pitzer and his team have already produced some film footage and a promotional poster for “ER II, The Motion Picture,” as it is being called for now.
The poster shows Pitzer, seated on a replica of the iconic Captain America motorcycle with the stars-and-bars gas tank, heading down the open road in Malibu. He intends to play a modest role in the film as the outlaw brother of Wyatt.
“This whole thing, I thought it was a very unorthodox situation, but given the history of the film, that’s probably appropriate,” said Mailer.
Rogue
END OF NEWS–End of the workweek. I never liked the acronym TGIF, but today it truly fits the way I feel. Bandit took off for Daytona on Wednesday morning and me and the gals have been working our butts off since. When he returns, major changes will have taken place and it doesn?t end there. The living room is now empty and next on the list of rooms to renovate. Hang on for this one!
Have a great weekend!
Layla
