New Book: Rebel Motorcycles Ltd

While checking out the cool designs at Kick'N'Start at Moto Legende, I got a chance to meet Laurent Bagnard, creater of Powerglide magazine in France. Powerglide spiced up the Hot Rod and Kustom enthusiast's press here while also covering a cross-over interest: music. Already the author of one awarding winning book, he's recently released his second work 'Rebel Motorcycles Ltd'.

'Rebel Motorcycles Ltd' is a hardcover, 144-page full-colour photography book. It's a selection of what Laurent Bagnard has been lucky enough to witness around the fast moving world of today's modified bikes, from Europe to Japan through the homeland of stylin' wheels: California!

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Kick'n'Start Apparel from France

Right then, another t-shirt company offering motorcycle inspired designs, just what you need. Ok, it's true there are an enormous number of companies doing tees, so it can get a bit tiring after a while. But when I happened by Kick'n'Start's booth at the Salon Moto Legende I really fell for the simplicity of their designs, plus the fact that they package their tees in 33" vinyl record sleeves! The company is an upstart collaboration between 6 friends, artists and above all motorcycle nuts. They are just getting started and hope to be expanding their line to include more products soon. Check out their website to get a closer look at the designs. It's easy to navigate but be forewarned, it's only in French.

Mini Coyote V2...soon for bikers?

Here in France and much of the European Union, radar detectors are not legal. But there is a way to get advance warning of speed traps. Coyote Systems of France is one of many manufacturers who produce GPS based speed camera alert units.

The information about existing speed cameras is delivered by Coyote either from fellow Coyote users or from the speed camera and speed limit information from the databases of our Partners. It is updated as soon as you turn on the device and the communication stays active throughout your trip so you can receive alerts at any time.

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FIM to Debut Electric Motorcycle Racing Series

Photo: Ron Barber, winner of the pro class 2009 TTXGP: Flickr / SkyFire PDL

Electric motorcycle racing has hit the big time with the announcement that the organizers of MotoGP are launching an electric racing series next year.

There’s no word yet on who’s racing or what rules they’ll have to follow, but the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme has four races on the calendar and says more are coming. It says the e-Power International Series reflects its growing concern about the future of the sport and the need to promote alternative energy. “The FIM, as the governing body of motorcycle sport, must take into account current environmental problems,” FIM president Vito Ippolito said in a statement.

The series will be organized by the FIM’s Road Racing Commission. The first race is slated for April 18 during the Le Mans 24 Hours, with others scheduled for Sept. 12 in France and Nov. 14 in Qatar. The date of the fourth race, during the Albacete 8 Hours in Spain, is to be announced.

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2010 Pinup Speedshop Calender

One the more surprising finds I came upon at the Salon Moto Legende was a great calender for 2010 featuring professionally shot vintage bikes and pin-ups. The calender is the work of a British photographer, Robert Schoehuys, who is actually based in Paris. To see shots of other months and for ordering info, head to Pinup Speedshop.

Salon Moto Legende Memories

Went to the Salon Moto Legende this past weekend in the Parc Floral of the Bois de Vincennes. This is the second year the event has taken place here since the closing of the nearby Montlhéry Racing Circuit. While the venue
itself may not be as cool as it's previous location, the event itself does not disappoint. In addition to the usual array of vintage British and Germany iron, surprising Italian creations and occasional American classics, you'll be treated to an amazing selection of vintage French motorcycles of every epoch, from the smallest single-cylinder motor powered bicycles to the largest full-bore bikes topping out at about 750cc's. This year Mark Wilsmore from the Ace Cafe even came down to hang with the local members of the 59 Club. Among the magazines present were Cafe Racer, a French bimonthly that covers, well, cafe racers, street trackers and an assortment of vintage bikes. In their stand, the owner of the magazine, Bertrand, was displaying his gorgeous Triumph street tracker put together by Glory Sales in Los Angeles, Ca. One of the most unusual displays was the center of attention this, a retrospective on the offroad machines used in African rallies such as the Paris-Dakar. If you happen to be planning a trip to Paris in the fall, this is a must do.

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Holiday Gifts V

I'm going to round out my week long gift giving guide passing along one more company out of jolly old England. This time though, the gifts are a bit more specialized. Classic Bike Gifts focuses on offering the coolest items for enthusiasts of vintage British iron. So, whether your mate is a die hard Triumph, Norton, Vincent (or one of the many other fabulous old marques) nut, this is the place to pick up a unique goodie, that will be remember for decades to come.

Holiday Gifts IV

While you may think at this point that you've seen just about everything there is to offer your loved one, don't bet on it. Once again, I bring you another company from the motherland that has put together a unbelievable selection of treats when you need more than just the ordinary. Biker Gifts adds practical gifts, such as security and storage solutions and some highly sought after memorabilia and autographed items to the usual gift fare. They are also an official licensee to the Estate of Mike Hailwood and they support the Joey Dunlop Injured Riders Fund.

Holiday Gifts III

Continuing on our gift shopping series, I've found a couple companies out of England that have a huge assortment of treats for obsessive biker nut. First stop is Bikersbits.com, the self titled A-Z Guide to the Perfect Gift for Bikers. In addition to the usual fare found on typical sites, they offer such unusual items as doorbells, sculptures, puzzles, bedding and beach towels.

Rather than going into detail on all the great products they offer, just go check them out and stop by tomorrow when I let you in on my other great find.

Holiday Gifts II

Looking for something a little different from the ordinary gift choices for that special motorhead? Check out Planet Motard, the specialist in personalized gifts for motorcyclists. They offer a wide range of clothing and textiles personalized with an embroidered image of your bike, logo, text etc...

But if that is not quite what you are looking for, you can also browse their wide selection of stickers, decals, key rings, miniatures, clocks, jewelery, anti-slip seat covers and much more. Of particular note is their collection of rare motorcycle products from the 1970's, all for sale at very reasonable prices. In short, they are certain to have something for just about any taste.