WHAT ARE THE FASTEST CRUISER MOTORCYCLES OUT THERE?

Big brawny cruisers tell a lot of the story of American motorcycles, and they do it mostly with sound. There is no mistaking the roar of an 1800cc engine and the assault it makes on the road and eardrums of anyone in the vicinity.

They aren't sport bikes, but some cruisers can perform on the same level as the world’s fastest bikes while weighing several hundred pounds more. The trick is stacking the right level of power to carry the weight, along with the rider gripping the handles. Here is a list of the nine fastest cruisers based on 0-60 mile-per-hour times. In most cases, testers supplied the times for each bike, while in other cases, in-depth reviews delivered more recent times for the bikes in question
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9. Kawasaki Vulcan 2000: 3.95 seconds

Though Kawasaki is currently not selling the Vulcan 2000 model new, there are enough around for cruisers to know this bike on the highway. According to the top time tested the Vulcan can take its 818 pounds from 0-60 miles per hour in 3.95 seconds. Its power plant can produce a maximum 117 pound-feet of torque along with 90 horsepower.

8. Victory 8 Ball: 3.88 seconds

Using 110 pound-feet of torque and 105 horsepower, Victory’s Vegas 8-Ball can sprint from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds on its best runs. For a cruiser, it weighs in on the light side at 638 pounds dry. In terms of image, riders love the look of the classic V/106 and the sound of the 1731cc engine. It’s old-school muscle and style at its best. The 8 Ball clocked its best 0-60 time at 3.88 seconds.

7. Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide: 3.7 seconds

To gauge the power of the Harley CVO Road Glide Custom Anniversary Edition. The Harley CVO Road Glide is able to use its 110 pound-feet of torque and 91 horsepower to blast from 0-60 in 3.7 seconds.

6.Suzuki Boulevard M109 B.O.S.S. : 3.65 seconds

Suzuki’s Boulevard M109 B.O.S.S. is known as one of the beasts of the open road. With 97 pound-feet of torque and 105 horsepower, the 1793cc B.O.S.S. made its fastest 0-60 run in 3.65 seconds. The 2014 model weighs in at 764 pounds at the curb.

5. Harley-Davidson V-Rod: 3.59 seconds

A previous model of the Harley-Davidson VRSC V-Rod was clocked going 0-60 in 3.59 seconds. The latest model has upgraded its torque from 72 pound-feet to 83 pound-feet, while the weight has jumped from 619 pounds to a menacing 666 pounds at the curb.

4. Honda Gold Wing Valkyrie: 3.3 seconds

Honda’s monstrous Gold Wing squared off against the H-D Road Glide Custom tests and won in the 0-60 sprint, with a time of 3.3 seconds. It matches the best time posted by any Gold Wing model. Packing an engine of 1832cc capable of 110 pound-feet of torque on 104 horsepower, the Valkyrie is ready to match nearly any cruiser on the road.

3. Triumph Rocket Roadster: 3.3 seconds

With 148 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque to power a wet weight of 809 pounds, it is easy to see why this Triumph bike is called the Rocket. It houses the world’s biggest production motorcycle engine (an imposing 2249cc) and can power from 0-60 in 3.3 seconds. The 2010 model ran the quarter-mile in 11.48 seconds.

2. Ducati Diavel: 2.8 seconds

For those who wouldn’t count the Ducati Diavel Strada a cruiser, it’s fine to take the Rocket as the leader of the pack and call it a day. Those who are  willing to include a “performance cruiser” will want a sprint on the Ducati Diavel, a bike that can go 0-60 in 2.8 seconds. Powering the Diavel is the 1198cc engine, while the bike’s wet weight is just 557 pounds.

1. Yamaha Star VMAX: 2.5 seconds

The Star VMax against the Triumph Rocket in order to see which cruiser could run 0-60 fastest. That test pegged the VMax at 0-60 in 2.5 seconds, which made it the fastest bike that still makes for good long-range riding. It houses a 1679cc engine capable of 179 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Weighing in at 695 pounds, it can match the Diavel on pound-for-pound power.

On that note, rider weights and skills are always going to factor into the bike with the fastest 0-60 times. All things equal, the Star VMax is likely to outperform any classic cruiser. If the Diavel is included in the segment, it will always be a horse race.

INDIAN MOTORCYCLES

For decades the most prolific American made touring motorcycle on the roads has been and perhaps will continue to be the Harley Davidson Motorcycle. This "Rider" has been an avid Harley fan and will continue to love the empire Harley has built. However contrary to my history, recently my two wheeled soul has been seduced by a new and equally quintessential motorcycle offering. It has been the recent resurrection of an iconic brand of yesteryear that has many bikers (Myself included) considering the switch from our mainstay brand to the new and potentially even more nostalgic INDIAN!

NEW WINDSHIELD BY LRS ON INDIAN CHIEFTAIN

In 2013 Indian announced a new line-up of INDIAN motorcycles built by the POLARIS company and after having tried them all I would have to admit to the fact that they are phenomenal. Although some may argue a new brands efficacy, or might take issue with some of the early issues with the new engine design, as a manufacturer I know that any new product will have its bugs. To me it is about the overall sensation of the motorcycle and the spirit it brings to the road.

HERE ARE THE NEW BIKES





After putting a few miles on each of the new models, My favorite of course was the Chieftain. What I loved about it was the smooth ride mixed with the deep sounds and the mesh of old and new; the bike just made sense. The best feature in my opinion was the windshield and fairing system which like some of the other modern German and metric bikes, was a motorized adjustable system. This allows the best of performance and comfort on the highway, all the while allowing the freedom and airflow that most motorcyclists find desirable in the bending back roads.

For me the potential switch wont be an abandonment of Harley, but the embracing of a long lost brother. If ever there was a reason to own two bikes, I now have it! The Indian is a piece of our heritage that many may have discounted or left to the side of the road, but the new bikes do an excellent job of remembering the pioneers and bringing nostalgia to the motorcycle experience.

Now that I have rationalized my unnatural thoughts and wicked motorcycle desires lets review the history of this ancient Juggernaut.



THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS FROM THE INDIAN WEBSITE

1901

Prototype and two production units successfully designed, built and tested.

1902

First Indian Motorcycle®, featuring innovative chain drives and streamlined styling, sold to public.

1903

Indian Motorcycle® co-founder and chief engineer Oscar Hedstrom sets world motorcycle speed record (56mph).

1904

Crimson Steed of Steel paint scheme introduced; Indian Motorcycle® wins Gold Medal for Mechanical Excellence at St. Louis Exposition.

1906

Indian Motorcycle® releases first American production V-Twin after several years of development and testing; 101 years later V-Twin remains most popular cruiser-motorcycle engine design.

1906

George Holden and Luis J. Mueller ride an Indian Motorcycle® from San Francisco to New York City in 31 trouble-free days, breaking the existing record by over 18 days.

1906

A 1907 Indian Motorcycle® Twin wins the first English 1000-mile reliability trial.

1907

New York Police Department selects Indian Motorcycle® for first motorcycle police unit.

1908

Indian Motorcycle® "loop frame" positions gas tank on front horizontal frame member, other makers eventually follow suit; basic configuration still used by virtually all motorcycles.

1920

It's a decade of growth for the Indian® model line, starting with the revolutionary 1920 Scout® and followed by the 95-mph Chief®, the even more powerful Big Chief®, the lightweight Prince, and the awesome 4-cylinder Four.

1920

First use of semi-unit construction is utilized in the introduction of the Indian® Scout®.

1922

Indian® Motocycle becomes first company in America to use "leakproof" aluminum primary cases; competition retains leaks for decades.

1922

61 cubic inch Indian® Chief® is introduced.

1923

When motorcycles began to appear in the late 19th century, there was some uncertainty about what to call them.  Some journalists used "motocycle," some used "motorcycle." The Hendee Manufacturing Company chose "motocycle,” changing the name to Indian® Motocycle Company.

1923

74-cubic-inch Big Chief® V-Twin introduced.

1927

Four-cylinder Indian® Ace introduced.

1928

101 Scout® becomes the machine of choice for “wall of death” stunt riders.

1930

The Art Deco era hits the Indian Motorcycle® adorned in a full range of Duco colors, two-tone designs, pinstriping, and decals.

1932

Two new lightweight models debut – the Motoplane and the Pony Scout®.

1937

“Iron Man” Ed Kretz, aboard a Sport Scout®, laps the entire field in his win at the 1937 Inaugural Daytona 200. Indian® introduces first motorcycles with dual carburetors.

1939

With the onset of World War II, focus again shifts to providing the War Department with motorcycles. The government of France orders 5,000 Chiefs with sidecars.

1940

Indian Motorcycle® pioneers use of "plunger" (spring coupled to an oil-dampened shaft) rear suspension; introduces trademark full-skirt fenders (aka valences). Production during the war years is mainly military and police vehicles.

1941

Indian Motorcycle® begins production of advanced shaft-drive, four-speed military motorcycle.

1943

Indian Motorcycle® wins Army-Navy Production Award.

1945

The company is sold and consolidated into the Torque Engineering Company. Later the company is divided with manufacturing going to the Atlas Corporation and distribution to The Indian® Sales Corporation.

1947

Johnny Spiegelhof wins the Daytona 200 aboard a Sport Scout®.

1948

First Daytona 200 held on new beach/road course won by Indian® rider Floyd Emde on a 648 Scout.

1951

Following the war, Indian Motorcycle® struggles with re-entry into the public market. The Chief®, dropped for a year, is re-introduced in 1951 as a mighty 80-cubic-inch model, but sales continue to decline and Indian is forced to halt production in 1953.

1967

Herbert "Burt" Munro rides his self-modified 1920 Scout® to an under-1000cc land-speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Forty years later, Munro and his Indian's record still stands.

1998

A complex web of trademark rights foil numerous attempts to revive the Indian® name until several formerly competing companies merge to become the Indian Motorcycle® Company.

1999

Manufacturing begins, but the venture proves unsuccessful.

2003

The company's final model year.

2004

Stephen Julius and Steve Heese, after resurrecting the struggling Chris-Craft® Boat Company, turn their attention to Indian Motorcycle®. They acquire trademark rights and intellectual properties. Chris Craft® is a registered trademark of CC MARINE BRAND ACQUISITIONS LLC.

2008

Production begins and 2009 Indian® Chief® motorcycles start rolling off the assembly line in Kings Mountain, NC.

2011

Polaris® adds one of motorcycling’s legendary brands to its strong stable of Victory® cruiser and touring bikes. Indian Motorcycle® will operate as an autonomous business unit, building upon the potent combination of Polaris’ engineering acumen and innovative technology with Indian Motorcycle’s premium brand, iconic design and rich American heritage.

2012

Final year the Kings Mountain Chief® platform is produced.

2013

A new era of Indian Motorcycle® is born, starting with the reveal of the Thunder Stroke™ 111 engine at Daytona Bike Week in March and the unveiling of the 2014 Indian® Chief® at the Sturgis® Motorcycle Rally in August.

The Reno Rendezvous

So as we get prepared to launch our Gold Wing windshield this year we came across a great article in the Wing World Magazine that talks about a large event of Gold Wing riders in Reno Nevada. Now for us we took interest in this article being from the Reno Area and we are fortunate to have some of the best riding locations in the world. June 18-20th, 2015 The Grand Sierra Resort in Reno NV will host an event that will be attended by nearly 18,000 Gold Wing Riders. So with out further delay Long Ride Shields presents to you The Reno Rendezvous.

Written by:
John Mata Jr
Wing World Magazine
Aug 2014 issue

If you were to plot out where most GWRRA events have been held over the past decade, you’d find a lot of dots east of the Mississippi. GWRRA has tons of Members on that side of the country, so on the one hand, it makes sense that we’d host events there. But if you’re a West Coaster or an East Coast denizen who likes to travel West, you haven’t had a lot of options. Well, until now. Come 2015, GWRRA is bringing a new event to the West Coast of the United States. The Reno Rendezvous; and it’s going to be amazing. Held at a huge resort in a very popular riding area, this is another situation where you can spend your days at the event spending time in the saddle or just kick back at the hotel with the many amenities they have to offer. Mark Reno Rendezvous on your calendar, because it’s going to be one heck of a ride. With that in mind, we started thinking about all of our East Coast Members and how they may not know much about Reno or surrounding riding spots. So today we’re kicking off a series of articles about the Reno area and Reno Rendezvous, all designed to teach you everything you need to know about the location. By the time the big show hits, you’ll be an expert in all things Reno. So without further delay, we present to you the first article about riding in the Reno area on the following pages. Enjoy.

Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World, is now the destination for a brand - new touring motorcycle convention. Reno Rendezvous is the latest GWRRA sanctioned event and the Reno, NV area is a perfect location for high impact riding. In the very immediate proximity is Lake Tahoe, multiple national forests, and tons of back roads. Don’t let the end of the line trick you; this event isn't focused on sitting around a blackjack table all weekend. The road you choose to travel to Reno is the experience. The city just happens to be situated smack in the middle of amazing country for touring riders.

Once you’re there it’s a kickback city, but we want to focus on getting your blood pumping and the wheels turning. Let’s examine a few killer routes to take while you’re cruising in or out of town; or just to escape the sounds of slot machines. Get revved up and ready because here we go!

LAKE TAHOE LOOP

Let’s first visit the 119 mile excursion to one of the regions most gorgeous sites, Lake Tahoe. No matter where in the country you’re coming from, the loop is perfect because the ride starts and stops in Reno. Before you head out though, here’s a rundown of some things you’ll see along the ride: serene meadows; steep, windy cliff side roads; mountain and valley views; and for that “ ahhhh” moment, the glorious sight of the lake is the real jewel of the journey.

The roads there and back are all pretty smooth, but here’s a little precaution before you head out. There are portions of the route on U.S. Highway 395 north just outside of Reno that are easy roads to ride and they’re beautiful to boot. But as the ride progresses after taking CA-70 west to CA-49 south the terrain drastically changed. CA-49 changes to CA-89 south and when it does you’ll be making your way through Tahoe National Forest down to Truckee,CA. The grade peaks and dips often, there are sharp turns at high elevations, and at some points there’s not much room between the road and 8,000 foot drop off. This isn't meant to discourage you from making the trek, but rather a warning that this is not a beginner’s route. Check your brakes and make sure your bike is ready for a ride this skill level.

With that disclaimer out of the way, Lake Tahoe’s Kings Beach and Crystal Bay are less than 20 miles away. There’s a solid five miles of waterfront road during the trip, so this is an excellent place to break for lunch and enjoy the clear blue scenery. From this point, the ride back to Reno is about 40 miles, but it’s a route filled with hairpin turns and more riding through the national forest. The sights are unbelievable, but make sure to keep your eyes on the road. If you packed a camera, don’t worry, there are plenty of places to stop and capture a few memories safely. To get back to the home base, take the NV-431 heading northeast to U.S Highway 395.

CARSON CITY LOOP

The drive down to Carson City is filled with similar twisty, elevated panoramic views on well maintained roads. Mileage wise, it’s not a big of a commitment as the Tahoe Loop, as it clocks in about 60 miles to complete. To start you take highway 395 to highway 341 also known as Geiger Grade Road. When on highway 341 get ready to head up the mountain where the real fun begins. Hairpin turns are abundant here, so make sure to keep all the attention on the road ahead.

Approximately 10 miles from highway 395 is Virginia City, an old mining settlement that was once a booming community in years past. You’ll more likely want to stop here to take in the sights as this place is filled with attractions built around the city’s history. There’s the VT Railroad ride and tour, and a few gold and silver mines and mills that are available to check out. There’s plenty of antique equipment on display, and to see the inner workings of tunnel systems of the old mine systems is rather incredible. But if this kind of thing is not your cup of joe, don’t fret. There’s more to see in them thar hills. Those who like the spookier pieces of history we be frightfully happy to hear that this city is also rich in haunting stories. There are walking tours that go through parts of the city that are said to have the most ghostly activity. Just down the road on route 342 is Gold Hill, where you will find the Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon, a place noted for heavy paranormal sightings.

Got the heebie jeebies yet?

Well then this might be an ideal time to get on the road again toward Nevada’s capital Carson City. It’s only 15 minutes away. Once you reach Carson City, you can check out the Nevada State Museum and Mint. There you will find another walk through mine and a railroad museum that showcases five steam locomotives and several fully restored coaches and freight cars. So far this loop had offered a full day’s worth of cool stuff to check out.

From Carson City, hit interstate 580 north which will eventually lead you right back to Reno. But before you complete the loop you will pass along the calming landscape of Washoe Lake. This is a great ride that offers a nice mixture of road types and eye candy.

TAHOE NATIONAL FOREST

Those of you looking for a more extended ride will be interested in this cruise through the picturesque landscape of Tahoe National Forest. Following the familiar roads of the Lake Tahoe Loop, this ride can be shortened, but we will set our sights on the larger picture here and look at the 220 mile romp through the wilderness of the forest.

Like the other two routes, this one also starts and ends in the Reno city limits. To get out of town, take interstate 80 west across the California border. The first portion of the trip will also take you through Truckee past Donner Lake to the clearing on the side of the national park. There are lots of smaller bodies of water along this route. Once you hit CA-20  west to Nevada City make a stop. This is the perfect stop to refuel your body and your bike. The city has a great old town feel and features all the amenities you’ll need for this longer day trip. After you've rejuvenated yourself, hop back on the bike and take CA-49. This road will lead you all the way back across the Tahoe National forest towards Reno.

Now this is where you to be if getting away from the city life is what drives you. Lots of greenery is what you’ll find here, and all the roads are winding and exciting.  This road is also filled with straightaway sections as well as hilly portions, so expect to get a hearty helping of varying enjoyment. In some spots you’ll actually find yourself at the bottom of the valley. The roads are in good shape along this route, so have no fear of hungry potholes or loose gravel. This is the stretch that really makes this extended loop worthwhile. The loop will take a good chunk of the day so plan ahead leave early.

GET READY FOR A GOOD TIME

Reno Rendezvous will prove to be an amazing time for those looking to put some miles on their bike. These three riding routes are the major excursions that start and end right outside your hotel

Depending on where you’re coming from you might be able to sneak a portion of the loops in or out of town. If sitting inside a stale casino all day just isn't your style , there are lots of land with reasonable riding distance that is just waiting to be explored.  History and nature enthusiasts will be the real winners this weekend and that is a sure bet. Pack your riding essentials and your sense of exploration and get ready for the unforgettable few days of riding. Don’t gamble on a good time , come prepared for one.  

Is it Illegal to be a Biker in Australia ?

The founders and employees of Long Ride Shields have always believed and will always believe in what we consider God-given rights as an American. Owning a bike and riding the great highways and byways of America is simply one of those rights, providing you follow the basic rules and laws of the specific state we are in at the time. But lately, we have noticed an increase in sales to our friends Down Under, so we decided to look into this recent surge and we were quite surprised at what we found. It seems bikers in Australia, specifically Queenlands have come under attack recently by their Parliament regarding their right to basic assembly. The ultra-conservative government has proposed a series of laws that would treat ALL biker clubs as criminal organizations and in doing so will place serious restrictions on members’ right to assemble, their right to tour together as a group, display club logos and colors, etc. This is simply unthinkable! Read on and find out what is really going on in the Land Down Under...

The Queensland Parliament has proposed laws that includes destroying bikes of convicted gang members and preventing them from owning tattoo parlors along with other certain types of businesses. Queensland Premier Campbell Newman has become a very disliked man. He designed the laws to destroy biker gangs also known as ‘Bikies’. His goal was to have the toughest anti-biker laws in the world.

With these new laws, not only are they forbidden to own tattoo parlors, but it’s illegal to display/wear their club colors or patches, have public gatherings, and if arrested, almost impossible for them to receive bail. The government is also establishing a ‘bikie-only’ prison to house these offenders of the new laws.

"The punishment is deliberately and unapologetically severe because we want to break the bikies - break their enterprise, break their spirit, and break up their groups,"  states Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie . In recent months the police have launched numerous crackdown raids, including the Mongols’ clubhouse where they seized weapons and drugs. Members are banned from casinos and racetracks as well; claiming they are extorting and manipulating the books.

Australian Council for Civil Liberties President Terry O'Gorman described the legislation as "shock and awe" tactics and said that lawmakers had "refused to consult with anyone except the police".

Debbie Kilroy, representing prisoner support group ‘Sisters Inside’, told Australian media that a bikie-only prison would risk "pushing young men further to the margins by keeping them in solitary confinement".

Australia has become a Mecca for Outlaw Biker gangs including the Hells Angels, The Mongols ( 90 % of the Fink’s Patched over ), The Bandidos, The Rebels, The Coffin Cheaters, The Comanchero’s , and more. The Australian Crime Commission ( ACC) estimates there are over 6000 “patched” members who make up the 1% bikies, with the largest being the rebels at about 2500 members. The ACC says it is a war over the drug trade and over security, tattoo, brothel, and car wash businesses.  

But Bikies are fighting back against the laws and legislature. The bikies are claiming that over 60% of patched members have no criminal record at all. That its about brotherhood; about having a place to get together and to work on your bike, having a good time and better the quality your life. 40% are ex military, and 70% have professional and legitimate jobs elsewhere. They just have a love for motorcycles and share the love with their “Brothers”.

They truly believe Bikie clubs outlaw or not help provide structure and organization within men. Bikies claim that the justice system and the Government fail to recognize the good that is done. BIkies organize events and raise money all year for the less fortunate and especially love to help the children in need.

Bike clubs in Australia say they are being unfairly targeted. They are being called a criminal menace to society. The new laws in Queensland does not allow more than two members at a time to ride together. So the Bikies are fighting back taking their case to the High Court to challenge the legislature's new laws..

It is a back and forth battle that no one seems to be winning except the legislature in that the new laws are making it all but impossible for bikies to be out in public and ride together. Civil rights authorities and activist are fighting daily in stopping Parliament from passing such biased legislation.

Stay tuned for more updates on our brothers Down Under as they fight to maintain their right to assemble and express themselves using their camaraderie and more importantly, their right to enjoy the open road with their fellow members without fearing reprisal from a conservative government bent on destroying one of life’s more enjoyable experiences.1

We at Long Ride Shields really want to learn more about this and hear more facts about what is really happening in the Land Down Under. Feel free to comment this blog or share any stories with us. You can also email your story to kristian@qualityplastics.com. Looking forward to the feedback and replies.

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1. Long Ride Shields does not condone nor support criminal activity in any way, shape, or form. As noted in the article above, the majority of these individuals are professional people simply exercising their right to assemble and enjoy the pleasures of motorcycle ownership. In that effort we applaud them.