2014 Tri Glide

Mileage: 29,044

Engine: 103″ w/Stock Cam

Overall Condition: 8/10

Accessories: Fender Bras, Air Zepp Seat, Tow Hitch/Lighting Plug

Windshield Bag, Drivers Backrest, two extra Windshields

Asking: $21,000

2007 Fat Boy

Mileage 23,595

Engine 96″ w/Stock Cam

Overall Condition: Good

Accessories: Detachable Winshield & Saddlebags, Vance & Hines Pipe,

All Kurykyn Controls

Asking Price: $7,100

Ride Safe: A Tire Tale from Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC

Ah, the aroma of fresh rubber tires—a scent that signals safety and adventure on the open road. Here at Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC, we’re gearing up for the riding season by stocking the best motorcycle tires available.

Tires aren’t just rubber hoops; they’re your bike’s lifeline, ensuring a smooth and secure ride. But as you rack up the miles, those trusty treads undergo wear and tear, influenced by your riding style and road conditions. Some riders effortlessly glide through miles while others wear their tires down faster than a Sunday ride burns through fuel.

When it comes to handling and performance, your motorcycle’s tires set the tone for your journey. Worn-out tires can drastically alter your bike’s feel, increasing the risk of losing control and turning your thrill ride into a white-knuckle ordeal. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of tire care—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer the hands of a seasoned pro.

Pressure Check: Inflate for Success

Don’t play guessing games with tire pressure—it’s a matter of safety. Fluctuations in weather and riding duration can mess with tire pressure, impacting your bike’s performance. Take a moment to gauge both tires’ inflation levels accurately. No, a kick won’t cut it!

Inspect for Embedded Dangers

A quick scan of your tires could mean the difference between a smooth ride and a blowout disaster. Look out for embedded nails, shards of glass, or signs of wear like tread separation or bulging. Don’t gamble with tire safety.

Tread Talk: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Worn tread spells trouble, signaling the end of your tire’s useful life. Keep an eye out for smooth patches or wear bars—it’s a clear sign your tires are on their last legs. And remember, a penny’s depth can reveal if it’s time to part ways with your trusty treads.

Decode the DOT: Age Matters

Check the DOT number on the sidewall.  The last four digits are the only ones you need to concern yourself with.  How do you decipher these numbers?  For example, 0218 means that the tire was manufactured in the 2nd week of 2018.  Tires older than five years need to be replaced no matter how good they may look.  Reasons: tire deterioration starts from the inside out because of moisture from compressed air and temperature variation. Also, tire rubber gets harder with age and does not have the same traction as when new. This means wet riding is compromised when taking off and stopping power is not as good. Look at the tire tread closely as it will show you whether cracks have begun forming because of aging.

When to Seek the Pros

Tire talk can be tricky, especially with the many compounds out there. When in doubt, trust the experts to guide you. Swing by our shop during March for exclusive deals on tires. Get a grip on safety with 20% off all Dunlop and Metzler tires while stocks last!

Don’t leave your safety to chance—ensure a smooth ride with top-notch tires from Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC. Your adventure awaits!

Evolution of Horsepower: A Look at Engine Upgrades Over the Years

By Jan Knobbe

As we step into the new year, it’s fascinating to reflect on the remarkable technological journey in engine upgrades since our establishment in 2005. Over the past 19 years, the advancements have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Fifteen years ago, our focus was on twin cam and evo engines. Upgrades involved meticulous valve jobs and hand porting, transforming 88 cubic inch motors into 96 or 96 into 103 cubic inches. Significant builds then pushed the boundaries, reaching 110 to 117 cubic inches.

Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves working with twin cams and M8s. Modern upgrades now encompass CNC porting of heads, air research benches for precise airflow analysis, installation of big valves, and the integration of four-valve heads. The evolution of cam shaft technology is particularly noteworthy. Today’s cam shafts enhance airflow, leading to superior cooling of exhaust chambers, resulting in increased horsepower and reduced octane detonation.

In just five years, M8s have undergone substantial improvements, featuring two over and four over valves, coupled with CNC ported heads. This configuration nearly doubles the airflow in factory heads. The M8’s single cam design significantly reduces drag on the cam chest, freeing up horsepower in stark contrast to factory twin cams. Standard M8 upgrades range from 107 cubic inches to 124 cubic inches and 114/117 cubic inches to 128 cubic inches, creating reliable daily drivers. For the more adventurous, major engine upgrades can top out at 175 cubic inches.

To put this progress into perspective, consider that years ago, an 88 cubic inch motor built up to 96 might generate around 95 horsepower. Today’s factory motors, at 107 and 114 cubic inches, produce 100 horsepower. Pushed to 175 cubic inches, they unleash a staggering 200+ horsepower at the ground. For the true gearheads, there are additional options like pro chargers and turbochargers.

The evolution of motors is a perpetual journey, always seeking smarter ways to boost horsepower. At Chariots of Fire Customs, we take pride in staying at the forefront of these advancements.  Such as our drag racing endeavor in our early years to now racing in the bagger class at local tracks in order to put effort into finding even more horsepower.  Thus ensuring that our knowledge aligns with the latest market offerings. Our commitment is to provide the best possible service to our customers, tailoring each upgrade to individual needs.

If you’re contemplating changes to your machine’s heart (don’t just put in stents), come and have a chat with Jan. Discover what modifications will work best for you. Reach out to us at (636) 462-1648.  Let’s make this year a horsepower-packed adventure for your ride!

Unleashing the Beast: Powering Up Your Motorcycle for Maximum Performance

If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast seeking to squeeze every ounce of power from your ride, you’re in the right place. There are various strategies to boost your motorcycle’s horsepower, and in this blog, we’ll explore four top-notch options that can transform your bike into a true powerhouse.

1. Exhaust and Air Intake Upgrades:

One of the most popular and effective ways to enhance your motorcycle’s performance is by upgrading the exhaust system and air intake. After-market exhaust systems reduce back pressure, making it easier for the engine to receive oxygen. This increased airflow leads to more power at the wheels and can even improve fuel economy. Investing in a high-quality exhaust and air intake system not only adds horsepower but also gives your bike a more aggressive and throaty sound.

2. Cams for Increased Power:

Cams, or camshafts, play a crucial role in determining engine performance. Upgrading your motorcycle’s cams can significantly boost horsepower by increasing cylinder pressure as the engine’s RPMs rise. The scavenging effect from precise valve timing and overlap in the cam enhances cylinder pressure, resulting in a power-packed performance. Before choosing a cam upgrade, consider your riding style and preferences, as different cam profiles cater to various RPM ranges.

3. Increasing Cubic Inches:

If you’re looking for a more radical approach to power enhancement, increasing your engine’s cubic inches is the way to go. There are two primary methods for achieving this: boring and stroking. Boring involves increasing the cylinder diameters, while stroking involves increasing the crankshaft stroke. Both methods result in a larger engine displacement, leading to more power. However, it’s essential to consult with professionals to ensure that your motorcycle can handle the increased stress and heat generated by the larger engine.

4. Dyno Tuning for Peak Performance:

To optimize the newfound power from your modifications, a dyno tune is crucial. A dyno tune involves adjusting various parameters such as fuel and ignition timing to ensure maximum performance, durability, and reliability. This process also helps diagnose any potential issues in the drivetrain. The dyno graph provides a visual representation of your motorcycle’s performance, allowing for fine-tuning and adjustments to achieve peak power. A proper dyno tune ensures that your motorcycle runs efficiently, avoiding issues like fuel wastage or performance limitations.

In conclusion:

Don’t leave the performance of your beloved ride to chance. Our team of professionals understands the intricacies of motorcycle upgrades, ensuring that every modification is tailored to your bike’s specifications. From exhaust and air intake upgrades to cam enhancements and engine displacement adjustments, we’ve got you covered.

2002 Big Dog

Mileage: 20605

Engine CI: 107 Cubic Inch

Transmission: 5 Speed

Paint Color: Black

Accessories: Custom Center Dash, Custom Flame Mirrors, Custom Grips, 2 in 1 Exhaust, Dash Bag, Front Tire M8 90/21, Rear Tire 230/16/15

Price: $8500 OBO

For More Information call Jan At: (636) 462-1648