Archive by Author

Staying Current and In Tune by: Jan Knobbe

Almost everything around us is about technology these days.  Including our two wheel rides.    Harley has been able to upload fuel and ignition maps to help the bike run correctly for new exhaust, air cleaners, and cam or motor combinations for several years now using their own tools.  We went to the V-Twin expo again this year in Cincinnati, OH.  I brought one if our mechanics with me this year.  We found several interesting equipment/tools that will aide us in keeping up with the newest technology in Harley Davidson, Victory and Indian motorcycles for tuning all the way up to 2016.  This also includes being able to flash stereo and upgrading for any different wheel combinations that people are putting on their bikes with the big wheel bagger craze going on.  With this new upgrading individuals can ride their bikes safely without the distracting lights on the dash flashing as is currently the result without the proper tuning.

We came home with the tool to flash the original ECU just like Harley does for anything from turning on ACRs (automatic compression releases), diagnosing codes, flashing radios so that the radio has all the capabilities of having rear speakers, saddlebag speakers or any stereo combination.  We also have the capability of flashing the original ECU for stage I, II, III, and IV engine builds to give them proper fuel and ignition maps.

When I opened up Chariots of Fire Customs LLC eleven years ago, we were working on  Panheads and Shovel Heads and tuning was done by changing jets in the carburetor and ignition timing using a timing light.  Since 2000 all motors for the big twins are now fuel injected and sportsters, as of 2007, are fuel injected as are Victories and Indians.  With people building motors to a much bigger cubic inch, tuning the motor correctly is hugely important.  We strive to find the tools to perform these technologic services for our customers.  I strive to take care of my customers by learning all the newest technology out there.  I’ve been an engine builder and tuner on my drag bikes, customers bikes and my own turbo charged road glide for the eleven years we’ve been in business plus an additional three decades prior to opening up Chariots.  I am proud to continue to make Chariots of Fire Customs LLC the very best.  Come by and see us if you have any questions we will be glad to show you our new toy.

Simply the Best

Sounds of Thunder by: Chariots of Fire Customs Staff

HogtunesThere are many kinds of different sounds from a motorcycle. There are two main sounds that catch your attention. What’s the first sound that may catch your attention as a rider? Is it a good sounding motor? Is it a healthy sounding exhaust? Or is it the clarity of the motorcycle audio system? They all make their own thunder, but they have their own distinct sound. It matters what you, as a rider, prefer to hear as you’re riding.

The motor can consist of very expensive upgrades to achieve the sound you are looking for. You can reduce cost and obtain a similar sound with a quality exhaust system. You will gain a reasonable increase in performance due to the exhaust upgrade.

For the music enthusiast, you can upgrade your sound system with amplifiers and a speaker upgrade. In our shop we have installed anywhere from a 2 to 14 speaker system on a motorcycle. If you want to achieve premium sound, consider upgrading the radio as well. Factory Harley Davidson radios have their limitations.

Come talk to us for a custom designed system. Whether it is exhaust or audio, we will find what is right for you. Please remember we are a full service shop.

Thanks, Jan, Chad & Sparky

1999 Road King

Owner/Designer: Charles Bradshaw

Class: Bagger

Year/Make: ’99 Harley Road King

Assembly: Chariots of Fire

Powder Coating: Chad Hemmelgarn

  • Painter: Xtreme Rides

Accessories:

  • Handlebars: Drag Specialties
  • Fender Rear: DNA
  • Headlight: LED
  • Gas Tank: Stock
  • Grips: Kuryakyn
  • Saddlebags: DNA
  • Wheels:
    • Size: 21″ with Matching Rotor
    • Wheel: Custom Spoke Wheel from DNA
    • Tire: Metzeler ME888
    • Brakes: Stock


 

A Glance Back as we Move Forward by: Reine Knobbe

happy newyear 2

 The year 2015 was very busy with the following highlights:

  • Good news from MoDot – motorcycle fatalities for 2015 are down 33.8% from 2014..whatever you did in 2015, please do it next year, it’s working.  This reported by Susan Lockhart of F.O.R.R.
  • A wonderful turnout for our 10th Anniversary Celebration
  • Lincoln County Bikes Nights held at Chariots of Fire Customs LLC, a fun success!

 Be sure to check out our gallery to take a visual look back at 2015 by clicking HERE 

The year 2016 looks to be just as busy starting with events taking place almost every month.  We have a strong team in place at Chariots of Fire Customs LLC.  Sparky is back to help you figure out what your motorcycle needs are while both Chad and Jan will be working hard to make your dreams a reality.  As we move forward through the coming year, we are optimistic that you will be pleased with all that Chariots of Fire Customs LLC has to offer: great service; upgrades; customization; accessories; and events. All services come with a smile (and a hug when I’m around).

Custom is in our name, quality is in our product, service is our reputation

 

Celebrating 75 years of Sturgis

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Celebrating 75 years of Sturgis

by Pam Seng & Ashley Butler

1938- The Rally Begins…The first Sturgis® Rally, known as the Black Hills Classic was held on August 14th with a race of 9 participants and a small audience.

1942- Due to gas rationings in support of the war efforts the Rally did not take place.

1961-The Jackpine Gypsies introduce the Hill Climb and Motocross races.

1964-One block of Main Street is officially closed for motorcycle parking over the course of the 3 day event.

1965- The Rally moves to a 5 day event.

1975- The Rally evolves to its present 7 day event

1979- The City of Sturgis begins licensing temporary vendors. 9 vendors licensed.

1988- 117 vendors licensed in the City of Sturgis.

2000- The Sturgis® Rally saw the largest attendance exceeding 600,000 people.

2012- Attendance of 445,700 with participants from all 50 states as well as Canada and dozens of other international communities including Japan, Australia, Germany, England, etc.

2015 – 75th Anniversary-Pam and Chad Seng are going for the first time and leaving Ashley behind to work with the Chariots of Fire crew!

Wishing you a fun filled trip; With preparations complete a couple of last minute things to keep you safe. Check tire pressure daily. Use octane boost “Rocket Fuel” for those times when the only gas station for miles and miles and miles only has 83 octane…..

Where Everyone Knows Your Name

by Pam Seng

Be glad, there’s one place in the world
Where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came
You want to go where people know, people are all the same
You want to go where everybody knows your name
Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got
Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot
Wouldn’t you like to get away?

These lyrics are a perfect way to describe Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC.  Chariots of Fire is a place in this world where people can go and Jan, Reine, and the staff will always be glad you came.  When it comes to motorcycles Jan takes care of all your worries.  This helps a lot for when you get to get away.

It was only by chance that I became a part of the Chariots of Fire family. I came in to cover for Kellie as she is out celebrating the birth of her son Charlie.  There are several interesting, trivial facts I have learned during my time at Chariots; (1) They really do know your name and the type of bike you ride (2) Reine is genuine and real! She truly does want a hug and always has a smile to share. (3) Though it hurts me a little to admit this… Jan has so much knowledge; he is like a walking encyclopedia for motorcycles, he is a Motorcyclepedia!  It blows my mind how much wisdom he has about bikes.  I guarantee you… you may think he is wrong, but is he usually right! (4) Jan and Reine have established a great relationship with their vendors not just to keep their business running but to help their customers.  They know exactly who to call to get the part you need, when you need it. And (5) there are things you say in your daily life that take on a whole new meaning in a bike shop…i.e,
“Check” him out
It’s how big???
Tie me down on the rack.
I have to figure out where to put it.

Hurray for my Volunteers! by: Reine Knobbe

volunteers_optOnly five more days until our tenth anniversary celebration!  Chairiots of Fire Customs LLC is made up of five people, two owners and three employees.  We could not pull off such a big event if it wasn’t for our volunteers.  Seriously, there is just no way!  I looked up the definition of volunteer:  “a person who voluntarily offers himself or herself for a service or undertaking for no pay”.  It may be a simple definition, but it is so much more to me!

I ask my volunteers to:

  • Direct traffic for parking lot safety (potentially putting themselves in harms way)
  • Sell raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets (not always easy asking people for money/even when it is for a good cause)
  • Help set up silent auction items (where is the stuff and you want it set up how?)
  • Set up tents (from easy pop ups to more challenging pole tents)
  • Set up tables and chairs (manual labor)
  • Judge the motorcycle show (not as easy as it sounds/many show winners out there)
  • This year I’m adding handing out Commemorative Bottles, which includes checking IDs, wrist bands, and more!

I realize that I am asking much from my volunteers.  So know that each and every one of you is loved and appreciated!  While you are enjoying the festivities during our June 6th show or any of the other events we have throughout the year, be sure to smile and thank my volunteers.  They are putting themselves out there for the pure satisfaction of helping out a good cause.  Oh, and I’d like to think a hug from Reine

Look How Far We’ve Come

 

Shop Front 003By: Reine Knobbe

As our tenth anniversary celebration is fast approaching, I can’t help but think about how far we’ve come. We started out with 1,200 square feet with two motorcycle racks. Both Jan and I held down full time jobs and worked in the shop in the evenings. I often helped customers and did paperwork while Jan answered technical questions, ordered parts and did repairs. We had an employee answer phones until we arrived (no mechanic during the day the first year or so).

We soon moved to 2,400 square feet with four motorcycle racks. We hired an additional mechanic to boot.  By the time we were able to expand to 3,600 square feet with two motorcycle racks, Jan was working full time at Chariots. Our son Jake worked with us from the ages of 16 to 23.  Two years ago we were able to move up to 9,500 square feet with seven motorcycle racks. We already feel like we could use more space!

We have learned many things over the years. I have learned that any mistakes made within our computer programs can be fixed.  Don’t panic!  (and boy did I panic the first couple of years). I also learned how to delegate.  Jan’s input “Customers are always right….usually”.  On a more serious note, never trust your vendors when they say the part is on the way.  It is very important to Jan to give great service and not being able to move work through the shop in a timely manner because he is waiting on parts is his biggest headache.

While you can see we have physically changed in size and location, we have stayed true to our beliefs:  provide quality service and products with integrity and honesty.  Success will follow.

We thank all of our customers for believing in us and making us the success that is Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC.

Pre Ride Checklist

SPring Motocycle Ride

 

By: Kellie Scott

As the weather warms up I am sure you are getting the itch to get the motorcycle out for a ride. If you haven’t already done so, here is a checklist for you to make sure your first ride this season is safe.

  1. Check your fluids. Start with the engine oil. Look in your owner’s manual for the position the bike needs to be in so that you get an accurate read. First, make sure your bike is warm. Next, check the transmission fluid, following the correct procedures for your model. If you bike has a wet clutch, make sure to check your primary fluid.
  2. While checking fluids, don’t forget the battery. If you used a battery tender, you should have good charge. Always check your terminals for corrosion. If you need a battery we have batteries in stock that carry a full two year replacement warranty. If you are replacing your battery this may be a good time to purchase a battery tender also.
  3. Check your tires. Make sure air pressure is correct for your tire brand. Inspect tire tread for nail, screws and unevenness. Also check for cracks on sidewall. Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC carries Metzler brand tires and has most sizes in stock.
  4. Chariots of Fire recommends a full service every 5,000 miles. If you haven’t at that mileage call Jan and schedule a time to bring your motorcycle in to have it done. If you had it completes before winter check your air cleaner to make sure the air flows correctly.
  5. Check your throttle and clutch cable. Excess slack can cause problems that can contribute to an accident. Checking cables is a good time to lube them. The best way is pressure lube with a good quality cable lubricant and a cable lubing tool.
  6. Make sure all lights are operational including your speedometer and high beam indicator lights.
  7. Inspect brakes and brake lines. Make sure lines have no cracks and fittings aren’t leaking. Also check your rotors and pads. If you have to replace your rotors due to excessive wear you should replace your brake pads too. Check your brake fluids, clean around the reservoir cap before removing to avoid contamination.
  8. Check all nuts and bolts, pay close attention to front and rear motor mounts, gas tank and fenders, belt/chain guards, and mirrors. Also make sure the spokes on your wheels are tight (if you have spokes). This should be done yearly or every 10,000 miles.

I hope this has been helpful and will make your riding time safer. Always remember Chariots of Fire Customs, LLC is here for any questions or items you may need. Go on Facebook and let us know which tip was most helpful. Don’t forget we have our website back up with a new look and we are constantly updating our calendar for any events that are coming up. Keep the shiny side up!