Narrowing the Z's

So the new bars were ok but they weren't really doing it for me. Decided to put the Z's back on with the shorter risers. Also decided to narrow them a bit so they would snug up nice and tight.

 Measure twice, cut once. Didn't take much...

 Mock up...pretty slick if you ask me.

From the front...Nick took the bars with him to weld, by the time you are reading this they should be back on the bike. Next up is a few simple detail and maintenance items and fabrication of a new rear fender brace. Will also be moving the tag and changing the taillight.

Sorting Out the Rear Axle

So you know how an axle should slide in and out with relative ease? Well...the rear axle on the Shovel didn't and it was time to figure out why. Got everything loose and hammered that SOB for almost half an hour to get it out. Took the wheel apart and it turns out the outer spacers and both sides had some burrs that needed to be smoothed out. As a result, the axle had some rough spots too. The bearings are in decent shape so they stayed as is.

The sprocket is is rough cosmetic shape thanks to throwing a chain but the transmission leak keeps oil slung all over it so I'm not too worried about rust. 

Nick was on hand to give me an extra set of knuckles to hit with the hammer and to help dwindle the Jack Daniels supply. He also ripped off my tater tot casserole recipe and threw it up all over Instagram via his old lady...but I digress.

You can check out his take on this mania here. 

Hot Sauce of the Week

Cholula Chili Garlic-I had been wanting to try this ever since I read this review from Chris at Iron Vaquero. I am happy to say that this sauce is boss and does not disappoint. I am a fan of the tried and true Cholula and the chili garlic has just the right mix of the two namesake flavors. It's different in a good way. Now if you are really into the heat, this one might leave you wanting more. That said, I've had some good sauce discoveries that have killer flavor and little to no heat and I'm ok with that. It doesn't have to be a taste bud killer to be good and this is a great example of that.

Thanks Mom for the hookup, made my culinary week.  

Finshed stuffs...

Finished buckles for the Paul Thomas Benefit Silent Art Auction. The Auction is this weekend at Parkside.

More info here.

Starting Sequence

Made this video to try out some video editing software. 

Yes, I am kicking the Shovel in pajama pants and house shoes with my kids talking in the background. 

Sorry if this offends your masculine sensibilities...

Hot Sauce of the Week

Sho Nuff New Orleans Hot Stuff-once again we find ourselves staring down the barrel of a Louisiana style hot sauce. I admit, I have grown a little skeptical of these sauces as there are so many out there and so many that are average. At least this one is a product of Louisiana and if they are claiming to rep New Orleans, they better deliver. Well...this one really does. The spice was a little sharper than most varieties like it and the vinegar tang really jumps out too. I'm looking forward spending some more time with this one.

Once again, brought to me by Uncle Bill, my hot sauce homeboy.

Fresh Earl

Now if it will just stop raining and warm up, I might actually get some saddle time in....

For Sale

From the owner:
"I am selling my 2005 Harley Davidson 1200C. I am the original owner and bought it brand new in 2005. Title is clean/clear and have it in hand. It currently has 36,347mi. I have driven this bike all over the Southeast and it has plenty of power for solo riding as well as 2-up riding. It was last serviced at Heart of Dixie HD on 9/21/11 where it got a new Vance and Hines Black Out 2 into 1 exhaust, Carb rebuild and full service. Mileage at time of service was 32,944. Bike uses HD synthetic oil and has since it's first oil change. Front and rear tire are matching Avon Venom. Front tire is almost new. Rear tire will need to be replaced soon. I choose not to ride with a front fender, but still have it and will be willing to install for buyer.  I live in Hoover and am willing to meet within the Birmingham area within reason. I am asking $4,500 OBO Cash. Not looking for any trades at this time.

Accessories:
12 in ape hanger bars
2 in risers
LePera Barebones solo seat
Factory 2 up seat
Quick detach padded sissy bar from HD
Aftermarket grips
Aftermarket forward controls
Willie G skull Derby cover
Willie G gas cap
Screamin' Eagle Air filter
Vance & Hines Black out 2 into 1 exhaust
Side mount license plate (Flyrite)

Cons:
Cosmetic rust
Small dent on gas tank from where I dropped my helmet
Rear tire will need to be replaced soon
mattsuggs@yahoo.com"

Hot Sauce of the Week

La Victoria Salsa Brava-less of a hot sauce and more like a taco or enchilada sauce. In any case, the thick consistency makes it great as a topping. The tomato flavor is the star here with just enough of a burn to keep you on your toes. I didn't really realize how it had snuck up on me until my nose started watering halfway through lunch. Good stuff, would also be great as an additive to salsa.

 Brought to me by the one and only Smokin' Davis! Thanks bud...

You smell that?

Pretty sure the petcock shouldn't be dripping gas. Luckily it is only happening in the "off" position. Guess that sucker is going to be left on 24/7. Just another item for the ever growing parts list...

Marty

 Godspeed, my friend.

Marty Eagle

10/15/41-02/01/13

Hot Sauce of the Week

Flaming Coonass Hot Sauce-a not bad but typical Louisiana habanero sauce. Just like all the countless other varieties of this sauce but a little hotter. You could do a lot better but it's ok, just nothing remarkable.