2011 Honda Fury IMS Project Bike

Motorcycle USA was both excited and nervous when we learned we were going to be a primary sponsor of the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Shows being held in conjunction with the International Motorcycle Shows. As a sponsor, we would be giving away a custom 2011 Honda Fury, which we were excited about. We've had a bunch of parts off our prior Honda Fury project laying around the office with killer old-school gold metal flake and pinstriping by the talented troupe up at Cutting Edge Illusions out of Eugene, Oregon, just begging to be put on display. The paint catches every glimmer of sunlight and the striping is edgy and clean.

Unfortunately, we had to return our prior project before we had a chance to get everything reassembled, so we were excited for a chance to finally see the parts actually on a bike. But we were nervous because we only had three weeks to get the bike up to our HQ in Oregon from LA and get the work on it done. This didn't allow for much time to scramble for parts, get some powder coating done, and get everything put together in time to deliver the bike to San Mateo for the first round of the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Shows.

The stock 2011 Honda Fury fortunately came with a black frame and wheels, which matched up well with the gold metal flake, so we had a solid starting point. Our first goal then was to tidy up the look of the rear end. For this, we looked to our friend Chris Hagest over at Low and Mean for a little help. Low and Mean is at the forefront of creating aftermarket parts for metric cruisers and came through in a big way by sending over the L&M Honda Fury Lowered Rear Spring, its Honda Fury Reaper front fender, rear fender, and LED brake light. 

To keep the new fender clean, we ditched the stock turn signals sticking out on both sides for Low and Mean's Honda Fury LED brake light because the rear fender is already cut to accommodate the thin LED strip. What a difference. The rear end looks ultra-clean now and the LED strip is almost unnoticeable until you hit the brakes or flip on the turn signals.

The final touch was relocating the license plate holder from hanging off the rear fender to the left side and replacing the stock one for an Accutronix side mount license plate holder. Attaching the Accutronix license plate holder required removing the swingarm bolt and washer so we could slide the mounting block and small spacer onto the swingarm, but the Accutronix plate holder uses the stock mounting bolt and washer to simplify the process. The wiring was then routed up and under the seat where it was attached to the factory license plate light wires.

The stock master cylinder mount had to come off, too, and then the wires to the brake light switch had to be cut. This allowed the brake line adapter to be installed and the braided line to be attached. The controls were then screwed into place and Loctited down.

The brake hose was reattached to the master cylinder and wire terminals were attached to the wires we cut earlier so they could be heat shrunk and plugged into the new brake light switch. After that, the brakes were bled and the brake lights were checked to make sure we hooked everything up correctly. Installation on the shift side required removal of the big plastic transmission side cover before we could start.

The swap overall was fairly straight forward with a little finesse required to thread the shift linkage and lining up the heim joints. But what a dramatic difference the Accutronix foot controls make. The “Night Series” means they're black and tie in perfectly to the color scheme of the bike, they make the bike look classier, and action at the new shift lever is smooth and deliberate.

Designed for Zhaga

In reality, there are already modules on the market that are based on Zhaga standards, or more correctly that were the basis for a couple of the completed Zhaga specifications. Remember that Zhaga's process is based on merging proposals from multiple companies. When asked if individual companies were behind any of the Zhaga specifications, Treffers said, "In all cases there were multiple companies involved." Still it's pretty clear that in some cases a single company has provided the majority of the technical input.

For example, photos that Zhaga has published make it clear that the socketable LED light engine with separate control gear is essentially GE's Infusion module. And the LED spotlight engine with separate control gear is Phillips' Fortimo SLM (spot light module) module. While the companies can't yet claim compliance, they have both said that the products are designed to ultimately be compatible with Zhaga specifications.

Given the clear tie between Infusion and one of Zhaga's completed specifications, we asked Steve Briggs, vice president of marketing and product management at GE Lighting Solutions (the LED-focused business within GE Lighting) about the collaboration in the Zhaga process. Briggs said that multiple companies were involved in proposing concepts and added "Our Infusion module has been shaped and changed by the Zhaga process."

As an example Briggs pointed out a design change that happened between the announcement of the second-generation Infusion back at Lightfair in May and the production modules that just commenced shipping in Q3. The mechanical design now includes mechanical mounting tabs on the front of the module that allow easy connection of reflectors or other optics.

So in some cases the multiple parties that participate in the Zhaga proposal-merger process may have interest in different elements of a luminaire design as opposed to being companies with competing module concepts. For example, Posselt said that while Bridgelux is a Zhaga member, that the company's primary goal in the endeavor is to "make sure our core product, the LED array, is not precluded from use in Zhaga-compliant products."

Zhaga's approach is based on defining what it calls the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and photometric interfaces of a light engine. The mechanical elements include shape, dimensions and mounting scheme or socket. The electrical interface includes the connector and AC- or DC-voltage specification.

The thermal interface defines how cooling elements in the luminaire housing mate to a thermal surface on the module. The photometric interface includes elements such as the size of the light emitting surface, lambertian or shaped-beam pattern, and uniformity of light on the task plane.

The Zhaga process includes proposal, merger, specification-development, and published-specification stages. Members of the consortium that are interested in a particular type of module submit proposals based on their own R&D. Elements of the proposals are merged by task forces and then converted into specifications by working groups.

The specifications have not been made available to the public although members of the consortium have free access. At this time no company can claim official Zhaga compliance for a product because the consortium is still working on compliance testing procedures. Treffers says that the first products to carry the official Zhaga logo are months away from the market as opposed to a year, but he can't offer a more specific projection.

Schneider Electric shines a light on trinity church

Having conducted a review of its lighting capabilities in light of the changing user requirements, Trinity Church, Ossett in West Yorkshire decided to install the revolutionary C –Bus lighting control system from global energy management specialist, Schneider Electric.

A regional treasure sitting on a plateau in over five acres of land boasts as one of the tallest spires in Yorkshire, totalling 226ft. Built in the 1800's, its architecture is a fine example of the English Gothic style, with elaborate decoration and large stained glass windows.

Fundamentally, the Church was looking for an intelligent system which would enable a comprehensive approach to lighting control and achieve significant energy savings, without detracting from the intrinsically traditional feel of the building.

Another key consideration was flexibility. It was crucial that the system could be adapted for every foreseeable type of event including weddings, funerals, music groups and worship. For example, while a wedding service may benefit from scene setting and LED colour change control to create an impactful ambience, a more low-key occasion would be likely to require low dimmed lighting.

After much consultation, Dearne Electrical Ltd, the awarded contractors for the job, recommended the use of the Schneider Electric C-Bus system.

Chris Dunger (LCGI), Technical Director at Dearne Electrical Ltd comments: "Having successfully designed and installed numerous C-Bus systems before, we had no hesitation in recommending it for the project, knowing it would not only meet the complex design criteria but also remain within budget."

C-Bus lighting control solutions combine controls, sensors and unique flexible user interfaces to provide automated control of lighting based on occupancy and ambient light levels.

Placing the user in complete control, the C Bus system is being used to manipulate all lighting levels within the church, including scene setting and LED colour changing. In particular it has enabled the client to alter the colour and intensity of the lighting of central walkways and stained glass windows as a stunning effect.

For ultimate convenience, the system is operated from an I-Pad that communicates with a wireless wiser unit, allowing lighting and audio visual systems to be controlled using one device.

There is also the added benefit of energy savings. Through the installation of low energy fluorescent lamps and the ability for greater control over lighting output, the system has reduced energy use by approximately 40%.

Looking forward, free Firmware updates ensure the system is always working efficiently by taking advantage of the latest product launches and developments.

Commenting on the installation, Paul Maybury, Vicar at Trinity Church said "It was very important for us to use a lighting and control system which would enhance both the beauty and the sense of awe and wonder of the building.

The C-Bus system has allowed us to achieve this perfectly, ensuring all operations are performed in a very discreet way, while creating simply breath-taking effects which literally have to be seen to be believed."

"We are quite simply thrilled with the results which have surpassed all expectations and the feedback from visitors has been fantastic."

Due to the impressive results achieved inside the building, the client is now considering lighting the exterior of the church. Given its lofty position, this would transform the building into a beacon visible for miles around, providing a fitting testament to the capabilities of the C-Bus system.

'LED Expo 2011' Starts December 1 at New Delhi: To Showcase Cutting Edge LED Lighting Products and Technology

With increasing scarcity of natural resources, the demand for efficient technologies and judicious use of existing energy reserves is escalating. In response, LED Expo 2011, India's largest exhibition on LED Lighting Products and Technology will showcase the fastrack developments in the highly promising, energy efficient LED technology from 1st-3rd December 2011 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Shri. Sushil Kumar Shinde, Hon'ble Minister of Power, Govt. of India will inaugurate the 5th edition of this iconic show and deliver the keynote address at 'The LED Summit'.

The size of the exhibition which has increased considerably from previous years will cover a total area of 1,00,000 sq ft area tallying a total of 400 booths with 250 Exhibitors this time. The mega event which attracts record-breaking footfall of visitors every year is hoping to attract more than 20,000 visitors from the industry this year as industry efforts increase in creating awareness on LEDs technological benefits and the evident surge of LED applications in the mainstream.

The Expo will be attracting vast participation from well-known and competitive companies both from within the country and overseas. International participation will be seen from Germany, Italy, UK, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan, China, USA, Korea, Dubai, Hong Kong and India. Special Country Pavilions from Taiwan supported by TAITRA, Japan LED alliance pavilion & China pavilion have taken active participation in the show. A good number of domestic companies are also exhibiting from all across the country.

A few of the industry's best companies participating in the event include: Philips Lumileds, Nihon Garter, Cree Asia-Pacific Ltd., Nichia, Everlight, Createled, Epistar, VIN, Carclo, Tridonic, Khatod, Shenzhen Light Power, Prolight, Regnant, Edison, Amka, Seoul Semiconductors, Moser Baer, Toshiba, Edison, Meanwell, Labsphere etc to name a few.

Himani Gulati, Director, Media Exposition and Events says "LEDs are the most efficient lighting source ever, yet are free of the toxic material, relatively free from disposal issues associated with fluorescent lighting. The adoption of LED lighting has penetrated in almost all spheres due to inherent advantage of LED like, long life, low power consumption, easier integration with electronic control, smaller size, faster switching and greater durability and reliability."

"LED Expo offers a unique opportunity to interact with professionals who influence purchasing decisions worldwide. It attracts potential and qualified buyers from various fields such as Architecture, Hospitality, Real estate, Educational institutions, Govt. Planning departments, Municipal corporations, Lighting Designers, Led & Lighting Industry, Electronics, Automotive Industry etc." says Gaurav Juneja, Director, Media Exposition & Events.

Concurrent to the expo, 'LED SUMMIT 2011' a 2 day International Conference on the LED Lighting Products & Technology will be conducted. Eminent speakers from Government Department, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Ministry of Power, TERI, ONGC, Railways, Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Industry players from India & International Speakers from Epistar, Philips Lumileds, Japan Led Association, China Led Association, TAITRA etc will speak on various topics related to LED Industry.

East Peoria streamlines Festival of Lights

If there was any question about whether the East Peoria Festival of Lights tradition should continue, there's no doubt its future looks brighter than ever.

Dozens of parade vehicles and more than 100 electric generators all have been tuned up for the first time, the last incandescent lights upgraded to new LED lights and the parade, set for Saturday, streamlined.

This year, the Grinch and its 2,000 lights will debut as the newest float, the ever-popular skiers will return to Winter Wonderland, and plans are underway next year to possibly add a new 30-foot-long lighted float that may even attend other events to promote East Peoria's annual festival.

Organizers of the 27th anniversary of the holiday parade and light attractions say this year has seen a renewed surge in volunteerism - the electricity behind the lights.

"We're going to have what we believe to be a bigger, better festival, and hopefully, cheaper," says Dan Cunningham, director of the city's EastSide Centre as well as tourism, adding "... much of that is due to the volunteer help."

Volunteers have been busy spending hours attaching and checking lights, ensuring all systems are a go.

Retired East Peoria firefighter John Broshears has volunteered his time to coordinate which floats are in working order and those that need to be repaired.

"Some of them never had their oil changed, it's amazing they ran as long as they did," said Broshears.

He joins regulars Archie Lyons, Wally Jaquet and company, known by many as "the boys," and dozens of others, who since the beginning have been providing the inspiration, design and construction for new floats as well as upkeep of the old. They join several newcomers who have responded to the city's beckon.

Bogged down by a lack of volunteers, mechanical break-downs and overruns in costs, the city questioned residents earlier this year as to whether the Festival of Lights should continue.

"We sent out a request that we want to get the volunteers back into the parade - we've seen that. It's a community effort, it's community pride - it's always been that way. We want it to continue to be that way," said Rick Swan, executive director of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce.

This year a group of mechanics from Uftring Auto Group volunteered a Saturday to change oil, spark plugs and repair exhaust pipes, which Broshears said "without them, five floats would not have been in the parade."

The increase in volunteers, in combination with the more efficient LED lights, also has translated into lower costs. The city estimates spending about $240,000 this year. That's compared to about $400,000 last year and as much as $800,000 four and five years ago.

 Since 1984, East Peoria has put on one of the most popular holiday parades in the region. Borrowing the idea from Niagara Falls, the event annually draws thousands to the parade and thousands more who trek through Winter Wonderland, the static display in Veterans Park.

While the parade will show off 27 floats this year, all 42 floats will be on display in the Winter Wonderland.

"We're going to make that the main attraction this year," Cunningham said of Winter Wonderland, noting floats will not be scattered around the city, such as at the Festival Building and riverfront and other spots as in years past.

ARC awards $8.5 million for projects

Cyclists and pedestrians will benefit from four projects around DeKalb County funded through the Atlanta Regional Commission's Livable Centers Initiative.

Of the 48 communities that applied for grants from the Atlanta Regional Commission 13 were chosen to receive funding, four of which are in DeKalb County. Almost $8.5 million in grants was given to fund projects in DeKalb to make improvements for pedestrians and cyclists.

The Perimeter Community Improvement Districts will use $3.1 million for Lake Hearn Drive, Perimeter Summit Parkway and Parkside Place bike and pedestrian facilities.

"It's going to make this area more multi-mobile, more walkable and more bikeable," said Susan Long, communications and development consultant with the Perimeter Community Improvement District.

The project will include pedestrian access improvements such as additional sidewalks, larger medians and additional crosswalks.

Long said the total cost of the project is $4.86 million and the grant will pay a large portion of the bill.

In Doraville, a $2.3 million grant will be used to create segregated bicycle tracks along New Peachtree Road.

Luke Howe, assistant to the mayor, said the city first identified the project in 2006 and modified the plans for the recent grant application.

"It's a totally exclusive lane that combines elements of a separated path," he said. "It's much safer."

Howe said this will most likely be the first project of its kind in the South but there are examples of the bicycle tracks in San Francisco and Europe. The bike lanes will be separated from the main road with a curb and landscaping.

They also plan to narrow New Peachtree Road from five to three lanes and expand the sidewalk.

Decatur's $2.1 million grant will be used for bike facilities on Commerce Drive between Clairemont Avenue and Church Street, said Deputy City Manager Hugh Saxon.

"Basically the objectives are to improve pedestrian safety on those intersections," he said. "We're also trying to develop a system of bicycle networks throughout the city."

Tucker residents will see an expansion of the recent Main Street revitalization project with a $960,000 grant.

"That's going to be used for sidewalks and street lighting and landscaping," said Honey Van De Kreke, co-general manager of the nonprofit Main Street Tucker Alliance. "It'll be a more walkable area."

She said the plan is to make improvements around First Avenue, Lynburn Drive and Fellowship Road.

Ace Hardware to recycle lights

For the fourth consecutive year, Ace Hardware stores across Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico are accepting strands of holiday lights for recycling to benefit Lights For Life. Lights For Life is a nonprofit organization that strives to make life easier for kids with cancer and their families. This year, Ace Hardware stores will also accept extension cords for recycling.

Lights For Life sells the donated light strands and extension cords to a recycling company for the copper and PVC they contain. The money raised is used to help children with cancer and their families cover the cost of medical bills and other expenses not covered by insurance, as well as to fund kids' camps and childhood cancer research.

Last year, Ace Hardware customers across the three states donated more than 30,000 pounds of holiday lights to the campaign, raising $14,000 for families of children diagnosed with cancer and bringing the total amount of lights donated by local Ace customers since 2008 to more than 77,000 pounds. Local stores hope to increase this year's donation by 50 percent and have set a goal of collecting 45,000 pounds of holiday lights and extension cords during the 2011 holiday season.

"Every year, more and more shoppers are making the switch to longer-lasting, more energy efficient LED light strands, and we wanted to give people an easy way to put their old light strands and extension cords to good use," said Clark Evans, manager of Orchards Ace Hardware in Loveland. Orchards Ace shoppers alone have donated more than 14,000 pounds of lights over the past four years. "Last year we were able to help the families of two Rocky Mountain Region children with cancer as a results of this program, and we hope consumers pitch in to help us do the same again this year."

According to Consumer Reports, a typical homeowner spends approximately $11 in energy costs to burn 50 feet of traditional lights for 300 hours, while the same use of LED lights costs less than 15 cents. LED lights are also more durable than incandescent lights, often lasting as much as ten times longer than traditional lights, and because LED lights burn cooler they are safer to use and reduce the risk of fire.

"Each year, more than 200 million strings of incandescent lights are sold in the U.S., and most of them end up in the landfill," said Linda Worthington, marketing director Lights For Life. "Just the small act of dropping your broken or old lights or extension cords in a collection bin at an Ace Hardware can make a big difference in the lives of the families of kids with cancer."

Holiday lights and extension cords can be dropped off at participating Ace Hardware stores between November 15 and February 15. The holiday light recycling program adds to the growing list recycling programs offered by area Ace Hardware stores. Many Ace Hardware stores also accept used compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), mercury-containing thermostats, used cell phones and rechargeable batteries for recycling.