Rucker Performance has started building 30 Nostalgia bikes according to the specifications of Elvis Presley's original 1957 FL bike. Details include custom parts from Rucker Performance such as the primary housing, fuel tank, dash, oil tank, kickstart adapter and exhaust system. The Rucker Performance team has recreated a bike with authentic parts and accessories that uphold the integrity and style of Elvis Presley's bike.

The hand-fabricated Rucker Performance primary housing is a hybrid of tin and cast aluminum, giving a new part an old look that is reminiscent of tin primaries from the 1950’s era. Additionally, the fuel tank is channeled, modified similarly to the old style two-piece tanks on FL models and redesigned for a FL style custom dash. Other details include a dimpled tank for the fuel shut off valve that has been added for aesthetic purposes only. Rucker Performance also has modified the oil tank to resemble the horseshoe-style oil tank with decorative 6-volt battery tops.

"Rucker Performance is yet again pleased to provide custom services to Bruce Rossmeyer and Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson. We are well-known for hand-fabricating and building challenging projects in the motorcycle and performance industry that no other company can achieve on this large of a scale and timeframe," said Bill Rucker, Founder of Rucker Performance. "Our design expertise and manufacturing background are keys to producing the very best bikes with the ultimate in design and performance."

The Nostalgia bike includes front and rear fenders that are accessorized like those of Elvis' original bike. Rucker Performance hand-fabricates parts such as the fender rail and special brackets in-house and has created a kickstart adapter unique to the 6-speed transmission. A custom seat matches the same material as Elvis' seat skirt – a basket weave patterned leather seat – and is added to each bike. Old fashioned accessories from the 1940's and 1950's are mixed with modern technology, giving this bike a slice of history reflected on two wheels.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company began production in 2004 and has become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Additional information is available at www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Bruce Rossmeyer
Bruce Rossmeyer's World's Largest Harley-Davidson dealership is located at 1637 North U.S. Highway 1, Ormond Beach, FL, 32174. Bruce Rossmeyer's corporate offices are located at 2871 N. Federal Highway in Ft. Lauderdale. For more information, please call (954) 724-2800 or visit www.BruceRossmeyer.com.

Icengineworks has created a manually operated, 3-dimensional modeling system based on sets of interlocking plastic blocks that are molded in shapes that represent actual tubing, straight and bent after assembly. The blocks, always 1-inch in length at the centerline, show information on the metal sections, bend radii and length in inches. Fabricators can attach, disconnect and rearrange the blocks as many times as needed. Different sizes or series of the blocks can be combined to mock-up stepped systems.

Due to the versatility of the blocks, builders and manufacturers can quickly and inexpensively develop and test limitless designs without committing expensive materials and other resources until they are satisfied with a final product. "The main objective is creating the simplicity and speed to manually assemble, break apart, modify and rearrange precise sections of blocks representing tubular designs," said Victor Franco, founder and President of Icengineworks. "The designer becomes more efficient, reaches the optimum design in less time and can explore layout possibilities limited only by the imagination."

Icengineworks has designed the model block system for performance driven individuals in the marketplace. "This system has the potential to save labor hours and cost while increasing the profitability of the company," said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance. "We have incorporated this system at Rucker Performance and believe this product will make a strong impact in the motorsports industry."

Rucker Performance now distributes the Icengineworks exhaust modeling system. To learn more about the precision exhaust header modeling systems from Icengineworks™, contact Bill Rucker at 817.838.3200 or log onto www.icengineworks.com.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Icengineworks™
Icengineworks (Internal Combustion Engine Works), is a division of Evolution Tuning, Inc. Founded in 2007 by Victor Franco, all manufacturing and design takes place at the Austin, TX headquarters. Franco is a member of the Design Committee of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University. Log on to www.icengineworks.com for more information.

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Carl Tyndell originally airbrushed the first prototype XPS 1710 / WoW Burning Crusade gaming notebook for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES show) held in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 8-11, 2007. The scene recreated Blizzard's depiction of a battle between a Blood Elf of the Horde and a Draenei of the Alliance, both new character races introduced in the Burning Crusade expansion. The gaming notebook was used as a conceptual prototype at the show.

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Blizzard Entertainment plans to use the hand-painted prototype in promotions for the World of Warcraft throughout the next year. Photos of the finished computers can be viewed at www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company began production in 2004 and has become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Additional information is available at www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Dell
Dell Inc. (NASDAQ: DELL) listens to customers and delivers innovative technology and services they trust and value. Uniquely enabled by its direct business model, Dell sells more systems globally than any other computer company, placing it No. 25 on the Fortune 500. For more information, visit www.dell.com. To get Dell news direct, visit www.dell.com/RSS.

About Blizzard Entertainment
Best known for blockbuster hits including World of Warcraft^® and the Warcraft^®, StarCraft^®, and Diablo^® series, Blizzard Entertainment^® (www.blizzard.com), a division of Vivendi Games, is a premier developer and publisher of entertainment software renowned for creating many of the industry's most critically acclaimed games. Blizzard's track record includes ten #1-selling games and multiple Game of the Year awards. The company's free Internet gaming service, Battle.net^®, reigns as the largest in the world, with millions of active users.

Rucker Performance now offers a Devil Head Coil Cover designed to fit most big twin applications and Rucker Performance models with correct coil and motor mount combinations. The billet aluminum coil cover displays 3-dimensional bas relief billet machining and comes standard with a high luster polish. The product retails at $295 and can be ordered with a chrome option at an additional cost.

Originally designed as an accessory for Rucker Performance's customized Pro-Mod Road King line, the Devil Head Derby Cover is now available for riders and fits late model big twin primaries with a 5-hole pattern. The billet aluminum derby cover sells for $165 and is ideal for a Harley-Davidson Road King.

"Rucker Performance leads the way in performance, design and technology," said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance. "Our new custom designed parts and accessories are in line with the quality motorcycles that we build."

Rucker Performance has also designed the Devil Head Shift Link for Harley-Davidson Road Kings. The shift link is billet aluminum, features milled grooves with a devil head logo and retails at $75. It is 11 1/2 in. long and bolts directly on to the motorcycle.

All Rucker Performance products can be purchased through the store at www.ruckerperformance.com or by contacting Rucker Performance directly at 817.838.3200.

About Rucker Performance
Founded in 2003, Rucker Performance leads as a designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American muscle, chopper and pro mod motorcycles. The vehicles are known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work, a sleek fit and finish, and the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and colors. The company also completes full frame off vehicle restoration and builds brand new cars from the ground up. Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com for more information.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., April 27, 2007 - The All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) is headed to Texas Motorplex (Ennis, TX) May 5th & 6th for two-days of ground pounding excitement.

The Rucker Performance Lone Star Nationals will host a monster field of Harley drag racers with 16 classes of competition including the fire-breathing Nitro Harleys that travel down the quarter mile at over 200 miles per hour.

For the performance-savvy, AHDRA racing includes Harley-Davidson bikes straight from the street to the strip along with plenty of modified gas entries and the highly competitive V-Rod Destroyer class.

Fans can also visit vendor row for all their favorite biker treats along with popular manufacturers.

AHDRA is proud to welcome the Official H.O.G. Pit Stop to Texas Motorplex during the weekend. H.O.G. members will receive a free H.O.G. pin with paid admission to the event.

The pre-racing activities kick off on Thursday, May 3rd at the Rucker Performance AHDRA Nitro Party at Victory of Arlington. Victory Motorcycle is located at 511 N. Watson Road in Arlington, TX. The party gets underway at 4:00pm and goes until 7:00pm. There will be AHDRA race bikes, free food, discount tickets and more.

For more information or directions to the Nitro Party call 817-838-3200.

Racing at Texas Motorplex gets underway Saturday with qualifying at 9:00am. On Sunday, sportsman eliminations begin at 9:00am and the Pros take the track at 12:30pm. Gates open both days at 8:00am.

Admission to the Rucker Performance Lone Star Nationals is $30 for a single day or $50 for 2-days. H.O.G. members receive a $5 discount and Children 11 and under are admitted free. AHDRA offers free admission for active military and reserve personnel with proper I.D.

For more information on the Rucker Performance Lone Star Nationals please call AHDRA at 336-924-2095 or Texas Motorplex at 800-MOTORPLEX or visit www.ahdra.com and texasmotorplex.com.

Rucker Performance has incorporated new design queues on the Gauntlet to emphasize its long, lean lines and a more hand formed, custom fabricated look. The Gauntlet features a hand-fabricated drop seat design, providing a low center of gravity and better handling, stability, comfort and ergonomics for the Rucker Performance customer.

"The Gauntlet has the powerful performance, excellent maneuvering capabilities and sleek design that customers are looking for in a custom chopper," said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance.

Maintaining the strong performance and technology that Rucker Performance represents, the company has converted the final drive to a 133 tooth belt drive. Boasting a 300 series tire, the Gauntlet has 54 mm inverted forks, right side drive, fully polished 124 cubic inch S&S engine and six-speed transmission.

Rucker Performance customers can also add an extreme paint package, selecting from more than 40 colors and the ultimate in unique graphics. "The Gauntlet's smooth lines flow throughout the motorcycle because of our design queues such as the new sheet metal styling and extreme paint package," said Carl Tyndell, Director of Design at Rucker Performance.

Additionally, customers can choose from a variety of custom wheels, controls and exotic seat skins. Buyers can be custom fitted and measured for riding position, foot controls, handlebar height and pull back at the Rucker Performance factory.

To inquire about the Rucker Performance Gauntlet, log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.

With unrivalled technical experience, Superform USA has patented a new aluminum tank used in the Rucker Performance Assassin production model. The superplastic forming process of the aluminum can be tailored to particular shapes and formed in a range of alloys. The process and tanks do not exist anywhere else in the V-Twin motorcycle industry.

Builders and manufacturers have limitless options: a brand new design or the Rucker Performance tank. Lower volume manufacturers can have production tanks without the large volume, eliminating the high costs of tooling or the need to purchase standard tanks that require hours of fabrication labor hours.

Additionally, the use of lightweight aluminum decreases some of the weight that is added to the motorcycle. Superform tanks have unique shapes and styles with a short lead time.

To learn more about the Superform tanks, contact Bill Rucker at 817.838.3200.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.

About Superform USA
Located in Riverside, CA & Worcester, UK, Superform has been manufacturing aluminum products for more than 25 years in high performance industries such as aerospace, automotive, rail, design, and electronics. Log on to www.superformusa.com.

"It's no secret that stuffing a powerful American motor into a lightweight chassis has been my formula for success," noted Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. "Working with Bill Rucker and his team, we've taken this same approach on the new Shelby motorcycle. My team at Shelby Automobiles has worked closely with Rucker Performance to create a motorcycle that offers the same thrill as driving my Cobra."

Fellow Texan Bill Rucker is famous for building spectacular two wheeled motorcycles that are among the most exciting vehicles in the world. He is Founder and CEO of Rucker Performance, a manufacturer of high performance American muscle and chopper motorcycles. Rucker is a designer, builder and fabricator, bringing entrepreneurial experience and more than 30 years of management success in motorcycle manufacturing, drag racing and hot rods to the company. Over the years, the Rucker name became synonymous with quality, technological innovation and extensive customization.

"We're going to build the ultimate American high performance motorcycle," said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. "From the initial design to the innovation of new parts, every aspect of this motorcycle was created with that goal in mind. It'll be a lightweight, fire-breathing ride that's as inspiring as the four wheeled vehicles that wear the Shelby name."

The specs of this pro-stock sytle bike will make any enthusiast's heart beat faster. Racing-style front forks and a high performance braking system with ceramic brake rotors will make it nimble, while the Pingel 1-6 electric shifting system and air ride suspension will make it comfortable. To keep the bike svelte, the upper body and wheels will be built of carbon fiber while Superform will create the aluminum body panels.

The heart of the powerhouse is a new S&S X-Wedge 128 c.i.d. engine with closed loop VFI fuel injection that will churn out an astounding 150 HP. Rucker Performance is one of only five manufacturers to have access to the powerful new engine and one of the first applications will be in the new Shelby motorcycle.

About Shelby Automobiles, Inc.

Each "Shelby" motorcycle can be custom painted according to the owner's personal tastes and will include a special edition logo. In addition, a complete line of "Shelby" merchandise including apparel, accessories and limited edition collector's items will be available. Production of the "Shelby" will begin in 2007 and will include up to 25 motorcycles that will be available for purchase by the third quarter of this year. Production of a second round of bikes will begin in the fall of 2007.

"While Porsche has designed bicycles and BMW snowboards, Carroll's been looking for an opportunity to apply our 40 years of experience to a world class motorcycle program," added Amy Boylan, Shelby Automobiles Inc., president. "He's ridden motorcycles most of his life, so we created a partnership with a manufacturer that meets the high performance standards associated with the Shelby name. This project demonstrates the potential for design and engineering innovation available at Shelby Automobiles. We look forward to launching this motorcycle and watching yet another Shelby product move to the front of the pack."

About Shelby Automobiles, Inc.
Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., (www.shelbyautos.com) manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. Based in Las Vegas, the company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. In 2007, the company partnered with Ford Motor Company to launch the new Shelby GT, which is based on the Mustang.

Shelby Automobiles is a division of Carroll Shelby International, Inc. (CSBI.PK). Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., also a wholly owned division, is the exclusive holder of manufacturer and entrepreneur Carroll Shelby's trademarks and vehicle design rights, which include some of the world’s most famous muscle cars and high-performance vehicles, including the famous Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe. It also holds trademark rights for Shelby-branded apparel, accessories and collectibles. For information about the company or licensing opportunities visit www.carrollshelbyinternational.com.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company began production in 2004 and has become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a fit and finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. Additional information is available at www.ruckerperformance.com.

The Assassin sets the record for 2007, passing EPA Emissions Standards using an S&S T-Series 124 equipped with VFI (Variable Fuel Injection). The addition of the S&S Closed-Loop circuit makes Rucker Performance the only US Manufacturer to offer this engine package standard on an EPA/CARB certified production motorcycle. The Assassin is created out of a carbon fiber composite body that decreases the weight of the bike and increases the durability of the motorcycle. The fuel tank is made out of Super-Form^® aluminum used by Boeing, Lockheed, and British Aerospace. The Assassin features an Indy style-cantilever suspension, an all-billet swingarm and solid billet front suspension.

The Predator has a custom fabricated tank and sheet metal integrated body, Accutronix tribal triple trees, Rucker custom side pipes and unique drop seat design. This adrenaline machine has 4.5" ground clearance, 49 degree of rake, 19-inch seat height, custom handlebars and Ness Controls. This motorcycle comes with monster torque, fit and finish of a one-off custom bike and exceptional drag race-inspired performance.

The Vandal is an aggressive American muscle bike with a 330 rear tire, rigid frame, razor front fender and custom forward controls. The Vandal features a powerful 124 cubic inch S&S engine (with a custom option of a 145 cubic inch S&S engine with the Super G twin carburetors), a 6-speed right side transmission, 45 degree rake and a race-inspired inverted front fork.

Signature Rucker Performance motorcycles include top quality components, unique sheet metal and gas tank design and a custom stylized paint package.

"The 2007 Rucker Performance line sets new trends and records in the marketplace as well as responds to what the dealers and customers are looking for this year," Bill Rucker, CEO of Rucker Performance states. "We offer a selection of bikes and design services that exceed the level of quality, performance and innovation in the industry."

Rucker Performance also showcases its Pro-Mod line for 2007. Pre-owned 2006 Harley-Davidson^® Road King^® Police, Fire and Rescue motorcycles undergo complete facelifts that include upgrades such as a wide tire 200 mm conversion kit (from the standard 130 mm), a strong performance Screamin' Eagle Big Bore 96 cu. in. motor, chrome handlebar package (all handlebar components, grips, switches, housing, brake master cylinder and molded frame neck cover), chrome 18 in. wheels, customized fabrication work (extended fuel tanks, front and rear fenders and saddle bags), a custom fitted seat, painted front end as the color of sheet metal, a headlight molding and a graphics package with Toxic Paint upgrades.

Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. The new 2007 Rucker Performance design package captures the custom techniques in the motorcycle industry and includes a diverse selection of solid base coats, pure candies and paints including crushed glass and mirrors. The design package is available for all retail paint customers who may own another brand of custom motorcycle.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fabrication sheet metal work and a finish that competes with the top one-off custom bikes in the motorcycle industry. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection.
Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.

Hallcraft Industries was originally founded in 1966. The company has continued to be one of the oldest and well known brands in the industry for its quality, high end wire wheels. Hallcraft has produced the latest in spoke wheel technology.

   

With the purchase of Hallcraft Industries, NTQC plans to re-launch the Hallcraft product line in Cincinnati at the V-Twin Expo with an entire new line of trend setting, high-end wire wheels. All wheels include bearings, seals, spacers and valve stems.

"NTQC is proud to reintroduce Hallcraft Industries into the motorcycle marketplace once again," said Erin Rucker, NTQC Investor. "Hallcraft Industries has a history of producing wire wheels with the highest standards and machine work."

Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company will distribute the Hallcraft wheels to the public, available in January 2007.

About NTQC
NTQC is a North Texas Corporation comprised of a private group of investors based in Gainesville, Texas.

About Hallcraft Industries
Founded in 1966, Hallcraft Industries manufactures spoke wheels, brake rotors and related components. The company headquarters are located in Gainesville, Texas.

After a period of more than two years of extensive development and calibration research, the Rucker Assassin has passed EPA Emissions Standards using an S&S T-Series 124 equipped with VFI (Variable Fuel Injection). The addition of the S&S Closed-Loop circuit helped Rucker Performance become the only US Manufacturer that offers this engine package standard on an EPA/CARB certified production motorcycle.

“Rucker Performance uses the latest technology and quality, high performance products in the industry such as S&S motors,” said Bill Rucker, CEO of Rucker Performance. “S&S represents a tradition in excellence and innovation – a company and philosophy that we believe in.”

Rucker Performance Assassins are currently in production for the 2007 year.

“Collaborating with Bill Rucker on cutting-edge projects is becoming habit for S&S,” said S&S president, Brett Smith. “Having an OE take the lead and work to use our T-series engine in a fuel injected configuration is extremely important to S&S and the v-twin industry. Technology is changing and improving and having relationships with people like Bill Rucker enhance our ability to get these new products to market quickly.”

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance Motorcycle Company started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and certified EPA manufacturer of custom American Muscle motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. www.ruckerperformance.com

About S&S
S&S Cycle has been a leading manufacturer of Proven Performance V-Twin motorcycle components and engines for over 45 years. George Smith and Stanley Stankos founded the company in 1958 in Blue Island, Illinois. Shortly after the founding of S&S, George, and his wife Marjorie (whose maiden name was also Smith), bought out Stanley Stankos and Smith & Stankos became Smith & Smith (S&S). In 1969, S&S moved from Blue Island to Viola, Wisconsin and expanded to La Crosse, Wisconsin in 2004. This 3rd generation business supplies components and/or engines to several large custom OEs (see the S&S website for a listing). For more information, please contact Howard Kelly at 608-627-0284 or at hkelly@sscycle.com. www.sscycle.com

Contacts:
For press information, contact:
Meredith Husak: (817) 838-3200, mhusak@ruckerperformance.com

Bill Rucker, designer, builder, fabricator and veteran in the v-twin industry, brings more than 30 years of success in motorcycle manufacturing, drag racing and hot rods to the tour. He will debut his customized pro-mod trike showcasing a ground-shaking, high performance124 cu.in. motor, carbon fiber body, Superform® aluminum gas tank and more. Additional features will be revealed at the debut at the first Easyriders show in January.

Rucker has mastered the art of custom building American muscle bikes that are built with streamlined styling, lots of adrenaline and ultra performance technology.

“I continue to mix technological innovation, performance and style – pushing the limits and exceeding the expectations of each custom motorcycle I build,” said Bill Rucker, custom builder and CEO of Rucker Performance. “The 2007 Easyriders Centerfold Tour will define some of the top new styles and trends in the industry with this dynamic group of builders that have come together for the tour.”

The 2007 Easyriders Centerfold Tour will consist of more than 18 shows across the United States; including 12 Easyriders V-Twin Bike Shows, Daytona’s Bike Week and Biketoberfest events, as well as the Cherokee Survivor’s Rally in North Carolina.

“We are proud to have Bill on the Centerfold Tour for 2007. Bill brings a unique style to the high performance sector of the industry,” said John Green, President of Easyriders Events. “It takes a very talented and dedicated individual to create and maintain the level of respect Bill has earned for so many years. Bill will prove once again why he has been referred to as one of the Masters of the Motorcycle industry.”

About Rucker Performance
Founded in 2004 by Bill Rucker, Rucker Performance has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles, high performance street rods and professionally restored vehicles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection.
Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com for more information.

About Easyriders Centerfold Tour
Easyriders Events is licensed to Action Promotions, Inc., a Florida corporation that specializes in motorcycle entertainment for Easyriders, V-Twin and their related publications exclusively. Log online at www.EasyridersEvents.com.

Contacts:
For press information, contact:
Meredith Husak: (817) 838-3200, mhusak@ruckerperformance.com

“Rucker Performance is stepping out of the box and providing high-caliber customization services for customers that want a cruiser motorcycle, the performance of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle and the look and feel of a one-off custom. I am proud to have the opportunity to work with Bruce Rossmeyer and Daytona Boss,” Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance said. “Rucker Performance will continue to stay ahead of the market, find innovative ways to differentiate our dealer’s business and make dealers as successful as possible in the motorcycle industry.”

Pre-owned 2005 and 2006 Harley-Davidson® Road King® Police, Fire and Rescue motorcycles will undergo complete facelifts that include upgrades such as a wide tire 200 mm conversion kit (from the standard 130 mm), a strong performance Screamin’ Eagle Big Bore 96 cu. in. motor, chrome handlebar package (all handlebar components, grips, switches, housing, brake master cylinder and molded frame neck cover), chrome 18 in. wheels, customized fabrication work (extended fuel tanks, front and rear fenders and saddle bags), a custom fitted seat, painted front end as the color of sheet metal, a headlight molding and a graphics package with Toxic Paint upgrades.

“I am excited about our collaboration with Daytona Boss, my internal customizing department, and Bill Rucker of Rucker Performance to provide the world’s first wide tire production customized Harley-Davidson® touring motorcycle,” said Bruce Rossmeyer, CEO of thirteen Harley-Davidson locations. “We will be offering our full bike care warranty, which is similar to the Harley-Davidson fender-to-fender warranty, with the purchase of this Enforcer.”

The pre-owned customized Enforcer motorcycles will be available for sale at all of Bruce Rossmeyer’s locations; Daytona Harley-Davidson in Daytona Beach, FL; New Smyrna Harley-Davidson in New Smyrna Beach, FL; Fort Lauderdale Harley-Davidson in Fort Lauderdale, FL; Pompano Harley-Davidson in Pompano Beach, FL; Sunrise Harley-Davidson in Sunrise, FL; Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson in Horn Lake, Mississippi, Grand Junction Harley-Davidson in Grand Junction, CO; Hollywood Choppers of Fort Lauderdale and Arlen Ness of Daytona Beach.

Founded in 2004 by Bill Rucker, Rucker Performance has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles, high performance street rods and professionally restored vehicles. Log on to www.ruckerperformance.com for more information.

Bruce Rossmeyer’s World’s Largest Harley-Davidson dealership is located at 1637 North U.S. Highway 1, Ormond Beach, FL, 32174. Bruce Rossmeyer’s corporate offices are located at 2871 N. Federal Highway in Ft. Lauderdale. For more information, please call (954) 724-2800 or visit www.BruceRossmeyer.com.

Contacts:
For press information, contact:
Meredith Husak: (817) 838-3200, mhusak@ruckerperformance.com

Jennifer Beard: (954) 524-3334 ext 300, Jennifer@zuckerpr.com

Jason joins Rucker Performance with three years of experience in the custom motorcycle industry. Most recently, he served as the Regional Sales Manager for the Central Region of the United States at American IronHorse Motorcycle Company.

"We are proud to see Jason come on board," said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance. "His expertise in the field and strong relationships with dealers in the v-twin industry will be an asset to Rucker Performance."

Jason holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Texas. The Rucker Performance team is pleased to add Jason to the management team in the sales department.

"I am excited to join the team at Rucker Performance," said Jason Meyer. "Rucker Performance is growing rapidly and producing competitive and highly innovative products that I see as the future of the v-twin market."

About Rucker Performance
Founded in 2004 by Bill Rucker, Rucker Performance has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles, high performance street rods and professionally restored vehicles. Rucker Performance offers a comprehensive line of four production motorcycles, completes full frame off vehicle restoration and builds brand new cars from the ground up including sheet metal and body mold fabrication, custom paint, engine modification and restoration. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. www.ruckerperformance.com

Rucker Performance is one of the top dealer centers in the United States with the S&S VFI certification. Rucker Performance Factory Manager and Director of R&D Jason Delago attended a five day school for Sidewinder training for all S&S engines and VFI training. Technician Travis Gray received his Sidewinder certification also. With this advanced training and expertise, Rucker Performance is qualified to work on all engines equipped with S&S fuel injection as well as the full line of S&S engines. The experienced Rucker Performance staff has the capability to use the Pro Tune II software and the SuperFlow dynamometer.

“The S&S Sidewinder and VFI certifications represent the highest level of commitment to training and performance at Rucker Performance,” said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. “With the introduction of the new fuel injected Assassin in our production line, it is critical for us to have a team of trained and certified technicians.”

The VFI training includes an in-depth classroom session that prepares students for live motorcycle tuning with S&S Pro Tune II software and follows with an all-day session on the SuperFlow dyno to put what is learned in place. By completing both aspects of the training at the La Crosse, WI, S&S facility, Rucker Performance is certified to work on all S&S fuel-injection systems.

Bill Rucker and Brett Smith

“Having known Bill ever since I entered the v-twin industry, there was no doubt he would want to be one of the first dealers to become an S&S Pro Tuning Center. Bill and his people are always cutting edge,” said S&S president Brett Smith. “My only disappointment—and Bill’s as well—is that S&S is not quite ready to provide training and certification for our Proven Performance Warranty Centers. Once we’re ready for that, Rucker Performance will be one of the very first such centers and will service the critical Dallas/Fort Worth area for us.”

About Rucker Performance
Founded in 2004 by Bill Rucker, Rucker Performance has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles, high performance street rods and professionally restored vehicles. Rucker Performance offers a comprehensive line of four production motorcycles, custom and retail paint, engine modification and restoration. Rucker Performance has an in house design department that has the capability to complete the ultimate in extreme, signature graphics and paint selection. www.ruckerperformance.com

About S&S
S&S Cycle has been a leading manufacturer of Proven Performance V-Twin motorcycle components and engines for over 45 years. George Smith and Stanley Stankos founded the company in 1958 in Blue Island, Illinois. Shortly after the founding of S&S, George, and his wife Marjorie (whose maiden name was also Smith), bought out Stanley Stankos and Smith & Stankos became Smith & Smith (S&S). In 1969, S&S moved from Blue Island to Viola, Wisconsin and expanded to La Crosse, Wisconsin in 2004. This 3rd generation business supplies components and/or engines to several large custom OEs (see the S&S website for a listing). For more information, please contact Howard Kelly at 608-627-0284 or at hkelly@sscycle.com. www.sscycle.com

Rucker Performance has unveiled a customer program that redefines the benchmark for customer satisfaction – from the time of the sale to the ride. The FLY-N-BUY program will include a complete round trip ticket, one night stay in downtown Fort Worth and factory visit for customers interested in purchasing a new Assassin. Highlights of the visit are airport service to the Rucker Performance factory, lunch with Bill Rucker, a factory tour, a test ride on the Assassin, custom fitting for handlebars, controls and seat, and a design consultation with Rucker Performance Director of Design, Carl Tyndell, to choose the bike’s signature colors along with the graphics and paint scheme.

“When a customer wants to buy a $60,000 luxury machine – he or she is looking for a manufacturer’s commitment and critical information on a company’s product, history, and achievements,” Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance explained. “The Rucker Performance FLY-N-BUY program enables us to deliver quality and raise the bar of customer confidence every step of the way.”

The Assassin is the first OEM produced motorcycle to run the all new S&S 124 twin cam VFI close loop, fuel injected high horsepower high compression motor as a standard feature. The EPA/CARB certified Assassin has a carbon fiber composite body with a special fuel tank made out of SuperForm® aluminum. This bike also features the new Rucker Performance patented completely air-adjustable Air Cushion suspension, an all-billet swingarm, 300 rear tire and the remarkable Goldammer front suspension.

“Rucker Performance will continue to design and manufacture a machine that is at the forefront of advanced technology and design,” said Bill Rucker.

All new Assassin model sales qualify for the promotion and buyers must use an authorized Rucker Performance dealer in his/her territory to purchase the new Assassin.

Interested customers can find out more information about this program and schedule their trip today by contacting the dealer, calling 817-838-3200 or visiting www.ruckerperformance.com/flynbuyrewards.php.

Rucker Performance has been a national sponsor for the AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association) from 2004 - 2006 and as a class sponsor for the Super Gas Class. The new contract will place Rucker Performance as the lead national sponsor of the Lonestar Nationals at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas and as the Super Gas class sponsor for the 2007 – 2009 series seasons.

“The AHDRA will mark great strides in the industry during the next three years – producing events that are dedicated to the spirit of drag racing and high performance,” said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance.

The AHDRA event has shown an increase in attendance numbers and competitor participation from 2004 – 2006. AHDRA will host 14 national events in 2006.

“The AHDRA event in Ennis, Texas continues to grow every year and with the newly signed three year commitment from Rucker Performance it can only get better,” said Colbert Seagraves, Director of Marketing and Sponsorship of the AHDRA. “The staff at Rucker Performance works tirelessly to help us promote this race and the competitor and spectator turnout from this year’s event is proof that it is working. I look forward to working with the staff at Rucker Performance for many years to come.”

About AHDRA
AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association) has grown into a national organization that hosts 250-350 competitors and thousands of spectators per event. AHDRA will host 14 national events this year. 2006 marks its 29th season.
www.ahdra.com

Rucker Performance has sponsored the AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association) as a national sponsor from 2004 - 2006 and as a class sponsor for the Super Gas Class. The weekend events started with a kick start party on Friday, April 21, at the Rucker Performance facility in Fort Worth, Texas, that featured Gene Snow’s dragster, free food, race bikes, custom motorcycles and hot rods on display.

“We are proud to be a national sponsor for the AHDRA,” Bill Rucker, President said. “Rucker Performance is committed to working with the AHDRA to build awareness of drag racing and high performance in the motorcycle industry.”

More than 5,700 fans attended the races in Ennis, Texas and 273 competitors participated in the events. Race winner results included some of the top names in drag racing such as Jay Turner in the Screamin’ Eagle Top Fuel class, Armon Furr for Jims Pro Fuel, Rick Moore in Pro Drag, Dale Raudenbush in S&S Pro Gas and Shawn Vantucci in the Rucker Performance Super Gas class.

“AHDRA is proud of our association with Rucker Performance, sponsor of The Lonestar Nationals and Super Gas Class,” said Colbert Seagraves, Director of Marketing and Sponsorship for the All Harley Drag Racing Association. “Bill Rucker has put together an outstanding team of extremely talented and hard working people, who are all dedicated to building some the finest Custom Motorcycles and Hot Rods in the world.”

About AHDRA
AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association) has grown into a national organization that hosts 250-350 competitors and thousands of spectators per event. AHDRA will host 14 national events this year. 2006 marks its 29th season.
www.ahdra.com

Rucker Performance has teamed up with Planet Color, a division of Sherwin Williams, to produce a signature paint line of distinctive colors and textures called Toxic Colors. Toxic Colors will be used exclusively at Rucker Performance and will be available for all Rucker Performance dealers. The new 2006 Rucker Performance design package is uniquely set to capture the hottest trends and custom techniques in the motorcycle industry and includes a diverse selection of solid base coats, pure candies and paints including crushed glass and mirrors. This paint package is also available for all retail paint customers who may own another brand of custom motorcycle.

“The Rucker Performance design team has worked on everything from helmets to custom motorcycles, top fuel dragsters, hot rods, muscle cars and more,” Bill Rucker states. “We take leading edge techniques and adapt them to create our competitive advantage in the v-twin market.”

Dealers have the opportunity to work with one of the top industry artists, Carl Tyndell, Director of Design, and to choose from paint selections and designs that are exclusively formulated in house. Carl is well rounded in the realm of art including automotive art, ground metal paintings, murals, apparel and motorcycles. He uses an assortment of techniques such as custom mixed paints, old school designs and the latest, new styles to create one-of-a-kind Rucker Performance designs.

“Rucker Performance is introducing a paint line and complete design package that combines the ultimate in customer choice and endless possibilities,” Carl Tyndell explains. “We are always looking ahead to the future and designing innovative styles for tomorrow that will appeal to our dealers and our customers."

About Planet Color
Planet Color is a division of Sherwin Williams that produces paint with optically enhanced coatings using the latest technology and science to master color.
www.planetcolor.com

Rucker Performance showed the 1932 Ford Dearborne Deuce Convertible that received the Best of Class for Street Roadster and the 1973 RS Z28 Camaro that received Best of Class. The ‘32 Ford is equipped with a custom painted and detailed LS1 Corvette engine, 9” Ford Rear End with 3.70 gears and Lamborghini Giallo Orion Metallic Pearl Yellow paint by Rucker Performance. The Camaro touts an engine with the original number matching 350, reworked by Hans Feustel Racing Engines and balanced and blueprinted with a cylinder head port and polish job. Rucker Performance also performed a complete rotisserie restoration with Hot Hues Silver Leaf and Gun Metal SS Stripes custom paint.

“I am proud of the awards we received at the Dallas Autorama show,” said Bill Rucker, President. “Rucker Performance is committed to building and selling the highest quality and most distinctive products in the marketplace today.”

Rucker Performance has the in house capability to complete full frame off vehicle restoration and build brand new cars from a concept to sheet metal and body mold fabrication, custom paint, engine modification and restoration.

Customers have the opportunity to work with Bill Rucker to build a custom bike or street machine with the ultimate in choices between old hot rod and new street muscle – based on the specifications of the customer.

Arlen Ness Las Vegas, located on the southeast side of Las Vegas, Nevada will open its doors this Friday, February 24, and debut a brand new 17,000 sq. ft. showroom, state of the art service center, a variety of apparel and line up of Rucker Performance models. Dee Barnes, owner, and Arnie Araujo, owner, long time motorcycle industry veteran and rider for 35 years, have teamed up with Arlen Ness and will showcase the new dealership with a private dinner and opening on Friday evening and an open house on Saturday, February 25.

“We are proud to carry the Rucker Performance line,” said Arnie Araujo, co-owner of Arlen Ness Las Vegas. “Arlen Ness Las Vegas is committed to selling the highest quality and most distinctive products in the marketplace today.”

Performance and Custom American Motorcycles joins the Rucker Performance dealer network with more than eight years of experience as a dealer in the Mechanicsville, Maryland area. The dealership has a 10,000 square foot facility serving customers with custom motorcycles, parts, service and apparel. Owner Wayne Hicks, and Melanie Fenwick, Manager of Performance and Custom American Motorcycles, celebrated the addition of the Rucker Performance line in early February with an exclusive evening open house and dinner at the dealership.

“I am impressed with the high caliber of dealers within our dealer network and their commitment to our motorcycles,” said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance.

Rucker Performance is pleased with the success and growth of the dealer network. Arlen Ness Las Vegas and Performance and Custom American Motorcycles join the authorized Rucker Performance dealers: Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Daytona, FL; Arlen Ness Enterprises in Dublin, CA; Hollywood Choppers, Hollywood, FL; Northeast Ironhorse in Bloomsburg, PA; Apache Chopper in Weatherford, TX; Bikers Dream of Atlanta, GA; Rodney’s Cycle House in Little Rock, AR; and, Bikers Dream in Colorado Springs and Denver, CO.

About Arlen Ness Las Vegas
Arlen Ness Las Vegas was started in 2006 and has a 17,000 sq. ft. showroom, state of the art service center, a variety of apparel and line up of Rucker Performance models. The dealership is owned by Arnie Araujo and Dee Barnes.

About Performance and Custom American Motorcycles
Performance and Custom American Motorcycles has a 10,000 square foot facility and is located in Mechanicsville, Maryland. The dealership is owned by Wayne Hicks and has served the Maryland area for more than eight years.

Using the latest technology available in the motorcycle industry today, Rucker Performance manufactures the Assassin out of a carbon fiber composite body and with a fuel tank made out of Super-Form® aluminum. One of the most critical features on the Assassin is the new Rucker Performance patented Air Cushion suspension, a completely air-adjustable suspension.

“Our motorcycles have the quality and innovation that dealers and customers are looking for today,” states Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. “Our service is unparalleled in the marketplace due to our customer commitment and dedication to producing a premier, high performance machine.”

After a period of more than two years of extensive research and development, the Assassin will debut in Cincinnati as the first OEM produced motorcycle to run the all new S&S 124 twin cam VFI close loop, fuel injected high horsepower high compression motor. Next to Harley-Davidson, Rucker Performance is the only motorcycle manufacturer that offers this engine as a standard on an EPA/CARB certified motorcycle. The Assassin motorcycle also includes an all-billet swingarm, 300 rear tire and the remarkable Goldammer front suspension.

Rucker Performance will kick off the Assassin production in the first quarter of 2006. The company plans to build a limited number of highly customized 2006 Assassin models this year.

The new production Assassin will be located at the Rucker Performance booth #2425 at the Cincinnati V-Twin Expo along with several of their latest new models and designs. Photos will be available after the Cincinnati debut.

At the Arlen Ness store, Terry met Bill Biler, the Sales Manager. Bill introduced Terry to the Gauntlet, a limited edition Ness-Gauntlet that was uniquely designed with selected Ness components. Terry was so enamored with the Gauntlet that he took delivery of the Gauntlet that day.

Wherever he goes with his new ride people stop and talk about it. “I recently rode out to Street Vibration in Reno, NV and no matter where I went I could always find my bike because it had the largest crowd of riders around it,” said Hermann. “I guess my only complaint is that I spent more time sitting and talking about it than actually riding it!

One of the most unbelievable features of the bike is the comfort level. I have an FXR and after 100 miles my back starts hurting,” explained Terry. “On the Gauntlet I rode 350 miles back home from Reno and decided to ride another 20 minutes after I got home because I didn’t want to put it away.”

Terry is very satisfied with the high level of Arlen Ness Enterprises’ service. “I called Joe Catucci, Arlen Ness Enterprise’s Service Manager, about my next scheduled service. He has a truck coming out to the house, picking the bike up and dropping it off the next day,” said Terry. “They really bend over backwards for me!”

The Rucker Performance Gauntlet is more than just a motorcycle to ride –- it is a lifestyle. Terry has a bike that can run all day, looks like a one-off top dollar machine, has plenty of power, maneuvers extremely well and above all is a show stopper.

Terry sums up the experience in one sentence, “It’s the most excitement I’ve had in 17 years.”

Fellowship of the Sword, an international Christian-based, non-denominational non-profit organization, received the donations from the tournament.

"When we built the Marvel for Ron it created a lot of buzz in this industry," said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. "He created his own American Chopper Show online on the www.Meridian-Consulting.com site. As with current shows on TV, problems come up and get resolved. The development of the Meridian Marvel was no different. The drama and the issues can all be seen in his online video."

The Meridian Marvel has a 124 cubic inch engine that provides ground-shaking horsepower. Rucker Performance built the bike with a custom frame and an arch backbone with a single down tube. The most prominent feature on the bike is the cobra-styled gas tank. The bike also shows off custom paint and a kicked out front end and dropped seat design.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles.

About Meridian Consulting
Meridian Consulting Group (Meridian) is a professional construction consulting firm, specializing in construction management, construction consulting services and technical support of construction related litigation to the Surety Industry. Meridian was formed in 1986, by a small group of experienced construction professionals with a commitment to provide responsive, professional services focused on the needs and expectations of its clients. Meridian Consulting Group is a HOV Service Company, www.hovfinancialservices.com.

###

Contacts:
For dealership inquires:
Bill Rucker: (817) 838-3200, billr@ruckerperformance.com

For information on motorcycles and apparel call (817) 838-3200.

For further information on Rucker Performance please contact:
Jeffrey Najar: 760-765-4734, pr@ibrainpromotions.com

The Rucker Performance motorcycle has almost twice the horsepower of a stock Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Utilizing only top quality components, the company offers motorcycles with unique sheet metal and gas tank design, an eye-catching paint job and cutting edge designs.

The Assassin has the advantage of the latest technology available in the motorcycle industry today. The Assassin is created out of a carbon fiber composite body that decreases the weight of the bike and increases the durability of the motorcycle. The fuel tank is made out of Super-Form® aluminum used by Boeing, Lockheed, and British Aerospace. One of the most critical features on the Assassin is the new Rucker Performance patented Windlink suspension, an Indy style-cantilever suspension. The Assassin is the first OEM produced motorcycle to run the all new S&S 124 twin cam VFI fuel injected high horsepower motor. The motorcycle also includes an all billet swingarm and the remarkable Goldammer front suspension.

The Gauntlet is the latest and greatest in fat tire bikes. The Gauntlet carries a 300 series rear wheel and a 120 series front wheel. The Gauntlet has a drop-seat design and gives the bike a low center of gravity for better handling, stability, comfort, and ergonomics. The Gauntlet offers 54 mm inverted forks, all custom sheet metal, right side drive, handlebars, exotic seat materials, paint and graphics, a fully polished 124 cubic inch S&S engine and six-speed transmission.

The Predator is built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline of drag racing. This American muscle bike is designed with 4.5” ground clearance, 49 degree of rake, 19-inch seat height, custom handlebars and Ness Controls. This motorcycle comes with monster torque, fit and finish of a one-off custom bike and exceptional drag race-inspired performance.

The Vandal is Rucker Performance’s latest American muscle bike. The Vandal has a 330 rear tire, rigid frame, razor front fender and custom forward controls. The heart of the Rigid is a powerful 124 cubic inch S&S engine. Additional features include a 6-speed right side transmission, 45 degree rake and a race-inspired inverted front fork.

Authorized Rucker Performance dealers are Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Daytona, FL; Arlen Ness Enterprises in Dublin, CA; Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Las Vegas, NV; Hollywood Choppers, Hollywood, FL; Apache Chopper in Weatherford, TX; Bikers Dream of Atlanta, GA; Performance and Custom in Mechanicsville, MD; and, Bikers Dream in Colorado Springs and Denver, CO.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles.

###

Contacts:
For dealership inquires:
Bill Rucker: (817) 838-3200, billr@ruckerperformance.com

For further information on Rucker Performance please contact:
Meredith Husak: (817) 838-3200, mhusak@ruckerperformance.com

Rucker Performance Showroom

Sunday, October 23, 2005 - Erin Rucker never imagined she'd be running her father's custom motorcycle and car shop.

But when a motorcycle accident left Bill Rucker, 48, in a coma and, eventually, without his left leg, she didn't have much choice.

"The accident happened on a Thursday," she said. "So Monday I had a meeting with everyone that was here, and I told them that we were going to continue on, business as usual. We're going to move forward, and that any decisions that needed to be made, I would make them."

While her father has recovered and returned to the helm of Rucker Performance Motorcycle Co., Ms. Rucker, 24, has gone from part-time employee to full-time operations officer.

As her father was convalescing between August 2004 and last January, Ms. Rucker took charge of nearly every aspect of the high-end Fort Worth bike maker.

Ira Bryck, director of the UMass Family Business Center (www .umass.edu/fambiz) in Amherst, Mass., said children who step in to run their parents' businesses can be successful under the right conditions.

"It helps if the child has business talent and interest in the business," he said. "If the business was well run professionally beforehand, there might be enough of a paper trail, enough professional managers and well-trained employees, so that the thing has some momentum."

Ms. Rucker had some experience working at her father's previous company, American IronHorse Motorcycle Co., but still had a lot to learn.

"I had worked in the marketing department," she said. "So I was familiar with marketing plans and advertising and some of those things.

"But I had never had any understanding with the manufacturing side, parts issues, any problems with suppliers getting things here," she said. "There are 10,000 pieces that make up one motorcycle, and if you're missing 15, it can set you back a week or two weeks, depending how long it takes to get those parts."

She had to master everything from payroll to accounts receivable to customer service.

"There was a graphic designer that worked here, but we didn't have a receptionist," Ms. Rucker said. "So she and I took turns answering the phones, running downstairs if anyone came in. In addition, I called the dealers, I got the orders, I went through the orders with everyone here, made sure it got finished.

"Then I had to invoice, collect the money, pay our bills with the money, handle any kind of warranty issue that came up with the motorcycles. Pretty much, I was handling it all."

Rucker Performance had not yet celebrated its first birthday when Mr. Rucker was hurt.

"From that point, we had just been in an R&D stage," she said. "We weren't producing anything. So I had to go from not producing anything to producing motorcycles to sell to dealers to make money."

The company's bikes are about as far as you can get from mass-produced.

They're screaming machines that sell for $50,000 to more than $80,000, and they require exacting attention to detail.

The company also customizes cars, such as a searing yellow 1932 Ford Highboy roadster on display outside the shop last week.

But Ms. Rucker made the transition from start-up to established business. Now the company is selling about one bike a week, and it has a six-month backlog of orders for custom cars.

She credits employees for much of the firm's success.

"There was a lot of the staff that really kind of rallied up and said, 'Anything you need. However late we have to work. Whatever we have to do. Let's just keep going.' "

There were plenty of challenges, though.

Ms. Rucker said she had to fire one worker who assumed she didn't know what she was doing, and the company's accountant quit a week after her father's accident.

"I spent nights up here till 10 or 11 sometimes going through all of our payables and spreading them out on the floor to see what invoices had been paid and what hadn't been, what was outstanding," she said. "And that was one of the biggest things that really stressed me out, was the financial end."

Gradually, as the staff grew and her father recovered, Ms. Rucker shared more of the responsibility. But she still oversees just about every aspect of the company except making the bikes.

And the English major has discovered what she wants to do with her career.

"This is definitely a business that I'm passionate about," she said. "Before, I never really felt as connected to it. Now I feel like it's our vision, our goals, it's what we want the company to do."

In a family-owned company, it's critical for family members to have a good relationship, Mr. Bryck said.

"If you had terrible fights about allowance, you're going to have terrible fights about salary," he said. "If your parents did a decent job of teaching you how to drive a car or ride a bike, you do have some examples of looking at how you can teach and learn together."

Having identical business philosophies is less important, though, said Mr. Bryck, whose father raised him in the retail business.

"My father was a very hard sell, hard charging," he said. "Not a bull in a china shop, but if he wanted to sell a suit, he would sell a suit to whoever walked in the door. I was a good salesman, but I was a soft sell."

But the two got along and the company prospered.

Mr. Rucker, who calls his daughter's CEO stint a "trial by fire," said his transition back to the company has been seamless.

"It's a tremendous point of pride to know that she stepped in and ran it as well as I did," he said. "And that in turn has made it very, very easy for me, coming back, to specialize in the areas that I need to specialize in and know that she can handle the areas that she needs to handle."

Dallas Morning News e-mail: smallbiz@dallasnews.com

Erin Rucker's Bio

Bill Rucker's Bio

Rucker Performance Showroom

]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/10/erin_rucker_dri.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/10/erin_rucker_dri.php Rucker In The News Tue, 25 Oct 2005 12:47:39 -0600 IronWorks Magazine Profiles The Predator Motorcycle

DETAILS:
Page: 93
Date: November 2005, IronWorks Magazine

"The Predator Motorcycle is our latest high-performance American Muscle Bike," announced Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. "Not only does it have the fit and finish of a custom bike, the Predator pumps out 130 horsepower through our S&S Cycle 124-cubic-inch engine."

The Nation's Fastest Pastor

You have to hope that the flock can keep up with this Predator

Apparently, Star Scott agrees. Pro-claimed to be the nation's fastest pastor on two and four wheels, Star purchased a first-round production model of Rucker Performance's Predator motorcycle from Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Daytona, Florida, during 2005 Daytona Bike Week. He is the Senior Pastor of Calvary Temple in Sterling, Virginia, but more to the point he owns and drives a stable of high-performance machines.

Won Gold at the First MC Show

After retuning home with his latest purchase, Star took his bike to a local motorcycle show in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., where 1,500 bikes vied for awards and prizes. The judges didn't realize that the Predator was a production bike so Star was directed to the ultra-radical custom class. Call it divine intervention, or whatever, but despite stiff competition, the Predator motored away with the first-place trophy.

The Details

The Predator comes with soft-tail style suspension, S&S's high-performance V-twin dual-cam, 124-cubic-inch engine, 6-speed transmission, stretch tanks and fat tires. Design and manufacturing is performed at the company's headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. ]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/a_faster_pastor.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/a_faster_pastor.php Rucker In The News Tue, 20 Sep 2005 17:00:53 -0600 American Iron Profiles The Predator Motorcycle

DETAILS:
Page: 112
Date: Novemebr 2005, American Iron

Predator Motorcycle

Rucker Performance introduces the Predator. The Predator is built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline of drag racing and is designed with 4.5" ground clearance, 49 degrees of rake, 19" seat height, custom handlebars, and Arlen Ness controls. Performance comes through a show-polished S&S 124" engine that makes plenty of ground-shaking power.

Other Rucker Performance models include the Gauntlet, Copperhead and Assassin.


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/american_iron_h.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/american_iron_h.php Rucker In The News Tue, 20 Sep 2005 16:43:19 -0600 More than 1,000 of S&S Cycle’s customers, vendors, media, friends and family celebrated the grand opening and “revving cutting” ceremony of the new 145,000 square-foot S&S Customer Support and Dealer Training Center at 235 Causeway Boulevard in La Crosse, WI, on August 11, 2005.

S&S Cycle President Brett Smith said that the new facilities serve as the official corporate headquarters for S&S Cycle and include the communications department, dealer training, customer support and the race team.

In honor of the new headquarters, S&S Cycle employees revved their motorcycles just before the official ribbon was cut. Mayor John Medinger of La Crosse, WI, attended the event and said S&S attracted the largest crowd at a ribbon cutting ceremony since 1997.

S&S currently has more than 6,000 U.S. and international customers, dealers, distributors and American motorcycle manufacturers such as Rucker Performance.

S&S Cycle has earned prestigious industry awards such as V-Twin Magazine's 2003 Motor of the Year Award for the 145 Tribute engine, V-Twin Magazine’s 2002 Motor of the Year Award for the 124 cubic inch engine and Street Chopper Magazine's 2002 High Performance Product of the Year award for the 124-cubic-inch engine. The company also received the 1998 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year award.


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/rucker_performa_9.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/rucker_performa_9.php Articles Sun, 11 Sep 2005 20:39:11 -0600 Fort Worth, Texas (August 31, 2005) – GE Money Bank was recently named the preferred financing source for Rucker Performance, a leading manufacturer of V-twin custom motorcycles.

GE Money Bank allows enthusiasts to finance Rucker Performance motorcycles with a maximum loan limit of $50,000 on all new untitled models. Customers experience affordable monthly payments and competitive interest rates when they purchase Rucker Performance motorcycles through GE Money Bank.

“We selected GE Money Bank because they are the number one national financing company with a consistent program that offers competitive rates for American-made v-twin motorcycles,” explained Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. “Their financial instruments are designed to improve cash flow, fuel sales growth and deliver our high-performance motorcycles to our enthusiasts.”

About Rucker Performance

Rucker Performance started production in 2004 and has become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American muscle and chopper motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for superior performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles.


Additional motorcycle design features include soft-style suspension, high-performance v-twin 124 cubic inch, show-polished engines, clean, sharp lines, 6-speed transmissions, stretched tanks and fat tires. Designing and manufacturing is performed at the company’s headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas.

About GE

GE is Imagination at Work -- a diversified technology, media and financial services company focused on solving some of the world's toughest problems. With products and services ranging from aircraft engines, power generation, water processing and security technology to medical imaging, business and consumer financing, media content and advanced materials, GE serves customers in more than 100 countries and employs more than 300,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.ge.com/.]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/rucker_performa_8.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/09/rucker_performa_8.php Press Releases Fri, 02 Sep 2005 17:21:45 -0600 V-Twin Magazine recently talked to Bill Rucker, about his motorcycle company Rucker Performance, about his recovery from a terrible bike accident and about his newest custom motorcycle design.

DETAILS:
Page: 74
Date: September 2005, V-Twin

Rucker founded American IronHorse in 1995 and built the company up to a sizeable position in the motorcycle industry. After spending a few years at the helm of one of the most promising independent American motorcycle companies, he found out that he wasn't having that much fun after all. He preferred having a more hands-on approach to building motorcycles-he wanted to be involved with the creative process and spend more time in the shop, building cool bikes.

Rucker says that his former company-having grown by leaps and bounds-was set on producing considerable numbers of motorcycles. He knew that large-scale production would also prevent more innovative, technical ideas to be implemented.

Rucker sold his position in the company in 2003 and took a year off to let his non-compete agreement run its course, while considering which direction to take. By March 2004, he put together the ideas that would lead to the creation of Rucker Performance, a company dedicated to building original two-wheeled American muscle.

Then tragedy struck. Rucker was riding his bike in South Dakota when a distracted motorist nailed him head on, sending him 40 feet in the air. After 21 days in the hospital, he came out with his lower left leg amputated, leaving him facing months of physical therapy. Down but not defeated, Rucker held on to his dream even tighter, pulling his family and friends together to help him start building cutting-edge bikes.

Rucker doesn't want to be seen as just another bike builder. Neither does he want to be labeled as motorcycle manufacturer (even though his bikes are now legal in 50 states). "I'd rather be seen as a trendsetter; a guy who knows where the market is going" Rucker says with confidence.

Not really interested in competing with already established independent manufacturers, such as American IronHorse and Big Dog, Rucker preferred building upscale motorcycles that he felt would stand head and shoulders above what he describes as "your run-of-the-mill cruiser." Summing up his mission statement, Rucker added, "I want to provide innovation and performance to our customers."

"I didn't look for styling cues coming from the past to design this bike," Rucker says about his rubber-mounted Assassin performance bike. "I set off to build a bike with lots of torque and power and a great suspension, to make it the fastest bike on the street. We designed the motorcycle using innovative technology-we came up with a cantilever-style rear suspension that completely hides the shock absorber from view. We also wanted to use as much carbon fiber as we could to keep the bike as lights as possible."

Rucker contacted S&S Cycle about get-ting a solid powerplant for his bike and ordered their fuel injected 124-inch motor. "We now have a fuel-injected 124-inch motor that uses a closed-loop injection and that will pass emissions."

Furthermore, Rucker says that after initial testing on the quarter mile, the Assassin turned out to be capable of running in the low 11-second range.

The assassin uses an enclosed chain primary drive with a Rivera Pro Clutch, while the motor and tranny are bolted together to give the bike added stiffness. The battery and all electronics have been tucked in the chin spoiler in an effort to keep the center of gravity low. Bill feels that even with 4 inches of ground clearance, the Assassin handles corners very well, thanks to a judicious placement of peripheral components and especially to the narrow primary drive.

Wanting to assemble some exceptional bikes, Rucker looked for suppliers that he believes represent the cream of the crop in the industry and are setting the pace for today's and tomorrow's custom trends. In his quest he met with Mike Reynolds of Superform USA, a Los Angeles-based company specializing in metal fabrication and prototyping for car manufacturers such as Ford, Panoz, and Aston Martin.

The gas tanks on the Assassin are vacuum formed over a mold, which gives the components a finish smooth enough to paint without the need of plastic filler. From the tanks on back, the Assassin's bodywork is made from carbon fiber.

While shopping to gather the best components for his Assassin bike, Rucker enlisted the help of Canadian master bike builder Roger Goldammer, who agreed to produce some of his billet aluminum front ends for Rucker Performance.

Certain elements of the Assassin's design reflect a blend of aesthetics and functionality. Take the seat for instance. Its drop design is definitely current and trendy, but the reason for its radical, cupped shape is to give maximum support to the rider when he feels the need to wring the throttle and unleash the torque of the eager, fuel-injected S&S motor.

At press time, production is underway for a first run of Rucker Performance Assassin motorcycles. Priced at $45,000, the Assassin may not come cheap but with already half a dozen orders on the books, this bike's future looks good in Rucker's eyes.

Rucker Performance also offers a variety of master builder-caliber custom motorcycles to their dealers, such as the Predator, a muscular hidden-shock model; the Copperhead, a 240 chopper; and the Gauntlet, a 300 chopper.

Rucker Performance currently has 12 bike dealers on its roster, including Arlen Ness in Dublin, California, and Daytona Beach, Florida; Big Dog Rio Grande; Big Dog of Houston; Biker's Dream of Atlanta; and Hot Bike Minneapolis.

With an overall production estimated between 60 and 80 motorcycles for 2005 and a projected 120 to 150 bikes for 2006, Rucker Performance is considering dealer applications.

Bill Rucker as spent a lot of time in the gym doing physical therapy to reverse the effects of nerve damage caused by the accident and is walking again thanks to a prosthetic lower leg. He's also thinking of riding motorcycles again. If Rucker's determination with healing and doing business is any indication we can assume he will be riding sooner than later.

-Ben Lamboeuf


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/vtwin_talks_sho.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/vtwin_talks_sho.php Rucker In The News Mon, 29 Aug 2005 10:35:15 -0600 FREE Poster

Assassin Technology

The Assassin Motorcycle is built with the best of everything. It utilizes Rucker designed Indy-style suspension, carbon fiber, show polished chrome, fuel injection, exotic hide saddle and the largest production-based engine available today.

Poster Details

To receive your Free poster just e-mail, carolyn@ruckerperformance.com, the following information: [1] your name [2] address and [3] a couple of sentences why you like the Assassin.


We want to be able to send you one of our renowned posters, but hurry because stock is limited! You are just an e-mail away by simply following the above three steps.

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/get_your_metzel.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/get_your_metzel.php Articles Sat, 27 Aug 2005 00:18:07 -0600 Tom Leskovan Selects Rucker Performance Tom Leskovan builds motors and services a 323 mph Funny Car between racing rounds for Checker Schuck’s Kragen NHRA blue team. Leskovan met Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance, during a southern swing in the NHRA tour. He liked Rucker’s operation so much that he decided that his company should build him a custom bike.

A Classic Chopper Motorcycle Design

Leskovan and Rucker started out with a clean sheet of paper and worked out a classic chopper design that was built with Leskovan’s concept and Rucker’s vision.


“What I liked about building this bike is that I was involved in the process,” said Tom Leskovan. “Bill took my ideas and suggestions and created an outstanding custom chopper.”

Creating YOUR Custom Motorcycle

Motorcycle personalization is an element of Rucker Performance. Each custom bike is designed with the personal preference of each owner. The owner either selects from an immense list of quality components that are custom built by Rucker Performance or from world-class suppliers.




The Chopper is in the Details


Leskovan’s Chopper includes a stretched tank, raked 38 degree frame, right-side transmission to balance the bike, and a 240 rear tire with a set of Roger Bourget’s wheels. R.B. Brakes handles stopping and all cables are enclosed to make sure that the bike has a clean and smooth look. The engine is a bullet-proof S&S 117 cubic inch missile.


Do you envision a chopper in your future? Call 817-838-3200 or click here to contact Rucker Performance.


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/nhra_wrench_sel.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/nhra_wrench_sel.php Articles Fri, 26 Aug 2005 23:43:13 -0600 At Rucker Performance, quality motorcycles and innovative design are keys to the success of the model line.

Using Key Technology

Rucker Performance is a leader in the V-twin industry – spearheading the way in advanced technology and manufacturing processes using a specific company, Superform USA. Linked together by design, both the Ford GT and the Assassin utilize Superform USA to build subassemblies.

Pressure-forming Aluminum

The entire Ford GT skin and the complex curves of the Assassin gas tank are created by pressure-forming sheets of aluminum. This proprietary process from Superform allows Rucker Performance to create consistent shapes and designs that are almost impossible to achieve with metal stamping.

Rucker Explains Design

“The Assassin began as a clean sheet of paper design,” explains Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. “It is built for speed with super light-weight components like a carbon fiber chin spoiler, rear fender assembly, front fender, seat and light housing. We employed Superform USA for speed of construction, consistent quality and unique out-of-the-box design.”


Some other manufacturers utilizing Superform USA process include Panoz, Bently and the Aston Martin automobile, the Vanquish.


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/what_do_the_ruc.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/what_do_the_ruc.php Articles Fri, 26 Aug 2005 22:55:31 -0600 New Thrasher handlebars provide a clean, custom look Fort Worth, Texas (August 25, 2005) – Rucker Performance has designed custom, American made Thrasher™ pull- back bars with mandrel bent, high-strength steel tubing and a paint or chrome finish option. The Thrasher™ pull-back handlebars run on the American Muscle Bike line from Rucker Performance.

“Our new Thrasher™ pull-back bars show a clean, custom look. The bars are produced in either a show quality, primary color scheme or chrome finish,” said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance.

All control cables are hidden and come with an installation kit which includes handlebar bolt and bushing. Each Thrasher™ is designed with a round or rectangular Dakota Digital dash receptacle with a complete Dakota dash as an option. Special orders can be filled on custom bar lengths.

Thrasher™ pull-back bars are available on the complete lines of Rucker Performance, Big Dog, APC, Bourget's Bike Works, Surgical-Steeds, Big Bear Choppers and Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

The handlebars can be purchased at Rucker Performance manufacturing facilities at 817-838-3200 or an authorized Rucker Performance dealer.

Authorized dealers for the Thrasher™ pull-back bars are Executive Motorcycle Designs, Lawrence, MA; Hollywood Choppers, Hollywood, FL; Rodney's Cycle House in Little Rock, AK; Apache Chopper in Weatherford, TX; Big Dog Motorcycles of Houston, TX; Bikers Dream of Atlanta, GA; Arlen Ness Motorcycles in Daytona, FL; Arlen Ness Enterprises in Dublin, CA; and, Bikers Dream in Colorado Springs and Denver, CO.

About Rucker Performance
Rucker Performance started production in 2004 and has quickly become a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American Muscle and Chopper motorcycles. Rucker Performance is known for ground-shaking performance with fit and finish that is comparable to one-off custom motorcycles.

]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/rucker_performa_7.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/rucker_performa_7.php Press Releases Thu, 25 Aug 2005 10:34:07 -0600 Fort Worth, Texas – Rucker Performance earned the prestigious honor of making V-Twin magazine’s Top 10 Bikes of 2005 in the July issue. The Assassin, the formidable American Muscle Bike, captured the Top 10 spot with unrivaled technology and style in the custom bike industry.

"When developing the Assassin Motorcycle, we started out with a clean slate," explained Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. "Our design goal was to set a new benchmark in performance, radical looks and cutting edge materials to deliver the most integrated and best handling pro-street style American Muscle Bike in the marketplace today. We met our goals by synthesizing new materials and design ideas with proven technology.

"The heart of the Assassin is the show polished S&S Twin Cam style 124 cubic inch fuel injected motor that produces 130 horsepower and 137 ft-lbs. of torque. The VFI Tuned Induction System is a standard feature on the Assassin that allows for dual independent-tuned intake tracks. The system creates a natural "supercharging" effect and provides the greatest possible performance gains.


"Bill (Rucker) is always on the cutting edge," said S&S President, Brett Smith. "He has vision and is not afraid of taking risks and implementing new products to position his company as a market leader."


The rubber-mounted Assassin uses innovative technology such as the Indy-style cantilever rear suspension that completely masks the shock absorber from view and carbon fiber composite materials for weight reduction. Rucker Performance employs aerospace manufacturing techniques to uniformly assemble the uniquely designed gas tank.


To create the right custom look, Rucker uses the exclusive Roger Goldammer front end - the slickest front end around. Starting with a 120 pound solid billet block of 6061 aircraft quality aluminum, he machines and completes the pieces using only the latest 3D CNC equipment.


"One reason the Assassin was chosen as an Easyriders Top 10 motorcycle for 2005 is everyone knows that if Bill Rucker builds it, you can bet it’s a quality machine," said Dave Nichols, Editor in Chief, Paisano Publications.


]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/vtwin_magazine.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/vtwin_magazine.php Press Releases Mon, 15 Aug 2005 22:51:49 -0600 Rucker Performance debuted the Predator motorcycle, an American muscle custom motorcycle, at the 2005 Cincinnati V-Twin Expo in January. The Predator is the second bike in the Rucker Performance line of American Muscle and chopper custom motorcycles for 2005.

100% American Muscle

"Rucker Performance has been working on a new category of motorcycle. We have termed this bike the American Muscle bike," explained Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance. "This is our second motorcycle with a fat tire, 6-speed, low center of gravity and high horsepower design."

Predator Specifications

American Muscle bikes come with soft-style suspension, high-performance V-twin dual-cam 124 cubic inch engines, clean and sharp lines, 6-speed transmissions, stretch tanks and fat rubber. The Predator houses the largest production engine available in the market today. Design and fabrication is performed at the company’s headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas.


The Predator is designed with 4.5" ground clearance, 49 degrees of rake and a 19” seat height and belt drive.

Exclusive Club – Only 52 Built a Year

With only 52 bikes built this year, a Predator owner becomes a member of an exclusive club. Rucker Performance builds the bike in the spirit of drag racing raw adrenaline and monster torque with exceptional race-inspired handling. Click here for Predator Specifications.


"The excitement has been phenomenal," said Rucker, "The demand is through the roof. We had one dealer with a check in his hand 15 minutes after the bike rolled off the trailer."

Join the Club

If you are considering membership in the exclusive Predator club then click here to secure your membership deposit or call 817-838-3200. ]]> http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/rucker_performa_6.php http://www.ruckerperformance.com/news/archives/2005/08/rucker_performa_6.php Press Releases Mon, 15 Aug 2005 19:53:29 -0600