2008 MODELS >> American Cycle; Issue 4, Volume 2; May 2008 A Day At The Pound By Tony Frey; Photos By Gavin Peters

Being a dog lover, I was grateful to spend a few days in Southern California at the Big Dog Motorcycles’ mobile pound riding their new 2008 models. They had quite the selection: Mastiff, K-9’s, two new models-the Mutt and the Pitbull-and my personal favorite, the Ridgeback Rigid Chopper. While the Ridgeback is easily one of the best bikes I have ever ridden, I think the all-new Pitbull may be even better.

New features on the Pitbull include a stylish tank, spring seat, Rigid frame and a 23 X 3.5” from wheel with a 20 X 10.5” rear wheel sporting a 280mm tire. The taller wheel combined nicely with the low Rigid frame for an extremely comfortable, well-handled ride. Luckily, I arrived early enough to spend some quality riding time with John Nasi, BDM’s Director of Dealer Development.

The retro design and paint job of the Pitbull made it one heck of a hear-turner as we cruised down the Pacific Coast Highway. Standard features include a beefy S&S 117” Balance Drive Motor mated to a Baker six-speed Direct Drive transmission. Both provide excellent power and torque to this American-made custom production motorcycle, which comes either carbureted or fuel injected. This bike has too many custom features to list.

Although there’s a limit to the fun you’re allowed to have on the job, Big Dog Motorcycles seems to have more fun than most. They’ve been producing these custom bikes since 1994. Yep, 14 years and still going strong, constantly designing new and improved versions of beautiful bike after beautiful bike.

The Mutt is another new model for 2008. It retains BDM’s sleek look while keeping the big 250mm tire mounted out back. This one also comes equipped with an S&S 117” Balance Drive Motor and Baker six-speed Direct Drive transmission. I eventually tired of cruising PCH, where the speed limit is 35mph, and hopped onto the dreaded I-5 freeway to really open up the throttle. What a great feeling.

The S&S Baker combination gave me a great start from the on ramp, from which I just flew into traffic. No excessive vibration or noise, I smoothly shifted up and down the gears with ease, thanks to their redesigned clutch. I left the freeway, negotiating through the curvy mountain roads and crowded city streets with equal dexterity.

Any of the models in the 2008 BDM’s lineup would fit nicely in your garage. For more on these and other models, visit www.bigdogmotorcycles.com to find your nearest dealer.