Hey,
I’m confused, but that’s nothing new. My Freedom example in the news wasn’t a good one, and maybe it was. But let’s hit it again. In Los Angeles they recently banned beach bonfires, and I read where they want to lower the acceptable alcohol level to .05 from .08. Obama faces signing the International gun treaty this week, and Time magazine recently ran a piece on homeland security and insecurity. Even with all the millions spent on regulation, on agencies, and taking away our rights, they still can’t catch every terrorist. Hell, they don’t have enough agents to investigate the info they receive. We are torturing ourselves for no reason.
I’m sorta hung-over this morning. Too much Whiskey last night, but I believe our government slipped on a banana peeled, then tried to ban fruit. The school moms have taken over. Somewhere we forgot to apply Freedom to all of our thinking. It adds balance and recognizes human nature, whereas safetycrats don’t. They think control, safety, and money are the priorities. Need to find that balance again.
Let’s hit the news, before someone attempts to ban it.
Stay free, stay safe, stay in the wind: Stop Federally Fabricated Crimes
The Sunday Post is sponsored in part by Bikerpics.org. Thank the stars, ‘cause Jack McIntyre supplied the wet T-shirt contests of the week. Amazing!
ROAD AMERICA REMINDER– come on out if your in the area! All makes/models welcome for the display to help promote the AHRMA/Road America weekend, Road America AHRMA bike Night at Harley-Davidson Museum Thursday Night, June 6th.
The popular AHRMA vintage race bike display at the Harley-Davidson Museum is back again this year on Thursday, June 6th, held in conjunction with the popular H-D Museum bike night. The display was very well received in years past and we look forward to doing it again.
We encourage all AHRMA racers and bikes of all makes and disciplines coming up to Road America to stop by and display their bikes and help promote the Road America AHRMA race in front of hundreds of bike night attendees.??Any AHRMA member displaying their bike will get free museum admission and food vouchers for this Bike Night.
Convenient AHRMA trailer parking available on the museum property. AHRMA display: 6/6/13, 5pm – (Team WFO will be there from 4pm on to help unload, park, etc) Museum hours: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. For information concerning the AHRMA display, contact Wes Orloff @ 414-331-7747; weston.orloff@harley-davidson.com.
–Wes Orloff
THIS JUST IN FROM THE CHURCH OF BIKERNET–Three couples went in to see the minister to see how to become members of his church.
The minister said that they would have to go without sex for two weeks and then come back and tell him how it went.
The first couple was retired, the second couple was middle-aged and the final couple was newlywed.
Two weeks went by, and the couples returned to the minister.
The retired couple said it was no problem at all.
The middle-aged couple said it was tough for the first week, but after that, it was no problem.
The newlyweds said it was fine until she dropped the can of paint.?
“Can of PAINT!” exclaimed the minister.?
“Yeah,” said the newlywed man. ?”She dropped the can and when she bent over to pick it up I had to have her right there and then. ?Lust took over.”
“We’re not welcome in Home Depot either.”
–from Art Hall
LAGUNA MINI GPS TANK BAG FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–
GPS Mini Tank Bag that converts to a fanny pack! Positions the GPS directly in front of you and collapses to hide it when not in use. A second compartment accommodates wallet, keys, mobile or audio device – including loops to secure cables and keep them out of the way.
Attaches to bike with straps and magnets enclosed in non-slip material. Pocket for GPS measures 6″ wide by 4″ tall by 2″ deep; easily accommodates 4.3″ GPS units. Includes a limited lifetime warranty.
$59.95
P/N 10-7277
7 1/2″ L x 5 1/2″ W x 7 1/2″ H 300c.i.
Visit www.firstgear-usa.com for more information
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WEEKEND WICKED WORD–wuther WUHTH-er, verb:
They’d cling to the sides of a five-wheel truck, and the wind would wuther past the upright barrels of their guns.
In winter the wind must wuther, though.
Wuther is a Scots variant on the word wither, also meaning “to bluster.” Both words come from the Old Norse word hvitha meaning “squall of wind.”
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY NOW OPEN–
A guy is watching a film with creepy organ music on the TV and suddenly yells, “Don’t enter that church, you damn fool !!!”
His wife asks him, “What are you watching?”
Husband replies, “Our bloody wedding video”
If you have to show identification to board an airplane, cash a check, buy liquor or check out a library book, but not to vote who runs the government … you might live in a country founded by geniuses but run by idiots.
–from Rogue
QUICK TECH BIKERNET READER COMMENT–Quick Fix Air Cleaner Cover
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=11022
This works…great idea I just made two myself from this method in less than an hour…excellent tips & tricks…Maybe I’m over looking others on here but more of these handy I-deers would be great.
Learning all the time…thanks!
–Biker John
zzmks2@yahoo.com
Hemet, CA
BIKERNET PHILOSOPHER SPEAKS OUT–I Refuse to let the past Limit My Expression of Life Today.
What words of the past have held us back from expressing Life? What have we been told that has limited us from being, doing and having the Infinite gifts of God? Have we been held back from expressing Life by fear, guilt and shame?
I think about the excuses that I have had for the failures in my Life and as I think back to the core of these beliefs, I am amazed that I have given away so much of my Power to old false beliefs of who I am.
Isn’t it sad that some the people who are supposed to Love, guide and inspire us do the exact opposite. What is sadder is long after we are gone from that unhealthy environment we continue to allow those old false tapes to play in our heads.
In my growth the first thing I had to do was realize that much of my life was still being controlled by the old tapes reinforcing those false beliefs of who I thought I was. As I learned that this was not my Truth I decided to get rid of the stinking thinking and change my beliefs of who I truly am. Each day I move to a higher level of expression of my true self and it feels good.
Today Say: I Let Go of all past negative limited beliefs, thoughts, conditioning and conversations. I am Guided by Spirit to recognize my Inner Wealth. Divine wisdom knows exactly what I can do, and shows me how, when and where to do it. The right ideas occur to me, and I attract the right people and circumstances in every situation. I Trust in the Infinite Source I have within and give great thanks for this gift and the right to Live the Life that I choose. From this second on I live in the Now which is Perfect, Whole and Complete!
And So It Is
Namaste’
–Yale
Yale Custom Cycles
403-453-1999
2003 11 ST SE
Calgary AB
T2G 3G6
THE BIKERNET CHUCK NORRIS FILE–Surely you have heard some good Chuck Norris jokes. Attached is a true story from year 1980. LOL. Action Jeans as worn by Chuck Norris.
–Ujjwal Dey
www.freedomfiction.com
I’ve never heard any Chuck Norris jokes I swear. Does he have a sense of humor?–Bandit
SHOP SOLD RECENTLY–Micah McCloskey’s Custom Cycles Sold—One of the most historic San Fernando Valley shop sold once more. It was once Gary Bang’s then Joe Scarboro’s, then Micah’s for, I’m guessing, 35 years.
We will bring you the complete story in the near future.
–Bandit
BELLY TANK HISTORY–Back in the old days didn’t ya have to ride to Tucson, AZ and sneak your scruffy ass into the airplane graveyard. You hoped to hell some snotty nosed Airforce security brat didn’t shoot your Ass all to hell, as ya drag a 200 pound bellytank over a 12 foot high chain-link fence?
Now ya just order a fiberglass one on the Internet. Think I prefer the old way or at least that’s what I will tell myself.
–Richard Kranzler
SALTY WEEKEND QUESTION–I took these shots at BUB’S Bonneville last August.
No-one was at the pits at the time.
I’m curious to know who was campaigning it and how they went.
Maybe one of your readers will know.
–Cheers Doc
Bikernet Down Under Tech Editor
AMAZING New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
The Wino Willie Tribute Bike
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=295
Excellent.
–Clyde ‘Slider’ Fowler
electraclyde@yahoo.com
Belton, TX
THE SEARCH FOR A SPEED-E-SHIFTER– I may be barking up the wrong door, but I believe you were editor at Easyriders around the time that Armand Bletcher’s bike was featured in the magazine. I was also under the impression that you were both affiliated at one time or another with the same MC.
I have a photocopy of a photocopy of an article from an Early Easyriders- maybe between issue 20 and issue 30. It shows a speed-shifter for a Harley-Davidson. it looks like it would work with a ratchet top and with modification- probably other bikes.
I was wondering if you knew about who made that shifter for Armand, and I was wondering if you had ever seen another one?
I asked Pete Hill in South Carolina about it, and according to Pete they were made out west in Cali or a neighboring state in either the ‘50s or ‘60s, possibly for the CHiPs pig bikes, but he couldn’t be sure and it did not interest him.
I have seen one up close on a bike and I was not allowed to examine it or make any drawings.
I want to find one- even if it is junk or incomplete- and make a few of them out of some stock and some metal I have.
–BigV
At one time I rode Armond’s bike with the Speed-e-Shifter, and scary experience. I spoke to Mil Blair about them. They were never used on cop bikes. Mil said they were made by MCM and Cheetah Enterprises, and ultimately Bob George made a few. They were very difficult to set up and keep adjusted. Seems to me it did not down shift.
–Bandit
CHOP DOCS SEAT SHOCKS–BUTT SHOCKS FOR COMFORT
When riding a rigid frame motorcycle or any motorcycle with excessively stiff rear wheel suspension and a solo seat keeping your spinal column from becoming compressed to a black hole is easy with Chop Docs Chopper Shockers.
Each shocker is a full 4 inches long, and is endowed with 450 pound per square in of pressure to keep a riders spinal column intact. That is to say, have a comfortable ride no matter what the rear wheel hits on the road surface.
Well almost, even the Chop Docs Seat Shocker won’t help if you run over an alligator. The Chop Doc kit includes two Shockers, and 8…go ahead and count’em, 8 steel weld-on tabs so you can mount your seat anywhere you want of the frame tubes.
Ya just gotta know how to weld. For all further information contact your local Chop Docs Dealer or contact Chop Docs direct at:
Chop Docs
Mister Ronnie Harris
http://www.chopdocschoppers.com/choppershockerspage.html
Chop Doc’s Choppers
5275 Dixie highway
Waterford, MI 48329
(248) 255-5095
DICK ACT of 1902 – CAN’T BE REPEALED (GUN CONTROL FORBIDDEN) — Protection Against Tyrannical Government
It would appear that the administration is counting on the fact that the American Citizens don’t know this, their rights and the constitution. Don’t prove them right.
The Dick Act of 1902 also known as the Efficiency of Militia Bill H.R. 11654, of June 28, 1902 invalidates all so-called gun-control laws.
It also divides the militia into three distinct and separate entities. ** SPREAD THIS TO EVERYONE ** The three classes H.R. 11654 provides for are the organized militia, henceforth known as the National Guard of the State, Territory and District of Columbia, the unorganized militia and the regular army.
The militia encompasses every able-bodied male between the ages of 18 and 45. All members of the unorganized militia have the absolute personal right and 2nd Amendment right to keep and bear arms of any type, and as many as they can afford to buy.
The Dick Act of 1902 cannot be repealed; to do so would violate bills of attainder and ex post facto laws which would be yet another gross violation of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
The President of the United States has zero authority without violating the Constitution to call the National Guard to serve outside of their State borders.
The National Guard Militia can only be required by the National Government for limited purposes specified in the Constitution (to uphold the laws of the Union; to suppress insurrection and repel invasion). These are the only purposes for which the General Government can call upon the National Guard.
Source.
http://www.civilrightstaskforce.info/gun_control_forbidden.htm
Also watch this: http://www.forbiddenknowledgetv.com/videos/drugs/the-link-between-psychiatric-drugs-andnearly-all-recent-mass-shootings.html
Get this message out to all your email contacts. It’s time to learn about your rights.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Militia_Act_of_1903
–from John Smith
SUNDAY REDHEAD……..if you enjoy chicks that also dig chicks…
Peace Always,
Tinman
PULSTAR PULSE PLUG REVIEW– Just thought id drop ya a line and tell ya about them E3 spark plugs.. I put a set in my ol geezer glide.. (indexed) and fired it up.. Let it run for a bit and was surprised that the idle had raised by 225 rpm.. So I got a set and put them in my pard’s 01 geezer glide.. Sure as hell. Up went his idle also by 200 rpm.. ( I didn’t index his) So now I got a few Hun miles on them and I’m seein a bit better fuel mileage and my engine starts real nice …Just thought Id pass this on to ya..
— Skoot
NMA Time to Recognize Those Who Take a Stand– Public officials taking outspoken, principled stances? It’s rare, but it does happen. What’s even rarer is when those stances favor drivers’ rights. Here are a few recent examples.
During his 2012 re-election bid, Fullerton, California, City Councilman Travis Kiger publically spoke out against taking federal grant money to implement DUI roadblocks. He rightly criticized this heavy-handed enforcement approach as costly, ineffective and unconstitutional. Despite standing by his principles, Kiger lost his bid for reelection last November.
After 25 years on the force, Novi, Michigan, police officer Michael Corbett called the department to task for implementing ticket quotas, which, he said, led to the shakedown of innocent drivers. Corbett faced reprisals, lost his job and is suing the department for wrongful termination.
Ken Burke, the County Clerk of Circuit Courts in Pinellas County, Florida, recently wrote a “no holds barred” letter to the mayor of St. Petersburg detailing his many concerns over the city’s red-light camera program. Burke is still on the job, but given his insider status, he took a huge risk by exposing the many flaws and abuses so prevalent with photo-based traffic enforcement.? ?
Chicago Committeeman Scott Davis took on Mayor Emanuel and the Chicago City Council by calling for a repeal of the city’s speed camera ordinance in light of recent corruption allegations. Davis’ action prompted this endorsement from NMA President Gary Biller, excerpted here: I wish more politicians had the courage to speak out as you have against what are clearly revenue-generating efforts but are presented falsely as safety programs. Thank you for taking a public stance against photo enforcement.
The NMA wants to recognize more officials like Davis, Burke, Corbett and Kiger for their principled stances in support of motorists—especially when those stances could trigger serious backlash like losing a job or an election. That’s why we’ve created the Sentinel Award for Outstanding Service to Motorists. This award will recognize public officials, or organizations, who take a risk by publically standing up for motorists’ rights. And we’d like you to submit nominations. Here are few guidelines to consider:
1. The nominee should ideally serve in some public capacity. This includes elected or appointed officials, law enforcement officers, legal/court personnel. However, we will consider others, such as community organizations, journalists or even private citizens.
If you know of a person or group like this, send us the details and tell us why you think they’re a good candidate for the Sentinel Award. We’ll review the nominations and determine the winners. Winners will receive a framed certificate. We will also issue a local news release and tell their stories in upcoming newsletters. The goal of the program is not only to show appreciation for those whose work benefits motorists but to encourage others in the public eye to stand up as well.
http://www.motorists.org/fundraiser/
Basically these folks respect Freedom and understand human nature. –Bandit
QUICK SUNDAY FEATURE FROM BIKERPICS.ORG–
[page break]
THIS JUST IN, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
S&S X-Wedge Guts
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=7156
The article on the X Wedge engine is very interesting. Do you have any information as to their reliability. I have an X-Wedge engine fitted to one of the new Morgan 3-Wheelers and this has been run in carefully with oil changes at 50 miles, 350 miles and 1000 miles. It has never been hammered and the engine has never been taken over 5000 rpm.
At 1750 miles the engine suffered a catastrophic internal failure, which caused the engine to make a loud knocking noise and then stop. The Morgan dealer believes that one of the big ends has let go. The engine is being sent back to S&S via Morgan’s for investigation. Do you know of any similar happenings with this engine? As you can imagine, my confidence in the engine’s reliability has been completely destroyed.
Is there any truth in the rumor I heard that the engines are assembled in China.
Any comments you may have on the above would be much appreciated.
— Keith Broomfield
keith.broomfield@talktalk.net
Edmonton, N, United Kingdom
I’m sure these engines are not made in China, and I have not heard of any reliability issues, other than heat. Maybe that’s the problem this engine faced in the Morgan, but we are still investigating. I’m also positive S&S will stand behind it.–Bandit
BIKERNET 5-Ball RACING WHEELER REPORT
Yet another incredible weekend aboard Space Ship Earth where curiosity and gravity keep me hangin’ on for more. As always, marching to the tune of a different drummer. Full speed ahead, damn the torpedos.
Last Sunday at 5:02 am my second Grandson made his appearance into the world, Leon VonMohr Wheeler, 7lb 10 oz., with a full head of hair, removed the disco lights after 3 days.
http://www.racetech.com
After the big weekend, bright and early Tuesday Bandit gave me a hand loading the 5-Ball Racing Team’s hot rod for a road trip to Corona, CA. home of Race Tech Suspension. Rolled the back roads to Long Beach picking up Dr. Willie for the road trip to Corona. Arrived just before lunch. The crew at Race Tech unloaded the hot rod then rolled the sweetheart inside for a spot in line. We’ll collect a few images and prepare a report about this renowned American company.
Race Tech Suspension mantra: “Suspension performance is the secret to winning! It doesn’t matter if your on the Track or Street, you will be impressed at what we can do for your bike. Guaranteed!”
Paul Thede Owner/Founder of Race Tech Suspension since 1984. In 2007 Paul Thede won Pikes Peak Hill Climb. He set 15 Land Speed Records over the years, then in August of 2011 became the first man on an electric motorcycle over 200 mph (218.6 mph, article written 9/29/2011). The company is now International with over 50 Race Tech Centers world wide.
Hit the big 69 Friday, spent Saturday recovering from a baked potato and a medium rare (w/Blue Cheese), melt in your mouth, just right, Filet Mignon. Followed Saturday evening with a Tri Tip dinner in Wilmington on the water with Toby, Bandit and a boatload of rum soaked pirates.
[photo 7817]
Blue sky and a street/landspeed “Raycer” dream nearing reality. We are on the floor, in line at Race Tech Suspension for the latest state of the art suspension tune-up and alignment.
After suspension we’ll prepare the hot rod for the Dyno in San Jose. With a little luck next weekend, June 7-8-9. Keeping in mind, all plans subject to change at a moments notice.
Stay tuned for road test reports on all aspects of our build, chassis, drive train, electrical, wheels, brakes and suspension as well as reports live from the Bonneville Salt Flats, BUB Speed Trials August 24-30.
Thanks….With one helleva lot of help from my family and Industry friends….Thanks, Thanks, Thanks.
We’re on track for a stellar year on the street and on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Toby The Welder, 3 Ex-Wives, My 3 Sons, Aerocharger, All Balls Racing, Kent Rich, Dutch and the Crew@Air Tech Streamlining, Arai Helmets, Keith Ball and the Crew@Bikernet, Bikers Choice, Brad Beach@Beach Racing, Dr. Willie Lanham, Long Beach, Ca., Cometic Gaskets, Dan Thayer@vtwinfuelinjection, Allen Alvarez@Daytona Twin Tech, ERC Race Gas, George The Wild Brush, ET Krankvents (Thanks Ted Shrode, Ph.D—- R. I. P.), Fisher Harmonic Damper, Dan Stern@House of Thunder H-D, Horsepower Inc., Ron Williams, Jeff, Kevin@Hardtailz, Randy Torgeson, Michelle and the Crew@Hyperformance, Jim’s Machine USA, K&N Air Cleaner, Paul Kittrell@Lyndall Racing Brakes, Marc Susman@Colorado Custom Cycle Wheels, Juan, Colorado Custom Cycle Wheels, Ray Whitehead@Pegasus, Pingel, Walt, Pro Charger, Jim @Sharp Eye Transmission, Reggie and Crew@R&R Cycle, Ben Kudon@Rivera Primo, Matthew Wiley@Race Tech Suspension, Rick Tedder@ R/T Performance, Schnitz Racing, Mr. McCahill@Spyke, S&S Cycle, Matthew Negherbon@Thunder Motorcycles in San Jose, Guy Caputo@Tiger Racing, Steve The Turbo Doc, Tsubaki Chains, Vanderbeck Race Cars, Vanson Leathers, World Wide Bearings, Duncan Keller, Yankee Engineuity in San Jose, Ca..
Haul Ass!
Ride for your Life!
–Ray C Wheeler
Performance Editor
wheeler@bikernet.com
PERFECT BANDIT’S CANTINA SUNDAY WORD–lunker LUHNG-ker, noun:
In another year, June MacPherson became pregnant again, this time with a lesser character than Rory, a lunker who marched off peacefully to the altar.
The lunker watched him lazily from cool blue eyes and paused to suck an inch of beer. “You going to pinch him?” Peach asked amiably. No, Santiago thought, he wouldn’t. He had something better in mind.
Lunker entered English in the early 1900s and its origin is unknown.
George Christie is – “The Last American Outlaw” – premiering June 8, 2013 in Ventura, California–
Ex- Ventura Chapter President George Christie Jr. will offer insight into his 35-year tenure as the founder and president of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club (H.A.M.C.) Ventura Chapter during a live question and answer session immediately following the world premiere screening of a new biographical documentary covering segments of Christie’s life and times as the most notorious American Hells Angel second only to Sonny Barger.
Barger, however, could be considered second to Christie in one area at least: of the two top Angels, only Christie was and is formerly one of the last living members of the Angels’ “Filthy Few” – the elite core group that would go and had gone to any lengths necessary for the club, a distinction he held before his retirement from the club last year.
Veteran U.K. filmmaker Nick Mead will present “The Last American Outlaw”. June 8th at the Bell Arts Factory in Ventura, CA at 8pm. The Bell Arts Factory is a former mattress factory converted into a popular haven for working artists in nearly all mediums and has become a mecca for the creative arts. For that reason it was chosen as the ideal venue for the premiere public screening as well as its proximity – literally right around the corner – from the former Hells Angels Clubhouse – a Ventura landmark – reluctantly so for many – for nearly four decades.
George Christie embodied a new breed of biker outlaw, one that made him a threat to law enforcement from the local level to the federal level. He was well-read and educated, erudite with an extraordinary grasp of criminal and constitutional law. Immersed for decades in the underground world of renegade bikers, he became an authority on the human condition. He developed into a master negotiator within various chapters of the club as well as an ambassador of sorts between rival outlaw clubs and the Hells Angels; avoiding outright wars through dialogue and communication.
Christie possessed the steel nerves and confidence necessary for that kind of role, and he could back up his play with a fierce mastery of the fighting arts beyond any recognizable degree on the west coast. Make no mistake, George Christie was feared in the outlaw biker world.
Yet, at any given time in his mechanics garage on the bookshelf one might find Harley-Davidson Manuals sitting next to volumes on military strategy. Or you might see Anthony Scaduto’s early Bob Dylan Biography sitting next to an oil-stained carburetor schematic leaning against a hardcover bound copy of “Hamlet” (“…liked it, but a bit too wordy”) Christie once quipped.
Christie was the antithesis of the stereotypical Neanderthal brute animal biker; he was handsome, well-groomed, impeccably dressed and possessed a dynamic presence. He was glib, sharp, forthright, and affable. He would find himself going head to head with seasoned newsman Mike Wallace on CBS “60 Minutes” holding his own on Wallace’s turf. These attributes quickly made Christie the de facto national spokesman for the Hells Angels nationwide. And as the longest running President of any Hells Angels Chapter – spanning seven U.S. Presidencies (Ford through Obama) Christie witnessed the Hells Angels M.C. grow from two dozen chapters in the United States to over 100 chapters in 29 countries worldwide, with licensed trademarks and copyrights – along with a formidable bevy of attorneys that would make any Fortune 500 company envious. The Angels could either stomp you or sue you, many preferring the former to the latter.
And now, after hanging up his patch, no longer a member of the Hells Angels, George Christie is stepping out from the shadows back into the light.
“Don’t expect any club secrets to be revealed, though..” exclaimed publicist James A. Golff.
“I remember a guy from the U.S. Attorney’s Office once said to me George probably knows where Jimmy Hoffa is buried but will never tell,” Golff further mused: “As for the H.A. (Hells Angels) – George will take those secrets to the grave. That’s just the way it is.”
THE LAST AMERICAN OUTLAW SATURDAY JUNE 8, 2013 8PM BELL ARTS FACTORY 432 N Ventura Ave Ventura, CA 93001 (805) 643-1960 Limited Seating
–from Bikernews.net
SELF-DRIVING CARS? Don’t start your engines yet–Regulators set four-year study to ensure safety
By James R. Healey USA Today
The move toward self-driving cars is picking up speed quickly enough that federal safety officials are urging states not to license such cars except for testing, and told the companies that make them to be vigilant and uniform in testing the automated vehicles.??
“We want to stay ahead on this issue,” said David Friedman, deputy administrator at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which Thursday announced a policy, a research plan and guidelines “for states, and for the industry, on how to move ahead on their testing programs.”
The NHTSA statement says “America is at a historic turning point for automotive travel” and cited the “enormous safety potential” of heavily automated cars. It announced a four-year study of automated vehicle systems to prepare for regulation and to make recommendations for state laws.
“NHTSA is right (in) telling states to slow down, think this through and don’t rush into regulating driverless vehicles until there is more research,” says Barbara Harsha, executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association.
For all the hoopla, though, there are no real-world automated cars yet. A few with self-driving capability are being tested in states that permit them — California, Nevada and Florida — though others are considering it.
Expect fast change, says Google CEO and co-founder Sergey Brin. “You can count on one hand the number of years until ordinary people can experience this,” he said last September, when California Gov. Jerry Brown signed a law allowing self-driving vehicles. Google has more than 500,000 miles on Toyota Prius and Lexus RX 450h vehicles that use radar, lasers, cameras and computers to autonomously go from point A to B without whacking other traffic.
At Level 1 , the driver’s in charge, though function-specific systems, such as stability control (now federally required), may assist.
Motorcyclists Need to Pay Close Attention to This and Make Sure That These Vehicles Recognize Them.
–ROGUE
[page break]
GUN NUT NRA ALERT–Obama Administration Could Sign Arms Trade Treaty as Early as Monday– As we recently reported, on April 2, the United Nations General Assembly voted 153-4 to pass the Arms Trade Treaty, with the United States voting in favor and several countries abstaining. The vote in the General Assembly pushed the treaty process forward after negotiations twice failed to deliver on the goal of developing the treaty by consensus.
The Obama Administration is expected to sign the treaty soon after it is opened for signature on Monday, June 3–just days from now.
The ATT threatens the rights and privacy of American gun owners. Signatories will be encouraged to keep information on the “end users” of arms imported into their territory and supply such information to the exporting country. Exporting nations, nearly all of which have civilian firearm control regimes far harsher than the U.S., will be encouraged to take the firearm control laws of an importing country into account before approving a transfer of arms. And the treaty also encourages states to adopt domestic legislation to carry out the treaty’s mandates.
The only way to stop the Obama-U.N. collusion from trampling our Second Amendment freedoms is through the U.S. Congress. A majority of senators have already made clear their opposition to ratifying the ATT. On March 23, 53 senators voted for an amendment to the Senate budget resolution for Fiscal Year 2014, “establish[ing] a deficit neutral fund” to oppose United States entrance into the treaty. Additionally, Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), along with 32 cosponsors, has put forth a concurrent resolution expressing the Senate’s opposition to the ATT, as it “fails to expressly recognize the fundamental, individual right to keep and to bear arms and the individual right of personal self-defense… and thus risks infringing on freedoms protected by the Second Amendment.”
And in a press release this week, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) issued the following statement regarding a bipartisan letter he authored and submitted to President Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry petitioning the administration not to sign the ATT. The letter was signed by a total of 130 members of Congress – including Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), Armed Services Committee Chairman Buck McKeon (R-Calif.), and Rules Committee Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas)–and declares all of the signatories’ opposition to “both the ratification of the Arms Trade Treaty and any effort to treat it as internationally or domestically binding upon the United States.”
As Rep. Kelly said in his press release: “As the signing period for the ATT gets underway next week, President Obama has an opportunity to take a monumental stand for our national sovereignty and our Constitutional rights. The ATT threatens both of these things and should be fully rejected. Any treaty that would put the United States–the world’s defender of peace and freedom–on equal footing with the world’s worst dictatorships and terror-sponsors ought to be condemned, dismissed, and ultimately denied our country’s signature. I sincerely hope the administration will listen to the very real objections my colleagues from both parties in Congress share and rightly decide that joining the ATT is not at all in America’s interest.”
Once a treaty has been signed, it normally remains available for the Senate to ratify in perpetuity, unless a later president withdraws from it. This means that American gun owners must remain vigilant in ensuring this treaty is never ratified. The NRA will continue to keep gun owners up to date on any movement toward ratification, and will work with our allies in the Senate to ensure the treaty remains unratified.
Fast Dates Calendar Video Shoot with Kelsey and Jessica–
Photographed and produced by Jim Gianatsis of the motorsports marketing agency Gianatsis Design Associates, the current FastDates.com Calendar line-up has something for everyone with the titles: Fast Dates World Superbikes & Swimsuit Umbrella Girls, Iron & Lace Custom and Cafe Motorcycles with Lingerie Clad Centerfolds, and Garage Girls with Beautiful Mechanics getting dirty and sweaty.
With this newly released Fast Dates Calendar Video Shoot, Jim takes us behind the scenes at the Gianatsis Design studios where he photographs beautiful models Kelsey and Jessica from the Umbrella Girls USA Model Agency, for the next FastDates.com Calendars. “I’m always looking for the best possible models for our Calendars, and both Kelsey and Jessica who I first found when they were working at a big motorcycle consumer event, represent everything we look for in our models who are beautiful, fresh and sexy, with great personalities Both girls were so easy and fun to work with as you can see in the video, and FastDates.com Calendar fans can look forward to having them hanging on their walls very soon.”
The new 2014 FastDates.com Calendars make their world premier on the FastDates.com website this month where you can order them now, with shipping beginning July 1st. Calendars are highest quality full color 15 x 15″ wire spiral bound printed on heavy art stock revealing 16 months beginning with September, priced $17.95 each plus S&H. Order online, ask for them at your favorite dealer or Cycle Gear store, and call Van Leeuwen Distributing 1-800-461-1226 in the USA weekdays, 8-5pm PT. Additional Retailers and International Distributors are shown on FastDates.com.
NEW NASH
BARS–Alright, this one’s for the PB Commander. We made these bars for the men and women in the Armed Forces and we are going to hook you up. Send us your valid U.S. Military Id and we’ll give you 50% off these bars.
Available in 10″, 12″, and 14″ heights. The bars can also be drilled and dimpled for internal wiring. The bars are made out of 1″ mild steel, 0.095″ wall with built-in risers that have welded 1/2″ 16 (coarse) and of course, they are MADE IN THE USA with US-made steel. GOD BLESS AMERICA.
http://www.nmc.tru3.net/store/#!/~/product/category=520949&id=23270593
BAD JOKE LIBRARY NOW OPEN–SCOTTISH WEDDING–
At the Scottish wedding reception the D.J. yelled…
“Would all married men please stand next to the one person who has made your life worth living.”
The bartender was almost crushed to death.
SEX
Condoms don’t guarantee safe sex anymore ….. A friend of mine was wearing one when he was shot by the woman’s husband.
–from Rik Savenko
NEW 5-BALL RACING SHIRT AVAILABLE IN THE SHOP—Check them out.
KRANZLER REPORT– Only in Washington do ya wash the Sturgis Shovel in the rain.
Richard Kranzler
GEARHEAD PUBLISHING ADDS HISTORY AND CONTINGENCY TO STURGIS–Boise, Idaho – May 29, 2013 – The Western Motorcycle Drag Racing Association (WMDRA) is pleased to welcome Gearhead Publishing as a contingency sponsor for the 2013 AMSOIL Sturgis Nationals. Gearhead will provide all class winners with their book Motorcycle Drag Racing: A History and the Gearhead Publishing Street E.T. class will be contested on August 5-7 at Sturgis Dragway, with winner, runner up, and semi-finalists receiving a copy of the book.
“The WMDRA is honored to provide our racers and some lucky drag racing fans the opportunity to own such a collectible piece of history,” according to WMDRA President Sandra Alberti. “We’re very excited to share a history of our sport with those who are making tomorrow’s history in our sport today.”
Motorcycle Drag Racing: A History author John Stein said, “Motorcycle drag racing is a fascinating sport, and no group is more passionate about it than the WMDRA. We couldn’t think of a better organization to partner with.”
The 2013 AMSOIL Sturgis Nationals will take place on August 5-7, 2013 at Sturgis Dragway, located at 20523 Hwy 79, just off Hwy 34 between the Full Throttle and Buffalo Chip. A full schedule of activities will be published on the WMDRA and Sturgis Motorcycle Rally websites this summer.
ABOUT GEARHEAD PUBLISHING
For more information on Gearhead Publishing and to order your personal copy of Motorcycle Drag Racing: A History, please visit http://gearheadpublishing.com/.
Contact: John Stein
john@gearheadpublishing.com
(310) 459-7542
MICHAEL LICHTER STURGIS EXHIBIT UNVEILED–Motorcycles as Art Exhibit Theme Revealed.
The annual free public access Motorcycles as Art Exhibit, this year titled “Ton Up! – Speed, Style, and Café Racer Culture,” will debut Saturday, August 3rd through Friday, August 9, 2013, at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip during the annual Sturgis motorcycle rally. The 2013 exhibit, curated by Michael Lichter and Paul d’Orleans, highlights the origins and continued popularity of the Café Racer movement throughout the world and showcases some of the finest racer machines and artwork in the world.
Co-curators Michael Lichter and Paul d’Orleans were able to assemble a display of 32 machines from 12 makes and six decades, including never-before published photography form the original café racing scene in 1960’s England to present. Also included in the exhibit are images from the Ace Café Collection, the “OneShow” 21-helmets display of custom painted helmets, vintage leather ‘Rocker’ jackets from the Lewis Leathers archive, paintings by Andrea Chiaravalli, paintings by Triumph ‘resident artist’ Conrad Leach, and photography by Erick Runyon. More artists will be announced soon, so stay tuned.
GUN NUT REPORTS NRA SUBMITS TESTIMONY OPPOSING MANDATORY LIABILITY INSURANCE BILL FOR GUN OWNERS IN D.C.– Since the Supreme Court’s decisions in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and McDonald v. City of Chicago (2010), some anti-gun politicians have resurrected a decades-old idea: If you can’t ban guns, why not tax them so heavily that no ordinary person can afford to exercise his Second Amendment rights?
The latest movement on that front is in our nation’s capitol, where District of Columbia Council member Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3) introduced Bill 20-170, the “Firearm Insurance Amendment Act.” The measure would require D.C. residents to purchase liability insurance–of no less than $250,000–before being allowed to purchase a firearm.
The liability insurance policy would specifically need to cover any damages resulting from negligent acts, or willful acts that are not undertaken in self-defense, involving the use of the insured firearm while it is owned by the policy holder. Under B20-170, individuals who currently possess firearms in D.C. would have to purchase liability insurance within 30 days of its effective date.
?This week, the NRA submitted written testimony in opposition to the bill, pointing out that the misguided council members who are championing this bill are doing so in spite of the fact that D.C. already has some of the strictest gun control laws in the nation, yet consistently has one of the highest violent crime rates.
NEW OIL GRADE FROM S&S–After the initial launch of their line of v-twin lubricants earlier this year, S&S Cycle announces the addition of a new product to the lineup. Responding to customer requests, 25W60 petroleum based engine oil has been added. Customers who live in warm climates such as the southern United States wanted a heavier oil to cope with high summertime temperatures.
S&S Marketing Director Pete Amenda explained “Here in Viola, Wisconsin, if it reaches 100° F, it’s pretty exceptional. The standard 20W50 engine oil works very well for us, but for people living in some areas here in the US and abroad, that kind of temperature is an every day thing. Those people are looking for a way to beat the heat.” High ambient temperatures can be a challenge for air-cooled engines, and the problem is compounded by stop and go traffic and today’s larger displacement engines. If you can’t be cool, you’ve got to be tough!
Being tough is exactly what the new heavier S&S oil is all about. In addition to the higher viscosity, it has the same high performance additive package that makes the current line of S&S engine oils superior to other oils on the market. S&S v-twin engine oil has the highest concentrations of zinc and phosphorus of any engine oil sold today. Those are two of the best anti-wear additives available.
“I think this new product will resonate with some of our traditional customers, who used to use straight SAE 60 oil in hot weather.” Says S&S VP of product development Scott Sjovall. “They feel more comfortable with a heavier weight oil, and if your oil temperature is routinely above 250°F this new 25W60 will certainly help.”
Owners of vintage, iron cylinder engines sometimes shy away from multi-viscosity oils. S&S’ new 25W60 offers a way that they can enjoy the easy starting and instant lubrication of multi-viscosity oils, and still get the same high temperature protection of the heavier oils they’ve used in the past. Sjovall continued, “It’s kind of hard to explain, but a 25W60 oil and straight SAE 60 are the same viscosity at operating temperatures.
The fact that the 25W60 is thinner at room temperature makes that hard to visualize.”
As with the existing line of S&S v-twin lubricants, the new S&S 25W60 engine oil will only be available from motorcycle shops and distributors of motorcycle products. Support your local dealer.
For more information and specs, go to www.sscycle.com/oil.
BIKERNET WEEKEND RIVET SALE–Harley-Davidson Museum commemorative 110th rivet available now.
“Living the Legend” rivets ordered by June 15 installed by 110th Anniversary Celebration in Milwaukee
The Harley-Davidson Museum is providing a unique way for enthusiasts and visitors to add their own message to its “Living the Legend” Rivet Wall. In honor of Harley-Davidson’s 110th anniversary, the Museum launched a commemorative 110th rivet (pictured below) that is available throughout the year and can be customized with a personal message. All rivets purchased by June 15 will be engraved and installed at the Harley-Davidson Museum in time for the 110th Anniversary Celebration in Milwaukee over Labor Day Weekend. The Rivet Wall is a focal point of the Museum’s 20-acre campus and currently displays personal milestones and memories on more than 4,000 rivets.
“Every rider and Harley-Davidson enthusiast has a special bond to our brand,” said Bill Davidson, Vice President of the Harley-Davidson Museum. “The ‘Living the Legend’ rivet provides a way to memorialize these experiences, which are then placed permanently on the Rivet Wall at the Harley-Davidson Museum.”
The “Living the Legend” rivets are made of a super strong, electro-polished stainless steel and are available in 3-inch and 6-inch sizes. An online visualization tool helps people create and review their message prior to it being manufactured. The 3-inch rivet is $250, and includes three lines of copy, the etching and installation of the rivet at the Museum. There is also a larger 6-inch version for $1,500 that includes etching and installation, and provides space for four lines of text. All rivets are on a distinctive curved iron wall outside the Harley-Davidson Museum.
For more information about the Museum’s “Living the Legend” program and the special 110th Anniversary rivet, visit h-dmuseum.com/110rivet
CUSTOM BIKE BUILDER ARLEN NESS HONORED WITH BIRTHDAY BASH
AND SUMMER EXHIBITION AT THE PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM– Few, if any, have had a more prolific and respected career in custom motorcycle building than Arlen Ness, and the Petersen Automotive Museum is thrilled to honor the man himself and his creations with a Birthday Bash on July 12, followed by a motorcycle cruise-in on July 13 and a special summer-long exhibit titled Arlen Ness: Art on Two Wheels.
The Arlen Ness Birthday Bash on July 12 at 6p.m. will include cocktails and dinner in celebration of Ness. Friends of Arlen Ness will speak to honor the legend, who will also answer questions from the audience. Tickets are $95 and can be purchased at www.Petersen.org.
The exhibit will open on Saturday, July 13, marked with a V-Twin Cruise-In from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone who rides a motorcycle to the museum will receive free parking and two-for-one admission to the museum. Arlen Ness will be signing autographs at 11:00 am.
Arlen Ness: Art on Two Wheels, which runs through Sept. 8, 2013, will feature motorcycle masterpieces built by Arlen Ness that together embody a style and spirit that blends sculpture and the thrill of motoring on two wheels. Alongside Arlen’s bikes will be others built by his son Cory and grandson Zach—three generations of the Ness family have crafted some of the most stunning and trend setting custom motorcycles to ever grace the highway.
Ness began his career in the 1960s with the customization of a 1947 Harley Knucklehead. After entering the bike in local shows, he was noticed by future customers and started a business custom painting bikes. As his popularity grew and demand increased, Ness began selling custom parts and custom motorcycles with a stretched and lowered style which became the hallmark of his designs. After more than four decades, Ness has a large product line specializing in Victory and Harley-Davidson accessories and has received a variety of awards including Builder of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Awards and induction to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
For more information on the Birthday Bash or V-Twin Cruise-In, visit www.Petersen.org or call 323-964-6370.
DRUG TESTING PROGRAMS LINKED TO HIGHER USE OF HARD DRUGS–
Ann Arbor, MI: Schools that institute student drug testing programs are likely to experience a rise in students’ consumption of so-called ‘hard’ drugs, according to observational trial data published this month in the Journal of Adolescent Health.
Researchers at the University of Michigan, Institute for Social Research analyzed the impact of student drug testing programs in some 250,000 high school and middle-school students over a 14-year period. Investigators reported that random drug testing programs of the student body, as well as programs specifically targeting student athletes, were associated with “moderately lower marijuana use,” but cautioned that drug testing programs overall were “associated with increased use of illicit drugs other than marijuana.”
An estimated 14 percent of middle school students and 28 percent of US high school students are now subject to some form of drug testing.
Urinalysis, the most common form of student drug testing, screens for the presence of inert drug metabolites (breakdown products), not the actual parent drug. Because marijuana’s primary metabolite, carboxy-THC, is fat soluble, it may be present in urine for days, weeks, or in some cases even months after past use. By contrast, most other illicit drug metabolites are water-soluble and will exit the body within a matter of hours. Authors of the study speculated that students subjected to drug screens were switching from cannabis to other illicit drugs that possessed shorter detection times.
“Random SDT (student drug testing) among the general high school student population, as well as middle and high school subgroups targeted for testing, was associated with moderately lower marijuana use; however, most forms of testing were associated with moderately higher use of other illicit drugs, particularly in high school,” authors concluded. “These findings raise the question of whether SDT is worth this apparent tradeoff.”
Commenting on the findings, the study’s lead author affirmed, “It is clear that drug testing is not providing the solution for substance-use prevention that its advocates claim.”
Previous assessments of student drug testing programs have reported that those subjected to such programs are no less likely to report consuming illicit drugs, tobacco, or alcohol than their peers.
For more information, please contact Allen St. Pierre, NORML Executive Director, at (202) 483-5500. Full text of the study, entitled “Middle and High School Drug Testing and Student Illicit Drug Use: A National Study 1998-2011,” is available from the Journal of Adolescent Health.
AUSTRALIAN Club numbers increase as Aussie court battle looms–Local Gold Coast media are reporting the Gold Coast chapter of the Finks motorcycle club has grown its membership by more than a quarter, despite Government moves to have the club declared a criminal organization.
Court documents reveal the club’s recruitment drive has added six patched members in a matter of months, with the Surfers Paradise chapter touted as ‘gangster role models’ for young men wanting to rise through the ranks.
Police claim they have identified 50 fully patched members of the chapter, with another seven nominees poised to join the club.
The police also claim the club’s “street crew” support numbers have also swelled in the face of the police crackdown.
Detectives say they have been forced to update the dossier on the club for the Supreme Court upcoming battle to have the Finks declared a criminal organisation, including the dozen new members and nominees.
Telephone intercepts included in the police application are said to show the Finks revel in the new recruits, with Terror Team member Nick “The Knife” Forbes boasting the club was going “great guns”.
“We are strong as, at the moment,” Forbes is said to have told jailed members. “We are going great guns.”
Senior police say they have been frustrated by the spike in numbers with the legal battle looming.
The bid to declare the Finks a criminal organization comes under new powers as part of the Criminal Organization Act, which will prohibit Gold Coast club members from associating with each other if the police win in their application to the court.
If the police succeed, Finks will be banned from wearing colours, will not be allowed to run a business together and will be unable to attend their clubhouse.
Any breach could see them jailed.
The revised police details also try to establish a strong link between the Perth and Surfers chapters.
Court documents allegedly show the Finks from the west view the Gold Coast as a training ground for up-and-coming members.
In a sworn affidavit, a WA detective in the Gang Crime Squad outlines evidence Perth Fink Josh Luke Rider is moving across the country to be part of the Surfers chapter as soon as his girlfriend finishes her parole.
Mr Rider has been welcomed by the club and has already received his Surfers colours.
Aged 23, police claim Mr Rider is a rising member of the Terror Team and has an extensive criminal history, including an alleged stabbing, carrying a loaded revolver and a string of traffic and drug offences.
Rider has a tattoo of Finks mascot “Bung” under his right eye and the words “Terror Team” above his right eye.
Gold Coast sergeant-at-arms Greg Keating is also said to have cultivated close ties with the Perth chapter and approved Rider’s move.
Keating is also said to be heard in a recorded phone call to a fellow member saying that he has “just returned from visiting members in Western Australia”.
THIS JUST IN FROM DR. HAMSTER–
The question whether we need more supplementation during hotter weather is asked a lot here in the office.
Here is my opinion on this subject:
The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) is really a misnomer- it is minimum recommendation to prevent disease.
Yes- there is a difference between minimal and optimal levels of nutrients. Active people may need a higher level of nutrients because they subject themselves to stresses that the sedentary person might not.
Then, when the weather turns warmer and we are perspiring a bit more, our body does need a little extra support. And athletes may need even higher support so they can function at optimal levels.
For example, the RDA for vitamin C is 60 mg daily. However, research suggests that to maximize the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Vit. C, people need up to 1.5 grams of this water-soluble nutrient.
To make sure you get sufficient nutrients and electrolytes, supplement your daily intake with a couple extra multivitamins and stay hydrated during the hotter days of Summer!
Dr. Christian Reichardt
AKA Dr. Hamster
BIKERNET TRIKES NEWS FLASH, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Trikes for Disabled Riders
http://www.bikernettrikes.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=11071
I’m looking for used trike that I can roll on with my wheelchair, that is not 60k$ hopefully something used around 15k$.
–Timothy cook
cook.tim2@gmail.com
Malden, MA
THE FINAL CONSPIRACY REVEALED–THIS explains a LOT!!!!–The year was 1947. Some of you will recall that on July 8, 1947
a little more than 64 years ago, numerous witnesses claim that an Unidentified Flying Object, (UFO), with five aliens aboard
crashed onto a sheep and mule ranch just outside Roswell, New Mexico.
This is a well known incident that many say has long been covered-up by the U.S Air Force as well as other Federal Agencies and Organizations.
However, what you may NOT know is that in the month of April, year 1948 nine months after the historic day, the following people were born:
Barrack Obama Sr.
Albert A. Gore, Jr.
Hillary Rodham
William J. Clinton
John F. Kerry
Howard Dean
Nancy Pelosi
Dianne Feinstein
Charles E. Schumer
Barbara Boxer
Joe Biden
This is the consequence of aliens breeding with sheep and jack-asses. I truly hope this bit of information clears up a lot of things for you.
It certainly did for me. And now you can stop wondering why they support the bill to help all
Illegal Aliens.
–Irving Marsh
THAT’S ALL FOLKS—This next week will be a doozy. We have a ton of Bikernet content hanging in the wings. We have techs from Doc Robinson, Rogue, the Tail Gunner, and I’m trying to write the first streamlined trike tech. I have three bike features hanging in the wings, plus and Girl of Bikernet.
I need to finish the Greece sailing adventure story, and write my Mudflap Girl feature for Ironworks magazine. I’m going to spend a couple of hours with my 90-year-old mom, and maybe go for a ride. Plus, maybe plan a trip to Carson City to meet with the Paughco staff about the Assalt Weapon II project. Hang on.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
