Hey,
Life can be amazing, and in that realm I just received a copy of the AMA magazine. It reported about four states trying to pass Land-Splitting laws. They need to be adopted with major awareness campaigns. Some of the states include: Oregon, Texas, and Washington.
Nebraska is attempting a Helmet Repeal. And British Motorcycle Police are trying to encourage riding as a safer, less congested way to get around their little island in the Atlantic. Besides, four bikes can park in one auto parking stall. They are looking for anyway to ease congestion on busy island streets. They also stated: There is a growing body of evidence which shows if more people started their road careers on a motorcycle, scooter or moped, it leads to improved driver behavior towards all vulnerable road users.
Sorta like, if you grow up learning and using guns, they don’t freak you out later on—brilliant.
And finally the U.S. Congress is eliminating funding for “voluntary” checkpoints to survey drug and alcohol use among drivers. Unfortunately, most drivers didn’t know these checkpoints were voluntary… Always something.
Let’s hit the news, before I get wound up. The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by Cycle Source Magazine, Iron Trader News, and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
ACTION FROM DAYTONA BIKE WEEK–
It is not all work and no play for those of us working during Daytona Bike Week.
Bill Dodge of Bling’s Cycle in Daytona Beach hosts a party for Magazine staffs, bike builders and others in the industry with an awesome barbecue.
It is always a good time and much appreciated.
–Rogue
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION, Washington Weekly Updates–
Congress had an abbreviated week. As soon as the Thursday morning snow was predicted, the flights out of D.C. began to fill and the scheduled committee business and meetings were abandoned. But not before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a joint session of Congress and a big fight over funding the department of homeland security almost shut down the government.
It did afford me the time to research a solid coalition that is working on the issue of tolling, known as the Alliance for Toll Free Interstates. Currently only roads that existed before the interstate system was developed can collect tolls. Examples include the Jersey turnpike and the Pennsylvania turnpike.
However, authority was given Missouri, North Carolina and Virginia to begin tolling on I-70 and I-95 respectively. They are allowed to collect tolls and then report back to the federal government on the success of the program. Recently Paul Ryan (R-WI) congressman and former Vice President candidate said that all fifty states should be allowed to collect tolls. Tolling is definitely on the table…
What’s wrong with tolls? For motorcyclists, everything. But for everyone including the states that stand to collect the cash, it’s a problem of inefficiency. It adds time to your travel, causes congestion, and only nets about forty percent of every dollar. With EZ pass, it’s getting better, but not by much. We need the cash; with roads dissolving into third world condition and bridges failing, we need the money! However it’s cheaper to you, the road user, to pay an increase in the gas tax to fund the problem.
Consider this: the average road user pays into the federal gas tax to the tune of about $150 dollars a year. A drive from D.C. to Chicago one-way will cost you just over $46, just in tolls. So this coalition of road users has stymied the implementation of the new tolls through regulation changes and political influence. The MRF will be joining this coalition to help keep more tollbooths from popping up.
–Jeff Hennie
Motorcycle Rider Foundation, Vice President Government Relations and Public Affairs
AND THIS JUST IN FROM THE MOUNTAIN–
The Buddha continued, “Then suppose another person understood only four lines of this Sutra, but nevertheless took it upon themselves to explain these lines to someone else.
This person’s merit would be even greater than the other person’s. Why?
Because all Buddhas and all the teachings and values of the highest, most fulfilled, most awakened minds arise from the teachings in this Sutra. And yet, even as I speak, Subhuti, I must take back my words as soon as they are uttered, for there are no Buddhas and there are no teachings.”
–from the Diamond Sutra
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
An Old School Classic, An Original Shovelhead
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=213
Bravo Ross. Enjoyed the candid unvarnished journey into your past.
I started riding in 1971 on a hardtailed, 6 over Bonneville. Some 45 years later and way too many bikes to remember, I’m also on a ’72 FX but all stock and showing its age, but doesn’t seem to want to quit!
Ran across this page when I typed in ’72 Shovelhead jumps out of 2nd. Been riding around it for 12 years waiting for a big bang. I’ll have to look into it.
When you amended your history to include your salvation and deliverance from addiction I was encouraged and blessed. I was delivered in ’78 and have lived in his mercy ever since.
Vaya con dios, Ross.
— Fronald
Ronconorton@gmail.com
Portland, OR
CANTINA LOG-IN PROBLEMS DISCUSSED–
I have found that it is only with Google Chrome browser with its default settings that I keep getting logged out of the Cantina before reading the entire Sunday news (forget the rest stuff there).
Best Wishes,
Ujjwal Dey
~ www.IQmind.org
2015 KLOCK WERKS Catalog Reveals Largest
Parts Offering in History–Klock Werks Kustom Cycles, a primary resource for innovative motorcycle parts, proudly announces their 2015 product catalog. The new catalog features and educates about all of Klock Werks Brand quality parts for Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Victory, and Indian Model Motorcycles, and more.
New Products introduced in the catalog include Klock Werks patented Flare™ Windshield for 2015 Road Glide Models, Fairing Vent Screens for FLH and FLTR, Saddlebag extensions and hinge inserts for new model bikes, the Tuck-It Oil cooler relocation kit for big wheel bagger projects, handlebars, and new options for Indian Motorcycles. Klock Werks Flare™ Windshield section leads the way as the number one selling product line.
More product and lifestyle photos along with further education and history pages help consumers Understand the Difference that Klock Werks products make.
“We are proud to share the expansive Klock Werks brand parts line in this new catalog. Our marketing department really stepped up the showcase of our largest parts offering in Klock Werks History.” Stated C.O.O Dan Cheeseman.
The 2015 Catalog is bigger than it has even been and is available today. Email info@kustomcycles.com to request a mailed copy, pick one up at an event we are attending or download a copy direct to your viewing devise. Digital copies can be viewed at our website here. (http://www.kustombaggers.com/catalog.htm)
MOTOQUEST Joins Forces with Long Beach BMW Motorcycles for 2nd Annual Death Valley Campout–MotoQuest is once again joining forces with Long Beach BMW Motorcycles for the 2nd Annual Death Valley Campout, scheduled for April 17-19, 2015. This weekend event will bring riders together to enjoy some of the best paved and dirt riding that Southern California has to offer. Participants will be treated to unforgettable riding, hearty meals, and nightly activities around the campfire.
Riders will meet up at Long Beach BMW Motorcycles on the morning of Friday, April 17th for registration, breakfast, and a rider’s meeting to go over suggested riding routes. From there riders will depart and head through twisty mountain roads and lonesome desert highways to their destination at Panamint Springs, CA. Saturday is all about the riding, with great paved and dirt options available for riders of all abilities to enjoy. Riders will wind down each night around the campfire with stories from the day’s rides, and motorcycle movies will set the mood for the next day’s adventures. The Saturday night festivities will be capped off with a Unique Desert Hat contest, with great prizes provided by Long Beach BMW Motorcycles.
The cost of $250 per rider includes a two night camping reservation, meals, and organized riding routes provided by experienced Long Beach BMW Motorcycles and MotoQuest staff members. RV camping and a limited number of rooms at the Panamint Springs Resort are available as an upgrade, and can be booked through MotoQuest. MotoQuest is also offering discounted motorcycle rentals for the campout. Riders can drop off tagged gear at MotoQuest’s Long Beach office — adjacent to Long Beach BMW Motorcycles — for free gear transport (drop off prior to Friday arrival and pick up beginning Monday).
Space is limited so book your spot by calling MotoQuest at 1-800-756-1990 or visit bit.ly/motoquest-death-valley to register. Learn more about MotoQuest’s tour and rental services at www.MotoQuest.com, and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more special event updates.
MotoQuest also offers motorcycle rentals out of their four west coast locations in Anchorage, Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Learn more at www.MotoQuest.com.
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Victory’s Magnum X-1: It goes to eleven.
http://www.bikernetbaggers.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=12931
Badass looking for sure but after reading a heads up challenge of the street glide, chieftain and the magnum I would like to see a performance upgrade. The Victory was the dog of the 3.
–John
johndeaux58@gmail.com
Deep in da Delta
THIS WILL BE TOO COOL, Las Vegas BikeFest Rally Moves to the Heart of Downtown Las Vegas–The roar of motorcycles will fill the streets of Fremont Street East
Las Vegas BikeFest has been the ultimate motorcycle gathering in Las Vegas for the last 14 years, held each year at Cashman Center. Now in celebration of its 15th anniversary, the rally is moving to a new location in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street East.
“We listened to both our attendees and our vendors and the move will allow us to offer up more of an actual motorcycle rally feel,” says Mindi Cherry, Event Manager for Las Vegas BikeFest. The 2015 Las Vegas BikeFest will take place October 1 – 4. It will continue to offer attendees hundreds of vendors, entertainment, bike shows, contests and more.
“Las Vegas BikeFest has been a great event for the downtown community for more than a decade, and we are incredibly excited and proud to welcome the organization and its attendees to the Western Hotel and the Llama Lot for this year’s event,” said Michael Downs, head of operations for Downtown Project. “BikeFest brings thousands of visitors to downtown Las Vegas, and this will be a great opportunity for attendees to experience all of the new offerings along East Fremont Street.”
More than 33,000 bikers and enthusiasts attended the 2014 Las Vegas BikeFest and with the move to the new location, the plan is to increase those numbers significantly. Las Vegas BikeFest brings in many of the top motorcycle parts vendors like Kuryakyn, J&P, Biker’s Choice, Mustang and Barnett Clutches.
“I am incredibly excited for the rally’s move, and believe that the new location will allow an even larger selection of vendors and services to meet the needs of motorcycle enthusiasts. I am looking forward to future announcements and to the opportunity to participate in the 15th Anniversary of Las Vegas BikeFest” says, Tara Blanchard, Director of Retail & Events, J&P Cycles – MAG Retail Group.
Thousands of people visit Fremont Street every day. For the first time ever the rally will be in the streets and venues of Fremont Street East. The Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino is returning this year as our headquarter hotel and will be where event registration will take place. Visit our website for the most current information and updates about the 2015 Las Vegas BikeFest – www.LasVegasBikeFest.com.
EXCLUSIVE BIKERNET BIKE FEATURES COMING FROM THE MASTER—Peter Linney, a renowned international photographer with a video augmented truck designed specifically for action video and photography has shot girls and bikes for Bikernet for almost a decade.
He generally shoots at least one stellar feature for Bikernet every month. We just completed a 2009 Dyna and I’m looking forward to this classic Knuckle chop.
Hang on!–Bandit
INTERNATIONAL EDITOR DEPARTS FOR KOREA WHERE ADULTERY WAS JUST MADE LEGAL–Next to last day. Depart Thursday for one day in Seoul Korea. Ralph left today. Mike leaves tomorrow.
I did a photo shoot for a Coca Cola convention. We rode Harley’s into the hall delivering the dance team
–Art Hall
Supreme Bikernet International
Editorial Emperor
That is a Misfit design. We are working on a relationship with them.
–Ron Loynds; Ron Loynds /Bordo Inc.
We hope to bring you a feature of these Misfit bikes from Daytona Bike Week in the near future or die trying.–Bandit
NATIONAL PATRIOTS RIDE–Join the Nation of Patriots as the Patriot Tour visits Williams, Arizona July 18-19,2015. Bellemont and Williams are the only towns in Arizona to be hosting the Tour as it makes its way across the U.S. The flag will first stop at Grand Canyon Harley Davidson in Bellemont, Arizona the afternoon of July 18 for a welcoming BBQ party and other ceremonial activities.
From there, it will make its way to Williams for a welcoming ride along Railroad Avenue. All riders visiting Williams will receive a coupon book with discounts to local establishments. The Best Western Plus Inn is offering a special discounted rate for riders participating in the Patriot Tour. Riders staying at the host hotel, Best Western Plus Inn of Williams, will be treated at the hotel to a special party in their honor.
On Sunday morning, July 19, a commemorative service and reading of a proclamation at 9:00 am from City of Williams Mayor John Moore honoring the Patriot Tour at Memorial Park will take place. Other dignitaries from Arizona will be on hand to thank the riders and the nations veterans for their service to this country. The Patriot Tour will Cruise the Loop on Route 66, before heading to the next destination, Las Vegas, Nevada.
A complete routing schedule for the flag can be found at: http://www.nationofpatriots.com/the-patriot-tour.html and information on the events in Williams can be found at www.experiencewilliams.com.
Riders interested in participating locally or across the country are encouraged to pre-register at: www.nationofpatriots.org. Each rider is asked to make a $5 donation that will be used to augment funds raised throughout the tour for distribution to the families of wounded veterans.
More information, donor opportunities and a complete Nation of Patriots tour schedule can be found at www.nationofpatriots.com.
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THE WiFi INNOVATION Act of 2015—
Congress wants more wi-fi available to the general public, and in order to do so, both the U.S. House and Senate have legislation to explore one possibility of getting you a new way to access a wireless signal.
Congressmen Bob Latta (R-OH) has introduced H.R. 861 and Senator Marco Rubio has introduced S 424, and both do the same thing. They order a test to see if a wi-fi signal can coexist with the incumbent licensee on the 5850-5925 megahertz (MGh) band.
Currently the most popular band for wi-fi is 2.4 and the incumbent licensee for the 5805-5925 MGh is vehicles. The license was dedicated for use by vehicles in 1999 by the FCC, before wi-fi was even available for public use.
What that means is the Federal Communications Commission set aside that particular spectrum specifically for anything related to your vehicle communicating with other vehicles (v2v) or the infrastructure, also known as telematics.
They saw the day when your vehicle will communicate with the red light or approaching toll booth to alert you of the upcoming need to brake. The FCC did that so that the frequency would be free from outside interference and avoid any hiccups with the technology that could result in injuries and fatalities.
It was a great idea at the time. However, the technology that has been developed since 1999 has changed the way that the frequency spectrum is used and it has been proven that parts of the spectrum can accommodate both wifi and another use in the same frequency. Since the spectrum is only so big, we must develop technology to accommodate multiple uses on one spectrum.
This bill tasks the National Telecommunications and InformationAdministration (NTIA) to publish a test plan to see if wi-fi can coexist with the vehicle technology. NTIA is an agency within the Department of Commerce that oversees spectrum management. Should the bill be passed into law, NTIA would have six months to issue the plan to conduct the test; then they have 15 months to actually conduct the test and gather information, along with the FCC and DOT, and issue a report. Should they find that it is possible for the multiple uses to occur with out harmful interference, then the FCC will have to approve the matter.
Should the testing fail, then the idea will be abandoned.
It is not certain if this bill would allow for complete coverage of wi-fi only indoors or out of doors as well. That depends on the test results. This is not referring to the internet you may be able to generate from your car, smartphone or hot spot. This would be a new type of wi-fi on a totally different spectrum and would generate a blanket signal available to all who are within coverage, much like many college campuses and municipalities are doing, but on a different frequency.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is tracking this issue because like all driver assist technology, we fear that this will reduce the amount time drivers spend watching the road.
“Technologies that take the actual operators out of the equation are always worrisome; this is no different. If operators become accustomed to not needing to pay attention for red lights and stop signs, we all know that will pose problem for motorcyclists,” said Jeff Hennie Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
The MRF does not currently have a position on this issue. The distracted driving portion of this issue is completely separate from this legislation. This legislation simply conducts a technical test to see what’s possible with modern technology. The distracted driving issue will always be part of the discussion as more and more technology is employed by vehicles.
The FCC would have ultimate sign off on the use of the frequency for a wireless source. Should they see any foreseeable problems, they will not allow for the use.
–Jeff Hennie
MRF
SOMEBODY GOT A JOB–Powersports Dealership “Staffing Pro” Amy Beyer is Newest Lonski and Associates Team Member.
Indialantic, Fla. – Lonski and Associates, LLC announced the addition of Amy Beyer, former Motorcycle Mechanics Institute [MMI] Employment Advisor, to the firm’s distinguished team roster.
During her seven-year career with MMI Orlando, Amy successfully placed an average of twenty graduates per month. In addition, she cultivated and maintained relationships with hundreds of dealership owners and hiring managers. There are thousands of MMI graduates from coast to coast who relied on Amy and benefitted from her tenacity and deep knowledge of the dealership landscape.
Metric Motorcyle Dealerships (O) 321 821 7503 Harley-Davidson Dealerships (F) 888 309 3504 Dealership Support Services
Technician Career Coaching
Amy Beyer’s Specialties: Amy@HenryLonski.com
Lonski and Associates has specialized services for the motorcycle, powersports, recreational, RV, and marine industries as a provider of recruiting, staffing and consulting solutions with operating experience in the United States, Asia, Canada and Europe.
Lonski and Associates, LLC is based in Indialantic, Fla.
UNCLE MONKEY ON IMPROVED WEATHER CONDITIONS–With a forecast of above freezing temperatures here locally for the week you can feel the excitement in the air about a new riding season.
On the weekend I spotted the first two bikes out on the highway rolling on those first few miles of the year. They looked cold but the smiles on their faces told the true story. If spring is here it is actually an early spring.
We’ve been burnt the last couple of years. With the promise of spring being here many of us put plates on our bikes only to have low temperatures push back, lasting deep into May. Sure there were one or two hours when if you lived in the right place and weren’t working at 2:00 in the afternoon you got to take advantage of it. It wouldn’t be bad if one could afford to keep the bike plated if not year around but even for those months when riding could be sporadic at best.
But right now the sun is shining; the ice and snow are melting away. It makes me look at what I had accomplished this winter working on the RoadKing and Mrs Monkey’s bike. It is a lot less than I expected but progress was made.
Snow White is still tucked away but she is ready to go. I really should build a beater bike that I won’t need to spend hours cleaning and polishing. It is the perfect time of year for a hop on and go bike. Many street corners are flooded deep enough that trucks skirt around them. Lots of sand, lots of salty mud to grime everything up.
I could make the King a beater, actually looking at it right now that is exactly what it is until I can free up some more money. Plates for bikes can eat up all of the free money one has during the summer.
Some old beater would be cheaper to plate – an old Evo or Shovel ready to go at a moment’s notice. The Evo years really were a blessing. They pampered us, lulled us into a submission of style and vanity instead of practicality of just making it to the run, oil and bug stained, our hands bloody and sore.
Free time, winter times were spent fixing instead of polishing and chroming. The bikes would roll out fresh and clean only to end an oily mess by the end of the riding season.
Spring is in the air, warming our skin, warming our souls. The roads are calling; our souls are calling us to join.
-bad Uncle Monkey
THE DIGITAL DISCOVERY OF THE WEEK–
I think that’s Roy Orbison on the kart?
–Charles Plueddeman
“A Good Man to Have Along”
Oshkosh, Wis.
920.203.1631
Quicksilver Powersports Lubricants Partners With Valerie Thompson Racing Land Speed Racing Team–Quicksilver Powersports Lubricants will help power seven-time land speed record holder Valerie Thompson on her quest to reach record speeds at SCTA (Southern California Timing Association), ECTA (East Coast Timing Association) and USFRA (Utah Salt Flats Racing Association) events. Thompson, known as “America’s Queen of Speed,” will use Quicksilver Lubricants exclusively in her specially prepared BMW S 1000 RR land speed motorcycles at every event on her 2015 racing calendar.
Noteworthy events include the Ohio Mile, Bonneville Speed Week and the World Finals at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Thompson said Quicksilver Powersports Lubricants provides the protection and advantage she needs to succeed in the world of land speed motorcycle racing.
Thompson will kick off her 2015 land speed racing efforts March 27 at The Texas Mile event. The Texas Mile is a premier biannual motorsports festival and Land Speed Racing venue that draws the fastest vehicles from all corners of North America in much the same way the legendary Bonneville course draw the world’s fastest vehicles.
In addition to owning seven motorcycle land-speed records, Thompson is an official member of the BUB Speed Trials 201 MPH Club, Mojave Magnum 200 MPH Club, Texas Mile 200 MPH Club and ECTA 200 MPH Club, and is a lifetime member of the prestigious Bonneville 200 MPH Club.
For more information visit www.quicksilver-products.com.
ROQUE REPORTS FROM THE FRONT—Senior Bikernet Tech Editor and Supreme Commander, Rogue is meeting with industry giants as we speak.
Rogue is in constant contact with Daytona roads on his glide, while meeting with a myriad of vendors including Klock Werks and Baker Drive train.
“I will start on a highly secret Baker tech install as soon as the party is over,” Rogue said. “He is also working on another tech with Love Jugs, and techs are always in the works with Klock Werks.” Hang on for all the action.—Bandit
ANOTHER FREE DUMBER CONTEST WINNER ON BIKERNET–
Joe Fruscione WON the new Dumb and Dumber movie DVD, plus a signed book by Bandit, and numerous Bikernet Bling.
Hell, all he did was sign up for our daily e-mail alerts.
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/Cool_Package_of_Bling_to_GIVE_AWAY.aspx
CONGRESS LOOKS AT VISION ZERO–
Vision Zero is the concept that it is possible to drop the fatalities within the road transportation community to zero and that it should be done at all cost. Vision Zero plans are lofty and admirable, but the approach is just not plausible.
At the core of Vision Zeros philosophy, life and health can never be exchanged for other benefits within the society, rather than the more conventional comparison between costs and benefits, where a monetary value is placed on life and health, and then that value is used to decide how much money to spend on a road network towards the benefit of decreasing how much risk.
The plan also places human life and health as a priority over mobility and other objectives of the traffic system. It also describes how we should build roads with no possibility of a side or frontal impact, and prohibition to use those roads on more vulnerable road users.
Another part of plan is speed limits; should the plan be adopted in full American speed limits would plummet to 19 miles per hour in areas where there is contact between pedestrians and cars, and 43 mph for all other roads. The creators envisioned a slow moving, padded fantasyland right at home in a Disney movie, not the real world.
Vision Zero began in Sweden in 1997 and has since been adopted in some part at least by Netherlands and United Kingdom. In the United States some major cities are also adopting the concept; so far New York, Portland, and San Francisco are all on board. A lawyer in Boston gives out a law school scholarship in the attempt to get the city to take look at considering the idea.
Last week Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) introduced H.R. 1274, a bill that would make money available to local governments to develop and implement Vision Zero plans. A mandatory national helmet law would just be the jumping off point. Make no mistake that the full implementation of Vision Zero in America would eliminate motorcycling as its known now.
Of course it is everyone’s wish that no one would become injured or killed on our roads. Every life is precious and every American should do all in their power to reduce bloodshed on the roads. But simply slowing every vehicle and prohibiting other “vulnerable” vehicles from the traffic mix, all while padding the roadways and interior of vehicles and installing cameras everywhere to find the scofflaws, is the stuff of science fiction, not the real world.
Vision Zero has a blind spot; it does not take into account any budget, financing or the effects on the economy by slowing traffic. Zero fatalities is always the goal, however when you have moving parts operated by human beings traffic safety will always have a component that will never be a control for: human behavior.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation will keep you informed on this issue.
All Information contained in this release is copyrighted. Reproduction permitted with attribution. Motorcycle Riders Foundation. All rights reserved.
Ride With The LeadersTM by joining the MRF at
http://motorcycleridersfoundation.wildapricot.org/page-1654836 or call (202) 546-0983
It’s interesting. Nowhere in this report is Freedom mentioned. When they kicked this off in Europe, one country immediately tried to ban motorcycles. The cost is one issue, but freedom and human nature is another. We wouldn’t drive fast, or ride motorcycles if we planned to live accident free forever. So, what’s the point?–Bandit
FURIOUS-7 IN THEATERS APRIL 7–Go behind-the-scenes of the extended first look with a new featurette on the C-130 car drop from FURIOUS 7!
Direct Link:
http://youtu.be/F540eW4fs9Q
J&P CYCLES OPENING Year-Round Sturgis Retail Center--Aftermarket Motorcycle Parts and Gear Retailer Opening in June 2015
After years of J&P Cycles holding down fort in Sturgis, South Dakota in the weeks before, during and after the yearly Sturgis Rally, a permanent, year-round retail center will open its doors in June.
The facility, located at 1650 Lazelle Street, will be undergoing a facelift prior to its opening and while the square footage will not increase, the building will have a fresh look on the outside as well as inside. The motorcycle aftermarket retail giant’s new Sturgis retail center will house a wide assortment of motorcycle parts and accessories, including exhausts, seats, windshields, saddlebags as well as leathers and other apparel items, to name a few.
“J&P Cycles has been part of the Sturgis Rally for over 30 years. With the tourist attractions, traffic and economic development taking place within Sturgis, opening this location year-around is a win-win not only for J&P Cycles, but the City of Sturgis as well,” said J&P Cycles Vice President/General Manager Zach Parham.
Mikuni MK Pulse Fuel Pumps for OEM Replacement and Custom Motorsports Applications–Mikuni MK Pulse Fuel Pumps employ an engine’s fluctuating crankcase pressure when running to pump fuel from a remote fuel tank to an engine’s carburetor(s).
Mikuni MK Pumps are used as OEM original equipment in many recreational motorsports applications including personal watercraft and snowmobiles.
For custom motorcycle and other special applications they allow the builder the freedom of placing the fuel tank in any location on the vehicle and not requiring gravity fuel feed,
and fuel can be drawn from any location and feed easily to the engine’s induction system without the need for an auxiliary electric fuel pump.
Genuine Mikuni Component Rebuild Kits, as well as Replacement and Aftermarket Performance Carburetors, Fuels Pumps, and all their Parts and Accessories are available from Mikuni American Distributors or through your favorite Dealer.
You can see all the available Mikuni Carburetors and Fuel Pumps, Rebuild Kits, Replacement Parts, Tuning Components, plus the current Mikuni Carburetor Products Catalog with exploded view parts drawings, and a contact list of Mikuni Distributors Worldwide on the www.MikuniPower.com website.
Kawasaki Joins Team Lucas with Sponsorship Of Multiple Lucas Oil Race Series–As Official Side X Side of Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series,
Kawasaki Vehicles Fulfill Essential Needs for Race Organizers
For the first time ever, Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, will be lending sponsorship support in 2015 to multiple Lucas Oil racing activities including the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series, Lucas Oil Pro Pulling League, Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series, Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, Lucas Oil Modified Series, and the Lucas Oil American Sprint Car Series.
Of particular note will be Kawasaki’s involvement with the very popular Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series. Designated “Official Side X Side of the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series,” both the Kawasaki Mule™ and TERYX™ will play essential roles at all 18 races scheduled this year. The Mule™ will be utilized by event staff for race setup and management, and the TERYX™ will be the primary vehicle for on-track ride-alongs. For other series, Kawasaki’s sponsorship commitment will be highly visible at tracks across the country during various Lucas Oil racing events.
Lucas Oil Executive Vice President Bob Patison said, “Kawasaki is a well-respected name in powersports and we are proud to have a company of that caliber be a part of our 2015 Team Lucas program.”
“The Lucas Oil racing series platform provides a great opportunity for Kawasaki to reach a very large audience, on dirt or water. In particular, Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series gives spectators a unique chance to see our product used in the real world. Whether seeing the Mule PRO-FXT working the paddocks or the TERYX™ out on the track, Kawasaki provides amazing work vehicles for Lucas Oil and we’re proud to support their series. Now, with Jeremy McGrath a part of the Kawasaki family, we have a competitor in the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series that is uniting two compelling brands,” said Chris Brull, Director of Marketing for Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA.
Alex Striler, Director of Sales & Marketing for Team Lucas, said, “One thing we are particularly excited about is using the new Kawasaki PRO FXT at our events. We’ll use them at our Off Road events, Late Model races, and Pro Pulling series. The PRO FXT, which can easily transport six passengers and a bed full of equipment, is Kawasaki’s fastest, most powerful MuleTM Side X Side ever.”
The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA, markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, Side X Sides, and Jet Ski watercraft through a network of almost 1,200 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. Kawasaki and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 300 of them located at the company’s headquarters in Irvine, California. More information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and affiliates can be found at www.kawasaki.com.
The continually growing Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series brings door-to-door, four-wheel action to challenging, fan-friendly tracks. Team Lucas is an alliance between Lucas Oil Products and select marketing partners that enhances brand awareness, maximizes television coverage and produces live, family friendly event experiences for fans. Lucas Oil Products is the world leader in high-performance lubricants and problem-solving additives, and distributes hundreds of unique formulations in 40 countries, with continued growth every year. Its television production arm, Lucas Oil Production Studios, manages high-def facilities that create more than 300 hours of programming for CBS, CBS Sports, NBC, NBC Sports Network and the Lucas-owned MAVTV Network.
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DAYTONA BIKE WEEK ACTION–Bike Week washes bring in money for area businesses–Women wave signs to lure bikers to have their motorcycles washed Tuesday along U.S. Highway 1 in Ormond Beach. The women usually split the money with the business that hosts the bike wash. Some say they can make up to $350 a day, including tips.
News-Journal/JIM TILLER
By Dustin Wyatt
dustin.wyatt@news-jrnl.com
With sun-burnt skin, wearing a black-and-pink, two-piece bikini, Lacie Ervin moves her hips and proudly holds the invitation above her head: “Bike Wash.”
She’s standing in front of a convenience store on U.S. Highway 1 on the north side of Ormond Beach near Iron Horse Saloon — a popular destination for Bike Week. Many of the passing bikers honk horns or offer a wave, smile, even a wink, but her wardrobe and dancing are designed to garner more than just friendly attention.
“We are out here looking like this, shaking our bodies, sweet-talking. We work a lot for the tips,” said Ervin, 23. “Come on now, what old man doesn’t want to see a half-naked girl?”
Energetic bikini-clad women holding up signs, scrubbing, rubbing and spraying the chrome of a motorcycle are a common sight during Bike Week, raking in cash for themselves and the businesses where they work.
At All Class Autos in Holly Hill, up to seven women — all of whom are friends or relatives of the store’s owners and managers — work from early morning until sundown. Cecelia Degnan even goes from scrubbing motorcycles to rubbing backs.
Underneath a nearby tent, the licensed massage therapist charges bikers for back massages.
“This goes hand-in-hand during Bike Week,” she said of her alternating tasks.
“It’s Daytona. It’s U.S. 1. This is an opportunity to make some money,” said All Class Autos owner Dana Micallef, adding that the women keep half the $25 fee, plus tips while the shop uses the other half to cover costs, which include cleaning supplies and a meal of ribs and beer. “We aren’t selling cars (this week), so we might as well use the property” for something else.
The young women have dollar signs in their eyes. Stephanie Danhart said she began washing bikes at the same location during Biketoberfest. She works from about 9 each morning until about 6 p.m. She washes about 10 to 15 bikes on a good day, she said.
“It can be very busy,” said the 26-year-old. “You have to make sure you get places you can’t reach, but the rag can.”
Why does she do it? Well, it’s an easy answer.
“I do it for the money,” she said.
Jimmy Arnett, who owns Superior Detailing, the company that has set up shop near Iron Horse for the past 28 years, sat in a chair and stared out toward the highway Tuesday morning at each passing motorcycle. To him, Bike Week means money, too, and the 15 to 20 women who stand near the road are a way to get customers into the lot. Bike washes cost $20. A detail job costs $50.
Arnett rakes in $10 for every bike washed. The rest, as well as the tips, is divided among the women. They do about 80 to 100 each day. But the bikers, for the most part, don’t come for the ladies, he insisted.
John Pompa of Ohio makes sure his Harley-Davidson Trike gets washed every week. He will either do the task himself or pay someone else to do it. When he’s in Daytona Beach for Bike Week, his favorite spot is the bike wash in front of All Class Autos. On a visit Tuesday, it took the women more than an hour and a half to have his bike looking good as new. “They just do a great job,” he said. “I spent a lot of money on (the motorcycle). I want it to look good.”
–from Rogue
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THE MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE ANNUAL REPORT–I predict 2015 is going to be an “interesting” year for most print motorcycle magazines. Unfortunatley, I suspect there will be a lot more bad news than good.
Rumors circulating about several big name motorcycle magazines cutting back on frequencies. And other rumors of magazines simply folding. Not good for the enthusiasts or the industry in general.
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We folded our Motorcycle Bagger back into American Iron Magazine, to make it even stronger. We continue to publish American Iron Magazine 13 times a year (every 4 weeks). It continues to outsell all other motorcycle magazines on the newsstand.
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–Buzz
TAM Communications, Inc
American Iron Magazine
American Iron Garage
Motorcycle magazine
Classic American Iron forum
My Facebook
My Twitter
Kawasaki Donation to Support Native American Education—
Contribution to include 2013 Ninja ZX-6R ‘636’ signed by cast of The Lone Ranger for auction at AICF’s 25th Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. announced recently that they will donate a Ninja ZX-6R ‘636’ sportbike as well as a two-night stay in Kauai, Hawaii and a Kawasaki Teryx® tour for two at Kipu Ranch for silent auction at the 25th Anniversary Gala for the American Indian College Fund in Los Angeles, April 11.
Proceeds from the auction of the Ninja ‘636’ and Kawasaki Teryx tour at Kipu Ranch will go to AICF’s mission of providing scholarships and other financial support to American Indian students, as well as funding American Indian Tribal Colleges, early childhood development and leadership development.
AICF raised more than $6 million dollars in 2013-14, and those funds provided 6,452 students with scholarships, of which 1,553 were first generation college students.
“Kawasaki is proud to support a cause that encourages higher learning,” says Chris Brull, Kawasaki Marketing Communications Director. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to explore their potential and AICF is creating educational opportunities that affect Native Americans in their own communities through scholarship and funding of tribal educational programs.”
The Kawasaki Ninja ‘636’ sportbike and Kawasaki Teryx tour at Kipu Ranch will be on auction at the American Indian College Fund 25th Anniversary Los Angeles Gala, taking place April 11, 2015. To learn more about AICF or for tickets to the gala, please visit http://www.collegefund.org/
S&S Cycle’s FREE EXHAUST SYSTEM Installs Drawing Crowds at Daytona Bike Week–Rally Goers Thrilled With S&S Power Tune Performance Exhaust
The S&S Cycle display is buzzing with activity as Daytona Bike Week rally goers take advantage of free installation for any S&S Power Tune Performance Exhaust.
“The response has been overwhelming,” said VP of sales Paul Devine. “People are really fired up about getting the best American-made performance exhaust system for their Harley-Davidsons, and having it installed for free is icing on the cake.”
The S&S Cycle semi truck is set up at Bruce Rossmeyer’s Destination Daytona (1637 N. U.S. Hwy 1, Ormond Beach, FL), and the site is a flurry of activity.
One S&S customer, Matt from Massachusetts, had this to say about buying the new Power Tune Performance Exhaust for his Softail, “I got educated by the staff at S&S on how to get the most out of my engine. Buying this S&S Power Tune Performance Exhaust is the beginning of me going through the S&S 4-step process to get the most out of my bike.”
Riders are responding en masse to the free installs, free lanyards, free bandanas and their first opportunity to view the entire line of S&S Power Tune Performance Exhaust and accessories, including:
· 4 brand-new billet CNC-machined tip designs for the 4-inch Race/Tour muffler—Power Vector, Power Band, Power Thruster, and Power Burn—in addition to the Classic and Sculpted versions,all available in chrome or high temperature black Xylan™ finish.
· New header systems for Harley-Davidson Dyna and Softail models, available both in chrome and black ceramic finishes.
AMA RECOGNIZES OUR BONNEVILLE QUEEN—The 2015 Bessie Stringfield Award went to Delvene Manning, who dedicated her life to promoting land-speed racing, which does not differentiate between male and female competitors. In so doing, she fostered an environment that introduced many women and men to the challenge, thrill and camaraderie of two-and three-wheel top-speed record goals.
LUCAS OIL’S Hector & Hector Ready To Rock & Roar In NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Opener–
Trucks and trailers full of long, lean Harleys, Buells, Suzukis and, for the first time ever, Victorys are already converging on Gainesville, Florida to compete in this weekend’s (March 13-15) 46th Annual NHRA Mello Yello Series Gatornationals, traditionally the first event on the National Hot Rod Association’s 16-race Pro Stock Motorcycle calendar.
As the “Christmas Tree” winks green on the first run of the 2015 season, Lucas Oil’s Hector Arana, a former Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion, and Hector Arana, Jr., former Pro Stock Rookie of the Year, will be among the favorites to win the race and, with it, one of the NHRA’s iconic “Wally” statuettes. (Named and styled after NHRA founder Wally Parks, the trophy is a damn sight better looking than the Oscar — at least the head has actual features – and no winner has ever, as far as is known, pawned or hawked one on eBay, a faith that has befallen more than one Oscar.)
Both Aranas, father and son, ride Lucas designed and in-house built competition-modified Buell chassis with S&S 160ci, 60-degree V-twin motors and S&S six-speed trannies. Hector, Sr., lead bike builder at Lucas’ Indianapolis shop, has created totally new chassis and restyled bodies for the 2015 run to the championship, but they may not make their first quarter-mile competitive pass until the second race of the season, the March 27-29 NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at Charlotte, NC.
“Yes, we’re pumped,” Hector, Sr. says, “we worked hard all off-season and … we’re anxious to see what the new body style is going to do for us.”
But Arana noted, neither he nor his son have yet been able to track test a bike fitted out with every one of the new parts and pieces.
“We have all these questions that haven’t been answered because we haven’t had a chance to go test,” Arana, Sr. said. “Is it going to run? Is it going to go straight? We’re looking at the weather (for Gainesville), and it’s showing the possibility of a lot of rain. Is it a good choice to run this bike (on a green track) now, or should we bring out the old bike? The old bike is something we know can make good runs. That’s where we are.”
Planning to reserve his decision on what to run until the last possible moment in order to take track conditions likely for Sunday’s finals into consideration, Arana, Sr. is hauling both the new 2015 Lucas Pro Stock Motorcycle dragster and his 2014 ride to Gainesville. Arana, Jr. will straddle what some might call a “wedding gift” special because it combines something old (the 2014 chassis) with something new (the 2015 bodywork.)
Things to watch for: Eddie Krawiec, riding a Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson set the fastest ever NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Speed (199.26 mph) on this track. If tracks temps and water grains are right, the 200mph mark, what many people call the last major barrier in professional drag racing, may be broken this weekend.
Qualifications for the race will be broadcast on ESPN 2 at 1:30 a.m. (EST) Sunday March 15 with a repeat showing at 7 a.m. (EST) the same morning. ESPN 2 coverage of the Gaternational Finals will begin at 7 p.m. (EST) that evening.
WTF TOMBOLA,”Play And Win The Bike Of Your Choice”–Esteves Motorcycle Design (EMD) recently launched a transatlantic motorcycle raffle. For Europe, EMD partnered with Custom chrome Europe, Odyssey motorcycles, Racing republic and Freeway magazine. In the USA, partners include Hard Drive and Bikernet.com.
European players can purchase tickets at www.estmd.com, while North American players should visit www.emd-part-usa.com for a chance to win one of two customized Harley-Davidson Sportsters.
Nicknamed Root Beer, the red bike is a brand new Sportster Iron 883. It comes fully equipped with the best of EMD’s cast aluminum engine covers and dress up accessories.
WTF is a one-off black chopper show bike that’s built around a 1200 Harley-Davidson Sportster. It features a unique multi-blade aluminum frame and a host of EMD accessories.
The winning ticket will be picked May 9, 2015 at Eurofestival during the Chopper and Co party in Cogolin, France.
Go to www.estmd.com, or www.emd-part-usa.com to purchase a ticket and read the raffle rules.
LA CHOPRODS FEATURE BY GARD HOLLINGSWORTH TO BE FEATURED–Cookin’ this up today for American Iron— I have no idea what a Pinche Roberto is… awaiting clarification from Arch’s Buster…whatever, this pre- Polaris Indian powered chop looks like it means business to me… paint by Buck Wild, open primary, Baker tranny, no speedo, Mikuni carb…lookout !!!
— Markus
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPEN FOR BUSINESS— *An Irish man is stumbling through the woods, totally drunk, when
he comes upon a preacher baptizing people in the river. He proceeds
into the water, subsequently bumping into the preacher. The preacher
turns around and is almost overcome by the smell of alcohol,
whereupon,
he asks the drunk, “Are you ready to find Jesus?” *
*The drunk shouts, “Yes, I am.” *
So the preacher grabs him and dunks him in the water. He pulls him back and asks, “Brother, have you found Jesus?”
The drunk replies, “No, I haven’t found Jesus!”
The preacher, shocked at the answer, dunks him again but for a little longer. He again pulls him out of the water and asks, “Have you found
Jesus, brother?”
The drunk answers, “No, I haven’t found Jesus!”
By this time, the preacher is at his wits end and dunks the drunk again — but this time holds him down for about 30 seconds, and when he
begins kicking his arms and legs about, he pulls him up.
The preacher again asks the drunk, “For the love of God, have you found Jesus?”
(get ready for this)
The drunk staggers upright, wipes his eyes, coughs up a bit of
water, catches his breath, and says to the preacher, *
“Are you sure this is where he fell in?”*
–from R. Savenko
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON—Spondulicks: spon-DOO-liks
noun
1. Older Slang. money; cash.
Quotes
…I’ve told him a many a time I wouldn’t trade places with him; for, says I, a sailor’s life’s the life for me, and I’m derned if I’d live two mile out o’ town, where there ain’t nothing ever goin’ on, not for all his spondulicks and as much more on top of it.
— Mark Twain, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, 1884
Origin
Spondulicks came to English in the mid-1800s and is an Americanism of uncertain origin.
UNBRAKO FASTENERS NEWS OF THE DAY—Unbrako specializes in developing fastener solutions for one-of-a-kind, high-volume applications. Unbrako fastening systems extend cycle life, cut long-term production costs, reduce recalls and provide liability protection. Utilizing their state-of-the-art facilities, Unbrako’s team of professionals will work with your engineers to evaluate design feasibility, conduct mechanical/metallurgical testing, and provide failure and joint analysis.
To further assure quality and safety, Unbrako fastening systems are available with UNBRAKO E-CODE™ LOT CODE™ head markings for lot traceability and total control.
Please look at Unbrako solutions developed for the following industries:
Elevators
Entertainment Park
Paper Mill Equipment
Outdoor Recreational Vehicles
Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge
BIKERNET GOVERNMENT WATCH PROGRAM—I watch CSPAN for news, not commercial news. It covers the hearings while they are happening, no opinions. On Sundays they cover book authors.
This Sunday they will interview a Doctor who wrote a book about pharmaceutical companies. They are not allowed to promote a new drug until the FDA approves, which could take up to seven years. But they can publicize bad info about the disease. They can trump up info about competing drugs. They can incorporate scare tactics into our society so when the drug is released there will be a stampede of sales.
Yelen, the new boss of the FED wants rule making control to avoid, “Political disputes.”
The EPA was able to do the same in order to regulate without government interference.
And our Military machine repeatedly says, “Sorry, we’re too busy to give you a budget.”
What does that say? Think about it for a minute.
So, can our government do the job anymore, or are the agencies they created finding ways to circumvent the government for more power and control? And what about the Drug companies? They are highly regulated, yet they find a way to fuck with the system.This calls for thinking out of the box, and I believe Freedom and Education can help, where regulation doesn’t or fails.–Bandit
AVON TYRES SPONSORS IVES BROTHERS WALL OF DEATH TOUR
Stow, Oh. – March 12, 2015 – Brothers Cody and Kyle Ives have been thrilling crowds with the incredible Wall of Death motorcycle show for more than 12 years, and Avon Tyres will support the team this year as the official tire sponsor.
The Ives brothers will launch a 16-date tour beginning this month with their first stop in Naples, Fla. at the Collier County Fair. Cody, age 22, performs with both a 1960 Harley Davidson Hummer 165 and a 1974 Harley Davidson SX250. Kyle, age 21, performs with a 1953 Harley Davidson Hummer 165, a 1974 Harley Davidson SX175 and a 1984 Honda CB125. All of the Ives brothers’ bikes will be riding on the popular Avon Roadrider tires this season.
“These guys are just incredible at what they do, and we’re proud to support them as a tire sponsor this year,” said Ken Warner, Vice President of Marketing for Avon Tyres. “The Avon Roadrider has been specially designed with a large contact patch for excellent grip at lean angles – perfect for Cody and Kyle. We’re looking forward to a great season.”
Follow the Ives brothers Wall of Death schedule via YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. For more information about Avon Tyres, visit http://www.avonmoto.com.
Fabulous Thunderbirds to Perform at Hollister Freedom Rally–
Classic Rock will fill the air at the 2015 Hollister Freedom Rally as the Fabulous Thunderbirds perform Friday, July 3. The concert is included in the event’s VIP Package, however tickets will be on-sale at the gate.
For over 30 years, The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been the quintessential American band. The group’s distinctive and powerful sound, influenced by a diversity of musical styles, manifested itself into a unique musical hybrid via such barnburners as “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up”. Co-founder Kim Wilson, still spearheads the group as it evolves into its newest incarnation.
“We started as a straight blues band”, vocalist and harmonica player Wilson says. “We now incorporate a mixture of a lot of different styles. We’re an American music band and we’re much higher energy than we were before.”
In addition to Wilson, the current Thunderbirds line-up features Jay Moeller on drums, Johnny Moeller and Mike Keller on guitar, and Randy Bermudes on bass.
“The Fabulous Thunderbirds will bring a great vibe to the rally with their hits. We look forward to a great night of classic favorites,” commented Chuck Schwartz, Event Manager.
More rally entertainment, including the headline band for Saturday night will be announced in the coming weeks. Continue to check our website www.hollisterfreedomrally.com for more detailed information on the Fabulous Thunderbirds concert, along with other rally updates.
I KNOW I’M MISSING SOMETHING—But what the hell. Let’s party.
We are about to rebuild our Cantina area and bring you a ton more content. It’s going to be amazing.
I don’t know about you. But life is all about scrambling from one project to another. So, I’m often curious about what folks want to see or how we can better serve the biker world. Don’t ever hesitate to drop me a note, if you have a notion, a desire, and complaint, whatever.
We have two features coming to Bikernet, a road test, the CV carb tech, maybe a Dyna Progressive suspension tech. We are also working with Custom Cycle Engineering on their new, adjustable Dyna motormount system and rubbermounted Heim joint for the top frame connection.
Oh, and I have another tech coming on my Indian from American Biker in Charleston, SC. We lowered it in the rear 1.5 inches. Hang on for that.
I have another Scotty story from New Orleans, and I bet he leaves the girl. Plus, I need to find a biker adventure story from India. We get some strange shit.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
