Hey,
I often say, “Life is Nuts.” But recently it took on a whole new meaning. I don’t even know where to start. More and more the upcoming election is critical to our survival. If we fixed one thing, it would save our economy for generations and send a strident message to everyone from politicians to corporate giants that we aren’t going to stand for corrupt bullshit ever again.
Obama tried with Obamacare, but his goal was misguided. He wanted to cover everyone, but he missed the real picture. Our Medical program is 46 in the world, kills 2 million a year, and companies making medical widgets for $200, charge $19,000 to hospitals, and the hospital charge the customer $46,000. If you get a chance read the article on our medical industry in a 2013 edition of TIME.
Think about it for a second. The public is being ripped off to the tune of Trillions, medical lobbyist spend billions each year paying off politicians. Sales guys pay off doctors to use their products. So, who the fuck can anyone trust. And Obama forced our whole society to pay into this drug cartel instead of fixing it. Incredible.
Let’s hit the news, before I lose it. I hope it can be fixed, and there seems to be one very simple solution, expand Medicare.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by Cycle Source Magazine, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and Iron Trader News.
BONNEVILLE MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIALS COMING UP– I am preparing my V-bike ready for the August 29 to September 3 Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials.
I have never been there before and I know you have a lot of experience so I asked a few questions that you didn’t answer in your book, and here’s a new one.
I know you had the same Marchesini wheels on your bike as I have on mine and I wondered what you did with regards the following rule:
all motorcycles tires shall have metal valve caps and stems. It’s multiple choice.
a:this is the answer:
b:I don’t know the answer:
c: I can’t be bothered to tell you.
What’s the problem? Install metal stems and shut up.–Bandit
I have a couple of questions you could help me with if you so wish.
1:What is the best hotel to stay at in Wendover?
2: what do you do to stop salt getting in your vehicle?
3:what do you put on the floor of your pit area?
4: what do you use as a canopy or whatever over your pit area for the sun?
5:How do you get the salt off your motorcycle?
–john reed
auga@garlic.com
The Nugget was the host hotel. You might check the schedule to see if they changed. I stayed at the Peppermill last year. Great Buffett, but a very long walk to rooms.
Regarding Salt and wheels you’re fucked. Some guys spray everything with WD-40, but you don’t want it on your treads. We use tarps on the pit floor, held with sand bags, or weights. The best bet is to find a trailer, like 14 feet. It should be low to the ground and be your pit area. Anything outside is vulnerable to the weather and a mess.
I’m trying to build a trailer that acts as the pit and shop. Take brooms and pump water sprayers to sweep tarps and spray salt off of your bike.
We have used a number of pop-ups held with stakes and weights, but one good wind and they’re wiped out. Most smart guys use trailers and easily folded canopies. The wind and monsoon rains can come up in a flash. Hang on.
–Bandit 
KIND WORDS FROM THE QUEEN OF WOMEN RIDERS NOW–
Loved your story on Scott Jacobs! Good read. I love his 75th Sturgis painting.
–Genevieve Schmitt
Founder / Editor
406.223.4939
WomenRidersNow.com
BIKERNET UNVERSITY ECONOMY LESSON–
Times are tough, everybody is in debt, and everybody lives on credit.
On this particular day a rich German tourist is driving through the village, stops at the local hotel and lays a €100 note on the desk, telling the hotel owner he wants to inspect the rooms upstairs in order to pick one to spend the night.
The owner gives him some keys and, as soon as the visitor has walked upstairs, the hotelier grabs the €100 note and runs next door to pay his debt to the butcher.
The butcher takes the €100 note and runs down the street to repay his debt to the pig farmer.
The pig farmer takes the €100 note and heads off to pay his bill at the supplier of feed and fuel.
The hooker then rushes to the hotel and pays off her room bill to the hotel owner with the €100 note.
The hotel proprietor then places the €100 note back on the counter so the rich traveller will not suspect anything.
At that moment the traveller comes down the stairs, picks up the €100 note, states that the rooms are not satisfactory, pockets the money, and leaves town.
No one produced anything……..No one earned anything.
However, the whole village is now out of debt and looking to the future with a lot more optimism.
And that, Ladies and Gentlemen, is how the bailout package works.
–Rogue
Bikernet senior tech editor in charge
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THE ONE AND ONLY Brass Balls Cycles’ Build a Bike Kit Program Rolls Out Five Stages to Build a Custom Bike– Darwin Motorcycles announced today that Brass Balls Cycles transitioned into the firm’s Bike Kit division. Which means each Brass Balls Cycles is sourced by and built by the customer.
“Through our years of building custom/production award winning bobbers and choppers, we’ve learned which parts have superior engineering, fit and finish needed to build a high quality, safe and hassle free customs,” explained Dar Holdsworth, Chief Designer & CEO.
Brass Balls Cycles’ Build-a-Bike Kit is offered in Five separate phases. And the investment to start a build is just $2,995. This allows enthusiasts to build their bike as their time and budget allows. Phase 1 provides a complete roller with frame, wheels, handlebars, front end and tires.
Just like Darwin’s custom/production motorcycles, Brass Balls Cycles provides options and upgrades for customers to choose from. Enthusiasts begin the build with the baseline model and have the ability to add additional components to build their bobber or chopper to their own tastes and requirements.
Enthusiasts can make their selection online or call Darwin Motorcycles’ headquarters and speak with the Bike Kit Team about their requirements. Motorcycle styles include bobber and chopper models in hardtail or softail configuration.
“We are excited to take a leading role in helping customers worldwide, build and ride quality American motorcycles”, said Dar, “and we are honored to offer a $500 discount to active duty US military members & veterans on the complete kits.”
Social Media
Facebook : Brass Balls Bobbers – Darwin Motorcycles
Twitter : brassballcycles
Instagram : dar_brassballscycles
YouTube : BrassBallsTV
Build a Bike Kit Contact:
Name: Dar Holdsworth
Title: CEO
Phone: 405-270-0995 x103
Email: dar@darwinmotorcycles.com
SBI Nation, the new issue of SPORTBIKES INC MAGAZINE is now available!– Click HERE to read the entire issue, absolutely FREE!
This is the ANNUAL LADIES’ ISSUE! It’s packed with articles and features celebrating the global female riding community. On the cover is Freestyle Stunt Rider, Nikki Maikisch, photographed by Laurence Scott of REDLINE Images. Read what she has to say, along with other ladies that ride, on the current state of the female community in ON COMMON GROUND.
KAWASAKI UPDATES ITS VISUAL IDENTITY IN PREPARATION FOR 50th ANNIVERSARY– March 1, 2016 marks the 50th anniversary of Kawasaki’s presence in America As part of the commemoration of this corporate milestone, Kawasaki is pleased to introduce an all-new visual identity to the brand, which will be featured at dealerships nationwide this fall.
The all-new visual identity represents a significant update to current signage and reflects the brand’s global identity. The new signage will stand out, featuring white lettering on a contrasting black background with distinctive Kawasaki Lime Green stripes underneath. This will be highly visible and easily recognizable for customers seeking dealerships. The transition to Kawasaki’s new visual branding will begin this month in selected markets, with the aim of having all dealers complete their installation by the end of the year.
“Kawasaki’s rich heritage of unsurpassed innovations in the U.S. powersports industry has been highlighted by motorcycles such as the original Z1 and Ninja® 900, essentially creating the modern supersport category,” said Bill Jenkins, Senior VP of Sales Operations. “We also developed the market for the first stand-up personal watercraft with the Jet Ski® brand, and developed the first utility four-wheeled vehicles with the MULE™ side x sides. Now, our visual identity will reflect this heritage and align our U.S. brand image with Kawasaki’s global presence.”
Further announcements regarding Kawasaki’s 50th Anniversary celebrations will be made later this year.
For more information on this subject or to learn more about all the Kawasaki powersports products, please contact aimee.soto@kmc-usa.com.
SMOKE-OUT XVI SIZZLES– Smoke-Out XVI sizzled in every sense of the word. The temps were near 100 degrees both Friday and Saturday! The bikes on hand were just as hot along with the ladies!
My wife Vicki and I rolled in Saturday morning along with Vicki’s sister Susan. I rode my Dyna Fatbob and they took the car with A/C. I always look forward to the Smoke-Out each year. It is by far my favorite event.
I spent most of my day searching for Mr. Bandit, never did find him. I was later told he was seen late in the afternoon. Story goes he was holed up back at his room with a redhead? I have not been able to confirm that report. I guess what happens at the Smoke-Out stays at the Smoke-Out?
Back to the bikes, the bikes are what makes the Smoke-Out a GREAT event. If you are into choppers and bobbers, this is the place to be. You see it all here, Flatheads, Kuckleheads, Panheads, Shovelheads, Evos and yes even Twin cams along with Ironhead Sportsters and Evo Sportys.
What is so refreshing for me is there are NO kids BIG wheel bikes to be seen, you know the ones with 50-inch front wheels, yeah the ones that remind you of a kids BIG Wheel! No bikes with 20 speakers blaring, no GPS systems, no cell phone connections, just real bare bones bikes.
These are the kind of bikes I grew up with. The kind that if you are taking a trip on one and the luggage does not fit in your pockets, leave it at home! It is nice to see rigid frames, kick start only bike, jockey shifts, foot clutches, mouse trap clutches and to hear open drag pipes!
The Smoke-Out is also a great event to see old friends. I don’t get to see some of them often these days but I always see them at the Smoke-Out. It is always a blast to talk to the guys from THE HORSE MAGAZINE, Hammer, Englishman and all of the crew and The Commander of the Smoke-Out Edge. Edge always does a GREAT job of organizing this event. Without his leadership the Smoke-Out would not be the GREAT event that it has grown to be.
Some events grow old after some years pass, NOT the Smoke-Out, you never know what you will see. There is a lot of creativity on display, just look at the detail that goes into these bikes!
I may have missed Bandit but I saw his new Indian. It is a bitchin’ bike. My friend Rusty Nash laid down a killer paint job on this bike!
Well another Smoke-Out is in the books, it will go down as one of the hottest on record. If you have never attended the Smoke-Out you do not know what you are missing, so make plans now for Smoke-Out XVII. You will be glad you did!
Until next time, RIDE!
–STEALTH
Photos by the Vicki
BAD COPS IN PANAMA CITY– Trial to start for guard charged in inmate beating
Trial is set to begin Tuesday for a former Florida Panhandle prison guard accused in an orchestrated beating of an inmate. Christopher Blake Christmas has denied involvement in the August 2014 beating of 31year-old Jeremiah Tatum at the Northwest Florida Reception Center. He will defend himself at trial.
Christmas is one of five guards charged in the incident, which prosecutors say was part of a retaliation plan. Video from the prison allegedly showed two guards slamming Tatum face-first into the concrete floor while Tatum’s hands and ankles were restrained. Prosecutors said Christmas and other officers then jumped on Tatum and pinned him to the ground on the supervisor’s command.
The News Herald reported the other guards have all pleaded guilty to their role in the attack.
–from Rogue 
BIKERNET HITS SUICIDE MACHINE—We visited the crew at Suicide Machine. They are all about building flat track bikes out of anything, and here’s a shot of the flat tracker they built using a new H-D power plant.
We will bring you more reports in the near future.
–Bandit
NEW BOOK MAY COME TO BANDIT’S CANTINA–
Sometime around 18 years ago I got a rough copy of Chopper Orwell and spent some quality down time giving it a read and at best, an unprofessional edit. Here it is, 2015 and I could use something similar. I’ve written and had professionally edited a 167,000 word tome on drugs, sex, rock ‘n’ roll, country music and motorcycles. It’s from a drug dealers viewpoint without all the lawyer/cop crap that usually only has their side winning and I’m looking for someone to read it, tell me where it fits in the marketing world, and give it a hard critique (don’t worry about my feelings – I have less than the handful I had 20 years ago!) and tell me if it’s worth going the self-publishing route.
I’ve have dealt with the rejections without reason and finally decided that I may end up taking this the self-publishing route via a company (BookBaby) that does both print and e-format. Now I need someone beside family to tell me to go for it or not quit my day job; you interested?
–Fred Harrel
P.S. Thanks for your ongoing support of the MRF.
I’m going to review the first three or four chapters. Hell, I’m no expert, but I’ll check it out. Bill Hayes is the man, when it comes to biker novels.–Bandit
LATEST FROM BRAT STYLE SOON TO BE FEATURED IN AMERICAN IRON– “the Chout” – Go’s ‘41 Chief in a ‘27 Scout frame.
–Michael Lichter
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CLASSIC DEAL OF THE WEEK– Sold for $15,000.00 to Mike Peterson in Kentucky.
–Richard Bustillo
Great article about a super family. We met Scott and Sharon during a motorcycle tour put together by Big Twin Magazine back around 1993. Been friends ever since. What he has accomplished since that time is amazing.
–Bruce Siegal
bisiegal@aol.com
North Myrtle Beach, SC
THE GARAGE COMPANY IN AMERICAN IRON– This little gem to be lensed for American Iron: ’72 Sportster Custom. The Garage Co. Inglewood, CA by Yoshi.
–Markus Cuff
FLYING PISTON BUILDERS STURGIS BREAKFAST–
Meet the likes of Billy Lane, Brian Klock, Roland Sands, Brian Fuller, Jim Nasi, Ken Nagai, Paul Cox, Paul Yaffe, and others while bidding on an array of auction items and enjoying catered breakfast at The Flying Piston on Sunday, August 2 at the Russ Brown Event Center on the west end of the Buffalo Chip.
Custom Motorcycle Builders Mix with Fans at Flying Piston Breakfast Benefit During Sturgis 75th Rally
The Buffalo Chip hosts at Exclusive Preview of
“Motorcycles As Art” Show
Join renowned U.S. and international custom builders and industry luminaries for a Meet & Greet breakfast and an advance viewing of the Buffalo Chip’s Motorcycles As Art Exhibit, curated by Michael Lichter. All 30+ custom builders will be together in one place to shake hands, sign autographs and pose for pictures with attendees. Meet the Chip’s own Rod “Woody” Woodruff, Photographer Michael Lichter, and special surprise guests.
Attendees get the inside scoop directly from the builders on the one-off customs in the 75th Rally Motorcycle As Art Show. Meet the likes of Billy Lane, Brian Klock, Roland Sands, Brian Fuller, Jim Nasi, Ken Nagai, Paul Cox, Paul Yaffe, and Shinya Kimura while bidding on an array of auction items and enjoying catered breakfast. The event, organized by The Flying Piston, takes place Sunday, August 2 at the Russ Brown Event Center on the west end of the Buffalo Chip; tickets are $20.
The theme of Motorcycles As Art this year is, “The Naked Truth.” Emphasizing bare metal customs, this invitation-only event once again showcases the most cutting edge designers, fabricators and builders of today’s custom scene. Presented in a gallery-like setting the motorcycles are surrounded this year by over 100 of Lichter’s original images encompassing his 35 years of photographing motorcycle people, events, and culture.
A limited number of tickets are on sale now for $20 each at www.buffalochip.com. All proceeds from the breakfast benefit the Buffalo Chip’s scholarship fund established to help high school graduates and U.S. military veterans pursue motorcycling as a career. Silent auction items are provided by Harley-Davidson Footwear, Revere Seats, Painter Darren McKeag, Low Brow Artist Atomic Bob, Aeromach and more.
To learn more, donate auction items, or attend, contact: Marilyn Stemp, 828-205-8482, marilynstemp@gmail.com
The Chip’s concerts are free with camping. More details are available at www.BuffaloChip.com.
GUN NUT REPORT FOR THE WEEK– Why Grandpa carries a gun· The quintessential reason why Grandpa carries a gun.·
Why Carry a Gun?
My old Grandpa said to me, ‘Son, there comes a time in every man’s life when he stops bustin’ knuckles and starts bustin’ caps and usually it’s when he becomes too old to take a whoopin’.’
I don’t carry a gun to kill people; I carry a gun to keep from being killed.
I don’t carry a gun because I’m evil; I carry a gun because I have lived long enough to see the evil in the World.
I don’t carry a gun because I hate the government; I carry a gun because I understand the limitations of government.
I don’t carry a gun because I’m angry; I carry a gun so that I don’t have to spend the rest of my life hating myself for failing to be prepared.
I don’t carry a gun because I want to shoot someone; I carry a gun because I want to die at a ripe old age in my bed and not on a sidewalk somewhere tomorrow afternoon.
I don’t carry a gun to make me feel like a man; I carry a gun because men know how to take care of themselves and the ones they love.
I don’t carry a gun because I feel inadequate; I carry a gun because unarmed and facing three armed thugs, I am inadequate.
I don’t carry a gun because I love it; I carry a gun because I love life and the people who make it meaningful to me.
Police protection is an oxymoron: Free citizens must protect themselves because police do not protect you from crime; they just investigate the crime after it happens and then call someone in to clean up the mess.
Personally, I carry a gun because I’m too young to die and too old to take a whoopin’!
· Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and, yes, gun-control laws adversely affect only the law-abiding citizens.
With guns, we are ‘citizens’; without them, we are ‘subjects’.
During WW II, the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew most Americans were ARMED!
· Gun owners in the USA are the largest armed forces in the World!
· SWITZERLAND ISSUES A GUN TO EVERY HOUSEHOLD! SWITZERLAND’S GOVERNMENT ISSUES AND TRAINS EVERY ADULT IN THE USE OF A RIFLE.
· SWITZERLAND HAS THE LOWEST GUN RELATED CRIME RATE OF ANY CIVILIZED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!!
–SAM
LATEST FROM ROCK AND ROLL—
This just in from Randy’s massive SoCal custom paint facility.
Rock and Roll Custom Paint -By Appointment Only
-Orange, CA – (714) 744-0631
Hours: Mon. thru Fri. 8 am – 5 pm Sat 10 am – 2 pm
BAD TAX LAWS— Richmond VA just passed a law against small business to tax them for water run-off. “So, now they are going to charge us for something we have no control over, the rain,” said Lee Clemens, the boss of Departure Bike Works.
Hang on for more reports.
–Wrench
[page break]
METALSPORTS SUMMER SPECIAL–
LETS START THE SUMMER WITH A SUPER DEAL ON ALL
21-inch WHEELS IN STOCK
Here is what we have left to choose from
they are going fast, more sold only a few remaining, don’t pass this deal up.
call for special pricing.
And if you need the matching rear you can
order it and get a extra 5% off the list price
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FLATHEAD 2-D 21X3 CHROME
1969 2-D 21X3 CHROME
FLATHEAD 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
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IMPERIAL 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT SHOW POLISHED
NITROUS 2 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
ROXXY 2 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
CLEAN 5 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
LOCASH 2-D 21X3 ALL BLACK
–Terry
Metalsport Wheels
10112 Miller Way
South Gate, CA 90280
P# 562-7769594
F# 562-7769635
www.metalsportwheels.com
Aidan’s Ride Sturgis 2015–
Where:
Indian Larry Motorcycles Sturgis
1801 Lazelle St.
Sturgis, SD 57785
The first annual Aidan’s Ride Sturgis, a charity motorcycle ride organized to fight ALD, will take place August 6, 2015, during the 75th anniversary of the iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. It will consist of a 75-mile ride around Bear Butte that ends at the Buffalo Chip Crossroads with a catered brunch.
Please click on the link below to register or RSVP.
Get more information
Register Now!
I can’t make it
If you have any questions about the event or how to register please contact us.
Thank you for your attention and response, and we look forward to seeing you at our event.
–Ken Conte
Aidan’s Ride Sturgis 2015
kenconte@gmail.com
970-227-3588
noun
1. a nickname.
Quotes
As for the sobriquet, she was no ice queen, but in the macho world of law enforcement, playing that role was the only thing that kept her safe — from men and from her own rogue impulses.
— Greg Iles, The Footprints of God, 2003
Origin
Sobriquet comes from the French word of the same spelling which is of uncertain origin.
SPECIAL REPORT COMING TO BIKERNET– OVERVIEW:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_National_Service_Act
The Universal National Service Act is the name of at least four bills proposed in the United States Congress (in 2003, 2006, 2007, 2010 and 2013). Notably, the Universal National Service Act of 2007 is primarily sponsored by Congressman Charles Rangel of New York. Advocates for National Service include Senator Chris Dodd, Professor and A More Perfect Constitution author Larry J. Sabato. It has been seen sponsored by Congressmen Charles Rangel, again, as of February 15, 2013 and has now been submitted to the Subcommittee of Military Personnel on March 6, 2013 which can be viewed, in its entirely, to the general populace for those who have attained the Age of 18 to 25 but is not limited to males.
PRO article in Huffington Post – by Karen M. Whitney, Ph.D., President, Clarion University
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/karen-m-whitney-phd/students-national-service-volunteering_b_1720887.html
PRO – Time Magazine
http://content.time.com/time/specials/2007/article/0,28804,1657256_1657317_1657570-1,00.html
AGAINST: A Bad Idea Whose Time is Past: The Case Against Universal Service
http://www.brookings.edu/research/articles/2002/09/fall-civilsociety-chapman
–from ML
AMAZING TECH: INSTALLING THE JIMS FORCE FLOW FOR TWIN CAMS
A Super write-up. Thank You! I was in the pondering state of oil cooler choices. I am now not any longer pondering. I am just going with the JIMS unit!
Even though there are other options, the JIMS looks good and above all it works!!!!!
Thank’s Again
–Tod
TLAugustine17@gmail.com
Fountain Inn, SC
MOONEYES SHOW THIS WEEKEND IN LOS ANGELES— It’s all happening this weekend, but I had a tough time finding new on the multiple sites, but what the hell. Bikernet will be there.
–Bandit
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT SPECIAL REPORT– Pilots v Engineers
Remember, it takes a college degree to fly a plane but only a high school diploma to fix one, but never let it be said that ground crews lack a sense of humor.
After every flight, Qantas pilots fill out a form, called a ‘Gripe Sheet’ which tells mechanics about problems with the aircraft.
The mechanics correct the problems; document their repairs on the form, and then pilots review the Gripe Sheets before the next flight.
Here are some actual maintenance complaints submitted by Qantas’ pilots (marked with a P) and the solutions recorded (marked with an S) by maintenance engineers.
P: Left inside main tire almost needs replacement.
S: Almost replaced left inside main tire.
P: Test flight OK, except auto-land very rough.
S: Auto-land not installed on this aircraft.
P: Something loose in cockpit.
S: Something tightened in cockpit.
P: Dead bugs on windshield.
S: Live bugs on back-order.
P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200 feet per minute Descent.
S: Cannot reproduce problem on ground.
P: Evidence of leak on right main landing gear.
S: Evidence removed.
P: DME volume unbelievably loud.
S: DME volume set to more believable level.
P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick.
S: That’s what friction locks are for.
P: IFF inoperative in OFF mode.
S: IFF always inoperative in OFF mode.
P: Suspected crack in windshield.
S: Suspect you’re right.
P: Number 3 engine missing.
S: Engine found on right wing after brief search.
P: Aircraft handles funny……….. (I love this one!)
S: Aircraft warned to straighten up, fly right, and be serious.
P: Target radar hums.
S: Reprogrammed target radar with lyrics..
P: Mouse in cockpit.
S: Cat installed.
And the best one for last………………
P: Noise coming from under instrument panel. Sounds like a midget pounding on something with a hammer.
S: Took hammer away from midget
BIKERNET TRIKES IS ALIVE WITH ED ROTH— Our brother Deano dug out his collection of Ed Roth Choppers magazines and recently sent us scans of a special Trike Issue. You’ll see it all on Bikernet Trikes.
Be There, Be There, Be There!
–Triking Viking
UNCLE MONKEY ON BUILDING CHARACTER–
When working and building bikes they can take on a life of their own. All your work and labor draws out the hidden character, who that machine really is. It might be a name, a paint color or scheme. It might dictate how the bike should be built. Once you get tuned into this tendency you feel like you’re along for the ride.
For the longest time the Softail I built was going to be a SuperGlide/Evel Knievel inspired bike called “Am I Evel.” The plan was a white bike with wide blue stripes on the fenders with white stars down the middle with red pinstriping on the outside and a SuperGlide red and blue swirl on the tank.
All that changed when I picked the parts up from getting the base white paint shot. The intimidating “Am I Evel” became the innocent “Snow White.” Sure I could have still stuck to my guns, but it just didn’t feel right. It is that way with many builds.
My Sportster was to be either Raven black or black cherry, but seeing it sitting in bare metal altered my thinking. The bike called out to be brilliant silver.
I have been tinkering away at the Road King for a while now, collecting parts as I go, fixing what I can when money and time allowed it. The plan was to build a murdered out black bagger – almost the anti-Snow White. As Sturgis dates loomed on the horizon, I had to make a hasty decision, quickly throw together what parts I had to get the RoadKing up and running, so Mrs. Monkey would have a place to ride or what? Lots left to do, but it is up and running enough to make the trip.
As I puttered around town checking the bike over there was a certain calmness to it. Suddenly I didn’t have to worry about tossing thousands of dollars on paint, or worrying about the dirt and grime accumulating on a bike while on the lift. A certain liberation overcame me. I threw the unpainted stretched bags on and headed to pick up some more parts.
Less than two blocks from home, a loud clunk caught my attention as I looked back to see the brand new saddle bag skidding face down across the asphalt. Just several hundred feet and the new chrome latch was already road-rashed. It was in that moment the bike earned its new name the “Rat King.”
It doesn’t mean the bike is finished or that it won’t continue to evolve into one of those true ratty bikes you see sitting against the curb in Sturgis. It just means that the pressure is off to unveil a complete finished bike.
I will still be working towards a goal, but it will be a rolling project for now. The Rat King and I are rolling on the miles getting ready to head south, to thunder through Sturgis. Time will tell where it will take me.
-bad Uncle Monkey
HIGHT-FLOW BAHN Air Cleaner For Harley-Davidsons Now Available– Distinct, bold style meets premium performance. The new high- flow Air Cleaners from BahnTM are the latest product release from the expanding brand of precision-machined motorcycle accessories.
The Bahn Air Cleaner is crafted from premium forged aluminum designed with precision- machined features to enhance the glistening chrome or smooth black anodized “Tuxedo” finishes.
The refined, unique outer cage is free of logos and branding, complementing the entire Bahn product lineup by elevating an overall custom theme rather than consuming it.
Large openings in the outer cage artfully expose the high-flow washable and re-chargeable K&NTM filter element. An enlarged induction inlet on the cast back plate provides a smooth- flowing path of air to the motor for increased performance over stock, completing the ultimate aesthetic transformation for high-horsepower engine builds.
Bahn Air Cleaners are available as an assembly only or in a full kit with all hardware and mounting brackets necessary for installation on 1991-’15 XL models, ’93-’99 Evo Big Twins with CV carb, ’99-’15 Twin Cams with CV carb or Delphi EFI, and all ’08-’15 Touring and Trike models.
Chrome or “Tuxedo” Air Cleaner Kit MSRP: $369.99 Air Cleaner Assembly Only MSRP: $339.99
For more information on specific fitment and pricing, visit:
http://www.bahnproducts.com/products/bahn/4862/bahn-air-cleaner
Disclaimer: The California Air Resources Board (CARB) does not permit the use of aftermarket emission- related parts(s) that alter the performance of OEM emission-related devices unless CARB has issued an Executive Order, other than on racing vehicles on closed courses. Check your local laws and manufacturer’s information.
ACCIDENT SCENE MANAGEMENT IN FLORIDA– ACCIDENT SCENE MANAGEMENT does what the name says it teaches motorcyclist what to do at the scene of an accident. Below is a statement about ASMI.
ASMI – What It Is
Accident Scene Management, Incorporated (ASMI) is the leading international motorcycle trauma training association. We teach bystanders and EMTs what to do in order to prevent injuries and fatalities to motorcyclists.
The purpose of the Bystander Assistance Programs are to enhance the survival rate and reduce severity of injuries for the injured riders of all motorized vehicles. We expect to decrease the chance of rescuer injury due to inappropriate actions at the accident scene. We also expect to educate motorists how to protect themselves legally and financially should an accident occur.
Goals and Objectives
The program is directed toward the assessment and treatment of the injured as well as how to safely administer care. We teach scene management and the legal aspects of an accident.
In Florida Diane MacLennan is one of the certified instructors and she recently taught a class at Tribute Realty in Lakeland Florida. I assisted her.
I have taken the basic and advanced courses and feel that I am a lot more qualified to help my fellow motorcyclist should they be in an accident. I strongly re-commend that everyone who rides take one of these courses.
For more information on taking courses in Florida contact Diane at Croozehag@yahoo.com for other states contact Vickie Sanfelipo at http://www.accidentscene.net/index.html
THREE Reasons Police Unions Need to Go–
Descent Into Tyranny, State Corruption
Police officers have been under scrutiny recently as cop shootings in Ferguson, Baltimore and other cities heighten tension in race relations. In many of these cases, police unions are criticized for encouraging police brutality and making the United States less safe.
“I’ll be the first one to say that they put their life on the line every day, but they’re killing innocent people and kids,” Christal Kennerson, aunt of Daniel Tillison, unarmed black man who was shot by Albequerque police in 2012, told USA Today.
Here are three common complaints of critics who say police unions need to go:
1. Unions Protect Abusive Officers
Police unions make firing cops who use unnecessary violence difficult. In March 2012, Phillip Reynolds, a Washington police officer, was fired after the department uncovered a series of policy violations in which Reynolds needlessly used his taser on unarmed civilians who had committed minor offenses. Teamsters Union Local 252 later represented Reynolds, and he was reinstated as an officer. The case resulted in more than $80,000 in legal fees for the state, The Chronicle reported.
In situations like Reynolds’s where police engage in misconduct, unions have the ability to extend the time an officer has to give a statement, raise funds, and give cops what some deem an unfair advantage in the legal system.
2. Unions Worsen Race Relations
Police unions have been accused of promoting, rather than preventing, racism in the criminal justice system. One such instance occurred when Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3 President Gene Ryan compared protests following the death of Freddie Gray in Baltimore with a “lynch mob,” The Baltimore Sun reported.
“The images seen on television look and sound much like a lynch mob in that they are calling for the immediate imprisonment of these officers without them ever receiving the due process that is the Constitutional right of every citizen, including law enforcement officers,” Ryan said in a statement.
The comment was deemed insensitive and further provoked Baltimore rioters.
3. Unions Do Not Make People Safer
Police unions have been known to speak out against policies that promote community safety. In 2015, Denver police changed their shooting guidelines for police in moving vehicles so that officers can no longer shoot at a moving vehicle unless shot at first. While the American Civil Liberties Union and the state supported Denver police’s policy change, the Denver Police Union opposed the change.
Written by Erica Baum for NewsMax
–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
STOP BY KLOCK WERKS PRE-STURGIS PARTY, Thursday July 30th:
. . . On Your Way to the 75th!
As South Dakota gears up to welcome the predicted record breaking crowds to the
75th Annual Sturgis Rally, Klock Werks is preparing to welcome riders and friends to our 9th Annual Pre-Sturgis Party in the home of the “World’s Only Corn Palace”, Mitchell, South Dakota. “Every year our Pre-Sturgis Party gets better! Riders bring more friends and the city of Mitchell opens its arms even wider,” said Brian Klock, Klock Werks President.
The Klock Werks Pre-Sturgis Party has become a favorite tradition to many Sturgis bound travelers, and is held annually on the Thursday before the first official Sturgis Rally weekend. An easy day’s ride to the rally, off interstate 90 and a mere 301 miles from Sturgis, Mitchell offers plenty of campgrounds, motels, and restaurants for an overnight stay. And what other city can boast that it is the home of the “World’s Only Corn Palace” AND the home of the “World’s Only” Klock Werks?
“Noticing many riders stopping in Mitchell on their way to Sturgis, I mentioned to Brian that we should invite them all to the shop! In 2006, we did just that,” says Laura Klock, VP of Klock Werks. “Our event is now filled with custom bikes from all over the world, celebrity appearances, custard from our friends at Culvers, contests, entertainment, a chislic truck (google it!), and so much more!” The Pre-Sturgis party is part picnic, part open house, and it’s a chance to tour the Klock Werks facility and meet not only the Klock Werks Krew, but lots of industry people and new friends that travel through.
LATEST FROM BIKERNET BAGGERS— Don’t miss the action on Bikernet Baggers:
Widowmaker Custom Design and repair shows us bumpkins how to get a Stustmaster air ride system for about $900. Hidden compressor in a Leatherworks tool bag seals the deal for a subtle upgrade.
Midwest riders can check out the Wauseon vintage swap meet to see some classic Americana of the motorcycle word. Flatrack races make it a memory. Check it out here.
Don’t miss the latest Report on the Bikernet Baggers Project Bike:
The ’97 Road King FLT, once in the garage of the late Richard Kranzler is being rebuilt by Bikernet Baggers and Paughco. We need help from our readers! What would you do to breathe new life into a Road King? And who has parts??? Get the info here.
— Tyler Ludlow
630-531-1148
Bikernet Baggers Editor in Chief
JIMS Tool of the Week– JIMS No. 784 Oxygen Sensor Wrench
This tool is a must for removing and installing H-D four wire heated oxygen sensors. The oxygen sensors are fragile and must be torqued to 14 foot pounds.
JIMS No. 784 is designed to access 14mm O2 sensors without exhaust system removal and can be used with a 3/8” drive torque wrench. Use on 2010 to present FLH touring/trike models.
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The Horse Backstreet Choppers with Michael Ballard’s Full Throttle Saloon, announce The Horse Backstreet Choppers 2015 9th Annual FREE Ride In Bike Show during the 75th Rally.
STURGIS,SD July 1, 2015 — Today The Horse Backstreet Choppers announced its long continued partnership with Michael Ballard’s Full Throttle Saloon to deliver The Horse Backstreet Choppers, 9th Annual FREE RIDE IN Bike Show in Sturgis.
Open FREE registration will be on Monday, August 3rd, 2015 between 9 AM and 12:00 PM.
No classes or categories, ALL bikes are welcomed and encouraged to enter.
To pre-register contact Kari at (313) 737-8888 or thehorseads@aol.com. All registrants will receive a FREE bike event Horse t-shirt AND are eligible to win their share of over $30,000 in prizes. Your bike does not need to win an award to win a prize, prizes are drawn by raffle ticket for all who enter a bike in the show. All who attend the show may also enter for a chance to win a Twisted Tea bike during the show!!!
Judging will begin at 1:00 PM on Monday, August 3rd, 2015.
The 2015 panel of guest judges will include:
· Roadside Marty of Flat Broke Customs,
· Chris Callen of Cycle Source Magazine
· Patrick Patterson of LED Sled,
· Englishman- of The Horse Back Street Choppers
· Matt Olsen- Carl Olsen’s son
· Darren McKeag- of Slinging Ink
· Ron Harris of Chop Docs Choppers
· Noah Ogeen- Hot Rod Enterprises
· Twisted Tea Choice Award
· Custom Chrome Choice Award
Special guest judges include:
· Michael Ballard of The Full Throttle Saloon,
· Jesse James Dupree of Jackyl and
· Angie of the World Famous Angieland.
Steve Broyles and Kari Juengel, head up each year’s show and it just gets bigger and better every year!! “Last year was a great success and we anticipate even more great bikes to show up this year for the 75th Rally. The Full Throttle Saloon pulls out all the stops and together we make this THE show to be at in Sturgis”, said Steve Broyles.
-more-
“The Horse Backstreet Choppers Bike Show has been an awesome event for the Full Throttle Saloon and the Sturgis Rally. Each year attendance grows, more bikes are entered, and more prizes are given away. The Horse does an outstanding job, year after year. We look forward to this year’s show.”
MORE ABOUT THE 2015 FREE STURGIS BIKE SHOW – PRESENTED BY MICHAEL BALLARD’S FULL THROTTLE SALOON AND THE HORSE BACKSTREET CHOPPERS:
Registration is FREE and is from 9am until noon. Competing bikes will be on display at The Full Throttle Saloon from noon until 4 p.m.
Those who enter bikes in the show will have a chance to win over $30,000 in door prizes, drawn by raffle ticket, from various companies including Twisted Tea, Custom Chrome/Jammer, Biker’s Choice/Tucker Rocky, Factory Metal Works, Stevenson’s Cycle, Fabricator Kevin, TC Bros Choppers, Anvil Customs, Boomer’s Bike Shop, Affliction Clothing, Biltwell, Chop Docs Choppers, LowBrow Customs, If The Shirt Fits, Spectro Oil, Tropical Tattoo, DK Custom Products, Horns and Halos, Led Sled, Liquid Icon, Bare Bones Leather, Crank and Stroker, Ride Wright Wheels, Deep Six Cycles, Biker’s Pocket Guide, Hijinx Apparel, Hard Luck Designs, Kelderman Air Suspension, Dirty South Divas, Slingin Ink and many more. A bike must be entered to win door prizes.
FEATURED SPONSORS
· Full Throttle Saloon with,
· Twisted Tea
· CCI/Jammer Cycle Products
· Biker’s Choice/Tucker Rocky
· TC Bros Choppers
· Crank and Stroker
· Anvil Leather
· Stevenson’s Cycle
· DK Customs
· Fabricator Kevin and many other great companies.
THAT’S A WRAP— I’m hanging by a thread. There’s so much happening. It’s hard to keep up, and shit is slippery. One day the Triking Viking is coming for a meeting, then doesn’t show. The next we are waiting on action on a project and it happens just in time. The mantra calls for masses of flexibility.
I found out that my new 45 engine for the Bonne Belle won’t be ready in time for Bonneville this year. A group of us devised a plan to ride around Sturgis two weeks before the event, then get the fuck out of Dodge. How does that sound?
I now have the images to finish the paint article for the Indian. Ben and his crew shot the CV carb tech. I now have a GOB article for the Cantina with Twilight Powder (?) and my Indian.
If you’re headed to Sturgis, don’t miss 2Wheelers on Main, the best shop in town.
We’ve got special reports, Twevo techs, more on the SmokeOut and new books coming your way. Never a dull moment around here.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
