Hey,
It’s all nuts. I watched a documentary about the earth and our battles for and around water. The scientists in Greenland said they could not confirm or deny the naysayers about man’s impact on the climate. The water and ice levels have been consistent for 10,000 years.
They also went onto explain how our governments could run amuck with fear tactics and we could virtually lose our democracy (Freedoms) to control freaks. Does this sound familiar? Join your local motorcycle rights group and ask them what they are doing about the EPA and their bullshit attacks on everything we cherish. Let’s hit the news goddammit.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by Cycle Source magazine, Choppertown, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Iron Trader News, and Las Vegas Bikefest. Hang on. It’s going to be a good one.
EIGHT DARING MOTORCYCLISTS– to Put Everything on the Line at Sons Of Speed Inaugural Race
Sons Of Speed Debut Race Set For Biketoberfest 2016—Tickets Now on Sale, Selling Briskly
Tickets are on sale for the Sons of Speed inaugural race, set for October of this year. The SOS debut race features eight daredevil motorcycle racers and will run Saturday, October 15, 2016, during Biketoberfest at New Smyrna Speedway just sound of Daytona Beach, Florida. The Grand Prize is a brand new shovelhead motor donated by S&S Cycle.
“There has been so much enthusiasm from sponsors, fans and potential participants since we first announced the concept,” said Billy Lane, renowned bike builder and founder of Sons of Speed. “Now the date’s set, tickets are selling fast, we have a full slate of riders and we can’t wait for October.”
Inspired by early twentieth-century board-track racers, the Sons of Speed race hearkens back to a stripped down, wide-open approach to motorcycle riding. Held at New Smyrna Speedway’s half-mile, banked racetrack, the inaugural race will feature eight riders in several different heats, and winners of the heats will advance to a championship round.
Each racer will sit astride identical hand-built racing chassis holding pre-1925 1,000cc American V-Twin engines, and most racers will customize their machines by fabricating handlebars, exhaust, fenders, foot pegs and fuel/oil tanks.
Patrons have three ticket options:
(1) Special presale pricing for single-day tickets: $15 for adults, $5 for kids until
September 1—these tickets get you in the gate JUST on the 15th (after 9/1, single-day
presale tickets are $20 per-person)
(2) $50 presale gets you VIP access and choice seating, allowing you to watch the practice session on the 14th and attend the race on the 15th
(3) $250 presale gets you a 1-hour group tour of Billy’s shop and choice seating for both days.
Check out the Sons of Speed Facebook Event Page for updates and breaking news. The Sons of Speed vintage race would not be possible without the support of Choppers Inc., S&S Cycle, Rise Above Consulting and Bruce Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson.
Ticket link https://sons-of-speed.eventbrite.com/
VEE RUBBER TIRES COMING TO BIKERNET BAGGERS—We are rebuilding an Evo Bagger as a tribute to our former editor, Richard Kranzler. And just recently the Paughco team reached out to me regarding tires.
Metalsport has distributed Vee Rubber tires for big wheel baggers for several years. We are not running a big wheel, but we reached out since they carry a broad line of white and black wall tires.
“We carry the 120/70/21 in white wall or black wall, but the 130/70/16 we don’t do that size,” said Terry from Metalsport.
“In white wall we have a MT/90/16, 150/80/16, 180/60/16 & 200/60/16 but I am out of the MT/90/16 white walls for 2 weeks.
In black wall we have a MT/90/16, 140/90/16, 180/60/16 & 200/60/16 and I have all of the black walls in stock.”
Vee Rubber was the first major tire manufacturer to step up and build quality tires for big wheel baggers.
–Bandit
ED KRETZ MEMORIAL RIDE–3rd Annual Kretz Memorial Ride
September 10, 2016
Please join us for the third annual ride. We will begin the ride with check-in and breakfast at 7:30 am at O’Brien’s Café in Sedalia 5585 Highway 85, Sedalia, CO 80135.
The ride will start at 9:00 and the route will be presented at check in.
The ride will end with a BBQ lunch at the Kretz Museum at 3891 Seminole Pl., Sedalia, CO 80135. Please join us to see the motorcycle collection and some of the memorabilia that was so important to Ed.
The cost is $30 per person and includes breakfast, lunch and a t-shirt. All proceeds will be going to benefit caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s.
Please let us know if you plan on attending and would like to pre-register and order a shirt. Email any questions to KretzMemorialRide@gmail.com.
ALERT: CHANGE OF DATE
3RD ANNUAL KRETZ MEMORIAL RIDE
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the ride date has been changed. Don’t forget to notify your hotel. Start with breakfast a 7:30am at O’Brien’s Cafe” in Sedalia. Any questions: KretzMemorialRide@gmail.com
INTRODUCING THE NEW SADDLEMEN 1WR Gripper Seat–Now Available
If you love wheelies, burnouts, drifting, wild motorcycle modifications, adrenaline filled performances, and the sight of road bikes blasting down dirt roads, the new 1 WR Gripper Seat will deliver.
The amazing new Saddlemen 1WR Gripper Seat co-developed with V-twin stunt rider Rob Carpenter to specifically meet the grueling demands of the professional stunt scene is now available for the HD Sportster A single screw installs the hi-tech seat that fits the rider, their style and the motorcycle.
Based on 30 years of street and track testing, the designers at Saddlemen know how important the interface between the body and seating surface are to motorcycle control, especially during aggressive conditions.
This new seat utilizes a unique Tri-Gripper cover with diamond waffle pattern developed after years of studying frictional contact mechanics under real world conditions. Underneath, Saddlemen’s UltraFOAM provides a perfect balance of rigidity, user compliance, durability and comfort.
•Tall lumbar support combined with Tri-Gripper cover locks the rider into the bike for increased bike control during acceleration, braking and extreme angles which directly translates into improved rider confidence.
•Made in the USA
•Fits both 3.3 and 4.5 gallon fuel tanks
•Ride the seat that Rob Carpenter from 1 Wheel Revolution recommends.
•Specially formulated foam that provides feedback and control as you steer the bike
All Saddlemen seats are designed, tested, and built exclusively in the USA for the long ride. American made quality and craftsmanship is something Saddlemen takes very seriously.
Every seat since 1987 has been constructed at Saddlemen’s Long Beach, California manufacturing facility. Every detail, every stitch, and every step of the process from raw materials to the final product has been carefully considered and inspected to insure that Saddlemen’s standards for quality, craftsmanship and comfort are continuously upheld.
Saddlemen remains America’s first choice when you decide to upgrade your motorcycle seat because Saddlemen recognizes every body and every bike is built a little different and that sometimes even the best motorcycle seat may not meet everyone’s expectations. Unlike other seat companies who might defer the blame on the rider or their bike, Saddlemen will help make it right, call and their friendly Product Specialist will gladly assist.
Fits the 2004 – 2016 XL Sportster with both the 3.3 or 4.5 gallon fuel Tanks. Priced at only $305.00.
Saddlemen seats are available at most local motorcycle shops served through Drag Specialties, a leading distributor of accessories and parts for Harley Davidson® motorcycles. Call 800-397-7709 or visit http://www.saddlemen.com/stunt/ .
SUPPORT FOR OUR RIGHTS FROM A BIKERNET SPONSOR– Hupy and Abraham is Sponsoring a $2500.00 matching grant for the A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Chicago Chapter. We were also the top sponsor of the A.B.A.T.E of Illinois State Seminar this year.
NEW GALLERY HITS THE CANTINA–
Experience the creativity, spirit and personal expression of motorcycle history and culture at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip this year at the rally.
Our man on the scene, Jack McIntyre, shot this masterful exhibit and the evidence will shortly be published in Bandit’s Cantina. This internationally renowned exhibit allows you to explore dozens of unique custom bikes paired with corresponding 2-dimensional artwork. Get an up-close look at the work of some of the industry’s most influential master builders and artists by enjoying the images in this gallery & really study each motorcycle, each is amazing in it’s own way.
HIGHWAY PIRATES–Cops no longer happy to steal just cash
A police department near you could soon begin using technology that allows officers to scan debit and prepaid financial cards and freeze or empty the accounts if they have a hunch about possible illegal activity.
We’ve routinely told you stories about officers deciding to confiscate motorists’ cash based on suspicion the money was made illegally during routine traffic stops. In cases where the officers are wrong, the victims of this civil asset forfeiture usually end up going through a long, tedious process in an effort to get their money back. Sometimes they never see it again.
That’s because civil asset forfeiture is a shady area of the law under which cops can assign criminal status to an inanimate object without actually ever charging the rightful owner with a crime. Police departments, of course, have an incentive to hang on to the property they seize because it can later be used to pad their bottom lines. And inanimate objects are notoriously lousy at testifying to their innocence.
You probably haven’t worried about this nefarious process personally unless you are in the habit of traveling around with large amounts of cash.
But things are changing.
Thanks to new technology called ERAD, Electronic Recovery and Access to Data machines, a cop can take a look at your bank account or any type of prepaid card during a traffic stop if he has reason to believe you’re up to something suspicious.
ERAD’s makers boast:
The annual value of illegal and illicit activities occurring in the U.S. is estimated to be more than $120B. And while most of that money is transported in bulk-cash shipments, more and more is being transferred with prepaid cash cards and other electronic methods. Unlike cash, the money associated with prepaid cash cards can be moved by criminals using a mobile phone or internet application in minutes, even after the criminals have been arrested and the prepaid cards confiscated. With billions of dollars being illegally loaded on prepaid cash cards, Law Enforcement needs the tools to obtain a balance, freeze or confiscate those funds.
Now there’s a solution that can do in seconds what used to take hours.
The ERAD credit, debit, prepaid, and gift card cloud based program provide real-time analytics, recording, and balance information at law enforcement’s fingertips.
Cha-Ching!
Cops in Oklahoma have already begun using the technology, claiming that it really does make residents safer.
Here’s a report from the state’s News9
Here’s how it works. If a trooper suspects a person may have money tied to some type of crime, the highway patrol can scan and seize money from prepaid cards. OHP stresses troopers do not do this during all traffic stops, only situations where they believe there is probable cause.
“We’re gonna look for different factors in the way that you’re acting,” Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lt. John Vincent said. “We’re gonna look for if there’s a difference in your story. If there’s someway that we can prove that you’re falsifying information to us about your business.”
Troopers insist this isn’t just about seizing cash.
“I know that a lot of people are just going to focus on the seizing money. That’s a very small thing that’ s happening now. The largest part that we have found … the biggest benefit has been the identity theft,” Vincent said.
“If you can prove can prove that you have a legitimate reason to have that money it will be given back to you. And we’ve done that in the past,” Vincent said about any money seized.
That’s right, they’re protecting folks from identity theft with the threat of actual theft by agents of the state. The cops have now evidently become some sort of weird combination of superhuman lie detectors and digital extortionists.
If you’ve ever endured the misfortune of back and forth questioning with a cop, you know how badly this can turn out for people who don’t understand their rights. He’s your buddy, just tell him what he needs to know and there will be no trouble. Just go along, he’ll lead you where he wants you and, remember, everything will go just fine if he hears the right version of the truth.
Officers are trained to leave benefit-of-the-doubt thinking at home. You’re guilty until proven innocent. Even if you aren’t guilty of anything at all, every second that ticks by during an interaction increases your chances of being charged with something. After all, there are so many laws on the books that we’re all probably breaking at least one at any given moment.
But what about the 4th Amendment? Cards stashed in your vehicle that could contain nearly every financial detail about a person would seem pretty clearly to fall under “papers and effects” protected against unreasonable search and seizure.
They don’t. At least not according to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals which said in an opinion last week that reading the magnetic strips on credit, debit and gift cards does not require a warrant.
Better have your story straight next time you head out, comrade.
–PersonalLiberty.com
–from Rogue
Editorial Emperor
Bikernet Baggers
OLD CANS!–He used to go to all the public functions…especially the picture theaters. And he always carried a sugar bag to collect empty bottles and cans. His name was … Albert (Tapper) Torney. Everyone thought he was a bit eccentric and kids would tease and hassle him. Then it was discovered that he sold the empty bottles but only some of the cans.
After he died in 1998 (aged 86) his large collection of model cars made from aluminium cans was discovered.
This goes to prove…”you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover” – or a sculptor by his sugar bag.
Here is just some of his collection . . . .. and quite amazing too . . . .
–from Buckshot
Rebuilding The S&S Shorty Series Carbs
“They also mentioned bikes not running air cleaner elements or running velocity stacks are recommend to remove the bowl vent screw part number: 11-2161. It should be removed to insure atmospheric air pressure equals air pressure in bowl cavity above the fuel level.”
Is it recommended to remove the bowl vent screw when using a steel mesh screen secured over the intake opening with a bird blocker/deflector?
–Andy
San Antonio, TX
Yes, the secondary bowl vent should be removed, even if you use a screen and Bird Deflector. Either way, we hope you don’t run into any birds!
Savannah Rose
srose@sscycle.com
CAR VS. BIKE: Which Is Fastest? Touring Car and Isle of Man Winners Go Head to Head
Twenty-three time TT Winner John McGuinness swaps Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP for BTCC Honda Civic Type R.
Double BTCC Champion Gordon Shedden shows off his riding skills aboard Honda Racing’s TT winning machine
What happens when you pit double Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Champion Gordon Shedden against 23-time Isle of Man TT winner John McGuinness, head to head on each other’s race-winning machinery?
Dunlop and Honda hosted the unique event at Scotland’s Knockhill circuit, which saw Gordon swap his race-winning Halfords Yuasa Racing Honda Civic Type R for John’s Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP for 30 laps of the Scottish track.
The two vehicles are very different – the number of wheels aside – but the similarities are the brand of chassis and tyre manufacturer – Honda and Dunlop. The sportsmen are different too, but both Gordon and John are at the peak of their sport, both capable of using the tyres to their maximum to achieve the best lap times. Whether that’s in a 27 lap race, over 21 miles against 31 other cars on a smooth race track, or a single 37.73-mile lap of the daunting Isle of Man TT Mountain course, held on closed public roads.
Swapping machines is no mean feat – to get competitive lap times, they both needed to learn the car and bike respectively in just a handful of laps. During that time, they also had to adjust to the very different tyres that were the only thing between their vehicle and the tarmac.
Tyre Talk – the differences
Size matters – the contact patch on a bike is tiny compared to that of the car, just the size of a credit card. At around 3-4 times smaller it has to take a power to weight ratio quite differently (close to 1 for a motorcycle against close 0.25 for a BTCC). And that is just for the rear tyre. The front contact patch on a motorcycle is yet again even smaller and needs to cope with the bike slowing at close to 1G deceleration.
Wheely important stuff – the BTCC wheel is 18 inches in diameter – an inch bigger than that of the TT rear wheel, although the overall tyre diameter is actually bigger on a motorcycle. This means the tyre mechanics are different.
A bit on the side – Gordon needed to rely on the sidewalls of the tyres on the Fireblade, while John’s Civic Type R was (mainly) squarely on the base of the tyres. The motorcycle tyre will deform more in the sidewall and tread area to key into the asphalt and generate grip whereas the BTCC tyre will mainly deform in the sidewall area to withstand the weight and get the support required.
Under pressure –tyre pressures vary. There’s up to 1.1 bar of difference between the bike and car pressures to get the best performance – double the pressure in the front tyres when cold for the bike compared to the car. A motorcycle tyre will run between 1.5 bar to 1.6 bar hot, whereas a BTCC tyre will be aimed to run at 1.85-1.95 bar hot. It may not seem such a big difference for most people but Gordon or John would have spotted that change of tyre performance with less than 0.1 bar difference!
The magic ingredients and construction – While some ingredients or at least concepts may be tried in one discipline and transferred into another, the secrets inside the tyres are very different – but they have to stay secret.
John McGuinness: “It was brilliant; I didn’t want to get out of the car to be honest. The first session all happened really fast but then I settled down into a groove. The whole mindset changes when you swap from what you know to something new, and I was a bit nervous, but we’re all racers and just want to go fast.
“It’s hard to see the apex, you’re strapped in tight, and it’s quite warm in there. You’re breathing in engine fumes and there are lots of rattles and bangs, it’s such a different world but I was shocked by how nice and precise it was. Dunlop put on some soft, sticky, amazing grippy tyres on the Honda Civic Type R and they gave me so much confidence to go fast.
“My Honda Fireblade had the same tyres we used at the TT where we did a 132.6mph average lap and we brought it here and did some riding on those same tyres, which is testament to Dunlop and how good their product is. You know we put our lives in the hands of a few things, but tyres are such an important part of the package.”
Gordon Shedden: “It was absolutely out of this world, you maybe build a picture of what you think it’s like in your head, but nothing compares to it when you’re out there. It’s phenomenally fast but once you get used to it you learn to relax and get more confident. It was an absolute privilege to have a go.
“It was the first time I’ve ever ridden on a slick tyre and I cannot believe the grip that the contact patch the size of a credit card can actually give you, it’s just absolutely mind blowing. The speed obviously is as you’d expect, the world passes by at a million miles an hour. I can only imagine what it’s like going round the TT course, and John is welcome to stay on that!
“Each stint I started to relax more and get more confidence in the grip that was available. The brakes on the race car are fantastic with four big slick tyres to hold the thing on, so you wouldn’t believe the bike would have the stopping capability that it does.”
Watch the Video:
LOVE JUGS AND BIKERNET’S 5-BALL RACING–
I’ve watched love Jugs grow into a monster. They now have systems for Indians. I’m building what could be the first Streamlined trike for Bonneville, the Salt Torpedo by Bikernet.com’s racing team, 5-Ball Racing, including JIMS and Paughco.
It’s a Belly Tank configuration housing a 135-inch JIMS Twin Cam engine. Since it will be completely enclosed with limited ventilation, over-heating will be a major consideration.
We anticipate using two Love Jug systems to keep the monster JIMS engine happy during runs on the Bonneville Salt Flats. The over-heating issue was a major consideration until I became acquainted with the Love Jugs product. I’m confident Love Jugs will do the trick and we can focus on breaking records.
In the near future we will publish tech features on Love Jugs installations and testing during overall Salt Torpedo trials. This is going to be quite an adventure.
–K. Ball
5-Ball Racing Team Mechanic and Tool Washer
Bikernet.com 
BUMMER FROM THE AMERICAN MOTORCYCLISTS (AMA) MAGAZINE—Writers Arthur L. Caplan and Brendan Parent, whose May 25 article in the Washington Post unfairly equated riding motorcycles with smoking and quoted healthcare cost estimates related to motorcycle crashes without providing comparisons for other types of vehicles.
The writers also ignored the role of distracted drivers and other factors involved in motorcycle crashes.
Incredible.
I sent you a story about my bro hitting the same deer twice. He hit him once, went into a wobble almost pulled out of it and the deer crossed back in front of him again .
Tell your friend if he wants to see it happen just take the Highway 299 from Canby to Alturas, especially at night.
–Gearhead
Torrance, Calif.
Ouch,
–Bandit
BONNEVILLE QUOTE OF THE WEEK– Salt conditions are very hard and dry and we are ready to race. We have a great volunteer staff looking to help pull the event through.
We are running this as a participant sponsored event has and we have no major sponsors. It’s the enthusiasm and hard work of the competitors and volunteers making it happen. Can’t even say enough great things about land speed community.
We are ready to rock and roll and set some records.
–Bill Woods
Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials
AMA Land Speed Grand Championship
2016 : August 27 – September 1
Online Registration has Closed.. But you can still register on the salt during the event!
Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials, The AMA Land Speed Grand Championship, is the premier motorcycle land speed racing event. This AMA and FIM sanctioned event offers AMA national and FIM world record opportunities. Contenders in many classes, including streamliners biding for the absolute world record, will be there. Everyone can have a shot at the course. You can ‘Run Watcha Brung’ or take a shot at records!
[page break]
ANOTHER DISTRACTION ON THE ROAD–
“Give ’em an inch, they’ll take a mile.”
Actually, we hope this extra inch provides MANY more miles of happy riding time!
What is this inch we speak of? The X-Grip Adaptor mount just got an inch bigger!
The Original X-Grip Adaptor fits devices up to 3.5 inch wide, while the new LARGE X-Grip Adaptor mount accommodates phones and other items (such as GPS) up to 4.5 inches wide.
Now, if you’ve got a case or cover on your phone that makes it wider, you don’t have to remove it when riding!
X-Grip Mount features include:
A four-leg design with rubber-coated tips that provides great holding power without covering your phone.
A spring-loaded holder that expands and contracts, allowing for perfect fit
Open sides that allow easy access to wiring/plug-ins.
Ultra-Swivel for nearly unlimited tilt/angle ability (mount vertically or horizontally, then refine!).
Multiple mounting locations – handlebar, brake/clutch, mirror stem & windshield – with both chrome and black options.
Stainless steel component that won’t rust or wear.
The X-Grip Adaptor Mount is Made in the USA and has a classy look that is unmatched by other motorcycle phone mounts.
It can be used by all types of riders: sport, dual-sport/adventure, adventure/touring and cruiser riders.
Pricing starts at $69.99.
Manufacturing in the USA!
–Tracey Cramer
http://www.LeaderMotorcycle.com/
zoom@leadermotorcycle.com
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LAS VEGAS BIKE FEST NEWS–Award-Winning Jewelry Designer Steve Soffa creates 2016 Artistry in Iron, Master Builders Championship Bracelet.
Steve Soffa, award-winning artist and jewelry designer has been creating the Championship bracelet for the Artistry in Iron, Master Builders Championship for the past few years. Soffa is well known for designing the Championship bracelet in 2010 for the World Series of Poker.
Soffa says “This year’s 2016 Artistry in Iron, Master Builders Championship bracelet will be just as amazing as the previous years and the best of the best will be competing for it.”
Seen here: 2015 Artistry in Iron, Master Builder Champion, Jeremy Cupp of LC Fabrications and his championship bracelet:
“We are very excited to have Steve back as a sponsor and the creator of the official bracelet of the 2016 Artistry in Iron, Master Builders Championship. The bracelets he makes elevates our bike building contest to a whole new level”, states Mindi Cherry, Event Manager.
Steve will be displaying his newest collections of custom timepieces and art in jewelry during the Las Vegas BikeFest rally September 29 – October 2 inside the Artistry in Iron Pavilion located in the old Western Hotel.
In 2015 Steve Soffa also became an official licensee of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 75th Anniversary brand, with his line of commemorative watches and jewelry.
HELMET MAKER Blows Through Millions, Closes Doors–And a former bookkeeper has filed a lawsuit alleging that the owners
mis-managed company funds in a big way.
The self-proclaimed world’s smartest motorcycle helmet offers GPS
navigation, a rear view camera, Bluetooth and internet connectivity to your smart phone and vision enhancement features. Heads up displays show critical information for the wearer, all in their line of sight, so they
can focus on the road ahead. This sounded so great that, when the designers of the Skully helmet put their idea on crowdfunding website IndieGoGo [1], they absolutely pulverized their goal of $250,000, by
raising nearly 2.5 million from close to 2,000 backers who ponied up cash to pre-order gear and helmets.
Too bad they’re never going to see the products – or likely their money- ever again.
You see, Skully’s founders – brothers Marcus and Mitchell Weller – have just announced that the company is, sadly, closing its doors and pursuing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. In a note posted on their IndieGoGo
campaign page, the brothers cite “unforeseen challenges and
circumstances” that were beyond their control and say they are “devastated.”
But the story doesn’t end here. Anyone with a nose can smell a rat when you consider that Skully outfunded its goal by nearly 1,000 percent. Oh, and PS: according to CNN Money, Skully went on to raise an
additional $11 million in venture capital funding after the crowdfund. So what the heck happened?
Well, here’s on option. A former Skully bookkeeper has filed a lawsuit
alleging that the Weller brothers mis-managed company funds in a big
way. Like, Lamborghinis and strip clubs big. The woman’s lawsuit calls the company so fraudulent in its financial activities as to render it a total scam.
Meanwhile, Skully says all of its assets are now subject to liens held by a secured creditor. My heart especially goes out to the three backers who spent $25K apiece on the 20 helmet distributor pack. If only the
company, like the helmet, had vision enhancement features, they wouldn’t
be in this mess.
–Kirk “Hardtail” Willard
President/Chairman of the Board
Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Inc.
Washington D.C.
KAWASAKI introduced its first stand up Jet Ski personal watercraft 43 years ago–and soon the 2017 Jet Ski SX-R watercraft will make its return to the water. Now in its final stages of development, the all-new Jet Ski watercraft is propelled by a four-stroke power plant that brings back all of the excitement of stand-up riding on the water.
Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS OPEN FOR BIZ– Medical school entrance exam When I was young, I decided I wanted to be a doctor, so I took the entrance exam to go to Medical School. One of the first questions asked was to rearrange the letters “PNEIS” into the name of an important human body part which is most useful when erect. Those who answered spine are doctors today. The rest of us are sending jokes via email.
–from Sidehack Jerry and Rogue
TRAILBLAZERS NEWS–SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY, APRIL 22 2017
The 73rd Annual Trailblazers reception, bike show and banquet is only 8 months away. That seems like a long time, but have you noticed how time flies? Watch the newsletter for more information as we approach the date.
Tickets go on sale in early January. Hold the date and remind your guests to do the same. We are looking forward to a another wonderful evening. See you there.
JOHN CALICCHIO GRAND MARSHALL
BONNEVILLE VINTAGE GP
The Bonneville Vintage GP will be held at Utah’s Motorsports Campus on September 2nd-4th. The theme of this year’s event is Triumph and they have asked John Calicchio, the founder of JRC Engineering and now the owner of Triumph Classic Motorcycle, to be Grand Marshall.
Click on link to read more about John and the event. It should be a great weekend with races and a Classic bike show on Saturday and Custom’s on Sunday. Congratulations on the well deserved honor.
BACK TO BONNEVILLE 58 YEARS LATER
JESS THOMAS RIDES AGAIN
Sent by Gene Hartline
Trailblazer Jess Thomas has had a remarkable life and career and he isn’t finished. In the late ‘50s he broke land speed records at Bonneville of which at least one, the World’s Absolute Record for motorcycles, at 214.47mph, stands today.
In 1964 he was the first American to have a factory-sponsored team position on the European road-racing circuit. He was a project engineer in Harley-Davidson’s racing department and technical editor with Cycle Magazine, and more.
Read the full story of his return to the salt, written by Jess, in todayscyclecoverage.com/wordpress/2016/08/16/back-to-bonneville-58-years-later-by-the-worlds-fastest-one-eighth-indian. More information on Jess: Google Jess Thomas Motorcycle Racer and Jess Thomas Bonneville
Larry Lawrence has written an article in Cycle News about the Class of ’79 and Friends, a charity put together by the talented rookie class of 1979 which included Scotty Parker, Ronnie Jones, Tommy Duma, Charlie Roberts, Johnny Wincewicz and Wayne Rainey. Their unique fund raisers have raised almost a half million dollars in lifetime benefits for injured AMA Pro Flat Track racers and their families. Much credit for getting the charity off the ground belong to Charlie Roberts, Jackie Mitchell, Tommy Duma and Tom Seymour (Saddlemen). Details at www.amaft79.com
This historic event will be held on Sunday, September 4th. Always great racing at the Springfield mile. Get your tickets at www.amaproracing.com/flat-track/events/default. Billed as “The Worlds Fasted Mile. Springfield is the place to be on Labor Day weekend.
On Saturday, September 3rd take in the All Star National Flat Track Series Short Track races at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.There is a camp ground next to the track which is in walking distance to the Mile on Sunday.. For more information: www.stevenaceracing.com, snace@apex.net, (270) 442 7532
DO YOU KNOW THESE YOUNG MEN?
A photo of the Honda Team in 19?? is attached. Can you name them all??
This club has been around forever. It holds motocross races on a wide variety of tracks in the southwest. You must be 40 to join. The oldest rider is now 83. Classes from beginning to masters. Check out this friendly group that loves riding and having a good time. Their next race is in conjunction with the Yamaha Summer Series #5 at Perris Raceway on September 18th. See their website for more information: socalotmx.org
Patricia Fernandez reached the speed of 118.264 on her Magic Bullet Yamaha YZF-R6 at the Ulster Grand Prix in Northern Ireland, taking the title of Worlds Fastest Female. She previously held the record for the fastest 600cc. Good job!
FansChoice.tv: http://fanschoice.tv/ama-pro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/amaprovids
Hints, by Simon Skinner, head of design at Norton, that there is interest in supercharging a future 650 parallel twin. “A bike weighing 330 pounds with 170 bhp from a supercharged twin, would go like stink. As well as being environmentally friendly and better on fuel and emissions.”
50 years ago, Clem Johnson reached 159.85 in a 1/4 mile at Irwindale. Gene Romero on front page after triumphs at Ascot. Slidin Steve Scott also on cover for winning Ventura. Mert Lawwill’s piston let go two miles from finish of Springfield. Gary Nixon won. Keith Mashburn won 100cc Trophy Dash and Main at first TT at South Gate Raceway.
40 years ago, The Suzuki GS750 was on the cover. Their first production four-stroke inline four-cylinder. Alex Jorgensen won at Ascot over John Hateley and Ted Boody. The novice main was won by Eddie Lawson on a Bultaco. Bob Hannah, on cover, won 125cc National Motocross at Alamo City, Texas. Gary Semics won 500cc Natl. at New Castle, Kentucky. Kenny Robersts won Terre Haute and Steve Eklund won Hinsdale, Ill. short track.
30 years ago Eddie Lawson won the 500cc Road Race World Championship and Dave Thorpe won the 500cc Motocross World Championship. Eddie Lawson clinched title for World Championship Road Race in Sweden and Dave Thorpe won 500cc World MX title in Luxembourg.
Don’t miss this reunion of Southbay Park Speedway on Sunday, September 11th in Chula Vista. It is a tribute to all who raced there. On the program for the very first race were guys like Cal Rayborn, Bill Silverthorn, Jack Simmons and Travis Petton. See the attached for information, Pit Pass Entry and T-Shirt order form.. Contact Bob Basile at (619) 424 3348 ibbobbasile@gmail.com
Valentino Rossi has been racing for 20 years, winning his first GP in the 125 class. In his career he has won 113 races in 341 starts and nine championships. Rossi is now 37 and is still competitive and almost won the tile last year. No retirement in sight
JUNIOR KURTZ TROPHY RACE
On Wednesday, August 24th Industry will host the Junior Kurtz Trophy race with added purse. It will also be the final race of the season for sidecars at Industry
The 41st California State Championship race, with added purse, will be on Wednesday, August 31st at Industry Racing. This will be their final Speedway race of the season. Box office opens at 5:30, Racing starts 7:30. Live Video (with replay), Free Wi-Fi, Great food, (626) 330 0324 Expo office
Read the story, by Larry Lawrence, about Jimmy Filice’s road to winning Daytona in 1993. He was riding with Wayne Rainey Racing/Otsuka Electronics Yamaha. Heavy winds and a race morning practice session crash damaged his ankle, but he raced with the pain. Good story. Read it all in Cycle News.
Final round of the FIM MXGP MotoCross World Championship will kick off with practice on Friday September 9th from 2 – 10pm. On Saturday, September 10 qualifying will be start at 8am until 9 pm. Sunday is the Monster Energy MXGP of USA. Gates open at 6am. 18585 Verdemont Ranch Road, San Bernardino (909) 880 3090 www.glenhelen.com
Starting on Friday, September 23rd with Round #8 CFTA
Saturday, September 24th is the race pre-party. Two hours of music, food and drinks FREE from 4pm to 6pm
Saturday night is the CFTA Short Track Races. Gates open at 5:30
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 is the Santa Rosa Mile
AMA Pro Awards banquet will be Sunday evening.
https://www.facebook.com/SantaRsoaMile or CaliforniaFlatTrack.com or watch it on http://www.FansChoice.tv
On Sunday, September 11 meet at the Big Bear Airport Parking Lot. British motorcycles and BSAOCSC members only. John Gardner (310) 920 3393 or Mike Haney (760) 365 9191
Only 5 more races this season. August 27 is a Saturday Night and the track will host FIM – All Star Flat Track Race – featuring the 16 best Flat Trackers in the World
Back to Friday’s on September 2 for the final points night and Extreme Sidecars Final. September 9 is the Speedway Track Championship (Gold Country Fair) September 16 is the AMA Speedway National Championship Series Grand Final. The last event of the season will be on October 7, USA Vs the WORLD. www.fastfridays.com
Hosted by BSAOCSC in Morro Bay. Barbara Barrett (661) 832 6109
The next race will be on Saturday, September 10, Round 9. Gates open 12:30pm, practice at 3:30 followed by racing. The next Practice day will be on Saturday, September 24 from 4pm – 9 pm. No Speedway. No loud mufflers.
CALVMX round #3 of their series coming up. Flat Track and Trials will be held at Campo, CA on September 3rd & 4th. The Motocross Event and Ironman will be a Cahuilla Creek on September 18th. http://www.calvmx.net
The first race in Duluth, Georgia will air on Thursday, September 8th at 8:pm EST. Catch it on CBS Sports Network. The 2nd race of the season from Brando, South Dakota will air at 8:00pm EST on Thursday, Sept 15th.
Saturday, September 10th is Speedway Bonanza – juniors. The final night of Speedway at Costa Mesa will be October 1st. The program will feature the Sidecar National and Harley Night Finals (949) 492 9933
RACING, RIDES AND STUFF
Sun, Aug 23 Class of 79 FT/National number reunion in Ill.
Sat, Aug 27 REM X and MX Practice at Glen Helen
Sat., Aug 27 Flat Track at Auburn www.fastfridays.com
Sat. Aug 27 EnduroCross in Georgia
Sun., Aug 28 TWMX both tracks at Glen Helen
Fri, Sept 2 Class of 79 Golf tournament, Springfield
Fri., Sept 2 Speedway at Auburn
Sat, Sept 3 Short Track in Springfield
Sun, Sept 4 Springfield Mile
Sept. 2 -5 Bonneville Vintage GP
Sept 3 -4 CALVMX Round 3 Flat Track & Trials Campo
Sat,. Sept 3 REM MX / MX Practice at Glen Helen
Sun., Sept 4 MX Practice at Glen Helen
Fri., Sept 9 USGP Glen Helen Practice 2-10
Fri., Sept 9 Speedway track championship Auburn
Fri., Sept 9 Fast Fridays Speedway Auburn Track Championship
Sat., Sept 10 3rd Annual Kretz Memorial Ride, Colorado
Sat., Sept 10 USGP at Glen Helen Qualifying 8am-9pm
Sat., Sept 10 Costa Mesa Speedway
Sat., Sept 10 Round 9 Flat Track at Perris Raceway
Sun., Sept 11 USGP Monster Energy MXGP Glen Helen
Sun, Sept 11 Speedway 117 Reunion in Chula Vista
Mon., Sept 12 SoCAlOTMX.org Meeting at Larry’s Pizza
Fri., Sept 16 AMA Speedway Natl Champ Series Final, Auburn
Sept 16 – 18 WORCS at Glen Helen
Sept 17 – 18 AMA Natl. Hare & Hound Red Mountain
Sun., Sept 18 Yamaha Dealer Series #2 Perris Raceway
Sun, Sept 18 SOCALOTMX.org at Perris Raceway
Sun, Sept 18 CALVMX #3 Motocross event/ Ironman Cahuilla
Fri, Sept 23 CFTA Round 8 at Santa Rosa
Sat, Sept 24 Pre-party at Santa Rosa FREE
Sat, Sept 24 CFTA Short Track Santa Rosa
Sat. Sept 24 Practice Flat Track at Perris Raceway
Sat. Sept 24 AMA Nat. Hare & Hound Yerington, NV
Sat. Sept 24 48th U.S. Natl. Speedway Champ Costa Mesa
Sun, Sept 25 Santa Rosa Mile
Fri., Oct 7 USA Vs the WORLD at Auburn Season Final
Honoring Sam Wheeler 1943 – 2016
– A meeting of the Board 8/3/16 by Howie Zechner
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Bikernet Run To Sturgis 2016
Most excellent article. Nice placement of see the beautiful rack ad.
Last year an old friend with a late model dresser had a new tire mounted on the front. He discovered what you will be writing about.
After reading I had the feeling of actually riding along. Can’t give a better compliment than that. Sorry to hear of Bob T’s troubles. Hope he doesn’t lose the caddy.
— Sam
TX
RALLY REPORT–2016 Buffalo Chip Festival Brought Familiar Traditions and Stunning Performances
The authentic rally tradition continued last week as motorcycle and music fans gathered to enjoy nine days of adrenaline-packed action and entertainment at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. As the center of activity and heart of the annual rally loyal fans joined friends from around the globe for a gathering of two-wheeled titans, top entertainers, fearless racers, freedom lovers and crazy characters for the 35th anniversary of “The Best Party Anywhere!”
Moto Stampede – Thunder Clapped and Gawds Stirred
The Chip did the unbelievable by successfully tearing up the amphitheater to install a track for one day of moto-hijinx directly in front of its main stage. During one of the most celebrated events of the 2016 rally, the Buffalo Chip revived the racing that founded the rally, making for an epic day of music and races the rally has never before seen in one place. Spectators stood in awe as the spray of rubber and roar of horsepower from the Buffalo Chip’s Street Drag Invitational with Crazy John filled the amphitheater on Wednesday, Aug. 10. The crowd then received another shot of pure adrenaline as they shifted to the south side of the Chip’s amphitheater for a taste of authentic dirt track racing from the Roland Sand’s Design’s Super Hooligan Races presented by Indian Motorcycle.
In a throwback to the days when young men tweaked their street machines into dirt track racers, Roland Sands Designs and Indian Motorcycles helped revive the thrill of Hooligan flat track racing at the Buffalo Chip’s Moto Stampede in the amphitheater. Brakes were optional as celebrity racers Roland Sands and Carey Hart joined a cadre of potential champions tearing up the Chip’s new dirt track constructed specially to host this event.
Chip stunt fan favorites the Seattle Cossacks joined in on the festivities, stacking riders high atop their vintage Harleys and capturing the hearts of appreciative audiences with their winning smiles and baffling moto-acrobatics.
Celebrities Turn Out for Charity
The premier charity ride of the 2016 rally, the Buffalo Chip’s Legends Ride®, attracted some of the biggest names in bike building, business, television and movies on Monday, Aug. 8 while raising funds for South Dakota Special Olympics Rapid City Flame, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Buffalo Chip Challenge Technical Education Scholarship Fund.
The Buffalo Chip Challenge bikes were auctioned in support of the Legends Ride, and the second annual Legends Lunch, hosted by billionaire philanthropist John Paul DeJoria, actor Tom Berenger and actor, writer and producer Carmine Cangialosi, raised funds for charities Meeting the Need and South Dakota Special Olympics, Rapid City Flame. Thursday’s Freedom Celebration Rideraised funds for veterans’ charities Warrior Dog Foundation, Wounded Wear/Combat Wounded Coalition and America’s Mighty Warriors. Outstanding veterans were recognized on the Buffalo Chip’s main stage on Thursday evening and presented with the Bob Hanson Distinguished Service Award in front of a very patriotic and appreciative audience.
On Tuesday, Biker Belles gathered to discuss “Two-Wheeled Transformation,” take a ride and raised money for local charity Helping with Horsepower and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame. Funds raised in 2016 bring the Chip’s total of charitable giving to more than $600,000 since 1981.
Motorcycle Masterpieces
Five days of bike shows outside the Big Engine Bar at the Buffalo Chip’s CrossRoads presented daily collections of some of the rally’s most amazing machines. Sponsored by Full Throttle Magazine, Biltwell, Easyriders Magazine, and ending with the famous Rat’s Hole, the 2016 shows offered a look at the bizarre, the creative and the traditional of the motorcycle world.
Clint Ewing and crew added a stunt show laced with twists and smoking tire squeals and Easyriders Magazine hosted an exciting auction of original art created by celebrated motorcycle artist David Mann on Wednesday, Aug 10.
The 2016 Motorcycles as Art exhibit, “Skin & Bones, Tattoo Inspired Motorcycles as Art,” curated by famed photographer Michael Lichter, drew an appreciative audience. The museum-quality exhibit, open free to the public, included stunning works of motorcycle art from 32 builders and 20 artists from around the world.
The Beat Goes On
An eclectic array of the world-class entertainers filled the 2016 Buffalo Chip’s concert schedule, giving guests an opportunity to enjoy the both living legends and today’s up and comers.
The festival opened with the legendary Willie Nelson who offered up a long list of hits, and it concluded with the hilarious musical antics of “Weird Al” Yankovic. Award-winning country star Miranda Lambert topped off the Chip’s 30th annual Freedom Celebration, Lynyrd Skynyrd declared themselves the Buffalo Chip’s house band and Five Finger Death Punch hit the audience with a power-packed performance.
Kid Rock shook the house down performing a full show after a near two-hour rain delay that didn’t dampen anyone’s enthusiasm for the star.
“It’s hard to believe we’ve now celebrated 35 years of ‘The Best Party Anywhere,’ ” said Rod Woodruff, Sturgis Buffalo Chip President. “What an incredible year we’ve had with our friends. From the main stage performances to the Moto Stampede races, rides and celebrity appearances, it was fantastic. And now we’re ready to start it all over again for 2017!”
The Buffalo Chip has already begun making preparations for the 2017 festival. Passes for the event are on sale and may be purchased at www.BuffaloChip.com.
–Nyla Griffith
www.buffalochip.com
Did you know I-90 exit 37 now leads to the Buffalo Chip?
Find out more about the new shortcut here: http://bit.ly/1P9l4Qi
[page break]
TRIUMPH CONFIRMS SEPTEMBER DATES FOR MOTORCYCLE LAND SPEED RECORD ATTEMPT–Following the successful test session at the Bonneville Salt Flats with the Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner, becoming the world’s fastest ever Triumph with a speed of 274.2 mph, Triumph Motorcycles can confirm the motorcycle land speed record attempt will take place mid-September.
Piloted by TT star Guy Martin, the Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner will return to the famous Bonneville Salt Flats and attempt to beat the current 376.8 mph record speed on an 11 mile-long course. Despite having a good course surface for testing, the team felt that the salt wasn’t yet fully capable of supporting a top-speed streamliner run. In consultation with FIM course manager Mike Cook, the team are targeting the September dates as the best possible opportunity for the optimal course conditions required for the record attempt.
The practice week, which ended with the 274.2mph run on Tuesday 9th August, demonstrated that both the Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner and rider Guy Martin are ready for the task ahead. Martin’s first week in the streamliner saw him master the controls of the 1,000 bhp streamliner very quickly – achieving all of the goals set by Crew Chief and Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner designer Matt Markstaller and his team.
When asked about returning in September Markstaller commented: “We achieved a great deal during our test week at Bonneville and feel we are in a great position to move ahead with our record attempt. Guy settled into the streamliner very quickly and impressed us with the speed in which he mastered both the motorcycle and riding on the salt.
“While conditions were some of the best I have seen over the last few years, we feel there is still some room for improvement. When chasing a record such as this on two wheels the conditions have to be the very best they can be, to give us the greatest chance of achieving the speeds we require to set a new record. We feel that waiting a few further weeks will provide us with even better conditions and put us in the ideal position to make our record attempt.”
The Triumph 2016 record attempt is supported by title partner global cloud applications provider Infor, with further support from iconic clothing brand Belstaff.
The Triumph Infor Rocket features a carbon Kevlar monocoque construction with two turbocharged Triumph Rocket III engines producing a combined 1,000 bhp at 9,000 rpm. The motorcycle is 25.5 feet long, 2 feet wide and 3 feet tall. Powered by methanol fuel, the bike is competing in the Division C (streamlined motorcycle) category.
Triumph has a history of breaking the land speed record, holding the title of ‘World’s Fastest Motorcycle’ between 1955 to 1970*. The record-breaking Triumph Streamliners included: Devil’s Arrow, Texas Cee-gar, Dudek Streamliner and Gyronaut X1, the former achieving a top speed of 245.667 mph (395.28 km/h). Today’s record, held by Rocky Robinson since 2010 riding the Top Oil-Ack Attack streamliner, sits at 376.363 mph (605.697 km/h).
The iconic Bonneville name was conceived following Johnny Allen’s land-speed record runs at the Salt Flats in September 1956, when he reached the record-breaking speed of 193.72 mph. The first T120 Bonneville model was unveiled at the Earls Court Bike Show and went on sale in 1959.
To follow the progress of the world land speed record attempt, please visit www.triumphmotorcycles.com
To see the full range of Triumph motorcycles, visit www.TriumphMotorcycles.com
To learn more about Infor, please visit www.infor.com
PLUG IN AMERICA ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE LAUNCH–New site now the premier resource for electric vehicle information.
Plug In America, the nation’s leading organization in electric vehicle consumer advocacy, has announced the launch of its new website, www.pluginamerica.org.
The new website provides quick and intuitive access to extensive electric vehicle information for consumers, policymakers, and media. The website features an electric vehicle database and a state and federal incentive map for prospective buyers.
According to Joel Levin, Executive Director of Plug In America, “We envision this site as a one-stop-shop for all things connected to electric vehicles. We’ve been working on it for months. People can find the newest vehicles and charging equipment, find incentives by state, get connected to the EV community, and learn about policy developments.
Everything is written by EV drivers for EV drivers. And because we’re a public interest organization, we’re not trying to sell folks anything. We’re just providing accurate, objective information about EVs to the public.”
Other website features include:
– Electric vehicle sales count
– Advocacy tools
– Real-life stories from drivers who’ve transitioned to electric cars
– Portal to discover local electric vehicle clubs throughout the country
– Detailed information on vehicle charging equipment
NEARLY A FIFTH OF ALL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS INVOLVE LANE SPLITTING–Every day on average in the Bay Area, someone gets hurt riding a motorcycle on the highway, or city streets.
“We see them in backups all the time, every single day – motorcycle down,” KCBS Traffic Anchor Kim Wonderley said.
Many of those accidents involve lane splitting – the term commonly used
to define a motorcyclist’s use of the space between two vehicles on the
highway. While it can be very dangerous, it is, strictly speaking, not
illegal. In fact, a bill awaiting Governor Jerry Brown’s signature will
make the practice legal. Under that law, it would be up to CHP officers
to decide if riders split lanes safely.
But, even CHP officers admit it can frightening.
“Anything that happens out there, a motorcycle will always be at the
losing end,” CHP motorcycle officer Tim Laveesting told KCBS.
Laveesting responds to lane splitting accidents several times a year.
But, his Superiors in Sacramento don’t how many there are statewide. Because when the CHP reports on a motorcycle crash, they don’t always keep track of what caused it. The Highway Patrol told KCBS they are
working to change that.
A U.C. Berkeley study [5] analyzed nearly 6,000 California collisions
involving motorcycles in 2012 and 2013.
17-percent of all accidents involved lane splitting. Most were during
commute-time traffic.
–Robyn Beck
CBS San Francisco
This is a ridiculous article. So, how many bikers across the nation die, while being rear-ended because they can’t lane split.
This article doesn’t factor a thousand options. How many lives are saved annually because bikers can lane split? How many motorist save thousands of dollars and aren’t sued because they didn’t rear-end a biker?
They also didn’t mention the benefits of lane-splitting to motorists?
I don’t know why, but I feel very strongly that any lane splitting effort must be supported by a significant campaign to sell the four-wheeled public on the benefits of lane splitting to them.
If enacted in other states it must be supported by another awareness campaign and again a campaign to convince the public that it benefits them as well as motorcyclists. Attitude is everything.
–Bandit
And may I add the extreme pleasure of dealing with the tech help and customer service staff based in India. The lack of communication is only improved by the extremely polite nature of the Indians that require three to ten times the necessary conversation that should be required.
–Sam
TX
SPEAKING OF ROYAL ENFIELD MOTORCYCLES–Join us at RETURN TO PURE, Royal Enfield of Milwaukee’s
Grand Opening Event. A celebration of the launch of the first Royal Enfield flagship store in North America, with music, motorcycles, food and friends.
SEPT 10 1–7 P.M.
THIRD WARD: 226 N WATER ST. MILWAUKEE, 53202
I want them to quit messing around and build a twin.–Bandit
LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST NEWS, GO SHOPPING ON US!–Win a $1,000 Shopping Spree!!
On Thursday, September 29th ONE lucky registered attendee will win a $1,000* Shopping Spree to spend with your favorite vendors at Rally Central. You don’t want to miss out on this, so be sure you REGISTER TODAY to be eligible.
*$1,000 is in Las Vegas BikeFest Bucks, not actual cash and is only valid for use at Rally Central between September 29 – October 2, 2016 ONLY. Some restrictions apply.
THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK–Motorcycle Fatalities Increase with Impairment
Motorcyclists have many factors to keep in mind while riding; balance, environment, road conditions, other drivers, animals running out on the road and so much more. Riding takes skill, concentration and focus. When a rider adds alcohol to the mix, the result can be deadly.
The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles reported that alcohol and/or
speed were the primary contributing factors in 56% of fatal single unit motorcycle crashes in 2012 and in 31% of all single motorcycle crashes.
In 2013, 527 people were killed in all vehicle crashes with 35% in alcohol related crashes, 30% in speed related crashes and 15% in crashes that involved both speed and alcohol.
ABATE of Wisconsin Inc. wants all riders to “Think Before You Drink” when riders are out enjoying the beautiful summer weather and they share that responsibility with all motorists in Wisconsin. ABATE of
Wisconsin’s larger events have motels nearby with shuttle service or offer free camping. They also promote peer to peer discussion if someone is under the influence allowing a clearer head to make the decision to stay off the road.
All motorcycle enthusiasts need to be aware of the role alcohol plays in their riding ability. Many deaths could have been avoided if only the rider thought before they had too many drinks. No one’s life is worth a
temporary buzz.
For more information on ABATE of Wisconsin Inc., please visit
www.abatewis.org .
— Kari Krause
pubrel@abatewis.org
HARLEY’S NEW POWER PLANT—
Take your ride even farther with improved rider and passenger comfort thanks to reduced heat absorption, increased heat rejection, precision cooling and a redesigned exhaust system.
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_Milwaukee_Eight__HarleyDavidsons_Newest_Big_Twin.aspx
Mixed reviews on the new power plant. One reader said, “Four-valve heads have been around forever.”
Did they put Timkens back in the lower-end?–Wrench
MUSIC NEWS–Memphis Soul Man” Marcus Scott Joins Legendary Group Tower of Power
Tower of Power
Electrifying. Soulful. Compelling. These three words exemplify the sound of the new lead singer of Tower of Power, “Memphis Soul Man” Marcus Scott.
As a young boy, Scott would sit with his ears glued to the radio, mimicking every sound he heard. This fascination evolved into an insatiable desire to entertain and capture the hearts of audiences everywhere.
His musical journey started in 2005 as a hit in local Memphis talent shows, and he quickly became known as the “go to” singer for all of the major gigs in Memphis. Larry Dodson of the legendary Bar-Kays gave him a call to collaborate on “House Party,” he has sung with James Ingram and appeared at Isaac Hayes’ night club and he’s been the lead singer of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies’ house band. Now, he’s stepped into the lead singer role of Tower of Power.
“Singing with Tower of Power is simply a dream come true, and it fits me like a glove,” said Scott. “I have always been known as a ‘soul man,’ but Tower of Power has me singing Soul with a capital S.”
Tower of Power Tour Dates:
Aug 25 Plaza de Cesar Chavez San Jose, CA
Aug 26 Humphreys Concerts By the Bay San Diego, CA
Sep 06 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle, WA
Sep 07 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle, WA
Sep 09 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle, WA
Sep 10 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle, WA
Sep 24 Vina Robles Amphitheatre Paso Robles, CA
Oct 13 Lancaster PAC Lancaster, CA
Oct 14 South Point Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, NV
Oct 15 South Point Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, NV
Oct 16 South Point Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, NV
Oct 28 Charleston Music Hall Charleston, SC
Oct 29 Fletcher Hall Durham, NC
Nov 10 COHOES MUSIC HALL Cohoes, NY
Nov 11 Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom Hampton Beach, NH
Nov 12 Twin River Event Center Lincoln, RI
Nov 13 Cary Hall Lexington, MA
Nov 15 Jergel’s Rhythm Grille Warrendale, PA
Nov 17 B.B. King’s New York, NY
Nov 18 Theatre at Westbury Westbury, NY
Nov 20 Turning Stone Resort Verona, NY
Dec 30 B.B. King’s New York, NY
Dec 31 Infinity Hall Hartford, CT
Jan 21 Rialto Theatre Tucson, AZ
Feb 16 McCain Auditorium Manhattan, Kansas
Mar 31 Turlock Community Theatre Turlock, CA
Since 1968, Tower of Power has been delivering its unique brand of “Oakland style” music and maintaining a class of its own. Leader and founding member Emilio Castillo labeled the group’s sound as “Urban Soul Music.”
SOFT NEWS FROM WOMENS RIDERS NOW–Summer is the time for pulling weeds and pulling weeds in our gardens and lawns is not unlike pulling the weeds from the garden of our heart.
The bucket of weeds in the photo above is a metaphor for my life now. It’s full of character traits that are no longer serving me and those around me. I’ve pulled lots of weeds from my heart over the last few years and they’re headed for the trash.
Read my Everyday Miracles: Five Tools for Pulling Weeds from Your Heart to begin the healthy process of planting seeds that bear good fruit.
–Genevieve Schmitt
Founder / Editor, Women Riders Now
THE WORLD’S FASTEST TRUCK– Volvo Trucks – The Iron Knight
Volvo Trucks’ The Iron Knight is the world’s fastest truck – twice over. It has beaten the speed record in the standing-start 500- and 1000-metre categories. The record-breaker is custom-built in every respect apart from the engine and the series-manufactured I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission.
See the world record runs here
Volvo Trucks’ The Iron Knight, driven by Boije Ovebrink, now holds the official speed records for the 500- and-1000 metre distances. During their work on the truck, an expert team from Volvo Trucks found innovative ways of uniting technology with design.
“This shows that our I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission has enormous potential and that it does not let you down under extreme conditions. The fact that the world record-breaker uses the very same gearbox that is found in our series-built FH trucks is something that we’re really proud of,” says Claes Nilsson, President and CEO of Volvo Trucks.
With an average speed of 169 km/h and a time of 21.29 seconds, The Iron Knight beat the international speed record for 1000 metres from a standing start. It also beat the corresponding record for the 500-metre distance, at 131.29 km/h and 13.71 seconds. The record run was carried out at a closed-off test track in northern Sweden. At the time of publication, the records are being reviewed by the FIA, the international motor sport association.
“Specialists from several different Volvo Trucks departments worked closely together to develop a truck with unsurpassed performance. Apart from Volvo Trucks’ powertrain, which is the heart and soul of The Iron Knight, we’ve hand-built the truck from the ground up. The fact that we succeeded in securing not just one record but two is absolutely amazing,” says Olof Johansson, a technician at Volvo Trucks.
Behind the wheel of The Iron Knight was Boije Ovebrink, who has more than 30 years’ experience of both car and truck racing. He has previously beaten five speed records and in 1994 was European Truck Racing Champion.
“Volvo Trucks’ The Iron Knight can be summarised in one single word: perfection. It’s beautiful to look at and is an unparalleled powerhouse when you floor the accelerator. This is the third record-breaking truck I’ve driven, and I can’t think of a better follow-up to Wild Viking and Mean Green,” says Boije Ovebrink.
Here’s how the record runs were carried out
The runs were carried out at “Skellefteå Drive Center” a former airfield outside Skellefteå in northern Sweden. The speed record was monitored and approved by the international motor sport association, the FIA. The truck covered the distance in both directions. Based on these two runs, the average time and speed were calculated. The record result that the FIA presents is the average speed of the two runs.
Volvo Trucks’ previous record-breaking trucks
2007: ‘The Wild Viking’ (1600 hp) beat the world record for the standing-start 0-1000 m distance, with an average speed of 158.8 km/h.
2010: The record for the same distance was beaten by ‘NH D16’ (1800 hp) which reached an average speed of 166.7 km/h.
2011: The hybrid truck ‘Mean Green’ (1800 hp diesel engine plus a 300 hp electric motor), set new records for 0-500 and 0-1000 metres from a standing start, at an average speed of 115.3 km/h and 152.2 km/h respectively.
2012: ‘Mean Green’ took on the 1000 metre flying-start category and set a new record with an average speed of 236.6 km/h.
The Iron Knight – a record-breaking truck
With 2400 hp, 6000 Nm of torque and weighing 4.5 tonnes, The Iron Knight has a power-to-weight ratio above 0.5 hp/kg.
The mid-mounted engine is a significantly modified D13 unit with water-cooled intercooler and four turbochargers.
The I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission maintains torque delivery during gear changes. Apart from a reinforced clutch (the discs and pressure plates are made of a sintered material), The Iron Knight uses the same gearbox that is fitted to series-manufactured Volvo FH trucks.
Electronics kept to a minimum to lower the vehicle’s weight.
The software has been re-programmed to permit the high performance.
The cab is aerodynamically optimised, made of fibreglass. The side-skirts have large air intakes to supply the engine with cooling air.
During the record runs The Iron Knight reached a top speed of 276 km/h.
SPECTRO NEWS– Stimilon/Holeshot Radio Ride Days
Sign up for a Ride Day!
Stimilon Holeshot Radio
Hurry, there are only nine more ride days remaining in 2016! These ride days are open rides, welcome to all skill levels, all ability levels, racers, non racers – just come ride and have fun!
Ride Days @ 3 Tracks Around
New England
* CTMX
* NHMX
* The Wick 338
Ride Days Offer…
Raffles/Giveaways*
Win awesome prizes from Red Bull and Spectro Oils, just to name a couple
Product Demos*
Check out live demos from Manchester Honda and Arai Helmets, plus many more
On-site Vendors*
Factory Connection, Spectro Oils, K Rae Graphics, Golden Tyre, and more!
Sunday, August 28: Ride Day, The Wick 338 (Southwick, MA) 10am-4pm
Monday, Sept 12: Ride Day, CTMX (Rocky Hill, CT) 12pm-4pm
Monday, Sept 26: Ride Day, CTMX (Rocky Hill, CT) 12pm-4pm
Saturday, October 8: Ride Day, NHMX (Lempster, NH) 10am-4pm
Sunday, October 9: Ride Day, NHMX (Lempster, NH) 10am-4pm
Monday, October 17: Ride Day, CTMX (Rocky Hill, CT) 12pm-4pm
Monday, October 31: Ride Day, CTMX (Rocky Hill, CT) 12pm-4pm
Monday, Nov 14: Ride Day, CTMX (Rocky Hill, CT) 12pm-4p
Complete schedule and online sign up with discounts at: stimilon.com/registration
*giveaways, demos and vendors subject to change
BIKERNET BLESSING FOR THE DAY–
“Keep Your arm around my shoulder and Your hand over my mouth!”
–from Rogue and Side-hack Jerry
ANOTHER READER BOOK REVIEW, HARBOR TOWN SEDUCTION, A CHANGE HOGAN ADVENTURE– I’ve been meaning to tell ya how much I’m enjoying Chance Hogan and Harbor Town Seduction.
Almost finished it today but hanging on to the bitter end, hate to see it end. Looking forward to the next one but I’ve already packed it so it might be awhile before I can.
–Jim Waggaman
NEWS FROM THE INDIA BIKERNET BUREAU DESK– There is a MAJOR DIFFERENCE in Export Quality Models of Enfield and the ones they sell in India. It is a story of its own with many jealous Indian citizens who are not allowed the top quality models, which are exported for international market.
Envy, intrigue, money.
–Ujjwal Dey
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_British_Colony_UprisingROYAL_ENFIELD_MOTORCYCLES.aspx
See Ujjwal’s terrific article about the current Enfield success. Watch for more Royal Enfield articles on Bikernet–Bandit
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SECOND ANNUAL Aidan’s Ride Sturgis Builds on Inaugural Success at 76th Anniversary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2016– Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation Charity Ride to Fight ALD Continues to Garner Big Support.
The second annual Aidan’s Ride Sturgis, a charity motorcycle ride organized to fight ALD, took place August 8, 2016, during the 76th anniversary of the iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This year, 75 riders participated, raising over $6,000 for the Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation.
“We continue to be humbled and grateful for the response and support we receive,” said Elisa Seeger, Aidan’s mother and founder of the foundation. “This is another great step in our journey and mission to educate people about ALD and hopefully save families from enduring the tragedy ours did.”
Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is an inherited x-linked genetic disease that affects all neurological functions and reduces those afflicted with it to a vegetative state that persists until death. Aidan Jack Seeger was just six years old when he was diagnosed with ALD in 2011. He succumbed to the disease in April of 2012. Had he been diagnosed at birth, he could have undergone treatment that would have arrested the disease and allowed him to live a full life.
Held to benefit the Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation, which was established in Aidan’s honor, Aidan’s Ride Sturgis seeks to raise funds for the purpose of helping families with children diagnosed with Adrenoleukodystrophy, heightening awareness about ALD and pushing for legislation in every state that mandates screening of newborns for the disease.
Currently, New York is the only one of the United States to screen for ALD, thanks to Aidan’s Law, passed by the state legislature in the wake of Aidan’s tragic and untimely death. As of July 26, 2016 over 650,000 babies have been tested and 53 babies diagnosed with disease. Thanks to early detection, these children will undergo monitoring and treatment that will allow them to live full lives.
The second annual Aidan’s Ride Sturgis stretched almost 200-miles long, starting at Sturgis Guns, then winding through the Black Hills and ending at Woolly’s Grill and Cellar, where participants enjoyed a full catered brunch and received patches and bracelets.
The ride was made possible by generous support from Indian Larry Motorcycles, Hot Leathers, Sturgis Guns, Rise Above Consulting and Metzeler Tires.
Photo Credit: Mad Stork
HANG ON FOR The Transcontinental Motorcycle Cannonball Century Race– Lonnie Isam, Jr., owner of Jurassic Racing in Sturgis, South Dakota, and founder of the Motorcycle Cannonball Run announced today that the historic transcontinental event scheduled for 17 days in September has its roster full and the route is set. Though held on U.S. soil, the 2016 iteration is for all intents and purposes, a worldwide event.
According to Jason Sims, Director of Operations for this historic run, the endurance ride for century old, pre-1916 antique motorcycles will get underway in Atlantic City, NJ on Saturday, September 10 and will include riders from across the globe. With 95 entries from 25 states, 9 countries and 4 continents, this extraordinary event will indeed be watched by the world as motorcycles of all marques tackle an arduous coast-to-coast route across America.
The entire route will include less that 100-miles of interstate roadways. A week into travel, riders will have a day of rest, repairs, and some festivities in the well-known Western era cattle town of Dodge City, Kansas on September 18. After a total of some 3,304 miles, the ride is slated to conclude on Sunday, September 25 in Carlsbad, CA.
During the MCR event, participants will ride vintage pre-1916 motorcycles such as Henderson, Indian, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, JAP, Excelsior, BSA, Thor and others. According to Isam, the event is a timed test of both the rider’s endurance and the roadworthiness of their respective machines as they navigate America’s back roads through some of the most scenic areas of the country.
“This route is going to be a challenge, and the bikes from this generation really don’t get ridden that much so there will still be some rebuilding going on along the run,” Isam shared. We’ll cover some of the best riding areas in the country. It’s going to be a difficult trip. We’ll have long days and tough terrain, I suspect that even the most seasoned rider will find this run challenging.”
Isam said that, while organizers and MCR Course Master John Classen are still working out the final details, it’s clear that the second week of the event will be grueling as riders make their way along the Western states to Carlsbad.
Throughout the run, according to Classen, the spectacular scenery will awe participants as they pilot their ancient machines along several picturesque national parks, monuments, memorials and museums. The Walbash Cannonball Bridge is certain to inspire entrants and Wolf Creek Pass and the Grand Canyon are sure to take rider’s breath away.
The route through the Four Corners and the Joshua Tree National Park will capture the imagination while weather and desert temperatures are the concern.
The 2016 Motorcycle Cannonball Run’s roster includes past winner Hans Cortese from South Africa and world traveling rider personality Doug Wothke. Both will be joining the Cannonball again as will bike builder Shinya Kimura, Bill Rodencal, Victor Boocock and several others. Each has their own amazing story to tell and is anxious to tackle this year’s route through 15 states to arrive at the Grand Finish in Carlsbad, CA. Join us as we set out with a cry of “California or Bust!”
Complete information about the Motorcycle Cannonball Run, including route details and some rider profiles, is available at www.motorcyclecannonball.com.
–Felicia
Bikernet will cover the Cannonball daily with reports by Vicki Sanfelipo. This effort is sponsored by Hupy and Abraham and Indian Motorcycles. She will be riding a red Indian across the country. Vicki is also on hand as a first responder in case of any injuries. I’d like her on a solid red Indian with a white cross on the bags.—Bandit
ANOTHER KLOCK WERKS TEST--Ride Team Klock Werks personal Honda Gold Wing to test the patented Flare Windshield
during the 38th Annual Wing Ding in Billings, Montana, August 31st through September 3rd.
Klock Werks krew is prepped to install the highest quality windshields on the market at one of the largest trade shows in the world geared toward Gold Wing and Touring motorcycles!
If you are a touring enthusiast, you will not want to miss the chance to try a Flare Windshield!
There are absolutely no gimmicks. Try it and love it, or leave it! And when you love it,
the team will install it at the event, for free.
Klock Werks is also participating in the Wing Ding 38 Blazin’ Savin’s Promotion. Wing Ding participants will receive a voucher good for $10 off a $50 purchase at participating Exhibitors booths during the trade show. Just look for the Klock Werks team across from the Service Entrance and redeem your Blazin’ Savin’$.
Klock Werks produces parts that don’t just look great on your bike, they have a purpose.
The mission has always been to make high quality parts that fit and make sense for the rider. Thousands of customers around the globe have praised the Flare™ Windshield for its function and style.
“Often a rider will think getting a bigger or taller windshield will solve their air flow issues.
The answer is how the air is directed, and the shape of our Flare re-directs the air,” explains Brian Klock. “Many times, a rider doesn’t realize how uncomfortable it is until they try a Flare Windshield. Then they wonder how they ever rode without one!”
Klock Werks patented Flare Windshield design features “hips” at the sides that re-route the wind away from you while adding
downforce to the front end of the motorcycle to improve stability,vs. riding with the stock windshield. The flip at the top of the
Flare redirects air back as clean, less turbulent air for rider and passenger.
Based on customer feedback, Klock Werks has now expanded its Honda Flare Windshield line to include the new
taller vented series, sporty F6B options, and its original Honda Gold Wing Flare. The Flare is manufactured from double-sided
hard-coated polycarbonate material for added durability. It is not made from inexpensive acrylic material. There is a difference in design and quality!
Use your exclusive Wing Ding promo at the Klock Werks booth to purchase your Flare or new Honda Device Mount, and be sure to
tag the team using #GetKlocked. If you are out in Billings enjoying the great outdoors, remember, the great outdoors doesn’t have to smack you right in the face!
LEPERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Lil Nugget for Touring Models. This is what I’m talking about for touring bike, simple and clean.–Wrench
Overview
Designed to expose everything on your bike
Gives a spring mounted look
Frame mounted
A minimalistic form
Fitment
06-UP DYNA
08-UP TOURING
NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA–
Holy shit. This looks like so much fun.
I won’t be there. I leave on a ride heading north the day before. I will get some footage and story for you somehow….
–Nicole Brosing
Bikernet Australian News Desk
http://www.ellaspede.com/dusthustle/
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2012 Harley Davidson Softail Blackline FXS
Our Price
$13,995
Exterior: Black
VIN: 1HD1JPV35CB022354
Mileage: 7,608 miles
Lifestyle Cycles
1510 N. State College Blvd.
Anaheim, California 92806
(714) 490-0155
BIKERNET BAD JOKES KEEP COMING– Seven wheelchair athletes have been banned from the Para-Olympics after they tested positive for WD40.
–El Waggs
Hey from St Louis. Currently doing the motor on my ‘89 Softail chopper. (12 up 0 out 29 degrees, pearl white with dished fat bobs). Have an STD case top breather in it now, although I have all of the (disassembled) pieces of my stock bottom breather too. It’s going to be a full rebuild when I have time.
Anyway, the STD motor has an ev46, S&S oil pump, S&S steel breather, H-D wheels and rods (80-inch), kb 10.5×1 hyperutectic pistons (with jugs freshly machined to the appropriate ridiculously tight tolerances, black diamond valves, compression releases, kibble white guides, Manly springs (stock seats recut), fresh rocker bushings and shafts (even though they really never do go bad).
Anyway, I had a question about ring gap placement. 10 & 4? When looking at front of motor (nose-cone)? I’ve always ran 2 & 4 (1st and second respectively), with oil ring gaps at 8 & 10 and expander gap at 9. Never any problems, but none of my motors has ran over 50k without failure. Never ring or piston failure, mind you, but happy to learn something new.
Is there a reason he gaps his rings this way? Where does he put his oil/expander rings?
–Hippiechris
bchris914@gmail.com
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY STILL OPEN– The room was full of pregnant women with their husbands. The instructor said, “Ladies, remember that exercise is good for you. Walking is especially beneficial. It strengthens the pelvic muscles and will make delivery that much easier. Just pace yourself, make plenty of stops, and try to stay on a soft surface like grass or a path.”
“Gentlemen, remember — you’re in this together. It wouldn’t hurt you to go walking with her. In fact, that shared experience would be good for you both.” The room suddenly became very quiet as the men absorbed this information. After a few moments a man, name unknown, at the back of the room, slowly raised his hand.
“Yes?” said the Instructor.
“I was just wondering if it would be all right if she carries a golf bag?”
–from Sidehack Jerry and Rogue
IT’S NOT JUST A BIKE SHOW… IT’S A WEEKEND GET AWAY!!!– Our Bike Show is coming soon to Reno Street Vibrations Rally and Mondo & I have some got great things coming together for this event! It’s going to be an awesome bike show held in a town that offers a lot to do.
Reno has exciting casino hotels, downtown restaurants, and some really nice riding around the area.
The bike show will be held inside the beautiful Reno Ballroom within the downtown city blocks where the Rally is being held.
Our Awards Package includes cash, chopper parts, gift certificates, and hand made Award plaques. The Bike Show entry is FREE and includes the Get Away Package! This event will be covered by Easyriders, Thunderpress, ThunderRoads, & Quick Throttle Magazines.
Register you bike right away to catch our package deals before their gone.
Discounted Harley Rental bikes in limited quantities
CatHouse Run tickets (brothels poker run, street party, and meal)
Virginia City, Gold Hill, & Silver City riding, bars, gift shops, casinos, & restaurants
Lake Tahoe – incredible scenery, restaurants & bars, casinos
Genoa Bar & Saloon – oldest bar in Nevada 1853
Please register your bike for the show at DENVERSCHOPPER.COM
$3 Discount – Parrot Glass – Rum Bullions
Buy 1 Margarita, get 1 Free – Dos Geckos Cantina
2 For 1 Eldorado Show Tickets or 50% off Dining w/Full Price Show Ticket
2 For 1 Laugh Factory Tickets – Silver Legacy
2 For 1 Midway Play at Circus
20% of Logo wear at Eldorado, Silver Legacy and Circus Circus
Free Beer or Margarita w/purchase of Eldorado Buffet
Free Coffee w/purchase of entrée at Americana Café Circus
20% Discount off Massage or Body Treatment at Silver Legacy
20% Growler Discount – Filled with Favorite Beer at Brew Brothers
Buy 1 Beer, get 1 Free at any Silver Legacy Casino Bar
AUSTRALIAN CLUB NEWS– Little Mick comeback? Sounds a tad promising. CheersDoc Aussie state parliament ready to address VLAD laws next week.
Wednesday, 24 August 2016 Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk’s Labor government is divided according to some media reports over plans to unravel Campbell Newman?s anti-biker laws as two MPs lobby on behalf of a high-profile Rebels motorcycle club member to reopen his tattoo parlour.
It’s being reported that senior ministers have expressed concern over changes to the former Newman government?s VLAD laws, which they say would send a signal to police and bikies that the laws were being weakened.
The plans to wind back the draconian legislation, credited with driving motorcycle clubs out of the local media and the public eye, was brought to cabinet on Monday but failed to win full agreement among ministers.
A Labor source said there was a split among cabinet ministers and that several wanted the government to take a pragmatic approach to any changes. They said while most ministers were united in their lack of support for the LNP?s laws, they were split on how much should be scrapped or changed and over what should replace them.
Several MPs including the ETU-aligned Nikki Boyd and Shane King have also lobbied Attorney-General Yvette Dath on behalf of high-profile Rebel Mick Kosenko after he sought help to have the tattoo parlour changes and the anti-association elements of the former Newman government laws changed.
Mr Kosenko lost his tattoo license as a result of the government crackdown. He said he had lost thousands of dollars so far but was yet to sell his business premises as he hoped that element would be scrapped when the government unveiled its new laws in parliament next week.
King told media he had written a letter of support for Mr Kosenko?s in regards to the loss of his license but he said he had made no representation on the laws themselves.
He does run a local business and there are employees who have lost their jobs as a result, King said. He said he had also written a letter on behalf of another community member who was struggling to gain a tattoo license.
More reports to come.
V-TWIN EXPO THE ONLY SHOW OF ITS KIND—The two major shows I try to hit every year are Sturgis and the V-Twin Expo. Actually the expo is the only show that brings our V-Twin industry together. This year it’s scheduled for January 28-29, 2017 to kick off the year.
We plan to be there as media and our crew will have a 5-Ball Leather booth, so we can collect dealers.
The Iron Trader and editor Marilyn are always there to cover the action.
FIN ASSISTS IN RECOVERING STOLEN 2014 HARLEY-DAVIDSON STREET GLIDE–The Find It Now GPS theft recovery team received notice of a stolen 2014 Harley-Davidson Street Glide motorcycle.
The FIN customer was on his way back home to Tennessee after attending Sturgis Bike Week with a friend, and stopped at a hotel for the evening. It was explained that the two riders positioned their motorcycles in an area of the parking lot which appeared to have adequate lighting and outside video cameras.
The FIN customer woke up to alert messages on his phone that his bike was moved while he was asleep. He immediately looked outside to see his friend’s bike, but his was missing.
Upon checking with hotel management to review anything that the exterior video cameras may have captured, he was told that the cameras on the property hadn’t functioned properly in almost a year. He then immediately contacted Find It Now, and using the FIN GPS security device installed at the time of purchase, along with state-of-the-art software and tracking tools, a FIN theft recovery expert was able to pinpoint the location of the stolen motorcycle, ultimately found behind a closed thrift store, east of Springfield.
FIN provided coordinates to responding officers, and upon their arrival, noticed the bike sitting behind the store, abandoned.
After searching the area and not finding anything suspicious, the Harley was recovered and returned to the FIN owner. “You just never know if and when it will happen to you,” explained the relieved FIN owner. “When they were telling me about FIN when I bought my bike, I never thought I’d need it, but not only did it save my bike, my buddy will be hitting our local Harley dealer to have one put on his, too!”
Established in 2008, Find It Now USA is a Florida-based, Veteran owned and operated company, specializing in motorcycle and power-sports vehicle theft detection and recovery. Visit FindItNowUSA.com or call 888-811-3883 for more information.
DEALERS WANTED!
Visit FindItNowUSA.com
–Rick Raus
UNCLE MONKEY ON NEW H-D MOTOR–
Awe a new Harley motor. In case you missed it Harley-Davidson is rolling out a new V-twin for us all. Well, maybe in ten years I will afford one.
The Milwaukee 8 is the latest motor for us to wrap our minds around. Coming in 107 and 114-INCH the new motor promises better performance, better acceleration, and a return to a single cam. The biggest change (said under a slight cough) is they run oil or liquid cooled heads depending on the model you buy.
While everyone is anxious to see and feel the new motor it ushers in just the latest in name that engine. Harley has had a great tradition of offering shorthand names for their engines driven by what the general public takes to call the new engine.
The easiest one is the Panhead -from 1948 until 1965 so nicknamed because the valve covers looked like cake pans lying in the driveway as you tore it apart looking for every ounce of power the little by today’s standards engine could muster.
The Knucklehead from 1936 to 1947 drew its name from the bulbous shape of the valve covers resembling the back of a clenched fist.
The Shovelhead from 1966 to 1984 comes from a rather mundane reference to the valve covers sort of looking like the end of a shovel.
The Evolution engine that followed from 1984-1998/99 simply was shortened to Evo. The motor revolutionized Harley Davidson greatly contributing to what the company is now.
The oversized valve covers of the Twin Cam built from 1999-2016/2017 received the rather dubious name of Fathead though most people I know prefer just Twin Cam. (Oh it’s just me and my friends okay). This brings us to today and the latest V-twin. The factory is already weighting in hoping the Milwaukee Eight will be called the M-8 (Mate?).
Some people will be inclined to call it the Wethead because of the cooling. Maybe it will be called the Gator as the valve covers resemble an alligator lurking in the liquid waiting to strike. (What again only me? Okay)
Whatever the new name will be it will be argued about in front of work benches for months to come. It is an exciting time for betting pools, the right to brag that you were the first one to use the name. Either way the new engine will meet some resistance, some hesitation. No one was thrilled about the Evo when it first came out but it quickly won our hearts. Until then we have to wait to see what we will name the Gator…*crickets* – just me huh? Swamphead?
-bad Uncle Monkey
I don’t believe Harley had anything to do with nicknames. They came from old school bikers until the Evo and Twin Cam. Then the tradition was set, so the factory stepped in. –Bandit
AirHawk International Lawsuit Update–
AirHawk International recently announced that they are suing Wild Ass for Patent Infringement on three of their products, False Advertising in Violation of the Lanham Act, Unfair Competition under California Law, Tortious Interference and claims against the owners of Wild Ass individually.
On July 6th, Wild Ass claimed the lawsuit was frivolous and filed a motion to dismiss and stated they were confident the court will rule in favor of Wild Ass. In fact, Scott Parman, co-founder of Wild Ass, stated our lawsuit was a desperate, frivolous case initiated by AirHawk International to eliminate the competition. Nothing could be farther from the truth!
On August 1, the court ruled in favor of AirHawk and allowed all of its claims to go forward. In fact, with regards to the Patent Infringement claims, the court found that Wild Ass’ designs as a whole are substantially similar and that a side-by-side comparison of the products showed that the overall shape of the Patented AirHawk seat cushions and the accused Wild Ass seat pads are identical! Frivolous?
We don’t think so. While the court made several statements about Wild Ass products, one of the most important is regarding false advertising. In Wild Ass’ own filings with the court they admitted that although its products use “clinically proven medical seating technology” and have medical and therapeutic benefits, these claims are in fact false. Wild Ass has not tested their products for any of the so called claimed medical benefits of their pads.
While AirHawk is not sure where Wild Ass products are made, included in the packaging material shipped is a sheet of paper stating they are made in Korea. We wonder why anyone would want to purchase a product made overseas instead of a product made in America or choose one that has used false advertising about its medical benefits to mislead consumers.
EXCITING TIMES—Is the new engine an upgraded Evo with 4-valve heads. That could be exciting. I’m still an Evo fan.
We have some exciting news coming from Bikernet. It’s our 20th year of pounding the keys. We are about to launch a new ad program to do an even better job of supporting our sponsors.
For the first time, we will allow some google ads on the site in carefully picked locations. Plus, any day now Bikernet will be mobile friendly and available to the millions of cell phone users. Incredible.
We’ve worked hard on making Bikernet a better experience, while the world goes nut. We are blessed with a great growing group of contributors and a batch of friends who help out.
Let us know anytime we can help, anytime we can assist in the fight for motorcycling Freedoms, and anytime we can help you promote your event or fund raiser.
Ride Free Forever or die trying,
–Bandit
