Hey,
I’m still trying to understand Facebook. We dodged it for a couple of years. That didn’t help Bikernet, but now we’re in the ring, punching it out. Someone in the industry recently said, “Don’t give ‘em content, just work the content you have through Facebook.” I’m still trying to understand what all the boxes do and why.
But we love content. We enjoy sharing knockout bikes and Scotty’s wild rides. Vickie Sanfelipo is doing a helluva job covering the Cannonball daily. That’s what we love to do, share rider stories.
I just read one of those doom and gloom e-mails about the changing technology and how it destroys old businesses. Someday you won’t need to ride somewhere, you can virtually make the run on your computer and not spend a dime on gas. Hell, they’re talking about having virtual safe sex with the girl you were chasing to Wyoming. Imagine.
Let’s get to the news, quick. I’d like to thank our co-sponsors for helping with our weekly news including: Cycle Source Magazine, Choppertown, Iron Trader News, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and Las Vegas Bikefest.
BONNEVILLE SCTA World Finals Update: CANCELLED–
Due to the recent rains the World Finals Event has been CANCELLED – Please pass this information on to your membership.
Pat McDowell – BNI Chairman
Bill Lattin – SCTA President / Race Director
POLITICS OF PAIN FROM THE CENTER FOR PUBLIC INTEGRITY– Drugmakers fought state opioid limits amid crisis
Makers of prescription painkillers tried to kill state measures aimed at stemming the tide of opioid drugs.
Editor’s note: This is the first installment of a two-day series. Day two explores how a loose coalition of drugmakers and industry-backed nonprofits shaped the federal response to the opioid crisis.
The makers of prescription painkillers have adopted a 50-state strategy that includes hundreds of lobbyists and millions in campaign contributions to help kill or weaken measures aimed at stemming the tide of prescription opioids, the drugs at the heart of a crisis that has cost 165,000 Americans their lives and pushed countless more to crippling addiction.
The drug-makers vow they’re combating the addiction epidemic, but The Associated Press and the Center for Public Integrity found that they often employ a statehouse playbook of delay and defend that includes funding advocacy groups that use the veneer of independence to fight limits on the drugs, such as OxyContin, Vicodin and fentanyl, the narcotic linked to Prince’s death.
The mother of Cameron Weiss was no match for the industry’s high-powered lobbyists when she plunged into the corridors of New Mexico’s Legislature, crusading for a measure she fervently believed would have saved her son’s life.
It was a heroin overdose that eventually killed Cameron, not long before he would have turned 19. But his slippery descent to death started a few years earlier, when a hospital sent him home with a bottle of Percocet after he broke his collarbone in wrestling practice.
Jennifer Weiss-Burke pushed for a bill limiting initial prescriptions of opioid painkillers for acute pain to seven days. The bill exempted people with chronic pain, but opponents still fought back, with lobbyists for the pharmaceutical industry quietly mobilizing in increased numbers to quash the measure.
They didn’t speak up in legislative hearings. “They were going individually talking to senators and representatives one-on-one,” Weiss-Burke said.
Unknowingly, she had taken on a political powerhouse that spent more than $880 million nationwide on lobbying and campaign contributions from 2006 through 2015 — more than 200 times what those advocating for stricter policies spent and more than eight times what the formidable gun lobby recorded for similar activities during that same period.
By Liz Essley Whyte
If this subject concerns you. Check the second story installment at the CenterForPublicIntegrity.com
HELMET NEWS– This foldable bike helmet is made from paper
The popularity of bikesharing is booming among city commuters, thanks to the convenience — and affordability — of renting a bike on the go. But it has one glaring drawback. There’s no easy way to rent a helmet.
This 28-year-old industrial designer Isis Shiffer was tired of lugging around her own helmet, so she took matters into her own hands.
Called the EcoHelmet, Shiffer created a unique foldable helmet designed to be purchased from a vending machine at a bikeshare station.
“You could buy a helmet for $5 or less, and when you’re done with the ride, you’d put it back in a recycle bin located at each station,” Shiffer, CEO and founder of design consultancy Spitfire Industry, told CNNMoney.
The eco-friendly bike helmet is made from cardstock paper and folds to the size of a banana. While material that’s thinner than cardboard might not sound like a solid way to protect yourself while biking, it’s designed to do just that.
“It protects the head just as well as a regular polystyrene helmet,” said Shiffer.
The EcoHelmet features a radial honeycomb pattern that absorbs a hard blow and spreads impact evenly around the head. The paper is coated with a corn-based biodegradable wax that makes it waterproof — the same kind that coats disposable coffee cups. The helmet can also potentially be made from plastic.
While the EcoHelmet is just a concept design for now, it generated buzz after nabbing the 2016 James Dyson Award and beat out 99 other U.S. entries. The international design contest, run by the James Dyson Foundation, is open to students and recent graduates who have designed a product or concept to solve a problem.
Shiffer is currently meeting with potential partners and investors to officially launch the helmet. The goal is to start manufacturing the product — ultimately in various colors — and offer them through bikeshare services.
“I want my helmet to keep cyclists safe, and make cities safer and greener at the same time,” Shiffer said.
by Parija Kavilanz @CNNTech
CNNMoney (New York)
–from Rogue
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BEL-RAY INTRODUCES ALL-NEW RACING BRAKE FLUID–
• Engineered for use in a wide range of high performance motorcycle braking systems
• Extremely high dry (580° F) and wet (410° F) boiling points for strong, consistent braking performance, even in high stress racing conditions
• Compatible with all DOT 3, 4 and 5.1 brake fluids as well as seals used in braking systems
Total performance lubricant manufacturer, Bel-Ray, today announced the launch of its all-new Racing Brake Fluid, the highest performing motorcycle brake fluid ever offered by the brand.
Formulated for use in high performance braking systems in a wide range of motorcycles on and off-road as well as on the track, Bel-Ray’s Racing Brake Fluid features a dry boiling point of 580° F (304° C). This makes it ideal for applications where extreme heat and high load braking are commonplace, and fluid breakdown is a key concern, such as with road racing, Motocross/Supercross and adventure motorcycling.
Its high oxidation resistance ensures the fluid will maintain its performance under long term use.
The Racing Brake Fluid’s performance goes beyond its dry boiling point, with a wet boiling point rating of 410° F (210° C). This helps provide riders with consistent braking performance and peace of mind that the fluid will function in any condition, even when high levels of water contamination occur.
“We couldn’t be more proud to bring our Racing Brake Fluid to market,” said Andrew Hodges, Bel-Ray’s R&D Product Line Manager. “It doesn’t matter if you’re riding or racing, stopping is just as important as going fast. When riders use Bel-Ray Racing Brake Fluid, they know they will always have peak braking performance.”
Bel-Ray Racing Brake Fluid is designed for use in all hydraulic motorcycle braking systems requiring a DOT 3, 4 or 5.1 brake fluid, and is compatible with the seals used in those braking systems.
Racing Brake Fluid should not be used in systems requiring mineral-based fluids (LHM).
Bel-Ray’s Racing Brake Fluid is available in 355 ML bottles from powersports retailers globally and online. For more information on this product, Bel-Ray’s complete line of powersports lubricants and service products, or to find the nearest Bel-Ray approved retailer, please visit www.belray.com or call 732-938-2421.
Like us on Facebook.com/BelRay or follow us on Twitter/Bel_Ray.
verb
1. to treat as a pet; pamper; coddle.
noun
1. a lamb brought up without its dam; pet lamb.
Quotes
Mrs. Dhondt is like Mrs. Crommelynck but ten times more so–in truth, a dreadful creation who heads the Belgian Equestrian Society, drives the Dhondt Bugatti herself, and cossets a powder-puff Pekingese called Wei-wei.
— David Mitchell, Cloud Atlas, 2004
Origin of cosset
Cosset is of uncertain origin. The noun entered English in the late 1500s.
BORN TO RIDE NEWS– First Ever All-Women’s Motorcycle Tour in Cuba
Women’s Motorcycle Tours and MotoDiscovery are organizing the first ever all women’s motorcycle tour of Cuba. Scheduled for March 18-26, 2017, the tour will focus on people to people encounters throughout the country.
“Cuba has been calling me since was very young. Enchanted with the forbidden country so close and yet so far away, I’ve longed to visit Cuba most of my life,” said Alisa Clickenger, the Event Organizer at Women’s Motorcycle Tours. “Thanks to MotoDiscovery’s efforts in establishing this.”
See the whole story at BorntoRide.com.
BIKERS FOR TRUMP MEET–
Bikers in Brevard County Florida met Saturday September 17th in Titusville Florida to Show Their Support for Trump and Pence and also the 2nd Amendment and then rode three different routes to Space Coast Harley Davidson in Palm Bay for the two day Amendment and Gun Show
–from Rogue
DESTINATION DAYTONA THE HOTTEST BIKETOBERFEST ACTION– QUICK, Win Tickets for a VIP Tour of Billy Lane’s Shop when you Purchase Sons Of Speed Tickets Online.
Sons Of Speed Debut Race Set For Biketoberfest 2016
Tickets are on sale online for the Sons of Speed Inaugural Race, set to commence mid-October of this year. The Sons Of Speed debut race features eight venerated motorcyclists and will run Saturday October 15, 2016, during Biketoberfest at New Smyrna Speedway just south of Daytona Beach, Florida. Buy tickets before October 1, and you automatically are entered in a drawing for a tour of Billy’s Shop ($250 value) on October 15, prior to the race.
Racers in the Sons of Speed race will compete for the Grand Prize of a brand new Shovelhead motor donated by S&S motors.
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. Winners of the heats will advance to a championship round, competing for a brand new shovelhead motor.
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 untilOctober 1—these tickets get you in the gate JUST on the 15th (after 10/1, 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 at Destination Daytona.
Ticket link: https://sons-of-speed.eventbrite.com/
ROLAND SANDS MONITORS THE NEW TV SERIES WRENCH AGAINST THE MACHINE– I wanted to reach out to you about Esquire Network’s new show “Wrench Against the Machine.” The new hour-long competition series will premiere on Esquire Network on Tuesday, November 15.
Each episode will feature two teams of three expert builders battling head-to-head with only three days and $3,000 to transform basic stock motorcycles into rowdy, riding, works of art. Each episode will also feature a different type of bike including café racers, choppers, bobbers etc.
At the end of the three days both bikes will be evaluated by judges Roland Sands, founder of the highly esteemed motorcycle and apparel company Roland Sands Design, and two of the most revered names in motorcycle design, Michael Woolaway, U.S. Director of Motorcycle Design for Deus Ex Machina and Alan Stulberg, Co-Founder and Chief Designer of Revival Cycles and the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show.
Check the trailer.
–Elizabeth Cain
E! and Esquire Network Publicity
NBCUniversal
IS THIS THE FUTURE OF MOTORCYCLING????– Electric vehicles converge at show
Robert T. Rose of the Brevard Co. Sheriff’s Office rides around the parking lot on their custom built electric motorcycle during Saturday’s National Drive Electric Week event at the David R. Schechter Community Center.
Saturday’s show featured two food trucks, informational booths and an address by James Fenton, director of the Florida Solar Energy Center in Cocoa.
Brevard County Sheriff’s Cpl. Robert T. Rose drew stares by tooling around the parking lot atop his agency’s futuristic electric motorcycle.
The “Tron”-esque bike was donated in September 2012 by Parker Brothers Concepts from the Syfy reality series “Dream Machines.”
“This is the future of law enforcement. This is the future of our country. I can’t think of anything more important than being out here, and showing the people in Brevard and the little kids what the future brings,” Rose said.
–By Rick Neale
Florida Today
–from Rogue
CENTER FOR PUBLIC INTEGRITY INVESTIGATION– Proposed export of enriched uranium runs counter to U.S. commitment, critics say
Obama administration wants to send nuclear bomb-grade material to Belgium, where security has been shaky.
The Obama administration won praise for promising in 2012 to curtail the use of bomb-grade uranium in the production of medical diagnostic tools. But now the U.S. Energy Department is getting brickbats for proposing to send such materials to several European nations, including Belgium, where a shaky nuclear program has in recent years been plagued by sabotage, radicalization and terrorist surveillance.
It’s not the first time that the administration has been accused of failing to fulfill one of its nuclear weapons-related commitments.
In this case, in 2012, the United States, Belgium, France and the Netherlands declared at a summit meeting in South Korea that they would begin phasing out the use of highly-enriched uranium (HEU) for making medical isotopes, with the understanding that by a 2015 deadline, the material would be replaced with less concentrated uranium that could not be used by terrorists to construct a nuclear weapon.
That proposed phase-out didn’t occur. In fact, a Center for Public Integrity analysis of Nuclear Regulatory Commission export licensing records shows that since making the 2012 promise, the United States government has quietly sold foreign countries 81.7 kg of highly-enriched uranium for use in making medical isotopes – more than enough to build three new nuclear bombs…
–By Patrick Malone
Center for Public Integrity
FASTEST WOMAN ALIVE NEW SPONSOR– Valerie Thompson Racing Team receives new sponsorship from Desert Storage.
Desert Storage is the newest sponsor to announce support for Arizona resident and seven-time land speed record holder, Valerie Thompson.
Desert Storage is redefining the self-storage business category with a variety of solutions for customers facing the challenge of moving and downsizing. Desert Storage provides air conditioned drive-in storage access, covered outdoor facilities for RV’s/boats/automobiles, wine storage, mailbox rentals and document shredding in a safe and secure environment.
“When I needed a secure storage facility to keep our motor coach in Scottsdale, Desert Storage was an easy choice. They offer the widest variety of services at the best price,” said Thompson. “Scott Brawn and his staff at Desert Storage are very professional and attentive. They are my last stop after every race since they provide a well-lit cleaning/sanitary dump station and covered parking for our motor coach and motorcycle hauler. I never have to worry about security or access. They really take the hassle out of storing our most critical equipment,” added Thompson.
Anosh Vasani, Director of Marketing for Desert Storage, says, “We are really excited to support Valerie in her endeavors. She is a great athlete and we look forward to her breaking even more records.”
Thompson is an independent team owner/driver, fielding a record setting BMW S 1000 RR land speed racing motorcycle with plans to compete in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle class in 2017.
In addition to 7-land speed records, she is a lifetime member of six-land speed racing 200 MPH Clubs, including the prestigious Bonneville 200 MPH Club and first female member of the Colorado Mile.
She earned the title of world’s fastest female motorcycle racer with an average one measured mile speed of 304.263 mph and exit speed of 313 mph at the 2016 Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials.
AIMExpo moving from Orlando, Florida, to Columbus, Ohio, for 2017–The American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) has revealed its plan to move “Their powersports trade show” to a new host city in 2017, with The Greater Columbus Convention Center (GCCC) at Columbus, Ohio, to be the chosen venue for the event from 2017. This venue is where the Easyriders largest bike show is featured every year in January or February.
The show hasn’t done so well in Orlando and they changed owners. Now, the MIC owned show is changing venues.
The show is to remain a 4-day expo, but will be held a month earlier than its current mid-October slot in September – with September 21-24 booked for 2017.
[page break]
BIKERNET TRIKES FEATURE OF THE WEEK–Your dog-days of anxiety and worry are over. Check out our Trike Feature on how to carry your four-legged friends safely on tours and while camping. Bikernet.com verified partners at Lucky Devil Metal Works and Saddlemen will help you along in this dog-eat-dog world of custom competition.
National Geographic got together a bunch of hormone diseased engineering nerds and they made a Trike that flies. Check out Trikes.Bikernet.com for the insanity.
If you thought Trikes were getting hotter in the custom market, tell us about it. We want to hear from you, your mechanic, your mother and your dog. Mail us at support@happymen.org for Trike Alerts and personalized insults.
Your Captain Trike – Ujjwal Dey
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY– A lady goes to the doctor and complains that her husband is losing interest in sex. The doctor gives her a pill, but warns her that it’s still experimental. He tells her to slip it into his mashed potatoes at dinner, so that night, she does just that.
About a week later, she’s back at the doctor, where she says, “Doc, the pill worked great! I put it in the potatoes like you said! It wasn’t five minutes later that he jumped up, raked all the food and dishes onto the floor, grabbed me, ripped all my clothes off, and ravaged me right there on the table!”
The doctor says, “I’m sorry, we didn’t realize the pill was that strong! The foundation will be glad to pay for any damages.”
“Nah,” she says, “that’s okay. We’re never going back to that restaurant anyway.”
–from Rogue
MRF AGENDA COMING FOR 2017— I’m sure we will see a report on these issues after the MOTMs. I made a couple of suggestions, although the legislative agenda is daunting, as you can imagine in this crazed world.
I skimmed the agenda and I’m proud to see the EPA mentioned more than once. How about the MRF takes an active roll in support of motorcycle noise as a defense mechanism against the onslaught of distracted drivers.
Should international motorcycle bans be discussed and studied. Why do they want to ban motorcycles?
Should the MRF be involved in the battle between home-built motorcycles and new technology, which could eliminate the aftermarket and maybe motorcycling forever?
Challenging times,
Keith R. Ball
Janitor
Bikernet.com
Given your history with mc rights, I will bring this up both at our board
meeting and during our legislative strategy session with 50 ABATE
Presidents and/or Legislative Officers in the room.
–Kirk Willard
President
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
It’s the only Industry dealer show put on by the Publishers of Easyriders, the magazine devoted to the custom culture.
Free registration ends soon, sign up today.
Show Dates
Trade Show Only,
Saturday, January 28th
Sunday, January 29th
Cincinnati
Held in Cincinnati because of its convenient location by air and road travel, access to economical lodging, restaurants and more.
See you in Cincy.
We can’t wait to see you!
BAGGER DEAL OF THE WEEK– Aloha Bandit, I still have my “For Sale” Electric Glide 2004 – $9,000.00. You know more about this bike than I do, and I hope you are able to help sell my Bike. –
–Mahalo, Sifu Richard Bustillo
IMB Academy
sigung@imbacademy.com
CHECK OUT NEW BRASS BALLS WEB SITE–
We hand craft Uncompromising American Motorcycles, and design & create unique custom parts for your bike.
We also customize other bikes with our signature style.
We live, love & breath motorcycles and have been honored with numerous awards, to include winning the AMD World Championships of Custom/Production Bike Building… twice.
Over the years we have built & customized several bikes to support our troops and have supported charities such as Pros4vets, Wounded Warriors, Intrepid Fallen Heros, and Warriors for Freedom.
As an NHTSA federally licensed manufacturer, our bikes are easily financed & insured.
2016 marks our 10th year in business building peoples’ dream bikes. We are grateful for our customers and look forward to working with you.
Contact us: 405-270-0995 or sales@BrassBallsCycles.com
MOVIE REVIEW? – Snowden by Oliver Stone Snowden v Hillary
Rating: 4.5+ Stars.
Oliver Stones Snowden Film Shows What Makes Edward Snowden ticks, What he Did, What he didn’t do and Why He Did it. If we watch with our eyes open looking past the surface we see unavoidable stunning comparisons with Hillary Clinton as polar opposites.
Snowden shows the track where Edward Snowden got his start, tracks his journey through the military, CIA and the NSA. The film shows more than just Snowden but the bigger modus operandi of the Federal govt. and the scope of their clandestine, nefarious spy activities.
Nicolas Cage makes an appearance of an exceptionally bright scientist who automated many labor-intensive process; however, was sidelined; deprecated because the government culture wanted to build their immediate empire off more employees and budgets. Those who pushed back with complaints were severely reprimanded and demoted.
The viewer cannot help but see the polar opposites in comparison between Edward Snowden and Hillary Clinton.
Oliver Stone took the story to new levels with doing a deep dive into what makes Snowden tick – what his values are what he did reveal and what he did not reveal.
LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST QUESTIONS– Have Questions? We Have Answers!
Rally Location: Downtown Las Vegas – Fremont East (Between 8th & 10th Street)
Designated FREE Motorcycle Parking: North Lot located at Ogden and 10th St.
Car Parking: Available in a variety of places downtown. Click here for all the options and prices.
Rally Hours: Thurs. 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 11:00am – 10:00pm
Sun. 10:00am – 5:00pm
Registration Packages/Tickets: Click Here to purchase your Registration Package or 4 Day Rally Pass. Single Day Passes can be purchased at the gate for $15 a day. Children 12 and under are FREE. Thursday is Local’s Day – Buy 1, Get 1. Register TODAY! Prices go up on site.
Shuttles: Will be running from the Golden Nugget (Carson Tower entrance) to Rally Central. Shuttles are FREE to Registered Attendees and $5 Round Trip if not registered. Click here to see shuttle schedule.
Schedule of Events: Click Here
Entertainment/Bands: Click Here
Hotels: Click Here
Bike Shows: We have four Bike Shows this year. Thursday – Quick Throttle Bike Show and Sunday – Hot Bike FXR/Dyna Show are FREE for anyone to enter as long as you have a single day pass. Friday – Custom Bike Show you must be registered with an Ultimate or VIP Pass. Saturday – Baddest Bagger you must be registered with a Party, Ultimate or VIP Pass. Registration for all Bike Shows will be at 10th & Fremont. Refer to the Schedule of Events page on our website for more information.
Poker Runs: You must be registered with an Ultimate or VIP package to participate in Friday & Saturday’s Poker Runs. You can not just purchase a Poker Run Entry.
If you have any other questions, feel free to email us at info@lasvegasbikefest.com.
SADDLEMEN KICKS OFF NEW LINE OF TAIL SECTIONS FOR THE PERFORMANCE RIDER—That’s right, and we will bring you a full report on Bikernet shortly.
You’ll be able to buy the fenders alone or with gel infused Saddlemen seats. Hang on for an extensive report.
–Wrench
JODY PEREWITZ DOES IT AGAIN–
Jody lights-up Bonneville with an exit speed of 211 MPH and 15th Land Speed Record!!!
The All American Girl Next Door, Jody Perewitz has done it once again. Leaving the competition scratching their heads at Bonneville, Jody took her all new 120-inch, turbo charged V-Twin down the salt in blistering fashion.
Initially she and the team worked speeds up to 200 MPH before making a first run of 199 which was backed up with a 206. Later she hit the mile at 202 and exited at 211 for an average of 206. Now that’s smokin’!
The new record once again established Perewitz as the Fastest Women on an American Motorcycle, put both of her bikes in the 200 MPH Club and raised her tally to 15 Land Speed records, 4 National #1 plates (AMA records) and 1 all-important World Record. Careful guys this lady bites!
While the sleek and brutal #264 is designed, fabricated and tuned by Team Perewitz and Dan Thayer it was Miss Jody who personally designed and applied that one off, custom mixed, electric blue flake paint scheme.
Jody Perewitz and her team have taken the Salt by storm in a relatively short period of time and 2017 looks to be another record setting season.
If you would like more information on the future adventures in speed by Team Perewitz or are looking to sponsor a unique winner you can contact Jody or Dave at Perewitz Cycle Fab phone (508)697-3595 and be sure to follow her at www.facebook.com/teamjwitz
ERIC HERRMANN AT LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST–
Here’s the latest painting of a Donnie Smith bike that’s part of a motor series I’ve been doing.
Sending son Dustin and his gal to do Vegas Bike week for me. First solo show for both of us!
He’ll be set up at Hog’s and Heifers new venue. Stop by and throw him some leftovers and show your support.
Next is IMS Long Beach, so I’ll be in your hood.
–Eric Herrmann
DEFENDING YOUR LEGACY FROM SPRINGFIELD AMORY– The moment you realize you have something to lose, you have a choice. Train to protect it or hide from the responsibility.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY
Our firearms are the product of generations of the free and independent. Visit our home site and join our legacy.
FACEBOOK TAKES OVER THE WORLD— I mentioned earlier how I don’t understand much of this, and maybe Queen La La will add or correct this.
Bandit’s Bikernet Facebook Page <- Click Here and then Like Our Page
But we need you to take a minute and like us. And whenever possible share the Bikernet news with your friends. Don’t ask me how. I don’t know…
–Bandit
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2016 Harley Davidson Dyna Street bob FXDB Anaheim, California
Our Price
$14,995
Mileage: 66 miles
Exterior: Black
VIN: 1HD1GXM3XFC320591
Stock #: 9937
BIKERNET SELF-DEFENSE TRAINING DEPARTMENT— Based in New York.
A friend in New York City asked me what I thought he might need in order
to defend her home and family from home invasion.
I suggested a 9mm, a couple of clips, and a box of shells.
A few days later she sent me this picture and asked me how to make it all work.
–Bobby Stark
NEWS FROM LOWBROW– We had a lot of fun filming this infomercial on the Lowbrow Air Cleaner Covers and we hope you enjoy it, too!
Fall is upon us, and with cooler weather more layers and riding gear. A riding vest or jacket from First Mfg. helps keep you safe, comfortable and looking good.
A full-face helmet such as a Biltwell Gringo-S or Bell Bullitt is another way to cut the chill or rain, while a bubble shield makes for a cost-effective addition to your existing helmet.
NEWS FROM METALSPORT– Metalsport Inc. has the new generation Vee Rubber White Wall tires in stock. I don’t know a lot about white wall tires, except try not to run a chain with a white wall. If you do, oil it and then wipe it down thoroughly, before you make a mess of your white walls.
Vee Rubber worked with Metalsport extensively to develop white walls of terrific quality for the custom motorcycle market in the sizes guys needed. Check out their complete line of very white, white wall tires.
–Wrench
Call for new pricing
Front Tires Rear tires
MT/90/16 MT/90/16
130/70/18 150/80/16
120/70/21 180/80/16
130/50/23 200/60/16
120/50/26 200/55/17
130/70/80
150/60/18
180/50/18
METALSPORT INC
10112 MILLER WAY
SOUTH GATE, CA 90280
P# 562-7769594— F# 562-7769635
www.metalsportwheels.com
SPITFIRE COVERAGE– Motorcycle Cannonball – Stage 11 – Wednesday, September 21, 2016.
I slept right through my alarm clock. The days have been long and the nights short. It’s beginning to wear on the entire crew. We woke to steady rain, not a welcome sight.
Riders began donning garbage bags and goggles, taking last sips of warm coffee but not wanting to have to stop to use a restroom because of the additional clothing.
The Motorcycle Cannonball is truly a test of both man and machine. Who will endure to the end??? Only 58 riders started out today.
Currently the five front runners have been steady. They are on two Harley-Davidsons and three Hendersons. Today we face more steep grades as we climb into the High Desert with 262 miles with elevations of 3700 to 8400 feet and a stop at Four Corners Monument.
Mixing with traffic today was even more stressful since the water spray on the road made the riders extra hard to see.
See the whole report on the Bikernet blog:
http://blog.bikernet.com/
F%*K The Spokesman Review For Disrespecting Fallen Gypsy Joker–
The Spokesman Review used William C. Casteel’s tragic death on Sunday, August 28th as an opportunity to spout sensationalized rhetoric that had zero relevance to the accident.
The Spokesman Review frames Casteel as a Gypsy Joker motorcycle “gang” member with a criminal record instead of as a motorcyclist and human being that was tragically killed when he was forced to lay his motorcycle down when an automobile turned in front of him.
The Spokesman Review is a primary example of media sensationalizing motorcycle club culture and, in this case, completely disrespecting the facts. More outraging is using a man’s tragic death as an opportunity to disparage his life.
I knew this man. On numerous occasions I trusted him with my life when I rode my motorcycle 2 feet off his back wheel. I like to be at the front of the pack. Who doesn’t? But I remember how I always knew exactly what was happening in the pack because he communicated so well. He was one with his motorcycle. I respected the way he rode a bike.
I don’t give a f*#k what mistakes people think he made in his life. To me they’re not relevant. He paid tenfold for anything he ever did do. He was only 47 when he died. He was a righteous man that had more class than 99% of all people.
So, F*#K THE SPOKESMAN REVIEW! BLOW ME!
Rest in Peace Billy.
With Deep Respect,
–Double D
Motorcycle Profiling Project
A DAY AT THE CALIFORNIA DMV– After a day at the DMV, laughter is cheaper than a psychiatrist! So is a motorcycle! I enjoy sending this stuff around the world! You never know, when or where it will hatch, & grow wings!
Several recent changes at DMV, lead me to think, that we will have a real communist regime here in California, before the masses know it’s here! It’s here now, and nobody has a clue!
We at the Reg Service level see it first, as it trickles down from the state level, but it’s coming to the rest of you, soon enough!
The law is disregarded, completely. POLICY, is now the ruler. I deal with it every day. It is unbelievable, what these DMV managers lack, in terms of fortitude, understanding and credibility. They are ordered by Sac, to process in a certain way, if we do not comply, no registration!
I copy the legislative script, the “State Law”, and they could not give a sh#t.
Getting real hard to stomach it!
Happy trails…..Bob
THE UNCLE ACKNOWLEDGES THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM VS. SAFETY– I wasn’t sure what the rider was pointing to. Every few moments she would frantically point to the ground beside her. Since I could see a good foot or two behind her rear tire and all the gauges in my truck were reading normal I was baffled as to what road hazard she was trying to signal to me.
Then I noticed it. There between the fender and saddlebag was a GoPro aimed directly back at me. My 4×4 was way too close for her. She is one of the overly cautious riders you see venturing out on the road.
It is common to see her spend an excessive amount of time gearing up to make the mile trip from her house to Starbucks (Apparently she was driven away from Tummies).
Heavy boots, with extra fold over to conceal any laces, Kevlar pants with additional armour under thick chaps, kidney belts, and additional body armor jackets, vests, double gloves, heavy with neon with neck braces and full helmet with safety glasses under protective visor are just some of the usual garments.
She dressed for the crash and not the ride. It is her mantra as her friends are into their second cup of coffee waiting for her to gear up of the five minute ride.
Safety gear is a two-sided sword. While too little protection leave us vulnerable and prone to injury the same can be said about having too much safety equipment. Bulky and redundant equipment inhibits our movement, inhibits our awareness.
While my friend thinks she is being proactive in her safety garb, the truth is she could barely turn her head to check a lane. Her hands can barely close to pull in a clutch or the front brake.
Heavy boots keep her from quickly down shifting to accelerate out of the way or to hammer on the brakes.
I’ve seen OH&S write up a worker standing on the third step on a ladder for not tying off fall protection to the beam ten feet above. I’ve seen people lose a good chunk of hair trying to peer behind safety panels to see what was wrong. What is meant to actually protect us, often becomes the reason we get injured in the first place.
The other hazard is that an overabundance of safety equipment lulls us into a false sense of security. Some of the biggest mistakes auto manufactures have made in recent history is lane detection, blind spot protection and the worst, self-braking.
Drivers no longer have to pay attention to the road because the car will beep if they stray out of a lane. They no longer have to worry about mirrors and shoulder checking because the car will warn them if there is someone there. But what about that fallen branch lying just on the road? It will not tell them that. What about that motorcycle passing at the speed limit passing your pokey ass?
Drivers no longer have to worry about seeing if there are pedestrians or children playing in a front yard because the car will stop for them. The problem is that these systems are not foolproof. Going just a little too fast or something jumping out at the very last second and the car will not be able to stop in time despite all of the safety gear.
Study after study shows that the more safety precautions the more reckless and careless we are. So the next time you see someone gearing up to the ninth-degree realize it will be them, who will put you in harms way.
-bad Uncle Monkey
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BIKERNET READER COMMENT–
I got busted in Wyo for speeding the year I rode from Sturgis to Bonneville. Not a soul on the road except me and Buford T. Justice!
To add insult to injury after he is done writing me up he says, “did you see the deer back there on the side of the road?” As if to say that could have been my excuse for speeding up!
I stopped at Wyoming Whiskey in Kirby that year. I love the riding out there. Damn I need to ride somewhere……………
–PA
BILL DODGE ROLLS WITH 5-BALL LEATHERS– Bill Dodge, the premiere chopper builder, can wear any leather. He chooses 5-Ball Leathers. And his 5/8th JAK Shirt is an ideal leather shirt for riding on his chopper. JAK Shirts are built with tails to keep your backside safe and free of sunburn. Choose your style sleeveless, 5/8th or full sleeves.
Magnificent 5-Ball Leathers are available in jackets, JAK Shirts and vests. For the latest in a cruiser, bobber & chopper-style riding apparel – cruise over to http://5ballracinggarage.com/
JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK– No. 1164 Piston Support Plate.
This tool will support the piston when installing the cylinder. Use JIMS piston support plate to hold the piston in the correct position when installing the cylinder over the piston and ring assembly.
This tool prevents any damage to the piston skirt while aligning the cylinder, ring compressor, and piston.
It is made of tough Delrin® so it won’t harm the piston or case deck surface.
JIMS No 1164 retails for $87.90, has JIMS lifetime tool warranty, and is made in the USA.
LEGISLATIVE REPORT FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION–
Today, the Department of Transportation (DoT) released long-awaited guidance on self-driving cars. The guidance included a model policy for states to regulate how such vehicles are tested and used on the road.
In addition, the guidance contains a recommended 15-point safety assessment for manufacturers to follow to ensure autonomous vehicles are safely designed, developed, tested and deployed. In addition, automakers will have to document to federal regulators how they’re addressing ethical considerations like whether to program a car to hit another vehicle rather than a pedestrian.
For motorcyclists, whose main concern includes the detection of their motorcycle on the road, there is a section on a safety assessment point pertaining to “Object & Event Detection and Response” (OEDR) which relates to detection by the autonomous vehicle of any circumstance that is relevant to the immediate driving task. It encourages automakers to have a documented process for assessment, testing, and validation of the vehicle’s OEDR capabilities.
OEDR capabilities are expected to be able to detect and respond to other vehicles (in and out of its travel path), pedestrians, cyclists, animals, and objects that could affect safe operation.
You should be aware that this “guidance” is simply that – it is not a regulation and is not legally enforceable. Some critics have voiced opposition to this, saying more rigorous standards need to be applied from federal authorities. To support their opinion, they have started citing the recent Tesla crash in Florida and other incidents where self-driving cars were at fault.
In addition to the guidance released today, DOT indicated that they plan to use other regulatory tools, namely letters of interpretation to address concerns as they pop up. The objective behind the guidance and loosely knit plan of regulation is so that the Agency can more, “nimbly respond to innovations.”
However, it is rumored that DOT may request more power from Congress. Because there is not an accompanying congressional bill, DoT is limited in what they can require of automakers. Specifically, without congressional authority and necessary resources, DoT is unable to require things like mandating reporting of autonomous vehicle testing, deployment and performance, as well as giving regulators the power to inspect and approve new technologies.
All of these activities would require congressional action. One of the few enforceable pieces of today’s release is NHTSA release of final enforcement guidance bulletin that clarifies how its recall authority will apply to automated vehicle technologies.
The guidance released today is the result of public input and stakeholder discussions, including two open public meetings this year which the MRF attended. In addition, there is the opportunity for the public to weigh in with comments for the next 60 days.
We will continue to review the guidance and monitor reaction from outside groups as we weigh whether to file official comments. Your support in identifying any concerns specific to bikers will be critical as to whether the MRF files comments on the DoT guidance before the November deadline.
–Megan Ekstrom
Vice-President, Government Affairs & Public Relations
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
Phone: (202) 725-5471
Fax: (202) 546-0986
www.mrf.org
TRAILBLAZERS NEWS– ARE YOU GOING OR NOT?
TIME TO MAKE UP YOUR MIND
SANTA ROSA MILE AND RACE WEEKEND
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 TO 25TH
BRYAN SMITH WON HIS APPEAL.
WHO WILL WIN THE TITLE
The AMA Appeal Board reversed the Disqualification of Bryan Smith and reinstated his points and purse from the Central New York Half-Mile. The protest was about a rear wheel assembly alleged to be out of compliance with rules. With his points restored Smith now leads Mees by 2 points. The Santa Rosa Mile is the last race of the season and the decider as to who carries the #1 plate next year.
SCHEDULE:
Friday Night CFTA Round #8 1/8 mile
Saturday Race Pre-Party Music, food, drinks, vendors, displays and entertainment for free. 4pm to 6pm. Adjacent to Chris Beck Arena
Saturday night: CFTA Short Track 1/8th mile Pro-Am, plus 750 street-based Hooligans and youth riders. Gates at 5:30.
Sunday: Santa Rosa Mile
Tickets online: https://squareup.com/store/carson-city-visitors-bureau/item/outlaw-flat-track-motorcycle-races (724) 653 6353
SantaRosaMile.com www.amaproracing.com/flat-track/events/
Or watch it on http://www.FansChoice.tv
INDIAN SCOUT FTR750 AT SANTA ROSA
The new Indian Scout will do Demo laps on Saturday, September 24. On Sunday, Joe Kopp will again take to the track racing the Santa Rosa Mile. This is the first Indian Factory race bike since 1953. Exciting stuff going on at Santa Rosa.
EXCITEMENT AT THE TRACK
Sent by Skip
WORTH WATCHING EBAY
Sent by Doug Towsley
Some recent offerings on ebay.
Velocette MS500
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Other-Makes-Velocette-MSS-500-/222246549571?forcerrptr=true&hash=item33beed3843:g:XBOAAOSw9NdXr~5s&item=222246549571
1946 Triumph T100 race bike
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Triumph-Tiger-/222246540504?forcerrptr=true&hash=item33beed14d8:g:2xQAAOSw-itXtU6p&item=222246540504
470-HORSEPOWER MASERATI-POWERED LM847 MOTORCYCLE
https://www.yahoo.com/news/watch-470-horsepower-maserati-powered-210443163.html
RACE OF THE CENTURY
The starting flag came down at the 2016 Cannonball ride on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey on September 10th. The the 100th anniversary of this run brought together 100 entrants on 100 year old motorcycles. They hope to travel the 3304 miles in 16 days and cross the finish line in San Diego, California on Sunday, September 25th. There will be a stop at Springberg-McAndrew Park in Lake Havasu on September 23rd and 29 Palms on September 24th. raceofthecentury@gmail.com http://www.motorcyclecannonball.com
HARLEY AND THE DAVIDSONS
If you were looking for truth in the three part series, you were highly disappointed. It was a fun story, but played very loose with the facts. Larry Lawrence, in Cycle News, separated some of the fiction from what really happened. I would think that the HD story would stand on its own to make a really good film. But none the less, I enjoyed it. By the way, no beautiful old bikes were rode hard and put away wet. The motorcycles in the series were hand made just for that production.
50 YEARS AGO IN CYCLE NEWS
40 YEARS AGO
Malcolm Smith preparing for his 9th ISDE. Don Vesco to “speed bike” at Bonneville, Terry Poovey won ST in Talladega, Alabama, Gaston Rahier won 125cc Worlds Championship MX in West Germany. Larry Roeseler, 19, made his mark in the desert. 1976 ISDE Team included David Ashley, Fred Bellman, Malcolm Smith, Charles Bethards, Ron Bishop, Dick Burleson, Rod Bush, Dane Leimbach, Lars Larsson, Mike Hannon, Tom Penton and Chris Carter.
POPE MOTORCYCLES IN CYCLE NEWS
Larry Lawrence has done it again with a very good article on the Pope Motorcycle.
ENDUROCROSS
The next event will be on September 24th in Scottsdale, Arizona, followed by Denver, Colorado on October 1st. If you can’t make it, tune into www.cbssportsnetwork.com. The Scottsdale race will be aired on Thursday, October 13 at 8pm EST, Denver will air on Thursday, October 20th at 8pm EST. You can check out the main event highlights of the last race at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZzbBLq6ltQ
CLASS OF 79 FUND RALLY FOR DOMINIC COLINDRES
Dominic Colindres crashed at the Peoria TT National and is now paralyzed from the heart down. To donate to his fund: www.amaft79.com/dominic-colindres-fund.html All donations are 100% tax deductible due to the 501 (c)(3) status of the charity
NO GO ON THE SALT
Even with all the hard work, the salt was in poor condition. It was thin, damp and loose in some places. On September 15-20, Streamliners gather for the invitational Mike Cook Bonneville Shootout. The Triumph infor Rocket Streamliner, with Guy Martin piloting it, crashed while being towed up to speed. The Mike Akatiff’s ACK Attack tried one slow run and Dennis Manning’s Bub 7 decided not to make any runs. Have to wait until next year to try to break the 400 mph barrier.
GARAGE GIRLS 2017 CALENDAR
The calendar has many Attractive girls, but I know you are more interested in the beautiful motorcycles. Both on this calendar photographed by Jim Gianatsis. FastDates.com
ELSINORE GRAND PRIX
Started in the late 1960’s this race came to fame because of Bruce Brown’s “On Any Sunday”. Steve McQueen, Malcom Smith, Mert Lawill, plus hundreds more raced through the streets and hills of Lake Elsinore. Races were canceled for a few years because of the 1%’s that took over the town.
It was resurrected in 1996 and it has been a struggle to keep it going because of the drought. It required too much water to keep the dust down, so the event was held at the Elsinore Storm Arena where they required less water and had recycled water to draw from. Now, for the 2nd year it will be held at the Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park.
The track won’t take you over the hills and through the town, but good racing none the less. The event will be on November 12 -13 at the south end of Elsinore, 20700 Cereal St.
lake-elsinore.org, racele.com, (951) 264 5256
BSAOCSC
There will be a North/South Rally in Morro Bay on September 23 -25, Thursday to Sunday. info@bsanc.org
On Sunday, October 2nd join the BSAOCSC Mt. Baldy Street Ride. Meet at Buchanan’s Spoke and Rim, 805 W. 8th Street, Azusa at 9:30am, Info: Steve Ortiz (951) 440 3521.
Saturday & Sunday, October 15-16 is the California BSA Clubs NC/SC Southern Sierra Road Ride. Meet at Paradise Cove Steak House, Hwy 178, north of Lake Isabella at 8am. Burt Barrett (661) 742 5539.
MELLOW VELO RALLY
October 8 9, Saturday and Sunday. At “The Place” in Ventucopa. Tim Kenny (805 646 9982
PERRIS HALF MILE
Coming on Saturday, October 8th to the Perris Fairgrounds racetrack. Pro racers Brad Baker, Nick Armstrong and Kayl Kolkman with be there. Promoted by IV league Flat Track, who is hosting a bike night at the Pitstop Pub in Menifee on Wednesday, September 28th.
FAST FRIDAY USA Vs THE WORLD
Season Final on Friday, October 7th. fastfriday@aol.com, www.fastfridays.com
CALVMX, AHRMA SW
The Cahuilla Creek Motocross Track is the site for the October 16th CALVMX Motocross Event, Round 4 and Ironman #5. Round 4 Flat Track & Trials will be on October 29th & 30th at Campo.
SCFTA AT PERRIS
Flat Track practice on September 24 from 4 – 9pm. No speedway bikes
Round 10 of the SCFTA series will be on October 5th. socalflattrack@aol.com (951) 443 7622
DISTRICT 37 BIG 6 GRAND PRIX
There are three remaining events. Round 6 on October 1-2 in Ridgecrest, Round 7 on November 5-i6 in Gorman and Round 8 on December 3-4 in Lake Elsinore
SOCAL OLD TIMERS MOTOCROSS
On Saturday and Sunday, October 1st and 2nd, the SoCal Old Timers will be racing at Glen Helen. They will be back at Glen Helen on Saturday, October 23rd to ride in conjunction with the Yamaha Dealer Series. socalotmx.org
AMA NATIONAL HARE & HOUND
Round 7 will be in Yerington Nevada on September 24th and Round 8 on October 22 -23 in Lucerne Valley.
48th ANNUAL U.S. NATIONAL SPEEDAY CHAMPIONSHIP AT COSTA MESA
Saturday, September 24th is the 48th U.S. National Speedway Championship -juniors. Harley Night Finals and Sidecar National on October 1st.
costamesaspeedway.net
WORCS
Round 9, the last WORCS of the season will be on October 21- 23 in Primm, Nevada.
GLEN HELEN SCHEDULE
Saturday, September 24th REM MX/ MX Practice
Sunday, September 25th SRA GP
Sat – Sun, October 1 -2 SoCal OTMX Int / REM MX
Saturday, October 8 REM MX / MX Practice
Sunday October 9 Yamaha Dealer Series #3
Sat – Sun, October 15-16 John Burr Cycles 24 Hour Endurance
CFTA/AMA ROUND 8 & 9
California Championship Series doubleheader at the Salinas Sports Complex. Saturday and Sunday, October 8 -9. www.californiaflattrack.com
LODI SHORT TRACK
Put on by the Lodi Motorcycle Club. The races will be on October 1, 15 and 16. lodicyclebowl.com (209) 368 7182
EDDIE MULDERS WCVDTS DOUBLE HEADER
October 1 and 2nd at Willow Springs in Rosamond, California. www.eddiemulderswcvdts.com (661) 944 1184 Follow them on Facebook
HANOI PLANS MOTORCYCLE BAN
The city of Hanoi, Vietnam, has announced a plan to completely ban motorcycles by 2025. The plan is based on an effort to reduce traffic congestion by promoting public transportation.
The proposal may have been prompted by a recent decision in Paris, France to ban motorcycles made before 1999.
Hanoi now has an estimated 4.9 million motorcycles and scooters on the roads, so a total ban seems extreme and may prove a difficult matter to successfully employ. Last year, the monthly motorcycle registration figures ranged from 8,000 to 20,000. Officials estimated that within the next four years the city would have nearly 7 million two wheelers on Hanoi streets.
Hanoi’s air quality has been regularly listed as Unhealthy by the Real Time Air Quality Index, and officials say the plan is to encourage bikers to use public transportation instead.
Currently Hanoi has a fleet of some 1,000 buses, accounting for 27 million passenger rides each month. The new plan would create six more metro lines, three Bus Rapid Transit Lines and 18 new bridges within the next 14 years.
This is just a taste of Bill Bish’s NCOM monthly news brief.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “The law will never make men free, it is men that have to make the law free.”
~ Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) American naturalist, poet and philosopher
QUICK, BEFORE TECHNOLOGY EATS US ALIVE— Let’s party. I’m going to have some fun with my bit at the beginning of the news in the Sunday Post, this weekend.
I’ll add something to my Ride Back story about my Indian. I was asked by a number of guys about my Indianhead coin. I answered honestly: Paul Aiken at Aeromach has a connection to these knock-offs and I ordered a couple.
These guys didn’t believe me. Ultimately I changed the story to a glint I saw alongside the highway in Monument Valley. I pulled over in hopes of finding gold bars buried in the sand. I found two matching massive silver Indianhead coins. They fit perfectly on both sides of my Indian. Incredible.
Okay, will you buy me a whiskey.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
