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Hey,
I want to remind everyone to reach out to friends, relatives, brothers and sisters and agencies to help folks in weather-torn areas. Don’t kick it around. Get it done.
Speaking of getting it done. Some folks love to get shit done no matter what it is, from mowing the lawn to building a new bike. They stay focused through the obstacles, the financial hurtles, the bad weather, whatever. That’s an aspect government agencies seem to miss.
No matter what obstacles they put in our way, we will still build. We’ve always been outlaws living on the fringe, fighting for the freedom to ride and for open roads and trails.
Let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown and BorntoRide.com, Sturgis Museum.
HURRICANE IRMA NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO DAMPEN BIKETOBERFEST SPIRIT– Biketoberfest 25th Chrome Anniversary October 19-22 is on!
Two weeks after Hurricane Irma worked its way up the center of the state of Florida, the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) says the area’s tourism industry is recovering swiftly.
“Tourism is a significant economic engine in Volusia County,” said CVB Executive Director Lori Campbell Baker. “While local government, residents and businesses are working together to complete storm-related repairs, we know people plan their travel in advance so we are working to get the message out that our coast is clear and the majority of the area’s hotels, restaurants and attractions are ready to welcome visitors.”
Visitors spent $6 billion dollars in Volusia County last year, generating 42,000 jobs and a payroll of $550 million, overall. “Forty percent of 2016 local sales tax revenue was paid by visitors,” said Campbell Baker.
Major festivals and events in October are on, including the Daytona Blues Festival, LPGA Symetra Tour Championship and Biketoberfest, the area’s largest fall festival.
Biketoberfest is on, pass it on!
“Biketoberfest alone generates an economic impact of more than $40 million. The event will pump much-needed revenues into our local businesses,” said Campbell Baker. “We want to assure rally-goers, some who have attended every year, we absolutely will be ready to celebrate the 25th Chrome Anniversary of Biketoberfest October 19-22. Biketoberfest is on, pass it along!”
Campbell Baker explains the motorcycle rally’s core audience has grown over the years to include more women riders, international visitors, sports bike enthusiasts and younger riders who are drawn to the rally’s signature racing events at Daytona International Speedway.
Joining Chrome sponsor GEICO Motorcycle this year are: Leather sponsor Lawlor & Associates, promotional sponsor Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club; and WHOG-FM The Hog 95.7, the official radio station of Biketoberfest.
Official Kick Off at Daytona International Speedway
Biketoberfest officially kicks off with a press conference Thursday, October 19, at 10 a.m. at Daytona International Speedway. The event is open to the public. Held on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley Stage next to the FPL Solar Pavilion in the Midway, this fan-friendly area is also a major hub of Biketoberfest activity.
The rally tradition will continue along Main Street, Riverfront Park and Midtown in Daytona Beach, as well as at Destination Daytona and U.S. Hwy 1 in Ormond Beach, and throughout Volusia County in nearby New Smyrna Beach and DeLand.
At the Official Biketoberfest Welcome Center on Beach Street, staff will be handing out free (while supplies last) 25th Anniversary collectible Official Biketoberfest posters, pocket guides and pins, and encouraging visitors to mark their home town on world maps. To pre-register for a 25th Anniversary pin, visit Biketoberfest.org.
Visit Biketoberfest.org, Facebook.com/Biketoberfest or Instagram.com/BiketoberfestRally.
NEW/OLD FEATURE COMING TO BIKERNET– This is just a random pick. Edited photos in a few days.
The builder, Deny, is the master finalizing the paint for the Bikernet Panhead. Bandit may have his paint this week.
–Peter Linney
Feature Bike and Model Photographer
Bikernet.com
Just waiting on JIMS pushrods and the engine will be complete at Bennett’s Performance in Long Beach. Exciting.
–Bandit
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RELIEF SUNDAY POST for September 17, 2017
Good Post – Suggest keep sharing info on EPA and NHTSA They have been Bad To Motorcycles For A Long Time.
Should be letting people know to contact and Join Bikers For Trump and the comment to them what we want changed.
— Rogue
rogue@bikernet.com
Supreme Editor
Bikernet Baggers
Melbourne, FL
TRIKE CONTROVERSY OF THE WEEK–
There are many online forums and communities dedicated to discovering the scam behind Elio Motors continuous postponement of production and lack of finances to produce it.
See: https://www.facebook.com/Elio-Motors-Scam-Report-296567303873692/
Or just Google the term “Is Elio for real” and read the search results.
Caveat Emptor – buyer beware.
–Ujjwal Dey
Grand Emperor Editor
Bikernet Trikes
wayfarer@bikernet.com
NEWS FROM THE MRF– EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES – New Leadership at the FHWA, Updated Guidelines on Autonomous Vehicles & NHTSA (finally) Responds to the Tesla Crash
After months of speculation of who would head the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), President Trump nominated Paul Trombino to take the helm.
The name may be familiar to some of you – Trombino is the former President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) as well as vice-chair of the Transportation Research Board’s Executive Committee. He also headed up the Iowa DoT from 2011-2016.
Personally, I don’t know him, but my guess is one of our well-connected Iowa members might? If you know Paul and have a friendly relationship with him, definitely let me know. It will be a critical connection to have over the next 4 years – especially as the FHWA is the Agency that deals with many of our riding issues.
One of the major ones? The Motorcyclist Advisory Council or MAC. You remember the MAC, don’t you? That little council that was supposed to be advise the Secretary of Transportation on issues that affect riders? The one that THEY NEGELECTED TO ACTUALLY INCLUDE MOTORCYCLISTS ON? Yeah. That’s the one. Hence why we need the connection to Paul. Know him?
–Meghan
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
CHANCE OF A LIFETIME– Want to win a trip to Washington, DC to attend next year’s Bikers Inside the Beltway?
This week, participants at Meeting of the Minds will have their chance at winning a trip by entering the Bikers Inside the Beltway Sweepstakes which benefits the MRF Political Action Committee (MRFPAC). Not going to Meeting of the Minds? NO PROBLEM! You can get in on the action right from your own home!
INSTRUCTIONS:
Suggested contribution: $20 for one entry, $40 for 3 entries
Address your entry to the MRF PAC – 2221 S Clark St, Arlington, VA 22202
Entries MUST be postmarked by next Monday, September 25, 2017. We’ll make sure you are entered and notify you if you win!
DRAWING INFORMATION:
Raffle drawing will take place on October 1st. The winner will be notified on or around October 1. You need not be present to win.
WINNER WILL RECEIVE:
$200 Gas Card
TWO Nights of Lodging during Bikers Inside the Beltway 2018
Private VIP Tour of Washington, DC
Dinner with MRF Leadership
Only current MRF members can participate. See the flyer for more details!
Please note that this email solicitation is intended for the individual member of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation to whom it is originally addressed. To avoid violating U.S. campaign finance laws, do not forward/share this email solicitation with others.
Signed,
Paulette Korte Lenny Holcomb Jim “Legs” Korte Megan Ekstrom
Treasurer, MRF PAC Asst Treasurer, MRF PAC MRF PAC Chairman VP, Government Affairs
Official Rules:
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
Open to current members of the MRF in good standing and legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C., age 18 or older. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Sweepstakes ends on September 24, 2017. For a copy of the full official rules, contact Megan Ekstrom megan@mrf.org.Sponsored by the MRF PAC Committee – 2221 S. Clark Street, Arlington, VA 22202
+Federal regulations prohibit political action committees from accepting donations from corporations, labor organizations, foreign nationals and government contractors (2 USC Chapter 14, Sections 441b – 441f).
Hey Bandit…we’re so happy you’re publishing Paul’s
VVMC story. Sorry you didn’t win the Raffle Bike, but there’s always next year.
–Nana and Melisa
VVMC
What a classic. I’m glad a young rider won it.–Bandit
NEW BIKE FROM MCQUISTON’S CUSTOM CYCLES— We are just about to feature Ryan McQuiston’s 45 Magnum with a K-model top end. He’s really stepped up his game.
But this is more his west-side Long Beach style.
–Markus
AMA ALERT— Court Rules Against EPA and more Ethanol a Possibility.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been setting its annual ethanol mandates for the nation’s fuel supply using a faulty interpretation of the law that created the Renewable Fuel Standard, according to a July ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
“We are reviewing the petition and will take appropriate action as needed,” an EPA spokesperson said.
The ruling could result in even more ethanol being blended into U.S. gasoline supplies.
The AMA opposes any increase in the Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS and would prefer a much larger reduction because higher ethanol mandates force greater amounts of high-ethanol fuel, such as E15, into the marketplace. E15 fuel is a blend of 85 percent gasoline and 15 percent increase in ethanol over the common E10 blend most Americans currently use in their vehicles.
None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles in the United States are approved by the EPA to operate on ethanol blends higher than 10 percent. Using higher-ethanol blends in those vehicles is illegal and may cause engine and fuel system damage and void the manufacturer’s warranty.
The AMA is also concerned that the increased reliance on corn ethanol could further reduce the amount of Eo fuel available, which is needed for older and vintage motorcycles.
–AMA
BIKERNET HEALTH ALERT–
If poison expires, is it more poisonous or is it no longer poisonous?
–from Dr. Rogue and his assistant Nurse Sidehack Jerry
Bikernet Medical Center
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY– Two young boys walked into a pharmacy one day, picked out a box of tampons and proceeded to the checkout counter.
The pharmacist at the counter asked the older boy, “Son, how old are you?”
“Eight”, the boy replied.
The man continued, “Do you know what these are used for?”
The boy replied, “Not exactly, but they aren’t for me. They’re for him. He’s my brother. He’s four.”
“Oh, really?” the pharmacist replied with a grin.
“Yes.” the boy said. “We saw on TV that if you use these, you would be able to swim, play tennis and ride a bike. Right now, he can’t do none of that.”
–from Rogue and Sidehack Jerry
RETIRED AIR FORCE MEDIC SURPRISED WITH GIFT OF NEW
HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE–
San Antonio (September 20, 2017): Today at Cowboy’s Alamo City Harley-Davidson in San Antonio, retired Air Force medic, Lisa Benjamin, was honored with a Harley-Davidson Model Year 2018 Street Glide Special powered by the new Milwaukee Eight Engine. The surprise moment was part of MISSION: “THANK YOU” – a cross-country tour led by Adam Sandoval to celebrate the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom.
Lisa Benjamin enlisted after the 9/11 attacks and served as an Aeromedical Evacuation Medic in the Air Force. She was deployed in Iraq in 2003 – before she was even truly eligible to deploy she was sent as a replacement for an injured crew member where after only six months of training she stepped up and excelled. Serving more than eight years, she deployed to Iraq, Germany and flew rescue missions when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans.
Every American can nominate a military member – past or present – who has dedicated their life to protecting our freedom by submitting their story of sacrifice, strength and courage of service at MissionThankYou.com.
Read the whole story on Bikernet in the Women’s Department.
NEW SPARE CHARGER SYSTEM–
Winter and the severe weather that comes along with it will be here before you know and it is reported that every year over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually. In situations like these it can be critical to have a charged phone on hand to make emergency phone calls for help.
The AdventureMax from myCharge can make sure you have the ability to call for help by providing 6x extra battery life for your phone and can maintain battery power for up to one year. The charger features two USB ports and is encased inside an insulated and ruggedized exterior case that protects from extreme weather temperatures.
–Cassandra
LATEST CREATION FROM THE DEVIL– Thought you might get a kick out of this little small job. I re-created the backrest for this chopper restoration.
The original had been cut down and modified a few years ago and the guy wanted it to look just like how his Dad built it back in the late ‘60s. It’s a cool memorial project to say the least and as usual there was a twist to it.
I actually worked at the shop that modified the original backrest, didn’t work on it myself but I do remember it coming through and even met the original builder at the time.
–Kent
Lucky Devil Metal Works
Houston, Texas
MORE CARS REPORT– I wanted to write the Week Magazine about a couple of topics, but when I scrolled through their web site the negativity hit me hard. Why bother, they were heading down the wrong path.
Their last editorial cried global warming again. We wouldn’t be here at all if it wasn’t for Climate Change. If we tortured every American citizen, cut the number of cars they own, sent agents to destroy their barbecues, what about the rest of the world. The climate will change whether we like it or not. Plant more trees, goddamnit.
So, what about the real issue: Population growth and infrastructure. I find it humorous, all this talk about climate and three automakers are claiming a 44 percent production and sales increase. Where will they drive? The freeways are jammed. How is the population doing?
Is there a way?
From the Wall Street Journal: The chairman and chief executive of the Nissan-Renault-Mitsubishi alliance is pushing ambitios targets for the auto makers in an effort to leapfrog Silicon Valley and swipe market share, even as some of his biggest rivals look to scale back. But this guy claims a 44 percent sales growth over the next couple of years.
I want to move to South Dakota or Wyoming where a brother can ride free.
–Bandit
El DORADO WINNERS— Lucky bastards.
The raffle sales proceeds go toward the rally expenses and also to this year’s charity, the Ride for Children’s Pediatric Brain Tumor foundation. On the big day, the ticket was drawn with entries from all over the U.S. and several other countries. The lucky winner turned out to be an L.A. area resident, Tom Woods who added even more luster to the tale of the El Dorado. It seems there really is gold in them thar Venice hills.
Tom and his 11-year son Will both greatly enjoy dirt bike riding and when hearing about the VVMC event wanted to check out the classic machines so hopped on their bicycles, yes bicycles, and rode to the Venice event in progress.
They ambled around the bikes on displays and in the process Tom decided to buy a raffle ticket to support the event’s charity, then he and Will popped back on their bicycles and rode home where a couple hours later Tom got a phone announcing his winning raffle number, and then returned to the event to claim his gold.
Says Tom, “It was definitely a Wow! moment for both myself and my son. And then we thought about it for awhile and decided what we wanted to do was put the bike up for sale or auction where all the money raised would go to the VVMC’s charity, the Children’s Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.
Now we’re trying to garner some interest from a celebrity or organization where we can make the sale or auction happen. Any help appreciated and if anyone wants to help make it happen please contact the VVMC.”
Talk about a story with a silver, make that golden lining, looks like the raffle bike was won by just the right people. If you’ve got an interest in the benefit project contact the VVMC via www.venicevintage.com.
–Paul Garson
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THE SHERIFF RETURNS FROM SWEDEN– Just back from the greek islands of Rhodes and Tilos, time for some CA and AZ soul.
Fly in the 4th stay Laguna Beach four nights and San Marcos four. Is Barry Cooney still living Escondido area?
The 7th Cal-Jam in San Berdoo no Las Vegas
Might have a couple of Indians to ride, will know next week.
Friday the 13th… I will go east, stay the night Gila Bend then to Cottonwood-Cottonville (not Spearfish..) for the run CORN FREE, yes a blink to Born Free I guess.
Plan to pay respect to you Sir the 17th, look at the mural and some evaluation of the Custom world!
Heading back the 18th in the PM
CHRIS Retired Swedish Army
SHERIFF MEDIA GROUP
S-36030 LAMMHULT
SWEDEN
[page break]
NEED A JACKET, LEATHER SHIRT OR A VEST? Check out 5-Ball Leathers and we will send you a signed K. Randall Ball motorcycle adventure book and much bling.
We have long vests, super-clean short vests and vest with too many pockets. Military discounts abound and no outsourcing staff. We’re here to answer your questions.
–Bandit
5-Ball Racing Team
A VISION FOR SAFETY? More like A Vision for Disaster— Last week, the Secretary of Transportation released updated guidelines for automakers concerning the emergence of autonomous vehicles. The new document, “A Vison for Safety” condensed the earlier guidance released last year under the Obama Administration. And many, many people are unhappy with the shortened version.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) called the guidance “a giveaway to the auto industry that will undoubtedly result in unnecessary lives lost.” One of the biggest criticisms is that manufacturers of these types of vehicles only have to VOLUNTARILY submit safety assessments to the government.
Like I said – disaster. Oh, and the cherry on top? The guidance once again fails to even MENTION motorcyclists. So we are going to need to be loud and clear about how we feel about that. Stay tuned… I’m preparing a response now that I am going to send out via an MRF Call to Action in the next few weeks.
Remember the Tesla crash last year in Florida? The one involving the automated vehicle? Well the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) finally concluded their investigation and announced their findings this week. The result? NTSB determined that driver error and an over-reliance on automated technology were the primary factors that led to the deadly crash last year with the Tesla being driven with the “Autopilot” function engaged.
Documents suggested that while the crash may not have happened if the driver of a tractor-trailer had yielded to the Tesla – and if the Tesla driver had been paying more attention to surrounding traffic – a significant contributing factor was the “operational design” of Autopilot, which allowed the driver a “prolonged disengagement” from operating the vehicle “in ways inconsistent with guidance and warnings from the manufacturer,” NTSB said.
What now? The board sent several recommendations to federal regulators and automakers, urging them to do more to data collection from automated vehicles and asking manufacturers to do more to ensure that cars with advanced automated systems aren’t being driven in conditions for which they weren’t designed.
The NTSB also called on automakers to develop technology that better senses when a driver isn’t paying attention. Though I rarely agree with the NTSB, I think they hit the nail on the head here. Pending your thoughts and the outcome of our legislative planning session at Meeting of the Minds next week, I think we should echo many of the concerns that the NTSB has raised. We all know it – drivers barely pay attention now!
Can you imagine if they think they don’t have to pay attention at all? I’ll give you one guess as to who loses that battle….
noun
1. the forms of culture, as music, drama, and literature, as selected, interpreted, and popularized by the mass media for dissemination to the widest possible audience.
QUOTES
Folk Art grew mainly from below, an autochthonous product shaped by the people to fit their own needs, even though it often took its cue from High Culture. Masscult comes from above. It is fabricated by technicians hired by businessmen.
ORIGIN
Masscult (from “mass culture”) and midcult (from “middlebrow culture”) were coined by Dwight Macdonald (1906-82) in his essay “Masscult and Midcult” (1960). Macdonald was an American journalist, social critic, and political radical. He opposed mass media because they exemplified mediocrity and their only standards were popularity.
KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES MODEL YEAR 2018 MOTORCYCLE AND WATERCRAFT LINEUP– Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. has released its fall lineup of Model Year 2018 motorcycle and watercraft products.
NEW 2018 Kawasaki KLX®250 Motorcycle
Kawasaki’s dual purpose motorcycle returns with improved performance and reliability.
The KLX®250 motorcycle is built to take riders to new places. Borrowing notes from the KX™ line and Kawasaki’s racing heritage, this 2018 street legal, dual-purpose motorcycle is designed to cut through the busy traffic of an inner city or climb up a back trail to see the city from a beautiful view. The long awaited return of one of Kawasaki’s most versatile motorcycles, the 2018 KLX250.
New Fuel Injection system
43mm 16-way adjustable front suspension
Uni-Trak 16-way adjustable rear suspension
New Digital Camo offering
Stainless-steel exhaust
Sharp, aggressive bodywork
In addition, returning for model year 2018:
KLR650
Concours14 ABS
Kawasaki Vulcan Motorcycle Family
Vulcan S / ABS
Vulcan S ABS Café
Vulcan 900 Classic
Vulcan 900 Classic LT
Vulcan 900 Custom
Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS
Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS
Z Motorcycle Family
Z900 / ABS
Z650 / ABS
Z125 PRO
Ninja Sport Motorcycle Family
Ninja 650 / ABS
Ninja 1000 ABS
Ninja Supersport Motorcycle Family
Ninja ZX™-6R / ABS
Ninja ZX™-10R / ABS
Ninja ZX™-14R ABS
Versys Motorcycle Family
Versys-X 300 / ABS
Versys 650 ABS
Versys 650 LT
Versys 1000 LT
Kawasaki Jet Ski Watercraft Model Range
Jet Ski SX-R™
Jet Ski STX-15F
Jet Ski Ultra LX
Jet Ski Ultra 310LX
Jet Ski Ultra 310R
Jet Ski Ultra 310X
Jet Ski Ultra 310X SE
WASHINGTON STATE NEWS— The AMA recognized the state of Washington for enacting the toughest distracted driving law in the country. It prohibits drivers from even holding a phone. Drivers may use a one-touch technique to answer a phone, and the phone must be connected to Bluetooth or another hands-free device.
The law, which carries a $136 fine, is part of the state’s Target Zero plan. Target Zero’s goal is to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2030.
–AMA
I don’t like Zero plans. It causes the loss of freedoms and even creates bans. Life contains risk. I don’t want folks to die, but I certainly don’t want them to live surrounded by restrictions.
–Bandit
Those are the qualities that the recipient of Trailblazers highest honor, the Dick Hammer award, must possess. TOM WHITE has that in spades. We are looking forward to presenting him with this recognition on April 7, 2018. Congratulations Tom
A TOAST TO SKIP AT BANQUET
The wine labels, the toast and a tribute video, produced by Peter Starr, will be in honor of Skip Van Leeuwen in 2018. Skip was larger than life and truly is missed.
AFT FINAL AT PERRIS AUTO SPEEDWAY OCTOBER 7, 2017
SAMMY TANNER AND RONNIE JONES CO-GRAND MARSHALS
The AFT finals will take place at the 104th Annual Southern California Fair on Saturday, October 7th. Sammy Tanner and Ronnie Jones will serve as co-Grand Marshal’s in a salute to Ascot. Sammy was the winner of the first National race at Ascot and Ronnie won the final race there in 1990.
SKIP VAN LEEUWEN TO BE HONORED AT AFT FINAL
The legendary racer’s memory will be honored. It is hard to speak of Ascot without mentioning Skip.
FREE MOTORCYCLE PARKING TICKETS INFO
Following the tradition at Ascot, motorcycles will park free at the fairgrounds.
Tickets are $20.00 for reserved seats which includes a $10.00 ticket to the fair. General admission tickets are $5.00 plus $10.00 fair admission. You can order on line 24/7 at http:/www.socalfair.com or purchase on race day. The track opens at 11:00am and open practice begins around 1:00pm. Qualifying will be at 5:00 and the first race will roll off the line at 7:00pm. 18700 Lake Perris Dr (951) 657 4221 info@socalfair.com
ENJOY THE FAIR
Your ticket includes the fair so jump on those carnival rides, eat some great fair food, pet the livestock, play midway games, listen to music browse the exhibitions and watch the pig races. Whatever your fancy. Fair grounds open from 11am to 11pm.
HOOLIGAN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS AT PERRIS AUTO SPEEDWAY
Another reason to head to Perris on October 7th is the Hooligans will have their final race of the series at the AFT Finals. The winner of the series wins a FTR 750 Factory Indian Scout. GNC race ready. www.rolandsands.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vol5bmSxFoE
ASCOT LEGENDS WANTED
Chris Agajanian is looking for Ascot Racers to sign autographs at the AFT Finals. Those that have signed up are: Everett Brashear, John Wincewicz, Don Emde, Gene Romero, Sonny Nutter, Ronnie Jones, Sammy Tanner, Tom White, Tom Horton, Eddie Wirth, Danny Perkins, Dennis Kanegae, Bryon Farnsworth and Jody Nicholas. If you would like to join them please contact Chris at chris@ascotmotorsports.com (310) 560 9898. Participants will receive 2 reserved seat tickets.
ASCOT RACE BIKES WANTED
In conjunction with Chris Agajanian and his Ascot Race Bike Display at the October 7th National, the Basile Family will sponsor an award in Don Basile’s memory for the “Oldest Ascot Race Bike” on display that night. The winner will receive a beautiful polished Rosewood & Brass plaque and $100. Cash. Bike owners will be on their “honor” as to when their bike raced at Ascot, and it must be a real Ascot raced bike, no replicas. Contact Chris at the number above and those that display bikes will also receive 2 free tickets.
SCFTA ROUND 8 AT PERRIS RACEWAY ON FRIDAY BEFORE AFT FINAL—PRO PURSE
Perris Raceway will host Round 8 and PRO EVENTS on Friday, October 6th, the night before the AFT Final. No camping is allowed, BUT there is overnight parking allowed on Friday night. Gates open at 12:30, practice at 3:30 and heat races start at 5PM. 1205 Burton Road Perris (951) 377 2208 www.scftaracing.com
NEVER TOO OLD TO RIDE A BIKE!!!
Sent by Bob Bryson
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/2017/september/100-year-old-driving-school/
23RD ANNUAL GALA AT THE PETERSEN
This will be a swanky affair, hosted by James Corden., with special guest, Lord March. The event on Saturday, October 14th will have a romantic and glamorous theme spot lighting 1948 to 1966. You still have to purchase tickets, rent a tux and hire a limo. Contact the Petersen Automotive Museum. (323) 930 2277, www.petersen.org 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
MIKE PATRICK R.I.P.
Eric Bergquist wrote that he just found out one of the greatest desert Racers ever, and a dear friend of his Dad. “The Bell Town Boomer”, Mike Patrick, passed away last night. About 2 weeks after he lost his son, Donnie, to brain cancer….very sad… May God Bless Mike Patrick. (Thanks Eric) Mike had a stellar career in the desert, then a Yamaha Dealership, owner of Smog Stop in Corona and he worked his and others gold mines in Alaska for many years. Condolences to family and friends . Mike and Donnie are at peace. God Speed
BARRY BOONE R.I.P.
Barry Boon was an acclaimed race announcer, motorcyclist and definitely a motorcycle racing enthusiast. He had a long career which included his popular radio show Talking Motorcycles. Barry was 62.
LAKE ELSINORE GRAND PRIX RETURNS TO THE STREETS
From Friday, November 10th to Sunday, November 11 the town of Lake Elsinore will host the legendary Grand Prix. The approximately 7 mile course winds through city streets, hillsides and canyons. The Mushman 100, honoring Steve McQueen, will be the last race on Saturday, November 11th. The start, except for the Mushman 100 will be at 420 E. Lakeshore Dr. elsinoregrandprix.com or lake-elsinore.org.
LOOKING FOR UNCLE JACK
Dan Kresila is trying to find his uncle, Jack Cotrell. Jack was a flat track racer around 1950 to 1959. He lived in San Diego. Any information would be greatly appreciated. kresila@yahoo.com
MALCOLM SMITH ADVENTURE RIDES
Malcolm and his son, Alexander, are planning their 23rd annual Epic Bike Adventure of Baja. Tip to tip. If you are more into side by side adventure, they have one planned for April 7-14, 2018. www.malcolmsmithadventures.com
DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN’S RIDE
This annual fundraiser for prostate cancer and mental health takes place on Sunday, Sept. 24. Look it up on line. You will be impressed. A fun ride for the right reasons. https://www.gentlemansride.com
2017 AMA HALL OF FAME INDUCTION
Friday, September 22 the 2017 inductions into the AMA Hall of Fame will take place in Columbus, Ohio. The inductees are FMF Racing founder, Donnie Emler Sr.c off-road champion Eddie Lojak Sr., world motocross champion and Road 2 Recovery founder Bob Moore and racer, team owner and publisher John Ulrich. Congratulations to them and especially to inductee and Trailblazer Board member, racer and filmmaker Peter Starr.
SWANTZ AT DAYTONA AND HANNAH AT UNADILLA
Larry Lawrence has two good articles in Cycle News. In issue 36 a story titled “Unfinished Business”. is about Kevin Swantz winning Daytona. In issue 37 he wrote about Bob Hannah winning a muddy Motocross des Nations in 1987. As usual, Larry has done his homework.
MOTOAMERICA TO RESTRUCTURE ITS CLASSES
They are adding three new classes, Stock 1000, Twins.Junior Cup will take the place of the KTM RC Cup. Superstock 1000 and Superstock 600 have been dropped. Motul Superbike class will be Superbikes only, with some rule changing and class blending. To get more details check out the latest Cycle News online for free at www.cyclenews.com.
50 YEARS AGO IN CYCLE NEWS
Gary Conrad on cover, on his 360cc Greeves, for winning the Cal State Championship Hare & Hound. Dan Haaby won 8 mile Ascot National. Dan’s 1st national win of his career and it made him the only rider to ever win every major title offered at Ascot. Sacramento Mile on cover. At the finish line it was George Roeder, Freddie Nix and Dick Mann. Gary Conrad won D-37 Hare Scrambles Championship
40 YEARS AGO
Sue Fish on the cover. Mike Kidd won Middletown half mile, NY. Hank and Gary Scott got 2nd & 3rd. Dick Burleson won his 4th National title. controversy in MX was AMA was considering going from three championships to a one championship system.Jay Springsteen on cover. Skip Aksland won the F750 round at Laguna Seca. Mitch Payton won the C-class at Red Mountain. Roger DeCoster 32 birthday win at the 500 Swiss MX Grand Prix
30 YEARS AGO
Tested YZ motocrosser bikes. Bubba Shobert won the Springfield Mile on factory Honda. Randy Mamola and Eddie Lawson 1 and 2 at San Marino Road Race GP. Kevin Hines won Pine Pen National Enduro in Missouri by one point. Motocross des Nations winners Rick Johnson, Bob Hannah and Jeff Ward on cover after winning Unadilla. Bubba Shobert earned 1987 GNC Championship at the Syracuse Mile without starting his bike. Race cancelled because of rain.
INDUSTRY SPEEDWAY
Last race of the season is on Saturday, October 14th. It is the Under 21 National Championship & Sidecar Championship.
16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry
Kelly (626) 393 3876, kelly@industryracing.com
FAST FRIDAYS
One more race and it will be on Saturday, October 7. The USA Vs the WORLD (season final) www.fastfridays.com (530) 878-RACE (7223)
COSTA MESA SPEEDWAY
Speedway racing on Saturday, September 23rd
49th U.S. National Speedway Championship on Saturday, September 30th
Harley Night Finals/ Sidecar National, Saturday, October 7th
(949) 492 9933 costamesaspeedway.net
2018 DAYTONA TT
The 2018 American Flat Track season will start Round 1 on March 15 under the lights inside the big track at Daytona. Plan your vacation now.
FLAT TRACK RACING AT VENTURA
Flat Track, Speedway and Quads put on a great show at Ventura. The next race is Saturday, September 30th. Gates open at 3pm, racing at 5:30pm (805) 985 5433 (805) 648 7223 venturaraceway.com
EDDIE MULDERS WEST COAST DIRT TRACK SERIES
The next WCDTS race at Willow Springs on the 3/8 mile is September 30th and October 1st. eddiemulderswcdts.com
CLASSIC FLAT TRACK DAY AT WILLOW SPRINGS
Coming up this week end is Classic Flat Track on Saturday, September 23rd at Willow Springs Raceway in Rosamond. Put on by Ramming Speed. $100. From noon to 5pm . After party & mini bike scrambles start at 5. Includes BBQ+Suds+camping$25 per rider, $10. Per spectator. www.bradywalker.com info@bradywalker.com (310) 980 7129
SO CAL NORTON RIDE
On Sunday, October 15 the So Cal Norton group is going to enjoy the fall foliage and cooler weather on a one day ride from Old Town Temecula to Julian. No doubt apple pie is on the menu. Meet at the Swing Inn Café, 28676 Old Town Front Street in Temecula. Ride departs at 9am sharp. http://socalnorton.com/
LODI RACES
Round 14 on Saturday, September 23
Round 15 on Saturday, October 7
Round 16 on Saturday, October 21
Round 17 on Sunday, October 22
GLEN HELEN CALENDAR
Saturday, September 23rd REM MX / MX Practice
Sunday, September 24th SRA GP
Saturday, September 30th REM MX / MX Practice / Lucas Oil Regional Off-Road
Sunday, October 1 Yamaha Fall Series #3/ w/SoCalOTMX
Saturday, October 7 SoCal OTMX International / REM MX
Sunday October 8
SoCal OTMX International
Saturday, October 14th John Burr Cycles 24 Hr Endurance
Sunday, October 15th John Burr Cycles 24 Hr. Endurance
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I love this article. As I have spent more time in motels, the notion of camping out in a comfortable way is appealing. Really well thought out and tested info here. Makes me want to ditch the bagger and fire up my Shovel Chopper……….
–Mike Stevenson
North Hills, CA
BIKERNET FOR 2018– 22 years of Custom Culture expertise Bikernet.com
This is a fascinating and challenging year. There is an adventure at every turn.
New riders are coming online daily. Motorcycles have never been more popular. Harley-Davidson is shaking things up with an expanded lineup. Polaris Indian has made record market gains in North America. Enfield is ruling the roost globally with royal production and sales figures. Triumph wants a piece of the mid-range segment pie. Custom culture has spread from motorcycles and trikes to customized merchandise and accessories. There are a dozen major trike brands promoted by corporations globally. Touring has never been easier and more fun with technology enabling an average Joe to go cross-country on a whim.
On the freedom front, Bikernet.com continues to fight for motorcycling freedoms, supporting the state rights groups and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF). We publish the National Coalition of Motorcyclists legislative news and news from the Confederation of Clubs every month to highlight our motorcycling spirit. These are the guys with their boots on the ground and their asses in the saddles.
SEMA and the MRF are very close to pushing the RPM act through Congress, which will protect performance parts for cars and motorcycles. Bikernet.com coverage includes all such performance products that boost the industry and the custom culture.
We have our ear to the ground. We listen to our expressive audience. We work with some of the social media giants in our industry, including Chris Callen, the publisher of Cycle Source to spread the good word about Bikernet.com and our sponsors. We publish a synopsis of our news columns in Cycle Source magazine monthly.
Bikernet staff members are very active in the industry in the U.S. and overseas. At Bikernet.com, we live by the words we preach. Our staff members are not armchair critics. We have the miles on our wheels, dirt on our shoes, and grease on our knuckles in our commitment to bring the motorcycling world to our fans. We are building new bikes, two Panheads for the street, helping a youngster fix his wrecked Dyna and building two Bonneville bikes, one with the team at Paughco and one with the help of Lee Clemens at Departure Bike Works in Richmond, Virginia. Plus, writer road testing agent, Dr. Feng, wants to build a flat-tracking Sportster.
We are constantly working with builders and companies all over the world to support their efforts, and share tech knowledge with our readers. We make the tech accessible to every man and woman with a will and a dream, and we archive material forever.
Our ability to support our sponsors has expanded from one site to three sites and a news blog, plus our e-mail system reaching 30,000 readers twice a week. A million eyeballs watch us and we have 22 years of content database, knowledge and features unmatched in our industry or anywhere on the World Wide Web.
To further expand our enthusiasm with the netizens, we have entered into a contract to advertise Bikernet.com to the Google and Facebook world. We advertise in Cycle Source and help sponsor events all over the globe. We are actively working on a television and movie deal.
Consider Bikernet.com for your 2018 advertising budget. Partner with us to scale new heights and reach new markets. There is no better deal or service available.
All the best for 2018,
–Keith R. Ball
Managing Director at 5-Ball Inc.
With edits by Ujjwal Dey, Bikernet Trikes
Bruce Snyder, Bikernet Copy Editor
Our brands:
Bikernet.com / Bikernetblog.com / BikernetTrikes.com / BikernetBaggers.com
5-Ball Racing
Is Car Ownership Becoming Obsolete? How the Membership Economy Is Disrupting Big Auto (and Pretty Much Every Other Industry Too!)–
Industries everywhere are being shaken up by the rise of the Membership Economy.
The next industry to be affected? Big Auto. Business consultant and strategy expert, Robbie Kellman Baxter, weighs in on how the automotive industry will be impacted as more and more buyers choose an access model over ownership.
Right now the auto industry is in the throes of upheaval. Airport parking lots sit empty while ride sharing app pickup zones are packed. Millennials aren’t buying cars. Shockingly, the value of cab medallions in NYC is plummeting, recently selling for less than $300K versus well over $1 million per medallion just a few years ago. Plus, ride sharing apps and car subscription brands also allow you to access transportation whenever you need it.
Sure, there are still plenty of consumers who prefer to own their own cars, but Membership Economy expert Robbie Kellman Baxter says companies like Uber and Zipcar signal a much bigger disruption looming for the auto industry.
“People who ten years ago couldn’t imagine not owning a car now find that today it’s a very viable option,” says Baxter, author of The Membership Economy: Find Your Superusers, Master the Forever Transaction, and Build Recurring Revenue (McGraw-Hill Education, ISBN: 978-0-071-83932-7, $28.00, www.membershipeconomy.com).
“The way consumers view car ownership is shifting dramatically. Access is becoming the hot issue. If Big Auto fails to adapt to the new ways consumers think about car ownership, they could be faced with a huge crisis very soon.”
For more information, visit www.peninsulastrategies.com.
Less traffic, more room for motorcycles.–Bandit
BIKER MOVIE PREMIER Sold out!–
Everyone loved the movie, laughing, clapping, cheering and even some water sad eyes.
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The biggest bike night at the Iron Horse, Milwaukee Hotel for this year. Watch for the movie in theaters near you.
–Charlie Brechtal
Producer
Director
Editor
Crime boss
This reminds me of the old days when businesses paid the mob and other organizations for protection.
The Government went after these organizations and now they want to pay off gangs not to cause trouble.
What happened to shutting them down?
Now we all Realize That The Biggest Gang In The Country is The Government.
Are they paying off select groups for special reasons??????
Is this a front and a way to funnel money to groups that will be used to do dirty work for the government???
Hey just a lot of questions why this is happening!
Since many motorcycle clubs have been Called Gangs by the Government does this mean they will also be able to get some of this money???????????
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/09/01/sacramento-plans-to-pay-gang-members-1-5m-to-keep-peace.html
http://joeforamerica.com/2017/09/california-pay-gang-members/
http://canadafreepress.com/article/sacramento-appeasers-pay-gang-members-to-not-kill-people
–Rogue
Senior Chief Editor
Bikernet Baggers
UNCLE MONKEY ON PLANNING– For those that only attend events and have never been on the planning side it can be surprising how much work goes into it. Even small, simple appearing events take a huge amount of planning. Finding a venue, finding staff, finding the necessary products all take time and months of notice. If you’ve ever been married you have some insight from planning a wedding.
Details don’t automatically take care of themselves and there always seems to be another road block or insurmountable obstacle. The only way to success is by leaning on those around you. Only with everyone working towards a common goal can the most complex event seem to flow smoothly.
The truth is it is much more like a duck on a pond or an iceberg in the ocean. What is going on under sight is massive. For every pretty barmaid opening beers there are truck drivers rolling in the middle of the night, bar hands stocking coolers, counters checking the till tapes, monitoring what is going into the bar and what is going out.
For every singer belting out your favorite song there are roadies setting up early, tearing down late after the party. Sound guys and lighting grips working with the video guys to keep the show on the screens. Guitar techs and drum techs keeping mic stands standing and sticks in the sleeve.
Before they even hit the stage people are working with the road managers and agents working out who will be where, what they want, what they need. There are promotion and advertising and constant conversations with venders.
So next time you’re at an event take a moment to thank a bouncer, thank the guy cleaning the toilets, thank all the people that are working to make sure that the event is the greatest time of your life.
-bad Uncle Monkey
BULLY BULLSHIT—The AMA also recognized 50 bikers who escorted an 11-year-old to his first day at school to prevent bullies from giving him shit about being fat and kicking him. His mom said he dreaded his first day at school, but the bikers made his day.
–AMA
TATTOO OF THE WEEK BY FRANK BALL JR.– This tattoo was inked on my good friend Josh, one of my few mentors in life currently, as of today.
We did this all-seeing eye at my Los Angeles location Art and Soul Tattoo on S. Robertson Blvd. Josh is a business owner who decided after many years of building career and his brand that he was now ready and established enough to make the big step and cross over into the taboo world of having a hand tattoo.
He chose the all-seeing eye for the symbolism of being able to see the inner truth that sometimes lies hidden the bullshit. I have continued to add onto Josh’s amazing collection over the past year. It’s was a privilege and an honor to be able to do the tattoo beneath The Godfather of fine line black-n-grey artist Freddy Negrete portrait he got a few moths back. Feelin’ humbled and honored by the trust he had in me to give me this prime real estate we drew up the tattoo and went for it full force.
–Frank Ball
Bandit’s Grandson
RIDE THE GENTLEMEN’S RIDE IN INDIA– Ride with Ujjwal Dey and other distinguished gentlemen and/or help raise awareness about men’s mental health.
Follow this link
https://www.gentlemansride.com/rider/UjjwalDey187996
–Ujjwal Dey
Editor www.BikernetTrikes.com
wayfarer@bikernet.com
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–
#10550
$10,995 miles!
This Vintage styled two-tone Pearl White and Blue Road King Classic with nostalgic Harley-Davidson emblems and Burgundy/Gold pinstripes is loaded with upgrades! Starting with the Harley-Davidson Rinehart true-dual exhaust, matching lower fairings and Mustang seat to the Carlini Ape hanger handlebars this bike is loaded with style and class!
This Road King is everything you need for the commute to work, cruise up the coast or road trip to Sturgis!!!
Featuring the 96-inch Harley-Davidson Twin Cam motor and 6-speed transmission, Electronic Sequential Port fuel injection, nostalgic two-tone paint set with nostalgic tank emblems and custom painted saddlebags this futuristic bike looks like something from the past!
All this and it still gets an estimated 45 mpg on the highway!
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT INCLUDE:
Rinehart True-Dual exhaust system, Vance Hines fuel pack, Wide White Wall tires (rear brand new) rear passenger floor boards, Mustang seat with matching rider backrest, RSD Rowland Sands Desighn 5-spoke chrome high flow air cleaner, 16-inch chrome Carlini ape hanger handlebars with Stainless Steel throttle cables and brake lines, matching lower leg fairings, chrome highway bar with matching highway pegs, chrome forks, polished front brake rotors, H.S. air horn, custom flamed saddlebags, chrome luggage rack, headlight visors, spotlight kit, Smart Security alarm system with FOB and much more!!!!
Here’s the best part. It’s only $10,995!
Fill out a Lifestyle Cycles online credit app today and be riding it this weekend!
EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!
ONLY AT LIFESTYLE CYCLES IN ANAHEIM OR CALL US AT 714-490-0155
KEEPING THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN–
Wise, successful business leaders in TED Talks and Forbes Magazine say, take the Profession in which you enjoy doing your work a lot.
If People would have taken this wisdom seriously, Half of the World would have been PORNSTARS!
–from the Wayfarer
LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST ACTION– Haven’t Registered for Las Vegas BikeFest Yet?
15 Reasons Why You Need To Register NOW!
1. Chance to win one of three brand new motorcycles*
2. $5,000 in Shopping Spree Giveaways*
3. FREE 805 Beer or Shot of Tito’s Vodka at nightly parties**
4. Five Bike Shows to enter and check out
5. FREE Tuff-N-Uff Amateur MMA Fight on Friday Night
6. Uncle Kracker performing live on Saturday Night
7. FREE Shuttle from Golden Nugget to Rally West and Rally Central!**
6. Live entertainment, all day and night on two stages at Rally Central!
7. Lots of FREE Bike Parking with easy access
8. More vendors, some of them right on Fremont Street!
9. More Food! – More Variety
10. Las Vegas Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
11. Rally West – A new vendor area, located on 3rd St. promenade
12. More activities – more fun contests for you to watch and participate in at Rally Central
13. “Run To Pioneer – Party & Poker Run”
14. More seating and cool zones to take a break and enjoy the atmosphere and the music
15. Riders from all over the world, coming to share their experiences and love for motorcycles
REGISTER NOW
*Must be registered and present to win. **Must be registered.
BIKERNET WORLD NEWS ROUND-UP–
Round-up of interesting News from around the world, thanks to: Motorcycle News, CBS, Rolling Stone, KMSP-TV, Toronto Star.
Bad Boys of Canada: OPP charge 10 men with motorcycle stunt driving
On Sept. 20, 2017 Ontario Provincial Police have charged 10 men after a group of motorcyclists drove aggressively on major highways in the GTA over the Civic Holiday weekend. Investigation followed an incident on the Civic Holiday weekend in which dozens of motorcycles were spotted travelling in a group and driving aggressively.
Ten men face a total of 48 charges after investigators saw videos and bragging on social media about motorcycle stunt driving on GTA highways, Ontario Provincial Police say.
“We thank the participants for providing us with this evidence,” Supt. Alison Jevons told a news conference in Vaughan on Wednesday. Her remarks came at the end of Project Saddle, a three-month probe of stunt riding and racing on major roadways including Hwy. 401, Hwy. 403 and the Don Valley Parkway.
OPP ask public’s help to identify motorcycle mob driving dangerously on major highways.
“The danger these riders presented to themselves and to the unsuspecting drivers they distracted, cut off, or totally stopped in live lanes is beyond belief,” Jevons said. “These stunts that self-servingly fuel their egos needed to be stopped before anyone was killed or maimed.”
The 10 bikers charged are all male and range in ages from 21 to 48. None were members of outlaw motorcycle clubs like the Hells Angels, but the motorcycle stunt mobs were definitely organized, Det. Insp. Scott Naylor said.
Motorcycle mobs have refused to stop for police and have swarmed police officers in a threatening manner on several occasions, police said. Police displayed five seized motorcycles at the news conference, including one with the lettering “Aggressive By Nature.”
Some of the motorcycles on display had stickers over license plates, while others had no licence plates at all. Charges laid include dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, conspiracy to commit the indictable offense of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, mischief and flight while pursued by a police officer.
Ana Carrasco Became the First Female Motorcycle Champion–
She became a world champion on Sunday afternoon at World SBK, but Carrasco hopes this is just the beginning of women taking home titles.
Ana Carrasco of Spain won by just one-tenth of one second, but it was enough for Ana Carrasco to make worldwide history on Sunday.
The 20-year old became the first female motorcyclist to win a world championship in Portimao, Portugal. Carrasco, from Spain competed in a lower-tier series and was riding a Kawaski motorcycle. She’s been racing professionally since 2013, when she was 16 years old, but left her first circuit, Moto3, after a couple years of sub-par finishes. On the new circuit, she had yet to finish better than seventh in any race, before coming in first on Sunday.
“I am very happy about this result,” Carrasco told World SBK. “… When I first came to the world stage at 16, it was a bit weird for everyone. But it’s been four years now and they’ve all got used to it, so to speak.”
There’s another woman in Carassco’s circuit, though she has yet to finish higher than 19th place. “Women will never be a majority, (in motor sports) this is clear,” Carrasco said. “I think the number of women will increase, but in the end in the world championships there is a great level, which makes it complicated.”
Michigan State Police trooper seriously injured in motorcycle crash–
Michigan State Police Trooper Timothy O’Neill, died in the line of duty on Wednesday, Sept. 20. Michigan State Police troopers gathered outside of Spectrum Health’s Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, where a state trooper died after being involved in a motorcycle crash on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2017.
Emergency crews were dispatched around 7:50 a.m. to the motorcycle crash in the area of Wolverine Boulevard NE and Belding Road NE, police said. The crash involved a motorcycle and a GMC vehicle, according to a Kent County dispatcher. No further information about the injured motorcyclist was available. Authorities on scene have closed the intersection and multiple lanes in the area while investigating the crash.
Work begins on new motorsport complex in Northern Ireland–
Preparatory work has begun on a new international motorsports venue in Northern Ireland which aims to secure series like the MCE British Superbike Championship in coming years. The £30 million development at Lake Torrent will see 163 acres of former clay pits in Coalisland, County Tyrone transformed into a ‘world class’ motorsport facility with the first phase of the project expected to be finished as early as 2019.
At this stage plans for that first stage include the circuit, pits, medical centre, restaurant, hospitality suites, six business unites and a crèche as well as a new public ring road to bypass the town and facilitate easy access in and out. Planning permission was granted on 5th September this year and spades the ground for the first time during a media event today as preparatory ground-works begin.
“This is an historic day for the town of Coalisland, the county of Tyrone and for the whole of Northern Ireland as we finally start preparatory work on Lake Torrent,” said David Henderson, the man behind the project. “Our vision is to regenerate Coalisland and the surrounding areas through the creation of an internationally recognised motorsport arena which will become a venue for regional, national and international competitions, aiming ultimately to host events like Superbikes and Saloon Car Championships, attracting up to 30,000 spectators per event.”
British motorsport design firm Driven International have been appointed to design the course, which is set to be a 2.2mile undulating track with 12 turns and a mix of technical and high speed sections.
101 years old and still riding every day!–
Have you ever got stuck behind an older driver that quite possibly should no longer be on the road? The 100-Year-Old Driving School takes viewers on a journey with older drivers who are assessed by Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) instructors, and some of the habits are just terrifying.
Jock on the other hand, gives a quite unique view of his riding. With an incredible 90 years of riding experience under his belt, he’s no stranger to motorcycles, but age can slow down reaction times and modern road and traffic conditions are drastically different to what would have been the norm in the first half of the 20th century.
Jock is the 101 year old who still rides his scooter every day.
His assessor, Andrew Hodson – who at 28 is only just over a quarter of Jock’s age – wasn’t sure what to expect, saying: “It’s a new experience for myself, I’ve not tested or instructed anyone with an age in three figures before.”
The resulting ride is admirable, proving that there’s still plenty of life in Jock yet. For a chap of 101 years, he’s surprisingly spritely! It has to be wondered if his years on two wheels have kept him young. His riding is still okay, and Jock passed his assessment with just a few things to work on, such as his head-on approach to speed bumps and forgetting to turn his indicators off. But still, what a legend!
There are more than 200 drivers over the age of 100 still on the roads in the UK. Over the age of 70, motorists must re-apply for a driving licence through the post, but they’re not automatically re-tested. The 100 Year Old Driving School is a three-part series on ITV.
Panda on motorcycle draws scolding from Minnesota State Patrol–
The Minnesota State Patrol is concerned with multiple reports of a person riding a motorcycle with a panda costume in an apparent attempt to make his riding videos “go viral.”
Earlier this summer, a concerned driver called 911 to report this rider on Highway 101. The caller was concerned with the rider’s vision being obstructed and that the rider was weaving through traffic and riding no-handed. The motorcycle exited the highway before a trooper could locate it.
Then dispatchers found the same panda-costumed rider on traffic cameras on Interstate 394. Troopers were able to pull over the rider, who said he wanted his riding videos to go “viral.” The driver was cited for reckless driving and the panda head was confiscated.
Silicon Valley CEO Says, Consider Taking A Flying Motorcycle–
It may look like something straight out of Star Wars, but flying motorcycles are almost here. They could be ready to hit the sky in just a few short years.
“Three years from now flying cars will be very hot,” said Kitty Hawk CEO Sebastian Thrun.
It seems like the stuff of science fiction, but Thrun — engineer, entrepreneur and one-time driving force behind Google’s autonomous car program — says flying vehicles are just a few years, not decades away.
“We should not be getting stuck in the Lincoln Tunnel or the Bay Bridge anymore,” said Thrun. “You should just be able to go on your flying motorcycle and go wherever you want to go. That is actually becoming reality now.”
Thrun made that headline-grabbing claim during his talk on Day 2 of the Tech Crunch conference in San Francisco. “We actually believe we’ll have our first product ready in February of next year. And it’s more of like a flying motorcycle than a flying car,” Thrun said. It looks kind of like an airborne jet ski. A very rough prototype was unveiled in April.
Thrun says the technology could someday revolutionize transportation as the innovations behind self-driving cars and drones merge. “It’s an electric aircraft,” Thrun said. “And everything that’s hard about flying is done by the computer — all the wind computation stuff. And I get a joy stick interface that’s just like a video game. And it’s just as much fun as a video game, but it’s real.”
If two or three years seems likely an overly optimistic estimate about when flying vehicles might be on the market, Thrun says much like self-driving cars, technology will outpace regulations, leaving the rule makers struggling to catch up.
You don’t need a pilot’s license and you’ll learn to fly it in minutes. The go-to-market Flyer will feature a brand new design. Flyer operates under the FAR 103 Ultralight Category of US FAA regulations. That means you won’t need a pilot’s license to ride, and you’ll be able to fly over wide open areas for recreation.
SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT. https://kittyhawk.aero/
–from Ujjwal Dey
Supreme Editor
Bikernet Trikes
How about a flying chopper? I like it. –Bandit
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I LOVE IT— The human spirit, the creativity against the control freaks. Lots of things are changing, but we keep building choppers, bobbers and racers.
I can’t wait to pick up my engine at Bennett’s next week and get my paint. I’m going to build a set of pipes using Paughco pipes. The mural is almost completed. Life is amazing.
Every day is jammed with progress. Whatta blast and I avoid freeways.
Ride free forever,
–Bandit
