Hey,
The way ahead includes words like relative, technology, Instagram, robots, space, clean air, energy, fossil fuels and computers. Hell, I almost bought a Samsung watch phone yesterday. I get tired of losing my cell phone or trying to find a pocket for it.
My point is we’re being pushed in many directions and some are for more human benefit, control, money, the planet, you name it, but everything is happening fast, so it makes us shift gears and attempt to keep up. But like the Monk says from the Gray Mountain. Don’t sweat a thing.
Is keeping up good or bad, necessary or evil, competitive or destructive? We will see, very soon… As a brother once told me: Time will tell and shit will smell.
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.
AEROMACH RELEASES INDIAN SCOUT DEBRIS SHIELD– Aeromach USA, LLC, a leading motorcycle parts manufacturer located in Charlotte, N.C., is now shipping its Debris Shield for 2015 and newer Indian Scout motorcycles.
The Debris Shield is laser cut and formed from 1/8-inch thick 5052 grade aluminum plate. The shield is designed to protect the engine oil cooler and oil filter from road debris and damage.
“We got a request from a Scout rider for the shield when his oil cooler was punctured and coolant was leaking out of the bike, making for a dangerous and potentially very expensive situation,” explained Paul Aiken, president of Aeromach.
The item number is CI-1900. Retail price is $45.99 and it can be ordered at many Indian Motorcycle dealers, online at www.ChromeIndian.com, or by calling 800-990-9392.
Aeromach USA LLC
–Paul E. Aiken, 800-990-9392
paul@aeromach.net
Highway Hawk is a product of Motolux
SUNDAY POST STAFF COMMENT– We’re living through strange times. Give me your thoughts on the following. Here’s what the Wayfarer said, “Leave Trump alone. Forget climate change. Just focus on cool builds and new technology. Get the politics out of the coverage on the website. It is like one drop of bacteria that makes the whole bucket of water un-digestable.” –The Wayfarer
He can be a tad harsh, but I got it. Then I received the Bill Bish monthly legislative report. Could we go a month and not fight for freedom and just pretend we live in Disneyland. It’s tough to do, although I suppose some magazines do it. Let me know your thoughts, good or bad.
As motorcyclist we have fought long and hard for our rights and against bad laws and we must continue. That is politics and our readers want that.
I will use Dee’s last article Bikers For Trump 2020 as an example. As of today it has 1,400 Likes. Likes Not Just the amount of people who have visited and or read the article. I do not think there has ever been an article on the site with that much traffic. That is what the readers want.
Can you afford to lose that much traffic I think not. Motorcyclist and other people are tired of what has been going on in government and want changes. When we post an article about what people are working on and what progress is being made, we are doing our job of keeping them informed.
Yes it may be tough and some may offend some, but we will never make all the people happy all the time.
The fact is that we continue what we started many years ago with Easyriders. That is why people come to Bikernet. I think we are Better than many magazines and that is why we continue to get bigger and better than them.
–Rogue
All-Powerful Supreme Commander Editor
Bikernet Baggers
DESPITE WEATHER, 25th anniversary of Biketoberfest deemed successful–
When Santa Claus idled along Main Street on Sunday in a motorcycle customized with reindeer and a sleigh, Biketoberfest fan Frank Meurch offered grudging approval from his perch in front of Froggy’s Saloon.
“It’s too early for Christmas, but that’s really cool,” said Meurch, a Merritt Island resident who has attended Bike Week and Biketoberfest events for nearly 30 years.
“This is my vacation,” Meurch said. “This is what I do.”
Despite cloudy skies and rain sprinkles, there were still prime opportunities for people-watching and motorcycle envy on Sunday among the hundreds of thousands of bikers preparing to head home on the official closing day of the 25th “Chrome” anniversary edition of Biketoberfest.
You have more to see now,” Meurch said of the array of imaginative custom motorcycles that included Santa’s sleigh. “Things you just don’t expect, now you almost come to expect. A lot of these people create some pretty cool things.”
Meurch and his wife, Nancy, also praised the expansion of some favorite Main Street watering holes that they have noticed over the years.
“All of the outside venues have expanded,” Nancy said. “It keeps growing.”
It’s the second year in a row that Biketoberfest has unfolded in the wake of a hurricane, although Hurricane Irma’s impact on Biketoberfest wasn’t as severe as Hurricane Matthew in 2016, according to many area businesses.
“Our staff in the visitor welcome tent is telling me that it’s been busy throughout the event, with guests from all over the world,” Baker said by email. “I expect to know more by the end of the week regarding how local businesses did and what new concepts we might want to try next time.”
Janet Kersey, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, also was mingling with bikers this week at the event she helped originate in the early 1990s.
“It certainly looked better than last year,” Kersey said by email. “I believe the crowds were strong, with the main venues doing well. I saw a lot of social media posts and was delighted to hear the feedback. Many times you also heard of multiple return visitors, and what appears to be an uptick among younger riders and fans.”
Not all the reviews were as positive.
At Daytona Bikers Wear, a temporary shop on Main Street selling T-shirts, helmets, leather jackets and bags during the event, business was “a little under” expectations, said Junaid Tahir, assistant manager.
“The rain definitely slowed it down a little,” Tahir said.
Across the street, the cloudy day made it tougher to sell sunglasses at the tent operated by Inferno USA Eyewear, where business was off 80 percent compared with previous events, according to vendor Charles Stockton.
“This is one of the slowest Biketoberfests I have seen since I’ve been doing this, about 15 years,” Stockton said. “The crowd was down and people weren’t buying stuff. I don’t know if it’s because of the hurricane or what, because out at Destination Daytona (in Ormond Beach) we did really well.”
In Riverfront Park, along Beach Street, this year’s rally was an improvement over the 2016 edition that unfolded against a backdrop of debris and street closures caused by Hurricane Matthew, said Brian Holt, president of Biker Threads, the company that rents the park for vendors during the event.
“I would say this year was slightly better than last year,” Holt said. “I’m sure the hurricane affected a lot of people that would have come up for the rally from South Florida. All in all, we were very pleased to be able to have a rally, number one, under the circumstances, and I would say the vendors were pleased with the attendance.”
On Sunday, Miami resident Charley Belzaguy and a friend left South Florida at 5 a.m. to spend the afternoon watching motorcycles on Main Street from an outdoor table at the Lucky Rooster. Although both men are bikers, they made this year’s marathon day-trip by car, Belzaguy said.
“We just came to hang out for the day,” Belzaguy said. “Get out of the house; do something different. We’ve been coming to Bike Week for years, so we just wanted to be out here to watch the people and look at the bikes.”
On Main Street, meanwhile, the vibe remained festive on Sunday, despite the rain.
“We’re going to leave sometime tomorrow,” said Frank Meurch, the Merritt Island biker. “By then, the crowds will all be gone, so it’s kind of bittersweet. Back to reality.”
— http://www.news-journalonline.com/news
–from Rogue
I’M AWARDING $70,000 in CHICAGO
The J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show is stopping at 7 cities across the USA. In Chicago, I will be awarding $70,000 in cash and prizes.
–Jeff Holt from HOT BIKE
Chris Callen from Cycle Source Magazine and Pat Jansen from Sin-Central will be helping to hand out all the goodies.
–Prince Najar
High Priestess
Ultimate Builder Competition
ENTER YOUR BIKE TODAY
ENTER ANY OF THE SHOWS & QUALIFY FOR THE CHICAGO CHAMPIONSHIP
QUESTIONS – Call me direct – 919-450-5060
– Jeff Najar, Biker Pros Partner
FOR THE GLORY
Benefits:
A large enthusiast crowd
Outstanding social media push
Great sponsors & prizes
Builder Interviews
Meet the media
Great Networking opportunities
We have four paying classes including:
FreeStyle
MOD Harley
MOD Retro
MOD Custom
Join the competition – Enter today We are looking forward to seeing you!
Motonation, Malaysia, to host an AMD World Championship Affiliate Custom Bike Show– The latest show to join the line-up of AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building affiliates is Motonation, being staged at the PICC (Putrajaya International Convention Centre) in Malaysia, December 1 – 3, 2017.
One of the biggest events in South East Asia, Motonation is an automotive and lifestyle celebration, and this year features an AMD World Championship affiliate custom bike show for the first time, with the winner receiving travel and bike freight expenses to compete at the 2018 AMD World Championship at ‘INTERMOT Customized’, Cologne, Germany, in October.
The show is open to competitors from throughout the region, and AMD will be there to supervise the judging.
–Robin Bradley
www.motonation.com.my
Posted by DealerWorld
ONLY IN DAYTONA BIKETOBERFEST– Pic is courtesy of Wade Whiskey…taken at cabbage patch
–Dmac
NEW FROM BARNETT, Low Profile Lock-Up Pressure Plate Conversion Kit —
1998-17 H-D Big Twins (except 2013-17 CVO/SE & 2015-16 FLHTC L)
The Barnett “Low Profile” Lock-up Pressure Plate Conversion Kit for 1998-17 Harley Davidson Big Twins (except 2013-17 CVO/SE & 2015-16 FLHTC L) is specifically designed to fit under stock or aftermarket primary and derby covers and increases the capacity of your stock clutch while keeping lever effort to a minimum- even with big inch motors!
It’s done by using stainless steel weighted arms that progressively increase pressure to the clutch as RPM’s increase. Three different sets of six coil springs (light, medium, heavy) are included for a variety of spring pressure options.
The coil spring design also provides smoother shifting and a more linear engagement compared to a diaphragm type spring. Installation is bolt on with no modifications required.
Whether you’re looking for a lighter clutch effort for a stock Big Twin or serious no-slip performance for a big inch motor, the Barnett Low Profile Lock-up Pressure Plate has got you covered all in one attractive, precision machined unit! Cable actuated and hydraulic versions are available. Made in the USA.
Part #618-30-23098 (cable)
Part #618-30-33098 (Hydraulic)
MSRP: $492
Contact:
–Barnett Tool & Eng.
2238 Palma Dr.
Ventura, CA 93003
Ph- 805-642-9435
www.barnettclutches.com
THE GEARHEAD DIARY– I guess by society standards once we are set apart as outlaws, it also follows our kids around too. You ride a outlaw looking Harley (Apehangers , fishtails , sissybar or chopper) you are passed judgment upon by society .
We can get use to it. We choose that title. Our kids are a different thing though . They don’t have the choice yet. Their peers, parents and society choose for them. This may seem like outhouse philosophy. but it is what I believe to be true.
It doesn’t matter how many people you help along the way. You go from outlaw to a teacher, coach or a professional, it still follows. I guess the phrase is right, The sins of the father is passed down to the child. Once an outlaw always an outlaw.
I have choose my lifestyle and no complaints but it sucks for our kids sometimes.
— Gearhead
MANSLAUGHTER: Man Gets 13 Years in Prison for Killing a Biker on the Road
Daniel Patrick Jones (Photo: Taylor County Jail/Abilene Reporter News)
A jury from Taylor County sentenced Daniel Jones to 13 years in prison for killing Robert Harrington in 2014.
It took the jury an hour and a half to come to this sentence.
Jones drove the Nissan Rogue that hit and killed Harrington who was riding a motorcycle on Interstate 20. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Harrington was only 48 years old.
Harrington and Jones were roommates and lived together on Texas Avenue briefly. Other two roommates of both men testified that there was a lot of bad blood between them, thus it’s very unlikely that this was an accident, but in fact a murder.
Although a witness originally told the police he saw Harrington driving in front of Jones’ vehicle and hit the brakes, causing his own death, police officer Tyson Kropps testified he did not believe this allegation, based on Harrington’s years of training and riding motorcycles.
–Abilene Reporter News reports.
–Bikerdigital
BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER NOTE: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this: Ask the person to ‘stick’ out their tongue. If the tongue is ‘crooked,’ if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.
–Sarge
Vet
THE BIKERNET MOTORCYCLE WORLD BANK QUARTERLY REPORT–
Indian Motorcycle unit retail sales up +16 percent in Q3
Polaris Industries Inc. has reported third quarter 2017 sales of $1,478.7 million, up +25 percent from $1,185.1 million for the third quarter of 2016. Adjusted sales, which excludes the impact from Victory Motorcycles net sales for the third quarter of 2017, were $1,480.3 million for the 2017 third quarter, up +25 percent.
Scott Wine, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Industries, said: “Our emphatic return to profitable growth in the third quarter was a testament to the power of the Polaris brand, the strength of our dealer network and the competitive drive of the Polaris team. During the quarter, strong retail growth in both North America and nearly all of our international markets drove record sales and highlighted our ongoing product innovation, improving product quality and sharpened execution.
“We delivered North American unit retail sales growth of +13 percent and overall company sales growth of +25 percent, about half of which was organic, while lowering North American dealer inventory seven percent year-over-year. Results were strong throughout our portfolio, led by Indian Motorcycles’ exceptional performance as they accelerated share gains and outpaced a declining North American motorcycle market, while also delivering strong growth in Europe, Australia and Asia.
“I am particularly proud of the improved performance from our Off-Road Vehicle business, which was fueled by a well-planned and executed factory authorized clearance sale and the strong reception of our model year 2018 introductions. Encouragingly, RZR retail sales were especially strong in the quarter, and we had our best ATV retail quarter in two years.
“Most importantly, strong total company sales growth translated to bottom-line improvement. Despite higher than expected costs for warranty and re-work and complications from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, we delivered significant operating profit growth and earnings per share expansion for the quarter,” said Wine.
Motorcycle segment sales, including PG&A, totaled $155.1 million, a decrease of -14 percent compared to $181.2 million reported in the third quarter of 2016, which included $39.4 million of Victory Motorcycle wholegood, accessory and apparel sales. Indian motorcycle wholegood sales increased in the low twenty percent range in the third quarter driven by new product introductions and improving brand awareness.
This increase somewhat offset lower Slingshot sales. Gross profit for the third quarter of 2017 was $10.4 million compared to $20.3 million in the third quarter of 2016. Adjusted for the Victory Motorcycles wind-down costs of $7.6 million, motorcycle gross profit was $17.9 million, down from the third quarter last year due primarily to lower Slingshot volume.
Gross profit increased 40 percent to $364.0 million for the third quarter of 2017 from $260.8 million in the third quarter of 2016.
Operating expenses increased 19 percent for the third quarter of 2017 to $265.2 million from $222.6 million in the same period in 2016, which included $1.3 million in Victory wind-down costs and $3.5 million of TAP integration expenses. Excluding these costs, operating expenses increased primarily due to the addition of operating expenses from TAP, as well as increased research and development expenses and increased selling and marketing costs related to the introduction of new products, offset somewhat by lower legal related expenses.
The company reported third quarter 2017 net income of $81.9 million, or $1.28 per diluted share, compared with net income of $32.3 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, for the 2016 third quarter.
During the third quarter of 2017, the company repurchased and retired 257,000 shares of its common stock for $23.3 million. Year-to-date through September 30, 2017, the company has repurchased and retired 1,015,000 shares of its common stock for $88.9 million. As of September 30, 2017, the company has authorization from its Board of Directors to repurchase up to an additional 6.4 million shares of Polaris common stock.
Tickets Now on Sale for 2018 The Quail Motorcycle Gathering
Carmel, Calif. – October 26, 2017 – Tickets are now on sale for the 10th Anniversary of The Quail Motorcycle Gathering, presented by GEICO Motorcycle. Set for Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Quail Lodge & Golf Club, this celebration of all things motorcycling will feature an expansive selection of the finest and rarest vintage, modern and custom motorcycles.
Tickets are now on sale at www.quaillodgetickets.com, and if you purchase by December 31, 2017 using promo code QL18HOLIDAY you can receive $10 off of all tickets! Continuing this year is the Quail VIP ticket, which includes special parking, early access, hosted bar, gourmet small bites, and private lounge seating with prime viewing of all stage activities. Quail VIP tickets are limited in availability, so don’t wait to get the ultimate experience!
The weekend’s activities kick off on Friday, May 4th as 100 motorcyclists weave their way throughout the Monterey Peninsula on the SOLD OUT event The Quail Ride.
Then on Saturday, May 5th, attendees will gather on the Quail Lodge lawn for the 10th Annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering. Those interested in displaying a motorcycle on the lawn should fill out the application form HERE. This year’s featured classes include: Cafe Racers, Electric Motorcycles, and the Arlen Ness Private Collection.
A limited number of rooms are available at Quail Lodge and are expected to book quickly. Rooms and rates are based on availability at the time of booking and cannot be guaranteed, and a two-night minimum stay is required. For more information and to make your reservation visit quaillodge.com. Please use the GROUP CODE: 69498 to book your room.
Companies interested in event sponsorship or advertising in The Quail Motorcycle Gathering 2018 Program should contact April Morris, Sponsorship Sales & Logistics Manager by phone at 1 (831) 620-8835 or by email at aprilmorris@quaillodge.com.
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RIDING FREE FROM DC:
Your Weekly Biker Bulletin from Inside the Beltway
Your Motorcycle Riders Foundation team in Washington, D.C. is pleased to provide our members with the latest information and updates on issues that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists.
NEWS FROM THE HILL – Progress on Infrastructure, Ethanol Wheeling and Dealing
Months (and months and months) after the Administration pitched a $1 trillion infrastructure package, White House officials met with key players (i.e. Committee Chairman John Thune) this week to discuss what the proposal could look like.
Details from the meeting were kept quiet except for a vague comment from another power player, Senator Dan Sullivan from Alaska, who said the bill would address roads and transit, (gee, thanks). Though no one has been willing to discuss timing, my insider’s opinion is that several things will have to happen first. Congress will have to pass a budget, which is likely to eat up the remainder of the time before the holidays and then there is that pesky minor issue of MAJOR COMPREHENSIVE TAX REFORM.
Many in Washington are saying that you have to check that box first to free up some $$$$ to help offset the cost of the infrastructure package. My take? Don’t hold your breath. Still, I’ll be keeping a close eye on discussions and especially when pen goes to paper. That’s because wide-ranging and far-reaching packages like what is being discussed with infrastructure are notorious for being loaded with seemingly innocuous safety provisions that get stuck in at the very last minute, but give riders a lot of grief…
This week, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief Scott Pruitt met with Senators from Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Kansas. What do those states share a common bond over? CORN. And lots of it. Senators Ernst, Grassley, Fischer, Rounds, Sasse, Thune and Pat Roberts met with Pruitt for almost an hour where they discussed the issue of ethanol and campaign promises that were made they want the Administration to make good on.
That’s a pretty bitter pill to swallow for Scott Pruitt who has VERY close ties to the oil industry, which (not surprisingly) isn’t a big fan of corn on the cob. Though there has been no shortage of meetings on the subject, (and congressional bills to fix it), this meeting sticks out for me.
Several of Trump’s picks to head various departments and positions within the EPA were slated to be confirmed in the Senate this week. Then, just hours after the ethanol meeting, the vote for these confirmations was postponed.
A close source says that Sen. Grassley is threatening to hold up several EPA nominees if the EPA doesn’t start providing more support for ethanol. I’ll keep you posted as this develops. It doesn’t look great for those who are concerned about the proliferation of ethanol in the market…I’ve already heard from several folks that a bargaining chip might be to allow consideration of a bill that would permit year-round sales of ethanol.
EXECUTIVE & REGULATORY UPDATES – NHTSA STUFF
Our buddies at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (aka NHTSA) have been busy as of late. They’ve certainly been keeping my schedule jam packed…
Last Friday I attended the one-year anniversary party of the NHTSA “Road to Zero” initiative. (And yes, for the record I was invited because I get along with *mostly* everybody). They even had a damn cake…But I digress.
They wanted to gather everyone in a room so we could pat ourselves on the back for all the good work we did. When they said this (yes, they really did say it) I looked around the room to see if anyone was smirking like me. (There was possibly one guy in the back but I think he might have wandered in from the streets).
Truly, I’m not entirely sure what “we” did. They’ve given out some grant money, they drafted ONE policy statement, and “raised awareness.” Yeah…among themselves. Seriously though, I love the idea…zero traffic deaths…that’s admirable. But its sort of like communism…great idea on paper, f***ing disaster in real life.
I’m honestly not sure where this coalition is going, but I’ll continue to stay vigilant, attend their meetings, eat their celebratory cake and question them as to why their logo doesn’t include a motorcycle:
If you’re reading this on Friday October 20, there is a good chance that at this exact moment I am sitting at DoT headquarters wanting to gouge my own eyes out. Why? I am at all day public workshop listening to “entities” discuss potential challenges with a Voluntary Safety Assessment. What’s that you ask? It’s an element in NHTSA’s latest document, A Vision for Safety which addresses testing and deployment of automated vehicles. Click here for more info: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/documents/13069a-ads2.0_090617_v9a_tag.pdf
But back to the issue: I’m not sure why a voluntary safety assessment would cause automakers so much heartburn. For Christ sake, its VOLUNTARY. Which, in the opinion of the MRF, is the biggest problem with the whole thing.
How can you expect corporations to do the right thing when something is only voluntary? You can’t. Which is why your MRF has been pushing lawmakers to make this mandatory and ensure that riders are an important element and consideration when assuring a self-driving car’s safety.
NHTSA will take comments on the proposal for another month. Check your inboxes in the next few weeks as I am beginning to draft comments that we can all send to NHTSA telling them what we think of this.
MRF NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mark your calendars, book your flights, tell your old lady you’re headed to the nation’s capital. The ink on the contract is dry: Bikers Inside the Beltway 2018 will begin Monday, May 14 with a prep session and officially take place Tuesday, May 15. Stay tuned for more including hotel info, special events and more.
Take care, enjoy your weekends and most importantly,
RIDE FREE-
–Megan Ekstrom
Vice-President of Government Affairs & Public Relations
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation
BANDIT HITS THE SCREEN— Produced by the amazing Swedish Media Production company, after sneaking into the Bikernet headquarters.
–Sheriff
SOLID BRASS DRAG PIPE TIPS
Check out these EZ to fit, solid brass exhaust tips. Manufactured by Paughco for as precision fit into 1 ¾ and 2-inch straight cut drag pipes, the tips are easily installed in minutes. Simply slip the tip into your pipe, drill a hole for the retaining screw and secure in place. That’s it!
With 2 styles to choose from, the tips give a classy Old School look to any drag pipe equipped scooter. Models for 1 ¾-inch pipes are P/N 640 Short Curve, 640A Long Curve and 640B Tapered. For 2-inch pipes you have P/N 641 Short Curve, 641A Long Curve and 641B Tapered.
All of the tips are sold in pairs and retail for just $89.95.
Contact Paughco direct at 775-246-5738 or catch them on the Web at www.paughco.com
ROBOTS ON THE ROADWAYS– A few observations about robot vehicles and roadways.
The word share applies to humans when the phrase “share the road” was coined.
Are automated target acquisition devices legal for 2nd amendment hardware?
Appropriation of roadways for robot usage seems suspicious to me.
Any current laws and taxation schemes seem to be a farce or null and void with robot “sharing” of roadways.
–Mike
KID ROCK ANNOUNCES ‘GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH TOUR 2018’
AND NEW ALBUM ‘SWEET SOUTHERN SUGAR’– Kid Rock ‘Greatest Show On Earth Tour 2018’
Kid Rock announced today that he will be releasing his new album Sweet Southern Sugar on November 3 and will also hit the road on his “Greatest Show On Earth Tour 2018,” produced by Live Nation.
The tour kicks off on January 19 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee and will continue with 21 shows from coast to coast. Fans of the rocker can expect the same high-energy experience, but with brand new tracks from his latest album.
Sweet Southern Sugar is Kid Rock’s first album recorded in Nashville and features his spontaneous summer releases “Greatest Show On Earth” and “Po-Dunk,” as well as recent single “Tennessee Mountain Top.” The album ranges from country to classic rock, with a little rap sprinkled in between and highlights Kid Rock’s armory of talent, which transcends a single genre.
Tickets and VIP packages for the tour will go on sale to the public the day Sweet Southern Sugar is released, November 3, at www.LiveNation.com. Fan Club members will be able to purchase tickets beginning October 31 at 10am local, and fans who pre-order the album through www.KidRock.com will be eligible for a special pre-sale beginning on November 1 at 10am local.
GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH TOUR:
Jan. 19 Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
Jan. 20 Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center
Jan. 25 Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theatre
Jan. 26 Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theatre
Jan. 27 Durant, OK – Choctaw Grand Theatre
Feb. 2 Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
Feb. 3 Houston, TX – Toyota Center
Feb. 9 Atlanta, GA – Infinite Energy Arena
Feb. 10 Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
Feb. 16 Toronto, ON – Air Canada Centre
Feb. 17 Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena
Feb. 23 Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
Feb. 24 Cleveland, OH – Quicken Loans Arena
Mar. 2 Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
Mar. 3 Baltimore, MD – Royal Farms Arena
Mar. 9 Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Mar. 10 Nassau, NY – NYCB Live
Mar. 16 Chicago, IL – United Center
Mar. 17 Omaha, NE – CenturyLink Center
Mar. 20 Denver, CO – Pepsi Center
Mar. 23 Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Arena
Mar. 24 Las Vegas, NV – Mandalay Bay Events Center
SWEET SOUTHERN SUGAR TRACK LISTING:
1. GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH
2. PO-DUNK
3. TENNESSEE MOUNTAIN TOP
4. I WONDER
5. AMERICAN ROCK N’ ROLL
6. BACK TO THE OTHERSIDE
7. RAINING WHISKEY
8. STAND THE PAIN
9. SUGAR PIE HONEY BUNCH
10. GRANDPA’S JAM
For more information visit: www.kidrock.com
‘Greatest Show On Earth Tour 2018’ Tickets Available at www.LiveNation.com November 3
Pre-order Album at www.KidRock.com, Available Everywhere November 3
KID ROCK SOCIAL MEDIA:
FB: facebook.com/kidrock
IG: instagram.com/kidrock
Twitter: twitter.com/kidrock
Snapchat: @KidRock
NMA ALERT, Cities are getting paid to turn street lights into spying SmartNodes– The future of privacy in big cities is bleak—cities are now getting paid to convert street lights into spying SmartNodes.
What are SmartNodes you ask?
SmartNodes will soon replace street lights, because they are equipped with cameras, microphones, speakers, etc., all-in-one light pole.
For example, the city of Los Angeles, California is working with Philips Lighting and ENE-HUB to turn 110,000 street lights into a one-of-a-kind citywide SmartNode surveillance network.
“The Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting and Philips Lighting have collaborated on a program that uses CityTouch connected street lighting management and connected sensors to obtain additional value from the public lighting system.”
Philips SmartPoles are equipped with ‘environmental noise monitoring’ microphones, which can be used to spy on ‘raucous neighbors and loud music’.
“The city of Los Angeles is leveraging their connected street lighting infrastructure to actively monitor and manage noise levels on the streets. Using existing connected street lights, the city has installed microphones to collect noise data at the street level.”
Where could the music be coming from you ask?
Philips doesn’t say, but you can bet they mean people, vehicles and homes. Which means, SmartPoles can listen to more than just noise.
Click here to watch Philips Lighting admit SmartPoles are great data collecting conduits. In the video, Remco Muijs boasts that Philips and the city of Los Angeles are working together to host third-party sensors that influence people’s behavior, because nothing says influencing people’s behavior, quite like 110,000 spying street lights. (There are a number of YouTube videos from Philips about their Smart Cities Initiative.)
An article on the PTC.com (PTC Technology) website reveals that private companies are paying cities $1200 yearly for each SmartPole they install.
“The streetlight-based cells will generate revenues by being leased to wireless providers. The City of Los Angeles will receive $1200 per year for each SmartPole. The installation of 100 IoT-connected streetlights is currently in process in Los Angeles. Philips and the city plan to expand the network to 600 streetlights by 2018. Philips, under a tech development pilot program, is also installing 50 SmartPoles in The City of San Jose.”
To translate that into dollar figures, if Los Angeles turns 110,000 light poles into SmartPole’s the city would make approximately $13.2 million a year.
And with that much money at stake, it won’t be long before every city in America turns their street lights into money making, spying SmartPoles.
According to the ENE-HUB’s website, here are just some of the components that the smart lights poles could provide to cities.
· Telecommunications
· RBG Beacon Light
· Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi detectors
· Two-way Help Buttons equipped with microphone and speaker
· Public Announcement speakers
· LED Street and roadway lighting
· Community messaging
· Parking management
· Data capture
· Surveillance
· Microphone
· People counting
· Electric vehicle car charging
· Travel card readers
· Traditional smart pole functions (signage, traffic and lighting)
ENE-HUB’s ‘benefits’ section admits that governments can use multiple revenue streams to spy on their citizens for 25-30 years. (Click here to watch ENE-HUB’s smart city video.)
Los Angeles’ KCRW radio report also revealed that ENEHUB’s, SmartNode’s could also be equipped with ‘video streaming and gunshot sensors connected to police and fire stations’.
One can assume that in the near future, SmartNode’s will also be equipped with E-ZPass readers and license plate readers.
Unfortunately, Philips Lighting and ENE-HUB aren’t the only ones trying to turn entire cities into giant surveillance networks.
Siemens, GE, Cisco, LED lighting maker Acuity Brands and mall developer Simon Property Group are also installing spying SmartNodes across the country.
After writing numerous articles about Smart Cities, SmartPoles and SmartNodes one thing becomes crystal clear.
They are all about corporate/government surveillance and making money off of the backs of citizens.
–Guest writer, Joe Cadillic, of the MassPrivatal blog
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the author. For additional information on smart street furniture, check out the NMA Driving Freedoms Magazine Winter 2017 edition.
MORE FROM THE WALL STREET JOURNAL– The latest issue of this special Wall Street Journal magazine reveals what lies ahead.
Meet the Robots Helping in the Quest to Find Extraterrestrial Life
Today, robots roam the deep seas and the slopes of volcanoes. Their next mission: the search for life beyond earth
What to Do With Dead Malls
Brick-and-mortar stories are closing at unprecedented rates, creating vast real estate wastelands. But all that empty space offers a blank slate to reinvent retail
Is Mass Customization the Future of Footwear?
The partnership between Adidas and 3-D-printing startup Carbon Inc. could usher in a new era of bespoke shoes
Can Science Make Alcohol Safer?
The scion of an Indian pharmaceutical giant spent $35 million to make your martini more liver-friendly. But regulators aren’t raising their glasses just yet.
‘Alexa, Can You Prevent Suicide?’
How Amazon trains its AI to handle the most personal questions imaginable
‘Fish Fraud’ Is Rampant. Here’s How to Fix It
A New York seafood distributor is using computerized tracking to ensure that the fish on your plate is the one that you ordered
The Best Beach Towns You’ve Never Heard Of
Not every bucket-list beach has been Instagrammed and developed to death. These are the still-unspoiled stretches of sand to get to before everyone else does
The Quest to Build a Better Condom
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation set out to disrupt an ancient, outdated medical technology. Here, the three most promising entries
A Tasting Menu Tailored to Your Taste Buds
How a restaurant in Austin, Texas, is bringing genetics into the kitchen
The Troubled Marriage of Brains and Computers
Neurotechnology could make science fiction dreams a reality. But a pioneer in the field is already sounding alarms
How MDMA Went From Club Drug to ‘Breakthrough Therapy’
Better known as ‘ecstasy,’ it’s emerging as one of the most promising treatments for PTSD
Protecting Against AI’s Existential Threat
How to avoid the nightmare scenario of artificial intelligence? According to researchers from Elon Musk’s OpenAI, the trick is teaching machines to keep our interests in mind
Drew Brees Has a Plan to Save Football
But can his new flag football league fix the sport’s youth participation problem?
How Google’s Quantum Computer Could Change the World
The ultra-powerful machine has the potential to disrupt everything from science and medicine to national security—assuming it works
The Unimprovable Awards: Tech’s Tastemakers Pick Their Favorite Things
No updates required
Artificial Intelligence—With Very Real Biases
According to AI Now co-founder Kate Crawford, digital brains can be just as error-prone and biased as ours
[page break]
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY– A doctor that had been seeing an 80-year-old woman for most of her life finally retired. At her next check-up, the new doctor told her to bring a list of all the medicines that had been prescribed for her.
“Mrs. Smith, do you realize these are birth control pills?”
“Yes, they help me sleep at night.”
“Mrs. Smith, I assure you there is
absolutely nothing in these that could possibly help you sleep!”
She reached out and patted the young doctors knee and said, “Yes, dear, I
know that. But every morning, I grind one up and mix it in the glass of
orange juice that my 16-year-old Granddaughter drinks. And believe me it
definitely helps me sleep at night.”
You gotta love Grandmas.
–from David Campbell
Officially Certified Bikernet Book Reviewer
Earl’s Garage – Motorcycle, Hotrod, and Event Photography
www.earlsgarage.co www.facebook.com/garage_photos
Jim OF JIM’S MACHINE gets inducted into Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame– It is with pride that we announce the recent inauguration of Jim Thiessen into the Sturgis 2017 Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame.
To celebrate, Jim’s family and friends rode over 1300 miles from Camarillo, CA to the Sturgis Hall of Fame ceremony in Deadwood, South Dakota. It was a great trip, traveling through several states and national parks.
In Mike Barnett’s own words, “we are standing in tall cotton”. Jim stood beside the other inductees: Colleen & Mike Taylor, from Barnett Clutches and Cables, Terry Vance, from Vance and Hines, Cory Ness, Mark Shadley, Ron Woodruff, and the lifetime achievement award was given to Willy G. Davidson. If that’s not “tall cotton”, we don’t know what is!
NEW FROM BRASS BALLS– BBMX Foot Pegs, Gold: $139.95 MSRP
A cool and easy custom performance upgrade for your bike.
Inspired by BMX pegs, our BBMX (Brass Balls Moto-X) foot pegs are next level. They have great grip, style and functionality.
Brass Balls Cycles : BBMX Pegs, Gold
• Precision machined from aircraft grade 6061 T6 billet aluminum
• Gold anodized with contrast cut on perimeter holes
• Direct replacement for stock pegs.
• Adjustable chrome plated steel clevis included
• The outermost edge is tapered underside for optimize lean angle
• Brass Balls logo underside insuring the highest quality
• Light weight and strong
Measures: 3.5″ L x 2.5″ W x 1″ H
Fitment: All HD models
Includes 2 pegs, 2 HD Male Clevis in Chrome, 2 socket head cap bolts
Available at http://store.BrassBallsCycles.com
and your Local Dealer.
We strive to provide the ultimate in Form & Function.
400 Scientific Papers Published In 2017 Support A Skeptical Position On Climate Alarm– A Growing Volume Of Evidence
Undercuts ‘Consensus’ Science
During the first 10 months of 2017, 400 scientific papers have been published that cast doubt on the position that anthropogenic CO2 emissions function as the climate’s fundamental control knob…or that otherwise question the efficacy of climate models or the related “consensus” positions commonly endorsed by policymakers and mainstream media.
These 400 new papers support the position that there are significant limitations and uncertainties inherent in our understanding of climate and climate changes. Climate science is not settled.
Modern temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events are neither unusual nor unprecedented. Many regions of the Earth are cooler now than they have been for most of the last 10,000 years.
Natural factors such as the Sun (106 papers), multi-decadal oceanic-atmospheric oscillations such as the NAO, AMO/PDO, ENSO (37 papers), decadal-scale cloud cover variations, and internal variability in general have exerted a significant influence on weather and climate changes during both the past and present. Detecting a clear anthropogenic forcing signal amidst the noise of unforced natural variability may therefore be difficult.
And current emissions-mitigation policies, especially related to the advocacy for renewables, are often costly, ineffective, and perhaps even harmful to the environment. On the other hand, elevated CO2 and a warmer climate provide unheralded benefits to the biosphere (i.e., a greener planet and enhanced crop yields).
In 2016 there were 500 peer-reviewed scientific papers published in scholarly journals (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) challenging “consensus” climate science. This amounts to more than 900 papers in less than 2 years.
Below are the two links to the list of 400 papers as well as the guideline for the lists’ categorization.
Skeptic Papers 2017 (1)
http://notrickszone.com/skeptic-papers-2017-1/#sthash.ncY9fgeJ.dpbs
Skeptic Papers 2017 (2)
http://notrickszone.com/skeptic-papers-2017-2/#sthash.LyCrcmhz.dpbs
–By Kenneth Richard on 23 October, 2017
CYCLE SOURCE DISCUSSES SPECTRO OIL HISTORY— Hang on for more lube reports on Bikernet.
SALT FLATS UNDER THREAT— Researcher says human activity having negative effect.
Preliminary results from a detailed study of the shrinking Bonneville Salt Flats indicate that a range of human activities is contributing to the depletion of the salt crust.
University of Utah geologist Brenda Bowen has been studying the ecosystem with a team of 30 researchers.
On the other hand Louise Noeth, a spokewoman for the Save the Salt coalition, a group that includes the AMA and other land speed racing enthusiasts, said it was “absolutely reasonable” to assume human activity affects the salt flats. But Noeth added, racing would not have a detrimental effect on the salt crust had it not been weakened by decades of mineral extraction.
TRIUMPH TECH VIDEO OF THE WEEK— from Lowbrow.
Hey friend, we thought you might enjoy some of our latest videos and how-to tech articles. As usual, we have also been working hard at finding and making the best quality, coolest parts possible and adding them to our shelves here in Ohio. Hopefully this gives you a little mid-week motorcycle fix! Enjoy.
JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK. MILWAUKEE EIGHT CAM BEARING
REMOVER AND INSTALLER!– The Milwaukee Eight engine returns to the single cam design, which requires a new tool for correct and accurate replacement of the camshaft’s inner needle bearing. At a retail price of $275, this tool will earn its value in work fast!
European Commission Reflection Paper Puts “Climate Change” Near Bottom Of List Of Concerns!
By: Rob Bushway – Climate DepotOctober 21, 2017 5:04 PM
European Commission Reflection Paper Puts “Climate Change” Near Bottom Of List Of Concerns!
If one were to rate the investment made by governments globally aimed at creating concern for a potential problem, then the huge investment in climate change fear by now would definitely have to be rated as “junk” quality.
Never has so much seen so little return.
Hundreds of billions have been invested so far with the aim of generating mass fear, and by now we would think the global public should be in a state of panic. That’s the least one would expect from such a massive investment in fostering fear.
But it turns out that climate change remains very low on the list of concerns that citizens have. List of concerns for European citizens Earlier this year, the European Commission presented a White Paper on the future of Europe.
A series of reflection papers covering key topics for the future of the European Union with 27 Member States have been published subsequently.
The European Commission Reflection Paper on the Future of European Defence (2025) is the fourth in that series and it outlines the main trends and challenges that will shape the future of our security and defense and on this basis, sets out options in three different scenarios for moving towards a Security and Defence Union. While not mutually exclusive, these scenarios are underpinned by different levels of ambition for the EU in doing things together in security and defense.
Strengthening the protection and security of European citizens is part of the Juncker Commission priorities. In the Reflection Paper is Figure 3, which happens to list what European citizens are most concerned about: Figure 3 of the Reflection Paper on the Future of European Defense. Source: Eurobarometer Climate, environment dead last Not surprisingly, Europeans are most concerned about immigration and terrorism, followed by economic issues.
In the last two place we find climate change and the environment respectively. These two issues have run dead last over the past 5 years. In fact, citizens are even more concerned about the EU’s (waning) influence in the world. Obviously people are collectively not buying into the climate alarmism hoax.
— gReader Pro
HEROES HOMECOMING 5 TO FEATURE INAUGURAL MOTORCYCLE RALLY
Freedom Biker Church, Rolling Thunder NC Chapter 1, and Heroes Homecoming 5 to host motorcycle rally honoring Vietnam Veterans November 11th.
The Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (FACVB) in partnership with Freedom Biker Church and Rolling Thunder NC Chapter 1, will host the first annual Heroes Homecoming Motorcycle Rally, on November 11 in Fayetteville.
The rally will close out the fifth annual Heroes Homecoming celebration, dedicated to acknowledging the sacrifice and service of our country’s brave Vietnam Veterans while also furthering the community’s Missing Man Table Initiative.
The FACVB is challenging businesses and organizations to participate in the Missing Man Table Initiative as a way to inspire and help educate the public on the importance and symbolism of the display. The Missing Man Table, similar to the Fallen Comrade Table, honors the memory of missing or imprisoned military service members.
“Motorcycles have always been a symbol of freedom,” said John Meroski, President & CEO of the FACVB. “Rallying around those who fought and continue to fight for our freedom in the community where they reside seems more than appropriate during Heroes Homecoming.”
The rally will kick off at Fort Bragg Harley Davidson at 10:30AM (registration beginning at 9:30AM) with a ride through Cumberland County. The ride will make its way to The Moving Wall Dedication Ceremony held at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum and then continue on to Festival Park. The rally at Festival Park will feature guest speakers, performances by nine local and regional bands, a Bike Blessing Ceremony, as well as a Missing Man Table Ceremony.
Attendees can participate in various contests such motorcycle, tattoo, and beard. Food trucks will be on site, as will local vendors of all types. Vietnam Veterans are invited to stop by the VIP Tent, which will be sponsored by Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, where they can relax while being pampered by Floating Shanti with various spa treatments. Family-friendly and free to the public, proceeds from the event will go to the Lone Survivor Foundation, as well as Fort Bragg Fisher House.
“As a Marine, the son of a Vietnam Veteran and the grandson of a WWII Veteran, I have nothing but the highest respect for those who serve this country,” said John “E” Thompson, President of Rolling Thunder NC Chapter 1.
“We are proud to be a part of this great event as Heroes Homecoming is an unique way for the Cumberland County community to band together and honor our nations veterans. The roar of a motorcycle has long been synonymous with honoring those who served and it’s time to bring a little of that thunder to Cumberland County!”
For more information on Heroes Homecoming, the Heroes Homecoming Motorcycle Rally, and a full list of events, visit www.HeroesHomecoming.com.
DAV FOR VETERANS– As a loyal supporter of veterans and issues that are important to them, I wanted to make sure you got a chance to honor your special veteran. It just takes 4 simple steps.
#IHelpVeterans Delphine Metcalf-Foster
1. Go to http://www.ihelpveterans.org or click the button to the right.
2. Upload a photo of yourself, your family, or an image that represents why you choose to support veterans.
3. Underneath your image choose the word that best represents who you support veterans for.
4. Download your image and save it or use the social media buttons to share your image with the DAV community using #IHelpVeterans.
And that’s it! Our new National Commander, Delphine Metcalf-Foster, helps veterans for other veterans like herself, who do you help veterans for?
–J. Marc Burgess
DAV National Adjutant/CEO
TATTOO REPORT OF THE WEEK–
This weekend, I jumped on a flight to Frisco to check out the Bay Area tattoo convention of the arts. I got in late Friday and hung out for a while with my girl who was working the convention and got to meet and hang with some other cool tattoo artist.
The energy in the convention was rad. There were some of the industry’s leading tattoo artist from all over the world attending. I got the opportunity to meet a few of them and watch them work. Check out what kind of equipment/pigments they were using and study their techniques.
I even bought a few prints and a new shag built rotary machine to try out with my upcoming tattoos. I’ve always been one who sticks to the cool machine, but a lot of artists, who inspire me were using them and I spoke to a lot of artists around the convention who only had good things to same about them, so I went ahead and pulled the trigger I grabbed me one.
Towards the third day at the convention I got myself a new tattoo by an artist by the name of Tony Hundahl from Rock of Ages Tattoo. We met the night before and talked motorcycles and about his town he was representing, big Austin, Texas.
I liked his vibe and his artwork so I got a skull with Crome T-bars coming out of fire to fill in a spot on the back of my leg. It was a tender spot but was worth it. I hung out most of the rest of my stay with my lady, after she was finished up, checking out other merchandise and art and eating good food.
–Frank Ball Jr.
Art and Soul Tattoo
Venice
THIS JUST IN FROM SINGAPORE– So I’m reading the local paper her in PP and what do I see? Dammit.
It’s an article about not allowing more cars on the island. They already charge $35,000 to get a permit to buy one.
–Art Hall
Most Magnificent Bikernet International Correspondent
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Precision Stopping Power from GMA– GMA, a subsidiary of BDL offers touring, sport, performance and custom riders with a line of exclusive brake calipers that reflect the parent company’s reputation for unsurpassed American craftsmanship and superior performance.
Designed and manufactured at the BDL factory in Southern California, these high performance billet calipers are CNC machined to mil-spec tolerances from the superior quality materials to fit to most all factory and custom applications. Attention to detail and precise fit are what you would expect from BDL/GMA as is each caliper’s solid stopping power and reliability.
Sleek lines and a finish on both the black or chrome calipers are flawless and make a visually stunning upgrade. Available in either chrome or black, for single and dual disc models, the new calipers are supplied with mounting hardware.
For detailed fitment and pricing information visit any of the BDL/GMA dealers worldwide or catch them online at www.beltdrives.com
THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN– A man was riding on a full bus minding his own business when the gorgeous woman next to him started to breast-feed her baby.
The baby wouldn’t take it so she said, “Come on sweetie, eat it all up or I’ll have to give it to this nice man next to us.”
Five minutes later the baby was still not feeding, so she said, “Come on, honey.
Take it or Ill give it to this nice man here.”
A few minutes later the anxious man blurted out, “Come on kid. Make up your mind! I was supposed to get off four stops ago!”
–David Campbell
Officially Certified Bikernet Book Reviewer
Earl’s Garage – Motorcycle, Hotrod, and Event Photography
www.earlsgarage.co www.facebook.com/garage_photos
NEW TEXAS LAW— Requires first-time driver’s license applicants to complete a one-hour course on the dangers of distracted driving. Called “Impact Texas Young Drivers,” the course provides guidance on staying focused behind the wheel.
–AMA
ROCK ON— I have an issue about something mentioned here and a funny analysis. I will share this with the master of scientific analysis, Tony Sanfelipo. You can read his response in the Sunday Post this weekend. In Europe someone started a Zero accidental death effort years ago and immediately one country started to ban motorcycles.
Now this is cropping up around here. First, the bottom line. Governments are not in place to make us safe, but to guarantee our freedoms. So forced safety becomes a government moneymaker. They can start another agency, pass a bunch of bills and maybe accomplish something or nothing. It doesn’t matter, they legalize torturing citizens for whatever reason.
But let’s think about this Zero business and how it could really work. If we all stayed at home in little protected cells and robots operated everything outside, we would be golden right, no risk or injury? So, we could read a book or watch television. So, what kind of life is that? I don’t get it.
But us outlaws have a tough time with restrictions, all restrictions.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
