Hey,
Is life nuts or what? We have a war in Europe. The UN is at war with humanity. They want to convince us that we’re doomed. Some media sources won’t allow scientific transparency, yet they must be aware that their political beliefs are breaking down. So, why all the conflict now? I don’t have the answer, but mild speculation.
Years, maybe decades ago we came to understand a change. As the population grows, we come face-to-face with small groups with larger voices. What once was an insignificant group became an entity with significant power like Mothers Against Drunk Drivers and the Taliban. Maybe that explains some of the issues we face.
But wait, there’s a bright side for us grubby bikers, chopper builders, and even gun owners and enthusiasts. We are encountering larger and more active events, races and bike shows. Hell, the vintage section of our industry is growing like crazy.
A buddy of mine seems to go to a bike show every weekend. Last weekend Fandango in Texas celebrated the Vintage, Mama Tried is expanding and this weekend Hand Built shines in Texas. Check the news, there’s something happening every weekend.
So, what does all the above say about our world. Not sure. Think about it. 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, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
PHILOSOPHY QUOTE OF THE WEEK—
Any fool can criticize, complain, and condemn—and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving.
SUPPORT GOOD TIMES NEWS ALERT–Banned on Instagram and Facebook due to nudity and sexual content. Get ’em while we still got ’em. T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, hats, stickers, patches, and garage banners available worldwide at
SUPPORTGOODTIMES.COM
CLIMATE QUOTE OF THE WEEK–Absolutely nothing in this IPCC report is true. It is all fake and threatens the existence of civilization, especially the West because the East and the South don’t buy it. We must reject it or face the consequences.
#CelebrateCO2!!
–Patrick Moore
HELPING OUT– Ohio’s MSF RiderCoaches
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation Government Relations Office was battling an Ohio law today that requires unnecessary and costly dual certification for MSF RiderCoaches. Ohio’s Senate Transportation Committee heard arguments and received written testimony from the MSF in favor of House Bill 338, introduced by Representative James M. Hoops last year.
“Unfortunately, due to ambiguity in the state law, MSF RiderCoaches must also be certified in Motorcycle Ohio curriculum and issue final testing under that curriculum rather than the MSF’s,” said Scott Schloegel, senior vice president at the government relations office serving both the MSF and the MIC. “This results in MSF RiderCoaches having to essentially be dual-certified in two programs, despite the Ohio Department of Public Safety certifying that both meet or exceed national standards.”
The bill passed the House in December and today’s hearing was the second one in the Senate transportation committee. After hearing from any opponents at a future hearing, and after a committee vote, the bill will go before the entire Ohio Senate for consideration.
“Legislative change can involve considerable time and effort but we’re striving for swift passage of HB 338 to provide some needed relief to the hard-working MSF RiderCoaches in Ohio,” Schloegel said.
“We look forward to passage of HB 338, which will preserve the state’s resources while allowing more opportunities for Ohioans to become coaches for either MSF or Motorcycle Ohio,” said Robert Gladden, MSF vice president of training operations. “We have had many people who are interested in contributing to motorcycle safety by becoming an MSF RiderCoach, but the dual-certification requirement creates a lengthy and expensive obstacle.”
–MIC
THE TEXAS FANDANGO–The Cherokee Chapter of the AMCA proudly presented The Texas Fandango. The Texas Fandango is a vintage swap meet, vintage bike show, and vintage races all rolled into one fun-packed weekend, April 1-3, 2022.
The Fandango was located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country at the Gillespie County Fairground in historic Fredericksburg. The premier event in Texas for any vintage motorcycle enthusiast. A portion from every ticket sold benefits the Optimist Club of Fredericksburg Texas.
HAND BUILT SHOW BY INDIAN–Come check out Indian Motorcycle at the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show and take part in the 2022 Scout Rogue Crewhouse Tour. Featuring demos & displays of Scout Rogue and the rest of the 2022 Indian Motorcycle line-up. Demos will be at Indian Motorcycle of Austin on Friday 4/8 and at this location on Saturday and Sunday 4/9 -10.
All riders and passengers must be 18 years or older and wear proper riding attire (DOT approved helmet, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and eye protection). All riders must also present a valid motorcycle endorsement.
While Progressive is sponsoring the Demo Tour, it is not providing insurance to any rider participating in the Demo Tour who does not already have Progressive motorcycle insurance.
Scout Rogue Crewhouse Tour – Handbuilt
Demo Events, Show Events
Apr 8 – 10
Austin, TX
STRIDER BIKE SERIES—
SFPR is pleased to partner with Special Olympics South Dakota for Young Athletes Strider Program. This program gives kids ages 2–5 years old the opportunity to get the feel for riding a bike.
Ah, the Official Strider Cup® race series.
It’s only our most favoritest time of year. We love putting on Strider Cup races and making new friends. These races give those tiny speedsters a chance to put their Strider Balance Bike skills to the test at several stops across the U.S. and worldwide.
You won’t find anything like a good Strider Cup race anywhere else because Official Strider Cup races can only be put on by Strider franchisees. The Strider Cup race series caters directly to children 2—6 years old, who want to experience the thrill of racing. We encourage kiddos of all sizes and riding abilities to participate. Admission to the race is free for families and spectators; however, an entry fee for racers may apply.
Apr 5 – 19
Kenny Anderson Community Center
3701 E 3rd St, Sioux Falls, SD
DAV NEWS– Every year, DAV empowers our nation’s veterans and their families by providing the resources they need to live their lives with respect and dignity. In 2021, we provided more than 163,000 rides to veterans attending medical appointments and assisted in filing over 151,000 claims for benefits. You can help us continue to be there for veterans as they transition back into civilian life with these four easy ways to give back:
Donate Your Car
Donate Your Car — You can help DAV continue to make a big impact in the lives of our disabled veterans by donating your vehicle. DAV’s Car Donation Program helps disabled veterans by turning your old car, boat, RV and more into resources to connect veterans with the benefits they earned. The process is easy with our FREE pickup service. Learn more about DAV’s Car Donation Program today!
HANG ON FOR THE LOWBROW GETDOWN–If you’ve never been to the Getdown, and don’t know what to expect…
Let’s just say ‘PARTY’ sums it up.
This is NOT a bike show, with vendors or organized activities.
It’s a party in the woods with motorcycles, drinks, food, naps, swimming, campfires and friends!
Let us sum it up for you… Get on your dang bike and be at Nelson’s Ledges Quarry Park for the Lowbrow Getdown on June 24th – 26th, 2022!
Bring ibuprofen.
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL–Opening Day
The 2022 Major League Baseball season gets underway today, one week after its original date, following an offseason lockout that continued into spring training. Despite the delay, fans will enjoy a full 162-game season under an updated agreement that ended the 99-day work stoppage.
The updated schedule resulted in a slimmer opening day slate, with just under half the league taking the field (see game times). One of the most notable matchups comes later in the day when the Houston Astros travel to face the Los Angeles Angels and two-way star Shohei Ohtani. The reigning MVP had a historic 2021 season, including becoming the first player to start as both a hitter and a pitcher in the All-Star Game.
EDITORIAL STATEMENT OF THE WEEK–I am skeptical that “collective action” through governmental policies will make planet Earth a more hospitable place. Is this the same government that can’t balance its budget, control its borders, stop the crime spree across America and has allowed a 10% inflation tax, among other foibles?
Now, these same politicians will, like Moses, stop the oceans from rising? Fat chance. And they accuse the United States of being religious zealots.
–Stephen Moore
BPR
EMISSION STANDARDS REVISED–US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg made a big announcement Friday concerning new vehicle emission standards. The new fuel economy standards require that all new US cars get over 40 mpg by 2026. The NHTSA will nearly triple fines for automakers who fail to meet the new standards.
President Joe Biden announced that he would continue to release oil from the Strategic Oil Reserve to fight high prices. Landline called the move historic. The Hill reports that this is the largest-ever oil reserve release. The CATO Institute claims in an editorial that the Strategic Oil Reserve was never used strategically.
REPORT FROM THE BIKERNET INTERNATIONAL RIDERS NEWS DESK—
There is this wonderful group of riders who have accumulated a million kms and plenty more goodwill.
I had subscribed to their updates about new rides for many years but never actually went on a ride with them.
Anyways, I filled in their registration for coming Weekend short ride of just 250 Kms.
It would be best opportunity to take the new Hero XPulse 200 outside city limits to see what it can do.
Their website has information about them and about this upcoming trip.
Meanwhile – it seems like you are writing My Life Story as a comprehensive Adventure where multiple Characters are All part of Me.
(– Chance didn’t feel fit and strong. He felt drawn and emotionally drained.
–He didn’t want to be on the ramp heading into a herd of strange folks on a dock, but he knew he needed social interaction. He didn’t want to be around anyone, but it was time.)
(–The round redheaded biker tried to resolve something in his past by drinking himself into physical oblivion every day. His health was in decline and no one could stop it. It was up to him, and he was mad, mad about something he did or someone did to him.
— never smiled and only nodded to folks he knew.
— It didn’t take Chance long to determine this biker’s self-induced destiny. He wanted to drink himself to death as fast as possible. NOTE: Though I use Cigarettes like Rudy instead of liquor
Sent: Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 07:08:44 PM GMT+5:30
Subject: Musafirs Motorcycle Club – Upcoming ride details for April 9-10, 2022
Hey Musafirs,
And it’s time for our April ride, come ride with us to our next destination – Kolad, Maharashtra. Enjoy the Musafirs camaraderie, take a dip in the pool and soak in the scenic beauty that this place has to offer.
With this being a short ride of just about 250 kms (round trip) from Mumbai and Pune, it’ll be a good “First” ride you can have with this club that is known for doing mile crunching long rides. So, if you have been sitting on the fence and simply observing us thinking of an opportune moment to join in, here’s your chance.
Unlike our last ride to Ajanta-Ellora where we were crunching miles every day, the idea for this ride to Kolad is to relax, make merry, rejuvenate, and just chill. Definitely Fun! Come join in.
We are an inclusive club – your age, gender, caste, religion, profession, sexual orientation, etc., does not matter. What matters the most is the head and heart that drives the machine and the soul! We strictly follow the no-drug and no-litter policy – if you can’t adhere, please F.O. That’s exactly how serious we are when it comes to these.
For more details and registration please visit us at – www.themusafirs.com
If you have any queries, feel free to get in touch with us. We will be happy to help 🙂
Godspeed,
Team Musafirs
TRIKES OF THE WEEK—from the Bikernet Trike editor and research specialists.
–Sam Burns
Trike Editor Supreme
Bikernet.com™
THE BATTERY HUNT—I’ve been on the hunt for a battery to fit a stock configuration 1948 UL oil tank. Simple right. Actually Lowbrow shared a lot of news about a lithium battery system that fits in a fake vintage battery case.
The more I read about lithium batteries, the more they scared me. Plus, I might have been forced to replace my generator. The cost was becoming considerable. So, I hunted for a sealed lead acid battery that might fit. Here’s some input from the experts:
We have nothing for that in Twin Power. Only stock fitment. Guys use to use a riser part and a 12N5 5A3B battery from a 350 Yamaha. It fits perfect. It is a small square. I can probably find you something in a Bikemaster Tru Gel so you have no acid hose to deal with.
780735 is a ms12-5A3b 4.7” X 2.4” X 2.4”
Here’s what I found:
More from James: That should work fine. Put some foam around it and you should be good. The cranking amps are in your right ankle, LOL!
I’ll let you know how it works out. I’m also looking for a UL manual.
–Bandit
Harley EL FL UL Service Shop Manual 1940 to 1947 Knucklehead Flathead NEW
You are purchasing one new reprint of the Harley-Davidson factory service manual for 1940 to 1947 big twin flathead and OHV UL, ULH EL, & FL models. Covers engine, transmission, electrical system including comprehensive wiring diagrams for all years and models listed, carburetion, chassis, forks, oiling systems etc. If you own a Knucklehead or big twin flathead you need this book to keep your bike on the road and to save you money on repairs. Covers Linkert M-Series carburetors and three brush generators including radio generators. In reality, this book will cover most anything on 1937 to 1948 UL and ULH models, as well as 1938 to 1947 Knuckleheads.
You will find relevant information for ’36 and ’37 Knuckles as well, however, some things like adjusting the oiling to the top end will not be covered here. You need Shop Dope II, which I have in my store to cover adjustments like that.
1937-1948 UL, ULH & UH 74” & 80” big twin flathead
1940-1947 E, EL, F, FL 61” & 74” OHV Knucklehead
This is a re-print of the original factory H-D manual. The reproduction quality is excellent on this and photo reproduction is fair as well, some photos are a little on the dark side, but still quite legible. All content is as original, nothing has been omitted.
Will ship via postal priority with insurance to domestic and foreign destinations or first class, your choice. Please feel free to contact me with questions.
International buyers: Sorry but this is too heavy to ship via first class mail, your option is postal priority.
PLEASE NOTE: When it’s practical, I will gladly combine all your purchases into one shipment for a discounted rate. If for some reason eBay will not allow you to combine the shipping automatically, just purchase the items you want and I will refund any over-payment of shipping charges immediately.
Know who you are buying from! We are not a drop-ship operation, each and every part we sell is carefully inspected to assure you get the quality part described in the listing. We have a no-hassle return policy, and we stand behind the parts we sell because we know what we are selling and shipping to our customers. Before you make a purchasing decision compare our feedback vs. others.
https://www.cimarroncycleworks.com
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BIKES ON THE BAYOU– Rolls Back into Downtown
Apr. 22-24, 2022 at Eleanor Tinsley Park
HOUSTON (April 4, 2022) – After a two-year hiatus, downtown streets will roar to life during Bikes on the Bayou at Eleanor Tinsley Park April 22-24, 2022. The celebration of two-wheeled transportation including motorcycles, bicycles, and scooters is an all-inclusive festival with music, activities, shopping, and community gatherings.
“After the pause the pandemic put on us, we’re excited to get back outdoors and celebrate with riders of all kinds,” said ‘Outlaw’ Dave Andrews. “We look forward to bringing the Houston community back together to jam to great music, admire the art of the bike and enjoy an overall festival atmosphere with the beautiful city skyline as our backdrop.”
Thanks to the support of sponsors such as Bud Light and Mancuso H-D, Eleanor Tinsley Park and along Allen Parkway will be lined with vendors, stunt riders from Team Yahama, X-Games BMX medalists on halfpipes and ramps, special events like a Hooter’s wing eating contest, an invitational bikini competition, and the Ball of Death. Two stages will fill the air with music from Saving Abel, Lil Troy, Everclear, Framing the Red, Cody Canada & the Departed, and Jake Worthington who appeared on the TV show, The Voice.
“With multiple charity motorcycle rides starting throughout the city and ending at Bikes on the Bayou, we encourage drivers to use an abundance of caution,” added Andrews. “We want all event-goers to have a fun and safe time while raising money for charities and supporting our community.
Friday’s Saving Abel concert will include a ‘Texas-sized’ meet-and-greet hosted by 94.5 The Buzz, giving nearly 100 listeners a chance to take photos with the band. Sunday, 93Q Country Radio will host a special First Responders Appreciation event and various activations and tastings will take place throughout the weekend in the Biergarten. The three-day event will also provide motorcyclists the opportunity to participate in cruises throughout the festival space and secure overnight parking on festival grounds.
Tickets are $20 for the full weekend and guests have come-and-go privileges with their tickets. All ages are welcome. A full line-up of events and concerts can be found on https://bikesonthebayou.com/.
Friday
Headliner – Saving Abel
Guest Appearance – Lil Troy
Saturday
Headliner – Everclear
Support Acts – Framing the Red
Sunday
Headliner – Cody Canada
Support Acts – Jake Worthington
Tickets: $20 for full weekend https://moontowertickets.com/showspage/16
FACEBOOK WARNING–if you mention the weather, c-19, or the Ukraine war….Facebook installs an announcement on your post where to go to get the FACTS about these three topics. What does that tell you unless you’re, ya know, not paying attention.
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Women and Growth in Gun Ownership & Firearms Industry
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Women_and_Growth_in_Gun_Ownership__Firearms_Industry.aspx
Check out Leslie Easterbrook, Rhonda on Laverne & Shirley and Captain Callahan in Police Academy. Great Sporting Clays shooter. And check out Lily Sieu, also great. I’ve shot with both of them and Kim Rody.
–Michael Hupy
mhupy@hupy.com
Milwaukee, WI
A GREENHOUSE GAS—
Don’t take our word for it that the people making policy are neither as smart as they claim nor as pure. Well, do.
But consider also a video on ethanol from the popular “Engineering Explained” YouTube channel. (Seriously. With a name like that and 3.18 million subscribers, it definitely qualifies as “popular”.)
In this particular item, presenter Jason Fenske explains based on a new study from the University of Madison Wisconsin that, in essence, this heavily subsidized fuel additive actually gives off more CO2 than the fossil fuel it supposedly replaces. About a quarter more.
So, the problem here isn’t some “denier” saying the more CO2 the merrier. It’s a huge, multibillion-dollar program whose knock-on effects include worsening world hunger that, on its own terms of reference, is incredibly stupid. And its supporters, with some self-interested exceptions, just haven’t thought it through.
Ethanol is huge business. As Fenske notes, it makes up about 10% of all the gasoline sold in the U.S. And it does so because the 2005 Renewable Fuel Standard aimed to reduce emissions (although it’s noteworthy that ethanol has been around a lot longer, with the rationale for the subsidies shifting while the subsidies themselves do not, a point to which we shall return).
And the theory was that when you burn oil that came from plants that died hundreds of millions of years ago, there’s no carbon sink, but with corn, since you keep growing more, there is; the CO2 that is released one year is, at least in part, recaptured the next. Which is plausible on the surface. But what happens if you do the math?
The curious thing is, most ethanol proponents never bothered. It’s odd, since if you believed there was a problem that threatened human civilization and possibly much more besides, something that could “destroy” the Earth to hear Al Gore and others tell it, you’d probably want to check your solution for practicality. Twice even. So, Fenske did.
Let us repeat here that he’s no climate skeptic. At the end of the notes on the video he writes “What’s the solution? We need to choose options that have a greater percentage of net emissions reductions, so that we don’t unintentionally increase emissions if regulators estimated predictions are incorrect.”
So, the question here is simply whether the people leaping into action, and shouting at anyone who raises doubts, have any real idea what they’re proposing. And again, the answer is no.
The drawbacks of ethanol are considerable, including that it manages to be more corrosive to engine parts than gasoline. Which matters because of course parts, original or spare, need to be manufactured, and manufacturing requires energy which generally speaking releases GHGs.
We won’t recap the whole video, which is a masterpiece of concision at just under 13 minutes. Instead, we invite you to watch it and discover how it is that such things as the GHG footprint of farming and the impact of changing land-use patterns counteract the naïve assumption that corn sucks in CO2 and oilfields don’t so it must be better. And how even the best-case scenario for ethanol in this respect make a trivial difference.
Meanwhile we will note, as promised above, that the original ethanol subsidy program was intended to reduce American dependence on foreign oil back in the 1970s, with the post-Yom-Kippur-War energy crisis of 1973 then the post Iranian-revolution one. And once farmers started farming the treasury for corn subsidies, and by farmers we don’t mean Henry and Martha so much as giant conglomerates, and rewarding politicians who funneled the money to them, it created an unwholesome “public choice theory” dynamic that defies efforts at reform.
And that diverts an astounding proportion of American farmland to corn and then an astounding proportion of the American corn crop to fuel ethanol, reducing the supply and thus increasing the cost of this diet staple. And if arguably people in the developed world could get by with less corn and especially less of the high-fructose corn syrup that advanced industrial methods extract from it and apply directly to your belly, there are all kinds of people in the world for whom higher food prices spell disaster (especially with Ukrainian and Russian wheat likely to be less available this year).
As Fenske adds, ethanol has merits. It amps up the octane count of fuel which improves engine efficiency in ways that prolong its life into the bargain and also reduces the carbon monoxide (CO rather than CO2) in exhaust. But what it doesn’t do is what it’s meant to do, reduce GHG emissions. Never mind debating whether the crisis is real. If you think it is, you would not want to subsidize ethanol on a massive scale. And yet they do.
So, it’s surprisingly straightforward that ethanol is not a good solution to man-made global warming, if any. And thus, that the advocates have not thought it through. Which should make a sensible person wonder what else they haven’t thought through.
–Nexus
Op-ed report
BAKER DRIVETRAIN DEALER OF THE WEEK–Fuel Moto
In 2021, Fuel Moto was a top ten BAKER dealer based on the following criteria; sales volume, customer support, and (most important) systemic knowledge. When it comes to performance upgrades, very few shops have the systemic knowledge necessary to properly integrate any engine performance upgrade with the rest of the motorcycle. Simply put, FUEL MOTO HAS KNOWLEDGE.
Fuel Moto is a family-run business that opened in 2004. In 2019, they moved to their new 20,000 sq. ft. facility in Appleton, Wisconsin. Their shop specializes in EFI tuning, exhaust systems, and a wide range of performance components. They are also a full R&D facility offering custom in-house performance installs and dyno tuning. They offer only the highest quality parts at the best prices, but more importantly, they provide their customers with unmatched product knowledge and technical support on all of the products they sell, offering industry-leading service to their customers.
–Bakerdrivetrain
DOES NEW YORK’S NEW EXHAUST NOISE BILL CREATES A 60-DECIBEL MUFFLER LIMIT?
The initial versions of the New York’s new law were quite different from the final product. As initially drafted, cars and trucks would have been limited to 60-decibels of exhaust noise, subject to a flat $1,000 fine, and police cars would have been equipped with sound meters to help enforce the law.
None of these proposals made it into the final version of the bill.
The decibel limit was removed as it would have rendered practically every car on the road illegal, the universal fine was changed to a cap, and the sound meters were scrapped as well.
IS IT TRUE THAT A NEW BILL IN NEW YORK WILL BAN EXHAUST NOISE MODIFICATIONS?
FICTION
In 2021, lawmakers in New York introduced a pair of bills (S. 784 and A. 471) seeking to curb loud cars and trucks. The bills were amended several times prior to passage and were approved by Governor Kathy Hochul in late October.
The new law doesn’t change the state’s existing exhaust noise laws, which require every motor vehicle to be equipped with a muffler in working condition and prohibits the installation of bypasses, cutouts, or similar devices.
Comparable language is universally used by states across the country and is designed to prevent motorists from deleting their muffler and/or catalytic converter. The new law simply allows police to write larger fines for those breaking existing law.
VINTAGE RIDES TRAINING AVAILABLE–Exhilarating. Fantastic. Sensational. Extraordinary. Frenzied. Addictive. You can choose the superlative, but we must all agree on one thing: setting off for an adventure on the world’s tracks and roads – whether they’re in Mongolia, Tanzania, Ladakh, Argentina, Thailand or Mustang – is probably one of the most amazing experiences out there.
Improve riding on tracks and trails
Do you still break out in a cold sweat and panic before you set your wheels on the first stretch of track? After talking to many of our riders over the years, we realized that some of you still do not dare sign up for our Adventure Raids. And it’s just for one reason: because off-road riding has the reputation of being for Enduro bikers and other seasoned riders.
We also noticed that many of our riders enjoyed the off-road stretches of our tours but could do with a better grasp of riding techniques to have more fun on difficult ground.
We, therefore, wanted to debunk the myth and make off-roading more accessible by creating the Vintage Rides Academy. In 2020, we worked flat out to find the perfect formula and welcome you to a riding course in the Beaujolais region, just a short distance from our Lyon office.
Discovery, safety and fun in equal measure
Whether you want to tackle your first tracks or perfect your off-roading skills, our French Motorcycle Federation-certified instructor will help you reach new milestones, whatever your riding level.
The Academy can help newbies get to grips with stand-up riding or tackling difficult conditions on all types of ground. And for the more experienced riders, the training course will help them correct poor posture and bad habits they’ve acquired over the years.
Renaud, a keen traveller and a seasoned biker, took part in our off-road training session last spring, and this is what he had to say about it: “It’s always good to question yourself, think about how you ride and how you can be safer on tracks. Having an instructor to watch you and correct you really helps. You naturally gain more control and confidence. My top tip: loosen your grip on the handlebars and keep smiling!”
At the Vintage Rides Academy, you will discover or relearn off-road riding basics on a Royal Enfield trail bike: the Himalayan. The course looks at posture and includes several workshops on bends, braking, ascents, descents, etc. After, you can enjoy two days of riding across the Beaujolais region’s tracks.
Fancy a change of scenery without having to travel to the other side of the world? Get a group of friends together for three days and ride through this stunning, authentic part of France. You’ll see that the Beaujolais region and its quaint towns are not short of hidden gems!
Vintage Rides
teamvr@vintagerides.com
+442070316050
CHECK OUT THE NEW 5-BALL GARAGE SHOP—for leathers, books, bandanas and more.
It’s all new and Shopify and Instagram connected. Hope we did it right this time.
–Bandit
Climate Doom Report—Okay, so California closed access to lands over Climate Doom. The new Democrat-Led FEC will control investments not for the public but for the Planet.
States and local governments are trying to punish all drivers under the guise of zero tolerance and less Climate doom. Our economy, our rights, our freedom of speech are being impacted by Climate Doom. Our motorcycles and our future is being impacted by Climate Doom. So, who is asking if it’s true or for scientific transparency? Anyone in the motorcycle or car industry? Why not? Are we really doomed? I don’t think so.
–Bandit
THE BUELL REPORT–Buell Current and Future Products Get Standing Ovation at Daytona
Grand Rapids, MI – The Buell is Back mantra was reaffirmed and reinforced after a strong showing and enthusiastic response from consumers at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
“Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and now it’s back to work,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “We were humbled by the wildly enthusiastic response from both the media and consumers at Daytona on our current and future models. Their encouragement and insistence to keep expanding the Buell brand into new segments while pushing the power envelope was clearly heard…so as it pertains to new product development – you ain’t seen nothing yet!”
Buell showcased the Hammerhead and 1190 SX models currently in production while unveiling two new prototypes, the Baja DR and SuperTouring, announcing their entry into the off-road and touring segments while maintaining the brand’s coveted DNA customers expect.
The Baja DR will boast the world’s fastest production dirt bike with a 175hp liquid-cooled, 72-degree V-twin engine with 101 ft-lbs. of torque. Add to this the trellis frame, adjustable swing arm for a 66-72” wheelbase, industry-standard 37” seat height with 26.75-degree rake and you’ve got the makings for an unmatched top-of-the-market speed and performance dirt bike. Production is planned for early 2023.
The new SuperTouring model will possess the fastest touring bike in the marketplace producing an industry-leading 185hp. It retains Buell’s famous Fuel in Frame handling but will exhibit a more upright riding position, variable mounting points for hard or soft bags and room for rider customization with aftermarket touring accessories. Production is planned for winter 2022.
Opportunities to reserve a production slot for the Hammerhead, 1190 SX, Baja DR, and SuperTouring models are available now by placing a $25 reservation at www.BuellMotorcycle.com. You’ll receive a limited-edition Buell hat too!
Buell is headed back more energized than ever to deliver more Hammerhead and SX models, make improvements and prepare to launch their new Baja DR and SuperTouring models and explore opportunities to expand into new product segments as well.
Daytona Bike Week only reaffirmed that Buell is back and delivering excitement at every turn.
For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com
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NORTHEAST BUSINESS AID—
Massachusetts Launches Training and Grant Program to Spur Job Growth
Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker launched his state’s new “HireNow” program to help employers quickly hire and train workers and get more of them back to work. The program provides eligible employers with grants up to $4,000 per newly hired employee, and the money can be used to cover training costs or as a signing bonus.
There is a limit of $400,000 per employer, and funds will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Businesses can learn more about eligibility and apply at mass.gov/HireNow.
–MIC
5-BALL RACING LEATHERS TO ADVERTISE IN CHOPPERS MAGAZINE—Frankie and the Venice, California 5-Ball Racing Leathers team is working hard to expand the line with dealers in Las Vegas, Deadwood and Temecula.
H-D FOR UKRAINE LIMITED-EDITION T-SHIRTS–Harley-Davidson has released “H-D for Ukraine” limited-edition T-shirts in conjunction with United Way Worldwide to benefit humanitarian relief efforts for Ukraine.
For each T-shirt sold through June 15, 2022, $26 will benefit United Way’s “United for Ukraine Fund” to provide transportation, shelter, food, medicine and critical childcare supplies. In addition, the Harley-Davidson Foundation has donated $50,000 to the United for Ukraine Fund.
This program was conceived by Harley-Davidson employees who wanted to find a way to give back and show support for relief efforts for Ukraine. The shirt was designed by employees and features the colors of the Ukrainian flag across the iconic Harley-Davidson logo on the chest. On the back, UNITED WE RIDE is featured, epitomizing the spirit of Harley-Davidson, rallying together to help when needed.
The H-D for Ukraine shirts are now available at:
OUR KLOCK WERKS FLTR WINDSHIELD FAMILY IS GROWING…
We are proud to announce one of the a few new windshield sizes to join the Klock Werks Flare™ Windshield family. Available now and ready to ship to your doorstep is the new 10″ Pro-Touring for your 2015+ FLTR.
Get Yours Before Your Next Ride
NEW FROM BURMA SHAVE–My cock is in your pussy /
And your tongue is in my mouth /
We’ll make the winter so damn hot /
the geese will not fly south / burma shave
–J.J. Solari
X-Rated Burma Shave Writer
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–ULTIMATE SPORTSTER TECH OF THE DAY
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/ULTIMATE_SPORTSTER_TECH_OF_THE_DAY.aspx
Brings back memories. My first car was a 52 Deluxe. White top with brush painted light blue bottom. I took the pitted chrome parts and painted them flat black. The ole six ran great until I threw a rod and graduated to a 59 Studie Silver Hawk.
Had a 52 Chevy 3100 also. Wish I had them now.
–Rhys
S. Daytona, FL
$ 4.00
Support Good Times Adult Entertainment Panhead Sticker. 3 x 1″ vinyl laminate.
AMA Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Bike Night–May 21, 2022
Bike Nights are a staple in the motorcycling community. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame traditionally welcomes motorcyclists and fans of motorcycling to Bike Nights in the spring and the fall. The event, which raises funds for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, features music, food vendors, free entry to the museum and more.
For 2022, the spring event will be held Saturday, May 21 from 4-8 p.m. Join us at the AMA campus, located at 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, Ohio.
The event will include:
Free admission to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Adventure Bike Challenge
Local motorcycling advocacy and safety organization Motorcycle Ohio
Free gift when you join the AMA or renew your membership
Food trucks
Music from Capitol City Sounds
And much more!
Visit the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Fall Bike Night event page on Facebook
BIKERNET STAFFER COMMENT— I especially enjoy reading the installments about all your adventures in the Cantina. I have read #1 thru #6. Pretty damn interesting! I always imagined what a real biker party was like and now I know.
Continue your writing of the episodes and you can put them in a book. They are great! Keep on tweekin! Ha, ha. Hope I spelled it right. Hal’s wife. I like that too.
–Ann Robinson
Director of Hal Robinson Sales
Bikernet.com™
The California Coastal Commission, without deliberation, unanimously voted in late December to further restrict OHV use at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, immediately shutting down 108 acres of riding and driving area. Commission staff cited dust control and dune restoration as reasons to propose the shutdown, despite evidence that dust in the area is primarily caused by the wind and dunes themselves, not any human activities.
“The Coastal Commission rammed the closure through during the holidays with minimal public notice,” said Scott Schloegel, MIC senior vice president of government relations. “This will further diminish the recreational experience and access for the millions of visitors to Oceano Dunes each year.”
The MIC sent a letter to the CCC in December noting that claims about dust from OHVs have been debunked in two separate reports authored by Dr. Lynn Russell of the University of California, San Diego, Scripps Institution of Oceanography. And the MIC’s Mario Mairena, senior manager, federal affairs, spoke at the commission meeting opposing closure during the public comment period.
“Throughout the public works plan process, we submitted comments and testified at public hearings suggesting ways to responsibly and safely preserve OHV access and resources at ODSVRA,” stated the letter, signed by Erik Pritchard, president and CEO of the MIC, the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association. “We repeatedly offered to partner with State Parks to enhance safety, training, and awareness of sensitive areas at ODSVRA.”
–MIC
CHOPPER ORWELL READER REVIEW—I started reading your grandfather’s book a couple of days ago and was super impressed. I didn’t really have any expectations or know what to think when I picked it up. I’d say I was captivated and read more than half of it in the first sitting and have less that 100 pages left.
I appreciate you sharing that with me. More than you know.
–5-Ball customer
REPORT FROM CENTER FOR INDUSTRIAL PROGRESS–Freedom from endangerment
In this email, we’re going to discuss the freedom from endangerment.
It is vital for human well-being that individuals are protected from dangers to their air, water, sanitation, and safety. Energy production and use, including fossil fuel production and use, can endanger people in all kinds of ways if done badly—from bad burning processes, to waste that’s handled improperly, to oil rigs going out of control, to gas lines exploding.
It’s really important that we have policies to protect us from such dangers. How to do this is not obvious, but the key is to always think about what’s best for human flourishing.
Personally, I think there are three keys to a good policy that protects the freedom from endangerment. A good policy is one that establishes standards of health and safety that are
reasonable and equitable
scientifically verifiable
economically desirable
Reasonable
What do I mean by reasonable? When talking about protecting health and safety from certain kinds of risks, we have to acknowledge that every human action and technology carries risks and dangers. Nature itself carries risks and dangers.
We can’t have a policy that demands actions and technologies be totally free of risks and dangers, because then we would not be able to do anything, or we would just keep doing the same old things, ignoring that they also have risks because we’re used to those risks.
For example, think of the first people to use fire. They were exposing themselves and their family to a certain amount of smoke—much more than modern power plants do, for sure. Now, should they have not used fire because of the smoke? No. Fire was so vital to their lives that it would have been harmful to their health and safety not to have the fire. If there had been a policy banning the use of fire because of the smoke, that would have been an example of overprotecting themselves to the point of harm.
By the same token, we can’t have standards for energy risks or energy safety that would prevent people from using energy. That’s what I mean by a policy having to be reasonable: protecting without overprotecting.
Equitable
This goes right along with equitable, or fair and impartial.
We want to be equitable and we don’t want to discriminate against some industries or some forms of energy, holding them to impossibly high risk and endangerment standards. Often, however, safety standards aren’t equitable because people tend to see new and unfamiliar things as riskier than old things.
Take hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, for example. This is a technology that has been around a long time, but the term fracking wasn’t introduced into common usage until around 2010. People think of it as very risky even though it’s been done very safely for a long time. They worry about the risk of fracking but not about the risk of driving, which is an incomparably greater risk than fracking.
Unfortunately, it is very common to treat unpopular industries such as the oil and gas industry this way. They get held to completely different standards than more popular industries. Take the issue of noise. What you’ll find is that the amount of noise accepted from janitors, construction workers, and movie theaters is often far greater than that of a fracking job. But people complain that their rights are being violated by the noise from the fracking job and not by the noise from these other activities. That’s clearly non-equitable.
It’s important when we hear talk of risk and danger that we’re clear on whether there is actually an unreasonable amount of risk in a given area, or whether we’re holding some industry or activity to a higher standard than other comparable industries or activities.
–Alex Epstein
DEAL OF THE WEEK FROM LIFESTYLE CYCLES–2019 Harley-Davidson FLHT – Electra Glide Standard FOR $22,995.00
SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=11869243
2019 Black Harley-Davidson ELECTRA GLIDE STANDARD FLHT
ONLY 21271.00 Miles !!!!!
This bike is over the top with everything done right!
This is just some of the features/Add-ons on this bike
* 117c.i. motor JE pistons 10.8 compression,fueling cam plate,rocker stud conversion,S&S lifters,adjustable push rods,woods wm8-22 cams.
* Screaming eagle 55mm intake manifold,HPI tunnel ram intake,A1 cycle oil pressure gauge,crankcase vent system,Supertrapp stainless exhaust.
* 6-Speed trans with BDL 2-inch open primary with centrifugal lock out clutch.
* MX-bars with risers and PM grips.
* Mach7R lower legs with adjustable damping and RWD rear shocks
* Flo motorsports floor boards
Just $22,995.00
Plus, license, and a $85.00 documentation fee and your local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like dealers, We have no reconditioning or prep fee’s.
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety and mechanical/structural inspection.
You can fill out an online application with EZ FINANCING and EXTENDED WARRANTIES available to purchase!!! and you can ride today!
Lifestyle Cycles located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806 NOT LOCAL WE HAVE ******SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!******
Call today (714) 490-0155. **Open 7 days a week**
To view our current inventory, please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
DENNIS KIRK SUPPORTS LA CHOPPERS–Dennis Kirk has an outstanding selection of parts and accessories to upgrade your ride from our friends at LA Choppers. Orders placed by 8PM Central Time ship the same day, with free shipping on orders over $89. Shop denniskirk.com today!
Ride More. Wait Less.
2022 AMA National Gypsy Tour Events
June 7-11: Americade, Lake George, N.Y.
June 11-19: Laconia Motorcycle Week, Weirs Beach, N.H
June 23-26: Thunder in the Valley, Johnstown, Pa.
NEW FROM THE NASH MOTORCYCLE COMPANY— The Nash Motorcycle Co. “Hammer Hangers” Collection
The Original Hammer Hanger, “Lights Out” Hammer Hanger, Torch Holder, Jason Momoa On The Roam “Double Knuckle” Hammer Hangers
*** 100% US made 100% US materials! ***
Ever been on a long ride and realized you brought all the tools you need except your hammer?
Our brainchild, the one of kind design to fix that problem was the Original Nash Hammer Hanger! Made from high quality leather from right here in the USA.
The Hammer Hanger and all of its versions can be mounted anywhere you need by using our 3/4? strap mounting system. The “Hammer Hanger” sling is made to fit the Nash MC hammer, but just about any hammer, larger hammers – 16 oz. or bigger are best.
Our other versions are designed to fit a Maglight, Nash Knuckle Choppers, Lights Out Hammers, and the Knuckle Hammer versions.
Match the right one to your favorite Nash tool! Many leather and hardware color choices to choose from!
–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™
MUSTANG SEATS Acquired by Veteran-founded Investment-Firm LDR Growth Partners
Three Rivers, Massachusetts – April 4, 2022 – LDR Growth Partners today announced the acquisition of Mustang Motorcycle Products LLC, maker of Mustang Seats and related motorcycle accessories, in a private transaction closed last Friday. Mustang, known for high-quality, handmade motorcycle seats, was founded in 1980 near Three Rivers, MA, where the company maintains factory operations. Mustang was purchased out of Motorsport Aftermarket Group, owned by a group of investors, led by Monomoy Capital Partners.
“Mustang Seats presents a tremendous opportunity for us at LDR,” said William Brame, partner at LDR and co-head of its acquisition business. “Our unique approach is in providing growing companies the resources they need to continue to expand while identifying areas for new value creation. We’ll invest in people, technology, and the machinery the company needs to help deliver the iconic Mustang Seats to motorcycle riders looking for our products domestically and internationally.”
Mustang employs 85 people in a historic facility in Three Rivers. The company was founded by Al Simmons and named after the legendary P51 military aircraft from World War II. Mustang designs and manufactures a variety of styles of seats, with fitments for all major brands of motorcycles. The company also offers rider and passenger backrests and seating-related products.
LDR Growth Partners is a private investment firm focused on acquiring and growing unique, cash flow generating businesses in the manufacturing, industrial products, and transportation sectors. The company currently owns and operates Whitman Controls, a 50-year manufacturer of process automation controls with large, multinational customers across a range of industries. LDR, founded in 2011 by three US Army officers, is also the owner of LDR Advisory Partners and LDR Leadership, firms which focus on improving company, employee and leadership performance.
LDR intends to keep Mustang’s operations in its current primary location as it adds manufacturing technology, production capacity and marketing capabilities to the organization. The company has added nearly 20 additional employees since September of 2021 and the new owners anticipate hiring additional resources in the coming months to accomplish their goals.
AMA EVENTS NEWS–Get Ready to Ride!
The AMA would like to give a special “shout out” to Concours Owners Group as they kick off a full calendar of sport and recreational riding events. Learn more about the club.
April 1: Wildflower Rally, Hunt, Texas
April 1-Sept. 30: AMA Grand Tour: Tour of Honor, Idaho
April 29-30: Carving the Cumberland: SE Spring Rally, Spencer, Tenn.
April 29-May 1: Scull Shoals National Dual Sport, Union Point, Ga.
April 29-May 1: Scull Shoals National Adventure Ride, Union Point, Ga.
Find more events at americanmotorcyclist.com/findanevent .
Find AMA Clubs near you at americanmotorcyclist.com/findacharter .
SPEAKING OF EVENTS—Arizona bike week is happening this weekend. My grandson is headed out. Jason Mook from Deadwood Custom Cycles built two FXRs for a friends FXR build-off which involved Ari from Law Tigers, Brian Klock, Paul Yaffe and Nick Trask.
They are all meeting outside Phoenix and riding in together. The event is being covered by Chris Callen at Cycle Source, who also built a hot rod FXR for Arizona Bike Week.
We are about to feature this rare Jefferson, Waverly racer from the Markus Cuff Collection.
Cabana Dan in Sturgis is building a Strider bike custom for an upcoming charity auction. The rear fender was custom bent to fit the small wheels by 7-Metal West Fenders.
I’m collecting parts and will write up a story about the 1948 UL as soon as I collect the tank from Greg and make some progress. I can’t wait to tune and fire that puppy.
In the meantime, don’t let the bastards get you down and ride fast and free forever.
–Bandit
