Hey,
It’s another gloomy fuckin’ Sunday in Southern California. Even the Bikernet dogs had enough of this shit. Last week somebody announced the annual rainfall. We are five inches over the standard. It’s bullshit I tell ya. I’ve had it with this fuckin’ gloom all the time. I can now relate to our brothers back east. We need the shinning sunlight and warm open roads.
I peeled out to Spitfire to check on our FXR frames. There’s serious progress, and we’re looking at starting the build process in two weeks, about the time my Branch and Bennett’s engine mods are completed. I’ll bring you another report next week. Let’s hit the news:
BIKERNET RECEIVES A NOTE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT– I want to tell you about a family in Minnesota.
Justin and Kari live in Brooklyn Park, right outside of Minneapolis. They’re parents to three children. Their three-year-old, William, was born with a genetic disorder called tuberous sclerosis complex.
For the rest of his life, William will wrestle with tumors in his brain, his heart, his kidneys, his skin, and possibly other major organs. He must take medication to control seizures and faces the threat of kidney disease.
What Justin and Kari want for William is a future. And because of health reform, that’s what he’ll have.
Today, insurance companies are no longer able to discriminate against William because of the condition he’s dealt with since birth. Now, Justin and Kari know they’ll be able to get the kind of care that William needs — today and into the future.
Their story isn’t unique, but it’s one of many that need to be told. We all know people whose lives have been changed because of the Affordable Care Act, even if we don’t realize it. So we’ve found a way to show exactly how reform is working for all of us — for our parents, our siblings, our kids, ourselves.
–Joe Biden
The V.P. got me to thinking, so I made some notes. Let me know what you think:
I appreciate how free healthcare will help folks who need it.
Nancy P. said health care should be a right not a privilege. Should owning a home be a right not a privilege? Should owning a car, or transportation? Why should folks be forced to work for food? And will you tell stories in the future how freedom is taken away, or regulations are enforced to pay for healthcare. Will that be a celebration?
When will freedom and quality of life have a dollar figure attached. Stop having fun, stop all risky behavior, stop smoking, drinking, and eating sweets. Stop everything so you’ll live a year longer, or you won’t be a burden on the other tax payers. Look out.
–Bandit
THIS JUST IN FROM THE BIKERNET ORGANIC FARMS, THREE REASONS TO EAT BROCCOLI–This vegetable-platter classic – along with other cruciferous vegetables – is tasty both raw and cooked, and is a standout in soups, casseroles and salads. I have long recommended broccoli as part of a healthful diet. This versatile vegetable:
1. Promotes a healthy nervous system. Broccoli is a good source of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which can help calm and nourish nerve fibers.
2. Supports bone health. Broccoli is a good source of vitamin K and calcium – both of which help keep bones strong and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
3. Can improve energy through its high levels of vitamin C, a micronutrient that supports the normal processes of cellular energy production.
The nutrients in broccoli may also help protect against cancer, heart disease, cataracts and birth defects, while promoting a strong immune system and supporting optimal gastrointestinal function. One of the healthiest ways to prepare broccoli is to lightly steam it, which can help to retain the nutritional components better than other cooking methods such as boiling.
If you do like broccoli, try these recipes – and don’t miss tomorrow’s Daily Tip, which features a recipe that uses broccoli in an unexpected way!
JOKE OF THE DAY
How much cocaine did Charlie Sheen do?
………………….Enough to kill Two and A Half Men!
–Bob Clark
WHO HAS A MONOPOLY ON HISTORY–Cool piece of History – I thought this was fascinating!
Starting in 1941, an increasing number of British Airmen found themselves as the involuntary guests of the Third Reich, and the Crown was casting about for ways and means to facilitate their escape. Now obviously, one of the most helpful aids to that end is a useful and accurate map, one showing not only where stuff was, but also showing the locations of ‘safe houses’ where a POW on-the-lam could go for food and shelter.
Paper maps had some real drawbacks — they make a lot of noise when you open and fold them, they wear out rapidly, and if they get wet, they turn into mush.
Someone in MI-5 (similar to America ‘s OSS ) got the idea of printing escape maps on silk. It’s
durable, can be scrunched-up into tiny wads, and unfolded as many times as needed, and
makes no noise whatsoever.
At that time, there was only one manufacturer in Great Britain that had perfected the technology of printing on silk, and that was John Waddington, Ltd. When approached by the government, the firm was only too happy to do its bit for the war effort.
By pure coincidence, Waddington was also the U.K. Licensee for the popular American board
game, Monopoly. As it happened, ‘games and pastimes’ was a category of item qualified for
insertion into ‘CARE packages’, dispatched by the International Red Cross to prisoners of war.
Under the strictest of secrecy, in a securely guarded and inaccessible old workshop on the grounds of Waddington’s, a group of sworn-to-secrecy employees began mass producing escape maps, keyed to each region of Germany or Italy where Allied POW camps were regional system).. When processed, these maps could be folded into such tiny dots that they would actually
fit inside a Monopoly playing piece.
As long as they were at it, the clever workmen at Waddington’s also managed to add:
1. A playing token, containing a small magnetic
compass
2. A two-part metal file that could easily be
screwed together
3. Useful amounts of genuine high-denomination
German, Italian, and
French currency, hidden within the piles of
Monopoly money!
British and American air crews were advised, before taking off on their first mission, how
to identify a ‘rigged’ Monopoly set — by means of a tiny red dot, one cleverly rigged to look
like an ordinary printing glitch, located in the corner of the Free Parking square.
Of the estimated 35,000 Allied POWS who successfully escaped, an estimated one-third
were aided in their flight by the rigged Monopoly sets… Everyone who did so was sworn to secrecy Indefinitely, since the British Government might want to use this highly successful ruse in still another, future war. The story wasn’t declassified until 2007, when the surviving craftsmen from Waddington’s, as well as the firm itself, were finally honored in a public ceremony.
It’s always nice when you can play that ‘Get Out of Jail’ Free’ card!
–Very
REDHEADS FOR BANDIT’S BIRTHDAY–Just in case I missed your birthday! Can’t go wrong with Reds!
Peace,
Tinman
TERRIFIC NEWS FOR BIKERS ROAMING THE HOT STREETS AND NEVADA HIGHWAYS- CARSON CITY — After failing for five straight sessions to repeal the state’s 39-year-old motorcycle helmet law, Sen. Don Gustavson has developed a new, perhaps winnable, strategy: Let them take off their helmets, and they will come.
He says they will show up for the Laughlin River Run, Reno Street Vibrations and every other biker rally, stay at the finest hotels and gamble away fortunes.
At the same time, a helmet-free state will spawn greater local interest in riding. More motorcycle dealerships will open.
The economy will begin to boom if Nevada repeals its helmet law, he predicts.
“Mine is the only bill that will create new jobs and revenue for Nevada without raising taxes,” said Gustavson, R-Sparks, during a Senate Transportation Committee hearing last week.
–Mark Temple
Guerrilla Lawfare
BOLT of California
QUAIL LODGE Collectors’ Motorcycles and Related Memorabilia AUCTION COMING–
Saturday May 14, 2011
Quail Lodge Resort and
Golf Club–
Bonhams is delighted to announce the upcoming sale of two custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles to benefit the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.
Built for Otis Chandler, and owned by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation since the historic 1998 exhibition The Art of the Motorcycle, these two Harley-Davidson motorcycles are exact recreations of the iconic ‘Captain America’ chopper and the ‘Billy Bike’ Harley-Davidson motorcycles ridden by screen legends Peter Fonda and the late Dennis Hopper in the film ‘Easy Rider’.
Footnote – Because the Guggenheim does not collect motorcycles as part of its mission or collection, it has determined to offer these replicas for sale, with the proceeds used to benefit the Foundation.
Photo Credit: Randy Leffingwell
Both to be offered at Quail Lodge on May 14th, 2011
BIG CHANGES AT SADDLEMEN– Rancho Dominguez, CA – Saddlemen, an industry leader in motorcycle seats, luggage and accessories is pleased to announce the addition of several vital new team members to the organization.
Ron Benfield has joined the organization as the new Director of Sales and Marketing and will oversee all sales and marketing functions of the company. Tom Seymour, Saddlemen’s owner: “Ron will be a great asset to the company. Ron has experience running his own aftermarket company as well as fifteen years working for OEM’s. His professional skills accompanied by his passion for motorsports will elevate us to new heights.”
“I can’t wait to get started and be a part of a company that has such a great reputation in the industry. There are great things happening at Saddlemen, we have an outstanding sales, marketing and technical team and I am excited to be part of it.” says Benfield.
Ron is reunited with Technical Director Avery Innis, who also recently joined Saddlemen. Avery brings over 35 years of technical experience, at the dealer and OEM levels, in addition to his personal passion for various types of riding, Avery manages the development of new products for the Saddlemen line.
“With the expansion of our sport bike products, the addition of audio and electronic accessories, plus our dedication to always improving our existing product lines we have a dynamic variety of accessories to make your next ride more fun. Having Ron join us here will add another level of professionalism and effectiveness to our projects,” said Innis.
Saddlemen has been innovating rider comfort and convenience since 1987. From introducing their patented Saddlegel™ over fifteen years ago, to their newest lines of seats, bags, and electronics, Saddlemen has been on the forefront of motorcycle technology and comfort.
WEEKEND BAD JOKE– A Biker sits in the bar with his wife and he says, “I love you.”
She asks, “Is that you or the beer talking?
“He replies, “It’s me…talking to the beer.”
–Johnnie Gutierrez
FXR FOR THE SALT FLATS– I wanted to send Bikernet a few shots of the rebuilt FXR, which I’m calling the “Screamin Blue Messiah,” let me know what you think about my design, I’m thinking about taking her to the salt this year.
–Ride hard, Thad
DAVID MANN TO BE HONORED AT THE FROG JUMPS–The Bikers Inner Circle family in conjuction with Keith Ball, owner of Bikernet.COM are proud to announce that we will be giving a “Life Time Achievement” award to Dave Mann’s wife Jacquie in behalf of Dave Mann at our 3rd annual “Frog Jumps Biker Bash 2011” on the Beautiful Lake Tulloch Resort in Copperopolis, California.
We would also like to thank Paul Binford from “Binfords Custom Cycles” for custom making this award. Here at Bikers Inner Circle we feel that this award is way overdue and should have been given to Dave while he was still alive for all of his beautiful pieces of Legendary Art such as the Ghost Rider and positive influence in the motorcycle industry. Please come and join us at our biker bash to be a part of this historical moment and meet Jacquie Mann. This lady has been trying keep Dave’s name alive since he passed away. Her website is http://www.davemannart.com/ displaying and selling his numerous pieces of artwork.
Please take the time to check out her site. For your entertainment we will be opening the event on Friday night for the Tophatters and Vendors featuring the “Cajun Queen Pinkie & The Blind Resistance” Where “Goodtime Charlie” has been known to jump on stage and jam to the Blues. Saturday we will be having live music from the two best biker bands in America “The Charlie Brechtel Band” and “The Fryed Brothers Band”.
If you have never been to Northern California for the Frog Jumps you don’t know what you are missing. We have some of the best ridin’ roads in America. There will be bike builders, motorcycle clubs, vendors, tattoo contests, tug of war, food, music & girls. Keep in mind we will be giving away trophies for all of our contests. Plus, Bikers Inner Circle film crew will be out filming the entire event you never know, you might end up on camera. And all of this will be hosted by the beautiful Jennifer Scott Santolucito. And last but not least we would like to thank one of best of friends Randy Simpson from “Milwaukee Iron” for helping us sponsor the show. 
For more information on Rooms contact Lake Tulloch Resort directly at 209-785-8200 and for vendor spots please call us at 209-785-9422 or email sabrina@bikersinnercircle.com and for any other questions email http://charlie@bikersinnercircle.com the vendor forms are on the Bikers Inner Circle site at http://www.bikersinnercircle.com/
BIKERNET’S RAY WHEELER REPORT–In between rain drops rolled to Hollister this afternoon on 101 South. Arrived at Corbin’s for the 1st 2011 meeting to plan for the
Hollister 4th of July, 16 or 17 in attendance including Mike Corbin. Will add Bikernet to the e-mail list that was gathered today that will keep us informed.
Next meeting is in two weeks. They are attempting to bring the Hollister Rally back.
Ride for your Life!
Ray
BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER RELEASES MOST RECENT ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH UPDATE– from the Week magazine, Health and Science: A pathway to lost memories?
Raising hopes that dementia could one day be reversed, scientists have discovered a way to re-create key neurons that die off in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. After testing millions of embryonic stem cells for six years, researchers at Northwestern University have unlocked the genetic code that allows them to transform stem and skin cells into basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. When the disease destroys these neurons, patients lose access to their memories, but they don’t actually lose the memories themselves.
Researchers implanted lab-generated BFC cells into mice and observed that they build memory pathways just as normal neurons do. That opens the prospect that transplanting such cells into the brains of human Alzheimer’s patients could restore their mental function. The research “could have an impact in the next couple of years,” William Thies, chief medical and scientific officer of the Alzheimer’s Association, tells HealthDay.com, as the ability to create BFC cells allows researchers “to much more rapidly test new therapies.”
THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS SUNDAY SPECIAL! A 1990 FXR, very sharp looking bike with a lots of extensive engine performance modifications. Looks to be well maintained and owner has receipts for modifications. You can’t go wrong with an FXR ! Check out THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, where the adventure is just waiting to begin!
$8,000.00
Description:
1990 FXR. Ground up rebuild in 2008. Custom cut and polished factory mags. Modified swing arm and custom pivot covers to mount struts. All billet forward controls. Frame molded and re-powdercoated. S&S carburetor (modified). S&S oil pump. Crane cam, lifters and pushrods. KB pistons. Heads professionally ported, polished, and bench flowed. All cables and hoses SS braided. Wide Glide billet triple tree. Electronic speedo. Monster tach w/shift light. RB Racing exhaust. Hidden wiring. Two seats. All receipts,build notes, etc. included. Shop kept.
Trades ACCEPTED: Small Block Chevy Motor plus Cash.
Item Location: BAKER, LA
This ad expires in 37 days.
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/category/1625/Dyna_Glide/post/2152078/1990-FXR.html
— MIKE the STEALTH !
BIKERNET READER STORY– Joined the Corps (tons of fill in stories) and living on a couch watching American Chopper and telling myself, “This is cool but I’m just as smart and capable as these fucking ‘tards.'” Called the now gone AMI and they were a year and a half out for enrollment. I got welding certified on six processes while waiting and went. Graduated and was immediately hired in Fort Lauderdale Harley-Davidson.
Got introduced to Bikernet there.
Had my accident in March of 2007. 8 Weeks in a coma 9 months in the hospital. While recovering in a wheelchair I used to read every word on your site. I read Jared Peterson’s “Enlightenment” and wept at the keyboard. I emailed you to forward my thanks to him. You did and he contacted me directly. It led to a series of emails that helped keep me sane. I asked him to meet me for a thank you cocktail at the 2008 Bike Week in Daytona that March. He did, and we drank together and I flirted with the hot, friendly bartender (at Froggy’s I think). Come to find out later that the shyer of us returned the following year to not only see her again, but win her heart and get her to move to the west coast with him.
I met Bandit at the Bulider’s Breakfast that year as well (I have pics of both you and me and Jared and I) to complete my desire to thank you both in person.
So, all of this hot air has been to say, I built this bike because I wrote a list of things I would have regretted never doing if I had died back in 2007. 1- Learn to play an instrument. (I’m now the bass player for the Cadillac Creeps- www.cadillaccreeps.com)
2- Build a custom with my hands from scratch (check)
3- See it in a magazine (check in the future)
4- tell the whole amazing story (yet to happen). But will happen on Bikernet.
You and Jared rre a HUGE reason I even attempted this and continue to ride.
Like many people along the way, I’ll never be able to repay that, but I take the time to thank you when I can.
Always grateful, and will continue to ride forever.
–Joel Mercado
MEMO FROM BANDIT’S CANTINA GALLEY–4 Reasons to Eat Beans–They often get a bad rap for causing indigestion and flatulence, but the health benefits of beans (and other legumes, such as lentils) make them a stellar choice in a healthful diet. Beans are:
1. An excellent source of vegetarian protein, providing six to seven grams per half-cup serving.
2. High in folic acid, which may help to protect against cancers of the lung, colon and cervix, and prevent birth defects.
3. A great source of fiber, dishing up 25-30% of the Daily Value of dietary fiber, 75% of which is insoluble – the type that reduces the risk of colon cancer.
4. A low-glycemic-index food, making them a good option for diabetics.
In addition, most varieties are inexpensive and versatile. I recommend one to two servings of beans and legumes per day – easy to do if you swap out meat for beans in salads and sandwiches, and make hummus or bean dip part of an afternoon snack.
And if stomach upset is a concern, you can improve the quality and digestibility of beans by consuming them with grains such as brown rice, which provide a complimentary protein profile. Discarding the soaking and cooking water when using dry beans may also help reduce flatulence.
–DRWeil.com
TIP FROM THE 5-BALL RACING WINERY–
The correct way to treat a good wine…
Open the bottle to allow it to breathe.
If it doesn’t look like it’s breathing,
give it mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
–Ted T.
THUNDER BEACH RALLY IN PANAMA BEACH FLORIDA– I just wanted to pass along our full page ad going into the Thunder Beach Rally Magazine in Panama Beach Florida’s Rally, One of the USA largest motorcycle Rally. In addition Lucas is the Official Oil of this Rally.
Thanks to Manny, Mark S & Tom F for all your help and our Lucas graphic team for great work. The Rally brings in more than 100,000 riders. Our Mobil Pit Stop crew of Cycle Solutions, Chris and Jeff of Lucas along with our 2011 model are on board to sell the heck out of Lucas and also have fun.
Best to everyone, Michael
MEDIEVAL PARTY, ROCK MUSIC, AND MOTORCYCLES IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE–The Rock Knights Festival is a new event in the South of France bringing together the “Knights” of Rock and the Medieval World. During the day, you’ll spend time in the camp of the Templars and of other military and monastic orders (Hospitalars, Teutonics…). They will demonstrate their fighting abilities as well as their handcraft skills. At night, Rock music takes over the place with excellent bands to discover or rediscover!
See some pictures at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP6MI589CLI
LEESBURG BIKEFEST KICKS OFF–The rally season is in full swing and the 15th Leesburg Bikefest kicks off April 7th will 40 free concerts on eight stages, the Rat’s Hole Bike Show, Wall of Death, Extreme Bike Demos, bikini contests, tattoo contests, Mr. Lucky Man Contest and more.
Check out the Official 2011 Event Guide!
Admission is free to all venues and all concerts, including Slaughter in concert at 9pm Friday, April 8th and Jackyl at 9:30pm Saturday, April 9th with opening act, The Greg Billings Band (formerly of Stranger) at 6:30pm.
Also on stage Saturday night will be the AC/DC tribute-band Highway to Hell.
Traffic on Main Street in Leesburg, Florida will be “Motorcycles-only” during the rally, April 7 to 10.The rally draws 200,000 to 300,000 bike enthusiasts to the little town in Central Florida.
Leesburg Bikefest will kick off at Gator Harley- Davidson at 9am Thursday, April 7th with vendors and entertainment.
The Opera House Saloon Early Arrival Party on Thursday is 3pm to 2am.
The Rat’s Hole Bar Kick Off Party is also 3pm to 2am hosted by Rider NOW Magazine.
To register a bike go to www.ratshole.com
BUCKSHOT PROJECT REPORT–Just got my ol’ Softail back together. Went basic black, with the black forming ghost flames into blue pearl. It looks plain black until the light hits it. When it’s cured, I’ll buff it out for a better gloss.
–Buckshot
BIKERNET QUICKIE WEEKEND TECH QUESTION– What do recommend for grease on the clutch hub bearings for a belt primary drive. I have a BDL kit for a 1983 FXR.
–Joe Hartman
Wheel bearing grease will do just fine
–Bob
BDL
WEEKEND BIKERNET INSURANCE TIPS, THE LONG BIKE RIDE: Enjoy the journey this coming riding season.
I cannot think of a better way to spend my free time than seeing the country on a motorcycle. For many of us bikers, it all about freedom, exhiliration and the sensation of the open road. Oh, what a feeling it is . . . but there are things that could happen that could turn one’s wonderful adventure into a nightmare.
Here are a few good tips to help all of us feel better prepared to go on that long motorcycle journey.
1. Prepare your bike before the trip.
Make sure all is in good order for the upcoming long ride. Tire condition is key as is cables, drive and lube chains, tighten fasteners, check all gauges, lights and signals. Take an extra battery for your cell phone in case you need it for calling friends and/or roadside assistance.
2. Plan ahead:
Get a feel for your route, miles you expect to ride each day, where you plan to stop. Spend time each night going over your travel plans for the next day.
3. Test out any new accessories or gear before the trip.
Nothing worse than pulling out that rain gear and finding out it does not fit or getting 250 miles from home on a 3,000 journey only to find out your new helmet is giving you a migraine.
4. Upgrade your tool kit before heading out.
Make sure you have the tools to avoid being stranded by the side of the road if something comes disconnected, or needs to be tightened or replaced.
5. Pack wisely.
Pack light and only bring what you’ll need. Over-secure your belongings with bungy cords. Pack valuables in a lockable storage area on your bike. Make it tough for thieves to get at your stuff.
6. Dress appropriately.
Nothing beats good old fashion biker leather jackets and chaps. Bring good rain gear and put it on before it starts raining. Riding in wet clothes is not quite as much fun as being nice and dry under a good rain suit. Dress to be seen. A brightly-colored helmet is very helpful in allowing cagers to know you are there.
7. Get gas before you need it.
Don’t wait too long, otherwise you could end up far from a gas station and in need of fuel.
8. Don’t rely on caffeine to keep you awake and eat right on the road.
When out on the road, it’s important to keep your energy and stamina up by eating well and frequently enough. Carry water/gatorade with you at all times and stop occasionally to drink and keep yourself hydrated. If you are feeling tired, you need to stop. Take a break and re-energize before resuming the ride.
9. Know your limits. Know your motorcycle.
Experience matters big time on long motorcycle journeys. If you have never embarked on a long ride, plan your trip to allow for an adequate number of stops. Put in longer days on the front end of the trip when you tend to have more stamina and feel your best. Bring plenty of butt cream.
10. Enjoy the ride.
Remember why you chose to take a long trip on your motorcycle. Enjoy the scenery, get to meet new people along the way, see new things, cherish your freedom and even time alone. Whatever your goal for going on a long bike ride, enjoy that ride.
What if I do break down?
If you break down, make sure you have good insurance that offers coverage for Towing and Roadside Assistance. This coverage will bring you gas, a battery or will tow your bike to the nearest repair shop. You’ also want to make sure your policy offers Trip Interruption coverage which will help pay for meals and accommodations if you’re far from home.
Ride Safe Out There,
You are not just a policy number with us. We Care About You.
President & CEO
Bikernet Insurance Center LLC
Toll Free: 888-467-8703
Email for fastest response: clientservice@bikernet-insurance.com
THE WEEKEND WRAP REPORT–Okay, I’m almost finished with my 1%er book forward, and it’s packed with outlaw reasoning, war time rationale, and wicked government antics. It’s a wonder we survive from one year to the next. According to some experts we’ve been around for just over 40,000 years.
Did you know dinosaurs roamed the planet for 268 million years. You’d think we would stumble across massive bones sticking out of the earth every other day. We’re still new guys trying to figure it all out.
We have fresh from Kevin Thomas book reviews to launch, the next Mudflap girl report, a Sporty bike feature, and we are having a meeting to discuss a ride from Malaysia, across Thailand, and perhaps into Vietnam, next week. That could be interesting. I need to ship my Mudflap girl FXR to Asia for this ride.
I know there’s more, but the girls are headed to a lingerie party and they’re breathing down my neck.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
