Hey,
I want everyone to have a magnificent holiday season. This news column says it all from romance, to the freedom fight, to the need for truth.
It says the holiday spirit, from gift giving, to warm and family joy. What could be better.
Let’s hit it:
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
UNDER SIEGE WARNING— Huge network of Chinese fake accounts set up to disrupt, US and India 2024 polls exposed
In a recent quarterly threat report released by Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, it was revealed that Meta has successfully dismantled a large network of over 4,700 fake accounts originating from China. These accounts, pretending to be Americans and Indians, were actively involved in disseminating misleading information on divisive topics related to US politics and US-China relations as well as Indian politics.
While Meta did not explicitly tie the profiles to Chinese officials in Beijing, the company expressed concerns about the surge in such networks originating from China, especially with the approaching 2024 US elections. According to Meta, China now ranks as the third-largest geographical source of such deceptive networks, trailing behind Russia and Iran.
The deceptive Chinese network, as outlined in the report, engaged in a variety of topics such as abortion, culture war issues, and aid to Ukraine. The accounts utilized profile pictures and names stolen from legitimate users worldwide, sharing and liking each other’s posts. Notably, some of the content appeared to be directly copied from X, formerly Twitter.
In addition to the large Chinese network, Meta also uncovered two smaller networks—one from China focusing on India and Tibet, and another from Russia posting primarily in English about the invasion of Ukraine and promoting Telegram channels.
In a notable development, Meta highlighted that the US government ceased sharing information about foreign influence networks with the company in July, following a federal ruling related to a First Amendment legal case. This decision is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, contributing to the broader debate about the collaboration between the US government and tech companies and its potential impact on the free speech of social media users.
READ FULL ARTICLE AT
https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/topstories/under-siege-huge-network-of-chinese-fake-accounts-set-up-to-disrupt-india-us-2024-polls-exposed/ar-AA1kWTk9
–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com™
POSSIBLE BOOK GIFT FROM VELOCE PUBLISHING—
Pontiac Firebird The Auto-Biography
— New 4th Edition — by Marc Cranswick
A new, enlarged and updated fourth edition of THE Firebird book – now available WORLDWIDE!
Updated and enlarged fourth edition of Marc Cranswick’s complete model history of General Motors’ upmarket F-body variant. Featuring a new foreword – and five new sections – written by legendary Firebird designer John Schinella, plus 128 new photos and 24 extra pages, Cranswick brings the Firebird legend to life in even more glorious detail.
Over a 40-year period the Pontiac Firebird earned a unique place amongst speedy American domestic cars, and what began as just another contender in the pony car race, ended up a true American classic. The Firebird’s tale is a reflection of the development of the mainstream domestic car in the modern era: V8s, turbo V8s, turbo V6s, HO V6s, overhead cam I6s, and even a Super Duty four banger. If there’s a performance avenue to be explored, then the Firebird has been there.
Popular in the sales charts, the Firebird has also been high profile both in television and movies, cementing its legendary status in pop culture and beyond. From the go-faster 1960s, gas mileage- and pollution-controlled 1970s, performance renaissance of the 1980s, through to the indifference of the 1990s, the Firebird was always there. This is its story.
Close attention is paid to both regular models and high level variants such as Formula and Trans Am, and an appendix featuring model highlights from the Firebird’s 35 year span details the specifications and statistics covering sixteen notable models, from the 19671/2 Firebird 400 Coupé, to the 1999 30th Anniversary Firebird Trans Am Convertible. Revealing all aspects of the Firebird story, from social, to economic and beyond, Cranswick shows how Pontiac made the Firebird unique.
Enlarged and updated fourth edition of the definitive Firebird book
Foreword and five new sections by Firebird designer John Schinella
Features 128 new images and 24 additional pages
Tells the ‘twin origins’ of the Firebird story – performance and style
Charts model development and appeal over its lifetime
Detailed model and variant descriptions throughout
Stunning photography, plus reproductions of advertising and marketing literature
Appendices cover model highlights, Firebird clubs, and resources for specific models
PRICE: £35 UK • $50 USA • $65 CAN
SKU V5804 FORMAT Hardback • 25×20.7cm • 232 pages • 400 pictures
ISBN 9781787118041 UPC 636847018047
DAV HOLIDAY ANNOUNCEMENTS— NEW CAREGIVERS PROGRAM
DAV is excited to announce the launch of its latest innovation – the DAV Caregivers Support program. The program allows veteran caregivers to access online resources and risk screening to better understand their role as a caregiver.
BE PART OF A LARGER TEAM AND MISSION
More than a million veterans have joined DAV — for a million different reasons. Join now before fees increase in 2024!
“All veterans should be members, most helpful.” — Bandit
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION ALERT–House of Representatives Votes to Defend Internal Combustion Engines
Wednesday, the U.S. House Of Representatives passed H.R. 4468, the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023 (CARS Act). The CARS Act is a bill designed to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from instituting emission standards that force manufacturers to produce more electric vehicles, thus limiting consumer choice.
The final vote on the bill was 221 to 197. 216 Republicans and 5 Democrats supported the bill, authored by Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan, the co-chairman of the House Motorcycle Caucus.
After his introduction of the CARS Act, Representative Walberg said, “The Administration cannot continue to create regulations that limit consumer choice, hamper mobility, make vehicles more expensive for families, and cede America’s auto leadership and jobs to China.”
H.R. 4468 is the second bill in 2023, passed by the U.S. House, that pushes back against the attack on internal combustion engines. In September, the House passed H.R.1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act. That bill limited individual states from making their own rules on emissions. Recently, California and like-minded states have been using a federal exemption to pass laws that would constrain the sale of internal combustion engines. H.R. 1435 would put a stop to that exemption.
The passage of the CARS Act shows that some members of Congress are concerned about the rush to eliminate the internal combustion engine. Thank you to all the members of the House who voted to protect consumer choice!
Both bills now await action by the U.S. Senate. If you have not already, click on both links below to support the Senate bills that aim to protect your right to choose the type of engine you want.
S. 3094 – Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023
S. 2090 – Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act
PANHEAD OF THE WEEK—
A 1949 Panhead by Bobber FL motorcycles.
–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™
DIRECT FROM THE CLIMATE DOOM FILES–Wyoming Governor Backs Out of Debate
On November 10, 30 members of the Wyoming legislature and the secretary of state sent a letter to Republican Governor Mark Gordon. In it, they challenged the governor, “joined by our allies, the scientists of the CO2 Coalition”, to debate his proposal to turn the Cowboy State “carbon negative.”
The governor initially accepted the challenge but on November 21, reneged on his agreement, formally backing out of what would have been a landmark event.
Our press release issued after the governor’s withdrawal can be reviewed here and my commentary about his refusal here: Gordon Was Standing Tall in the Saddle Until He Backed Down.
“Somebody wants to hide from the truth”–Bandit
NEW GREASY KULTURE ISSUE COMING–New issue 96. (And some seasonal discounts!)
Scotty Dettwiler makes some beautifully fabricated parts and motorcycles under his shop’s moniker ‘Junior’s Hand Made’. This ’78 Shovelhead chopper was hand-built from the frame upwards and won a couple of awards at last summer’s Born Free show. And it’s on the cover of our new issue 96.
If you’re still looking for a cool gift for the biker in your life, or want to treat yourself this Christmas, don’t forget our 2024 calendars are still available – and check out some of the discounted items in our collectibles cupboard!
THANK YOU for your support over the years. Season’s greetings to you all – we wish you a prosperous and peaceful 2024!
BEWARE THE MASK–Higher Incidence of COVID-19 Found Among Consistent Mask-Wearers: Study
Some mask wearers were found to have up to 40 percent higher incidence of infection, contradicting earlier studies and opposing the narrative of mask mandates.
People who wore protective masks were found to be more likely to contract COVID-19 infections than those who didn’t, according to a recent Norwegian study.
The peer-reviewed study, published in the journal Epidemiology and Infection on Nov. 13, analyzed mask use among 3,209 individuals from Norway. Researchers followed them for 17 days, and then asked the participants about their use of masks. The team found that there was a higher incidence of testing positive for COVID-19 among people who used masks more frequently.
Among individuals who “never or almost never” wore masks, 8.6 percent tested positive. That rose to 15 percent among participants who “sometimes” used masks, and to 15.1 percent among those who “almost always or always” wore them.
–Epoch Times
QUOTE OF THE WEEK—
“To fulfill a dream, to be allowed to sweat over lonely labor, to be given the chance to create, is the meat and potatoes of life.” –Bette Davis
from Epoch Times
ASSALT WEAPAN TO RETURN TO THE SALT–
I spoke to Berry Wardlaw this morning. We are working out something to get the Assalt Weapan “World’s Fastest Panhead” on the salt once more.
The following is on Berry’s Facebook page,
“This morning I had the great pleasure of speaking on the phone with the Big Boss. He said to me, ‘”Berry, come get the Assalt Weapon and get your butt back to Bonneville. Oh, and Berry. Don’t come back without another record”.’
No pressure. I will be hawking my wares for race funds. T-shirts, caps, etc. SPONSORSHIPS GREATLY APPRECIATED!! Videos soon to follow. Vroooom!!
We have some plans for next year and I will contact him about getting involved in covering this and whatever else I can do to help.
–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
HARLEY MUSEUM HOLIDAYS—With photos from the Black Bear Brand from Sam Burns.
The Harley-Davidson Museum is a hub of holiday fun this month
Breakfast with Santa, a NYE party at MOTOR and special offers – including free admission for Milwaukee County residents – make this a December to remember.
There’s no place like the Harley-Davidson Museum for the holidays. The campus is lit and is ready for the arrival of St. Nick for Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 10 & 17). The shelves at the Harley-Davidson Shop and the H-D Factory Outlet are packed with goodies for those who made the “nice list” (and maybe even those who’ve been a little bit naughty).
MOTOR Bar & Restaurant has a sleigh full of fun holiday specials – including a Hawaiian-themed New Year’s Eve bash – to keep you in a jolly mood (did someone mention the Rum Rum Rudolph cocktail?). And there’s even a new custom bike on display that’s recently been unwrapped.
But in the spirit that it’s often better to give than receive, the H-D Museum is looking to provide a holiday gift for our amazing neighbors, friends and family who have supported H-D for more than a century and made this summer’s inaugural Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival a roaring success.
Join us on New Year’s Eve (12/31/2023) when all Milwaukee County residents will receive free admission to the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum.* The orange-carpet treatment extends over to the Harley-Davidson Shop where your purchase of $25 or more includes a free hat (while supplies last) and on to MOTOR Bar & Restaurant where county residents can score free Clock Shadow Creamery Cheese Curds with the purchase of a beverage, too (one per table). Does it get any more Milwaukee than that?!
If you’re looking to pay it forward this season, consider donating one of life’s most precious gifts on Dec. 12 when the H-D Museum partners with Versiti for a holiday blood drive. All attempting donors will receive a ticket for free admission to the H-D Museum along with a coupon for 10% off in the H-D Shop, a free ice cream sundae at MOTOR as well as a Versiti 2024 calendar (while supplies last).
Finally, don’t forget: We want you to be a part of the H-D Museum’s 15th Anniversary celebration. It’s your last chance to score a four-pack of general-admission tickets online for use on the 15th of this month (12/15/2023) for only $15! These four-packs are on-sale now and advance online purchases are required to visit on the 15th of December. Same-day purchases are allowed.
Visit H-DMuseum.com for details. It’s the perfect time to check out the recently opened special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” and see custom builds and art fresh from the show floor.
Please take note of holiday and seasonal hours:
Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
Please also note that aside from MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant (which will remain open seven days a week) and private events hosted by 1903® Events, the H-D Museum™ campus will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in January and February of 2024.
Breakfast with Santa, Dec. 10 & 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Join us for our annual Breakfast with Santa tradition! Bring the kids down to the Harley-Davidson Museum for a special MOTOR breakfast with Santa! In this annual tradition, parents and children get the opportunity of a lifetime as they saddle up next to Santa on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Our full brunch menu will be available.
Space for the event is limited and reservations are required.
Call (414) 287-2778 to make a reservation.
BONUS! Brunch guests will receive a ticket voucher for free Museum General Admission for children (ages 0-17) following your meal with Santa. Plan ahead and make a day of it! (One adult ticket purchase required.)
Group bookings are available for 2-50 guests. Call 414-287-2799 or email groups@h-dmuseum.com for reservations. Check out the tour calendar for public tour availability, too.
MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS
“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” (on display now)
The Mama Tried Motorcycle Show and adjoining Flat Out Friday races are a bright spot in the dead of cold, Wisconsin winters. The show has amassed an army of followers and fans that give the weekend its signature style: People are the heart of the show; the bikes are the social lubrication. The Harley-Davidson Museum’s special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together,” focuses on the builders, the racers and the fans that gather over a bike or a brew.
A riot of bikes await you: outrageous custom bikes, lovingly restored vintage machines and one as rare as hen’s teeth – 1929 FHAC with FLXI Sidecar Factory Racer. Don’t come alone; bring your crew. That’s what Mama Tried is about, after all.
“My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (on display now)
From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine.
[page break]
LET’S TAKE A BREAK IN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY—
I choked on a carrot this morning, and all I could think of was, “I’ll bet a doughnut wouldn’t have done this to me.”
Nothing spoils a good story more than the arrival of an eyewitness. (Mark Twain)
It only takes one slow-walking person in the grocery store to destroy the illusion that I’m a nice person
It turns out that when asked who your favorite child is, you’re supposed to pick out one of your own. I know that now.
It’s fine to eat a test grape in the produce section, but you take one bite of rotisserie chicken and it’s all, “Sir, you need to leave!”
One thing no one ever talks about, when it comes to being an older adult, is how much time we devote to keeping a cardboard box because it is, you know, a really good box.
I can’t believe I forgot to go to the gym today. That’s seven years in a row, now.
–El Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bikernet.com™
BRAND NEW BIKERNET READER COMMENT—Biker Hawaiian Style
Mahalo for the article story. What a blessing Hawaii has in its local motorcycle clubs banning together to form a brotherhood that is unique to the world let the world see what Hawaii is.
Imua local style, I’d like to share that my father Frederick smithy Smith was born and raised in Wahiawa, Oahu. My dad started riding when he was very young in the ’40s. He built his own bikes in the local style. My dad rode for many years until my mother was tired of worrying he might not come home one day, because you know my dad he was rascal and he rode the bike in a kind of rascal way too. But anyway, my mom was tired and she made him sell his bike, because we his children were coming left and right and we needed him in our lives.
Anyway, I always used to share with friends about my dad having a local style motorcycle a lot of my friends most of them didn’t know what a local style motorbike was. I am still proud that my dad rode a local boy. My dad passed away at the age of 80 in 2015. I wish I could have rode with him. Anyway Mahalo, for the article blessings to you the motorbike clubs and everyone else in the world aloha peace . Waianae!
–Henry Smith
Honolulu, Hawaii
The PETERSEN MUSEUM REPORT—
Your generous contributions helped fuel so many of our accomplishments this past year. Thank you for being such an important part of the work we do.
Please enjoy a short recap of our year:
We’re so proud of all we’ve accomplished:
100 unique, large-scale exhibitions and smaller installations since reopening in 2015.
Over 50 one-of-a-kind rallies, cruise-ins, collection tours, and special events for our Petersen Members and community this year.
Over 6000 people and 3,000 cars participated in our Cruise-ins this year.
Over 10 million images, 3,000 volumes of research stacks, 230 rare books, 525 bound volumes of Robert E. Petersen’s magazines, and 650 cans of both 16mm & 35mm motion picture film have been repaired, cleaned, and digitized.
Over 100,000 kids participated in Discovery Center, Little Sparks, Field Trips, Free Bus and Admissions program, Auto Maintenance and Detailing workshops, Teen Auto Workshop, and outreach programs.
We are immeasurably grateful for the generosity that made these exhibits, archival work, events, and educational programs possible and for the outpouring of support! Next year marks three decades of work towards becoming “the world’s best automotive museum.” We look forward to celebrating our accomplishments and continuing to build a global community with you – the opportunities are endless!
With profound gratitude and appreciation,
Terry L. Karges
Executive Director
TENNESSEE MOTORCYCLES & MUSIC REVIVAL SET FOR MAY 16 – 19 AT LORETTA LYNN’S RANCH IN HURRICANE MILLS, TN
FOUR-DAY FESTIVAL WELCOMES ADV RIDERS TO THE ADV EXPERIENCE
TICKETS & CAMPING GO ARE ON SALE NOW EXCLUSIVELY AT
WWW.MOTORCYCLESANDMUSIC.COM
Tennessee’s ultimate “Moto & Music” event, Tennessee Motorcycles and Music Revival (TMMR) will be held May 16-19, 2024 at the historic Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, TN. The 7th annual event, presented by Harley-Davidson Motor Company, is a motorcycle enthusiast’s playground and a music lover’s paradise. Tennessee’s largest motorcycle festival will feature a spectacular selection of artists across several genres and a huge variety of two-wheeled action. Tickets and camping are on sale now. For more information, visit HERE.
The ADV Experience was an exciting addition last year and is returning in 2024. The ADV package includes three days of trail riding on the Ranch, biker games, morning coffee, along with skills building and demo rides by Harley-Davidson Pan America. The $149 ticket price ALSO includes general admission to all of the live music, motorcycle action, food trucks, vendors and comradery of the 4-day event.
“The ADV Experience was the perfect addition to this event! It already has great music, exciting motorcycle action and the location at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch is pristine. We get to ride the trails plus get the bonus of all the other happenings. It’s like an event within an event. We are also able to reach a lot of street bike riders and give them a taste of adventure riding. We look forward to it every year,” Shawn Wells, White LIghtning Harley-Davidson. More info at ADV EXPERIENCE.
Known for its “two-wheeled playground,” the event offers something for everyone who enjoys motorcycles of nearly any kind. Included will be Harley-Davidson demo rides, motorcycle racing, ADV trail riding, a hill climb, V-Twin Visionary performance bike show, an all-class bike show, biker games, group motorcycle rides, mini bike races, stunt riders and an extraordinary showcase of hand-crafted custom motorcycles from across the country in the BC Moto Invitational. More info at at EXPERIENCE TMMR.
The exciting musical lineup always delivers! Artists and bands are specially curated primarily from the region and the booming talent coming out of the Music City USA. Genres include outlaw country, southern rock, country, bluegrass and some rock’n’roll. Promoters from around the country have been making their way each year to the festival to choose bands from the extraordinary plethora of talent — it’s a musical showcase of sorts. The 2024 lineup will be announced after the new year.
A wide range of Ranch Camping is available in three unique campgrounds including RVs, Glamping, Tent Camping, and Vehicle Camping. Nearby hotels and Airbnb’s are also available. For details, please visit WHERE TO STAY.
TMMR also has a commitment to supporting U.S. Military veterans and will be working with the Special Ops Xcursions to provide complimentary tickets and camping to members of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). Helmets for Heroes will showcase a variety of custom-painted ICON Motorsport helmets available at auction with funds going to the military non-profit.
Subscribe to the email list HERE or text “TMMR” to (888) 306-6093 for updates. General public early bird on-sale starts on Dec. 1.
For more information, visit MotorcyclesAndMusic.com, Instagram @TNMotorcycleRevival, Facebook @TnMotorcycleRevival.
CALIFA ELECTRIC TRUCK MANDATE CONUNDRUMS–
Electric trucks at any cost should have conversations about the conundrums associated with this mandate, before implementing a Mandate.
Published Dec 5, 2023 at Heartland https://heartland.org/opinion/california-aims-to-force-adoption-of-electric-trucks-but-19-states-sue-to-block/
By Ronald Stein
Ronald Stein is an engineer, senior policy advisor on energy literacy for the Heartland Institute and CFACT, and co-author of the Pulitzer Prize nominated book “Clean Energy Exploitations.”
The California GREEN movement, at any cost, is progressing at warp speed.
Earlier this year, California passed regulations that would turn the trucking industry upside down. Zero emission mandates would disrupt the industry, raise shipping costs, and put trucking companies out of business.
A group including 19 states and several trucking organizations recently filed suit to block the California regulation.
A little background on the EV Truck mandate: California’s Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) Regulation goes into effect on January 1, 2024. The ACF requires that truck operators buy only Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) trucks for medium-duty and heavy-duty trucking operations as early as January 2024. The ACF also requires that trucking companies transition their fleets to 100 percent ZEV trucks by 2035 to 2042, depending upon class of truck.
This EV truck mandate lacks conversations about the many conundrums associated with this mandate, i.e., the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about:
For those huge EV truck batteries there is virtually non-existing transparency of the environmental degradation and the human rights abuses occurring in developing countries with yellow, brown, and black skinned people. Both human rights abuses and environmental degradation are directly connected to the mining for the exotic minerals and metals that are required to manufacture those EV batteries. The children used to produce the lithium for an EV battery is appalling.
California has almost 400,000 miles of roadways used by the State’s 31 million vehicles. Those roadways are heavily dependent on road taxes from fuels that contribute more than $8.8 billion annually, the same gas tax revenues that also funds many environmental programs. That $8.8 billion revenue source will diminish in the decades ahead as EV’s begin to replace internal combustion engine vehicles.
The heavier EV trucks will put more wear and tear on the California roadways. How will the State replace $8.8 billion from fuel taxes to maintain the California roadways?
California is the 4th largest economy in the world and has three of the largest shipping ports in America—No. 1 in Los Angeles, No. 2 in Long Beach, and No. 7 in Oakland. Ships arriving and departing from the ports up and down the coast from San Diego to San Francisco.
Many truckers are individual operators that may just stop coming to California! Those trucks that access three of the largest shipping ports in America move a lot of products for the entire country.
Trucker’s travel all over the nation, thus heavy EV truck charging stations sites would need to be built all over the nation to keep those trucks moving.
EV trucks are only for those in wealthy countries as Nearly Half the World Lives on Less than $5.50 a Day, as billions still struggle to meet basic needs. They may never be able to enjoy the materialistic living styles of those in wealthier countries.
Electric trucks suffer major disadvantages when compared to diesel trucks:
- Diesel trucks can travel about 1,200 miles after filling the tank in 15 minutes. The range of electric trucks is about 150-330 miles, and recharging may take hours, even on a high-speed charger.
- EV truck cabs cost two-to-three times as much as diesel cabs, an incremental cost of as much as $300,000 per truck.
- EV cabs also weigh about 10,000 pounds more than comparable diesel versions.
China emits more greenhouse gases in a day than California trucks emit in a year.
–WUWT
BABES OF THE WEEK— Renee Stephenson is a motorcycle road racer and is on Instagram at renees_racing.
She lives in Odessa, Texas.
Celia Serrato Becerra is an Emergency Medical Technician en AR Médica Querétaro living in Queretaro, Mexico.
–Sam Burns
Talent Scout
Bikernet.com™
WHEELS THROUGH TIME HOLIDAY ANNOUNCEMENT—
With Christmas just around the corner, don’t miss your opportunity to give the gift of history!
What better gift could you give the motorcycle lover in your life than a chance to win The 1936 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead!
SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGIES CHRISTMAS ANNOUNCEMENTS–Merry Christmas Specials
As a VIP Shock-Talk Subscriber, you get in on the deals before the general public! From now until December 31, 2023, take advantage of these THREE offers:
OFFER #1: $50 Off Front + $50 Off Rear
OFFER #2: FREE INSTALLATION
OFFER #3: $50 Off or FREE INSTALLATION Gift Card
Online Only Special
As a VIP Shock-Talk Subscriber, you and your buddies get first crack at these offers:
Purchase a set of Front Fork Cartridges and get $50 Off!
Purchase a set of Rear Shocks and get $50 Off!
Purchase a set of Front Fork Cartridges & a set of Rear Shocks and get $100 Off!
This offer is only valid if you order online and use the codes below:
$50 Off Code for Front Fork Cartridges or Rear Shocks Only: ST50
$100 Off Code for Both Front Fork Cartridges & Rear Shocks: ST100
BUY NOW
Call-In Special: FREE INSTALLATION
As a VIP Shock-Talk Subscriber, you get the first crack at scheduling your FREE Installation. Starting December 5th, we will open this offer up to the general public. So, if you have a new bike or want to share this offer with your friends, call and schedule an appointment.
CALL NOW
Gift Card: $50 Off or FREE INSTALLATION
Want to surprise your wife or husband, but don’t have the time to bring your bike in for the Free Installation? Give a Suspension Technologies Gift Card and receive Free Installation at one of our 2024 shows. The first advantage here is you don’t have to pay for shipping, as we will bring the shocks or cartridges to the show where we are setup. Or you can use the code and get $50 off your Gift Card.
$50 Off Promo Code for Front or Rear: ST50
$100 Off Promo Code for Front & Rear:
ST100
FREE INSTALLATION at a 2024 show:
ST2024
When using ST2024 you will see a $1.00 deduction from your cart.
This lets us know you want free installation at a 2024 event.
We will contact you to schedule a show install or you can give us a call.
BUY GIFT CARDS ONLINE NOW
Check Out Our New Website:
www.SuspensionTechnologies.com
We welcome you to check out our new website, where it is easy to navigate to your favorite Suspension Technologies products. Purchase online, view installation instructions, read news and tips about Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, and much more.
A TIMELY QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
‘Truth is incontrovertible. Panic may resent it. Ignorance may deride it. Malice may distort it. But there it is.’ –Winston Churchill
from Epoch Times
[page break]
FEATURE BIKE OF THE WEEK— Thunderbike Harley-Davidson Niederrhein Amsterdam.
The Thunderbike Top Chop is a classic vintage chopper and is based on a 1957 EL, which has been refined down to the last screw. Many handcrafted parts and surfaces in copper, brass, and nickel make this bike an absolute one-of-a-kind.
The finish is a homage to the glittering choppers of the ‘70s, but with the matte nickel surfaces, we have set the right contrast to the paint.
.jpg)
–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
There’s No Place Like Home
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Theres_No_Place_Like_Home.aspx
Comments:
Fantastic I loved every word. I have actually met Amy and she is equally as fantastic as a writer. Keep up the great stories.
–Lee Bledsoe
Albany , NY
Breaking News: U.S. House Schedules Vote on Bill to Stop EPA’s Tailpipe Mandate
Encourage support from lawmakers on this proposal:
The U.S. House of Representatives announced that it will vote Wednesday on the SAN-supported “Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act” (H.R. 4468). The bill would prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing new emissions standards that would limit consumer choice and push the auto industry toward electric vehicles.
The CARS Act also prevents future EPA motor vehicle emissions regulations that would mandate certain technologies or limit the availability of vehicles based on engine type.
If passed into law, the legislation would stop regulatory overreach by the EPA, allowing consumers to have the freedom to decide what car works best for them and their families and preventing auto manufacturers from being forced to meet unrealistic mandates driven by the most aggressive light-duty emissions regulations in U.S. history.
The House Energy & Commerce Committee passed H.R. 4468 in July. Send a letter now telling your U.S. Representative to vote to support the “CARS Act.”
Lawmakers Must Hear from You Right Away!
Use the following website link for an overview and lawmaker contact.
–SEMA
ALL New Bikernet Reader Comment!–CHRISTMAS DREAMS
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/CHRISTMAS_DREAMS.aspx
Comments:
–Bill May
Nashville , TN
“Thanks Bill, I needed that…” –Bandit
GET THE PARTY STARTED—With art from Eric Herrmann.
Deal of the Day “Tequila Tycoon” I was wandering our property, Drinking Tequila, on which we have many Blue Agave plants. I thought wouldn’t it be cool if different Tequila’s bloomed out in bottles from these plants. I’d be a Tequila Tyccon!
I have (1) Canvas Giclee’ 30 x 40 signed & numbered, for $500.00 / frt.
Normally $850.00. eric@ericherrmannstudios.com (480) 280-8738 #Tequila #tequilashots
— at Eric Herrmann Studios.
“I asked Eric if they were all 100 percent agave. I recently attended a Tequila tasting party. Only 100 percent Agave Reposado was allowed. Makes a difference.” –Bandit
FIVE-BALL RACING XMAS ACTION—Check out all the new shots and videos on Instagram.
Five-Ball Racing
Venice, California
HOT, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
There’s No Place Like Home
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Theres_No_Place_Like_Home.aspx
Comments:
I only rode on a bike once (wore a denim mini skirt and my high-top white sneakers) from The Bronx to Closter, NJ. I burned my calf on the exhaust pipe, & this young man’s Mother was aghast, that he maimed me on my first ride! She showed more distress than her 19-year-old son had the capability to embrace.
I love your writing style. Hearing “One hot, muggy, crawfishy night” & I was “Voluntold” made me a reader of yours, ad infinitum.
Rock on, Biker-Bitch!
–SusitheJ
Littlestown, PA
I00 WORD FICTION FOR XMAS—It’s Beginning to Feel A lot Like Christmas
Rosa spoke little English, but her Mexican dialect could melt a cold man’s heart.
She walked me along the throng of Xmas displays to her booth. Her dark eyes glittered, a crimson smirk crossed her wet lips and she motioned to me. She bumped and ground into my thigh and allowed for our fingers to touch.
The Xmas song filled the festive night air. I was afraid she’d grind the jeans right off of me. Wet to the feel in that low dark place she moaned. I understood her warmth and longing without another word being said.
–Gearhead
BILLY LANE CHOP FICTION BOOK—
Another Xmas gift notion from the Chopper master in Florida.
Billy Lane
2280 Avocado Avenue
Suite #5
Melbourne FL 32935
United States
THE BIKERS FOR TRUTH DEPARTMENT OPENS–New Bikernet Reader Comment!
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 30, 2023
(Click here for November 30th news)
Comments: Idea for poster or meme: Climate Change (big Letters)
Winter | Spring Summer | Fall
Nice scene or picture of each season
Cool caption about how you learned this in grade school
–David E
15634, West Pa.
“We are in the process of creating a non-profit behind the name: Bikers for Truth. Our first project includes humorous memes to break the doom. If you come up with something let us know. Just comment below or drop me a note to Bandit@Bikernet.com.” –Bandit
A HOLIDAY SERMON FROM THE PILLAR PEAK TEMPLE—
What Kind of Day am I Going to Choose to have?
“There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist or accept the responsibility for changing them.” –Denis Waitley
Life is shaped by the choices we make. I appreciate the notion that even when we believe we have no choice, the act of not choosing becomes a choice in itself. The Universe grants us the ability to shape our lives through the Law, determining what will manifest based on our predominant thoughts and conversations.
If we fixate on problems, they intensify until we shift our focus to solutions. The mindset of victimhood attracts reasons to maintain that belief. A belief in sickness, financial scarcity, or perpetual misfortune tends to materialize as reality. It’s crucial to be mindful of what follows the words “I am.”
Having one foot anchored in the past hinders our ability to live fully in the present. Some of us encounter the same life lessons repeatedly without learning from them. Life’s lessons persist until we glean wisdom from them.
The profound truth is that changing our mindset transforms our lives. The Universe provides solutions to challenges and problems aligned with our conscious thoughts. Today, as I write this, I am making a deliberate choice to have a great day. I am no longer part of the problem; I am actively contributing to the solution.
As I embark on this day, I accept responsibility for choosing to live it to the fullest. My day will be infused with laughter, joy, peace, and love. I acknowledge and appreciate the divine gifts bestowed upon me, expressing gratitude for the goodness in my life. Every facet of my life is cherished, recognizing that my experiences have shaped who I am.
I embrace obstacles and challenges, knowing that within them lies the divine creative solution. Pausing to remember that I am not alone on this journey, I affirm my trust and faith in the Universe. Today marks a step towards a higher level of living and expression. I release this prayer treatment to the Universe with the affirmation:
And So It Is.
Namaste.’
“Our lives are a sum total of the choices we have made.” –Wayne Dyer
–Yale
THE SIDECAR OF THE WEEK–
It was interesting enough that everyone at the swap meet went to check it out as soon as it pulled in to the lot.
–RFR
Texas Reporter
Bikernet.com™
COP-28 ANNOUNCEMENT— COP28 President Challenges Mainstream Climate Narrative on Fossil Fuels
In a startling divergence from the conventional climate dialogue, COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber has boldly questioned the so-called scientific consensus on the need to phase out fossil fuels to achieve the 1.5°C climate goal. At a recent event, Al Jaber’s remarks signaled a stark departure from UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s stance, drawing sharp criticism from environmentalists.
Al Jaber’s assertion that there is
“I accepted to come to this meeting to have a sober and mature conversation. I’m not in any way signing up to any discussion that is alarmist. There is no science out there, or no scenario out there, that says that the phase-out of fossil fuel is what’s going to achieve 1.5C.”
This is a direct challenge to the prevailing climate doctrine. His argument strikes at the heart of policy discussions that have been increasingly dominated by calls for the rapid elimination of fossil fuels.
Drawing a line in the sand, Al Jaber posits that a wholesale phase-out of fossil fuels would regress society to a pre-industrial state, “back into caves.” This hyperbolic metaphor underscores his contention that current sustainable development cannot be disentangled from fossil fuel use.
“Please help me, show me the roadmap for a phase-out of fossil fuel that will allow for sustainable socioeconomic development, unless you want to take the world back into caves.”
“I don’t think [you] will be able to help solve the climate problem by pointing fingers or contributing to the polarisation and the divide that is already happening in the world. Show me the solutions. Stop the pointing of fingers. Stop it,”
Fantastic! Maybe now the open debate can begin, and we can educate as to the correct uncensored science. Then we can eliminate the hysteria.
–WUWT
“But wait, what about the reparations for a decade of lies and insanity.” –Bandit
JIMS MACHINE NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS—This transmission case is exciting. We may bring you a tech shortly.
–Bandit
CALIFORNIA HARLEY-DAVIDSON XMAS PARTY-– CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE PARTY
Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST
WHERE
California Harley-Davidson
1517 Pacific Coast Hwy
Harbor City, CA 90710-2741
Don’t forget to join us Saturday, December 9th, for our Christmas Open House Party from 9am – 5 pm. Santa will be here to take 360 photos with while you tell him just how naughty or nice you’ve been.
Join ILWU Longshore Brotherhood and California Harley-Davidson as we host a Toy Drive and Run for the Boys & Girls Club of Los Angeles Harbor. We will be accepting toy donations through December 9th at California Harley-Davidson. Every donation helps. Thank you!
We’ll help you find your holiday spirit with a decadent Hot Chocolate & dessert bar and get ready for the grand opening of the California Motorcycle Museum, located inside California Harley-Davidson!
ANOTHER New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Frames and Frame Geometry 101
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Frames_and_Frame_Geometry_101.aspx
Comments:
I have built a few choppers in my time and been around this community for a while, this is one of the best technical and easy to understand explanations of motorcycle geometry I have seen.
The idea of “using what ya got in your garage” is where choppers came from. While I love and appreciate the rolling pieces of art that some of the modern builders are making, choppers started out as LOW BUDGET DIY affairs not 40,000 dollar queens with paint jobs so impressive you contemplate suicide or homicide if a bird shits on it.
I learned by following one simple motto I got from my friends at the El Foresteros “Build it then Ride The Fuck Out Of It, if you don’t like it change it”. My opinion and mine only is follow some simple geometry and safety rules and build for yourself, you are the only one who has to like it.
Truth about the chopper scene is that you’re most likely going to lose money when you try and sell it but that’s not the point. The point is building, riding, meeting other chopper guys, hearing their opinions, stories and sharing a few laughs.
If you really want to know some of the chopper history research Tom Fugle (RIP). He invented more about building choppers than anyone I know.
Talk to guys to ride choppers every day. The El Forestero MC are chopper gods and as long as you are respectful about asking they usually love to talk about their machines. You can learn more form them for the cost of a couple cold beers than the Internet could ever teach you.
I am sure there are other clubs out there who love choppers, but I am in the Midwest, so I am only familiar with the EF guys. No disrespect to others.
Anyway, the point is to get out there and start wrenching. There are a million dreamers and tire kickers but only a few of us willing to get the saw out and make that commitment. Chop that bitch, there are hundreds of us out there willing to help you with your questions.
In the immortal words of Tome Fugle “Ride Choppers or Fuck Off”
— Chez
Pleasant Hill, IA
IT NEVER ENDS—
We are going to rebuild Bikernet.com this coming year, but I get it. We are all inundated with text, videos, and images from every corner of the globe. From the evil media to scams, love letters, tech articles, you name it, they keep coming.
Bottom line, we enjoy what we’re doing and what we contribute to the motorcycle world. So goddammit, we’re going to improve how we do it or die trying.
I promise, I’ll deliver on Dan’s wheel lacing article in the next couple of days. He proofed the copy and marked-up any and every correction he could dream up. I’m kidding. We try to be as accurate as possible.
We did get a taste of snow and it feels like snow today.
I need to finish John’s 4-speed transmission rebuild for Xmas or Santa will be pissed.
We received the final parts we needed and it’s ready for final assembly. I hope…
Here’s a shot of Sandy the cat. Karley brought it to the Wilmington headquarters over 14 years ago and she’s still going strong on a boat in the LA Harbor.
We had a couple of dark walls in our Ranch Road Livingroom. When I discovered the master of Flat Earths Paint had a son who paints home interiors I reached out.
I installed a propeller on our 5-Ball Rocket Ship and it spins in the wind. My neighbor wants to harness the energy.
We discussed getting a pet, but we have pets including these fucking turkeys, who stop by daily. A family of deer roam around and shit on the lawn but don’t eat the thistles. There’s a mountain lion or two…
I mentioned Tim, the boss of Flat Earth Painting. He’s working on replacing the dragons at the Deadwood House. They couldn’t handle the weather and were coming apart. Basically, he’s painting on aluminum sheet, like the side of a van, so it will last.
I caught this shot about 6:45 this morning. I hope your Christmas is magnificent, although our current government wants to eliminate us. Who votes for that?
In the meantime, ride free or die trying.
–Bandit
