BANDIT PEELED OUT BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for June 18, 2015

 
Hey,
 
So Bandit is long gone at the SmokeOut and the Bikernet Galaxy is resting on my shoulders. Solely? Not quite, but getting the News in order and set up the way it should be is all on me. I could piss and moan about how much work it is(because it is). But I won’t (more than I already did) because we hard-working women put on our “big girl” panties and just get it done. So let’s get in it…..
 
 
 
 
SALT TORPEDO ROUGH SKETCHES– 
 
I’m sorry it took me a while, I got side tracked with some other work. Let me know if I’m on the right path with these. I’m just trying to get the right feel for what we wanna see. Thanks buddy!!

— Atomic Bob

I like 1263 sorta. I don’t like the big rear wheel. And maybe the front axle needs to be wider. And the nose needs to be less pointed. I’m just throwing stuff out, but this is more stealth like/lowriderish. Hope this helps.

— Bandit

 
 
 
SAM WILLS NAMED GRAND MARSHAL OF S&S CYCLE PROVEN PERFORMANCE NATIONALS–

Boise, Idaho – June 17, 2015 – The Western Motorcycle Drag Racing Association (WMDRA) is excited to announce that drag racing legend Sam Wills has been named Grand Marshal of this year’s S&S Cycle Proven Performance® Nationals set for July 24 and 25 at Eddyville Raceway Park.

The famed drag racer, and most recent member of the prestigious five-second club, and arguably one of motorcycle drag racing’s all-time greats, will greet the crowd, sign autographs, introduce number one qualifiers and call the bikes to the line, as the WMDRA presents the S&S Cycle Proven Performance Nationals. The inaugural event at Eddyville Raceway Park will feature competition in four professional classes and six sportsman categories as the WMDRA celebrates horsepower and history in mid-America.
 
 

According to WMDRA President Sandra Alberti, “Racers like Sam have shaped and grown the sport we enjoy today, and it is an honor and a pleasure to have him and his Nitro Conspiracy team join us at the track to celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for their contributions.” Alberti added, “While we enjoy fierce competition at every event, having legends of the sport on hand really embodies what the WMDRA is all about… celebrating our sport, honoring the tradition of competition, and setting new milestones. It doesn’t get any better than this!”

With a career that’s spanned nearly four decades, Sam has earned championships across multiple sanctions, collected numerous national event wins and set nearly every record possible in the sport. It’s history in the making for such a pioneer and innovator to join us at the track in 2015, and with the multitude of bikes on hand, vintage and modern, you just never know who you’ll see going down the track in Eddyville! Hint… you don’t want to miss this!

Autograph session and Q&A will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, leading us to Opening Ceremonies and eliminations at 6:00 p.m. 
 
 


THE LAST POUND OF FLESH–
Our last Pound of Flesh winner is zuluevans@gmail.com. Keep your eyes open for any new contest or giveaway here in the weekly news or on our contest page.

-Lisa Jorgenson
Bikernet.com Staffer

 
 
 

POSSIBLE INTERSTATE TOLLING EXPANSION–
As a member of the Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates (ATFI), the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) works with the ATFI on a regular basis to ensure that your right to ride is not infringed upon with heavy interstate tolling. Please take a few minutes to review this and respond.

The MRF has learned that the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW), which has jurisdiction over the Interstate Highway System, is considering expanding interstate tolling at its June 24th bill markup.
Please take action by sending an email to your Senator if they sit on the EPW Committee. Add a sentence urging them to contact Chairman Inhofe directly about rejecting tolls!

Tell the EPW Committee “NO TOLLS” in just 15 seconds

Over the past seventeen years, the Interstate Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Pilot Program (ISRRPP) has served its purpose and demonstrated the unviability of tolling existing interstates. Six states have pursued tolls via the ISRRPP, and all failed primarily due to the widespread public outcry over tolling’s negative consequences, which in some cases even triggered legislative action to protect interstates from tolls. Pilot programs are meant to be temporary. Now approaching twenty years, the ISRRPP has run its course and should be repealed, not expanded or made more flexible.

We all know that tolling existing interstates would have serious negative consequences. Businesses would face higher operating expenses and be forced to pass those costs on to consumers. Commuters and travelers would face steep cost increases, and hourly employees might have to work an extra hour per day just to pay the toll to and from work. Traffic diversion around tolls onto secondary routes would cause congestion, increased accidents, higher road wear and repair costs for local governments, and slower first response times. The cost to ride will be dramatically higher.

Additionally, our Founding Fathers gave Congress the responsibility to regulate commerce; this now includes funding and maintaining the Interstate Highway System, and passing the buck to the states is an abdication of duty and violates the spirit of the U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause. It may be politically expedient to frame it as a “states’ rights” issue, but this ignores the safety, equity, and interstate commerce implications. Most importantly, it will not solve the highway funding problem.
Please join the MRF in urging the EPW Committee and its Chairman, Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK), to protect interstates from the burden of new tolls.

 

KLOCK WERKS DESIGNS NEW INDIAN AND VICTORY FENDERS —
(Mitchell, SD) June 15, 2015 – Klock Werks Stamped Steel Front Fenders are one of the easiest ways to add some personal style to your motorcycle. The Klock Werks design team has put together great options ranging from traditional bagger style, to tire hugging options, to one-piece front fenders for big wheel bagger projects, and has now expanded its bolt-on front fender options for HD, and added Fit Kits for Victory, Indian Scout, and Kawasaki models.

“All of our Klock Werks Front Fenders are stamped from 14 gauge steel using precision, deep-draw stamping technology that ensures a consistently smooth and flawless finish, minimizing body work.” explains Dan Cheeseman, Klock Werks COO. “Our fenders are laser cut using 5 axis laser technology to ensure accurate fitment for direct bolt-on installation. We then go the extra mile by adding an e-coat, a process to prevent rust and corrosion. Painters love Klock Werks Fenders!”

When you buy a fender from Klock Werks, you can count on quality and accurate fitment. To make installation even easier, some Klock Werks fenders are packaged with mounting blocks and hardware, all in one box as a “Fit Kit”. Klock Werks fenders are proudly made in the USA and are available online at www.kustombaggers.com or your local Drag Specialties dealer.

About Klock Werks

Located in Mitchell, South Dakota, Klock Werks has grown from humble beginnings to a nationally and internationally recognized Brand. Achieving status as “Air Management Experts”, Klock Werks credits this to the success of the original, patented, Flare™ Windshield. Also supplying fenders, handlebars, and other motorcycle parts, Klock Werks proudly leads the industry through innovation in design and quality of materials and fitment. Team Klock Werks has been successful for years designing parts, creating custom motorcycles, and setting records on the Bonneville Salt Flats. You will find motorcycles, family, and faith at the core of Klock Werks, along with a commitment to caring for the needs of enthusiasts around the world who enjoy their products.
 
 
 
 

THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY DOORS ARE OPEN–
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.

A father buys a lie detector robot that slaps people when they lie. He decides to test it out at dinner one night. The father asks his son what he did that afternoon. The son says, “I did some schoolwork.” The robot slaps the son. The son says, “Ok, Ok. I was at a friend’s house watching movies.” Dad asks, “What movie did you watch?” Son says, “Toy Story.” The robot slaps the son again. Son says, “Ok, Ok, we were watching porn.” Dad says, “What?” At your age I didn’t even know what porn was.” The robot slaps the father. Mom laughs and says, “Well, he certainly is your son.” The robot slaps the mother. Robot for sale

 

Terrorist activity has caused Hillary Clinton to take measures in order to protect her candidacy for the 2016 presidency. For security reasons, Hillary has chosen a Muslim name. So from now on, please use her new Muslim name: Seldom Bin Layed

 

I woke up to go to the toilet in the middle of the night and I noticed a Muslim, sneaking through my next door neighbor’s garden. Suddenly my neighbor came from nowhere and smacked him over the head with a shovel, killing him instantly. He then dug a grave and put the body in it and covered it. Astonished I got back into bed. Carol, my lovely wife said, “Warren, you’re shaking, what is it?” You’ll never believe what I’ve just seen,” I said, “that son of a bitch next door still has my shovel.”

 

……as we get closer to the election, we must remember that we cannot trust Hillary Clinton to create American jobs……..The last time she had a simple job to do, she outsourced it to Monica Lewinsky…..

 

It was a hot Saturday evening in the summer of 1960 and Fred had a date with Peggy Sue. He arrived at her house and rang the bell. “Oh, come on in!” Peggy Sue’s mother said as she welcomed Fred in. “So, what are you and Peggy planning to do tonight?” she asked. “Oh, probably catch a movie, and then maybe grab a bite to eat at the malt shop, maybe take a walk on the beach…” “Peggy likes to screw, you know,” Mom informed him. “Is that so?” asked Fred, incredulous. “Yes,” said the mother. “As a matter of fact, she’d screw all night if we let her!” “Well, thanks for the tip,” Fred said as he began thinking about alternate plans for the evening. “Have fun, kids”, the mother said as they left.

Half an hour later, a completely disheveled Peggy Sue burst into the house and slammed the front door behind her. “The TWIST, Mom!” she angrily yelled at her mother. “THE DARN DANCE IS CALLED THE TWIST!”
 
-Rogue and Jerry 
 
 
 
AGING REBEL ON WACO–

Either the Waco police are lying or the eyewitnesses are. Apparently, a deliberate disinformation campaign began about 45 minutes after the deadly biker massacre in the Twin Peaks restaurant parking lot in Waco on May 17. One must use the word “apparently” because that is how disinformation works.

Three separate narratives describe what happened that day: The official police version which has been most widely parroted by the press; the Cossacks version; and the strikingly consistent version told by everybody else including members of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club.

Police Version
The police version has been riddled with inconsistencies and has had the further disadvantage of being mostly told by self righteous and ill informed Sergeant W. Patrick Swanton. The Waco Tribune-Herald  might think Swanton did a hell of a job but nobody else did. According to Swanton everybody who was arrested was a “motorcycle gang member.” They were “not from Waco” and the Waco police there “did not play.” The specifics – the bare facts of the police version – changed constantly and confusingly day by day. Every policeman, every public official, every lawyer, particularly Tribune-Herald editor Steve Boggs, seems to be a gullible police groupie.

It should have been obvious to anyone who has ever covered a biker case that the real story in Waco was the effort going into controlling the narrative. The official narrative of Waco has always been that drug addled, well armed, biker sociopaths came to Waco to rumble in a shopping mall so they could transform Waco from a gentle Mayberry into a Darwinian free market of drugs and sex slaves and Waco fought back. Waco made a stand, damnit. Hooray for Waco!

The official Waco narrative is very appealing to people who know the world mostly from the dancing shadows on a large screen on one of their living room walls. From the beginning there has been a segment of the public that has thought that the nine dead were not enough and that everyone on a Harley who needs a shave should be locked up.

From the beginning, Waco has been about the release of specific information and the concealment of other information by local, state and federal officials. It has been about defining reality and the exemplary moment of that official definition of what people are allowed to think and what questions the press are allowed to ask came when Swanton took CNN anchor Ashleigh Banfield to task for citing a “law enforcement source,” that four of the dead had been killed by police “in a hail of bullets.”
 
 

Latest Revision
The latest revision to what people are officially allowed to think and report about the Twin Peaks Massacre came last Friday when Swanton’s boss, Chief Brent Stroman, told reporters that there were only 16 police officers on scene who fired a total of 12 rounds from M4 rifles. Police recovered 44 shell casings and 475 weapons including “weighted weapons” and “tomahawks” and police seized 130 motorcycles and 91 cars and trucks . Fifty-two of the motorcycles and 47 other vehicles have been released to their owners. According to Stroman, everybody who was arrested deserved it.

Stroman said, “We did not fire indiscriminately into the crowd. Our officers were restrained.”
The same day, a spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety – which includes the Texas Rangers and other state police – announced, “no shots were fired by DPS officers.”

Cossacks Version
About the time Swanton disappeared a second version of what happened that day began to make headlines – the Cossacks version. The day after the shootout, a Cossack named Scott “Scoot” Keon spoke to the Palestine, Texas City Council. Keon told the local politicians that his club is law abiding. “On our side, we are not a gang,” he said. “We are an organization that is Texas-wide. None of us are one-percenters.”

He blamed the Bandidos for the massacre. “There are things that they (the Bandidos) are involved in that we have no interest in,” he said. “We are businessmen, family men, and veterans and are in no way affiliated with them. We won’t be pressured into paying them dues, and that’s where their anger is coming from. Just because other clubs have given in, doesn’t mean we are going to.”

Eyewitnesses have placed Keon at the Twin Peaks the previous day. He did not tell the Palestine officials that he had been there nor did he offer an explanation of how he had avoided arrest.

During the following week, an unidentified Cossack gave multiple interviews to a freelance writer named Tim Madigan who published what the Cossack told him. The Aging Rebel believes that Cossack was a man who identifies himself on his Facebook page as Cmc Paul. Paul has been very outspoken about the Bandidos. On a discussion site he stated, “We don’t pay anything to the Bandidos and that is why they don’t like us. We refuse to be lumped in with the ‘gangs’ (clubs) and pay to do something that we have the right to do, ride our motorcycles and have our own identity as an MC. There are still a few of us MCs that understand what this life is about and it isn’t crime or causing trouble. It’s truly about the ride and brothers.”

Madigan sold his story to the Washington Post which subsequently reported that Owen “Big O” Reeves, who along with John “Voodoo” Arnold was responsible for the Cossacks presence at the Twin Peaks, had been invited to the restaurant by the Bandidos for a sort of peace powwow. According to the Post, “It was a setup from start to finish.” The Post did not explain how its source managed to avoid arrest.
 
 

The Witnesses Version
Within the last week, as more of the accused have been released from jail, a third version of events has begun to emerge. It portrays the Twin Peaks Massacre as a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives operation gone horribly wrong. Multiple eyewitnesses, speaking on condition of anonymity because they believe what they know places them in danger from the police, portray the Cossacks as an easy club for ATF agents to infiltrate and exploit. “The Cossacks are known to hand out patches to people without prospecting, short prospecting periods, some as little as a week, or proper background investigation to bolster their numbers. That obviously makes them pretty easy to infiltrate,” one source said. “They’re right up there with the Iron Order, and take many pictures similar to the Iron Order style. And like the IO, they seem to have no problem patching in cops and corrections officers.”

Multiple sources who The Aging Rebel believes to be credible have independently stated that they saw two Cossacks take off their cuts and put on police windbreakers and balaclavas. The Aging Rebel has confirmed that ATF agents were at the Twin Peaks before and after the shooting occurred. And numerous news outlets have reported that multiple eyewitnesses heard two or three pistol shots which were then followed by automatic weapons fire. Other sources have stated that at least two and possibly more confidential informants working under contract for the ATF were arrested and quietly released that night.

The world’s news outlets have largely ignored this clash of narratives. As far as most reporters and editors are concerned, the Waco story is yesterday’s news. It will probably be remembered as a spectacular biker brawl. The news cycle is too rushed to look much deeper than that.
 
 
 
THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN FOR BUSINESS–
A guy traveling through Mexico on vacation lost his wallet and all of his identification. Cutting his trip short, he attempted to make his way home but was stopped by the U.S. Customs Agent at the border.

“May I see your identification, please?” asked the agent. “I’m sorry, but I lost my wallet,” replied the guy.”Sure buddy, I hear that every day. No ID, no entry,” said the agent. “But I can prove I’m an American!” he exclaimed. “I have a picture of Ronald Reagan tattooed on one side of my butt and George Bush on the other.” “This I gotta see,” replied the agent. With that, the guy dropped his pants and showed the agent his behind. “By golly, you’re right!” exclaimed the agent. “Have a safe trip back to Chicago Thanks!” he said. “But how did you know I was from Chicago ?” The agent replied, “I recognized Obama in the middle.”

Being nervous, and embarrassed about my upcoming colonoscopy on a recommendation I decided to have it done while visiting friends in San Francisco , where the beautiful nurses are allegedly more gentle and accommodating. As I lay naked on my side on the table, the gorgeous nurse began my procedure. “Don’t worry, at this stage of the procedure it’s quite normal to get an erection,” the nurse told me. “I haven’t got an erection,” I replied. “No, but I have,” replied the nurse. Don’t get a colonoscopy in San Francisco.

-Rogue and Jerry
 
 
 
 

Brass Balls Cycles’ Build a Bike Kit Program Rolls Out 5 Stages to Build a Custom Bike–
Darwin Motorcycles announced today that Brass Balls Cycles transitioned into the firm’s Bike Kit division. Which means each Brass Balls Cycles is sourced by and built by the customer.

“Through our years of building custom/production award winning bobbers and choppers, we’ve learned which parts have superior engineering, fit and finish needed to build a high quality, safe and hassle free customs,” explained Dar Holdsworth, Chief Designer & CEO.

Brass Balls Cycles’ Build-a-Bike Kit is offered in 5 separate phases. And the investment to start a build is just $2,995. This allows enthusiasts to build their bike as their time and budget allows. Phase 1 provides a complete roller with frame, wheels, handlebars, front end and tires.

Just like Darwin’s custom/production motorcycles, Brass Balls Cycles provides options and upgrades for customers to choose from. Enthusiasts begin the build with the baseline model and have the ability to add additional components to build their bobber or chopper to their own tastes and requirements.

Enthusiasts can make their selection online or call Darwin Motorcycles’ headquarters and speak with the Bike Kit Team about their requirements. Motorcycle styles include bobber and chopper models in hardtail or softail configuration.

“We are excited to take a leading role in helping customers worldwide, build and ride quality American motorcycles”, said Dar, “and we are honored to offer a $500 discount to active duty US military members & veterans on the complete kits.”

About Darwin Motorcycles
Darwin Motorcycles was created in June 2006 by motorcycle designer Dar Holdsworth. The award winning firm hand crafts a line of timeless, Uncompromising American Motorcycles, having twice won the AMD World Championships of Custom/Production Bike Building. The Oklahoma City, USA-based custom bike manufacturer builds bespoke custom/production bikes for customers worldwide and has dealers in Shanghai & Dubai. Visit our site: http://DarwinMotocycles.com

About Brass Balls Cycles

Brass Balls Cycles the notable alias of Darwin Motorcycles became the firm’s Bike Kit division in April 2015, offering high quality bike kits using the best mix of quality components at affordable prices. Brass Balls Cycles Bike Kits are offered in 5 separate & customizable Phases so customers can build their bike as time and budget allows. Visit our site: http://BrassBallsCycles.com View Bike Kits
 
Social Media
 
–Jeffery Najar
Media Contact 
 
 
 

THE EVER IN DEMAND WHEELER REPORT–

****S C T A Speed Week****
****www.bonnevillmotorcyclespeedtrials.com****


Yesterday morning Dr. Willie and I rolled out of Long Beach under a blazing ball of fire, arriving in Ventura at the Barnett Clutches & Cables manufacturing facility.


Barnett’s R&D man, Chance Darling gave us a start to finish, nickel tour of one massive operation…under one roof… in the USA.. The Bad Ass Sportster parked in the showroom was built by Chance’s father.


From billet to finished products, as well as clutch cables, throttle cables, cables from A to Z, clutches, clutch plates that cover a huge portion of the motorcycles in use today and a few relics.


While we were touring, Chase enlisted the help of his top cable man, the man was in and out of the trailer in a flash, the clutch and throttle cables were removed and new sets were custom made in the blink of an eye.


Thanks to Chance darling and the Barnett Team for one helleva tour.


We also have a Scorpion Clutch with a lock up unit for the 5-Ball Raycer. We’ll take photos and send in a report.

Have a great day wherever you are….

Ride often, Ride Safe and HAUL ASS!
Ride for Your Life!
Ray C Wheeler

Performance Editor
 
 


“THESE ARE THE JOKES”, BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
Dear Mum,Our Scoutmaster told us to write to our parents in case you saw the flood on TV and got worried. We are okay. Only one of our tents and 2 sleeping bags got washed away.

Luckily, none of us got drowned because we were all up on the mountain looking for Adam when it happened. Oh yes, please call Adam’s mother and tell her he is okay. He can’t write because of the cast. I got to ride in one of the search and rescue Jeeps. It was great. We never would have found Adam in the dark if it hadn’t been for the lightning.

Scoutmaster Ted got mad at Adam for going on a hike alone without telling anyone. Adam said he did tell him, but it was during the fire so he probably didn’t hear him. Did you know that if you put gas on a fire, the gas will blow up? The wet wood didn’t burn, but one of the tents did and also some of our clothes. Matthew is going to look weird until his hair grows back.

We will be home on Saturday if Scoutmaster Ted gets the bus fixed. It wasn’t his fault about the crash. The brakes worked okay when we left. Scoutmaster Ted said that with a bus that old, you have to expect something to break down; that’s probably why he can’t get insurance. We think it’s a super bus. He doesn’t care if we get it dirty, and if it’s hot, sometimes he lets us ride on the bumpers. It gets pretty hot with 45 people in a bus made for 24. He let us take turns riding in the trailer until the policeman stopped and talked to us. Scoutmaster Ted is a neat guy. Don’t worry, he is a good driver. In fact, he is teaching Horace how to drive on the mountain roads where there aren’t any cops. All we ever see up there are huge logging trucks.

This morning all of the guys were diving off the rocks and swimming out to the rapids. Scoutmaster Ted wouldn’t let me because I can’t swim, and Adam was afraid he would sink because of his cast (it’s concrete because we didn’t have any plaster), so he let us take the canoe out. It was great. You can still see some of the trees under the water from the flood.

Scoutmaster Ted isn’t crabby like some scoutmasters. He didn’t even get mad about the lifejackets. He has to spend a lot of time working on the bus so we are trying not to cause him any trouble. Guess what? We have all passed our first aid merit badges. When Andrew dived into the lake and cut his arm, we all got to see how a tourniquet works. Steve and I threw up, but Scoutmaster Ted said it was probably just food poisoning from the left-over chicken. He said they got sick that way with food they ate in prison. I’m so glad he got out and became our scoutmaster. He said he sure figured out how to get things done better while he was doing his time. By the way, what is a pedal-file?

I have to go now.We are going to town to post our letters and buy some more beer and ammo. Don’t worry about anything. We are fine and tonight it’s my turn to sleep in the Scoutmaster’s tent.

-Rogue and Jerry

 
 
 
Visiting Harley Dealers & Collecting Poker Chips —
 Earlier this year I had decided that I was going to try and visit all the Harley Davidson Dealers in Florida and collect a Poker Chip from each of them. 
 
One of the reasons was the poker chips are inexpensive and easy to make a collection of them. Besides that I have so many t-shirts I am running out of room for them. But more important was my girlfriend Dee is the sales representative for Global Products who supplies Harley dealers with much of their aftermarket product line. She visits the stores at least once every three months and this would give us some quality riding time together as she does ride her motorcycle and packs all her samples on it. Quite a sight to see going down the road but she has it down to a pattern.
 
Oh it wouldn’t hurt if the next time you are at one of the dealers to look and see if the product has an orange tag on it saying it was made by Global or ask one of the staff to see some of their products.
 
 
This ride took me to the West coast of Florida and to Jims HD in St. Petersburg, Black Widow in Port Charlotte, Manatee River in Bradenton, Naples in Naples, 6 Bends in FT. Meyers, Rossiter’s in Sarasota, Phil Petersons in Key West and back up to South and North Miami Dealerships and the store in Miami Beach and the one in the Dolphin Mall and then Chester’s in Ft. Lauderdale.
 
 

I would have done more along the east coast on the way home but ran out of time. I have been doing well collecting the Poker Chips but I still have a way to go and looking forward to eventually getting them all. Of course when that gets done there are other states.

-ROGUE
 
 
GUT-CHECK TIME: NMA NEWSLETTER–

For many motorists, it is tough to remember what driving an automobile with pure gasoline in the tank was like. E10—gasoline cut with 10 percent ethanol—has been commonplace for well over a dozen years, and E15 is also available for light-duty vehicles of 2001 and later vintage.

Ethanol for fuel use reached about 13 billion gallons in 2014, about 10 percent of the gasoline pumped into cars and trucks that year. What do drivers have to show for it? For starters, less fuel economy and power. Ethanol contains about one third less energy than pure gasoline. There also is the question of potential engine damage caused by gasoline spiked with alcohol. Ethanol can hold more moisture than gas and if not handled properly in the transport and storage phases, the extra water content can cause corrosive damage to engines.

We wrote the following in an August 2010 e-newsletter:

The NMA has long criticized the federal ethanol mandate as a huge public policy farce. We weren’t alone, but thoroughly ignored.

We argued that ethanol does not make the air cleaner. Ethanol will not reduce our dependency of oil, foreign or domestic. Ethanol is a net negative for the environment. The subsidies for ethanol steal funds that could improve our highways. The prices for food grains are increased. And, ethanol is harmful to many forms of non-automotive internal combustion engines. The kicker is that any rational expert, right-wing, green, or capitalist, on the subject, does not seriously disagree with our arguments!

So why now, after another five years have been added to the timeline and ethanol use is more prevalent than before, is it gut-check time? The answer lies somewhere between 14 and 20. That is the number of main party presidential candidates that have declared for 2016 and the handful who will probably declare in the near future. (See the chart below.)
 

Will any of these candidates have the intestinal fortitude to call for a roll-back in ethanol use, particularly when a weak showing in the Iowa caucus has kept many a campaign from getting off the ground? There are three sure things that Americans face: death, taxes, and political candidates who will do anything to not get crosswise with voters.

The Iowa caucuses are a scant 7-1/2 months away. The question is whether the collective voice of the motorist will be louder than that of the Iowa corn growers. Regardless of your political persuasion or your candidate preference, use the intervening months to let each campaign know how you feel about ethanol-blended gasoline. The critical questions haven’t changed since the 2010 e-newsletter:

How can ethanol reduce our dependence on foreign oil when it takes as much, or more, energy to produce a gallon of ethanol than the energy a gallon of ethanol can deliver?
How can ethanol help clean our air when its production puts more pollution in the atmosphere than the oil it is supposed to replace and makes no difference in the emissions of fuel-injected vehicles?
How many billions of dollars could be invested in our highways and bridges if the subsidies for ethanol were eliminated?

With water becoming an increasingly valuable commodity in many parts of the country, why aren’t you speaking out against a mandate for a fuel that uses three gallons of water to produce one gallon of that fuel?
 
-Rogue 
 
 
 
 
 
SEE HOW YOU CAN WIN AN ALPINE STARS JACKET!– 
To celebrate the launch of the 2015 Oscar by Alpinestars line, Alpinestars has tapped the typographical wizardry of brush master Ornamental Conifer. The colorful ambassador and communicator of motorcycle culture was commissioned to create a one-of-a-kind, hand painted jacket, a hand painted poster and a print edition of two hundred pieces, all of which will be offered in a substantial giveaway.

Renowned for his subversive whimsy and moto-inspired wit, Ornamental Conifer conjured the tongue in cheek yet poignant : “FREEDOM EARNED FROM THROTTLES TURNED” phrase which he’s emblazoned across the back of a brand new Oscar Monty jacket as well as a 18″ x 24″ painting. Additionally, a series of two hundred 18″ x 24 “signed silkscreened prints have been created all of which will be available through a drawing June 11th – 26th. One lucky winner will take home the jacket, one will be hanging an original Ornamental Conifer on their wall and 200 will be the proud owners of a limited edition, signed print.
 
 

“I’ve always been a fan of the Alpinestars brand. They have such a rich heritage, it’s great to see it being celebrated with the new Oscar line. I’m stoked that I get to be involved!” said the artist of his participation.

As an additional component of the Ornamental Conifer-ized launch of Oscar, Alpinestars also created a short video glimpse into the life and process of the artist. Shot in and around his Venice, CA studio, the four minute video gives insight into a typical day of hard work and hard leisure.

The complete Oscar line is available now, debuting with 4 jacket styles, 1 denim offering and a selection of rugged gloves and boots. Merging a history of innovation and Italian craftsmanship, the Oscar by Alpinestars line exists as a fusion of classic styles and silhouettes, punctuated by technical features and modern processes. Much in the vein of the original Oscar by Alpinestars branded product of the 1970’s, an equal balance of form and function will be meticulously maintained, creating unique, premium garments, guided by the timeless rebel-style essence of motorcycle racing.
 


To see the complete Oscar line, view the look book and watch the inspiration film, visit:

http://www.oscarbyalpinestars.com

To enter to win one of the 202 Ornamental Conifer for Oscar pieces, visit:

 

THE LEGENDARY BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY KEEPS CRANKING ‘EM OUT–
A BLONDE JOKE THAT YOU’VE NEVER HEARD BEFORE….

She desperately wanted a pair of beautiful alligator shoes.

After becoming very frustrated with the attitude of one of the shopkeepers, the young blonde declared, ‘Well then, maybe I’ll just go out and catch my own alligator and get a pair of alligator shoes for free!’

The shopkeeper replied with a sly smile, ‘Well little lady, why don’t you go give it a try?’

The blonde headed off to the swamp,determined to catch an alligator.

Later in the day, the shopkeeper was driving home, and spotted the young woman standing waist deep in the murky water, shotgun in hand. He saw a huge 9-foot gator swimming rapidly toward her. With lightning reflexes, the blonde took aim, shot the creature and hauled it up onto the slippery bank.

Nearby were 7 more dead ‘gators, all lying belly up. The shopkeeper watched in amazement as the blond struggled with the ‘gator. Then, rolling her eyes, she screamed in frustration ……

“Son-of-a-bitch!! THIS ONE’S BAREFOOT TOO!”
 
 
 
VINTAGE VIBES, REMINISCENCE, AND MEMORIES OF POP AT STURGIS THIS YEAR– 
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit: “My First Ride.” The exhibit features motorcycles many riders will recognize as that first motorcycle they ever rode. In addition, the exhibit features stories by people from all over the country detailing the first time they climbed on a motorcycle.
 
“We are so excited to have this new exhibit open in the museum,” said Christine Paige Diers, Executive Director of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. “So often, we hear visitors comment that we have their first motorcycle displayed in the museum. Those visitors tell us regularly how special it is to see that motorcycle and remember their first time on a bike.”

Black Hills State University graphic arts student Shandell Clutter designed special graphics for the exhibit, including a great new logo. Besides the bikes and short parts of various stories, the exhibit’s online component features special “bonus material.” When viewing the exhibit, patrons will see QR codes that can be scanned with a smart phone that access additional content on the web. The museum also hopes the exhibit will grow as people visit it. Anyone interested in sharing their story and photos can email them to info@sturgismuseum.com using the subject line “My First Ride.”

The mission of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of motorcycling, honor those who have made a positive and significant impact on the sport and lifestyle, and pay tribute to the heritage of the Sturgis Rally. Established in 2001, the museum is home to an ever-growing variety of motorcycles and memorabilia. On display is a huge selection of American and metric bikes on loan from private individuals, along with a wide variety of exhibits, photographs, memorabilia and Sturgis Motorcycle Rally history.

The museum is open during the summer from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Rally hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Contact: Christine Paige Diers Christine@sturgismuseum.com

 
-Ken Conte 
 
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON–
re·doubt·a·ble [ri-dou-tuh-buh l
 

adjective
1. that is to be feared; formidable.

2. commanding or evoking respect, reverence, or the like. 
 
Origin
Middle English 1325-1375 
 
Dictionary.com
 

 
 

LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST HARLEY-DAVIDSON WET T CONTEST COMING TO THE CANTINA–
What happens in Vegas, ends up on the internet… LOL. Every October, the Las Vegas Bikefest takes over Vegas for one hell of a terrific show. With the Bikefest headquarters being the operation center of it all, the entire city participates in one way or another. The Harley -Davidson Dealer always steps up with a nipple popping WET T contest for all of the visitors to enjoy. I have shot this event for 10 years now and it only improves with age. This October will be no different, new venue area, great custom bike shows, Artistry in Iron, biking contests, huge headlining bands, its just one of those events that you do not want to miss. I will shortly go back through my archives and pull more galleries over for you all to view. ENJOY!

JACK MCINTYRE
PHOTOGRAPHER
Co-Editor of Bandit’s Cantina
BIKERNET.COM

 
 
 
Well that’s a wrap- It wasn’t as tough as anticipated and it feels good to build something all by yourself piece by piece. But it also gives you a chance to appreciate being part of the well oiled machine of a team. I hope Bandit can give us some good photos. Make sure to check back next week for more of those.
 
 
 
Now it’s time for some coffee and to go for a ride. I hope you enjoyed my tenure as this week’s galactic guardian of the Bikernet weekly news. Next week I’ll be back working behind the scenes, loading galleries from our talented photographers into the Cantina(like Colely Dawn this Saturday as well as the Wet T Contest pictured above), and helping with the news and other articles. Remember feel free to comment on our articles and news. Let us know what you think.
 
I’m out.
Lisa 
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