Hey,
This week has been nuts. The Amazing Shrunken FXR is back, sold and we are dicking with it. In fact it had straight pipes and we are adding some Mr. Lucky shorty muffler tomorrow.
I attended a local ABATE meeting this week on the Chowder Barge. There was only a handful of concerned folks. How times change. You’ll see some more shots later in the news. I was the only guy on a kick-only Shovel chopper. 
I met with Bill Hayes and his lovely wife Jennifer for a book breakfast. He’s finishing up the 1%er Encyclopedia for Motorbooks just as we are wrapping up the Terry the Tramp 1%er book. We had a heavy discussion about publishers and future projects.
Frank White, the boss of ATK motorcycles picked up his cruiser and delivered another fuel injected 250 cc sport bike yesterday.
Then I was interviewed for a local newspaper article. Friday we are working on the Shrunken FXR and Saturday morning we are hauling ass to Spitfire to pick up our rollers for our Mudflap Girl FXRs. Never a dull moment. Let’s hit the news:
AMA CONTACTS VIRGINIA GOVERNOR OVER MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS–
From a press release issued by American Motorcyclist Association:
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has expressed concern to Gov. Bob McDonnell over a recent motorcycle-only checkpoint in northern Virginia, calling the stop “discriminatory.”
The Arlington County (Va.) Police Department conducted a motorcycle-only checkpoint on May 28 during the annual Rolling Thunder gathering in Washington, D.C. The Rolling Thunder event, held May 27-29, involved tens of thousands of motorcyclists riding to the nation’s capital to seek accountability for prisoners of war and service personnel missing in action.
In the letter, dated May 31, AMA Washington Representative Rick Podliska told McDonnell that motorcycle-only checkpoints are discriminatory and profile only motorcyclists.
“The AMA urges the Commonwealth of Virginia to suspend the use of motorcycle-only checkpoints until questions raised by the motorcycling community have been addressed,” Podliska wrote.
Those questions include: How do motorcycle-only checkpoints increase the safety of motorcyclists? Where do states draw their authority to conduct motorcycle-only checkpoints? Is “probable cause” required to stop a motorcycle and, if so, what constitutes probable cause?
“The safety of motorcyclists is better served by efforts that minimize injuries and fatalities by preventing crashes in the first place,” Podliska wrote. “The most efficient way of doing so is not through sporadic, discriminatory roadside checkpoints, but by mitigating crash causation.”
Copies of the letter were also sent to Arlington County Police Chief M. Douglas Scott, Virginia House of Delegates Transportation Committee Chairman Joe May and Virginia Senate Transportation Committee Chairwoman Yvonne Miller.
FROM THE DESK OF THE KENTUCKY PREZ–
Well we have hit the summer months and time to have a little fun. Please enjoy yourselves as you hit the road and head out on the poker runs, field parties, benefit runs or just out for a ride. The other thing is that this is the time of year when the KMA/KBA as well as many other fine organizations raise the majority of their operating funds. Most of our funding is through the direct support of attending an event or becoming a member of the organization. We appreciate all that you do and any way that you can pitch in and help. With that said let me begin by thanking all those folks who donate their time and expertise to running the events across the state. They help to make sure the gate is manned, security is taken care of, the bands are signed, advertising is out and even the garbage is taken out, right Newman. Without folks like these it would be hard to exist in the same form we do today. Thank You.
By helping to spread the word about the events and legislative happenings you make this organization strong. I challenge each of you this riding season to talk to other riders you meet along the road. Ask them if they are members and if not let them know a little bit about the KMA/KBA and what we are about. I like to say we are the bikers who play politics and whose clubhouse is the state capitol building. We are the folks trying to protect their freedoms and liberties and would appreciate their help in helping themselves along the way. Be sure to ask them to join if they are not already a member and see if you can get at least 3 people to join this summer.
Last but not least be sure to make plans for Sept. 16-18th at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park in Jamestown, KY. It is our 3rd annual State Party on the Lake and has been getting better each year. The staff members at the Park treat us like royalty and take great care of us. Be sure to ask anyone who has been as this is one of the best kept secrets in the State. All are welcome and the event is open to the public just no one under 18. We have plenty of room for vendors so if you would like to set up just pay the regular admission of $25 per person and if you would like to donate a door prize but even that is not mandatory. We want everyone to come out and have some fun, enjoy themselves and meet some of your fellow members along the way.
See ya On The Road. GREEN GUY PROJECT BUILD AT THREE-TWO CHOPPERS–You are correct. His confidence level has increased and now he attacks projects and problems like a pro. We finished the fabrication part of his build today and rolled it out for some shots. What a great day at Three Two Choppers today. –Three Two HEMMINGS GREAT RACE SCHEDULED TO STOP AT THE WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM–Those of you who have followed vintage car rallying over the last couple of years may have noticed that the Great Race name has been conspicuously absent from those events, put on by the Vintage Car Rally Association The event’s going to start June 11 at Coker Tire headquarters in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and make its way north and east to finish June 17 at Hemmings headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.On June 11, 2011, the Race will depart from Chattanooga on its way to Maggie Valley for a dinner and evening tour at Wheels Through Time. Over 60 cars are slated to participate, including many of America’s rarest and most significant autos dating back to the
–Jay Huber 
NEWSPAPER EDITORIAL OF THE WEEK–Waco Tribune Herald, Waco TX Nov 18, 2010
Put me in charge . . .
Put me in charge of food stamps. I’d get rid of Welfare cards; no cash for Ding Dongs or Ho Ho’s, just money for 50-pound bags of rice and beans, blocks of cheese and all the powdered milk you can haul away. If you want steak and frozen pizza, then get a job.
–from VERN
BIKERNET BLACK MARKET BOOK DEAL OF THE WEEK–Make it Yourself, with help from Sheet Metal Bible
If you’ve always wanted to make an air cleaner, or fender, from scratch, this is your chance to buy a great sheet metal how-to book at a big-ass, bikernet, savings.
Sheet Metal Bible from Wolfgang Publications is a compendium of sheet metal fabrication projects, everything from simple shaping operations to multi-piece creations like fenders and motorcycle gas tanks. Each of these operations is photographed in detail. Meaty captions help the reader to understand what’s really happening as a flat sheet of steel slowly morphs into the convex side of a gas tank.
While some of the craftsmen work with hand tools, others prefer the English Wheel. The book is filled with work by legendary fabricators like Ron Covell, Craig Naff, Rob Roehl and Bruce Terry. Projects include components for two and four-wheeled hot rods. Each metal has its place in the metal shop, and this new book includes tips on how to work with, and weld, both steel and aluminum.
So no matter what kind of one-off sheet metal part your project requires, there is something in this new 176-page book to help you turn that dream into reality.
This week you can have Sheet Metal Bible, from Wolfgang Publications, for only $19.95, with free shipping to anyone who lives in the continental US. Don’t think about it, just do it – order Sheet Metal Bible today.
http://store.bikernet.com/
NEW LINE ENGRAVING FINISHED WITH THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY OF BIKERNET PORTHOLE HATCH–
Hi Bandit,
All done with your girlie :)
LTW,
Heather
BAKER DRIVE TRAIN WHISTLE STOP TOUR ARTICLE COMING–We are working with Trish at Baker on an article about their tour of tech seminars. Here’s our first list of questions. This article should hit Bikernet next week:
What the most asked question?
Which Baker Product draws the most attention?
Did one Whistle Stop location stand out for well-read performance attendees with sharp well thoughtout questions? Why do you think this group was more on the ball?
Do you ever feel that you might be giving the customer too many gearing or overdrive options?
Have you created a road map for gearing options for various models and performance packages such as:
Stock Evo
Peformance evo
Stock Twin Cam
Performance Twin cam
And the same group with the goals altered:
Street racing or Touring
What’s the most asked question about the Oil Pan upgrade?
What’s the most significant benefit to the oil pan?
How many guys ask about Kicker systems. What do they ask?
Will you add locations to the Whistle Stop tour next year?
How will the presentation change?
If you could reach riders who plan to attend a Whistle Stop presentation, what would you tell them about the tour or about being prepared?
L.A. COUNTY CHOPRODS AMPS UP WEB SITE–LOS ANGELES, CAL (June 6, 2011) — Respected custom motorcycle builder, L.A. County Choprods, has amped up choprods.com with a new store, a vast gallery of custom bike construction and a Blah Blah Blog.
Parts featured in the revved up online store bring the same design philosophy and quality craftsmanship found in their one-of-a-kind Choprod bikes. The site also has exclusive access to ISR Brakes, of which L.A. County Choprods is the exclusive North American distributor.
“Although we are strong advocates of Made in the USA, we’re also proud to be the exclusive North American distributor for ISR Brakes from Sweden. We stock the largest selection of ISR Brakes products and ISR Brakes replacement parts in the USA and are the first to offer ISR Brakes components in our Satin Black Anodized Finish.
ISR Brakes are the cleanest-looking, highest-quality brake components available and that’s why you’ll find them on all of our bikes,” said Gard Hollinger, owner of L.A. County Choprods.
The vast “In the Shop” photo gallery of bike construction, parts and machinery is loaded with high-quality images, shot at artistic angles that will mesmerize custom bike enthusiasts and keep them clicking. The “On the Road” gallery highlights the distinctive, head-turning, innovative motorcycles the shop has built.
“We’re proud when we see our influence on bikes being built around the globe these days and we strive to continue to inspire and be inspired. Our “On the Road” gallery features some of Choprod’s creations, which are now banging about the asphalt and displayed in museum garages of the free world,” said Hollinger.
The new Blah Blah Blog gives Hollinger and his crew the opportunity to provide insight to their work and document the stories behind their favorite custom bike projects. The blog is filled with high-quality images that add 1,000 words to the fascinating stories about how bikes are born, from conception to delivery. The blog is also accepting submissions from other custom bike builders.
Hollinger’s unique style has captured well-known motorcycle enthusiasts, including a customer list that could pass as a Hollywood A List. He, and his work, have been featured in magazines and on television including Speed TV’s Build or Bust, Discovery’s Great Biker Build Off, ESPN’s Chopper Nation and the U.K. series All the Gear, No Idea. Hollinger has the unique distinction of being the first custom motorcycle builder featured in an American Express commercial.
Hollinger contributed a chapter in the best-selling Art of the Chopper II, was featured builder on the 2006 Hard Rock Road House Tour and his bikes have been shown at prestigious motorcycle exhibits including AMD World Championships, Artistry in Iron and Michael Lichters’ Eternal Combustion Exhibit.
Visit www.choprods.com to experience L.A. Choprod’s amped up virtual creativity now.
–Ken Conte
TRIKE CAUGHT ON SOCAL FREEWAY–
–Andreas Dudda
AFFLICTION APPAREL SATURDAY SHOW–
I barely caught an ad for this show last Saturday.
I didn’t think it would be much but it was very close by.
Well as the pictures show – it was quite .. aahhh … show.
Too many good pictures for one e-m – more tomorrow.
More custom bikes builders than I have seen in over a year at any show.
Chica – Matt Hotch – Kirk Taylor – Treveleen – Tom Foster -Paul Cox, Tay Herrara, and mo’.
Some MMA guys there also – Miss next month Playboy Playmate
A great mixture of artwork – canvas paintings – metalwork/paniting etc.
Custom & classic cars – custome bikes – great country band – sunny day.
Does anybody know the Aflicted clothing Line?
–Art Hall
Extreme Quick Throttle Mag Photo-journalist
Bikernet International Correspondent
ABATE OF CALIFORNIA VS. THE AMA–The brothers from ABATE of California had a meeting of the minds with the AMA at a recent meeting. The AMA said they will stand aside on some issues.
ABATE’s Lobbyist, James Lombardo, thanks all of you that attended and testified in support of the Helmet Modification Bill. The Transportation Committee hearing was on April 25th for AB695 Norby. The bill did not make it out of committee but was unanimously voted on for re-consideration (January 2012).
Please attend the May 23 Freedom & Motorcycle Awareness Month Rally at the State capitol.
Once again, the Legislature’s business
has been slowed down drastically by the
Budget mess! Our Helmet Repeal bill, and
many other good bills, were killed because
of partisan fighting between the Democrats
trying to extend the sales tax and vehicle
license fee taxes, and the Republican leg-
islators who oppose them. assemblyman
Chris Norby (R–Fullerton) did a courageous
job and an outstanding presentation on our
Repeal bill, aB 695, in committee on april
25; and Johnny O’kane and I were given the
usual time to testify in support. 
However, once again, it was voted
down, on a completely party line vote, 8
Democrat NO votes to 4 AYEs by Repub-
licans, with assemblymen Blumenfield and
achadjian abstaining! We do have several
Democrat legislators who support aB 695,
but they are not on the assembly Transpor-
tation Committee. There also are Republican
Members who do not support aB 695.
We need to work hard on a select group
of legislators, plus we may need to take
some amendments to our bill to get it to pass
the assembly! Stay tuned — ask your PaC
Reps for a report at your next Local meet-
ing!
Our annual Motorcycle Safety/aware-
ness Resolution is being carried by as-
semblyman Martin Garrick for the second
straight year, declaring May as Motorcycle
awareness Month. He is a 100% supporter
of ABaTE and a fellow rider with several
Harley motorcycles in his collection. Martin
is also a candidate for the 38th Senate Seat
in Northern San Diego County next June. It
doesn’t get any better than that!
Our ban on motorcycle-only check-
points effort is being blocked, not because of
the substance of the legislation, but because
our author will not support tax increases!
Using a different approach, we are research-
ing introducing a Joint House Resolution to
ban motorcycle-only checkpoints.
The Preliminary draft reapportionment
maps will be out in June and this too will
throw everyone in the Legislature into more
chaos trying to figure out what district they
will be running in. In 1990 assemblyman
Floyd and Dave Elder were thrown together;
I told our PaC to support Juanita McDon-
ald and we were able to take Dick Floyd out.
We can do this similar action next year next
year … GET REaDY TO Work IN ELEC-
TIONS!!!
I will be reporting on this, and all
other motorcyclist-interest bills during the
aBaTE Board meeting and legislative ses-
sion at the La Quinta Inn in Sacramento, on
May 22. See you all there!
–J.L.
ABATE of California
UNCLE MONKEY ON TOOLS–
The right tool for the job. It seems like a no brainer for those of us that make a living with our hands. We wouldn’t be caught dead hoping and praying the Philips screwdriver we are using on a Roberts screw will hold long enough to get it out – or at least far enough out we can get a pair of vice grips on it.
The right tool for the job, but yet day after day we head out on the road without properly protecting ourselves from the elements. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not one of those Kevlar-hybrid, reflective vest, full-face riders, melting away in the heat of a hot July day. I fact, more than once you will catch me on a interstate freeway helmetless with nothing but a t-shirt, Levis, and a heavy pair of boots counting on my boyishly good looks to protect me.
But while I’m tooling down the road you will find contained within my BikerNet bedroll my leather jacket, rain gear and everything that I could possible need in case the weather changes for the worst. My stepbrother was in town this weekend to pick up his new to him Suzuki Blvd. It is a beautiful machine but as the night creep away Saturday the weather was less then ideal for riding. Overcast, cold and scattered showers with the occasional snowflakes kept everyone guessing.
He slipped away heading home with nothing more then a denim jacket and half helmet. He made it home barely. Anyone who has ever been caught in the elements knows the piercing cold, the sticky clasp of wet denim wicking away your body’s warmth. Had he stopped in before he left I would have happily offered up my gear.
Proper gear makes all the difference in the world. Being warm and dry makes a great ride an awesome one and a horrible ride tolerable. Before heading out check the weather forecast, not that your trick knee that acts up isn’t reliable at predicting weather. Dress in layers so you can add or remove as needed and pack for what you can expect out on the road. Even the most hardcore of riders know how to weather proof themselves even if it means sliding up to a young hard body at the bar for a night of frolicking instead of riding.
-bad Uncle Monkey
Here are our event locations for the next couple months. As always, the best way to find us is our blog. From there you can become our fan on facebook, follow us on twitter and see the latest items in!
Thanks for the continued support!
June 18 – Johnny Cash Music Festival, Ventura, CA
www.roadshowrevival.com
June 25 – Born Free Chopper Show, Oak Canyon Park, CA
www.bornfreeshow.blogspot.com
July 2 – Beatnik Blowout, Ventura, CA
www.primernationals.com
July 24 – Long Beach Cycle Swap, Veterans Stadium, CA
www.toppingevents.com
Joel & Mary Klass,
Vintage Klass
Vintage Helmets and Leathers
949 355 8098
vintageklass.blogspot.com
BIKERNET CORRESPONDENT ESCAPES TO NORWAY– I am shooting this bike in Norway, maybe with a model. Any good for you?
–Peter Linney
MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE’S JOINT COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION– scheduled Public Hearings on Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 1 PM at the State House in Boston in Room B-1. Listed to be called is Senate Number 1797-An Act to Increase Fines & Penalties of motorists who violate the right of way of other motorists. Sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, this bill already has 14 formal co-Sponsors and is referred to as the Massachusetts Motorcycle Asociation (MMA) Right-of-Way (RoW) Bill.
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) is urging ALL RIDERS to immediately write a letter to their State Senator and State Representative asking them to SUPPORT S.1797, the MMA ROW Bill. Letters are highly effective, a FAX is a very close second, whereas e-mails are largely ignored or lay buried in inboxes.
Please write your letters today and also send copies by mail or FAX to the Joint Committee on Transportation Chairs, Senator McGee and Representative Straus, and e-mail to the MMA’s Legislative Director.
Currently, any motorist who causes an accident in Massachusetts resulting in injury and or death of another routinely receives nothing more than a $35 “Failure to Yield Right of Way” moving violation. All too frequently a motorist will turn left in front of oncoming motorcyclists leaving the motorcycle riders with no place to go, usually with injuries.
As recently as May 29, an 18 year old driver turned left in front of 2 motorcyclists in Orleans Ma, causing them to crash. Med-Flight was called but due to fog conditions, the female victim had to be driven all the way to Massachusetts General Hospital where she still clings to life. Her Husband was not so badly injured and has already been treated and released from Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis Ma.
The 18 year old driver received his $35 Failure to Yield Right of Way Citation and walked away completely unharmed.
MMA Board Members will be on-site to testify in-person to the Committee in support of S.1797. All riders looking to join us can contact us using the information below. For further information, visit www.MassMotorcycle.org or contact
–Rogue 
COBRA SISSY BARS FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–
New from Cobra chrome sissy bars. Make life easier for your passengers by
offering back support for them and a place to carry your luggage when solo.
Built for the long haul, these sissy bars are made of high strength steel
with heavy-duty mounting brackets and come with a Freedom pad. Available
in three sizes for most models; standard, short and mini, and round, not
pictured. Uses stock mounting points for a no fabrication installation,
and made in the USA.
For more information, visit www.bikerschoice.com or visit your local
Biker’s Choice dealer.
Happy Riding!
–Carmen
LEGISLATORS TO REVIEW MICHIGAN HELMET LAW– SAGINAW, Mich. — Freedom or safety — two words that could make or break the motorcycle helmet law in Michigan.
Currently, the law says riders must wear an approved U.S Department of Transportation helmet when riding on public roads.
But two bills have been introduced in the state legislature to repeal the state’s helmet law.
One bill would let riders 21 and older to ride without helmets if they carry at least $20,000 in personal liability insurance.
The other bill would let riders 20 and older bike helmet-free if they have passed a safety course or carried a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license the previous two years.
Opponents of the legislation who think helmets should be mandatory say that’s the best way to boost safety, especially as biking becomes more popular thanks to higher gasoline prices.
–Rogue
Here is the RED HOT DEAL OF THE WEEK FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 1989 SPRINGER SOFTAIL! Only $9,000. S&S E carb, KURY-AKN front fender lowering kit, LePERA seat CRANE FIREBALL cam. Really tight bike, very clean! CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN!
–MIKE the STEALTH
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/category/1669/FXSTS_Springer_Softail/post/2213145/Beautiful-1989-Springer-Softail.html
Before we let go of the smooth little entry level cruiser Nyla, the Queen of Bikernet took it for a ride, and we took some extra shots because our road test will be featured in the chick site Women Riders Now in the near future.
After a motorcycle accident, getting your bike repaired to its original condition should be easy right? But is it?
Many riders are unaware that many motorcycle insurance policies contain some fine print that could just piss you right off when it comes to repairing your motorcycle. Some companies, as a cost-cutting measure, will opt to use only “aftermarket parts” to repair your damaged bike. So what does that mean to you?
Original equipment manufacturers parts, or OEM parts, are parts that have been made by your bike’s manufacturer. For example, Harley OEM parts are made by Harley-Davidson, Yamaha OEM parts are made by Yamaha. Many people say that the using OEM parts to repair your motorcycle can preserve your bike’s resale value and even more important, your level of safety.
Aftermarket parts, or non-OEM parts, are made by third-party vendors. Some are good, some are not. Use of aftermarket parts has become popular with insurance companies repairing damaged motorcycles since it helps them keep their claim payments down. Theory is that it keeps the cost of repairing your motorcycle lower thus enhancing their profit making position.
What to look for in you policy?
Many motorcycle insurance policies have a clause that says “repairs to your motorcycle will be made with “certified” parts or parts of “like kind or quality”. Watch out if you see this clause on your policy. It means that the insurance company is authorizing itself to use the cheaper, “non-OEM” parts to repair your bike.
What can you do about it?
Never buy a motorcycle insurance policy without first asking about the OEM/Non-OEM parts replacement clause. Make sure that your insurance company offers a guarantee to use only “Genuine Manufacturer’s Parts” when repairing your motorcycle and, to replace any accessories without depreciation. (If the bike is a total loss and the parts were purchased within the past 5 years.)
Contact us for a double-check folks.
As you know, we always tell it to you straight here at Bikernet Insurance. No double-speak, no lizard burps, no goofy actors. Just great insurance for your motorcycle.
P.S. With Dairyland Cycle, not only do you get a 10% discount by being a Bikernet Cantina member, you can also get your bike repaired with OEM parts. We offer a coverage known as “Physical Damage Plus” that guarantees that your motorcycle will be fixed with OEM parts. No bull. Just good parts placed on your bike.
Ride Safe Out There,
The Crew at Bikernet Insurance
Toll Free: 888-467-8703
Email for fastest response: clientservice@bikernet-insurance.com
.
WIRE PLUS POWER AND LIGHTING CONTROL MODULES–
Wire Plus Powersports Electronics is proud to introduce their new, state-of-the-art “power and lighting control modules” for many of the custom production motorcycles that are no longer being manufactured. Finding parts are hard to find for these custom production bikes, but now you can go to Wire Plus for all of your electrical needs. This is the perfect fix for all custom bike owners tired of not being able to start their bike due to electrical problems. Each kit comes complete with Wire Plus’ proven power module and switch control module configured to work with the ground input switches used on the factory bike.
These replacement modules work with all of the switches used on all of the following models…
American Iron Horse
American Performance Cycle/APC
Apollo Choppers
Big Bear Choppers
Big Dog
Brass Balls Choppers
CCI Kit Bikes
Confederate
Covington Cycle City
Create A Custom Cycle
Custom Works
DD Customs
Eagle
Echelon
Ecosse
Edmondson Custom Built
Wire-Plus products are built to survive the rugged urban environment. Their products feature vibration resistant, solid-state breaker technology (the breakers never have to be replaced) and a replaceable start relay that can be purchased at any auto parts store.
Their power modules are submersible waterproof and very compact in size with harnesses that are engineered to be smaller than any other on the market. The lighting control module controls the operation of the front, rear turn signals, and provides load equalization and auto cancelling. It also operates the rear turn signals as brake lights and running lights with one wire hook-up. Wire Plus’ main focus is on the reliability of everything that they manufacture.
Don Bromlow, National Sales Manager for Wire Plus stated, “We have added ring terminals; butt splices, and wire to the kits to make the hook-up of the ground wires easier. We have also added wire and butt splices for the wires that have more than one wire going to a pin. Combining more than one wire in a pin could compromise the weatherproof qualities of the DEUTSCH connectors. We recommend using a DEUTSCH crimper when making the connections and have these available as well.
For those interested in obtaining more information on Wire Plus, you can reach them at (620) 221-2417 or check them out online at www.wire-plus.com or email them at sales@wire-plus.com.
PINSTRIPING STORY COMING OUR WAY ABOUT–Diablo Artwerks.
Corrupted on the streets of San Jose, CA. My love for early kustoms and hot rods began at a young age but gangs, grafitti and illegal activity won out in those impressonable years. Not until meeting Krazy Keith Adamo,Von Franco and Rod Powell in the early nineties changed my direction, these men gave me the confidence and direction to use the natural talent within me. 
Add Anton LaVey,punk rock,rockabilly and some good ol’ fashion American anger and you have me, Diablo, artist,pinstriper,kustomizer and all around bad influence!!
Email Me Here
Visit My Web Site
Phone: 661-565-6871
780 Webster
Bakersfield, CA
USA. 93307
STEALTH EDITORIAL–Have We Gotten Soft?
I am sure all of us remember the movie EASYRIDER. One scene in particular I would like to bring to mind. Remember when Peter Fonda takes his watch off and throws it on the ground just before he and Dennis Hopper start their journey? Most of us know why he did that, for those that don’t, here is why. He threw that watch on the ground because he did not want to be confined by time or a schedule or the restraints of society.
Now fast forward to today. Almost every bike I see has a GPS system, an IPOD and speakers mounted everywhere from the handlebars to the saddlebags! I remember when me and my closest brothers used to ride; we never had a destination in mind until we were on the road. Our destination was where our hearts led us that day. No GPS telling us every turn to take. I still ride that way today.
We were never afraid of getting lost. Like my Dad used to say, “You are never lost as long as you have gas in the tank!” Now for all the speakers and music blaring off the bikes. Don’t get me wrong, I love music, but the only music I need when I ride is the music coming out of my pipes, for me that is the sweetest music ever made. I have even heard people say, “I don’t want my pipes too loud, I won’t be able to hear my music.” WHAT? What ever happened to the days of riding when you only carried your Bandit’s bedroll and your tool pouch? Yeah, you may have broken down and believe it or not at that time we did not carry cell phones, but we always made it home.
Something has been lost today, maybe the sense of adventure or maybe the fact that we are over protected from ourselves and all of these so called conveniences have made us soft.
For some of the ride will always be an adventure with no pre-planned destinations, a roll of the dice and at the end of that ride, GREAT stories of getting lost and how we made it back home.
I guess I am getting old, but none of these gizmos are for me. All of these gadgets take away from the ride and for me make it artificial.
Well time for me to go for a ride as soon as I check my tool pouch!
Until next time, RIDE!
–STEALTH
SPITFIRE MUDFLAP GIRL FXR UPDATE–I need to assemble the front ends today. I will get them
hung on there, and turn the bikes into rollers for you to pick up tomorrow afternoon. Frank’s rear wheel is a 180, so the fender we hung
gas tank. You should be able to finish these things out over the course of a weekend. See you soon.
–Paul
DELAWARE HELMET REPEAL MOVES FORWARD–
The Senate Public Safety committee will hold a hearing on Wednesday June 15, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. and HB 95 that removes the requirement to carry a helmet and also removes the definition of an “approved helmet” from Delaware’s law for riders 19 years of age and older is # 1 on the agenda.
I foresee no problem but there is Murphy’s law. Hopefully the legislation will come out of committee as we should now by our count have 5 votes out of 7 to release the bill and have two weeks to run it through the full Senate.
–Hildy
And to those of you who did nothing, you are welcome to enjoy the freedoms others have provided you!
–From Rogue
THE KUSTOM FAB UPDATE FROM HAWAII–
Aloha, just thought I would share this Shot of
Waimea in the summer. Got a name for my Bike ..I’m calling Cha
Ching!!!! More to come…
–Mahalo Darren
BIKERNET MAKES GOOD ON A PROMISE–
The shirt & stickers got here today. Thanks, Bro! Now I can say that I got an S.T.D. (shirt) from Bikernet!
–Buckshot
REPORT FROM BIKERNET COPY EDITOR–Washed her after I changed fluids, but lottsa bug guts now. Made it to Clovis, NM. Gonna swing south to Junction, TX tomorrow and camp on the Llano river.
AMA LEGISLATIVE ALERT–House committee voting on changes to lead law, action urged
Take Action!
Call your Representative now!
On May 25, the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee, chaired by Representative Fred Upton (R-MI),will be holding a markup Wednesday, at 4:00 p.m. in 2123 Rayburn House Office Building on H.R. 1939, “Enhancing CPSC Authority and Discretion Act of 2011 (ECADA).” The Committee will only be conducting opening statements on May 25.
The Committee will reconvene on May 26, at 10 a.m. in the same room. It is during this time that votes will occur on amendments and the draft bill.
According to the committee, the legislation would revise the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 and seeks to give Consumer Product Safety Commission greater authority and flexibility to regulate based on risk.
The CPSIA, commonly called the “lead law,” was designed to ban small toys with high lead content. However, because of broadly written language in the law, it has been interpreted to apply to all products for kids, including dirtbikes, bicycles, clothing and books.
Since the markup is an opportunity to offer amendments, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) will be working with cosponsors of H.R. 412, the “Kids Just Want to Ride Act” to offer it as an amendment. The Kids Just Want to Ride Act would permanently exempt youth-model motorcycles and ATVs from the deleterious effects of the lead-content limits of the CPSIA.
Please note that this markup is scheduled during the same time period as the AMA Family Capitol Hill Climb event. The Hill Climb is being held to send a clear message to federal lawmakers that action is needed now to exempt kid-sized dirtbikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) from the CPSIA. For more information on this event, please click here.
Time is of the essence. Please call your Representative now. Your Member of Congress’ contact information can be reached by following the “Call Now” option.
For more information on this issue, click here.
Tell your Representative to offer H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act of 2011, as an amendment to ECADA.
KMA/KBA Newsletter Editor
TEXAS MEMORIAL DAY PARTY COVERED–
Here are some pictures and story from Memorial Day weekends Iron Cylinder Ride, been a busy couple of days Darryl Briggs has been in town since Saturday. 
Then today we were visited today by Bret & Mark from Baker Drivetrain good folks and Lee from PM. 
Headed to ROT on Friday!
— RFR
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WILD WORD OF THE DAY–
wiredrawn WAH-yuhr-drawn, adjective:
1. Finely spun; extremely intricate; minute.
2. Drawn out long and thin like a wire.
I am aware that many educators consider such reading foolish and harmful, but I care nothing for wiredrawn pedagogic theories.
— Hamlin Garland, Keith Newlin, A Daughter of the Middle Border
When his right arm rises, all the force in his veins flows straight from shoulder to fingertips; not an ounce is diverted into sudden impulses, sentimental regrets, wiredrawn distinctions.
— Virginia Woolf, Jacob’s Room
Wiredrawn is a back-formation from the verb to wiredraw, “to draw (metal) out into wire, especially by pulling forcibly through a series of holes of gradually decreasing diameter.”
FROM THE BIKERNET SCIENCE FAIR DEPARTMENT–Future of Transportation to be Showcased in Orlando
18th World Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems to Highlight Cutting Edge Technological Advances to Reduce Traffic Crashes, Congestion and Costs
Orlando, FL — In what promises to be the world’s largest transportation gathering of 2011, approximately ten thousand of the world’s leading transportation officials, political leaders, businesses and innovators will meet in Orlando, FL this October to showcase new and next generation technologies designed to make transportation safer, more convenient, cheaper and more environmentally friendly.
The 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) will be held October 16 – 20, 2011 and the timing could not be more critical. With gasoline prices soaring to unprecedented highs, American roads and bridges deteriorating after decades of neglect, shrinking budgets, and a Presidential commitment to preserve and improve transportation for future generations, Americans are acutely aware of the problems facing our infrastructure. The cutting edge technologies on display this October in Orlando represent solutions that enable us to do more with less and to propel our transportation network into the modern age.
The world’s largest automakers including Ford, General Motors and Toyota in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will showcase “Connected Vehicle” technologies that allow cars to avoid crashes by communicating with each other and roadway infrastructure. Using GPS, WiFi sensors and a special Federal Communications Commission approved short-range radio frequency, vehicles will be able to share safety information in real time and drivers will receive safety warnings when there is a risk of a crash or other safety driving hazard. The U.S. DOT estimates that these technologies have the potential to address a staggering 81 percent of all unimpaired driver related crashes.
But safety is only one aspect of the advanced technologies to be displayed at the World Congress. The gathering will also showcase congestion and cost saving systems that reduce driving time, help commuters find more efficient routes or alternate travel options, improve emergency response times, and cut down on vehicle emissions.
Held once every three years in the United States, the 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transportation Systems
The event is hosted by the Intelligent Transportation Society of America,
POLARIS RECALL, 2011 VICTORY CROSS COUNTRY MODELS– Polaris is recalling 2011 Victory Cross Country bikes because of faulty handlebar clamps and risers that may slip or wobble due to incorrect machining.
The recall covers 840 bikes sold between Jan. 1 and April 11 of this year. Those with faulty clamps/risers could cause riders to lose control.
Polaris will notify owners of the bikes and refer them to dealers, who will test the handlebar clamp/riser assemblies and replace those found to be faulty.
Owners may contact Victory customer service at 1-888-704-5290, or contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or at http://www.safercar.gov. More information on the recall is available here.
Posted by Holly Wagner
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com
BAD COP REPORT OF THE WEEK–
BROOKSVILLE — Another woman who says she was molested by a psychiatrist while she was an inmate at the Hernando County jail has filed a lawsuit against the doctor and his former employer.
In March, the Florida surgeon general restricted 54-year-old Dr. James A. Yelton Rossello’s license after four female inmates alleged that between November 2009 and August 2010 the doctor asked that they expose themselves, give him lap dances or kisses and implied he would trade medication for sex.
Corrections Corporation of America, which operated the Hernando jail at the time and employed Yelton, fired him.
In May, two inmates filed a lawsuit against Yelton and CCA. When the woman in the latest suit initially brought allegations against Yelton at the jail, CCA employees placed her in solitary confinement, according to the women’s attorney, Samuel Rogatinsky.
At the time the first suit was filed, CCA spokesman Steven Owen said the company would respond after staff reviewed the complaints.
Yelton, through his Gainesville attorney, Jesse Smith, has denied all of the claims. Smith had said he is negotiating a settlement with the Florida Department of Health that could allow Yelton to be freely practicing again by late summer.
John Woodrow Cox can be reached at (352) 848-1432 or jcox@sptimes.com
–from Rogue 
FULL REPORT FROM DEALERNEWS ON INDIAN PURCHASE–Former Excelsior-Henderson exec dubious on Polaris-Indian dealPolaris’ recent purchase of Indian Motorcycle isn’t the first time the Minnesota powersports manufacturer has looked at a historic bike brand. In 2000, a team of top Polaris officials held talks with Minnesota-based Excelsior-Henderson about acquiring that iconic brand, but the talks eventually broke off.
This situation is going to be interesting to watch. Polaris execs have talked about things like manufacturing, marketing and distribution in their interviews and conference calls with investors and analysts. And dealers I’ve talked with seem anxious to take on the Indian brand now that Polaris has control of it, but there’s still a hatful of problems to solve as Polaris integrates Indian into its Victory operation.
Here are some areas to watch:
• MANUFACTURING. Indian will function as a distinct brand only as long as it has a separate, identifiable character: This means, simply, its own proprietary motor and other key parts. Buyers didn’t go for anything else, as you can see by Indian’s weak sales numbers in the past. Will Polaris keep the current Indian engine, develop a new proprietary plant or dump Victory parts into Indian? If it chooses the latter, it could be another disaster like the ones that Indian has suffered through before.
• DISTRIBUTION. Indian only has about two dozen dealers in North America, and most of them are what I would call niche players that are located in small towns and don’t carry other major brands. Is there really anything of value, here, or is Polaris going to have to figure out another way to sell Indians?
• MARKETING. Polaris has been on a roll for several years, and justifiably so. Its gains in off-road market share and stock market value have come because it’s well managed, yes, but largely because of its DNA. Polaris is a winner because it has been first to market with innovative new products for years. The company is geared to this approach and its marketing has emphasized this message of innovation and performance. CEO Scott Wine says Polaris is going after a new audience, basically the nostalgic Harley guys, with the Indian products. This is a dramatic departure for the company. Can its army of MBAs redirect their sharp, performance-driven marketing message to capture Indian buyers? Or will it require an entirely new team with a new approach to grab this audience? An interesting challenge, to be sure.
Since the Polaris-Indian deal seems like déjà vu, I thought it might be interesting to talk with Dan Hanlon, who led the E-H team, for his observations on Polaris’ most recent walk back in time.
Hanlon has a unique perspective on the Indian deal. He proposed selling his company, Excelsior-Henderson, to Polaris more than a decade ago; he’s a successful Minnesota business analyst, investor and consultant who has talked with Polaris and Indian in recent years.
A bit of background: Polaris launched its Victory line in 1998, and E-H began production in the small Minnesota town of Belle Plaine, 60 miles south of Polaris headquarters, at about the same time, after several years of development. But E-H was cash-starved from the beginning, and when it had production problems in 1999, it looked for a partner. Polaris was at the top of the list, but it also talked with Harley-Davidson, BRP and Arctic Cat, among others.
When it couldn’t put a deal together, E-H filed for bankruptcy in December 1999.
Polaris and E-H met in 2000. “Tom Tiller [Polaris CEO at the time] met with us,” recalled Hanlon. “Frankly, at that point in time, they should have just bought us and dropped Victory. Today, the Victory bikes are good, but the sales are still below expectations.” Polaris sold fewer than 6,000 Victorys to dealers last year.
So much for history. How does Hanlon see the Indian deal?
First, Polaris is a tightly run company, and is a darling of investors right now. Its common stock is trading at about $103 as I write this in late May, near its 52-week high of $115, which is also an all-time high for the company.
Even Hanlon likes it as an investment. “I’m a Polaris stockholder, and so is my family, and we’re riding the highs. But I think they are weak in motorcycle marketing, and they have been for 13 years. Unless they change how they market in the motorcycle industry, they will see similar results with Indian as everybody else has,” Hanlon said.
Here are some of the points that Hanlon makes about the Indian purchase:
• NUMBERS. Victory generates only 4 percent of total Polaris revenues. “If their motorcycle division were a separate company, they (sic) would have been out of business years ago,” Hanlon said: “Including its four year development timeframe, they have 17 years invested in [motorcycles] and it has been profitable one year and is 4 percent of sales. … From a numbers perspective, they are disappointing and below expectations.”
• MANUFACTURING. Here’s the question, said Hanlon: “Will Polaris keep the Indian motor or adapt a Victory motor? Both have issues. If you share components, you blur the line. If you’re looking for the buyer who wants authentic American heritage, the key [for that buyer] is authenticity. This won’t matter to all buyers, but it will matter to enough that it could impact the market [for Indian].”
• SALES AND MARKETING. A good, strong Victory dealer probably could sell Indian, Hanlon said. “[However] it’s a different selling process. I believe Polaris will have to have sales reps equally trained to sell both brands. It’s a distribution risk, but you have to minimize it. It would probably be wrong to have separate Victory and Indian dealerships because there isn’t enough volume.”
• OPPORTUNITY. “There’s always room for an alternative to Harley-Davidson,” Hanlon noted, “and one is the authentic Indian brand.” Polaris probably got Indian at a fire sale price, probably as low as 10 cents on the dollar, “so they had to try it,” he said. “If they can sort out the manufacturing and marketing, they might have a legitimate opportunity.” But the price of Indian bikes has to drop substantially. “And they have to step outside the normal Polaris box in terms of marketing and distribution. They probably have to have an entirely separate marketing team for Indian.”
In Hanlon’s final analysis, Indian isn’t going to help Polaris much in the near term, if ever. It’s a nice, low-buck pickup, but it isn’t likely to stimulate Polaris’ lagging motorcycle business anytime soon. And it could suck resources away from the under-performing Victory operation at the same time.
It will be very interesting to see how Polaris applies its bountiful management, marketing and manufacturing skills to the Indian opportunity.
Publish date: Jun 7, 2011
By: Joe Delmont
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK, 2009 HARLEY STREET BOB, $12,995–Check out this bad boy … this 2009 Harley Street Bob is in like new condition with just over 1,300 miles on it! It’s almost new! It features a 96 ci motor, six speed transmission, flat black paint, RSD mini apes, Thunderheader exhaust, 1″ lowering kit, custom solo seat, flamed black paint, custom tear drop mirror, K&N air cleaner, Avon grips and tons of other upgrades.
Like all of LifeStyle Cycles pre-owned Harleys, this bike has been thoroughly tested and inspected by a LifeStyle Cycles technician after undergoing a rigorous 38-point motorcycle inspection.
BANDIT RIDES STURGIS CHOP OUT TO THE BARGE–This week isn’t over yet. Check out the Swedish bike show from the Sheriff and Art’s feature from the girls and bikes of Singapore.
I’m trying to wrap up the first XS 650 Mr. Lucky build. I need to get my hands around writing about a metric build. 
Next week, I’m flying to New Orleans to grab a Victory and haul ass to the Smoke Out. I’ve ridden to Sturgis, to Milwaukee, but never from New Orleans to the East Coast. I’m looking forward to it, big time.
Matt Hotch is back in business and display his amazing Vincent at the Affliction show last weekend. 
Johnny Humble received his Redneck Softail fiberglass saddlebags and immediately installed them on his V-rod for a weekend test for 700 miles. I’m sure he will bring you the full report and tech.
Okay, I rolled down to the Barge and the old Sturgis Shovel looked like it belonged there. Crazy.
Have a helluva weekend.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
