Countdown To The Badlands Sunday Post

Hey,

Sturgis is just around the corner. In fact yesterday the Hamsters left California on their week long trek to the Badlands. We are going to attempt to catch them in Aspen, Colorado, but I need to wrap up some content for you, including most of the Thursday News, on Wednesday, before we peel out.

There are several new fronts brewing around the Bikernet Headquarters. Not only are we moving forward to open a Vintage Motorcycle coffee shop, called Bandit’s Barista in the front of our building, we are also working with an Australian company on pure water filters for the world, and a bio-fuel process that might rock the world.

I’m learning this process as we move forward. I met Ray R. in Sturgis about 14 years ago. I was intrigued with his technology to turn old tires into pure diesel fuel. Ray has quietly moved forward at saving the planet from Opec oil and hazardous emissions. He is actually very close to putting all the elements together to create pure 100 percent bio-fuels that don’t use any crops, and he may open three bio-fuel stations in Australia in the very near future.

As I learn this process. I will share my findings with you. Over the next couple of years we may see the world fuel sources change dramatically. Imagine pulling into a station and filling up with a no-emissions fuel, that doesn’t use a drop of the enemy’s oil and is better for your engine than any current fuel. So much for the EPA and all their regs. I’ll keep you posted. And I’ll bet you wonder what it will cost? It will blow your mind.

There are a couple more elements to this process that will severely reduce waste and turn it into power. The answer might be just around the corner.

Let’s hit the news:

FOR ALL THE KEEN GARDNERS OUT THERE–I have never seen a Willy Pepper before…These are actual peppers from a garden..
They really are called ‘Willy Peppers’..

FREE RIDER PRESS– There’s a lot of Bikers that ought to be feeling real good about the Personal Protection Act (PPA) concealed carry law signed on 7/8/11. Bikers can take much pride in ownership for being an intricate part of the coalition building that occurred.

Way back to the mid 1970s when the Helmet Law Repeal movement occurred, we continued the synergistic momentum. So many Biker friends and allies provided depth and character, which allowed me to take point for many various issues. Together, we were blessed with a brilliant career.

Those were the glory years, when Tony SanFelipo, Elmer Tiegs, Dick Smith and I united independent motorcyclists/clubs throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest. Veteran lawmakers say that these two movements: (1) Helmet law repeal (2) PPA/gun related had generated the most mail on any issue between 1975 and 2011!

Who could have ever believed that Governors of Wisconsin would be riding Harleys. Here’s Tommy Thompson who ran for President of the USA. Now there’s Scott Walker, who is considered by many to be a potential presidential candidate in 2016.

Who could have foreseen that our nation’s first flag, the ‘Don’t Tread on Me’, which took us through the Revolutionary War, would again be of such prominence. Set backs, defeats and lost battles would only make us also – stronger!

It was glorious on Friday July 8, 2011 for Sue and I to scan the crowd present at Gov. Walker’s bill signing. Tony & Sharon Simington, Russ & Doris Ellison, Bill Gamble, Ron Johnson, Preacher & Lorie-Sky Jensen, and Lt. Col. Michael Starich were among the Bikers present who were inspiring. Tony SanFelipo even sent his sidekick, Mike Hupy. Mike is quite prominent in elite NRA circles.

Thank you Bikers and all those who help shape destiny by being active in the legislative and political process. May the Hand of God, continue to be upon you.

God Bless You!

–Dave Zien
former State Senator
Million Mile Motorcycle Man

CHAD IS BURNIN’ DAYLIGHT–I’ve got a shovel that needs a ride to Sturgis…or a Mac’s Wedge Chock for a dude’s trailer in Corona. You sending bikes up or know anyone local who’s got a single extra stall?

–Chad
greulach1@mac.com

When we need a bike shipped fast, we call Keyboard Shipping. Phone: (270) 737-5797
Fax: (270) 737-6640
http://keyboardmotorcycleshipping.com

MUDFLAP GIRL STURGIS SOURCE, 2WHEELERS ON MAIN–Don’t miss checking in with Arlin and Donna at 2Wheelers on Main for all your motorcycle trinket needs, the cool apparel, and Mudflap Girl accessories.

GREG FRIEND IS BACK IN THE ACTION–Gearhead, Inc. was created to show our love for anything with wheels and an engine. We’ve been heavily involved in the American motorsports industry for over a decade and witnessed the struggle that many companies were faced with in order to bring their products and services in to the public’s eye. So, we started a little corporation to help car and motorcycle companies market their services and products through digital/print media and content creation.

We offer a wide range of media content creation, including: photography (studio, outside, product, action, lifestyle, etc…), social media creation, social media maintenance, copy (text) creation (website, email, etc…), article creation (copy and photos/tech, features), and press releases.

Our articles have been featured in a variety of websites and magazines: Hot Bike Magazine (www.hotbikeweb.com), Street Chopper Magazine (www.streetchopperweb.com), Hot Rod’s BikeWorks, MagazineBarnett’s Magazine (www.barnettharley.com), Honda Tuning Magazine, Car Audio Magazine, Custom Classic Trucks Magazine (customclassictrucks.com), and Bikernet.com (www.bikernet.com).

Our website is coming soon, but in the meantime, visit http://www.facebook.com/GearheadInc.

–Greg Friend

OFFICIAL BIKERNET COPY EDITOR CHECKS THE VICTORY ARTICLE AND THROWS HIS 2 CENTS INTO THE RING– That was a sharp article.
Here’s a hint for making hot rides – and cold rides, too – more comfortable. Ditch the cotton, especially as a base layer against your skin. Synthetics like polyester have come a long way since the leisure suit and double-knit days of the ’70s. Cotton just stays sweaty and grimy against skin; poly wicks it away to be evaporated. It’ll keep you more comfortable on a hot weather ride, and warmer in cold weather. Wet cotton on you in cold weather can kill you via hypothermia. The stuff ain’t cheap, but what is anymore? Besides, I’m getting too old to be miserable.

Ditto for socks and underwear – synthetic drawers, and synthetic or merino wool socks (they don’t itch), and in hot weather, boots that let your dogs breathe. As much as I like my Chippewa western boots or my harness boots, they’re miserable when I’m riding all day in 90-100-degree temps. So I trade ’em for a pair of lightweight, breathable hiking boots or (and the safety Nazis will slap me for this) a pair of my running shoes.

I haven’t given up my blue jeans yet, though, and I still carry leather. But man, a black cotton t-shirt under a black leather vest when the sun’s beating down and the thermometer is crowding the century mark isn’t my uniform anymore.

–Bruce Snyder

AH, MY FAVORITES–Peach & Blueberry Cobbler This is an old-fashioned dessert that most people thoroughly enjoy eating. The baked fruit filling is crowned with a thin biscuit topping. It can be eaten warm or cold, plain or topped with vanilla ice cream.

Food as Medicine
A study at Tufts University found that blueberries have the highest antioxidant content of the 60 fruits and vegetables analyzed. The antioxidants in blueberries – anthocyanins – are responsible for this berry’s dark blue hue and its ability to reduce free radical damage to the body’s cells. Just one-half cup of blueberries provides the antioxidant power of five servings of peas, carrots, apples, squash or broccoli. Peaches, with their bright orange flesh, provide different kinds of antioxidants: carotenes such as lutein and zeaxanthin. At only 40 calories each, peaches are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and zinc. Choose organic blueberries and peaches, as both are on the “Dirty Dozen” list.
–Dr Weil
www.Drweil.com

NEW MODEL– What do you think the features, benefits and….uh…..”issues”……might be with this new product?….

–Bob Clark

BIKERNET TOURIST RECOMMENDATION OF THE WEEK–
smh.com.au The man who claims he accidentally started a tourist craze in the Laos riverside town of Vang Vieng says the bars that have been built on the banks of the popular tubing route are “very bad”. “There’s no inspections, no control,” he says. “Two years ago it was paradise.”
Another farmer says: “It’s just destroying the town and we are losing our culture … the noise, the people naked, alcohol, people vomiting all over the place, sex.”

Phuketwan News

STURGIS MUSEUM RAFFLE BIKE–This is the final picture of the race that goes wigh the text on the bike build.. ALSO, Charlie does have an image of the seat COrbins made if you want to include that.

I’m heading out..alread an hour behind the schedule I planned. damnit!!!…Oh well. Hope I beat the sunrise over the gorge… Go to their web site to donate and enter the raffle.

–River Rat

PAUGHCO R&D AND TESTING FOR FXR TRIKE CONVERSION–
You really have no idea how this could literally change someones world. Jimmy is really fighting… like he had problems getting a good leg which led to infections and then they had to cut more off his leg bone… and start over… and on and on…

A trike project would change his world.

Jimmy could probably document the build for Bikernet with a little help. I know there are a couple of us close enough to lend a hand with that.

— greg
Smoke Out Boss

We are still testing out axle assembly. I wouldn’t expect anything to
happen for months. Maybe this late fall or winter.—-Jason Rickman
Paughco

MECUM TO AUCTION YAMAHA R1 FOR CHARITY AT MONTEREY EVENT–
Designated Motorcycle Auctioneers, Jay Leno and “King” Kenny Roberts

MARENGO, Ill. – Mecum Auctions will sell a one-of-a-kind Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle at no reserve during their upcoming Mecum Monterey Auction, Aug. 18-20, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on the Del Monte Golf Course.

The R1 motorcycle will cross the Mecum auction block, Lot T190.1, on Thursday, Aug. 18 at 6pm PST. Designated “auctioneers” for this bike are celebrity Jay Leno and three-time 500cc world champion motorcycle racer “King” Kenny Roberts. The special GYTR-equipped R1, ridden by “King” Kenny in several parade laps around the famed Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca circuit last weekend during, features a unique 50th anniversary red/white paint scheme and various genuine Yamaha custom performance accessories.

“The proceeds for this Yamaha R1 will go directly to Bailey’s Café, a fantastic school of the arts for kids in the Bronx,” said Jay Leno. “Once the bidding is over, I’m sure that the performance of this R1 will only be matched by that of the kids in this great school!”

“This is an outstanding addition to what has shaped up to be considered the greatest collection of motorcycles ever offered at auction, and to have both Kenny and Jay involved with helping the charity puts it over the top.” said Gavin Trippe, who heads up Mecum’s motorcycle division.

Mecum’s daytime Monterey Auction is open to buyers, sellers and spectators with free admission and convenient general parking. Attendees can be part of the action while the auction broadcasts live on Mecum’s national TV show “Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More” on Discovery Communications’ HD Theater. For complete auction details or to consign a motorcycle today, visit www.Mecum.com or contact Gavin Trippe directly at gavin@mecum.com or 949.337.5307.

For more information on Bailey’s Café, visit www.baileyscafe.org.

Mecum 2011 Monterey Auction
August 18-20, 2011
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
1 Old Golf Course Road
Monterey, CA 93940
Preview: Gates open Thursday-Saturday at 8 a.m.
Auction: Auction begins Thursday- Saturday at 10 a.m.
Live TV Times: Thursday-Saturday 1-5 p.m.
(All times Pacific)

NEW MID-FRAME AIR DEFLECTOR FOR SOFTAIL MODELS–
Directs Heat Away From Rider for Added Comfort in Extreme Temperatures

MILWAUKEE (July 29, 2011) The new Mid-Frame Air Deflector for Softail® models (P/N 29200008, $74.95) from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories is designed to improve rider comfort during the summer season. Intended for severe duty and extreme temperature applications, these inconspicuous black deflectors attach to the frame and surround the top of the rear cylinder head. The scoop shape captures the moving air and uses the flow to direct the heat down and away from the rider. Kit includes all required mounting hardware, and fits 2008-later Softail models except Rocker and Rocker C.

For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.

The First Time

The sky was dark
The moon was high
All alone just she and I

Her hair was soft
Her eyes were blue
I knew just what
She wanted to do

Her skin so soft
Her legs so fine
I ran my fingers
Down her spine

I didn’t know how
But I tried my best
I started by placing
My hands on her breast

I remember my fear
My fast beating heart
But slowly she spread
Her legs apart

And when I did it
I felt no shame
All at once
The white stuff came

At last it’s finished
It’s all over now
My first time ever
At milking a cow…..

–from Vern

ENTITLEMENTS MY ASS!–Entitlements my ass, I paid cash for my Social Security Insurance! Just because they borrowed my money, doesn’t make my benefits some kind of charity or handout! Congressional benefits like free health care, outrageous retirement packages, 67 paid holidays, three weeks paid vacation, unlimited paid sick days: now that’s welfare; and they have the nerve to call my retirement entitlements!
Someone please tell me what the Hell is wrong with all the people that run this country!

We’re broke and can’t help our
Seniors, Veterans, Orphans, Homeless etc.?
In recent months we have provided aid to Haiti , Chile , Pakistan …home to bin Laden…literally BILLIONS of DOLLARS!

Our retired seniors living on a fixed incomes receive no aid nor do they get any breaks while our government gives
Hundreds of Billions to Foreign Countries!

They call Social Security and Medicare entitlements even though most of us have been paying for them all our working lives. And now, when its time for us to collect, the Government is running out of money. Why did the Government borrow from our Social Security in
the first place?
Imagine if our Government gave us the same support they give the people who hate us.
–Gerry Celia

Elvis Tribute Night & Vee-Tone Records–
Elvis Tribute Night at Ace Cafe, with Lee Jackson & The Hayriders, from 9pm – 2am on Saturday 13th August, includes opportunity to win a CD set of three volumes that showcase the music from the “King’s” personal Jukebox, courtesy of the UK label Vee-Tone Records – The Memphis Jukebox, Volumes 1, 2 and the recently released Volume 3, which contains 22 singles plus 2 special bonus tracks that have been carefully selected by Vee-Tone Records to demonstrate the young Elvis Presely’s wide musical tastes including Blues, Rhythm & Blues, Rockabilly and Rock n’ Roll.
www.veetonerecords.com

MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY SECOND QUARTER REPORT–The Motorcycle Industry Council announced that in the second quarter sales of new motorcycles and scooters increased 1.7 percent, with the dual-sport, scooter and streetbike segments showing the most promise.

The three standout segments — dual-sport, scooter and street — had YTD sales increases of 13 percent, 28.9 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively. Motorcycles and scooters made up 71 percent of total new-units sales, while ATVs accounted for 29 percent.

The off-road market saw further erosion of sales, with ATVs and dirtbikes declining 17.3 percent and 16.9 percent, respectively.

Overall new-unit retail sales dropped only 4.6 for the second quarter and in June declined only by 1.6 percent.

The MIC posts numbers on a quarterly basis. The data applies only to 19 reporting manufacturers: Aprilia, Arctic Cat, BMW, Buell, Can-Am, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Husaberg, Kawasaki, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, Polaris, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa, Victory and Yamaha.

ATV sales do not include side-by-sides.

posted by Dennis Johnson
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com

Celebrating 110 years with Indian Motorcycle Company at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally–

Indian Motorcycle’s entire 2012 lineup will be displayed in Sturgis for the 71st annual motorcycle rally. Indian Motorcycle accessories will also be on display with apparel for purchase. The show truck is located on the corner of 4th and Lazelle Streets in downtown Sturgis

In addition to the events display, Indian Motorcycle is inviting all 1901- 2011 Indian owners to park their motorcycles by the Indian Motorcycle Display to celebrate the 110 years of the company and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow Indian motorcycle owners. Indian Motorcycle Company is proud to sponsor a breakfast and self-guided ride to the Sturgis half-mile flat track races for all Indian Motorcycle Owners. The ride will start with breakfast at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 1319 Junction Ave, Sturgis, South Dakota 57785 between 9:30am- 10:30am. The ride will leave from downtown Sturgis wind through scenic Spearfish Canyon, ending at the 1/2mile Flat Track Races in Sturgis. Please join us for a fun day of riding and racing. For more information the flat track races visit www.jackpinegypsies.com .

Indian motorcycle is the featured brand at the Knuckle Saloon, located at 931 1st Street in Sturgis . Friday August 12th, starting at 6pm is an Indian gathering. This is open to the public, and we invite Indian Motorcycle owners to show off rides and share some stories.

For more information on the Indian Motorcycle event schedule, dealership locations and openings, the motorcycles, accessories, apparel and gifts visit www.indianmotorcycle.com

A Mirror or a 2-Way Glass?–How can you tell when you are in a room, restroom,
motel etc. with a mirror or a 2-way glass?

Here’s how: I thought it was quite interesting! And I
know in about 30 seconds you’re going to do what I did
and find the nearest mirror.

Do you know how to determine if a mirror is 2-way or
not? A policewoman who travels all over the US and
gives seminars and techniques for businesswomen passed
this on.

When we visit toilets, bathrooms, hotel rooms,
changing rooms, etc., how many of you know for sure
that the seemingly ordinary mirror hanging on the wall
is a real mirror, or actually a 2-way mirror (i.e.,
they can see you, but you can’t see them)? There have
been many cases of people installing 2-way mirrors in female changing rooms . It is very difficult to positively identify the surface by looking at it.

So, how do we determine with any amount of certainty what type of mirror we are looking at?

Just conduct this simple test: Place the tip of your
fingernail against the reflective surface and if there
is a GAP between your fingernail and the image of the nail, then it is GENUINE mirror. However, if your fingernail DIRECTLY TOUCHES the image of your nail, then BEWARE! IT IS A 2-WAY MIRROR!

“No Space, Leave the Place” So remember, every time you see a mirror, do the “fingernail test.” It doesn’t cost you anything.

REMEMBER. No Space, Leave the Place:

AUSTRALIAN WATER SEPAPATOR HEADING TO THE BIKERNET HEADQUARTERS–
My guys have crated your Separator ready for shipment.

–Ray

BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER FINDS THE ANSWERS, FOUR WAYS TO LIVE A LONG LIFE– If living a long life is important to you, you may want to adopt some of the habits that supercentenarians have in common. Supercentenarians – people who live to be 110 or older – share four lifestyle characteristics that may help explain their longevity. Throughout their lives, they have remained:

1. Physically active. Even as you get older, daily physical activity should be a priority. Modify your routine to incorporate small steps, such as daily walks, using the stairs instead of the elevator, or taking up hobbies that involve exercise, such as gardening, playing tennis or hiking.

2. Positive. Maintaining an optimistic outlook is important to managing stress and preventing related health issues such as heart disease. You can easily train yourself to start looking at the glass as half full. Begin with some simple self-reflection and meditation, and use humor for coping with negative thoughts.

3. Social. A network of family and close friends is vital to optimum health. You can enjoy the benefits of a well developed social life by spending time with people who make you happy, joining community groups or clubs, volunteering, and participating in support groups.

4. Spiritual. Regardless of your religious affiliation (if any), feeling a connection with nature, a higher being or purpose cultivates spirituality, and is an important part of graceful aging.

–Dr. Weil
www.DrWeil.com

CARLR’S BIKE SHED–The reverend is building a shop/shed for his bikes. Next comes the paint.

WEEKEND SOCAL BIKE SHOW–
This is an annual show for twelve steppers.

They are working hard at making it bigger and better.

It is a family weekend – camping – 22 bands – etc – at the lake.

NEW PROJECT BUILD FROM U.S. CHOPPERS– thought I would show you the new stuff.
–Rick
U.S. CHOPPERS

Caution Signs for Glendale to Improve Motorcycle Safety at Dangerous Intersections– WHAT: More than 3,000 motorcycle crashes occurred in Los Angeles County in 2009, and the stretch for most crashes is July, August and September. So Allstate is gearing up its Once is Never Enough (ONE) program to help prevent needless crashes from taking place at intersections.
Working with the California Department of Transportation, Allstate has ID’d intersections with the most motorcycle collisions, and is installing yellow diamond-shaped cautionary traffic signs—the silhouette of a motorcycle–to remind all traffic everywhere to look twice at intersections.

Los Angeles is one of 25 cities across the country where Allstate is posting these caution signs this year. A digital image of the signs is available upon request.

WHEN: Wednesday, July 20

10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Glenoaks Blvd. and Brand Blvd.

Glendale

WHO: Jim Klapthor, Allstate Insurance Company

Local public safety—motorcycle police officer(s)

HOW MANY:

According to Caltrans, there were 3,407 motorcycle crashes documented in Los Angeles County in 2009.

Of the documented crashes, 2,707 (80 percent) resulted in an injury and 80 resulted in a fatality (2.3 percent).

A quarter of all motorcycle crashes occurred at intersections (816 of 3,407).

The intersections Big Pines Highway at Route 2, and Sepulveda Boulevard at Route 405 are each the site of 11 motorcycle crashes (2009), earning the dubious distinction of having more motorcycle crashes than any other crossroads in America.

The most crashes occurred in LA County during July (349) and August (344).

The stretch for most crashes is July, August and September (338) with 1,031 crashes (2009)

BACKGROUND:

“Once is Never Enough” (ONE) was created by Allstate to encourage motorists to look left, right and left again for motorcyclists before crossing an intersection—a dangerous traffic setting for riders. In 2008, a survey commissioned by Allstate found 82 percent of motorcyclists are concerned about automobile drivers more than anything else on the road.

Cautionary motorcycle traffic signs also being installed this month in California:
– Sacramento (July 13)

– San Francisco (Berkeley, July 18)
– San Diego (Vista, July 25)

— Jim Klapthor
Sr. External Communications Consultant
Corporate Relations

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT QUIRKY WORD OF THE DAY–
zugzwang TSOOK-tsvahng, noun:

A situation in which a player is limited to moves that have a damaging effect.

Oh, he understands his position: he is in trouble, he is faced with the zugzwang to end all zugzwangs.
— Doug Dorst, The Surf Guru

Party rulers in China are trapped in a position that chess players deeply fear – zugzwang – where any move made puts you at disadvantage.
— Vitaliy Katsenelson, “How China Will Crash And Burn,” Forbes, July, 2011

Zugzwang combines two German words, zug, “move,” and zwang, “constraint.”

STURGIS TRADEMARK WARS: Group plans to fight enforcement of ‘Sturgis’ mark.
A group of vendors who for years produced and sold rally merchandise at the Black Hills Motor Classic in Sturgis, S.D., recently joined forces to fight rally-related trademark claims and have the trademarks invalidated.

Calling itself Concerned Citizens for Sturgis, the group is collecting money to challenge nine trademark registrations made by Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. (SMRI) and two unregistered marks – Sturgis Rally & Races and Sturgis Motorcycle Rally — that SMRI claims to own.

Brian Niemann, a partner with his parents in Rushmore Photo & Gifts, is the point man for the group. He says it has a dozen official member companies already, and the number of interested parties swells to 35 so far.

“We were formed with the sole purpose of overturning these marks. We’re going to see it through to the end. If there is any money left after that, we will give it to the city,” Niemann says.

“I don’t know who the Concerned Citizens for Sturgis is. I don’t know anybody who does know who that is,” says SMRi chairman Dean Kinney. “I don’t even know if it’s anyone from Sturgis.”

South Dakota certified the group as a nonprofit July 7. Niemann says the group will accept anonymous donations, but anyone who decides to become a member must agree to be identified after the group’s first board meeting, which will reportedly happen this week. Among discussion items at that meeting will be the protocol for disclosing the names of member companies and legal strategy.

Too late for this year? One possibility is that the group might seek a preliminary injunction to prevent SMRI from enforcing the contested marks at this year’s rally, which will be held next month. But that would still be too late for some people.

The Niemanns’ sell goods from their store in Custer, S.D., and online. Niemann says business is suffering because of legal threats against Rushmore Photo & Gifts, its customers and vendors. “The exact dollar amount it fuzzy because the year isn’t over yet, but so far we are off by over 25 percent, and as much as 50 percent on some categories, like T-shirts,” Niemann says.

“We have a lot of companies that have told us, ‘this year we’re out.’ Companies I sell a large amount of merchandise to most years are waiting or just selling South Dakota merchandise.”

SMRI received registrations earlier this year for nine marks related to the Sturgis rally and began an aggressive campaign of enforcement. (The company won a settlement with organizers of a rally in Sturgis, Ky., that was known as the ‘Little Sturgis’ rally, but in the future will be known as Kentucky Bikerfest.)

Vendors for this year’s Sturgis rally have been told that they must sell only licensed Sturgis rally goods: SMRI designated licensees for various categories of souvenirs. One of those licensees, Hot Leathers owner Jerry Berkowitz, is also empowered to grant sublicenses. But some vendors have complained that the fees for sublicensing were too high and that Berkowitz was offering only one-year sublicenses, leaving them with an uncertain future.

Berkowitz was originally the primary opponent of the chamber registering the marks until he became a board member and licensee of SMRI.

“Jerry is getting beat up, but he is a businessman. He is one of 21 licensees. Clearly that benefits him, but he does not benefit from his role on the board in any way,” Kinney says. “We wanted to have a representative of licensees to this board. If it had been any of the licensees, that person would have been under scrutiny.”

While SMRI didn’t exactly expect a challenge to the registrations, Kinney adds, the form it took when it happened was no surprise.

A week ago SMRI sued Rushmore Photo & Gifts and its owners, claiming they infringe SMRI’s trademarks by selling rally-related souvenirs and T-shirts. On July 6 attorneys for the store’s owners filed an answer to SMRI’s lawsuit and incorporated claims to invalidate the trademarks. The basis of their argument is that the names of geographic locations, such as Sturgis, and terms like a year-date, are too generic to be trademarked, and that rally organizers abandoned the marks by failing to register or enforce them for years, even decades.

“Because SMRI’s Sturgis Registrations and Unregistered Terms have become known to the relevant public and adopted by consumers as the name of the products and service rather than a brand identifier of such products or service, the Sturgis Registrations and Unregistered Terms are generic, invalid, and unenforceable as a trademark or service mark,” the complaint states.

The complaint also alleges that SMRI is trying to use the marks in violation of antitrust laws, and seeks compensation for business that Rushmore Photo & Gifts says it lost because of SMRI’s legal threats. The complaint notes that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) originally rejected the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce application to register the marks, and alleges the chamber, which later sold its marks to SMRI, committed fraud by claiming exclusive use of the terms for five years prior to registration.

“We thought this mark was never going to be registered because of the opposition,” Niemann says, “but the opposition switched sides.”
Kinney says SMRi is trying to work with vendors ahead of the rally to minimize the need for enforcement on site. He says he isn’t aware of threats some vendors say they have received that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents would raid any unlicensed vendors.

“We’re not in the business of telling ICE what to do, but it’s a federally protected mark,” Kinney says. “On the other hand, we are trying to work with people. If they come to us and they are up front with us, we try to work with them.”

By: Holly J. Wagner
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com

World’s Top Eco-Car Wins Using Ethanol Inbicon Makes From Straw– SKAERBAEK, Denmark, July 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Inbicon has revealed a frugal new customer for the cellulosic ethanol made from straw at its Inbicon Biomass Refinery in Kalundborg. The biofuel powered the winning car in the Urban Concepts class of the 2011 Shell Eco-marathon in Europe, setting a new record at 1,197 miles per gallon (509 km/l), adjusted for energy equivalence with gasoline.

“The Roadrunners team from the Technical University of Denmark designed, built, tuned, tested, and drove the Dynamo to victory over all 35 European teams competing. And they also beat North America and Asia’s winning mileage,” says Christian Morgen, Inbicon manager of international marketing. “Since they use only a liter at a time, I don’t believe there’s any danger of depriving Danish retail customers of our eco-friendly fuel.”

The New Ethanol, as Inbicon calls its made-from-straw biofuel, has been produced by the Kalundborg plant since late 2009. But this was its first performance with the Danish university team.

Each year Jesper Schramm, a DTU associate professor, begins a course in combustion engineering whose five-day grand finale is May’s racing in the Shell Eco-marathon. Six out of the last seven years, his students have won Grand Prize for energy efficiency in one of the two main categories. Urban Concept cars, with minor safety modifications, could actually operate on city streets, whereas drivers lie down in Prototype cars.

Professor Schramm’s team used a 50cc 4-stroke Yamaha moped engine, whose higher compression takes advantage of the fuel’s higher octane. And they use wind-tunnel testing to sculpt the body for improved aerodynamic performance. The Dynamo ran 28% farther than its closest competitor.

Over 3,000 students on 187 teams from 27 countries took part at the EuroSpeedway in Lausitz, Germany. For the DTU Roadrunners, what they experience and achieve will help launch some graduates into careers in automotive design and engineering, according to Professor Schramm.

The Inbicon Biomass Refinery at Kalundborg, says Morgen, is the company’s model for a commercial-scale launch of a new green-energy industry in North America, Europe, and Asia. The Inbicon Biomass Refineries with be integrated with other technologies to efficiently convert corn stalks, wheat straw, and other biomass into The New Ethanol, green electricity, and higher-value green chemistry products.

Inbicon is a subsidiary of DONG Energy, a leading Northern European energy company.

SOURCE Inbicon

GOOD SUNDAY TO YOU CANTINA MEMBERS FROM BIKERNET INSURANCE– NEW PROGRAM TO GO LIVE MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2011–
As you have been hearing around the biker galaxy, Bandit and Ray C. Wheeler, the newly appointed Vice President & Captain of the Cantina Gang, have been working hard to develop a “super-level” category of Cantina Membership. One of the great benefits that is now available from the Cantina is an automatic discount of 10%from Bikernet Insurance when we insure your motorcycle with the Dairyland Cycle Insurance company.

Yup, the good folks at Dairyland mean business with Bikernet’s Cantina members. They are not just “posers” like some other wannabe insurance companies. They are literally “kicken’ass” on both price and coverage. Check out some of the key benefits and product advantages they are offering below.

Dairyland’s GOLD Program
$5,000 of insurance for optional equipment. No charge. Yup, it’s a freebie.

Guest Passenger is covered.
Included in the Bodily Injury Limit. No additional charge.

Medical Payments
Most insurance companies charge an arm and a leg for this optional coverage. Dairyland charges one of the lowest rates available of any insurance company. If you don’t have medical insurance from your employer or other source, you should buy this coverage for sure.

Physical Damage PLUS
Guarantees the use of only “Genuine Manufacturer’s Parts” when repairing your motorcycle and to replace any accessories. Your bike must be considered a total loss and purchased within 5 years for this coverage to kick in. Almost “free” at $25.00.

Excursion Diversion Coverage
Provides up to $1,000 for loss or damage to any safety apparel. No charge for this coverage. Another freebie.
Note this does not apply to theft of the apparel unless the entire bike is stolen and this coverage does not include helmets.

Roadside Assistance & Towing
Labor, towing and/or hauling costs covered up to $50.00 per loss. Just call your roadside assistance provider, keep your receipts and submit them for reimbursement. Your cost? Under $9.00. Note labor costs apply to labor performed at the place of disablement.

Rental Reimbursement
The company will pay up to $45.00 per day, to a maximum total payment of $1,350.00 for the necessary rental of a substitute vehicle while your motorcycle is disabled as a result of a collision or covered loss. Note: Expense payments begin 24 hours after disablement. If stolen, expense payments begin 48 hours after the theft has been reported to police. This reimbursement coverage does not apply to the cost of mileage charges.

Replacement Cost
If your motorcycle is brand new, and recently purchased, it will be replaced if the bike is considered a total loss. Coverage is available for 3 years. This coverage is almost “free”. Cost is around $8.00. Note this coverage does not apply to theft and larceny losses, nor does it include optional equipment. The bike must have been purchased new, not previously titled, and purchased within the last 90 days. You must provide evidence of purchase to get this coverage. (Bill of Sale, Proof of Ownership)

Deductibles
The largest discounts available for higher deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. You should take the highest deductible you can afford in order to receive a 5% discount on your annual premium.

The Bottom Line:
Bikernet Insurance is bringing bikers the best of the best in insurance — no matter your need for protection, we can likely find a way to insure it. Contact us anytime and thank you for being a Cantina Member. We appreciate it. Check us out online: http://www.bikernet-insurance.com

You are not just a policy number with us. We Care About You.

Ride Safe Out There,

The Crew at Bikernet Insurance – Born to serve Cantina Members.

Toll Free: 888-467-8703
Email for fastest response: clientservice@bikernet-insurance.com
.

Agents serving 20 states. States added as required to serve customers.
Resident State: CA Agency 0G67810. Principal Agent 0D71028
Member of Worldwide Insurance Network Inc.

BIKERNET READER FROM BRAZIL CHECKS IN– Here we are with Willy G and Captain Senra inbrazil , at opening of H-D brazil ! Yah !

–Joe-Luis Marinho

BIKERNET WEATHER REPORT–
It was 103 yesterday here. This is how my friends and the rest at the Block Party dealt with the heat.
Many different types of booze made it’s way down the Luge to the overheated consumers.
As u all know I don’t drink, so I was forced to shoot the pictures in the heat.

–Paul

P.S. Need to thank Ken & Kathy for their
hospitality yesterday. Thanks Y’all

Airforce Plans to Source 50% of Domestic Fuel from Biofuel by 2016– Airforce Plans to Source 50% of Domestic Fuel Intake from Biofuel by 2016
The message behind the Airforce’s goal is important – it wants to shirk its dependence on oil, and run a fleet with environmentally conscious, alternative fuels. But a gallon of biofuel will set the fleet back a pricey $35 a gallon, with JP-8 (jet fuel) being only 1/10 of that. Luckily, the Airforce conducted tests that determined their fighter and cargo planes could run on a blend of biofuel and traditional fuel with no difference in performance.

The Airforce also sees its reliance on foreign oil as a security issue, and with that in mind would like to source 50% of its domestic fuel intake from biofuels by 2016. Partnering with some commercial airlines, the Airforce is hoping this new demand will spur private investment in biofuel companies, which will in turn help lower prices.

The Navy and Army are hopefully not far behind, and have already looked into using alternative fuels for their fleet and ground vehicles. All three military divisions hope that their demand will help lower the price of biofuels for all.

by Lori Zimmer, 07/20/11

HERE IS THE SUNDAY DEAL FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 1998 SPRINGER SOFTAIL! Bike features new paint, new pistons, Sreamin’ Eagle heads, Andrews cam, adjustable push rods, Arlen Ness exhaust, Mikuni carb, Baker shift forks, Baker shift pawl, twisted front spokes, 18″ 80 spoke rear wheel, New Metzler tires, Carlini handlebars, custom rotors and rear pulley, custom seat. 36,500 on the clock,

A very tight bike for $8500! CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN!

–MIKE the STEALTH

THERE YOU HAVE IT–You can’t ever say that Bikernet or the Bandits Cantina always reports on the same bullshit. I’m packing every minute between now and when we peel out for the Badlands producing content for Cantina members and Bikernet readers.

I’m about to wrap up the 61st chapter of the Cantina Soap Opera, and we will deliver the 4th Mudflap Girl FXR build episode, before we load the hearse. I adjusted Shovelhead valves yesterday, and Ray attempted to clean that bastard, then we looked at weather reports. Fuck it. We will hit a car wash in Spearfish.

Ray’s going to put miles on the Salt Shaker, and Johnny Humble is going to post a Todd’s flat tracker feature while we are on the road. The lovely Nyla will post a Hawaiian custom bike build report from Kustom Fab. Then we’ll be back to help with the Thursday News the following week.

Never a dull moment.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit