Holy Shit,
This news is already kicking my ass, so hang on. At one time the news was the only item on the Thursday list. Now it includes switching out the home page book deal, adding to the blog, changing out the Bikernet Classified deal of the week, sending more info to Ben for the Blog, then the news.
Everything seems to smack us on Thursdays. Doc, from Heavy-Duty mag in Australia nagged me about Sturgis, and sent me a tech tip today. Darwin, from Motorbooks is finally wrapping up the book, so he was all over me today about the Terry the Tramp Book.
“I just went through the manuscript one last time to make sure all your last round of corrections are there. We ended up with one hell of a great book,” said Darwin, the book editor. “It was a difficult birth–I doubt my vagina will ever be the same–but the end result is pretty amazing.”
Ken Conte, from the Buffalo Chip asked me if I could write the history of the motorcycle industry over the last 30 years, in 900 words, and have it to him by Monday. What the fuck.
I also found out that a new book just came out about Evel Knievel: The High-Flying Life of Evel Knievel, by Leigh Montville for $27.50. For several years beginning in the late 1960s, Evel Knievel was “the coolest man on earth,” said Kyle Smith in the New York Post. By tracing the life of the motor-cycle daredevil from his outlaw youth to brief superstardom and beyond, Leigh Montville’s “outlandishly entertaining” biography helps us remember why.–The Week magazine
Evel hated bikers and outlaws and made it clear. He was a bullshit carney and many of us ignored him in the ’70s. To us he was a short-haired straight who didn’t like bikers. Whatever, let’s hit the news.
SEARCH BEGINS TO FIND CANNON BALL’S TRAIL– Don Emde, winner of the 1972 Daytona 200 and Editor-in-Chief of Parts Magazine, has announced the beginning of a new multi-year project to retrace and document the route of an amazing 11 1/2 day coast-to-coast motorcycle ride in 1914 by America’s first true Adventurebike rider, Erwin G. Baker, better known today as “Cannon Ball” Baker.
The concept of Emde’s “Cannon Ball Project” is to locate and ride as much of Baker’s actual route as possible. In some cases, it may no longer exist and the current roads and highways will be taken when necessary. The plan is for him and a staff writer to ride Baker’s 1914 route in segments to allow time to research the current and previous routes and local information for each area. Thanks to support from KTM North America, who are providing 990 Adventure bikes, as well as Parts Unlimited and numerous aftermarket manufacturers, these research rides will continue into 2012 to document the entire 3,378-mile route from San Diego to New York.
As it is today, racing in the early 1900s was a sales tool used back by the manufacturers to gain respect and brand loyalty. But dusty dirt tracks and steep boardtracks resulted in constant injuries and deaths, and the image of the sport was becoming very negative.
As a result, motorcycle manufacturers looked to other ways to promote their products. One was by promoting the success riders were having attempting to ride across the United States on their motorcycles. At that time there was no established highway system, especially in the Western states, so riders needed to navigate their own routes as well as having to hope for a reliable machine to go the distance.
With the publicity in the motorcycle press, Cannon Ball Baker became one of the leading celebrities of the sport. He continued to blaze new routes, including a Canada to Mexico ride where he again established a record for others to break, as well as improving his time of his existing records. When he was done, he had made over 100 runs across the country in motorcycles and cars.
The goal of the project is to demonstrate what an amazing accomplishment it was for Baker to make it all the way across the country on a motorcycle that produced less than 10 horsepower, which he did at an average of over 300 miles per day! An interesting feature of the project will be recreations of certain riding situations that Baker endured with actual demonstrations on a period Indian V-twin provided from the Fred Fox Collection.
The Adventure Begins…
For more information, please contact Don Emde at 949-215-4780 x206 or email at: donemde@me.com.
INSTALL PLUGS, CHANGE THE OIL & TOP OFF THE TANK: IT’S TIME TO RIDE TO THE SMOKE OUT– The Smoke Out XII is only a few weeks away as it kicks off June 24-25, 2011 in Rockingham, NC. It is a rolling party honoring all of those bloody-knuckled guys and gals that build and designed their chopper. From noon to 11pm Friday & 10am to 11pm Saturday, riders will be rolling in and showcasing their American, British, Japanese and Italian chops, bobbers and custom sleds.
“The Smoke Out is a celebration of choppers and motorcycles of all types, styles and design,” said Edge. “We are looking forward to seeing some of the best hand-built and custom bikes that American ingenuity offers.”
Chopper Jockeys will be treated to music from Jasmine Cain, mini bike races, ride-in Chopper Bike Show, painted lady contest and old-school chopper vendors. In addition, Easy Eddies Motorcycle & Lounge will be on hand changing oil with Spectro Oil and providing repairs on-site.
HERBIE: I’M IN LOVE AGAIN
Saturday 28th May 2011, 22:22
World Championship leader Greg Hancock declared “I’ve found that love for speedway again” after flying to victory in the FIM Mitas Czech Speedway Grand Prix on Saturday.
The Californian may be the oldest rider in the field and celebrates his 41st birthday on Friday. But his younger rivals are still struggling to live with him out of the starts.
He left world No.2 Jaroslaw Hampel, world champion Tomasz Gollob and Australian star Jason Crump trailing in his wake in the final to top the rostrum at the Marketa Stadium.
Hancock dropped just one point all night to Crump in race seven, and left with a massive 23 to give him a six-point edge over Gollob at the World Championship summit after three rounds.
The Piraterna and Zielona Gora man has enjoyed a remarkable upturn in fortunes over the past year, after making a terrible start to his 2010 SGP campaign and looking set to miss out on the top eight in the early stages of last season.
And, after picking up his first victory since his season-turning win in the FIM Croatian SGP at Gorican on August 29, 2010, Hancock admits he has got his desire back.
“I feel really, really good. Maybe I am riding better than I ever have.”
– Greg Hancock
He said: “We had a tough run last year, but midway through the season, things really turned around for me. The win in Croatia kicked it off and I found the little bit inside me that was missing.
“It was that desire and there is something about this sport. You’ve got to love what you do and I’ve found that love for speedway again.
“I feel really, really good. Maybe I am riding better than I ever have. I’ve had some great years and 1997 was an amazing year for me too.
“I don’t like to compare. This is a new thing and a new era. Everything is completely different. But I’m still trying to find the right way and be the fastest guy on the track.”
Five out of the last seven riders crowned world champion have won the Czech SGP and Hancock also picked up gold in Prague on his way to the world title in 1997. He said: “I hope being top in Prague is part of the key to winning this year too.”
Despite Hancock’s success, runner-up Hampel left the Marketa Stadium with every reason to be proud after reaching his sixth final in as many SGP appearances at the venue.
His American rival admits he could feel the Polish international pushing hard throughout the four laps of the final.
He said: “Hampel was pretty impressive. I could hear him all the time. I kept taking a casual look with both eyes to see whether he was coming, but I managed to hold him off.”
The Swedish-based racer dedicated his victory to a special member of the Hancock clan. He said: “I did that for my dog, Leo. I lost him one week ago. He was our first son. That was for Leo.”
It was a tough night for British star Chris Harris, who left Prague with three points from his five races. But he will hope to turn his fortunes around at the FIM Dansk Metal Danish SGP in Copenhagen on June 11, after finishing third at the PARKEN Stadium last year.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (AFTER THREE ROUNDS): 1 Greg Hancock 47, 2 Tomasz Gollob 41, 3 Jaroslaw Hampel 36, 4 Nicki Pedersen 30, 5 Chris Holder 28, 6 Emil Sayfutdinov 28, 7 Freddie Lindgren 26, 8 Jason Crump 24, 9 Kenneth Bjerre 21, 10 Andreas Jonsson 19, 11 Janusz Kolodziej 18, 12 Rune Holta 17, 13 Antonio Lindback 16, 14 Chris Harris 14, 15 Thomas H Jonsson 8, 16 Damian Balinski 4, 17 Artem Laguta 3, 18 Matej Kus 3, 19 Simon Gustafsson 1.
FIM MITAS CZECH SGP SCORES: Greg Hancock 23, Jaroslaw Hampel 19, Tomasz Gollob 17, Jason Crump 13, Chris Holder 9, Nicki Pedersen 9, Kenneth Bjerre 9, Freddie Lindgren 9, Andreas Jonsson 8, Rune Holta 7, Emil Sayfutdinov 6, Antonio Lindback 6, Matej Kus 3, Chris Harris 3, Artem Laguta 2, Janusz Kolodziej 1, Lukas Dryml 0, Zdenek Simota 0.
THE BIKERNET EUROPEAN LEGISLATIVE CONNECTION, FEMA, CHECKS IN– Besides calling for fair treatment and less prejudice, FEMA and its members contribute to a great extent to improve road safety without losing the essence of individual freedom.
An important victory for FEMA: the discussion to limit the maximum power of motorcycles to 74kW finally came to an end. The European Commission reached the only logical conclusion and acknowledged that “the anticipated correlation between safety and absolute power limitation could not be confirmed”.
The Director of Road Safety at the Swedish Transport Administration and founder of the Vision Zero concept, Professor Claes Tingvall, spoke most highly of SMC, the Swedish member organization of FEMA, and its efforts and achievements. This is remarkable since, 14 years ago, he had publicly announced motorcycling and road safety as the greatest possible mismatch.
Now, at the annual conference of the Swedish Transport Administration in Stockholm on 28th April, Mr. Tingvall stated: “It’s rather marvelous and unusual to note that the motorcycle culture serves as an ideal for all the other traffic safety work. It’s something I hadn’t expected myself not to hear it both from the user side, from SMC, and from the industry, MRF and to hear how forward thinking your work is and what results you achieve”.
In 1997, the same Tingvall had claimed that “there is no room for motorcycles in Vision Zero.” Shocking to the utmost a motorcycle community that has already been involved in improving motorcycle safety at times this was still unusual for rider’s rights organizations.
FEMA members are proud of such a declaration as it acknowledges how committed the motorcycle community has become towards road safety.
And of course, we’re even happier to see that the staunchest supporter of curtailing riders’ rights can come around and work hand in hand with the riders; proving, once again, that motorcyclists are a very open family.
Aline Delhaye
General Secretary of FEMA
FEMA is the major motorcycle freedom fighter in Europe. Next week we will publish their new report on Bikernet. It covers everything from anti-tampering to mandatory ABS braking systems. It’s interesting to review how they do it in Europe for several reasons. Some agencies in the U.S. are in competition with Europe constantly to match their regulatory powers, or introduce higher life-saving standards. It can be scary stuff to our freedom-loving ears.–Renegade
PRODUCTS FOR VINTAGE HARLEY RACING APPLICATIONS– This is Dan Umsteads website. He knew Ron Trock very well. He has many products for vintage Harley racing applications.
He is a good source for Shovester info. This would be the guy to contact for vintage Hot Rod Harley Iron.
www.dsperf.com/
–PSD
P.S. Also sent a jpg of the a old ad flyer for Trock electronic degree wheel.
ACCOLADES FOR LORENZO– Lorenzo wrote a (vol 101 down-to-earth article. I remember when my first assignment in 2002 to the LOVE RIDE he was one of the few celebrities that took the time to say hi and actually talk (about surfing of all things)…My oldest son’s friend was on a ride through the Angeles Forest with Lorenzo and a small group about a year ago and said he could realeeeee scoot through the twisties…
–Derrel
FOUND: MUDFLAP GIRL SHIFT LINKAGE FROM TWO-BIT CHOPPERS–
*Please Note: We’re in the machine shop a good portion of the day and can’t always hear the phone, so if you get the machine please leave a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Hours of Operation: Monday thru Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mountain Time
Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mailing address: Two-Bit Choppers
P.O. Box 176
Milliken, CO 80543-0176
Phone/Fax: 970.587.5360
E-Mail: Sales and General Questions: justin@twobitchoppers.com
Order Status: info@twobitchoppers.com
Dealer Inquiries: lindsey@twobitchoppers.com
Then another Mudflap Girl shift-linkage rod surfaced from La Rosa Design:
La Rosa Design.
2426 TeaGarden Dr
San Leandro CA 94577
Ph. (510) 567 4157
e-mail: info@larosadesign.us
THEN THIS POPPED UP ABOUT DEMON’S CYCLE SOUTH–Demon’s Cycle Inc. started as a custom built motorcycle company over fifteen years ago by Tom “the German” Steinbacher. Demon’s quickly established its reputation as a pioneer of radical motorcycle designs, euro style bikes and custom chopper concepts.
Thomas’ creations have been praised by countless magazines and have stolen the spotlight in numerous bike shows all over the country.
Demon’s Cycle today is a multi million dollar wholesale company with its headquarters in South Florida as well as locations around the world. In addition to bringing new and innovative ideas to custom motorcycle design, we have broadened our focus to sales of the finest custom motorcycle parts.
We are confident that you will find Demon’s Cycle South Inc. Online Store prices to be simply unbeatable and make us your favorite place to shop for all your motorcycle needs.
HAMSTER CUSTOM CAR COMPETITION–Jack Luna’s ’56 Rolls.
BUILD YOUR OWN BIKE PROGRAM AT THREE TWO CHOPPERS–Do you know about the BYOB (build your own bike) program going on in our shop?
You can read about it on my website.
The first build in the program is about to go out for finishes. The guy building it is green, green, green but has the determination and resilience of a lion. Absolutely killer bike off of a modified El Segundo frame.
The second one is a sporty motor in a one off frame we designed. Its being built by a military munitions specialist. We are incorporating in the build many ordinance parts that were actually fired at him or used by him in Iraq. No theme crap that are like ornaments on a tree but rather functional parts to the bike. Killer stuff!
The third one is being built from a 1983 Fxe we picked up on the cheap(complete too). This build is going to completely shock people when we are done. The guy building it runs crews in the gas and oil industry here in TX. We are taking this one up to Sturgis and entering it in the AMD Modified Harley class. This one is under wraps for obvious reasons but when it gets unveiled its going to make believers out of non-believers. 🙂
We are really stoked about these builds and have really enjoyed mentoring these guys through the process. The comradery, seeing them grow and work though challenging build issues and the sure joy when a component gets put on and works has proven to be worth more than ever expected.
Anyways, sorry about rambling on brother, I just dig this shit!!
L8R
–JC
Three Two
ANOTHER REASON TO LEARN TO SPEAK ENGLISH FROM THE BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT– Communication problems?
It’s too bad Arnold Schwarzenegger had this little misunderstanding because English isn’t his native language.
He told Maria that the babysitter wanted a raise.
Maria said, “Screw Her.”
Any simple-minded semi-literate Austrian could have made the same mistake, right?
–Buckshot
BIKERNET’S NEW PRODUCT REVIEW DEPARTMENT CHECKIN’ IN–
You should have the next PR on grips, sent it a day or so ago. Thanks for letting me write, gives this old guy something to do, and yes, it’s a learning process. BTW, don’t forget Lions Drag Strip in your mural of Wilmington. This LB / Pedro raised boy spent countless hours there, even shook Evel’s hand one night after I sort of illegally slipped in, LOL.
— Tailgunner
Bikernet product review writer
TWO BIKERNET FEATURES MEET–
Funny side note. Just read the article on Will Barclay, the Hoka Hey 2010 winner.
Small world, I was the Service Manger of the shop he stopped at in Fort Lauderdale. We spoke about strategy for about two hours while we serviced his bike on the way to the starting line in Key West (remember my boss was training for the same race). He showed me pics of his Enfields and rides through the Himalayas. Super guy, even came back to tip the tech after he won.
He had just bought that bike used before bringing it to us, had some cool stories about flying Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie around. Apparently Brad gave him a bike they got so close as avid riders.
–Joel
The author of this week’s bike feature: Birth of an Evilution: http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=9192
TWIN POWER STARTER MOTORS FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–Is it time to replace your starter? Available in 1.2 up to a 1.8 size, Twin Power Replacement starters meet or exceed the original manufacturer’s specifications and are 100% O.E.M interchangeable.
The heavy-duty gear reduction starter equals more torque and the double sealed bearings and
heavy-duty clutch drive equals longer life for these starters. Complete with a 6-month manufacturer’s warranty, these starters give you bang for little buck.
For more information, visit www.bikerschoice.com or visit your local
Biker’s Choice dealer.
Happy Riding!!!
–Carmen
BIKER’S CHOICE TECH COMING FROM TEXAS–I recieved the speakers last night and spent a while installing them. Because of the way my bike’s set up, I was able to squeeze the speakers under the original fairing and then just place the amplifier on top of the battery for now. The quality of the product is first rate and while I think there could’ve been a little more detail on where to hook the speaker on my bike, I am VERY HAPPY with them.
The sound is EMBARASSINGLY loud at stoplights but I was able to hear it pretty well at 70 mph wearing a fullface helmet, well just as long as I had the visor up. When using my Ipod, the sound was a little lower than when I used my Blackberry on similar volume settings, just a note.
I will work on the article and get something posted very soon, it seems trying to find an accessory inlet on my fuses, I may have fiddled with the brake light as it is now staying on all the time. Could be coincidence, but I’m thinking it’s how I have it hooked in.
–Johnny White
Bikernet.com Roving Reporter
THE WALMART ALERT–A husband and wife are shopping in their local Wal-Mart.
The husband picks up a case of Budweiser and puts it in their cart.
‘What do you think you’re doing?’ asks the wife.
‘It is on sale, only $10 for 24 cans’ he replies.
‘Put them back, we can’t afford them’ demands the wife, and so they carry on shopping.
A few aisles later, the woman picks up a $20 jar of face cream and puts it in the basket.
˜ What do you think you’re doing?’ asks the husband.
‘It’s my face cream. It makes me look beautiful,’ replies the wife.
Her husband retorts: ‘So does 24 cans of Budweiser and it’s half the price.’
HUSBAND DOWN!, HUSBAND DOWN!, AISLE 7
–Ron Loynds
Metal Sport
Bammer/Starlight Tattoo Nitro Harley #3 in AHDRA Screamin’ Eagle Top Fuel points– Nutley, NJ: After Larry “Drums” Brancaccio’s first win of the season with the All Harley Drag Race Association at the Liberty Nitro Nationals presented by Vreeland’s Harley-Davidson, he knew he would move up in the Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley championship points and he did.
By taking out the current points leader, Doug Horne, in the final round at Numidia, PA for the win, Brancaccio and team jumped to 3rd in the national AHDRA points chase.
“The heat’s on now,” said Brancaccio. “Last weekend we tested with DJ Johnson at Atco and at this weekend’s Ohio Bike Week Nationals
Brancaccio is proudly sponsored by: Starlight Tattoo, Capone Landscaping, Keith’s Custom Seats, World Wide Bearings, Vanson Leathers, Central Metal Fabricators & special thanks to: Barnett Clutches & AutoLite.
Check your calendar and see Drums and the Bammer/Starlight Tattoo Nitro Harley at:
June 4-5 Ohio Bike Week Nationals
June 25-26 Northeast Nitro Nationals at Atco Raceway, Atco, NJ
Raleigh, N.C.: House Bill 381, sponsored by Rep. John Torbett (R-Stanley), would prevent law enforcement agencies from establishing patterns for vehicle stops at checking stations based on a particular type of vehicle.
Providence, R.I.: Senate Bill 307, sponsored by Sen. John J. Tassoni (D-Smithfield), would require public buildings to provide designated parking spaces for motorcycles at the rate of one space per total of 30 spaces. Unauthorized use of the designated space would result in a fine of $85.00. Signs designating parking spaces for motorcycle parking would be provided by the respective entity.
BIKERNET INSURANCE DEPARTMENT WEEKLY MEMO, RIDING TWO-UP– Safety Tips & Making Sure Your Passenger is Covered?
We see a lot of “two-up” riders out there on the roads and insure many couples who love to share the pleasures of the open road together. Riding two-up can be easy and safe or darn right dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing with that extra load . (I apologies ladies, this doesn’t sound right does it?)
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you hit the road with your loved one on the back of that bike.
1. Is your bike ready for two riders?
Some motorcycles are made for two people (Baggers) and some are not (Crotch Rockets). Best to make sure your motorcycle is properly set up for two riders before you go on that ride.
Check the following:
Seat: Designed for comfort or is it a butt bone breaker? Make sure seat height is proper for both you and your passenger.
Footpegs: Can your passenger reach them? You may want to consider replacing basic footpegs with floorboards for added comfort.
Suspension: Shocks are key to a smooth ride and handling control. Adjust your rear shocks to handle the extra weight.
Tires: Add some air for the extra load. Check your owners manual for specific air-pressure requirements when riding with a passenger.
Headlamp: It’s easy for your headlamp line of sight to shoot up off the roadway with added rear load distribution. Make sure to adjust your headlamp aim before you go on that two-up ride.
2. Does your passenger know how to “behave” while on your bike?
Make sure your passenger knows what to do and not do while on the back of your bike. First, show them how to get on the bike and when to get on without causing both of you to land face first in the dirt. Second, instruct them on how to “ride with the bike” and hold on to you without choking you. Idea here is to become one on the motorcycle. You lean together while cornering, you snuggle but don’t crowd each other while going down the highway. Third, teach passengers not to shift their weight while on the back. Fourth, instruct them on how to behave during stopping and starting so that she can properly brace herself and not push you over the handlebars if a sudden stop is required.
3. Understand the physics behind carrying a “heavier” load.
Whether carrying a passenger or a full backpack, the extra weight will decrease you ability to slow down and speed up. Slow speed riding will feel more difficult than speeding down the highway. The smaller the bike, the less balance control you’ll feel with two people on it. You’ll also want to make sure you give yourself more distance between vehicles and, always give yourself an “out” should the unexpected object appear in front of you.
4. Motorcycle Guest Liability Coverage – Do you have it?
Be aware that not all motorcycle insurance policies in all states cover passengers. Never assume that motorcycle guest passengers are automatically covered by motorcycle liability insurance, as passengers in automobiles are. In fact, motorcycle passengers are not covered by default under many motorcycle liability insurance policies. An additional form of coverage — Motorcycle Guest Passenger Liability (GPL) — must be purchased in order to cover your passenger. This coverage will cover passengers if you are found to be liable or legally at fault. You want to provide for them financially. Good insurance makes sure that you won’t have to do this out of pocket. Our advice: Double check your motorcycle insurance policy to make sure your coverage includes guest passenger coverage for bodily injury. Contact us if you are unsure.
There you have it folks. Choosing the right insurance policy is much like choosing the right bike. You want it to fit your needs, riding style and your budget. At Bikernet Insurance, we go all out to provide you with great coverage at a great price. You are not just a policy number with us. We care about you.
Special Note to Cantina Members:
When you buy a Dairyland Cycle insurance policy from Bikernet Insurance, we “include” Guest Passenger Liability insurance in the Bodily Injury Limit. Plus, as a Cantina Member, you get a 10% discount on your motorcycle insurance.
Ride Safe Out There,
The Crew at Bikernet Insurance
Toll Free: 888-467-8703
Email for fastest response:
Agents serving 20 states. States added as required to serve customers.
Resident State: CA Agency 0G67810. Principal Agent 0D71028
GET A JOB New Site Launched on the Biker Cove/Biker Valley Network–This new site from Biker Cove will interest mainly job seekers and employers. Here’s why we built it.
We wanted to post a job on Monster.com. They wanted $396.00. So we went to snagajob.com to post a position in 10 cities. They wanted $1,090.00. What a rip off!
If you’re looking for a job, or if you want to post a job, come take a look at our new job board. Best World Wide Jobs. It’s tested, working, and very inexpensive. We just launched this site at 11:00 EST on May 31 so it’s just getting started. Feel free to take it for a spin. It will be a high traffic site very soon. http://www.bestworldwidejobs.com
Free Radio & Networking:
Bike Valley Radio is growing real fast & it’s free. If you haven’t joined, come by and listen to our Classic Rock radio station or browse our site. There’s even some recommended downloads for our members that we use ourselves. If you like what you see, signup is free, fast & easy. Great features with a great bunch of people! http://www.bikervalley.ning.com
Biker Cove:
We have a few new stories up on Biker Cove. Stop by and read a few. Try the search box on the right side to find something specific. There’s 1,000’s of articles up. http://www.bikercove.com
[photo 12939
LONDON’S ACE CAFÉ IS ALWAYS UP TO SOMETHING– Celebrating the 10th anniversary of having fully reopened, Ace Cafe London has teamed up with Shakespeare County Raceway at Long Marston Airfield, Warwickshire and will be attending the forthcoming NSRA Hot Rod Drags, 16th – 18th September, and awarding a prize for the “Best Turned Out”!
“Shakey” has kindly allocated pairs of tickets and passes to be won as prizes at the cafe, not only for September’s NSRA Hot Rod Drags, but also for the NSRA “Nostalgia Nationals” to be held 25th & 26th June and for the “British Mini Showdown” of 9th & 10th July.
NSRA “Nostalgia Nationals” 25th – 26th June
WIN TICKETS AT THE CAFE ON:
Sat 28th May – All American Cruise-In – Day Tickets
Wed 1st June – Hot Rod Night – Weekend Pass
Sat 25th June – All American Cruise-In – Day Tickets
NSRA “Hot Rod Drags” 16th – 18th September
WIN TICKETS AT THE CAFE ON:
Wed 6th July – Hot Rod Night – Weekend Pass
Sat 30th July – All American Cruise-In – Day Tickets
Wed 3rd August – Hot Rod Night – Weekend Pass
Sat 27th August – All American Cruise-In – Day Tickets
Wed 7th September – Hot Rod Night “End of Summer Riot”- Weekend Pass
British Mini Showdown 9th – 10th July
WIN TICKETS AT THE CAFE ON:
Thurs 2nd June – Mod n’ Mini Night – Day Pass
Thurs 7th July – Mod n’ Mini Night – Day Pass
SPITFIRE PRODUCT OF THE WEEK–Built in Fork stops. Spitfire internal steering stop. Comes complete with base plate. For use with all H-D and aftermarket frames. Replaces bottom neck race.
https://www.spitfiremotorcycles.com/products-page/spitfire-motorcycle-parts/internal-steering-stop/
BIKERNET CONSUMER PROTECTION ALERT–
carefull!!!!
Careful what you purchase on EBAY…..
I Spent $50 on a penis enlarger.
Bastards sent me a magnifying glass.
Instructions said don’t use in the sunlight!
–from Rik Savenko
26th ANNUAL HUNTINGTON BEACH CONCOURSE D’ ELEGANCE, June 4 & 5, 2011
Huntington Beach, CA– A two day car and bike show and the latest from Ducati, Triumph, BMW, Honda, and Victory. The event offers the family live entertainment while admiring some of the most beautiful automobiles and motorcycles in Southern California on the picturesque lawns of Huntington Beach Central Park.
Saturday’s program offers a wide variety of hot rods with a salute to “Donut Derelicts”. Grand Marshal Fireball Tim Lawrence, movie car designer, as seen on Discovery’s “World’s Most Expensive Cars”, will be filming “Fireball Tim’s World of Cars”. ‘DJ Ricks Tune Saloon” will be playing music and announcing on both days.
Sunday’s a traditional Concours with Triumph and Victory motorcycles the honored marques and Cadillac, Bentley, and ’100 years of Chevrolet’ the automobile focus. Dave Kunz, KABC-TV automotive specialist, will be the grand marshall this year. Free ice cream, Hot Wheels racing and Dragtracks racing for the kids and Aprile Deane (DJ/Singer). highlight the event. This is also the seventh Annual Student Art Contest will be conducted at the VIP Luncheon. Tom White is an exhibitor and judge for motorcyles on Sunday.
If you’d like to show a bike, we welcome you! Last years best of show was a pre WWI single (it would have been ‘the worlds fastest indian’ if it had entered). Year before was a factory mint 1936 Nimbus sidecar rig. Customs show on Saturday – but is a Boss Hoss a custom? Should a twin engine racing whizzer be parked next to an RC30? We think so! If you agree – bring your favorite bike and be a part of the show.
The Concours hosts 120+ classes and over 400 cars, motorcycles and bicycles, as well as entertainment, food and vendors will bring back the good ole days with a dash of the future. New bikes from BMW, Triumph, Honda, and Victory will be at the show too. You’ll be able to see ‘how it was’ and ‘how it is today’ side by side.
Proceeds are donated to the Huntington Beach Children’s Resource Center at the Huntington Beach Central Library by the Huntington Beach Concours d’Elegance, a non-profit corporation. It’s an all volunteer staff (including Tom White as a MC judge)
Location: Huntington Beach Central Park
7111 Talbert Ave.- behind the Library
When: Saturday, June 4 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Sunday, June 5 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
How Much:
Spectators: $10.00/day or $15 for 2 days purchased at the gate or at the central library. Seniors 62+ $8.00/day or $12.00 both days. Children under 12 Free with an adult. $2.00 discount tickets are available on flyers at the library, ads, and web site: Press Crendentials are accepted, but you must contact Bart McGrath in advance.
Contacts:
Bart McGrath 714-960-2100
Mike Moon 949-274-5260
Recorded Information: 714-375-8414
INFO ON DELAWARE HELMET BILL– Our helmet legislation that removes the requirement of having to carry a crash device for those 19 years of age or older choosing not to wear one passed the House of Representatives with 23 votes yesterday. It now heads to the Senate, will be assigned to the Public Safety Committee, and hopefully to the Senate floor for a full Senate vote. Discussions were also held yesterday with the governor’s office. No commitment either way as of yet there.
More information about what we are doing can be found at http://abateofde.com/hildys_report.htm.
Hildy
–from Rogue
On May 5, 2011, a 26 year old Marine Vet was EXECUTED by SWAT (harsh word – but I think it fits!) He left behind a wife and two kids, ages 4 and 6.– I attended a memorial service that was coordinated by Oath Keepers and was held in Tucson yesterday, Memorial Day. The justice-seeking hero is Stewart Rhodes, founder of Oath Keepers. He has been absolutely relentless in his effort to make right what can never be repaired! This never should have happened in the U.S.
At the memorial service was the Sons of Liberty Riders, Tucson chapter. As motorcyclists – and especially those of us with certain patches – we know that law officers can get unruly. A big THANK YOU to this motorcycle club! Had more people known about this, I’m sure more would have shown up.
In Las Vegas, many of you know that we have had our own fair share of violence against the citizens (it’s called tyranny!) There was the Trevon Cole
Please join me in contacting national news organizations to cover this story. To educate yourself, here’s a link to a blog that gave a great report: http://freedominourtime.blogspot.com/2011/05/why-did-police-kill-my-dad.html.
TL
“TigerLily”
Correspondent, QuickThrottle Magazine
SPECTRO Tip of the Month UnFORKettable Oil– One of the most neglected items of motorcycle maintenance is fork oil. This lubricant is just as important as your regularly maintained oils. Other than the obvious of keeping consistent fork damping, it also helps to minimize wear on the internal components and keep your seals pliable
BIKERNET SHOP DEAL OF THE WEEK–This week we have a DVD/booklet combo available as the Book of the Week at Bikernet. If you’re looking to assemble a bike – bobber or not – this might be the deal of the century.
How to Build a Bobber follows and documents the assembly of two new-school Bobbers. The first assembly takes place at Redneck Engineering using one of their hardtail frames and matching sheet metal. The assembly includes the installation of the spoked wheels, wiring, Evo-style engine and five-speed transmission, and all the necessary hardware.
The second Bobber assembly is actually a conversion. Watch as the crew from Klock Werks disassembles a stock 2003 Softail and reassembles it into a very believable and ride-able Bobber, complete with early style paint job, powder-coated spoked rims and solo seat.
Both projects are bikes that can be built at home, both sequences cover the assembly and conversion from start to finish. Total running time is two hours. The new DVD, with the booklet, is available for $4.95 this week on Bikernet, with free shipping to US addresses.
ANNUAL WHEELS THROUGH TIME FUND RAISING RAFFLE, DON’T MISS A CHANCE–Each year, The Wheels Through Time Museum Staff gear up to build a genuine classic American motorcycle to be raffled off to one lucky winner. Since relocating to Maggie Valley in 2002, the museum has given away a total of 9 motorcycles to winners from around the country, ranging from an almost completely new old stock 1936 Harley-Davidson VLH to a 1946 Harley Flathead to a 1947 Knucklehead Bobber.
It is through the generous donations from raffle entrants that we at the museum are able to build new exhibits, grow the collection, and continue to preserve American motorcycle history in new and innovative ways.
It is without further adue, that we would like to introduce the newest motorcycle in the line of WTT Raffle Bikes….The true icon of American Motorcycles — The 1936 Knucklehead Bobber.
Built from a life-long stash of parts, the machine was brought to life by museum curator Dale Walksler and staff. Using countless original Harley-Davidson components and a combination of newly available reproduction parts, this machine is built to run, just like the rest of the collection at WTT. Finished in factory custom Gold and Black, the machine marks Harley-Davidson’s entrance into the modern era of motorcycling, and is considered one of the most desirable model’s H-D ever produced.
Don’t miss your chance to own an important piece of American Motorcycle History. You’ll be supporting a great cause, and will have an opportunity to win a true American icon!
UNCLE MONKEY HEARS THINGS-“I want a motorcycle.” There isn’t a better phrase muttered by a child to the ears of a biker. I admit the statement caught me a little off guard, as my son has been very adamant that he doesn’t like bikes, and doesn’t like me being a biker. He laughs and scoffs at the idea. In fact he had little ambition to even get his drivers licence. That all changed this weekend.
It was his sixteenth birthday and we celebrated by taking him to LA, California, sun, sand, surf, and itty-bitty bikinis. As we droned along at 10 miles an hour on the 101 towards the Sunset Strip in our rented Mustang the flash of color and chrome whizzing by caught his eye. I explained that the bikes could split lanes and as the bike disappeared into the distance he uttered the words “I want a motorcycle.”
For the first time in his life it seemed like the riding light bulb finally went off. Where he once only saw smoke, oil, and repairs he now saw freedom, no longer trapped within a cage but soaring free, unrestricted. Life as simple as what you can carry, nothing more, nothing less. He could breath the salty air as the breeze came off of the ocean, the open road, man, and machine.
As the week went on he noticed bikes more and more, not just the choppers and Harleys that I ride but the tricked out crotch rockets, old school Nortons and Triumphs. He finally noticed how the girls in the teeny-weeny bikini’s always turned and smiled no matter how old and out of shape the biker was on his iron horse.
He finally saw the broad grins of friends stopped on the Pacific Coast Highway, plotting their next move. From the hills of Malibu, to the flashy Sunset Strip, to the gritty streets of San Pedro, Wilmington, and Long Beach, to the sand kissed roads of Sunset, Huntington and Newport Beaches he finally saw the allure of motorcycles, the allure of the open road, of freedom.
It never ends. Thank the God of Chrome.
–Uncle Monkey
CARS SOON TO TRACK YOUR EVERY MOVE– Imagine driving down the interstate on your daily commute, minding your own business. In the lane next to you, a car starts swerving erratically and comes dangerously close to your own vehicle. You decide to reach for the Jesus button on your dash, which notifies local law enforcement about the drunk driver. After a few seconds, the car next to you stalls and glides harmlessly to the shoulder.
Or, what if you’re going through a divorce, and you decide to work with an attorney who can tell you, with utmost accuracy, the exact driving route of your spouse over the past six months? You could use that data in court, especially if your spouse visited a special friend every day.
If these scenarios sound far-fetched, know this: new proposals are currently under review at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), under guidance from the Department of Transportation, which could mandate the use of black boxes in all new cars in the US.
“It’s a proposal we are working on for release this fall. At that time, everyone will know what the ruling is,” says Jos Alberto Ucls, speaking to FoxNews.com about black box technology.
Black boxes are already used in many new cars. Known officially as event data recorders or EDRs, they work much like an airplanes black box in that they only capture data related to a crash. In some cases, authorities can tap into a cars EDR to check vehicle speed, airbag deployments, and pedal application a few seconds before and after impact.
EDRs are extremely helpful during accident reconstruction when used with corroborating physical and forensic evidence, Toyota spokesman Bill Lyons tells FoxNews.com. Such information was used to vindicate Toyota in a high-profile case of alleged unintended acceleration in a Prius, until the data determined that the driver was pressing the accelerator when she thought she had her foot on the brake pedal.
Lyons explains that there is a difference between the EDR used in a new Toyota Camry and a data logger, which tracks vehicle speed and location. A delivery company might use a data logger to track when a driver leaves a predetermined route or drives too fast, he says.
The data [in an EDR] is not good or bad, it is just data, says Chris Martin, a Honda spokesperson. The driver should not look at this like it will be used against them. It is like a photograph of an event.
Martin noted that, in 2008, the DOT issued a ruling that, after September of 2012, all EDRs in new cars must record data in the same way, capturing the same 15 data points such as driving speed before a collision. A new proposal this fall may refine that ruling and add more specifics.
However, one concern has to do with insurance companies and law enforcement obtaining driving behavior from black boxes, including crash data and GPS driving routes. Experts warn that this data collection could be easily expanded, tracking much more than your driving speed.
If this data is used to determine if an automaker’s on-board electronics system is faulty, consumers will welcome the mandate for black boxes. If the data is used to determine driver behavior and compliance, they will view it as an intruding move, says Thilo Koslowski, an automotive analyst with Gartner.
Tracking driver behavior
Recently, insurance companies Progressive and Allstate have introduced tracking devices intended to reward drivers for good behavior. Once installed, the devices can report on acceleration, braking, and distance travelled. Richard Hutchinson, the manager of usage-based insurance at Progressive, told FoxNews.com that the devices do not track driver routes.
Hutchinson said the voluntary program can save up to 10-15% on your monthly premium. The Progressive device, called Snapshot, rewards drivers who drive infrequently, or do not accelerate quickly, and who drive during safe drive times e.g., not during rush hour traffic.
An agent for a separate insurance firm that does not offer tracking devices who spoke under a condition of anonymity with FoxNews.com said the tracking devices are not effective for lowering rates. Most drivers do not realize their rates will actually increase based on the data collected.
Despite all the practical uses for black boxes, several experts talked to FoxNews.com about the potential abuses and serious privacy concerns related to tracking driving behavior.
Thomas Cox, a privacy expert with Cox Business Consulting, says black box technology is just the beginning. He envisions a time when every car will use multiple cameras to record your surroundings. He says the next phase could involve the use of the aforementioned Jesus button to report and record the actions of bad drivers.
Ronald Lieberman, an attorney in New Jersey, says the problem with black box technology is that, in the future, insurance companies could demand that a driver use a black box to maintain their coverage. A leasing company may use a black box to find out if a driver drove dangerously, he says.
In a worst-case scenario, he described how authorities could install black boxes that can disable the vehicle if you fail to show up for a court date or get too many speeding tickets. General Motors OnStar telematics system already includes a function that allows police officers to have a car they are pursuing shut down remotely.
Cox argues that the DOT should start investigating how to govern who owns the tracking data, how it will be used, and what the driver should be informed about. Koslowski says it is important to discuss the use of black box technology, which has been around for 20 years, especially in an age of sharing private information on social networks and rampant computer hacking.
Still, if the black box data is used against drivers, there is a growing need for better legislation. Some might argue that the NHTSA is heading down the wrong road of mandated driver tracking.
Hackers wont find this information exciting, says Koslowski. Judges and insurance companies will.
–from Rogue
HOT LEATHERS IS AN OFFICIAL MERCHANDISER AT THE LEGENDARY LAKE GEORGE AMERICADE– MANCHESTER, CONN (June 2, 2011) — Hot Leathers is proud to be an official merchandiser at this week’s Lake George Americade in Lake George, NY. Over 50,000 riders will roll in from all over the country, June 7 – 11, to immerse themselves in the unparalleled scenic views, the jam-packed schedule of exciting entertainment and events and one-stop access to the hottest motorcycle merchandise and the widest variety of biker accessories.
Hot Leathers is notorious for bringing their latest, fire-hot, counter-culture threads, leathers, safety gear and lifestyle accessories to bike rallies across the nation. Bikers love the reliable accessibility of Hot Leathers’ easy one-stop-rally-shop, which they seek out at bike rallies from coast to coast.
This year the Lake George Americade celebration and entertainment will be headquartered at the Fort William Henry Resort and Conference Center. Riders can participate in themed, scenic tours on Lake George; witness a stunt show; watch a LED bike light parade; take seminars on bike safety, the latest motorcycle technology, bike maintenance and riding techniques; experience a motorcycle apparel fashion show featuring the hottest trends; ride in charity poker runs; laugh at Alonzo Bodden’s comedy act; view a laser light show; attend the Friday Night Dinner Spectacular at The Great Escape Amusement Park and choose from a plethora of other exhilarating options.
Hot Leathers has been outfitting the motorcycle community for over 25 years. The company’s growing wholesale and printing facilities rank in the top 50 volume screen printers in America. The Hot Leathers logo has come to signify a brand riders can trust, with prices they can easily afford.
Hot Leathers is gearing up for the summer riding season and intends to hit as many bike rallies and events as possible. Check out www.hotleathers.com to see their full rally schedule and buy the latest, hottest motorcycle enthusiast threads and gear for the whole family.
–Ken Conte
WELCOME TO THE GREAT CANADIAN BIKER RALLY–Merritt, BC has long been known for putting on some grand daddy events. We’re the Country Music Capital of Canada, home of Mountainfest, the Walk of Stars, the Youth Mural Project and soon to open Country Music Hall of Honour. Located a short ride north of Vancouver in the the sunny, semi-desert, riding-heaven valley we like to call “the Heart of Country”.
Welcome to the Great Canadian Bike Rally – July 14 – 17, 2011
We’re gonna raise a lot of money for kids, so register early!
And stay tuned, cause’ we got lot’s more coming your way…
HERE IS THE DEAL OF THE WEEK FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 2001 FATBOY, $9,500.00– Looks completely stock, very clean! A GREAT all around bike! Priced right, 22070 on the ticker! Skull collection (everywhere) custom H-D seat, new battery and new tires. Runs great! See pics
CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN!
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/category/1686/FLSTF_Fat_Boy/post/2185478/2001-H-D-Fat-Boy.html
–MIKE the STEALTH
This Year: CAR BASH with Sledgehammers! Swing the sledgehammer and BASH the Official Al Qaida Staff Car, formally Bin Laden’s personal Cadillac! 3 swings – 5 bucks!
**Specialty Martial Arts Weaponry Demonstrations**
ALSO: Meet & Greet — PENTHOUSE PETS in person!
Penthouse Pet signing all day (yes, the real thing!)
FROG JUMPS A SUCCESS–Missed ya at The Jumps, Bro… Here are some shots from Murphys.
–Buckshot
CUSTOM CYCLE ENGINEERING 39mm Triple Wide Glide Conversion Triple Trees–
Custom Cycle Engineering has been in the Triple Tree business since the early1970’s The CCE 39mm Triple trees conversion takes your 39mm narrow glide forks and converts them to a Wide Glide By replacing the Triple trees. This gives your bike that big bike look with out changing the complete front end.
Made from 6060-T6 aluminum and finished in a high luster chrome.
This conversion includes an internal fork stop, axle, axle spacer, rotor spacer, and all the hardware to assemble.
Contact Custom Cycle Engineering for more details and applications.
1-800-472-9253
www.customcycleengineering.com
BADDA-BING–We survived another news day at the Bikernet Sweat Shop, hard-laboring over sweating computers. I’m on the edge of my milk crate, waiting for Paul Cavallo to call about our Spitfire Mudflap Girl FXR frames.
I’ve got a story about the Girls of Singapore from Quick Throttle Art with custom motorcycles from the region. You’re going to love this one. Then I have another product review headed your way. I’m working on the first XS 650 build article, plus I’m working with Trish from Baker on a story about their tech tour to shops around the country. Plus I have Doc’s Custom Cycle Engineering Triple Tree tech article.
So, I’ll be busy as hell over this weekend, while sitting on the edge of my seat. My son might run my Metalsport mag wheels out to the Spitfire factory to keep everything moving along. I can’t wait to be flying at these Mudflap girl bikes. We’ve ordered Wire Plus wiring systems with speedometers and Frank plans to run turnsignals. We have controls in the grips from Rivera Primo for his bike. I’m just an old school biker who likes to keep it simple on my chopped FXR. So you’ll see it handled both ways.
What the hell did I get myself into. Hang on.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
