Hey,
I don’t know if we’ll rock the world but we’ll give it a helluva shot, and we’re looking for partners in the industry. My current partner is Dave Rash, the boss of D&D Exhaust. Here’s the issues: First we’re going to work with the university of Texas and the environmental efforts and the cost for success study. We will demonstrate where the money needs to be spent to effect the greatest change in the environment.
The second issue involves the future of motorcycling. “We are screaming about gas prices, when the rest of the planet has faced even higher prices for over a decade,” said the Pope of Pipe, Dave Rash. “Do you know what other countries do to curb the gas crunch? They ride motorcycles.” High gas prices could be a major boon to motorcycling.
Let’s hit the news. We’ll bring you more reports on the above over the weeks to come. Also note how the noise issue may change for the louder in the coming months. Oh, and our Bikernet Webtrends report came in for May. We had 318,000 unique users who came to visit Bikernet almost 600,000 times, for 909,000 impressions and over 8 million hits. Not bad for a bunch of bikers. Let’s rock:
MICHIGAN FIGHTS FOR FREEDOM – VERY IMPORTANT!!!–Here is the latest on the helmet bill in Michigan. And, please contact the Governor. Contact info & protocol stated below (compliments of Angel – thanks)….
Out-of-State letters are welcome too…our Legislature is very interested in tourism dollars and the effect a helmet repeal will have on visitation to the state of Michigan.
Freedom is not free…keep up the hard work!
Yesterday in Lansing, the House voted on concurrence with the Senate version of the helmet bill (HB4749) and the bill passed 70 to 38. The bill has been ordered enrolled and then it will go to the Governor.
Contacting the Governor and requesting that she sign the bill when it gets to her is the plan of action we should follow. The following is the contact information for Governor Jennifer Granholm. There are several phone #’s that you can call to voice your opinion to the Governor along with her fax, e-mail and mailing address.
BE POLITE NO MATTER HOW THEY REPLY TO YOU.
Call, write, E-mail, FAX or all four. You need to let the Governor know that your asking her to support House Bill 4749 to allow Motorcyclist 21 years and older to choose whether to wear a helmet or not. BE SURE
Governor’s Contact Information:
Governor’s Constituent Relations Office: 1-517-335-7858.
This number is to voice your opinion. They don’t want your name, just your opinion. This is possibly the best number to call.
Governor’s Capitol Office Phone: 1-517-373-3400. This will get you a recording or an office staff member but not the Governor.
S.E. Michigan Office ( Detroit ): 1-313-456-0010. Not sure if this is a recording or if you will reach a staff person. When I called I got a recording.
Northern Michigan Office ( Marquette ): 1-906-228-2850. Legislative Affairs Office in Capitol: 1-517-241-3950. Be extra polite when calling this number because we have to deal with this office the most.
Fax # in Lansing : 1-517-335-6863.
Fax letters and notes to this number. Be sure to sign and address the fax and letters and ask for a response.
E-Mail to Gov. You will need to go to the Governor’s website at http://www.michigan.gov/gov and Click (Contact the Governor) at the top middle part of the page. Scroll down to Share your Opinion) ….a page will come up to fill in and send to the Governor. NOTE: you do not get a response,
Address your letters as follows:
The Honorable Jennifer Granholm
Governor
State Capitol
P.O. Box 30013
Lansing MI. 48909
Oakland Police Department Backs Up Bikernet Noise Study Headline: “Oakland cops can be heard, if not seen” Tagline: “City spends $15,000 on mufflers to make Harleys safer — and noisier than federal standards.”
Over in Oakland they like it loud — so loud that all 45 of the Police Department’s Harley-Davidson motorcycles have been equipped with shiny new tailpipes, at a cost of $500.00 apiece, to rev up their roar. It seems that the cops just didn’t feel safe on the toned-down bikes.
“There’s an old motorcycle adage that you are heard before you are seen,” said Deputy Chief Dave Kozicki, explaining the department’s decision to toss the bikes’ muted factory-issued mufflers in favor of the more high-volume pipes.
Kozicki cited an accident three months ago in which an Oakland officer riding a toned-down cycle was struck by a motorist who said he hadn?t hear the officer approaching. But some City Hall insiders, as well as motorcycle cops elsewhere, said the safety argument is a stretch.
Even the folks at the national Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) which represents all the big bike manufacturers, were unaware of any safety benefits from louder mufflers.
“We encourage all motorcycle riders to keep the original low sound levels that meet the … federal sound limit of 80 decibels,” said industry spokesman Mike Mount. “It would seem counterintuitive that a law enforcement agency would go against federal standards.”
Ironically, it was just a short time back that Oakland police were called upon to crack down on noisy motorists who had modified their auto mufflers to make a whistling screech. The “whistle tip” pipes were eventually outlawed under state law.
Oakland’s cops had a long tradition of riding their Harley-Davidson with the modified, louder tail pipes, hearing them the nickname “Rolling Thunder.” But after an officer complained about a loss of hearing and other around town questioned whether the police force was violating the very noise standards it was supposed to enforce, the department brass ordered a switch to the quieter stock mufflers.
So last year, the department launched a $1,200 study in conjunction with the city?s risk management division to determine whether: A) the louder motorcycles contributed to the officers? safety, B) were detrimental to their hearing, and C) complied with noise standards.
Kozicki acknowledged that whatever safety-related findings the study produced were largely anecdotal. Still, after everything was taken into consideration, the department concluded ?it was in the best interest of the officers to put more-audible pipes back on,? Kozicki said.
Hence, all 30 of the department?s Harleys were sent down to the central maintenance yard for a muffler makeover at a cost of about $15,000, according to City Hall insiders. Another 15 newly-purchased motorcycles were ordered with the louder pipes, though at no extra charge.
Oakland officials acknowledge that the noisy pipes, when tested, averaged 93 decibels ? well above the federal legal noise limit, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.
But city Finance Director Mill Nolan, who oversees the risk management division, isn?t alarmed. ?if they were riding eight straight hours, it would be a problem,? he said. ?But they aren?t.?
MARTIN CONQUEST LAUNCH NEW BMW R1200R POWERED TRIKE FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS– The Martin Conquest – acknowledged as the worlds most advanced manufacturer of Trikes for wheelchair users and motorcyclists with a disability – have launched a brand new 2008 model, the Conquest R1200R and it?s manufactured right here in the UK.
The major change for 2008 is the fitment of a high performance BMW R1200R series Boxer engine, with the 1170cc flat twin power unit making a claimed 109bhp, up 28% against the older 1150 power unit. The new BMW engine also generates 17% more torque, which is a considerable power advantage when allied to the trike?s uprated aircraft grade steel/alloy chassis and lightweight GRP bodywork with built-in electronic wheelchair ramp and secure rider safety cell.
Other high quality features which go towards making the Conquest R1200R a unique blend of strength, performance and practicality include an electronic 6 speed gearbox which allows disabled users to get the best from the new Boxer 1170cc motor, with simple, push-button operation, plus a handy reverse gear. Rear wheel drive, a motorsport derived limited-slip Muffett differential, anti-roll bar and twin, heavy duty adjustable sports shock-absorbers at the back end, help give the 2008 Martin Conquest R1200R secure handling in all road conditions.
But the 2008 Martin Conquest is much more than a motorcycle engined trike. It meets the demanding UK government regulations for the Motability scheme, with ISO 9000 procedures applied during manufacture, to help create arguably the safest, most accessible three wheeled vehicle for wheelchair users.
All the hand controls, wheelchair ramp and secure mounting point for the driver’s chair, are designed to exactly fit the individual user, in terms of weight, height and upper body mobility. Martin Conquest work closely with each and every customer to make sure that their trike is built just how they want it. With every trike constructed, the Martin Conquest factory technicians are making new tweaks and valuable engineering improvements to the base concept.
There’s a wide range of factory fitted accessories, such as waterproof interior trim, music systems, engine immobiliser, windscreens, parking sensors, Xenon lighting, custom paintwork and more. Comprehensive after sales back-up and a full breakdown/recovery service is included in the purchase price too.
The 2008 Martin Conquest is all about freedom, independence and fun ? for every rider ? Life doesn?t stop because of a disability.
If you would like to know more please refer to the website http://www.martinconquest.com
BIKERNET JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK–Fuel pressure test gauge toolThis gauge is a must have JIMS new tool as 90% of all Big Twins motorcycleshave Electronic Fuel Injection, (EFI). If you have a customer that isexperiencing any of the following conditions:
Hesitation under acceleration
Loss of power
Back firing thru the intake
Poor fuel economy
Stalling out
Engine turns over but will out start
Just to name a few symptoms that improper fuel system pressure maycontribute to. This fuel pressure gauge is easily installed in line with themotorcycles fuel supply system. All fuel testing should be (if possible)performed with the engine running, with this tool.
JIMS supplies you withall the necessary hose connections and fittings to safely perform a fuelpressure test in about the same amount of time it takes to change a set ofspark plugs. Full detailed Instructions included, some assembly required.
No.955 – Use on all 2002 to present E.F.I. FL models. Use on all 2004 topresent E.F.I. FXD models. Use on all 2001 to present E.F.I. FXST models
Suggested Retail Price $443.95
–JT Lepien
www.jimsusa.com
Well, this is comforting…After an exhaustive review of the research literature, here’s the final word on nutrition and health:
1. The Japanese eat very little fat but suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. Mexicans eat a lot of fat but suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine but suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. Italians drink excessive amounts of red wine but suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. Germans drink beer and eat lots of sausages and other fats but suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
CONCLUSION: Eat and drink whatever you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you, but our Government is working hard to correct the problem.
Jester
MEANSTREET PRODUCT’S AVALON #550 FRONT END–Avalon is a work of art at any angle. Sculpted from solid billet, Avalon offes the ultimate in style and substnace. With its damatic design and seamless flowing lines, AVALON is reminiscent of a comtemporary fine art sculpture.
Quality Features?.
Sculpted from solid billet.
Billet Lower Legs
Semi-hidden Axle
Chrome, Polish or Black finishes
Stainless steel axle shaft
All stainless steel hardware
Single or Dual Disc billet mounts
Available in most custom length
Raked trees available in 3, 5, 6, and 7 degree rake.
Avalon II lowers ad a touch of wiched style to Avalon sleek design.
Avalon III smooth lowers soften the lines for a more sophisticated look.
BDL 500 SERIES for EVO and SHOVEL—Got HP? If so, you?re going to want to get your hands one of the new EV-500/SH-500 DRIVE? systems just introduced by Belt Drives Ltd. The latest in a long line of trend setting drives, the 500 SERIES offers enthusiasts a number of significant advantages over other aftermarket and stock systems. First, BDL?s reinforced 2? belt was developed specifically to handle the high torque and horsepower numbers being produced by today?s big inch V-Twin engines. Additionally the system incorporates a bullet proof, one-piece billet motor plate and unique side guard and starter gear cover.
Every 500 kit includes the very latest in clutch technology with BDL?s own ?Pat. Pend.? BALL BEARING CLUTCH. The state of the art design offers up to 30% more contact surface, reduced lever pull, smother transition, super quiet operation and flawless clutch engagement. Most significantly, BDL has gone from a 47 tooth to 52 pulley on the motor and 69 from 72 on the clutch basket. With this gearing there really is no need to hassle with stuffing a 5 speed into the old 4 speed box.
The new EV-500 and SH-500 allow the 4 speed to come off the line with power and affords great highway performance and mileage. For complete details contact BDL at 714-685-3333 or catch them on the Web at www.beltdrives.com.
MOTORCYCLE RALLY IS AN ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO PAPPY WHO FOUGHT FOR OUR FREEDOMS– Motorcyclists participating in Sunday’s Memorial Run arrive at the Comstock Cemetery in Montville for a brief service at the grave of Donla “Pappy” Pittsley.
Montville – Bald heads shone in the bright afternoon sun and pony-tails blew in the light breeze Sunday as the pack of roaring motorcycles rolled down Depot Road toward Comstock Cemetery.
It was easy to see those heads and others clad in baseball hats and colorful bandanas as many of the riders weren’t wearing helmets during the memorial motorcycle run, which was fitting, as the event remembered the Montville man who led the fight against a mandatory helmet law and also fought for the rights of motorcycle riders.
The 33rd annual Memorial Day motorcycle run, whose name changed this year from ?Pappy’s Run? to the ?Memorial Run,? is held each year to remember Donald ?Pappy? Pittsley and his efforts to give motorcycle riders the ?freedom to choose.?
This year was no different as thousands participated in the event, but many riders continued to refer to the ride by its original title. ?It’s more of a celebration of individual freedom, than just helmet laws,? said John Stratton. ?(Pappy) was a good man. He believed in individual freedom.? David Hutchins, the co-chairman of the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association, who spoke at Pittsley’s grave Sunday, estimated that between 3,000 and 4,000 riders showed up at the Sprague Road & Gun Club to participate in the event.
Standing at Pittsley’s grave, encircled by a large group of riders, Hutchins reiterated the significance of the run. Hutchins remembered Pittsley with a moment of silence and then went on eulogize the man who fought so hard against a mandatory helmet law and inspired others to do the same after his death in 1975.
–By Heather Allen,
PhotoBy Dana Jensen
Wanted for SpeedWeek, Women riders and Men to build the Lady’s Bikes– We would like to find additional women riders, who would be interested in setting records and then accept the challenge of racing for the title of Women’s Fastest Motorcycle Rider. We do not need a rider with a lot of experience, as the two bikes we have entered do not have a lot of hp. The new rules require that the rider have a m/c endorsement on their driver license. Rider must live in the LA area of Calif. Single, Fit, Age 18 to 25, not taller than 5′ 6′. We will train you to ride/race with safety.
As you know using a women rider to set the records generates a lot of publicity. The last two years I have worked with Kimberly and she has set five records now. I met Kimberly in December 2005 and she had never operated a motorcycle. By August 2006 she was setting two records in front of National Geographic TV film cameras and in 2007 she was filmed for NBC Jeep World Of Adventure Sports while setting three Land Speed Records.
— Kenny Lyon 310 637 6094
kenylyon@hotmail.com
www.projectgoldwing.org
www.goldwingracingproject.info
THE POPE OF PIPE PUMPS UP YOUR SOFTAIL PERFORMANCE — YOU ? Have a Softail that is lowered and needs more clearance or have a Softail where you rip the curves and want to hit it even harder?
THE POPE ? Has built a new pipe from D&D Performance Enterprises called the Low Cat that has an up swept in the back and allows your Harley to corner without scraping. It?s dyno tuned so you can expect maximum horsepower with a high performance air cleaner and tuner.
FROM BANDIT – Bandit has worked out a deal with D&D to put together a performance kit that includes a D&D Performance Low Cat, high-flow air cleaner and Zipper?s Performance ThunderMax with AutoTune tuner. Mention Bandit and you receive a 15% discount. Call 817-834-8961 for details or get more information by clicking here and start making horsepower gains tomorrow.
CHECKOUT THE POPE IN BIKERNET STUDIO – Bandit and the Pope of Pipe, Dave Rash, talk performance, power and the nicest torque curve this side of JayLo in Bikernet Studio.
PERFORMANCE + ECONOMY ? Is One In The Same ? D&D Performance Enterprises
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