Hey,
This week startled even Dismal Dan. Did you read the Sunday Post in the Cantina. Here’s one quote from an Australian newspaper: BIG SHIPS TO USE BIOFUELS– To Cut Emissions, Spill Risks–Eventually
By John Voelcker John Voelcker
Senior Editor BIO
John is Senior Editor for High Gear Media.
Three years ago, we noted that one giant cargo ship emits as much as 50 million cars.
Good god. If the EPA fixed one ship, we could ignore custom bikes and hot rods forever. This is a year to find some answers, quick. If you are cutting a dusty trail for the River Run, or any run this weekend, the charge for traffic tickets shot through the roof, especially in California. So watch your back.
Let’s hit the news:
ST. PAUL H-D SETTLES LAWSUIT WITH MOTOR CO.– By: Holly J. Wagner
St. Paul Harley-Davidson and the Motor Co. have settled a lawsuit over
dealers selling official Harley-Davidson goods using third-party websites
like eBay and Amazon.com. And although the parties aren’t yet talking, it
doesn’t look like it went the dealer’s way.
Terms of the settlement were not disclosed, other than a judge’s April 11
dismissal order stating that both parties would handle their own legal fees.
The dismissal is “with prejudice,” meaning the parties cannot re-file the
case.
Attorney Douglas Boettge, who represented St. Paul Harley-Davidson in the
lawsuit, confirmed the settlement. Dealer principal Tom Giannetti and
attorneys for the Motor Co. did not immediately return calls seeking
comments.
Although the terms of the settlement are under wraps, it doesn’t look like
it went well for St. Paul Harley-Davidson. The dealership’s eBay store now
carries the following disclaimer:
“Thank you for your interest in St. Paul Harley-Davidson. Due to recent
internet sales policy changes with Harley-Davidson Motor Company, we are no
longer able to accept third party website transactions for any of our products. We will continue to honor our thirty (30) day return and exchange policy from the date of your purchase’s receipt. Please contact us directly at esales@stpaulhd.com for specific instructions regarding exchanges and returns. We thank you for your past business and support, and appreciate your understanding.”
Dealernews was unable to find a listing for St. Paul Harley-Davidson as a seller on Amazon.com.
The dealership sued The Motor Co. last November, claiming the OEM’s restrictions on foreign sales by U.S. dealers and sales through third-party websites are unfair, and undercut dealer profits.
St. Paul Harley-Davidson owner Tom Giannetti alleged in the complaint that new restrictions on PG&A sales “would deprive [St. Paul Harley-Davidson] of literally millions of dollars of annual revenues, thereby jeopardizing its ability to remain in business.” He claims the dealership made $8 million a year in revenue from online and foreign sales from 2008 through 2010.
According to the lawsuit, the OEM notified U.S. dealers that, starting Aug. 1, 2011, they would no longer be able to sell Harley-Davidson parts and accessories to any customer outside the United States. The lawsuit said that starting Jan. 1, 2012, U.S. dealers may not sell new parts or accessories on third-party websites. The dealer claimed that violated his franchise agreement.
–Published Courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com
NEW FROM NINO 925, THE STAINLESS COLLECTION–This Nino925 stainless BadAss Skull Flames Ring is an eye-catcher with its deep oxidized flames engulfing the cranium and large, penetrating eye sockets.
Dimensions: approx.18mm wide by 25mm tall and 2mm thick, weights approx.19 grams of sterling silver.
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK, 2005 NIGHT TRAIN– BANK SAYS THIS MUST GO! ONLY $14,995.00– This Night Train is a real head turner! It features a 88 cubic inch motor, 5-speed tranny, PM Phat Tail 240 18″ wide rear tire kit, 21″ black spoke front wheel, Corbin 2-up seat, custom exhaust, Black PM grips, Arlen Ness tear drop mirrors, black powder coated lower legs, high flow air cleaner, HD chrome/rubber shift pegs, passenger pegs, and much more!
This bike will not last long! Night Trains leave as fast as they come in! Like all of LifeStyle Cycles pre-owned Harleys, this bike has been thoroughly tested and inspected by a LifeStyle Cycles technician after undergoing a rigorous 38-point motorcycle inspection
VENDOR BOOTHS AVAILABLE for SMOKE OUT 13–Durham, NC – Imagine a world where 15,000 men and women come together from across America to celebrate on the altar of metal and horsepower; where choppers are the primary focus of lifestyle and culture. This location is called Smoke Out 13 and it is held on June 22-23, 2012 in Rockingham, NC to revel in all things chopper.
The Smoke Out celebrates chopper jockeys by making available a limited number of vending spaces for firms to support our enthusiast’s lifestyle. We encourage companies to invest in this market as it is the building block of the customer lifetime value. Relationships with this demographic provides a rich technical and mechanical savvy audience that will provide influence to the home builder and general motorcycle market for years to come.
Booth size options include 20′ x 25′, 30′ x 25′, 40′ x 25′, 50′ x 25′ and 60′ x 25′, Pricing ranges from $350 to $1,150 with an early bird discount available. A deposit of $100 holds the reservation.
Security will be provided Friday and Saturday night and vendors are responsible for the security of their own effects. Smoke Out event hours are Friday 12 noon to 11:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
About Smoke Out 13
The Smoke Out is about choppers. It is about builders, from professional builders to those bloody-knuckled guys (and ladies) burning the midnight oil in an unheated shed to build a chopper they can call their own. Chops of all makes are featured, American, British, Japanese, everything. The event is about riders, cross-town to cross-country in a rainstorm and flat out moving. The event is a full weekend to look at fine chops, listen to good music, relax, catch up with old friends or make new ones.
Check the www.SmokeOutRally.com for updates.
–Jeff Najar
AUSTRALIAN CLUBS SIMMERING bikie tensions that led to another bikie shooting on a suburban street are just “the tip of a bigger criminal iceberg”, authorities say.
Attorney General John Rau has told The Advertiser newspaper he is concerned about the complex criminal activity behind public outbursts of violence.
A gunman fired up to four shots at the ute of a Hells Angels bikie gang member, hitting him twice as he drove south in his Nissan Navara ute on South Rd, Croydon Park, just after midnight.
The man, 29, suffered gunshot wounds to his chest and upper arm but was able to drive to Royal Adelaide Hospital’s emergency department about 12.30am. Police said the shooting was part of an internal gang feud.
Mr Rau said it was yet another example of why the State Government was trying to push tougher crime laws through Parliament.
“These individuals are emboldened by a sense of invulnerability which creates a risk, particularly to other criminals, but also, unfortunately, to completely innocent members of the public who might happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time,” he said.
“It demonstrates the tip of a bigger criminal iceberg and all we see occasionally is the tip of that iceberg when something like this occurs.
“I’m interested in the iceberg, not just the tip.”
He said while most people were aware of the obvious criminal offence, there were underlying factors, including where criminals obtained firearms and if those were registered, which needed to be considered.
The shooting was the latest in a series of violent incidents in Adelaide. In January, Comancheros bikie gang member Giovanni Focarelli was shot dead and his father, club president Vince, survived a fourth attempt on his life in a shooting at Dry Creek.
NEW BIKERNET SERVICE–We can now send you daily reminders of new content on Bikernet. There’s no charge, just enter your e-mail address and go. You’ll receive one brief e-mail a day. Bikernet Feedburner
Plus, if you don’t like it in a month, you can always turn it off. Try it out and let us know how it works out.–Bandit
NEWS FROM BIKERNET TRIKES–Hello all you Tri-glide owners.
As a trike builder I recently got news of a new front fork cartridge insert for the H-D trike from Progressive Suspension and it allows for better handling of the trike, it is also recommended to use the 416 air shocks in the rear.
You heard correct, we’ve recently released our proven Fork Monotube design for Harley Tri-Glide Trike models. Improves front end control and ride comfort by converting archaic dual Damper rod forks to true high performance monotube dampers. This kit contains a pair of high performance, Gas charged Monotube fork cartridges complete with a set of our fork springs. This kit is a direct internal component replacement for all Tri Glide models. No modification to your forks are required.
* Improved Resistance to Front brake dive
* Improved front end stability
* Improved Cornering
* Improved Bottoming Control
* MSRP $339
Progressive Suspension
http://www.progressivesuspension.com/monotube/index.html
David Zemla
Director of Marketing
Progressive Suspension
.JPG)
NAVY BIKE FOR ROLLING THUNDER– We are have been selected and agreed to build a bike paying tribute to the US NAVY for Rolling Thunder in Washington D.C. We are building this bike at no cost and providing all labor and any parts we are unable to secure through sponsorship. Once complete. I will ride the bike from Oklahoma City to Washington for Memorial Day Weekend.
S&S has donated a Knuckle and Baker a 6-speed tranny. We are machining the fuel tank and fender from solid block billet aluminum. This bike will be simple, raw and elegant. Attached are mock-up photos of our entry for the AMD World Championships of Custom Bike Building for this year. It is similar to what the Navy bike will be like. Also attached are some teaser shot of the Navy Tank.
.JPG)
–Dar Holdsworth
DarwinMotorcycles.com http://brassballsbobbers.com/default.aspx
MOTOR TRIKE of Troup, Texas, has chosen TireGard Tire Pressure Monitoring System as standard equipment on its 2012 Trikes–TireGard by Big Bike Parts was first introduced in 2008 and has been recognized as the motorcycle market leader in Wireless Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems.
Offering 4 distinct products, TireGard has systems for 2-wheel motorcycles, Trikes, Bike and Trailer, and a new handlebar mount for 2 wheel systems.
The recognized value of including TireGard’s 3 wheel Trike system as the exclusive supplier as standard equipment, sets Motor Trike’s industry leadership ahead of everyone else by taking safety into account. TPM systems are also a proven way to increase fuel efficiency and extend tire life. Lightweight, 1/3 ounce sensors do not require tire re-balancing and each sensor has a patented anti- theft ring.
–Gary Koz Mraz
gary@bikernet.com
Bikernet Ad Sales
BIKERNET 5-BALL RACING WHEELER REPORT– Another great week in the Port of Los Angeles. We’re surrounded by calm waters, cool breezes and blinding sunshine with massive amounts of blue skies. Makes for great riding weather most of the year.
Bandit fired his latest FXR Mud Flap girl for the ride to the RSD Grand Opening Saturday afternoon. Handles and turns like a top.
The record setting 120-inch panhead, aptly named the Salt Shaker, made the voyage alongside, while we white lined through the crowded outskirts of Long Beach with the old-guy onboard the pan, that would be me. What a happy motorcycle, handles perfectly and fits like a glove.
Seems two major projects are both at critical stages at the same time. We’re nearing the finish line on the 96-inch Twin Cam project, and we are not going to Finland anytime soon. Our Bonneville roller is making headway. Both projects have me on the edge of the seat at times. Not to worry men, we have time on our side–today.
96-inch build
The guys in the Hardtailz shop in San Jose are waiting for a break in the action to install the latest Throttle body from Yankee Engineuity. Then it’s timing, oil pressure, fuel and fire. Might happen today?
Spent time on the phone with Duncan Keller this morning discussing aerodynamics, Duncan is the brains behind Yankee Engineuity, located 2 blocks from Hardtailz. Duncah has over 30 years attending the SCTA races on the Salt Flats, holding multiple records. Including the The Yankee Engineuity Express, The Worlds Fastest XR 750.
#67 – A-PF – 2006 – 167.562.
#67 – APG – 2004 – 149.190.
Duncan is the main brain behind finalizing the No- Butterfly EFI throttle body. The unit we will run on the 96-inch build is a 42 mm, 2001-2005 Delphi direct replacement. Coming attractions with first hand reports include 46 mm and 50 mm units.
Stay tuned.
124-inch 5-Ball Raycer
Rick has major components on the frame table with a plan in mind. We should see updated photos any minute. Pick up date for the full roller is a definite possibility the end of the month. Only time will tell.
Turbo Doc, located in Ogden, Utah shipped a Series 66 Aerocharger housing for mock up purposes, arriving today in Salem. Once Rick determines the desired location, marks and makes notes the units will return to Ogden where the good Doctor plans to open, inspect, re-clock and ship to Hardtailz for final assembly. In most cases Steve ships the same day.
Our 5-Ball Racing Team Raycer will run the latest Daytona Twin Tech closed loop 3-bar computer. The 3-bar keeps track of critical turbo boost information. Dan Thayer at www.vtwinfuelinjection.com is programming the unit with our basic engine information for a starting point.
We met Dan on the salt last year in the Perewitz camp while he was tuning Jodi’s R&R Cycle, 100 inch twin cam engine. Should you have fuel injection needs Dan is a pro. Ask Jodi, she ran over 200 mph first time out.
Our 5-Ball Racing Team Bonneville project has me researching the finer aspects of aerodynamics. Rick Tedder is mounting a proven commodity in Land Racing circuits, an Air Tech full frontal fairing with a belly pan in an attempt to punch-a-hole-in-the-wind under power. Frontal area is critical as you attempt slicing through the atmosphere, think thin, think quick, think like a slippery 22 caliber long bullet. Our ultimate goal, safety, and success at the end of the day.
Check out Leo Hess, Full Blast Engineering in 1992 at the World Finals, Leo recorded a pass at over 236 mph on a double engine hot rod with frontal fairing only. Seems and looks like a great idea. Leo was not able to make a back up pass for the record.
Haul Ass!
Ride for your Life!
–Ray c wheeler
Performance Editor
VP Cantina Business Development
wheeler@bikernet.com
FREE RIDER PRESS/BIKERNET.COM BY DAVE ZIEN– Sharing the Biker mystique and heritage by giving free rides to others on our motorcycles is euphoric! Feel free to enlighten any reunion, rally, family gathering or group event by sharing the wind and freedom.
Nursing homes are excellent sources of riders. Most memorable for me of the 3,500 plus rides that I have given, have been the disabled and the elderly. Sometimes an extra passenger is needed to stabilize the rider.
Minnie Opelt, Neillsville, said to Rep. Scott Suder and myself after her ride, “If the Harley-Davidson Company gives me a Harley, I’m going to learn how to drive it!” Minnie was almost 101 yrs. of age.
Randy, the quadriplegic Senate Page who operated his wheelchair with a straw, got his first ride on a cycle with Pete Hansen and me. It was one of the best moments of his life – just to be driven around the Madison Capital Square on Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
Please consider taking pictures of your rider, bike and yourself. Perhaps a $50 reward in November for the best picture will happen. You must get the pictures to me, to be judged by an impartial group of Bikers.
Yuppee, Biker, Wannabee – yet in Training.
This guy says, “Don’t run over anything that you don’t want to eat.” He has killed seven deer on a motorcycle. Three during the day and ideal driving conditions. Another three at dusk and one during a rainstorm.
He left Montana at 52 degrees below zero and got to Wisconsin – 20 degrees. Having no windshield or ferring made that trip truly remarkable on a 1972 Harley-Davidson FX.
Dan Steffans perhaps has the world record of most lifetime miles on a motorcycle at over 2.7 million. The Iron Butt Assoc. is now verifying and documenting that World’s record.
Since 1963, Harley-Davidson has been a lifestyle, work related passion and obsession for Dan Stephans. Dan is the Chief Architect for the State of Wisconsin. There are lots of other Bikers that need to be profiled.
Hope to see you soon, — so you can get an Apachee tear.
God Bless You
–Dave Zien
Former State Senator
Million Mile Motorcycle Man
AUSTRALIAN LIBERTIES UNDER THREAT– In the South Australian Attorney-General’s introduction to his August 2011 discussion paper entitled Combating Serious and Organized Crime, he states that “organized criminal groups are responsible for much of the serious crime in our community”.
In the Law Society’s response, we stated that while we do not oppose in-principle measures to combat serious organized crime, such measures should include safeguards to avoid abuse, wrongful or unnecessary detention, the curtailment of liberties and unsafe convictions.
It has therefore been personally disappointing for me to see the debate on the current raft of proposed legislative measures before the State Parliament on this topic focus on concepts such as: If the legislation as proposed is not passed without amendment, the police will not be able to do their job effectively. This is baloney.
The police already have substantial powers at their disposal to investigate and prosecute organized criminal groups. No one is actually opposing an expansion of those powers.
However, some of the cornerstones of our criminal system are that you are innocent until proven guilty, you are entitled to know what is being alleged against you and you are entitled to have your day in court.
Some of the proposed reforms do amount to a substantial curtailment of these basic rights and no legislation should seek to curtail these without appropriate justification.
Further, some of the proposed reforms have the potential not only to affect those criminals who are engaged in serious and organized crime, but also to potentially affect every one of us.
Some examples of those parts of the proposed reforms that concern me are as follows.
The police want to be able to use “criminal intelligence” in a range of areas. The definition of criminal intelligence includes information of an “actual” or “suspected” criminal activity, the disclosure of which could prejudice criminal investigations, or which would identify a confidential source, or endanger a person’s life.
The proposal is that such information could be used in court against you without disclosure to you of its contents. Amendments have been proposed that seek to ensure that in that case, the court would be obliged to seek to safeguard the use of that information only where appropriate. Why is this objectionable? It has been suggested that the police are unable to use the powers available to them under the Firearms Act 1977 or the Liquor Licensing Act 1997 without recourse to the unfettered use of “criminal intelligence”. This is nonsense. These two pieces of legislation existed long before the concept of “criminal intelligence” became fashionable.
Another example involves the confiscation of assets. The law currently allows for the confiscation of assets obtained as a result of criminal activity. The proposed changes in this area would allow, in certain circumstances, all assets of a serious offender, whether obtained from the proceeds of crime or not, to be confiscated.
Why should there not be a nexus between the crime and the asset? Punitive measures of this nature do not sit well in a country that seeks to embrace fundamental rights.
Ralph Bonig – SA Law Society president
STEALTH ENGINE UPGRADES NOW AVAILABLE– “Pretty fast for a stock bike, brother!” That’s a comment you might hear when you’re running an S&S 97″ or 106″ big bore kit with our new, redesigned and retooled cylinders. We’ve made a host of changes to improve the strength and cooling capabilities of our big bore cylinders, but best of all we’ve made them cosmetically difficult to tell from stock Harley-Davidson jugs. Upgrade your ride with more displacement and power, but don’t let anybody know!
Fitment:
2007 – 2012 big twins – 106″ kit – 3.927″ bore x 4 3/8″ (stock stroke)
1999 – 2006 big twins – 97″ kit – 3.927″ bore x 4″ (stock stroke)
Features & Benefits:
More displacement and performance – go fast!
Increased fin area for better heat dissipation – be cool!
Increase bore size from 3.750 to 3.927-inch – bigger is better!
Easy installation – no machining or rebalancing required – economical!
Cosmetic improvements – Hard to tell from stock cylinders
11 fins and full fin pattern on cam side closely resembles OEM shape
S&S Logo and part numbers are less conspicuous
Better overall appearance
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT HOSTS EXHIBITION OF MOTORCYCLIST-FRIENDLY CRASH BARRIERS– The exhibition “Safe roadside barriers for motorcyclists, an urgent need in Europe – How to effectively protect vulnerable road users improving the EU standard for roadside barriers”; will showcase a prototype friendly road restraint system, designed to offer better protection for motorcyclists.
The event is hosted by Members of the European Parliament Corien Wortmann-Kool (The Netherlands) and Ines Ayala-Sender (Spain). Access is open to all, from April 23rd through April 25th, at the European Parliament in Brussels. An opening reception will take place on April 24th.
The exhibition will address the broader issue of the hazard that standard guardrails create for motorcyclists.
Current standard European roadside barriers (EN 1317) have not been designed nor tested with vulnerable road users in mind. Motorcyclists pay a high toll when falling and hitting unprotected support posts or sharp edges: roadside barriers contribute to 8 to 16% of all motorcyclist fatalities across Europe.
Co-funded by the European Commission, the Smart Road Restraint Systems (SMARTRRS) project has developed an innovative road restraint system taking the safety of vulnerable road users into account, which will be shown at the event. The new intelligent barrier brings several substantial improvements to today’s EU standardized roadside barriers by proposing solutions addressing motorcyclists’ safety issues such as shock absorption, traffic information, and emergency response, three of Europe’s key road safety priorities 2011-2020.
FEMA General Secretary Aline Delhaye says, “The recent decision of Sweden to start installing motorcyclist-friendly barriers in black spot locations, joining other countries such as France, Portugal or Spain, shows that there is a lot of room for improving road infrastructure for motorcyclists. We need to raise awareness on the issue, with the help of the European Parliament, promote coordinated policies at national and local levels to ensure the availability of safer roadside barriers.”
BIKERNET STAFF LEGEND FEATURED– Dottie Bernhard of American Biker Legends published an article about Rogue, our east coast roving reporter, tech editor. You can see it at http://americanbikerlegends.com/across_the_usa/john_rogue_herlihy
He’s been fighting for our rights for about 40 years.
–Renegade
NEWS ABOUT REVERSE TRIKE KITS– You have a ton of info on your site about trikes, but I’ve searched ‘Reverse Trike’ and ‘Quad’ and find nothing. Are you aware of the many offerings in the Reverse Trike designs available today? I have about 70 listed on my site http://reversetrike.com/home.html
Women especially would benefit from this type of trike and you have discussed the CanAm Spyder before. But that is just one of many good Reverse Trikes that are available as you can see.
There’s also quite a few offerings in Street Driven Quads available today –
http://reversetrike.com/quads.html
I see you have the Goldwing trike listed prominently on your site, but what about the Hannigan Reverse Trike & Quad Kit for Honda GL1800 starting at only $7500 USD –
http://reversetrike.com/hannigan.html
If women can ride the trike version, how many might be interested in the Quad version I wonder. The Harley Reverse Trike or Quad kit on my site may have more appeal, but if your readers know nothing about these offerings…
–David Ewing
Branson, Missouri
david@kz1300.com
417.546.2090
Reverse Trike Club & Street Driven Quads – http://reversetrike.com/home.html
Builder Awards – 3Guyz has a promotion for the builders participating at the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show series. Till the end of the month they are combining their custom springer and rear sprocket brake system for $995. (Built to order & free freight in the lower 48) Call Andy @ 3Guyz – 503-998-4926 for details or check out www.3Guyz.com
Don’t miss the grand finale in Sturgis!
–Bob Kay & Jeff Najar
World Championship North American Bureau
Office: 919.886.5075
jeff@bikerpros.com
bkay@bikerpros.com
MUDFLAP GIRL ART PROJECT– Here’s the finished Mudflap Girl art. I know I originally said I’d only do the tanks and fenders for Frank’s bike but, I kept retouching your
bike’s art to see how the alternating colors, different finishes and components would look on his. I spent way too much additional time on it, so I really hope you are good with them.
The stripe tied in with the girl idea (on the tanks), you came up with looks much better than the way it was before. I used the type of Mudflap Girl that has the two legs. I tried the other type and thought it broke the line too much. Although there are differences between the
two bikes, the alternating paint colors really make them a pair.
SUPPORT AJ AND HIS FAMILY AT BREAK-TIME BILLIARDS– I rode to Roanoke, VA this past weekend for the 2012 Blue Ridge Bike Fest. I was hoping you could post this in the Thursday news to help some new friends I met in Roanoke.
A. J. Leffler is 12 years old and suffers from a rare form of brain cancer. AJ’s currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments and has undergone grueling surgery to remove a brain tumor. As you can imagine, medical costs are astronomical.
AJ’s mom is a school bus driver and his dad is a retired vet, so they have both given back to their communities and country. Break Time Billiards and Saloon has teamed up with AJ to sponsor a fundraising event. Saturday, April 28th, Break Time will host a pool tournament. Minimum donation is $10 for a buy in to the pool tournament or $10 donation cover if you don’t want to play. Still, everyone will be able to enjoy bands and guest performers and participate in an amazing raffle.
NASCAR Race Tickets at Martinsville Speedway for the Chase Race
Tickets to the Black Dog Jazz Festival
Pool cues
Gift certificates
And more
Each ticket has 2 chances to win. There will be food and additional prizes and a silent auction with great pieces of art from area artists.
Join us in support of AJ and his family at Break Time Billiards and Saloon, 8118A Plantation Road, Roanoke, VA 24019. The benefit and tournament will run from 2PM until 2AM.
Thanks Bandit, we appreciate the support and all that Bikernet does for the motorcycle community and our families.
–Chuck
BIKERNET TRIKES STAFF ALWAYS ON THE SEARCH–We are always on the never ending search for the latest and greatest three-wheeled motor-machines. Throughout the year we lavishly send Doc Robinson, our intrepid Global moto-journalist, International connoisseur of all things style and class and expert on red evening gowns and stilettos in pursuit of stories.
While in his home land of Australia, while in search of rare-earth minerals, Doc stumbled upon Uncle Bill, a former expert in Geophysical doodads and miscellaneous top-secret machinery. It turns out that Uncle Bill retired, he found respite in his shed by building Trikes, Bikes, cars and whatever else suits his fancy.
Check out Bikernet Trikes where Doc details a ground up retro Trike with a earth-pounding Ultima EVO motor. Somehow Doc is able to intertwine Benny Hill, Star Trek and some very interesting insights into his own brain. Check it out-Now!
THE OFFICIAL LAS VEGAS HOTEL OF THE BIKERNET FAMILY–DISCOVER WHY PALACE STATION IS THE LAS VEGAS LOCALS’ FAVORITE SPOT. SAVE UP TO 40% AND GET A $14.99 DINING CREDIT TO ENJOY AT OUR GREAT RESTAURANTS OR BUFFET. OUR ENTIRE TEAM HOPES TO SEE YOU SOON.
Live Las Vegas Music at Jack’s Palace Station features several Bars and Lounges including some that are open 24 hours a day. Jack’s is a favorite Las Vegas bar to come and enjoy a pint of ale while watching your favorite sporting events or just socializing amongst a lively crowd. Jack’ has live Las Vegas local music every Thursday – Saturday. The party starts daily with Happy Hour at 3pm!
Station Casinos Las Vegas Entertainment Hotline at 702.367.2470
Tickets may also be purchased at all Station Casinos Rewards Centers, Fiesta Casinos Rewards Centers or by calling (800) 745-3000.
–Nevada Bob
UNCLE MONKEY ON MADE WITH PRIDE IN THE USA–Made with pride in the USA – made in Canada for my readers north of the 49. It is rally call that is long over due in North America. For years manufacturing has been slowly moving across the ocean to be made in Asia. Cheaper labour, less restrictions, more technologically advanced in computers drained away many manufacturing jobs here in North America.
Even with shipping the items half way around the world and across country by truck it was still cheaper to have items made overseas. As the recession gripped the world we are starting to release that losing these jobs to cheaper workforces created unemployment here at home.
Made in the USA/Canada makes sense. We have a more then capable workforce, the raw materials and the know how to manufacture right here in our own back yard. For years we have taken comfort in the idea that domestically manufactured goods were superior to the cheaper imports.
We only have to walk into a discount dollar store to see the cheaply made items, the Amazing Man-Spider, Abble computers, Suny stereos. For motorcycles it is hard to compare the Harley Davidson to the chrome dipped plastics from Japan.
Harley Davidson has started an ad campaign in Turkey to encourage builders and customers to only use genuine Harley parts, anything less is a cheap knock off. They illustrated this by showing a biker with a blow up doll on the back of his bike. Had he had the real thing he would have missed being scorned by “real” bikers.
I support the aftermarket. Yes, there are some things that are better from the factory but many things bar and shield come from overseas. There are many aftermarket products made just down the street from us in locally owned shops and companies that exceed anything the factory can offer.
Where things get fuzzy is when we get lazy and think just because something is Canada/USA made it is better. This point was drove home to me last week when I was putting together BBQs at work. The American company had been making their grills overseas for the last few years and with the disdain for Made in China they were promoting that this year their BBQ were being built with pride here in North America. In a day I had assembled two identical BBQS, one from China and one from the US. The difference in quality was overwhelming, and not in a good way.
The two identical BBQ couldn’t be farther apart in fit and finish. Where the US had a stamped steel box I had to put together for the smoker China had an assembled box with the company name and logo laser engraved. Where one had sanded smooth edges the US has unfinished sharp edges. The protective film was peeled back where pieces fit together; the American had bolted right over…into the fire pit.
Over half of the bolts were missing or loose on the US made unit, whereas it said, “a BBQ proudly inspected by Jacob T to meet strict USA quality.” These differences don’t even go into the thinner stainless steel, the lighter cast grills, the..well you get the idea. Oh, and the US model cost $500 more for the same grill.
If we want to restore people’s belief that we can make a superior product then we have to deliver on manufacturing that superior product. Take pride in our workmanship. Stand up for a quality product. Learn and study our counterparts overseas and apply what we learn to our own factories. Because if a worker making $5 a week takes more pride in his workmanship then we do, what hope do we have?
-bad Uncle Monkey
MOBILE CUP OF COFFEE MAKER– The XPress lid, the world’s first French press in a lid, provides premium coffee for guys and gals who are on the gas and want to take a premium cup of coffee on the go. From more information connect with the XPress lid at http://www.mysmartcup.com.
You can win the 15th Anniversary Chopper sponsored by XPress Lid and Spectro by clicking here – https://www.bikernet.com//pages/custom/subscription.aspx
–Jeff Najar
“Miles of winding roads”
If there’s one thing for certain about West Virginia, it’s nearly impossible to find a straight road here. Aside from sweeping curves, rolling hills and scenic mountain vistas, the rugged terrain has also sculpted the friendly, hard working character of its people. So, what are you waiting for? Great rides, authentic people and unique experiences are right here in West Virginia; the heart of Appalachia.
Suggested Rides
Central rides
Mountains & Stream Ride
High Road Tour
Canaan Valley Tour
Mountain Lakes Tour
Eastern Panhandle ride
Washington Heritage trail
Motorcycle Around the Sesquicentennial
Northern rides
Parkersburg
Mountaineer Country
Southern rides
Coal Heritage South
Farm Country Ride
National Forest
Western Ride
Metro Valley – A Capitol Experience
BAD BOY CAR/MOTORCYCLE COMMERCIAL– I find this appalling and disgusting!
— Mark
Unbelieveable…
http://adsoftheworld.com/media/tv/nissan_juke_trophy
Alan Rodenborn
Racing Unlimited
Kawasaki/Polaris
2606 200TH ST
Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501
(515)955-6000
www.racingunlimited.com
“Motor racing, mountain climbing, and bull fighting are the only true sports. All the rest are childrens games played by adults.” – Ernest Hemingway
LONDON ACTION AT THE ACE CAFÉ– Ace Cafe London has teamed up with Draggin Jeans, not only for the forthcoming 3rd annual Streetfighter & Stunt Festival to be held at Brent Cross on Sunday 29th July, with pairs of the renowned, Kevlar reinforced, protective motorcycle jeans to be part of the prize packages for the three main competitions at the event – StuntBike Freestyle Competition, the “Best Streetfighter”, run by Streetfighters Magazine, and the Ace’s Show Up n’ Shine competition, but also on “Streetfighter Nights” held at the cafe on the first Friday of each month, from 6pm, May through to December, with pairs of Draggin Jeans up for grabs as prizes on:
Friday 1st June
Friday 6th July
Friday 3rd August
Friday 7th September
Friday 5th October
Friday 2nd November
Friday 7th December
Draggin Jeans will also be available to win as prizes on evenings:
Friday 27th July
Saturday 28th July
Spend £5 or more over the counter from 6pm on the above occasions and receive a raffle ticket. Draws will be held at 10pm.
www.dragginjeans.net
www.stuntuk.com
www.streetfightersmag.com
1995-2012 BAGGERS ROAR-INTO-SPRING EVENT–D & D is Roaring into Spring Sale for 1995 – 2008 Baggers, the sale starts April 1st through April 30th. The pipes are dialed in to deliver power where you use it most… off idle and in the passing zone.
D&D is rolling back pricing on:
Pipes:
* Fat Cat’s 2 into 1 Pipes
Year:
* 1995-2012 FLH/FLT
At idle, the motorbike is deep, boomy and full of character. Not only does the pipe look good, it is a wonderfully sounding experience for the rider.
-Dave Rash, Pope of Pipe
Call 817-834-8961 for details.
–Jeff Najar
SORE LOSER PROGRESS REPORT–I wanted to share my progress with Bikernet on “Sore Loser”.
I got my Choppers Inc. risers and pegs back from the machinist. I purchased some mid control mounts from Monstercraftsman. I welded 1″ spacers to them and added the pegs.
Cut out the stock battery box. I will make and weld a new battery tray to the swingarm. I will use the stock regulator/rectifier mount. I welded a few mounts for the ignition unit and the top cover that I will make with tooled leather to hide the electrics and reduce moisture to the components.
Using your “How to Build a Bonneville Salt Flats Motorcycle” for a few tips.
Have a great week!
–Adam Croft
CUBA’S MOTORCYCLE COUTURE ROARS BACK TO LIFE– By Patrick Oppmann, CNN Varadero, Cuba (CNN) — Decades navigating the roads in Cuba have left deep scars on Sergio Morales’ jet black 1947 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
The Harley’s frame is a battlefield of craters and gashes. The frozen odometer stopped counting at 45,000 kilometers. In Cuba, where little is in abundance save shortages, Morales uses a car wheel for his motorcycle’s back tire.
But when Morales kick-starts the Harley, its engine roars to full-throated life.
Morales is a “harlista,” what Cubans call the small band of men and women who have preserved the island’s motorcycle culture.
That hasn’t been an easy task in a country where a five-decades-old U.S. economic embargo makes getting new parts — much less bikes — near impossible.
“It’s work. You have to have spirit, desire,” Morales said. “There’s nowhere to buy spare parts here so over the years we have had to find alternative fixes or invent our own.”
And being a Harley fanatic courted controversy in the early years of the Cuban revolution when everything American, from jazz music to rock ‘n’ roll, was considered suspect. It also didn’t help that Harleys were the motorcycle of choice for police during the Batista dictatorship.
But now the iconic American bikes are enjoying something of a comeback.
Over the weekend, Morales was one of about 50 harlistas to participate in Cuba’s first ever nationwide Harley-Davidson rally in the beach resort town of Varadero.
“It’s an opportunity for us to celebrate not just the Harley but the Cuban Harley,” Morales said. “And in one of the prettiest places with the best beaches in the country.”
The sight of the motley crew of black leather-sporting motorcyclists pulling into a seaside town seemed like a scene straight out of the classic Marlon Brando film “The Wild One,” where a band of bikers terrorize a small community.
But in Varadero it was the bikers who were beset upon by admiring locals and tourists. One family of American tourists said they had changed their travel plans to come from Mexico to Cuba for a few days after learning about the event.
“We are here to give these guys a hand; it’s lot of work to keep their bikes running,” said event organizer Kristen MacQueen.
Cuban Harley aficionados are unique, MacQueen said, because their vintage bikes are not just for show.
“A lot of the people use them in their everyday life to get around,” MacQueen said. “For some people here, it’s their only form of transportation.”
The bikes lined up at the Varadero rally were a mix of Harleys from the decades leading up to Cuba’s 1959 revolution. Some Harleys were adorned with the face of revolutionary icon Che Guevara, others with American eagles.
In between demonstrating their agility in biking competitions, the harlistas checked out one another’s rides and explained to tourists how they keep them running.
Even with foreigners bringing in replacement parts from the outside, keeping the Harleys running is no small feat. Many of the bikes used parts cannibalized from Asian and old Soviet bikes and cars. Some Harlistas are legendary in the community for hand-making the parts they need.
But however challenging, none of the Cuban Harley fanatics says they plan to abandon their passion any time soon.
“You get to a point where the Harley becomes part of your family,” Cuban Harley owner Yuri Garcia said. “You become inseparable. If you sold it, you’d never find another bike like it.”
This product will increase tire life by 35-50%, reduce vibration, increase stability, improves braking and lowers tire temperatures. They are made of 304 polished stainless steel and a high tech combination of balancing media. The center hole measures 2.265” and the bolt hole pattern measures 3”. Fits Harley Davidson models (except V-Rod, Buell, Screaming Eagle with cone shaped brake rotors and custom wheels.)
Quality and reliability are of utmost importance, which is why Centramatic backs their Balancers with a Five-Year Unlimited Mile Warranty. Over 1,000,000 Balancers have been
produced and many are still in service with more than one million miles of operation.
MSRP starts at $98.95 to $289.95; visit your local Biker’s Choice dealer for application
information and pricing.
Happy Riding!
–Carmen
THE MIDNIGHT RIDER RESIDES ON BIKERNET BAGGERS–The Midnight Rider checked in through his on-board helmet communication system and we deciphered some of the transmission…
The endless tunnel of darkness that is Texas is totally mind-numbing. There is no escape, just keep moving forward fast. The winds kick up and ghostly shadows dance across the white stripes. There are long stretches of empty highway and I push 110 mph in a pathetic attempt to get to the next patch of distant light. Its 3:00 a.m. in and my lights go out. All my lights go out; the bike is still running but the dash, the running lights, headlamp, taillights and accessory HID ( High Intensity Discharge) lights…out, dead, nothing. The demons of darkness now caress the hairs on my neck…
The line then went dead. We’re anticipating more from the Midnight Rider-any minute now. Hopefully he’s ok. Check out follow up reports on Bikernet Baggers
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY NOW OPEN–Paddy and Mick were walking along a street in London . Paddy looked in one of the shop windows and saw a sign that caught his eye. The sign read, “Suits £5.00 each, Shirts £2.00 each, trousers £2.50 per pair”.
Paddy said to his pal, “Mick look at the prices! We could buy a whole lot of those and when we get back to Ireland we could make a fortune. Now when we go in you stay quiet, okay? Let me do all DA talking ’cause if they hear our accents, they might think we’re thicko’s from Ireland and try to screw us. I’ll put on my best English accent.”
“Roight y’are Paddy, I’ll keep me mouth shut, so I will. You do all DA business” said Mick.
They go in and Paddy said in a posh voice, “Hello my good man. I’ll take 50 suits at £5.00 each, 100 shirts at £2..00 each, and 50 pairs of trousers at £2.50 each. I’ll back up me truck ready to load ’em on, so I will.”
The owner of the shop said quietly, “You’re from Ireland , aren’t you?”
“Well yes,” said a surprised Paddy. “What gave it away?”
The owner replied, “This is a dry-cleaners.”
–from Jim Waggaman
HERE IS THE THURSDAY DEAL FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 1989 FXR! Oil cooler, Lower rear shocks, S&S G carb, New battery, Drag pipes. Nice all around bike for $7500!
GO CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN! YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU WILL FIND!
MIKE the STEALTH
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/FXD-Super-Glide/2555291/1989-HD-Superglide.html
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK–DYNA & WIDE GLIDE :: ’91-’12– Cherokee – Pleated Seating
With its pure Bobbed & Chopped, King/Queen lines and incredible lower back support for the driver, the Cherokee offers the throwback look your Dyna was born to have. Now available with our killer pleated stitch! Rider seating area is 11.5″ wide. Passenger seating area is 7″ wide.
MSRP $455.00
MISSING TECH RIDER SURFACES AFTER SNOW THAWS–I have been working out details with TJ (owner) at Eastside Performance in Mesa Az. He did the first engine work on my Road King about five years ago, and the bike has run flawless thru 15 states.
The main point is to get the D&D 2 into 1 exhaust installed for a tech article for Bikernet. Since I need a top end done, I will be adding another article (series?) on showing what a rider can get for their money by keeping what they already own or buying used, and making upgrades using parts designed and manufactured in the U.S.A.
I am riding to Arizona Monday, April 23rd, drop bike off Tuesday AM at opening. Shop begins doing top end job right away. I go back to shop to get D&D photos on shot list when installing D&D exhaust, put 500 miles on bike, change oil then dyno! Article with photos turned in May 2nd.
Work to be done, 1) 88 to 95 inches.
2) Andrews 21G to 37G
3) Fueling oil pump
4) D&D exhaust (2-1)
5) Dyno tune
–Mark Shubin
[page break]
SEASON THREE of CAFÉ RACER PREMIERES– Season 3 of CAFE RACER premieres tomorrow April 19 at 8:00/and 8:30 on Velocity. Please see the clip below for embedding to get a glimpse of what CAFE RACER has to offer this season. For more information, please feel free to visit press.discovery.com. Don’t forget to tune in at 8:00pm and 8:30pm E/P this Thursday on Velocity for a great ride!
BROKEN SPOKE CAMPGROUND OFFERING THE BEST CAMPING VALUE AT STURGIS– STURGIS IS ONLY A FEW SHORT MONTHS AWAY –
ENJOY ALL 14 DAYS FOR JUST $129!
JOIN US FOR THE ACTION JULY 30 – AUGUST 12
* * * *
The Broken Spoke Campground at Sturgis is once again the place to be July 30 – Aug. 12 for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2012! There is an early bird discount rate available now through May 1 of just $129 per person to camp. This includes free access to the private and clean showers, World’s Largest Biker Pool, hot tubs, unforgettable contests, emcee Jack Schit, live entertainment at the ride-through Broken Spoke Saloon and top national performances by the likes of Uncle Kracker, the Kentucky Headhunters, and Truth & Salvage Co. Additional national entertainment announcements will follow in the coming weeks.
Act fast to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to save money and reserve your spot while they last. Just ride into the clean, safe campground and pitch a tent anywhere on the 600-acre lot. No assigned sites and no extra cost for vehicles parked at the campsite. The Broken Spoke Campground also offers RV and motor coach electrical hook-ups; including water hook-up and sewer pick up. Also available are RV rental packages, provided by Jack’s RVs, and large private cabins with numerous amenities.
The Broken Spoke Campground is honored to be the home of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Roving Wall – The Wall That Heals during the 2012 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Please join the Broken Spoke family in honoring our countries fallen heroes. Opening Ceremonies will be held on Saturday, Aug. 4 at 1 p.m. Admission and parking for this awe-inspiring memorial is free and open to the public.
The facilities offered at the Broken Spoke Campground will keep you comfortable, clean, well fed and entertained… you will be the envy of all your friends. Why would you stay anywhere else when everything you need is right here? The Broken Spoke Campground on 79 North – Sturgis Starts Here
For more information, please visit our new website: www.brokenspoke.com
BIKERNET BAGGERS READER COMMENT–Regarding “Stuck!” by Scooter Tramp Scotty:
http://www.bikernetbaggers.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=10392
Enjoyed the read and the photos…story left me w/many memories of difficult jams I had also been in…
Cool addition to your online rag…
— Eric James
Eagle , ID
BIKER’S CHOICE DELIVERS THE BUILDING BLOCKS FOR THE BIKERNET/CYCLE SOURCE 15TH ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY CHOPPER–
International distributor, Biker’s Choice, is providing products for the Bikernet/Cycle Source 15th Anniversary Giveaway Chopper, sponsored by XPress Lid, which is being awarded at the Las Vegas Bikefest this fall. (You don’t need to be there to win.)
Biker’s Choice is the ideal partner for the project because they have all of the products that a builder needs: the team will utilize Biker’s Choice gas tank, their Twin Power Battery and numerous other must-have items needed to complete the build.
“I’m looking forward to working with Gary Maurer of Kustoms Inc., and Ron Harris of Chop Doc’s on the Anniversary Chopper, as these guys are true metal artists,” stated Charlie Hadayia, Biker’s Choice Director of Business Development. “Once these guys breathe their magic on a project, you can be sure that the sled will look as good as it runs.”
Cycle Source Magazine and Bikernet.com are showcasing the build from the ground up. Each month Cycle Source Magazine will run an article from the build team. The motorcycle will be given away later this year during Las Vegas Bikefest. Videos and additional articles are hosted at
www.Bikernet.com and www.winthechopper.com.
The sweepstakes chopper is of classic design, featuring a 3 Guyz springer front end and a Crazy Horse 100ci mil in a light weight frame fabricated by Texas Bike Works. It’s built on a proven design by fabricators and American suppliers who have perfected their craft over many years.
Product sponsors for the Bikernet/Cycle Source 15th Anniversary Giveaway Chopper include 3 Guyz, ACCEL Motorcycles, Aeromach USA, Biker’s Choice, Barnett Clutches, Bell Helmets, Crazy Horse Motorcycles, D&D Exhaust, Evil Engineering, Fab Kevin, Hawg Halters, Grip Ace, Rivera Primo, Rocking K Custom Leathers, Spectro Performance Oils, Texas Bike Works, Wire Plus and XPress Lid by SmartCup.
Details of the build, interviews and updates are located in the print version of Cycle Source Magazine, and at www.cyclesource.com.
About SmartCup’s XPress Lid SmartCup, Inc., manufactures the award-winning XPress lid, the industry’s first disposable French press lid system. A French press delivers a rich, creamy and flavored-filled cup. Since the coffee oils aren’t trapped in a paper filter or burned in a percolator, the true essence of the coffee comes through.
SmartCup’s mission is to bring a high-quality, convenient, customizable and fully portable brewing experience to motorcyclists. SmartCup is located on the web at http://mysmartcup.com.
–Jeffrey Najar
pr@ bikerpros.com
BALLS – INTERESTING OBSERVATION–
1. The sport of choice for the urban poor is BASKETBALL..
2 The sport of choice for maintenance level employees is BOWLING.
3 The sport of choice for front-line workers is FOOTBALL.
4 The sport of choice for supervisors is BASEBALL.
5 The sport of choice for middle management is TENNIS.
And…..
6 The sport of choice for corporate executives and officers is GOLF.
THE AMAZING CONCLUSION
The higher you go in the corporate structure, the smaller your balls become.
There must be a boat load of people in Washington playing marbles
–from Jim Waggaman
KAWASAKI SUNDAY – celebrates Z1’s 40th Anniversary–Revealed to a stunned European motorcycle audience at the 1972 IFMA motorcycle show in Cologne, the impact and significance of the Kawasaki Z1 cannot be underestimated.
Marking the emergence of Kawasaki into the large capacity four-stroke multi-cylinder market, the Z1, and its many subsequent incarnations, proved fundamental in establishing the Japanese manufacturer’s reputation for “bullet proof” precision engineering that lasts to this day.
As the first motorcycle in a revered forty year history of Z models, the 903cc Z1 has become a motorcycling icon and, for many enthusiasts and industry experts, a machine of great historical significance. Combining advanced technical features and what has become recognised as a timeless design, the Z1 is one of the most coveted collector’s machines in the world of motorcycling.
Inspirational and innovative, the four-cylinder, across the frame four-stroke sports tourer led to an array of further successful Z machines and acted as technical and design inspiration for many subsequent Kawasaki models in the Z line including the current Z750R and streetfighter style Z1000.
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Z model line, and the 1972 European debut of the iconic Z1, UK, fans of the Z series will get a chance to see a variety of pristine examples of the Z1 and other machines from forty years of the Z line at Ace Cafe London’s annual Kawasaki Day on Sunday 22 April.
It’s a free day out and the atmosphere on Kawasaki day at the Ace Cafe is always very special, this Z40 celebration on 22 April will make it even more so.”
MAJOR LOSS TO TRIUMPH COMMUNITY–Keith Moore passed away a couple of days ago. “You could not stump this guy with any Triumph question,” Earl said, complimenting Keith’s knowledge of Triumphs.
He will be sorely missed.
–Wrench
FAMOUS RIDER FXR FOR SALE–This X-hamster spent 10 in Iraq and Afghanistan training troops. He has written several tech books on everything macho from Close Quarters Combat, to mountain rescue and weapons training. He is now a national Judo instructor and judge.
He is now back in the states and wishes to sell his custom, Big Guy, FXR.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON CHOPPER, Low Miles, Engine work by Bartels Performance, PM Brakes and wheels, frame stretched by Jesse James.
$12,500
In Bear Valley, California: 661-821-1210
BIKERNET FAMILY COUNSELING SESSION–Why Men Wear Earrings?
Did you ever wonder why earrings became so popular with men?
A man is at work one day when he notices that his co-worker is wearing an earring.
The man knows his co-worker to be a normally conservative fellow, and is curious about his sudden change in “fashion sense”
The man walks up to him and says, “I didn’t know you were into earrings.”
“Don’t make such a big deal, it’s only an earring,” he replies sheepishly.
His friend falls silent for a few minutes, but then his curiosity prods him to ask, “So, how long have you been wearing one?”
“Ever since my wife found it in my truck.”
(I always wondered how this trend got started)
–from Rik Savenko
BIKERNET Tail Gunner Review: Touring H-D Lowering Blocks:
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=10095
Gunner Here, Bob in Canada, If your interested, I still have the block kit I used in the article, yours for $100. Call me 661-272-1347 –Gunner out.
JASON ELLISON FROM ACCEL TALKS SELF LEARNING MODULES FOR YOUR HOG– For 30 years, ACCEL has been recognized as THE premium brand of electrical components for use on American V-Twin Motorcycles.
“ACCEL Self-Learning Modules make fuel injection tuning easy. No Downloads, No Laptops, No Dyno: Just plug in and ride!”
-Jason Ellison
CLICK HERE FOR THE PODCAST –
http://bikernetstudio.com/2012/04/18/podcast-interview-with-jason-ellison-of-accel/
–Jeff Najar
PRECISION BILLET PRODUCTS ADDS TO V-TWIN PRODUCT LINEUP– Ignition switch covers and Assassin air cleaners bring more choice to those seeking a custom look.
Ignition Switch Covers
Riders can choose from a variety of familiar designs in PBP’s new ignition switch cover offering, including Darkside, Exotic, Fleur, and Aces Wild. Like the other accessories PBP offers, the company’s ignition switch covers feature unique 3D designs and exotic inlays and wraps, including mother of pearl and carbon fiber. The covers are meticulously milled from 6061 T6 aluminum then hand finished and inlaid. Available in black anodized or show chrome finishes with an MSRP of $99.00 to $139.00.
Assassin Air Cleaners
New Assassin air cleaners are crafted from 6061 T6 billet aluminum inlaid with a red carbon fiber and Kevlar® blend or black carbon fiber. This product complements the Assassin red Kevlar®/carbon fiber floorboards already available. Precision Billet motorcycle air cleaners feature unique designs that maximize air flow, giving intake air an efficient, easy path to follow into the carburetor. The kits fit stock single-throat EFI throttle bodies used on 2001 Softail® and all 2002 and newer EFI models. Available in hard black anodized contrast cut or show chrome finish. The Assassin billet air cleaner accessory kit includes a K&N® filter, backing plate, front plate and all mounting hardware, starting at an MSRP of $419.00.
For more information about the full Precision Billet Products family of accessories, proudly made in the USA for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, visit www.precisionbillet.com.
Precision Billet’s 10,000-square-foot facility in Gilbert, Arizona is where the company machines, bends, welds, builds and assembles all of its products.
–Ken Conte
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY PHILOSOPHY CLASS LESSON– Keep this in mind the next time you are about to repeat a rumour or spread gossip.
In ancient Greece (469 – 399 BC), Socrates was widely lauded for his wisdom. One day an acquaintance ran up to him excitedly and said, “Socrates, do you know what I just heard about Diogenes?”
“Wait a moment,” Socrates replied, “Before you tell me I’d like you to pass a little test. It’s called the Triple Filter Test.”
“Triple filter?” asked the acquaintance.
“That’s right,” Socrates continued, “Before you talk to me about Diogenes let’s take a moment to filter what you’re going to say. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?”
“No,” the man said, “Actually I just heard about it.”
“All right,” said Socrates, “So you don’t really know if it’s true or not. Now let’s try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about Diogenes something good?”
“No, on the contrary…”
“So,” Socrates continued, “You want to tell me something about Diogenes that may be bad, even though you’re not certain it’s true?”
The man shrugged, a little embarrassed. Socrates continued, “You may still pass the test though, because there is a third filter, the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about Diogenes going to be useful to me?”
“No, not really.”
“Well,” concluded Socrates, “If what you want to tell me is neither True nor Good nor even Useful, why tell it to me or anyone at all?”
The man was bewildered and ashamed. This is an example of why Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem.
It also explains why Socrates never found out that Diogenes was banging his wife.
–from Gerry Celia
SUPER-FINE LEATHER WORK AVAILABLE–Howard Knight from Rocking K Custom Leather creates custom leather seats, saddlebag and tool bags. The firm is providing custom leather seat and saddlebag for the 15th Anniversary Giveaway Chopper.
His latest seat is designed for Ultra Glide and is made using a combination of Elephant hide and ornately tooled cowhide. The deep texture on the hide gives the rider a more stable fit when cornering; all of this makes for a seat that speaks comfort and stability on long road trips or short jaunts around town.
Howard uses African exotic skins because they are unique and durable. Hides are sourced from a tannery in Zimbabwe. More information at www.rockingkcustomleather.com.
–Jeff Najar
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT UPLIFTING VOCABULARY LESSON–bona fides BOH-nah FEE-des, noun:
1. Good faith; the state of being exactly as claims or appearances indicate.
2. (Sometimes italics) (used with a plural verb) the official papers, documents, or other items that prove authenticity, legitimacy, etc., as of a person or enterprise; credentials.
He seemed to feel that he had to convince them of his bona fides before they would trust the purity of the fuel that he was selling.
— Dean R. Koontz, One Door Away from Heaven
The want of sincerity or bona fides, in a large body of men, respected and respectable, is a very tender place, and cannot be touched with too much delicacy.
— Thomas Reid, The Works of Thomas Reid
We cannot investigate the bona fides of any of these people. We have to rely solely on deduction.
— Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express
Originally bona fide, bona fides was accidentally pluralized by the 1830s and subsequently was used as a synonym for credentials.
BUTLER MAPS FREE RESOUCE– This free resource goes beyond the roads to help you get the best of your ride. Riding through the Texas Hill Country and need a cozy B&B to rest your hide? Click the town you’re in and see a list of every B&B near you.
http://www.butlermaps.com/Motorcycle-Tour-Guides
Have a soft spot for BBQ and cold beer? A list of every great restaurant and pub is a click or scan away. You don’t need to spend hours searching dozens of sites. Everything you need is right here.
ADD YOUR FAVORITE STOP If you know of a place we missed or want your business featured in front of thousands of bikers then let us know.
–Gary Koz Mraz
gary@bikernet.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY REVEALS THREE SOURCES OF ANTIOXIDANTS–When it comes to getting your antioxidants, one place to look is your kitchen. Dr. Weil considers green tea, red wine and chocolate to be great sources of antioxidants in the diet:
* Regular drinking of green tea has been shown to lower mortality risk.
* Studies show red wine has beneficial effects on cardiovascular health (though it is important to moderate alcohol intake).
* Dark chocolate has been shown to decrease blood pressure when regularly included in the daily diet in small amounts.
–Dr Weil
www.drweil.com
SWAP MEET AT THE MARINA–Swap Meet this Sat & Sun 21st and 22nd
Leeward Bay Marina – Home of the Chowder Barge
Boating and Household items
Grab a Byte or Beverage at the Barge
www.chowderbarge.com
310-830-7937
Look for Chowder Barge
on FaceBook and ‘Like’ Us!
STICKER OF THE WEEK– This would make a sharp sticker for the front door!!
–Bob Clark
AUDI TO BUY DUCATI– Reuters reports
Citing anonymous sources, Reuters reported today that Volkswagen’s Audi unit has decided to buy Ducati from Investindustrial for about 860 million euros ($1.12 billion) including debt.
According to the news agency, the deal allows VW chairman Ferdinand Piech, who owns a Ducati superbike, to make up for a missed opportunity nearly 30 years ago to buy the OEM.
One source told Reuters that Ducati’s debt was well below 200 million euros in an acquisition some analysts said lacks obvious benefits for Audi other than adding to its stable of exotic nameplates, which includes Lamborghini and Bugatti.
One analyst quoted by Reuters called the acquisition “an unnecessary sideshow” to VW’s automotive challenges.
Ducati will increase the VW group’s brand portfolio to 12 and extend Audi’s long-standing rivalry with BMW to superbikes, Reuters noted.
“The purchase does have a trophy feel to it, in the sense of something you might mount up on the wall next to the stag you shot last year,” an auto industry analyst told the news agency.
A Barclays Capital analyst said the deal showed just how much VW’s 17 billion euros in cash was burning a hole in its pocket. VW’s business generates nearly 8 billion euros in free cash every year, he said.
Bloomberg also reported today that the sale to Audi was imminent, citing an anonymous source.
Posted by Arlo Redwine
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com
WESTMINSTER HARLEY-DAVIDSON SEMINAR WITH BIKERNET TRIKES REPORTER– Craig Franz owner of Westminster Harley Davidson and Bikernet Trikes journalist Gary Mraz are presenting Shanghai HOGs: Riding Harley Davidsons in China at 7:pm tonight at Westminster Harley Davidson.
They both rode with the Shanghai Harley Owners Group through rural China last year covering 1600 miles in six days.
BIKERNET QUOTE OF THE DAY– “All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible.”
– T. E. Lawrence
–from Dr. Willie
HOLY MOLY–Thursdays are a rampage of activity. I attempt to hide out and focus solely on the news, but it never happens. Sure as shit an old girlfriend surfaces and causes havoc. Parts arrive and I’m tugged to run into the shop and toss wrenches. You name it, and it flies at us on Thursdays.
But what the hell, it’s all good. I promised to read fiction next, and Ray works feverishly late into the nights, on his next 96-inch Twin Cam rebuild story. Next weekend he hauls north to deliver race bike parts and collect his rider, the 96-inch Dyna. Next week I will put another Bonne Bell story together. By the end of this weekend, I just may have the chassis dialed in and ready for paint. Our painting master, Jim Murillo offered to swingy by to see the puppy together. Then I need to return Mike’s 45 mock-up motor to Pacific Coast Cycles.
Never a dull moment, and Toph is heading to Laughlin. Gary is giving seminars and riding north. Ben is beating his dog, and Sin Wu is taking Salsa dance classes. Nobody around here sits on his or her ass. Have a helluva weekend.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
