Hey,
I know governments are a mess including this country. Why don’t they get it? We’re living in the best of times. This is especially true for kids. Look what you can make out of life, how much education is available, travel, accomplishments, you name it.
I was working on my third tech around building a Knucklehead chopper and something dawned on me. I just turned 75, and look at all the cool stuff I can do this year. I can build a modern S&S Knucklehead in a modified vintage frame with an old stock XA front end, including old and new parts. Then I can build a 1913 H-D racer, because vintage shit is being manufactured all over the world. I can write another book, go to Bonneville with the Salt Torpedo, build metal art, work on my home in Sturgis, drive a lowered ’58 Chevy, learn the history of South Dakota and write cool articles on Bikernet every day!
Think about kids today, all the stuff they can do on their phones daily. They don’t need to chop wood to cook breakfast or hunt for something to eat. Life is incredible, all you need to do is to get out of bed and get moving. It’s all at your fingertips.
Let’s hit the news.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
BATTLE LINES BEING DRAWN—
In August 2022 California Governor Gavin Newsom announced, and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved, an executive order requiring sales of all new passenger vehicles be zero-emission by 2035. While the California directive doesn’t include motorcycles yet, motorcyclist advocates in the Golden State have warned that motorcycles will be an obvious next target.
Unsurprisingly, other states quickly followed suit and enacted similar policies. Massachusetts, Oregon, Washington, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland have all sought to put similar restrictions in place. In total 17 states have laws that bind their emissions regulations to those of California.
However, leaders in many states, including those that are obliged to follow California’s lead, are pushing back. In Colorado, the Energy Office said, “While the governor shares the goal of rapidly moving towards electric vehicles, he is skeptical about requiring 100% of cars sold to be electric by a certain date as technology is rapidly changing.”
Virginia governor Glenn Youngkin was even more forceful, “I am already at work to prevent this ridiculous edict from being forced on Virginians. California’s out of touch laws have no place in our Commonwealth.”
This month the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted down a bill that would have forced New Hampshire to match California’s emissions goals.
Congressional Republicans are also joining the fight against the California policies. Last week H.R. 1435 was introduced, titled the “Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act.” H.R. 1435 would amend the Clean Air Act to prevent the elimination of the sale of internal combustion engines, effectively overruling California’s move. Within just a week, 66 cosponsors from 26 different states joined in support.
The movement isn’t contained to the United States. Last month, the European Parliament formally approved a law to effectively ban the sale of new gas and diesel powered vehicles in the European Union starting in 2035. But Europe, too, is seeing pushback. Farmers in the Netherlands have taken to the streets in protest of emissions regulations. Member nations of the EU are also expressing a desire to make changes to the newly enacted policy. Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia are discussing what changes they’d like to see to the European Union’s 2035 plan.
This issue is not new to the MRF. Our 2023 legislative agenda includes this priority: “Work against any efforts by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) that endanger the future of motorcycling.”
We are ready for this fight and will work with partners across the country to defend the future of motorcycling and the lifestyle we cherish!
–MRF
METZELER Unveils 2023 Consumer Rebate Program—
Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires for Residents of the United States
ATLANTA (March 20, 2023) – Metzeler Moto North America unveils an all-new consumer rebate program for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Metzeler tires through their local participating dealership and select online retailers. Consumers within the United States can take advantage of as much as $25 USD rebate per tire or $60 USD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.
“Metzeler is thrilled to announce the consumer rebate program for 2023,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager, Metzeler. “One of our goals was to work alongside our participating dealers and make this program beneficial to various Metzeler riders, whether it be v-twin, sport, or off-road. Metzeler continues to set the industry standard, and we look forward to growing the brand across all segments again in 2023.”
A $25 USD per tire rebate or $60 USD rebate per set will be offered for the Metzeler Lasertec™, Enduro 3 Sahara, Racetec™ RR, Sportec™ M9 RR, Sportec™ M7 RR, Roadtec™ 01 SE, Roadtec™ 01, Roadtec™ Z8 Interact, Cruisetec™, ME 888 Marathon™ Ultra, Tourance™ Next, Tourance™ Next 2, Karoo™ Street, and Karoo™ 4. Additionally, the MCE 6 Days Extreme, MC360™ Mid Soft, and MC360™ Mid Hard are eligible for a $30 USD per set rebate.
This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and April 30, 2023, and only for legal residents of the United States. After purchasing a set of qualifying Metzeler tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out an online claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital pre-paid VISA card.
NEW FROM JESSE JAMES—The Outlaw Television Network
Outlaw Television Network highlights the outlaw lifestyle of freedom, independence, confidence, and perseverance. We will focus on the pioneer spirit that sets us apart from the world.
We will highlight the risk takers, entrepreneurs, and the brave. Those who have a vision and work hard to achieve their goals despite the odds. True pioneers in all fields including music, art, sports, business or whatever your passion may be.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK—
STOCK # 13752
Super clean Green XL883 Iron with ONLY 740 miles this bike is like new what a score!
* Vance & Hines Grande Shorty exhaust
* Crash bar
* Front shock boots
* Solo seat
* Freedom air intake
* 9 Spoke mag wheels with like new tires
* Smoked Led turn signals with LED halo head lamp
* LED Halo headlamp
* Smoked LED turn signals
This bike is only $ 10,995
Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied!
EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!
URL: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=13456844
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806. Open 7 days a week.
NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.
Huge selection of Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!
We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory,
Please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
–Richard Allstun
Marketing Director
Lifestyle Cycles
714.490.0155
THIS JUST IN FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE— Yo, hope you all are doing well.
Got a great spot on Route 66 in Atlanta, IL for a custom shop and working fulltime job at Dixie Crossroads Truckstop.
Going to be moving my work to Leather products such as wallets, belts, timecovers, production chopper seats etc. Also going to start making Billy Lanes Cool-Hand Speedco 50 handmade leather seats I designed.
–Adam Croft
Founder
Dime Bag Leather Works
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–The Funniest Guy in Biker Media, J.J.
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_Funniest_Guy_in_Biker_Media_JJ.aspx
I started to read Easyriders almost when it first came out. I enjoyed Solari’s stories to the bone. I can’t wait until I get his book.
— Guadalupe Rodriquez
Victoria, TX
FEATURE BIKE OF THE WEEK—Built by Kyle Bosch
–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™
RICHARD PETTY Offers High Performance Speed Shop—
(Randleman, NC) Richard Petty is called “The King” because he’s won more races than anyone in NASCAR history, and he came by those wins with hard work, a great crew, and plenty of speed. Today that same winning spirit can be found at Petty’s Garage in Randleman, which specializes in working on high performance vehicles.
“People are holding on to their cars longer these days. In fact, the average age of a car on the road is over twelve years old,” said Chris Hussey, manager of Petty’s Garage. “We can reinvent or increase the horsepower of just about any car, and we’ve done so for regular folks as well as celebrities.”
Those satisfied celebrities include Kid Rock, Tim Tebow, and Brian Johnson, front man with AC/DC.
“Basically, Petty’s garage is for anyone who is looking for more power or to restore their car to its high performance greatness,” said Hussey. “Plus, there’s always the chance you’ll run into the King himself while you’re here at the shop.”
“I’ve been building hot rods ever since I was a little kid and my bicycle wouldn’t go fast enough,” said Petty. “Our crew here at the garage has that same kind of drive to succeed for their customers.”
Petty’s Garage specializes in everything American muscle! Our master engine builders can upgrade stock engines to generate upwards of 1000 horsepower, develop and hand-fabricate performance parts for stock vehicles, and restore/modify old cars to the highest standard in the industry. All of these services and much more can be found online at pettysgarage.com
Let Petty’s Garage start a new project for you, or upgrade your current vehicle. For more information visit www.pettysgarage.com .
–Pam Cook
FRED KODLIN DOES IT AGAIN—
The custom BMW R 18 B ‘Heavy Duty,’ designed by Fred Kodlin and his son Len, was unveiled at Daytona Bike Week and features modifications to the frame and body and a custom paint job by tattoo artist Marcel Sinnwell.
TRIKE ALERT—
Howdy, Bandit! I thought you might want to put this warning out to the trike community!
Howdy! Grab a chair an’ a beer, ‘cause I’ve got a warning for ya!
A lot of ya will remember be from Thunder Press, and remember my wife, Reggie’s pink trike. She’s put almost 100K miles on it, and rode it all over the western states. A while back, she noticed a clunk, an’ when I checked it out, I found that the left side axle housing had broken the welds, and the angle destroyed the bearing surfaces of the aluminum center housing.
I found out that Champion Trikes, the makers of the kit I used, (before Harley made trikes) had been sold and the design changed, so no parts are available for the older kits. With a lot of miles on the bike, we decided it wasn’t worth buying another 10K kit, so she bought a new trike and I started to put her Heritage back on 2 wheels. That’s when I discovered that the main supports were also broken, and it’s lucky she wasn’t slidin’ down the highway on her ass at 80 miles an hour!
Ride safe, y’all, and we’ll see ya on the road!
–Buckshot, Thunder Press (Retired)
We covered the whole story on the Bikernet Blog:
NEWS FROM THE PRISM GANG—
Box chopper taillight
We like the original Box Chopper Tail Light, but with an incandescent bulb and 2.5″ thick, it’s just too bulky and dim. Our version of this classic light is 3/4″ thick with a bright waterproof LED that acts as both the running and brake light.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON EUROPEAN 120TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL– LINE-UP ANNOUNCED
Today marks 120 days to go until thousands of passionate Harley-Davidson fans join together in Budapest, Hungary, to celebrate 120 years of the Motor Company.
Oxford, UK (22 Feb, 2023) – Today marks 120 days to go until thousands of passionate Harley-Davidson fans join together in Budapest, Hungary, to celebrate 120 years of the Motor Company. The ‘European Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary Festival’ will take place from the 22nd to the 25th of June and promises to be a unique and thrilling party of multiple dimensions!
This landmark festival will bring together motorcycle enthusiasts and H-D fans from all over the world to celebrate the brand’s incredible heritage, the iconic motorcycles that it has produced over the past 120 years, and a look forward to the exciting future that lies ahead.
Taking place in the Puskás Aréna Park, in the centre of the city, festivalgoers can look forward to four days packed with first-class international live music acts, with 50 bands performing across six stages and providing a comprehensive and eclectic music programme.
Headlining the event’s main stage are a number of internationally renowned artists, including popular Australian rock group Wolfmother on Saturday the 24th of June and Deep Purple legend Glenn Hughes on Sunday the 25th of June, who will be performing the group’s best-loved hits. The second day of the festival, Friday the 23rd of June, will celebrate female vocalists and will be headlined by Larkin Poe, led by Nashville-based sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell; meanwhile, many of Hungary’s best-loved and top artists will also be performing throughout the event.
Alongside these crowd-pleasing music acts will be a vast range of other entertainment and activities, with something on offer for all to enjoy – from young families to adrenaline-seekers. The extensive festival programme will include:
Moto culture – a wide range of riding opportunities, spectacular moto shows and stunning indoor and outdoor exhibitions featuring H-D motorcycles past, present and future:
Dynamic entertainment – dedicated zones including Adrenaline and Family Parks, plus event showcases across the festival campus;
Shopping, food and drink – 200+ traders including authorised Harley-Davidson dealerships, and 80+ food and drink vendors offering a huge mix of international flavours.
One festival highlight is bound to be the Harley-Davidson parade, which will see the spectacle of thousands of motorcycles riding through the heart of the city past historic landmarks.
A comprehensive range of advance tickets for this unmissable event are now on sale via hd120budapest.hu.
Available ticket packages now include both single-day and full four-day festival options, plus rally packs containing exclusive event merchandise (available until the end of April). The website also provides guidance for accommodation options, with guests advised to arrange accommodation soon, as a number of hotels are already fully booked across the festival dates.
Join Harley-Davidson in June to experience a celebration like no other.
BILTWELL ACTION—
We’re pretty non-denominational about motorcycles around here. Big, small, long, short, dirty, shiny – we love ’em all! When we were figuring out classes for the bike show at the Parts & Labor Expo in Del Mar, we made it pretty open and even included ADV bike builders.
So, from vintage Harley choppers to crusty Triumph race bikes or wheelie-poppin’ Dynas and well worn old BMW’s, there was something interesting to look at no matter your tastes. We got a profile shot of just about all of ’em and put the collection up on the WTF Blog. Enjoy!
More info on P&L Expo here: https://partsandlaborexpo.com
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THE TWISTED ROAD ADVICE COLUMN–How to Choose a Motorcycle Sidecar.
Congratulations on choosing a motorcycle with sidecar for your next adventure! You will be joining a unique group of riders with interesting historic and cultural backgrounds.
But how do you choose a motorcycle sidecar that works for you? The choices on a sidecar setup are as varied as motorcycle choices. It all comes down to the major ‘WH’ questions: who, what, where, why, and how? Start with these key areas and you will be able to put together the best sidecar option for your planned getaway and riding style.
Who will ride with you?
When you jump on your motorcycle with sidecar, who will be riding with you? Are you taking your favorite pet? Will a person be riding in your sidecar? Will your motorcycle sidecar be for extra gear?
Knowing who is going with you will determine the size of the sidecar you need to get. If you will only be transporting gear, then you don’t need a padded, comfortable sidecar. If you will have someone riding with you, you may want one with a windshield. Depending on the temperature of the riding areas, you may even want one with a cover over the sidecar.
What terms will you need to know?
When you are ready to zone in on the motorcycle sidecar you want, you will need to know a few industry words to get you started. This will help you describe what you are looking for when you pick out your sidecar.
Rig – The combination of the motorcycle and the sidecar; also known as “outfit” or “hack” depending on the region.
Sidecar – The one-wheeled device attached to the side of a motorcycle. The term is sometimes expanded to include the entire rig.
Mule – The motorcycle attached to the sidecar.
Monkey – The passenger in the sidecar.
Toe-In – The distance your sidecar is moved toward or away from your motorcycle to reduce pull.
Mounting System – The parts used to connect your sidecar to your motorcycle. (By the way, a “Universal Mounting Kit” is never universal; experienced work always needs to be done to make the kits work).
Don’t get too concerned about the terms. You don’t have to learn anything if you don’t want to – you can just ride and enjoy. But some believe part of the ride is the fun in learning, so do your research if you’re curious.
Where will you ride?
Are you planning on being the next sidecar racer? Will you be tootling down backroads across the United States? Or will you be an interstate rider, just getting to your next destination?
Sidecars come with all kinds of riding options, just like motorcycles. There are dirt bikes for off-roading, ultra-glides for highways, and touring bikes for long-distance riding. If you’re planning a trip and looking to rent a sidecar, you are probably already set to go because you will be renting a sidecar that is already set up for the riding you will do in that destination. The toe-in on your rig is adjusted to the type of riding you do. In addition, tire selection is important to the roads just like a motorcycle. So, decide where you will be riding and what type of riding you’ll be doing first.
If this is the first time you will ride with a sidecar, then you want to consider why you are choosing to have one. Is it because you have a disability and have back problems or leg complications? Do you have problem balancing or no upper body strength? Be sure to make these reasons a priority when choosing the sidecar that works for you. Some sidecars come with dampeners making for a smoother ride. Some have reverse brakes or even sidecar brakes which will make it easier to get in and out of spots without using your legs to back up.
How will you bring it all together?
Now that you have done a little research and you know why you are looking at sidecars, make a list of the features you need and rank them in priority. Some will be required while others will just be nice-to-have. Reviewing these features when you rent or buy will help you get the sidecar that matches your personality, needs, and riding style.
TIP: If you have not ridden a motorcycle with sidecar before, they are easy to pick up. But, always take the sidecar to a parking lot and practice a few times before heading out onto the open road. And be sure to spend a little while talking with the sidecar owner about the unique features and modifications available on your new motorcycle sidecar ride before you head out.
Fly Right my Friends!
Always wanted to rent a sidecar? Good news! Twisted Road has some pretty sweet ones for you and a friend to take a ride on. Check them out here!
–by Lucinda Belden
Lucinda Belden is an avid motorcyclist (sidecarist), travel advisor and writer. You can follow her at FB.com/DirectionWideOpen. You can check out her Sturgis handbook on Amazon – “14 Sturgis Rally Rides in 6 Days”.
5-BALL IN THE BLACK HILLS—
This weekend I checked out the new Deadwood Cigar Club. It was once in a dark basement under a 125-year-old hotel. The blues were captured in the background surrounded by damp stone walls. It was riddled with a dark smokey atmosphere. They need to work on the lighting in the new joint.
Here’s my grandson riding out across the hot desert heading toward the rally in the Black hills. We’re both wearing 5-Ball leather vests. They fit just right, have two gun pockets and more. Check them out.
–Bandit
FAMOUS NASH MOTORCYCLE HAMMER HOLDER—
Ever been on a long ride and realized you brought all the tools you need except your hammer?
Here at Nash, we came up with the perfect solution. Introducing the Hammer Hanger! Made from high quality leather from right here in the USA . The Hammer Hanger can be mounted anywhere you need using the 3/4? strap system. The sling is made to fit just about any hammer ,larger hammers 16 oz or bigger are best. Check out our badass Nash Hammers.
Product Specification:
- Made in The USA
- Custom Made In High Quality Local Leather
- 100%
Disclaimer: Genuine Leather by its nature has some scratches/scars/color variation which reconfirms that its 100% pure and gives it a beautiful vintage look. Each bag will be a slightly different color shade than the photos provided, which makes each bag unique.
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY—
Driving home very drunk
It seems a gentleman had too much alcohol at a party, was heading home, and was pulled over by a state trooper. Upon being tested, the fellow couldn’t walk a straight line any more than he could drive one, so the trooper wrote out a ticket and had just given it to the driver before an accident in the opposite lane took his attention to more important matters.
The inebriated driver, figuring that the trooper wasn’t coming back to him, drove home and went to bed. he was awakened in the morning by a knock at the door, created by two more state troopers.
“Are you Mr. Johnson?” the asked? He admitted that he was.
“Were you pulled over at Main Street last night for driving under the influence?” Again, the man admited that it was he.
“And what did you do then,” the troopers asked.” The man replied that he drove his car home and went to bed.
“Where is your car now?” the troopers enquired. The man answered that it was in the garage.
“May we see the car?” asked the troopers. The man answered, “Sure,” and opened the garage.
Inside the garage was the state troopers’ car.
–Sam Burns
MAJOR INTERNATIONAL EVENT–Farmers’ protest party win shock Dutch vote victory
The dutch won a political battle against what USED to be called “Agrarian Reform.” now it’s called “saving the planet.” instead of Marxism.
–J.J. Solari
A farmers’ party has stunned Dutch politics, and is set to be the biggest party in the upper house of parliament after provincial elections.
The Farmer-citizen movement (BBB) was only set up in 2019 in the wake of widespread farmers’ protests.
But with most votes counted they are due to win 15 of the Senate’s seats with almost 20% of the vote.
“This isn’t normal, but actually it is! It’s all normal citizens who voted,” said leader Caroline van der Plas.
The BBB aims to fight government plans to slash nitrogen emissions harmful to biodiversity by dramatically reducing livestock numbers and buying out thousands of farms.
But its appeal has spread rapidly beyond its rural heartland, on a populist platform that represents traditional, conservative Dutch social and moral values.
Shocked by the scale of their success, Ms van der Plas told supporters that voters normally stayed at home if they lost faith in politics: “But today people have shown they can’t stay at home any longer. We won’t be ignored any more.”
By Anna Holligan & Paul Kirby In The Hague and London
–BBC News
CORRECTION FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION—
Editor’s Note: The MRF wishes to clarify the distinction between an automated driving system (ADS) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) refers to “self-driving” technologies that do not require a driver’s constant attention (and may not require a driver at all) as ADS. The agency refers to technologies that support drivers but require a human driver to remain fully engaged in the driving task as ADAS.
NHTSA Responds to Questions from Congress
Just before the end of 2022, Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan and 26 of his colleagues in Congress sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding recent crashes that involve motorcycles and cars believed to be in self-driving mode.
The response from government regulators has some key takeaways:
“NHTSA is actively working to educate consumers and the media that ADAS technologies are not self-driving technologies, and that drivers must always remain engaged in the driving task.”
“Crashes involving motorcycles account for less than 2 percent of all reported crashes involving vehicles with either ADS or Level 2 ADAS technologies.”
“NHTSA is conducting research on how vehicles equipped with crash avoidance technologies react to motorcycles, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users in various scenarios.”
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation is committed to aggressively working with lawmakers to address obvious safety gaps in the deployment of this new technology. While we appreciate that NHTSA is conducting research on this topic, on this topic, motorcyclists are not “vulnerable road users”, motorcyclists are simply road users.
Additionally, it’s unacceptable that consumers falsely believe ADAS technology, deployed on our roads, allows them to sit back and relax while in the driver’s seat. The safety of the nearly 10 million bikers on our nation’s roadways requires that all roadway users act in a responsible manner.
Go to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation website for more info.
As always Ride Safe and Ride Free.
NEWS FROM THE DEADWOOD CONNECTION—
I like the looks of the 45.
–John Martinisko
A LETTER TO THE BOSS OF HEARTLAND INSTITUTE THINK TANK—
Hey Sterling,
I’m writing to ask permission to republish your Net Zero piece on my 27-year-old website, Bikernet.com. I’ve been a motorcycle freedom fighter for over 50 years and was the editor of Easyriders magazine for 23 years.
In Europe they started a net zero accidents campaign and one country immediately decided to ban motorcycles. We fought it. Net Zero is a control freak excuse or policy for ultimate control and no freedom.
Just recently, I was on a podcast with some leaders in the motorcycle industry. Finally, some guys are waking up. We may be able to put together a coalition of a large number of motorcycle and automotive aftermarket groups to force the government to embrace scientific transparency or hopefully force the end of Climate Doom and bring it to the public’s attention. Like the McCarthy era, we need to bust the doom.
I appreciate all you do!
–K. Ball
Bikernet.com™
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–SONS OF SPEED 2023
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/SONS_OF_SPEED_2023.aspx
Yes, I’ve caught the races the last couple of years and look forward to the next time around. I try to catch the early heats and like it was said just participating and finishing is the goal. Winning is great but putting an old steed through its paces is very invigorating.
–Rhys
FL
THROTTLE ADDICTION SISSYBARS ARE NOW AVAILABLE—
Some of our most popular products are our made-in-the-USA sissy bars. We manufacture them at our headquarters in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
Our combination of high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship create durable and visually striking sissy bars that are designed to withstand the rigors of the open road. Select fitments are now offered in black powder coat. Check it out!
NEWS FROM THE LOWBROW CREW—
FROM THE PITTSBURGH MOTO ARCHIVES: MEET JESSIKA JANENE AND HER 1968 TRIUMPH T-120 BONNEVILLE CHOPPER
“While it might look simple from one perspective, this 1968 Triumph T-120 Bonneville has a uniqueness far beyond its straightforward appearance. Originally a barn find, the bike began its transformation with the goal of becoming a salt flat racer until the pandemic altered those plans and shifted the direction to what you see here.
The builder, Jessika Janene, also went through quite a change during this time period, beginning a transgender journey that would completely reshape her life in many ways. This experience had its share of twists and turns, but her love for custom bikes remained. Jessika was kind enough to share the story behind this recent Triumph build, the transition, and her ongoing passion for vintage motorcycles.”
PS – Thanks to our friends at Pittsburg Moto for letting us share this article online with you. It originally appeared in Pittsburg Moto Issue 12.
PPS – Share this article with friends & loved ones by forwarding this email, or posting up: www.lowbrowcustoms.com/jessika
BAD NEWS FROM THE MRF–Ride in Peace Wayne
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation mourns the passing of motorcyclist rights activist Wayne Lettau.
Wayne was heavily involved in the MRF’S federal legislative agenda, and his efforts with ABATE of South Dakota are legendary. His passion and skills delivered countless legislative victories including an impressive undefeated streak in the Statehouse.
We remember Wayne as a true “gentle giant”. He was friendly, yet fierce. He was a tremendous asset to the motorcycling world, but even more, he was truly a wonderful human being and a dear friend to us all.
Wayne and his wife Susan were inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame as Freedom Fighters in 2020.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Susan, the Lettau family and Wayne’s infinite number of friends.
Ride in Peace Wayne.
–MRF
HISTORY FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–1971 Norton Commando Roadster
Designed around the best pieces developed for the Manx Norton production racer made through 1962, and the Norton Atlas, with new concepts like Isolastic driveline mounting, the Norton Commando excelled in every way.
Many special versions of the Commando were made between 1968 and the hiatus in production for all Nortons in the early 1990’s. At the beginning, 1968, the Norton Commando “Fastback” hit the streets with little fanfare; the dealer network in America was thin, but you may remember the spicy magazine ads. Though something like a “cafe racer,” the look was not well accepted in the important American market. Norton quickly retooled with a trendy “scrambler” high pipe version, and then eventually the Roadster which they gave the very conventional look of our subject bike.
Initially at 100ccs stronger than offerings from Triumph and BSA, until the Trident and Rocket III arrived, the Commandos fared well even against the Harley Sportster, Kawasaki H1 and Honda CB750. In 1972 the “Combat” version hit the scene offering higher output, but some mechanical problems. An electric starter was added to the 850 for 1975. According to contemporary magazine tests, the stock Commando excelled in drag races. On a twisty road or a race track, the Norton left about everything behind; the Manx derived frame and 19 inch wheels shod with Dunlop’s famed K81’s made it handle. Disk brakes came in 1972. Nicknamed “Yellow Peril,” the Commando Production Racer was the highest performance model.
It was either not a well-known science or too expensive to achieve, so engine balance was a problem on big twins of the era. A Norton engineer Bernard Hooper designed the Isolastic system which mounted engine, transmission and swingarm in a separate subframe on rubber mounts. The drive line still shook just as a Harley’s does today, but similarly the rider is isolated from it. Today many manufacturers have engineered in balance shafts, smoothing engine operation.
It’s also interesting to note just how universal and tough the Commando motor is. The Norton fared well on road race courses around the world, including the Isle of Man. And although never meant to run nitromethane blends or to be drag raced in anger, John Gregory and Tom “T.C.” Christenson built HOGSLAYER*, a world championship winning twin-Commando engined top fuel drag bike now displayed in the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, England.
A British contemporary of Hendee, Hedstrom, Harley and the Davidsons, James Landsdown Norton began assembling motorcycles with clip-on engines in 1902. The Norton Big Four hit the streets in 1908 and Norton himself rode in the 1908, 1909 and 1910 Isle of Man TT races, then run on the “short course.” Rem Fowler won the very first TT riding a Peugeot-powered Norton. James “Pa” Norton died in 1925 at the age of 56 and it is amazing the company thrived into the 1960’s before closing its doors in the 1990’s, largely due to weak management and strong Asian competition. Much like Indian has been revived a couple of times, new ownership of the Norton brand commenced limited production in 2012. But financial problems seem to plague these revived old brands and “new” Norton production is an off and on proposition. In late 2022 a V-4 Norton prototype was shown and announced as in development.
This 1971 Norton Commando Roadster is lightly customized with trimmer front fender, a single Mikuni carburetor and flanged alloy rims and is part of the Jill and John Parham Collection. Before the National Motorcycle Museum closes permanently September 4, we hope you’ll stop by and check it out along with a Norton 500 single racer from the pre-World War II era.
–NMM
[page break]
FROM THE DOWN-UNDER DOCTOR–
You either get better or bitter.
It’s simple.
You either take what has been dealt to you and allow it to make you a better person, or you allow it to tear you down.
The choice does not belong to fate, it belongs to you.
–Ray Russell
Dr. Feel Good
Australia
LATEST FROM THE KODLIN LINE-UP—
K47309 Kodlin Belt Guard for M8 Softail models
- Made of steel with black powder coating finish
- New stainless steel hardware included
- Very easy installation
- Fits all 2018-up M8 Softail models
K55125 Kodlin Solid Riser Bushings for all M8 Softail models, Black
- CNC machined from aluminum, Black anodized,
- Designed to rigid mount your handlebars on a M8 Softail
Recommended when installing Kodlin Fastback Risers K55121, K55122 and K55123
M8 Softail all models MY18-23
ALSO THESE HOT FASTBACK RISERS AND BUSHINGS AND AVAILABLE
We recommend Kodlin K55125 Solid Riser Bushings when installing our Fastback risers. Extended brake lines and clutch cables are necessary for the install. Check our website for details.
Kodlin USA products are distributed by Drag Specialties, Parts Canada, Rollies Speed Shop and Suzuki & Associates
KODLIN USA Inc.
16315 Monterey Rd
Suite 100
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
www.KodlinUSA.com
THE TEXAS WEATHER REPORT-–
So up at MC Creations today and Greg tells me go look out back at what he bought, where he had purchased this roller and a Harman of Hallcraft(?) mag wheel, don’t know front or rear. I know Harman built bad freaking engines and front ends! Don’t know about wheels? I still have the centerfold of the engine from 1981 issue somewhere?
He recouped his purchase price back on the wheel sale alone! Leaving pure profit on the roller, don’t bother to call as it sold first call! We do wonder about the tank? The tank mounts are 4-5 inches longer than a Sportster tank. Greg thinks maybe it had a coffin tank?
So last Saturday morning I’m riding the Shovelhead and my girls tell me go home and check the brakes. I know the rear master cylinder leaks as I plan on seeing if Greg has a kit in stock when he opens. Checked and the level was Way Low! Leaking faster than before, fill it, go to MC, have to order kit and ride some more.
Rebuilt Friday, fixed my return spring hole on the pedal today, get ready to lower it down and well, “Hello there!” I see you trying to hide behind the caliper bracket. Two or three rotor bolts installed are loose! Only thing I can figure, is I planned on replacing the tire before I went too far.
Only 350 miles or so.
Thank you Girls!
–RFR
KEEP THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN—
A cruise ship passes by a remote island, and all the passengers see a bearded man running around and waving his arms wildly.
“Captain,” one passenger asks, “who is that man over there?”
“I have no idea,” the captain says, “but he goes nuts every year when we pass him.”
A man just assaulted me with a block of cheese a pint of milk. How dairy!
I just found out that I’m color blind. The diagnosis came completely out of the purple.
–Sam Burns
ARTIST OF THE WEEK—
(Asheboro, NC) In a twist of technique, Asheboro artist Laura Ashley, well known for creating major works of art in under five minutes, spent last weekend painting images of speed at the Daytona 500.
Commissioned by Ally through Gallery 500, Laura attended the race weekend where, over a period of three days, she rendered a composite painting featuring images of race cars and the speed experience.
The 90 x 78” painting will hang in the Ally Suite Tower at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, FL.
Ally is a financial services company with the nation’s largest all-digital bank and an industry-leading auto financing business. They’re a household name among racing fans, especially those who cheer on Alex Bowman and the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
Ally also recently announced a new relationship with NASCAR, having Ally Bank become the official Consumer Bank of NASCAR and NASCAR-owned tracks.
–Pam Cook
ALBUM OF THE WEEK—
The Oak Ridge Boys Celebrate The 40th Anniversary Of Their #1 Hit “American Made”
The Oak Ridge Boys Also Celebrating The 20th Anniversary Of Their ‘Colors’ Album
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – GRAMMY Award-winning and Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Oak Ridge Boys are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their hit song “American Made.” Written by Bob DiPiero and Pat McManus, “American Made” was first released as a single in February 1983. It became a national ad jingle for Budweiser and later for Cambria USA. It also became their 7th #1 hit! The Oaks re-recorded this classic hit in 2007 for a special Support Our Troops CD to benefit the USO. The CD was sold exclusively at participating 7-Eleven stores in the United States.
“It’s hard to believe that “American Made” has been going strong for 40 years,” shares Joe Bonsall. “Every night the audience still sings every word with us. It’s a fun song to sing!”
The Oak Ridge Boys are also celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the release of their album, ‘Colors.’ In 2004, ‘Colors,’ the title track was nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Country Performance by a Group or Duo with Vocals. Additionally, the Gospel Music Association nominated the album for Country Album of the Year. Produced by Duane Allen and Michael Sykes, ‘Colors’ was released by Gaither Music.
“In the early 2000s, I wrote a song and a book called, ‘G.I. Joe & Lillie,’ about my parents, who were both WWII Army veterans,” continues Bonsall. “The Oak Ridge Boys included the song on our 2003 Gaither Music album project, Colors, helping propel my little book to bestseller status! Norah Lee Allen, Duane’s wife, also wrote a song for the Colors album. ‘This Is America’ is a beautiful patriotic anthem and features Richard on lead.” The Oak Ridge Boys are currently touring the country on their 2023 Front Porch Singin’ Tour and are continuing to add dates.
The Oak Ridge Boys Upcoming Tour Dates:
MAR 24 – North Star Mohican Casino Resort / Bowler, Wisc.
MAR 25 – Medina Entertainment Center / Hamel, Minn.
APR 13 – Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort / Granite Falls, Minn.
APR 14 – WinnaVegas Casino / Sloan, Iowa
APR 15 – Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel / Tama, Iowa
APR 21 – The Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
APR 22 – Alabama Theatre / North Myrtle Beach, S.C.
APR 27 – Bologna Performing Arts Center / Cleveland, Miss.
APR 28 – Oxford Performing Arts Center / Oxford, Ala.
MAY 05 – Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast / Bay St. Louis, Miss.
MAY 06 – L’Auberge Lake Charles / Lake Charles, La.
MAY 12 – River Spirit Casino Resort / Tulsa, Okla.
MAY 13 – Sugar Creek Casino / Hinton, Okla.
MAY 23 – The Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
JUN 03 – June Jam / Ft. Payne, Ala.
JUN 06 – The Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
JUN 08 – Hartville Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
JUN 09 – Hartville Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
JUN 10 – Hartville Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
JUN 15 – Northern Lights Casino / Walker, Minn.
JUN 16 – Oshkosh Arena / Oshkosh, Wisc.
JUN 17 – Andiamo Celebrity Showroom / Warren, Minn.
JUN 21 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
JUN 22 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
JUN 23 – Odawa Casino Resort / Petoskey, Mich.
JUL 01 – John 316 Ministries Community Festivals / Charlotte, Ark.
JUL 04 – The Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.
JUL 07 – Hazel Ruby-McQuain Amphitheater / Morgantown, W. Va.
JUL 08 – Renfro Valley Barn Dance / Mount Vernon, Ky.
JUL 22 – Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel / Salamanca, N.Y.
JUL 23 – Porter County Fair Offices / Valparaiso, Ind.
JUL 25 – Charles J. Zettek Municipal Complex / Elk Grove Village, Ill.
NEW FROM THE LOWBROW CREW—
Nothing screams chopper like Invader Wheels!
Finding an original Invader wheel in decent condition is a tall order…
And you still need to worry about metal fatigue and other unseen issues!
Lucky for all of us, Led Sled is making brand new, ready-to-go Invader Wheels for your motorcycle!
- Available in 21″, 18″ and 16″ sizes
- Raw Steel, Black, or Chrome
- Made in-house at Led Sled Customs
- Made in Dayton, Ohio, USA!
BAGGER RACING NEWS–Bagger Racing League Taps Lon Nordbye to Lead Marketing & Commercial Development
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio, March 2023 (GLOBAL NEWSWIRE) — Bagger Racing League, North America’s premier racing league for custom & performance V-Twins is throttling up for the 2023 racing season with a three-race circuit at major tracks and markets including Pittsburg, PA, South Beloit, IL and Rosamond, CA beginning the weekend of May 6th. One of motorcycling’s most popular and fastest-growing genres of racing took a big step forward today by naming longtime entertainment and festival executive Lon Nordbye as its VP of Commercial Development.
“Bagger Racing League has always been the “racers league” with the most classes, the most racers and the best, pure racing action of its genre, said Rob Buydos, BRL’s Founder & President. “We are bringing together everyone from legacy V-Twin brands and hungry aftermarket challengers to give racing fans a festival style, motorcycling racing experience that’s fresh and unique.”
“This year is all about improving BRL’s scale and quality and I’m confident Lon has the experience, skill sets and relationships to do just that.”
“BRL is a mindset, a culture, and an experience,” said Nordbye. “For the past two years Rob, the racers and the industry brands have done an amazing job building a racing experience that encompasses passion, competition, and camaraderie. My sole focus and responsibilities are to make it more accessible to a broader cross-section of platforms, brands, and fans while staying true to the roots of those who created it.”
NEWS FROM THE WOLFPACK–
Are you looking for a new book to lose yourself in? Want a good old-fashioned Western? What about a Thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with these stories for just $0.99!
This week, saddle up for adventure in:
- The Chaney Brothers Series by Robert Vaughan
- The Revenger: Omnibus by Peter Brandvold
- Mountain Times: The Complete Series by John Legg
- Skills to Kill by Brian Drake
- …and more!
You can find all of our limited-time $0.99 deals and special offers here.
ANOTHER, New Bikernet Reader Comment!—
DIFFICULT TIMES BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for March 16th, 2023 (click here)
Happy Birthday, Bandit! Darn it!??
–Ann Robinson
Long Beach, CA
WHY WE RIDE—
What do California, Nevada, Colorado, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas, North Carolina, South Dakota, Arizona, Minnesota, Oregon, Mexico & India have in common?
These are the places where previous years’ participants and volunteers have come from to join us on this spectacular ride!
Whether you are traveling a few miles or a few thousand, whether you are crossing states or oceans, we want to thank you for joining us in SoCal on what promises to be the most inspirational ride of 2023.
We ride to continue to give these kids and their families HOPE!
The open road is calling for you to join us!
To get all the the details and make your reservation today.
Only 30 spots are available and this ride will fill up quickly.
You have been a big part of our family and WHY this ride has grown — be part of our ride once again!
BUT WAIT— Some European countries want to restrict flights to curb emissions and Colorado wants to ban new gas stations. It’s nuts, but I get it. They’ll keep coming until all is destroyed.
I think about my book Sam “Chopper” Orwell. I wrote it in 1998 and it speaks to this issue. But that’s not enough, we need to demand the truth. Anyway, moving right along. This week was quirky and I can be an impatient bastard.
Made progress with the Knucklehead project and I swear a report is coming. I’m looking at some auction items that might work on my ’13 racer.
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/NCOM_Biker_Newsbytes_for_March_2023.aspx
Make sure you read the Bill Bish Legislative report on the home page.
I’m hoping to receive a report on the ’58 Belair Sport Coup I received recently.
I’m trying to reprint Outlaw Justice, the second book I published and sold out years ago. As it turns out the version on the website is an early one, before editing. This has been a challenge, but we’re getting there.
In the meantime, join the MRF or your local motorcycle rights association and stay informed. I believe this could be a major year for the truth, but I said that last year. If you stay up with the news. Good stuff is surfacing already this year.
We want to ride free forever, goddammit!
–Bandit
