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S&S? CYCLE AND GREEN FLAG MARKETING LLC ANNOUNCE THE DEBUT OF THUNDER TRACK RALLY AT ATLANTA MOTOR SPEEDWAY–LA CROSSE, WI (January 30, 2007) S&S? Cycle, Inc. and Green Flag Marketing, LLC have teamed up to bring Thunder Track Rally to Atlanta, Georgia on March 16th through 18th, 2007 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This first-time event will be one in a series that will bring motorcycle riders together with NASCAR Nextel Cup races.

“Green Flag Marketing is proud to have S&S Cycle, as the primary sponsor of Thunder Track Rally,” said Ed Burton, President of Green Flag Marketing. “S&S has a reputation for Proven Performance? and we look forward to helping introduce their latest innovation, the X-Wedge engine, at the event.”

“We’ve been involved with other race sanctions over the years and having the privilege to be involved with Atlanta Motor Speedway and NASCAR, through Green Flag Marketing, is a great opportunity for us,” said Timm Fields, Director of Sales & Marketing for S&S Cycle. “S&S has a long history of racing, traced back to our founder George Smith Sr. As a leader in the powersports performance industry for nearly 50 years, our involvement with NASCAR is a great fit. We’re looking forward to sponsoring this event in Atlanta as we welcome motorcycle riders and NASCAR fans to this venue.”

“The response from motorcycle enthusiasts and companies throughout the industry has been overwhelming and we’re looking forward to making this event a success for everyone involved,” added Bill Calhoun, Vice President of Green Flag Marketing.

Rally riders can purchase premium ticket packages to the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series event that include race ticket(s), a caravan to Atlanta Motor Speedway, special entrance to the “Thunder Track Rally” hospitality tent, live entertainment, celebrity appearances, cash bar, food vendors, and more. Packages also include Rally souvenirs (embroidered patch, helmet decal, and hat pin) and secure motorcycle parking. One-day ticket package includes; ticket(s) to the NASCAR Nextel Cup Kobalt Tools 500, Sunday March 18th. Two-day ticket packages are also available and include; ticket(s) to the NASCAR Busch Series Nicorette 300 on Saturday, March 17th. For more information visitwww.thundertrackrally.com.

BIKERNET NEWS CORRECTION–Please see the flyer on the front page of the American Freedom Riders homepage for corrected information regarding the FEBRUARY 24th rally to free agents Ramos and Compean.

www.americanfreedomriders.com

The initial flyer said Feb 28th and that is wrong. The correct date is Saturday, February 24th.

Also, Monica Ramos (Nacho’s wife) will be attending and speaking.

Sorry – old age is setting in.

–Danny

RED LIGHT WAITING PERIOD ATTACKED IN CALIFORNIA–How many times have you sat and waited for a traffic signal to turn? And waited. And waited.

Sure, the induction loop sensors can be recalibrated by road maintenance crews, but we have a common-sense solution designed to get you on your way, and save the state money at the same time.

Other states have made it legal to proceed thru an inoperative red light if/when SAFE to do so.

California riders can better assure ride enjoyment and forever eradicate the fear and frustration associated with inoperative traffic signals with a simple change of the vehicle code. Impossible you say? We already have “Right Turn on Red” and “U-Turn” laws on the books that are, in theory, quite similar to what is being proposed.

The Legislative Director working for a prospective Author of the new Red Light Bill asked us….
Q. Are there any statistics available to substantiate the problems that motorcycles have in activating traffic signals?
A. Yes, we now have an OFFICIAL data collection resource; Splatt’s Red Light Questionnaire for Motorcyclists.

Please forward this QUICK 10 QUESTION SURVEY to ALL your riding friends: http://pub18.bravenet.com/vote/vote.php?usernum=1525364519&cpv=2

We need at least ONE THOUSAND riders to complete our survey, to demonstrate the extent of the red light problem to California’s legislators.

The survey results can be viewed at: http://pub18.bravenet.com/vote/stats.php?usernum=1525364519

For more in depth and up to date info, please visit our new webpage; www.redlightbill.com.

Thanks for your enthusiasm on this project, and for all your help!

–splatt
http://www.abate.org/
ABATE of California Board of Directors

NEW!! SEE Biker Nation TV Episodes ONLINE!–

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead.
Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow.
Do not walk beside me either.
Just pretty much leave me the hell alone .

2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaky tire .

3. It’s always darkest before dawn, so if you’re going to steal your neighbor’s newspaper, that’s the time to do it.

4. Don’t be irreplaceable. If you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted.

5. Always remember that you’re unique. Just like everyone else.

6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

7. If you think nobody cares if you’re alive, try missing a couple of car payments.

8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you’re a mile away and you have their shoes.

9. If at first you don’t succeed……skydiving is not for you.

10. Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

11. If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.

12. Some days you’re the bug; some days you’re the windshield.

13. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

14. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.

15. A closed mouth gathers no foot.

16. Duct tape is like ‘The Force.’ It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

17. There are two theories to arguing with a women.Neither one works.

18. Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your lips are moving.

19. Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.

20. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

–from Rev CarlR

MONTANA BIKERS NEED YOUR HELP … TODAY … RIGHT FRIGGING NOW!—THIS IS NO JOKE … THIS IS NO DRILL—[Teri Mundahl (mrmundahl@bresnan.net) of the Montana B.A.S.T.A.R.D.S.(Bikers Against Stupid Twits And Really Dumb Shits)is asking for YOU to help …] defeat the posted Montana Helmet Law. It’scurrently in the Montana Judiciary Committee and will be voted on at 8:00 amThursday, February 15.

A NO vote here will kill the bill. We would love your help in contacting thecommittee members to remind them of the potential negative tourism impact.We have some of the most amazing riding in the country (Beartooth Pass &Chief Joseph Scenic Route are with in 60 miles of my home in Billings) andyou’d love to come ride the roads and spend your money here, but only if youcan choose what safety equipment you wear. Ask them to please VOTE NO ONHB-534, the proposed Montana Helmet Law.

If you’d like to read the bill andsee the fiscal benefits they have dreamed up, please go to the websitelisted above and click on “Helmet Law” (under the big bulldog.)[http://www.greatridesusa.com/bastards/HelmetLaw/tabid/192/Default.aspx]Please address them as Dear Representative. Be sure to tell them what Town &State, as that will have impact when when considering tourism issues. Mostof these are pretty good people, but they need a push. Like clogging theire-mail boxes with bikers wanting to Ride Free in Montana.

Email contact info:
drice@3rivers.net
stoker@montana.com
gallik@in-tch.com
bcdc@digisys.net
rdriscoll@peoplepc.com
buffalojump@ycsi.net
ixoye777@centurytel.net
julfrench71@yahoo.com
rickjore@hotmail.com
krayton@kraytonkerns.org
koopman@iMT.net
dkottel@ugf.edu
tmcgillvray@bresnan.net
kenneth59@bresnan.net
Repraser98@Bresnan.Net
HD84Ward@Wmconnect.Com

Post comments and replies here:http://pub42.bravenet.com/forum/3562429698/fetch/782693/

–Bruce Arnold
Bruce@LdrLongDistanceRider.com
http://www.ldrlongdistancerider.com/

THANK YOU BIKE SHOW VOLUNTEERS!!!–Special thanks to all of the wonderful volunteers who came out to help atthe BCCOM booth at the Vancouver Motorcycle Show and to all of those whooffered to help, but the shifts were already full. We couldn’t do it withoutyou guys!! This year we sold 145 memberships.

Neil Armsworthy, Dave Bridge,Robyn Brown, Tim Darvell, Claude Desrosiers,Craig Fernandes, Robert Ford, Ken Francis, Gerard Janssen, Corinna Jenkins,Larry Jenkins, Virgil Kaulius, Brenda Hahn, Larry Hahn, Brad Hartwig, CraigHeale, Bob Hewitson, Jamie Hunter, Jason Ilnicki, Gisele L’Hirondelle,Philip L’Hirondelle, Evelyn Logan, Paul Malowany, Darry McGaw, Noel Nobrega,Judy Patrick, Steve Patrick, Gary Richardson, Maureen Sawatsky, DaveSievewright, Gord Swanson, Bruce Ward, Barry Weinbaum, Lorraine White,Jenifer Wolf, Larry Wolf, Mark Zambrzycki

THANK YOU TO DEELEY’S!And you may have heard, Trev Deeley Motorcycles donated $1.00 from everyticket they sold for the Vancouver Motorcycle Show to BCCOM and we justreceived a cheque for $442.00. Thank you so much for your support!

HAVE YOU RENEWED FOR 2007?If you have not already purchased your 2007 BCCOM membership, it is now timeto renew. If you are unsure whether or not you are up to date pleasecontact the office to confirm. Memberships are available through the BCCOMOffice at 1-877-580-0111 or (604) 580-0111 and you can also purchase themon-line here: www.bccom-bc.com/bccom_store/bccom_store.html. Membershipswill also be available at our next meeting on March 7th. Thank you for yourcontinued support!

APRIL 14-15 – WESTCOAST CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE SHOW–Mark your calendars now for April 14-15, 2007 because you will not want tomiss the Westcoast Custom Motorcycle Show at the Tradex Centre inAbbotsford! After a successful debut last year we will be back with a biggerand better show in 2007. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the hottestcustom machines in North America!This show is open to ALL BRANDS and will feature more than 30 classesincluding Foreign, Street, British, Asian, Italian, Vintage, Radical, and”Specialty.” There will be a $1000.00 prize for BEST BIKE!

VENDOR SPACE & BIKE ENTRY INFOFor more information please call (604) 580-0111 or 1-877-580-0111. Forms arealso available on-line at www.westcoastcustom.ca

CONGRATULATION FREEDOM FIGHTERS IN ARKANSAS–Helmetless motorcyclists need not fear arrest in Arkansas unless the sponsor of a measure to require helmets decides he can muster the votes in the state Senate to remove his proposal from a committee that declined to endorse it.The bill, by Sen. Kim Hendren, R-Gravette, ran into the same opposition that similar bills have faced since the state repealed its motorcycle helmet law in 1997. Only two members of the Senate Transportation Committee voted for the bill Monday.

Hendren said some riders deride helments as a “magic ice chest.” But those supporting a requirement for helmets say it would cut down on hospital costs from injured cyclists, which can become the state’s burden.”It’s not a popular position,” Hendren acknowledged before the hearing. “I’ve had people who have said unkind things. I’ve had people who say I need to be replaced.”A Capitol police officer sat in on the hearing as motorcycle enthusiast Rodney Roberts portrayed the issue as one of personal freedoms. Roberts, who campaigned against the helmet law in 1997, showed the foam insides of one helmet, likening it to a cooler. During questioning by Sen. Paul Bookout, D-Jonesboro, Roberts said he wouldn’t wear a helmet if he knew he’d be hit by a car. Bookout shook his head.

“This has become an emotional issue and the facts have very little to do with it,” said Roberts, a motorcycle shop owner from Little Rock. “It’s a real joke. You can’t say if the helmet is going to save you or the helmet is going to kill you.”

In response, Sen. Bobby Glover, D-Carlisle, said the law could help save lives.”For you to have your freedom … there are going to be some people killed because there’s no mandatory helmet law in the state of Arkansas,” Glover said.

For 20 years, motorcyclists were required to wear protective headgear while riding. But after the federal government relaxed its own helmet requirements, the Arkansas Legislature repealed the helmet law in 1997. Twenty states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee, require helmets for all motorcycle riders.Since 1997, legislators have discussed reinstating the law, but the measure never gained traction in both chambers. In the meantime, hospital officials warned that not having a helmet law put more people at risk and left state coffers covering hospital treatments from traumatic injuries.

–from Rogue

THE BIKERNET RULES OF SIGNAGE–TOILET OUT OF ORDER….. PLEASE USE FLOOR BELOW

In a Laundromat: AUTOMATIC WASHING MACHINES: PLEASE REMOVE ALL YOUR CLOTHES WHEN THE LIGHT GOES OUT

In a London department store: BARGAIN BASEMENT UPSTAIRS

In an office: WOULD THE PERSON WHO TOOK THE STEP LADDER YESTERDAY PLEASE BRING IT BACK OR FURTHER STEPS WILL BE TAKEN

In an office: AFTER TEA BREAK STAFF SHOULD EMPTY THE TEAPOT AND STAND UPSIDE DOWN ON THE DRAINING BOARD

Outside a secondhand shop: WE EXCHANGE ANYTHING – BICYCLES, WASHING MACHINES, ETC. WHY NOT BRING YOUR WIFE ALONG AND GET A WONDERFUL BARGAIN?

Notice in health food shop window: CLOSED DUE TO ILLNESS

Spotted in a safari park: ELEPHANTS PLEASE STAY IN YOUR CAR

Seen during a conference: FOR ANYONE WHO HAS CHILDREN AND DOESN’T KNOW IT, THERE IS A DAY CARE ON THE 1ST FLOOR

Notice in a farmer’s field: THE FARMER ALLOWS WALKERS TO CROSS THE FIELD FOR FREE, BUT THE BULL CHARGES.

On a repair shop door: WE CAN REPAIR ANYTHING (PLEASE KNOCK HARD ON THE DOOR – THE BELL DOESN’T WORK)

–from Tim Oster

LIFESTYLE CYCLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–Wanna hook up with something lean, sleek, aggressive, sexy and ready to ride? No, we’re not talking about your Valentine’s date for tomorrow, we’re talking about your new motorcycle from LifeStyle Cycles!Check out the incredible deals going on RIGHT NOW!

CALL LIFESTYLE CYCLES TODAY(714) 490-0155

10th Anniversary Edition Texas ChopperLast One … Free 3.5 Year Extended Warranty!

There are only 125 of these limited edition 2006 IronHorse Texas Choppers made, and this is you chance to own one. Chromed Shotgun soft-style frame with 4″ top tube and 8″ down tube Stealth swing arm, Radical 42 degree rake (38 degree frame rake plus 4 degree raked triple trees), Progressive adjustable air ride suspension, 280 mm low profile rear tire, 18″ reflex rear wheel, jet black with machine etched detail, 90 mm front tire, 21″ reflex front wheel, jet black with machine etched detail, Show polished 124 cubic inch S&S? engine, Diamond cut, powder coated heads and cylinders, 2 into 1 dyno tuned exhaust system with integral heat shields, 6-speed close ratio polished right side drive transmission with open primary belt drive system, Barnett scorpion clutch and outbound bearing support, Chromed hydraulic “easy pull” clutch, Reflexed machined powder coated pulley & carriers, Dual front brakes with chromed 4 piston calipers, VVS 1 Anniversary paint in candy reflex red, jet black and platinum metal flake accents, 5.75″ bullet headlight, painted to match, Diamond faceted forward controls, Chromed billet front fender mount, Patented super stretched chopper tank, Chromed custom v-handlebars, Low profile digital information center, Smooth chromed lower legs, Chromed billet side-mounted license plate frame, Black ostrich Phantom solo seat with 10th Anniversary logo, Vibration resistant LED turn signals … and much much more! Includes free 3.5 year extended warranty! Don’t miss out, only one at this price!

$42,995.00
CALL LIFESTYLE CYCLES
TODAY AT (714) 490-0155

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THE BEST PERFORMANCE MUFFLER FOR DRESSERS AVAILABLE TODAY–We at Billet Boys have spent years developing our Performance First Mufflers.These slip-on mufflers were made for dressers from the ground up. They produce a strong torque curve while still maintaining good peak horsepower. By using a patented baffle, we were able to produce a broad torque curve with a high exhaust flow rate. Also, the full steel baffle lets the motor keep an exhaust note that will not change over time. We have tuned the exhaust note differently than traditional mufflers. The exhaust has a deep strong sound, like a healthy small block Chevy. Even though these mufflers are louder than OEM mufflers, they are not offensive or raspy.

The mufflers’ bodies are formed from heavy-gauge steel, hand polished and given a show quality chrome finish. The mufflers include mounting hardware. The Billet Boys Performance First mufflers fit all 1991-up Harley Davidson Dressers/Road Kings, including fuel-injected models.

Billet Boys parts are made in the U.S.A.

For further information and to find the closest Billet Boys dealer call, FAX or write: Billet Boys, 30872 Huntwood Ave. #6, Hayward, CA. 94544; Phone (510) 471-3026; FAX (510) 471-0605 or visit www.billetboys.com.

A BIKERNET SCIENTIFIC STUDY-PRISON VS. WORK, A COMPARISON–Just in case you ever get these two environments mixed up; this should make things a little bit clearer.

you spend the majority of your time in a 10X10 cell
you spend the majority of your time in an 8X8 cubicle

you get three meals a day fully paid for
you get a break for one meal and you have to pay for it

you get time off for good behavior
you get more work for good behavior

the guard locks and unlocks all the doors for you
you must often carry a security card and open all the doors for yourself

you can watch TV and play games
you could get fired for watching TV and playing games

you get your own toilet
you have to share the toilet with some people who wet on the seat

they allow your family and friends to visit
you aren’t even supposed to speak to your family

all expenses are paid by the taxpayers with no work required
you get to pay all your expenses to go to work, and they deduct taxes from your salary to pay for prisoners

you spend most of your life inside bars wanting to get out
you spend most of your time wanting to get out and go inside bars

you must deal with sadistic wardens
they are called managers

THERE IS SOMETHING SERIOUSLY WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE!!!!Now get back to work. You’re not getting paid to check emails.

–from Tom Kellerstrass

BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–As he headed over the Dames Point Bridge, the wind chill was cold enough to slice him in half but something made him remember it was Valentine’s Day…OH SHIT hope you didn’t forget.

Ride Hard,
–Whiplash Biker Photog
soffordphotos@comcast.net

WORLD’S FASTES BAGGER CONTESTANT UPDATE–Finishing up the mock up.In my last update we mocked up the gas tank, made some mounts and welded them to the frame. This time around we’ve mocked up the front end. I’ve also adjusted the triple tree fork stops. We’re using a 41mm FL style front end so the stops on the trees needed to be tweaked to fit the pro street style neck on the bagger frame. In doing that we also had to keep in mind that we’re required to use a steering damper and the stops need to hit before the travel ends on the damper. The first picture shows the front end installed to check the stops.

In the second picture you’ll see the steering damper installed after the frame mount was modified to fit the larger diameter tubing. With all of the damper measurements set the fork stops work perfectly before the damper runs out of travel.

The modifications to the frame are completed and now we’ll tear the bike down and prep it for the powdercoaters. The next update will start with the frame, swingarm and related parts coming back from the powdercoaters and we’ll get started with the assembly of the rolling chassis.

Special thanks to our sponsors for being so generous. Daytec, Bel Ray, Hacker Pipes, Corbin, Avon Tires, DNA Specialty, BDL, Spyke and Custom Airbrush by Daneen.For more information about the Bagzilla bike and the California Customs attempt at the World’s Fastest Bagger title you can go to our web site at www.calcustom.com or call us at 650-254-0963.

HARLEY TO CUT WORKER INSURANCE IN UNION NEGOTIATIONS–After the second day of a federally mediated meeting, no plans to meetagain.Feb 8, 2007: At the end of a federally mediated meeting Wednesday,Harley-Davidson officials said the company will cancel on Monday thehealth and life insurance of unionized workers at the company’sSpringettsbury Township plant.

Harley officials gave a cancellation letter to negotiators of theInternational Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local175, which represents nearly 2,800 workers at the plant, as the twoparties met for a second consecutive day at the request of federalmediators.

Unionized Harley workers at the York County facility have been onstrike since Friday, standing on the picket lines in below-freezingtemperatures.

“It’s like sticking a needle in your eye,” said Tom Boger, a localunion business representative. “It’s not a positive step in the rightdirection.”

Harley’s action contradicts its often-touted statement that it hasgood relationships with its workers, added Boger, donning a whitebutton that proclaimed “NO CONCESSIONS.”

“The people will understand and know there’s no positive things aboutthis company,” he said.

But Bob Klein, Harley spokesman at the company’s Milwaukeeheadquarters, said that in strike situations most companiesimmediately cut off benefits along with wages.”However, the company continued the health-care coverage for 10 daysafter the strike began,” he said.

Affected employees have 60 days to sign up for continuation ofhealth-care coverage under COBRA, Klein said, and also may continuetheir life-insurance coverage. COBRA is a federal program thatprovides certain former employees and others the right to temporarycontinuation of health coverage at group rates.

Klein added that the company felt its health-care package proposal was”extremely generous and fair.”

Under the proposal, the plant’s hourly employees would be placed underthe same health-care plans as salaried employees, he said.

Salaried employees chose from three health-care plans, two of which donot require premium payments, Klein said. Most salaried employees areunder the plan where they do not pay a premium and have yearly maximumout-of-pocket expenses of $900 for a single person and $1,800 forfamily coverage, Klein said.

Under their now-expired contract, the hourly employees paid no premiumand had yearly maximum out-of-pocket expenses of $500 for a singleperson and $1,000 for family coverage, he said.

Last year, Harley paid $10,800 for each hourly employee’s health care,Klein said, amounting to tens of million of dollars. The same year,the iconic motorcycle maker reported earnings of more than $1 billion.

No further meetings between the three parties are scheduled; however,the two mediators with the Washington-based Federal Mediation andConciliation Service will be in contact with Harley officials andunion negotiators, service spokesman John Arnold said.

“The mediators suggested to the parties that they continue to identifyoptions to the open issues,” he said. “The meeting was adjourned bythe mediators, subject to recall by the FMCS or at the request ofeither party.”

Despite the fact that Wednesday’s meeting ended on a bad note, Bogerremained optimistic, saying he did not believe the strike would bemonths long.

“I still don’t believe it’s going to be a long distance,” he said. Headded that both Harley and the union “have options.”

Tom Buffenbarger, president of the Maryland-based InternationalAssociation of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, said companiessometimes cut off health-insurance coverage to striking workers as amethod of intimidation.

“Whenever they’ve needed help from the union they began by sittingdown and having discussions,” he said of Harley officials. “This timethey came (to) a concessionary agreement on us without anyforewarning. So it appears that the idea of partnership is a one-waystreet with them.”

Harley officials have partly credited the company’s partnership withits union for saving it from extinction in the early 1980s.

“It’s a betrayal of the principles of when we sat down and said,’Let’s make this a great American company again,'” Buffenbarger said.”The folks in York, Pennsylvania, make a product that’s enviedthroughout the world, and it speaks to their work ethic, their openmindedness and their vision.”

–By ANDR?A MARIA CECIL
Daily Record/Sunday News

–from Rogue

KIM SUTER’S DIAMOND 3D SERIES WHEELS FROM FORGE-TEC–Oxnard, CA- Forge-Tec Motorcycle, an industry-leading manufacturer of high-end aluminum wheels and blanks supplier to many of the industry’s leading wheel manufacturers is proud to introduce 3 new and exciting wheel designs created by world renowned bike builder?Kim Suter of KC Creations. Kim and his wife Cheryl have been riding bikes since they were kids and bought his first Harley at the age of 16.

His passion for bikes made him leave his family run gasoline business where he was Vice President and General Manager and decided to devote the rest of his life to building custom motorcycles. Kim has won numerous awards for his custom bike building “passion” and was one of the first bike builders to use a big inch motor in one of his bikes. Part of his bike line is now known as “Big Inch Motors.” K.C. Creations can be seen on TV or found gracing the pages of many of the industry’s leading magazines.

Kim stated, “I have been working with Forge-Tec on several exclusive 3D wheel designs and am proud to have my name associated with them. They are one “class act” and their manufacturing facility is second to none!” All processes are completed in-house, utilizing only state-of-the-art equipment and highly sophisticated process technologies. All Forge-Tec wheels are rotary forged utilizing one of their proprietary forge presses using only “virgin” aircraft grade 6061 aluminum?.there’s no recycled aluminum in their products.

The new Diamond 3D Series from Kim Suter include the Creations 3, Creations 5 and Creations 7 to suit the individual rider’s tastes. Forge-Tec Motorcycle wheels are available in a wide variety of popular sizes and applications (including the new 23″ x 3.5″ front wheel and 20″ x 10.5″ rear wheel), with matching rotors, pulleys and sprockets. All wheels go out shipped with the rotors and pulley attached and torqued to OEM specs which eliminates a lot of guess work at the dealer level and ensures that wheels arrive to their customers in perfect condition.

For further information, please contact Forge-Tec Motorcycle directly at 805-982-9820. Forge-Tec Motorcycle Wheels and Accessories, 950 Richmond Ave., Oxnard, CA 93030. www.forgetecmotorcycle.com. Dealer inquiries invited!

LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST? DESIGNATED AS “SIGNATURE EVENT” BY AMA–Las Vegas BikeFest? 2007 has been selected by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) as one of the organization’s Signature Events for 2007. Signature Events are part of the AMA Premier Touring Series, a collection of road-riding rallies and tours.

Las Vegas BikeFest was chosen to be one of the 10 Signature Events for 2007 as a result of its unique features and activities, as well as the growing size and importance of the rally. AMA Signature Events must meet stringent AMA Road Riding standards based on their broad appeal, unique theme and location, and overall prestige. By selecting an event for the Premier Touring Series as a Signature Event, the AMA is telling its members and the motorcycling population that this is an event not to be missed.

AMA is a nationwide organization with more than 250,000 members. All AMA members will be entitled to special member benefits at Las Vegas BikeFest.

The 7th annual Las Vegas BikeFest will be held September 27-30 in the most famous 24-hour city, Las Vegas, Nevada. The event will consist of the Vendor Village at Cashman Center with over 300 manufacturers and vendors, and activities such as Poker Runs and competitions, and non-stop entertainment. Artistry in Iron, Master Builders’ Championship will also take place at Cashman Center. 40,000 bikers and enthusiasts are expected to be in attendance.

Las Vegas BikeFest is produced by Las Vegas BikeFest, LLC a joint venture of ConvExx and Full Throttle Events. Las Vegas BikeFest information is available at www.LasVegasBikeFest.com, or call toll-free 866-BIKEFEST (866-245-3337) or e-mail info@lasvegasbikefest.com.

BIKERNET’S AMAZING SHRUNKEN FXR FOR SALE, DEAL OF THE WEEK–The new bike designed by Bandit is available this week for the low price of $19,500. Valentines Day his me hard and I need some cash. Call (310) 830-0630.–Bandit

HARLEY-DAVIDSON FORCED TO LAY OFF 440 EMPLOYEES DUE TO STRIKE–Harley-Davidson Inc. on Monday temporarily laid off 440 employees at plants where key motorcycle parts such as engines and windshields are made as a strike at its largest production plant entered a second week.

Some 240 employees were temporarily laid off at a production plant in the north central Wisconsin community of Tomahawk, said Bob Klein, a spokesman for the Milwaukee-based motorcycle maker. About 200 workers were laid off at plants in southeast Wisconsin as well, he said, and the company could lay off an additional 300 workers in that region.

Some 2,800 union workers in York, Pa., have been striking since Feb. 2 at the plant where top-selling, heavyweight Touring and Softail bikes are made. Harley employs about 7,600 people at plants in the U.S.The temporary layoffs in Wisconsin were both voluntary and forced, Klein said, though he declined to say how many were forced. He said it’s unclear when the employees will return to work at the plants.

“It just depends on how long the strike lasts,” he said.Klein said negotiations over a contract proposal will continue Wednesday in York with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 175. These will not be attended by a federal negotiator, he said. Two federally mediated sessions last week failed to produce a solution.

Harley said last week that the strike would cause it to miss shipment expectations for the first quarter. The company had expected to ship between 82,000 and 84,000 bikes during the first three months of the year. Harley declined to provide updated shipment expectations for the first quarter and would not say whether the strike will affect financial guidance for the full year.

Union members overwhelmingly rejected the company’s three-year contract proposal Jan. 31. It offered annual raises of 4 percent but would have reduced pay rates for new hires, required employees to begin paying part of their health insurance premiums and forced pension concessions.A message left at union headquarters on Monday was not immediately returned.

Analysts said that although the strike is costing Harley up to $11 million a day in sales, they expect it to be short-lived and have little impact on the company’s full-year performance.

The strike has caused many outside Harley suppliers to do their own temporary layoffs. Stambaugh Metal, a York company that polishes the metal used in Harley motorcycles, said it has laid off 35 of its roughly 50 workers. Surtech Industries, which finishes metal for bikes, has laid off nine full-time and 10 part-time workers, company president Terry Spisak said.

A Tenneco plant in Lincoln, Neb., that makes exhaust products for Harley bikes is laying off about 35 of its 100 employees, said Jim Spangler, a spokesman for the Illinois-based company.

Shares of Harley rose 47 cents to close at $68.27 on Monday on the New York Stock Exchange.On the Net: Harley-Davidson: http://www.harleydavidson.com

–from Rogue

QUICK THROTTLE SHOW SPONSORED BY BIKERNET AND JUDGED BY BANDIT– Don’t miss it. Bandit will be there to judge the show.Sign up now for the next QT Expo, March 17th-18th at OC Fairgrounds. Click on the link for highlights of our first Expo: http://www.xtremespeedwayaction.com/quickthrottle.htm?

And see our 9-11 Patriot Ride on Speed Channel’s American Thunder. Click Here: http://video.msn.com/v/us/v.htm?g=921120ad-af45-4ce8-8dad-d7979c71b3b6&f=copy

Publisher,
Quick Throttle Magazine
Free Wheelin’ Magazine
www.quickthrottlemag.com
888-770-9866

Continued On Page 4

Continued From Page 1

NEW HELMET USE STUDY–The Effect of Motorcycle Helmet Use on the Probability of Fatality and the Severity of Head And Neck Injuries.This article evaluates the effectiveness of motorcycle helmets in accident situations. A latent variable model is developed and estimated. It is concluded that (1) motorcycle helmets have no statistically significant effect on the probability of fatality; (2) helmets reduce the severity of head injuries; and (3) past a critical impact speed [13 MPH], helmets increase the severity of neck injuries. Further analysis establishes the qualitative and quantitative nature of the head-neck injury trade-off.

Methodology

1. This study employs standard statistical techniques (regression analysis) to isolate the main determinants of death and injury severity resulting from motorcycle accidents.

2. The data analyzed in this study were provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation and originally collected by Hurt et al. (1981), contract No. DOT HS-5-01160. These data are currently recognized as the most accurate and detailed available on motorcycle accidents (See pp. 11-12).

3. The effectiveness of helmets and other determinants of death and injury severity are estimated from a causal model. Three variants of one causal model are used to isolate the determinants of: (1) the probability of a fatality; (2) the severity of head injuries; and (3) the severity of neck injuries.

4. The use of a causal model distinguishes the research methodology of this study from previous studies. The advantage of this approach lies in the ability to estimate the separate effects of several simultaneous and interrelated causes of motorcycle fatalities and injury severities (pp. 2-4). Previous studies simply divide accident victims into a helmeted group and non-helmeted group. As a result all differences in fatality rates, injury rates and injury severities between groups are erroneously attributed to helmet use. These comparisons fail to consider other differences between helmet users and non-users which influence the probability of death and the severity of injuries. The most plausible hypothesis is that helmeted riders are more risk-averse and thus: (1) have lower pre-crash and thus crash speeds; and (2) are less likely to combine alcohol consumption and driving. Such behavior, rather than helmet use per se, may dramatically reduce the probability of fatality or the severity of an injury. Only a causal model that considers crash speed, helmet use, alcohol use and other pertinent variables can isolate the separate contribution of each determinant of the severity of injury or probability of death.

Causal Model (pp. 4-8)

1. The causal model considers three broad categories of the causes of death and injury severity. These include factors governed by the laws of physics, physiological factors. and human factors and operator characteristics.

2. The physical factors considered include: the kinetic energy (potential for bodily damage) transferred to the motorcycle operator by the impact, compressibility of the impacted object, helmet use, and possible engineering limitations of helmets (as affected by the impact speed that the helmet is subjected to in the crash).

3. The physiological factors considered include: operator’s age, blood alcohol level, drug involvement, and permanent physiological impairment.

4. The human factors and operator characteristics considered include: rider on-road experience, whether the operator had taken the correct evasive action for the particular accident situation, driver training, and the operator’s past accident and violation histories.

5. Numerous other determinants were also considered.

Results (pp. 13-18)

1. Helmets are shown to have no statistically significant effect on the probability of a fatality given that a motorcycle accident has occurred. This means that based on standard statistical tests we cannot reject the claim that helmets do not affect the probability that a rider will survive a motorcycle accident.

2. The major determinants of fatality are the rider’s crash speed (kinetic energy) and blood alcohol level.

3. For the average rider involved in the average accident, it is found that the probability of death increases from 2.1% to 11.3% when the rider’s blood alcohol level increases from 0.0 to 0.1 (from sober to legally intoxicated in most states).

4. In the same vein, an increase in the crash speed from 40 to 60 mph increases the probability of death from 7.1% to 36.3%

5. It is found that helmets have a statistically significant effect in reducing head injury severity. We can reject the hypothesis that helmets have no effect on head injuries in favor of the claim that they reduce head injuries.

6. It is shown that past a critical impact velocity to the helmet (approximately 13 mph), helmet use has a statistically significant effect which increases the severity of neck injuries. Thus we reject the claim that, helmets have no effect on neck injuries in favor of the claim that, past a critical impact speed, they exacerbate neck injuries.

7. As a result of (5) and (6), we establish that a tradeoff between head and neck injuries confronts a potential helmet user. Past a critical impact speed to the helmet (13 mph), which is likely to occur in real life accident situations helmet use reduces the severity of head injuries at the expense of increasing the severity of neck injuries.

8. Further statistical tests reveal the qualitative nature of this tradeoff. It is shown that an individual who wears a helmet and experiences an impact velocity to the head greater than 13 mph may avoid either severe or minor head injuries and incur either severe or minor neck injuries; all permutations of the tradeoff are equally likely to occur.

Policy Implications (pp. 18-20)

1. If a major concern of policy makers is the prevention of fatalities, helmet legislation may not be effective in achieving that objective.

2. If the overall cost to society of motorcycle accidents is the issue, then cost-benefit analyses that adequately consider the tradeoff between head and neck injuries must be conducted before the cost effectiveness of helmets can be determined.

3. Until the injury tradeoff issue is more carefully studied, it cannot be concluded that mandatory helmet use laws are an effective method to eradicate the slaughter and maiming, of individuals involved in motorcycle accidents.

4. A more effective policy approach would be two pronged, including both policies to prevent accidents and policies that effectively reduce the probability of death and the severity of injuries.

5. Policies to prevent accidents include: (1) the education of the general driving public; (2) the education of a younger and more inexperienced population of motorcyclists on the issues of accident avoidance and the proper use and control of high horsepower machines: (3) stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws; and (4) implementation of alcohol awareness programs.

6. Policies to reduce death and injury severity include: stricter enforcement of speed limits. the alcohol related policies suggested in (5) and mandatory driver training and education programs which emphasize the proper execution of evasive action.The Study…

–Jonathan P. Goldstein, Ph.D.
Department of Economics
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, Maine 04011

NEW GENERATION OF XTREME CHARGE BATTERY CHARGERS-This Xtreme Charge Motorcycles is the first true Next Generation 12-volt maintenance charger that provides users with the industry’s most advanced charging system to date. The unique, new charge algorithm built into the charger coupled with advanced battery evaluation capabilities and the patented high-frequency Pulse circuitry optimizes the performance of any 12-volt lead-acid motorcycle battery. It rocks.

Contact: John Bell
prseitz@bellsouth.net
Phone 954-970-3394

DEALER EXPO IN INDY THIS WEEKEND–Can’t make it to the show? Don’t be left out in the cold…Get the scoop on the hottest products straight from the show floor with theShow Dailies. Get Hooked Up Today The Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo is the place to be if you are a buyer or seller in the powersports industry. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the most comprehensive gathering of powersports people and products in one place, at one time, in 2007.

For the past 38 years, Dealer Expo? has provided manufacturers and distributors of powersports products, accessories and services the opportunity to meet directly with buyers, owners and managers of powersports dealerships and retail stores in a business-first buying and selling environment. And dealership and retail buyers descend on Dealer Expo? to uncover the hottest new products and services for their stores.

Researching, buying and networking all happen at the Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo. If you’re not here, you’re not getting hooked up with the industry.

NOTE: Dealer Expo? is not open to the general public. It is a business-to-business trade show. Business credentials are required to attend.

TAKE ACTION ON HAWAIIAN MUFFLER BILLS NOW!– Muffler bills are being heard in the state legislature that will probably pass unless you act now. SBUPAC is putting together a coalition of muffler shops, custom car & MC shops, car & MC clubs, etc. to testify on these bills but we also need numbers to back us up. You are those numbers.

Your action to take is simple. You need to send three emails and then forward this Action Alert to as many people you know who will be affected by these bills and ask them to email also. Unfortunately, not everyone is an SBU member so it’s up to all of us to get the word out. If you are in a club, notify all members. If you know people in the muffler or custom trade, notify them also. Some of the bills would add work and equipment to vehicle safety inspectors so notify them too.

Numbers matter, and are the reason we are faced with these bills in the first place. Too many people have complained about noise in their lives and so legislators are coming after bikes. Some of the bills include cars and pick-ups also so be sure to forward this to anyone you know with a custom car or pick-up.

There are plenty of other noise sources in people’s lives–dogs, roosters, lawn equipment, car alarms, big trucks, even church bells–but they are coming after us.

Some of the bills involve increased fines. Others involve setting decibel limits and outfitting police and safety inspection stations with decibel meters, setting up impound lots to provide for holding your vehicle for 2 weeks, mandatory EPA labels on exhaust (so much for custom), “criminalizing” businesses which alter exhausts with $1,000 fines, and on and on.

Incidentally, the HPD has been testifying AGAINST these bills. They have enough to do without chasing people with decibel meters.

SO, here are your 3 email addresses: reps@capitol.hawaii.gov , sens@capitol.hawaii.gov , and governorlingle@hawaii.gov .

The first address will send your email to ALL state representatives. The second address goes to ALL state senators, and the third to Governor Linda Lingle. It’s important to email all 3. Put NO MUFFLER BILLS in the subject heading. Say who you are, give your address and phone, and say you are AGAINST the following MUFFLER BILLS:

HB1447
HB1544
HB1650
HB443
HB1585
SB1238
SB1684
SB1682

You don’t have to include reasons. We will do that in testimony. The main thing is to have as many people as possible saying NO and saying NO NOW!

For further information, here is a link where you can enter the bill numbers to read their wording, check their status, see whose name is on them, check their status, and read any committee reports that have been submitted. Link: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/docs/docs.asp?press1=docs Enter bill number in top, left-hand box. Check appropriate boxes.

In addition to being against these bills, our position is that current state law is adequate. Below is current state law:

?291-24 Motorcycles and mopeds, noisy mufflers; penalty. (a) Every motorcycle and moped moving under its own power on a public highway shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in constant operation to prevent any excessive or unusual noise and no such muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device. No person shall modify the exhaust system of a motorcycle or a moped in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the motor of such motorcycle or moped above that emitted by the muffler originally installed on the motorcycle or moped except a motorcycle or moped that:

(1) Has three wheels;
(2) Is powered by an electric motor;
(3) Has a full body enclosed cab; and
(4) Has a seat belt assembly or a child restraint system for the driver and passenger;shall not be required to be equipped with a muffler.

(b) As used in this section, “muffler” means a device consisting of a series of chambers or baffle plates, or other mechanical design, for the purpose of receiving exhaust gas from the engine of the motorcycle or moped, and being effective in reducing noise.

(c) Whoever violates this section shall be fined not more than $100. [L 1949, c 21, ?1; RL 1955, ?311-27; HRS ?291-24; am L 1978, c 222, ?7; am L 1986, c 189, ?1; am L 1994, c 120, ?4]

[?291-24.5] Motor vehicle muffler. (a) No person shall use on a public highway, sell, alter or install a muffler which will noticeably increase the noise emitted by a motor vehicle above that emitted by the vehicle as equipped from the factory.

(b) Any violation of this section shall constitute a violation and shall be enforceable by police officers. The fine for this violation shall be not less than $25 nor more than $250 for each separate offense. Any person who violates the provisions of this section may be issued a summons or citation for such violation. [L 1977, c 79, ?1]

?291-22 Regulation of exhaust pipe and muffler. It shall be unlawful for any person to drive upon the public highways any motor scooter, as defined in section 286-2, the exhaust pipe or muffler of which has been so changed from the factory design as to increase the volume or audibility of the explosions within the motor thereof. [L 1941, c 140, ?2; RL 1945, ?11718; RL 1955, ?311-24; HRS ?291-22; am L 1979, c 105, ?28]

Ride Free, In Unity!
–Warren Woodward
SBUPAC Co-Chair

We need to share the following study with them. Here’s a link to the Independent Bikernet Noise Study–Bandit http://www.bikernet.com/news/PageViewer.asp?PageID=902

FREEDOM FIGHTERS WANTED– February 2007 – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for the 2007 Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame.

The Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame recognizes the sacrifices individuals across the nation, and world, have made to protect the rights of motorcyclists through their efforts in the political arena and in grass roots motorcyclists rights organizations. To show our appreciation for their commitment the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame established the nation’s first and only Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame in 2001.

You are encouraged to participate in the nominating process by submitting the name of an outstanding Freedom Fighter from your state, or province, along with a brief bio as to why this person deserves to be recognized. Biographical information and credentials should be no more than two pages. All nominations must be received by May 31, 200 7.

To request a nomination form or for further information contact Executive Director Pepper Massey, 605.347.2001 or email pepper@sturgismuseum.com

United StatesArizona – Ralph “Sonny” Barger, California – John Paliwoda, “Deacon” David Phillips, NY Myke Shelby, Connecticut – Donald “Pappy” Pittsley, John “Rogue” Herlihy, District of Columbia – Senator Olympia Snow, Beverly Waters, Tom Wyld, Colorado – Mark Buckner Florida – Elizabeth “Boots” Buckholz, Doc Reichenbach, Indiana – Michael FarabaughIllinois – Todd Vandermyde, Iowa – Dick “Slider” Gilmore, Kentucky – Jay HuberMichigan – Angel Burton, Representative James Barcia, Minnesota – Governor Arnie Carlson, Bob Illingworth, John Sullivan, Bob Summer, Representative Tom Workman, Montana – Glen Fengstad, New Mexico – Dennis “Big D” Watson, Nebraska – Rich “Neb” Nebelsick, North Carolina – Rick Nail, Ohio – Bill Bish, Oregon – Butch Harbaugh, South Carolina – Jesse McDugald, Pennsylvania – Rick Gray, Texas – Sputnik, Washington – Swede Matzek Wisconsin – Wayne Curtin, Senator Dave Zien, Tony “Pan” Sanfelipo, Sue Menard, Governor Tommy Thompson, Buck Kittredge

Canada, Europe, Australia:England – Fred Hill, Ian Mutch, Simon Milward

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum &Hall of Fame is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization and is open year round. www.sturgismuseum.com

–Pepper S. Massey
Executive Director, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
605.347.2001
999 Main Street, Sturgis, SD 57785
fax 605.720.0632
www.sturgismuseum.com

Bikernet nominated a very worthy candidate to receive this award. We’ll let you know the outcome in the near future.–Bandit

INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC POLICY CONFERENCE ON MOTORCYCLES HELD IN COLUMBUS–Back on Sunday March 29th 2001 following the International Public Policy Conference on Motorcycles held in Columbus Ohio a meeting was held between the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Association (FEMA), and the Federation of Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). From that meeting came a Memorandum of Understanding between Motorcycle Riders’ Organizations for co-operation on the Global Harmonisation of Motorcycle Technical Regulations that was written, agreed upon, and committed to by the four parties mentioned above.

Basically each of the four parties equally contribute financially and administratively to attending and participating in every meeting related to motorcycles held at both the European Union levels and the United Nations levels. Of course the information and positions brought forth are agreed upon by the cooperation group, with none holding veto power, so we work towards agreement in all cases.

Each of the four parties do hold NGO (Non-Governmental Organization Status within the United Nations) which means we have the right to be at these high level meetings and participate openly. The only privilege we do not have, of course, is a vote when it comes to being signatories on GTR’s (Global Technical Regulations), Treaties, and the like. Much of the work is actually done beforehand through committees and Working Parties which is where we yield our influence.

From the US we often see NHTSA and the EPA participating at the various meetings so you know it is critical we represent the motorcyclists of this country at these meetings.

We as a group are very active in Euro Emissions regulations, UN and EU sound issues, TUV certifications, global safety initiatives, world wide rider training, braking standards, the World Emissions test cycle development, lighting standards, sound testing etc. In the last three years alone we have attended meetings in six, maybe seven countries. I have been the MRF’s representative to this International Motorcycle Cooperation Group since 2003 and I personally have participated in meetings in four countries myself.

I have been in several meetings where very specific technical discussions have been held regarding Euro 3 emissions standards and how our Tier 2 US standards compare and where the Japanese standards fall and then where this group would like to see these continuing to progress towards. If more folks in the states had access to this info within the manufacturers community I am convinced they would have a better understanding of where we are coming from on our EPA and Sound positions and be more open to them. I certainly have tried to introduce them to this.

–Kirk Willard
President
Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF)

BIKERNET READER’S FIRST GROUND UP–Figured I would pass on some shots of the bike in case you wanted to put it online. I have more pictures than this but it will give you an idea. Built the bike from the ground up the first time and it was close to stock dimensions.

Decided to tear it back down and had the frame chopped up. Now even have a nice patina finish on the tank and fender. Never ending project.

–Jeremy

Continued On Page 3

Hey,

It’s a hot news today, plus here’s a couple of hot tips. The Bobber debate is on-going since most tight, old school customs are labeled bobbers. Actually bobbers were ’40s stock bikes, bobbed for racing with different bars and shortened fenders.

There’s the Frisco style bike with a stock rigid frame, springer, ribbed rear fender, Sportster or Peanut tanks and highbars. But the other day a term came up that I believe fills the missing link, Bar Hopper.

Bar hoppers are also short, tight bikes with small tanks and rigid frames. That sorta covers anything retro or even new that’s not meant for long distances, just hitting it to the bar. Whatta ya say?

One more tidbit. I’m helping a kid build a Bar Hopper rigid with a stock wide glide and a mustang tank, no front fender and we’re fabricating all the brackets, mounting the solo seat, the fender, you know, all the shit. He mentioned that if you can’t have a frame or front end magnafluxed for cracks, his dad told him to sandblast the part and set it in the sun. “It will seep through the crack and you’ll spot it.”

Let’s hit the news. It’s packed:

COMING THROUGH! THE NAFTA SUPER HIGHWAY–The planned NAFTA Super Highway would radically reconfigure not onlythe physical landscape of these United States, but our political andeconomic landscapes as well.

All across America, mammoth construction projects are preparing tolaunch. The NAFTA Super Highway is on a fast track and it’s headedyour way. If you don’t help derail it, you may soon be run over by it- both figuratively and literally.

The NAFTA Super Highway is a venture unlike any previous highwayconstruction project. It is actually a daisy chain of dozens ofcorridors and coordinated projects that are expected to stretch outfor several decades, cost hundreds of billions of dollars, and end upradically reconfiguring not only the physical landscape of theseUnited States, but our political and economic landscapes as well.

In Texas, the NAFTA Super Highway is being sold as the Trans TexasCorridor. In simplest terms, the TTC is a superhighway systemincluding tollways for passenger vehicles and trucks; lanes forcommercial and freight trucks; tracks for commuter rail and high-speedfreight rail; depots for all rail lines; pipelines for oil, water, andnatural gas; and electrical towers and cabling for communication andtelephone lines.

One of the proposed corridor routes, TTC-35, isparallel to the present Interstate Highway 35 (I-35), slightly to theeast, running north from Mexico to Canada. Its present scope is 4,000miles long, 1,200 feet wide, with an estimated cost of $183 billion oftaxpayer funds. It runs through Kansas City.

Integration vs. Independence

How would all of this affect you, your family, and your community? Letus count the ways. One of the most striking features of the proposedSuper Highway is the plan to do away with our borders, as evidenced bythe joint U.S.-Mexico Customs facility already under construction inKansas City, Missouri. A U.S. Customs checkpoint in Kansas City? Butthat’s a thousand miles inside America’s heartland; isn’t the purposeof U.S. Customs to check people and cargo at our borders?Tell your representative and senators to “Stop the NAFTA Super HighwaySteppingstone to a North American Union” by phone, fax, or e-mail. Goto www.capwiz.com/jbs/home/ for contact information and a sampleletter.

By Kelly Taylor

–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
www.bikerrogue.com

TEAM CHOPPER UPDATE FOR DONNIE SMITH SHOW–The last time we touched base with Team Chopper from St. Francis High School in Minnesota we found them building a gas tank and adding spikes.

Currently they have been making tools to get the spikes cut off the bars and another tool to hold the spikes so they can put threads in them to screw on to the gas tank.

They are continuing the tank build and tig welding it together. In addition, students have been machining different designs for their foot pegs.

The class got a 10.5 rear wheel from Cycleworks of Elk River. They also got a front end on order, American Construction (local company) purchased one through Spyke, they gave them a huge discount on the part. Spyke is also going to throw in a starter and cables! Things are coming together!

Donnie Smith High School Chopper Class Challenge

The bike debut will be at the annual Donnie Smith Bike Show in St. Paul. Last years’ chopper won the peoples choice award in the 2006 Donnie Smith High School Chopper Class Challenge.

On the Hunt

Team Chopper is looking for intake, air cleaner, front brake rotor, front and rear caliper, carb, NOS purge kit. Motorcycle enthusiasts can check out Chopper High by clicking here.

Industry Assistance
Some of the companies and individuals that have assisted in the project include Bob Osias of Metric Thunder, Donnie Smith, Brian Klock, Billy Lane, Jaz from R-MAX USA by Roadmax, Kokesh Motorcycles, S&S, Denvers Chopper, Crane Cams, BAD Creations, Hardtails, Isanti Performance Cycle, Mutha Country Choppers, Olson Radiator, House of Color, Precision Line Motorsports, Extreme Paint, Stacks Creative Customs, Wreck Bros Auto Body & Paint and Zylstra Harley Davidson.

PSYCHO SID STORY–I always think of my “The Return Of Psycho Sid” picture as a scene from an old ’60s biker flick. The scenario goes something like this: Sid, the “Devil’s Advocates” long time leader, has just returned from a stretch in the joint, where he got word that his woman was two timin’ him. The snub-nosed .38 in his back pocket and the switchblade in his right hand help explain his “Psycho Sid” nickname. The question is, is he going to do her in (she doesn’t know he knows), or will the two dudes (either of which may be the new guy she’s been messing around with) stop him cold (notice the 12 gauge next to the guy on the left).

This picture started with a photo I’d shot of an old deserted bar/motel on the outskirts of Vegas (I hear it’s since been torn down). The only sign was the word “Eats” on the wall, I added all the rest, including the rusty neon signs (both of which came from a beat-to-shit motel in Fresno, CA). I also relocated the stone archway motel rooms, and added the cactus, palm trees, iguana, and trailer, and also changed the sky.

As for the bikes and 50’s style rod (all of which I added), they’re all combinations of parts that I put together. For instance, the three wheeler didn’t have slicks, ape hangers, or flames, and the rod didn’t have the Moon tank, flames, pinstripes, Duval windshield, or the tuck n’ roll (all of the elements come from my own photos).

And as for Sid, he’s a combination of three people. The head is from one guy (I added the shades), while his arms (with added tattoos) and torso are from someone else (his legs and butt are mine). I added the vest and colors (I made up the “Devil’s Advocates” name), and added the Jack Daniels bottle and .38 to his back pockets. All of the other people were modified as well.

I knew I’d nailed the authenticity I was after when four Hells Angels (in colors) came by my booth at a show last year and loved it, saying “it totally took them back to the good ‘ol days”! You can buy a print, no problem.

Larry Grossman
www.Retrovisions.com

SEASON THREE LAUNCH!!–The Bikertv.ca Team is thrilled to announce the startof our new season. We videotaped from coast to coast – The Cabot Trailto Vancouver – Grand Praire, AB to Windsor, ON – and all points in-between.Tech Tips, Racing and much, much more.

Special thanks to our motorcycling friends who made it happen.

SEASON THREE BEGINS: SUNDAY APRIL 15/07 –
10:00am and 12:30pm
The Outdoor Life Network

BIKERTV LAUNCH PARTY
GOOD FOOD, DRINK AND MUSIC
SNEAK PREVIEW BIKERTV VIDEO
LIVE BANDS: ZEDHEAD AND TROLE
March 31/07 4pm Midnight

CAW HALL LAMBETH – Hwy #401 and Hwy #4info@bikertv.ca

Bikertv.ca Limited
51025-1593 Adelaide Street North
London, Ontario, N5X 4P9
www.bikertv.ca

THE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE 2007 TOUR —FT LAUDERDALE, FL (February 9, 2007) – Showcasing the rides of various celebrities the 2007 Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse Tour Sponsored by Bikernet.com is making waves with the new tour and gearing up for another exciting year.

With new flare this year, the 2007 Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse Tour will feature custom builders and manufacturers as well as the rides they built for celebrities of all avenues, from rock n roll, film, TV, NASCAR and sports. The tour will kick-off at Daytona Bike Week March 2nd – 11th with live entertainment day and night at their Main Street location.

Daytona will feature the rides of Russell Mitchell from Exile Cycles in California and his custom bike created for the rock n roller Billy Joe of Green Day; Ralph Randolph from Ralph Randolph Designs in Arizona and his custom bike created for actor Matthew McConaughey; and two of NASCAR’s rock’n drivers with Dave Perewitz of Perewitz Cycle Fab in Boston and his custom bike built for NASCAR’s? #20 Tony Stewart; and NASCAR #43 driver, Kyle Petty and his customized Victory Motorcycle.

In addition to the featured builders and showcase of bikes, the Roadhouse will feature a touring photo exhibit of top builders photographed by world-renown photographer, Michael Lichter. The photos displayed have been taken over the years by Michael at various events, rallies, and in the studio. The Roadhouse will also feature daily ride-ins by a long list of builders & friends, hot models, bikini pageants, great entertainment, a hard rock’n time and more during the following bike rallies:

MARCH 2ND – 11TH / Daytona Bike Week (Daytona Beach, Florida)Main Street & Wild Olive

AUGUST 6TH – 12TH / 67th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (Sturgis, South Dakota)?Thunder Road

OCTOBER 3RD – 7TH / Myrtle Beach Fall Bike Week (Myrtle Beach, South Carolina)?TBA

OCTOBER 18TH – 21ST / Biktoberfest? (Daytona Beach, Florida)Main Street & Wild Olive

DECEMBER 3RD / The 2007 Hard Rock Roadhouse Tour Year-End Finale at the 19th Annual Toys in the Sun Run in Sunrise, Florida. hr dave n tony

Title sponsor of the Roadhouse, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a destination for rock n’ rollers from across the nation to discover their rock n’ roll dreams. The 86-acre resort in Hollywood, Florida, located between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale is pure paradise, featuring a colossal 130,000 sq. ft. casino, a lush 4-acre lagoon tropical pool area, a legendary Hard Rock Caf?, sensational European-style spa and fitness center, and the famous Hard Rock Live concert hall.

Seminole Paradise, South Florida’s newest entertainment destination for savvy shopping, delicious dining and explosive entertainment offers a little something for everyone, both day and night. Other sponsors include Budweiser, Michael Lichter Photography, Baker Transmission, Bikernet.com, Automatic Slims, ThunderRoad and Keyboard Carriage.

For more information and a complete listing of scheduled events, please visit www.hrroadhouse.com.

FAMOUS WINDVEST WINDSHIELDS FOR CUSTOM BIKES–We offer a windshield that is constructed of the finest materials on the market. Unique in its simplicity, the windscreen is made of thick genuine GE Plexiglas. The mounting hardware is aircraft billet machined aluminum with chrome-plate finish.

The bolts are high-grade stainless steel. We believe we have a superior product, surpassing many on the market today, and are constantly researching and developing new bracket configurations for all new models.

We have designed our screen to enhance your riding experience without taking away from the look of the motorcycle. The WindVest is available in different sizes. The Wide Body works especially well on large cruisers.

Our windshields are designed to get the wind pressure off of your chest and out of your face while still giving you the full effect of the open ride.

Also, if you have any questions, please give us a call at 408-377-7323, or check us out on the web www.windvest.com.

–WindVest Motorcycle Products

HUMBLE JOHNNY’S PROJECT BIKE WISH LIST–1. WCC Dragon custom chopper-piece by piece
2. Big tittied, small waisted, single foreign maid to clean my house
3. Roller toolbox filled with tools like the ones given away on Monster Garage.
4. A jar of peanut butter for my dog to remove
5. New jacket from ICON roadwear.
6. A new 135 tooth rear belt.
7. White Bro’s suspension kit for front and rear of my bike.
8. Jaybrake forward controls-black
9. 180*5.5 spoke wheel with an avon tire wrapped around it.
10. Front avon tire to match.
11. New motor and transmission for my truck.
12. Radio for my truck.
13. Ceramic tile for the living room of my house.
14. A hammock.
15. A new computer.
16. A better digital camera-Canon Rebel.
17. Sunglasses.
18. New jeans and some socks.
19. Cash for food, drinks, and fun at the rallies.
20. 95″ kit and 6 speed tranny set up.
21. New paintjob.
22. Internally wired 12 inch apes.
23. Spiked axle covers.
24. New Bowie Knife with an antler handle.
25. Binelli shotgun.
26. Browning 9mm.
27. Choppertown DVD’s.
28. ANd maybe a room when I come to see you in Wilmington in May or June.

If you have any questions, feel free to give me a ring. I will be anxiously waiting by the mailbox every day like a nerd awaiting his college acceptance papers.

–Johnny

BIKERNET LOOKS FOR LONG DISTANCE RIDERS FOR AMERICAN RIDER MAGAZINE–That’s right. I have the opportunity to celebrate the lives of long distance riders in American Rider Magazine. Just send me a jpg image of you and your bike and a paragraph to Bandit@bikernet.com. I’ll work with you on a feature and submit it to the slave-driving editor Buzz Buzzelli.

LONG DISTANCE WOMAN RIDER ON A BUELL BLAST–I loved the piece by Nyla Olsen on the Buell Blast. However, I wish forriders everywhere to know this: If you really want to be a “highway honey”and ride cross-country – it can be done on a Blast. In fact, I refer to mybike as a 500 ST. For those with very very short legs – the Blast can beyour answer to sport touring.

My Blast is a 2005 with nearly 28,000 miles including a trip last summerfrom Florida to Michigan and back. I can easily ride a 500-600 mile day withno problem.

–Margaret Ireland
The ride goes on…you can see & read all about it atwww.whereismaggiemae.com

Continued On Page 2

As you will see, this poster was sent to us to see if a father & mother could help their son make a little money from his art.

Here's their story and a not so great picture of the poster, but we'll let you decide whether or not you like it.

I love it and my check will be in the mail tomorrow.

Layla

It's a poster of an original painting my son did of my wife's and my bikes. My wife's trying to promote Aaron's (my son) painting's. aaron went through art school but is having a hard time making ends meet.

We made prints out of this painting to sell so he can make a few buck'sas we help him through school.

I think Bandit has one of the best sites on the web so I was hoping if wesent him one free, and he liked it, he would show it on the sight with infoon where others could get them.

I've been into scooters for over 30 years. In fact when I was 17, Ihitchhiked out to Los Angeles, Cal. to stay with my uncle who was the main bikepainter for “Big House” Choppers located in Inglewood, CA., a suburb of LA., back in 1971-3?Anyway that's when I got interested in bikes.

My bike is a massaged 1947 – 74 knuckle and my wife's is a 80 shovel that I built to look like a 1937 knuckle, but with stretched tank a 93 ” engine. It hasalot of other mods. I did all the work on them and they are ridden steady, (weather permitting).

That's the dope – Bruce

If anyone is interested, which I think it be worth the investment, if you like biker-related art, send a check or money order to:

Aaron Hauck
16244 Ahrens Hill
Brainerd, MN 56401

Numbered Water-color prints 1-150, signed – $100
Posters – $25
11×17 prints – $15

Please add $5 for shipping and handling in the U.S.

My picture of the poster isn't that great, it is much better looking in person. ~Sin

Big wheels, big paint and classic drag-bike attitude meet modern refinement. Then we stuff it brimful with raw power. What do you bet, next year with the new M-8 engine.

Feast your eyes on the Breakout. Its profile is low, stretched out and undeniably aggressive. We top it with drag bars and enhance its custom look with 21-spoke Turbine wheels. The High Output Twin Cam 103B engine delivers loads of torque to a wide 240mm rear tire. ABS comes standard. Go out and put a hard pounding on the pavement. It doesn’t get any better.

I’ll never forget the first one I saw. Ben Lambeouf road tested one and rode it to the Bikernet Headquarters. I was blown away. Stock bikes don’t look this good. At last, the Factory nailed this one, albeit maybe a decade late. Hell, the wide tire craze was long gone, but what the hell. A good looking chopper is hot whenever it hits the streets.

Get an eyeful of a Softail motorcycle and you see more than some weepy-eyed exercise in nostalgia. You’re looking at the kind of style that has the power to defy time. Honest. Uncluttered. So, how could you improve on the classic styling? I only see two obvious upgrades, the seat and bars. Sure you could add some bling accessories, but just a new Le Pera seat and a set of custom apes would make this a hard-riding street fighter anywhere and it’s damn near stock—amazing.

Here’s the classic line-up from Le Pera, and if you want to go beyond what you see here you can order stitching to match your paint or even exotic materials. Check out the best of the traditional best.

BARE BONES—SOLO

Overview

Killer “Spring Mounted” look!

Yes, that means a bit of the mechanics of the bike are exposed. You will notice the seat lines don’t follow the strut, as if the seat were spring mounted.

Its minimal, slammed to the ground stance adds the finishing touch to these bitchin bikes.

Specs

Driver Seating:
10.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A

MSRP:
$268.00

Part Number:
LKB-007

BARE BONES—UP FRONT

Overview

The Up Front moves you 2″ closer to the handlebars than the standard Bare Bones.

Killer “Spring Mounted” look!

Yes, that means a bit of the mechanics of the bike are exposed. You will notice the seat lines don’t follow the strut, as if the seat were spring mounted.

Its minimal, slammed to the ground stance adds the finishing touch to these bitchin bikes.

Specs

Driver Seating:
10.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A

MSRP:
$268.00

CHEROKEE—DIAMOND SEATING

Overview

With its pure Bobbed & Chopped, King/Queen lines and incredible lower back support for the driver, the Cherokee offers the throwback look your Softail was born to have.

Specs

Driver Seating:
12.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
6.5″ Wide

MSRP:
$499.00

Part Number:
LKB-020DM

DAYTONA—SPORT

Overview

Cafe racer styling with 12.5″ of rider comfort and 7″ of lower back support, perfect for all day cruising.

Specs

Driver Seating:
12.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A

MSRP:
$412.00

Part Number:
LKB-540

SILHOUETTE

Overview

The Silhouette is the original trendsetter in form and function.

All styling details taken straight from the Softails tank, fender and struts.

Completely transforms your bikes’ profile – every edge is smooth and rounded.

It is the first choice for bike builders worldwide.

Specs

Driver Seating:
12.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A

MSRP:
$355.00

Part Number:
LKB-860

SILHOUETTE DELUXE—TWO-UP

Overview

This seat is a step up from the original Silhouette. It is thicker, offers more lower lumbar support and is wider.

Passenger seating area is 7.5″ wide.

 Specs

Driver Seating:
12.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
7.5″ Wide

MSRP:
$412.00

Part Number:
LKB-048

SORRENTO

Overview

The Sorrento is a fusion of Silhouette style and Maverick comfort.

The entire seat has been shaved down for a flowing profile.

Perfectly formed, 13″ wide rider area and 10.5″ of passenger comfort.

Specs

Driver Seating:
13″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
10.5″ Wide

MSRP:
$533.00

Part Number:
LKB-900

VILLAIN

Overview

Once again we have taken seat designing to another level with the introduction of the head turning VILLAIN for your bike.

Bob Jr. designed this truly unique seat that will completely change the look of your bike.

Our VILLAIN is like nothing you’ve seen before.

If you demand the finest quality and unique styling you need look no further.

The Villain is great seat to add the Faux embossed leather to; we can also do something as simple as replace the black thread with a different color of thread to add a subtle accent.

Specs

Driver Seating:
11.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
6″ Wide

MSRP:
$508.00

Part Number:

Continued From Page 3

THE THREE, TWO-WHEELER–UNTIL last month, I had never test-driven a motorcycle or an automobile. Then, on a frigid Thursday morning two weeks ago, I had a chance to do both – at the same time.

Well, sort of.

I climbed onto a 2008 B.R.P. Can-Am Spyder Grand Sport Roadster, a sleek vehicle with three wheels – two in front and one in the back. Part car, part motorcycle and a whole lot of fun, the futuristic Spyder looks more like the love child of Henry Ford and Isaac Asimov than a creation from a Canadian maker of leisure-time vehicles.

Handsome as Brad and curvy as Angelina, the Spyder has enough cargo room to hold a pair of helmets big enough to contain the egos of both. It also has more than a few traces of the DNA found in Sea-Doo watercraft, Ski-Doo snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles also manufactured by Bombardier Recreational Products, a spinoff of the maker of aircraft and rail cars.

The Spyder is B.R.P.’s first highway-legal vehicle, and I was one of the first people outside the company to test it, cruising cautiously on public roads here near First Energy Park, the home of a minor league baseball team, the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The setting was appropriate, as I was about to put on a truly minor league driving exhibition for a team of B.R.P. technical and riding experts – as well as a few dozen passing motorists whose necks turned to rubber at the sight of the brilliant yellow Spyder.

I confess that I have never ridden a motorcycle, and like many natives of the New York City area I have never driven a car with a manual transmission. So I was slightly intimidated by the thought of placing my backside on the forefront of a new kind of crossover vehicle – one that Chris Dawson, vice president for strategic planning at B.R.P., described as “defying categorization.”

But I was in good hands. Before the test drive, Mr. Dawson, accompanied by Jos? Boisjoli, president and chief executive of B.R.P., and Marc Lacroix, the company’s product and marketing manager, sat me down in a conference room for a video tour of B.R.P.’s history and the Spyder’s inner workings. (“Continually reshaping how a rider rides, one goose bump at a time,” was the best line.)

I learned that the Spyder, which the company says can reach 110 miles an hour, uses a 106-horsepower Rotax V-twin – the kind of engine found in sport motorcycles made by Aprilia – to drive the rear wheel.

The Spyder, which in most jurisdictions will require a motorcycle or three-wheeler driver’s license, will be introduced to dealers and the press on Friday in San Diego. There will be two transmission choices: with a five-speed manual, the price is $14,999; with a five-speed sequential gearbox that deletes the clutch lever from the handlebars, the price is $16,499. The prices include electric power steering, a reverse gear and antilock brakes.

The Spyder will go on sale this fall in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Wisconsin and Virginia, as well as the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. By next January, nine more states will be added as well as France and Spain.I became, and I was sad when my ride ended.

Later, it dawned on me that it could take longer for someone to learn to ride a bicycle than it took me to learn to operate the Spyder – not that I’m recommending it for 5- and 6-year-olds. But I can recommend it for weekend warriors like me – even if you feel like cruising on a Thursday.

–from Clyde Fessler

WATERPROOF FOR 60 SECONDS … WHY NOT TO BUY SEALSKINZ–Attention All Motorcyclists:PIL Membranes Ltd. (formerly Porvair International, website:PilMembranes.com) is a UK-based company that claims to specialize “… inthe science, development and manufacture of high-performance waterproofbreathable membranes for fabrics and leather”. They, along withCalifornia-based Danalco, Inc. (Danalco.com), claim to be the manufacturersand/or distributors of a line of supposedly “waterproof” gloves and sockssold through Bass Pro Shops (BassPro.com) and other major U.S. sportinggoods retailers under the “SealSkinz” brand. On the SealSkinz.com website,they make the following claim:

“SealSkinz are suitable for cycling, walking, climbing, golfing, riding,canoeing, motorcycling, sailing, fell running, orienteering, gardening,fishing, rowing, caving, backpacking, mountaineering … and 100%waterproof.”

I AM WRITING TO INFORM YOU THAT BASED ON MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITHSEALSKINZ SOCKS AND GLOVES, THEY MOST CERTAINLY ARE NOT “100% WATERPROOF” INA MOTORCYCLING CONTEXT, NOR ARE THEY LIKELY TO BE WATERPROOF IN ANY OTHER.

Based on the assurances of SealSkinz.com, in October 2006 I placed twoonline orders through BassPro.com for two pairs each of (a) SealSkinzChillBlocker Waterproof Gloves, and (b) SealSkinz ChillBlocker WaterproofSocks. I placed the second order after road-testing their socks, and beingpleased with how well they did in fact “block the chill” under dryconditions. I gambled that they would also in fact be waterproof as claimed.In December 2006, I found out nothing could be further from the truth. Inriding through less than 100 miles of hard rain, the SealSkinz “waterproof”socks proved to be nothing more than thick sponges. And just to verify thefalse nature of their claims, I let the lower half of a dry pair sit in apot of water, weighted by a smaller pot, and in less than an hour they weresoaked inside and out!

–from Bruce Arnold

LEARNING CHANNEL BIKER BUILD-OFF PARTY TONIGHT IN VENICE CALIFORNIA–We’re headed to the Gard Hollinger Build-Off party tonight for the season premier. We received the following regarding a build-off in March:”Our Biker Build Off Show will air on March 8, 2007 following American Chopper(OCC) on The Learning Channel. Please tune in and I hope you enjoy.”

Thanks for everyone’s support.
–Dawn & Butch

BACK TO THE BIKERNET TIME MACHINE–Bandit pulls into school parking lot with rifle in gun rack.

1964 – Vice Principal comes over, takes a look at Bandit’s rifle, goes to his car and gets his to show Bandit.

2007 – School goes into lockdown, FBI called, Bandit is hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counselors called in for traumatized students and teachers.

THE HORSE SMOKE OUT 8-June 22 & 23 2007– DATES: June 22 & 23, 2007
LOCATION: Rowan County Fairgrounds, Salisbury, North Carolina
HOURS: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday
COST: $35 for two days or pre-register for $30
Event Information: www.horsebackstreetchoppers.com
Event Contact: edgehorse@aol.com, Edge (803) 210-7272

The 8th Annual The Horse Smoke Out is an event for and about choppers. More specifically, home-built choppers. But you don’t have to own one to join in the festivities. Just be there to kick back or cut loose.

Named after its original event location in the Great Smoky Mountains, The Horse Smoke Out is, above all, about camaraderie – people from around the United States who share an appreciation of cool bikes and good music.

The event always includes some of the biggest names in the chopper world. Billy Lane will be back again this year and past events have featured Indian Larry Legacy, Eric from Voodoo Choppers, Mad Dog, Ian from Bad Monkey Motorworks, Cole Foster, Fabricator Kevin and Chopper Dave.

The two-day event includes a build off in which talented chopper builders bring machines constructed from the ground up with a limited budget. The Horse staff also chooses the ten best choppers at the event to be featured in future editions of the magazine.

THE NEW HORSE SMOKE OUT TENT & RV CAMPING

Camping facilities are now being offered for the Smoke Out. For details contact SmokeOutCampting@aol.com or call Gem at (803) 467-4240.

NEVADA HELMET LAW CHALLENGED AT LAST–SB49 is being introduced to the Nevada Legislature. This bill will MAKENEVADA A FREE STATE by removing “… the requirement that drivers andpassengers on certain motorcycles wear protective headgear.”

The Nevada Legislature is giving us all a chance to vote and post ourcomments online about SB49 by going here:https://www.leg.state.nv.us/74th/opinions/Poll/index.cfm?drpMenuOne=120#EnterInfo

OR here:http://tinyurl.com/2uttwm

You will have to include your name and address in order for your vote tocount, but you do NOT have to be a Nevada resident, and your name andaddress are not posted publicly. But your comments will be!

You can viewthe current opinion vote count by locating “SB49” here:https://www.leg.state.nv.us/74th/opinions/reports/OpResults.cfm

OR here:http://tinyurl.com/2u4cfh

You can view yours and other posted comments by submitting “SB49” here:https://www.leg.state.nv.us/74th/opinions/vwComments.cfm

OR here:http://tinyurl.com/2vmegr

PLEASE take the time to cast a vote FOR SB49 and FOR FREEDOM in this poll.And PLEASE post comments in a respectful and persuasive manner. Rememberthat this is NOT a “helmet issue”, it is a “helmet law issue”. Mandatoryhelmet laws are discriminatorily unconstitutional in that–by mandatinghelmets for motorcyclists as opposed to all motorists–they violate the”equal protection” guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the United StatesConstitution.

And besides, helmets cannot prevent crashes, and allmandatory motorcycle helmet laws do is make negligent, care-less, distractedand impaired motorists feel less guilty about maiming and killing us!

VOTE ONLINE FOR SB49 … a law that will restore FREEDOM OF CHOICE in thegreat state of Nevada. And PLEASE FORWARD this email to every concernedmotorcyclist you know!

–Bruce Arnold
Bruce@LdrLongDistanceRider.com

BIKER RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT IN 2008–Motorcycle Rights Activists and Motorcycling Businessmen meet with Tommy Thompson to discuss his bid for President in Madison WI in January.

Left to right: Former Wisconsin Senator Dave Zien, ABATE of WI’s PR Director Dave “Chubby” Charlebois, ABATE of WI Founder Tony “Pan” Sanfelipo, MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, Jerry Weiner, Lt. Rich Kuchenbecker, ASMI Founder and Director Vicki Sanfelipo, Tommy Thompson, MRF VP Gov’t. Relations Jeff Hennie, San Diego HD owner New York Myke, President of Low Riders MC of Staten Island NY “Stormin” Joe Norman

BUILDERS BREAKFAST DAYTONA ROCKIN’–I spoke to Billy in Cincy and we discussed his new Builders’ Breakfast in Daytona. He wants to recognize new builders at these events and you may see a show of sorts emerging.

This event is all about supporting the boogy Creek Camp for Kids, don’t miss it.

When: Wednesday March 7th, 2007
Time: 9AM
Where: Destination Daytona
Beneficiary: Boggy Creek Camp for kids

TICKETS: $25 available online at: www.choppersinc.com

Limited number will be available morning of event on site

Darcy Betlach
Chrome Marketing Inc
Phone 952-470-4297
Fax 952-470-4597

SAXON MOTORCYCLES UNVEILS MAD JACK V-TWIN STREETFIGHTER AT CINCINNATI TO CRITICAL ACCLAIM– Cincinnati, OHIO February 3, 2007?Saxon unveiled a prototype of the newestaddition to its line, the Mad Jack, at the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati. TheMad Jack is an aggressive V-Twin Streetfighter designed by master builderGard Hollinger of L.A. County Choprods. It features numerous, unique?old-school modernistic? styling elements, including a proprietary frame,gas tank, fenders, machined aluminum strut system, LACC beehive sidemounted oil filter, Moon Eyes barrel type oil tank and LACC hydraulic seatshock dampening system. In addition, each Mad Jack will be numbered andsigned.

The Mad Jack is the second production motorcycle that Gard has designedfor Saxon. In 2005, Saxon unveiled the Black Crown, which quickly becameone of Saxon?s best sellers. Based on its success, Saxon partnered withGard to create a bike that would look like no other production motorcycleand be incredibly fun to ride. The result is a true statement in modernmotorcycle design.

The Mad Jack is scheduled to go into production in late spring as a 2008model and begin shipping to dealers early this summer. I have attachedsome images for your convenience.

The Mad Jack will be featured on Bikernet soon.You can visit Saxon online at www.saxonmotorcycles.com

–Ken Conte
(970) 227-3588

BIKERNET ART EXHIBIT SECOND HALL FOR SCOTT JACOBS–At last the latest entry to the HD Wine Series of paintings is completed?.TOASTING A LEGEND?.and here for your viewing pleasure.

V-Twin TV has been following Scott?s activities at home in the studio and also on the road for several months now and the documentary is set to air soon (see memo below). It will show in great detail how the master artist creates his stunning and photo-realistic paintings from start to finish. The show is dynamic, informative and very entertaining

–John Starr
Segment Producer, V-Twin TV

NEW SKULL COLLECTION AXLE NUT COVERS FOR HARLEY-DAVIDSON– MILWAUKEE (January 30, 2007) ?The new Skull Collection Axle Nut Covers from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories fit over the front or rear axle nuts to add custom detail that matches other accessory items in the popular Skull Collection. Sold in pairs, the axle nut cover kits include all necessary mounting hardware.

Skull Collection Rear Axle Nut Covers (P/N 42064-07, $26.95) fit 2006-later Dyna models. Skull Collection Front Axle Nut Covers (P/N 42055-07, $25.95) fit 2000-later Touring models and 2004-later Dyna models, except 2004-05 FXDWG and 2007 FXDSE.

For additional information on Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories, see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. or Canada.

WE?RE ROCKIN?–scrambling and bobbing and weaving. I?ve got a list a mile long of articles that need to be posted. Johnny Humble is overloaded and Paul Garson is asleep at the switch. I was determined to face only one major bike-build project this year, the Assalt Weapan for Bonneville, and I currently stumble over three, maybe four in the shop. I was going to try to publish one book this year and now it?s two. Plus we?re going to kick off our first Bikernet TV department.

If anyone tells you the motorcycle market is down, they?re fulla shit. This year is destined to rock the record books. Shit?s flying because shit is happening and it?s happening fast. There?s a handful of companies struggling, but twice as many coming on line. Eight new mags are crowding the newsstands. New television shows are being launched and new products are hitting the market. Shit, there?s even more web sites being plugged into the mix.

Mark my word. I can?t keep up with e-mails. So tonight we?ll celebrate the launch of a new Biker Build-Off series and this weekend we?ll visit Wil Phillips, Mr. True Track, who is in Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. He has discovered a very serious form of cancer. If you pray, make it a good one for Wil. He?s constantly been an innovator in our industry, and perhaps saved thousands of lives with his True-Track stabilizing system for Touring models.

There you have it. Keep the faith and be respectful of the noise you make and when you make it. As you know, there?s a right time for everything.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Continued From Page 2

BIG DOG MOTORCYCLES REORNANIZES ENGINEERING TEAM, NAMES JIM MOORMAN, VP–Three new divisions are supervised by Moorman, who comes to Big Dog Motorcycles with over thirty years of experience in engineering design and management.

WICHITA, Kansas (February 5, 2007) – Big Dog Motorcycles?, the world’s largest manufacturer of custom motorcycles, has reorganized its engineering department into three distinct divisions – Field Support Engineering, Test Operations, and New Product Development – and has named Jim Moorman Vice President, Engineering to manage the teams.

Sheldon Coleman, company founder and CEO, made the announcement.”This dramatic change in engineering, together with the addition of Jim Moorman, will solidify Big Dog Motorcycles’ stronghold in the market by focusing on design, engineering, motorcycle reliability, and inherent product value more than any other custom manufacturer,” Coleman stated. “It will also undoubtedly move Big Dog Motorcycles to a new level of customer and dealer satisfaction, and leading brand recognition,” he added.

Engineering Reorganization

Under the new structure, Big Dog Motorcycles has three distinct engineering teams, each supervised by its own experienced manager. All three managers report directly to Moorman. These new divisions are:

Field Support Engineering: Dave Siggins, who has been integral in Big Dog Motorcycles’ engineering efforts for over ten years, leads this team of twenty as it works with dealers and service centers alike in identifying and solving current quality issues in the field.

Test Center Operations: Big Dog Motorcycles’ industry-leading Test Center, headed by testing expert Aaron Smith, supports the entire engineering organization by testing fixes on current motorcycles and analyzing new components and designs for future product development. With a robust selection of testing equipment – over $500,000 invested to date – housed in an 8,000 square foot facility, the Test Center is the only one like it in the custom motorcycle industry.

New Product Development: With over thirty years of design engineering and product management experience, Marvin Bachman leads Big Dog Motorcycles’ product development team to create high-style, engaging riding experiences for future Big Dog Motorcycles owners.

“Big Dog Motorcycles has an extraordinarily skilled and experienced group of engineers, and this new structure gives us the opportunity to draw more fully on our deep bench of talent,” Coleman added.

Jim Moorman: Vice President, Engineering

The engineering department, the fastest-growing in the company, takes up three buildings of the company’s two-square block campus and has over forty employees. The team is now managed by Jim Moorman, who comes to Big Dog Motorcycles with three decades of engineering design and management experience.

Prior to joining Big Dog Motorcycles, Moorman held integral engine and drivetrain design roles at companies such as Ford Motor Company, Onan/Cummins Corporation, Tecumseh Products Company and, most recently, Teledyne Continental Motors. While at these corporations, he developed and designed a number of new engines and drivetrains, implemented assembly and engineering departments and managed numerous employees.

However, most important to Big Dog Motorcycles is Moorman’s extensive experience in the motorcycle industry, specifically Harley-Davidson. At Harley-Davidson, Moorman was first, Manager of Performance Development. In this position, he helped develop the Evolution series of engines and was responsible for all emissions, noise, and engine performance. Later, as Chief Engineer of Operations, he managed all Engineering Division Services, including testing, facilities, and capital equipment.

2007 WERA REGIONAL SEASON STARTS THIS WEEKEND AT TALLADEGA GRAN PRIX RACEWAY–The Upchurch Family, which owns the Raceway, along with the help of designer Ed Bargy had to reconfigure the existing track due to the County taking part of their run-off which ran along the side of Alabama Hwy 21.

Sean Clarke of WERA Motorcycle Roadracing was at the facility two weeks ago and said “The improvements are great and racing should be fun!” The track is still in the process of competing some of the buildings, such as the scoring tower which will be a Silo with 360-degree-viewing when competed. The old buildings are still in place and will be used this coming weekend along with the WERA Registration Trailer. There are also plans for new bathrooms and more electricity in the paddock area.

WERA Motorcycle Roadracing is expecting a 175 to 200 rider turn-out for the event.

For further information contact WERA at (770) 720-5010.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON RELEASES DAYTONA BIKE WEEK SCHEDULE– The official Harley-Davidson schedule of events for the 66th Annual Bike Week at Daytona Beach, Fla., includes a range of activities to thrill any motorcycle enthusiast, whether it be Bike Week regulars or rookies.

Official Harley-Davidson activities at the Ocean Center Arena will run from March 3-10. Highlights include:The Harley-Davidson and Buell New Product Show (March 4-9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and March 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Annual Ride-In Custom Motorcycle Show Contest (March 7)Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Live Auction (March 9) and MDA Bike Raffle (March 10)H.O.G. Members Only new product reception on March 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and H.O.G. Hospitality area on the first floor during regular show hours.

There will be plenty to do on the Ocean Center New Product Show floor, including:Checking out the latest Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles, Genuine Motor Accessories and MotorClothes MerchandiseFord Harley-Davidson F-Series Truck Display, technical service presentations and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally displayMeeting the Screamin’ Eagle / Vance & Hines three-time NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle championship team (March 6-7).

Activities outside the Ocean Center starting on the first Saturday of Bike Week include:The redesigned Harley-Davidson Traveling Museum (with an opening ceremony set for Saturday, March 3 at 4:30 p.m.)

B.O.S.S. Ball of Steel Stunt Shows, Harley-Davidson Festival Stage with music and entertainment, and Ford

Adventure Zone Simulator

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Mobile Service Office (March 5-7).

Harley-Davidson, Buell and Police Fleet motorcycle demo rides are available at Daytona International Speedway

March 3-10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Riders with a valid license and appropriate riding gear can try out 2007 Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles.

The H.O.G. Garage will provide hospitality for H.O.G. members at the Speedway with reserved parking and seating and an Internet caf?.

Harley-Davidson MotorClothes merchandise specialists will present seminars on helmet fit and function and hold drawings for a free helmet during demo rides at the Speedway.

The MDA Live Auction will be held at the Ocean Center Friday, March 9, at 1 p.m. and the MDA Bike Raffle for a fully customized 2007 FLSTF Fat Boy motorcycle will take place Saturday, March 11 at 2:30 p.m. MDA will also be selling 2007 MDA/Harley-Davidson pins and Daytona event pins throughout the week.

Harley-Davidson owners are invited to enter their Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the Ride-In Show Contest on Wednesday, March 7. Registration will be held at the Ocean Center East Side from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. with $500 cash prizes for Best of Show in all classes.There will also be activities at Harley-Davidson dealerships throughout the Daytona area.

For a complete listing of Harley-Davidson events, visit www.harley-davidson.com . Since schedule information is subject to change, please check the on-site Harley-Davidson activities guide for times and locations of entertainment and other special attractions.

–from Rogue

FLORIDA MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS CLASS —Santa Rosa County Deputy Thomas Wilkie will be teaching a motorcycle safety and awareness program to all drivers’ education classes in Santa Rosa County high schools.The next presentation is at Pace High School on Tuesday, Feb. 6 from 7:30 to 11:15 a.m. in room 803.

The course, offered in conjunction with the Sheriff’s Office, the Santa Rosa County School System, and ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) – a statewide non-profit organization of motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life.

This program has been taught to Pace High School students over the past two years and is being extended to all other high schools within the county.

The purpose of this program is not to teach a student how to ride a motorcycle but to help them pay more attention and help prevent anyone from getting hurt or killed.

–Rogue

This would be the perfect opportunity to discuss noise issues, lane splitting and helmet issues.–Bandit

AVON TYRE QUESTION OF THE WEEK–Can we use car type plugs for fixing tubeless tires?

These can be used on motorcycle tires but they should be viewed as a temporary repair to get you home and then have the tire replaced or repaired if the puncture meets the repair criteria and a mechanic familiar with proper plug/patch repair does the work. They are definitely not as good as a mushroom type plug/patch.

Sukoshi Fahey (Ms.)
Sales Manager, North America
Hoppe & Assoc. (Avon Tyres)
800 624-7470 toll free
www.avonmotorcycle.com
www.avonmoto.com/ (check this site for promotions)

LET’S STOP THE NEW FOR A RELIGIOUS MOMENT–A train hits a bus filled with Catholic school girls and they all perish.

They are in Heaven trying to enter the Pearly gates when St. Peter asks the first girl, “Tiffany, have you ever had any contact with a male organ?”

She giggles and shyly replies, “Well, I once touched the head of one with the tip of my finger.”

St. Peter says, “Okay, dip the tip of your finger in the Holy Water and pass through the gate.”

St. Peter asks the next girl the same questions, “Jennifer, have you ever had any contact with a male organ?”

Jennifer is a little reluctant but replies, “Well, once I fondled and stroked one.”

St. Peter says, “Okay, dip your whole hand in the Holy Water and pass through the gate.”

All of a sudden, there is a lot of commotion in the line of girls. One girl is pushing her way to the front of the line. When she reaches the front, St. Peter says, “Lisa! What seems to be the rush?”

The girl replies, “If I’m going to have to gargle that Holy Water, I want to do it before Jessica sticks her ass in it.”

–Curt Lout
www.STUDIO9000.com
303.921.4590

FEDERAL AGENT PENETRATED HELLS ANGELS, FEARS FOR THE WORST–He’s told snitches are a dying breed.o Jay Dobyns went deep undercover in the Hells Angels motorcycle gang
o He claims the ATF is failing to protect him and his family from the Hells Angels
o The ATF says it is reviewing Dobyns’ case

MESA, Arizona (CNN) — For nearly two years, Jay Dobyns led a double life. He rode alongside the Hells Angels, becoming a member of one of the nation’s most feared criminal gangs. But at the same time, he was working as a federal agent in an effort to bring the Hells Angels down.

Jay Dobyns works for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the federal agency responsible for enforcing the nation’s gun laws. His deep undercover work with the Hells Angels from 2001-2003 ultimately helped bring the indictment and trial of 16 gang members and their associates.

As a result, Dobyns was awarded a top cop award by the National Association of Police Organizations. He also was hailed on America’s Most Wanted as one of the “Good Guys” who brings down the criminals.But today, just a few years later, Dobyns says that after risking his life on assignment, he has been left vulnerable by the very agency that he proudly served.

With his undercover work done and his real identity as a law enforcement agent exposed, Dobyns says the Hells Angels and other gangs enlisted by it came after him, issuing death threats. Dobyns claims that the ATF — rather than protecting him — abandoned him.

“There was a murder contract on me and there was what was called a green light list, which was circulating in the prison, which was a list of people that various gangs wanted killed,” Dobyns told CNN.In response, Dobyns says, the ATF gave him a routine transfer with no special protection, despite his repeated protests. The ATF could have moved Dobyns and his family under what is known as a “threat policy” — similar to the kind of protection the government routinely gives witnesses in organized crime cases.

–By Kelli Arena, Scott Bronstein and Jim SpellmanCNN

–from Rogue

THE FATHER OF BIKERNET DISCUSSED BY SON–Two kids are arguing over whose father is the wimpiest.

The first one says,” My dad is so scared that whenlightning strikes, he slides underneath our bed.”

The second kid, whose father owns Bikernet, goes,” That’s nothing. My dad is soscared that when my mother works nightshift, hesleeps with the woman next door.”

–from Nick Roberts

BIKERNET SPONSORS EXTREME SAND DRAGS IN AUSTRALIA–The Wood Stock Extreme sand drags and moto expo is being held at the Millicent showgrounds S.A on march the 24th 2007

Where is Millicent its located 400km south of Adelaide and about 500km west of Melbourne on Highway one, as all bikers know both rides have great pubs and some of the countries most awesome views.

The show itself will play host to some wild sand drag racing from big V8s to nitro Harleys and even the kids get a run, also included is a custom built chopper show ‘n’ shine casting a range of bikes from Adelaide and Melbourne builders.

Judging the competition will be Bandit from Bikernet.com this man has a array of motorcycle history, he was one of the pioneers of “Easyriders magazine. Inducted into the “Biker Hall Of Fame” in Sturgis South Dakota to being branded man of the year in 2006 by America’s top selling upcoming magazine Cycle Source so get on down there and have a beer with the man. Also judging is Glenn Priddle, Bikernet.com contributing writer, from Noosa QLD, who has pumped numerous hours into this show, and the man you all know, Doc Robinson. Andy from High-performance ( SA Choppers) in Adelaide and Geoff from Ultimate choppers Melbourne are grinding there teeth to help Horn Promotions and Tench Cutter Racing make this one hell of day out so get on the phone to venuetix then on your bike to Millicent we might sell you a ticket at the gate if ya lucky Lol, you can even park on the grounds and drop a swag.

Australia’s best freestyle riders will be present displaying some of the most radical back-flip combos only seen at world class freestyle shows, 2 of Byron Bays best party bands will be present to soothe the day and catch up for a few quite ales into the night we might even let some fireworks go for ya.

Continued On Page 4

BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL REPORTS–REPORT FROM THE DEVIL, H-D UNION WARS UNFOLD, WIN A SET OF D&D PIPES, BIKERNET DELIVERS ART, WHITE LINE FEVER GROWS, MASS HELMET BILL HELD UP AND WIN A CUSTOM SEAT WITH YOUR TATTOO

Continued From Page 1

Photos by RFR

LUCKY DEVIL METAL WORKS UPDATE– I forgot to mention that I sent the Road King build material to Johnny on a disc, as we discussed a while back. The feature came out in Hot Bike this month. I am also working with Holly and Darryl on the Bikini girl deal and the bike show winner photos so we can get that done ASAP.

I will get some more work done on Nyla’s bike this weekend so we can move on to the sheetmetal design.

–Kent

The Beast By Lucky Devil

HARLEY SEES LAYOFFS, OUTPUT CUTS AND BLAMES STRIKE– Harley-Davidson Inc. (HOG.N) plans to lay off up to 740 workers and cut production at two sites because of a strike at its largest motorcycle plant, the company said.Negotiators for the company and the strikers planned to meet with a federal mediator today, Harley said. No details on the meeting were made public.

Nearly 2,800 workers at Harley’s York, Pennsylvania, plant, which makes some of the company’s most profitable motorcycles, walked off the job on February 2 after their contract expired. Harley is seeking a variety of concessions from the workers.

In a statement posted on its Web site, dated February 5, Harley said it would reduce production of engines, transmissions and components at two plants that supply parts to the York facility. That will mean the temporary layoff of about 740 workers at the plants in Menomonee Falls and Tomahawk, Wisconsin, it said.”The toe bone’s connected to the foot bone and the foot bone’s connected to the ankle bone,” said Bob Simonson, an analyst at William Blair & Co. “There are inter-relationships here.”

A spokesman for the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service confirmed the meeting between the two sides today but declined to provide further details. Union officials were not available for immediate comment. The workers are represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.

PENNY PER SHARE PER DAY

Analysts estimate the strike could reduce the company’s earnings by about 1 cent per share per day. Analysts on average expect Harley to earn 98 cents per share in the first quarter.In a note to clients, RBC Capital Markets analyst Edward Aaron said that dealers who carry the motorcycles — an icon for the nation’s aging baby boomers — view the strike as a positive in its early days, as it will provide them an opportunity to sell down existing inventory.

“This can only be a positive event if Harley has been over-producing motorcycles,” Aaron wrote. “To acknowledge that Harley has been over-producing is to acknowledge that Harley has been over-earning.”

Simonson said, “If they can’t resolve it in a reasonable amount of time, there will be impacts that will be greater two weeks from today than they are today on a monetary basis, and a heck of a lot greater two months from today than they are two weeks from now.”

Worker concessions sought by Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based Harley include a two-tier wage-and-benefit plan. The company says it is trying to avert a cost crunch like the one that has hammered Detroit automakers.

Investor reaction to the strike in its early days has been muted. Harley shares were up 44 cents at $69.60 in midday trade on the New York Stock Exchange. The shares have risen about 4 percent since their February 1 close, the day before the strike.

–from Rogue

ENTER BIKERNET’S SHARPEST SOFTAIL CONTEST– WIN a new set of high-performance Fat Cat or Boarzilla performance exhaust pipes for your Harley-Davidson Softail. It’s easy send us:

Name
Email
Picture of your bike
Telephone
Details on your bike
Why you need a performance pipe

Send entries to softail@horspowermarketing.com and we will post them on bikernet.com, DandDexhaust.com and have the community at bikernet.com vote for the ‘Sharpest Softail’ of Bikernet.

About Fat Cat & Boarzilla Details

The 2 into 1 Fat Cat & Boarzilla Performance Pipes make up to 12 additional horses depending upon your configuration. The stylish upswept design provides the performance rider with extra ground clearance. Each pipe is hand fitted and installed with heat shields.

Each pipe is tuned for performance and sound. Not only do D&D pipes look good, you can feel the deep rumble that only a D&D equipped V-Twin can make.

To get a performance pipe for your Harley or custom V-Twin logon to www.danddexhaust.com .

To see how your bike will look and perform log on to the D&D Web site. www.danddexhaust.com/catalog. Each Harley model has a dyno chart and dyno video.

BIKERNET PHOTO ART EXHIBIT OF THE WEEK–Crazy Horse once said “My lands are where my dead lie buried” and anyone who has ever ridden through the Black Hills can sense that the rightful owners of that land are still present.

Ride Hard,
–Whiplash Biker Photog
soffordphotos@comcast.net

Old shot from the Bob T. Collection.

LANE SPLITTING FEVER GROWS–ABATE OF THE GARDEN STATE CALL TO ACTION–Legal Lane Splitting a Possibility in New Jersey!A bill has been introduced by Assemblywoman ALISON LITTELL MCHOSE in the NJAssembly to form a 5-member commission to study the pros and cons of havinglegal lane splitting for motorcycles caught in congested traffic conditions.

If this were enacted into law you could legally go between lanes ofautomobiles to help prevent your motorcycle engines from overheating and to helprelieve the congestion.

We need your help to notify our legislators that we support this bill.

Please visit the site below and send an email to your legislators.You do not need to know who they are since the site will determine that foryou based on your zip code.The text of the message has already been written for you, making this a veryeasy process………http://capwiz.com/amacycle/issues/alert/?alertid=9246261

We cannot do this alone, we need your help.Think of how much you would appreciate just being able to go around the shoretraffic on those hot days rather than sitting in traffic with your expensiveengine overheating.

Do not put this off.

The email will take you no longer than 1 minute to send.To maximize the effect of this email, please forward this email to as manyfriends of motorcycle rights as possible.

–Rudy Avizius
Legislative Coordinator
ABATE of the Garden State – SW Chapter
http://www.gardenstateabate.org

–from Rogue

BIKERS BAND TOGETHER FOR A COMMON CAUSE– The Republican, MA – Last year, Massachusetts motorcyclists were given hope that finally, after many years, there would be sweeping changes to the state motorcycle and insurance laws that would be to their benefit.

State Bill 1344 was passed by the Senate and sent on to the House, where it died a slow death in the House Ways and Means Committee.

Former Gov. W. Mitt Romney had pledged to sign the bill if it had made it to his desk. Unfortunately, that did not happen.If you remember, the legislation contained four parts: a helmet choice with provisions; opting out of the current motorcycle insurance system and entering a competitive market allowing for lower rates; increasing the civil and criminal penalties to motorists who cause accidents for right-of-way violations; and changes to current motorcycle noise laws.

Now faced with the new administration of Gov. Deval L. Patrick and some new state representatives and senators, and with the continued fight by several large Massachusetts-based insurance companies – including Commerce and Arbella Insurance – which oppose competitive rates, it is basically a start from scratch proposition for any motorcycle-related bills.

Paul Cote, who is the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association’s director of government relations, tells me that all the bills have been refiled for the new session of the Legislature. The association sponsored many of the bills, and, in the past six years, has been directly responsible for the enactment of six bills that favored bikers.This is quite an accomplishment considering that the association is an all-volunteer force.

Massachusetts has seen a drop in motorcycle fatalities despite increased registrations and national statistics to the contrary.

This tells me also that we, as bikers, are not going to get anything done in our favor unless we band together for a common cause. If you’re tired of paying absurdly high insurance rates or of being treated like second-class citizens, register to vote, find out who your representatives are and call or e-mail them, asking them to support motorcycle-friendly bills and sign on as co-sponsors. Join the Massachusetts and the American motorcycle associations.Cote also tells me that there are about 20 motorcycle-related bills that have been filed. Some are duplicates and some are anti-noise bills, the latter being sponsored by those who are most assuredly not pro-motorcycle.

So I urge you as motorcyclists get active and participate in some of these things. Let’s make this state a better place to ride, and you can’t do that unless you get involved.For more detailed information or to join the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, log on to www.massmotorycle.org The American Motorcyclist Association’s Web site is www.ama-cycle.org

Goings On: The Amvet Riders of Chicopee will hold a Valentine’s dance at 7 p.m. Feb. 17. The cost is $5; the dance will be held at Amvets Post 12, 754 Montgomery St., Chicopee. For more information call, the post at (413) 533-8060 or e-mail Moe at moses254@aol.com

On March 5, the Melha Riders will hold an officer installation dinner in honor of longtime rider Charlie Coleman. The dinner will be held at the Melha Shrine Center, 133 Longhill St. in Springfield. A social hour begins at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7. Catered by B’Shara’s, the dinner will be followed by the introduction of club officers and entertainment by nationally known comic Andy Hendrickson. All are welcome, and the cost is $18 per person. For information or tickets, contact John Lanucha at (413) 732-1115, Sandy Ashline at (413) 525-3024 or Rick Rice at (413) 525-6986.

THE MAN WHO KNOWS HIS MATH–He writes:I was riding to work yesterday when I observed a female driver, who cutright in front of a pickup truck, causing the driver to drive onto theshoulder to avoid hitting her.

This evidently angered the driver enough that he hung his arm out hiswindowand gave the woman the finger.

‘Man, that guy is stupid,’ I thought to myself. I ALWAYS smile nicelyandwave in a sheepish manner whenever a female does anything to me intraffic, and here’s why:I drive 48 miles each way every day to work.

That’s 96 miles each day.Of these, 16 miles each way is bumper-to-bumper.Most of the bumper-to-bumper is on an 8 lane highway.There are 7 cars every 40 feet for 32 miles.That works out to 982 cars every mile, or 31,424 cars.

Even though the rest of the 32 miles is not bumper-to-bumper, I figureIpass at least another 4000 cars.That brings the number to something like 36,000 cars that I pass everyday.

Statistically, females drive half of these.That’s 18,000 women drivers!

In any given group of females, 1 in 28 has PMS.That’s 642.

According to Cosmopolitan, 70% describe their love life asdissatisfying orunrewarding.That’s 449.

According to the National Institute of Health, 22% of all females haveseriously considered suicide or homicide.That’s 98.

And 34% describe men as their biggest problem.That’s 33.

According to the National Rifle Association, 5% of all females carryweaponsand this number is increasing.That means that EVERY SINGLE DAY, I drive past at least one female thathasa lousy love life, thinks men are her biggest problem, has seriouslyconsidered suicide or homicide, has PMS, and is armed.

Give her the finger? I don’t think so!!!

–from James Schnarr

Win A Custom a $649.95 Thunder Saddle of Your Tattoo!–This is what you have been waiting for. For the next 6 months Metric Thunder will be giving away a custom Thunder Saddle each month. These saddles are the most exclusive saddles and most comfortable saddles every made. They are very cool because each saddle represents your tattoo.

The Tattoo Contest

BANDIT of Bikernet will pick the best looking tattoo of the month and we will make a custom Thunder Saddle with the Tattoo embossed on the saddle. Each saddle comes equipped with Saddlemen’s Saddle Gel. Saddle Gel makes an incredibly comfortable seat and allows you to stay on your motorcycle for longer periods of enjoyable riding.

How to Enter the Thunder Saddle Contest

Entering is easy. Just send an email to: tat@horsepowermarketing.com with your:

? Name
? Telephone number
? Picture of you and your tattoo
? Year and model of motorcycle

It’s just that easy. Send a picture of yourself sporting your favorite tattoo and you could be riding around with it on your motorcycle. It is your exclusive seat that is a show stopper and conversation piece wherever you stop.

For more details and rules click here. See the latest tattoo entries by clicking here.

JOE PASSED AWAY–His will provided $30,000 for an elaboratefuneral. As the last guests departed the affair, his wife, Helen turned to her oldest friend.

“Well, I’m sure Joe would be pleased,” she said.

“I’m sure you’re right,” replied Jody, who lowered her voice and leaned in close. “How much did this really cost?”

“All of it,” said Helen. “Thirty thousand.”

“No!” Jody exclaimed. “I mean, it was very nice, but $30,000?”

Helen answered. “The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500 to the church. The wake, food and drinks were another $500. The rest went for the memorial stone.”

Jody computed quickly. “$22,500 for a memorial stone? My God, how big is it?!”

“Two and a half carats.”

–from Art Friedman

Continued On Page 3

I received the word of Ken's death of heart failure Monday morning, and was stunned, but not surprised. Ken walked into my motorcycle shop in 1996 while in town for spring training in Phoenix. I had no idea who he was, and had no interest in baseball at the time.

During that 96 season, I learned about the game. Ken absorbed himself into baseball and custom bikes on his journey to become the National League MVP that year.

Literally every evening on the TV there were highlights of his amazing athletic ability. Ken called me most every day to see how his bike was progressing that summer. During the all-star break, he made a special flight to Arizona to go riding and see the progress on his bike in person. He brought a crew from FOX TV Sports and a Sports Illustrated photographer in tow. He was red hot, but wanted an escape from the baseball spotlight and throw his legs over a motorcycle and start riding.

That was the weekend that I really got to know Ken. I found him to be one of the most intense, focused, kindhearted generous persons that I've ever met.

This was just Ken. I think he appreciated the fact that I didn't have any interest in baseball. He lived baseball everyday; that was his job. He didn't ask to be in the spotlight, it just found him. His quiet soft-spoken presence contrasted dramatically with his physical being and his intense stare. Journalists who needed a super-hero to write about created his “Scary-Man” image. I think he turned to his additions to find some way to live up to his bigger than life persona.

I never saw the drinker, drug abuser or womanizer. Not once. I never saw the dark side of him. He kept that from us.

When my wife and I delivered the first bike we built for him in '96, we took it right to the ballpark in San Diego. Ken treated us like royalty. We arrived, just before the game and he gave us a tour of the inner workings of the stadium. After the day game, we all three went riding around San Diego, and that's the first time I discovered what a major celebrity he was. Literally, Ken was the King of San Diego. At every stoplight, people were waving and giving him props. It seemed to embarrass him, so much attention. At dinner autograph seekers constantly interrupted him. He always maintained a politeness no matter how intrusive people became. He couldn't go anywhere without being hounded. In hindsight, this was a burden that I feel he just didn't really know how to handle. He loved the attention, but somehow acted like he really wasn't worthy of it.

He invited me to meet him in San Francisco, as his guest, when they were playing the Giants. We went on bike shop tours, to see Arlen Ness. After the game, Ken rounded up a few other players and two stretch limos and we went out on the town. That's when I discovered that ball players live the Rock Star lifestyle, but he made it look like he had it under control.

Occasionally our paths would cross, and we'd pick up right where we left off talking about bikes or hot-rod cars. Ken was a constant shameless promoter of my bikes. Everyone he met with a Harley, he'd try to get them riding on a Steed, some by sheer intimidation.

His final MLB season, he convinced Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez to have a Steed built, and I convinced Ken it was time for a new one too. It's not very often you get the no holds barred creative license and freedom and trust from a customer to design and build whatever you want. Ken let me go, full artistic license. He only asked me to do my best. It doesn't get any better than that.

That was a tough year for Ken. He got traded to Atlanta towards the end of the season. I was in my truck driving back from LA with his custom hand built aluminum tank for his new bike, and I called him as I left Los Angles and headed home. The Braves made the playoffs, and he was all excited about flying to Arizona to see the progress on his bike. He was just stoked about the possibility of him going to the World Series with Atlanta. I was looking forward to seeing him when their plane arrived in Phoenix that evening, the day before the playoffs with the Arizona Diamondbacks. I called his cell phone when I was rolling into town, and he sounded bummed, and totally crushed. Atlanta released him, and he didn't get on the plane to come to Arizona. He was still in Georgia looking for a flight home to Houston. In the span of four hours, bang, that was the end of his career in baseball. No big hurrah, no retirement ceremony, just no ticket to the playoffs.

I tried calling him for weeks to check in on him to see how he was handling his surprise retirement, but only got his voice mail. I only discovered where he was when he got arrested in Houston, and saw him on the evening news.

In the space of 5 or 6 years of knowing Ken, he hit the highest of highs and then the lowest of lows.

Because of his celebrity status, and the ability to hire the best legal teams, he got breaks in the criminal justice system that in hindsight might not have been in his best interest.

He did some detox time in Arizona the winter of 2001, and was released around Christmas to spend time with his family. He was working the program heavily and his first trip out, away from home, was to Steeds to see his new “Cammy Orange” 250 bike that we had finished for him. We rode it all over town and spent two days at the NHRA Winter Nationals hanging in the pits with all the drag race teams.

He decided that he wanted to ride the '02 Laughlin River Run with us in April, and that was the last time I spent with him. He rode with us from Phoenix to the event.

I never heard him talk so much. There was this new Ken, and I really thought he had it together. He knew he had a lot of work ahead of him to keep sober. He was committed. He wanted to work out his issues with his wife, Nancy, and really opened up to me about the double life he led.

His manager arranged for an interview in Laughlin with CNN. He was all excited about his new life and new bike. His intentions were to talk about his fresh outlook and new motorcycle. He got ambushed at the end of an hour and a half taped TV interview. He broke down in tears with me after that interview. After an hour or so into it, in a secluded hotel room at Harrah's, the female reporter asked him about his MVP season and steroid use. He came clean but had no idea what the future implications were going to be with his honest answers.

This was the moment, a pinnacle point where he was at in his life. He broke through all his barriers, and wanted a fresh start with no more skeletons in the closet. He was the new Ken, fresh out of re-hab, ready to come clean. Maybe it wasn't the best move to be honest about Steroid use in baseball on CNN at the tail end of an interview, but that's where his head was at the time. I don't think he ever recovered from that one. To complicate matters, that was the day of the biker shoot-out in Harrah's casino. So we were all locked up in our rooms watching TV to see what happened in our hotel, and CNN was breaking the Caminiti Steroid story, not a good day for anyone.

Ken was a big-hearted guy, a gifted athlete, and a friend. I don't think he ever realized how many people were in his corner. It's a devastating loss. Self-destruction is never easy to understand, especially with someone with such a big heart. Ken didn't die last week of a heart attack; it took him over two, agonizing years to slowly die of a broken heart.

Rest in Peace Ken, I hope to cross paths and ride again with you one day.

–John Covington

“If some, among you, fear taking a stand because you are afraid ofreprisals…recognize that you are just feeding the crocodile hopinghe'll eat you last.”

– Ronald Reagan