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BIKERNET LIVING WILL– Now this is the best representation of a Living Will I have come across. There might be a few more legal sentences required. I wouldJust be a little bit more specific on the “reasonable time” portion.

Living Will

I, __________________________, being of sound mind and body, do not wishto be kept alive indefinitely by artificial means.Under no circumstances should my fate be put in the hands of pinhead politicians who couldn’t pass ninth-grade biology if their lives depended on it or lawyers/doctors interested in simply running up the bills.

If a reasonable amount of time passes and I fail to ask for at leastone of the following:
______a Bloody Mary,
______a Margarita
______a Scotch and soda
______a Martini
______a Vodka and Tonic
______a Steak
______Lobster or crab legs
______The remote control
______a Bowl of ice cream
______The sports page
______Chocolate
______Sex

it should be presumed that I won’t ever get better.When such a determination is reached, I hereby instruct my appointed person and attending physicians to pull the plug, reel in the tubes and call it a day. At this point it is time to call the New Orleans Jazz Funeral Band to come do their thing at my funeral, and ask all of my friends to raise their glasses to toast the good times we have had.

Signature: ___________________________

Date: ___________________________

–from Joe Lankau

STEALTH REPORT FROM NC–My buddy Ben Jordan just walked in with a load of powder coated parts. The frame, swingarm, wheels and triple trees for our 78 Shovel project. The parts look brand new! Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we are excited about this bike along with our 71 Shovel project. The 71 is an old school basic chopper and the 78 is a restoration with a few twist. Both are going to be nice!

A chrome plating and polishing shop just opened up right down the road from us. Man that makes things a lot easier. No more shipping parts out! We have parts from the 78 Shovel there beings polished right now. The name of the shop is It’s Finished.

Hey Concrete Pete I was reading where your shop is going good! Good to hear it! I hear what you say about how much time you spend at the shop, but in a way that is cool. The time spent at the shop is time well spent on ouselves and fellow bikers and not some corporate greed machine.

The weather around Charlotte remains spring like and there are bikes on the road eveyrday. Spring is getting closer everyday and that is good for all of us.

One thing I have found to true since opening SBW is that a ‘Brotherhood” exist between the aftermarket and custom shops and I very proud to be a small part of it.

Until next week, RIDE!
–STEALTHMAN

Bonneville or Bust – Chop N Grind Racing So. Cal. Report–Things are a little quit around here. Been going after a lot of sponsors with little luck. We got a few bites but nothing to speak about just yet. AMSOIL is the first to step up to the plate to help. Down sized the crew to five. Got two motors we are building, one 80 inch and a 100 inch EVO with a Twin Cam top. Jim Leinweber is busy grinding our cams and has a few old tricks up his sleeve. It?s great to have him on the crew. The way we look at things we are going with or without sponsors even if we have to push the bike to Bonneville.

Talked to Dave Campos the other day after 30 years. It was really great to talk to him again, a lot of water under the bridge. He now has the Easyrider Streamliner in his garage and still holds the worlds fastest motorcycle record. He is talking about coming out to Bonneville to see us and bring the Liner. How cool is that. I know things will pick up soon.

We maybe the under dog right now but that 5 Ball Salt Snaken Crew will be shaken` when we are done. We would like to take this opportunity to thank ?Brother Speed? up north for their help.

–Bob T & Larry Petrie
Sand Snorting Desert Bastards

ALL AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE MADNESS HITS PASADENA– The West Coast motorcycle world comes alive on June 24th and 25th 2006 for this annual show in Pasadena, CA. Ride out from the stress of the city to the scenic hills of Pasadena is why The Rose Bowl is the perfect venue for this event. This site will be able to handle the steady growth of this show.

Builders from the California area such as Scott Long of Central Coast Cycles, Gard Hollinger from LA County Chop Rods, Lucky 7 Choppers will mix with talents from far away like the Martin Bros just to name a few. The Incubus Alloy Custom Bike Show will be showcasing all the hottest bikes around.

The Rose Bowl Motorcycle Marketplace will be filled with the industries top manufactures and vendors selling everything from custom motorcycles to the hottest apparel and more for any motorcycle enthusiast.

The summer heat should be just right for the Ultimate Bikini Contest and great live music playing all weekend on the Lifestyle Cycles stage. This all makes for a great ticket price of only $15.00 with free bike parking.

For more info visit www.horsepowerpromotions.com or call (805) 686-2007

BIKERNET JOINS LA CALENDAR LONG BEACH SHOW–Los Angeles, CA Jan 25th – Keith Randall Ball, aka “Bandit” the well know American V-Twin industry editor, author and personality and his web based company Bikernet.com has entered into an expanded associate partnership with the Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show beginning immediately. The announcement was made by Jim Gianatsis of Gianatsis Design Associates, the Los Angeles based motorsports advertising agency and producer of the Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show. In his expanded role with the Calendar Show, Keith and his staff partner Nyla Olsen will assist as Associate Partners in Exhibitor and Sponsorship Marketing, Event Production, as well as in future growth plans for the LA Calendar Motorcycle Show.Keith Ball comes to the Los Angels Calendar Motorcycle Show, America’s premier custom and high performance motorcycle show held every 3rd July weekend at the Queen mary Event park in Long Beach, CA, , with an impressive list of credentials including having previously served as Editorial Director at Paisano Publications (including Easyriders and V-Twin magazines) and the Primedia American Motorcycle Group (including Hot Bike and Street Choppers magazines). Working under the nom de plume “Bandit” he is currently best known for his popular V-Twin fan based news website Bikernet.com now celebrating its 10th anniversary. At previous Calendar Motorcycle Shows where Bikernet.com has participated as both a co sponsor and exhibitor, Keith has also assisted with bike contest judging and on stage hosting.

For additional information go to:
http://www.FastDates.com/

WORLD’S FASTEST INDIAN,Magnolia FilmsStarring Anthony Hopkins– The true story of Burt Munro – a New Zealand man who spent decades perfecting his classic 1920 Indian motorcycle.At age 68, he risked everything, including his own life, taking the bike to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to break the world speed record. Due to be released in February.

Official Website: http://www.worldsfastestindian.com/.

FINALLY! A NEW motorcycle movie! However, I believe it’s only in limited release right now….showing only in artsy little venues around the country. It looks pretty darn good, from the clips I’ve seen. I’m gonna get the Bikers in my area to buy tickets at our little art house theatre in Palm Springs….maybe build an event around it.

I especially liked the clip showing Munro approaching an oncoming Nevada Highway Patrol unit at 150-160 mph, and talking himself out of the ticket/impound.

MIKE KIDD ENTERTAINMENT GROUP TAKES CONTRO OF BOOKOO–Ft. Worth, TX January 19, 2006 Mike Kidd Entertainment Group ? announced today that Gary Becker, former CEO of PACE Motor Sports, has joined Mike Kidd Entertainment Group which will now direct the BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series as well as other motor sports events that Becker and Kidd are developing.

Gary Becker helped lead PACE Motor Sports to become one of the largest motor sport promotion companies in the world; a company known for its premiere Supercross series that Becker himself helped build, which was then acquired by SFX Entertainment and then Clear Channel.Mike Kidd began promoting events as Mike Kidd Productions in the mid 1980?s in Texas following a successful career as a racer in the AMA Grand National Series ? winning the 1981 Grand National Championship.Mike Kidd Promotions was the largest and most successful AMA Arenacross promoters throughout the 1980s and 1990s before selling the company to Gary, while he was CEO of PACE Motor Sports in 1997.

For more information about the K&N presents BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series Brought to you by Toyota, log on to http://www.racearenacross.com/ or call 817-595-5844.

S&S CYCLE ANNOUNCES RELEASE DATE FOR NEW HIGH PERFORMANCE CLUTCH–LA CROSSE , WI (January 26, 2006) S&S Cycle announces plans to start shipping its new high performance clutch in early February 2006.

After thousands of street miles and rigorous testing at the drag strip with over 200+ passes per test unit, the new S&S High Performance Clutch will be ready to ship to dealers during the week of February 6, 2006. S&S Customer Support is prepared to take orders starting immediately. Dealers can reference the S&S Dealer Catalog #17, page number 7-6, for details regarding this product.

Knowing that S&S engines produce incredibly high-horsepower, the Research and Innovation team designed the clutch to handle anything an S&S engine could throw at it–even the brute power of an S&S 145. To create additional grip the friction discs of the S&S High Performance Clutch utilize a narrow band, larger diameter design positioned further out on the plate than any other performance clutch on the market. This combination allows the S&S clutch to transmit engine torque better and get more power to the rear wheel. Additionally, the clutch uses a 66-tooth ring gear to add strength and durability in the event of engine kick-back on starting.

“We developed the S&S 11-plate clutch to optimize torque handling capacity while maintaining the lightest lever effort and smoothest engagement characteristics,” said Justin Bramstedt , S&S Research and Innovation Powersports Lead. “I would put our clutch up against anything else on the market, especially since I have personally put this clutch through well over 150 back-to-back drag-strip passes with our S&S 145ci engine–and all the shifts were WOT slip-clutch shifting. I’m convinced that this clutch is, without a doubt, the best wet-clutch on the market.”

While designed to handle up to 150 horsepower with the stock spring pack, clutch lever effort is slightly less than that of a stock Harley-Davidson motorcycle. S&S also offers a heavy-duty spring pack that lets the clutch handle up to 200 horsepower–even at the drag strip.

Chip Ellis, rider for G-Squared Motorsports said, “The modulation of the S&S clutch is smooth enough to help me put our 124ci S&S Challenge Class bike down the quarter-mile in 9.40 seconds at 144 mph. But what really amazed me is how light the feel is for street riding, even though it can handle race bike power,” concluded Ellis.

The S&S high performance clutch fits 1991-2006 big twin models, (except 2006 Dyna(TM)), features a 66-tooth ring gear and has matching pinion gear available. With all of the tremendous power and torque handling capacity of the S&S high performance clutch, it requires only very slight modifications to be used in stock primary cases, which are not visible when the primary is assembled. All of the specifications and application information can be found in the Products section of the S&S website, http://www.sscycle.com .

IT’S HAPPY HOUR–The news is finished, the sun’s shining, our troops are doing the job, girls look better daily, Bonneville efforts are moving along and somewhere in this rat infested build is a bottle of Jack Daniels.

This Hardbikes banner reminds me that Bree from Steeds in Phoenix may become the spokesperson for Hardbikes design centers. You may see them pop up around the country in shop/dealers for their bikes. I’d buy any motorcycle Bree straddled. She’s no only hot, but very active, like in stunts, hand-gliding, wild dangerous shit. She loves it.

I mentioned JIMS tools several times in my first Salt Shaker tech. I’m trying to get them to send me a press release on a tool every week. Just one way we can find out what tools they have available.

US Choppers is working on our 45 frame, strengthening it for high speed runs. So far we’ve named it the Bonne Belle and we’ll have a bomber girl painted on the tanks. The engine and trans are with the crew of Departure Bike Works in Richmond, Virginia for rebuilds and hop-ups. Check this feature:http://www.bikernet.com/bikebarn/PageViewer.asp?PageID=586

Hang on next week for our first Bikernet Radio interview with Bill Rucker. That’s just the tip of the mountain representing the content that’s waiting. Hang on. I’m taking the Sturgis Shovel out for a ride. I need to feel that rigid rattle my bones.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Continued From Page 3

BIKERNET PRAYER BREAK–Killing Machine Choppers sent these shots. “It’s one foot in the grave chopper,” said Kenny from Riverside County Choppers. Call him for the whole story.

951 245 8500

DAD PUNCHES TEACHER’S AID ACCUSED OF MOLESTING HIS DAUGHTER– An angry father who marched into a classroom and punched a teacher’s assistant in the face said Wednesday he was protecting his 15-year-old daughter, who had accused the man of inappropriately touching her.

Dave F. Swafford, 42, was charged with felony battery on a school employee after he hit the 35-year-old aide in front of a class full of students at Lakewood Ranch High School near Bradenton Tuesday morning, authorities said. He was also named “Father of the Year” by a local radio station for his actions.

“I’m not real proud of what I did,” Swafford told The Associated Press Wednesday. “You have to protect your children, and my daughter does not lie to me.”

“If some other parents would do this, maybe some of these pedophiles would crawl back under rocks where they belong,” Swafford said.

–from Rogue

BIKERNET HIGHER EDUCATION– A Professor was giving a lecture on “Involuntary Muscular Contractions” to his first year medical students.

Realizing that this was not the most riveting subject, the Professor decided to lighten the mood slightly.

He pointed to a young woman in the front row and said, “Do you know what your ass hole is doing while you’re having an orgasm?”

She replied, “He’s probably golfing with his friends.”

–from Joe Lankau

SCAM OF THE WEEK– A man who pleaded guilty to scamming dozens of people by offering them nonexistent jobs driving strippers around in luxury vehicles has been sentenced to a year in jail.A judge is ordering Gary Janiak Jr. to pay back more than $110,000.

Prosecutors said Janiak and his girlfriend promised in newspaper ads around the country a weekly salary of up to $5,000 in cash for driving strippers to their jobs.

Janiak pleaded guilty on Monday to 357 counts of fraud employment. If his case gone to trial and had he been convicted on all counts he could have spent the rest of his life in prison.

Janiak’s girlfriend, Tracy Silverstone, pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against him. She was sentenced to 10 years probation.

It sounded like a dream job and easy money — drive strippers around in a fancy car and make big bucks. But police say it was really an elaborate scheme to steal from the people responding to the ad.

Police say Gary Janiak Jr. and Tracy Silverstone (pictured, right) put an ad in the paper, promising benefits, and a salary of $5,000 a week. Those who responded were told they first had to wire money as a deposit on the fancy car.More than 300 people were scammed, according to police. One person lost $8,000, police say.

Janiak and Silverstone are charged with 333 felony counts each, one for each victim.

–from Rogue

DAYTONA PREPARATIONS, GET READY– The State of Florida is getting ready for the Bikers to arrive. Well some of them already have. Many of the Snow Birds and Baby Boomers are also motorcyclist. We are starting to get fliers from all the places that want motorcyclist to come party and spend their money. Some are good deals and others not. You will have to decide for yourself.

We have been telling you for years that more and more of the Bikers are staying outside the Daytona Area. Orlando is getting more and more well know as a place to go. Over 100 Thousand motorcyclist where there in 2005 and the businesses are doing things to bring them back. Orlando is about an hour on I-4 to Daytona so you can do both easily.

The time is now to shop around for the good room rates and other things that will make you trip enjoyable and less expensive.

A place that is also going to be jumpin’ and a must do is Bruce Rossmeyers Destination Daytona located at the intersection of I-95 and US1 at Exit 273.

It is listed as the Worlds Largest Harley-Davidson Dealership and even though I do not have the event schedule yet I know it will be great as Jim Betlach who does the V-Twin Expo and Easyriders Bike Show promotions is handling it.

Do not forget to check out the Space Coast and Cocco Beach.

Daytona Beach has also been letting everyone know that they will be cranking down on loud pipes. This will be mostly those revving their engine in hope some one will notice them and those blasting through residential neighborhoods late at night. There will also be DUI patrols out. Daytona does count on a busy court docket just like every other business.

Daytona Bike Week Guides will be available again this year once you hit the area but info is also available from the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau prior to that.

And Best Of All Here On Bikernet.Com

The Harley Davidson Indoor Show will be March 7th to 11th at the Ocean Center 10:00AM to 4:00PM daily The Volusia County Fairgrounds Swap Meet in Deland will be March 3rd to the 12th is 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM While Spiders will be at the Daytona Flea Market – I-95 and U.S 92

ABATE OF FLORIDA has a 60 acre campground which they claim is the best deal going. They can be reached at 386-943-9610 for more info.

As we get closer more info on some of the bars and watering holes and what they will be offering to get you there. Oh Yea This is the part of the job I hate. Going to all them places with scantily clad and naked women. It’s a Dirty Job But Someone Got To Do It.

— ROGUE

BIKERNET FIND OF THE WEEK–“Before I ever went into first grade, I knew there wasn’t a time when I wasn’t going to ride a motorcycle and fly an airplane,” said McKee, a burly mass of 48-year-old motorcyclist, pilot and entrepreneur. From his Preston County farmhouse, McKee runs Mc-Kee’s Wings and Wheels, a business dedicated to salvaging and selling old aircraft and motorcycles.

Need an old radio to finish restoring that 1940s-era trainer? Chances are McKee has found one over the years, and has it stacked on a metal shelf in the shed. Want to build a Piper Cub? McKee will scrounge around until he has all the parts to finish the classic monoplane.

Son of an architect and aerospace engineer who was also an avid motorcyclist and amateur pilot, McKee grew up surrounded by motorcycles and airplanes. “We always had an airplane and a motorcycle around,” he said. “I started riding motorcycles when I was 8 or 9 years old.”

McKee started out as an auto body specialist. But in 1981, he learned to fly and bought an airplane to restore, mainly as a project to work on with his ailing father. “Eventually I sold it and made a profit much better than what I could make painting cars,” he said. “So I did another one.”

McKee’s Wings and Wheels was born in 1983 in McKee’s hometown of Baltimore. In 1986, he moved to Terra Alta.

A passion for motorcycles is very much a family affair. Mc-Kee’s wife, Debbie, and daughter, Nicole, both ride. Even McKee’s 3-year-old grandson, Chase, owns a trio of dirt bikes.

–from Rogue

MOTHER SHOOTS MAN LOUNGING IN HER HOME–LAUDERHILL, Fla. — A Lauderhill mother shot a man who was loitering in her apartment, police said.Police said Michele Ware was getting her four children ready for school Wednesday morning when one of the children walked into the living room and found the man sitting on the couch. Ware came in, told the man to leave and shot him once in the stomach when he refused, police said.

The man then stumbled out of the apartment at 5925 N.W. 23rd St. and collapsed on the front walkway. Police said they aren’t sure if he took anything while inside.

“We’re still trying to determine exactly how he gained entry into the apartment,” Lauderhill police Lt. Tundra King said.Ware was photographed and fingerprinted by police, who said that is standard procedure in a case like this, but no arrests have been made.

Ware wouldn’t speak with Local 10, but Lindey Carroll said her cousin was just trying to protect her kids.”She was terrified,” Carroll said.

Carroll also said that the man was completely naked at the time Ware confronted him. Police have not confirmed that.The man was taken to Broward General Medical Center, but he is expected to survive.It is not believed Ware will face any charges.

–from Rogue

LEGAL TO RUN RED LIGHTS IN SOUTH CAROLINA–A red light means stop, but it could soon mean pause. A bill in the SouthCarolina Senate would allow drivers to go through a red light legally ifthey’re riding a motorcycle. But as News 12 reports, bikers in Aiken don’tthink this is such a good idea.A new law could mean South Carolina motorcycle drivers can go through a redlight. It’s more convenient, but it could also be more dangerous.

The coolest ride on the road may become even cooler with the ability tobreak the rule of the red light.

The problem is motorcycles aren’t heavy enough to trigger some trafficlights to change from red to green.

“The motorcycle really doesn’t have a lot of steel on it. Nowadays it’s alot of plastic and aluminum and nowadays it just doesn’t see themotorcycle,” Bob Hinds said.Bob Hinds is a motorcycle safety instructor. He rides about 100 miles a dayand runs into plenty of lights his bike won’t trigger.

“The most direct route to work for me has one of those lights on it,” Hindssaid.But Bob is against the proposed law. He doesn’t think it’s safe.

“There are other ways to work around the issue,” Hinds said.When Bob’s bike won’t trigger a light, he takes a right turn, takes adifferent route, or even calls the city to fix the light.

Under the new law, bikes would be required to stop for at least 20 secondsand could only go through the red light after looking around for a clearintersection.

CLAYSTER
Coordinator-ABATE of Barnwell, S.C.
Sons of Liberty Riders
MRF-Asst. State Rep (SC)NRA

URGENT LEGISLATIVE ALERT–Massachusetts Bill to Ban the Sale/Installation of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems Approved by Transportation Committee.

After being stalled in 2005, a bill (H.B. 2011) to ban the sale or installation of “an exhaust system which has been modified in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the exhaust” was approved by the Massachusetts Joint Transportation Committee. As you might recall, the bill had been revised from previous versions to exclude limited-use “antique motor cars.” This amendment represents a clear attempt by the bill’s sponsor to divide the automobile hobby in an effort to gain clearer sailing for this restrictive and damaging piece of legislation. H.B. 2011 has been now referred to the House Steering, Policy and Scheduling Committee.

We Urge You to Contact the Members of the Steering, Policy and Scheduling Committee (List Below) Immediately to Request Their Opposition to H.B. 2011

H.B. 2011 ignores the fact that aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to make vehicles run more efficiently without increasing emissions.

H.B. 2011 does not supply law enforcement with a clear standard to enforce, allowing them to make subjective judgments on whether or not a modified exhaust system is in violation.

H.B. 2011 fails to recognize that aftermarket exhaust systems offer increased performance, which can make a vehicle safer by improving its ability to merge, pass, travel uphill, etc.

H.B. 2011 would make it difficult for hobbyists to replace factory exhaust systems with more durable, better performing options.

H.B. 2011 would only exclude “antique motor cars” defined as those vehicles over 25-years old which are used exclusively for exhibitions, club activities, parades, etc.

DON’T DELAY! Please contact members of the Massachusetts House Steering, Policy and Scheduling Committee immediately by phone or e-mail to request their opposition to H.B. 2011. Please e-mail a copy of your letter to stevem@sema.org.

Thank you for your assistance.

–from Rogue

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Continued From Page 2

DAYTONA ANTI-NUDITY LAWS VIOLATE CONSTITUTION–Public Nudity, particularly women exposing their breasts, has been a issue at special events in Daytona Beach such as Bike Week, Spring Break and Biketoberfest.

OKAY LADIES!!! Set Those Puppies Free. I have a feeling Daytona Bike week is going to be Big Fun.

— ROGUE

DAYTONA BEACH — Adult dancers may be clear to take it all off after a federal judge Friday struck down the city’s anti-nudity laws.

City ordinances prohibiting public nudity and nudity in places that sell alcohol violate the First and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution, U.S. District Judge John Antoon concluded in his ruling.

“We won on every single issue,” said Daniel Aaronson, a Fort Lauderdale attorney representing Lollipops Gentleman’s Club on Grandview Avenue.

The victory entitles Aaronson to press for the city to pay attorney fees for Lollipops, which he said exceed $100,000.Daytona Beach failed to prove its claim that adult nightclubs create secondary negative impacts on crime, prostitution and illegal drug activity in neighborhoods, Antoon said in his ruling.

Antoon referred to the 2003 case of the Peek-A-Boo Lounge of Bradenton versus Manatee County in his decision.The judge wrote, “gone are the days when a municipality may enact an ordinance ostensibly regulating secondary effects on the basis of evidence consisting of little more than the self-serving assertions of municipality officials.”Adult nightclubs asserted in the trial, which ended in May, that convenience stores and non-adult nightclubs were more dangerous.

On Friday, attorneys for adult nightclubs and the city were sorting out — and disagreeing — about the impact of the ruling.

“With no ordinance in place, this raises a question of whether these clubs can strip all their clothes off,” said Brett Hartley, a Daytona Beach attorney representing Lollipops.One stumbling block in determining the decision’s impact is that the city’s zoning restricts businesses displaying nudity to an industrial area on the far west city limit . Antoon upheld the zoning rules in 2004.

“Regardless of this ruling, they’re still not entitled to remain where they are,” said Marie Hartman, deputy city attorney, who has successfully fought challenges to the city’s nudity rules since 1981.

Aaronson responded, “They’ll claim that.”

City officials said Friday they plan to study the judge’s ruling and ask the City Commission about a possible appeal.Friday’s ruling also raises questions about enforcement of an agreement in December 2004 that settled another federal lawsuit by Molly Brown’s on Seabreeze Boulevard and the Pink Pony on Ridgewood Avenue. Both clubs agreed to drop their legal challenges in exchange for an agreement from the city allowing dancers to wear skimpier bikinis.

However, a provision in that settlement requires equal enforcement of city rules to all adult clubs.

By John Bozzo, Daytona News Journal

–from Rogue

CALL TO ACTION IN COLORADO– A Careless Driving enhanced penalty bill has been introduced in the Colorado legislature: Senate bill SB06-072 (Lois Tochtrop, D – Adams County 24) seeks to implement mandatory penalties upon those vehicle operators who kill & maim other road users. The bill seeks to impose drivers’ license revocation from six months to one year plus mandatory fines from $500 to $1000 for conviction of unintentional Careless Driving offenses resulting in Serious Bodily Injury or Death to another.

This is in addition to the existing penalty schedule for Careless Driving conviction, which carries a max. penalty of 4 points against the drivers’ license, a possible $1000 fine and/or one year in jail (rarely imposed unless multiple offenses) + court-ordered victim’s restitution.

I think that I do not have to remind you too much of the Brothers and Sisters that we have lost, or seen maimed over the years, and we have cried “FOUL!” when the penalty imposed upon the offender pales in comparison to the damage brought into innocent lives. The legislation is for all road users – motorists, motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians.

This bill has been introduced in the Senate earlier than we had anticipated and is assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Our best preliminary information, at this point, indicates that the bill will be discussed/heard in committee on Thursday, February 2nd, in the afternoon.

However, this is preliminary information and is should not be considered as fact until the hearing calendar is posted. It could be earlier, it could be later.

If you are in support of this legislation, the fact is that we have but a matter of a couple of weeks to influence the Judicary committee legislators to pass this bill out of their committee for a full Senate vote.

This committee is the first hurdle toward this bill becoming law. If the bill fails here, there is no other chance for penalty improvements in 2006.

The Senate Judiciary committee members are as follows:

Dan Grossman (Chair), Senate District 32 – Denver, Jefferson counties
Brandon Shaffer (Vice-Chair), Senate District 17 – Boulder county
Bob Bacon, Senate District 14, Larimer county
Jim Dyer, Senate District 26, Arapahoe and Jefferson counties
Ken Gordon, Senate District 35, Arapahoe and Denver counties
Shawn Mitchell, Senate District 23, Adams, Broomfield, and Weld counties
Kiki Traylor, Senate District 22, Jefferson county

You can also check http://www.vote-smart.org/ for legislator contact info by entering your zip code.Victims and Families willing to tesify in person at the committee hearings as well as concerned citizens – I have a list of folks willing to testify, I need more. A broad cross-section of Colorado road user victims/surviving families who have been injured/killed in the varying modes of transport; we want to fill the hearing room with testifiers and supporters…

Testifiers will be at a desk and speaking into a microphone; you will be recorded and the proceeding will be broadcast. Original materials that you bring will become part of the testimony/hearing record, therefore make copies for later use.

I will provide “talking points” for communications and assistance in a subsequent e-mail; however, your words should be your own, i.e. – relating experiences, lack of penalty applied/dissatisfaction, etc. Make your point, state that you want and support this legislation, ask that the legislator vote for it – be politely firm, and at all times be respectful – the legislators are there to listen and understand your concerns but not to be the target of anger.

This is the beginning of a process that will not be completed until the Governor’s signature is on the bill to make it law; therefore, be committed to action for the long run through May/June of 2006

Dave Christy
ABATE of Colorado Legislative Affairs Specialist
djwestrider@earthlink.net’);
303-384-9124

VANCOUVER CUSTOM BIKE SHOW COMIN’–There’s a Big Custom Bike Show in Vancouver on March 24-25 Details on BCCOM’s web site .

I’d like to see more of The Motorcycle Community from the U.S.A. travel in B.C. We have some of the best air/mountain/water scenery in the world!!!

— Dave

CINCY SHOW NEXT WEEK–With over 400 quality V-Twin exhibitors utilizing over 1100 booths on two floors of the CINergy Convention Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, February 4-6, 2006 the V-Twin Expo by Easyriders has become the world’s largest V-Twin trade show in just five short years.
“When I first began planning the V-Twin Expo, I wanted to build a pure V-Twin-focused show, nothing more, and nothing less. When you have spent as many years as I have in this great industry, you know what it means when a dealer says, “Show me relevant product to my business, show me products and services that will deliver to my bottom line.” Five years ago I knew it was the right time, right place, right price and the right kind of show. Clearly the success of the V-Twin Expo is causing other promoters to rethink their strategy.” explained Jim Betlach, Show Producer V-Twin Expo.

He continued, “If you are a V-Twin dealer, the V-Twin Expo is your show. The Expo represents an undiluted, pure V-Twin focused show for dealers in the V-Twin marketplace.”

The 6th annual V-Twin Expo will be bigger and better than ever for v-twin dealers. The Expo is not a consumer show. With the main hall renovation at the convention center complete this year, the show gains an additional 43,000 feet. “The expansion allows us to accept more companies as exhibitors which in turn provide dealers a better selection of product,” said Betlach.

Two industry legends kick off the 2006 seminars at the Expo, John Wyckoff and Jon Kosmoski. If you were able to catch their presentations last time around, you know how valuable they can be to your business. For 2006 both will be delivering new, dealer oriented seminars like the Power of 1% and the Latest Trends in Standard and Custom Refinishing. V-Twin Expo will also welcome a new speaker, Dale Lingard. Dale will be presenting an informative seminar on insurance.

Back by popular demand in 2006 are the panel seminars. Throughout these panel discussions you are invited to speak directly with the pros- from engine experts to aftermarket exhaust. Ask those questions you can’t get answers to back at home. Join the Open Forum discussion with the M.I.C American V-Twin group on Monday or check out the all-new V-Twin Expo discussion to hear what’s happening in legislation and how it will impact your business today and tomorrow. This outlines just a few of the things dealers can find at the 6th annual V-Twin Expo.

Dealers can register online today for the Expo February 4, 5, and 6, 2006 in Cincinnati at: http://www.vtwin-expo.com

NEW HOT SPOT FOR RIDERS DURING LACONIA BIKE WEEK ’06!– Bike Bash At Meadowbrook Has It AllNew Hampshire’s premier outdoor concert venue will be opening its doors for the 1st annual Bike Bash this Laconia Bike Week from Wednesday, June 14th ~ Sunday, June 18th, 2006.

Featured programming includes live entertainment on two stages with top national bands every night on the main stage, the Budweiser Clydesdales, Hawaiian Tropic Models and the Laconia Hawaiian Tropic Bikini Pageant, The Purrfect Angelz, a motorcycle demolition derby, The Wall of Death, stunt riders, DeeJay Candy and the Hard Rock

Roadhouse featuring top custom builders, Paul Cox & Keino of Indian Larry Legacy, Aaron Greene of Paramount Custom Cycles, Eric Gorges of Voodoo Choppers and Gard Hollinger of LA County Choprods and host of the popular Build or Bust series on Speed TV.

Meadowbrook will feature top national manufacturers, a vendor village with exhibits and displays, full liquor and beer concessions and an international food court with plenty of seating. Check out the official website for Bike Bash at http://www.laconiabikebash.com/ for an up-to-date calendar of events.

SKOOTERZ GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING SATURDAY JANUARY 28,2006 167 WEST BROAD STREETMONTICELLO, MISSISSIPPI RIBBON CUTTING @ 10:00 A.M. POKER RUN @ 12 NOON(WEATHER PERMITTING)

LIVE BAND WILL PLAY IN CROOKED CREEK @ “THE CHICKEN HOUSE” 676 CLIBURN CEMETARY ROAD

BAND KICKS OFF @ 7:30

DIRECTIONS FOR THOSE UNFAMILIAR WITH THE AREA: FROM MONTICELLO GO HWY 84 E, ACROSS PEARL RIVER BRIDGE, ABOUT 2 MILES TAKE LEFT ON FERGUSON MILL ROAD.GO ALL THE WAY TO 4-WAY STOP, CONTINUE STRAIGHT THRU 4-WAY FOR ABOUT 2 MILES TO LOLA’S ONE STOP(ON RIGHT) TURN LEFT ON TO CROOKED CREEK ROAD FOR ABOUT 5.2 MILES. YOU WILL CROSS 2 SMALL BRIDGES ABOUT 2 MILES APART, AFTER THE SECOND BRIDGE YOU WILL TURN ON THE NEXT ROAD TO YOUR RIGHT, AND MAKE AN IMMEDIATE RIGHT ON TO GRAVEL ROAD, “THE CHICKEN HOUSE” IS AT THE TOP OF THE HILL.

THERE WILL BE A $5.00 COVER AT THE DOOR ….AND COME HUNGRY THERE WILL BE FOOD!!FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL LEIGH ANN @ 601-587-0055 OR E-MAIL ME AT SKOOTERZ@NETZERO.COM

VON DUTCH CYCLES BUILDS BIKE FOR STURGIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE–They have been unanimously selected by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce to build the official custom bike for the 2006 SturgisMotorcycle Rally.

Von Dutch Kustom Cycles, with it’s winning bike design, the Cruelworld Softail Chopper, was awarded this prestigious honor, beating out numerous motorcycle companies, manufacturers, OEM’s and custom builders. Thebike, which has been built for the 66th Annual Sturgis Rally, will be raffled off for charity through the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation and Sturgis Rally Charities. Raffle tickets will be available online at http://www.sturgisrallyraffle.com.

“We are excited and humbled to receive this distinguished honor,” says VDKC COO and Chief Designer, Alex Mardikian. “Von Dutch Kustom Cycles was built on the principle of ‘Kustom Kulture.’ We plan to use this opportunity that the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce has graciously bestowed upon us, to help educate the motorcycle community about Kustom Kulture, and why it is relevant to us and our fellow bike builders and enthusiasts.”

Kustom Kulture is a movement that started in 1950-60’s car and motorcycle culture and continues today. The concept at the basis of this principle is that everyone is an individual with their own sense of style that reflects their personality. Kustom Kulture is an ideology that allows people to express themselves through the artistry of their vehicles. Von Dutch Kustom Cycles has infused elements of Kustom Kulture into the bike that they have built for the 66th Annual Black Hills Rally.

“Von Dutch Kustom Cycles really brings some strong assets to our charity program,” said Marcia Johnston, chair of the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation. “We think the relationship with Von Dutch will take us to a new level and we are excited about expanding our relationship with thecompany in a variety of ways.”

“The community is sure to win on this one,” says Sturgis Mayor Mark Zeigler. “I’m extremely proud of the way the Chamber, The City and Sturgis Rally Charities are working together on behalf of our town. Having Von Dutch Kustom Cycles on board should really enhance the excitement surrounding the raffle this year.”

The winning Von Dutch Kustom Cycles model chosen by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce, the Cruel World Softail Chopper, is a marvel of modern technology and old-school design. This bike features a complete 113 cubic-inch PatrickRacing Billet Motor, Primo Rivera open-belt drive, and 6-speed chrome transmission. Additional features include a hand tooled leather seat, Brembo braking system, VDKC handlebars, custom rims, and custom paint by award-winning paint by Deano’s of Arizona.

The bike has already achieved celebrity status by being featured and photographed with Hollywood A-listers at the Showtime Style 2006 pre-Golden Globes retreat. Held at the Luxe Hotel on the famed Beverly Hills shopping Mecca, Rodeo Drive, the event boasted some of Hollywood’s biggest starsincluding Angela Bassett, Daryl Hannah, Terrence Howard, and Michael Madsen, amongst many others.

The bike will continue its media blitz leading up to the Black Hills Rally, visiting Cincinnati’s V-Twin Expo, the ultimate motorcycledealer tradeshow and internationally renowned apparel tradeshow, MAGIC Marketplace, in February.

This honorable appointment by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce entitles Von Dutch Kustom Cycles to join the exclusive company of the few organizations who are permitted a license to use the Sturgis name and composite. The Chamber and Von Dutch Kustom Cycles are currently working on a variety of licensing deals related to a unique blend of the two sought-after brands, including a line of die-cast miniature toy motorcycles by Jada Toys.

Tickets can be purchased through the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce at 605.347.2556 or online at http://www.SturgisMotorcycleRally.com or http://www.SturgisRallyRaffle.com.

You maybe asking yourself, What the hell? BMW’s on Bikernet? That’s down right Un-American. So let me back up a bit?to?tell the tale. I have a soft spot in the back of my cranium for old school cafe racers. When I came to the?Bikernet compound, a 1982 R-65LS came with me as well. Bandit let me store it here and was kind enough to remind me of existence every day. And ever the philosopher, he?would ask the eternal question. When are you getting your broke-ass shit out of here goddammit!!!!??He was right, what to do?

?So R-65 went to Mitch’s Motorcycle. Where upon inspection?he found that I own one of?the finest parts bikes in America today. So it’s back here at the headquarters, and soon to be coming to an eBay near you. But, the service I received was second to none. (It’s for sale–contact Bandit@bikernet.com for info.)

About Mitch Berger

His?experience with BMW motorcycles began in 1975. “I was just 15 then,” Mitch said. “As many of you know, it gets into your blood and never leaves. It?does not matter if it’s cold, windy, raining or hot, we need to get on our motorcycles and ride. I worked for a few years as a commercial pilot flying cargo in 12-seaters, but my heart was with motorcycles.”

In 1988?he went back to?working at Marty’s BMW?(Marty’s Foreign Motors). “This was a special place for myself and many other people,” Mitch said. Marty’s Foreign Motors was started in 1952 by Marty P. Pierre and his wife Elise. These two had the courage to sell bikes that were not from England or American made. Some of the motorcycles they sold were DKW, Zundapp, Maico and BMWs. The two also had a Citroen dealership among other things. All this was at the location in Culver City. In 1972 Mr. Marty and his wife downsized and moved to the Torrance location where they had BMW, Moto Guzzi, and repaired Citroen cars.

Mitch?grew up learning from his father, and two A&P mechanics. One of these mechanics, Jehd Webster, is a regional service rep for BMW. “As my addiction to motorcycles increased, so did my learning,” Mitch said.?”Having raced desert, motorcross, enduros, supermottard, and trials, I have learned from these experiences, as well as riding 1254 miles in 24 hours. In this way I can bring my personal approach and thorough knowledge to you and your motorcycle.”

In closing if there are any?Airheads out there who might actually be reading this,Mitch’s is the place to go for any?foreign motor needs. This is an man who is currently installing a Volvo engine in a small plane for god’s sake, you can’t go?wrong!!?

Black Market John.

Continued On Page 4

Continued From Page 1

GIRLS OF BIKERNET COMING TO BANDIT’S CANTINA–With the help of Peter Linney, RFR, Curt Lout, Don Rogers and photographers across the country, we’ll bring you the finest bikes and babes on the planet.

Here’s a couple of shots from Peter S. Linney who is trying to launch a magazine as a tribute to his work.

Peter S. Linney
323 463 4584
http://www.autofocus.net

MRF ANNOUNCES NEW ELECTRONIC EPA QUESTIONAIRE–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has created a web based, online version of the survey about the impact that the new EPA emissions rule will have on the custom motorcycle industry and individual riders.

The new rule aims to enforce the Clean Air Act by reducing the number of exempt custom motorcycles that small shops can build and individual riders can own. The rule also drastically reduces tail pipe emissions for all motorcycles effectively making carburetors a thing of the past and electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters a mainstay.

The survey originally ran as part of an article in the February edition of American Iron magazine. The survey was an idea that came out of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation government relations department and the good folks at American Iron liked the idea so much they ran it as a full page. The principle behind the survey was to obtain feedback from custom shops and their customers to determine real numbers of how many shops and bikes are going to be affected by the EPA rule.

Rather than ask shops and motorcycle enthusiasts to send information to the EPA, Congress or any other government organizations, The Motorcycle Riders Foundation agreed to act as the clearing house of the valuable information. The MRF gives full assurance that the information will only be used to help motorcyclists fight the EPA and not for anything else. In fact the survey guarantees absolute anonymity of all who take the time to fill it out.The survey results began coming in via fax and US mail and the overwhelming volume of results prompted the MRF to develop an online version. The more surveys the MRF receives, will strengthen the case that this new rule should not stand or get stricter.

Please take the time to fill out the online survey today and help the MRF in Washington, DC fight the EPA on your behalf.

In addition to the questionnaire, if you would like to join the MRF when the meet with EPA or the Small Business Administration on this important issue please contact the MRF in the Washington DC office at 202-546-0983 or by email at dad@mrf.org.

The EPA survey can be found at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=98991669717

–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005

AUSTRALIA URGES MOTORISTS TO LOOK FOR BIKERS–TV ads will urge motorists to look out for bikes.The Department for Transport’s ‘THINK! Take longer to look for bikes’ campaign starts on 30th January and is car Vs. motorcycle but the same logic also applies to cyclists.

A parallel campaign, urging motorcyclists to make themselves more visible, will run via six-sheet posters.

The 30 second TV advert encourages urban car drivers to look longer for bikes.

“How Close” shows a typical accident at a T-junction. The car driver, coming from a side road, casts a quick glance to the right before pulling out and turning right onto the main road.

A motorbike traveling along the main road is seen crashing into the side of the car, leaving the motorist confused and shocked. “How close does a biker have to be before you see them?” asks a voiceover.

The scenario is replayed, this time with the car driver looking for longer while the motorcyclist passes harmlessly in front of the car. The end line reads: “THINK! take longer to look for bikes”.

A radio advert backs up the TV message and “acts as an in-car reminder,” said a statement from the DfT.

The radio ad runs from 3rd February to 12th March. The TV ad runs from 30th January to 12th March.

In 2003, 73 per cent of all crashes involving a two-wheeled motor vehicle also involved a car.

The DfT report, ‘In-Depth Study of Motorcycle Accidents’, concluded that the most common cause of motorcycle crashes – as with bicycle crashes – is a ‘right of way violation’. The majority of these incidents occur at T-junctions and “it is usually the motorist – rather than the biker – who is at fault,” said the DfT.

In 65 percent of these ‘right of way’ incidents, drivers fail to see motorcyclists who other witnesses report were easily visible.

In cycling parlance, such right of way violations are called SMIDSYs – ‘sorry mate, I didn’t see you.’

Were cyclists – and motorcyclists – routinely wired up to on-board bombs, and they exploded on the slightest impact, it’s extremely likely that motorists would miraculously be able to see two-wheelers every time…

–from Rogue

S&S CYCLE ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION REGISTRATION–LA CROSSE, WI (January 24, 2006) S&S Cycle announces the launch of online Dealer Training and Certification class registration.

The S&S Training and Certification Facility opened its doors to students on October 1st , and attendance has been steady, along with regular phone calls inquiring about available classes and registration. In order to make registration and class selection as easy as possible, it can now be done on the S&S website.

By redesigning the registration portion of the website, including the classroom calendar, technicians can now easily see when the class they want to attend is scheduled, how many seats are open and what the cost is–with a valid dealer number and just a few clicks of the mouse. The option to charge your tuition to a credit card, in a secure environment, is now available. This feature will allow customers to lock in their training at a time that is convenient for them, not just during regular business hours.

Technicians browsing the site will notice that there are discounts for multiple enrollments and additional classes. By sending technicians to the S&S Training and Certification Facility you raise the standards of your shop. By sending two or more technicians at once, tuition is discounted. There is no better time to visit www.sscycle.com and register for S&S Dealer Training and Certification classes.

During Training and Certification classes, technicians are introduced to the SuperFlow dyno rooms and flowbench set up at the S&S La Crosse facility, along with a huge selction of hand tools from Mac Tools. Upon completing the courses, students are eligible to purchase SuperFlow & Mac Tools equipment for their shop at discounted pricing.

WHITEHORSE PRESS CLEARANCE SALE–Long Way Round 2-Disc DVD?Now Available and In Stock.It took a while but the companion video to actors Ewan McGregor’s and Charley Boorman’s popular book, Long Way Round, is finally available in DVD format for viewers in the U.S. The New York Times called this “the ultimate road trip.” Order a copy and you’ll understand why. 6+ hours long, 7 episodes, 2 discs, extra features, $19.99.

You might read Jaqhama reviews on Bikernet.

http://www.whitehorsepress.com

Good friend and author, Dale Coyner, offers great roads and handpicked destinations to aid online readers with 2006 trip planning. Published monthly, recent editions of his newsletter have featured areas such as Pike County, Kentucky, and Mingo County, West Virginia, home of the Hatfield-McCoy feud. If you’re planning a trip to Appalachia, buy the new edition of his popular book, MOTORCYCLE JOURNEYS THROUGH THE APPALACHIANS, 2nd Edition, and sign up for the newsletter as well.

May Open House at Whitehorse

If you live in the Northeast, or want to ride in New England this spring, put May 20th on your calendar for a visit to our first and hopefully annual “Club Day.” All riders are welcome to stop by our warehouse from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM to enjoy some free Bar-BQ, great shopping, and lively tire-kicking talk.

A great chance to ride the notches of the White Mountains and enjoy spring in our beautiful Mount Washington Valley. If you need help locating places to stay and things to do, call (800-531-1133) for advice or get yourself a copy of Marty Berke?s

MASSACHUSETTS RIDERS BILL, CALL TO ACTION–Massachusetts riders are encouraged to call, write, fax, e-mail and visit their State Senators between now and February 1, 2006, requesting their support of Senate Bill No. 1344, as recently amended by Senator Moore.

The amended version takes into consideration some opposition we’ve had for the past 35 years, and is more likely to be approved vs. being defeated, as it has those past 35 years.

The amendment to SB 1344, which will be acted upon on February 1, calls for:
1. Increased civil and criminal penalties to motorists who are responsible for collisions when they violate the right of way of all other road users (including motorcyclists), and shifting the financial burden (excess medical costs and lost wages) from injured victims to the responsible operators;
2. Allows owners of motorcycles to opt out of the existing motorcycle insurance system and go to a competitive market, opening the doors for more insurers to write coverage in Massachusetts;
3. Allows choice regarding helmet use to experienced (six years or more) adult motorcyclists or those who take the approved rider education course, and have private health insurance or $50,000 in optional medical payments coverage, with a $125 assessment to those who violate the law going to the State’s Head Injury Trust Fund Program; and
4. Changes in the existing motorcycle exhaust laws to limit the noise of motorcycle pipes.

If enacted in the Senate, it would then move over to the House for their action. If passed in the House and signed by the Governor, the law would take effect July 1, 2006.

If you don’t know who your Senator is, go to http://www.massmotorcycle.org, click on “Find your Legislator” – type in your address then scroll to State Senator. You can then click on to open their page.

Further, riders are encouraged to call as many of the 40 State Senators as possible. Even though you don’t live in others’District, . . . their vote on this issue will still affect you!

Continued On Page 3

Hey,

It’s news time and I’m scrambling. We launched the first Salt Shaker tech and I’ll launch a Halibrand Wheel install by Tim Conder tomorrow. It’s killer.

I’m lost for an intro this morning. I’m just going to hit the news like a mad dog and add something later, if inspiration flourishes. We’ll see.

Here’s one item that just came to mind. A reader metioned that he saw the name Brenda Fox, in the Robb Report Motorcycle Magazine, and wanted to know if it was the same Fox who rode the Blue Flame, Bikernet project bike. He was right and I told him I’d try to find this shot. There you have it, the Fox and the Flame together again. Let’s hit the news:

D&D NEW SPONSOR ON BIKERNET–At D&D Exhaust our passion is high performance exhaust pipes. For 30 years we have built quality hand made American exhaust pipes and for the last 7 years we have hand crafted exhaust pipes for American big-twin motorcycles that are dyno-tuned for performance.

David Rash, D&D Owner, began building pipes for his race bike because he needed more horsepower. 250,000 pipes later D&D Exhaust systems grace some of the world’s fastest Harleys on the street and strip.

D&D uses the state of the art Super Flow Eddy Current Ram Air Dyno, Super Flow Flow Bench, and the first in the industry multi cylinder Lambda Fuel Air Ratio Sensors interfaced with the Dyno for real time meter and graph analysis.

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

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

D&D Performance Enterprises
_2923 Edith Lane
_Fort Worth, TX 76117
_Email danddexhaust@msn.com.
_Phone: (817) 834-8961
http://www.danddexhaust.com

BILLY LANE IN DISCOVERY BUILD-OFF WITH RUSSELL MITCHELL–Big news update- Billy has agreed to do another Biker Build Off. This build off will be against Russell Mitchell and begin filming in May with a goal air time of early this fall. Billy is excited about the opportunity and looking forward to the next Biker Build Off installment and other exciting projects with Discovery and others.

Discovery is now rerunning many of the Biker Build Off’s. Since Billy was in so many, you may now have the chance to see episodes you missed. Billy has two that episodes that will re-air very soon. I have listed them below along with re-air dates so you can tune in.

Biker Build Off against Mike Brown will re-air February 13thTribute build in memory of Indian Larry will re-air February 6th

Check your local listings for times on Discovery Channel.

Darcy Betlach

TURN UP THE VOLUME, BIKERNET RADIO ON THE AIR– Denis Manning, Chris Maida and Bill Rucker First Up on Bikernet Radio Podcast.

January 20, 2006, Williams, AZ, Bikernet.com, the premiere biker-authority site, is broadcasting radio podcast interviews starting in February 2006. Bob Osias of MetricThunder.com, the shows on air talent, interviews guests across the country and at biker gatherings like Sturgis and Daytona. Jumping in to do guest interviews is Branscombe Richmond. He’ll be live at V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati.

“Our initial podcasts include interviews with Denis Manning of BUB, Chris Maida of American Iron, Bill Rucker of Rucker Performance and many others,” said Bob Osias, Owner MetricThunder.com. “These edu-tainment? interviews are filled with product information and lifestyle.”

Horsepower Marketing’s audio studio will handle the technical requirements as well as producing each show.

BLONDE AND NUCLEAR POWER–Guy gets on a plane and finds himself seated next to a cute blonde.He immediately turns to her and makes his move.

“You know,” he says,”I’ve heard that flights will go quicker if you strike up a conversation with your fellow passenger. So let’s talk.”

The blonde, who had just opened her book, closes it slowly and says to the guy, “What would you like to discuss?”

“Oh, I don’t know,” says the guy. “How about nuclear power?”

“OK,” says the blonde. “That could be an interesting topic. But let me ask you a question first. A horse, a cow, and a deer all eat the same stuff — grass.Yet the deer excretes little pellets, the cow turns out a flat patty, and the horse produces muffins of dried poop. Why do you suppose that is?”

The guy is dumbfounded. Finally he replies, “I haven’t the slightest idea.”

“So tell me,” says the blonde, “How is it that you feel qualified to discuss nuclear power when you don’t know shit?”

–from the Devil

METRIC THUNDER, NEW BIKERNET SPONSOR–At Metric Thunder we put the Thunder in your V-Twin! When you have a V-Twin need, we have a V-Twin solution. Take a minute and check our prices. Our everyday price provides you a deep discount off retail.

Selected Harley Products:
Saddle Bags and Seats from Saddlemen
Exhaust Pipes from Bub, Samson, Cobra and more
Grips and Levers
Floorboards
Performance Products
Windshields

Don’t see your item? CALL US TOLL FREE at 866-744-7900, or email sales@metricthunder.com. Metric Thunder is your ONE STOP shop for motorcycle accessories. We ship all “in stock” items within 24 hours. Contact and Ordering Information:

Metric Thunder
_1411 N. Batavia St. #107
_Orange, CA 92867 _
Email sales@metricthunder.com. _
Phone: (817) 834-8961
http://www.metricthunder.com

THE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE 2006 TOUR FEATURED BUILDERS ARE ANNOUNCED!–FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (January, 2006) – The Annual Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse Tour has recently announced the much anticipated featured custom motorcycle builders who will be joining them on Tour for 2006. Hand selected by event sponsors and professionals in the motorcycle industry, the four Hard Rock builders are an elite group of bike builders who will be able to showcase their talent to thousands through the Roadhouse tour.

The builders are: PAUL COX and KEINO of Indian Larry Legacy in Brooklyn, NY; ERIC GORGES from Voodoo Choppers in Detroit, MI; GARD HOLLINGER of L.A. County Choprods from Marina Del Rey, CA; and AARON GREENE of Paramount Custom Cycles from Reno, NV.

Paul Cox began his journey into the bike world by working with leather as a child. Over the years, Paul has become a Master Leather Smith creating exquisite bike seats which are renowned in the industry. Paul joined forces with his friend and building partner, Indian Larry, sharing seven different bike shops with Larry over the past twelve years. Today, Paul and Larry’s right-hand man, Keino, have taken the reigns at the Brooklyn shop in Larry’s honor and have been keeping Larry’s legacy alive with their custom old school creations and innovative seat and air ride designs. Paul and Keino have been featured on Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off, the S&S/American Iron Old School Shovel Tour, and with Billy Lane’s Blood, Sweat, & Gears Tour.

Eric Gorges began building bikes in his garage as a form of therapy. Tired of the constraining ideas of bike designs coming from other companies, Eric, and his crew, now operate Voodoo Choppers in Detroit and handle everything in-house including frames, front ends, tanks, fenders, exhausts, and more. Eric builds bikes to match the personality of their owners although he favors low and lean bikes built in the “digger” style. He handcrafts almost every component that comes from his shop and creates his choppers with honesty and integrity. Eric has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off and numerous industry magazines, such as The Horse Backstreet Choppers where he writes technical articles.

Gard Hollinger is a craftsman of “retro- modernistic” bikes, unique machines handcrafted from chrome and steel and sheet metal, popular from the Sunset Strip to Sturgis. His infamous shop, L.A. County Choprods, is located on Motorcycle Row in Marina Del Rey, CA. Gard is a veteran builder with over 20 years experience best know for his old school contemporary styling and celebrity clientele. Gard has been the creative force behind the construction of motorcycles for television and movies including: The West Wing, Six Feet Under, and Terminator III: Rise of the Machines. He also designed the production bike, the Black Crown, for Saxon Motorcycle Company and has been featured on UK’s “All the Gear No Idea” and hosts Speed TV’s “Build or Bust”.

Aaron Greene was already a custom builder for the EasyRiders store in Reno by age 20 after working as a full service auto mechanic. He soon gained the respect and attention from fellow builders and custom bike enthusiasts. After breaking away from EasyRiders to explore his creativity, Aaron opened his repair and customization shop, Paramount Custom Cycles which rapidly grew to a complete manufacturing facility. A true innovator, Aaron has obtained three machine patents and is consistently creating trendsetting customs in the bike world such as his style in curvaceous gas tanks. Aaron assisted Billy Lane on Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off and Blood, Sweat & Gears, won first place in the Street Chopper Invitational Build-Off, and has been featured in numerous magazines.

For the 2006 Tour, each Hard Rock builder will build a one of a kind custom Hard Rock motorcycle for the national sweepstakes. These bikes will be displayed at rally locations such as Daytona Bike Week and BiketoberFest, Laconia, Rot Rally in Austin, TX, and Ft. Lauderdale. Kicking off at Daytona Bike Week in March 2006, the Roadhouse is a one-stop setting that fans and biker enthusiasts can check the bikes out, meet and hang out with the builders. The venue includes the Hard Rock Roadhouse Bar and Stage where emcee Candy rocks the crowd with music, giveaways and contests, featured live entertainment including: the Purrfect Angelzz and various side show acts, beautiful Hard Rock models, and a Hawaiian Tropic Pageant. The Roadhouse has become a staple in the bike world by platforming exciting innovative bike builders and their unparalleled designs while bringing pure entertainment to rallies across the county.

The Roadhouse Custom Bike Sweepstakes, beginning on February 1st, 2006 gives people the opportunity to win one of the four custom Hard Rock bikes displayed at the Roadhouse. Entries are taken at each of the Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse tour stops, online at http://www.hrroadhouse.com , or at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, when the featured bikes are showcased between Roadhouse trips. Five lucky semi-finalists will win an all inclusive trip to the conclusion of the Tour, December in Ft. Lauderdale where a Grand Prize winner will be chosen to take home a 2006 Custom Hard Rock motorcycle.

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, Hawaiian Tropic, S&S Cycle, Performance Machine, Baker Transmission, Bikernet.com, HOT BIKE and Keyboard Carriage. For more information and tour dates, please visit http://www.hrroadhouse.com .

MUNEWARI BIKE REVIEW ON BIKERNET–Its funny, we were just talking to Perewitz about that bike. He was saying it looks like it’s made of China. The images really look good. I like this guys work a lot. Don’s lighting is perfect. The girl is gorgeous. I like her top. Now I have to go back and read the article. My uncle also told me what he thought of the Munewari bike. All good.
http://www.bikernet.com/bikebarn/PageViewer.asp?PageID=672

–Johnny Humble

NEW AIR-RIDE FOR SOFTAILS–Air Systems Engineering has created the AirFX product line, state-of-the-art air suspension systems for the motorcycle market. The FXA-1002 system is a rear air suspension system for use on ’85-current Softail models. The system uses air pressure from an onboard compressor to create lift from a twin-piston air cylinder package. Air is also supplied on the opposite side of the triple-sealed pistons complete with stainless steel piston rods providing complete control. The result-a smooth predicable ride quality at any ride height.

The FXA-1002 is a lightweight, one-piece, re-buildable, billet aluminum cylinder, given a NiTuff hard coat anodize finish for long lasting durability. Other features include, self-lubricating, composite rod and mounting point bushings and remote micro control buttons supplied with 7 feet of cable.

The Air Systems Engineering FXA-1002 is pre-wired, factory tested, and comes in black anodize or polished finish. For more information, contact: Air Systems Engineering, (800) 210-1454, http://www.airsystemsengineering.com.

SAXON WEB SITE LAUNCHED–The new Saxon Web site is up and running with fullstats and imagery of the 2006 lineup as well as easyaccess to an online store to purchase Saxon apparel.Be sure to check it out at www.saxonmotorcycles.com.

–Ken
Rise Above Consulting LLC
(970)227-3588
PO Box 355
Severance CO,80546

ARLEN NESS OPENS IN VEGAS–We would like to have you join us for our pre grand opening party, Friday night, February 24, 2006, at 6 pm at ARLEN NESS MOTORCYCLES of LAS VEGAS located at 4020 Boulder Hwy., Las Vegas Nv. Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 5pm, we will be open for everyone to celebrate with us.

For our out of town guests arrangements have been made with Boulder Station Hotel & Casino, directly across the street. Special rates for Thursday, February 23rd are $49.00 per night. Friday, Feb 24th and Saturday, Feb. 25th are $85.00 per night. The room rates are only guaranteed until February 8th. If you are interested please call Boulder Station @ 1-888-476-8706. Be sure to tell them you are coming for the Arlen Ness Grand Opening.

HOLLISTER REPORT–The latest is that one of the past directors is going to set up something at airport. That doesn’t cover downtown where the history took place. They will be charging for entry and I don’t know how that will go down. If you come for the event, take care because the cops are checking randomly for any problems like loose helmet straps and other minor crap. I appreciate your feedback. Hang in there and ride safe.Prez Hobo – CMVMC

SOMETHING TO OFFEND EVERYONE– What is the difference between a Harley and a Hoover?The position of the dirt bag.

Why is divorce so expensive?Because it’s worth it.

What do attorneys use for birth control?Their personalities.

What’s the difference between a girlfriend and wife?45 lbs.

What’s the difference between a boyfriend and husband?45 minutes.

What makes men chase women they have no intention of marrying?The same urge that makes dogs chase cars they have no intention of driving.

A brunette, a blonde, and a redhead are all in third grade.Who has the biggest boobs?The blonde, because she’s 18.

What’s the difference between a porcupine and BMW?A porcupine has the pricks on the outside.

What did the blonde say when she found out she was pregnant?”Are you sure it’s mine?”

Why does Mike Tyson cry during sex?Mace will do that to you

Why do men find it difficult to make eye contact?Breasts don’t have eyes.

What’s the Cuban National Anthem?”Row, Row, Row Your Boat”

Where does an Irish family go on vacation?A different bar

What would you call it when an Italian has one arm shorter than the other?A speech impediment.

–from Darcy Betlach

RED LIGHT BILL TRIGGERS COMMON SENSE– (Columbia) S-1027 is a bill before the South Carolina Senate that would allowmotorcyclists to treat a red light as a stop sign if the mass of themotorcycle is not sufficient to trigger a traffic signal change. At manyintersections in South Carolina, the trigger mechanisms that communicate tothe traffic signal require a mass to travel over the inductive loop in theroadway that far exceeds the mass of a motorcycle. Depending on the time ofday and traffic volume, theoretically, a motorcyclist could sit at a red lightfor hours.

Most every experienced driver has encountered a broken trafficsignal at least once in their driving career, and virtually all who have foundthemselves in such a predicament, have proceeded cautiously through the redlight without incident.

“This bill would not legalize running red lights or stop signs. It would allowmotorcyclists to treat defective traffic signals as stop signs,” says DennisWelborn, ABATE of SC Legislative Coordinator. “This is a no cost solution to aproblem that affects some of the 100,000 motorcycles in South Carolina on adaily basis.”

Arkansas, Tennessee, and Minnesota already have laws similar to what S-1027proposes. Georgia and Oklahoma have similar bills pending legislative action.Wisconsin is also reported to have a similar proposal that is awaitingintroduction.

S-1027 acknowledges the reality of the road and would simply change the law sothat motorcyclists stuck in these types of situations could proceed withcaution without violating the law. The time limit of 20 seconds is secondaryto the idea that there should be law that ends the practice of motorcyclistsbeing forced to violate the law simply because their motorcycles lack the massrequired to trigger a traffic signal change.

–Reb Richardson:
(803) 494-9181
reb@abatesc.com

Continued On Page 2

Continued From Page 4

THE TEACHER AND HIS WIFE–Check this out..my wife is going to be riding thetrump this summer!

–Kevin Baas
KBAAS

He’s just trying to make me jealous. I wanted to buy the Triumph. Now I want to buy the Triumph and steal his wife. It’s just not fair.–Bandit

BIKERNET MEDICAL LIBRARY– Two medical students were walking along the street when they saw an old man walking with his legs spread apart. One of the students said to his friend: “I’m sure he has Petry Syndrome. Those people walk just like that.”

The other student says: “No, I don’t think so. The old man surely has Zovitzki Syndrome. He walks just as we learned in class.”

Since they couldn’t agree they decided to ask the old man. They approached him and one of the students said to him: “We’re medical students and couldn’t help but notice the way you walk, but we couldn’t agree on the syndrome you might have. Could you tell us what it is?”

The old man said: “I’ll tell you, but first you’ll tell me what you think.”

One of the students said: “I think it’s Petry Syndrome.”

The! old man said: “You thought………. but you are wrong.”

Then the other student said: “I think you have Zovitzki Syndrome.”

The old man said: “You thought………. but you are wrong.

So they asked him: “Well, what do you have?”

The old man said: “I thought it was GAS……….. but I was wrong.”

–Rik S.

STAMPEDE PREPARES FOR BLACKOUT– When the lights go out, demons come out to play! The new Stampede BlackoutDress Parts line can change a ho-hum scoot into a dark beast of a bike. TheBlackout Line includes Billet Head Bolt Covers, Carburetor Bowl BoltsExtensions/Enrichment Knob, Tranny Vent Cover and Tire Stem Covers. Teamedwith a Black D&M Spear Air Cleaner, you may want to call for an exorcism.Call your MC Advantages dealer for details.

Don’t forget the Stampede Chromed, Bored & Boosted Carb for the baddest andbrightest way to add horses and torque to your ride.

MC Advantages
1-800-726-9620
http://www.MCAdvantages.com

DAYTONA HARLEY AND EPA EMMISSIONS–There’s a catalog-quality photograph of a motorcycle hanging on a wall in Ed Mook’s office at Daytona Harley-Davidson.

The long, straight tailpipes are tied into a giant knot. Call it the satirical model for the dealership’s customer-relations honcho.”Basically, that’s what it’s coming to,” Mook said.

Tighter Clean Air Act emission standards, based on California’s law, went into effect on Jan. 1 for motorcycles manufactured in 2006 and beyond. Modifying exhaust systems on those bikes also became tougher, limiting owners to one customized road machine in a lifetime that doesn’t meet air quality standards. That bike cannot be sold for five years.Motorcyclists are as hot as their tail pipes about the law, especially in a Bike Mecca like Daytona Beach.

“When you buy a cycle, the first thing you want to do is change the pipes. Otherwise, no one hears or sees you. It’s the greatest sound in the world,” said Mook, 57. “This law eventually is going to take away the look of Bike Week. It will destroy what Daytona is about.”

The Environmental Protection Agency said motorcycle-emissions standards hadn’t changed since the late 1970s, and today’s technology can improve air quality without harming a bike’s performance.Opponents say enforcement of the law might prove difficult, since Florida no longer requires annual emissions tests for cars or motorcycles like some states.

The state’s Department of Environmental Protection said any suspected violators would be investigated, and if tampering was found, “options for prosecution would be explored.”Fines of up to $10,000 can be handed out for each violation.

Under the new law, a manufacturer may sell or lease 24 custom motorcycles a year, but only for display, not everyday riding.Brigit Duncan, owner of Custom Works in Daytona Beach, said her shop counts on the business of Harley-Davidson owners. Among Harley owners, “98 out of 100” modify factory-installed exhaust pipes, Duncan said.

“If the law’s enforced as it’s written, we will be devastated. We do a lot of kit bikes,” she said. “We’ve lost about 80 percent of those sales since we started letting people know about the law three months ago. But it was the right thing for us to do.”

Looking ahead a decade or two, she envisions blander Bike Weeks. “It will be very quiet and very ugly, approved by the EPA,” Duncan said.

Another motorcycle repair shop owner, 65-year-old “Snake Shoe” Pete Consiglio, predicted demand will increase forHarley-Davidsons that were built before 2006.”People will look for older bikes to get around the law. It’s going to create a market for used Harley-Davidsons,” said Consiglio, who owns BAS2, a shop in South Daytona. “People are going to find an older bike and then modify it. They’ll get around the law.”

Mike Hubbard, a 50-year-old Daytona Beach biker, said he has owned five motorcycles in the last five years and customized four of them.He learned of the new law just this week, and was incredulous about the one-time, lifetime limit on customizing the exhaust systems of new bikes.

“I thought we were in America,” Hubbard said. “There’s no way it’s going to be enforced. No one’s going to pay attention to it.”

–Rogue

BONNEVILLE TEAM CODE–Chop N Grind Motto:”We would rather lose going fast enough to win than win going slow enough to lose.”

–BOB T.

BIKERNET POSITION OPEN–A guy walks into the local welfare office, gets up to the counter and says, “Hi… You know, I just HATE drawing welfare. I’d really rather have a job.”

The social worker behind the counter says, “Your timing is excellent. We just got a job opening from a very wealthy old man who wants a chauffeur and bodyguard for his beautiful nymphomaniac daughter. You’ll have to drive around in his Mercedes, but he’ll supply all of your clothes. Because of the long hours, meals will be provided. You’ll be expected to escort her on her overseas holiday trips.

You will have to satisfy her sexual urges. You’ll be provided a two-bedroom apartment above the garage. The starting salary is $200,000 a year.”

The guy, wide-eyed, says, “You’re bullshittin’ me!”

The social worker says, “Yeah, well… you started it.”

–from Art Friedman

ABATE DOMAIN NAME FOR SALE–If your ABATE group is looking to revitalize it’s web presence, there is no better name than this!The name says it all and it’s easy to remember.ABATE-dot-US as in “United States.”

I bought this domain name as a speculative investment in April of 2002, knowing I’d soon be quitting my job to devote all my time to fight for rider’s rights. It has served my ABATE Local in California for all that time. I bought the domain name http://www.harleydavidson.us on that day too. I beat H-D to the punch, but of course, their lawyers quickly took care of that one and sniped it away from me. They’re like that.

Well, I had some unexpected problems arise in 2005, and 2006 has dealt me an even worse blow. Suffice it to say, luck is no friend of mine. The domain name goes up for sale immediately along with the ex’s 2001 883 Sportster, $5500 bucks O.B.O. with only 18,000 highway (3 trips to Sturgis & back) miles. Better hurry, I’ll be homeless soon and my shopping cart won’t come equipped with High Speed DSL. I’ll be popping off the radar screen completely in about a month. I’ll be back one day, you all aren’t gonna be that lucky, but it’s looking really dire right now.

Please submit your best offer to splatt.the.harley.ratt@gmail.com

LUCKY DEVIL PERFORMS TECHS FOR BIKERNET–Check out this photo, if you look hard enough you can see the bike we are going to try out the Merlin Engineering, GEROTOR, oil pump on. Frank Likes to ride hard and often, so it’ll get a good work out. We’ll get it installed over the weekend and check it out next week.

–The Devil

FAT MAN’S CYCLE COMES TO BIKERNET– I see that Fat Mans Cycle has come on board. Please do me a favor and tell Chris that the frame he sold me on Ebay is featured on your site. I will have an update for you from the MRF for the Thursday news. I purchased an ’89 5.0 Mustang this weekend. The thing runs liked a raped ape. Life is a gas.

— Art Parry

ALL NEW ENGINE FROM VIPER–Here’s the brand new Viper 152-inch engine, exclusively for Viper motorcycles.

Watch for more about Viper on Bikernet in the near future.

–Terry Nesbitt
President
Viper Motorcycle Company
Viper Performance Inc.
5212 Whispering Oaks Drive
Dallas, Texas 75236
Office-972-780-0957
Cell-612-616-9855
terryn@vipermotorcycle.com

DEWEY’S PEGS STORY CORRECTION AND COMMENT–I bought a new FX in 1976 for $2700 but my first bike was a 1967 XLCH , tell the fuckin kid to get it right. You old bastard.

–Dewey

From a reader: Good fucking story! I know all about the “shut the fuck up and listen” andhe always finds a way to chew on my ass for no fucking reason. You shouldhave seen the shit I had to go through to get his ugly ass logo refreshed.That’s why his website looks like shit. He doesn’t want any “fancy newshit”.

I’ll say this much, still haven’t met him face to face but I’ve learned alot of bike shit from him in just the few years I’ve been getting to knowhim. He’s a hell of a guy even if he is the cheapest basturd I’ve everknown, but at least he’s “real people” and there ain’t to many of thosearound these days. Hopefully this Spring or Summer I can ride up to FourCorners and finally see the old fucker.

–rpb

SONS OF LIBERTY SUPPORTS BIKERNET–These guys send periodic reports, many of which ran in this news. Show your support for the fight, buy checking their site and joining your motorcycle rights organization.

http://www.solriders.com/products/

If you need more info on this or any other subject just go to the Sons ofLiberty Riders Info Zone
http://solriders.com

SUCKER PUNCH SALLY RUNS R-MAX USA TRANNYS–Old School Bobber Builder Installs R-MAX Transmissions & Open Primary Belts.January 28, 2006, Ontario, CA – R-Max USA by Roadmax Transmissions areinstalled in every old school bobber built by Jeff Cochran and Donny Loos atSucker Punch Sally.

Before living the lifestyle, Cochran was a professional jeweler and jewelrydesigner. Some four years ago his personal ride landed on the pages of TheHorse magazine. The phone started ringing and a short time later he hung up hismonocle and began building and selling bobbers.

Since his debut in The Horse he has built over 200 bobbers. The SPS crew is Jeffhis partner Donny Loos and 4 builder assemblers. The process is for Cochran todesign the bike and then mock up the components. It is then broken down andsent to paint and powder coating. The assembly is then finished by Jeff and hiscrew. Each bike is ridden 30 to 50 miles before it leaves the factory.

Each bobber features an R-Max tranny and 95% of the bikes come with an R-MaxTech-3 open primary. “The transmissions shift smooth and have a nice fit andfinish,” stated Cochran. “In addition, the open primary looks good and theinstructions are top notch. The instructions are so good that I sell them tocustomers for self installation.”

The old school design is currently cutting edge for 2006. Cochran has always hada kickstart Shovelhead and has been riding Bobbers for over 20 years. Becauseof his background he knows how to make them handle and perform. Their rigidframes have been thoroughly tested with the geometry designed for greathandling. All the bikes run left side drives and can run 200 tires with a chainand up to 180 with a belt.

For more information on dealer sales contact:John “JAZ” Zbiegien jr. at 866-R-MAXUSA

NOTHING DEFINES YOU LIKE GATORZ EYE WEAR– It’ s more than just a symbol of strength, precision and feel of expression. It takes you beyond the limits of your imagination, a technological dream. Gatorz revolutionizes the world of eye wear.

Stronger than steel and lighter than plastic, our trend-setting design will carry you through life in comfort and style. It’s eye-wear with an attitude. and a perfect fit foryour lifestyle.

Ok, ok, enough of the salesman bullshit. We saw the Gatorz booth at the Long Beach Bike Show and passed them up. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that they didn’t catch my eye. I thought they were sick. It’s probably because I’m a cheap-ass. Or maybeit’s because I’ve broke so many sets of shades in the past that I buy my shit at the drug store anymore.

So when Tom, contacted use about possibly selling Gatorz on the site, My only thought was cool, free samples. I didn’t think that under my care they wouldn’t last more than a week. But, I was wrong these things truly are Bad-Ass they’re made to order out of T- 7075 aircraft aluminum, in as many colors as you can imagine. You can pick from a wide array of colored 100% UV protected lens. Plus they carry a Life Time Rebuild Agreement.

I know, what your thinking. What about when you?re on the road? Shit.. you can bend them to fit your face perfectly. Besides we had them tested and no wind slips underneath or through the sides. They don’t fly off when you look over you shoulder. So as soon as we finalize the deal with Tom and Gatorz they’ll be available to you in the Bikernet Black Market.

–Black Market John

IT’S A WRAP–Break out the iron, the whiskey and the women. This news about kicked by ass. I was going to lay out the rest of the year, but screw it. I’ll cover that later as all the small shit comes together in a flurry of heated negotiations.

I’m going to write a column for HORSE mag once more. It’ll give me the ass-kicking impetus to work on Badlands for the Cantina. Each story will be a blistering historic rampage about the outlaw biker past. They’ll sometimes keep you on the edge of your seat, teach you the warriors code or give you some insight into one man’s two wheeled history. The first one will cover an 82-year-old member of the World Wide Motorcycle Club in Hawaii. This guy is still a wild man. No one will publish these stories except the HORSE and Bikernet. Watch for them.

Let’s wrap it up and take a break. Goddamnit it’s supposed to be happy hour somewhere.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Continued From Page 3

BABE SINGER LOOKING FOR GIGS–I have a friend who’s a biker, a babe and, most importantly, a singer. She is putting together a tour for later this year and is looking for gigs out west, CA, AZ, NV, etc. I was wondering if I could write something up about her and her tour to post in the News or Sunday Post to get her some exposure out west.

I’ve attached a few pictures of her on a ride she did from Texas to Canada and some of her singing. Also, you can check her out in more detail and hear some of her music on www.dilanarox.com.

Ride Hard, Ride Free

–Chuck Riddle
mailto:criddle123@earthlink.net

Look forward to it and to her.–Bandit

NEW CANTINA MEMBER–Just became a member, thought I might donate a photo

–Casey Bashar-
Tenino,Wa.
“BasharStudios”
BasharStudios@scattercreek.com

BIKERNET NUMBERS FOR DECEMBER– I want to thank all our readers and sponsors for their support. Last month 214,000 unique visitors came to Bikernet, 415,000 visits, 800,000 impressions and 7.5 million hits. Not bad for a handful of bikers who love what they do.

SOMETHING FOR THE WINTER RIDE– Larry Valle
Big Kahuna Motorcycle Tours & Rentals
http://www.bigkahunarentals.com

TOP SPOT AT NHTSA FILLED–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) announces President Bush has sent the nomination of Nicole R. Nason from Virginia to the U.S. Senate to assume the position of Administrator at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

“Let’s hope Ms. Nason has a better approach to motorcycle safety than her predecessor.” said Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Relations for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. “In all seriousness, the MRF does look forward to continuing to work with NHTSA when comes to focusing on motorcycle safety.”, he continued. “The recent formation of the NHTSA motorcycle safety network’s quarterly meetings which include the involvement of the MRF, AMA, NHTSA, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, SMSA, MSF and law enforcement is a positive sign NHTSA does want input from the riding community.”, Hennie added.

NHTSA will be the lead agency in administration of the $25 million motorcycle safety grant program contained in SAFETEA-LU (PL 109-59). Inclusion of the grant program in the bill was due singularly to the efforts of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and its members.

Currently Ms. Nason serves as Assistant Secretary of Transportation for Governmental Affairs. Previously, she served as Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Congressional Affairs for the United States Customs Service. Ms. Nason also served as Communications Director and Counsel to Representative Porter J. Goss. Earlier in her career, she served as Governmental Affairs Counsel at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Ms. Nason received her bachelor’s degree from the American University and her Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve.

Worthy Mention.The President also nominated Roger Shane Karr, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation. Karr will replace Nason.

–jeff@mrf.org (e-mail)

THE WEEKLY PHOTOGRAPHIC ART EXHIBIT–Couple of Sturgis ’04 shots photoshopped into one. Enjoy!

Ride Hard,
–Whiplash Biker Photog

BILLY LANE’S BLOOD SWEAT AND GEARS TOUR HAS SPONSORSHIP OPENING FOR TWO SPONSORS–If you love this country, building motorcycles, Billy Lane, soldiers, or the war on terrorism, this tour could be just right for you. Billy builds custom motorcycles with big name builders, live, on stage at major events, in front of major excited crowds.

“No one take care of Iraq veterans like Billy does,” Said Darcy Betlach.

If you’re interested contact Darcy Betlach, darcy.betlach@chromemarketing.com.

HARDBIKES INSTALLS FIRST FOUR CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE DESIGN CENTERS– The Design Center is Rolled Out in PA, NJ, CT and MA.Hermitage, Pennsylvania, January 19, 2006 — Hardbikes is pleased toannounce their first four installations of the Hardbikes Design Center duringthe first week in January 2006 at Bucks County Custom Cycles in Pipersville,PA, Chrome and Custom in Fairfield, NJ, Suzuki of Swansea in Swansea, MA andStreet Stuff in Norwich, CT.

Each dealer received a Hardbikes Design Center in their showroom where customerswork with a certified designer to get fitted for their custom bike on one of thetwo Hardbikes Hardrider systems. One Hardrider provides fitment for the Bobberand Prostreet bike while the other is designed for the Chopper and the HighRoller.

The way the process works is a buyer can either come into the dealership or logon to the Hardbikes website and design their custom motorcycle through asoftware application called the Design Wizard. After that is completed they sitdown with their local dealer designer to get fitted for the bike to theirphysical dimensions and riding style.

The dealer pulls three measurements that include seat position, forward controlssetting and handle bar position. This allows the designer to make sure therelationship of the leg extension, arm reach and posterior position fall withina comfortable riding position in the comfort triangle. Enthusiasts get aperfectly fitted bike that avoids back strain and increases safety andperformance.

“During our installation at Chrome and Custom in New Jersey, we custom fit a5’4″ woman on our entry-level old-school styled 200 Bobber,” said BobKay, VP Sales and Marketing. “She was able to sit flat footed and told usthat this was the first bike she felt comfortable on after a full day ofshopping for a bike.””All the dealers were very positive and found that the concept of theHardbikes Design Center was the best they had seen,” explained Tim Saulsbery,Hardrider Systems Coordinator. “They all had a very positive response to oursystem of building a bike to fit the person.”

Hardbikes is committed to building a manufacturing process and selling systemthat supports the unique culture of the American V-Twin rider. Once a customerdesigns the bike of their dreams, Hardbikes builds the motorcycle that fits eachcustomer perfectly. For more information on dealer sales contact:Bob Kay, bobkay@hardbikes.com, Hardbikes 724-981-7000

BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT FROM NC–It has been spring time in January here in the Charlotte area. There are bikes out on the road everyday! The buzz around here or I should say “Roar” is about our Panthers being in NFC Championship game this Sunday. Go Panthers!

Back to bikes, here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we remain steady. We could always use more work, but so far through out the winter it has been encouraging. One thing about running a bike shop is you learn how to make things work when others say they won’t work. I hate to hear someone say “It won’t work.” That is why what we do is called “custom”. We make it work. Sometimes you just have to stop and take a different approach. Just because a book or someone tells you it won’t work doesn’t mean it can’t be done.

One thing we like to see at SBW is repeat customers. It tells us we are doing something right. It makes my day when I see a customer return. Last week I sold a set of tires to a guy. I asked him how he heard about us and he told me that a customer of ours told him about us. That is the best kind of advertisement. Someone who has spent money with us tells their friends about us. It is good to know our name is getting out there.

When we have people come in and ask us about building bikes we try to explain the process and put them at ease. Some really have not thought about what building a bike involves. They have seen it done on T.V. and boy does it look easy.

The reality of building a bike is far more involved and for some over their heads. It takes some money to build a bike. Some are way off on this part of the build. You don’t have to be rich but you have to be real.

I had a guy tell me was going to build a bike for 5 grand. I told him “Good Luck!” Some get into building a bike and then the cost factor hits them. You can’t build a bike and worry about every dime that it takes to finish it. You can be efficient building a bike but there are not many corners to cut. There are certain things that you have to do, no short cuts, no inferior products. Your ass is on the line and our name is on the line. That’s why if you do not want to do it the right way, you are better off finding something else to spend your money on.

Here at SBW we don’t cut corners on anything our name is going on. We will not cut corners on safety issues such as brakes, tires etc. A friend of mine told me that this is an “expensive game” and it is in some ways but if you want to play you have got to pay! Things like tires and brakes are not expensive when you understand that your life depends on them. Think about it!

The Easyrider show is just around the corner and everyone is busy getting their bike ready. The show is a two day show here in Charlotte, Feb. 11th + 12th. This show always proves to be a good one. Hey it is 65 degrees here and it supposed to be around 70 degrees tomorrow, time to go for a ride!

Until next week, RIDE!
STEALTHMAN

DAYTONA BIKE WEEK 2006– Before you know it Daytona Beach Bike Week will be here. With the event growing and expanding through out the state of Florida it is not too early to start making plans and reservations.

For many years and a lot of reasons the event has spread out across the state with activities as far south as Miami and Key West. Orland has very large crowds with a lot of activities many especially for the visiting bikers.

I have recently been informed that the Cocco Beach area is gearing up and expecting more motorcyclists this year. That is not surprising as the area is Very Biker Friendly. It also has daily ship gambling cruises, is close to the Space Center, Air Boat Rides, Fine restaurants and other entertainment.

Cocco Beach is close enough to Daytona Beach that it is an enjoyable ride there for the special things you want to see and attend. The Hotels and Motels are plentiful and offer very reasonable rates. The money you save could be used for other entertainment.

Further down I-95 in Palm Bay the new Space Coast Harley Davidson dealer ship is also planning some events for the traveling bikes.

Bikernet will be bringing you our reports and what’s happening as we have in the past in hope that you will have an enjoyable stay while in Florida.

OH ROGUE says: If you see him ask him to take your picture. He will be all over doing his thing. Having Fun OH YEA!

— Rogue

SOUTH DAKOTA ABATE LEGISLATIVE DAY–South Dakota ABATE will be hosting their annual Legislative Day this Thursday thru Saturday. Plan to wear your leather and have a blast interacting with our legislators (Many of them wear their leathers that day too!).

At time it looks like a relatively quiet session for us. We are watching the proposed change to a mandatory blood test if stopped for DUI. SD plans to crack down on riders of ATV’s and scooters, we are in close contact with our legislators on that issue. Some are complaining about decorative lighting, we don’t know enough about that yet to update you. Teenagers may lose their cell phones while driving. Vendors from the Sturgis Rally are asking the state to change its gaming laws to allow more expensive bikes to be given away, but that looks like it needs more work before passage.

Issues that are on our list but maybe not this year include the handlebar height law and modifying the license plate laws. We do not yet have enough evidence of “need” for change to get the handlebar law fixed. We need your help, let us know when you get stopped while here so we can prove to the legislators a problem does exist.

ABATE of SD has begun working closely with our Dept of Safety to find ways to reduce motorcycle accidents and fatalities by education and roadway improvements. Our goal is to prove that smart, trained riders can take care of themselves without need for mandated safety equipment.

–Larry Nielson
Legislative Officer
SD ABATE
http://www.abatesd.com

HANDLEBAR SYNDROME–Know anyone who suffers from Handlebar Syndrome?

HS is simply the inability to look at either a picture of, or an actual custom motorcycle that general consensus holds to be worthy of praise, without using the phrase “Well, if it was mine, I’d change the handlebars…” or a variant thereof.

HS can reach chronic proportions in certain individuals. There are recorded cases of persons in Wallmart being asked if the trolley was OK and replying “Well, if it was mine, I’d change the handlebars…”.

In extreme cases, sufferers when asked “What do ya think of the tits on that?” will reply “Well, if it was mine, I’d change the handlebars…”.

HS came to the attention of Doctor Ivor Suzuki in 2003 when he was called upon to pronounce a Mr. Dick Head deceased as a result of being battered over the head by his wife, Gives. Mrs. Head apparently became incensed when Mr. Head was asked for an opinion on whether his wife’s new dress “made her ass look fat” and replied “Well, if it was mine, I’d change the handlebars…”.

Dr. Suzuki has been working ever since to discover a treatment for HS. His research into aversion therapy, inspired by an event observed during some field research in which a member of a motorcycle club asked a bystander what they thought of a newly constructed motorcycle and the bystander replied “Well, if it was mine, I’d change the handlebars…”, has suggested that anally inserted handlebars may cure, or at least alleviate the compulsion.

If you can donate $2.50 a month to help with Dr. Suzukis research, then just send me the money, and I’ll pass it on.

In the meantime Dr. Suzuki suggests that next time your showing off a newly built motorcycle you take along a couple of pairs of handlebars and some Vaseline.”

–from Black Jack

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BONNEVILLE BIKERNET BIKE NAMES–We’ve got Salt Shaker, but we need one more with the Salt theme. How about Salty Dog?

“If you’re going to name one of the Morton Mile bikes Salt Shaker(brilliant name by the way), then the second bike should be calledPepper Grinder.

Pepper meaning fast (e.g. telling a baseball pitcher to ‘put somepepper on it’) and Grinder is apparently biker slang for riding hard(although I’ve never heard anyone use the term myself). Salt Shakerand Pepper Grinder…

Second suggestion, for a team logo have Mr Towle work his magic on theMorton Salt girl. You know, the chick holding the umbrella and dumpingsalt. I’m sure he could morph her into a sexy evil bitch. Oh Yeah, wegotta have her look a little evil to scare the other race teams.”

–Art Parry

BIKERNET BAD NOTION OF THE WEEK–The Hologram post was a copy of an email from a DOT worker that wantedfeedback from law enforcement on identifying DOT approved helmets.Including changing from DOT stickers to holographic emblems that aregel coated into the back of a helmet. Fuckin’ jackasses.

I’ve beenfighting this helmet thing for 3 decades now. I think the only way endit is have NHSTA’s funding cut. I read a while back that the NRA(National Rifle Association) had successfully lobbied and cut the AFT’sfunding. Why couldn’t we do that with NHSTA? I say we can, andshould. Maybe that will get those Assholes attention?

What’s NHSTA dofor us anyway? Not much that I can identify. Airbags? What a joke.They’ve killed babies, blinded, caused brain injuries, and crippledpeople that would otherwise have been unharmed. NHSTA needs to go!

Ifall the MRO’s would focus on getting rid of them, most of your problemswould be over.

–Stroker

BIKERNET ON THE FIRST ADMENDMENT–This is unbelievable. We can now be thrown in prison for writing onthe Internet. The governments reply… ‘don’t worry, we won’t use thislaw that way.’

Then why the hell write it that way? Congress hasbeen enacting a bunch of these ‘we won’t use it that way laws.’ Evenif the current government doesn’t, what about the next one? What if abunch of Nazi bastards get themselves elected and use all these littlelaws collectively allowing them to legally take over the government?

Watch what you’re posting out there is cyberspace brother and sisters.

FTW,

–Stroker

Samantha Nelson, Medill News Service Fri Jan 13, 1:00 PM ET.–Writing annoying, anonymous online posts or e-mails could land you injail for as long as two years. That’s according to the Violence AgainstWomen andDepartment of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005, which was signedinto law last week.

According to a section of the act, anyone who uses the Internetanonymously “with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass anotherperson” can be tried for violating federal telecommunications law andface fines or jail.

The broad language of the law has some online advocates concerned thatit could be used to censure the expression of objectionable opinionsimply because those opinions annoy someone, but its backers say thatis not the case.

“This is about cyberstalking, not free speech,” says Mike DeCesare,communications director for the act’s author, Representative JimMcDermott (news, bio, voting record) (D-Washington). “You may writesomething and post it online and I may find it annoying, but so what?This isn’t what this is about. This is about keeping people, especiallywomen, safe.”

McDermott’s anticyberstalking legislation came about after thecongressman learned about Seattle resident Joelle Ligon. Years aftergetting married, Ligon began getting anonymous and hard-to-track e-mailmessages from someone she believed to be her ex-boyfriend, James RobertMurphy. The messages became increasingly disturbing and threatening.Eventually he sent e-mail to Ligon’s coworkers accusing her ofmisrepresenting her résumé and making it appear she wassending them pornography.Murphy was sending his e-mail from South Carolina, where it wasdifficult for Seattle police to pursue him.

After FBI agents found copies of the e-mail messages on his computer,Murphy pleaded guilty to two counts of harassment and was sentenced to500 hours of community service and five years probation.

Ligon says that the difficulty of prosecuting cyberstalkers makes itunlikely that officials will use the new law frivolously.

BIKERNET TESTIMONIAL–How’s things going,Thanks for letting me back(haha) in Cantina.(Sure Missed it).Only have computer at work. Hoping to get Orwell Book signed now in mail.How ever you guys and GIRLS want payments is up to you.(I will always pay my way} Let me know.T Shirts look Good (Next purchase aha).Good to see Dewey’s weathered the storm.I’ll be ordering foot pegs.(already have Heel -Toe Shifter matched to ’84 softail)((BANG))!! tooo GOOD!!

Well Thanks again and a late Happy New Years To All The Gang,

— R.D.
Crowsnest Pass
AB Canada

PS ** KEEP UP TH e E X/LENT WORK

AUSTRALIAN LANE FAVORABLE LANE SPLITTING LETTER–This is a copy of the letter I just sent to the government body who wants to ban lane filtering by riders Australia wide.

— Jaq.

To: Greg Deimos,
Project Manager,
National Transport Commission

Dear Greg

As a Professional Motorcycle Rider I call into question your judgement pertaining to the making illegal that aspect of motorcycling know as “lane-splitting/ filtering.

As an ex Security Services motorcyclist I lane split quite frequently myself. Both as an on duty officer and as an off duty civilian on my own bike(s).Studies in the UK, and other highly congested European cities have concluded that there is little harm, and even benefits, from allowing motorcyclists to use this technique.

Police Officers ALREADY have the discretion to stop and book motorcyclists who lane split irresponsibly under the title of Negligent Driving Practice.Were you unaware of this?

I have already thought far in advance of many others as to the results of this ill thought out regulation should it come to pass. You will, in reality be forcing motorcyclists to conduct themselves in a manner far more likely to promote injury and even death.Assuming for a moment that the majority of riders do not simply just ignore the new regulation. And many will.This is what I forsee happening.

In order to commute to work within the period of time the rider normally allots himself by using lane filtering techniques, said rider is likely to A: Increase his speed of travel, quite likely breaking the marked speed limit.

And of a more serious note, B: he/she will swap and change lanes much more often than previously. I can see riders chopping in and out of fast moving traffic, from lane to lane, to gain the time they have lost due to the new regualtion. Changing lanes is NOT illegal, no matter if the rider does so every few seconds. This will cause great concern amongst other road users; motorcyclists will be cutting a swathe across all traffic lanes to gain an advantage they had previously enjoyed at little risk to themselves or other drivers.

I am reminded of the old adage “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it!”

I could point out to you also that 90% of fatalities in car and truck accidents are due to head injuries. Regardless of whether the vehicle user was wearing a seat belt or not.

If you were TRULY concerned about saving the lives of motor transport users you would obviously INSIST that a regulation is passed requiring everyone (including passenegers) to wear an approved motor vehicle operators safety helmet. The majority would be against it you say? Yes, I agree, it is much harder to regualte against the wishes of the majority of road users as opposed to the minority of road users is it not?Below is a commisoned report for the British Police Service. I think you will have NO data that will stand up against the obvious, common sense guidelines laid down by the UK Police.

British Guidelines

The British publication Motorcycle Roadcraft ( The Police Riders Handbook to Better Motorcycling), notes the following under the topic of overtaking.When traffic is stationary or moving slowly in queues, motorcyclists can use their maneuverability and limited space requirements to make progress. The advantages of filtering along or between stopped or slow moving traffic have to be weighed against the increased vulnerability while filtering.

If you decide to filter:Take extreme careKeep your speed low- you need to be able to stop suddenly if circumstances change

Always identify a place where you can rejoin the traffic flow before you move out

Make yourself visible ? consider using dipped headlight

Be ready to brake and/or use the hornUse the opportunity to make progress but be courteous and avoid conflict with other road users

Watch out for and anticipate:
Pedestrians crossing between vehicles
Vehicles emerging from junctions
Vehicles changing lanes or U-turning without warning
Doors opening
Reflective paint and studs which could throw the bike off line
Traffic islands
Other bikes also filtering

If you can provide me with a commisoned report (that can be verified by agencies other than the National Transport Commission) that shows any statistics whatsoever to PROVE that lane-splitting/filtering is dangerous to both the rider and other road users I would ask that you forward it to me via email ASAP; so that I may review it myself.

I thank you for taking the time to read this letter.

Regards: Kevin “Jaqhama ” Lumley.
Professional Motorcyclist.
Sydney.

BILLY LANE VISITS WALTER REED HOSPITAL–I hope this note finds you doing well. Billy and I just returned from an amazing trip to Washington DC. We visited wounded soldiers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center then Billy was off to 2 TV station interviews (FOX and CBS) plus three radio interviews. We were busy, but not too busy to hook with the Washington Post reporter. Who would have ever thunk a tattooed, dread-locked bike builder would make the Post???

–Darcy Betlach

GEARING INFO– with a 24-tooth motor sprocket and 37 clutch sprocket that will give you a primary ration of 1.54. With 23-tooth tranny and 51 rear wheel, this will give you a final ratio of 3.42. At 60 mph rpms, will be about 2900, 70 will be about 3400 rpms.

If you go with a 25 tranny and a 46 rear wheel, final ratio will be 2.84. At 60 rpms will be 2400 and 70 will see 2800 rpms. Will be doggier out of the hole, but man you can go forever between gears. I ran that ratio with a 89-inch stroker with a 4-speed tranny, for years, and it was sweet. Seemed like less vibration from the motor! What a difference 500 rpms will give you. Never lookin’ for 5th either. Gas mileage is a plus too!

This web site has the formulas, down at the bottom right side. http://www.nightrider.com/biketech/

BCCOM CHECKS IN WITH BIKERNET–Could you add BCCOM to your listing for biker rights org’s. We are THE one and only standing up for all Bikers here in British Columbia.

The organization has been at it since 1985 . The Executive Director is Adele Tompkins and she works and fights hard for all of us. I am one of many area reps’from Nelson , in the West Kootenay region of southern BC.

Check out the web site www.bccom-bc.com

–Dave Clancy
daveclancy@shaw.ca

NEW HARLEY MILITARY PRODUCT LINE FIND–A reader noticed that the aircraft on Harley’s new military graphics Air Force kit are F/A-18s, which are not Air Porce line aircraft (though I am sure they have a few in their inventory). The -18 is used by the Navy and Marines mostly.http://motorcyclecruiser.com/newsandupdates/hdmilkits/

–Art

BIG TWIN CUSTOMS INVITATIONAL TO BE HELD AT BIG TWIN WEST– Awards Banquet Will Recognize the Leaders of Custom Bike Building.

New York, New York – January 20, 2006? Advanstar Communications, Inc ? a leading provider of print, event and online media for the powersports, off-road and automotive aftermarkets – today announced the addition of the ?Big Twin Customs Invitational ? a Celebration of Design Excellence? to the roster of Big Twin West, a leading motorcycle industry trade show, to be held in Las Vegas on December 1?3, 2006 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center. The Big Twin Customs Invitational will run concurrent with the show, in which 100 of the most creative custom motorcycle designs from throughout the year and from around the world will be on display.

?The custom motorcycle business is now so big and there are so many gifted designers active in the marketplace that to pick one as the best is nigh on impossible,? said Big Twin West Show Director, Mo Murray. ?This event will celebrate all of those designers who are lucky enough to get invited and be truly a celebration of the incredibly high overall standard among designers,? he continued.

The event and the invitation process will be conducted under the guidance of an advisory board made up of several of the industry?s design leaders. The board is comprised of Bill Rucker, Dave Perewitz, Roger Bourget, Michael Prugh and Denny Berg. With this group, Advanstar can tap into not only the historical perspective of where motorcycle design has come from but also where it is going in the future.

?It is important that we celebrate the design leaders who are driving our industry and, with their creativity, attracting more and more consumer interest,? said Bill Rucker. ?However, it is equally important to do so in a way that is insulated from commercial influence and is managed with integrity and Advanstar is doing just that with the appointment of this over- sight board,? Rucker continued.

The event will include a celebrity/master builder build off, a live auction and an awards gala in which the exceptional among the invitees will be recognized. The awards gala will be held on the evening of Saturday, December 2, 2006. Entry to the event is by ticket only, and offers companies and various other industry constituents the opportunity to buy tables and invite their own special guests. The event is being promoted as ?Biker Formal? and will include a sit-down meal and entertainment. Custom bikes entered into the Big Twin Customs feature at the Cycle WorldInternational Motorcycle Shows presented by Toyota Trucks will be invited to submit their bikes for inclusion in the Big Twin Customs Invitational. The Advisory Board will have final authority over the 100 invitations and will accept nominations from a variety of other sources throughout the year.

For more information, call 800.854.3112 or visit our website at www.bigtwinwest.com.

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DORK OF THE WEEK with no name…..YET– DENVER – An accident involving four motorcycles and a black Lexus caused major jams on Speer Boulevard during the afternoon rush hour.The accident happened just before 3 p.m. Police spokesman Sonny Jackson said four motorcycles were headed south on Speer Boulevard when a black Lexus drove through a red light and crashed into them.Subsequent reports from the scene say it’s not clear yet whether or not the driver ran a light.

Three people were taken to the hospital in critical condition. The status of a fourth person is unknown.Motorcyclist Jeff Thomas, who was riding with the group, got stopped at the light and witnessed the accident.

“It scared the hell out of me,” said Thomas. He said he’s been riding with the group for years. Thomas identified the riders who were hit as Mike McGinley, Mike McGinley Jr., Johnnie Baker and Byron Waggner. The accident happened just across the street from Denver Health Medical Center.

Witnesses said staff poured out of the hospital immediately following the accident and were able to quickly stabilize the victims and get them into surgery.

ATTENTION BIKERNET STAFF AND READERS– Australian National Transport Commission wants to stop motorcycles and scooters riding down between the traffic lights when traffic is stationary.

Police want to be able to enforce the regulation as a specific ” crime”

You will have to pay a monetary fine and also lose points on your riders/drivers license.For commuters and motorcycle couriers it’s going to be a pain in the ass!

Help stop this stupid regulation before it becomes law. Add your name to the petition below.

Thanks (on behalf of all Aussie riders)

–Jaqhama.

Here is the link for the

THE GENIE AND THREE WISHES–Three guys — a Canadian farmer, Osama bin Laden, and an American engineer — are walking together one day. They come across a lantern and a Genie pops out of it.

“I will give each of you one wish, which is three wishes total”,says the Genie.

The Canadian says, “I am a farmer, my dad was a farmer, and my son will also farm. I want the land to be forever fertile in Canada.”

Pooooof! With a blink of the Genie’s eye, the land in Canada was forever made fertile for farming.

Osama bin Laden was amazed, so he said, “I want a wall around Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran so that no infidels, Jews or Americans can EVER come into our precious states.”

Pooooof! Again, with the blink of the Genie’s eye, there was a huge wall around those countries..

The American engineer asks, “I am very curious. Please tell me more about this wall”.

The Genie explains, “Well, it’s 5000 feet high, 500 feet thick and completely surrounds these countries…….. it’s virtually impenetrable. Now what is your wish?”

The American engineer smiles and says, “Fill it with water.”

Pooooof!

–Chris T.

BIKERNET QUOTE OF THE WEEK–Excess on occasion is exhilarating. It prevents moderation from acquiring the deadening effect of habit.”

–Somerset Maugham,
British writer

BIKERNET POSITIVE THINKING TEQUILA CLASS–Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive?If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Tequila?.

Tequila? is the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident about yourself and your actions.

Tequila? can help ease you out of your shyness and let you tell the world that you’re ready and willing to do just about anything. You will notice the benefits of

Tequila? almost immediately, and with a regimen of regular doses you can overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want to live.Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past, and you will discover many talents you never knew you had. Stop hiding and start living, with Tequila?.

Tequila? may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Tequila?. However, women who wouldn’t mind nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it. Side effects may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, incarceration, erotic lustfulness, loss of motor control, loss of clothing, loss of money, loss of virginity, delusions of grandeur, table dancing, headache, dehydration, dry mouth, and a desire to sing Karaoke and play all-night rounds of Strip Poker, Truth Or Dare, and Naked Twister.

Tequila?. Leave Shyness Behind.(tm)

HARLEY-DAVIDSON PLANS CHINA DEALERSHIP–MILWAUKEE — For Ray Ma, freedom on the open road means riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle behind two police cars through the Chinese countryside.The 53-year-old Hong Kong dental surgeon and members of his 35-bike riding group had to pay 10,000 Hong Kong dollars ($1,290 U.S.) per bike in escort and paperwork fees last fall to make their trip to Guilin city a reality.

“We have to follow the rules in the place where they have the rules,” Ma said. “And I regard that as free.”But Ma said he yearns for the day when he can escape the cramped city for the Chinese mainland without the hassle.

“We really hope that we can ride through the border like anywhere else, like in the States or Canada, or Europe,” said Ma.

“So that we can just plan a weekend trip, three days and two nights in China. That is really the best for a Hong Kong rider.”For years, iconic motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson Inc. has pushed hard to find ways to sell its motorcycles in China. Now, the Milwaukee-based company says it plans to announce before summer that it will open its first retail outlet in the country since at least World War II.

“Mao said that a thousand-mile journey begins with the first step,” said Timothy Hoelter, Harley-Davidson’s vice president of government affairs. “I guess we’re taking some baby steps already.”

The company says there are still major hurdles – some 170 Chinese cities limit or ban motorcycle use or ownership, largely because they are viewed as underpowered, cheap, polluting machines that clog traffic and endanger others.

“We are not encouraging motorcycle use,” said Miss Huang, who only gave her surname, a spokeswoman for the police force’s Shanghai Public Security Policy Consultation Office.Motorcycles have been banned from almost all the main streets in Shanghai, Huang said, and the city stopped accepting motorcycle registrations in 2002.

After China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, import restrictions, quotas and tariffs dropped substantially against foreign motorcycle manufacturers, but municipal traffic ordinances have remained, Hoelter said.

“The problem is although we can now sell our motorcycles in China, the Chinese can’t use them, at least if you live in an urban area,” he said.

Foreign manufacturing advocates say the policy, while somewhat justified by safety concerns, has created an unfair barrier to access.

Harley-Davidson estimates small Chinese manufacturers build some 17 million motorcycles a year – most for domestic consumption – but most are small and used in rural areas, so they evade many of the restrictions on Harley-style heavyweight bikes. Other bikes such as 1950s-era Chang Jiang 750, which are still used by the Chinese government, are considered three-wheelers because of a sidecar, Hoelter said.

In contrast, BMW, which entered the Chinese motorcycle market in April 2003, said it sold only 70 bikes on the mainland last year.

The main barriers the German company has faced are riding bans in big cities and motorways, high customs duties, poor insurance coverage and the huge gap between legally sold and illegally imported motorcycles, said Stefanie Lowenstein, spokeswoman for the BMW Group.Liu Xintong, secretary-general of China Motorcycle Industry Association, said the result is that pent-up demand for large motorcycles is going unfulfilled.

“Motorcycle riding fans are still eager to get top machines like Harley-Davidsons,” he said. “But the government policy seems not motorcycle-friendly at all.”

Alan Tonelson, a research fellow at the U.S. Business and Industry Council, said all U.S. manufacturers still face a “very formidable array” of barriers to gaining access to the Chinese market. “U.S. government attempts to reduce, much less eliminate, these trade barriers, has been woefully ineffective,” he said.

For now, Harley-Davidson is going to drive around them.The company’s managing director for China, Dave Foley, said the company has selected a dealer and that before summer, “more specific communication will be forthcoming.”He declined to say where it would be, but noted the Beijing area had the highest concentration of riders of imported heavyweight motorcycles in the country.

Motorcycles may not be operated within Beijing’s Third Ring Road, a 30-mile highway that encircles the city, so Hoelter said a likely dealer location would be outside the city core.But the company will have to sell its products, which can exceed $20,000 retail, in a country where most Chinese make around $1,000 a year.

“The potential is enormous but it’s up to us to really develop that leisure-oriented market,” Foley said. The company said it was too early to forecast sales, but estimated there were more than 1,000 heavyweight motorcycle riders in China, most of whom acquired their bikes through unofficial channels.Analyst Timothy Conder of A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. said it may be slow-going but Harley-Davidson should eventually win out.

“What they’re selling is Americana. I think they should do well,” he said.

Chen Lexing, a 37-year-old real estate worker in Guangzhou, said he and his group of Harley riders leave the city before dawn on weekend outings in Guangdong Province. They can’t obtain license plates in the city of Guangzhou because their bikes are some five times the allowed engine size of 250cc.Chen said he worries that Guangzhou will ban motorcycles altogether next year, but is hopeful at news that Harley is making inroads.

“I hope Harley-Davidson moves into China, sells more motorcycles and works with the government so that more roads and places will open up to motorcycle riders,” he said.

Hoelter said the road into China will be a long one.”China is certainly today from the market-access perspective, our most daunting challenge,” he said. “It’s going to be a long-term effort, it will no doubt be a multifaceted effort and we’re going to have to be patient.”

Let’s ride the Great Wall

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?–( 1 ) You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
— Alan, age 10 (true sports fan)

( 2 ) No person really decides before they grow up who they’re going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you’re stuck with.
— Kirsten, age 10

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
( 1 ) Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
— Camille, age 10

( 2 ) No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.
— Freddie, age 6 (very wise for his age)

HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
( 1 ) You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
— Derrick, age 8

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
( 1 ) Both don’t want any more kids.
— Lori, age 8

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
( 1 ) Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
— Lynnette, age 8 (isn’t she a treasure)

( 2 ) On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
— Martin, age 10

WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?
( 1 ) I’d run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns.
— Craig, age 9

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
( 1 ) When they’re rich.
— Pam, age 7

HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
( 1 ) Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a truck.
— Ricky, age 10 (future diplomat)

–from Art Friedman

NEW PRODUCTS FROM SAMSON–Here is his list: Big Guns 3, Stealth muffler and the newfishtails.

For more information touch on the banner above.

–Kenny Price
Founder/CEO
Samson Motorcycle Products, Inc.
3818 E Coronado St.
Anaheim, Ca. 92807
714-518-2480

WALL STREET EYES HARLEY DEMAND– (MarketWatch) – Wall Street next Thursday will focus on whether Harley-Davidson can shrug off the concerns of slowing growth and rising inventories that have weighed on the motorcycle maker’s stock for much of last year.54.03, -0.05, -0.1%) have bounced back from the lows of 2005, but shed 9 cents to finish Thursday’s session at $54.03.

Back in April, the stock plunged to $47.66 after the company reported a slowdown in first-quarter motorcycle sales. But the 52-week nadir of $44.40 came in October right before upbeat third-quarter results buoyed shares. See full story.

Analysts polled by Thomson First Call are expecting a fourth-quarter profit, on average, of 81 cents a share with revenue of $1.35 billion. For the year, profit is pegged at $3.38 a share.

Citigroup downgraded Harley on Thursday to hold from buy, explaining that shares may be overheated, having outperformed the S&P 500 by 13% since Oct. 10.

“Given the lack of positive new data points since the company reported third quarter 2005 figures, we do not view the stock as compelling at these levels,” said analyst Gregory Badishkanian, pointing out the stock is closing in on his $57 per-share target.

Anthony Gikas, analyst at Piper Jaffray, was also bearish when he said earlier in the week that he wouldn’t be surprised if a number of factors lead Harley management to cut production estimates in April.

“In addition to declining used bike prices, more-than-seasonal discounts on new bikes, slow improvement to dealership performance, and elevated inventory levels at most dealerships suggests current 2006 production guidance (5%-9%) is too high,” he said in a note reiterating his market perform rating.

The Hog maker, which also sells bikes under the Buell name, is banking on younger riders and rising global demand to help it achieve that 5%-9% growth outlook in 2006.

–from Rogue

BIG TWIN WEST ANNOUNCES CELEBRITY/MASTER BUILDER BUILD-OFF–Big Twin West Announces Celebrity/ Master Bike Builder Build-Off Lead Singer of Smashmouth to Join Build-Off Team.

New York, New York – January 20, 2006 ? Advanstar Communications, Inc ? a leading provider of print, event and online media for the powersports, off-road and automotive aftermarkets – today announced a Celebrity and Master Bike Builder build off, to be held at Big Twin West, a leading custom motorcycle industry trade show, in Las Vegas on December 1?3, 2006 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center. The Celebrity / Master Builder feature will pit four teams, each consisting of a celebrity and a master builder, against each other in an exciting custom bike building competition. The four completed motorcycles will then be auctioned at the close of the event with the proceeds going to charities chosen by the teams.

Steve Harwell, lead singer of Smashmouth, is the first of four celebrities to sign up to get their hands dirty with master builders such as Paul Yaffe and Dawn Norakas. ?The custom bike lifestyle is very similar to the rock music world and there are many of us who cross over,? said Steve Harwell. ?When we are not on tour or recording we are watching what is going on in the custom bike world and some of these builders are like rock stars to us. To get the chance to build a bike with them and provide some charity is great,? Harwell continued. Each team will be given all of the components they need and the opportunity to design and paint a complete custom motorcycle. Final assembly of the bike will take place under the watchful eyes of the exhibitors and attendees at Big Twin West in December 2006.

?This is so cool and a really fun way to help out people in need and there are some great people involved in this,? said Paul Yaffe, master bike builder. ?More and more women are discovering custom bikes and the addition of Dawn Norakas mirrors what?s happening in the custom world,? he went on to say.

In addition to Harwell, Yaffe and Norakas, the remaining celebrities and master builders will be introduced at key events throughout the season and they will have an opportunity to gather ahead of the event to create a truly unique motorcycle. The celebrities will be invited to nominate a charity of their choice and at the conclusion of the build off, the bikes will be auctioned with the proceeds from each bike being donated to the respective charity.

Steve Harwell has chosen the Victory Junction Gang Camp as his benefiting charity. The Victory Junction Gang Camp enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically sound environment. More information can be found at www.victoryjunction.org.

For more information, call 800.854.3112 or visit our website at www.bigtwinwest.com.

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