January 20, 2005 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
Lot?s going on around here. The drywall hangers and plasterers have been working for three days straight getting the walls of the Headquarters? living space like new. This is an old building and some things like pipes on the outside of walls and creaky floors I can live with. But when every wall in this place has a different texture and is full of cracks, it?s time to call in the pros.
Last weekend Bandit worked on a few projects in the warehouse. He installed high-bars on his panhead and cleaned up an old table base. Any old scrap around this place will eventually become furniture or decorations. Where most gals get a nice piece of ceramic on a table, I get a Pope motor on an old table stand to fill with plants. I love it!
I posted a few new articles earlier this week, I hope they keep you busy for a little while at least, till I can post some more.
The news is a little short this week because of the activity and dust all around me. You can see for yourself the chaos. The good thing is, when they?re finished I?ll be able to move my temporary office out of the living room and in to it?s permanent location; the room with a fantastic view!
Here?s the news.
NOTE FROM BANDIT–Although we feel the changes being made to Hot Bike are for the good of all, not everyone shares our enthusiasm. So, girls and changes aside, there is a complete guide to fuel-injection in the March issue for anyone wanting to know it all. If you ride a fuel-injected bike, or even if you don’t but still have interest, you gotta get this issue.
Over and out… Bandit
GANGSTER CHOPPERS–Hey Bandit, thought I’d send you over a pic of one of our bikes, yes it does have a model on it. If you want to use it in the Cantina section or something help yourself. If you want more pics just email back, we have a large selection of models on our bikes. We’ll be at Cincy hope to see you there.
Thanks, John Dodson, aka Head Gangster.
Gangster Choppers
9720 Qualla Road
Chesterfield, Virginia 23832
phone: 1-866-640-CHOP
fax: 804-790-1716
web: http://www.gangsterchoppers.com
email: john.dodson@gangsterchoppers.com
US ANGELS 2005Hi! I’m sending a pic of myself, as well as the link to our website. Please take a minute to look it over. We’re doing lots of great things in support of our troops and military families. We’d love your support, and a mention on the website if possible. Thanks! P.S. You do a great job with your website!
http://www.usangels2005.com Click on events, and mug shots to see some of the pics from our events…(especially Myrtle Beach Fall Rally).
OBITUARY
Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend by the name ofCommon Sense who has been with us for many years.
No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were longago lost in bureaucratic red tape.
He will be remembered as having cultivated such value lessons asknowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets theworm and that life isn’t always fair.
Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don’t spendmore than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not kids,are in charge).
His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned butoverbearing regulations were set in place.
Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment forkissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwashafter lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student,only worsened his condition.
It declined even further when schools were required to get parentalconsent to administer aspirin to a student; but, could not inform theparents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandmentsbecame contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals receivedbetter treatment than their victims.
Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realizethat a steaming cup of coffee was hot, she spilled a bit in her lap, andwas awarded a huge settlement.
Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust,his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason.
He is survived by two stepbrothers; My Rights and Ima Whiner.
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.
Ifyou still know him pass this on, if not join the majority and donothing!!!
Ray Russell
USMC Trained Mouse
Chris T.
VICTORY FOR THE VETERANS–Governor Taft signed into law AM. SUB. H.B. 406; on December 22, 2004. This law will make Veteran License Plates available for motorcycles ninety days after the signing date. This is a result of ten-plus years of ABATE of Ohio, Inc. , and other activists working within the “system”. As frustrating as it has been; victory finally belongs the riding veterans of the Buckeye State!
HOLES–A working girl is standing at The Gates Of Heaven when she hears horrible screams of pain and torture coming from inside.
She says to St. Peter, “What’s going on?”
He says, “That’s the sound of new angels getting big holes drilled into their backs for their wings, and small holes drilled into their heads for their halos.”
She says, “Heaven sounds terrible. I think maybe I’d rather go to Hell.”
St. Peter says, “In Hell, you’ll be constantly raped and sodomized.”
She says, “That’s okay. I’ve already got holes for that.
Skooter
Roadshows, Inc. To Produce 10 Motorcycle Event in 2005–Reno, NV — Roadshows, Inc., of Reno, NV, producer of some of the largest motorcycle events in the nation, has expanded the number of events it will produce in 2005 to ten.
Roadshows combines great bands, thrilling entertainment, amusing bike games, incredible tours, poker runs, fabulous shopping – and the hottest bikes on the planet to ensure successful events. Roadshows motorcycle events scheduled in 2005 are:
May 16-21 Myrtle Beach Bike Week
Dates TBD Pearl River Run in Chocktaw
May 29-30 West Coast Thunder V
June 24-26 Mammoth Lakes Mean Mountain Run
July 8-10 Ride To the Rock, San Francisco.
Sept. 21-25 Street Vibrations Motorcycle Festival
Oct. 7-9 American Heat Palm Springs Motorcycle & Hot Rod Weekend
Oct. 14-16 Bridge City Bike Rally in Lake Havasu City, AZ
Oct. 28-29 Anaheim Harleyween Rally in Anaheim, CA
Download a registration form at www.road-shows.com. For more vendor, sponsor or event information or to have a registration form mailed to you, call 800-200-4557 or e-mail admin@road-shows.com.
BAD-ASS–Guess this is one of them Mid West Cowboy things……..
“These pics came from a guy in AZ. Yes, the mule killed the mountain lion.The lion had been stalking them for the better part of the morning, on theway out to a hunt. They were pretty sure it was after one of the dogs. Thecat ambushed them, and the mule pictured tossed its rider and went intoattack (defense) mode, the horses scattered and shots were fired but no onewas sure if they hit the cat or not. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until itwas almost over that one of the guys started snapping pics.
The mulefinally stomped the cougar to death after biting and throwing it aroundlike a rag doll. The dogs wouldn’t even come close until the mule settleddown.
Note the dog audience…. Gives new meaning to the term “BAD ASS”
Chris E.
Continued On Page 2
January 13, 2005 Part 4
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 3
Just Choppers– is an online auction website that?s made to save bikers and dealers money when trying to sell an item. It’s a place where you can buy and sell Harleys, custom bikes, street bikes, four wheelers, parts, clothing, tools, and accessories.
You can pay 35.00 to 50.00 just to list a bike with other companies and it still may not sell. http://www.justchoppers.com is a website that anyone can afford. At Just Choppers you can post items with pictures for free as many times as you want and you don?t pay unless it sells. You can also get great dealer discounts.
I would be honored to have my link or logo on your website.
NEW FROM BAKER DRIVETRAIN–DSSC stands for ?drop starter slam clutch? the latest offering from BAKER Drivetrain. This revolutionary design lowers the starter, which allows a lower center of gravity with a lowered oil tank and lowered seat height.
With DSSC the clutch is placed where the pulley would be on a typical LSD motorcycle and the clutch weight is closer to the center of the chassis, in turn you have a more agile better handling motorcycle. The DSSC consist of billet RSD set-up; inner & outer primary, case, top cover and shroud. All available in raw, show polished, spectacular chrome finishes.
BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT–Today is my birthday! I won’t tell you how old I am. I will just say I am old enogh and I hope a lot wiser in some ways. I guess in a lot of ways it is just another day and I am thankful for it.
Not much to report on. I picked up the new issue of Street Chopper and was impressed with the content. A big improvement! The new bike build off series has started and it is good to see new faces on the show.
The weather around here has been great! Temperatures at or above 70 degrees for the past couple of weeks. It is supposed to turn cold by the weekend but that is o.k., we are two weeks closer to spring.
There are a number of events coming up in the Charlotte area. Next weekend the Easyrider show comes to town. I will be there and try to get some pictures.
Well like I said it is my birthday and the weather is warm. Time to go for a ride! Enough said!
Until next time, RIDE!
STEATHMAN
BIKERNET LOST AND FOUND–There is a lost dog in the neighborhood that has strayed away from her owner. The dog is a dark brown Chihuahua with a white stomach. The owner is heartbroken and is willing to pay a generous reward for the dog’s safe return.
She is currently putting up posters in your area. Please be on the lookout for this little dog whose name is “LUCKY.”
A picture of the dog and owner is attached.
“First They Came for the Drunks…”–I mentioned in an earlier post (“Are Police Watching Your Home? “) that police agencies, urged on by the the President’s Commission Against Drunk Driving, have begun to assign officers to stakeout the homes of individuals on probation for DUI — sometimes for days — waiting for them to violate their probation by driving.
Aside from the obvious objections, of course, the larger concern is that if police can watch the homes of those with DUI records today, what legally is to stop them from watching your home tomorrow? Do we really want police staking out our homes, waiting for us to make a mistake?
Commenting upon this, Scott Henson has reported on his weblog the efforts of the federally-funded Center for Transportation Analysis to require cars to be equipped so they will not start without first inserting a valid driver’s license in an ignition interlock device. This is but one of many ideas proposed to deal with drunk drivers. What is of greater interest, however, is the CTA representative’s explanation of how Americans’ “historical” concerns about invasion of privacy and Big Brother can be overcome — by initially demonstrating the technology on unsympathetic targets who “have fewer privacy ‘rights’ “:
“American society historically resists excessive government intervention and Big Brother programs that threaten to invade privacy,” Hu says. “One of the biggest challenges to implementing electronic driver?s licenses will be to secure widespread public acceptance and community support.” Hu thinks that the U.S. public will be more likely to accept this technology if it is first demonstrated on high-risk drivers. “Targeting a demonstration project at drivers who might have fewer privacy ‘rights,’ such as convicted DUI offenders, might reduce public concern about invasion of privacy,” she says.”
[Note: the quotes around the word “rights” have not been added.]
As Mr. Henson paraphrased: “First they came for the drunks, but I was not a drunk so I did not speak up…..”
Posted by Los Angeles DUI lawyer Lawrence Taylor
Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
BIKERNET PRODUCT OF THE WEEK–?eGrip? Hand Grip SetMany motorcycle riders experience hand and forearm discomfort resulting from tightly gripping the throttle over long periods of time. Using the ?eGrip?, the rider can control the throttle by pulling on the front rib of the grip and/or pushing on the rear rib. This allows the rider to open his or her fingers while still controlling throttle pressure. The shape of the ?eGrip? gives the rider?s hand a flatter top surface to rest against. This relieves Ulnar neuropathy (numbness of the fourth and fifth fingers). Sold in Pairs. ?eGrips? are a Custom Chrome exclusive.
666050 ?eGrip? Hand Grip Set???.$39.99
Dealer Locator 800-729-3332 or www.customchrome.com
HARLEY OWNERS GROUP? ANNOUNCES 2005 NATIONAL EVENTS–Avid Harley-Davidson riders look forward to Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) events around the country every year, from local chapter events to national rallies.
NAVY ANNOUNCES WINNER OF 2005 HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE
The Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department at the Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, Calif., announced AME1 (AW) Richard Winders has won the 2005 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy raffle sponsored by the Motor Company.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON CONTINUES SUPPORT FOR AMERCIAN SOLDIERS
Harley-Davidson recently announced its partnership with the U.S. Army in the Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) program to help appropriately qualified soldiers exiting the Army find possible employment opportunities at Harley-Davidson.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND BUELL PARTICIPATE IN THE 24th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOWS
Harley-Davidson and Buell are participating in all 12 tour stops of the 24th Annual International Motorcycle Show.
THAT’S A WRAP–Let me tell you about the new Street Chopper with Scott Long flipping the bird. Yeah, this book has attitude, the rigid frame philosophy and new and old school tips for only Choppers. That’s the creed. But there’s one more book in this family and it’s got guts. It’s Frank Kaisler’s old Hot Rod Bikes and we’re devoting it to tech articles. This will be Wrench’s favorite mag with touring bike techs, performance techs, fabrication techs, Sportster techs and how to bikini wash your bike. Even Wrench needs a break from time to time. And Franks back with informative techs that bring the basics back to the new guys and me and my faulty memory.
I’m hoping to publish two new oil line and oil pump techs by Frank here next week. They’re classics that we will all refer to every time we build another bike. Speaking of building Lucky Devil is working on my aluminum rear fender and he built my solo seat that’s being feature in the May issue of Hot Bike as it comes together in leather tooled style.
I’ll bring you reports from behind the scenes on all three mags as we move along. If you have any questions about the magazine world, drop me a note or a Your Shot.
Let’s Ride,
–Bandit
January 13, 2005 Part 3
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 2
THUNDER IN AFRICA–The Harley-Davidson Owners Group Durban Chapter (HOG) and Harley-DavidsonDurban has been successful in achieving international recognition fromtheir peers as a result of the ‘Thunder in the Zulu Kingdom Rally’ in March2004. It is with this recognition that Harley-Davidson Europe and HOG haveexpressed a keen interest in hosting an International status Rally as apermanent annual event in Durban. The vision of creating a South AfricanDaytona, Sturgis style Bike Week in Durban has been embraced by bothnational and international Harley Chapters. This event has been sanctionedby Harley-Davidson, HOG Europe, the National South African HOG chapters, theSouth African Harley-Davidson dealerships and independent H-D bike clubs asan annual event, and agreed upon unanimously to remain on the South Africancalendar as an annual event.
The Harley-Davidson International representatives who attended the 2004Rally commented on what they stated as ?a rally event that truly met, if notexceeded international rally standards? and the location of the rally siteat Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World was said to be magnificent andawesome. They also committed to Harley-Davidson?s and HOG?s full support inmarketing the next rally overseas. Furthermore, it was at this stage that wein conjunction with the international representatives created the vision ofa South African Daytona equivalent in Durban. HD and Hog both expressed thesame desire to have an annual rally for the future that would be an exampleto the rest of the world.
Thundertown can be found at http://www.thundertown.co.za. The site is by no meanscomplete, but will be added to all the time. There also links to Durban andour country. Feel free to post stuff on the forum !
Regards and be safe !
Scoop (aka Kai Von Pannier)
Head Honcho
Scoop Dynamics
Website Rally : www.thundertown.co.za
ScoopDynamics : www.Scoopdynamics.co.za
“Get the Scoop !”
MOTORCYCLE TOURING WITH EAGLERIDER–EagleRider of Knoxville (Knoxville Tennessee) is part of a worldwidefranchise, that specializes in Harley, ATV, Jet Ski, & Dirt Bike rentals. Wealso offer self-guided and guided tours of the Smokey Mountains, Blue RidgeParkway, Cherohala Skyway, and Dragon’s Tail (318 curves in 11 miles). Wewould like to get info. about having a link on your website. We feel theservice we offer is unique and would cater to your customer base.
Our link info. is as follows:
http://www.eagleriderofknoxville.com
Thanks,
Randy and Melissa Carter
EagleRider of Knoxville
9918 Kingston Pike
Phone: 865-560-0088 toll free: 1-866-805-RIDE
Fax: 865-560-5654
Email: knoxeaglerider@comcast.net
WILD FIRE ONE-DAY BLOWOUT SALE–
This Saturday
One Day Only!
9am – 6pm
On January 15th Wild Fire will be cutting prices throughout the store.
Stop in to join us for some great savings during this One Day Only! Winter Blow Out Sale!Come in and say “Hi” to some old friends and take advantage of sales that you won’t want to miss out on.We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, January 15th from 9am – 6pm
One Day Only! New Vehicle Sale
Saturday, January 15th, 9am – 6pm
We’ll pay the sales tax when you purchasea new V-Rod
See our sales staff for availbilty and details.
*This offer is not valid with any other offer/discount.
“Double Denim Days”
Buy Two Pair of Genuine Harley-Davidson Jeans for Only $48!
That’s Only $24 Each!
If you buy two or more pairs of jeans from us we will take $10 off of each pair you buy.This special will only last as long as our jeans so come in today to take advantage of this very special offer before it’s too late!
*This offer is not valid with any other discount or sale
Free Seminar!!!
Maintenance 101
Wednesday, February 2, 2005
6:30-8:00pm
We Will be hosting a complimentary “Maintenance” seminar on Wednesday, February 2nd from 6:30-8:00pm.This seminar will cover important general maintenance checks, tips, and tricks to help keep you riding this upcoming season.Seats for this seminar are limited so please sign up now!call us at 630.834.6571 or send an email to: jamesw@wildfirehd.com.
January 2005
Month Long Leather Parts & Motorclothes Special
Blow out Limited Edition Leather Sale
This January is the month to gear up with leather for yourself…and your bike!Outfit yourself now and save big-time for the upcoming riding season!
Motorclothes: 25% off all Limited Edition Leather Jackets. Plus, if you buy a Limited Edition Vest or Chapsat the same time we’ll take 30% off of the additional piece.
Parts: 25% off all leather seats & saddlebags when installed by our service department.
*Limited Edition Leather is just what it sounds like. The Harley-Davidson Limited Edition pieces are made in small batches to ensure the highest levels of quality & craftsmanship. When you purchase a Limited Edition piece from Harley-Davidson you are not only buying a piece that is of the highest quality, you are also buying a one-of-a-kind. These pieces cannot be reordered, so buy now!Wild Fire has plenty of these Limited Edition pieces to choose from, come in before it’s too late!**This offer is not valid with any other discount or sale
A PLAN–
What’s the difference between Iraq and Vietnam?
George W. Bush had a plan to get out of Vietnam.
Nick R.
ROAD RAGE OFFERED WITHSPACE AGE THERMAL COATING BASSANI has just announced availability of their awesome 2 into 1 BAGGER ROAD RAGE system finished in satin black THERMAL COAT. This record setting system has proven itself to be one of, if not the most efficient, system of its kind currently on the market. And, with the new Space Age THERMAL COATING it takes on a whole new personality in both looks and performance. Awesome and intimidating to the eye, THERMAL COAT is applied to both the inside and outside of the complete system and helps retain heat inside the pipe for improved efficiency and horsepower while reducing surface temperatures.
Bassani?s revolutionary BAGGER ROAD RAGE for Twin Cam machines features aggressive lines formed by 1 3/4? ? 1 7/8? stepped head pipes merging into a True Reverse Cone Megaphone fit with a fluted billet aluminum end cap. Precision fabricated from high grade 16 gauge steel, the system was developed specifically to produce increases in horsepower and an extremely flat torque curve.
Available exclusively from NORTH COUNTY CUSTOMS the BAGGER ROAD RAGE offers enthusiasts the ultimate in performance and style. This unique system with the high tech coating retails for $659.00. For complete details call 866-439-4287 or go to http://www.bassanipipes.com. Dealer inquiries invited.
HEY SKOOTER–You say you been riding since 1968, I?ve been riding longer that you! Check me out on my trike. ? Jon Towle
Paramount Starts 2005 with New Website!Reno, Nevada – With the dawn of the New Year, Paramount Custom Cycles is notonly stepping up their game with their production motorcycles and a spot onthe Easyrider Centerfold Tour, but also by dramatically changing the face oftheir company website.
http://www.paramountcycles.com has always been a very state of the art, welldesigned web page, but for 2005, PCC really took the extra steps needed tomake their mark. With the help of WolfSmith Media and Gravity HookProductions (both in Truckee, California), the new site is an ever-changing,personally interactive stop on the internet for motorcycle enthusiasts andthe general public alike.
With the use of the latest web design technology, Paramount offers theability to inspect their products with a 360? viewer, take an inside look atthe PCC facility in Reno, Nevada, listen to build tips and techniquesstraight from Aaron Greene, and search their endless archive of photos.There is also a detailed timeline describing the life and times of AaronGreene and his Paramount Custom Cycles.
With too many aspects to describe, the new PCC website is definitely worthchecking out.
See Aaron Greene on the Easyrider Centerfold Tour in 2005, check outParamount’s production motorcycles at a PCC dealer near you, visit the newsite on the web and be sure to pick a little something up.
Continued On Page 4
January 13, 2005 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
How to Fix Your Bike– A blonde was trying to sell her old bike, and wasn’t having much luck because it had 250,000 miles on it. She was telling her problem to a friend at work one day, and the friend told her, “Well, there is something you could do to make the bike easier to sell, but it’s not legal.”
“I don’t care,” the blonde replied, “So long as I can sell it.”
“Okay, here’s what you do,” said the friend. “Here is the address of a friend of mine who owns a bike shop. Tell him I sent you and he will ?fix it.? Then it shouldn’t be so much of a problem to sell.”
The blonde went to the mechanic the next night and got the bike ?fixed.?
A couple weeks later, the friend asked the blonde, “So, did you sell your bike?”
“No,” the blonde replied, “Why should I? It only has 50,000 miles on it!”
Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
Don’t ask Tom Warner about DUI checkpoints–So you think honesty is the best policy when stopped by the police? Convince Tom Warner.
Tom Warner, 59, of Waterford, was arrested at a DUI checkpoint on Albee Road Sept. 24 at 10:38 p.m. He had been fishing with four friends that afternoon and was on his way home.
“When I came through the checkpoint, they asked me if I had had anything to drink and I said yeah, three or four beers that afternoon,” he said. “I also had returned from California with a little jet lag and one of the things they keyed on was my eyes were bloodshot.”
Warner said he tried his best to convince the police he was not impaired.
“I told them I do not drive drunk,” he said.
Breath test: 0.00
Warner took a field sobriety test (there is no quantified pass or fail, only the officer’s judgment). The officers felt Warner was impaired and arrested him. It was Warner’s first arrest for anything, according to his attorney, Robert Harrison.
About 20 minutes later, still at the scene, police asked Warner to take a breathlyzer test.
“They always wait 20 minutes or so to make sure you keep everything down before they give you the test, even at the jail,” Harrison said.
Warner took the test and the results were 0.00. That means there was no evidence of alcohol in his system. A subsequent urine test revealed the same results for drugs, (Harrison said it takes several weeks for urine test results to come back.)
Off to the House of Many Doors
Warner said he does not have a warm, fuzzy feeling about DUI checkpoints.
“Even prior to this,” he said, “I thought they were an invasion of privacy.”
He doesn’t feel any love for the the arresting officers, either.
“Once I registered zero,” he said, “I should have been released.”
Instead, Warner was hustled off to the South County Jail at the Venice police station on Ridgewood Avenue.
He was booked and later transported to the North County Jail, where he languished until 3 p.m. the next day. That’s when a judge released him on his own recognizance.
It’s about time
It took the state attorney until Dec. 8 to make a decision on whether to prosecute.
“We were set for trial when they dismissed the charges,” Harrison said.
Warner still has his job working for the county’s information and technology department.
He said the arrest was humiliating for him and his family. He said his wife is a cancer patient (in remission) and the incident added stress to her life.
“Not only that, I was supposed to report to the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) for Hurricane Jeanne,” Warner said, “but I was in jail.”
Harrison said he is now working to have the Warner’s DUI arrest expunged.
“Expungment means they have to physically destroy the records,” he said. “You can legally deny it ever happened.”
You can e-mail Tommy McIntyre at:tmcintyre@venicegondolier.com.
By Tommy McIntyre
Staff Writer
Sent by Rogue
HOW TRUE IT IS–
Another year has passed
and we’re all a little older.
Last summer felt hotter
and winter seems much colder.
There was a time not long ago
when life was quite a blast.
Now I fully understand
about “Living in the Past”
We used to go to weddings,
football games and lunches.
Now we go to funeral homes,
and after-funeral brunches.
We used to have hangovers,
from parties that were gay.
Now we suffer body aches
and while the night away.
We used to go out dining,
and couldn’t get our fill.
Now we ask for doggie bags,
come home and take a pill.
We used to often travel
to places near and far.
Now we get sore asses
from riding in the car.
We used to go to nightclubs
and drink a little booze.
Now we stay home at night
and watch the evening news.
That, my friend is how life is,
and now my tale is told.
So, enjoy each day and live it up…
before you’re too damned old!
Bob t.
Lee Parks’ Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic comes to AZ January 29.– Gilbert Arizona — If you’re an experienced motorcyclist interested in improving your riding skills but are unwilling to take on the additional risks associated with the high-speed environment of a race track, you’re not alone. Based on his new book “Total Control” National Racing Champion Lee Parks’ first “Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic” (Total Control ARC) will be held on January 29th at T.E.A.M. Arizona’s rider training center in Gilbert, AZ.
The Total Control ARC fills the gap between the MSF’s Experienced RiderCourse (ERC) and a typical track day. Cornering technique is the primary focus of the clinic and the individual skills taught include; throttle control, throttle/brake transitions, corner entry, line selection, body position and corner exit. Depending on what type of bike you ride these techniques will vary slightly but all follow the same philosophical principals. The range portion of the training takes place in a large parking lot where each of the riding exercises are individually explained, demonstrated by an instructor, and practiced by each student. Working on only one skill at a time with constant instructor feedback creates the building blocks to consistent riding improvements. Each skill is built using small two-mph increments until the desired result is achieved. Typical corning speeds never exceed 30 mph and while this may seem slow, it feels very fast while cornering around a 40-foot circle. This learning technique allows for high rider confidence and is incredibly effective due to its ability to minimize fear as much as possible. Many sportbike riders learn how to drag their knees for the first time while cruiser and touring riders learn the secrets to maximizing ground clearance. All riders come away with specific measurable improvements in their riding skills and safety with a level of control previously unattainable.
All Total Control ARC skills are taught with their direct applications for street riding. In addition to the range portion of the class a practical classroom presentation on motorcycle suspension is included. Students learn how to analyze the effectiveness of their suspension and how to set it up for maximum control and comfort.
All students must provide their own bikes and have at least one year of riding experience. Protective gear is required for all students, which include a DOT-approved helmet (full-face recommended), motorcycle jacket and pants, gloves and boots that cover the ankles. Jeans and fingerless gloves are not allowed, but Kevlar jeans will be accepted. The cost for the eight-hour Total Control ARC is $295, which includes lunch and a workbook with explanations and examples of the techniques and concepts covered in the course. A $100 deposit guarantees your spot, with the balance payable two weeks before the start of the course. For questions or to secure a spot call Lee Parks at 760-220-5045. http://www.leeparksdesign.com
BAPTIST BRA–A man walked into the Women’s Department of Macy’sin New York City.
He told the saleslady “I would like a Baptist bra for my wife, size36B.”
With a quizzical look the saleslady asked? “What kind of bra?”
Herepeated “A Baptist Bra” – She said to tell you that she wanted aBaptist Bra, and that you would know what she wanted.”
“Ah, now I remember” said the saleslady. “We don’t get as manyrequests for them as we used to. Mostly ourcustomers lately want theCatholic bra, or the Salvation Army bra, or thePresbyterian type.”
Confused, and a little flustered, the man asked,”So, what are thedifferences?”
The lady responded. “It is allreally quite simple.
The Catholic type supports the masses. The Salvation Army lifts up thefallen, and the Presbyterian type keeps themstaunch and upright.”
He mused on that information for a minute, andasked, “So, what is theBaptist type for?”
They,” she replied, “make mountains out ofmolehills.”
Bra Sizes:Have you ever wondered why and how A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, G, and H arethe lettersused to define bra sizes? If you have wondered why, but couldn’tfigureout what the letters stood for, it is about timeyou became informed!
{A} Almost Boobs…
{B} Barely there…
{C} Can’t Complain!
{D} Dang!
{DD} Double dang!
{E} Enormous!
{F} Fake.
{G} Get a Reduction.
{H} Help me- I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!
Chris T.
Continued On Page 3
January 13, 2005 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
I snuck out of the office today to hang at the drying Bikernet headquarters and help with the news. The March issue of Hot Bike is on the streets. You can’t miss it. The cover is Kevin from Big Bear Choppers. That’s right, instead of just another polished motor on the cover, it’s a human being. It’s the man behind Big Bear’s exploding success story hugging his wild-ass Knucklehead.
You wouldn’t believe the heat I’m getting for changing the cover mold. There’s frothing at the mouth MBAs, consultants, computer test experts and the boss of bosses pushing me to spring back to the normal paint and chrome covers. They’ve run e-mail studies, asked consultants and threatened me.
Let me know what you think. That’s not all, someone in some distant production facility saw fit to fuck up the cover print job. Of course no one will own up to it, but I smell corporate conspiracy and promised flying baseball bats if the next one is messed with.
On the positive side there’s Bree in Hot Bike, the first girl in seven long dry years. There’s action. There’s a sharp, thorough, Fuel Injection guide and techs to back it up. There’s even how to Make a Biker Movie by agent Zebra. Check out this issue and gimme some feed back. We’ll continue to bring you all the behind the scenes action at these mags. Now, let’s get to the news then I’ll tell you about the other books.
LOOKING FOR A FRIEND–I was wondering if you know where I can contact an old friend of mine Marty Ruthman. I’m a very close friend of his and his family. I’ve known him since Hi School. My contact info is
Bob Moles
530 906 0906
mailto:rwmoles@cwnet.com
S&S RACING SPONSORSHIPS–VIOLA, WI (January 11, 2005) S&S is pleased to announce the following individual racing sponsorships during the 2005 racing season.
AHDRA Sanction:
Blake Holliday – Super Gas
Dave Ostrowski – Super Gas
David Hope – Super Sport
Allen Nusbaum – Super Sport
Wanda Poff – Super Sport
Rick Maney – Pro-Stock
Dale Raudenbush – Pro-Stock
Joe Sternotti – Street-Pro
Junior Pippin – Pro-Modified
Cliff Dwy – Pro-Modified
Shaun Reno – Pro-Modified
Phil Schmidt – Pro-Drag
Greg Byrnes – Pro-Drag
Brooke McCabe – Pro-Gas
Robert Markham – Pro-Gas
Dave Delullo – Pro-Gas
Ed Biaggi – Pro-Gas
Bill Bertoletti – Pro-Fuel
Sonny Michalowski – Top-Fuel
AMRA Sanction:
Jay Wagner – Street Eliminator
Greg Walls – Street Eliminator
Jerry Cameron – Street Eliminator
Russ Johnson – Pro Eliminator
Jim Bob Kern – Pro Eliminator
Bob Burris – Super-Gas
Dave Sollars – Super-Gas
Randal Andras – Hot Street
Russ Morgan – Hot Street
Mark Sidwell – Buell
Mike Nolan – Modified
Bryan Huffman – Pro-Modified
Rick Clutts Pro-Modified
Mike Nelson/Iron Eagle Racing Pro-Modified
Dennis Cunningham – Pro-Gas
Chris Richterburg – Pro-Fuel
“These racers are well-respected within their respective sanction and class,” said Charlie Hadayia, Manager of Dealer Development and Race Relations. “We’re pleased to provide sponsorship for these accomplished racers through the next season. Staying in touch with the racing community is critical for S&S to continue producing proven performance products,?*? continued Hadayia. “Congratulations on a successful racing season in 2004 and good luck going fast at the track in 2005.”
S&S will be the official title sponsor for three AHDRA races in 2005: Bakersfield, CA on May 13-15, Budds Creek, MD on July 15-17, and Bristol, TN on August 13-14. S&S is also sponsoring the following classes in the AHDRA during 2005: Pro Stock, Pro Gas, Super Sport, and the new S&S 124″ Challenge class.
NOTES TO EGO-BOY–I am thrilled that you are taking over the lead on the Hot Bike mag. I have refused to even look at the magazine at the newstand, unless I really want to be bored. I hope you have plans to change it! I realize my tastes are satisfied with American Iron and the Horse (Backstreet Choppers), and it would be nice to see another magazine similar. Easyriders is even boring to me since you left. I know that the magazines all have their own theme, but I am totally tired of seeing the same old bikes month after month. I guess Howard Kelly thought they were unique and different, but to me they were all just the same.
Jeff Morgan
Hey Bandit, Congrats on your new job at Hot Bike! Although we’ve never met I’ve enjoyed all your work at Bikernet, including your Road King report, since I also have a Road King.I have a couple of questions if you’ve got a minute, concerning your 95″ Big Bore. I’m assuming you still have your ‘King, if you don’t,maybe you can recall after you had the work done.
Did you feel like you gained allot (HP wise) from the Big Bore kit?
Do you think the all-day ride reliability was compromised?
Did you go with high-compression pistons?
Would you do it over again, or recommend someone else having the same work done?
I’m kind of struggling with the issue as you can tell, my ‘King is a great bike but I could sure use a little more “snap”, especiallywhen I’m riding “two up”.
If you get a chance let me know, I’d really appreciate it.If you’re ever in the Seattle area let me know, the beers are on me.
Thanks man.
Randall Ralph
I’ve never heard a complaint. Generally, the Twin Cam can handle it and you should rock. Watch the cam you run. Make sure it’s a good mid-range cam and not all top end. Also make sure you back it up with the Screamin’ Eagle air cleaners kit and performance exhaust. The wrong pipes will kill it.–Bandit
Las Vegas Winter Rally —On Sunday, February 20th 2005, Hawaiian Chopper Magazine, in association with The Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe, Count’s Kustoms, and Vegas City Choppers, are presenting the first ever “Las Vegas Winter Rally”.
Joining us for a poker run and party at the Hard Rock Cafe, are Johnny “Chop” Vasko of “Johnny Chop Industries”, (formerly of Chica Custom Cycles), Roland Sands of “Performance Machines”, Hank Young of “Young Choppers”, and Jose De Miguel of “Caribbean Custom Cycles”.
Coming along for the ride is nationally syndicated radio talk show host, and star of the Emmy Award winning “sci-fi” series, Babylon Five, Jerry Doyle. Others are sure to come for this one-day event.
Registration for the poker run will be held at Count’s Kustoms at 2714 Highland Drive in Las Vegas, Nevada, and begins at 8:30am on 20 February.
The ride will begin at 10:30. Led by the celebrity builders, riders will enjoy a poker run in the crisp winter air. Taking off to the World renowned “Denver’s Choppers” in Henderson, then on to Vegas City Choppers in Las Vegas, (and one other stop to be named later), and finally, ending up at the Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe, where riders will pick up their final card.
Enter the “Best Custom” contest sponsored by Count’s Kustoms and win a specially designed and built trophy by custom builder Shannon Aikau of Count’s Kustoms. There is no cost to enter, but all bikes MUST be Customs. “No off the rack bikes”. There will also be other great events to be announced along the way.
At the Hard Rock, check out nearly 40 vendors that will be showing their wares at from 12:00 to 6:00pm. Already signed up are Count’s Customs, Mitch Bergeron Customs, Vegas City Choppers,O School Choppers, Denver Choppers, Jim Nasi Customs, and others to be announced later.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase at all locations along the way, and a $10.00 ride fee will be charged with a portion of the proceeds going to a fund supporting the families of service members deployed in support of the War on Terror.
In addition to Sunday’s activities, a VIP party with the celebrity bike builders will be held at the Las Vegas Margaritaville on Friday, February 18th. Entry to this event will be limited to 150 people and a entry fee of 20.00 will get you in the door (ticket for entry to the VIP party will also get you on the ride).
Special room rates available at the St. Tropez Motel (located across from the Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe). Just mention the rally at the Hard Rock Cafe for your special rate.
For more info call 808-780-2998 or email at alohasports@hawaii.rr.com
An American hero’s story that must be told —
By Rich Lowry
You probably don’t know Rafael Peralta’s name. If we lived in a country that more fully celebrated the heroics of its men in uniform, you would. He was a sergeant in Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment for Operation Dawn, the November offensive to retake the Iraqi city of Fallujah, which had become a haven for terrorists. What he did on the day of Nov. 15 was an awe-inspiring act of selfless sacrifice and faithfulness to his fellow Marines.
The only way we can honor Sgt. Peralta’s heroism is to tell his story and remember his name. What follows is mostly drawn from the reporting of Marine combat correspondent Lance Cpl. T.J. Kaemmerer, who witnessed the events on that day.
Sgt. Peralta, 25, was a Mexican-American. He joined the Marines the day after he got his green card and earned his citizenship while in uniform. He was fiercely loyal to the ethos of the Corps. While in Kuwait, waiting to go into Iraq, he had his camouflage uniform sent out to be pressed. He constantly looked for opportunities to help his Marine brothers, which is why he ended up where he was on Nov. 15. A week into the battle for Fallujah, the Marines were still doing the deadly work of clearing the city, house by house. As a platoon scout, Peralta didn’t have to go out with the assault team that day. He volunteered to go.
According to Kaemmerer, the Marines entered a house and kicked in the doors of two rooms that proved empty. But there was another closed door to an adjoining room. It was unlocked, and Peralta, in the lead, opened it. He was immediately hit with AK-47 fire in his face and upper torso by three insurgents. He fell out of the way into one of the cleared rooms to give his fellow Marines a clear shot at the enemy. During the firefight, a yellow fragmentation grenade flew out of the room, landing near Peralta and several fellow Marines. The uninjured Marines tried to scatter out of the way, two of them trying to escape the room, but were blocked by a locked door. At that point, barely alive, Peralta grabbed the grenade and cradled it to his body.
His body took most of the blast. One Marine was seriously injured, but the rest sustained only minor shrapnel wounds. Cpl. Brannon Dyer told a reporter from the Army Times, “He saved half my fire team.”
Kaemmerer compares Peralta’s sacrifice to that of past Marine Medal of Honor winners Pfc. James LaBelle and Lance Cpl. Richard Anderson. LaBelle dove on a Japanese grenade to save two fellow Marines during the battle of Iwo Jima. Although he had just been wounded twice, Anderson rolled over an enemy grenade to save a fellow Marine during a 1969 battle in Vietnam.
Peralta’s sacrifice should be a legend in the making. But somehow heroism doesn’t get the same traction in our media environment as being a victim or villain, categories that encompass the truly famous Jessica Lynch and Lynndie England respectively. Peralta’s story has been covered in military publications, a smattering of papers including The Seattle Times and The San Diego Union-Tribune, ABC News and some military blogs. But The Washington Post and The New York Times only mentioned Peralta’s name in their lists of the dead.
Scandalously, the “heroism” of Spc. Thomas Wilson ? the national guardsman who asked a tough question of Secretary of Defense Don Rumsfeld that had been planted with him by a reporter ? has been more celebrated in the press than that of Peralta.
Kaemmerer recounts how later on the night of Nov. 15, a friend approached him and said: “You’re still here; don’t forget that. Tell your kids, your grandkids, what Sgt. Peralta did for you and the other Marines today.” Don’t forget. Good advice for all of us.
From Duc Drake
Continued On Page 2
January 6, 2005 Part 3
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 2
American Justice–Remember the guy who got on a plane with a bomb built into hisshoe and tried to light it?
Did you know his trial is over?
Did you know he was sentenced?
Did you see/hear any of the judge’s comments on TV/Radio?
Didn’t think so.
Everyone should hear what the judge had to say.
Ruling by Judge William Young, US District Court.
Prior to sentencing, the Judge asked the defendant if he had anything osay.
His response: After admitting his guilt to the court for the record, Reidalso admitted his “allegiance to Osama bin Laden, to Islam, and to thereligion of Allah,” defiantly stated “I think I ought not apologize for myactions,” and told the court “I am at war with your country.”
Judge Young then delivered the statement quoted below, a stingingcondemnation of Reid in particular and terrorists in general:
January 30, 2003, United States vs. Reid. Judge Young: Mr. Richard C. Reid,hearken now to the sentence the Court imposes upon you. On counts 1, 5 and 6the Court sentences you to life in prison in the custody of the UnitedStates Attorney General. On counts 2, 3, 4 and 7, the Court sentences youTo 20 years in prison on each count, the sentence on each count to runconsecutive with the other.
That’s 80 years. On count 8 the Court sentences you to the mandatory 30years consecutive to the 80 years just imposed. The Court imposes upon youeach of the eight counts a fine of $250,000 for the aggregate fine of $2million. The Court accepts the government’s recommendation with respect torestitution and orders restitution in the amount of $298.17 to AndreBousquet and $5,784 to American Airlines. The Court imposes upon you the$800 special assessment.
The Court imposes upon you five years supervised release simply because thelaw requires it. But the life sentences are real life sentences so I needgo no further. This is the sentence that is provided for by our statutes.Itis a fair and just sentence. It is a righteous sentence. Let me explainthis to you. We are not afraid of you or any of your terroristcoconspirators,Mr. Reid. We are Americans. We have been through the firebefore. There I all too much war talk here and I say that to everyone withthe utmost respect. Here in this court, where we deal with individuals asindividuals and care for individuals as individuals. As human beings, wereach out for justice.You are not an enemy combatant. You are a terrorist. You are not a soldierin any war You are a terrorist. To give you that reference, to call you asoldier, gives you far too much stature. Whether it is the officers ofgovernment who do it or your attorney who does it, or that happens to beyour view, you are a terrorist…And we do not negotiate with terrorists.
We do not treat with terrorists. We do not sign documents with terrorists.We hunt them down one by one and bring them to justice.
So war talk is way out of line in this court. You are a big fellow. But youare not that big. You’re no warrior. I know warriors. You are a terrorist.
A species of criminal guilty of multiple attempted murders. In a very realsense, State Trooper Santiago had it right when you first were taken offthat plane and into custody and you wondered where the press and where theTV crews were and he said you’re no big deal.
You’re no big deal.
What your counsel, what your able counsel and what the equally able UnitedStates attorneys have grappled with and what I have as honestly as I knowhow tried to grapple with, is why you did something so horrific. What wasit that led you here to this courtroom today?
I have listened respectfully to what you have to say. And I ask you tosearch your heart and ask yourself what sort of unfathomable hate led youto do what you are guilty and admit you are guilty of doing. And I have ananswer for you. It may not satisfy you, but as I search this entire record,it comes as close to understanding as I know.
It seems to me you hate the one thing that is most precious. You hate ourfreedom. Our individual freedom. Our individual freedom to live as wechoose, to come and go as we choose, to believe or not believe as weindividually choose. Here, in this society, the very winds carry freedom.They carry it everywhere from sea to shining sea. It is because we prizeindividual freedom so much that you are here in this beautiful courtroom.
So that everyone can see, truly see, that justice is administered fairly,individually, and discretely. It is for freedom’s sake that your lawyersare striving so vigorously on your behalf and have filed appeals, will go onin their representation of you before other judges.
We are about it. Because we all know that the way we treat you, Mr. Reid, isthe measure of our own liberties. Make no mistake though. It is yet truethat we will bare any burden; pay any price, to preserve our freedoms. Lookaround this courtroom. Mark it well, the world is not going to long rememberwhat you or I say here. Day after tomorrow, it will be forgotten, but this,however, will long endure. Here in this courtroom and courtrooms all acrossAmerica, the American people will gather to see that justice, individualjustice, justice, not war, individual justice is in fact being done. Thevery President of the United States through his officers will have to comeinto courtrooms and lay out evidence on which specific matters can bejudged and juries of citizens will gather to sit and judge that evidencedemocratically, to mold and shape and refine our sense of justice.
See that flag, Mr Reid? That’s the flag of the United States of America.That flag will fly there long after this is all forgotten. That flag standsfor freedom. You know it always will.
Mr. Custody Officer. Stand him down.
So, how much of this Judge’s comments did we hear on our TV sets? We needmore judges like Judge Young, but that’s another subject. Pass this around.Everyone should and needs to hear what this fine judge had to say. Powerfulwords that strike home.
Ray Russell
HA HA…let’s see the little punk sell insurance now!!
Bob T.
DOCTOR, DOCTOR–A physician claimed that the following are actual comments made by hispatients (predominately male) while he was performing colonoscopies:
1. “Take it easy, Doc. You’re boldly going where no man has gonebefore!”
2. “Find Amelia Earhart yet?”
3. “Can you hear me NOW?”
4. “Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet?”
5. “You know, in Arkansas, we’re now legally married.”
6. “Any sign of the trapped miners, Chief?”
7. “You put your left hand in, you take your left hand out..”
8. “Hey! Now I know how a Muppet feels!”
9. “If your hand doesn’t fit, you must quit!”
10. “Hey Doc, let me know if you find my dignity.”
11. “You used to be an IRS Investigator, didn’t you?”
12. “God, Now I know why I am not gay.”
And the best one of them all…
13. “Could you write a note for my wife saying that my head is not upthere
BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT–The weather has been great around here for the past week. Temps near 70 degrees! We rode with about 10 of our friends on New Year’s day. I hope everyone had a great Christmas and a great New Year’s. With that being said let’s get down to business. I haven’t had a good rant about anything in awhile and I feel I am well over due. There are a few things I would like to get off my chest, so here goes!
First off has anyone other than me noticed that at H-D dealerships that they prefer to call their customers “Enthusiast” now instead of “Bikers?” What is up with that? I guess the “Enthusiast” were the ones who kept them in business in the 80’s? I guess the bikers go to the independent shops now. I don’t know about you but I will still be a biker when all the Enthusiast have disappeared!
The next thing is, I was reading in the “Horse” magazine about the CEO at H-D sending a letter out to all dealers telling them not sell aftermarket exhaust. When I was at the dealership I saw this lame attempt to fool everyone. The CEO says that “Loud pipes are ruining our sport.” Is he saying that H-D owns what he calls THE SPORT? For me I never thought of what we did, riding and being bikers as a sport. It always went much deeper than that it was part of who I was, a part of my soul, not a SPORT! How about you do you think of it as a SPORT?
The real reason for the letter is because aftermarket exhaust makers like Samson and Vance & Hines are kicking their ass at about 4 to 1 selling quality exhaust systems. If I remember right I think Vance & Hines makes one of the Sreamin Eagle exhaust systems and H-D puts their name on it. So I guess it is o.k. to buy that one and you won’t ruin the SPORT! As usaual this wasn’t about anyone ruining anything. It was about the $$$$$ being made! It is beyond me how a company that has made millions off of the “outlaw biker image, now says that loud pipes are ruining the sport.
They have tried to duplicate that “outlaw” style with the bikes they come out with and their accessories such as the custom painted sheet metals kits you can buy. Where do you think they come up with ideas for those paint schemes. Maybe at places like Daytona and Stugis?
Now that I finished ranting I feel a little better. Oh by the way one Christmas present I got was the new Dave Mann collection fron Easyriders. “MEANEST” gave it to me and it is great!
Well enough for now. The sun is shining and it is 70 degrees. Time to go out to the garage and get my jockey shift rigid out and go for a ride!
Until next time, Crack those pipes!
STEALTHMAN
WANT AD PROBLEM–I tried to put up a wanted ad, but it dont look like it worked…
Wanted:
Do you have a handful of biker/Harley/event pins in a jar on the kitchen table or on the bedroom dresser that the ol lady is nagging you to put away or sell or she’ll throw them away? Why not sell ( or give! ) them to me and make us both happy! Contact mhein68@earthlink.net
Mike Heinen
Evansville,IL
mhein68@earthlink.net
BEAR ON THE ROOF–A man wakes up one morning to find a bear on his roof. So he looks in the yellow pages and sure enough, there’s an ad for “Bear Removers.” He calls the number, and the bear remover says he’ll be over in 30 minutes. The bear remover arrives, and gets out of his van. He’s got a ladder, a baseball bat, a shotgun and a mean old pit bull.
“What are you going to do,” the homeowner asks?
“I’m going to put this ladder up against the roof, then I’m going to go up there and knock the bear off the roof with this baseball bat. When the bear falls off, the pit bull is trained to grab his testicles and not let go. The bear will then be subdued enough for me to put him in the cage in the back of the van.”
He hands the shotgun to the homeowner.
“What’s the shotgun for?” asks the homeowner.
“If the bear knocks me off the roof, shoot the dog.”
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Well, I guess it ain’t over yet. You might not know, but in Puerto Rico we still celebrate an old tradition called the “Tres Reyes Magos” or 3 wise men. It?s very similar to the Santa gig, the 3 wise men bring toys to kids, so yes many of Latin American countries have double toys. So you guessed it, it will be the third weekend that becomes a long holiday. So we go back to Rincon and more surf.
So hows the New year ? Great so far, I spent it surfing. My family has good health and that is all that counts. It was very cool to get away from everything and just surf for a couple days, waves are good, winter is here, and I don’t own a “metric” all is cool.
Actually, I have been wondering how this New year will treat everyone; the schedules are already getting filled, the events rolling down and work is starting to pick up (after this week end) so the R&R will be over. Back to the hustle and bustle of reality.
While all is merry, I want to stop for a second, since I know this is a world wide web site, I want to send my regards and sorrow to all of you who are affected by natures mishap in Asia. No matter who they are, how far, what color or what religion it’s a tragedy for us as humans. Be God with them.I guess no matter how bad things get, they don’t seem to be as bad, be glad.
Speaking of surfing again, I noticed that a couple of the surf publications are owned by Primedia, I guess it would be cool to try get crossover stories on the magazines since a lot of the builders do surf…..
Anyway, the custom of the 3 wise men is that the kids need to get grass for the camels, although some people leave toys to get grass, I’m loading my whole Dually chock full of hay to see if I get a spankin’ new blinging Benz…..
Anyway, I’ll get back to the news in full force next week….Rincon here we go…..
Jose ? Bikernet Caribbean Reporter
Visit our Web Site http://www.chopperfreak.com
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES, ?OPERATION EXTEND THE RIDE?–
Harley-Davidson and Buell Extend Warranty Coverage for Deployed Military Personnel in Middle East
MILWAUKEE, WI (January 3, 2005) ? Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Buell Motorcycle Company recently announced the implementation of “Operation Extend the Ride,” a plan to extend warranty coverage to military personnel deployed in support of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
“Men and women from around the world have made great personal sacrifices to serve their countries during military efforts in the Middle East,” said Steve Phillips, Vice President of Quality, Reliability and Technical Service. “Harley-Davidson and Buell want to recognize these military personnel by extending the warranty on Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles owned by those who have served and been unable to ride while they were on duty.”
The program will apply to owners of Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles who are coalition military personnel from any country deployed to an area controlled by CENTCOM, or deployed in support of coalition operations in the Middle East from November 1, 2001 and on. If their motorcycle is under warranty, Harley-Davidson and Buell will provide an extension of the factory warranty for the number of days they were deployed to account for the balance of the remaining warranty period. If the warranty on any of their Harley-Davidson or Buell motorcycles expired while they were deployed in the designated areas, Harley-Davidson will offer additional warranty coverage for a period of time equal to the length of their deployment, but not to exceed the original factory warranty period.
Harley-Davidson and Buell owners who believe they are eligible for Operation Extend the Ride should see their local dealer upon return from deployment. Service men and women will need to provide the dealer with a copy of their orders or a signed statement from their Commanding Officer that specifies the period of time for which they were involved in active duty.
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight street, custom and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson/Buell dealers and customers.
BREE ON STEEDS POSTER–Bandit,I sent a big tube of posters to you today, UPS, to the Wilmington compoundaddress. You should see them on Thursday.The one in the middle of the batch is signed for you and Nyla. The rest arefor you to distribute as you see fit.
Thanks again for spreading the word. We’ll see you soon up in Cincy. Idon’t even have a jacket for -15…do you?
John
Time to wrap up and head to Pedro for the tail-end of First Thursday.
As Jose mentioned earlier, our condolences go out to anyone who?s suffered from the horrific Tsunami in Asia. It really makes me stop and appreciate all that I have, my loved ones. Time is so precious; moments should not be wasted on hate and superficial acts of carelessness or greed. Don?t waste any more time, let the ones closest to you know how important they are. Hug and kiss them while you can.
Layla
January 6, 2005 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
EYECANDY CUSTOMS ? TAILIGHTS–Bandit,You featured one of our bikes a few weeks ago on your site. It was theEyecandy Custom Cycles Black/Blue chopper. Check out our taillights. We currently have the model A and Caddy ones available(the caddy picture attached is an unfinished unit). I have had some greatresponses from people looking at your site.
Thanks Vincent
vince@eyecandycustomcycles.com
DALLAS CHOPPER SHOW–Weather Looks GREAT This SUNDAY forThe 2nd Annual DALLAS CHOPPER SHOW & Swap Meet SEE TEXAS BEST – Home Built – Shop Built – Manufacturer Built Choppers & Vote For Your Favorite for – Peoples Choice
CHECK OUT – Bargains on Accessories & Parts – Giant Leather DiscountersUsed Parts – Garage “Clean Outs” – Lifestyle Accessories – Jewelry – NoveltiesDrag Racin? Motorcycle Display – Wall to Wall Good Deals – accompanied by -Mad Max & Max Attack – “Rock & Blues, just like we like it” –
DOOR PRIZES – FREE PAVED BIKE PARKING – “right up front”
WHEN – THIS SUNDAY JANUARY 9th, 10am-5pm
WHERE – LONGHORN BALLROOM
ADMISSION – $8 ADULTS, $5 5-14, Under 5 FREE
INFORMATION – Show 254-687-9066, Day of Show 214-428-4500
-Vendor Info 254-687-2362 & More on the web WWW.TEXASSCOOTER.COM
LOCATION – Corner of Industrial Blvd. & Corinth.
Take Industrial Blvd Exit from I-30 or I-35 at Downtown Dallas, Go South 5 Blocks on Industrial Blvd. Look fer the COW
Hey folks,Chop-art moto illustration will take a photo of your prized two-wheeled possessionand turn it into an illustration. A great way to display your baby at home or inoffice. You get a finished print, cd with the finished art work as well as a fileto put on your computers desktop. Please contact me with any questions. I look forwardto speaking with you and checkin’ out that sweet ride.
Thanks,
Dave Seymour
Chop-Art
A MESSAGE FROM BULLITT–Sin and all non-harley bikers – Hey lady, it was nice of you to say that Bikernet is an equal oppotunity motorcycle site.Especially when ya got wankers like Jose calling anyone who don’t own a Harley a fucking wannabe.That’s certainly the way to encourage more readers and promote your site to a wider audience.
Keep up the good work Jose.
Whenever I come across guys like this I am constantly reminded of why I DON’T own a fucking Hog.
I always have a good laugh at the Harley guys who go around telling all and sundry that they are “individuals”.Like yeah, sure. Taken a good look at yourselves lately?Black rebel boots, black jeans, black t-shirts, black jackets, black gloves, black open face helmets, black attitudes to riders on other brands of bikes.
You’re just a bunch of clones. Do they manufacture you at a factory somewhere?
Individuals my ass!
Get a life for fucks sake.
On a lighter note. I am just off to Sri Lanka as part of an Emergency Disaster Response Team. Thanks to everyone, Aussie and American and UK who has made a donation or helped out in some way.If you want to see what the Tsunami really did in terms of damage check out the site below;http://www.waveofdestruction.org
Now there’s reports of pedophiles kidnapping young children. We’re really hoping to come across some of these fuckers, it’s chaos over there, a few more bodies won’t attract much attention.
Oh yeah, Jaqhama’s my Bro. He is a REAL biker. He’s ridden more bikes, in more countries, for more miles, than anyone I know. You guys (and gals) should tell him to stop writing his fictional stories and put down some of his real life riding tales. He’s had some adventures!
Got a plane to catch people.
Ride on.
V-Max’s rule.
Laterz
Bullitt.
Bullitt, everyone has there own opinion and I appreciated those of you that take to time and have the nerve to tell us yours. That is what makes Bikernet so unique, you readers and writers. I do think we?re an equal opportunity site, anyone can submit whatever they want and as long as it?s not racial, or in really, really poor taste, We?ll run it. We?ve featured more than just Harley?s here, but basically H-D?s are what we?re all about, and motorcycle riders. I had a thought today, that maybe guys who ride H-D?s should be called bikers, cause they like that, and all other bike riders should be called riders? Just a dopey thought?
As for Jaqhma, he?s the best! I would love to read some real-life stories from him, but in addition to his fiction, not in place of. I enjoy it too much too.
Sin
TSUNAMI SURVIVOR ? LETTER TO A FRIEND OF A FRIEND–So now that we are heading out to sea we feel safe. The scope of what has happened is not even beginning to hit me yet and now I know it will be weeks before it does. To this day I am still unsure if at the time I knew what was truly going on. So we head back to Phuket. Longtails are everywhere, these are local wood boats used for everything. All the drivers are wearing life preservers. The Thais are all really freaking out. I would say that the ocean sucked out and came in over 30 times that day. Not as big as the first three times.
I am now off Chalong Bay and waves are actually coming back out to sea. Some are almost 6 feet high and breaking for hundreds of yards. We start heading north up the west coast to Patong. We are amazed at all the debris floating in the water. Thousands of chaise lounges, chairs, coolers filled with ice and sodas. Ladies purses with cell phones and wallets. Capsized boats, manikins from the clothes shops, refrigerators. The list goes on and on.
Now as we head into Patong Bay we can see the damage to the beach road. The trees are clear the first 30 feet. No leaves or bushes on the shore. Boats are in the trees, in buildings, its so scary. Not one to sit back and relax at a time like this, Jeff and I set the anchor and go into the beach for a closer look. On the way we notice another surf charter boat Freedom, is dragging anchor. We board the boat start her up and move her farther offshore. Then off to another boat for the same reason. As we near the beach it starts to suck again and we get nervous and head back to the wombat. Went to sleep early must be the stress that makes me feel so tired. In the morning we all get up early to go ashore. This will haunt me for the rest of my life. I saw cars and trucks in locations they don?t belong, In swimming pools in the sides of buildings. Dead bodies being loaded into trucks. People walking around dazed. I can?t explain in words what I saw.
Thai ladies in front of the jewelry store digging in the sand for treasure. They had found giant diamond and ruby rings and they where trading with one another based on the size of there fingers rather the value. Amazing! I saw cars that had been stacked on one another 3 high. I was stunned.
Next day I get to the internet. 63 messages from concerned friends and family. The next day 48 and so on. During these two days I get a hold of everyone sending e-mails and watching the news. I can not believe I am alive. How close I came to cheating death. I get an e-mail from Eric, Rob Greens cousin telling me he knows of two people missing from Koh lak. I go straight to all the local hospitals. I get there names registered on the missing persons website. At one hospital I meet a man looking for the same couple. Off to the city Hall. Bodies are being flown in on helicopters and being kept at the city hall till they are identified. Its like a war zone. Consulates are trying to help family members find there families. Billboards with fotos of the missing next to billboards of the dead. The fotos of the dead are so graphic. The faces had the fear of death on them. Eyes popping out of their sockets in sheer terror. It was herd to tell their race from the head trauma. Arms torn off legs missing. Lots had no clothes on as they were sleeping when the wave hit.
In the city hall building computers were set up. I log on to get more info, next to me sits a young couple from Seattle. We start sharing stories. They were staying at the same resort as the people I am looking for. They show me fotos of the resort. I am in shock. They stayed on the second floor. The husband had grabbed his wife and took her up the stairwell and onto the roof. On the roof with them were only ten other survivors. They were the only Americans to make it out alive. I immediately lost hope. I spoke to the American consulate and he had been to Koh Lak the day before. He asked me the names then told me they were not on his list of survivors. Then he said to tell the friends and family to prepare them for the news.
It?s hard to explain how I knew after seeing all that I had seen no one could make it out of this alive. This was the hardest day for me. All the pictures of the dead will forever be in my head. Those poor children playing on the beach one minute, the next gone. More to come. Leo
–From Chris T.
HARLEY DEAL OF THE WEEK–A bone stock 1979 Sportster.It has original paint, new shocks, chrome goodiesand at $ 3700 OBO, it’s a rare offer.An excellent Ladies Choice of ride.Call 772-468-8539 (Home) or 561-252-4608 (Cell)
Bruce, 49, got dealt a bad hand with a nasty Cancer diagnosis this past November, he was given six months…His Flatheads, Super Glide and FLH wait patiently for a progress report from theTampa Bay doctors. He is a brother hailing from Clifton, New Jersey twenty five years ago.His wife Linda needs your prayers. They live in Ft. Pierce, Florida.
Katmandu
How Mercedes Benz got its Logo
Ray Russell
THE PREISTS–Two priests decided to go to Hawaii on vacation. They were determined tomake this a real vacation by not wearing anything that would identifythemas clergy. As soon as the plane landed, they headed for a store andboughtsome really outrageous shorts, shirts, sandals, and sunglasses.
The next morning, they went to the beach, dressed in their “tourist”garb.They were sitting on beach chairs, enjoying a drink, the sunshine, andthescenery when a “drop dead gorgeous” topless blonde in a thong bikini camewalking straight towards them. They couldn’t help but stare.
As the blonde passed them, she smiled and said, “Good morning, Father.Goodmorning, Father,” nodded and addressed each of them, then moved on.
They were both stunned. How in the world did she know they were priests?The next day, they went back to the store and bought even more outrageousoutfits. These were so loud you could HEAR them before you even sawthem.
Once again, the two priests (incognito) settled on the beach, in theirchairs, to enjoy the sunshine. After a while, the same gorgeous toplessblonde, wearing a string bikini, taking her sweet time, came walkingtowardthem.
Again, she nodded at each of them, said “Good morning, Father,”andstarted to walk away.
One of the priests couldn’t stand it any longer and said, “Just a minute,young lady…”
“Yes?” she replied.
“We ARE priests, and proud of it, but I have to know . How in the worlddid you KNOW we are priests, dressed as we are?”
“Father,” she replied, “it’s me, Sister Mary Francis.”
Chris T.
CYCLE EXPO 2005March 18-20Richmond, Va @ The ShowplaceThe Mid-Atlantic’s hottest bike show featuring The Agony & Ecstasy tattoo Convention. Balls to the wall motorcycle mayhem. Hardcore customs, bone stock and classic vintage motorcycles of all make and models compete in over 30 classes for the coveted Excalibur Sword Trophies. $1,000.00 for Best in Show
Live in person direct from The Discovery Channel-
Star of the new hit series Southern Steel; Randy Simpson & Milwaukee Iron
Indian Larry Legacy w/ Paul Cox & Keino
Chopper Madman Suicide Jack www.suicidejack.cc
With special guest- Monster Garage MC and host of Monster Nation- THE BIG SCHWAG!
NOBODY has more variety, unique and bizarre merchandise from the BEST vendors in the industry. Over 100 Leather, jewelry, motor clothes, memorabilia, parts, accessories, patches, trailers, t-shirts and everything else under the sun. If it’s not here you don’t need it! Let’s not forget the dealers and manufacturers in attendance Cycle Expo 2005 has them all! .
Babes? Beauties? Bombshells? FORGET ABOUT IT!!! We got the hottest honeys in the world live and in the flesh for your viewing pleasure pictures, autographs and more!?!?!
Over the years we have showcased the wildest women anywhere like Penthouse Pet and Adult film stars Melissa Wolf, Dana Leigh, Amber Waves, Bodacious Babbette. WWF Bombshell Sable, The Purrfect Angels and much, much more
The Agony & Ecstasy Tattoo Convention at the Cycle Expo has been the backdrop for some awesome art and amazing artists. 25 tattoo booths with 50 feature artists blazing away all weekend long will give every tattoo fan a chance at something new. Find that piece you’ve been looking for or have an original created just for you! The Agony & Ecstasy awaits you.
Red Hot & Smokin’ Bikini Contest $500.00 in cash and prizes. Ladies bring your thongs and show whatcha got. Jell-O Wrestling- what more can we say? Topless Mechanical Bull Riding and strip poker -we have done it all, and Excalibur Productions will always strive to bring you more. We don’t push the envelope we tear it to shreds.
Entertainment is never lacking at the Expo either, over the years Excalibur Productions has set the standard for outrageous entertainment and motorcycle mayhem, with Indian Larry?s Coney Island Sideshow, The Bayonet Brothers, J.J. Steels Faces of Death Stuntshow, WWE Superstars and Discovery Channel Chopper Legends.
This is not a weekend for the faint of heart or weak-kneed ninnies who just want a spin around the block. Excalibur Productions pulls out all the stops to make this a bike show to remember. Don’t worry, security is great and everyone goes home happy. Some content (brief nudity, adult language) may be unsuitable for children so use your best judgment if you plan to visit. Everyone is always very cordial and accommodating so saddle up and putt on in for?The Greatest Show on Wheels. Cycle Expo 2005
Sponsored by- Velocity Vintage Motorcycles, Richmond Harley-Davidson, Milwaukee Iron, Carolina Custom Products, Grumpy?s Customs, High Rollers Seats, MAC Tools Chix Custom Cycles, , Brians Kustom Paint, Metzeler Tyres, Suicide Jack Choppers
Admission $15.00 Kids 12 & under free with adult. For more info call
Excalibur Productions at 804-501-0006
Website: http://www.excalevents.com
Continued On Page 3
January 6, 2005 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
I hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas and New Years; we kept things mellow around here.
There seems to be chaos around the world as far as the weather is concerned. Snow in Texas, it rained here for days last week causing a flood outside our building. We barely could get to our cars from the front or the back, all you could do was roll your pants up to your knees and run barefoot till you made to your car. It seemed much worse since the Tsunamis happened right at the same time. We counted our blessings that the water was just surrounding us, and not sweeping us away.
I know it?s been a little stale on Bikernet, but starting next week you?ll see some new articles popping up. I worked on the ?My First Harley? episodes and made each one their own page with separate titles so you don?t have to scroll through each one to read the newest. I have two more submissions that I?ll be launching probably on Tuesday; one from Stealthman and from Johnnie Gutierrez. There?s fiction from Allan Lowson, a bike build from Lucky Devil, and more so hang on.
The news has been a little light lately, I think because lots of businesses close down for the holidays. We haven?t been getting many press releases or product launches. I don?t know about you but I?m really looking forward to next week. Kids go back to school, drywallers and framers come back from vacation and things will get back to normal around here. As my dad use to say, SNAFU ? systems-normal-all-fucked-up. That?s what we are.
Here?s the news?
HALE THE FREEDOM FIGHTERS–Nominees are now being accepted for the 2005 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame’s FREEDOM FIGHTERS HALL OF FAME.
The Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame recognizes the sacrifices individuals across the nation, and world, have made to protect the rights of those who ride. To honor these Freedom Fighters the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame established the nation’s first and only FREEDOM FIGHTERS HALL OF FAME.
You are encouraged to participate by sending the name of an outstanding Freedom Fighter from your state/province/country, along with a brief bio as to why this person deserves to be recognized. Biographical information and credentials should be no more than two pages. All nominations must be received by April 15, 2005.
Please send your nomination by mail or email to:
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
PO Box 602
Sturgis, SD 57785
pepper@sturgismuseum.com
For further information contact Executive Director Pepper Massey-Swan, 605.347.2001
FREEDOM FIGHTERS HALL OF FAME
Arizona – Ralph “Sonny” Barger
California – NY Myke, John Paliwoda
Connecticut – Donald “Pappy” Pittsley
District of Columbia – Senator Olympia Snow, Representative Beverly Waters,Tom Wyld
Colorado – Mark Buckner
Florida – Doc Reichenbach
Indiana – Michael Farabaugh
Illinois – Todd Vandermyde
Iowa – Dick “Slider” Gilmore
Kentucky – Jay Huber
Michigan – Angel Burton-Ristau, Representative James BarciaMinnesota – Governor Arnie Carlson, Bob Illingworth, John Sullivan, Bob Summer,Representative Tom Workman
Montana – Glen Fengstad
New Mexico – Dennis “Big D” Watson
North Carolina – Rick Nail
Ohio – Bill Bish
Oregon – Butch Harbaugh
South Carolina – Jesse McDugald
Pennsylvania – Rick Gray
Texas – Sputnik Washington – Swede Matzek
Wisconsin – Wayne Curtin, Senator Dave Zien, Tony “Pan” Sanfelipo, Sue Menard,
Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson, Buck Kittredge
England – Fred Hill, Ian Mutch
AFRICAN BIKE TOURS–Hey there Bandit,I hope that you experienced a restful festive break!Long time since I wrote to you…anyway, my wife and I are in the process of launching a bike touring gig in South Africa, using twin cams mostly, which are being provided for this purpose. What I really need to know, in the interests of stronger business-who in the States would love to come out here to ride around this glorious country on H-D’s and what would it take to lure these folk to do just that?We are going to offer a comprehensive service that includes medical back-up, chase vehicles, professionally plotted routes touching on places of interest with B-plan excursions, and…you get the picture.
I would appreciate anything you may be able to pass my way.
May you go from strength to stronger!
Kindest regards,
Ari de Beer. ( Cape Town, South Africa ).
NEWS FROM WHITEHORSE PRESS– We’re pleased to announce publication on February 1, 2005 of the American Motorcyclist Association’s new book:
RIDE GUIDE TO AMERICA: FAVORITE MOTORCYCLE TOURS IN THE USAhttp://www.whitehorsepress.com/email.php?cn=52&en=en0501&id=amagand to offer a special pre-publication price of $19.95 if you order your copy now. This is a $5.00 savings off the regular $24.95 price, and is available until publication on February 1st.
The new “Ride Guide to America,” edited by the AMA’s Greg Harrison, features more than 35 handpicked trips across the United States, all brought to life with full-color photos, maps, and descriptive narrative of the attractions along the way. Written by popular travel motojournalists Clement Salvadori, Greg Frazier, Bill Kresnak, Lance Oliver, Grant Parsons, Marty Berke, Dale Coyner, Neal Davis, and Bruce Hansen, it brings together in one book their favorite rides in the USA. You’ll want this book to help plan your motorcycle travels — for this year and many beyond.
See for yourself. Reserve your copy of this book now at the special $19.95 price. Then, get on the road and see the best of this wonderful country of ours.
Whitehorse Press
107 East Conway Road
Center Conway, NH 03813-4012
603-356-6556
BLACK OAK ARKANSAS READY TO ROCK–Jim Dandy & Black Oak Arkansas are looking to fill tour dates for 2005!It’s time to get Hot ‘n’ Nasty!!!
Jim or Rickiemailto:rlreynolds333@bellsouth.
901-276-1973
Georgemailto:ggumbo@ipa.net
479-783-0094
S&S Cycle and American Iron Magazine introduce Old School Shovel Tour.–VIOLA, WI (January 4, 2005) All S&S customers are invited to the Broken Spoke Saloon in Daytona Beach, FL on Wednesday, March 9, at 9 p.m., for the start of the S&S/American Iron Old School Shovel Tour. Five builders have been chosen to create five unique and affordable customs based on the new S&S 93″, alternator/generator, shovelhead-style engine. All five builders, and their bikes, will be full features in upcoming American Iron Magazine issues.
The builders are Kevin Alsop of Big Bear Choppers, Big Mike of BMC Choppers, Chica of Chica Customs, Jesse Rooke of Jesse Rooke Customs, and the Indian Larry Legacy, which consists of Paul Cox and Keino. The bikes can be built anyway the builders want, however, they must all conform to the following rules:
Bike must have functional kick-starter.
Bike must have a retail parts price of no more than $20,000. This does not include labor or paint. A build list must be presented so a customer could buy the complete package.
Engine must be installed in the bike “as is”, using all of the original S&S parts, unmodified.
Builders can make the bikes any way they like, but they have to ride them approximately 130 miles from the Akey School in Twin Bluffs, Wisconsin, to the Tri-State Raceway in Earlville, Iowa, on July 9, 2005.
The S&S/American Iron Old School Shovel Tour, including the five bikes and builders, will be displayed at every stop on the S&S ’05 Show Tour (Check out the S&S web site Event Calendar for details) including the Tri-State Raceway in Earlville, Iowa, on Saturday, July 9, 2005 (rain date July 16, 2005) following the “shakedown ride” as well as the Broken Spoke Saloon on Wednesday, August 10, at 9 p.m., in Sturgis during Bike Week. Be there!
Shovels Rule!
S&S Cycle has been a leading manufacturer of Proven Performance V-Twin motorcycle components and engines for over 45 years. George Smith and Stanley Stankos founded the company in 1958 in Blue Island, Illinois. Shortly after the founding of S&S, George, and his wife Marjorie (whose maiden name was also Smith), bought out Stanley Stankos and Smith & Stankos became Smith & Smith (S&S). In 1969, S&S moved from Blue Island to Viola, Wisconsin and expanded to La Crosse, Wisconsin in 2004. This 3rd generation business supplies components and/or engines to several large custom OEs including: American Ironhorse, Arlen Ness, Big Bear Choppers, Big Dog, BMC, Bourget Bike Works, Hellbound Steel, Swift, Titan, Ultra, Vengeance, & Victory (please see the S&S website for a complete listing).
JOANN ?CRAZYHORSE? REPORT–Yeah, I been MIA for a while, but like they say, “When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.” And this pro has had to take a break. One of my favorite books is Hunter Thompson’s classic ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.” I’ve never been to Vegas and when the opportunity came up for me to display my little gooseneck hardtail at the NACE trade show in Vegas in Nov, it was an offer I couldn’t refuse. NACE was happening at the same time as the SEMA trade show. For those who have never heard of SEMA, it is the largest (or seems like it) vehicle trade show on the planet, with manufacturers displaying their latest products. There’s everything from wheels to paint to engines, hell the wheel and tire building could take a whole day to go through.
TLC’s show “Overhaulin'” was even filming a live show in front of an audience of anyone who wanted to watch. For any gearhead, it was serious eye candy in every direction. It also meant that nearly everyone in the custom business was in town. I met up and hung out with guys like True-Fire flame artist Mike Lavelle, the legendary street rod painter Art Himsl, larger than life but so down to earth Tom Pruett who slapped some serious paint on Monster Garage, my old friend Jon Kosmoski from House of Kolor, and many other total legendary talents like Craig Fraser and Bob Bonds. One night I was walking down The Strip and ran into extreme customizers Bob Soroka and George Fulesi of Detriot’s Kustom Haus. And when you stick that many creative and imaginative people in a cartoon town like Vegas, crazy stuff is gonna happen.
One night I hung out with Simon Murray, extreme airbrush artist from Ireland and Nub who does the paintwork for OCC.Looking back at the whole week- I doubt Hunter Thompson could have plotted a more twisted adventure. From my run-in with the Coroner to hanging on the set of Overhaulin’ to the total decadence of the Island Lounge at Mandalay Bay to the drama at the Hard Rock, I may never recover. I’m serious- and I wasn’t even drinking hard and I got into all kinds of trouble.
One thing of particular interest was the fact the Zero Engineering- the wicked chopper builders out of Japan, have a shop in Vegas and on one insane afternoon, I went there and shot pics of 3 of the most evil rides I have ever seen.
To make this trip even more nuts, I trailered my bike out there-alone. Instead of trusting the love of my life to some trucking company I drove 2300 across the country and that in itself was worth it. I saw surreal sunsets and sunrises over the prairie. I saw the incredible Petrified Forest and the Meteor Crater and viewed scenery that looks to be not of this world. I went from the hot plains to snow covered mountains in 3 hours. I saw crazy chopper freaks in Albuquerque doing wicked stunts on the interstate at 1 am. I drove across the plains of Texas singing sad songs after it was all over.
Upon hearing my tale a few weeks later at the CBA swap meet, my friend Steve said, “You need to write a book about it. Fictionize it a bit, but that is one twisted tale.” So I may just do that. Of course I can never tell the whole story, the real story. The old saying, “What happens in Vegas- Stays in Vegas,” seems quite appropriate after losing my Vegas virginity. It’s been sorta of a struggle going back to my real life after that trip. Like that insurance commercial about how life comes at you fast. In Vegas, everything seemed to be in slow motion, like watching a train wreck and being powerless to look away.
I will have a full report written up on my trip to Zero Engineering for The Horse and a bit about the trip itself. As for the rest, I’ll leave the secrets where they lie. Where they will lurk until next year’s SEMA show. Cool cars, trucks and bikes, the most extreme paint I’ve ever seen, and drama up the ying yang- I wouldn’t have missed it for anything.
I did get to do some riding this new year. Actually took the old sporty out New Years Day. The weather here in the Carolinas was unreal, nearly 70. I pulled over to take a break at this ancient gas station and it seemed like bikes were going by every 5 minutes. It was as if everyone with a bike in the Carolinas was out there. There were even a few pretty large packs of bikes going by.
But my main focus has been working on my new book and getting 3 bikes ready for the Easyriders Show here in Charlotte in 3 weeks. It will be a 2 day show this year. After the V Twin Expo in Cincinnati will be cranked up. I’ll probably be there as my publisher will be displaying my first book. Hope to run into a bunch of old friends there. But all I can say is that 2005 looks to be a very twisted year for me, brutal bikes going together, evil paint ideas brewing and who knows what else. All I know is by the time Bike Week rolls around, I will be very ready for a long break, hanging with Goth Girl and Sammy Morgan at the Wall of Death. Bummer part is Larry won’t be there this time. No, I take that back. His spirit will always be alive at The Wall.
Crazy Horse
Continued On Page 2
December 30, 2004 Part 3
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 2
BIKERNET LONE BUILD-OFF–Hey Bandit, This is the final product before it gets painted.
ChopperJohn
Patdown modified for female passengers–
ASSOCIATED PRESS
WASHINGTON — In response to numerous complaints from women, the government has ordered airport security personnel to avoid touching female passengers between their breasts when performing patdowns.
Security screeners now will keep their hands to the “chest perimeter” of women unless detection equipment picks up the possibility that they are hiding explosives between their breasts.
The new method takes into consideration passenger discomfort while remaining steadfast in mitigating risks, said Transportation Security Administration spokesman Mark Hatfield.
The nation’s 45,000 screeners are being told to pat down the perimeter of the chest, backsides and abdomen, effective Thursday.
TSA has made other modifications. Last week it began allowing passengers to lower their arms after the first part of a search so they can be more comfortable.
Women have complained about the intrusiveness of the searches. “This reduces some of the anxiety that some passengers have expressed,” Hatfield said, adding that the change does not weaken security efforts.
Roughly 2 million passengers a week are patted down. Some are searched this way after setting off metal detectors twice; others are chosen by computer.
Rogue
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Doors Opened
To Reveal The Outside
As He Stepped Out Into Freedom
For The Very First Time
With His ‘Ol Lady KO
Right By His Side
~
Complete Freedom Was
Still A Few Steps Away
He Will Have To Find A Job
Spend His Nights In A Half Way
Rustys Getting Stronger
Every Second Of Everyday
~
Emotions Flow Freely
That He Once Locked Away
He Had To, Just To Survive
Its The Only Way A Sane Man
Can Get Through His Time
~
All Part Of The Book
The Big One Calls His Life
One Chapter Is Over
He’s Left It Behind
A New One Begins
As He Slowly Unwinds
~
Composed For Rusty By Panhead Josh – Do Not reproduce without ownersconcent.
ZACHARY OR CHOPPERS–Hi Bandit, I’m looking for help finding a custom shopper shop. A while back, I saw an ad in one of the bike mag’s for a custom chopper shop, (frames and bikes). Since then, I have not been able to find the ad or remember the website name. What I remember is the word’s “zachary” and “chopper” were in the name. I’ve searched google, but have not been able to find anything.
Any help would be great.
Robert
SBK Fast Dates World Superbike Angels are Feelin’ Lucky–SBK Corona World Superbike Championship Renews Fast Dates Calendar Endorsement
Los Angeles, CA, Jan 1st 2005: The FastDates.com Calendars and Website is proud to announce that FGSport has renewed the SBK World Superbike Championship’s endorsement of the the Fast Dates Racebike Pinup Calendar for 2005 to cover the upcoming 2006 Fast Dates Calendar, currently in production. The endorsement is part of a mutual promotion between SBK and FastDates.com in which the new 2005 SBK Corona Extra Superbike World Championship logo and the top factory superbikes will be featured in the 2006 Fast Dates Calendar, on the FastDates.com Website and in all related advertising for the calendar.
Along with SBK’s endorsement of the Fast Dates Calendar, the beautiful FastDates.com Calendar Angeles calendar models are the officially SBK Fast Dates Calendar Girls. The Fast Dates Calendar and FastDates.com Website with Pit Lane News provides excellent coverage of the SBK Corona Extra World Superbike Championship, with FastDates.com supported by a featured banner link on the official SBK Website at WorldSBK.com.
Along with SBK, the Fast Dates Calendar is sponsored by Performance Machine, the leader in aftermaket billet machined wheels and controls for motorcycles; and Jardine Performance, manufacturer of high performance motorcycle exhaust systems as used by Team American Honda.
SBK superbike fans can still look forward to complete race coverage on the FastDates.com and WorldSBK.com websites, while enjoying the top factory superbikes and beautiful SBK Fast Dates Calendar Angels featured in the Fast Dates Calendar. The Calendar ordering information is also online at FastDates.com.
Gianatsis Design Associates and , publisher of the FastDates.com Calendars. just concluded the photography for the 2006 Feelin’ Lucky Garage Girls Calendar featuring 3 very beautiful current and former SBK Fast Dates Calendar Angels: Andra Cobb (2006), Chandi Mason (2005) and Taylor McKegney (2000). The shoot took place on a garage style set in the Gianatsis Design studio with Creative Director and Photographer Jim Gianatsis, makeup and hair by Lisa Rukus, all styled to the well known Garage Girls theme of sweaty and grimy, scantily clad “Beautiful models hard at work without the motorcycles getting in the way!”
Garage Girls and the other FastDates.com Calendars including Fast Dates and Iron & Lace are available from most major motorcycle product distributors through your dealer and online at FastDates.com.
Calendars are available through Parts Unlimited, Motorcycle Stuff, Van Leeuwen, Lockhart-Phillips at your local motorcycle dealer, or phone USA1-800-461-1226 or order online at http://www.FastDates.com.In England phone Crossbow Calendars at 181-669-6400.
This is what I call an Esky!!!
Happy New Year, Ray Russell
BIKERNET GERIATRIC MOMENT–
A biker stops by the local Harley shop to have his bike fixed. They couldn’t do it while he waited, so he said he didn’t live far and would just walk home. On the way home he stopped at the hardware store and bought a bucket and an anvil. He stopped by the livestock store and picked up a couple of chickens and a goose. However, struggling outside the store he now had a problem: how to carry all of his purchases home. Whle he is scratching his head he was approached by a little old lady who told him she was lost. She asked, “Can you tell me how to get to 1603 Mockingbird Lane?”
The biker said, “Well, as a matter of fact, I live at 1616 Mockingbird Lane. I would walk you home, but I can’t carry this lot”. The old lady suggested, “Why don’t you put the anvil in the bucket, carry the bucket in one hand, put a chicken under each arm and carry the goose in the other hand?”
“Why thank you very much,” he said and proceeded to walk the old girl home. On the way home he says, “Let’s take my short cut and go down the alley. We’ll be there in no time.” The little old lady looked him over cautiously then said, “I am a lonely widow without a husband to defend me. How do I know that when we get in the alley you won’t hold me up against the wall, pull up my skirt, and ravish me?”
The biker said, “Holy smokes lady! I”m carrying a bucket, an anvil, two chickens, and a goose. How in the world could I possibly hold you up against the wall and do that?” The lady replied, “Set the goose down, cover him with the bucket, put the anvil on top of the bucket, and I’ll hold the chickens.”
BIKERNET FREE CONTEST WINNERS– I know I haven?t chosen any in a while, and for that I apologize. That?s why a chose a few for the contest in the free section and a few from the Cantina contest. Speaking of Cantina, the price has gone down to $5.00 per year.
Click to subscribe!
That?s pretty damn cheap considering you can read K. Randall Ball?s book in their entirety in there. And, see naked and almost naked women. Not bad? OK, for your winners I give you:
ROBIN BURTON-JENKINS – OCOEE, FL
Suggestion: IT DON’T MATTER WHAT YOU RIDE. IT JUST MATTERS THAT YOU RIDE. SO LETS GET BACK TO ACKNOWLEDGING OTHER RIDERS ON THE ROAD.
Wanted:ANYTHING, YOU GUYS KICKS ASS
I?m gonna send him a book. Not sure which one yet but probably Billy Lanes new book. Hey Robin, if you?d rather have a t-shirt, you better shoot me an email. sinwu@bikernet.com
IVAN MANZANARES – HAGERSTOWN, MD. Suggestion: IT BOTHERS ME THAT IN THE BAR HANGOUT WHEN PEOPLE SAY “BIKER FRIENDLY” AND THEN IN THE NEXT SENTENCE THEY SAY NO COLORS. TO ME IT AIN’T BIKER FRIENDLY IF THEY DON’T ALLOW IN PATCH HOLDERS, SO DON’T LIST THEM IF THEY DISCRIMINATE AGAINST THE PATCH.
Wanted: T SHIRT WILL BE FINE THOUGH I DON’T EXPECT TO WIN, CUZ OF MY BITCHIN. SIZE IS XXL C YA PITBULL
Ivan, you get a shirt and expressing your opinion here at Bikernet does not constitute bitchin. Telling us we suck, that?s bitchin.
SHANNON MEADOWS – DELMAR, MD
Suggestion: MAKE YOUR WEB SITE FREE TO VEIW ALL OF THE PAGES AND U WILL PROBABLY GET MORE PEOPLE LOKKIN AT IT
Wanted: FREE GIRLS PICS
Shannon, most of the site IS free and we get about 300,000 of you fine folks a month that take a peak at Bikernet. If that?s not enough, tell your friends to come check us out. Oh, as for the girls, sorry, you gotta pay.
RICK HODEK – GRAND FORKS, ND
Suggestion: IT WOULD BE GREAT IF YOU COULD HAVE A SECTION WHERE PEOPLE COULD SEND IN PICTURES AND TEXT SHOWING THEIR HOME GARAGE/SHOPS. MAYBE EVEN SPECIAL TOOLS OR EQUIPMENT, BOUGHT OR HOME MADE,THAT MAKES IT EASIER TO WORK ON BIKES. SUCH AS LIFTS, BENCHES, JIGS, ETC.
Wanted: BANDITS ORWELL BOOK, ANY BIKE RELATED T-SHIRTS.
Hey Rick, you should know by now that we?ll run just about anything you guys and gals want to send us. Why don?t you send us your set-up and we?ll see if anyone follows? This site is for the readers, by the readers. Better send me an email with your shirt size. sinwu@bikernet.com
And For The Cantina Winners–
Ron Dankmyer – Fargo , ND
Wanted: cheap dig camera to take nudes of the ole lady, hat to cover my shaved head, two flat black mirrors for my ride, a book to read during down time….
I?ll send you a book?
Anson Alexander – Houma, LA
Wanted: Bikernet Beanie Bikernet T-shirt(size XL) Bandit Day / Bed roll,That you keep Bikernet rolling in 2005!
Thanks Anson, we plan to keep going for as long as you keep comin? back!
Skooter barnes – Sturgis, south dakota
Wanted: well im still tryin to find a ball cap,, my G.M.R.M/C support cap is wore out..
Hey Skooter, I?m gonna send you about five hats. Hang on?
DENNIS McLEISH – DEDHAM, MA
Wanted: T-SHIRTS, RIDIN GLOVES, CAN OF TUNA (IN SPRING WATER,NO OIL PLEASE)
You got it, Dennis. A t-shirt and riding gloves it is.
Thanks to all who enter and keep it coming. You never know if next time it will be you who the winner.
Photo from John Covington of Steeds Muscle Bikes. Yummy Sarah?
THAT’S A WRAP FOR 2004–Here’s the plan in a chromed toolbox. I’m going to pump life into Hot Bike, upgrade the techs, specials, evenbike features. We’ve brought a solid number of Freelancers (Frank Kaisler,Rogue, TBear, Jim Houck ‘agent Zebra’ and more) on board to assist and givethe readers a wider range of talent and coverage. Hot Bike will cover thehottest action, tech, bikes and stories in the industry-that’s our motto.Street Choppers is going to take on more attitude and old school chopperswith a few of the new thrown in. If you’re into flat black, this is yourmag. And Hot Rod Bikes will become the industry Tech Bible. It’s all abouttechs and how-tos from wide tire installations to fuel injection upgrades.If all goes well Bikernet will remain the same in many respects and become aconnection for you to reach the mags, to see what’s happening behind thescenes, to receive teasers about up coming issues and see some of thehottest material archived for your future enjoyment.
That’s the initial plan, or the overall scheme. On top of that therewill be special issues, tech books and girls. That brings me to a story.Last night I put the Letters column together for the may issue. The word isout about girls in Hot Bike and my involvement. Many are excited, about thechanges. Some are offended, some cut the pictures of girls out of the adsand send them to me with passionate complaints. Isn’t that discrimination,if we left them out all together? Well bullshit, girls will be in Hot Bike,also the passion associated with tearing up the streets will be represented.We’re not producing a magazine about toasters or plain jane hubcaps, this isabout motorcycles, choppers, dream machines that take riders far away forordinary life.
I’m dying to see how people respond to the first issue. Some whoread my first editorial are terrified that I’m only going to run articleswith naked women and techs about rolling joints. It’s wild, so hang on andlet’s see what happens next. Have a helluva 2005 and I promise one thing forcertain, Never a Dull Moment.Ride Forever,–Bandit
December 30, 2004 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
BIKER PROS IN THE NEWS–Biker Pros Wins Roadmax Transmission Contract with Biker’s Choice
Southlake, Texas – December 29, 2004 – Biker Pros, the supplier of Roadmax transmissions for the American motorcycle builder, has completed negotiations with Biker’s Choice to become their primary transmission supplier.
Walter Clark, Vice President of Biker’s Choice, said, “Biker’s Choice is on the lookout for high-value high-quality products. Roadmax provides value to the dealer through healthy gross margins, and to the end user with a quality product that is competitively priced.”
Roadmax transmissions are designed for OEM replacement, kit bikes, as well as high-performance and wide-tire applications. Roadmax transmissions are thoroughly tested and have passed a rigorous pre-delivery inspection.
“A significant share of the custom bike market wants and needs bigger engines, more horsepower, bigger tires and right-side transmissions,” stated Bob Kay, President, Biker Pros. “Roadmax is the biker’s choice for these high-performance custom motorcycles and show quality choppers.”
“We conducted our due diligence in evaluating the product line,” explained Clark. “The performance, quality, fit and finish is exceptional. So much so that we replaced our own proprietary transmission with the Roadmax. All of our kit bikes come equipped with Roadmax.”
Biker’s Choice is one of the world’s leading distributors and marketers of name-brand parts, accessories and apparel for the American motorcycle aftermarket. Biker’s Choice is run by dedicated, life-long bikers who understand the American motorcyclist.
“We are delighted to have Biker’s Choice on our team,” said Kay. “They provide high quality products and deliver after-the-sale service that dealers need and deserve. The crew at Biker Pros is looking forward to working alongside them to build a winning team.”
Biker Pros is serving the American motorcycle builder with a range of high-value products and services that assist builders in improving motorcycle performance by providing high quality parts, troubleshooting powersports operations and building and marketing exclusive products by builders for the v-twin marketplace.
Contacts:
For further information please contact the Biker Pros Press Office:
Jeffrey Najar: 760-765-4734, pr@bikerpros.com
For information on Roadmax transmissions please contact Bob Kay: (
(817) 421-1333
bkay@bikerpros.com
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Well, I guess this is the last news of 2004. In a couple days we will be fucking up checks with the wrong date. Some will be tossing and turning with a nasty ass hangover, and some will be welcoming whatever the year brings and saying farewell to whatever the old year did and what we did not like.
I remember saying last week that I was not going to rant, although I did a bit, this week for sure I won’t. I know you guys follow the rants, but we still have 52 more weeks for that, so let’s take this one to just say what I want to say.
I don’t really know if it’s just me or whatever has being going on, but this Holiday season did not feel like Holidays at all. I remember, and remembering is not such a good thing, when as younger guys our Holidays started the 18th of Dec or so and ended by the 18th of Jan or so. Sure back then our worst worries was a book report or something along those lines. But as soon as school was out it was time to go party, sleep late and party some more, then go surf, or maybe travel and keep on going. Just a slight reminder, Puerto Rico winters are almost the same as the summers, weather does not dictate a marked difference. Although there’s still 24 hours to a day, and forever will be, it seemed like we had a lot more time. Time to go get gifts, party, surf, sleep and basically just be bums.
But one thing that always marked any Holidays was the difference in the people?s spirit. We would go in the water (to surf) and everyone we knew at the lineup would say the Feliz Navidad de rigueur, it was kind of a brotherhood. We got to see people that we had not seen in some time (Winter being the big wave season) or just our friends who went to school abroad and came back home. The same goes to going riding, a bunch of us would gather, get our bikes and go everywhere on them, and I mean every fucking bar, party, wedding or whatever it was. I still remember a few years back that we rode our bikes every single day through the whole Holiday season, and it never rained.
Part of all that was the different family parties up in their “country” houses or farms. We would ride up and then come back to the city to party some more. As we got a bit older, it was cool to get together with friends who came back from college, and even cooler when they brought fellow female classmates to spend their vacation here. We had a very tight circle of friends, in the thousands, everyone kind of knows everyone here. Alas, we grow up, there’s shit that needs to be done, our parents age, people get married, you know, what we call life. Things change, people change, people leave us, people die and some are born. Time is still those 24 hours, but we don’t seem to find the actual time to accomplish half of what we were able to. We compromise, move, get new shops, have debts, kids, and all the stuff that we already know, but are we still the same people of years ago?
That is a very good question, and something that we need to ponder with this upcoming year. In this trip that we call life we find new friends, do different things and we loose friends and family. It?s all part of a process or master plan that someone with way more power than us has schemed. I guess that’s part of why I hate my birthday; while I get older, I know a lot of the people I love will get older as well, and only time will tell when they won’t be with us no more. Life is a gamble.
But not all is gloom, we have very good days, we live by accomplishments, some very large some very little, but every single day that we manage to go to sleep, and then wake up in the morning (or later as is my case) we have accomplished something. We have gained, be it money (which is irrelevant) be it knowledge or be it growing as human beings.
I really don’t understand my position in the motorcycle industry, but I would have never , ever imagined that I could reach where I am right now (where ever that is). I’m sure many of you have goals to reach, which can be similar; no matter what you do or what it is, time is against all of us, but also time is the only thing that we have to be able to grow…. what a contradiction.To those who sometimes feel despair, there?s an old Spanish saying that loosely translates into God tightens the grip but won’t strangle.
There’s many things to thank for; there are many good friends who are not with us anymore. The New Year seems like just a change of numbers, but depending on what we make of it, it could actually be life changing. Simply we can never give up, we grown day by day, ’till we can’t grow no more, and that my friend is when we cease to exist. The friends that are gone are missed every day, but that brings us closer to the ones that are still with us. The same goes with family, bad times makes us stronger and the bond tightens.
I really don’t feel like bringing anyone down for the New Year, but I guess it’s just something that was making me think, and you know that means trouble. The day after Christmas I went surfing with a couple friends, and it was a strange feeling that started all these thoughts. It triggered the memories. But you know what? As familiar faces started paddling into the lineup, the feliz Navidad started rolling again and I did realize one thing, we can’t go back since we have a whole new set of friends, life and loved ones to live with into the future.
Don’t get me wrong, I am really looking forward into the New Year and what will happen, what will we reach, the trips, the builds, anything and everything that life throws at us. One thing for sure, it will always be interesting and it will always be a challenge.Maybe I will have more time, maybe I’ll finally make it to Japan, back to Hawaii or whatever, but most important is health.Anyway…Since I guess I?m getting boring, to everyone here, all the readers, my family, my friends, customers, girls, those who hate me, their mothers and everyone and anyone, the best New Year ever !!!!!
Give your good looking girls a big kiss for me, and thanks to everyone that in one way or another has affected my life in 2004 , for good or bad. I will see you all next year.
Jose De Miguel ? Bikernet Caribbean Reporter/Philosopher
More bikers are dying as boomers rev ’em up–
The Arizona Republic
The number of motorcyclists dying on Arizona roads has dramatically increased in the past five years, in part because new riders and veterans who haven’t ridden for years are hitting the streets without proper training, experts say.
A flock of new urban professionals and older returning riders are ill-prepared to handle the rigors of more powerful bikes and crowded streets, they say. Add to that unlicensed riders, alcohol impairment and inattentive motorists, and it means more deaths and injuries.
The number of Arizona motorcycle fatalities jumped 46 percent, with 111 deaths in 2003 compared with 76 deaths in 1999, according to an Arizona Republic analysis of Arizona Department of Transportation data. Nationally, the number of deaths is up 73 percent from 1997 to 2003, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The peak year for Arizona motorcycle fatalities was 1979, with 134 fatalities, three years after the state’s short-lived helmet law was repealed. From 1979 to 1986, there were more than 100 motorcycle fatalities each year, according to Jim Williams, ADOT traffic records manager.
Experts still say helmets are vital, but today they’re just as likely to point to the type of people taking up riding to explain the increase in accidents.
“There’s an influx of retired folks that rode when they were in high school and gave it up, raised a family and now are returning, but the motorcycles and the dynamics are completely different,” said Dick Studdard, chairman of the Arizona Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council.
Arizona has seen a 37 percent increase in motorcycle licenses and registrations in the past five years, according to the state Motor Vehicle Division, but fatalities are rising at a faster clip. “It is part of what is going on nationwide,” Studdard said. “It is not just more motorcycles, it is more untrained motorcyclists.”
Arizona Motor Vehicle Division spokeswoman Cydney DeModica agrees that training is lacking. “What we are seeing is young professionals who have kind of adopted motorcycles as their hobby, and they are able to afford the really upscale bikes,” she said. But a lot of them are skipping the training.
“They are new to motorcycles and don’t realize they can be virtually invisible to a large SUV and not as easy to see as a car, SUV or pickup truck, simply because they are smaller,” DeModica said.
“Hold up a deck of cards, flat side toward you. This is a private passenger car… Turn the card sideways, and this is a motorcycle.”
Dr. Scott Petersen, St. Joseph’s Hospital medical director of trauma services, said the mortality rate of motorcycle crash patients has remained about 5 percent over the past several years, with most dying in the first 24 hours from head injuries.
But he said the hospital has seen an increase in helmet use, from 30 percent of patients in 2002 to 48 percent in the first half of 2004. And he said the presence of alcohol in the blood of patients has decreased from 26 percent in 2002 to 22 percent in 2004.
“The trend is in the right direction. Maybe motorcycle drivers are getting to be a little more responsible,” Petersen said. “The good news is, helmet use is going up, and we are getting the message across despite the fact we have repealed our helmet law.”
But few topics are as hot in the motorcycle world as a helmet law. Advocates say they save lives while detractors say wearing a helmet is a matter of personal freedom.
Arizona doesn’t have a helmet law for adults but does require one for riders under 18. Twenty states, including Washington, California, Oregon and Nevada, require helmets for all riders.
“I feel unsafe when I wear a helmet because a helmet is going to weigh too much and impair my hearing and vision,” said Ray Huston, 57, of Glendale, the state vice chairman of the 1,200-member Modified Motorcycle Association of Arizona, a rights organization.
“We feel we are adults, and we can choose how we ride.”
Richard Fimbres, director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, said the absence of a helmet law draws some riders to the state.
According to ADOT data, 67 of 111 motorcycle riders and passengers who died in crashes in 2003 were not wearing helmets. Nationally in 2003, 52 percent of fatally injured motorcycle riders were not wearing helmets, according to NHTSA. In 2002, helmet use is credited for saving the lives of 1,005 motorcyclists, and an additional 579 more could have survived if all motorcyclists had worn them, NHTSA estimates.
Rogue
BIKERNET BLOND MOMENT–Jody the Blond runs crying into the house.
“What’s wrong?” gasps her best friendCarol.
“It’s my boyfriend,” gushes Jody. “He was working on theengine under the hood of his car when the lid came down and cut off afinger!”
“My god,” shrieks Carol. “Did it amputate his wholefinger?”
“No, thank goodness,” sniffs Jody. “But it was the one justnext to it!”
Rogue
BT SHIFTER REPORT–Bandit, Hope you had a great Christmas…..
I am off his week, so with all the rain we are having I finally got aroundto putting on my Hand shifter….Stone shifter and 1918 foot clutch…
Changed to a solo seat, now just waiting for the P-pad to get here.
Have a great New Year
Bob T.
2005 COLORADO MOTORCYCLE SWAP BUILD-OFF–Bandit-I wanted to let you know that the bike that Redhill Motorcycle Werx is building for the 2005 Colorado Motorcycle Swap Build off, valued at $50,000, will be raffled off on March 5, 2005 to benefit the Tiny Tim Center in Longmont Colorado. We will be selling 1000 tickets at $50 a piece between now and then which can be purchased at Redhill Motorcycle Werx or you can purchase them over the phone at (303)823-6363, we expect to sell them quickly so get your tickets today!
The Bike:
I don’t want to give too much away but the fenders, tank, oil bag, exhaust as well as a large portion of the frame were handfabricated in the shop at Redhill by Scot Ross and his team of builders. You can be sure that you haven’t seen a bike like this before and it will have a BIG engine assembled in house and the paint, done by Phil Greff of Black Canyon Custom Paint will be unique with a lot of detail. As with all of there bikes it will be a head turner.
The Shop:
Redhill Motorcycle Werx, located off Highway 66 in Lyons, caters to all motorcycle enthusiasts, stocking everything from t-shirts to transmissions. There exceptional service department has incorporated a power commander dynomometer and has an in house paint shop, Black Canyon Custom Paint. They have participated in the Cherry Creek Arts Festival the “Art On Two Wheels Exhibit” for two consecutive years, bringing the art of motorcycles to the masses. They were recognized nationally in 2004 as a Dealernews Top 100 motorcycle shop . Redhill has also been seen on all of the local Colorado television stations, featured in Southwest Scooter News, Sturgis Rally News, Quick Throttle Magazine, Rocky Mountain Rider and Thunder Press along with being photographed by world renowned motorcycle photographer Michael Lichter and featured in the January 2004 issue of the international motorcycle magazineV-Twin.
The Charity:
Since 1956, the Tiny Tim Center has been a valuable and vital resource for young children with special needs and their families from the Longmont area and surrounding communities. The Center offers equal educational preschool experiences to ALL children, regardless of disabilities or challenges.
The Center also specializes in working with children with special needs birth to 12 years of age – offering pediatric language and motor therapies in the home or other community sites as well as working with a local teen parenting program.
Tiny Tim is a one-of-a-kind jewel providing nurturing, structure and a safe learning environment for our most precious resource – our children.
If you have any questions about the bike, the shop or the charity, please send me an e-mail of call me at (970) 227-3588.
Thanks,
Ken
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