BIKERNET NEWS FLASH–BUELL WINS, NEW WIDE TIRE KITS, AND CYRIL HUZE FRAME RELEASED

Jack’s bike night babe from RFR.

It’s nearly noon on Thursday and I’m still sweeping the shop out after the American Rider Tech we shot on the 2004 Sportster custom. Deadlines. That Sportster is hot property. Everyone who shows up at the shop wants to ride it.

We better get to the news. I’m ready for the weekend. The news is packed with event and ride info. Keep your note pad handy:

JOKER MACHINE’S LATEST ADDITION–Former motorcycle magazine photographer and writer Jeff Deasey has joined the Joker Machine team to serve as the company’s Media/Marketing Director. Deasey spent the past 6 years in the motorsports publishing industry and performs freelance work for Iron Works and other select publications in his spare time.

Jeff will handle all inquiries from television and print media, and he is also responsible for creating ad and press release materials.

Jeff and co-worker Bryan Warren are also currently working on Joker Machine’s catalog #6 that promises to be jam-packed with all of the company’s latest high-quality items, slated for release in time for the summer riding season.

If your show or publication needs any assistance with information about Joker Machine?s AHDRA and Supermoto racing teams or product line, please feel free to contact Jeff at (909) 613-0098 voice, (909) 613-0098 fax or send an e-MAIL to: jd@jokermachine.com

BIKERNET TECH ARTICLE VOTE–Just wanted to say, I followed your tech article and it worked like a charm. Used my stock wide belt and saved a ton of cash. Great article.

Mike Curtis
Atlanta, GA

Thanks Mike. Our Tech Articles are always archived. They never go away.–Bandit

BLIND AND DEAF MAN PLANS 150MPH QUADBIKE RECORD ATTEMPT–WITH the aim of clinching a Guinness world record, Graham Hicks, who is bothblind and totally deaf, will attempt to travel at more than 150mph on hisquadbike at Bruntingthorpe proving ground in the United Kingdom. The eventis set to take place in August this year.

Hicks’ quadbike is powered by a Honda CBR1100XX motor, giving it plenty ofpower and top-end speed.This event will form part of Hicks’ work for the United Kingdom charityDeafblind UK. He already holds similar records for jetskiing andquadbiking.In this latest challenge, Hicks will have a pillion rider – CambridgeshirePolice Constable Brian Sharman. PC Sharman will indicate direction to Hicksusing touch signals. This obviously requires a huge degree of trust betweenrider and pillion, considering the high speeds involved.

Practice runs are now under way, achieving speeds in excess of 100mph.To become involved in this challenge, contact Deafblind UK’s Challenge Teamon the following number:

For more information on Deafblind UK, contact:DEAFBLIND UK
Tel: +44 (0)1733 358 100
E-mail: jjohnson@deafblind.org.uk
www.deafblind.org.uk

THE FOOT CLUTCH ANNIVERSARY–Well I finally finished the foot clutch…Just need to mount it and find my Ape Hangers, some howI lost them in my garage, if you can believe that. Must be age.

We celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary todaymaybe that’s why I can find the Ape Hangers..

Be Cool
–Bob T. and Leandra
Yucca Valley, CA

RING GEAR CONVERSION AND OFFSET COMPENSATORY–This 84 tooth ring gear conversion kit is much stronger than the OEM 102 tooth unit, and provides slightly faster motor turn over due to the reduced number of teeth. For all 1990-93 Big-Twin Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Evo or Twin-Cam. Includes our famous quality ring gear, bolts and special pinion gear. Available immediately.

Now available……Complete 1.5 inch offset compensator assembly for chain drive primary with 24 tooth sprocket (1990-93 Softail) or 25 tooth sprocket (1993-present Softail). Also available in 1-inch, and 1.4375-inch offset. Call for part numbers.

Rivera Engineering
562-907-2600

Old shot from Bob T.

MORE THAN 1,5000 BIKES BLESSED–Monday, April 26, 2004 Posted: 8:56 AM EDT (1256 GMT)Rev. Robert McElwee blessed more than a thousand mortocycles and bicycles during this year’s annual Blessing of the Bikes.

FRONTENAC, Kansas (AP) — Rumbles of thunder and heavy rains were replaced by the rumbles of hundreds of motorcycles and a sprinkling of holy water.

Leading the gang and wearing riding boots beneath his vestments was the Rev. Robert McElwee, who offered prayer during the annual Blessing of the Bikes in downtown Frontenac.

“Did I get you?” he asked Sunday, weaving through a cordon of more than 1,500 brightly painted motorcycles from as far away as Utah and Idaho.

McElwee, pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and an avid motorcyclist, has seen the event grow in the past eight years from an informal gathering after Sunday Mass to a regional affair in this town of 3,000.

NEW BIKERNET PHOTOG–Really dig your site, visit every week. Great work! I’m a pretty serious photog with what spare time I have between working and family and riding etc. If you have any specific pics you need from Florida I would be interested in contributing. I live in the Jacksonville area but travel the entire state on a quarterly basis on business and weekend riding on my FXD.

Attached is a little sweetie I ran across last weekend at the Leesburg Bikefest in Central Florida. Nice tank top huh?

Let me know if I can do any shooting for you. I have digital cameras so I have a pretty quick turn.

–Whiplash

STRAY KAT CHOPPER FRAME–Cyril Huze now offers his Stray Kat Chopper frame with a single curved down tube accepting a 250 or a 280 mm/300 series tires with a stock width belt. Frames for 250 mm are offered in left side or right side drive. Frames for 280/300 mm are offered in right side drive only. Constructed out of 4130 chromemoly, using 1 1/4 inch tubing for superior strength, tig welded and fixture cooled. For a clean look, internal fork stops are integrated in the steering head. For this frame, a direct-bolt on round stainless steel oil tank with center oil fill and “hidden” battery is offered.

Available in 3 inch stretch/38-degree rake, or 5 inch stretch/42-degree rake. Any other stretch or rake on request.

Cyril Huze.
Tel: 561-392-5557
http://www.cyrilhuze.com

FRANK DID ALRIGHT–I just want to thank Frank Kaisler and anyone else involved in putting the photos and article about my bike on your website.

Richard Sansone dropped job.

I didn’t have any photos from that show. Please tell Frank he has a good eye for custom motorcycles. That bike won best in show at that Harley-Davidson ride in show. it also came in 3rd at the Rats Hole show, won an all expense paid trip to Essen Germany for the Essen international motor show, will be featured in Hot Bike and about 15 other US and European magazines, and it is a bare metal, unpainted, bare machined and bare carbon fiber, prototype motorcycle.

Thank you, again
Richard Sansone
sansonemotorcycles.com

ALL SEABEE REUNION–The 6th annual All Seabee Reunion is fast approaching-just 30 days away. Now is the time to make your plans to attend. Roomsare still available at the Casa Sirena Hotel, official reunionheadquarters.

Hotel reservations can be made by calling 800-447-3529.The discounted reunion room rate still applies.

The reunion will be held in Port Hueneme, CA. The dates of the reunionareMay 20-23, 2004. Our web site, www.allseabees.com contains completeinformation on the reunion. You may also print the registration forms.

BILANSKY ROMPS AT ROAD AMERICA–Buell Riders Dominate Formula USA Thunderbike National.

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. (April 25, 2004) – Hal’s Harley-Davidson/Buell rider Dan Bilansky roared away from the pack aboard his Buell Firebolt for a convincing victory in the Formula USA National Thunderbike race at Road America. Harding Harley-Davidson riders Bryan Bemisderfer and David Estok finished second and third to complete a podium sweep for Buell riders in the Thunderbike class.

For Bilansky, the win offered some redemption after a disappointing outing in the F-USA season-opener at Daytona International Speedway in February, where he crashed out of the lead.

“Daytona was a hard one to get over,” said Bilansky, who is from Delafield, Wis. “But I want to win a championship and to do that I have to be consistent, so maybe a win today makes up for being a race behind after Daytona. This was a kick today because we are so close to home. I have lots of family here who haven’t seen me race in several years, and this is a home-town race for everyone from Buell and Hal’s.”

Hoban Brothers Racing/Appleton H-D/Buell rider Jeff Johnson set a blistering pace aboard his Buell Firebolt to take the pole position for the Thunderbike race with a 2:37.219 lap of the four-mile Road America course in cool but dry conditions on Saturday. However, dense fog enveloped the Road America course on Sunday morning and the start of racing action was postponed until almost noon. Crashes in several support races further delayed the Formula USA National feature events, which were then shortened from 10 to five laps because of time constraints.

Johnson jumped the start before it went green and then hesitated as Bilansky raced off to open an early lead while Bemisderfer, Estok, Suzuki rider Ed Key, Johnson and Harding rider Tripp Nobles battled in a pack behind him. On the second lap, Bemisderfer ran off the course in turn five after trying to out-brake Nobles. Bemisderfer managed to stay upright and remained in contention. Nobles went out on lap four with a mechanical problem.

“Second place gives us some good points towards the championship,” said Bemisderfer. “Bilansky got that great start and then just took off full speed. I think the rest of us took a lap to gauge track conditions before we really pushed it today and gave him too much of a head start.”

Estok, who said he is still recovering from a concussion suffered in a March automobile accident, was also happy to come away with solid points on the day. “I’m still a little foggy, to be honest, and really didn’t feel smooth all weekend until the race started,” he said. “I’m still leading the Thunderbike points, which is awesome. They’ll have to watch out when I’m back to full speed.”

Key finished fourth, with Kosco H-D/Buell rider Joe Rozynski fifth. Johnson was fifth across the line, but a one-lap penalty for jumping the start bumped him back to 23rd place in the final standings.

Estok maintains his lead in the Thunderbike series with 41 points, just a one-point margin over his teammate Bemisderfer.

The third stop on the eight-race Formula USA Thunderbike series is May 29-31 at Summit Point Raceway, Summit Point, W.Va.

The Formula USA Thunderbike series is a horsepower-to-weight ratio restricted class, open to a variety of production-based motorcycles. Buell-mounted riders competing in the eight-event 2004 Thunderbike series are racing for a share of the $70,500 contingency fund posted by Buell Motorcycle Company and Buell Rider’s Adventure Group (BRAG).

To learn more about Buell Motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer today and experience the pure streetfighter attitude, style, and performance only found on board a Buell. For the Buell dealer nearest you, pull into www.buell.com.

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BIKERNET NEWS FLASH–THE FIRST 300 TIRES, IRAQ REPORT AND PAINT JOB OF THE WEEK

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300 FENDERS NOW AVAILABLE FROM KRAFT TECH–The first company to build production 300 tire fenders. They are rolled mild steel, over .200 thick and doubled at the tip for strength. The fenders are bitchen contoured to fit the 300 tire and notched for chains and belts. Just drill ’em and mount ’em.

KRAFT/Tech Inc.
651 Arroyo Ave.
San Fernando, CA 91340
(818) 837-3520

THE FLOW BENCH PROJECT HASN’T DIED– As you know this is a work in progress. It started out as a project being made from these old plans. Since then I have found out there are some flaws with the plans. Nothing major. Mostly just little things that have to be redesigned. All that adds up to is time and money.

More flow bench info coming soon.

Pablo

THREE BUELL PROMOTIONS GET RIDERS READY FOR SPRING–Demo Days, Fuel in the Frame for a Year and No Down Payment Programs.

MILWAUKEE (April 21, 2004) – Motorcycle enthusiasts who want to experience the adventure of riding Buell motorcycles this spring can take advantage of three promotional offers at participating Buell dealerships.

Motorcyclists who demo ride a Buell motorcycle through May 31, 2004 during Buell Demo Days will receive a free Buell Sling Bag. A valid motorcycle endorsement and proper riding gear are required for the demo ride. The customized sling bag, a $50 retail value, is made from heavy-duty denier fabric with nylon lining and features four individual storage compartments.

Those who purchase a Buell before May 31 will receive free gasoline during the Buell ?Fuel in the Frame for a Year? promotion. Fuel in the Frame for a Year will be provided through a $150 Visa Gift Card. The Visa Gift Card is a prepaid card that can be used at millions of worldwide locations. Instead of worrying about rising gas prices, new Buell owners can focus on enjoying the ride. Highway gas mileage averages for the Firebolt and Lightning models are 65 mpg, and the Blast boasts nearly 73 mpg on the highway.

In addition, eligible buyers can also qualify for No Down Payment financing. This option is available through Eaglemark Savings Bank and Harley-Davidson Credit until June 30 on all 2003 and 2004 new, previously untitled Buell motorcycles including Blast.

Riders should stop by their participating Buell dealer or buell.com for full details on all of the Spring promotions. A guy walks into a bar with his pet monkey. He orders a drink and while he’s drinking, the monkey jumps all around the place. The monkey grabs some olives off the bar and eats them, then grabs some sliced limes and eats them, then jumps onto the pool table, grabs one of the billiard balls, sticks it in his mouth, and to everyone’s amazement, somehow swallows it whole.

BANDIT’S CANTINA SAGA–The bartender screams at the guy, “Did you see what your monkey just did?”

The guy says “No, what?”

“He just ate the cue ball off my pool table-whole!”

“Yeah, that doesn’t surprise me,” replied the guy, “he eats everything in sight, the little bastard. Sorry. I’ll pay for the cue ball and stuff.”

He finishes his drink, pays his bill, pays for the stuff the monkey ate, then leaves.

Two weeks later he’s in the bar again, and has his monkey with him. He orders a drink and the monkey starts running around the bar again. While the man is finishing his drink, the monkey finds a maraschino cherry on the bar.

He grabs it, sticks it up his ass, pulls it out, and eats it. Then themonkey finds a peanut, and again sticks it up his ass, pulls it out, and eats it.

The bartender is disgusted.”Did you see what your monkey did now?” he asks.

“No, what?” replies the guy.

“Well, he stuck a maraschino cherry and a peanut up his ass, pulled it out, and ate it!” said the bartender.

“Yeah, that doesn’t surprise me,” replied the guy. “He still eatseverything in sight, but ever since he had to shit out that cue ball, he measures everything first.”

–Ken Miller

PAINT JOB OF THE WEEK–Here’s another Jim Murillo creation. This bike hit the cover of Hot Bike, but not with this paint. Jim fixed it after the cover shoot. Jim’s located on the west coast in the LA region. For more info drop him a line to: James Murillo

Just don’t call him James. Only his mom does when he’s in trouble.

BIKERNET HISTORY LESSON–Almost 150 years ago, President Lincoln found it necessary to hire a privateinvestigator, Alan Pinkerton, for protection. That was the beginning of theSecret ServiceSince that time, federal police authority has grown to a large number ofmulti-letter agencies – FBI , CIA , INS , IRS , DEA , ATF , etc.

Now comes the Federal Air Transportation Airport Security Service. Can’t yousee them now? These highly trained men and women in their black outfits withinitials in large white letters across their backs?F. A. T. A. S. S. – – – – – – – I feel safer already

–from Rogue

AUSTRALIAN BIKERNET REPORTER’S PROJECT–Yep, we’ll show you how a brother in Australia builds a Panhead chopper. Glen Priddle kicked off his project by stripping his bike to the frame out in the yard. That’s how it’s done in Australia. Everything including building bikes is handled on the road.

Hang on for complete reports.

COPS RAID HOME FOR POT– Carlsbad, California police raided a suburban home after the family’s U.S. $250-$300 per month electricity bills led them to suspect that the homeowners were growing marijuana under high-intensity lamps.

Instead, they found often-used washing machines and dryers, three computers always left on, a dishwashing machine running often and three children who forgot to turn off lights when they left a room.

“It’s hard to believe a high utility bill would be enough to issue a state warrant,” said Dina Dagy, who owns the home. She is demanding a written apology. Police said they have apologized verbally and were following proper procedure.

–from Rogue

AGENT ZEBRA ALIVE AND WELL–And still training attack dogs. This was a demostration behind the new Bikernet headquarters. The strong shepherd bit through his attack gear and wet suit sleeves, to puncture his arms. Zebra never gives up.

RFR REPORTS FROM IRAQ– I have some stuff to send you from a benefit we had on Saturday for a soldier that was wounded in Iraq. A medic that got hit going to help a wounded soldier. The fight was so intense that it was 3 hours before they could evacuate Alan the medic. He has already had numerous surgeries and he still has many more to go.

The young man that finally was able to help Alan was there along with his father, both who ride. I am waiting for some info on them since I took a couple images for Christina for the Texas Thunder Roads she was getting the info. The pictures are really a contradiction to his story being as it is images of people having fun.

He has received a Purple Heart, the Bronze Star with”V” and an Army Commendation Medal. It is just one story of many throughout the nation, it is just one I am aware of.

Later
RFR

HERITAGE MOTORCYCLE RALLY– Americas Fastest Growing Motorcycle Event The first year of the rally was 2003. Like every new rally there were some growing pains, but the people putting it on had really done their home work and it showed.

The magazines and the Internet quickly spread the word as to what a great event it was. The people responded. So in 2004 Dave Harvey, the promoter increased the event to 5 days and utilized more of the Ladson Fairgrounds on route 78, the fairgrounds became Rally Central.

The Ladson Fairgrounds is where the Custom Bike Show is held. This is a top notch event with some of the best bikes in the South. The winners received over $50,000.00 in cash and prizes.

When you attended the bike show you had an opportunity to vote for the motorcycle of your choice, if you did you were also entered into a contest to win a $26,000 Big Dog Motorcycle at no charge. That is the best raffle I have ever heard of.

There were 100s of vendors, beer gardens, live bands, motorcycle stunt shows, flat track racing, wall of death and much more.

There were so many people and things going on at once and all running very smoothly. The people putting it on and their staff really had a handle on everything.

I have always liked Charleston and the surrounding area. The event has grown to an area of 300 square miles. Okay I didn?t cover the whole area but I sure had fun at the places I did go.

I like the Kickin Horse Saloon on Rt. 17 in Awendaw. Kathy Campbell and all the girls there made sure I had fun and plenty to drink. I wonder if they were trying to get me drunk so they could take advantage of me. I guess I?ll never know.

Closer to the fairgrounds is Big Deck Daddy?s in North Charleston. This is where the locals go. Thursday is Bike Night. During the rally Every Night Was Bike Night.

Historical Downtown Charleston is a must. The Battery and the Market is a couple of places not to be missed.

The people in the area are friendly and make you feel welcome and the cops are cool. No Bull Shit stops like Daytona. Yea they will bust you if you are fuckIn’ up but no bullshit roadside stops.

YEAH, I HAD A GREAT TIME! I HOPE I GET TO GO AGAIN IN 2005

GREAT NEWS The Rally is Going to 10 Days in 2005 making it the newest Bike Week in the Country.

It is Going To Be Hot. Start making your plans to attend now. Visit the Heritage web site at http://www.heritagemotorcyclerally.com. Tell ’em bikernet sent you.

–ROGUE

IT’S PACKIN’ TIME–Time to ride. I love to ride, but I’m burnt out on escapin’ the city. I may roll out before the crack of dawn to avoid the bullshit LA traffic. Then as the sun warms the sky I’ll enter the desert for a highspeed romp across the state with my woman at my back.

Have a helluva weekend and if you run into me in Laughlin, I’ll be handing out Bikernet stickers. Just ask me.

Ride Forever,
–Bandit

BIKERNET NEWS ALERT–CHECKBOOK SAVING FINANCIAL ADVICE, SCREAMIN’ EAGLE HOT AND LAUGHLIN INDICTMENTS COMIN’ DOWN

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SCREAMIN? EAGLE/VANCE & HINES TEAM HOT IN HOUSTON–Hines Sets New Track ET Record, Retains Pro Stock Bike Points Lead.

BAYTOWN, Texas (April 18, 2004) – The Screamin? Eagle/Vance & Hines team put in a strong performance in Pro Stock Bike competition at the 17th Annual O?Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals, as riders Andrew Hines and GT Tonglet advanced in the elimination rounds. Series points leader Hines was the top qualifier aboard his Screamin? Eagle Harley-Davidson V-Rod with a run of 7.072 seconds at 190.03 mph that set a new track ET record for the Pro Stock Bike class. Tonglet qualified his Screamin? Eagle V-Rod fifth at 7.104/190.06, and also bettered the previous ET record of 7.132 seconds.

Coming off his victory at the Pro Stock bike season-opener in Gainesville, Fla., on March 21, Hines opened with a strong 7.130/188.04 run to beat Fred Camarena (7.301/179.18) in the first round of eliminations on Sunday. Tonglet, the runner-up at Gainesville, posted a time of 7.216/186.20 and advanced to the second round on a red-light start by Blain Hale (7.289/181.76).

Round two saw Hines (7.132/189.52) beat Mike Berry (7.239/184.67). In his second-round match, Tonglet (7.184/187.68) posted an outstanding reaction time of 0.009 seconds, but his quick start was not enough to beat Karen Stoffer, who was off the line in 0.016 seconds and ran a 7.134/185.82 to nip the Harley-Davidson rider and move on to face Hines in the semi-final round.

It was Stoffer with the quick draw at the light in round three. She backed up a reaction time of just 0.001 seconds with a 7.196/184.98 run to hand Hines (0.030/7.215/177.00) his first defeat of the 2004 season, due in part to an engine bearing failure during the run, according to the team. Stoffer (7.159/186.38) defeated Antron Brown (7.176/186.05) to claim the first final-round victory of her career.

?This was a really competitive weekend,? said Matt Hines. ?We had good air and an even track that didn?t favor one style of engine.”

?The bikes were really responsive to our tune-ups, and as a result they got quicker during qualifying,? said Vance & Hines team owner Byron Hines. ?We did have some trouble with rear tire shake that we’re working on, and we look forward to the next race.?

After two rounds of Pro Stock Bike competition, Hines leads the series with 196 points. Tonglet is fifth with 150 points.

The next Pro Stock Bike event on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series is the 24th annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals, May 14-16, in Atlanta, Ga.

INDICTMENTS IN 2002 RIVER RUN SHOOTOUT EXPECTED TO BE UNSEALDED–Murder indictments against at least nine members of the Hells Angels and Mongols motorcycle gangs were expected to be unsealed this morning in connection with a 2002 shootout at the Laughlin River Run that left three people dead, authorities said.Some have told authorities they plan to surrender, and those who don’t will be sought by police and apprehended, authorities said.

Police and agents from the federal Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives began making arrests over the weekend, authorities said.The charges also include gang-related offenses and firearms violations.

The unsealing of the indictments comes eight days before the second anniversary of the fatal fray at Harrah’s, which occurred April 27, 2002.

This year’s River Run begins Wednesday and lasts through Saturday. Fewer police officers will be on hand but they will be using additional techniques in an effort to find bikers who are wanted and to snuff out potential violence.

Last year more than 500 officers monitored the event that drew about 80,000 attendees.

Sgt. Bob Kenney of the Connecticut State Police, a nationally recognized expert on Harley Davidson theft, will be at the rally for the third year in a row watching for stolen motorcycles.

Last year, Kenney helped recover 20 stolen bikes, Smitley said. Ten were reported stolen, but four were suspicious, he said, and fraud was suspected.

By Jen Lawson,LAS VEGAS SUN

I see Sgt. Bob Kenney from Connecticut was in Laughlin. This guy goes to motorcycle events all over the country at tax payers expense . It said he recovered 20 bikes 10 of which were reported stolen, but 4 were Suspicious and Fraud was SUSPECTED. What were the other 6? I believe this is the total they recovered for the YEAR. NOT a very good record for all the money they spend.

–ROGUE

JON TOWLE LIVES–And recently drew this for the Allman Brothers. He’s a god with a pen.

NEW CUSTOM HARDWARE FROM IMAGE MOTORCYCLE PRODUCTSCamarillo, CA — April 15, 2004– Check out the new CUSTOM HARDWARE line from Image Motorcycle Products. Something new, and always different, CUSTOM HARDWARE has the same dedication to quality and artistic principals that make all IMP products unique. Applications for CUSTOM HARDWARE are endless; the designs work as a Pendant, Zipper Pull, Keychain, or any other use, you decide! The IMP CUSTOM HARDWARE line consists of 28 designs, each about 2.5-inch with selected designs also available in 3-inch.

For more information, contact: Image Motorcycle Products, 918 Calle Portilla, Camarillo, CA 93010, (800.304.5838),
http://www.imagemotorcycle.com
mailto:imagemotorcycle@hotmail.com

FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM BIKERNET– A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company:

– The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on them.

– If someone takes your check book they will not know if you sign your checks with just your initials or your first name but your bank will know how you sign your checks.

When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the “For” line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won’t have access to it.

– Put your work phone # on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box use that instead of your home address. Never have your SS# printed on your checks (DUH!) you can add it if it is necessary. But if you have it printed, anyone can get it.

– Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine, do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel.

– Keep the photocopy in a safe place. I also carry a photocopy of my passport when I travel either here or abroad.

– We’ve all heard horror stories about fraud that’s committed on us in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards, etc.

Unfortunately I, an attorney, have firsthand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week, the thieve(s) ordered an expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer, received a PIN number from DMV to change my driving record information online, and more.But here’s some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know:

We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. But the key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them easily.

– File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen, this proves to credit providers you were diligent, and is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).

But here’s what is perhaps most important: (I never even thought to do this).

Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name.

The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done.

There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves’ purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert. Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away this weekend. (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them in their tracks.

The numbers are:Equifax: 1-800 -525-6285 Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 Trans Union : 1-800-680-7289

Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

–from Joan C.

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BIKERNET NEWS FLASH–BIG DOG CELEBRATES TENTH, AMERICAN IRON HORSE OFFERS RAKED TREES AND NEW PERFORMANCE BOOK

The shrunken FXR lives. It’s off the lift, and I’m ready to build a chopper. Big inch Shovelhead in a Pauchco chopper, rigid frame with a JIMS tranny and a blacked out Paughco Springer. The rest is up in the air.

We’re packing right now, for a midnight run to Laughlin, riding the King. I checked the fluids, clutch cable, rear air shocks, tire pressure and what else? Next I need to pack. I’m going to write a piece on packing. I always pack too much. You can help me out with this one. I pack light but too tight.

Amazing Shrunken FXR lives.

Let’s hit the news. While you’re reading this I’ll be flying across the desert.

NEW H-D BOLT-ON PERFORMANCE BOOK–North Branch, MN — Modern Harley-Davidsons are worthy performers – they’re powerful, reliable, comfortable, and they handle and brake. But if you really want to turn your particular H-D into a canyon carver, a tire smoker, or the ultimate in cross-country transportation, there’s room for improvement.

Those who want to boost their Harley?s performance will be glad to learn of a new book packed with-detailed information on engine modifications and performance, including nitrous, turbocharging, and supercharging. The book, written by Jerry Smith will be available in August 2004, covers the most popular Harley-Davidson models and applications.

Whether you want a replacement carb and add a set of pipes, or you’re looking for the biggest crate motor that will fit in your frame, Harley-Davidson Bolt-On Performance gives you the information you need.

Harley-Davidson Bolt-On Performance is a softbound, 128-page book featuring over 300 black and white photos and carries a retail price of $18.95. The book may be ordered by calling CarTech Books at 1-800-551-4754 or by visiting www.cartechbooks.com; please note that a $4.95 shipping and handling fee will apply. CarTech is already accepting advance orders for the book.

AMERICAN IRON HORSE TEXAS CHOPPER MOD–Hello sweets,We don’t have any press releases on the 4 degree trees. It’savailable as an upgrade when the bike is ordered and Bob said customers areordering them around 50/50 with and without. They are also available forpurchase as an accessory from our dealers for customers who had bought aChopper before we had the 4 degree trees available.

My nephew bought them acouple months after having his chopper and really likes the way it handleswith the 4 degree trees. The attached image is what we put on theGunslinger accessory page of the catalog. As I mentioned Friday, it comeswith 4 degree trees, 12 over tubes and longer brake lines. $750.00 Retail.

Are you going to be in Laughlin? We’ll bethere Tuesday thru Sunday.

–JM

STEALTH MAGIC–This week it has been tough to come up with something to write about. Spring has sprung around here and the local bike nights are getting started as are the poker runs and just riding in general. The winters are not that tough here, but it is good to see spring arrive. It is a time of new life and new beginings!

So with that being said I think I will write about what I do for a job. My “official” title is “Design Consultant.” A lot of you are probably saying “What is that?” Well, let me explain. I help and assist people with customizing their bikes. Most of us who read Bikernet and the staff probably don’t need a lot of help in this area, but the newbies do! When they come into my office they are as confused as a termite in a yo-yo!

I try to make them feel comfortable and tell them there is no such thing as a dumb question. That is how we learn and you have to start somewhere. Some have watched too much of the Discovery channel and think they are the next great bike builder just waiting to be discovered. Most come in with an idea or two and a good base foundation for a start, others havea dozen ideas and none of them flow together. I try to guide them and get them to choose a direction, instead of going in three directions at once. I never force my ideas on them. I only suggest. After all it’s their dream, their bike and their money that they are spending.

Another part of my job is to gain their trust and let them know that they will not end up with a cross between a VW bus and a bike. I show them pictures of my bikes and this usually helps with the trust issue. Another obstacle to overcome is the money issue. I usually try to convince them that life is short and who knows about next month or next year. You only live once, so go for the bike you really want. I also tell them that if you really want this or that and you decide not to get it, you are going to think about it until you do. I truly believe the part about only living once and that is how I try to approach things. The one obstacle I have the hardest time overcoming is “The wife or girlfriend won’t let me!” I have written on this before, and I have to tell you, women control those bank accounts! Well I guess that is enough of what I do, didn’t mean to bore anyone!

An update on the 6th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin” to be held July 25th here in Charlotte. Next week we will lay the t-shirt design out. So far we have about 25 sponsors, we are always looking for new sponsors. You don’t have be close to the Charlotte area to be a sponsor. All proceeds go to the American Lung Association and their ashma camps for kids. Sponsorship fee is just $100 and your name is on the official run shirt if you sign up by May 7th. You also receive two t-shirts. The shirts are always cool, artwork is by Chris Kallas, the same Chris that does the bikernet artwork.

The run and bike show that follows grows every year, so if you are in the Charlotte area at the time of the event or would like to be a sponsor give me a call and we will get you set up.

Work: 704-847-4647
Home:704-573-9396
Cell:704-516-4630

Okay enough, the wind is blowing warm tonight, the stars are bright and the time is right, let’s ride!

Later!
Mike (THE STEALTH)

BIG DOG CELEBRATES TEN YEARS–

As part of our ten-year anniversary, we are planning a national ride-in and celebration at our factory in Wichita. The dates are June 11 & 12 and will include an evening welcome party, factory open house complete with contests, food and drinks, tours, trials demonstration, and custom bike show, as well as music by Dewy & The Big Dogs (Dewy is our own Sheldon Coleman).

Below is information about the event. We are asking you to not only join us, but to also help us promote it through your publications. Also, to help promote it, we are sending information to our dealers as well as personal invititations, including a massive four-foot long, ten-year timeline poster to you and the 8,600 known Big Dog Motorcycles riders.

Make plans to attend (be sure to pre-register). Start spreading the word. And check the website for updates.

Continued On Page 2

BILL BISH AND SOLO RIDERS BRING US UP TO DATE

Bill Bish author and freedom fighter.

THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at <>

NCOM COAST TO COAST BIKER NEWS
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish,
National Coalition of Motorcyclists

HOUSE APPROVES TRANSPORTATION ACT, INCLUDING MOTORCYCLE SAFETY INITIATIVES The U.S. House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly to approve a six-year $284 billion transportation funding measure, which includes provisions to expand state rider training programs and other motorcycle safety initiatives. H.R. 3550, the “Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy For Users” (TEA LU), was passed by a vote of 357-56 on April 2, 2004.The U.S. Senate approved a similar measure, S. 1072, the “Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act” (SAFE-TEA), by a vote of 76-21 on February 12. The Senate version reauthorizes $318 billion over the next six years to fund highway, mass transit and safety programs, but does not include language specifically addressing motorcycle safety concerns.Both bills will now go to a conference committee, comprised of both Senators and Representatives, to iron out discrepancies between the two and submit a final bill to the President for his signature or veto. The White House has proposed an alternative $256 billion transportation package, and President Bush has threatened to veto the legislation if costs exceeded that amount.

WISCONSIN LAW PROTECTS HELMETLESS RIDERS Wisconsin Governor James Doyle signed a bill on Monday, March 15, that will ensure that motorcyclists who choose not to wear helmets do not face reduced awards in personal injury cases if they are involved in accidents.

In ruling on an ATV accident two years ago, the Wisconsin Supreme Court said that a jury could consider a person’s decision not to wear a helmet if they received a head injury in a crash involving a “high speed open air motor vehicle,” and reduce the amount of lawsuit damages paid to that person by up to 100%. Wisconsin only requires helmets be worn by motorcycle riders and passengers under 18 years old. “What we’re saying in Wisconsin is that if you do something that is in compliance with the law, it will not be held against you,” said Governor Doyle in signing Senate Bill 223.

S.223, which effectively nullifies the court’s 2002 decision by dropping the allowable reduction amount to zero%, was authored by ardent motorcyclist Senator Dave Zien at the request of ABATE of Wisconsin. Zien, one of the founders of the bikers’ rights movement in Wisconsin and a longtime member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists Legislative Task Force (NCOM-LTF), says the new law prevents discrimination against motorcyclists by courts and insurance companies.

Zien maintains that helmets contribute to accidents by reducing head mobility, vision and hearing. Helmet chin straps also can contribute to neck injuries during accidents, he said. “For the motorcycle community, we don’t want to be forced to wear helmets,” Zien told the Lacrosse Tribune.

HELMET WEARING MAY BE A TAXING PROPOSITION Safety or protective helmets will be exempt from Pennsylvania’s state sales tax under legislation sponsored by Representative Allan Egolf (R-Perry and Franklin) and unanimously approved by the House on March 24th.”Many children and adults enjoy activities such as horseback riding, bicycling, roller-blading and motorcycle riding where helmets are either required or recommended for the safety of the participant,” said Egolf, an avid bicyclist. “I believe it is important to encourage the use of safety helmets whether they are mandated or not,” he said. “I believe that eliminating the sales tax on these purchases is an incentive to encourage helmet use.”

“What parent would refuse to buy something they believed would help protect their kids because they didn’t want to pay a few dollars in sales tax?,” queried John Mullendore, ABATE of Pennsylvania’s Legislative Coordinator and a member of the NCOM Board of Directors, adding “It passed 194-0.” Pennsylvania repealed their helmet law for adult motorcyclists last year.

HB-417 will now be considered in the Senate.

BAY STATE RIDERS WIN RIGHT TO LIDLESS PARADES Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney signed House Bill 206, an act allowing adult motorcyclists the “freedom of choice” to not wear a helmet while riding in a parade. HB 206, sponsored by Representative Demetrius Atsalis, provides an exception to the state’s mandatory helmet law that “No protective head gear be required if a motorcyclist is participating in a properly permitted public parade and is 18 years or older,? explained Paul Cote, Legislative Director for the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA), adding that “This is the fifth motorcyclists’ bill passed in the last four years!”The new law is scheduled to take effect in 90 days, which lands right before the MMA’s “STORM the State House” lobbying day on Thursday, May 20th. MMA leaders have already begun securing “parade permits” from the cities of Somerville and Boston, so the “STORM” could be one of the first helmet “choice” permitted parades; riding to the State House to thank legislators and lobby for other bills still pending, including Senate Bill 1363 — the full “helmet choice” for all adult riders.

Click To Check It Out

BILL FILED TO RE-ENACT LOUISIANA HELMET LAW A bill that would reverse a law pushed through the Legislature by former Governor Mike “Big Daddy” Foster giving adult motorcycle riders the option of wearing helmets has been filed in the Senate. Senator Joel Chaisson II, D-Destrehan, filed Senate Bill 29, which mandates all motorcycle riders to wear helmets with padding, a visor and a chin strap. That was the law until five years ago when Foster helped persuade lawmakers to allow a choice for riders older than 18 who are covered by at least a $10,000 health insurance policy and furnish proof of insurance to police if stopped. Foster, an avid motorcyclist, has always characterized the law he promoted as one aimed at giving adults a choice of wearing or not wearing a helmet. No state has enacted a helmet law since Maryland in 1996, but six states have repealed their helmet laws since then; Arkansas, Texas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Florida and Pennsylvania, making 31 states that currently allow adult freedom of choice. Let’s not go backwards!

AUSTRALIAN RIDERS MOUNT FRONT PLATE PROTEST The Motorcycle Riders Association (MRA) of Victoria is up in arms over a proposal to require Aussie bikers to affix license plates to the front of their motorcycles so that they can be identified from the front for tolls and for speed cameras.

MRA Victorian president Alex Money said the group is planning a protest to alert the general public as to how much money the government would waste in the move. “We just want the public to know the Victorian government is spending $14 million to introduce motorcycle front number plates,” he explained, noting that speed cameras in New South Wales take photographs from behind.

Tollway operator Transurban has said it would consider introducing motorcycle tolls if bikes could be photographed from the front.

CELEBRITIES IN THE NEWS Daytona Harley-Davidson is crying foul against Los Angeles Lakers basketball star Shaquille O’Neal, claiming he reneged on the purchase of a custom motorcycle. The dealership filed a breach of contract suit recently in circuit court seeking at least $15,000 in damages against the Orlando-area resident. Because the bike was built for someone of the 7-foot-1 Shaq’s size, the Harley dealer claims it is stuck with a motorcycle it can’t sell. The Beach Street-based company claims in its suit that the Lakers star center, who started his NBA career with the Orlando Magic, agreed to pay the company to build him a “custom motorcycle, with the design specifications requested by defendant being that the motorcycle be ‘out there’ and ‘blow everything else away.'” The motorcycle was delivered to O’Neal on Sept. 12, 2003, but he refused to pay for it, the suit claims.

AIMING FOR JUSTICE Justice was finally served to 26 bikers who had been ticketed during a “routine” traffic stop for running a stop sign last October while on their way to the Concerned Bikers Association (CBA) Swap Meet in Charlotte, N.C. All the ticketed bikers were represented by North Carolina Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Robert A. Donat, who’s courtroom strategy was to show that it is common practice for riders to do a “stop and go” when traveling in large groups. The Assistant District Attorney was also informed that no one was going to plead guilty to the charges and that each and every rider desired a trial (there were four different trial dates, as four different officers wrote tickets that day). Furthermore, that this “routine” stop was nothing more than a harassing intelligence operation, and there was evidence that the whole operation was pre-planned, including statements made by one of the ticketing officers, and the fact that a DMV inspector appeared at the scene. Mr. Donat also found an eyewitness passerby who could confirm that there was a person wearing a ski mask at the scene, and that the bikers were videotaped.

The DA finally agreed that this was not worth prosecuting, and every one of the charges was dropped.

Robert Donat (“RAD”) serves as legal counsel for the Concerned Bikers Association and the North Carolina Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs. “The N.C. COC is currently considering its options now that the charges have been dismissed,” said Donat.

WEIRD NEWS OF THE MONTH: SADDAM’S MOTORCYCLE LOOTED The man who swung the first blow when Saddam Hussein’s infamous statue was toppled from the middle of Firdos Square in Baghdad has been arrested for looting the tyrant’s motorcycle from a museum.

Armed with a sledgehammer, Khadom Sharif Hassan — Iraq’s weightlifting champion — started pounding away at the statue last April, to cheers from the jubilant crowd and praise from President George W. Bush, who watched the action unfold on the White House television. “They got it down,” the president said approvingly.

But today the beefy hero is languishing in jail, accused of looting Baghdad’s National Army Museum of one of the former dictator’s most treasured exhibits: the 50-year-old black Norton motorcycle on which the young Saddam claimed he fled to Syria in 1959 after a botched American-sponsored assassination attempt on Iraq’s then prime minister, Gen Abd al-Karim Qasim, who a year earlier had overthrown the British-backed monarchy to seize power. Though the plan failed, it sparked the Ba’ath party’s rise to power.

Mr. Hassan explained that he felt he had a legitimate claim to the bike, which until the looting frenzy had stood on a pedestal in the museum, but was later found in his workshop during a raid by Iraq’s special crimes squad. As the chief motorbike mechanic for Saddam’s elder son Uday, Hassan had spent countless hours lavishing care on the Norton. What’s more, he said, Uday used to cherry-pick the best motorcycles that he imported into Iraq, paying him just a fraction of their value.

Hassan, 50, who is married with three children, said he had looked after more than 100 motorbikes belonging to Uday for 16 years, working on them round the clock. “I would be ordered to tune a bike at 3 a.m. if Uday decided after a night out that he wanted to ride the next day,” he said. “His favorite was a red Honda 750cc bike which he used for jumping because he was tall and strong enough to drive a big bike.”

Uday preferred Japanese models to American Harley-Davidsons, Hassan said, but also liked a BMW that was a present from King Abdullah of Jordan. When Uday was hospitalized from an accident, he ordered scores of his motorbikes to be lined up outside his window so that he could admire them. Officials from the serious crimes squad have described the case against Hassan as “open and shut,” but from the special police headquarters in Baghdad, he denies stealing the bike. “I bought the Norton from a looter,” he said. “I knew he had stolen it, but I had a duty to take it and look after it. I love that bike. Of course, I hate Saddam, but what he did wasn’t the bike’s fault. It is a special thing in Iraq’s history.”

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn’t make it a leg.”

Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), 16th President of the United States

CONGRATULATIONS to Skip Gravatt, a former Lone Star activist who is graduating from Regent University in Virginia with a Masters Degree in Public Policy, so that he can carry the fight right into the State House.

“I would encourage others to follow into academia and achieve accreditation that represents the pedigree to carry the fight into the hollowed halls of our legislative bodies and the previously closed doors of academia,” said a newly edified Gravatt. “I assure you I will continue to fight for our personal liberties, and I will always remember my days with Texas ABATE with a smile on my heart.”

Skip adds that, “I will return to Texas and compete for public office at the earliest opportunity.”

Go get ’em, Skip. The only thing better than a biker-friendly legislator is a legislator who IS a biker!

SONS OF LIBERTY RIDERS E-NEWS

Clayster for Senate–O. K., here goes. I have been a little silent since Fred made theannouncement but I didn’t realize how much paperwork and time was involvedjust to get filed for the campaign. I may be AWOL for a few more days toget this thing going. Had a meeting with S.C. State Republican Party todayto set up how we were going to work this. They said this was one of themost important races in S.C. this year. During this race, you may or may nothear that your and my opinion differ. Hell, my opinion may differ from mypublic stance. but so is the politic beast. My main goal is to get one ofus elected, to get people with the right views of the constitution andlimited government intervention and meddling in our private lives. Someonehere once said win at any cost.

Speaking of contributions, if anyone has any loose change laying aroundand you want to make a contribution hear is the info- checks made out toClay Morris for Senate mail to P.O. Box 1757 Barnwell, s.c. 29812 FYIcontributions in S.C. are limited to $1,000.00 per individual ororganization per campaign cycle. If you decide to financially support mycampaign, make sure you include your full legal name and complete address.Thank you, love ya and this campaign is for us and all my constituents(bikers or not) in my district. Hutto has got to go.

CLAYSTER
Coordinator-ABATE of Barnwell, S.C.
Sons of Liberty Riders
Motorcycle Riders Foundation

“LET MY PEOPLE GO”—MOSES

“DON’T TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CONFIDENCE IN MEN,BUT BIND THEM DOWN WITH THE CHAINS OF THE CONSTITUTION”—THOMAS JEFFERSON

Supreme Court to Decide Mandatory ID Case–U.S. National – APBy GINA HOLLAND, Associated Press Writer.

WASHINGTON – Do you have to tell the police your name? Depending on how theSupreme Court rules, the answer could be the difference between arrest andfreedom.

The justices heard arguments Monday in a first-of-its kind case that askswhether people can be punished for refusing to identify themselves.

The court took up the appeal of a Nevada cattle rancher who was arrestedafter he told a deputy that he had done nothing wrong and didn’t have toreveal his name or show an ID during an encounter on a rural road four yearsago. Larry “Dudley” Hiibel, 59, was prosecuted, based on his silence, andfinds himself at the center of a major privacy rights battle. “I would do itall over again,” Hiibel, dressed in cowboy hat, boots and a bolo tie, saidoutside the court. “That’s one of our fundamental rights as Americancitizens, to remain silent.” The case will clarify police powers in thepost-Sept. 11 era, determining if officials can demand to see identificationwhenever they deem it necessary.

Nevada senior deputy attorney general Conrad Hafen told justices that”identifying yourself is a neutral act” that helps police in theirinvestigations and doesn’t – by itself – incriminate anyone. But if that isallowed, several justices asked, what will be next? A fingerprint? Telephonenumber? E-mail address? What about a national identification card? “Thegovernment could require name tags, color codes,” Hiibel’s lawyer, RobertDolan, told the court. At the heart of the case is an intersection of theFourth Amendment, which protects people from unreasonable searches, and theFifth Amendment right to remain silent.Hiibel claims both of those rights were violated. Justice Antonin Scalia(news – web sites), however, expressed doubts. Hesaid officers faced with suspicious people need authority to get the facts.

Good news from Maryland–Maryland’s helmet law (SB 611) passed the Senate 27 to 20!http://www.abate-of-maryland.org/

Everyone did such a good job that at least two MD Senators email boxes werenon-deliverable yesterday due to “mailbox full!”

Their bill now goes to the House Environmental Matters Committee.Please email the committee and ask for support for SB 611 – more info,sample letter and quick email links found here:http://abatepa.org/abate/legislation/sample/Maryland_SB611.htm

Jayne
abatepa.org

California Needs Help to Defeat Apehangers Law–Help Modify Motorcycle Handlebar Height Limitations in California.If you have received a citation for C.V.C. 27801(b), handlebar height, youare asked to share your story with Jean Hughes at (707) 446-9432,immediately.

Assembly Bill, AB 2844, authored by 77th District Assemblyman Jay La Suerwould remove motorcycle handlebar height language from section 27801(b) ofthe California Vehicle Code. That’s a GOOD thing! The current standard isgrips at shoulder height or below.

AB 2844 is scheduled to be heard in committee on April 19, 2004. We need asmany letters, phone calls and faxes as possible to the California AssemblyTransportation Committee. If you’re a tourist, let them know how much moneyyou’d spend to help boost our troubled economy during a visit.

Please ask committee members in a polite and respectful manner,”Please vote “YES” on AB 2844.”

Assembly Transportation Committee Members
Committee Phone: (916) 319-2093

~Richard “Splatt” Hall
Splatt’s Motorcycle Citation Database for California www.bikernation.usel Presidente ABATE Local 36 of Palm Springs www.abate.usState Board Member ABATE of California for 2004 www.abate.orgABATE, AMA, HOG, MMA, MRF, NCOM, SOLRW, KOA, Muffler Man World Tour

Latest on Tama Accident…RIGHT-OF-WAY-LAWS NEEDED–Some of you have “seen” me speak about the Tama Tragedy in person…

The following ran in today’s (April 11, 2004) Des Moines Register – thelargest newspaper in Iowa. “$11.60 a piece. That’s what our lives are worth.”
Tama County crash, trial leave bikers sad, seething.
By KEN FUSON
Register Staff Writer

Everyday, the 57-year-old Ames man returns in his mind to that clear, sunnyJune day two years ago, when he embarked on a motorcycle trip with fivefriends and returned home alone.

In little more than the time it takes to pop a plastic bag, three of hisfriends were killed and two others critically injured when a van crossedthe center line on U.S. Highway 30, about six miles northwest of BellePlaine.

In January, a Tama County jury acquitted the van’s driver, Gary LeeButler, 49, of three counts of vehicular homicide. A judge then finedthe Des Moines man a total of $70 for two other violations, crossing thecenter line and failure to maintain control of his vehicle.

“For the six of us it comes out to about $11.60 apiece,” Wierson said.”That’s what our lives were worth.”

Butler’s attorney, Keith Rigg of Des Moines, said he understood thefrustration of Wierson and other motorcyclists, but he said the juryruled correctly.

“The facts are that it was just a tragic, tragic accident,” he said.

Tama County Attorney Brent Heeren has appealed the judge’s ruling,saying Butler could have been sentenced to 60 days in jail and fined$1,000. The Iowa Supreme Court last month agreed to review the decision.That will not change the jury’s verdict.

In the meantime, the case has outraged motorcycle enthusiasts across thecountry, who say it’s another example of a motorist being treatedleniently after causing the death of a motorcyclist.

“We need to do something to make motorcyclists start to matter,” Wiersonsaid. “Because people ride a motorcycle, the perception is that youdeserve what you get.”

Groups that have been known primarily in the past for advocating againstmandatory helmet laws now wonder if they need legislative help toprotect them from other drivers.

People get the same penalty for running over a motorcyclist as they dofor running a stop sign, said Steve Rector of Marshalltown, statecoordinator of ABATE (A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education) of Iowa,which has as many as 8,000 members.

“That is wrong,” he said.

The Iowa verdict came in the same month that former U.S. Rep. BillJanklow of South Dakota received a 100-day jail sentence after speedingthrough a stop sign and hitting a motorcyclist, killing the biker.Janklow had a history of speeding and could have received an 11-yearprison term.

Citing the Iowa and South Dakota cases, among several others, the250,000-member American Motorcyclist Association recently announced its”Justice for All” initiative. The group will seek stiffer penalties fortraffic offenses or criminal acts that kill or injure other motorists,including motorcycle riders. The proposal did not come up in the IowaLegislature this year.

“We certainly understand the frustration” among riders, “but what we’readvocating is not symbolic,” said Tom Lindsay, the group’s spokesman.”It’s actually positive, constructive action that will benefitmotorcyclists in the future.”

In 2002, the latest year for which national statistics are available,3,244 motorcyclists were killed, including 41 in Iowa. By comparison,Iowa recorded 16 motorcyclist deaths in 1996, a record low.

Those stark 2002 statistics include some of Wayne Wierson’s best friends.

A review of what happened on that June morning two years ago illustrateswhy motorcyclists are so frustrated with the legal system and why it maybe difficult to write legislation that resolves their concerns.

“I can’t do anything about the lawyers or the courts, but what I can dois hopefully make those drivers see us and hopefully make motorcyclistssafer,” Wierson said.

At each talk, Wierson invites six driver’s education students to thefront of the room, as he did recently in Clive, and places them in thesame staggered formation that he and his motorcycling friends wereriding in.

Then Archer pops the bag.

“I don’t want anybody to go through what I went through that day inJune,” Wierson told the students.

Wierson still rides a motorcycle, but he sold his Suzuki and bought aHarley-Davidson, in honor of his neighbor and the other friends.

“It gets lonely on Saturdays, I’ve got to tell you,” he said. “Reallylonely.”

BIKERNET NEW FLASH–JOKER MACHINE MOVES, HOT PAINT JOB, BLONDES AND RUN AROUND THE GLOBE

Continued From Page 3

DEAL OF THE WEEK–Divorce sale. Contact John Greywitt for more information, jgreywitt@inwc.com.

DUI FIGHTERS UNITE–As an organization we have several goals. The number one top priority at this time is to get the federal government to drop the .08 mandate that has forced so many states, against their will, to lower their legal BAC limit to .08%.

So how do we do this?

We MUST show a strong showing to our Represenatives and Senators AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL. Many of us have sent letters and made phone calls to our state represenatatives and senators. But after talking to mine here in Michigan, I’ve come to realize that their hands are basically tied. They have a figurative gun to their collective heads called “you don’t get federal highway funds if you don’t do this”. It’s outright blackmail and it’s a blatant violation of the Constitution of the United States Of America.

Jeanne M. Pruett
President and CEO
R.I.D.L.
Responsibility In DUI Laws, Inc.
http://www.ridl.us
jeanne_pruett@ridl.us
734-306-7883

THE SCOTSMAN AND THE DENTIST– A Scotsman goes to the dentist and asks how much it is for an extraction.

“$85 for an extraction sir” was the dentists reply.

“Och huv ye no got anything cheaper”, replies the Scotsman getting agitated.

“But that’s the normal charge for an extraction sir”, said the dentist.

“What about if you didn’t use any anaesthetic?”, asked the Scotsman hopefully.

“Well it’s highly unusual sir, but if that’s what you want, I suppose I can do it for $70”, said the dentist.

“Hmmmm, what about if you used one of your dentist trainees and still without anaesthetic”, said the Scotsman.

“Well it’s possible but they are only training and I can’t guarantee their level of professionalism and it’ll be a lot more painful, but I suppose in that case we can bring the price down to say $40”, said the dentist.

“Och that’s still a bit much, how about if you make it a training session and have your student do the extraction and the other students watching and learning”, said the Scotsman hopefully.

“Hmmmmm, well OK it’ll be good for the students I suppose, I’ll charge you only $5 in that case”, said the dentist.

“Wonderful, it’s a deal” said the Scotsman…

“Can you book the wife in for next Tuesday….”

ROGUE?S ROAD BIKE IS FOR SALE– This beautiful Custom Built Motorcycle was built by Rogue.

It started with a Quantum black powder coated rubber mounted engine FXR frame. It has a stainless steel oil tank and lines, chrome swing arm and chrome adjustable shocks.

The front end is American Suspension Inverted with billet tripple trees, Sturgis 16? mag wheel with Avon MT90B16 tire, Stainless rotor, billet caliper, a full fender, halogen headlight, handlebar mounted tachometer, radar detector mount and custom windshield

The rear wheel is also a 16? Sturgis mag with a Avon 160/80/B16, Stainless steel rotor and billet caliper, The rear fender is full length with a built in flush mounted LED taillight. The custom close mounted saddle bags also have flush mounted LED lights; The custom hand built back rest is also a storage area.

The body work, custom paint and pin stripping was done by Sonny Keeton, Famous Bike Builder and Rat?s Hole Winner.

The 106 Cubic Inch Hot Rod Engine was built by Berry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering who is famous for building engines for the Discovery Channel builders and other famous people. It has too many things done to it to list here but the build sheet will go with the motorcycle. Fuel flows through a Bobby Wood Carburetor and exhaust goes out a Thunderheader all making this baby get down the highway quickly and smoothly. A heavy duty starter and compression releases make it start easy.

Billet aluminum primaries hold a chain drive, Rivera Pro Clutch and hook to a 5 speed transmission and a chain rear drive with a tensioner.

Price is only $22,000.00. More photos and article at: rogue@bikerrogue.com

BIKER BOB– Biker Bob walked into a drug store and said to the Pharmacist, “I want meone of them thar condoms with pesticides on it. Where do I find ’em?”

The pharmacist replied, “Oh sir, you must mean that you want the condomswith SPERMICIDE, not pesticide. They’re on aisle 4.”

“No, no, I want me them thar condoms with PESTICIDE on it,” growled Bob

“Sir,” said the pharmacist, exasperated from explaining, “PESTICIDE isfor killing insects, SPERMICIDE is for killing sperm. I’m sure that youmean spermicide instead of pesticide.”

“Listen here,” argued Biker bob, “I want condoms with PESTICIDE on them.

My wife’s got a bug up her ass, and I aim to kill it!”

LICENSE PLATE TRIVIA–While California was the first state to legislate motor vehicle registration in March 1901, it wasn’t mandatory. New York passed a bill six weeks later — not only making registration mandatory, but requiring drivers to display their initials on their vehicle.

? Massachusetts became the first state to issue its own license plates in 1903. Those plates were made of steel covered in porcelain, but porcelain plates got chipped from road gravel. Years later, aluminum was used to make license plates.

? Other materials used in early license plates included leather and wood. During the 1930s, Arizona made license plates out of copper. Several states used a fiberboard made of soybeans and possibly sugarcane during World War II when steel was in short supply. These plates were apparently enjoyed by goats and other animals found eating them.

? Connecticut, in 1948, was the first to offer reflectorized plates, while New Jersey was the last, finally switching over in 1992.

— Compiled by news researcher Karen Duffy, Daytona News Journal

–from Rogue

EWAN MCGREAGOR AND CHARLEY BOORMAN RIDE FROM LONDON TO NEW YORK– LONDON — Ewan McGregor is getting ready to travel from London to New York, but there will be no first-class comfort for the down-to-earth Scot.He’s going by road.

McGregor and fellow actor Charley Boorman plan to set out this week on a motorcycle journey across Europe, Asia and North America that will get them to New York City by about July.

“It’s such an obvious route,” McGregor insisted Tuesday. “It’s just straight across — you just go from London to New York, going east. I’m surprised more people don’t do it.”

Spurred by a desire for adventure and a hankering for the open road, the “Moulin Rouge!” star and Boorman hatched a plan for a riding holiday that grew from a trip through Spain to a 20,000-mile odyssey across three continents, from the highways of Western Europe to Russia’s rutted roads and the grassy tracks of the Mongolian steppe.

After crossing Europe, Russia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia to the eastern tip of Siberia, the duo’s planned route winds through Alaska, down the Rockies and across the Great Plains and midwestern United States. They’ll do it all by road, except for a train trip under the English Channel and a short flight across the Bering Strait between Siberia and Alaska.

“When we get off the train in Calais, the next stop is eastern Siberia,” said the 33-year-old McGregor, whose new film, “Young Adam,” opens Friday in New York and Los Angeles. “We follow our front wheel from Calais to the other side of the globe.”

McGregor and Boorman have undergone hostile-environments training with former British commandos, consulted a nutritionist and worked out with a personal trainer. As they ride, their 1,150cc BMW motorcycles will be laden with tents, dried lentils, cameras and travel gadgetry.

A cameraman will accompany them on a third bike, and a film crew will meet them every week or so to record footage for a series.

Associated Press

–from Rogue

Joker got a bigger building than Bikernet, I’m pissed…–Bandit

JOKER MACHINE’S NEW DIGS–

After residing in the same small group of buildings for the past 45 years, Joker Machine has finally outgrown its Azusa, California location. The company has relocated to a brand-new facility just a few miles away in the city of Montclair.

Joker Machines brand-new building boasts a footprint of 22,000 feet (a little more than a half-acre), a new showroom, and crews working both day and night to keep up with the demand.

The family owned firm was originally founded to produce high-tolerance aerospace parts, but diversified by launching its own line of premium aftermarket Harley-Davidson parts in 1990. Joker’s current line of Harley parts consists of forward controls, hand controls, performance exhaust systems, billet covers, mirrors and much more. The parts line has also expanded to include an extensive array of mini bike and small-to-medium dirt bike parts.

Among the many changes this year, you can also expect to see a new line of parts for larger dirt bikes, that are a direct result of the testing currently being done on Joker Machine?s Supermoto racing bikes. Joker has always relied heavily on the knowledge gained from their Harley drag racing experience, and finds that the longest lasting parts are those that have been designed on the track, under the most severe of situations.

All Joker Machine products can be ordered at your local Drag Specialties dealer. Visit “http://www.jokermachine.com” to see the entire product line.

Joker Machine
4668 Mission Blvd.
Montclair, California 91763
(909) 613-0028 voice
(909) 613-0098 fax
“http://www.jokermachine.com”

SATURDAY KAWASAKI RIDE–I wanted to let you know that on Saturday, April 17, approximately 60 ormore members of the Los Angeles chapter of the Vulcan Riders and Owners Club(VROC) will join the Kawasaki people at KMC’s headquarter in Irvine for aspecial viewing of the Custom Cruiser Road Show (CCRS). I wasn’t sure ifyou’ve seen the show before, so it might be a good opportunity to see morethan a dozen customized Vulcan cruisers.

Briefly, the event starts at 9:30 a.m. when LA VROC members will join theKawasaki people in the atrium for coffee and doughnuts. Tom Orbe (VP) andPatrick Kelly (product management) will meet with folks and say a few words,then everyone will move outside to the road show around 10:30. At noon,Kawasaki will cater lunch (hot dogs, sodas, etc.) and everything wraps up by1 p.m. It’s possible that club members and Kawasaki people will take a rideup Ortega Highway and disburse from there.

Ron Nordyke
(714) 557-3663 ext. 209
r.nordyke@freemanmccue.com

EXCLUSIVE OFFER– Have you ever wanted to build your own custom motorcycle but didn’t even know where to begin? This DVD & VHS series shows you virtually every secret, technique, and concept to build your own custom motorcycle from the ground up, even if you’ve never picked up a wrench before!

For more exclusive information, go to:
http://www.killercustombikebuilding.com/ecm

THE BLONDE DEPARTMENT–Julie, the blonde, was getting pretty desperate for money. She decided to go to the nicer, richer neighborhoods around town and look for odd jobs as a handy woman.

The first house she came to, a man answered the door and told Julie,”Yeah, I have a job for you. How would you like to paint the porch?”

“Sure that sounds great!” said Julie.

“Well, how much do you want me to pay you?” asked the man.

“Is fifty bucks all right?” Julie asked.

“Yeah, great. You’ll find the paint and ladders you’ll need in the garage.”

The man went back into his house to his wife who had been listening. “Fifty bucks! Does she know the porch goes all the way around the house?” asked the wife. “Well, she must, she was standing right on it!” her husband replied.

About 45 minutes later, Julie knocked on the door.

“I’m all finished,” she told the surprised homeowner.

The man was amazed. “You painted the whole porch?”

“Yeah,” Julie replied, “I even had some paint left, so I put on two coats!”

The man reached into his wallet to pay Julie.

“Oh, and by the way,” said Julie, “That’s not a Porch, it’s a Ferrari.”

–J. Hodge

PAINT JOB OF THE WEEK–This bike was painted for Thunder Cycles in Hawthorne. The owner told mehe did not want to see one weld so we did a full molding job, everyweld, even the bottom got a little TLC. The color is PPG blue metalic,the flames are white pearl. The bike will be shown for the first time this weekend at the BeverlyHills classic for charity car/ bike show on April 18th.

Jims Cycle Painting
(310) 329-4707
www.jimscyclepainting.com

TIC SOFTAIL STAGGERED DUALS–Owners of 2000 up Softail Twin Cam machines will appreciate the traditional Hot Rod styling offered by Paughco’s new STAGGERED DUALS. These latest additions to Paughco’s extensive line of exhaust system.

STAGGERED DUALS feature that timeless, low slung layout and produce an exhaust note to match their aggressive looks. PAUGHCO STAGGERED DUALS are fit with steel baffles and come finished in the company’s flawless in-house chrome. Supplied with all mounting hardware, Softail TWIN CAM STAGGERED DUALS are available with either TAPERED STRAIGHT OR SUPER SLASH CUT tips and retail for $259.95. Call 775-246-5738 or catch PAUGHCO on the web at www.paiughco.com

VEGAS MASTER BUILDER SERIES–25 of the hottest custom builders show off their latest bikes for this first-ever master builders’ competition. Come see this truly awesome show featuring the artistry of the most progressive bike builders in the world. The famous and the soon to be famous will have their bikes on display at this “invitation only” show. You’ll get to check out the bikes, chat with the builders and get autographs from your favorites.

Participating Master Builders(As of April 12, 2004):

Mitch Bergeron – Mitch Bergeron Customs
Mike Brown – Amen Chassis Works
Chica – Chica Custom Cycles
Jose de Miguel – Caribbean Custom Cycles
Matt Hotch – HotMatch Customs
Cyril Huze – Cyril Huze Customs
Jesse Jurrens – Independent Cycle Inc.
Doug Keim – Creative Cycles, Inc.
Russell Mitchell – Exile Cycles
Jim Nasi – Jim Nasi Customs
Cory Ness – Arlen Ness Motorcycles
Harold Pontarelli – H.D. Performance
Mondo Porras – Denver’s Choppers
Jesse Rooke – Jesse Rooke Customs
Roland Sands – Performance Machine, Inc.
Eddie Trotta – Thunder Cycle Designs
Marcus Walz – Walz Hardcore Cycles
Mark Warrick – Soncy Road Speed & Custom
Kip Watkins – Watkins Boyz/ Tribal Motorworks

LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT–Two legislative bodies want to punish us if we don’t wear helmets. So let’s not discriminate. If you get shot and you’re not wearing a kevlar vest, you can’t sue the shooter. I like it that they blame smoking on everything. I want to see a billboard that point and equally deadly finger at automobiles. Millions would be alive today, if only they didn’t drive. Bah humbug.

I’m outta here. The sun is blazing and I’ve got business across town.

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH–HANDLEBAR HEIGHT LAWS, WISCONSIN IGNORES FREEDOM AND HOT CARIBBEAN REPORT

Continued From Page 2

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT– This week is going to be short and sweet, or maybe not. Like always there?s a lot of things? going on at the same time. I guess I’m getting used to it by now, but still it’s juggling. I just want to get some of the things done, like finalizing the move (I mean the little details left) and finish a couple of the almost chops so I can get a breather and jump head first into the other projects. Speaking of projects, a couple friends who own a tattoo shop came up with the idea to do a microphone stand (they are both in bands as well). It was a pretty complex thing with several mics all over the place, but what the hell, I looked at it as practice for the next Run For Breath trophies. So the Praying mantis mic stand came to life today. It will visit the chrome shop soon.

As you might know from last year, we have a few season games here for the Major League Baseball, Expos. I really don’t care for sports (unless it’s Soccer) but we have tickets for all the games and to tell you the truth is a lot of fun. First, it’s a breather from everyday shit, second, it’s like the local hangout for a bunch of friends, so it becomes like a party. Needless to say we kinda watch the game, since most of the watching goes towards the babes that are there as well (I have a few shots on the way) for now I have this one from our seats, and yea the guy is getting hit in the back by the ball.

Nui from Hawaii sent me a few shots of the new Coors West Coast Chopper, just when they were putting it into the stand. So I will share it with you guys.There’s some good news on the way but I’m still holding back a little bit longer, it has to do with building more bikes for certain events. We are really proud of being chosen, but at the same time the new builds tense up the whole schedule, what the fuck, nothing that I’m not used to. Just in case, and I never ask for free stuff, if anyone that reads these news from the industry wants to send anything our way, it will be more than welcome. I have the frame and motor, so the rest is up in the air.

Sheriff has gone back closer to the North Pole. I hope he had a good time here and will do a report on his point of view, although he was kind of fixated on the crime rate, so let’s see what happens.

I have received a few “inside” news tidbits lately. It?s a matter of sharing with you or bordering on being a gossip column, for now I will keep them out of here and if the cat comes out of the bag I will share what I know.

Well, I’m heading to Miami tomorrow for a show, Indian Larry, Paul Cox and Roger Bourget will be there as headliners and it will be fun. Even though it’s a quick trip, I’m sure we will have a blast in South Beach….

I’m outta here, since I have to sleep sometime…

Jose – Caribbean Bikernet Reporter

FLEETTRAILER PROJECT BIKE– Here’s some pics. If ya need more details let me know. I should have taken more pictures of the build proccess but got sidetracked building the damn thing. Since it’s been done we’re thinking of some more changes. Custom exhaust for one, we’ll make our own pipes. These hide the curve of the remade swingarm.

Already making a custom caliper mount for the swingarm that will put the caliper at the bottom and clean up the looks a little. Choppers are never done. I’ll send better finnished pictures in the near future.

–fritz
fleettrailer@firstbankconnect.com

MAKE-BELIEVE COP MAKES TRAFFIC STOP– DAYTONA BEACH — Daniel Blais liked to play cop, but that didn’t stop the Sheriff’s Office from giving him a real job.Police say the 23-year-old Daytona Beach man’s passion for pretending got him a ticket to the county jail Wednesday, for the third time.

He was arrested and charged with impersonating a police officer after a motorcyclist told actual deputies Blais had pulled him over on Fentress Boulevard.

“He’s just a kid on a power trip,” said motorcyclist Matt Schaub, 23.

Blais was fired Wednesday from his position of dispatcher trainee at the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office where he had worked for two months. Although his application was initially rejected because of his past criminal record, Maj. Terry Sanders said Blais had done well in his training class.

By LYDA LONGA,Staff Writer, Daytona News Journal

–from Rogue

HELMET LAW HEADE TOWARD LOUISIANA–Louisiana State Senator Joel Chaisson II (D-Destrehan) has filed Senate Bill 29, which mandates all motorcycle riders to wear helmets with padding, a visor and a chin strap. That was the law until five years ago when former Governor Mike Foster, an avid motorcyclist, helped persuade lawmakers to allow a choice for riders older than 18. Chaisson said his bill is backed by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission.

With Foster not around to promote an optional bill or threaten a veto, Chaisson said, the chances are good the law will pass. Chaisson said he intends to present medical experts to testify on the need for a mandatory helmet law.

Under the existing law any adult who chooses not to wear a helmet must be covered by at least a $10,000 health insurance policy and furnish proof of insurance to police. (Times-Picayune)

WISCONSIN Supports FREEDOM–Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle signed into law an act that will ensure that motorcycle, snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle riders who do not wear helmets won?t face reduced awards in personal injury cases because of that fact. Helmets are not required for adult motorcycle riders in Wisconsin.

In a ruling two years ago, the state Supreme Court said a jury could consider a person’s decision not to wear a helmet to reduce the amount of damages paid to that person.

Doyle signed the bill, authored by ardent motorcyclist Senator Dave Zien (R-Eau Claire) and Representative Barbara Gronemus (D-Whitehall), surrounded by motorcyclists including members of ABATE of Wisconsin, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and American Motorcyclist Association. Also in attendance were representatives from Accident Scene Management, who played key roles in drafting and getting this legislation passed.

Wisconsin does not have a law requiring adult motorcyclists to wear helmets, and the Legislature formally rejected such an idea when it overrode a gubernatorial veto in 1978. Under this new law, a person’s decision to go without a helmet, as state law allows, cannot be used against that person in a personal injury suit.

–from Rogue

Many apologies for my original misguided title. There wasn’t enough Jack in my cereal that morning.–Bandit

BIKERNET RELATIONSHIP ADVICE–A man returning home a day early from a business trip got into a taxi atthe airport. It was after midnight. While enroute to his home, he asked thecabby if he would be a witness. The man suspected his wife was having anaffair and he intended to catch her in the act.

For $100, the cabby agreed. Quietly arriving at the house, the husband andcabby tiptoed into the bedroom. The husband switched on the lights, yankedthe blanket back and there was his wife in bed with another man.

The husband put a gun to the naked man’s head. The wife shouted, “Don’t doit! This man has been very generous! I lied when I told you I inheritedmoney. He paid for the Corvette I bought for you. He paid for our new cabincruiser. He paid for our house at the lake. He paid for our country clubmembership, and he even pays the monthly dues!”

Shaking his head from side-to-side the husband slowly lowered the gun. Helooked over at the cab driver and said, “What would you do?”

The cabby said, “I’d cover him up with that blanket before he catches a cold.”

–from S&CHere’s some pictures of our bike project. Feedback & comments will be much appriciated, good or bad. If you don’t like parts or can offer any constructive critisism feel free to say so. we have thick skin. I’ll be able to take better pictures of the paint when I can get it outside in the sun. The shop doesn’t have the best lighting.

MRF CALL TO ACTION, QUICK–Having failed to convince State legislatures to adopt laws mandating helmet or apparel use by motorcyclists, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has potentially found another body to advance mandatory-use laws: the United Nations.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that, in total defiance of legislation passed by Congress, NHTSA has moved its efforts to the United Nations, specifically the world body’s “Inland Transport Committee: Working Party on Road Traffic Safety (WP.1).” In a document dated July 15, 2003, and during meetings held by WP.1 in Geneva, Sept. 22-25, 2003, NHTSA presented the following recommendations for WP.1:

Action: “To start a discussion and exchange of information among WP.1 member nations and key non-governmental organizations on motorcycle safety programmes.” As part of NHTSA’s proposed action plan, it urges a questionnaire be circulated among member states (editor’s note: in this instance, “member states” means countries involved with the United Nations). Among the questions NHTSA requests for inclusion on the questionnaire: “Fatality and injury rates due to motorcyclists not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash;” “Laws governing helmet use;” “Amount of penalty for not wearing a helmet;” and “Are there any repercussions, other than fines, if riders do not wear a helmet.”

NHTSA’s estimated timeframe: September 2003 – form a working group; April 2004 – develop and distribute questionnaire; April 2005 – present preliminary results and recommendations to WP.1. This July 15, 2003 NHTSA document will be posted in its entirety on the MRF web site next week.

The Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations (FEMA) disclosed the NHTSA strategy at the September MRF Meeting of The Minds. FEMA is a partner with the MRF, AMA and FIM in ensuring the voice of riders is heard at “Working Party 29 (WP.29), the global vehicles harmonization talks being held in Geneva under the auspices of the U.N. The NHTSA document surfaced in Geneva.

–Rogue

HANDLE BAR HEIGHT LAWS– In Florida the law is that they Can Not Be Over 15 inches above the seat. Of course the cop is going to measure from the Lowest Point of the Seat to the Tallest Part of the Bars. I am not sure what the current fine is.

Handle Bar Tickets are a Big Item during Bike Week and Biketoberfest in Daytona and surrounding areas. They make a lot of money for the city and county and are usually not fought as the fight to do so is more than the ticket and it is the cop?s word against yours. You Lose!

People who I know in the Daytona area that have high bars say that they do not usually have a problem the rest of the year. This shows that it is a money raiser and not a real issue most of the time.

Jeff George aka ?Hammer? of Palm Bay Florida is one of the people that received a ticket for High Bars while at Bike Week and he has contacted Senator Michael Hardopolos of Melbourne, Florida in hopes of changing the law, State of Florida statue 316.2095 motorcycle handlebar height. Hammer has told me he is also going to contact ABATE of Florida and ask their assistance.

This is still in the early stages and I will keep you informed as I become aware of developments.

If you want to find out what the motorcycle laws in your state are go to the American Motorcycle Association web site at http://www.amadirectlink.com/roadride/road.asp

Then click on your state for the information.

If you have a law in your state that you do not think is right Get Involved with Changing It.

Contact Your Legislator, Join a Motorcycle Right Group, Do Some Thing to Make It Right.

–Rogue

Continued On Page 4

BIKERNET NEWS ALERT–H-D REPORT GROWTH, TERRY COMPONENTS MOVES TO S.D. AND DUI BULLSHIT

Continued From Page 1

SOUTH DAKOTA VEHICLE LAWS–Shortly before 9 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day, a 24-year-old man was invited to the front seat of officer Hector Soto’s police car. This would not be a pleasant experience for Jeffrey Allen Young.Wearing a button-down shirt and baseball cap, Young blew into a Breathalyzer and hoped for the best. The red numbers on the screen rose from .04 to .05, .06, .07. The readout stopped at .08.

“Can I ask you what the legal limit is?” Young asked.

“Point-oh-eight,” Soto said.

Two years ago, .08 might not have been such bad news. But, since the Legislature redefined intoxication in 2002, drinking has been a trickier proposition for those trying to stay legal.

Young said he had just come from a downtown bar where he drank four beers in two hours. While drinking led to a police stop for him, other drinkers have made arrangements to ensure they do not end up in the same situation. Some walk to and from bars. Some catch cabs. Some leave their cars in parking lots and even go bar-hopping on a school bus to avoid embarrassment, high insurance rates and legal problems tied to driving while intoxicated.

Now, with the new definition of drunkenness, police, drinkers and bar managers all notice changes not only in the way people drink, but how they think.

The South Dakota Legislature approved the .08 blood alcohol limit in 2002 as the federal government offered $500 million to states that did so and threatened to keep highway construction money from those that didn’t. That would have amounted to $3.5 million for South Dakota in the first year, the state Department of Transportation said.

In this case, .08 resulted in Soto placing a pair of silver handcuffs around Young’s wrists and starting a process that led to a court arraignment two weeks later.

Definition of terms

Designated driver: A term not from the law but fromsociety, promoting the idea of a sober person driving his drunken friends home. A public-intoxication law once meant it wasillegal even to be drunk in the back seat. That is no longer true, “as long as you’re not disorderly,” police Lt. Jerome Miller says. “If you’re out there screaming vulgarities, you’ll go to jail for that.”

Body weight: According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, a 170-pound man drinking five beers an hour would hit the old limit of 0.10 percent blood-alcohol. Four drinks an hour would cut that to 0.08 percent. A 137-pound woman could consume three drinks in an hour and reach 0.08. Body weight, activity, diet, sleep and time spent drinking all are part of the equation.

Serving of alcohol: Generally, a mixed drink, a glass of wine and a 12-ounce can of beer all contain the same amount of alcohol.

Indicators

Police spot drunken drivers through indicators, including:
? Driving with no lights.
? Swerving.
? Driving noticeably slower than the speed limit.
? Turning widely.
? Using high beams.
? Using no signal lights.
? Speeding.

John-John Williams IVjjwilliams@argusleader.com

–from Rogue

SHIPPING BIKES TO HAWAII–It’s a bitch traveling anywhere without your machine at your side. Now you can even ship a bike to Hawaii for a vacation or to attend the Choppers Only Show on the 4th of July. Pacific air frieght company came on board as a sponsor of the second annual Choppers Only Bike Show in Honolulu. It’s now simple to fly bikes to Hawaii. Call 808-834-7977,mailto:tom.ingram@pacificaircargo.com, or pacificaircargo.com

We shipped a bike once and it was at the airport when we arrived.

BIKE NIGHTS and DUI?s I like Bike Nights and it seems that a lot of other people do too. They have gotten so popular that they are not just happening on the weekends any more.

I use to be that motorcycle people had to look for bars that wanted their business. Now it seems they are competing for it. Hey we all know the Bikers Spend Money. The people in business are there to make money.

In the Melbourne ? Palm Bay area of Florida where I live it use to be Friday Night at Hooters. That has changed, it is now Kelly?s Bar and the County Line Saloon and a host of others.

There are places that welcome you all weekend many with food, bands or other entertainment. Now there is also Wednesday night rides to bars.

When you look at Miami and South Florida there are Bike Nights Every Night. Add your other larger cities like Orlando and Tampa, well you get the message.

There is always a party going on some where. Fun, Fun, Fun.

Well with it are reports from around the state of problems from people reporting to work hung over or missing days, wives complaining about money that is needed to support family?s not being there and most of all a Major increase in DUI?s injuries and deaths.

The police departments around the state have also figured out that Bikers Spend Money and they want their share of it to. Hey, they can afford a Harley they got money. They have increase their DUI surveillance of Bike Nights and in many cases have squad cars watching the bars or as in the Case of Palm Bay Police a BAT mobile in front of a local Biker Bar on US1.

They do not have to do a lot except wait and stop a few Bikers a night and their numbers go up. Easy Pickings.

There are numerous changes being made to the DUI laws on a regular basis and if you do get a DUI it is going to cost you dearly and may even prevent you from riding.

Police officers read local publication and advertisements to find out when and where Bike Nights are. Some even join organizations.

I Am Not Suggesting You Stop Doing Bike Nights. I just Want You to Be Aware the Cops Are Watching Them! BE CAREFUL

–Rogue

TERRY COMPONENTS MOVES TO THE BADLANDS–We are moving our home and shop to spearfish south Dakota next month. The new location is 2916 E. 4th Ave off Exit 14 Near the Ford Dealership. Hope to see everyone there this Summer. Note the new phone (605) 642-5300, or Terrycomp.com for the best battery cables in the industry.

–Fran and Keith Terry

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROARS INTO ITS SECOND CENTURY–WITH another RECORD quarter.Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HDI) today announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 28, 2004. Revenue for the quarter was $1.17 billion compared with $1.11 billion in the year-ago quarter, a 4.7 percent increase. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) was 68 cents, an 11.5 percent increase compared with last year?s 61 cents. ?The Company?s continuing strong performance supports our longer-range objectives to satisfy demand for 400,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2007,” said CEO, Jeff Bleustein, “and to deliver an annual earnings growth rate in the mid-teens. Harley-Davidson?s Board of Directors demonstrated their confidence in our stated direction by approving the repurchase of 7.8 million shares of stock during the quarter,? said Bleustein.

Motorcycles and Related Products Segment First quarter revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $919 million, an increase of 4.8 percent over the first quarter last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 74,090, up 3,482 units or 4.9 percent over last year.

First quarter revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $169 million, a 5.8 percent increase over the year-ago quarter. When revenue from 100th Anniversary P&A products sold during the first quarter of 2003 is excluded, P&A revenue would have been up 15.9 percent. For the longer term, the Company expects P&A revenue to grow at a rate slightly faster than the motorcycle unit growth rate.

General Merchandise, which consists of MotorClothes? apparel and collectibles, had first quarter revenue of $54 million, down 3.7 percent over the same period last year. When revenue from 100th Anniversary General Merchandise products shipped in the first quarter of 2003 is excluded, General Merchandise revenue would have been up 12.7 percent. For the longer term, the Company expects General Merchandise to grow at a rate lower than the motorcycle unit growth rate.

First quarter gross margin for the Motorcycles and Related Products Segment was 37.8 percent of revenue compared to 36.2 percent in the first quarter of last year. First quarter gross margin was favorably impacted primarily by foreign currency exchange rates and to a lesser extent by operating efficiencies. Consistent with the higher gross margin, operating margin increased from 21.5 percent in 2003 to 22.9 percent in 2004.

Motorcycle Retail Sales Data

Harley-Davidson retail motorcycle sales for the quarter were up 11.6 percent worldwide driven by strong performance in the U.S. which was up 13.0 percent.

CALIFORNIA EVENTS–from the American Motorcycle Network,http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?evtsort=state.

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3608>Unsung Heroes Ride for Special OlympicsSacramento, Stockton, Ione, CAApr. 24

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3599>Ama Kawasaki Superbike ShowdownSonoma, CAApr. 30

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3598>All American Motorcycle MadnessSanta Maria, CAMay. 21

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3688>Cops, Hogs and RoddersFresno, CAMay. 22

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3691>4th Annual Menghini Winery Rincon Head Start RunJulian, CAMay. 23

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3720>Capital To Capital Ride Across AmericaSacramento, CAMay. 23

http://www.americanmotor.com/events.cfm?eventid=3342>Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle ShowLos Angeles, CAJul. 17

If you know of any events you think other riders would be interested in, please let them know adding to our events system:http://www.americanmotor.com/login.cfm–ADD EVENT

DAYTONA COVERAGE COMPLAINT– I read your assessment of 2004 Daytona. Where do you get off judging anyone about what they ride or drive or wear? Who cares about the ?Industry? blah blah blah ? it?s those same t-shirt wearing renegade lawyers and accountants that buy those stupid chrome masturbations that you and you ?Industry? friends make that you oppose.

Take a look in the mirror and realize that if you have a problem with the self indulgent, baby boomers and their low mileage, polished piles of chrome crap, blame yourself and your ?Industry?. You and your middle finger waving pals commercialized the American Biker into the stupid outlaw biker IMAGE, you make money off of the IMAGE and then bitch about the CUSTOMERS of your INDUSTRY trying to be the IMAGE and about the traffic because you cannot read a map and see that there is more than one bridge in Daytona.

I went to Daytona, I made time to ride, yes, ride. I drank my fill, saw some racing, appreciated the ladies, and had a great time. What was your problem?

If you don?t like Daytona ? stay in CA with your elitist, ?Industry? bike snob friends and your noisy chrome crap. More beer for me.

We won?t miss you.

Chuck Carman
Smart Tool LLC
www.smarttoolusa.com

OH GOD, IT’S TAX DAY–How much money did you make last year?Mail it in.Simplified tax form suggested by Stanton Delaplane

I don’t know of a single foreign product that enters thiscountry untaxed, except the answer to prayer.Mark Twain

I’m proud to pay taxes in the United States;the only thing is, I could be just as proud for half the money.Arthur Godfrey

–from Rev CarlR

BIKERNET SOFTWARE RECOMMENDATIONS–Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a slowdown in the performance of the flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under the Boyfriend 5.0 system. In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs such as Romance 9.9, but installed undesirable programs such as NFL 7.4, NBA 3.2, NHL 4.1 and NASCAR 5.3. Conversation 8.0 also no longer runs, and Housecleaning 2.6 simply crashes the system.

I’ve tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail. What can I do?

Signed, Desperate

****************************************

Dear Desperate:

First keep in mind that Boyfriend 5.0 was an entertainment package, while Husband 1.0 is an operating system. Try to enter the command C:/I/thought/you/loved me, and install Tears 6.2. Husband 1.0 should then automatically run the applications Guilt 3.3 and Flowers 7.5. But remember, overuse can cause Husband 1.0 to default to such background applications as Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0 or Beer 6.1. Please remember that Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that will create SnoringLoudly.WAV files.

DO NOT install Mother-In-Law 1.0 or reinstall another Boyfriend program. These are not supported applications and will crash Husband 1.0. It could also potentially cause Husband 1.0 to default to the program Girlfriend 9.2, which runs in the background and has been known to introduce potentially serious viruses into the Operating System.

In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have a limited memory and can’t learn new applications quickly. You might consider buying additional software to enhance the system performance. I personally recommend HotFood 3.0 and SingleMalt Scotch 4.5, combined with that Old stand-by … Lingerie 6.9 (which has been credited with improved performance of his hardware).

Good Luck

Tech Suppo

Continued On Page 3

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH–CRAZY HORSE RETURNS, STEALTH CONFESSES AND THE SILVER BULLET IS BACK

Photo by RFR of a Strokers Dallas Party girl. Hang on for his report.

Hey, what a wacked out week. Rumor has it that Easyriders is starting a Chopper mag. Half the staff of Hot Bike is under indictment, the publisher is gone and the editor on a hot seat. The PR guy at Custom Chrome left and now works for V-Twin magazine. And who knows what’s happening at the HORSE, I lost contact.

Next Week spills into the desert with the Laughlin River Run. Hopefully it ain’t raining. The American Rider staff is riding out. The Cruising Rider Editor is pissed at me ’cause I won’t customize a Kawasaki in one issue. Can’t win ’em all.

Here’s the news:

THE CRAZYHORSE CONNECTION–

I haven’t been around in quite a while. But like a painter, and a femalepainter at that, I have great excuses. Well they’re not really excuses, theyare reality. Life’s pace here at the Crazy Horse Chopper Farm has beenhappening at a very unlike farm-pace. After I got back from Daytona’sBiketoberfest, a tornado of frenzy swept in and it hasn’t slowed down verymuch. Many things have happened since then. As you can see from above, Ifinished my custom gooseneck hardtail. It was an ordeal worthy of a bikebuild-off, only we were racing the clock, not another builder.

It was lateDec and everything was going was going wrong and continued to get worse. Theplan was to have the bike ready for the Easyriders Bike Show here inCharlotte. Now every year, my customers take home trophies with their bikes.I’ve entered my sporty a few times, taking home zip. After 25 years in thebike painting business, would my own bike be radical enough to get one ofthose trophies? Not if it didn’t make it to the show. In mid Dec, I decidedto change the paint scheme from what had been decided upon. It was a lastminute thing. My husband wanted me to go with a very detailed flame job,that would take countless more hours. Did I have time? No. But like ahopeful fool, I forged ahead anyway, and dove onto the frame with tape andairbrush in hand.

The frame took a week to flame. I had to keep going backand reworking the design, then the clearcoat kept giving me grief. Thenfinally after getting a near perfect round of clear on it, I was buffing asmall bit of dust out of the seat area and buffed through the clear. I’dbeen done, finished, I’d even taken the frame hanging chains down from thebooth. I put down the shotgun and grabbed a box of Little Debbie’s snackcakes, ate the whole box, then sanded the frame, rehung it, and recleared itwith an absolutely flawless coat of clear. I was floored! Had something goneright? Was this a sign of things to come? Not a chance.

Christmas came andwent and the chrome hadn’t come in. Jim couldn’t install the motor andtranny without the specially made tranny plate which was at the chrome shop.His mood went from simple gloomy to downright homicidal. Meanwhile, I wasgrubbing through the sheetmetal flame paint, with the pace of a fat chickslogging through the swamp. The detail work on these flames was killing me.I had to have this paint job pop. This was the painter’s bike. It had to bespecial. I kept changing the flame layout, frantically trying to find theperfect symmetry of flame design. After each piece of sheetmetal wascomplete, I felt as whooped as if I had given birth, only this wasn’t anonly child being born, this was quintuplets.

Suddenly the show was only two weeks away. Chrome? Ha! Those fricking idiotshad more excuses than a bike painter. Jim was in the middle of makinganother tranny plate, when the box from the chrome shop arrived. It wasn’tonly a poorly done job, it was the worst chroming either one of us had everseen. They destroyed the tailight and lost the brake stay, sending to thewrong shop, who sent it back to the chrome shop, who then prompty lost it.

Jim quickly built a new taillight and brake stay, then stopped payment onthe check to the chrome shop. My buddy Ben Jordan powdercoated the tailightblack. Jim whacked the new brake stay with spray bomb black. The motor andtranny slipped into the frame and suddenly the bike was coming together. Wejust might make it. We had four days to finish.

Meanwhile, I was flaming awayon the tank when Jim burst into the studio. The primary wouldn’t go on.Something was wrong with the input shaft on the tranny. Jim knows nothingabout H-D trannys. He wasn’t about to pull it apart. The next day he wentinto work at the H-D dealer hoping they’d have the correct tranny in stock.He came home early with a big box and closed himself in the shop. I stayedaway, feeding him completed painted sheetmetal as I finished it. The frontfender went on the bike an hour before the bike left for the show.

My moodduring the show was completely foul. High $$ custom after high $$ customrolled into the show. My lowly gooseneck didn’t have a chance. KendallJohnson was there signing autographs on the Easyriders Bike Builder Tour,but took time out from his fans to spent some time consoling me, insistingthat the flames on my bike were the best he’d ever seen. He sure soundedsincere.

Oil Can from Easyriders magazine was more blunt, “Well why don’t ya go homeright now sour puss. Ya ain’t gonna win nuthin’.” He smiled as he walkedaway. So at the end of the night, I was floored when they called out my namefor Second Place Best Street Custom.

A month earlier I had been in Orlando at the NACE show. It’s a trade showfor Automotive refinishers. House of Kolor had me bring four bikes.I met some very cool people, like the folks from Sata Spray Gun. I tried outall kinds of new equipment and those new Sata guns are state of the art.Worth every penny. I hung out with Jon Kosmoski a few nights, and it was anawesome experience. He told me many of his painting adventures andnightmares. That guy has experienced damn near everything a painter canexperience. He told stories about painting, about people, about business,about it all. I learned more from hanging out with him those nights that Icould in a week of paint seminars. He writes a great painting book, but heshould do a non-fiction personal adventure book. I’d buy a copy. I lookforward to seeing him in Sturgis and soaking up more of his paintingbusiness wisdom.

Immediately after the bike show, I hopped on a plane and went up toMinnesota to check out Sata’s newest products and spray Createx Auto Airpaint. It was three days of painting all day and partying all night. The hightemp during the day was minus 12. You don’t even want to know what nighttimetemps were. Maybe that’s why those guys party so hard. Craig Kennedy, VicePres of Createx, and I would come rolling in at 2am every night, and Tonyfrom Sata would be there at 8:00 a.m. sharp to pick us up. It was hell, and I wasfinally rescued by the lovely Shari of Souix Falls, SD.

Her boyfriend, Kai,is one of the owners of Twisted Choppers. She spirited me away to SouixFalls where the air is freezing but the bikes are brutal hot. I spent sometime at Twisted Choppers shooting bikes and checking out their twistedcreations. Kai and Jason are two young guns who are fabricating some prettywild stuff. They are miles ahead of the usual chopper stuff you see outthere. I was especially impressed with their tank designs. I know whosemaking the tank on my next bike. All other chopper shops out there, lookout-these guys are unreal talented and their stuff is on the edge. I cameaway from that shop floored by the energy and ideas burning in that place.No wonder Billy Lane picked them to make the tank on his last Discoverybike.

I handled two Twisted Choppers bike shoots in a top secret location with a veryattractive model. The pictures came out great, we had a blast, got allgoofy, did crazy things, and I guess we had a little too much fun, cos wecan’t use some of the pictures. Of course they were some of the best ones. Ashitload more has happened and kept me slammed busy but I’ve yakked onenough here. Big announcements, cool paintwork, and strange adventures. Morenews from the Crazy Horse farm next week.

NEW BIKERNET REPORTER COMING–She is attending Brevard College to become a Journalist.She has been around for a long time.She use to work at the Harley shop in Parts and is a Damn Good Wrench.

If you think you might be interested I will have her submit some stuff for your approval.She’ll cover the Charleston, Heritage Rally this weekend.

–ROGUE

THE STEALTH REPORT–I cleaned my garage out this past week. Amazing the stuff you find that you forget you have! I decided to unload a lot of my old bike show trophies. Some were falling apart anyway and needed to be put out of their misery. I looked at the engraved plates on each of them and tried to remember where I was when I got them. Some I remembered, some I didn’t. I decided to trash can all of them. I have five awards I keep in my house that mean a lot to me and I would never part with them. One of them is a 3rd place award from an Easyrider bike show from 1996(1991 Springer Softail), A best of show award from Waugh Enterprises open house bike show in 1999, 204 bikes were entered in that show and it is near my hometown in Va. The award stands 4 feet high! A first place award from an Easyrider bike show in 2000 (my memorial rigid framed, jockey shift, bike in memory of my son Justin), this one always has a special place in my heart and always will. l have the famous five ball award from right here at Bikernet back when there was the cyber space bike show.

This one means a lot too, it comes from my mentor, a guy I respect , Mr. Bandit himself! I usually don’t do bike shows anymore, but every once in awhile I get the itch. While I was in Daytona, this past bike week, my brother Gary and I visited the Convention center and Harley was having their Ride-In Bike Show. I thought about doing the show and at first I didn’t want to, but after a little arm twisting from Gary I decided to enter the show, besides the entry fee goes to MDA. I didn’t give it much thought as to winning an award, but when the winners were announced my name was called for an Honorable Mention , not bad for a bike 13 years old. Old Skeletor did it again!(1991 springer)

The beginnings of the Run For Breath “Best Of Show” trophy by Bandit.

While I am on the subject of bike shows, here is some news on the 6th Annual Run For Breath”In Memory Of Justin Pullin” bike show. Two new classes this year, a ladies only class and a V-Rod class.

There are a total of 35 awards! All are being built by bike builders. I am sure most you saw what my buddy Jose came up with, they are too cool! I got a call from Fabricator Kevin this past week and he told he was starting on his three awards. He said they will be delivered at THE HORSE SMOKE-OUT in June. Take the hint Mr. Bandit, delivered at THE SMOKE-OUT! Ladies start polishing those bikes and guys get those V-Rods ready, we listened to what you said last year because there was no V-Rod class, so here is you chance at one these cool one-off awards!

Well, I guess that about does it for this week! It is time to go for a ride!

Later!
–Mike (THE STEALTH)

OPEN LETTER TO ALL BIKERS– I was talking with a friend the other day and he reminded me of something that I had forgotten. He told me that as we grow older and more experienced that we are needed more then ever. Most of you know him as Rogue. I have known Rogue for more then 25 years. In all that time he has been around fighting the good fight while others, (like me) take holidays, retire from their obligations, or just plain hide their heads in the sand from what is going on in the lifestyle we have chosen for ourselves.

I was gently reminded that as we grow older our responsibilities mature rather then diminish. Unless we have left the lifestyle completely we are veterans that have a lot to share and give back to our community. He reminded me that my rights as a biker have been slowly eroding. Or worse yet, that much of the freedoms that I had imagined I would be or have been enjoying for myself these past three decades of riding have been simply illusions.

Many of us join A.B.A.T.E. with our good intentions intact. But lose those intentions when we find that there are more people who join for nothing more then the social aspect of the organization. Or perhaps we lose our respect for the members as we see how others who join– the ones who ride non-American built motorcycles are treated with less respect and tolerance then those with the high end American built motorcycles. Or perhaps we simply feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the work ahead of us and by the party atmosphere that seems to pervade the organization. What has this story to do with us today? The profiling is still going on. The legislations are still being proposed that allow for this kind of inspection, prejudice, and loss of our citizen rights. We still see our friends being slaughtered on our roadways without justice being brought to their families. All this and more simply because we choose to be riders of two wheeled motorized transportation rather then the accepted norm of four wheels or more.

Keep the issues in mind and don?t allow the rhetoric that surrounds it to engulf you. If you can?t devote an hour or more a month to this cause, then find a way that you can contribute more then money to the organization that supports your rights. If you have the time to attend a party sponsored by A.B.A.T.E. then you have the time to volunteer for some thankless job that needs to be done in order to make the party run without a hitch. Ask your committee members what you can do in order to help take some of the pressure off them. You may be asked to help with clean up or be a parking attendant but it is something that you can do and still be there to enjoy the event.

You can write letters that encourage others to take up the fight or that will be read by your state representative body about something that is happening at the state or local level regarding your rights. You can help to educate the public about biker safety issues. There are a myriad of things that you can do to improve your standard of biking and all it takes is imagination and creativity. Don?t have those qualities? Then ask your state and local reps what you can do; they will be able to suggest a number of things that will be of assistance to them.

–Marilyn Elmore Bragg

THE SILVER BULLET RETURNS– I spent the whole day today drinkin’ hot coffee and workin’ on “Silver Bullet”. Remember the ol’ girl? I still got it and now that I’m all moved in down here I’ve been doin’ this and that to it. Man, the Rats hole show in ’96! JESUS. Nancy was on Mtv recently. She’s the captain of a ROLLER DERBY team in Austin.

— Tim
The Conderosa
http://www.armageddontopfuel.com

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