January 16, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
I’m still sorting through our goals for the year. I don’t know about you, but I’m still trying to slow my blazing life down. Seems you can’t do that and make a living. We believe, in our distraught minds, that we are doing a helluva job with Bikernet with a small staff. The site grows and changes constantly. Yet, the bottom line could improve.
Look at it this way. At the top of the goal list is sex, Book writing and time to ride. Making money is at the bottom of the stack with doing taxes, but unfortunately my code doesn’t pay the bills. Hell, I don’t know what to do. You tell me. Let’s hit the news:
BIKERNET LITIGATION INVESTIGATION FINDINGS–Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP represents Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners in two separate types of lawsuits. The first is a consumer fraud lawsuit based upon alleged defects in 1999 or early-2000 model Harley-Davidson motorcycles equipped with Twin Cam 88 or Twin Cam 88B (together ?TC-88?) engines. The second litigation consists of personal injury lawsuits against Harley-Davidson based upon high speed wobble accidents.
Twin Cam Engine Consumer Fraud Class Action
In Tietsworth, et al. v. Harley-Davidson, Inc., and Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a consumer fraud class action lawsuit, Lieff Cabraser serves as plaintiffs? co-counsel.
The lawsuit was brought by California resident Steven C. Tietsworth and four residents of Wisconsin. All are Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners with 1999 or early-2000 models equipped with Twin Cam 88 or Twin Cam 88B (together ?TC-88?) engines. Plaintiffs allege that the TC-88 engine was defectively designed and potentially dangerous due to the propensity for premature cam failure, which causes sudden and total engine failure. This failure could allegedly result in economic and physical injuries, including out-of-pocket repair costs, property damages, and serious injury or death.
On January 14, 2003, in a unanimous decision, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals today reversed the trial court’s dismissal of the lawsuit, finding that plaintiffs had properly alleged the necessary elements of claims under the Wisconsin Deceptive Trade Practices Act and for common law fraudulent concealment.
To read a copy of the appellate decision (in Abode Acrobat format), It is estimated that over 100,000 model year 1999 and early-2000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles were sold with the alleged defective TC-88 engine. Plaintiffs allege that Harley-Davidson knew and knows about the defect in the engines, and even sells a $500.00 ?fix kit? designed to remedy the problem with the engines. High-Speed Wobble Defined Lieff Cabraser represents motorcyclists against Harley-Davidson in personal injury lawsuits allegedly as a result of what are commonly referred to as “high-speed wobble” (or “tank-slapper”) accidents involving Harley-Davidson motorcycles. High speed wobble motorcycle accidents typically involve shaking or instability in the front end of the motorcycle. In certain cases, the front wheel can thrash from side to side, something bikers refer to as a “tank slapper” because the handlebars suddenly seem intent on battering the fuel tank into submission, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Harley Cycles and High Speed Wobble On September 13, 2002, the Raleigh, North Carolina News and Observer reported that a local police officer had lost control of his Harley-Davidson motorcycle after its front wheel began to wobble as he was passing a tractor-trailer at 85 mph, and died. A spokesman for Harley’s corporate office said the company “is not aware of any issues with any of our motorcycles at this time.” The News and Observer, however, stated that other sources noted stability problems with the FLH series of Harley-Davidson, also known as the Electra Glide, Road King and Ultra Classic, which are widely used by law enforcement officers nationwide. “A Harley, when you get it to high speed, has what you call a high-speed wobble,” Sgt. R.N. Stallings of the North Carolina Highway Patrol was quoted as stating. In an otherwise glowing article in 1999, Motorcycle Consumer News described “an oscillation in the chassis that keeps the bike from feeling steady, both while cornering and at elevated speeds.” The writer attributed the problem to an offset between the front and rear tires. Riders of Harley motorcycles who suffered injuries allegedly due to high speed wobble and would like to learn more about their legal rights, please –from Jose, Bikernet lawful investigator BIKERNET PET DEPARTMENT–On reaching his plane seat, a man is surprised to see a parrot strapped into the seat next to him. The man asks the stewardess for a cup of coffee and the parrot squawks, “And why don’t you get me a whiskey, you bitch.” The stewardess, flustered by the parrot’s outburst, brings back a whiskey for the parrot but inadvertently forgets the man’s cup of coffee. As the man nicely points out the omission of his coffee to the stewardess, the parrot downs his drink and shouts, “And get me another whiskey, you slut.” Visibly shaken, the stewardess comes back with the parrot’s whiskey but still no coffee for the man. Unaccustomed to such slackness, the man decides that he is going to try the parrot’s approach: “I’ve asked you twice for a cup of coffee, you bitch. I expect you to get it for me right now or I’m going to slap that disgustingly ugly face of yours!” Next thing they know, both the man and the parrot are wrenched up and thrown out of the emergency exit by two burly stewards. Plunging downwards to the ground the parrot turns to the man and says, “For someone who can’t fly, you sure are a cocky bastard.” –from Al Friedman NEW AND EXTREMELY UNIQUE!– Another added (and very cool) item to our 2003 line-up of products,”The Crystal Joker”. This 2″ x 2″ x 3″ piece of art features finely exploded bubbles in the center of the block produced in 3-D by a controlled laser in a likeness of the Joker. The Joker image inside tends to “glow” when presented to any light source. This is truly an incredible piece that is sure to fascinate everyone in contact with it. Observe the various views of the block in the Auxillary Photo section on the Joker site RICK CAMPBELL ON THE STATE OF THE MC INDUSTRY FOR 2003–Rick is the god of the industry, the publisher of Motorcycle Industry News. Here’s some of his varied of thoughts: “We are facing some huge obstacles to continuing our rate of growth. The general state of the economy, the current condition of the stock market, the specter of a possible war in the Middle East, continuing layoffs in corporate America…these are all things that could have great impact on our future. “However, I look back to similar situations in our past and am encouraged about our long and short-term futures. We grew during the last two or three recessions. We grew during the Gulf War. We continued to grow through the stock market tumble. And, we have been called as close to recession-proof as possible by people in the financial community, like the ‘Wall Street Journal’.” We’re renegades who feed on passion and speed. Who needs a stock market, or any market for that matter. LADIES DON’T FORGET, MARCH 20TH!– A New Holiday was born. Guys, you know the drill. Every 14th of February you get the chance to display your fondness for a significant other by showering her with gifts, flowers, dinner, shows and any other baubles that women find romantic. Every Valentine’s Day you rack your brains for that one special, unique gift that will show your wife or girlfriend that you really do love them more than any other. Now ladies, I’ll let you in on a little secret; guys really don’t enjoy this that much. Sure seeing that smile on your face when we get it right is priceless, but that smile is the result of weeks of blood, sweat and consideration. Another secret; guys feel left out. That’s right, there’s no special holiday for the ladies to show their appreciation for the men in their lives. Men as a whole are either too proud or too embarrassed to admit it. Which is why a new holiday has been created. March 20th is now officially “Steak and Blowjob Day.” Simple, effective and self explanatory, this holiday has been created so you ladies finally have a day to show your man how much you love him. No cards, no flowers, no special nights on the town; the name of the holiday explains it all, just a steak and a BJ. That’s it. Finally, this twin pair of Valentine’s Day and Steak and Blowjob Day will usher in a new age of love as men everywhere try THAT much harder in February to ensure a memorable March 20th. It’s like a perpetual love machine! The word is already beginning to spread, but as with any new idea, it needs a little push to start the ball rolling. So spread the word, and help bring love and peace to this crazy world. And, of course, steak and bjs! –Rogue BUELL RECALL–Buell has recalled the 2003 Firebolt XB9R because the side stand legs have the potential to bend or break. A total of 371 units are affected. –From the Motorcycle Industry Council News, January issue. GEAR FOR THE WEATHER–More and more there is gear developed that can make riding in any weather possible. Hell the current electrical systems and enduring batteries make it all possible. Here’s a company worth checking out. We were impressed with their gear at the Long Beach Dealer Show. Gerbing’s heated clothing (800) 646-5926 or www.gerbing.com. They have everything from heated gloves and vests to jackets and pants. While building the Touring Chopper with Jesse James we discovered a new company, Windvest, that made small sleek windshield for custom applications. They are designed to bolt to any riser/handlebar combination and are designed for custom bikes. Check out www.coolwindshields.com or call (408) 209-6337. ANTIQUE MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF AMERICA–If you’re into antique bikes or just like to see cool old bike ads, restorations and literature join this organization. Membership in the US is $20, $28 in Canada and $40 in all other countries. Check www.antiquemotorcycle.org or call (800) 782-AMCA. V-ROD WINNER–For months I heard about a raffle for a V-Rod from a local dealer. I wanted to share the opportunity with Bikernet reades, but couldn’t get to the bottom of the hunt. Finally Annie from the factory sent me a notice. I found out that the Harley-Davidson New Year National Open House was the source of the Raffle as part of the festivities. I needed to grind my dealer to find out about the open house activities. The Grand Prize winner of the 2001 National Harley-Davidson Open House Sweepstakes was Brian Johlman of Santa Rosa, California. His dealer is Michael’s Harley-Davidson of Cotati, California. I’ll have to watch closer for next year’s Open House. Continued On Page 2
January 16, 2003
By Bandit | | General Posts
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at (800) ON-A-BIKE, or visit us on the web at www.ON-A-BIKE.com.
From TheGUNNY’S SACK
Here we are in the second month of the new year and I’m still writing 2002 on my check dates. You too? Y’must be gettin’ long in the tooth, or maybe the years are adding up faster than you can keep track of.
Looking back, this past year has been one of many victories and a few upsets for us in the motorcycle rights world. Our main problem, still, is finding people that ride or are rider-friendly who even care about what happens to their freedom to ride a motorcycle, let alone deal with all the restrictions we are fighting, to be able to ride machines with air cooled engines. If Big Brother has his way, pretty soon, we’ll be on bikes that don’t even resemble the machines that so many of us learned to ride on. That is, if we’re lucky enough to keep the right to ride at all. Right now, the life of the air cooled engine is on the way to extinction if we don’t make ourselves heard and very clearly by our congress, our state legislatures, and in various ruling bodies in other parts of the world.
This last year has also been one of loss of dear friends for many of us, myself included. These people that meant so much to our lives will be remembered in the way we conduct ourselves in their absence. Many of these folks were fellow freedom fighters, others were fellow riders and they all need to be remembered as contributors to our well-being and footprints on our souls. None of them would want us to falter in our fight for the return of freedoms lost because we didn’t think it could happen. 2003 needs to be the year of gettin’ the job done!
NEWS BIT’S ?N’ PIECES:
SAN DIEGO: Don Vesco, who set the wheel-driven land-speed record of 458 mph, died of prostate cancer at 63. Vesco set 18 motorcycle and six car-type vehicle records, going back to when he was just 16. And listen to this: In 1970, he rode a bike to a record 250 mph. Five years later, he broke the 300 mph barrier on his Silver Bird Yamaha, powered by twin Yamaha TZ750 engines. In 1978, he boosted that to 318 mph on a Kawasaki turbo, a record that stood for 12 years. He was inducted into the motorcycle hall of fame in 1999. Yet, this man is relatively unknown to the average street rider. This cat could really ride a scooter.
LAS VEGAS: The Guggenheim Las Vegas museum, the scene of the motorcycle history display, closes its doors Jan. 5 after a 15-month run. Our economy is stated to be the reason. T hey just can’t afford to operate the way things are right now. It’s a shame. And none of the riders in our Oregon AIM office — me, Sam Hochberg or Jeanne — WE didn’t get to SEE it yet! Damn. Oh well. Y’snooze, y’lose.
DON’T LET YOUR LEATHERS GET TRASHED: Our AIM Attorneys hear it all the time; bikers complaining about their leathers being cut off by paramedics after an accident. So, from our field reporter, Oregon AIM Attorney Sam Hochberg, comes a solution for NOT gettin’ your leathers cut: Wear zippers. Wear the type that have a zipper down the entire length of each side of the outside of your chaps or pants, or at the very least, along the outsides of each leg. If you don’t wear that zipper-type, you run a higher risk that the paramedics at the scene will have to cut your leathers off you, right there!
The real reason? If you wanna live, you have to. You can BLEED TO DEATH in about 15 minutes from a pelvic fracture. That area holds up to 2 liters of blood, and THAT’S too much to lose to live very long. The ONLY way to evaluate your injury in a bike wreck is to inspecting the perineum (uh, it’s that area between yer male or female part and your butt-hole, or your “t’ain’t”, like some folks useta call it). Gotta look in that general nether-region for blood pooling.
Paramedics DON’T WANT to cut off your leathers because it’s WAY more complex than just unzipping. Pulling them off is out of the question because that could exacerbate any existing injury. Leathers are so thick, like they oughta be, that they can hide life-threatening injuries, so they HAVE to be cut off. Or unzipped. So get some zippers! Thanks and a tip o’ the stethoscope to the Sack’s source, a paramedic in training up at OHSU!
HONG KONG, CHINA: There are some of us in the USA who think there are too many of the WRONG KINDS of lawsuits, and I know Sam Hochberg and I agree on that. Sure, there are weird, stupid cases. Some shouldn’t be allowed to be filed. But HERE’S a topper Sam ran into at NewsMax.com. According to the South China Morning Post, it seems this Hong Kong woman, Chu-leu, got a bad haircut, so she SUED her beauty parlor! Jeez, lady, the hair WILL grow back! She said she wanted to look like Julia Roberts, but instead “It looked like a broom. Every hair stuck out like an open umbrella which could not be shut. It was horrible. I looked like Osama bin Laden,” she told an unsympathetic judge. The Small Claims Tribunal tossed the case, then had to toss her out too when she refused to leave the courtroom. Hey, if you showed up looking like Osama in a LOT of places here in America, you might be given a good reason to sue somebody!
LITTLE EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP: I have no idea where it is, but it seems the librarian in this town is quite a celebrity. Maggie Penk isn’t used to being Miss September yet, but it appears the fire marshal believes so, ‘cuz he needed her autograph…
She is one of the dozen Ocean County librarians in leather featured on a new calendar. It’s made up of various Ocean County librarians sitting on a white Harley-Davidson, clad head to toe in leather, some even … reading.
They wanna use the dough they raise towards an $11.6 million expansion to their library, and to bring public attention to it. This one lady, Ms. Penk, useta ride dirt bikes as a kid in Wyoming, so at least for her, scooters aren’t totally unfamiliar. The whole thing was done tongue in cheek, kinda glamorizing the so-called “stuffy” librarians.
The idea worked: $20,000 has been raised so far from these calendars. The county and the state will spend 11.3 million dollars on the project, so their celebrity gig is almost done. Good deal!! Sounds like that bunch of women in England who made TONS of dough doing something similar: Posing nude for a calendar. Most were just ordinary women with ordinary bodies, so it was different!
A QUOTE, for a change: “Own only what you can always carry with you: know languages, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag.” By Alexander Solzhenitsyn, the Russian novelist. He’s best known for his books describing forced labor camps, namely “One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich,” in 1962.
RIDERS ED IS for YOU, Bub: Time really flies when yur hav’n fun and we often forget that we are a minority on our roads and highways. Sometime during the off-season for riding, do yourself a favor: Take a riding course. They’re available in most states through nearby colleges. Check with your state Motor Vehicles Department or the bikers rights group in your state for more. Most courses are less than $100.00. Just one thing you learn there can save your life. All of us lose people close to us during every year and it’s heartbreaking. Even if you’re an experienced rider, there’s always something else to learn. We spend much more than the cost of a course on chrome stuff for our ride.
The good news is that motorcycle accidents that have alcohol involvement are down nearly 10%. Maybe the word is getting out that scooters and booze DON’T MIX.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT: Our Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) attorneys across the country are working daily for our benefit and not just on accidents we have had. They provide pro bono or free legal services on numerous issues that affect motorcycling. AIM attorneys serve as legal counsel at all the Confederations of Clubs meetings throughout the U.S.A. and Canada. Not to mention all the time they spend talking to various groups, and dispensing free advice to folks at rallies nationwide. Do yourself a favor and call your nearest AIM attorney if you have an accident, or if you just need some advice on other legal matters; especially anything about motorcycle law. They can even represent you in criminal matters through Aid to Incarcerated Motorcyclists, the “other” AIM.
Nationally, call AIM at 1-800-ON-A-BIKE (or 1-800-531-2424). Remember, these people all ride the same as we do, so they know what our world is all about on the road and in the courts. Sam Hochberg, our Oregon AIM attorney can be reached at 503-224-1106 or toll free at 1-800-347-1106. Sam’s e-mail handle is SamBikeLaw@aol.com, and I’m AIMGunny@aol.com. Give me a shout. I’d love to hear from you.
Keep the round side on the bottom.
Gunny, Oregon AIM Chief of Staff
January 9, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 2
We’d like to introduce all our readers to our esteemed web master, the Digital Gangster. What a nice guy.–Bandit
BIKERNET TRAVEL SERVICE–At a small air terminal in the Texas Panhandle, three strangers areawaiting their shuttle flight. One is a Native American passing through fromOklahoma. Another, a local ranch hand on his way to Ft. Worth for astock show. The third passenger is an Arab student, newly arrived at the Texasoil patch from the Middle East.
The cowpoke leans back in his chair, crosses his boots on a magazinetable,tips his big sweat-stained hat forward over his face. The wind outsideblows tumbleweeds and the old windsock flaps, but no plane comes.
To pass the time the other two strike up a conversation on recent eventsand the discussion drifts to their diverse cultures. Soon the Westernerslearn that the Arab is a devout Muslim. The conversation falls into an uneasylull.
Finally, the Native American clears his throat and softly, he speaks:”Once my people were many, now we are few.”
The Muslim raises an eyebrow and leans forward, “Once my people werefew,” he sneers, “and now we are many. Why do you suppose that is?”
The Texan shifts the toothpick to one side of his mouth and from thedarkness beneath his Stetson says “Cause we ain’t played Cowboys andMuslims…yet”
–from Al Friedman
BIKERNET WEB SITE RESEARCH–Great web-site for bike events! Enjoy, RC –Ron Copple BIKERNET PEASHOOTER RESEARCH–Since selling the Bikernet 1931 VL restored by Mike Egan, we’ve been on a search for a motorcycle of that era to replace the VL. Bandit was intrigued by Peashooters, or singles that were built from 1926-33, a 30.5 model. Actually the Peashooter title was given to the racing units. Well, we’re looking for part, pieces, a basket to get started. Our first contact was with a European gentleman who is selling his ’29 on the website George’s Antique Bike Trader. Here’s what he had to say, but never gave us a price: “I find it in the north part of Finland for some years ago. I went up some 700 kms and bought it prompt. The Peashooter is an original bike with original register papers and original register sign as well, and as far as I know I am the third ownner. ” The Engine is in good order and I took part of or tradional parade with the bike 1st of may this year, so it is runnable. My personal interest as always been among British and some Italians which make the reason why I might sell the bike. “Anyway I do not think it is easy to find a “Peashooter” as used original bike like this with complete known history. And it has not been on the local market or any attempt from me here to sell it. “As far as I know, H-D started production of “Peashooters” one year afterIndian did.The reason why, was actually two, I think. Any way my knowledge in the area of H-Ds is not particulary good, but thisbike I could not resist so when I find it, I bought it prompt about a yearago.” Regards and all the best for 2003 –Harry W. Nordlund WORKING–I don’t know about your area of the country but a growing trend here isforpeople to get lazy. It is not uncommon for as many as 14 to 18peopleto stand around and watch only one person work. The situation isalmostout of hand, hope it is not happening in your area asmuch………………… –from Bob T. DYNA FAT TIRE KIT–Big Boar products now offers a complete fat tire kit for all Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide model motorcycles. If your Dyna Glide is making big ponies you need a fat rear tire to ghet that power to the ground. The Big Boar kit includes: Wide Swing arm, Wide rear composite fender, motor sporocket shaft extension., extra length transmission main shaft & fifth gear, primary cover spacers, transmission pulley spacer, all required gaskets & seals, extra length clutch push rod, fender rail bolts and shock top bolts & spacers. Absolutely everything you need to go fat with your Dyna is included. Big Boar quality is present in every component. BIKERNET HELMET LAW HISTORY–BY BILL BISH 1961 The first compulsory helmet law in the world took effect in Victoria, Australia, on January 1st. 1966 Georgia adopts the first helmet law in the U.S. Later that year, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) threatens to withhold millions of dollars in highway funds from states failing to enact helmet laws. By 1969, 41 states comply. 1969 Illinois repeals their helmet law as unconstitutional. 1975 Helmet use is required in 47 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The Secretary of Transportation initiates legal proceedings against California, Utah and Illinois to withhold highway funds due to non-compliance. 1976 Congress amends the Highway Safety Act, revoking DOT authority to require states to adopt helmet laws and preventing the Secretary from imposing fiscal sanctions. By 1977, 23 states repeal or modify their helmet laws. 1983 Wyoming passes an under 18 amendment to their mandatory helmet law, leaving only 19 states with a helmet requirement for all riders. 1988 – 91 Helmet laws reinstated in Oregon (passed by public referendum, effective 6/16/88), Nebraska (eff. 1/1/89), Texas (eff. 9/1/89), Washington (eff. 6/7/90) and California (eff. 1/1/92). 1991 – 95 Congress passes the Intermodel Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA), a massive highway bill which includes a requirement that states pass both helmet and seat belt laws by Sept 31, 1993 or transfer certain federal highway funds into safety programs. Only Maryland complies (10/1/92), making 25 states with full helmet laws, 22 states with modified laws excluding most adults, and 3 states with no helmet law. 1995 On November 28, President Clinton signs the National Highway System Designation Act (NHS), a highway bill which includes a repeal of the federal ISTEA helmet mandates. 1997-present Effective August 1, 1997, Arkansas repeals their mandatory helmet law to apply only to those under 21. Texas soon follows, repealing their helmet law effective September 1, 1997 for riders 21 and older who have either completed a motorcycle safety course or carry a minimum $10,000 medical insurance. Effective July 15, 1998, the state of Kentucky repeals mandatory helmet law for riders 21 and older who can show proof of medical insurance. Effective August 15, 1999, Louisiana amends its helmet law to exempt riders 18 and older with a minimum $10,000 in medical insurance. Effective July 1, 2000, Florida amends their helmet law to exempt riders 21 and older with $10,000 minimum medical insurance. –Bill Bish, NCOMBish@aol.com THE GRAND FINALE (I LOVE THIS ONE!!!)– Last summer, down on Lake Isabella, located in the high desert, anhour east of Bakersfield, California, some folks, new to boating,were having a problem. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn’t gettheirbrand new 22 ft. boat going. It was very sluggish in almost everymaneuver, no matter how much power was applied. After about an hour oftrying to makeit go, they putted to a nearby marina, thinking someone there could tellthemwhat was wrong. A thorough topside check revealed everything inperfect working condition. The engine ran fine, the out drive went up anddown,and the prop was the correct size and pitch. So, one of the marinaguys jumped in the water to check underneath. He came up choking on water,he waslaughing so hard. NOW REMEMBER… THIS IS TRUE … Under the boat,still strapped securely in place, was the trailer. –from Rogue DAVE BARR SETS NEW RECORD– “I’ve established my second world record. I road a Sportster to the 4 extreme compass points of the continent of Australia, much of it through the outback. I’m working with a company that is making a documentary of the journey and is aiming to get it on to mainstream TV,” Dave told recently. He’ll be in the Guiness world book for records for this trip. We carry a book on some of Dave’s other exploits. You can pick one up in the Gulch. –Dave Barr “Sometimes I think war is God’s way of teaching us geography.” – – Paul Rodriguez –from Kris B. RUN FOR YOUR LIVES–I don’t get as much time in the garage as I would like, so when I’m working with tools, I want to knock out each project with aplomb and success. In other words I want to get the job done and get back on the road, quick. So I started tinkering with some tubing a local muffler shop gave me to work with. This is aluminum coated steel tubing. I cut the chunks I needed and attempted to dovetail the rings together with the center strap. According to the mechanic at the shop this was a doable procedure. Sorta, if you want to fight through the aluminum coating with a torch. From that point on my perfectly thought-out design fell apart until I was forced to give up and return to the headquarters. If the news is scrambled in one aspect or another, it’s because my mind has been locked into solving the shaky underpinnings of the carburetor system on my Panhead. It’s either that or sex. The bike is running so well I’m tempted to ride it to Sturgis. If only I can muster the ingenuity to solve the mounting/air cleaner complexities of dual carbs, I may make it out of town. Have a helluva weekend. –Bandit
-The Eurpean market
-Racing
Besides racers there were 3 diffrent types: A,AB and B
-One ohv with magneto
-One sv with magneto
-One sv with generator and same ignition system and frame like the 750
-Mine is one of the last named type.
cleobarr@earthlink.net
January 9, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
FIRST CALIFORNIA HELMET PROTEST IN YEARS THIS WEEKEND–Commander Bandit, Yah Tah Hey. Attention On Deck! First Helmet Protest in California in’a long f…in’ time! Monday, Jan. 13th, in Sac. Just got word from Ghost Mtn. Riders mc. They will be headin’ there Sunday.
I still believe it can be done. Check with your loco mob & ride TOGETHER.
–Ride On! Wino Joe,USA
TBEAR IS FEATURED IN NEW YORK POST– OK, so they picked up two of my features this time. Does that mean I get to be famous for 30 minutes?
Me Mudder is so proud that my name and photo isn’t under a WANTED banner this time. –TB PS. they will only have this up till tomorrow if you want to snag it. Writer’s Panhead, not the Red Baron. See Home Page for feature. RED BARON UPDATE–Just saw the feature on the “Red Baron” sled, if you haven’t tracked down the origin of the headlight on that sled it’s likely Bob Phillips. Bob formerly co-owned Wizard Studios, then worked with Red Racing in Boca for a while before he was let go. He did the initial fab work on my ’57 Pan before Sean Reid wrapped it up after I’d run it a few months. I think GIANTC was offering it for some time, not sure if those guys are still in business. I believe Biker’s Discount in Plantation has one in their display case, 954-327-7177. Thanks for posting my piece on the FL Toy Run. I’m headed up to Bike Week with Jose’s buddy Wicho & a few of my friends, more than happy to shoot over pics & text if you like… –Kev AHDRA SANCTION–WINSTON-SALEM, NC – Following an announcement that Screamin’ Eagle Performance Parts will move the Nitro Harley program to the AHDRA sanction, Craig Tharpe, President of AHDRA says he and his staff are geared up for a thrilling year for both racers and fans. “We are very excited to have Screamin’ Eagle step up their involvement in AHDRA. With the support from Screamin’ Eagle, and the many sponsors already on board for 2003, we will no doubt host the best venue for motorcycle drag racing in the world,” Tharpe commented. $18,000 in prize winnings will be awarded at each event in the AHDRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley competition, with an additional $64,500 to be awarded at the AHDRA awards banquet for the Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley National Points Championship. The 2003 points fund will be distributed as follows. #1 – $25,000 #2 – $15,000 #3 – $7,500 #4 – $5,000 #5 – $4,000 #6 – $3,000 #7 – $2,000 #8 – $1,500 #9 – $1,000 #10 – $500 A three (3) race NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley exhibition tour will be held at NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series events. The exhibitions will be held at Bristol Dragway in Bristol, TN; Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, IL; and Texas Motorplex in Ennis, TX Screamin’ Eagle will invite the top 14 AHDRA point leaders based on AHDRA events year to date to participate in the NHRA exhibition events. Each exhibition winner will be awarded a special trophy and participate in an NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley winners circle ceremony at the conclusion of each event. Total event purse for the eight-bike field is $11,500 with $4,000 going to the winner and $2,000 to the runner-up. “This is more great news for the Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley competitors,” Craig Tharpe added. “This will certainly increase the competition level in the 2003 AHDRA points chase. We fully support and welcome the valued exposure the Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley teams will receive at the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing events.” AHDRA will make stops at several new tracks during the 2003 season, including two appearances at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and first time appearances in Atlanta, Dallas, Topeka and Indianapolis. For more information call AHDRA at 336-924-2095 or visit OZARK ED REPORT–just a note to let you know that all’s well out here. I’ve stayed out of trouble, but next month my little juvee girl is turning 21, so I have to cook up something for her in the way of a celebration. remember Johnny Snake? He’s the guy who travels with construction and his ugly ass old lady was messing with Skitzo, and we were saying get you a front end out of the deal. Well Snake ain’t as stupid as she thought. She was doing the whole internet chat room, meet me thing and Snake caught on to it. He had a buddy of his show him how to do the internet and he started chatting with her, but she didn’t know it was him. He was using the computor at work. He printed out a bunch of shit, took it to his lawyer, and now he’s counting his money. Snake might have a new bike by summer. His old lady is calling my girl and giving her all the details. So natch, I’m hearing all the scoop. I’m sure this will entertain us all for a month or so. Philip got his Hells Angel patch so he’s really proud. We’ve had a few good riding days this month. me and Titty bar Mike went Sunday and had a great ride. It was in the 60’s with a bright sun. That’s tolerable. I didn’t even need chaps, although I took them and put them on after dark. I’ll keep you up on the good shit. It’s just winter and nothing much happens. –Ozark Ed BOYCOTT MYRTLE BEACH– Boycott 2003 Myrtle Beach Spring Motorcycle Rally and Horry CountyMyrtle Beach, SC — During the early morning hours of May 18, 2002 two motorcyclists were killed when a veteran Horry County Police officer failed to yield the right-of way. As of this date no charges have been filed. OR, “no charges are pending and none are expected. As a result” all motorcyclists are invited to join an ongoing boycott of Horry County and attend alternate activities during the week of May 9-18, 2002. For more information, check the “Events” section at www.AbateSC.com The incident prompting this action occurred during the 2002 Myrtle Beach Spring Motorcycle Rally. Lance CPL. James J. Costello, badge number 466, failed to obey a yield sign and collided with a Boss Hoss carrying two people. Victoria Lee Zickafoose of Georgia and Charles Eugene Heyde Sr. of Michigan died as a result of this preventable accident. Costello had been with the Horry County Sheriff’s Department 15 years at the time of his accident. Just prior to the 2002 Fall Motorcycle Rally, Horry County Solicitor Greg Hebree decided not to charge Costello in the deaths of the two motorcyclists. This incident and failure to bring appropriate charges has motivated bikers to take action. For more information about the accident, including portions of the official fatality accident report, go to www.AbateSC.com The goals of this boycott are multi-faceted: 1.Increase motorcycle awareness in a meaningful and powerful way. Actions motorcyclists and their friends and family can take: 1.Stay away from Horry County and spend your money elsewhere. BIKERNET PROMOTIONS–Just wanted you to know I’m doing my part and promoting my favorite website- www.bikernet.com. I have links from two of my websites, to Bikernet.com The sites are : Maybe one of your staff will be in NY on August first for the 3rd annualJoseph Angelini & Joseph Angelini Jr. Ride for the Heroes. If not we’lltake lots of pics and send them to you. Keep up the good work. Don’t let it go to his Caribbean head, but I evenlike Jose’s rants and raves 🙂 All the best, Continued On Page 3
2.Achieve justice for our fallen brother and sister and show that no one in America is above the law, even if they are the law.
3.Alert Horry County officials that they are being held responsible for this injustice.
4.Alert everyone that our hard-earned dollars will be spent in a more biker-friendly community and we support an alternative rally in that community.
2.Spread the word to all motorcyclists, friends, and family.
3.Write to elected officials in Horry County and advise them of your efforts and why you are undertaking them.
4.Write to those who own businesses in Horry County asking them to take political action.
5.Attend an alternate rally such as the Charleston Heritage Motorcycle Rally April 16-20, 2003.
6.Help stage and support protests.
www.ridefortheheroes.com
www.sevenhorsemenmc.com
–Frank Falco – NY
January 9, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
Ever had one of those days in the garage that didn’t work out but was a learning experience? I’ve been tinkering with my ’48 Panhead with the dual Mikunis. First time around I made guards so that my pant leg wouldn’t shut off the carbs. They worked fine, but I didn’t like the fact that I had absolutely no filtration. I bought a couple of dirt bike foam socks and pulled them over my contraptions. They worked, but could be perfected. That’s what I attempted to do unsuccessfully yesterday. I’ll dive more into that subject later, we better get to the news:
PM Wheels For 2003–For 2003, PM is releasing 3 entirely new wheel designs. The Vader is a throwback to the origins of custom motorcycle wheels with a major update in technology! This clean and subtle wheel will look at home on a retro chopper as well as a modern bagger. The Gatlin is an entirely fresh design that seems to defy all previous perception of what can be carved from aluminum. The spokes burst from the hub into a web before splitting into individual talons and meeting the rim. Finally the Hooligan is a study in machined aluminum detailing. Each spoke shows more depth and contours as it emerges from the hub.
As with all Performance Machine products, the 2003 wheels have been subjected to rigorous testing to ensure a high quality, long lasting product. Design matched discs, pulley and sprocket are available to complete the distinctive look. Polished or chrome plated wheels are offered in a variety of sizes to fit your bike!
For more information, call or write to:
Performance Machine, Inc.
6892 Marlin Circle,
La Palma, CA 90623
714-523-3000
http://www.performancemachine.com
EASYRIDERS SHOW FEATURE BIKE SOLD-LOOKING FOR A NEW PANHEAD– I just sold the purple ’56 pan/shovel that was in ER and am looking hard for a “rough” Pan or Pan basket. Gonna do a late 50’s/early 60’s bobber this time. If you know of any leads I’d appreciate it.
–Mike Trussell AHDRA ANNOUNCES NEW “HOT STREET” CLASS FOR 2003, SPONSORED BY DRAG MASTERS,INC.– WINSTON-SALEM, NC: The AHDRA has announced a brand newclass for the 2003 season, adding to the 14 classes of competition alreadyoffered by the sanction, entering their 26th year of drag racing. The “Hot Street” class, sponsored by Drag Master, Inc., is a “heads up”class, reserved for street legal Sportsters, Buells, Big Twins andproduction aftermarket motorcycles. They must have a valid registration andlicense tag (no dealer tags). The “Drag Master Hot Street” requirementsinclude a bike and rider weight ratio of 8lbs per cubic inch and a maximumof 98 cubic inches. (Minimum weight at conclusion of run, including rider).The AHDRA National Points Series kicks off March 3rd in Gainesville,Florida. For more information on AHDRA competition or the 2003 National PointsSeries, contact 336-924-2095 or visit www.ahdra.com. A NEW DAVID MANN?–We’ve worked with Chris Kallas, who rides a bone stock 1970 FLH for a few years. His prints are in our gulch for sale. They’re cheap compared to some art prints on the market and his work is cool. Well, the other day we turned Chris onto the staff of HORSE and he might become the David Mann of a new era. This is a shot of Chris at the LA Calendar show last year taken by Bikernet photog Helen Wolfe. Chris is going to help us put together a line of stickers for the new year. Watch for his stuff in HORSE and on Bikernet. BIKERNET TAHITI RUN–We’ve finally put together an intimate run just a handful of riders who want to escape to a faraway place with the organizer, TBear, the staff of Bikernet, Jose, Billy Lane and a handful of other builders and riders. Hell, there’s only 10 seats left. So you can’t ride to Tahiti, we’ll have bikes waiting once we get there. Check this link for all the square information on the trip of a lifetime. http://www.mhcable.com/~tbear/BikersInParadise.1.JPG DODGE BUILDS A MOTORCYCLE–DETROIT (Reuters) – The Detroit auto show has seen a lot of concept cars over the decades, but a four-wheel motorcycle powered by a 500-horsepower V-10 engine is a first. The Tomahawk Concept (Dodge Concept Vehicle)This is the wild one. Imagine a 500-horsepower Viper engine on wheels. No chassis or body, just wheels. That’s the Tomahawk. Wolfgang Bernard, outfitted in the requisite leather jacket, drove this concept onstage. This 4-wheel motorbike is a mechanical sculpture, with nothing but outrageous performance in mind. Weighing only 1,500 lbs., the Tomahawk can reach 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Top speed is estimated to be around 300 mph, but that hasn’t been verified. When Dieter Zetsche, president and CEO of the Chrysler Group asked if this vehicle would ever be produced, the response was, “maybe,” which is more than many other automaker execs would have granted. The Bike was unveiled that the NAIAS in Detriot. –from Rogue GETTIN’ OUTTA DODGE– Tom had been in business for 25 years and is finally sick of the stress. He quits his job and buys 50 acres of land in Alaska as far from humanity as possible. He sees the postman once a week and gets groceries once a month. Otherwise it’s total peace and quiet. After six months or so of almost total isolation, someone knocks on his door. He opens it and there is a huge, bearded man standing there. “Name’s Lars, your neighbor from forty miles up the road…Having a Christmas party Friday night… Thought you might like to come. About 5:00…” “Great,” says Sam, “after six months out here I’m ready to meet some local folks. Thank you.” As Lars is leaving, he stops. “Gotta warn you… There’s gonna be some drinkin’.” “Not a problem,” says Tom. “After 25 years in business, I can drink with the best of em.” Again, as he starts to leave, Lars stops. “More ‘n’ likely gonna be some fightin’ too.” Sam says, “Well, I get along with people, I’ll be alright. I’ll be there. Thanks again.” Once again Lars turns from the door. “More’n likely be some wild sex, too.” “Now that’s really not a problem,” says Tom, warming to the idea. “I’ve been all alone for six months! I’ll definitely be there. By the way, what should I wear?” Lars stops in the door again and says, “Whatever you want. Just gonna be the two of us.” –from Chris T.
TERMINATOR 2 FROM BEAUMONT, TEXAS– Here are some shots of the Terminator 2 built by Sonny Keeton of BeaumontTexas.Not the best background but this is what I saw and shot.
Bike has since been finished and is scheduled to debut in the Easyridersshow 1/11/03 in Denver. It should be a BIG HIT.
For more info and possibly more photos contact Sonny at Custom Motorcyclesharley5338@yahoo.com or call 409-832-8992
–ROGUE
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Time is going by so fast I just noticed my news was due… So here we go, and no half-ass job even though it’s 3:00 am in lovely Puerto Rico, and I just got back from working on my new chopper.
Anyway, as you might as well know the trip to Tahiti is happening, and up to now, I’m going….yep, from one island to the other, on opposite sides of the World. To me it seems kinda stupid, paradise to paradise, but what the hell, this might be one of the few chances I (and all of us) might get to go to French Polynesia and have a grand time. It’s not the same going to a place and not knowing people. It’s a whole different ball game when a bunch of friendly locals will take care of the whole group, and knowing island people, they will outdo themselves to make us have the very best time. I guess you might be guessing what are the plans while there? One thing I can tell you is FUCK THE BIKES !!! I already have a map of all the surfing spots that Billy and I will be hitting. Lot’s of doing nothing and maybe, just maybe, a short putt around for photographic purposes only…. I guess just what I would do in Puerto Rico if I wasn’t always up to my neck in work (plus the kick ass San Juan nightlife). I’m sure that those who can’t make it will read about it here and in The Horse….after you die with envy. I’m sure it’s going to be a great time, and just the start of many trips and more lucky people that will be able to make it.Who know’s maybe the next one could be Puerto Rico…
I just received the new Kopteri magazine from Finland, it has the Smoke out, Discovery and Sturgis coverage, as always the photos are top notch and too bad that my Finnish is not rusty, but non existent since I’m sure the text is even better. There’s a lot of cool photos, I’ll try to scan some and post them here in later reports.These guys put a giant effort to bring that magazine to the public and it shows. Congrats to my good friend Dollar.
On the progress of my new chopper, it’s leaps and bounds from last week, the last of the parts rolled in, and the full mock up will be seen next week, same bat place, same bat day, same bat site…I guess you are wondering…No ranting and raving tonight ??? Yea right, you could only be so fuckin’ lucky…..
Every single day, if you learn something new, it’s well worth the day… I was doing stuff at the shop, this and that, fitting and making stuff up, but for a couple things I needed to weld, yeap big surprise, Jose can’t weld…So what ! Anyway, the welder was not around so I took the Lincoln, fired it up, got a metal plate and pop corned the shit out of it. You know what…after half an hour I was doing pretty decent welds. I just processed the input in a way I could comprehend, by sound, feel and noticing how the welds worked. It took a bunch of scraps and an hour before I got it pretty decent (I can’t weld, but I certainly can tell from a good weld and a bad one). I’m sure with more practice and time I can do welds that I’m happy with. It’s amazing, just by paying attention and being in tune with the elements, I mastered this craft. What’s the whole purpose of this? Not to praise my newly found welding skills, just the amazement of discovering and learning something new, even as simple and unattractive as that. The complexity of simplicity.
There’s no news today, Why? well since I’ve been holed up at the shop building bikes I really don’t know what’s going on, but I hope that next week we will find stuff to report. Anyway, our Road King will be completed tomorrow. The mock ups will be ready for next week and another couple bikes will start as well. So there’s going to be lot’s of project photos soon. But the Daytona bikes won’t be seen ’till Bike Week, just to keep the copycats in the dark (que pasa Weasels?) and build some expectations for our booth. Remember, Choppers Inc, and The Horse and us will be sharing a booth in Beach Street. Come by say hi, and if there are any gripes, I will be the dude with the dreadlocks and full sleeve tattoos….
Time to call it a day…
–Jose, Caribbean Bikernet report and third in command….
Continued On Page 2
January 2, 2003 Part 4
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 3
Politicians and diapers have one thing in common…. They should both be changed regularly — and for the same reason.
–from Kristine J.
Revtech? ?DFO Intake System? For High-Performance Fuel Injected Models–Painless performance for EFI models! Monster mid-range! More peak power! This high-performance induction system consists of an oversized CNC billet throttle body, a high-flow cast intake manifold and a pre-set DFO fuel injection module to bolt-on to EFI Twin Cam Harley Davidson? models from 1995 to present. The throttle body is available in two sizes, 3 mm oversized from stock for mild tuned motors, and 6 mm oversized for big-inch motors using performance cylinder heads.This throttle body accepts all the stock sensors, throttle cables, components, and your existing stock or performance air cleaner. The intake manifold has been line-bored to match each of these 2 sizes and has been designed to increase flow and performance. A special DFO fuel injection module is included to optimize the fuel requirements of any application and/or combination of engine components you might put together.
672000 3mm oversize DFO Intake Systemfor Magneto-Marelli fuel-injected models . . . . . . . .$799.95
672001 6mm oversize DFO Intake Systemfor Magneto-Marelli fuel-injected models . . . . . . .$799.95
670002 3mm oversize DFO Intake Systemfor Delphi fuel-injected models . . . . . . . .$749.95
670003 6mm oversize DFO Intake Systemfor Delphi fuel-injected models . . . . . . .$749.95
BIKERNET CHARITY STUDY FINDINGS– MARCO ISLAND, Florida (AP) — The Salvation Army has returned a $100,000 donation from a Florida Lotto winner because an organization leader didn’t want to take money associated with gambling.
David L. Rush, 71, announced the gift last week. He held one of four winning tickets in the $100 million Florida Lotto jackpot drawing of December 14 and took the $14.3 million lump-sum payment.
Maj. Cleo Damon, head of the Salvation Army office in Naples, Florida, told Rush that he could not take his money and returned the check, which another official had accepted.
“There are times where Major Damon is counseling families who are about to become homeless because of gambling,” spokeswoman Maribeth Shanahan said. “He really believes that if he had accepted the money, he would be talking out of both sides of his mouth.”
Rush also donated $100,000 to Habitat for Humanity and $50,000 to the Rotary Club of Marco Island. Both groups accepted the gifts.
“There’s no bigger gamble than investing in the stock market,” said Rush, a financial adviser. “For them to say this is gambling is an overstatement.”
BIKERNET READER’S SHOWCASE, IT’S SORTA NEW–Well between the rotten, mangy mutt that’s been tearing through my garbage cans and stealing cushions off the back porch as well as taking my dog’s virginity ( picturesilly short chick running through the mud, pistol in hand), cooking holiday feasts, painting another Road King, and ignoring the telephone ( and who was that who called me at 12:30 am New Years Day? I was very busy lighting fireworks and shooting guns,) it’s been a little intense around here.
I even got a little tipsy at a Christmas Eve party thrown by Bandit’s second favorite redhead, the lovely Jennifer. Now that was an interesting drive home. Hubby was scared sober. Ha! About time.
But we have got a couple of killer entries in Reader’s Showcase currently. Buddy-Ox, a sly guy outta South Florida has two very nice rides he’s showing off, plus he tells us about a wild afternoon, compete with Bomb Scare, that he had at the Big Toys In The Sun Run.
This section, where guys can enter their own bikes, is working. We’re seeing bikes of all types and it’s free to enter your bike and tell your story. I’ll keep you posted as new rides come in.
–Crazy Horse
SEGAL FINE ART CENTURY COLLECTION– Segal Fine Art is proud to announce the release of our Century Collection. This 2003 collection will eventually feature six images (2 each by Scott Jacobs, Tom Fritz and David Uhl).
The first three paintings will be officially unvieled at the Winter Dealer Meeting. (You are seeing them here for the first time)
Each image is printed on the highest quality giclee CANVAS and masterfully framed. For the first time we are offering a true pre-publication price structure. Check our site for details.www.segalfineart.com
Whether you order these collectible pieces as merchandise or as a set of matching numbers for your personal collection, you will be very impressed by the quality of each image. These are over-sized canvases with a special Century Collection frame package and plaque.
As we enter this most exciting year, enthusiasts and collectors will be made aware of the Century Collection and the demand is expected to greatly exceed the supply. Only 250 of these works will be produced and each is hand-signed and numbered, identical to the 100th Anniversary Collection. Also there will be NO other version (ie. lithographs or posters) made of these images. I am available to answer questions and take orders at 800-999-1297.
Have an incredible New Year!
My Best, Ron Copple
NEW CUSTOM CHROME CATALOG WILL ROCK INDUSTRY– The ’03 “combined” catalog is FINALLY going tothe printer… and it’s a MONSTER!!! Wait and see when you get one atIndy… eh? 27,000 friggin’ part numbers…. 1500 pages … AND we’re gonnahave plenty of’em on CD’s as well.
Custom Chrome and Chrome Specialties are finally combined in one catalog. Watch out!
IMPORTANTNOTICE–Effective 1 January 2003, all K-MART & WALMART Storesin IRAQ will be CLOSED.They will be replaced with TARGETS…….
–from Bob T.
THE NIGHT HAS FALLEN–I had an ending all worked out, but it’s gone now. Suppose I’ll write what’s in my heart. We have a wonderful life here and all over this goddamn country. Sure, life is packed with too much bullshit, but generally it’s cool. So let’s make it just as cool as we possibly can for all of 2003.
Yeah, I’m getting reports for service people all over the country who aren’t coming home but heading toward the middle east. On the other hand we have the H-D anniversary to look forward too, the ride to Sturgis, a trip to crystal clear waters of Tahiti, and a creative spirit and passion for romance that never dies. Life can’t get much better.
May your new year be packed with opportunities to buy parts cheap, dry roads, no cops watching and romance with the right girls (or whatever). Make it a year that you want to write about.
–Bandit
January 2, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 2
HEY BANDIT—My aunt Gerty wants to buy a Harley. I told her she isn’t ready for a Harley yet. She needs a little more practice on her take offs. I thought maybe you could let her practice on your bike a few times to get the hang of it. She will be over at your house in the morning. I enclosed a picture of her.
Thanks–BOB T.
You know the rule, relative or not, no fat chicks.
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Well guys, it’s 2003 and I’m still around, good or bad, like it or not….. I guess those fuckers that keep ” predicting” that the World will be over soon got another reality check…The joke is on them…for now..Since it’s a whole new year, we will start from scratch, the slate will be cleared to place new mayhem, new antics, new controversy….Or maybe not ? I know some people will cheer and some will cast stones, like always, don’t take what you read here too seriously, read between the lines, and just take it for what it is, another guy venting his thoughts in a casual forum. Anyway what the fuck do I know. I just live in a small tropical island, ride and build choppers for a living. And I’ll continue to write a speck on this industry…. So enjoy yourself in this new year, and hold on for the ride…
Now, since I’m on the new year stuff, I know everyone has resolutions, “I ‘ll quit smoking, no more hookers, I’ll drink less, get on a diet, work less, work more” Everyone has something they don’t want to do anymore. I have stuff I want to do, yeah some of the things that happened in 2002 are going into the page of stuff that happened, some will be lessons learned, some will fade from memory, but most will go to the page of—” How the fuck can I top that?”
So here we go. This is what I want for 2003, mind you, reachable goals, no stuff like orgies at the Playboy mansion (which would be great, but a bit far fetched) and again things that are already planned and sort of confirmed (nothing is ever etched in stone) will stay off this little wishing list:
I will work on getting one of my bikes in Easyriders magazine. Yep, it’s just a goal, not of the outmost importance but just a goal that was set many, many years ago…
I will be the same kind of person, human, as I’ve always been, I mean good or bad….
I’ll be there, always, for my brothers, people that love me, and family.
I refuse to give rubbies, wannabe’s, hoggers and all those a break, No fucking way ! Since I can’t name them all, let’s generalize a bit…
I’ll attack what I consider as wrong and defend what I consider is right…. I’ll defend friends and ignore foes, not caring if my opinion is asked for, I’ll give it anyway !
I want more time to enjoy things, more bike trips, meet more people and respect those who deserve to be respected.
I want my business to be successful enough so I can keep on building bikes (which is what I like) without worries. I have no interest in being rich, just have enough to do what I do.
I would love another Discovery ride/ show, here in PR or any other place, I really don’t care about the cameras, but the fun and good times we had were priceless.
I wish for the success and growth of all my friends projects/ business
I won’t ride a new, nor stock bike, I won’t have anything with a TC 88 unless it’s a rigid chopper has a separate tranny and a kick start.
Ok, let’s stop all the wishing, even thought there’s some very personal goals, and of course I won’t share them with half the World (that’s why they are personal !!!!) So let’s go on…
I’m still waiting for a couple parts for my new Chopper, almost everything is here but I need those two or three components to be able to do the full mock up and start welding, it’s getting kind of frustrating. I wanted to have the whole thing together by yesterday, but, what you gonna do. With all the Holiday chaos it’s not easy to get the stuff down here. I guess that’s a small thing, the joy of seeing the UPS person ringing the bell….besides other things….
I have been using small shops of friends for most of my stuff, (what I have not done at my shop I mean), very few parts are from well known companies, only the ones I’ve been working with for many, many years…. I’ll work on something pretty soon about the whole build. I’m just holding because other shop owners here, our pseudo competitors, are such scum sucking ,copy cat, mother fuckers that I have to hide stuff and even company names from them. What a bitch, ain’t it ? Anyway here’s a list of friends who have helped with our new projects (yep projects, we are taking five new bikes to Daytona !!! ):Accutronix, Twisted Choppers, Black Bike, Choppers Inc, West Coast Choppers, Avon, Custom Chrome/ Chrome Specialties, Shamrock Fabrication, Voodoo Choppers, Clayton Machine Works, Diamond, Exile Cycles, Forking by Franks, Rivera Primo, PDQ seats, etc , etc… thanks guys you all rock! (and if I forgot someone, sorry ! )
Our Chopper Freak ™ point covers will be soon available thru our web site and at The Horse magazine, now that I finally got them made !
We are on the new Kopteri Magazine from Finland (actually all of us) the Discovery ride, The Horse Smoke out and Sturgis, it’s number 48 in case you speak Finnish or can get you hands on it.
And now to the news (like I wasn’t doing that before….)
Congratulations to Bill and Renay from WCC that tied the noose yesterday, two finer people you won’t find. I guess there’s a marrying bug around the Anaheim street shop, maybe us single guys should pay a visit…. ( I mean those who want to commit matricide).
I took a sneak peek at Choppers Inc. bikes for the VQ and Camel, but I’m keeping those secret for a while, I promise as soon as I can I will release the photos, hold on tight, they are fucking wicked ! Billy is working like a madman, but totally outdoing his previous cool stuff…..
I just did an interview for our new local magazine Biker Spot, as well as an interview of Billy Lane, this issue will be all about choppers, those guys are doing a very good job, let’s see what the future holds.
Our Chopper Freak ™ T-shirt line has been a hit, we are already getting dealer aps for the shirts, if you own a shop give me a call, or e-mail…. Wow, I never even thought about it, till they started calling asking for them…. Thanks to all who have ordered…. I will keep asking what bike do you ride before getting the order….
Our friend Wicho just scored a ’52 pan that Warren Lane put together many moons ago. The bike is tits, welcome to the world of old school….One more guy coming to his senses… Hey reader how about you ?? Make that a New Year resolution… ” note to myself… get an old chopper , rigid , jockey shift and kick start, learn how to ride…. ”
Anyway…. I’m out of here, it’s New years day, I hate football and I have a few Choppers to put together, gotta work hard if I want to make it to Tahiti… by the way, any good looking chicks that might want to go???
Once more Happy New Year.
–Jose, Caribbean Bikernet Reporter. (soon unleashing the gates of Hell )
Continued On Page 4
January 2, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
BIKERNET TAHITI ESCAPE IS COMING TOGETHER–Tired of the “usual” runs and events?How about Tahiti this year instead of Daytona?The Tahiti Harley Riders Club invite you to come over and visit one of thelast true Paradises on earth. Unspoiled beaches and some of the friendliestpeople you’ll ever enjoy meeting. Join us for the Trip of a lifetime.
Wehave some friends there and they’re waiting to show you their world famoushospitality. See why the crew of the H.M.S. Bounty didn’t want to go home.We’re taking only 24 lucky people with us this trip. Two nights in Papeetethen 4 nights on the enchanted island of Moorea where the crew of the Bountydiscovered the charms of French Polynesia. Don’t be left behind. The trip isfirst come first serve so make your plans and arrangements today.
So far, here’s the scoop.Alain Bernard from Tahiti Legends and Jean-Noel from the Sofitel have put it all together for us. I’ll be getting the formal paper work in a few days but here is how it boils down so far.
March 26th–April 3, Appx $1425 per person, double occupancy including round trip air from L.A. A few days at the Sofitel Maeva Beach in Papeete with the Tahiti Harley Riders then a hop over to the Sofitel La Ora on Moorea. There are 24 openings or 12 rooms.
The club will do 1/2 day rentals for around $100 each. This $$$ goes to the Tahiti Kids’ Charity. We’ll get together with them and have a beach party as well.
We already have seven couple on board so the seats are slim. To sign up touch on the link below:
Here is the itinerary:
Wed 26-March Depart Los Angeles for Papeete 10:35 pm
Thurs 27-March Arrive Tahiti 5:10 am
27-March-29 March Sofitel Maeva Beach
Garden View Room- 2 breakfasts included
Saturday 29 March Ferry over to Moorea
Sat march 29-April 2 Sofitel La Ora Hotel
Garden Bungaloow- 4 breakfasts included
Wed April 2- Ferry back to Papeete
Depart Tahiti for Los Angeles 10:45 pm
Thursday Apr 3 arrive L.A. 8:15 am
Flights on Air Tahiti Nui Airlines
price $1,425 per person. Double occupancy
Harleys will be available for rental courtesy of the Tahiti Harley RidersClub at both hotel locations… This is separate from the package price andwill be available on a 1/2 day basis, proceeds from the bike rentals will goto benefit the clubs work with underprivileged children in Tahiti. It’s a $100 p.p deposit at time of reservation and the balance will be due by Feb 12th. The purpose is to help the club there raise money for their work with the islands under privileged kids by renting their bikes out.
–TBear
BIKERNET HISTORY LESSON–How did street names for Harley motors originate? I don’t know but,here are a few of my non-researched thoughts. Sure, we had pocketvalve and the pea shooter but the one that started it all for the v-twin was Flat Head. This name however was not unique to Harley motors. It was a common name used by mechanics for any side valve motor, be ita lawn mower, car, truck, or motorcycle. It also happens to be theonly one of the Harley motor names that is accurate.
The rest you see,are really describing the rocker box not the head. ‘Look at that guyon the cool Pan rocker box’ doesn’t quite have a ring to it though doesit? Considering that Flat Head was not unique to, and did notoriginate with Harley the person that stuck the name Knuckle Head onthe next run of engines is the true creator of the trend.
The reasonKnuckle Head became widely used may have been for reasons other than aslick name for a motor. In that era you would often hear the nameknucklehead and it had nothing to do with engines. You might haveheard a school principal or your local constable yelling it at someone. It was a name given to a screw up, a trouble makers, and maybeoutlaws. I have an idea that bikers got a kick out of calling theirmachine a knucklehead and that may have been the reason we are stillnaming Harley motors by the style of heads (rocker boxes) that are stuckon the top.
It is obvious how they came up with Pan and Shovel. Thenwe had quite a lot of debate on the Evolution motor. Many didn’t evenfeel it was worthy of such an honored tradition. I’m not sure why, theengine case was almost identical in looks to the cone Shovel. The mostnotable change was, of course, the heads. After all the dust settledthe name Block Head was generally accepted.
The noise was no were nearas loud when it came time to come up with yet another motor name forthe TC88 and that brings me to the reason I started all of this babblein the first place. I was wondered why no one has started a discussionabout a name for the Revolution engine.
Woo, if the old school boysdidn’t like naming the Evo they’re really going to hate naming thisone. Well, I spent some time thinking about a name for the new beast. The only one that seems fit is “Wet Head.” Hummm … wasn’t there anad slogan in the 70’s something like “the wet head is dead?”
FTW,
–Stroker
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January 2, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued On Page 2
This will be a completely screwy news section. It feels too close to the Holidays, like we should continue the party. Okay, why not? We will, so I’ll keep the business end short and sweet.
We sat down the other day and started kicking around goals for 2003. We plan to publish another book and it may be Badlands with MotorBooks International or the first of the Chance Hogan series. Either way I’ll be happy. The site is growing monthly, but there will be a few changes including the entire 1500 page CCI catalog may be on home page soon. We will finish the Amazing Shrunken FXR and the King is heading to the powder coater. Then I will begin a Pro Street Twin Cam for the ride to Sturgis. Plus I’m interested in restoring a Pea Shooter, if I can find a deal on one to replace my ’31 VL.
Some may be doable goals and others dreams, but ya gotta take a shot each year. I’ll tell you one important and loveable aspect to life at Bikernet, the people and the pure fun of doing it. It’s a blast, and if is wasn’t for Jose, Crazy Horse, Helen, Jason, Frank Kaisler, Jon Towle, Bob and Chris T. and especially Nyla, it couldn’t be done or handled with the fun we have. So enjoy the ride with us for another year.
BIKERS HAVE A BUMPY RIDE IN 2002–London was the scene of inter-club rivalries, internal dissent and police crackdowns for Ontario’s biker gangs.By RANDY RICHMOND.
LONDON, Ont. — London’s biker world started with a bang and ended with some big busts this year.In between, the Hells Angels and their rivals, the Outlaws, faced off at a bike show and took turns going to court and jail.After the dust cleared, the biker clubs were still around, but damaged, and police could cautiously declare several victories.The rivalry between the newcomers to London and Ontario, the Hells Angels, and the long-established Outlaws erupted Jan. 7 outside the Outlaws clubhouse on Egerton Street.
–from Rogue and CNEWS
ADVICE TO MY SONS– by Deasal.
If you can still walk, it wasn’t enough.
Ride or don’t. I don’t want to hear excuses.
Fight or don’t (see above).
A fast bike, good conversation, excellent sex. All else is superfluous.
A real friend will hold your hair out of the way while you puke.
Always hit with the fleshy part of your hand.
A friend is a friend, but a buddy you can sleep with.
There is no such thing as too many orgasms.
Dream more. Think less.
There is always time for more oral sex.
If you don’t like your life, change it. Don’t whine.
Never trust the carpeople, always assume that they are out to kill you.
Don’t be bothered with stupid people, push them aside and carry on.
Heart and soul: Some are born with it, some earn it, some never have it.
When meeting someone new, trust your nose: If they don’t smell right, don’t eat them.
Love is the most powerful of all motivators: Some will die for it. Some will kill for it.
The fire of passion is never to be regretted.
Don’t go to your death regretting what you didn’t do.
Never underestimate the pleasure of sportfucking.
If you don’t end up bruised, bleeding or sore you weren’t playing hard enough.
TROCK TECH ON CV CARBS COMING TO BIKERNET–“Talked to Trock. He informed me that he is writing some stuff for the CV carb article. Karen his wife will type it up and I’ll go over it when I get it.” said Pablo.
What a writer. He had the manufacturer handle the chores. The carb we are featuring is above and may end up on my Twin Cam Pro Street. Hang on. CVs are noted carbs by some of the best, so we’ll examine why and report back. The other gadjet is a Trock designed tool for removing and replacing stock gas inlets on CV carbs. They stock units are notorious trouble makers.
SPIKEE COVER FOR 3-INCH BDL DRIVES–Nothing more radical than an open belt drive. This Cyril Huze Spikee side cover adds safety, beauty and attitude to any BDL 3″ open belt system. CNC machined from 6061 billet aluminum. Fit Softail and Dyna Glide models from 84 to present. Hardware included. Polish or chrome.
Cyril Huze
Tel: 561-392-5557
Website:
BIKERNET CANADIAN SCIENTIFIC STUDY–Yesterday, scientists for Health Canada suggested that men should take a look at their beer consumption, considering the results of a recent analysis that revealed the presence of female hormones in beer.
The theory is that drinking beer makes men turn into women. To test the finding 100 men were fed 6 pints of beer each. It was then observed that 100% of the men gained weight, talked excessively without making sense, became overly emotional, couldn’t drive, failed to think rationally, argued over nothing, and refused to apologize when wrong. No further testing is planned.
–Steve Bauman
SHOVELHEAD RED FOR SALE ON BIKERNET–Just published; a refreshingly different new tale in the Biker Fictiongenre. Lovers of wind and wheels take note; this is an old-school, nonsugar-coated, scooter tramp, writing! His character development, andabilities with dialect and word pictures are remarkable. Throughout thestory, the element of surprise is employed, keeping you itching to turn thenext page.
This adventure takes our central character through extremes ofcircumstance that totally stand his world on end, and change his life inless than 24 hours. The story is filled with belly laughs, some tears,questionable wisdom,a lot of reality, and a fabulous ending. Because not knowing what happensnext is so important to enjoying this book, ya only get a look at Chapters 1& 2. Be warned, you’ll be caught up from the first page, and hungry formore at the last.
And there is more to come! “The Drifter’s Way” is the first of a threebook series featuring the Character; Shovelhead Red. Book two should beready by late-summer 2003. If you buy book one, you’ll be more than readyfor another Shovelhead Red fix; trust us on this one.
“The Drifter’s Way” has received glowing reviews from too many bikeroriented magazines and newsletters to list. Purchaser response has beenphenomenal, and to a person, extremely complimentary. Don’t procrastinate;order your autographed, numbered, first edition copy today.
Be a stand up bro or sister! Buy several for your friends…or buyseveral and MAKE some friends.”SHOVELHEAD RED”; America’s new biker hero!GET TO KNOW HIM!
$18 per copy; In the Bikernet Gulch soon
L.A. TOY RUN FROM 1973–from Bob T.”Came across this photo in some old stuff.This was a Toy Run back about 1973 (?) to Griffith Park.Can`t remember who took the photo. I am in there somewhere,Maybe you are too…Who knows… Some great bikes in there.”
–BT
AMAZING SHRUNKEN FXR 8 COMIN’ SOON–The images are coded and most of the copy written for a major project bike tech. This article will cover the BDL installation featured above handled by master machinist and longtime Harley mechanic, Giggie, who now designs and tests parts for Compu-Fire. You will also witness as he turns hydraulic lifters into S&S solids to save the starter motor and as he installs breather fixtures that fix oil-filled air cleaners. You’ll witness as he installs a Compu-Fire charging system, ignition system and starter. I know there’s more, but I’m lost. Hang on.
CYRIL HUSE SPIKEE VELOCITY STACK–Cyril designed this eye-catching velocity stack to add performance & style to your carburetor. Made out of billet aluminum and chrome plated. Horn screw-in on bracket for a super clean look with no bolt. Kit includes horn, bracket, pair of breathers and internal filter screen. Horn is 3.75″ long. For CV, S&S E or G & Mikuni carburetors.
Cyril Huze Custom
Motorcycles & Parts
Tel: 561-392-5557
Fax: 561-392-9923
Website:
Webstore:
THERE’S MORE WITH THE CYRIL HUZE GRIP EXTENSION FOR MIRRORS–This clutch side grip extension bolt on all Cyril Huze Spikee grips (3 designs) and let you install their Dreamliner or Spikee mirror. Chrome.
January 1, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit | | General Posts
Continued From Page 1
THE STEALTH NEW YEARS REPORT– It is time to say good-bye to 2003 and say hello to 2004! I made it back from Christmas in Virginia, and I?really enjoyed the time away from work. ?2003 was a pretty good year for me personally. I got to visit California and Hollister, a place where I always wanted to say I’d been. It was really cool going to Johnny’s Bar while we were there. Las Vegas was cool too, but I wouldn’t want to live there.??
The 5th Annual Run for Breath In?”Memory of Justin Pullin” was one of the?most fun we have done. Thanks to “THE MEANEST” for all her hard work on this?event. ?She is one of the biggest reasons?the event has grown over the years. One of the highlights for?me this past year is being a contributor to Bikernet.com each week!
We all got to see the biggest party in our lifetime,?H-D’s 100th Anniversary. ?Yeah I know they blew it with Elton John, but as a whole I guess it turned out pretty cool. Also this past year we saw The Discovery Channel air all their bike build-offs and I know all of us have seen AMERICAN CHOPPER starring Orange County Choppers, and I use the word starring loosely! Whether you like the show or not, you have to admit it draws attention to our industry, unlike anything ever seen before. So?overall I think 2003 was a pretty decent year!
Now for 2004, there is a lot to look forward to! In this neck of the woods, the Easyriders show comes to Charlotte, January 24th. ?June 25th and 26th?”The Horse Backstreet Choppers” Smoke-Out” comes to Rowan County fairgrounds. If you are into?old school choppers,?don’t miss this one! Edge and all the Horse staff do a great job putting on this event.
July 25th is the?6th Annual Run For Breath. We have a couple of new wrinkles planned for this year. The invitation for “special guest and emcee” will be going out in the next few weeks. (Mr. Bandit, are you interested????)
I almost forgot, Daytona is right around the corner. THE MEANEST and I will be there again this year.
I have included a picture of a Christmas gift I got from my brother Gary. ?It is a lamp made from an old iron head sportster cylinder jug. ?I think it is pretty cool!
Last, I woul like to wish all the readers as well as Mr.?Bandit and all the crew at Bikernet headquarters a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!
Mike (THE STEALTH)
BILLY LANES PRE-NEW YEAR PARTY– A Lot of People Came. Plenty of Food, Drink, Music. Good People = Good Time!. I know it?s short but am up to my ass in stuff to get done before tonight’s party and tomorrow’s Annual New Years Day Ride.
Have a Good One and to all there also…
–Rogue
THEIR PHOTOS TELL THE STORY–The Army Times, a civilian newspaper that is sold mainly on military bases and thus reaches the prime wartime audience, uses eight pages of its year-end review, out now, to run photos of all those who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, except 35.
I usually don’t refer to other publications, for I have enough trouble with my own. But this issue of the Army Times is so extraordinary and gives hope that it will provide some leadership in the news industry.
There were 506 killed by the time the newspaper closed last Friday. Since then, another seven have died. The newspaper has said this is the deadliest year for the U.S. military since 1972, when 640 were killed in Vietnam.
In introducing the pictures, under the headline “Faces of the Fallen,” the Army Times said: “More than 500 service members died in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in 2003, a group that represents the full, rich face of American diversity.
“They grew up in big cities like Chicago and New York and small towns like Layton, Utah, and Cross Lanes, West Virginia. Ten were women, the youngest six 18-year-olds barely out of high school. The oldest, Army Sgt. Floyd G. Nightman Jr., was 55.
“They died at the hands of the enemy, from illnesses contracted in the war zones and the accidents that inevitably push human beings and their equipment to their limit.
“They came from all walks of life, from every race and creed. But all shared a common bond – commitment to, and pride in, serving their country in the cause of freedom.
“As the New Year dawns, we pause once to honor those who fell in 2003.”
–from Nick Roberts
BIKE FEATURE COMING TO BIKERNET–We’re about to feature this build and finished bad-assed chopper from Jesse Kilgore. First feature bike for 2004.
NORTH CAROLINA MAN PROPOSES AFTER BIKE ACCIDENT– PILOT MOUNTAIN, N.C. (AP) — As soon as a group of fellow bikers pulled the handlebars out of his abdomen, Brian Shipwash wanted to make sure he did one more thing in case he died from the motorcycle accident.
So he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box, broken and blood-spattered, with a ring inside and asked his girlfriend, Shandra Miller, to marry him.
She said yes.
“I said, ‘Shandra, the reason we were going to Pilot Mountain today was so I could propose,'” Shipwash said Monday while recovering in his room at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem.
“I said something like, ‘I know this is not the best time in the world, but will you marry me?'”
Shipwash, Davidson County’s clerk of court, was riding his Harley-Davidson up Pilot Mountain on Sunday afternoon with Miller hugging his back.
As they came to the first curve after the park’s entrance, Shipwash lost control of his bike, crossed the center lane and slammed into the side of a heavy-duty pickup. The collision sent them flying.
The handlebars on Shipwash’s motorcycle stuck 6 inches into his abdomen.
“I was crying at the time because of the wreck,” Miller said Monday while sitting next to her new fiance. “But when I saw it (the ring), I just started crying even more.”
Dozens of people traveling the winding road up the mountain stopped to help. Among them were about 10 motorcyclists on Harley-Davidsons who pulled the bike off Shipwash.
“When a bunch of motorcyclists came up on it and saw one of their brethren in an accident, they all came running. It took three or four men to get the bike off him,” said Suzanne McKee of Winston-Salem, who had been hiking in the area and was driving in front of the pickup.
“That’s when he pulled out of his jacket pocket a small box and handed it to her and said, ‘Will you marry me?'” McKee said. “She said yes. Oh, everybody just kind of smiled, and we were like, ‘Oh my goodness.'”
Shipwash said he didn’t think twice about proposing while he was lying in the road, broken bones and all.
“I was on a mission, darn it, and I was going to complete the mission,” he said.
Shipwash, 32, of Lexington escaped without injuring major organs, though he broke his left hand and his right leg. He had surgery Sunday night, and was listed in good condition Tuesday. Miller, 29, of Lexington said she suffered only a sore knee.
Information from: Winston-Salem Journal
–from Rogue
I recently spoke to Senator Dave Zien who believe that this country needs more bikers, “They’re fiercely patriotic,” he said to me over the phone. This is a good example of bikerdom at work.–Bandit
Hope You all Had a Great HOLIDAY SEASON — NOW ! – It’s TIME – To Get Back To SWAP MEET SEASON!!!!!!
SWAP MEET DALLAS & Chopper Show At The Gigantic Historic Longhorn Ballroom,FEATURING – The Only Motor Cycle Show EVER for CHOPPERS ONLY3 Classes – Home Built – Shop Built – Manufacturer Built PLUS “Peoples Choice” Award by Crowd Vote (Entry Forms & Show Info on www.texasscooter.com) ANDWALL TO WALL – MOTORCYCLE RELATED VENDORS – SELLIN?Discounted Leather – Used Harley & Other Make Parts – New Parts – Knives,Jewelry – T Shirt Vendors of all types – Sunglasses – Take Off Motorcycle Parts,Folks Cleaning Out Their Garages – Traveling Bargain Parts Vendors & More(Vendors Preview List on www.texasscooter.com)
ANDENTER – Texas Scooter Times BARGAIN OF THE SWAP MEET CONTEST Win Prizes – No Entry Fee. Check out the current Contest – www.texasscooter.com
ALL INFO: www.texasscooter.com – Office Phone 254-687-9066 –
Longhorn Ballroom – Day of Show ONLY: 214-428-4500
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