It’s not the best looking bike in the Sturgis Museum, and it’s certainly far from the oldest, but it does have a wonderful story to tell. It’s the “Million Mile Motorcycle” – a 1991 FXRT Harley-Davidson, and it was ridden 1 million miles by former Wisconsin State Senator Dave Zien. This particular motorcycle has seen every corner of the United States, and helped Dave set 119 world records. It was ridden 11,000 miles in 11 days, over 31,000 miles in 31 days, and 113,800 miles in a single year. It recently retired after it rolled into New Berlin, Wisconsin and turned 1 million miles, and now it’s spending a comfortable retirement in the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.




Before making its home at the museum, this bike had two brand new engines, and the engine was overhauled nine times. The bike went through 105 rear tires, 65 front tires, 17 stators and nine seats. It spent some time in the Bikernet Headquarters, and Bandit laid his healing hands on this historic FXRT. While riding this bike, Dave wore out 13 pairs of Mason engineer boots. It sits in the museum just as it was the day Dave quit riding it – the only change that’s been made is that the banana peels have been removed from the engine (it was all part of Dave’s very own “aroma-therapy).





“Hupy and Abraham, S.C. law firm sponsored the last two year’s of Dave Zien’s attempt at the world record of 1 million miles on a single motorcycle,” said Tony Sanfelipo, from Michael Hupy’s offices. “From Zien’s cross continental runs between Florida and California to his Hoka Hey challenge, the firm provided Zien with gas money and accommodations, including a GPS tracker that kept his exact location posted to an internet page set up to monitor his progress.




“Don’t forget, Zien completed this exceptional feat while being treated for an abnormal heart rhythm. His safety was a constant concern.”




To show his appreciation for everything the law firm did for him, Dave Zien asked senior partner Michael Hupy to ride the last two miles of this epic journey on the back
of his 1991 FXR. A staging area was set up exactly two miles from Hal’s Harley-Davidson in New Berlin, Wisconsin, where several hundred well wishers waited for Zien to arrive.




After careful calculations were made, the FXR’s odometer turned to all zeros as Zien, with Attorney Hupy riding behind him, rolled down the entry drive into the dealership amid the cheers of the ecstatic witnesses to history. Two days later, at a special ceremony at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Juneau Plant, Hupy and Abraham, S.C. partner, Jason Abraham was the last person to ride the FXR before it was surrendered to Harley in
exchange for a new 2009 Road Glide.”





“From the factory, Christine Paige-Diers arranged for the
bike to be delivered to the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum,” said Tony. “Christine was supposed to be at the Juneau Plant ceremony but she was ill and missed the trip.”



If you don’t know about Dave Zien, his story is really quite amazing. Dave has been inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame, the American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame. When the Million Mile Motorcycle retired, Dave received a new motorcycle – which he rode just as hard as this one – until it was totaled in an accident in March of this year. Dave was severely injured in the crash, and lost a leg as a result.



He spent months of hard work getting himself back into shape, and – believe it or not – he’s riding again. In August, Dave straddled his newest ride – a 2012 Harley-Davidson trike. Dave visited the Million Mile Motorcycle in October on his first trip back to Sturgis since his accident. It was then that the Million Mile Motorcycle received its latest addition – a bandana that was in the accident with Dave.

The Irbit Motorcycles Factory celebrates 70th birthday and offers an anniversary model M70

It was women and children in the distant Siberian factory labouring relentlessly to supply the Front with the motorcycles that defeated the enemy. Like the people who built it, the motorcycles were rugged, resilient, undefeatable. Could have they imagined that 70 years later this factory would remain the only sidecar manufacturer in the world and Ural would become a cult motorcycle?
Since 1941 over 3 million motorcycles have been produced by the Irbit Motorcycles Factory.
On 19th of November 2011 we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the IMZ-Ural factory and introduce Ural M70 Anniversary Edition.

While M70 keeps the aesthetics of the original M72, more importantly it brings to light the best kept secret of the Ural model line up – an extraordinary street sidecar motorcycle.
M70 comes equipped with 18” wheels, Marzocchi telescopic forks, Sachs shocks, four piston Brembo front disc brake. Plunger style frame, low clearance and low center of gravity make this model “grab” the road and handle like no other Ural. Not to mention the smoothest sidecar ride for the passenger!
M70 is available both as a solo and sidecar model.

A REVIEW OF THE CALIBRATION OF EDWARD WINTERHALDER AND MARC TEATUM’S:
“ONE LIGHT COMING, A Biker’s Story”–As an avid reader, I delved into this book about the biker lifestyle with gusto. The first two chapters were a bit problematic for me, but certainly nothing that couldn’t be overcome. The writing felt forced in those chapters. It felt as though the authors were struggling to find their rhythm or cadence.

By the 3rd chapter the authors had settled into an easy to read step that keeps the story flowing with grace and natural rhythm. It wasn’t long before I realized it was going to be a distraction to my day to put the book down and do other chores. I wanted to read the book from cover to cover in one sitting. However, I didn’t do that. It’s gluttony to read such a well researched and written story without stopping to digest its meaning and possible outcomes.

As I understand Marc Teatum’s introduction, the storyline is written by Marc, with Edward Winterhalder’s expertise used in the fleshing out of the club life and brotherhood. The collaboration is one that agrees with me. Marc’s storyline is believable. Winterhalder’s knowledge of club life, brotherhood and bonds cement the story with its relationships between the independent biker and the 1%er.

The chronicle begins in Boston and travels from there throughout the northeast. With Axelrod (the main character in the story) escaping from police custody in Boston (with the help from an officer who sounds an awful lot like a police officer I knew in Melbourne, Florida). Axelrod finds himself riding a semi-truck out of state with his bike crated in the back of a moving van. Trouble finds him even here, but without the trouble he finds at this juncture, the story couldn’t have continued. This is where the tale picks up steam. It’s here the lifestyle of the Brotherhood actually becomes cohesive: weaving together the lives of strangers with a common thread of respect, honor and motorcycles.

This story is one that could possibly happen. It tells the story of men and women who understand “THE CODE”: people who live by it. It lets ya into a side of club life that’s open to the rare persona whose own personal code of individualism runs harmoniously alongside the code of a 1% club. At least that’s what I took away from this story. I believe the narrative is complex enough to give different meanings to all who open the cover and decide to read with an open mind.

Would I keep this book on my BIKER BOOKSHELF? Yup.

Pub. Date: October 2011

Publisher: Blockhead City, Incorporated
Format: Hardcover , 344pp
ISBN-13: 9780977174751
ISBN: 0977174751
List price: $24.95 Book is also available on KINDLE for $8.60

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is excited about the newest addition to its collection of motorcycles – the BIC(r) Flex 4(r) Chopper designed and built by Orange County Choppers. The bike, built in 2010, sports an S&S 100-inch motor, Baker 6-speed transmission, and OCC custom wheels.

The motorcycle was built to help BIC promote its Flex 4 razor and to bring attention to the BIC 4 Good program that benefits charities around the nation.

“The BIC Flex 4 Chopper is a great addition to the collection at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum,” said Christine Paige Diers, Executive Director of the museum. “Many of the motorcycles on display are antiques serving to teach visitors about the history of motorcycling. This chopper adds to the collection in a whole new way – giving museum visitors a taste of custom building industry.”

The BIC Flex 4 Chopper was presented to BIC by Paul Tuetel, Senior of Orange County Choppers in January. The bike was displayed during a number of events at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally before making its home at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame.

Located on the corner of Main Street & Junction Avenue in downtown Sturgis, South Dakota, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame’s mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of motorcycling, honor those who have made a positive and significant impact on the sport and lifestyle, and pay tribute to the heritage of the Sturgis Rally.

The museum houses a collection of rare and vintage motorcycles dating back to 1909 as well as a wide variety of motorcycle memorabilia and historical information.

Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
605.347.2001
999 Main Street, Sturgis, SD 57785
fax 605.720.0632
www.sturgismuseum.com

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

PENNSYLVANIA MEASURE WOULD LIMIT LEARNER PERMITS
ABATE of Pennsylvania is supporting legislation to limit the number of motorcycle learner’s permits allowed before a rider must get a license. “All too often those involved in serious accidents have no motorcycle endorsement on their license,” lobbyist Charles Umbenhauer of BikePAC told the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), adding that “In most cases this also means they have had no formal motorcycle rider training.”

State Representative Seth Grove (R-Dover Township) has introduced legislation aimed at increasing motorcycle safety by requiring riders to get a motorcycle license rather than continuously reapplying for a motorcycle learner’s permit.

Currently, an aspiring rider can get a permit after passing a written test, which is good for a year to allow motorcyclists to legally ride and gain experience until they get their motorcycle license. However, some riders reapply to renew the permit year after year rather than getting a full license, Rep. Grove said.

Under Grove’s proposal, a rider would only be allowed to reapply for a learner’s permit three times in 10 years.

“The purpose is to make people get the license,” stated Grove, adding that more motorcyclists taking the skills tests or enrolling in the state’s rider training program would mean more trained riders on the road.

If a rider doesn’t get a license within 10 years of receiving the first permit, he or she wouldn’t be able to get another permit for seven years. The bill was referred to the transportation committee earlier this year and is expected to be addressed this fall.

ILLINOIS GOVERNOR SEEKS CHANGES TO RED LIGHT BILL
Illinois motorcyclists who get stuck at red lights will remain stuck a while longer, as Governor Pat Quinn has vetoed legislation that would have made it legal to proceed through a red light that does not detect motorcycles.

However, the bill may yet become law if legislators agree to make some changes. Illinois has what is called an Amendatory Veto, wherein the governor can reject a bill as presented for signing, but with changes requested that, if met, will win his signature.

As written, House Bill 2860 sponsored by Senator Gary Forby (D-Benton) and Representative Daniel Beiser (D-Alton), specifies that motorcyclists could run red lights “after a reasonable period of time.” Quinn objected that such wording is too subjective and “its interpretation could vary from individual to individual and county to county.” He asked that the bill be changed to specify that the motorcyclist must wait two minutes. Quinn also asked for clarification that motorcyclists would still have to obey signs prohibiting right or left turns on red and would still have to yield to oncoming traffic.

ABATE of Illinois supported the measure when it passed the legislature in May, which is similar to laws enacted in 11 other states. “I was kind of disappointed with what the governor done,” said Sen. Forby. “ABATE’s going to have to make a decision on whether they want to negotiate with the governor’s office or try to override his veto.”

The Illinois Legislature has placed the amendatory veto on its calendar for action on October 19.

MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS CHALLENGED IN NEW YORK
On Monday, August 29, 2011, Robert “Prospector” Boellner, State Legislative Coordinator for ABATE of New York, Inc., and NCOM Region VIII Director, met with a representative from the New York State Attorney General’s office to discuss the ongoing motorcycle-only vehicle checkpoints.

Since May 2008, ABATE has publicly expressed its opposition to New York State’s tactic of conducting highway roadblocks which divert only motorcyclists from the state’s roadways for the purpose of conducting “safety checks”.

Because motorcycles operated in New York State are already required to pass annual safety inspections, the ongoing New York State Police initiative serves only to harass, intimidate and inconvenience motorcyclists traveling upon the state’s roadways. Further, motorcycle-only roadblocks conducted in the name of “safety checks” are a discriminatory and unconstitutional infringement upon an individual’s right to travel without interference, and an abuse of discretionary power as acknowledged by the New York State Court of Appeals.

The Office of the Attorney General was reportedly receptive to Prospector’s request of an investigation into the actions of the New York State Police, and a reporting mechanism has now been implemented for direct complaints of motorcyclist profiling.

If you, or anyone you know, has been a victim of motorcyclist profiling, Prospector encourages you to call him at (518) 239-4560 for assistance in filing a complaint.

PROFILES OF AMERICA
In recognition of Sturgis Bike Week, the U.S. Census Bureau posted the following daily “Profile America” feature: FRIDAY, AUGUST 12: BIGGEST MOTORCYCLE GATHERING – The small town of Sturgis, South Dakota hosts the world’s largest gathering of motorcycles this week — the 71st Sturgis Rally. Normally home to about 6,600, the town sees its population swell to some 350,000 during the rally. The idea began with just 19 riders taking part in racing and stunt events 71 years ago. Those attending are seeing races, trade shows, and thousands of bikes on display. Mostly, they will share their love of the sense of freedom their motorcycles give them, and take in the scenery of the Black Hills. There are 7.7 million motorcycles registered in the U.S., with California home to about every 10th bike in the country. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau, online at www.census.gov.

Profile America is produced by the Public Information Office of the U.S. Census Bureau. These daily features are available as produced segments, ready to air, on a monthly CD or on the Internet at http://www.census.gov (look for “Multimedia Gallery” by the “Newsroom” button).

SIX MILLIONTH MOTORCYCLIST GRADUATES FROM RIDER TRAINING
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation recently graduated its six millionth RiderCourse student, a milestone reached through the ongoing efforts of nearly 10,000 RiderCoaches at more than 2,000 training sites worldwide.

“We have RiderCourses across the nation and around the globe, often during weekdays, and virtually every weekend of the year,” said Robert Gladden, vice president of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, adding that a wide variety of MSF RiderCourses are available in every state to provide motorcyclists everywhere with lifelong learning opportunities.

“From the Basic RiderCourse to a much more advanced day on the track, from standard motorcycles to scooters to three-wheel motorcycles, from small bikes to large, we cover it all,” said Dr. Ray Ochs, MSF director of training systems.

In addition, the MSF collaborates with safety professionals worldwide. For example, the MSF is currently helping establish rider training in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The MSF works with all branches of the U.S. Armed Services to support riders in the military. And the Foundation also works with world champion road racers on track-based programs that improve rider safety everywhere.

“The MSF is still best known for its world renowned Basic RiderCourse, the best first motorcycle ride for any new street rider and the cornerstone of the MSF’s Essential CORE curriculum,” said Tim Buche, president of the MSF. “We want all riders to start with the BRC, then continue their education with the Basic Bike Bonding, Street RiderCourses and more.”

Founded in 1973, the MSF is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha to promote safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests and public information programs.

For safety information or to enroll in the RiderCourse nearest you, visit www.msf-usa.org or call (800) 446-9227.

FLORIDA COPS USE SECRET FILES ON BIKERS TO LOBBY AGAINST GUN LAW
Florida law-enforcement officials dipped into secret intelligence files to lobby against legislation that would have allowed holders of concealed-weapons permits to carry their guns openly. Newly released records show that a staff lobbyist for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office handed out restricted photos of bikers with valid concealed weapons permits to lawmakers as examples of the sort of people who might scare away tourists if they displayed their pistols.

“I actually stopped by every one of you guy’s office this morning and dropped off … photographs of some biker outlaw gang guys that have concealed firearm permits. Those are the ones we’re worried about carrying,” sheriff’s Capt. Mike Fewless told the state Senate Judiciary Committee on April 12, 2011. “Please defeat this terrible bill.”

After the provision allowing open carry of firearms was removed from the bill, the state Senate voted against the measure, prompting accusations of fear-mongering by law-enforcement officials and raising concerns about police misuse of confidential files for political goals.

All together, Fewless obtained photographs and other information for 17 “outlaw bikers” from the Orange sheriff’s Intelligence Squad, an undercover unit that investigates “motorcycle gangs, white supremacy groups and organized crime,” specifically asking for pictures of “One Percenters”, state attorney’s records show. Seven of the eight photos of members of the Mongols, Outcasts, Outlaws, Pagans and Warlocks motorcycle clubs came originally from the state Driver and Vehicle Identification (DAVID) system, which Federal law classifies as “highly restricted personal information.” None of the bikers had felony records and all were eligible for concealed-weapon permits recognized by Florida and 34 other states.

The motorcyclists are now represented by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Jerry Theophilopoulos, who said he is planning to file a lawsuit against the sheriff’s office. “The only way to police the police when they break the law is to file a lawsuit, and we are prepared to get justice for all concealed weapon permit holders in this state,” according to “Jerry T”, who serves as legal counsel for the Confederations of Clubs in Florida and advises ABATE of Florida on legal matters.

DRIVING WHILE BIKER
From the Gunny’s Sack, a monthly newsletter from Oregon A.I.M. Chief of Staff Gunny Hutcheson, members of the Henchmen MC have hired a lawyer to put the San Jose Police department on notice that harassment is not going to be tolerated without a fight.

They’ve filed an official complaint with the city’s Office of the Independent Police Auditor alleging that the police are illegally profiling them, and the city’s code enforcement unit is digging up zoning beefs to run them out of town. They say officers routinely pull them over, sometimes photographing their tattoos, based solely on their bad-boy reputations.

The Henchmen’s complaint is not the first time a motorcycle club in San Jose has fought the law using the law. Five years ago, the Hells Angels won $1.8 million after suing police and sheriff’s deputies for illegally raiding the club’s headquarters and members’ homes to link a bouncer, charged with killing a drunken bar patron, to the biker club. A jury acquitted the bouncer and a federal court sided with the Hells Angels.

“This kind of thing has come to a halt in Washington with their recent biker anti-profiling law, thanks to the Washington Confederation of Clubs and A.I.M. Attorney Marty Fox,” writes Gunny, “Fighting harassment by using a lawyer and the court system.”

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people; it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government – lest it come to dominate our lives and interests.”
Patrick Henry (1736-1799) American Patriot and Founding Father

Bikers love to eat. Whether it’s a convenient excuse to pull over, take a break and eat a burger, or a matter of much needed fuel to keep our senses sharp, motorcyclists often find themselves bellying up to the dinner table. And for motorcycling’s hungriest segment, Baby Boomers, dining has become a destination.

It’s puzzling, considering a biker’s biggest road expense next to accommodations, why more editorial attention isn’t paid to where to eat. Not so here, where we know the importance of a tasty meal.

San Diego offers excellent dining diversity, dishing up everything from sumptuous seafood and gourmet steaks to tasty turkey burgers and homemade fries. Go ahead and take a big bite:

The FleetWood
A rousing base camp for Comic Con or pre- and post-San Diego Padre tousles, the FleetWood is a quirky mix of sport bar (quantity discount on HD TVs?) and fine dining. From ping-pong to bottle service, this venue has something for almost anyone.

Executive Chef, Mark Bolton oversees the American cuisine offerings. We experienced elegantly presented and tasty dishes and cocktails. The Chili Brown Sugar Ribeye with House-Made Tater Tots, Peppercorn Sauce, with Green Beans ($29) was a standout; Crème Brulee ($6) the perfect finish.

Their website is worth the visit for the many menus, entertainment, and the photo galleries of San Diego’s beautiful urbanites. Stake your claim on the exterior patio for premium people watching.

www.thefleetwood.com
639 J Street
San Diego, CA
619/702.7700

The Fish Market Restaurant
Whether you consider yourself a grazer or a three-square meals type, you will love this seafood. The menu adjusts daily with seasonality and availability so consult their website for the latest offerings.

The Fish Market serves it up just-caught fresh, courtesy of their own fisheries. Everything from both kinds of chowders to bounties of shellfish and fish filets, sushi and sashimi tempt. Salads, pastas, side dishes, burgers, and steaks round out the fare.

The Del Mar/Solana Beach location, across from the horse track, is ideal for the thoroughbred racing season. The San Diego waterfront venue on Harbor Drive (pop some quarters in your saddlebags for the meters), in the shadow of the retired USS Midway, is the chain’s flagship eatery. Quality service, atmosphere, and cuisine are standard.

www.thefishmarket.com
(multiple locations)

640 Via De La Valle
Solana Beach, CA 92075
858/755.2277

750 N. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
619/232.3474

Burger Lounge
If this privately held company ever goes public, I’ll be first in line for the I.P.O. Rarely does one see such a winning business model in action. Burgers of all stripes, healthy grass fed beef, luscious turkey, quinoa, and salmon are masterfully prepared and accessorized with farm-fresh fixings, then nestled in fluffy buns.

Chicken tenders, glorious salads, fresh cut fries, and onion rings are all presented in a memorably tasty form. Forever etched on your brain, you’ll pine for these savory flavors like a rock star for a supermodel. The Coronado location is one of those fine Sunday putt spots, near the beach and away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city. Sit outside and watch the upper middle class walk by.

Snazzy digs in multiple San Diego County locations, stylish presentations, amiable staffers, caring philosophy and palate thrilling grub contribute to the undeniable “wow” factor. Consult the web site for a SoCal spot when you visit.

www.burgerlounge.com
La Jolla, Hillcrest, Kensington, Little Italy, Gaslamp/San Diego, Coronado.

Café 1134
This charming Coronado mainstay will give you a sense of the local, relaxed vibe. Friendly faces greet you from behind the bar, serving up coffee, teas, espresso, wine and beer, pastries, and bistro fare. Dine in their interior main floor and loft areas, or al fresco. The café also offers a nice vantage point ideal for eyeing the meandering tourists, usually headed for the historic Hotel del Coronado nearby.

Start your day with tasty, filling tempters, such as egg burritos, scramblers, or omelets, bagels, waffles, muffins, and other such comfort fare. For later in the day, foccacia paninis, wraps, pitas, salads, and sandwiches are served. Reading materials and free internet access can keep you occupied between sips of joe; otherwise, 1134 lends itself to socializing.

www.cafe1134.net
1134 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
619/437.1134

Sally’s Seafood on the Water
(at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego)
Chef de Cuisine, Sarah Linkenheil, and Sushi Master “Kaz” Kim have made this one of San Diego’s finest destination restaurants. The waterfront view is ideal for a menu appropriately heavy on seafood. Steak, lamb and chicken are hearty options.

Although quite elegant, this restaurant is clearly family friendly, and offers tantalizing lunch and dinner menus; breakfasts on the weekends. The outstanding cuisine brings in the locals and tourists alike. The resort is fortuitously placed between the San Diego Convention Center (Comic Con central!) and the popular Seaport Village. Sally’s offers three-hour validated parking, a nice little savings of about 25 bucks.

Every bite of sushi & sashimi was the height of freshness and beauty. We were equally pleased with the Half Maine Lobster Paella ($36) and the Chili Crusted Maine Diver Scallops ($31). You’ll be missing out if you don’t try their incredible dessert. The lemon mousse cake was so good I had to duel my partner for it. Who says spoons aren’t lethal weapons?

www.sallyssandiego.com
www.manchestergrand.hyatt.com
One Market Pl.
San Diego, CA 92101
619/232.1234; 619/358.6740

Bice Ristorante
It’s always a good sign when there’s a bunch of bikes parked out front, right? Come to find out, motorcycle enthusiasts not only frequent Bice, but many of the staffers are bikers. Our gregarious server, “Teddy,” was one such Harley rider.

This joint lends itself to impressing a date, with its swanky décor, extensive wine library, and accolades that make the chef’s momma proud. A nod is given to the local and seasonal ingredients, and the bartenders are at the ready, muddler in hand, to make a specialty cocktail.

Elegantly presented pastas and seafood dominate the menu. Scrumptious desserts make this eatery a special spot to pause after strolling the Gaslamp Quarter. Just need a nibble? Check out their Cheese Bar. Vino, please!

www.bicesandiego.com
425 Island Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
619/239.2423

JSix Restaurant
(at the Hotel Solamar)
This highly pervasive trend to serve “sustainable” and “sincere” food could make JSix its poster-child. Chef Christian Graves puts his own thoughtful spin on what has also been called, “conscious, coastal cuisine.” The idea is to save the Earth by growing locally, dishing up organically, and adjusting menus to suit.

Edible borage flowers dotted my salad of organics and cheese, a feast more for the eyes than the palate. Various meals are offered, but as the sun sets, this place and its floral relief ceilings glow in ethereal light, creating a romantic ambience well-suited for the dating or wannabe dating crowd.

The restaurant’s distinctive cocktails use basil and other herbs from JSix’s rooftop gardens, and an assortment of palate awakening stimulants. If indulging or getting lucky, the plush Hotel Solamar’s check-in is just steps away, or you can catch the nearby trolley.

Grass-fed meats, sustainable sea offerings, and house-cured charcuterie are high points on the eclectic menu. Reservations are suggested, especially on the peak Comic Con nights. It’s just the spot for eyeing the movers and shakers of the gaming, animation, and entertainment scene.

www.jsixrestaurant.com
www.hotelsolamar.com
616 J St.
San Diego, CA 92101
619/531.8744

House of Blues San Diego
Praise Jesus and pass the biscuits and gravy. If you want some of that good old-fashioned religion served up with your southern fried chicken and shoofly pie, the House of Blues’ popular Gospel Brunch will satisfy your appetite and feed your soul.

Follow the aroma of hot cornbread muffins to the buffet and dish up all you can eat of pecan caramel sticky buns, cheese-filled tortellini salad with smoked salmon, Caesar salad, hickory smoked bacon and sausage links, homemade biscuits and gravy, potatoes with sautéed onions and peppers, homemade waffles, custom-made omelet’s, southern fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, Creole chicken and shrimp jambalaya, carved smoked turkey and prime rib, white chocolate walnut brownies, fruit cobbler and white chocolate banana bread pudding.

The hearty, southern fare gives you the energy for what’s next: a rousing, bible thumping, old-timey dose of singing, dancing and preaching. Even the hardcore biker pagans in the audience were moved to whooping and hollering and praising. The minister almost had even me converted, until he told us how small his earthly problems appeared small while looking at the vast ocean from his multimillion dollar La Jolla beachfront home.

www.houseofblues.com
1055 Fifth Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
619/299.2583

Brigantine Seafood Restaurant
I’m putting the spotlight on their Coronado and Del Mar locations, due to the Comic Con and Opening Day at the races coverage. I do recommend you peruse the Brig’s website, as under their corporate umbrella they have many noteworthy venues, around San Diego County.

I can’t think of a better place to start the festive Del Mar Racetrack Opening Day pre-racing party than the Brigantine, which overlooks the horse track. Ladies dressed in the sexiest finery, peek from beneath alluring hats, Bloody Marys in hand. The vibe is convivial and offers to share appetizers frequent. Some patrons can’t pull themselves away, and just never make it to the track.

Its sister restaurant in Coronado has a loyal local following. Among our favorites are the Crab-stuffed Shrimp ($24), wrapped in bacon and broiled; the New England Style Clam Chowder ($4.50 a cup); and Classic Fish Tacos ($9.50). There are at least 19 appetizers that are great to mix and match.

www.brigantine.com
(multiple locations)

1333 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
619/435.4166

3263 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014
858/481.1166

Miguel’s Cocina
After tossing the luggage into my Coronado hotel room, I made my way to Miguel’s. Nothing says a vacation has commenced like a margarita and chips n’ salsa. Tucked away in an alcove within the El Cordova Hotel complex, this haunt is a favorite in the neighborhood, and topping the Mexican-style chow lists for many a concierge.

The ambiance lulls you into thinking you’re actually in Mexico, which is after all just a few more miles to the south. The al fresco dining area is usually the most popular seating option, but the interior is comfortable and colorful, as well.

The establishment is known for their specialty “White Jalapeno Sauce,” soon to come to a store near you, I hear. Both Miguel’s and affiliate, Brigantine, accentuate some of their dishes with the sauce directly, or as a dipping condiment. I order the tacos whenever in town.

www.brigantine.com (for Miguel’s)
1351 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
619/437.4237

Joe Cool is a bike with a tragic story behind it, but as with disasters some good comes along. Joe Cool’s name comes from a charter boat. Two fugitives who hijacked the crew and ended up murdering the four-crew members contracted the boat. Joe Cool ran out of fuel and was found floating twelve miles from the Cuban coast. The killers were also found floating in a life raft. That’s the tragic part of this story.

The bike was built for the cousin of the Captain of Joe Cool the boat. Chop- Shop Customs out of Fort Lauderdale Florida built it. The bike was tagged “Joe Cool” in memory of the crew that lost their lives.

Now here is where Bob Isaacson and his son Logan come into the story. For Bob’s 50th birthday, he bought himself a 2007 Road King. Bob told Logan that if he would complete the Riders Safety Course, he would buy him a bike so they could ride together. Logan was 17 at the time.

Let me tell you, no matter how long you have been riding; it is a whole new ball game handing the keys of a bike to your son or daughter! Logan held up his end of the deal. The other part of the deal was that for one year Logan would have to ride with his Dad before being turned loose on his own. Bob wanted to be sure of his son’s riding habits and Logan again agreed. They started looking for a bike and he wanted a bobber, not a brand new out of the box bike but a ground up-shop-built bobber!

The search begins and it turns into a LONG search but they did not give up. After searching online for a bike, they decide to go to Florida and look. They jumped in the car at 6pm one Thursday night and headed south. Logan searched online again and spotted Joe Cool. They made the trip to Star Island in Miami and as soon as they saw the bike, they both knew it was what they were looking for! The price was agreed on and two weeks later Joe Cool was on the way to its new home in Charlotte, NC!

This is a COOL bike! It is a no BS, bare bones, hardcore bobber. No extras, the bare essentials. No frills just power and speed with its 110-inch Rev-Tech Knucklehead styled engine, 5-speed electric and kick starter REV-Tech transmission. Joe Cool’s look is timeless and it draws a crowd wherever it shows up.

Like I said, sometimes we have to look and sometimes we have to wait, but sometimes something good comes from a tragedy. This time it was the bond between a father and son, who have made memories that both will always remember.

A bike is more than a machine and this is a perfect example. This is also the story of a father having the courage to put his trust in his son and his son keeping his end of the deal. Joe Cool is a rolling memorial to the crew who lost their lives and it is a bridge between father and son. Joe Cool may you forever roll down the black top!

If you would like to read the story of Joe Cool, check this book out. The book is called “Murder on the High Seas,” which is the true story of the Joe Cool’s final voyage. Carol Sorest Cope published the book.

Until next time, RIDE!
–STEALTH

Bikernet.com Extreme Tech Chart

Regular Stuff

Owner: Bob & Logan Isaacson

Bike Name: Joe Cool _
City/State: Charlotte, NC

Builder: Chop Shop
City/state: Ft Lauderdale, FL

Fabrication: Chop Shop

Welding: Chop Shop

Machining: Chop Shop

Engine

Year:2008

Make: Rev-Tech

Model: Knuckle

Displacement:110″

Builder or Rebuilder: Bernie Trazzine – Chop Shop

Cases: Rev-Tech

Case finish: Natural

Barrel finish: Natural

Cams: Rev-Tech

Carburetion: Mikuni

Air cleaner: Velocity Stack

Exhaust: Chop Shop

Transmission

Year:2008

Make: Rev-Tech

Gear configuration: 1 down 4 up – Electric & Kick start

Final drive: Belt

Primary: BDL

Clutch: BDL

Kicker: Yes

Frame

Year:2008

Make: unknown

Style or Model: Softail

Stretch: 2-inch

Rake: 42 degrees

Front End

Make: Paughco

Model: Wide Glide

Year: 2008

Length: +4

Sheet metal

Tanks: Sportster

Fenders: 7″ Flat

Oil tank: Oval

Paint

Base coat: Satin Black

Graphics: Chop Shop

Base coat: Satin Black

Graphics or art: Pin stripes

Pinstriping: Chop Shop

Wheels

Front

Make: Twisted Spokes

Size: 21-inch

Brake calipers: Rev-Tech

Brake rotor(s): Rev-Tech

Tire: Avon

Rear

Make: H-D

Size: 16-inch

Brake calipers: Rev-Tech

Brake rotor: Rev-Tech

Tire:Avon

Controls

Foot controls: Jay Brake

Finish:Chrome

Master cylinder Jay Brake

Handlebar controls: Jay Brake

Finish:Chrome

Shifting: Foot

Kickstand: yes

Electrical

Headlight: 4-inch

Taillight: “STOP”

Accessory lights: Trucker Girl

What’s Left

Seat: Chop Shop

Mirror(s): One

Gas caps: One

Handlebars: 16-inch Apes

Pegs: Jay Brake

Specialty items:
Eddie Trotta Belt guards

Here we are again. Life is nuts. About the time a good plan takes place, an ugly obstacle rears it mercurial head. That’s people. Danny, the lucky individual who we are building this bike for, flaked on us twice. Okay, so he’s an educated youngster with an ol’ lady, pushing for wifedom, a single baby, a nursing certificate, and two lowly jobs. Plus, he has a drug problem, not enough time, health issues, a shitty living condition, and a lousy economy envelope, in other words a dour scenario.

Danny ain’t no dummy. He’s sharp, educated, and hardworking, but painkillers got the best of him, then our lovely system took over and got him addicted to methadone. When he fought that, he lost his low-paying security job. His biggest problem is the economy, the lack of jobs, and the fact that he’s a young man with a baby. It’s too much for a guy his age. He needs to be having a blast, riding a motorcycle, chasing broads, and living cheaply, instead of being straddled with a family at his age.

So that leaves the guy scrambling to get off methadone, find a new job, struggling, and his XS burnin’ daylight on a Bikernet lift. I can’t stand projects that stop; besides, we need open lifts ready for Bonneville projects, so the Bikernet staff went to work to make this puppy a roller.

The notion behind this endeavor was to help a local kid build his first bike, and help Mr. Lucky spread the word about his XS Yamaha, bobber line of products. While we were dicking around Buckshot bought and refurbished an XS right under our noses.

We were burnin’ daylight and we needed to work on the Salt Shaker. Ray C. Wheeler, the speed freak Bonneville racer moved into the headquarters and was waiting for his Bonneville racer to be rebuilt. He needed something to ride. We rolled out the Salt Shaker with the 120-inch Panhead engine and set to dialing it in. We replaced the battery, but we needed a lift for other repair notions.

Ray and I attacked the rear fender on the XS and saved the spacing. Then he removed the front fender for trimming and I went to work on fender rails. The notion behind this build is to find shit lying around the shop to use. I dug up some brass hex rod, and dragged out all the old side mount license plate brackets.

I don’t believe it, but two states pissed away work, time, and taxpayer money to pass bills against vertical license plates. This country has replaced freedom with a compliance-ridden regulatory nanny state. You mean our highly educated police force can’t read license plates turned vertical? What the hell do they do at accident scenes when a car rolls or a bike is down? Do they make the owner set his vehicle upright?

Okay, so I complied with the new California regulation and found a horizontal mount and taillight, and went to work making it fit. We also discovered an unused hand-tooled seat from Texas and set to making it fit the frame, with a couple of Paughco footboard replacement tabs. If you want your shit to look vintage, check the Paughco catalog.

Ray also helped me tackle the mounting of the gas tank. We installed some deep-threaded-mounting bungs in the frame, welded them into place, and then drilled ½-inch holes in the tank tabs for rubber bungs.

In the next segment, we will install the engine, make a set of pipes, and deal with some kind of electrical box to hold the coil, ignition, circuit breakers, and junction box. Then we can talk about making it run. Hopefully, by then Danny will be back on his feet, off the shit, and ready to run with the big dogs on Los Angeles freeways in the middle of the night, like we did at his age.

Bucks Spent

Bike: $700
Frame: $999
Neck cups: $49
Battery Box: $100

We bought some stainless wing nut fasteners: $25
Buster gave us a rear tire
I donated the taillight and license plate bracket
I donated the rusty rear fender
I donated the seat, seat springs
Paughco footboard mounts: $15

Sources:

Mr. Lucky

Custom Chrome

Spitfire

Paughco

The Good Dr. Hamster rode his FLH over 200,000 miles before pulling it down for a Pre- Sturgis prep rebuild. It was time to dial in this puppy in from stem to stern. We are planning a FXR ride next year to the Badland, or to Bonneville, or maybe to a Too-Broke for Sturgis Run to Monument Valley, or to a redhead’s pad if she has plenty of girlfriends and a swimming pool. We’ll see.

“The shop doing the work of tearing the bike down, getting all the nooks and crannies cleaned and polished is called Venice Custom Cycles,” said Dr. Hamster. “I have known Javier, the owner, for a number of years. He has always been a class act and stand-up kind a guy. His uncle is the wrench in the shop, an old-timer with about 40 years under his belt.
They got down and dirty right away and had the motor and trans out the day after I brought

“With the whole dresser apart, I decided to do a few more things:
Got a set of 2002 Road King Mag wheels, had them powder coated black, same with the lower legs for the front end. New brake rotors front and back. Once the trans was out of the bike, I threw it into the back of the car and ran it out to JIMS, the premier shop for Harley performance transmissions. “

I encouraged JIMS to kick off a re-man program for Transmissions, since H-D was successful with their engine re-man program and JIMS is all about transmissions and has been since 1967. There’s nothing better than to ship your prized piece to the mecca of motorcycle transmissions, for a rebuild by guys who build transmissions all day long for 40 years. Plus they are the team developing specialty tools for all aspects of working on Harleys. Those tools are used all over the world by rebuilders and mechanics.

JIMS Now offers a transmission rebuild service for Harley-Davidson and aftermarket transmissions. This ranges from your old 5-Speed, all the way through the new Cruise Drive! We all know times are tough. For some that means keeping your “older” motorcycle running good instead of upgrading to a new bike. Or maybe you grew up with this sled, and you won’t ever let it go.

You can now send your old, tired transmission to JIMS in Camarillo, California for a complete overhaul. JIMS will completely disassemble your transmission, inspect all wear surfaces and replace all bearings, seals, and *worn parts that are out of service wear limits. This expertise is now available as an affordable option by industry professionals. For more information, please contact JIMS.

We are going to take you through the entire process visually. We won’t give away all the JIMS tech secrets, but you’ll get a downright complete mechanical sense of the process.
In this article you will see Dr. Hamster’s transmission tear down from the time the JIMS team opened the box. You will see them perform disassembly operation to the bare case, and every aspect of the rebuild until he had a new transmission again with upgraded JIMS components.

*If new gears or shafts are deemed necessary, additional charges may apply.

When you find yourself needing your transmission rebuilt, the experts at JIMS have the answer with their in-house rebuild service. Long known for superior, innovative products, JIMS portioned off a section of their 50,000 square foot facility for a transmission rebuilding area. This makes perfect sense, because JIMS not only manufacturers transmissions, they also make every specialty tools required to service them.

With the amount of parts, specialty tools, and skill required for the rebuild, this is definitely a job for a professional mechanic. Lucky for you the technicians at JIMS can do the rebuild for you at a very reasonable rate. JIMS transmission rebuild service is available for Harley-Davidson and aftermarket transmissions. If you are interested in restoring your transmission back to brand new, simply pack up your trans, ship it off to JIMS, and in a short amount of time your rebuilt trans is back at your door ready for installation. It’s as if you sent your trans away on vacation, and it came back rested and ready for work.

In this case we did as JIMS recommends. We shipped the Doctor’s greasy trans to JIMS Machine.

I spent some time with the staff at JIMS, including Paul Platts and Chad Frank as they walked me through the process:

The first step is an inspection of the outside of the case for any visible damage. The technician then mounts the transmission on a specially designed fixture, and the top and side covers are removed.

The whole process was completed with such knowledge and precision it was reminiscent of a soldier field stripping his weapon. All parts are then thoroughly cleaned, and sent to inspection to identify defects.

The inspection lab is set-up with an array of specialty measuring devices. The one that caught my eye was the “Illitron Variable Involute Profile Measuring Instrument”. This device ensures the gear profile is within tolerance, and it makes me feel smart saying “Illitron Variable Involute Profile Measuring Instrument.”

A multitude of other devices (with names just as hard to pronounce) are used to inspect the gears to ensure they are suitable for service.
The main and counter shafts are loaded in a special fixture and checked for wear and run-out. All other hard parts go through a similar barrage of testing. Any part found to be out of tolerance is replaced with a new part. Each gear is carefully checked by a JIMS Tranny expert.

Once the inspection is done, the transmission goes to the assembly department. Every tolerance is checked while the transmission is assembled by one of JIMS’ seasoned technicians. JIMS replaces all bearings, seals, gaskets, and any worn parts that are out of service wear limits. If the shafts, gears, or other parts need replacing there will be some additional cost for the rebuild.

This was a terrific way to get the good Doctor’s transmission factory fresh again. As a leader in transmission manufacturing it makes sense to have JIMS rebuild your trans. After checking the whole process it is understandable why most riders leave this job for the guys who have the tools and equipment, and handle transmission everyday.

“Wow- what an experience,” said Doctor Hamster. “This place is amazing, way beyond your wildest imagination. It is a huge facility, superbly organized and everybody just super friendly.”

Here is the kicker: “They converted my old 5 speed trans into a 6-speed, using the old housing!” said the good Doctor.
“So an upgrade needed zero fabrication and has no assembly challenges. It just drops into its old slot and is ready to go!”

Six Speed Conversion Kit Bikernet.com calls it new “New Blood for Swingarm Shovels”. We call it amazing! This kit will transform your clunky, old, worn-out 4 speed swingarm Shovelhead into a sleek, wild, driving machine.

The kit replaces your taper shaft 4 speed with a brand new polished PowerDrive™ six speed close ratio splined shaft transmssion made specifically for a swingarm frame. And that is not all. With the kit you get a spankin’ new Primo® Brute IV Extreme™ 3″ polished Open Belt Drive System, a beautiful Monster Torque™ 1.4 kw chrome & polished gear reduction starter, transmission mounting plate and hardware. All this for under $3000 Bucks! This deal cannot be beat. Kit # 1071-0001 will get you into the race!
Check out the 1984 Low Rider that we converted into a six speed screamin’ machine.