from https://www.bmwmotorcycles.com The Great Escape – VISION NEXT 100: The motorcycle of the future Concept Vehicle. Not available for sale. Glasses in place of a helmet, smart clothing, full balance without a kickstand: Only three of the many inventions that could become standards for riding a motorcycle and add a new dimension to the sense of freedom in an increasingly digitised world. And the best thing about it: this vision vehicle is already here. Introducing the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100. “When we develop a motorcycle, we are usually thinking around five to ten years in the future. Looking further ahead is particularly exciting for us and very appealing.” – Edgar Heinrich, Head of BMW Motorcycle Design The frame follows the wheel. The black triangular frame is visually reminiscent of the R 32 from 1923 – the first BMW motorcycle. However, the frame has functionally little to do with the original. The Flexframe is flexible and allows steering manoeuvres without the joints we are familiar with today. If the handlebars are moved, the entire frame changes shape and facilitates the change in direction. Depending on the traffic situation, the forces required for this vary: steering manoeuvres are especially easy at a standstill, while the frame firms up at high speeds. The surfaces are attached so that they offer the wind and weather protection of a fully enclosed motorcycle. The surface of the frame is made of matt black textile. Self-balancing: no chance of tilting over. A motorcycle doesn’t need a stand. Not when assistance systems ensure perfect balance. Self-balancing enables the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 to remain stable both during the ride and at a standstill. This enhances safety for the driver. It also makes it easier for beginners, because they are led safely through every riding situation and cannot fall over. But experienced bikers can also profit from self-balancing. Because the motorcycle becomes even more agile, making the riding experience even more dynamic. The assistance systems also expand the rider’s capabilities. Regardless of ability and practice, riders are able to constantly expand their boundaries and positively intensify the riding experiences. Making every ride an experience of pure freedom from start to finish.

SEE DETAILS at BMW Motorrad Website by Clicking Here.

by Micah Toll from https://electrek.co

Definition CE 04 is not a production series model and not available for sale. The scooter won’t be available until 2022, and will carry a price of USD $11,795 in the US.

SEE BMW CE 04 at Motorrad Website by Clicking Here.

BMW has brought its futuristic concept electric scooter to life as the BMW CE 04. No longer just a lofty design study, the new electric scooter is prepared for production as the first in a new succession of electric urban mobility solutions from BMW Motorrad.

The BMW CE 04 follows very closely with the original concept bike unveiled last year, while offering minor concessions to ease production of the new electric two-wheeler.

But the inclusion of realistic fenders and practical mirrors hasn’t dulled the sharp, progressive design. It features no shortage of bright colors, floating panels, storage compartments, and angular edges. Even that single-sided rear swingarm puts a new twist on classic engineering.

The electric scooter includes a peak-rated 31 kW (42 hp) frame-mounted electric motor designed to offer zippy urban acceleration. BMW claims it can reach a speed of 50 km/h (31 mph) in 2.6 seconds, meaning riders should have no problem pulling away quickly from traffic lights.

Even considering the continuous motor rating of 15 kW (20 hp), the CE 04 is still much more powerful than other full-size urban electric scooters on the market.

With a full twist of the wrist, the scooter tops out at 120 km/h (75 mph).

There’s also a reduced power model with a 23 kW (31 hp) motor, though it still reaches the same top speed.

The internal battery in the higher spec model provides 8.9 kWh of capacity and is rated for up to 130 km (81 miles) of range. The reduced power model has a maximum range of 100 km (62 miles).

Based on the rather thin and flat profile of the saddle, perhaps it is best that this isn’t an ultra-long range touring scooter.

The CE 04 instead focuses on the urban commuter role, where features like an enclosed helmet storage compartment are likely to score points in the market.

The BMW CE 04 electric scooter can be recharged from a simple home wall outlet, a wall-mounted charger or a public charging station.

An internal 2.3 kW charger provides a recharge time of four hours. An optional 6.9 kW quick charger upgrade is available that reduces recharge time to one hour and 40 minutes.

The quick charger can also bring the battery from 20% to 80% in just 45 minutes, representing a more real-world quick-charging scenario.

The scooter includes advanced rider aides such as Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), though the latter is an upgradeable option. There’s also a reverse gear, which is quite helpful for a heavy 230 kg (507 lb) scooter like this.

A large 10.25″ color TFT screen serves as the bike’s massive display and control center. The screen also includes navigation features, allowing riders to keep their phone in their pocket instead of using it as an added GPS device. Or riders could choose to store their phones in the bike’s charging compartment that includes a USB-C port. The scooter’s internal 8.9 kWh battery should be enough for several… hundred phone charges.

The scooter won’t be available until 2022, and will carry a price of USD $11,795 in the US. That may put it a bit above some competitors, but the new electric scooter certainly stands apart.

And perhaps most importantly, the CE 04 marks a fundamental electric shift for BMW Motorrad.

As BMW AG’s CEO Oliver Zipse explained:
“The BMW CE 04 is our new electric star for the city. It combines an e-drive with emotion and motorcycling fun. The latest technology, and the best battery cells, which also provide power in the BMW iX. Just like the CE 04, all future new BMW Motorrad models for urban mobility will be pure electric.”

With the unveiling of such a futuristic design for the company’s latest electric scooter, we have to wonder if that BMW Vision DC Roadster electric motorcycle concept will one day become a reality as well.

Check out the scooter in action in the video below, and let us know what you think of BMW’s new direction in the urban mobility space.

• Up to 146 Miles on a Single Charge
• Customizable Riding Experience
• Connected Communication
• 105 HP
• 30″ Seat Height
• All-Electric
• DC Fast Charge Compatible
• Charging time is 0-100% charge in 11 hours using the included charging cord
• $19,799 *Price includes tax credit of $2,200
• ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: Radius Carbon Fiber Kit $1,299.95* and Rizoma® Precision Billet Kit $1,299.95*
• CHECK FOR Federal Government Electric Vehicle Tax Credit by Clicking Here

by Gary Gastelu from https://www.foxnews.com

Reboot of H-D’s original electric motorcycle. Harley-Davidson’s rebooted electric motorcycle has been revealed.

The LiveWire One is an updated version of the Harley-Davidson LiveWire that was introduced in 2019 and will be sold under the newly established LiveWire electric motorcycle brand.

The LiveWire One has a claimed range of 146 miles per charge in urban driving and can be recharged to 100% in an hour at a public DC fast charging station.

The starting price has been reduced from $29,799 to $21,999, which will make it more competitive against similar offerings from Zero Motorcycles.

Twelve dedicated LiveWire showrooms located in California, Texas and New York are scheduled to be open this fall with additional locations to be added by the end of the year.

International sales will begin in 2022 and the LiveWire brand will be expanded with additional models in the coming years.

Harley-Davidson Launches LiveWire One Electric Motorcycle
from https://www.rttnews.com

Harley-Davidson (HOG) on Thursday launched its first electric motorcycle under LiveWire brand, LiveWire One, as the iconic motorcycle company re-attempts to make a mark in the electric motorcycle segment.

LiveWire ONE is priced at $21,999 and available to order at LiveWire.com, in addition to select LiveWire dealers. The price could go below $20,000 for most customers after federal tax credit for electric motorcycles.

The city range of the LiveWire One is listed as 146 miles, which is the exact same range as the original LiveWire. The bike also sports DC fast charging that can recharge from 0-100% in 60 minutes or 0-80% in 45 minutes.

CEO Jochen Zeitz said, “As part of The Hardwire Strategy, we made a commitment that Harley-Davidson would lead in electric. We recognized the pioneering spirit and brand value in LiveWire for our community and took the decision to evolve the original LiveWire motorcycle into a dedicated EV brand.”

SEE MORE AT https://www.livewire.com

Bikers know we are living in the best of times. And a great number of us are preparing for the Sturgis Rally.

Okay, back to work. Let’s hit the News.

Let’s all ride free forever…

–Bandit

Click Here to Read the Weekly News only on Bikernet.

Join the Cantina for more – Subscribe Today.

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Hey,

Life is nuts as we see daily in the news. But bikers know we are living in the best of times. And a great number of us are preparing for the Sturgis Rally. Hell, I don’t even know what it’s called anymore and I’m living here.

We moved in during the month of June and have scrambled ever since to fix up one place for the bros and the other place for the other bros and make it livable for us. We’ve had our challenges including the Samsung refrigerator.

Can you imagine a refrigerator that doesn’t defrost? It would be like building a phone that you can’t shut off. I was sorta impressed with the Samsung refrigerator until the ice maker quit and filled the ice tray (about 5 gallons) with water and it froze into a solid block of ice.

I’ve made serious progress in Deadwood, but still need to road test my ’69 Panhead with the latest Paughco springer. I got a South Dakota Veteran plate coming for my 2014 Indian. I need a few more SD motorcycle license plates and I hope to handle them next week.

Okay, back to work. Let’s hit the News:

 The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

HEADLINE OF THE WEEK–Just when you think misleading headlines couldn’t get more amped?…..Mary papenfuss of the Huffington proves me wrong.

–J.J. Solari

A MESSAGE FROM A BROTHER-– Hey brother I wanted to let you know I just got your bike all tuned up and threw a BDL on her. Everything’s still original other than that.

My big brother Mort is a key factor to the knowledge I have on bike builds and the two of us took your bike apart and put her all back together to perfection.

FROM THE BILTWELL GANG– Murdock O/S Risers 12″ – Black
$249.95

Murdock O/S Risers are built to accept oversized 1 1/8” bars. Investment-cast top clamp, TIG-welded chromoly uprights and CNC lathe-turned mounting bases create a handlebar riser with unrivaled stiffness and strength for aggressive, technical and high-speed riding.

BILTWELL makes their risers in various sizes and even pullback versions. –Bandit

www.biltwellinc.com

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS FROM THE MIC–Recreational Trails Program Wins Funding Increase in House Approved Bill
More good news for off-road enthusiasts.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $715 billion transportation bill last week, including up to 75 percent increased funding for the Recreational Trails Program. The RTP funds trail development, maintenance, and educational materials nationwide.

“While there is significantly more work to be done getting the bill passed by the Senate and signed into law by the president, it is great to have the House on-record supporting the increase,” said Scott Schloegel, MIC senior vice president of government relations. “We would love to have senators take up the House bill, but they also have their own bills they are working on, so we’ll continue to advocate for a similar provision in the Senate.”

The multibillion “INVEST in America Act” would spend heavily on road, rail, public transit, and water projects over five years. Proponents of sweeping infrastructure legislation hope that Congress can complete work on it before October 1 and send it to President Biden for signing into law. The RTP is funded with gas tax dollars that powersports enthusiasts pay each time they fuel up off-highway vehicles.

The RTP currently has a funding level of $84 million, and Schloegel said that the budget is long overdue for a significant boost – particularly with the double-digit growth in new-unit OHV sales since the spring of 2020, and the nation’s increasing interest in powersports recreation.

“It is estimated that we pay nearly $300 million in off-road gas taxes each year,” Schloegel said. “We appreciate that the House agrees that more of those dollars should be put into recreational trails.”

–MIC

CLIMATE HEADLINE OF THE WEEK–the word virtually has no actual meaning that anyone has ever been able to isolate. So, this headline is basically jibberish. But then it was composed by a college graduate.

–J.J. SOLARI

BUELL NEWS— Logan Cipala Let’s Freedom Ring on his Buell 1190HCR

[Walhalla, North Dakota]: On July 2, 2021, Logan “The Machine” Cipala celebrated the holiday weekend with a red, white, and Buell win in the open class at Brick Mine Pro Motoclimb. Cipala didn’t stop there, he cleaned up at the event taking home first place in the 450 and 700 classes too. Brick Mine left Cipala “The Machine” in the lead with a solid 50 points, followed by Logan Mead with 44 points, and Harold Waddell with 35 points.

Standing on the podium is a regular thing for Logan “The Machine” Cipala, especially on his Buell® 1190HCR. His nickname comes from the community, seeing his dedication to the sport with his travel and race schedule.

“It was another great weekend at the Eagle Ridge MC hill climbs in North Dakota. My Mueller Motorsports tuned Buell 1190HCR and Full Throttle Motorsports GasGas MC450 were running and working great. I was able to sweep the Motoclimb Event on Saturday. Riding first in the order in open class I knew it would be a difficult task to take the win,” said Cipala. “I committed to a risky line and laid down a ride that would hold into halfway through the second round.

Logan Mead laid down a near perfect run that beat me by a full second. I felt confident I could charge through the motocross style bottom of the hill to make up that time and get through the challenging middle cleanly. Once I made I through the corner I let the Buell power go to work and earned the open win.”
We look forward to seeing Logan claim King of the Hill again, at the Wiseco Shootout this weekend July 10 in Bay City, WI.

Visit the Buell website for more information at: www.BuellMotorcycle.com.

BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT–
On June 7th, ATF published a new notice of proposed rulemaking on its website entitled Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached “Stabilizing Braces”. The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on June 10th, 2021, giving interested parties until September 8th, 2021 to file comments. While your NRA-ILA will be filing comments on behalf of our NRA members, it is also important that you submit your own comments, which you can do by clicking the red button below.

Submit My Comment
You can find guidelines on how to properly submit a comment here.

Since 2012, ATF has recognized that stabilizing braces serve a legitimate function and the inclusion of a stabilizing brace on pistol or other firearm does not automatically subject that firearm to the provisions of the NFA. The proposed rule seems aimed at making nearly all configurations of firearms equipped with stabilizing braces subject to the taxation and registration requirements of the National Firearms Act, which is in direct contradiction to the opinions ATF has issued previously.

Due to the discretionary scheme created by the rule, the ATF Director would be given an incredible amount of power over the firearm industry. This comes at a time when President Biden has nominated anti-gun lobbyist and gun ban proponent David Chipman to head the ATF. This draft rule is just one more reason why it’s extremely important for all gun owners to contact their Senators and ask that they vote against Chipman’s confirmation.

Yours in Freedom,

Ken Lan
NRA-ILA Grassroots Programs & Campaign Field Operations
http://www.nrailafrontlines.com/

CHOPPER DESIGN ELEMENTS–
What about changing to 16 in rear or even 18-inch wheels.

Hello, Need Help. Attached is a Power Point diagram of my Chopper measurements. Right now, I have Hydraulic forks, don’t like them!!! Plan on complete restoration, paint an all.

Please look at my measurements and see what Chrome Springers I need to put on my custom Harley. If I have to change rear wheel sizes (18,17,16), or front wheel sizes (16, 18 21, etc) it’s ok.

Need better trail and rideability from what I have now.

–Luis & Bea Padilla

Like so many builders, we put our frame on blocks at the ride height we want and start measuring. Even then there can be adjustments down the build road. Guys like Steve Massicote, at Paughco can be tremendous help.–Bandit

Introducing LiveWire ONE, the first product from the all-electric LiveWire brand–Today, Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson”) (NYSE: HOG) presents the evolution of LiveWire (LiveWire.com) as a standalone brand and the introduction of LiveWire ONE – the electric motorcycle built for the urban experience, with the power and range to take you beyond.

Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson:

“As part of The Hardwire Strategy, we made a commitment that Harley-Davidson would lead in electric. We recognized the pioneering spirit and brand value in LiveWire for our community and took the decision to evolve the original LiveWire motorcycle into a dedicated EV brand. Today’s LiveWire ONE builds on the DNA of Harley-Davidson but with the electric focus and ambition of the new LiveWire brand. Harley-Davidson and LiveWire will continue to rewrite the motorcycle rulebook and we are excited about this next chapter in our legacy.”

LiveWire ONE: Launching at $21,999* and available to order today at LiveWire.com, in addition to select LiveWire dealers, LiveWire ONE delivers the best experience for the urban rider, with personality and soul:

BIKE WITH A PULSE: Haptic heartbeat—adding a touch of humanity to electricity

DIGITALLY CONNECTED: Stream directions, monitor alerts, and track your recharge status

INSTANT ACCELERATION: Smooth power from the electric motor that can produce 100% of its rated torque instantly

FAST CHARGING: Recharge DC Fast Charge 0 to 100% in 60 minutes/0 to 80% in 45 minutes**

FAR RANGING: 146 miles of city range, capable of traveling beyond the urban grid***

CUSTOM MODES: Define how LiveWire ONE performs and personalize your experience

CONTROL: Advanced rider systems and a 6-axis IMU tracks and anticipates change
With evolved software and hardware, LiveWire ONE builds on the experience of the original LiveWire and reflects the new identity of the LiveWire brand.

LiveWire ONE will debut at IMS North California on July 18, 2021, with demo rides and wider product experience moments.

Innovative model: LiveWire is the first OEM with a hybrid omni-channel model, combining the best of digital and physical, allowing the customer to interact with the brand on their own terms.

Retail experience: LiveWire ONE launches online at LiveWire.com and at 12 incoming LiveWire brand dealers**** in California, New York and Texas with additional locations planned for the fall.

Experience Galleries: Designed to facilitate a fully immersive brand experience, the first state-of-the-art LiveWire brand experience gallery is scheduled to open fall/winter 2021.

Online + In the App: With the focus on the digital experience, LiveWire.com takes visitors through an immersive journey from vision to product—including a new interactive bike builder, a new mobile app, and a heightened ownership experience.

LiveWire Custom™ Finance: The LiveWire Custom™ Financing Program provides ownership with options, allowing riders to experience the latest LiveWire technology, on short term leasing.

International: Launching in the USA, LiveWire ONE plans to be available in international markets from 2022. For future product news, please see LiveWire.com.

*Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for base models. Options such as color are available at additional cost. Prices for additional available models exclude tax, title, licensing, registration fees, destination charges, added accessories and additional dealer charges, if any, and are subject to change. LiveWire reimburses dealers for performing manufacturer specified pre-delivery inspection and setup tasks. Dealer prices may vary.

**Charging rate varies based on output of the charge unit and ambient/vehicle temperature.

***Range estimates are based on expected performance on a fully-charged battery and are derived from SAE J2982 Riding Range Test Procedure data on a sample motorcycle under ideal laboratory conditions. Your actual range will vary depending on your personal riding habits, road and driving conditions, ambient weather, vehicle condition and maintenance, tire pressure, vehicle configuration (parts and accessories), and vehicle loading (cargo, rider and passenger weight).

****For the current list of LiveWire dealers, please visit LiveWire.com.

USA Heatwave reality check: Global temps below 30-year avg & ‘75% of the states recorded their hottest temperature prior to 1955’ – Worst U.S. heat waves happened in 1930s

Climate Depot’s Marc Morano & author of Green Fraud:

“Here we go again. Any heatwave, hurricane, tornado outbreak, etc. are always used by the media and other climate activists as some kind of ‘proof” of a climate emergency. At least these claims are more plausible than claims that building collapses or illegal immigration are caused by “climate change.”

But currently, the global satellite temperature for June 2021 is below the 30-year average. And despite the U.S. heatwave, there are plenty of record cold outbreaks happening around the globe, (See: Unusually strong cold weather outbreak spreads from Antarctica into central South America, bringing early winter temperature records and first snowfall after decades)

The media gaslights anyone who mocks ‘global warming’ on a record cold or snowy day but has no problem doing the exact same thing whenever it’s hot. As University of Alabama climate scientist John Christy’s research has found: “About 75% of the states recorded their hottest temperature prior to 1955, and over 50 percent of the states experienced their record cold temperatures after 1940.”

In addition, the EPA’s own data has shown that the 1930s U.S. heatwaves were far more severe than current temperatures. (2021 Update: EPA puts inconvenient data on 1930s drought and heat wave down the memory hole)

In short, it is unscientific and nothing short of political lobbying to jump on a heatwave to claim ‘proof’ of man-made global warming. Climate activists’ new motto should be: Never let an opportunity go to waste to blame a heatwave or a flood or hurricane or building collapse or immigration — on ‘climate change.’

Alisa Clickenger and Women’s Motorcycle Tours Announces Harley-Davidson as the Presenting Sponsor of the Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride

Karen Davidson, Daughter of Willie G. Davidson will join the ride and be a prominent speaker at the Women’s Motorcycle Conference.

Women’s Motorcycle Tours welcomes Harley-Davidson as a major partner on the Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride (SCMR2021). Harley-Davidson will be supporting the event with dealership events along the way, hosting the Centennial Riders at the 81st Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, offering a unique museum experience and party in Milwaukee, and offering long-distance, rolling demo rides all the way from Milwaukee to Arlington, Virginia. Alisa Clickenger will also be riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in the cross-country event.

“Harley-Davidson has a very long history of supporting women motorcycle riders. Beginning with Effie and Avis Hotchkiss, the first two women to ride across the USA in a motorcycle side-car rig in 1915,” said Alisa Clickenger, Women’s Motorcycle Tours Founder and Centennial Ride Event Producer. “Harley-Davidson has been a significant contributor to the growing number of women riders, and I am honored to be working in partnership with them on this ride and the conference.”

“So many female riders throughout motorcycling history have been associated with the Harley-Davidson brand. Vivian Bales, the first motorcycle cover girl, long-distance motorcycle rider, and stunt rider in the 1920s and 1930s was a Harley-Davidson rider, as was Dot Robinson, the founder of the Motor Maids. Bessie Stringfield, the first African-American woman to complete a solo cross-country ride, also rode a Harley-Davidson, and it’s delightful that we’ll be carrying on her tradition of long-distance motorcycle riding. My Centennial motorcycle events are always at the intersection of historical remembrance and modern celebration, and Harley-Davidson is the perfect partner for us to expand the narrative of bold and audacious women who paved the way for our modern women and our right to vote,” said Clickenger.

About the Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride (SCMR2021):

The SCMR2021 is an AMA-sanctioned nationwide event celebrating the centennial of the 19th Amendment, women’s right to vote. In August of 2021, hundreds of female motorcycle riders will join the celebration in one of 13 cities across the U.S.A. Women and men can join the Centennial Celebration in any number of cities around the USA on August 20-21. Produced by Alisa Clickenger of Women’s Motorcycle Tours, the SCMR2021 is a non-political event celebrating the guiding principles of unity, community and freedom of the road. The SCMR2021 ends at the Women’s Motorcycle Festival and Conference in Arlington, Virginia on August 19-22, 2021. https://centennialride.com/

DIPSHIT HEADLINE OF THE WEEK–There must be news contests we don’t know about to see who can come up with the most preposterous “news” item of the day.

–J.J. Solari
Media Consultant
Bikernet.com™

NEW FROM THE BIKERNET BLOG–
Harley-Davidson exited Indian market after 10 years of work, believing it is not selling enough. Compared to other premium performance motorcycles such as Triumph, Polaris Indian, BMW, it definitely sold enough models every year.

I mean, surely, they didn’t expect to sell million units like small capacity commuter motorcycles or the smaller engine Enfield which costs one-tenth of a Sportster.

To show you how despite pandemic economy how much demand there is for luxury cars and expensive motorcycles, have a look at the below news.

Keep in mind that petrol in India is at an all-time-high of Rs. 100 per litre. Meaning 1 gallon regular petrol costs US $5.

Honda GoldWing comes as a complete unit imported to India just like the expensive touring models of Harley-Davidson or Polaris Indian. It carries the similar price tag of Rupees 4 million that is seen in Road King or Chief models. Suzuki Hayabusa also gets imported as a complete unit. No local assembly. Import duties apply for each unit.

Rs 40 lakh 2021 Honda Gold Wing sold out in India in just 24 hours.
Powering this full-fledged tourer is a 1,833cc, flat-six, liquid-cooled engine that develops 126hp of power and 170Nm of torqu (Rs. 4 million)

https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/bike-news/rs-40-lakh-2021-honda-gold-wing-sold-out-in-india-in-just-24-hours-price-dct-bookings-deliveries/2283857/

2021 Suzuki Hayabusa 2nd Batch Of 100 Units Sold Out in Record 1-Hour
The new-gen Suzuki Hayabusa was launched in India in April 2021 and carries a sticker price of Rs 16.40 lakh (Rs. 1.6 million)

https://www.rushlane.com/2021-suzuki-hayabusa-2nd-batch-sold-out-record-12405506.html

Luxury cars see boom in sales across India despite pandemic blues.
Italian luxury car maker Lamborghini said the company witnessed a 100 per cent rise in sales compared to last year.

Porsche India’s sales grow 52 per cent in first quarter of 2021, luxury automaker records best quarterly figures in 7 years.

https://www.indiatoday.in/business/story/luxury-cars-sales-boom-india-covid-pandemic-blues-1817060-2021-06-20

–Wayfarer
Bikernet Blog Editor and Emperor
Bikernet.com™

[page break]

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
EXCLUSIVE: International War Threat Commentary

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/EXCLUSIVE_International_War_Threat_Commentary.aspx

Comments:

THE MAN IS HILARIUS LOVE IT!

— NEAL FARMER
BEEBE, ARKANSAS

DICTATOR NEWSOM BANS MOTORCYCLES—

By Jensen Beeler
AsphaltandRubber.com

You may have already seen the news from yesterday, where California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order that will require all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the Golden State to be zero-emission vehicles by the year 2035.

The order also goes on to say that the state will phase out all new medium and heavy-duty trucks that are not zero-emissions by the year 2045, thus setting up the state to push electric vehicles onto its roadways in a big way.

There is a third provision in this executive order though, and it is getting far less attention than the other two, but it will greatly impact the motorcycle industry.

This is because Gov. Newsom’s executive order also says that by 2035 California will ban the sale of all new off-road vehicles that are not zero-emissions, where feasible.

Effectively, California has just set an expiration date on the sale of new dirt bikes, side-by-sides, and ATVs within its borders.

Before we get too much further, it should be pointed out that this executive order applies only to the sale of new vehicles, and does not stop one from owning a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle, nor does it stop one’s ability to sell a used gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle to a private party.

Also, important to note is that plated dual-sport motorcycles, along with all street-legal motorcycles, would be exempt from this executive order, as motorcycles are not specifically targeted by the order’s mandates.

What it does stop though is the ability for manufacturers to build and sell new non-zero emissions vehicles in the State of California, including what is being sold by the powersports industry for off-road use.

There is a major caveat in the executive order though, and that is that CARB is directed to “act consistently with technological feasibility and cost-effectiveness” in implementing the order’s directives.

This could create a scenario where OEMs could argue that the production and sale of something like an electric dirt bike is so expensive, that it is not a reasonable replacement for what is available with an internal combustion engine.

The burden will be on the manufacturers to show this unreasonableness, however, and that will be a tall order for them to do so. There are two reasons this is the case:

First, entries like those seen from Alta Motors already show us that performance parity from electric dirt bikes is within grasp of the motorcycle industry.

Second, with a 15-year lead-up to the ban’s implementation, the state of technology is only going to progress further, and that duration should give OEMs plenty of time to plan, develop, and build zero-emission alternatives for this sector.

The real crux of this executive order is what it will mean for the powersports industry as a whole.

With California accounting for a large portion of the off-road sector sales in the United States, the Golden State holds tremendous sway over powersport OEMs.

As such, Gov. Newsom’s order will likely force powersport manufacturers to finally take electric vehicles more seriously, which will likely see a rippling effect in other states in the USA.

Source: Office of Governor, California

LATEST FROM THE WEEK–
now THIS is funny. “a shitshow” HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA biden made her vp on purpose. for one thing he only surrounds himself with losers and idiots. so that he can yell at them with impunity and they’ll take it. for another thing he knows he’s gonna be sent to a home any second and he thinks kamala as president would provide him with laughs all the way to the morgue.

–J.J. Solari

Shitshow Harris, check this link:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/kamala-harris-faces-gusher-leaks-122940261.html

I never thought I would be adopting Democrat nomenclature but it seems Kamala Harris is making the news, if you can call modern journalism news, in that it is being reported according to sources close to the source of the sources according to studies made via reports that may or could or perhaps have been reported as being sourced from reliable personnel close to the matter who asked to be anonymously not identified with an identity…..that Kamala Harris’ sphere of influence “is a shitshow.”

The press of course didn’t print shitshow. They printed s..tshow. Not shit show. So they COULD have meant “starshow.” I can’t really say. It could be Kamala Harris is creating a starshow. Not a shitshow. It could be I am merely being mean spirited. And that it’s a starshow that she is creating. Not a shitshow. They’re two different things, starshows and shitshows. It could be she is creating the former. Not the latter. However, my personal hunch, the thing I’m going with, the cards I am going to put on the table are that she is creating a shitshow. Not a starshow.

–J.J. Solari
Political Investigator
Bikernet.com™

New TECH Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Rivera-Primo Brute II Install

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/RiveraPrimo_Brute_II_Install.aspx

Comments:

I’m installing the same belt system with Pro-clutch for FLH Shovelhead 1971.

Do you encounter problem with the nut(for front pulley) supplied by primo is very tight to screw in by hand?

— Nazri
nazmail22@icloud.com
Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia

Hi Nasri, My name is Ben Kudon, I was the Exec. Director for Rivera Primo for about 20 years and I am now the President of American Prime Mfg. (www.americanprimemfginc.com).

Keith Ball of BikerNet.com asked me to contact you and provide more detail on your question.

In regard to your question on the thread pitch of their M/S nuts for the 1056-0002 Pro Clutch for Shovels. The pitch Rivera used when I was there was consistent to the current machining standards at the time. But those standards had a plus/minus tolerance that could conflict with the tolerance on the M/S depending on which side of the tolerance it was.

For example, if the nut manufactured by Rivera was on the high side of the tolerance and the M/S was on the same end then you would certainly have a tighter fit then desired. At American prime, we try to maintain a neutral tolerance so that should you have a tight thread (or conversely loose thread) on the M/S, you should still have a good thread to thread fit with the same parameters.

If you need any further help regarding Rivera or Primo products, please feel free to contact us!

–Ben Kudon
Unrelenting Emperor

American Prime Manufacturing Inc.
8205 Secura Way
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
info@apminc.us
(562) 321-1989 Voice

Bare Knuckle Performance Releases Cycle-Tie–The Safest Most Secure way To Haul Touring Bikes

Everyone who owns a V-Twin touring motorcycle knows the struggle of trying to locate a safe spot to attach tie-down straps. The problem exists when loading the bike on a trailer or a lift in the garage for maintenance work.

Bare Knuckle Performance solves this issue with its latest product, the Cycle-Tie. A simple but effective bracket that provides a safe, secure spot to attach your tie-down straps. Cycle-Tie allows the motorcycle to stay securely put where ever it needs to.

“It’s so simple to use, installs in just minutes utilizing the lower tank and upper crash bar mount bolts.” -Paul Wideman, CEO of Bare Knuckle Performance, stated.
“You can lock your bike down with confidence knowing it’s securely strapped with a proper place for your tie-down or soft straps now.”

Cycle-Tie is available on the Bare Knuckle Performance website for $110.00 and includes FREE SHIPPING. Cycle-Tie fits 2009-present touring bikes and 2002-2008 touring bikes. Like all Bare Knuckle Performance products, Cycle-Tie is 100% USA MADE by riders for riders.

Visit Bare Knuckle performance.com to learn more and follow @bareknuckelperformance

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND VETERANS CHARITY RIDE– MARK 7TH ANNUAL MOTORCYCLE THERAPY ADVENTURE TO STURGIS–Returning Combat Veterans Use “Motorcycle Therapy” to Rehabilitate with Help from Veteran Non-Profit Organization

Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its continued support and sponsorship of the seventh annual Veterans Charity Ride (VCR) to Sturgis. The two have partnered with the initiative of “America Get Out & Ride” while using motorcycle therapy to support combat veterans’ transition to civilian life.

Many of the veterans joining the Veterans Charity Ride for the first time are amputees, paraplegics, or suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress and other issues veterans face after leaving the military. Each new veteran will pair with mentors who have already been through the Veterans Charity Ride program and receive one-on-one support to help their transition back to civilian life. The 2021 ride will include 16 total veterans – eight new, along with eight returning veterans who will serve as mentors.

“Veterans Charity Ride was designed to assist combat veterans who face challenges in their daily living and provide them with a support structure that will get them back outside and living life to the fullest,” said Dave Frey, Veterans Charity Ride Founder. “Many of our veterans used to ride motorcycles before their injuries and thought they never would ride again. Through support from companies like Indian Motorcycle and Champion Sidecar, we are able to get these vets back on bikes and enjoy the freedom of the open road.”

This year’s ride to Sturgis will start on July 28 in Moab, Utah where the group will take the trek through some of the nation’s most scenic backgrounds roads in the western United States. The group will stop and visit local communities along the route, such as Fort Collins, Colorado, where the group will be receiving an official proclamation and welcoming by the Mayor before arriving at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota on August 6. Participants will be riding an assortment of Indian Motorcycle models, outfitted with Rekluse® auto clutch systems and custom-built Champion Sidecars for amputee and paraplegic veterans.

The 14-day adventure allows participating veterans the opportunity to push towards conquering their post-war challenges while out on the open road. Throughout the trip, veterans will also conduct team-building exercises allowing riders to share their service experience during the emotional and mind-detoxing motorcycle ride.

“We’re honored to support our U.S. veterans and contribute to such noble cause like the Veteran’s Charity Ride,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “Riding can be one of the most therapeutic experiences, as we have seen first-hand the dramatic evolution and incredible growth from vets that have completed the VCR program.”

The Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis was created by veteran Army Paratrooper Dave Frey and leverages the therapeutic effects of motorcycle riding to create an adventure of a lifetime for wounded and amputee combat veterans adjusting to post-war life.

To support the Veterans Charity Ride, donate, or to learn more visit IndianMotorcycle.com and VeteransCharityRide.org.

THE MOTORCYCLE THEFT ARCHIVES GROWS–Great news story about motorcycle theft. However, details about how the owner stopped the thief is not mentioned.

Owner pursues, stops motorcycle theft
by Emily Porter from The Daily Independent Jul 6, 2021

Catlettsburg: A Carter County man was arrested following a motorcycle theft in Grayson and a pursuit by the owner.

The motorcycle was allegedly stolen from The Hogs Trough on Ky. 7. The owner of the motorcycle followed behind and called the incident in to Boyd County as the subject made his way up I-64, according to the Boyd County Sheriff’s Department.

The owner of the bike had Johnny R. McDowell, 38, of Olive Hill, stopped and off the bike by the time Boyd County Sheriff’s Deputies arrived on scene. The man was stopped and arrested at the U.S. 23 exit off I-64 in Catlettsburg.

The owner knew the man who is accused of stealing the Harley Davidson, according to Sheriff Bobby Jack Woods.

Grayson Police transported McDowell back to Carter County where he is now lodged in the Carter County Detention Center.

McDowell is charged with theft by unlawful taking, auto, $10,000 or more, but under $1,000,000.

Source: https://www.dailyindependent.com/news/owner-pursues-stops-motorcycle-theft/article_d0df4f30-de9f-11eb-98ca-372abb37cb45.html

–Wayfarer
Chief Investigator
Bikernet International News Bureau

QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
ART INSPIRED RUMBLE SIDECAR PROJECT

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/ART_INSPIRED_RUMBLE_SIDECAR_PROJECT.aspx

Comments:

Incredible detail in the work. Lots of ingenuity in translating the artwork into reality. I wish I could do half as well.

–Vern Moore
Location: Kingsley, PA

Reply from the Builder:
Well, not much I can say other than it’s a thrill to see all that work on your respected web site.

As exciting as the cover of Easyriders Dec. ’94 with my Shovelhead.

I’m speechless.

The only thing I’d like to make clear is Hollister H-D and House of Thunder H-D were created from scratch not bought. A shit load of work to get H-D corporate and 2 different cities to allow this to happen. Mortgaged everything. Not some wanna-be that bought an established store. We set a lot of records being a dealership.

My fault for not making that clear.

Thank You!!
–Dan

Hey, it’s worked so far. It’s what works! And that’s that! it works! Masking slows the spread to infinity! no more winter flu! now it’s millennial flu! because masking slows the spread! which is the idea! you want to slow the spread! that’s just common sense! why stop it by letting it run its course when you can slow it forever!! ____

sincerely,
–Gavin Newsom
A man who could not safely operate a pet shop, but who operates 40 million humans.

–J.J. Solari

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2018 Harley-Davidson FLDE – Softail Deluxe for $19.005.00

See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=10690764

This bike is Super clean bike with lots of add-on’s

ONLY 14421.00 Miles !!!!!

2018 Vivid Black Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL DELUXE FLDE

Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike

* 107 MILWAUKEE 8 Motor
* 6-Speed Trans.
* Air Ride Suspension
* Fat spoke wire wheels
* 16 inch apes
* White walls

This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92 point safety and mechanical/structural inspection. Whether your looking to commute to work, ride the coast or take that dream vacation, this bike is ready to go!!!

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Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

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Just $19,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

BURMA SHAVE SLOGAN OF THE WEEK–
I asked you if me licking your cunt would at all be possible / You said that was a bridge that was in fact quite uncrossable / I said “But I could make your twat inflict on you a swoon / that would expel twat-lube so hard you’d rocket to the moon” / You said, “Oh. Well, then, sure. Not a problem.” / burma shave

–J.J. Solari

IT’S ALL NUTS—I’m working on so many projects, my head is spinning. I’m trying to learn the state of getting stuff done in South Dakota.

I remember Adrian bitching at me about the weather. He’s lived here for over 30 years. The weather fluctuates often, which I sorta dig. But it does force you to plan your time and resources to get shit done, while the summer is upon us.

I’m trying to finish the shop before the serious winter sets in. Then I can tinker in the new shop all winter long. It’s going to be cool.

Hell, I can move one can of bolts at a time. Ah, but I’m also trying to deal with Bonneville this year. Shortly, I will focus on finding a trailer and hunting for shit. I found a Salt Torpedo box the other day, progress. I need to charge the battery and fire her up.

But for this afternoon, a glass of whiskey will do the trick. Let’s all ride free forever…

–Bandit

Twenty Years of Chopper Dedication and Hard Work
by Dan Stern

Decades ago (mid ‘90s) Paisano Publications came out with an upscale magazine called VQ. I’m sure a take-off on GQ. People scoffed because the RUB thing was in full swing. I didn’t care because it was another great publication from bikers for bikers. It was tailored for the upscale market complete with ads for cologne, soap and other things you’d never find in Easyriders. The best part was a feature on artists concepts.

VQ’s editor, Keith (Bandit) Ball was running it while juggling the editorship of Easyriders and countless other publications.

Owner: Dan Stern
Bike: 2004 Harley-Davidson Softail w/left-hand sidecar

Click Here to Read this Photo Feature Exclusively on Bikernet.

Join the Cantina for more – Subscribe Today.

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Hot Harley Nights Motorcycle Rally Resumes its Mission To Raise Funds For Make-A-Wish While Providing Fun-filled Weekend of Motorsports and Entertainment.

Sioux Falls, SD (July 06, 2021) – This year marks the 25th anniversary of Hot Harley Nights , and organizers have lined up a jam-packed slate of top-flight motorsports and entertainment events. Hosted by J&L Harley-Davidson, this year’s rally takes place July 9th – 11th at J&L Harley-Davidson and the W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds in Sioux Falls, SD. While the rally is known for its riding, music, stunt shows, racing and more, the priority has always been to generate funds for Make-A-Wish South Dakota, and Hot Harley Nights has raised over $3.5 million for this worthy cause over the past 24 years.

“Our mission has always been charity-driven,” said Hot Harley Nights organizer and J&L Harley-Davidson Co-Owner Jimmy Entenman. “But we’re looking to have as much fun as we possibly can during the process. We’ve got a lot going on during the weekend, but I think I’m most excited about country superstar Rodney Atkins, our music headliner for Saturday night—I am keyed up and ready to go!”

Festivities kick off at J&L Harley-Davidson on Friday, July 9, at 9 a.m. Patrons can avail themselves of excellent food and drink, National HOG Pin Stop, Silent Auction, and free Harley-Davidson demo rides. The Hot Harley Nights Rider Justice Poker Run Scramble starts at 10 a.m.—participants can turn in completed cards later that day or stretch things out and return them Saturday or Sunday.

Other riding opportunities on opening day include the J&L Harley-Davidson Owners Ride, Glacial Lakes Harley-Davidson Run to Hot Harley Nights, Hooligan Flat Track Clinic and the Regions LARGEST Ride-in Bike Show.

Bookending Day 1 of Hot Harley Nights will be the thrilling stunt riding of Rhett Rotten in his authentic 1930s wood-constructed bowl known as the Wall of Death, starting with the first of four daily shows at 9 a.m., and the musical stylings of premier 80s rock tribute band Arch Allies, who close out the night with the music of Journey, Styx, Bon Jovi, Def Lepperd, REO Speedwagon, Boston, and many more.

Day 2 begins bright and early on Saturday, July 10, at 9 a.m. Rally goers can look forward to more Rhett Rotten Wall of Death stunt shows throughout the day, as well as more free H-D demo rides, Guided Rides hosted by Sioux Falls Harley Owners Group, Speed-Kings Custom Harley Show, Shinko Tire and HardDrive Burn Out Contest and the Hot Harley Nights Motorcycle Parade. Then things shift to the W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds for J&P Cycles Dirt Dash Hooligan Racing, the Rhett Rotten Roller Show and music from Rick Monroe and the Hitmen and Rodney Atkins.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the Hot Harley Nights 25th Anniversary Rally finishes up on Sunday with more demo rides, more Rhett Rotten, the J&P Cycles Hooligan Dirt Dash, the J&L Harley Ride to Wagon Wheel and a musical performance by former rocker-turned-country-phenom Darius Rucker.

Sponsors for this year’s Hot Harley Nights include Sanford Health, J&L Harley-Davidson, Harley-Davidson of Fargo, Big Sioux PowerSports, Budweiser, Chesterman Co, First PREMIER Bank, Glacial Lakes Harley-Davidson, Great Western Bank, Howe Plumbing & Heating, Interstate PowerSystems, Jans Corporation, J&P Cycles, Make-A-Wish, McKinney Olson Insurance, Rider Justice, South Dakota Pork Producers Council, Soukup Construction, Speedkings, Those Guys ABATE, Tony’s Catering, and Woods Fuller Schultz & Smith.

J&L Harley-Davidson’s Hot Harley Nights 25th Anniversary runs Friday, July 9, through Sunday, July 11. New and returning riders can find out anything they ever wanted to know about Hot Harley Nights Motorcycle Rally by visiting www.hotharleynights.com. And be sure to check out HHN on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Decades ago (mid ‘90s) Paisano Publications came out with an upscale magazine called VQ. I’m sure a take-off on GQ. People scoffed because the RUB thing was in full swing. I didn’t care because it was another great publication from bikers for bikers. It was tailored for the upscale market complete with ads for cologne, soap and other things you’d never find in Easyriders. The best part was a feature on artists concepts.

Honestly, I think Joe Teresi was way ahead of his time with this one. Starting in the ‘00s this would have fit right in. VQ’s editor, Keith (Bandit) Ball was running it while juggling the editorship of Easyriders and countless other publications.

In 1997 the issue of VQ featured illustrations from a concept artist Tim Conder. The concept was a left-hand sidecar. The shapely notion struck me to the core. I’ve seen state-of-the-art custom bikes from all over the world, from incredible builders, but never saw a concept that I wanted to copy or duplicate in anyway. I’ve been building bikes well over 40 years.

Around the same time, during Daytona Bike Week, Joe Teresi gave me a sharp VQ money clip. I have used it for over 20 years. You’ll note the money clip logo now resides in the steering damper knob. A nod to Joe and Keith (some call him Bandit).

Conder’s conceptual illustration really hit me. I called Keith and inquired, who the hell is Tim Conder? The reply was that he was in Sonoma, 90 miles away. I called Conder and asked if anyone has ever built this sidecar? His reply was no, and he would really like to see it done.

My life was crazy busy being the guy behind the scenes at Custom Chrome bringing it to crazy growth heights. I was involved in every aspect of that company from product development to marketing, sales and much more. I was lucky to build a bike every two years. So, I tore out the VQ illustrations and filed them with my future projects.

The year 2004 brought a couple of big changes for me. I left Custom Chrome, started Hollister H-D and relocated it to Morgan Hill, where I renamed it House of Thunder H-D. During the move, my file cabinet popped open, dropped my build files and low and behold, out came Tim’s sidecar conceptual illustrations.

I worked building a dealership for several years, never being able to really dedicate the time.

I sold House of Thunder H-D in 2015. In 2019 I dedicated 20 hours a week, threw away over a years’ worth of work, because I wasn’t happy with it. Finally, in 2020 I decided I would dedicate 40-50 hours a week and build the best bike/sidecar that I could, no matter how long it took.

The bike is based on a ’04 Softail with mild engine and gearing mods, including double-bronze powder-coated. Wheels, which are real Halibrand knockoffs running 17-inch radial tires all around, 180 in the front, 200 series in the rear.

Proportioning valve is used to balance the rear brakes on the sidecar and bike. GMA brake pulley kit for the rear of the bike and a Brembo in front. Made the handlebars and used Custom Cycle Engineering Controls.

Fit and finish is my expertise, so when you look at the handlebar cover, you’ll see how tight it fits. It looks stock but it’s not. The steering damper poking through is where I machined a spot for the VQ money clip.

Things like the gap at the bottom of the headlight ring really bug me, so I blended in a filler piece. Nacelle headlight strip needed to be extended with a small double step next to the handlebar cover. That double step is mimicked at the bottom of the grill in front of the engine and the inside center of the windshield.

I did a lot of the body work with trim pieces in place, so I would get the fit as tight as possible before sending things off for chrome. And yes, I even made my own key out of an antique gas valve handle.

I built fully polished, louvered-aluminum belly pans on the sidecar and the bike. Not to mention polished aluminum inner fender wells, my own taillight housings and lens. I know, I’m sick.

I hand bent the sidecar interior trim and hid all the hardware. The Jarrah exotic wood floor was sourced from western Australia, sanded and eight coats of clear added to reach the finish I wanted.

Of course, no project of this size can be done all by yourself. Bob Munroe (Grand National Hall of Fame) took my wooden windshield frame and turned it into steel along with the fender trim and extended fuel tank.

The one-off paint was done by the great hall of famer Art Himsl, who has painted several bikes for me in the past and is just a pleasure to work with. Dennis’ Body shop did the final body work to get everything straight.

Guy Ruchonnet was invaluable helping with the frame, fender braces, bucks and molds. Nothing is more rewarding than to work with pure craftsmen and watching them take my work and refining it.

Some of the people who helped and inspired me are no longer with us like Darrell Hayes and Don Ivie, whom I miss every day, and both could always get me out of a tight corner.

Okay, so it took me over 20 years to complete this project, so what! It’s finished. It’s the best bike I’ve ever built. It’s beautiful on top as well as underneath and I hope to show it to you in a regional show soon!

Rumble Sidecar Specifications

Owner: Dan Stern
Bike: 2004 Harley-Davidson Softail w/left-hand sidecar
Engine: 88-inch Twin Cam powder coated double bronze

Wheels: Halibrand knockoffs
Brakes: Brembo front, GMA rear
Handlebar: Custom by Stern
Hand Controls: Cycle Controls
Front Suspension: Shovel adjustable tree, extended tubes

Rear Suspension: Works Shock
Fuel Tank: Extended by Bob Munroe

Fenders & Body Panels: Handmade by Guy Ruchonnet & Stern

Paint: Art Himsl custom blend

Seat: Corbin

Special Features: Fender Trim, handmade taillight housing & lenses, louvered belly pan

Suspension: Auto air shocks

Features: Custom matching luggage behind seat, machined footrests, custom interior and side trim, rock guard, fender and taillight trim.

 

 

by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

The Japanese have a real thing for the lotus flower. In fact, its importance is not limited to Japan alone, but is a pillar of Buddhism, which considers it the purity of the body, speech and mind, born out of Gautama Buddha own steps. It’s not that often though that the lotus is associated with a material object, especially a motorcycle.

A Japanese custom shop that goes by the name Bad Land sees however no issue with associating purity with a two-wheeler, and a menacing-looking one at that.

Holly Lotus is how one of the shop’s builds is called, originally a 2010 Harley-Davidson Dyna that received a host of custom upgrades, black paint and body tattoos that make it look anything but pure.

Just like in the case of the Zoso Blood No. 2, the Holly Lotus goes for a darkened look in the purest Japanese style, with the entire build wrapped in black.

There are a lot of custom parts featured on the build, many of them made by Bad Land itself. The list includes the front and rear wheels, sized 21- and 18-inch, respectively, a unique, pointy headlight that really stands out in the crowd, and a custom handlebar.

The shop is also responsible for the one-off fuel tank, front fender, and exhaust system. All these are paired with a motogadget speedometer, a single Arlen Ness mirror, Arlen Ness grips and covers for the air cleaner and rocker, and a Progressive shock.

The motorcycle was first shown back in May this year, but the Japanese garage did not specify how much the bike cost to put together. We also don’t know what happened to it after completion, but we’ll keep our eyes open in the hopes of catching this Holly Lotus out in the open, in a more natural environment than the studio it was pictured in when revealed.

Check out https://www.badland.net/hd-custom/2010tc-dyna-holly-lotus/

by Kyle Hyatt from https://www.cnet.com

Everyday café: Triumph’s factory cafe racer offers an engaging ride and killer looks, but is it worth the sky-high asking price?

The Thruxton RS is arguably the crown jewel of Triumph’s Modern Classic lineup of motorcycles. It’s an interesting mashup of modern, high-end components and technology, with a decidedly old-school powertrain. It’s a bike that shouldn’t make sense, but after spending time with it, it’s a bike I can’t get out of my head.

The 2021 Triumph Thruxton RS is powered by a 1,200-cc liquid-cooled 270-degree parallel-twin engine, which produces 103 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 83 pound-feet of torque at just 4,250 rpm. It’s an engine that, thanks to its large displacement and firing order, makes a noise that will get your heart pumping, even if its performance pales in comparison to more conventional naked and sport bikes.

The engine delivers its power smoothly, thanks to Triumph’s excellent fueling. The bike routes its power through a smooth six-speed sequential transmission and out a chain final drive. The gearbox offers light, crisp shifts and an easy-to-find neutral. The age of the engine’s design shows, but that’s a good thing, given Triumph’s continued development.

The formerly-range-topping RS is now the only Thruxton model you can get, and so Triumph seems to have spared no expense in kitting it out with the best-possible chassis components. While the Thruxton’s frame is a conventional and old-timey tubular steel affair, the suspension is modern and well considered. The front fork comes from Showa and uses that company’s “Big Piston” design as found on high-end sport bikes. It’s fully adjustable and makes for a controlled and plush ride, even over bumpy pavement.

The rear shocks (that’s right, two — this is a heritage bike, after all) come from Ohlins and are also fully adjustable. Typically, in my experience, twin-shock bikes don’t necessarily offer the best control over broken pavement or on fast roads, but these Ohlins units toss all that out the window. The back end of the Thruxton feels as comfortable and confident as I could hope for. It uses some fairly trick wheels to help with its handling, too. It has 17-inch, 32-spoke wire wheels, but unlike most wire wheels with steel spokes, the Thruxton uses weight-saving aluminum spokes. The wheels are wrapped in sticky Metzeler Racetec tires.

The brakes come from Brembo, and as such, they’re excellent. Having big Brembo brakes on a motorcycle isn’t unlike stopping at a Starbucks on a long road trip. Sure, there are other options, but this way you know exactly what you’re in for. In the case of the Brembos, what you’re in for is an excellent feel from the lever, huge stopping power and almost jewel-like build quality. The twin front rotors on the RS are sized at 310 millimeters and gripped by Brembo M50 four-piston radial-mount calipers. The single rear rotor comes in at 220 millimeters and is clamped by a single, twin-piston Nissin caliper.

The Thruxton has anti-lock brakes, but they’re not lean-sensitive since the bike lacks an inertial measurement unit. On a bike like the Thruxton — one that’s more about looking good and having fun than outright speed — this is totally acceptable. The Thruxton also packs user-selectable ride modes, which include Road, Rain and Sport. I generally find myself leaving the bike in Sport mode all the time because I like the extra responsive throttle. The Thruxton RS features a very handsome analog speedometer and tachometer. Each also packs an LCD display that provides all the pertinent rider information that I want to see — fuel level, gear indicator, trip odometer, etc. It’s a bit old school, but so is the bike.

When it comes to ergonomics, cafe racers aren’t generally what I’d call comfortable for longer rides. They feature a more leaned-forward, sport bike-like stance, which looks great and makes for agile handling, but can be hard on your wrists. The Thruxton somehow manages to pull off the cafe racer look while remaining relatively comfortable. The bike is slightly more upright than it might seem at first glance and a generous rider triangle means that even someone like me at 6 feet, 4 inches doesn’t feel incredibly cramped. Footpeg clearance is good, too, so leaning the bike way over isn’t an issue.

With a seat height of nearly 32 inches, the Thruxton may be a bit of a struggle for some smaller riders when it comes time to get both feet on the ground at a stop. It’s also not especially light, at 434 pounds dry, so that might also be something for smaller riders to consider. The Triumph Speed Twin might be better, in that case.

The Thruxton is a bike that somehow manages to ride as good as it looks, which is saying something. It’s easy to putter around town on, thanks to its compliant ride and torquey, under-stressed engine. It’s also a riot on a curvy road, thanks to its sticky tires and aggressive-ish riding position, and there are few pleasures greater than hearing the Thruxton’s big twin-cylinder engine echo off of canyon walls at 7,500 rpm.

The Thruxton RS is a fantastic machine, but of course, it should be, given its price tag. All of the motorcycle jewelry that Triumph bestows on the RS means that it’s packing a hefty asking price of $16,200. There is an almost limitless number of other motorcycles that can offer more performance or utility than the Thruxton for that money (or less). Still, I struggle to think of one that can offer performance with as much style.