Mr. Speaker… Last month, Sherman “Sherm” Packard was elected Speaker of the New Hampshire House of Representatives. Sherm has been a state legislator in New Hampshire since 1990 and a long-time champion for motorcyclists. In recognition of his longtime work on behalf of the New Hampshire Motorcyclist Rights Organization and all riders across the country Sherm was inducted into the MRF Hall of Fame in 2018.

MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, said “As one of the original motorcyclist rights activists in our movement and a MRF Hall of Famer, Lifetime Achievement honoree and John “Farmer” Eggers award recipient I cannot think of a better individual to represent New Hampshire and all motorcyclists than Sherm.” Sherm isn’t heading just any legislative body either, he’s heading one with a massive number of members. The New Hampshire House of Representatives is the largest lower chamber in any statehouse with 400 elected members. It’s also the 4th largest legislative body in the English-speaking world! It falls behind only the House of Commons in the United Kingdom (650 members), the Lok Shabha of India (543 members) and the United States House of Representatives (435 members). Jay Jackson, MRF Vice President added, “Sherm Packard was among the first in the motorcyclist rights community to become the ultimate grassroots lobbyist by getting elected to office. Now he has ascended to the highest position in the chamber, Speaker of the House. He is not merely a biker that got elected, he is a highly respected legislative leader that is also a biker. The people of New Hampshire, and motorcyclists nationwide, are truly blessed to have Sherm Packard representing them.” Congratulations to Speaker Packard on this fantastic accomplishment!

New Members and Committees With the election of nearly 70 new lawmakers in the Senate and the House, congressional committee membership is directly impacted. Not only are freshman members assigned to new committees, but current members can also jump to new committees. While numerous committees can impact our work in Washington a few specific ones are always at the forefront. Below is a list of lawmakers that will be added to these important committees. They will join other elected officials who have previously served on the committees. Take a look and see if your Representative or Senator is a new member of these committees. House Energy and Commerce Committee – Jurisdiction over issues including autonomous vehicles and ethanol.   New Committee Members: Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL) Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) Rep. John Joyce (R-PA) Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) Rep. Greg Pence (R-IN) Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-NY) Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) House Judiciary Committee – Jurisdiction over motorcyclist profiling resolution and potential police reform legislation. New Committee Members: Rep. Cliff Bentz (OR) Rep. Dan Bishop (NC) Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN) Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI) Rep. Darrell Issa (CA) Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-NY) Rep. Thomas Massie (KY) Rep. Burgess Owens (UT) Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC) Rep. Chip Roy (TX) Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN) House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee – Jurisdiction over the 2021 highway bill. New Committee Members: Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux (D-GA) Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX) Rep. Conor Lamb (D-PA) Rep. Kaiali’l Kahele (D-HI) Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) Rep. Marie Newman (D-IL) Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA) Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA) Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA) Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee – Joint jurisdiction over the 2021 Highway bill and jurisdiction over autonomous vehicles. New Committee Members: Sen. John Hickenlooper (D- CO) Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, (D-NM) Sen. Cynthia Lummis, (R-WY) Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) Senate Environment and Public Works – Joint jurisdiction over the 2021 highway bill and jurisdiction over ethanol issues. New Committee Members: Mark Kelly (D-AZ) Alex Padilla (D-CA) Senate Judiciary Committee – Jurisdiction over potential police reform legislation. New Committee Members: Alex Padilla (D-CA) Jon Ossoff (D-GA)

About Motorcycle Riders Foundation The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

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. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

Let’s hit the news. It’s going to be a good one.

Click Here to Read the Weekly News on Bikernet.

Join the Cantina – Subscribe Today.

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

In November last year, Italian bike maker Ducati broke the mold when it pulled the wraps off a Diavel variant meant to honor parent company Lamborghini. We’re talking about a limited production run the likes of which not all of us will get to see in the metal, let alone experience first hand. Thank God for Youtube, then, and rich vloggers.

Ducati said there would be just 630 of these incredible machines made, priced a hell of a lot more than the most potent Diavel in the regular range, at $31,995. Then again, one can’t expect to use premium and pay standard…

It would seem deliveries of the two-wheeler have already begun. Below this text is a video posted a couple of days ago by the Supercars of London Youtube channel, whose owner steps out of a Nissan GT-R (he makes sure to mention this every chance he gets) to take possession of the two-wheeler in Cambridge.

And we must say, the thing is breathtaking in real life, perhaps even more so than in the press photos released last year. Sadly, we don’t get to see it on the move and hear it roar.

This Diavel was made to replicate some of the design elements featured on the Lamborghini Sian FKP 37. It sports wheels meant to remind one of those on the car, carbon fiber used extensively on the air intakes, radiator covers, and central tank cover, among others, plus, of course, the signature paint of the Lambo.

The bike weighs 220 kg (485 pounds) and gets its forward motion from a 1,262cc Testastretta DVT engine rated at 162 hp at 9,500 rpm and 129 Nm (95 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm.

Another nod to the Sian is the number of bikes that will be made. Lambo pledged to produce 63 Sian supercars, but that was a small number when it comes to motorcycles, so Ducati went for 630 instead.

 

Hey,

My 9,000 square foot building in Wilmington is in escrow, but I’m still confused. I wish I didn’t need to sell it to retire. It’s too cool and too packed fulla shit to move or replace. My grandkids don’t want it. My son can’t handle it, and I’m sure lots of folks are in a similar boat.

Ah, but everyone including Jeremiah, James and Honor, plus my kids would like me to hold onto it and keep it available for them in the future. Interesting. I could easily take a few things and set up a shop in Sturgis.

Then again, the adventure is everything. It’s like building a new bike or finding a new love. It’s about passion and creativity. So, I’m packing my shit and getting ready to hit the road.

Let’s hit the news. It’s going to be a good one.

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. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

EDELBROCK to shutter Los Angeles County HQ after 83 years–

Edelbrock, manufacturer of some of the most popular performance aftermarket intake manifolds and cylinder heads for our favorite V-8 engines, is packing up its Torrance, California, headquarters over the next two months. The facility, Edelbrock’s home since 1999, has 270 employees, most of whom will be laid off. The first layoffs were announced on January 15.

Edelbrock’s Torrance facility is home to the company’s marketing department as well as its research and development team, which design and test intake manifolds, cylinder heads, fuel injection systems, and entire crate engine packages. It’s where unfinished castings from the company’s San Jacinto, California, foundry arrive for final touches and packaging before being sent to speed shops and large retailers like Summit Racing and Jegs. The facility also assembles superchargers, including some that are original equipment on sports cars.

Edelbrock joining forces with Comp Performance Group, owners of Comp Cams and a number of performance aftermarket companies, is what set this change in motion. The union brings into existence one of the largest conglomerates in the performance industry. Edelbrock began moving some of its operations to a new facility in Olive Branch, Mississippi, beginning early in 2020. That new location will be the future headquarters of both Edelbrock and Comp Performance Group. Comp Cams is leaving its longtime home in Memphis, Tennessee.

We spoke to a veteran Edelbrock employee, who told us that Edelbrock plans to keep its two foundry facilities in California. The company will also retain its Edelbrock Race Center in Mooresville, North Carolina, amid the heart of NASCAR country.

–By Brandan Gillogly, Hagerty Media

Washington, Oregon and California are at war with cars and fossil fuels, but as you will see shortly, they are wrong. Hang on!–Bandit

ROLLING TO REMEMBER EVENT–
Rolling to Remember (R2R) is a three-day event capped by a massive motorcycle demonstration ride raising awareness for 80,000+ unaccounted for POW/MIAs & national #veteran suicide crisis.
https://rollingtoremember.com/
ride@amvets.org

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–Judy married and had 13 children. Unfortunately, her husband Ted died of cancer.

She remarried Bob and had 7 more children. Tragically, 12 years later Bob was killed in a car accident.

Judy again remarried and she and John had 5 more children.

After giving birth to 25 children, Judy died.

Standing before her coffin, the preacher prayed for her. He thanked the Lord for this very loving woman and said,
“Lord, they are finally together.”

Ethel leaned over and quietly asked her best friend, Margaret,

“Do you think he means her first, second, or third husband?”

Margaret replied, “I think he means her legs, Ethel – her legs”

–EL Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina

Harley Reveals Potential Supercharged Engine with Latest Patent–For emissions or power, that is the question.

Typically, supercharged engines equate to increased performance in motorcycling circles. The word alone—supercharger—conjures up images of speed and power. Just look at Kawasaki’s H2 family, the only supercharged range on the market today.

Its aggressive styling and face-melting speed only perpetuate supercharger stereotypes. However, the automotive industry has applied superchargers to meet strict emissions standards while preserving power. Sure, models like the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and Chevy Camaro ZL1 come with superchargers, but so do practical choices like Volvo’s V60 Wagon.

While we’ve seen our fair share of patents in the past, supercharged motorcycle engines are still rare. For that reason, Harley-Davidson’s latest patent is particularly interesting. Issued yesterday, the patent outlines the Motor Company’s potential plan to integrate a supercharger into its Big Twin lineup. While the Milwaukee-Eight platform spans both Touring and Softail machines, the patent doesn’t specify whether superchargers will be fitted to current or future powerplants. What the documents do show us is the forced air induction apparatus and how Harley could implement the technology.

The numerous figures exhibit the supercharger itself (64), the mechanical pulley that powers it (88), and the supply and discharge ports (68, 72). In simple terms, the engine’s existing crankshaft powers the supercharger via a covered belt drive. When air enters the intake system through the filter and conduit, the pulley-driven supercharger compresses the incoming air before delivering it to the combustion chamber through the intake manifold.

Of course, with a belt functioning as the drive mechanism, stretching is inevitable. To eliminate slack in the system once stretching occurs, the supercharger latches to the crankcase on a self-adjusting mount. Equipped with springs and bushings, the slidable track maintains tension and reduces potential maintenance. The system seems simple enough but one question still remains: why?

Is Harley exploring supercharged engines for a future performance Big Twin? Maybe a new contender to the Indian’s King of the Baggers-winning Challenger? Or is the bar and shield preparing for future emissions regulations and inevitable modernization. Regardless of the answer, it’s good to see more developments in supercharged engines. Hopefully, we’ll see more of those developments on spec sheets and less on patent documents in the future.

–Rideapart.com

BIKERNET TEMPLE RETREAT–
If we don’t want to live, what should we do?

People who do not want to live have no focus in their lives. It is necessary for each and everyone to have a specific focus, a direction, an aim. One has to strive to attain that aim and one has to be determined. The effort should not be half-hearted. One should have the sankalpa shakti, the willpower to achieve what one aspires for in life.

Life is successful and fulfilled when there is a focus. Life has no meaning when there is no focus. The focus should not be on having money, property, good friends and family. These are not the parameters of success in life. They are outcomes of your effort, outcomes of your wisdom and understanding, outcomes of your ability to manage situations and circumstances. Therefore, they cannot be the focus.

The focus at all times has always been transformation of the gross nature of the mind. Whether one is a renunciate or a person deeply engaged and involved in worldly activities, whether you are a yogi or a bhogi, a recluse or a social activist, success in life is attained only when the lower, gross and animal tendencies have been transformed into positive qualities.

If depression or frustration, dissatisfaction, social or financial problems become the cause of the desire to take one’s life, then the soul is not free. The spirit remains bound by the karmas, by samskaras and desires, and that bondage of spirit is anti-evolution.

God did not give you life for you to take it away. God gave you life so you could learn to cherish it, to respect it and to use it for the welfare of everyone. The members of a family are concerned for each other’s welfare. That is one stage. The same concern and care can expand to other people, to many people. That is another stage, where the quality of caring and nurturing expands to such an extent that the concept of one’s family is not confined to the few who live nearby – husband, wife and children – but expands to encompass other people as well, who are not your own. In that way the welfare of all becomes a selfless act and not a selfish act. True happiness comes with selfless action. There is happiness in selfish acts also but that is temporary. Stability of happiness is attained when one is able to perform a selfless act.

God has given us this opportunity, this life, to express the appropriate human qualities and to become the master of the environment, situations and circumstances and not be a subject or a slave to them. Appreciation of human qualities, human strengths and weaknesses, becomes the trademark of life. When appreciation becomes the trademark of life, when there is focus in life, then life is fulfilled.

By Satsang at Ganga Darshan,
Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati

from Wayfarer
Bikernet Monk
In the Temple at the Base of the Gray Mountain
India

TEXAS WEATHER REPORT FEELS STRESSED–Save our Texan. So first yes, I’m gonna let Lucky Devil check it out, but I’m hopeful it will be okay afterwards. Get him to build up the top some more too. Probably a very expensive repair, but I’m gonna TRY and locate one for him as well.

I’ve never owned one, don’t think I’ve ever seen one? Don’t suppose you got one you don’t need?

Factory ratchet kicker gear puller, Greg at MC offered it. And I’m pretty sure it was part of the contest he won to attend Factory training many years ago.

So worse case, I get it repaired and replace it with a JIM’s? I actually thought it had already been welded, but no! I’m the first to break it!

Yes, I had heat. Dude, I have a crescent wrench my dad gave me when I was 10, my 6-inch magnetic level I bought when I was a welders helper at 15. I don’t abuse tools. I think I’ve always used a regular 2 or 3 jaw puller.

–RFR
Certified Meteorologist
Bikernet.com

ROAD GLIDE MODS ALSO IN TEXAS–I recently removed the tour pack from my 2016 RGU using H-D’s Part..Harley Luggage Relocation..P/N p/53000567A

The process is straight forward and anyone with a 3rd grade reading ability and a set of Fisher Price hand tools can handle the project.

Now, the problem came to the seating and the position. As we all do with these bikes, we adjust until we find the exact combo that works for us, right?

Over the past 4 years, I’ve changed the bars a few times. I first rolled the stock bars forward, but it placed you hands into a weird angle. Then I decided on the H-D fat Apes, which places your hands in a much more comfortable position. H-D Fat Apes

I rode the bike to New York and back with no issues, but honestly never liked the look. I know, ultimate RUB comment, but I like making the bike look a certain way. I eventually pulled the apes, and went back to the stock bars. I changed the bars a few times last year, I and also experimented with seats.

I liked the Paul Yaffe 6′ Sport Monkey Bars as they place me in a relaxed yet aggressive position. Yaffe 6″ Sport Monkey Bars.
The next adjustment was the seat.

The stock Ultra seat feels like a marshmallow and it creates so many uncomfortable hot spots on a long run, I never truly liked it. Plus, it smashes your sack into the tank…not cool.

I tried the Sundowner, but found it “okay” at best. Comfortable, but set me higher and much farther back…neither were my preference. Sundowner
I added the back rest as well, but it wasn’t for me. SOLD it and moved on.

I went with the Harley Solo Leather and it was great, except once I changed the bars it placed me in a clamshell, which made my lower back scream. Plus I felt “detached from the bike when riding. Weird. H-D Solo I even added the pillion to see if it would add to the back support, but it didn’t. SOLD it and moved on.

I added the Hammock seat, and besides being fugly, thick as hell, and wide in the front, was very comfortable. I will keep this one for long touring trips when the wife rides and only when the tour pack is back on. Hammock Seat

A few years ago I owned a Dyna Superglide which I put a Le Pera Cherokee seat on. I LOVED that seat and gave the bike an excellent feel as well as look. Le Pera offers it for the Touring Models as well but it was OUT OF STOCK, so I decided to pivot.

Here is my latest seat, The Sprocket Solo. Has just enough lower lumbar, upper ass support to keep you from sliding while placing me exactly where I want to sit.

Overall with the tour pack removal, bar change, and seat change I feel like I can rip a little more efficiently and don’t feel like Im straddling a Winnebago as much. Thankfully the wife’s 2020 Fatbob is parked next to her if I need a real hot rod fix, but hopefully this will help cure my disease of trading Harley’s every 3 years or so.

I will keep you updated on the progress.

–Johnny Humble
Tech Editor
Bikernet.com
Humble, Texas

AD CONTRACT FOR UNFORGIVEN TV SERIES–
The Almeria Hormiguea wins a contract of 20 million for the European promotion of four series
The budget covers the media and press campaigns of ‘Marked-The Unforgiven’, ‘Corrupción de la Justicia’, ‘MobKing’ and the reality show ‘Synchronicity-The Beauty Whisperer’, shot in Almería and Málaga, SPAIN.

The Almeria advertising agency Hormiguea has taken a giant leap in a few years. The production company Wanda-Halcyon Television has closed with the company an advertising expense of 20 million euros for the promotion of four innovative television programs. The budget will be allocated to both social networks and traditional advertising, including a very aggressive outdoor advertising program and a promotional one in the newspapers.

The amount of 20 million, as they have exposed from Hormiguea, covers the European advertising budgets of four productions, among them, ‘Marked-The Unforgiven’, a visceral drama shot in part in Almería and centered on an outlaw motorcycle club made up exclusively of war heroes who have returned from Afghanistan and Iraq. The story is based on the Amazon best-selling novel ‘Marked’ by George Christie.

The Almerian will also be in charge of promoting ‘Corruption of Justice’, an espionage thriller about a young lawyer who, unknowingly, gets involved with intelligence agencies at war based on the novel of the same name by the best-selling author of Amazon George Van Mellaert; ‘MobKing- The War of the Godparents’, a moving drama series based on the world of corruption, murder and organized crime in modern Florida; and ‘Synchronicity-The Beauty Whisperer’, a ‘reality show’ that follows American hair and beauty icon Philip Sambanidis as he launches his new line of functional food and beauty products. Sambanidis has created some of the world’s best hair and beauty products as a scientist and manufacturer.

–Ideal.es

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–First Run to the Atlantic

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

Keep these stories coming! Another good job!

— John Hoffman
Pahrump, NV

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM NEWS–“Everything that happens affects Sturgis —
Sturgis affects everything that happens!”

Now is a GRT8 time to get fired up for the Sturgis Hall of Fame breakfast August 11, 2021. Tickets go on sale March 1, 2021 .

This annual reincarnation celebrating the mystique, heritage & future of motorcycling — is heart and soul deep. Bikers inspire Biker-wanna bees & the general public . So much so ,that our example of fierce red blooded patriotism is emulated!

Each of us and especially all of us together — are catalysts & facilitators that empower awesome coalitions . We are that “Black Hills / Sturgis Rally Spiritual Essence,“ that enhances the quality of life for America & the world.

All previous Sturgis Museum & Freedom Fighter inductees are encouraged to schedule themselves at the Museum for a few hours . Several others / TBA & myself are doing so on Sunday, August 8 ,2021.

Outside on the street, during much of the whole Sturgis Rally will be the Mobil Motorcycle Monument. This 4 x 8‘ double sided sign on an ultralight trailer, depicts racial, religious & BIKER horrendous discrimination .

The Waco Texas 1916 Jessie Washington, David Karesh Branch Davidians and WACO BIKER May 2015 tragedies are highlighted. THE June 2019 Jarheads MC / New Hampshire Biker slaughter is revealed on that sign .

Information is available about American Motorcyclist Tributes I -VII , Miracle Mountain Motorcycle Monument ( Tomahawk Wisconsin ) & the four 4 x 8‘ double-sided signs at Buffalo Chip SD .

Souvenir free stones available are; Apache tears , Crazy Horse Monument & Worlds only Law Enforcement , Firefighter, EMT & Citizen Soldier Bridges in the world .

Dennis San Felippo has mentioned a very valuable motorcycle is “possible“ for raffle proceeds to the Sturgis museum. Perhaps all of us can help sell & purchase these tickets.

These social, economic & political upheaval times should only make us stronger & better . We lead by example.

Each of us has ;
-stories to tell
-legacies to share
-lessons to learn
While legends are being lived !

May you continue to be happy, healthy & successful.

Pray to Live –
Live to Ride .

God bless you & your loved ones!

–Dave Zien
former State Senator
“Million’s’ Mile Motorcycle Man
Text/Cell 715-829-9436

QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
The “Pandemic” Con

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

SEVENTY YEARS ON THIS ROCK. FORTY IN THE WIND. JAILED, SHOT, RUN DOWN AND STILL ALIVE. COVID 19 IS REAL. SO IS THE FLU. PUTTING PEOPLE OUT OF WORK, CLOSING BARS, MASSAGE PARLORS, BIKE SHOWS ETC. AIN’T THE WAY TO GO. IF YOU ARE SCARED OF THE COVID STAY THE FUCK HOME. LET THE REST OF US RIDE FREE! RAISEN PIE TO JJ. MY LOVE TO MIRACULOUS AND MONGO.

–James Potter
Culpeper, VA

TWISTED ROAD–Introducing Nick’s Picks: February 2021–Twisted Road is LOVING these red motorcycles, especially this month. Get your heart rate up this Valentine’s Day by taking out one of these beautiful beasts for a date with the open road.

–Nick Marietta
Twisted Road

MAMATRIED and FLATOUT FRIDAY EXPANDS INTERNATIONALLY!!!–Teaming up with our friends @Garagemetallica, @Luckyfriendsrodeo, @BMS, @Flattrackbr, @Cinejoia, @spracepark, and @joekinghelmets; @MamaTriedshow and @FlatoutFriday are hosting an All Weekend Motorcycle Show and Race IN BRAZIL!

Brazilian custom motorcycle builders, racers, collectors, and friends are coming together for a full weekend of partying, sharing, and racing in beautiful São Paulo, BRAZIL. Smaller crowds are expected and all safety measures (limited occupancy, social distancing, masks, etc) will be enforced. HOLD ONTO YOUR SISSY BARS for more on the MamaTried, Flat Out Friday INTERNATIONAL TOUR!

Flat Out and Mama Tried fans!!

We’ll get right to the point, we as a team we have decided that February of 2021 for the rescheduled Show/Race is just too soon. Wisconsin will not be ready for that. And we don’t want to get everyone stoked and start making travel arrangements for another “maybe”.

So, we are going to push the Show and Races to the December 3rd/4th/5th 2021 weekend. We know it’s not in our usual winter/February time frame, but since not much is normal anymore AND that’s the soonest we could get a slot at the Fiserv Forum for Flat Out Friday Racing, December 3rd/4th/5th 2021 it is.

We’ve all been through a lot this year. So hang on a little longer for us. We will be working on some interim fun stuff for this spring and summer, some small events to stay active and keep the love of bikes flowing. As we’re sure all of you will be too. Everyone has had lots of time and looks like we’ll have plenty more, to contemplate what the future can look like. So stay in touch with your builds and rides and backyard project dreams, and we will do the same.

We love you all!!! Thanks for sticking with us. We promise that when we can have a real in-person/analog show again that it will not disappoint.

Thanks again. Take care of your loved ones and see you in 2021!

-The Mama Tried and Flat Out Friday Family

FAQ:

-Tickets from 2020 are valid for 2021

-Refunds are available through the venue that you purchased them

NEW CLIMATE DEPOT REPORT–‘Climate emergency’ claims falsified by real world data

Indur M. Goklany, former UN IPCC reviewer’s report: “The impact of extreme weather events, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and droughts are, if anything, declining. Economic damages have declined as a fraction of global GDP. Death rates from such events have declined by 99% since the 1920s. Climate-related disease has collapsed. And more people die from cold than warm temperatures”

Sea Level rise fears fading: “A recent study showed that the Earth has actually gained more land in coastal areas in the last 30 years than it has lost through sea-level rise. We now know for sure that coral atolls aren’t disappearing and even Bangladesh is gaining more land through siltation than it is losing through rising seas.”

Agriculture Booming: “Empirical data also shows that food production per capita has increased by 30% since 1961 despite a more-than-doubling of the global population. Hunger and malnutrition have declined, area burnt by wild fires has declined, and since 1950 poverty has declined, people are wealthier and global life expectancy has increased from 46 years to 73 years.”

–Climate Depot

[page break]

ANOTHER New Bikernet Reader Comment!–SAD BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for February 4, 2021

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/SAD_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_February_4_2021.aspx

Hey Bandit, so Sorry to hear about your Dog Cash along with Dale Walksler and Jon Towle who will be missed for their Talents and making Life better in their own ways.

Regarding Miss Lube Rack 1959 as Nancy Pelosi (D’Alesandro) checked various sources and this appears to be False as it was previously posted as 1951,1955 and 1959 Miss Lube Rack with the 1959 version as the most common and believable as Nancy would have been 19 years old in 1959. The rest of the Story is true as per sources found.

–Steve Scharrer
Allenton, WI

ANOTHER CLASSIC FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM— 1949 Harley-Davidson WL “45”

Following the Harley-Davidson R Model, the 45 cubic inch WL made a long successful run as a universal motorcycle starting in 1937. The WL was replaced by the Harley-Davidson K Model in 1952, and the middle-weight side-valve Harley-Davidson continued.

While using a slightly lower tech design than the 61 cubic inch OHV EL, the “flathead” WL 45 was the backbone of Harley’s lineup. Not only did it serve well as a courier machine with tens of thousands manufactured for World War II, but also in numerous two and three-wheeled versions. And it was the mount of choice for many police departments. The WL series also enjoyed great commercial service and was the basis of a machine for… for the 750cc, 45 cubic inch Class C racing series which AMA launched in 1934; the Harley-Davidson WR.

For comparison, the WL is the basic model, with the sportier WLD, which used a higher compression ratio, referred to as the Special Sport Solo. Wheel sizes, styling and trim were nearly identical to the “big twin” EL and later FL, but the scaled down WL’s have a shorter wheelbase and less weight which offered more nimble handling. This machine has been painted a special non-stock color, treated to chrome wheels and light bar, a windshield, crash bar, fender guard and a later buddy seat with grab rail.

Ending a long and venerable heritage, the WL model was discontinued, though WL engine production continued through 1973 for the three-wheeled Servi-Car. Competing better with British offerings, the 1952 K Model was Harley’s first production machine with rear suspension with the big twins following in 1958.

When you visit the National Motorcycle Museum you can see this personalized 1949 WL on loan to the National Motorcycle Museum from Clyde Zedick. But there is also a second 1949 WL in red on loan from the Antique Motorcycle Foundation that’s a bit closer to stock trim. There are also 65-plus other machines helping to tell the history of Harley-Davidson. Harleys on display range from a 1909 single to a great 2003 100th Anniversary CVO Road King donated by Bill Philben. In addition there are hundreds of posters, prints, photographs and advertising materials, plus apparel, signage, parts and packaging all giving you a tremendous review of Harley-Davidson history.

Specifications:

Engine: 45 Degree Side Valve V-Twin
Displacement: 45 Cubic Inches / 750 cc’s
Bore & Stroke: 2.75? x 3.81?
Carburetor: Linkert
Ignition: 6V Battery, Points & Coils
Primary: Duplex Chain
Starting: Kick Only
Clutch: Dry, Multi-disk
Transmission: 3-Speed, Hand Shift
Frame: Single Down Tube
Suspension: Springer Fork / Rigid Rear, Sprung Seat
Brakes: Drum, Internal Expanding
Wheels/Tires: 5.00 x 16 / 5.00 x 16
Wheelbase: 57.5?
Weight: 530 Pounds

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2015 Harley-Davidson® FXDB – Dyna® Street Bob for $13,995.00

see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9802464

This bike is a super clean Dyna what a blast to ride !!!!

ONLY 11009.00 Miles !!!!!

2015 Vivid Black Harley-Davidson DYNA STREET BOB FXDB

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

* 103c.i. Motor
* 6 Speed trans
* 12 inch pull-back T-Bars
* Gloss Black Heat shields
* H.D. low profile seat
* Forward controls

This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101 point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether your looking to commute to work, ride the coast or take that dream vacation, this bike is ready to go!!!

EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!

Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

**Open 7 days a week**

Just $13,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

HUSTLER MAGAZINE Founder Larry Flynt Dies at Age 78–The publisher had a controversial reputation for his work in the adult entertainment industry
Read in People: https://apple.news/ADnh2mB-sSfqoeI5_gQNLhQ

I have so many great memories of my 18 years working for Larry. He had a good run. I have so many great memories of my 18 years working for Larry.  He had a good run.

–from James C. Gustafson

COMMENTS NEEDED TO KEEP OHV AREA OPEN
Special Oceano Dunes Meeting
Coming Up February 18

California’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission will hold a virtual meeting on February 18 at 8:30 am, giving the powersports industry, local concessions, and enthusiasts another opportunity to weigh in about the possible curtailing and phasing-out of OHV use at the famed Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area.

“Our call to action on this upcoming meeting is in addition to our urgent request that everyone wanting to keep public riding lands open should please weigh in with public comments with California State Parks and two commissions, prior to both the February 18 and March 2 deadlines,” said Scott Schloegel, senior vice president at the MIC’s government relations office. “If we are to have any hope of maintaining access to Oceano Dunes, we all need to do all we can.”

Email links to submit comments:
OHMVR Commission – by February 17
California Coastal Commission – by March 1
California State Parks – by March 1

“We’re looking to join forces with OEs, gear manufacturers, riding and driving enthusiasts, plus anyone who is local who would experience economic hardship if OHV access to Oceano Dunes was eliminated or reduced,” Schloegel said.

–MIC

Vance & Hines Announces Sponsorship Program for 2021 AFT Series Valued at Over $70,000— Santa Fe Springs CA – Vance & Hines, one of the nation’s premier performance motorcycle accessory manufacturers, announced a full slate of contingency sponsorship payouts for the 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) racing season.

The program includes payouts for the top five riders in each class for every event and a $5,000 bonus for each class champion. In total, the company is offering riders $73,650 in 2021.

Vance & Hines produces the XG750R motorcycle for Harley-Davidson, which competes in the AFT Production Twins class. Race teams purchase the bikes directly through the Vance & Hines Racing Development Center in Brownsburg, IN.

The company’s 2021 AFT contingency sponsorship provides cash awards to the first through fifth finishers in AFT SuperTwins, AFT Production Twins and AFT Singles at each of the 17 races on the schedule. The payouts range from $500 for first place to $50 for fifth place, with $1150 available per class at each event. At the end of the season, Vance & Hines will offer a $5000 bonus to the number one finisher in each class.

To qualify for the contingency payments, riders must run an eligible Vance & Hines exhaust system, a Vance & Hines decal on their race bike and have a Vance & Hines patch on their racing leathers.

WASHINGTON STATE Bills Put Crosshairs Squarely on Gas-Powered Cars—
The state would vault to the forefront of the movement to purge fossil fuels from automotive fleets under bills introduced in the Legislature to ban registration of new gas- and diesel-powered vehicles in 2030.

House Bill 1204 and Senate Bill 5256 cover new model passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks, and would kick in at the start of the next decade. The bills call for these vehicles — to be registered in Washington state — to use an electric battery or hydrogen. They put no sunset date on the ownership and sale of 2029 or earlier model gas- and diesel-powered vehicles.

Electric cars — if charged by power generated from sources such as wind, solar, nuclear or hydro — can be a key part of a global push to reduce carbon emissions that drive climate change. The push to electrify cars gained momentum last month when General Motors announced a goal of ending the sale of internal combustion engines by 2035.

But the Washington bills are facing behind-the-scenes pushback from state Attorney General Bob Ferguson, whose legislative director has not submitted public testimony but in an email to two legislators expressed “serious concerns” about the bills.

In the Jan. 28 email, Yasmin Trudeau cautioned that should the proposal become law, it would face a swift legal challenge in federal court from opponents who would argue the state had exceeded its authority under the federal Clean Air Act. Trudeau wrote, “we would very likely lose in district court” and set an unfavorable precedent.

California is the only state granted an exemption from the federal Clean Air Act to set its own emission standards for automobiles. Other states, including Washington, can choose to follow the tougher California standards, which Gov. Gavin Newsom — in an executive order last year — said should include a 2035 end to sales of new gasoline and diesel-powered passenger vehicles.

But California’s legal authority under the Clear Air Act exemption has come attack through federal rule-making under the Trump administration, and is being litigated. And the new California 2035 standard — once it becomes a formal rule — also is likely to face legal challenges.

Trudeau, in her email, said that litigation filed against the Washington legislation could complicate efforts to move forward with the California phaseout of gas vehicles.

In response to a Seattle Times inquiry about the email, a spokesperson for Ferguson said the attorney general “supports the policy objective behind this legislation,” and would defend any laws passed by the Legislature. The spokesperson, Brionna Aho, said, “To assist the Legislature with advancing the policy objectives of this legislation in a way most likely to survive legal challenge, we presented preliminary legal concerns for the Legislature to consider.”

Proponents of the Washington bills say they have structured the legislation in a way they hope will sidestep that federal preemption against states other than California setting rules that regulate emissions standard, and thus survive a legal challenge.

The bills’ language leaves out any intent to lower emissions. Instead it describes an effort to boost the Washington economy by shifting to lower-cost fuels largely produced from regional electricity. The bills also cite the need to reduce water pollution, which is not part of the federal preemption, caused by fossil fuels that drip from vehicles.

“There are many other reasons to switch from gas to electric besides emission reductions — useful life of the vehicle, fueling and maintenance costs,” wrote state Rep. Nicole Macri, D-Seattle, a House sponsor of the legislation, in response to Trudeau’s email.

The legislation has been championed by Matthew Metz, a Washington attorney who founded and co-executive director of Coltura, a nonprofit calling for a “gasoline-free America.” Metz said that action by 2030 is needed to give the state a chance for meeting ambitious targets set by the Legislature for cutting almost all greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050.

He also said passage of the bill also would bolster the case for proposing a national target to phase out internal combustion engines in 2030, rather than 2035 as Newsom has proposed for California.

“This will help push the whole thing forward,” Metz said.

In response to the concerns raised by the state Attorney General’s office, Metz has proposed amending the language in the bills, so that any regulation to carry out the Washington law does not take effect until Jan. 1, 2025. He said that would fend of lawsuits until that date, and by then, any legal issues surrounding California’s standards should be resolved…

BY HAL BERNTON, THE SEATTLE TIMES

Everyone needs to read the new book by Patrick More: FAKE INVISIBLE CATASTROPHES AND THREATS OF DOOM. Here’s a quote: The entire “climate change catastrophe” narrative is based on the claim that humans are emitting too much CO2 into the atmosphere and that this will cause our planet to be too hot for life. Both of these claims are patently false.

Hang on!–Bandit

JUST IN FROM THE HAL ROBINSON ARCHIVES— This drawing was done, I’m sure, after Hal’s severe accident back in the ‘70s. This of course, is very personal. Hal was in a coma. He told me his work got really wild after that. Of course, it would.

Remember Elliott Fried in the ‘60s on radio?

–Ann Robinson

NEW FROM THE LOWBROW TEAM–
John’s Ironhead chopper is like a David Mann dream come to life…

And I’m pretty sure that was the intent.
Everything about this bike screams ‘60s chopper party life…”

See the whole feature on the Lowbrow web site.
Words & photos in this article are by Dan Venditto.

DIABLO ROSSO IV, PIRELLI’S HOT NEWS IN THE SUPERSPORT TIRE SEGMENT–
 
DIABLO ROSSO IV represents the fourth generation of the famous DIABLO ROSSO family of high-performance tires and promises high levels of grip, precise feedback and vehicle control, even in wet conditions
 
 
DIABLO ROSSO IV in a flash:
 
·       Fourth generation of the DIABLO ROSSO family, which has exceeded 5 million units sold
·       Designed for supersport, naked and crossover motorcycles and for ‘sporty’ road use
·       Excellent grip in each riding phase, precise feedback and optimal control of the vehicle
·       Benchmark performance in both dry and wet
·       Technical specifications developed bespoke for each size
·       Innovative profiles derived from the experience in the FIM Superbike World Championship
·       Tread design optimized for sporty riding and regular wear
·       New race-derived stiffer Lyocell structure used in sizes 190/55ZR17 and above
·       Full Silica bi-compound front tire
·       Bi-compound or tri-compound rear tire depending on the size, with Cap&Base scheme 
 
 

Pirelli announces the arrival of the fourth generation of the DIABLO ROSSO family with DIABLO ROSSO IV, the new high-performance supersport tire that raises the bar of this product range even higher. DIABLO ROSSO IV is dedicated to motorcyclists who love a more dynamic riding style, owners of supersport, hypernaked or crossover bikes who demand from a tire a high level of grip, on different types of asphalt and all weather, precise feedback and great handling to make the most of the high performance of their bikes. 
 
 

In particular, DIABLO ROSSO™ IV is the ideal choice for:
 
–        supersports or hypernaked motorcycle owners, who love a sporty ride on winding roads and mountain passes, and who are looking for a tire that can best express the sporty performance of their bike;
 
–        motorcyclists who use the bike mainly on weekends, for short out-of-town excursions, alone or with a passenger, and who seek sporty riding pleasure regardless of the weather conditions;
 
–        owners of sporty crossover bikes, who use their own vehicle for medium and long-haul excursions and who do not want to give up their sporty riding style in the most winding sections of the road.
 

 

The main benefits of DIABLO ROSSO™ IV are:
 
–        Top grip while braking, excellent lateral thrust whilst leaning and traction in acceleration, thanks to the combination of an innovative structure and racing-derived profiles that is able to better manage the power generated by the latest 200hp+ motorcycles.
 
–        Precise and immediate feedback to every rider’s input for greater riding control. The innovative technologies applied to the carcass make DIABLO ROSSO™ IV able to optimally adhere also to the micro-asperities of the asphalt to ensure smooth and precise feedback in every situation.
 
–        Benchmark performance on road, both on dry and wet asphalt. This is made possible by the characteristics of the Full Silica compounds, used on both axes and with a Cap&Base scheme at the rear, which work together with the tread pattern design, optimized for excellent water evacuation.

 
Description                                                              A
 
Front
 
110/70 R 17 M/C 54 H TL                                        Q4 2021
110/70 ZR 17 M/C 58W TL                                      Q3 2021
120/60 ZR 17 M/C (W) TL                                        Q3 2021
120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL                                    Q1 2021
120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL (C) CCC compliant      Q4 2021  
 
Rear
 
140/70 R 17 M/C 66 H TL                                        Q4 2021  
150/60 R 17 M/C 66 H TL                                        Q4 2021  
150/60 ZR 17 M/C 66W TL                                      Q3 2021  
160/60 ZR 17 M/C (69W) TL                                    Q1 2021  
180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                    Q1 2021  
180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL (C) CCC compliant      Q4 2021
190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                    Q4 2021  
190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL                                    Q1 2021  
200/55 ZR 17 M/C (78W) TL                                    Q1 2021  
200/60 ZR 17 M/C (80W) TL                                    Q4 2021

THE ROLLING STONE STEPS UP–

Rolling Stone this week added its voice to a number of media outlets, like Phys.org and Business Insider, falsely asserting a connection between climate change and COVID-19. In reality, if a modestly warming Earth has any impact on viruses and pandemics, it is to make them less likely and less severe.

In the article, “How Climate Change Is Ushering in a New Pandemic Era,” the author writes, “[a] warming world is expanding the range of deadly diseases and risking an explosion of new zoonotic pathogens from the likes of bats, mosquitoes, and ticks.” The article is long on assertions, touching anecdotes, and personal stories but short on facts and scientific evidence.

Transmissible diseases like the flu and the coronavirus are far more prevalent and deadly during the late-fall, winter, and early spring, when the weather is cold and damp, rather than in the summer months when it is warm and dry. That is the primary reason that flu season runs from fall through early spring, and then peters out. Similarly, colds are called colds because they are less common in the summer, as well.

Historically, we know that the Black Plague arose and ran rampant in Europe and elsewhere during the Little Ice Age.

Chapter 7 of the Non-governmental International Panel on Climate Change’s report of Climate Change Reconsidered: Biological Impacts details the results of dozens of peer-reviewed studies and reports showing premature deaths from illness and disease are far more prevalent during colder seasons and colder climate eras rather than during warmer seasons and warmer climate eras.

In 2010, BBC health correspondent Clare Murphy analyzed mortality statistics from the UK’s Office of National Statistics from 1950 through 2007 and found, “For every degree the temperature drops below 18C [64 degrees Fahrenheit], deaths in the UK go up by nearly 1.5 percent.”

U.S. Interior Department analyst Indur Goklany studied official U.S. mortality statistics and found similar results. According to official U.S. mortality statistics, an average of 7,200 Americans die each day during the months of December, January, February, and March, compared to 6,400 each day during the rest of the year.

In an article published in the Southern Medical Journal in 2004, W. R. Keatinge and G. C. Donaldson noted, “Cold-related deaths are far more numerous than heat-related deaths in the United States, Europe, and almost all countries outside the tropics, and almost all of them are due to common illnesses that are increased by cold.”

More recently, in a study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Lancet in 2015, researchers examined health data from 384 locations in 13 countries, accounting for more than 74 million deaths—a huge sample size from which to draw sound conclusions. The researchers found cold weather, directly or indirectly, killed 1,700% more people than hot weather. No, that is not a typo – 1,700% more people die from cold temperatures than warm or hot temperatures.

And Rolling Stone’s assertion that climate change will cause vector-borne diseases to spread to new regions is refuted by the vast body of scientific literature detailed in Chapter Four of Climate Change Reconsidered II: Fossil Fuels.

Studies from throughout the world repeatedly find any link between global warming and the spread of malaria, Dengue fever, West Nile virus, and other vector-borne diseases, are either grossly overstated or outright false.

For example, a 2010 study in the peer-reviewed science journal Nature:

compared historical and contemporary maps of the range and incidence of malaria and found endemic/stable malaria is likely to have covered 58% of the world’s land surface around 1900 but only 30% by 2007. They report, ‘even more marked has been the decrease in prevalence within this greatly reduced range, with endemicity falling by one or more classes in over two-thirds of the current range of stable transmission.’ They write, ‘widespread claims that rising mean temperatures have already led to increases in worldwide malaria morbidity and mortality are largely at odds with observed decreasing global trends in both its endemicity and geographic extent.’

Also, in a 2008 article in the Malaria Journal, Pasteur Institute of Paris professor Paul Reiter wrote:

“Simplistic reasoning on the future prevalence of malaria is ill-founded; malaria is not limited by climate in most temperate regions, nor in the tropics, and in nearly all cases, ‘new’ malaria at high altitudes is well below the maximum altitudinal limits for transmission, [continuing] future changes in climate may alter the prevalence and incidence of the disease, but obsessive emphasis on ‘global warming’ as a dominant parameter is indefensible; the principal determinants are linked to ecological and societal change, politics and economics.”

The COVID-19 pandemic is scary enough without pop-media outlets like Rolling Stone hyping unwarranted fears of a link to climate change. Rolling Stone should stick to what it does best, covering music and pop culture. When it comes to science, Rolling Stone is about as knowledgeable and authoritative as Madonna.

–By H. Sterling Burnett
Climate Depot

[page break]

NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–Artist David Uhl

We’re pleased to announce the worldwide release of David Uhl’s newest masterpiece, titled “Bounty Hunter”.

This new series will be a fusion of his popular Steampunk Collection and Lone Ranger series.

“Bounty Hunter” is the first of three pieces which will complete the collection.

In David’s words, “This piece a blend between my steampunk work and the Lone Ranger collection. Probably my two favorite genres. Hope y’all like, a very loose piece outside from my focal points.”

The photos below were taken with David’s phone. We will send the final version once the painting dries and can be scanned.

This photoshoot took place on the Salt Flats in Utah. Special thanks to the Legends Motorcycle Museum in Springville, Utah for their assistance.

The print edition will be the same as with Steampunk Seduction (total of 149 prints available to the public in three sizes).

·This series will total 3 different pieces.

I will slot people in as orders are confirmed. I anticipate being very busy with this one today, so your best bet is to send a reply email to this one. That will timestamp your confirmation and I’ll get back with you for any needed information.

People who collect this first piece will be given first right of refusal for the matching edition number on the 2 future pieces.

Each canvas print will come hand-signed by David and numbered with accompanying Certificate of Authenticity.

** Image size 24 x 24, edition of 55 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 4 Hors d’ Commerce – $1,295 framed

** Image size 30 x 30, edition of 60 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 4 Hors d’ Commerce – $1,895 framed

** Image size 36 x 36, edition of 12 plus 2 Artist Proofs and 2 Hors d’ Commerce – $2,895 framed
Thanks for your time!

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
303-913-4840

PAUSE FOR A MOMENT—At the base of the gray mountain

“When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor.”

“Mindfulness helps you go home to the present. And every time you go there & recognize a condition of happiness that you have, happiness comes.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

–Wayfarer
Bikernet Monk
Temple of Doom at the base of the Gray Mountain
India

VA COVID-19 Vaccines–
Veterans and caregivers can sign up for an easy way to stay informed about getting a COVID-19 vaccine through VA at https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/stay-informed.

VA is prioritizing and offering vaccines to enrolled Veterans actively receiving VA health care. If Veterans are not currently receiving health care through VA, find out eligibility and how to apply here.
https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/

I’m sorry to say you can’t find out anything about your eligibility through the above connections. I spent a half-hour trying and wasn’t successful. Good Luck.–Bandit

INTERMOT and AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building 2020 Canceled–

Koelnmesse, the international exhibition center at Cologne, Germany (that organizes the biennial INTERMOT expo for the German motorcycle trade association/IVM), has announced that it has had to cancel this year’s planned October INTERMOT.

Therefore, AMD will not be able to stage this year’s much-anticipated World Championship of Custom Bike Building at the venue and time planned. With nearly 100 custom bikes already slated to compete, and builders expected to travel to the event from some 30 or so countries, this is obviously a blow for the custom bike market.

However, there are bigger issues at play here. Koelnmesse stated that it “took this decision not least in the interest of the health of exhibitors and visitors. In contrast to trade fairs with a B2B orientation, major events such as INTERMOT draw tens of thousands of private visitors on all days of the trade fair; the hall space is limited and the time available is short.

“Spatial proximity and the shared experience of the trade fair form an integral part of the character of this event. At this point in time, the specifications currently in effect that have been issued by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI – the German government health institute), policy makers and the public authorities cannot be met at major events. This is compounded by uncertainties on the part of numerous customers and the complicated travel situation.

The next INTERMOT will be from 5-9 October 2022 in Cologne. “We regret that the overall situation leaves us no other choice.”

‘uncertainty is the only certainty’

Like all exhibition organizers throughout the world, Koelnmesse is aware that 2020 is clearly going to prove to be a watershed year in terms of how consumer and B2B trade fairs and exhibitions are operated. They went on to say that in future, such events “will incorporate more hybrid elements to supplement the on-site experience with added digital reach. All stakeholders involved now have enough time to prepare accordingly for the next INTERMOT in Cologne, and to make it, once again, the meeting place of the international motorcycle community.

However, there are now a difficult series of decisions ahead for the AMD World Championship. Owner and AMD Publisher Robin Bradley says: “We unequivocally back the organizer’s decision – it has been a tough call, but regardless of how the next few months look in public health terms, the safety of all concerned is not helped by taking risks that cannot be fully mitigated.

“If INTERMOT still wishes to host the ‘AMD’ as part of its INTERMOT Customized involvement in the custom motorcycle market in October 2022, then great, that is certainly something that we would look at.

At this stage uncertainty is the only thing we can be sure of!”

ONE MORE New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
SAD BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for February 4, 2021

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/SAD_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_February_4_2021.aspx

That picture of Andy Assel’s Sporty chop is awesome. He’s a good friend of mine and I hope he can make out to Sturgis this year, so I can see it in person.

— Al Mitchard
On the Road

BARTELS’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON & GLENDALE HARLEY ANNOUNCE THAT THE 3rd ANNUAL RIDE FOR THE CHILDREN MOTORCYCLE EVENT, HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3rd, 2021 WITH GRAND MARSHALS, LORENZO LAMAS, PERRY KING, DAVE EKINS, SEAN MCNABB & JAIME ELVIDGE!

A host of celebrities, Law Enforcement and the general public will now join Grand Marshals, Lorenzo Lamas, Perry King, Dave Ekins, Sean McNabb & Jaime Elvidge for a beautiful motorcycle ride from Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, Marina Del Rey to Sycamore Cove State Beach, Malibu with a BBQ lunch, live concert and Beach Party on Sunday, October 3, 2021.

BARTELS’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON & GLENDALE HARLEY have announced the rescheduling of the 3rd Annual Ride for the Children Charity Motorcycle Event led by Grand Marshals, Lorenzo Lamas, Perry King, Dave Ekins, Sean McNabb & Jaime Elvidge and a host of celebrities, for Sunday, October 3, 2021.

The Ride for the Children will still begin at Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, 4141 Lincoln Blvd., Marina Del Rey, CA with a beautiful escorted ride from along the Pacific Coast Highway to the serene Sycamore Cove State Beach, 9000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA. Join Lorenzo Lamas, Perry King, AMA Hall of Famer, Dave Ekin, Actor/Musician Sean McNabb & Jaime Elvidge, professional motorcycle journalist for what will be a wonderful day ending with a concert by Aces & Eights, a BBQ lunch by J Wolf Catering and a Beach Party at Sycamore Cove State Beach, Malibu, CA. Based in Southern California’s creatively charged High Desert, Aces & Eights electrify with a West Coast rock ‘n roll sound, that’s drizzled with some good ol’ southern vibes. Aces & Eights “Ready to Fight” – Official Lyric Video 2018
https://youtu.be/r-yuKlFoEXU

Olive Crest has been transforming the lives of abused and neglected children through the healing power of family since 1973. Olive Crest is the leader in prevention and treatment of child abuse, neglect, and homelessness, serving over 4,000 children and families each day throughout Los Angeles County. The 3rd Annual Ride for the Children will fund programs that help us break the cycle of child abuse and enable at-risk youth and families to become healthy and productive citizens.

Registration begins at 8:00 AM – Ride begins at: 10:00 AM at Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, 4141 Lincoln Blvd., Marina Del Rey, and concludes with a concert by Aces & Eights, a BBQ lunch by J Wolf Catering and a Beach Party at Sycamore Cove State Beach, Malibu, CA. The Event concludes at 3:00 PM.
?
For more information on Olive Crest, go to www.olivecrest.org.

WHO: Grand Marshals, Lorenzo Lamas, Perry King, Dave Ekins, Sean McNabb & Jaime Elvidge and a host of celebrities

WHAT: 3rd Annual Ride for the Children Charity Motorcycle Event 2021

WHEN: 8:00 A.M. Registration, Kickstands up at 10:00 AM, Sunday, October 3, 2021.

WHERE: Ride begins at Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, 4141 Lincoln Blvd., Marina Del Rey
Ride Concludes at Sycamore Cove State Beach, Malibu, CA

WHY: To raise funds and public awareness for Olive Crest and their families.

Media Sponsor: Bikernet.com

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF CHIEF WITH COMPLETELY REIMAGINED 2022 INDIAN CHIEF LINEUP–

Combining Lean & Mean Minimalism with Modern Technology, Three New Chief Models Pay Homage to the Past, While Embracing the Future

In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of the most historic and influential motorcycles of all time. Now, in celebration of 100 years, America’s First Motorcycle Company is unleashing three new, totally reimagined Indian Chief models for its 2022 lineup. Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, Indian Motorcycle designed the new Chief with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that pays homage to the glory days of American motorcycling.

All based on a timeless, simplistic steel-tube frame and powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful Thunderstroke motor, the new Indian Chief, Indian Chief Bobber and Indian Super Chief offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin, each appealing to a slightly different rider.

The new Chief provides a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism and attitude lead the way. It reaches back to the glory days of American V-twins when hitting the road to nowhere, with good friends and only the essentials, was the stuff of legends. Then there’s the new Chief Bobber. With bulky tires wrapped around spoke wheels, a muscled-up front end and a solo bobber seat, the Chief Bobber pays stylistic homage to the classic post-war era V-twins, bobbed and chopped by military veterans and blue-collar rebels, intent on breaking the mold. And finally, Indian Motorcycle offers the Super Chief, with saddlebags and a windshield, it offers a bit more versatility and begs riders for longer miles and even bolder escapes.

“The Indian Chief is a truly iconic motorcycle and what better way to celebrate its 100th birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President of Motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic American V-twins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our lineup.”

The new Indian Chief lineup marks the intersection of simplicity and power. Mechanical and simple, Chief models are based on a classic steel welded tube frame. The lineup features a four-gallon fuel tank, bobbed rear fender, dual outboard preload-adjustable rear shocks, dual exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, and Pirelli Night Dragon tires. Along with cruise control, Chief riders can adjust throttle response by selecting one of three ride modes: sport, standard or tour.

Featuring a short wheelbase of 64-inches, a low seat height of 26-inches and a wet weight as low as 670 pounds, the Indian Chief lineup inspires confidence and is approachable for any rider. The Chief’s conventional 46mm front forks with 5.2-inches of travel, 28.5-degree lean angle, and comfortable ergonomics, create a capable machine for even the most technical of ride routes.

“We wanted to capture a timeless look that never goes out of style, and looks beautiful whether naked or fully dressed,” said Ola Stenegard, Director, Industrial Design for Indian Motorcycle. “We also wanted to keep it simple enough to allow riders’ imaginations to take flight with personalization options and possibilities. Ultimately, this is a bike that evokes emotion with simple mechanical styling and raw American muscle. It’s a pure riding machine.”

Offering base and premium models, the Indian Chief trim levels are detailed as follows:

Chief, Chief Bobber, Super Chief
Powered by Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 111 powertrain with 108 ft-lbs of torque. Each model features an analog gauge, chrome and matte black finishes, and is available with or without ABS.

Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, Super Chief Limited

Powering all premium Chief models is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 engine with 120 ft-lbs of torque. ABS is standard, while premium finishes set these bikes apart and further showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model packs further attitude with premium gloss black finishes, while the Super Chief Limited touts premium chrome finishes.

Additionally, each model delivers a premium experience with Indian Motorcycle’s industry-first ‘4 Inch Round Display with RIDE COMMAND.’ Riders can operate the RIDE COMMAND system through grip controls or via the digital IPS touchscreen display. Riders can cycle through multiple interfaces, including two different gauge configurations, bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services featuring weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system.

With three styles, riders can select the Chief model and trim to their preference, including:

Chief & Chief Dark Horse

The Indian Chief and Chief Dark Horse feature stripped-down, mechanical styling highlighted by drag handlebars, 19-inch cast wheels, mid-mount foot controls, a slim headlight bucket and a solo bobber seat. The Indian Chief starts at $14,499 and is available in Black Metallic, White Smoke and Ruby Smoke, while the Chief Dark Horse starts at $16,999 and is offered in Black Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke and Stealth Gray.

Chief Bobber & Chief Bobber Dark Horse

Mini-ape hanger handlebars paired with forward foot controls provide a more upright and commanding riding position. The Chief Bobber and Chief Bobber Dark Horse sit on 16-inch wire wheels, add fork and shock covers, and features a large headlight bucket wrapped in a nacelle. The Indian Chief Bobber, starting at $15,999, is available in two paint options, Black Metallic and Ruby Metallic. The Chief Bobber Dark Horse starts at $ $18,999 and is available in Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, and Sagebrush Smoke.

Super Chief & Super Chief Limited

Designed for comfort, the Super Chief and Super Chief Limited stand apart with a quick release windscreen, black leather saddlebags, touring seat with passenger pad, floorboards and traditional cruiser handlebars. The Indian Super Chief and Super Chief Limited feature 16-inch wire wheels, large headlight bucket with nacelle, fork covers, and a full chrome exhaust that delivers a premium fit and finish. Starting at $18,499, the Super Chief is available in Black Metallic and Pearl White, while the Super Chief Limited begins at $20,999 and is available in Black Metallic, Blue Slate Metallic, and Maroon Metallic.

Chief riders will have access to over 80 accessories, including parts specifically designed for Chief models, as well as several existing pieces available for Scout and Thunderstroke models. Indian Motorcycle’s accessory line has been designed to enhance performance, personalize style and add rider comfort. Among the accessories available, include:

Performance

Indian Motorcycle’s performance offerings are built to improve throttle response and increase horsepower and torque for quicker, snap-on acceleration. Riders can purchase a front-facing air intake, Stage 1 slip-on muffler, as well as slash cut and fish tail exhaust tips. Chief riders packing a Thunderstroke 111 can add Indian Motorcycle’s Stage 3 116 Big Bore kit to their Stage 1 exhaust and performance air intake to gain approximately 20% more horsepower and improve throttle response.

Style

Riders can complete their desired custom look by personalizing with a variety of parts, including solo racks and rack bag, low and mid windshields, and a high flow air intake. Riders also have five handlebar options, including eight-inch mini-ape hangers, five-inch mid-rise, reduced reach, cruiser and drag handlebars.

Comfort

To continue offering accessories for all personal and riding styles, Indian Motorcycle’s comfort package includes mid and tall windshields, passenger backrests, highway bars, and Pathfinder S LED driving lights.

In addition to parts, Indian Motorcycle is debuting a new Chief apparel collection, with three unique lines to choose from. From the lean, mean attitude of the Chief, the old-school muscle of Chief Bobber or the road-warrior glory of Super Chief, three unique lines of shirts and hats coincide with each model.

The 2022 Chief lineup will begin shipping to Indian Motorcycle dealers throughout the U.S. and Canada in April 2021. Riders can learn more at their local Indian Motorcycle dealership, by visiting IndianMotorcycle.com, or by following along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

NHRA NEWS–
With Vance and Hines returning to NHRA events with Suzukis, the competition will be super tight, and it’ll be exciting to watch.

–Pauly D.

PREPARING for “Yardi Gras” in New Orleans–
Most of the traditional Mardi Gras activities in New Orleans have been canceled this year because of the ongoing pandemic. But locals have spent their time and effort working on safe alternative celebrations to keep the spirit of Carnival alive—including the decoration of hundreds of houses in the style of Mardi Gras floats.

The Krewe of House Floats has worked with people across the city and is listing participants on a map. Gathered below are a handful of images of this year’s socially distant “Yardi Gras,” as New Orleanians prepare for Mardi Gras on February 16.

–ALAN TAYLOR
The Atlantic

From Joe Smith and Bob Alexander

WATCH OUT–Policies, Politics, and Powersports

With Biden administration cabinet members being nominated and confirmed, we have a clearer picture on policy direction that will shape our industry. From digital right to repair, to land use and emissions, Scott Schloegel, MIC senior vice president of government relations, will update us on the players, policy positions, and next steps.

The new transportation secretary is Pete Buttigieg (former mayor of South Bend, Indiana), who was confirmed last week in the U.S. Senate. President Biden’s team continues to work on installing top-level administration officials across a variety of departments and agencies. Nominees for positions of special interest to the powersports industry include:

Department of Energy: Jennifer Granholm (former governor of Michigan)
Department of Agriculture: Tom Vilsack (president/CEO U.S. Dairy Export Council)
Department of Commerce: Gina Raimondo (governor of Rhode Island)
Department of the Interior: Deb Haaland (U.S. representative from New Mexico)
Environmental Protection Agency: Michael S. Regan (North Carolina’s top environmental regulator)
United States Trade Representative: Katherine Tai (chief trade counsel, House Ways and Means Committee)
This important webinar is free for MIC members and $50 for non-members.

Register Now

–MIC

LETTER TO THE BIKERNET EDITORIAL BOARD— Just like to pay a tribute to Jon Towle.

Through your introduction I approached him to draw a cartoon for use on a t-shirt.
This was to support my Southern Cross Ride for Depression where I rode my 1970 Shovelhead from the bottom of Australia to the top, and then from east to west and back again, some 9000 miles, much of it through the outback. Which included bushfires and floods.

The cartoon was titled “Racing the devil of depression.”

Details are on my website at www.southerncrossridefordepression.com

We had hundreds of t-shirts printed in Bali and sold them with all funds being donated to Lifeline.
The first pic is me on the edge of a huge bushfire, while the second pic shows Jane and I about to leave on the Western Australia leg proudly displaying the shirts.

Jon sent several designs and would not take a cent from me.

A wonderful gesture that I’d like to see more people aware of.

Cheers
–Doc Robinson
Associate/Technical Editor
HEAVY DUTY Magazine
www.heavyduty.com.au

WHAT’S NEXT?—I’m meeting with a crate manufacturer today, and then I need to order more boxes from Uline. Watch those guys. When I priced pallets, I discovered prices ranging from $150 to $30 for the same sized pallet.

It’s a challenge and a scramble, but never a dull moment. Imagine the new rides, new stories, new terrain and new headquarters pallet to be conquered. Hang On!

In the meantime ride fast and free forever!

–Bandit

by Carter Jones from https://www.bizjournals.com

Indian Motorcycle is commemorating the 100th anniversary of its influential Indian Chief models with three reimagined bikes for its 2022 lineup.

Indian is the vintage motorcycle brand owned by Medina, Minnesota-based motorsports company Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII), which revived and positioned the brand as a direct competitor to Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson Inc. (NYSE: HOG). Indian introduces the 2022 Chief models three weeks after Harley-Davidson introduced its lineup for 2021. Indian’s 2021 model rollout came back in September.

According to the motorcycle maker, Indian’s new Chief, Chief Bobber and Super Chief were designed with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that harkens back to the glory days of American motorcycles with a timeless, simplistic steel-tube frame.

“The Indian Chief is a truly iconic motorcycle and what better way to celebrate its 100th birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, president of motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic American V-twins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our lineup.”

The lineup features dual exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, cruise control and adjustable ride modes: sport, standard or tour.

The Chief starts at $14,499 and provides a stripped-down riding experience, due to analog gauges and the option to not have ABS.

The Chief Bobber has bulky tires on spoke wheels, a larger front end and a solo bobber seat that pay homage to post-war bikes.

Meanwhile, the Super Chief includes a saddlebags and a windshield for more versatility on longer rides.

“We wanted to capture a timeless look that never goes out of style, and looks beautiful whether naked or fully dressed,” said Ola Stenegard, director, industrial design for Indian. “We also wanted to keep it simple enough to allow riders’ imaginations to take flight with personalization options and possibilities. Ultimately, this is a bike that evokes emotion with simple mechanical styling and raw American muscle. It’s a pure riding machine.”

Indian Motorcycle is also debuting a new line of Chief apparel with shirts and hats that coincide with each model.

 

What Works and How…
Photos and text by Kyle Smith, Hagerty Media

The unsung hero of the automotive world is the threaded fastener. Most people only think about the bolts and screws of their machines when they have to, when the components are stripped, seized, or broken off. That dismissive attitude, however, may cause these components to strip, seize, or break in the first place.

For instance, if you are working on a classic motorcycle, you are probably using the wrong screwdriver—and are setting yourself up for disaster. Hear me out.

Click Here to Read this Tech Tip on Bikernet.

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Indian Motorcycle takes its King of the Baggers to the next level with new PowerPlus Performance Cams.

Indian Challenger’s Best-in-Class Performance Gains 10% More Horsepower with Stage 2 Performance Cams Accessory Upgrade Kit.

MINNEAPOLIS (January 12, 2021) – In 2019 Indian Motorcycle reimagined what an American bagger could be with the introduction of the Indian Challenger. In 2020 the Challenger’s superior performance capabilities were dramatically validated with its victory at MotoAmerica’s inaugural King of the Baggers race at the historic Laguna Seca Raceway. Now the ultimate American bagger gets an extra dose of muscle with the introduction of Indian Motorcycle’s all-new Stage 2 PowerPlus Performance Cams – the same cams that helped power S&S’ Indian Challenger to victory at Laguna Seca.

Featuring best-in-class stock performance, the Indian Challenger gains 10% more horsepower with the Stage 2 upgrade kit – providing a new level of unmatched passing power and American bagger performance. Representing Indian Motorcycle’s most powerful engine ever, the stock 108 cubic-inch, liquid-cooled, V-twin PowerPlus engine delivers a class-leading 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque. By pairing the Stage 2 Performance Cams with Indian Motorcycle’s PowerPlus Stage 1 Air Intake and Stage 1 Slip-On Exhaust, riders will experience the unquestionable sensation of increased power the moment they twist the throttle.

“The Challenger has already established itself as the outright leader in performance for American baggers, but these PowerPlus Performance Cams raise that bar even higher,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “The world got its first taste of what these cams can do when our S&S Challenger dominated at King of the Baggers. But now everyone can experience it – whether you’re coming off the line at Laguna Seca or just giving it a little bit more to pass a semi out on the highway.”

Race proven, the S&S Challenger, piloted by renowned motorcycle racer Tyler O’Hara, was race tuned to take on the legendry Laguna Seca Raceway and a field dominated by heavily modified Harley-Davidsons. While the winning Challenger received structural modifications to ergonomics, suspension, overall weight and more, only minimal tweaks were made to the Challenger’s stock PowerPlus engine. Among those were the use of the unreleased Stage 2 Performance Cams.

Available now at Indian Motorcycle dealers for $699.99, riders can learn more at IndianMotorcycle.com or by following along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida. (February 8, 2021) – Progressive American Flat Track is pleased to announce it has renewed its partnership with SBS Brakes to remain the series’ Official Brake Pad through the 2022 season.

A global market leader and established motorsports powerhouse, SBS Brakes first united with Progressive AFT in an official capacity ahead of the 2018 season. Its intense focus and commitment to the sport of dirt track racing has been reconfirmed with the signing of a new two-year agreement.

“Progressive American Flat Track has enjoyed a great relationship with SBS for a number of years and the expertise they bring in braking systems has been a major asset to both the series and competitors,” said Michael Lock, CEO of Progressive American Flat Track. “We are grateful for SBS’s continued support of our sport in 2021.”

Originally founded in Denmark almost six decades ago, Scandinavian Brake Systems A/S became the first company to produce aftermarket disc brake pads. Renowned for its innovative approach to research and development, including ECE R90 quality certification and embedded NUCAP NRS technology securing a mechanical and indestructible bonding of compounds, SBS Brakes who recently was acquired by the Brembo Group, continually pushes forward in its use of new materials and technologies.

Those advancements have been repeatedly proven out in the unforgiving realm of motorsport competition, as SBS Brakes has scored dozens of world championships across a wide-range of two-wheeled disciplines, including WorldSBK and MXGP, in the process.

“It means the world to us that we can continue to support the world of powersport with this sponsorship of Progressive American Flat Track. In the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we strive to continue bringing communities together and support riders and teams, so that we also have motorsport events to enjoy when we overcome the pandemic era and return to a somewhat new normal. Our brake pads are used by top road and offroad racers worldwide, and they have proven to be superior in performance for cross country flat track as well.” said Christel Munk Pedersen, CSO of SBS Friction.

The 2021 Progressive American Flat Track season is scheduled to kick off on March 12 and 13, 2021 with the Volusia Half-Mile doubleheader event at Volusia Speedway Park on Friday, March 12 and Saturday, March 13, 2021. Tickets for this season-opening extravaganza are on sale now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3321/#raceSchedule.

For more information on Progressive American Flat Track visit: https://www.americanflattrack.com.

To get your brake pads, rotors and clutch kits for road and offroad racing, use the lookup feature on the SBS website: https://www.sbsbrakes.com

About SBS Friction A/S
SBS Friction is the leading and preferred developer, producer and marketeer of aftermarket brake pads and friction solutions for motorcycles, scooters, ATV/UTVs, special cars and industrial applications, including wind turbines. Our product portfolio also includes brake rotors, clutch kits, brake shoes, brake shims and more. SBS Friction has as an industry first, received full approval according to the ECE R90 regulation, providing riders the most reliable quality in terms of design, manufacturing and performance. Furthermore, SBS brake pads are enforced with NUCAP NRS technology, which secures a mechanical and indestructible bonding of the compound. SBS Friction is your reliable brake part supplier, when you seek braking excellence. Go Ahead – we have the power to stop you! Visit https://www.sbsbrakes.com/

About Progressive American Flat Track
Progressive American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit http://www.americanflattrack.com, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram, live stream the events with TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on NBCSN.

The unsung hero of the automotive world is the threaded fastener. Most people only think about the bolts and screws of their machines when they have to, when the components are stripped, seized, or broken off. That dismissive attitude, however, may cause these components to strip, seize, or break in the first place.

For instance, if you are working on a classic motorcycle, you are probably using the wrong screwdriver—and are setting yourself up for disaster. Hear me out.

Let’s talk a bit of history first. Screws were first created using files to grind threads into round stock. Like anything handmade, the process was laborious and the results were inconsistent. With the advent of machinery to roll threads rather than cut them, screws and bolts began to usurp nails in production environments. Threads may be the identifying mark of a screw, but the truly critical part is the design of the head, which determines the tool engagement that imparts torque to drive the fastener into the material (or nut).

Slotted screw heads were the easiest to manufacture, but inventor John P. Thompson thought that a crosshair-style engagement would be a better idea. He patented the idea in 1932 but, unfortunately, he was not a very good salesman. Thompson abandoned the venture and sold the patent to Henry Phillips, who formed the Phillips Screw Company and went about manufacturing and selling the hardware. In 1935 Phillips filed a patent application that modified the Thompson design slightly and tailored it for production lines, in which screw guns were becoming commonplace. The Phillips screw was born.

That patent for a cruciform, or cross-shaped, screw head expired in 1966. Though the style became generic, the Phillips-head design never lost its uniquely American roots. The cross-haired head was created for ease of assembly and was always intended for production environments, in which efficiency was key. Making a Phillips head requires only two cuts with a tool. The finished head has a rounded profile and tends to “cam out” when high torque is applied to it; Phillips-head screws worked perfectly with screw guns because the fastener was “foolproof.”

However, some countries saw the “speed over accuracy” American production style as crude. Rather than engineer a fastener to avoid over-tightening, the Japanese wanted to shift responsibility for precision from the mechanical component to the craftsman.

This concept brought about a redesign of the Phillips screw, commonly known as the Japanese Industrial Standard (or JIS). This type of screw head looks very similar to a Phillips, with the exception of a single, tiny dot. JIS fasteners may look a lot like a Phillips-head, but the tool engagement is far superior—if you are using the correct tool.

For years, I piddled with project motorcycles in my parents’ driveway or in a storage unit across from my college dorm, often getting frustrated by the screws securing items like engine case covers.

The problem wasn’t my technique. It was my tools. I was attacking these JIS fasteners with my Phillips screwdriver out of ignorance. Yes, a #3 Phillips fits pretty good in a JIS 3 head, but once you start applying torque—especially to a screw that is properly stuck—you are far more likely to strip the fastener than if you were using a JIS driver.

Once I realized the error of my ways, I found that JIS screwdrivers were worth every penny. They saved me countless moments of frustration. I am a fan of buying high-quality screwdrivers and keeping them nice: I have a set of screwdrivers that are exclusively for carburetor service, plus a general set for all other tasks. You may think I’m crazy for having redundant tools, but strip out one carb jet because you’re using a worn-out screwdriver, and you’ll change your tune.

I’m similarly obsessed with JIS screwdrivers and bit tips in the garage. If you play with vintage Japanese motorcycles, you should be too.

Harley-Davidson celebrates a New Year with 80 Prizes for the Rides ahead.

MILWAUKEE (February 8, 2021) – Harley-Davidson’s mission brings people together and helps riders experience freedom for the soul. Harley-Davidson is celebrating its mission with the “Get Out and Ride” sweepstakes. There are 80 prizes to win in honor of the 80th Anniversary of Daytona Bike Week, and one custom grand prize motorcycle to celebrate the start of a new year of riding.

“Following Harley-Davidson’s global celebration of riding at the virtual H-D 21 event, we’re excited to get riders rolling into a great year ahead,” said VP Marketing Theo Keetell. The “Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes is Harley-Davidson’s invitation to kick off the riding season and rediscover the road.”

From February 8 to April 16, Harley-Davidson is giving riders reason to celebrate with a sweepstakes that everyone in the U.S. can participate in. Through riding-related activities and visiting your local Harley-Davidson® dealer, participants earn entries for a chance to win prizes celebrating the community and spirit of two wheels. This includes a custom 2021 Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycle and weekly drawings for 80 additional prizes.

“Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes
Riders can earn entries by participating in the following:

• Enter the “Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes
• Come back for instant win prizes throughout the campaign
• Visit your local participating Harley-Davidson dealership
• Demo Harley-Davidson motorcycles

The “Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes is a perfect opportunity to demo, try-on, and experience all the new Harley-Davidson® products for 2021 including motorcycles, parts and accessories, and general merchandise.

For more information visit: https://harleydavidson.promo.eprize.com/getoutandride/

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.  A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.  LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) 18 YEARS AND OLDER.  VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Promotion ends 4/16/21. For Official Rules, alternate method of entry, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit H-D.com/getoutandride.  Sponsor: Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc., 3700 W. Juneau Ave, Milwaukee, WI  53208.