Ironman – ET3 Three-time and current defending AMA Pro Motocross Champion Eli Tomac has captured two of his three 450 class titles at Ironman Raceway over the past three years aboard his Monster Energy Kawasaki KX™450. In 2019, Tomac clinched the title one weekend early at Round 11 of the Pro Motocross series at Budds Creek Motocross Park. One Year Ago. Almost exactly one year ago (August 24th, 2019), the former Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider Adam Cianciarulo captured his first 250 AMA Pro Motocross Championship at Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, Indiana. The 2019 title was the 15th 250 class motocross championship for Kawasaki, the most 250 class motocross championships of any manufacturer. Career Best(s). Last weekend at Round 2 of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship series, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider Cameron McAdoo achieved his career-best moto finish with a fourth in Moto 1. McAdoo went on to finish fifth in Moto 2, which earned him fourth overall and his highest-scoring Pro Motocross overall result to date. Podium Rate = 60% Over the past five years of AMA Pro Motocross racing at Ironman Raceway, a Kawasaki rider has successfully reached the overall podium 60% of the time in either the 250 or 450 class. “Ironman Raceway is going to always hold a special place in my heart because, after years of working my tail off, I achieved a dream of mine that I had since I was a little kid, which was to win a pro motocross championship. It’s not something I will ever take for granted as so few get to actually experience it. I am looking forward to going back there again this weekend as it was just a little over a year ago when I won my title. The track has some massive hills and jumps so I am excited to race my Monster Energy Kawasaki KX™450 there.” – Adam Cianciarulo “The first two rounds for me have been less than ideal, however, coming into this season there was so much unknown with regards to if we were even going to be able to race. I’m thankful that we get to line up each weekend and do what we love. I am going to approach each weekend as its own race and give it my all to be back on top where we belong. The team and I did some testing this week and we’re looking forward to the weekend.” – Eli Tomac In only his second AMA Pro Motocross start in the 450 class, Kawasaki rider Justin Rodbell earned a top-10 overall finish at Round 2 of the 2020 Pro Motocross Championship series. The teenage rider from Prince Frederick, Maryland comes in a bit under the radar as he has spent the past couple of years competing down in Australia. 2020 will mark his first full year of competing in the Monster Energy Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross Championship series. Rodbell’s 12-12 scores in the muddy track conditions earned him 10th overall in the competitive premier class. The young 19-year-old rider will lineup aboard his SGB Racing/Maxxis Tires/Babbitt’s Online/Kawasaki KX™450 this weekend in Crawfordsville, Indiana for Round 3.

5-BALL SALE—We came up with some changes to the Jak full-sleeve leather shirt, but we still have a handful of the original Buffalo-hide long sleeve leather shirts without collars.

I’m actually a fan of collarless leathers, but I was out-voted. We’ve put them on sale to save you some hard-earned bucks.

–Bandit

CLICK TO BUY https://shop.bikernet.com/

Freedom Works with News from all over the Industry and World

Hey,

Life is amazing. During the Sturgis Rally one, that’s 1 case of Wuhan or China Virus was discovered and only 33 surfaced in the state since the beginning or August. Now it’s the 26th and CNN is screaming outbreak from Sturgis Rally because they are claiming 70 cases showed up around the country. They admitted, 450,000 attended the rally. Hell, the folks who came down with it could have been anywhere from Texas to Oregon.

I spoke to Dr. Hamster, our expert in the field of riding, “Out of 450,000, that is statistically an insignificant number. One also has to remember that those 70 people could’ve gotten infected anywhere on the trip or if they stayed at home?”

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by Janaki Jitchotvisut from https://www.rideapart.com

1,200 pounds of three-wheeled fury.

For some riders, a BMW K1200LT is the perfect touring machine. The big Beemer is designed to transport you and a passenger—or just a whole bunch of stuff you need to carry—in absolute, confidence-inspiring comfort. Could it be bigger, though? More comfortable? More stable? More… everything? Well, if this video is anything to go by, it absolutely can.

Behold, a K1200LT trike! It’s outfitted with a Hannigan trike conversion kit—which adds around 320 pounds and a ton of extra stability—and a five-gallon auxiliary fuel tank to keep you going even longer on your journey. As you might guess, the cost of the kit alone isn’t cheap—currently $8,995 at the time of writing, and that’s not including any installation.

So, as SRK Cycles suggests in this video, you might save yourself money, time, and effort by buying one that’s already been converted. Now, I personally haven’t witnessed many BMW trikes in my area; both Harley and Honda Gold Wing trikes are much more commonly spotted around here. If you’re looking to stand out while staying stable and comfortable, that might be one way to do it.

The K1200LT came with a reverse gear from BMW, which is a definite plus if you’re contemplating turning it into a trike. If you thought the regular motorcycle was a bit of a bear to maneuver backward before, just imagine what happens when you add an extra 320 pounds to the total weight—not counting the weight of a rider, passenger, and/or assorted stuff you might carry on a trip. Weight at the curb for a K1200LT is around 833 pounds, so the total is up to around 1,200 pounds by the time the conversion is complete.

Will this three-wheeler be as much of a conversation starter as, say, a sidecar? Unlikely, but you’re probably not looking at those two three-wheelers for the same reasons, anyway. If you’re thinking of going the trike route, opting for a nicely finished, well thought-out version is always going to make you happier in the long run than cheaping out.

It’s taken 36 years for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation to get to a point that an event agenda can be pulled together in a few months, plus or minus a few days. If you’ve been following these E-blasts, then you may have recognized an undercurrent of the “five W’s” – WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN and WHY, and a constant reminder that the 36th Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference is getting close. You’ve been given samples of WHO helped start the Meeting of the Minds and the MRF, along with WHAT it was all about, WHERE and WHEN it came from and WHERE it’s heading, along with WHY it’s so important to attend. Here’s the tentative (subject to change) agenda for the 36th Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference. Time’s running out to use this link and register at Meeting of the Minds 2020. Room Reservations:  317-767-4769. For those of you getting in on Thursday, September 24, join the MRF Board of Directors in a “Meet & Greet” at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Ballroom.

 

With a presentation of the Colors, the General Session opens at 9:00 a.m. Friday, then it’s non-stop with… Opening Remarks – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard MRF Financial Report – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard Legislative Update – Rocky Fox Election Year & Effective Use of CQ – Rocky Fox A series of MRF award presentations by Dave Dwyer & Ryan Hubbard, Michelle Holcomb & Duane Justus. Then it’s on to more presentations, a few awards and recognition of the future of motorcyclists’ rights… MRFA&E – Deb Butitta MRFA&E Young Activist Awards – Deb Butitta Young Activist Scholarship Winners Panel – Deb Butitta MRF Rep/Reps of the Year Awards – Doc D’Errico Presidents Cup – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard A Primer: How Strategic Planning can help your SMRO – Mark Buckner Lunch by Bill the Chef; a riding and turning demo by Lane Triplett, then an afternoon of workshops… 2020-21 Legislative Strategy – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard 3R’s MRFA&E – Ron Braaksma & Lane Triplett Media Madness: How to Survive these Wild Times – Brian “Skinny Bob” Clifford Executive Directors Town Hall – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard Kickin’ Ass and Taking Names – Pennsylvania’s 35-year Winning Quest for Freedom of Choice – Charles Umbenhauer Public Relations in a Changing World – Cathy Brush

 

The afternoon winds into dinner by Bill the Chef and moves into an “evening of festivities and a rodeo!” provided by the folks from ABATE of Indiana. Saturday morning begins with a breakfast by Bill the Chef… In case you’re wondering, for the first time in recent memory, meals are included with your registration packet. Bill the Chef, renowned for his biker pleasing menus, generous proportions and never failing to make a few thousand hungry bikers happy at ABATE of Indiana’s world famous, Bean Blossom Boogie! You’ll have to specifically ask for a PBJ or a county jail bologna sandwich! They aren’t on Bill the Chef’s menu! Saturday’s General Session opens with Jay Jackson and blasts WFO into… State of the Safety Training Programs – Jay Jackson Ron Sheppard Award – Jay Jackson Strategic Planning for Your SMRO: Writing Your Own Plan – Mark Buckner Political Action Committee? Why the Hell Does a Biker Need One? – Ryan Hubbard MRFPAC Awards – Ryan Hubbard State Reps Meeting – Doc D’Errico With Freedom Comes Responsibility – Dave “Chubby” Charlebois Bridging the gap Clubs/SSMRO – Russell Radke & Paul Landers All of that before it’s lunch with Bill the Chef! Plus, another Lane Triplett riding demo. After lunch it’s another afternoon filled with more information than you can haul home in two saddlebags! Sustaining Clubs Meeting – Russell Radke Advocacy – Beyond Face to Face – Rocky Fox Kickin’ Ass and Taking Names – Pennsylvania’s 35-year winning quest for freedom of choice – Charles Umbenhauer CQ & Using technology to Win in Washington – Rocky Fox Media Madness: How to Survive these Wild Times – Brian “Skinny Bob” Clifford Public Relations in a Changing World – Cathy Brush Yeah, there’s a few duplicates, because the presenter and the subject are in such demand there’s only one way to satiate this crowd’s demand – give them the information and tools they need to be more effective at their state legislatures! Saturday “slows down” just enough for a quick thirst quencher before the banquet starts. It’s an evening filled with a soon-to-be-announced keynote speaker, dinner by Bill the Chef, awards, and a live auction that if history ever repeats itself, this will be one not to miss. Sunday morning travelers get sent out on the road after a “Blessing of the Bikes” and while everyone else is heading home, the MRF Board hunkers down for a review of The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, of the entire conference and ending it with a commitment to take everything that was learned at the 36th Meeting of the Minds Conference and put it to use on behalf of motorcyclists’ rights.

Hey,

Life is amazing. During the Sturgis Rally one, that’s 1 case of Wuhan or China Virus was discovered and only 33 surfaced in the state since the beginning or August. Now it’s the 26th and CNN is screaming outbreak from Sturgis Rally because they are claiming 70 cases showed up around the country. They admitted, 450,000 attended the rally. Hell, the folks who came down with it could have been anywhere from Texas to Oregon.

I spoke to Dr. Hamster, our expert in the field of riding, “Out of 450,000, that is statistically an insignificant number. One also has to remember that those 70 people could’ve gotten infected anywhere on the trip or if they stayed at home?”

Of course, these reports don’t include any serious illness, hospitalizations or deaths. They also don’t compare them to other illnesses, including cancer, heart attacks or even car accidents. They also failed to mention the incubation period, which is four to 11 days. The event just wrapped up 12 days ago.

I want say bikers and specifically Rally Goers proved that freedom works. Hell, we could say because folks got out on the road and traveled it saved lives, rather than to stay in any harmful city or crowded environment and risk contagion or depression.

“I understand concerns about lots of people coming together in closed spaces at this time,” said the good doctor. “But this year’s Sturgis motorcycle rally was not the dreaded event it was made out to be beforehand.
Then again, COVID-19 is not Ebola or the plague.”

Then there are the massive positive aspects of rally: travel, the fresh air, social interaction, learning experiences, the financial benefit to rally jobs, toursim and travel expenditures. You name it, riding motorcycles is all about freedom and staying safe and healthy. 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. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

FROM THE BIKERNET NERVE CENTER–Why Deaths From Hurricanes And Other Natural Disasters Are Lower Than Ever

As Hurricane Laura bears down on the Gulf Coast at high speeds, scientists, journalists, and activists are blaming climate change for what they say are worsening natural disasters.

And yet hurricanes aren’t increasing in frequency, and deaths from natural disasters are at their lowest point in 120 years.

Below is my latest column for Forbes!

–Michael

As Hurricane Laura bears down on the Gulf Coast, scientists, journalists, and activists are blaming climate change for what they say are worsening natural disasters.

Michael Mann, a professor at a Penn State, claims that storms are getting more destructive as “a consequence of human-caused planetary warming.”

The New York Times reported, “Climate change is making hurricanes more dangerous in many ways, including increased rainfall and more powerful storm surge.”

And student activist Greta Thunberg tweeted out videos of flooding in India and Niger as evidence of climate change’s impact on disasters. “What more do we need to see?” she asked.

A lot more than a few viral videos, it turns out.

Given the flood of alarming news about climate change, many will be surprised to learn that hurricanes aren’t increasing in frequency, and that deaths from natural disasters are at their lowest point in 120 years.

Hurricanes aren’t increasing in frequency and deaths from disasters are at a record low. AP, NASA, GETTY

Given the flood of alarming news about climate change,
There has been 92% decline in the decadal death toll from natural disasters since its peak in the 1920s

“A total of 2,900 people lost their lives in natural disasters in the first half of the year,” announced Munich Re on July 23, “much lower than the average figures for both the last 30 years and the last 10 years.”

“One of the greatest successes of turning science into policy is reducing deaths from disasters,” said Roger Pielke, a University of Colorado professor and leading expert on climate change and disasters. “It’s up there with vaccinations. It’s huge and can’t be overstated.”

But aren’t natural disasters becoming more expensive? They are, but that’s because we are so much richer, not because hurricanes and floods are so much more severe.

In a new review of 54 studies over the last 22 years, and published in the field’s leading scientific journal, Pielke finds “little evidence to support claims that any part of the overall increase in global economic losses documented on climate time scales is attributable to human-caused changes in climate.”

In other words, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters aren’t getting worse. They’re getting better. Much better.

There has been 92% decline in the decadal death toll from natural disasters since its peak in the 1920s, according to the International Disaster Database. In that decade, 5.4 million people died from natural disasters. In the 2010s, 400,000 did.

There has been 92% decline in the decadal death toll from natural disasters since its peak in the 1920s, according to the International Disaster Database. In that decade, 5.4 million people died from natural disasters. In the 2010s, 400,000 did.

But can those declines in disaster deaths continue as the climate changes?

Pielke believes they can. “One of the things that’s well-understood in the natural disaster community is that how we prepare is the most important factor in the disaster we experience,” said Pielke.

“If we build well, in the right places, and have good warning systems, and good disaster response policies, such as evacuations, we can continue to do well, even with much stronger events,” he added.

Over the last four decades, poor nations like Bangladesh have reduced death tolls by over 90% thanks to simple measures like cyclone warning systems and storm shelters.

“Look at Cyclone Ampham in India and Bangladesh earlier this year,” said Pielke. “It killed about 120 people. Fifty years ago, it would have killed thousands.”

A cyclone in Bangladesh killed 135,000 people in 1991 while another in 1970 killed 300,000.

And the 90% decline in deaths over the last century occurred during a period when the global population nearly quadrupled, and the global temperature rose 1.3 degrees centigrade.

Neither the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) nor any other reputable scientific body predicts a reversal in the long-term trend of declining deaths, even if temperatures rise another three degrees or more.

“If you read IPCC reports, there’s no hint that we will be overwhelmed and incapable of responding,” says Pielke. “Even under the most extreme scenarios of climate change, future disasters will look a lot like today’s.”

So, is it accurate for scientists, reporters, and activists to claim that climate change is making hurricanes more destructive? It’s not.

The US government’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts the maximum intensity of Atlantic hurricanes and tropical storms will rise 5% in the 21st Century, but their frequency will decline 25%

And that increase in intensity is unlikely to translate into more deaths or higher costs.

“Hurricanes in the future may be more intense than today’s hurricanes,” said Pielke, “but in the context of a 90% reduction in vulnerability, our disaster preparedness dwarfs the change in whatever your favorite hurricane metric is.”

Michael Shellenberger is a Time Magazine “Hero of the Environment,” and president of Environmental Progress, an independent research and policy organization. He is the author of Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All. Follow him on Twitter @ShellenbergerMD.

–Michael Shellenberger
President, Environmental Progress
2569 Telegraph Avenue,
Berkeley, CA 94704

ACCIDENT SCENE MANAGEMENT FROM LAW TIGERS–
Safety is our primary concern. If possible, gather the correct documentation to help your case.
When possible, the information you are able to gather at a motorcycle accident scene can have a positive impact on the success of any future claim you may file. Our Law Tigers motorcycle accident attorneys* have provided the following suggestions about what you can do when an accident occurs:

Secure The Scene

Obtain Information From Driver(s)
Identify Witnesses
Making Comments And Statements
Notes And Pictures
When To Leave A Motorcycle Accident Scene
Notify Insurance Company
Insurance Claims
(Go to their site to fill in the blanks regarding the above departments)

We are here
for you 24/7

Our attorneys* have successfully secured hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients
Our experienced, aggressive motorcycle attorneys have helped thousands of injured riders
If there is no recovery, you will not be charged a fee
Fees calculated as a percentage of the gross recovery
FREE assistance for motorcycle property damage (motorcycle and gear)
FREE advice on all motorcycle matters

ElectraMeccanica Launches “Drive SOLO” Marketing Campaign–

ElectraMeccanica Vehicles Corp. (NASDAQ: SOLO) (“ElectraMeccanica” or the “Company”), a designer and manufacturer of electric vehicles, today announced “Drive SOLO,” a brand-new marketing campaign aimed at educating consumers about the Company’s flagship SOLO EV, which is now in production.

ElectraMeccanica has created an innovative, three-wheeled, single-occupant all-electric vehicle that will transform urban transportation and revolutionize the world’s driving eco-system. The campaign challenges consumers to reconsider their driving habits, particularly when commuting to work, the gym, or visiting friends. When you are driving solo…“Drive SOLO.”

The campaign launched earlier this week with a takeover of one of Los Angeles’ iconic billboards followed by a digital storytelling campaign across all social and digital media platforms, including: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and the Company website. This marketing campaign accompanies the Company’s August 26 start of production of the SOLO, with deliveries targeted for late November/early December 2020.

The “Drive SOLO” campaign is characterized by bold, minimalist visuals, which were designed by Narrative Media Group, a specialty creative experience agency that has worked with some of the country’s most high-profile influencers, organizations and iconic brands. As the first in a series of future postings, this billboard is located in one of West Los Angeles’ most highly trafficked locations on Santa Monica Boulevard leading to the Company’s first retail store in Century City.

More broadly, ElectraMeccanica is pursuing a hybrid traditional/non-traditional social and digital marketing campaign to be rolled out over the next several months. The dynamic and geo-targeted campaign includes a Spotify ad buy spanning mobile and desktop platforms that communicates the accessibility, sustainability, relevance and cutting-edge technology of the SOLO.

“Our ‘Drive SOLO’ campaign will position our flagship SOLO at the center of a transportation revolution, filling a niche between last-mile micro-mobility solutions and larger, under-utilized passenger cars,” said ElectraMeccanica CEO Paul Rivera.

Distribution of the SOLO will begin in three locations where the Company has an existing retail footprint; Southern California, Scottsdale, AZ and Portland, OR. Additional deliveries will be made to key markets along the west coast as the company continues to expand.

The SOLO features front and rear crumple zones, side impact protection, roll bar, torque-limiting control, as well as power steering, power brakes, air conditioning and a Bluetooth entertainment system. It blends a modern look with safety features at an accessible price point of $18,500. The SOLO is currently available for pre-orders at https://electrameccanica.com/product/solo-reservation/.

5-BALL SALE—We came up with some changes to the Jak full-sleeve leather shirt, but we still have a handful of the original Buffalo-hide long sleeve leather shirts without collars.

I’m actually a fan of collarless leathers, but I was out-voted. We’ve put them on sale to save you some hard-earned bucks.

–Bandit

THE PERFECT RED FROM BILTWELL-– The Perfect Red
We went through dozens of paint colors to get to what we think is the perfect Metallic Candy Red for this year’s Gringo S. It has a hot rod vibe buried under a thick layer of clear, chrome trim around the bottom and eye port, plus our anti-fog/anti-scratch flip-down shield.
Shop Gringo S Helmets

Ride Motorcycles. Have Fun.

–Biltwell Team

NEW SCREAMIN’ EAGLE 131 CRATE ENGINE OFFERS BIG POWER FOR SELECT HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL MOTORCYCLES–
The Biggest, Most Powerful Street-Compliant Engine Harley-Davidson Has Ever Created Now Available for Select Softail Models

MILWAUKEE (August 25, 2020) – Harley-Davidson offers power-hungry street riders a new performance option with the introduction of the Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Crate Engine for select Softail® model motorcycles. The new 131 cubic inch (2151cc) V-Twin engine delivers the biggest, most powerful street-compliant engine Harley-Davidson has ever created.*

The Screamin’ Eagle 131 is a bolt-in replacement engine for select 2018-later model Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycles originally equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight engine, designed to run at high RPM and to provide a significant boost of torque from cruising speed. Riders will experience commanding performance from the moment the throttle is cracked open on the Screamin’ Eagle 131 engine, performance backed by the assurance of a 12-month factory limited warranty when installed by an authorized H-D dealer.

“Our adrenaline-seeking riders asked for thrilling power and torque with reliability,” said Harley-Davidson Product Manager James Crean. “The Screamin’ Eagle 131 Crate Engine delivers exactly that. Developed by the Screamin’ Eagle performance team and factory-assembled at Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations to ensure the highest quality standards, this high-performance engine is genuine Harley-Davidson.”

This street-ready performance engine features H-D’s finest Screamin’ Eagle® components:

· The Screamin’ Eagle 131 engine combines the 4.5-inch stroke of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine with new 4.31-inch bore cylinders with a patent-protected design.

· Milwaukee-Eight Extreme Ported four-valve cylinder heads are CNC-ported and fitted with valves 1mm larger in diameter than the previous generation to enhance air/fuel flow and velocity and feature fully machined combustion chambers shaped to optimize combustion efficiency.

· The engine is completed with a high-lift SE8-517 camshaft and high-performance cam bearing, high-compression (10.7:1) forged pistons, a 64mm throttle body and intake manifold, and high-flow (5.5-grams per second) fuel injectors.

It’s a combination that produces 135 ft-lb of torque and 124 HP at the rear wheel when paired with Screamin’ Eagle® Street Cannon mufflers.

Each Screamin’ Eagle 131 engine is detailed with 131 Stage IV badging on the cylinder heads and timer cover. The engine is available in a choice of two finish treatments to match original motorcycle styling or a custom direction – Black and Chrome or Black and Gloss Black.

The Screamin’ Eagle 131 engine is eligible for Custom Coverage™ Extended Limited Warranty to run concurrent with the remainder of the motorcycle’s factory 24-month manufacturer’s warranty. The engine must be purchased and installed by an authorized H-D Dealer within 60 days of vehicle purchase to qualify for the Custom Coverage and is otherwise backed by a 12-month factory limited warranty when installed by an authorized H-D Dealer.

The Screamin’ Eagle Milwaukee-Eight 131 Crate Engine ($6,195 oil cooled, $6,395 Twin-Cooled) fits 2017-later model Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles originally equipped with either a Milwaukee-Eight Oil-Cooled or Twin-Cooled engine and select 2018-later Softail motorcycles. The Screamin’ Eagle 131 engine does not fit Trike models. ’17-’19 models require separate purchase of High-Capacity Oil Pump P/N 62400248. 17-’18 models require separate purchase of Screamin’ Eagle High-Capacity Clutch Plate Kit P/N 37000258. All models require additional purchase of ECM recalibration with Screamin’ Eagle Pro Street Tuner for proper installation. See an authorized Harley-Davidson® dealer for fitment details.

Complete fitment information can also be found on H-D.com.

MYTHS ABOUT THE POST OFFICE DEBUNKED--MYTH No. 1: The Postal Service is removing sorting machines to sabotage delivery

REALITY: The volume of mail has plunged in recent decades, due to the spread of electronic communication. As a result, the amount of infrastructure needed to manage the flow of mail also has declined.

The Postal Service has been consolidating operations for years to reduce costs, a practice that predates President Donald Trump.

MYTH No. 2: The Postal Service is removing collection boxes to block mail-in ballots.

REALITY: The Postal Service has more than 141,000 blue collection boxes spread across the country. Those boxes are moved regularly from low-demand to high-demand areas to maximize efficiency.

Photos of those boxes on the backs of trucks are part of standard operating procedure, rather than proof of a nefarious, anti-election plot.

Despite that, the Postal Service has decided to pause any further moving of boxes until after the election as a result of the online panic.

MYTH No. 3: The Postal Service is locking collection boxes to prevent public access.

REALITY: Locked caps are sometimes put on collection boxes in areas where there is a rash of mail theft. Employees place the caps after the final pickup of the day and remove them in the morning, since collection box theft is overwhelmingly done at night.

This practice also predates the Trump administration.

MYTH No. 4: The Postal Service could go bankrupt before the election without a $25 billion bailout.

REALITY: Although some were concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic would push the Postal Service over the financial edge, revenues have been stable, thanks to a big increase in package deliveries.

In addition, Congress provided a $10 billion loan to the Postal Service earlier this year.

As a result, there’s virtually no scenario where the Postal Service goes bankrupt this year, meaning that a proposed $25 billion bailout has no reasonable connection to the coming election.

However, Congress shouldn’t view this fact as a reason to be complacent when it comes to passing reforms.

MYTH No. 5: The Postal Service plans to triple postage rates on mailed ballots.

REALITY: The Postal Service provided commonsense guidance to state and local governments regarding how to handle time-sensitive ballot requests. This guidance was already in the works before Postmaster General Louis DeJoy began his job.

Most mail-in ballot requests are made weeks or even months in advance, and thus can safely be sent using low-cost, second-class mail.

However, some places allow for mail-in ballot requests a mere four days before the election. In those situations, it makes sense to use full-cost, first-class mail to ensure that voters get their ballots on time.

The idea that this sensible guidance amounts to extortion by DeJoy should be laughable, except that it has been promoted by the likes of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

MYTH No. 6: Postal Service delivery changes are illegal “sabotage” by the postmaster general.

REALITY: DeJoy, who assumed the postmaster general’s post in June, was selected in large part due to his decades of experience as CEO of New Breed Logistics, a supply chain company.

The logistics industry’s focus is on maximizing cost-efficiency and on-time performance, both of which the Postal Service needs to improve. With that in mind, DeJoy has undertaken initiatives aimed at reducing costs and improving service levels.

It’s too early to tell whether these changes will be successful, and DeJoy has announced a suspension until after the election. While the media reliably reports alarming anecdotes from postal union officials who oppose cost-cutting efforts, data shows that postal performance has not yet experienced a significant change under DeJoy.

Representatives from both parties have expressed disapproval of efforts to pull the Postal Service out of chronic annual deficits.

That’s part of a long-term trend of Congress’ imposing unsustainable mandates for the sake of its own political benefit. Liberating the Postal Service from those mandates would be the best path forward.

MYTH No. 7: The Postal Service needs more money to process mailed ballots.

Leaders of both parties wrongly have suggested that the Postal Service lacks the resources to handle the millions of ballots that will be sent through the mail this year—meaning that it will require additional taxpayer funding.

REALITY: The Postal Service handled about 2.75 billion items per week in 2019, with spikes at various times of the year, such as the holiday season.

Mail-in ballots will represent at most a few percentage points of total volume this fall, even with an expected increase in requests due to COVID-19.

Further, given that regular mail volume has dropped in 2020, the Postal Service has excess processing capacity. It does not need additional resources for the election.

MYTH No. 8: The postmaster general “massacred” Postal Service management.

REALITY: When DeJoy took over in June, there was a modest amount of personnel change within the top levels of Postal Service management. Much of that involved internal promotions. Senior departing staff were replaced by experienced employees.

New leadership at the top of a large organization almost always includes some amount of change underneath, and the Postal Service is no exception.

The change is similar to what happened when previous postmaster generals took over, rather than a heavy-handed “takeover.”

MYTH No. 9: The Constitution requires a government-run Postal Service.

REALITY: Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution authorizes Congress to establish post offices and to provide for “postal roads.” That doesn’t mean that post offices and roads are mandated, or that badly needed cost savings are a constitutional crisis.

MYTH No. 10: The Postal Service loses money only because of unfair funding requirements.

REALITY: The Postal Service is weighed down by exceedingly high employee compensation costs, which averaged more than $97,000 per worker in 2019. Part of that includes a retiree health plan, which has obligations similar to a pension.

Bipartisan legislation passed in 2006 required that the Postal Service prefund the retiree health plan like a pension plan, with money deposited as an employee earns future benefits. That’s intended to ensure that there’s money to provide for the health coverage when employees retire.

Unfortunately, the Postal Service has failed to uphold its funding obligations, leaving the plan $69 billion in the hole as of last fall.

Furthermore, the Postal Service would have lost more than $4 billion in 2019 alone even if it had not paid a penny into the health plan.

Claims that the health benefit prefunding is “unfair” ignore the fact that retiree health benefits are uncommon (especially outside government) and ignore the fact that postal employees are entitled to the benefits.

One alternative to prefunding is allowing the health plan to accumulate massive liabilities, which would guarantee an even bigger financial crisis than what the Postal Service is already facing.

That would be irresponsible and unfair for both postal employees and taxpayers alike.

The other alternative to prefunding would be to turn the Postal Service into a standard government agency, which is the stated goal of many Democrats.

A federal bailout of the Postal Service would be the first step toward placing yet another massive burden on U.S. taxpayers.

Rather than allowing costs and deficits to grow unchecked, Congress should pass reforms that would enable the Postal Service to raise revenue and lower costs, stabilizing its shaky finances.

From there, we should have a robust debate about the future of the Postal Service and whether its current structure makes sense.

Meanwhile, the sooner we stop spreading unfounded rumors about the Postal Service, the more likely we will be to reach agreement on solutions.

This piece originally appeared in The Daily Signal

TESLA Announces Updates to 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Battery Day Event--Tesla, Inc. today announced updates to the time, format and location of its 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2020 Annual Meeting”). Tesla also announced information regarding its separate Battery Day event.

Although Tesla believes that the best stockholder experience is a fully in-person annual meeting open to all stockholders, continuing public health and travel-related requirements and advisories have necessitated a unique format for the 2020 Annual Meeting. The following updates supersede anything to the contrary described in Tesla’s updated definitive proxy statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on August 13, 2020.

Date and Time of Events

The 2020 Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time.

Tesla’s separate Battery Day event will follow immediately after the conclusion of the 2020 Annual Meeting.

Virtual Meeting and Live Video Webcasts

Live video webcasts of the 2020 Annual Meeting and Tesla’s Battery Day event will be accessible to the general public at www.tesla.com/2020shareholdermeeting.

To accommodate ongoing public health requirements and travel considerations, Tesla is also providing any stockholder as of July 31, 2020 the means to join the 2020 Annual Meeting virtually at www.meetingcenter.io/234436330. The virtual meeting will feature the same live video webcasts accessible to the general public, plus the option to submit votes and written comments on meeting agenda items. In order to join the virtual meeting, you will need the password, which is tsla2020, and a 15-digit secure “control number” unique to you, which you may obtain as follows:

If you are a “stockholder of record” with shares registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company (a minority of Tesla stockholders), you can find the control number on the Notice of Internet Availability or paper proxy card that was sent to you (please check that it is for the meeting as scheduled for September 22, 2020, NOT as previously scheduled for July 7, 2020).

If you are a “beneficial owner” and hold shares through a broker, bank or other organization (the vast majority of Tesla stockholders), you will have to register in advance to obtain a control number. Please ask your broker, bank or organization for a “legal proxy” for the 2020 Annual Meeting and submit a copy of it from your e-mail address with “Legal Proxy” in the subject line to legalproxy@computershare.com. If your request is received no later than 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on September 17, 2020, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with your control number.
Limited In-Person Events

In addition, Tesla expects to accommodate a very limited number of stockholders in-person at the 2020 Annual Meeting and the Battery Day event due to mandated restrictions on the size of in-person gatherings. Both events will be held at:

Tesla, Inc.
901 Page Ave.
Fremont, CA 94538

THE LATEST IN YOUR STATE--Spotlight on Tennessee

The Tennessee Small Business Relief Program has expanded, adding $83.5 million to its initial $200 million allotment, and additional businesses qualify. The program now specifically includes “recreational vehicle, boat, and other vehicle dealers” and “automotive parts and accessories stores,” which are eligible if their sales were reduced by at least 25 percent as shown on their April sales tax returns.

Complete details of the relief expansion can be found here.

To find out the latest about resources and reopening guidelines in any state, visit the MIC’s regularly updated COVID-19 Industry Updates & Resources web page.

–MIC

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON OF THE WEEK–sinistrality
[ sin-uh-stral-i-tee ]
noun

left-handedness.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF SINISTRALITY?
There is nothing sinister about sinistrality: the word simply means “left-handedness” (as opposed to right-handedness) or “left-sidedness.” Sinistrality is a derivation of the adjective sinistral, whose current sense is “on the left-hand side, left” (in Middle English sinistralle meant “unlucky, adverse”). Sinistrality entered English in the mid-19th century.

HOW IS SINISTRALITY USED?
Kermit’s sinistrality leapt right off the page at me as soon as I saw the photograph of him with Bret McKenzie that accompanies Adam Sternbergh’s feature in this week’s magazine.

DAVID VECSEY, “HOW ABOUT A HAND FOR THE MUPPETS!” NEW YORK TIMES, NOVEMBER 18, 2011

There are reports of editors being 31 per cent lefty and of graduates of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in math and science showing 45 per cent sinistrality.

CONRAD CHYATTE, “SINISTRALITY UNMASKED AT LAST,” AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION JOURNAL, MAY 1975

[page break]

TATTOO OF THE DAY FROM FRANK BALL JR.—Plus a strange desert ride shot of Frankie and Em, also a master tattoo artist.

His art continues to improve.

–Bandit

THUMBS UP FROM THE AMA—To Harley-Davidson, for launching the “Learn to Ride” programs to draw new riders to the lifestyle. It offers one=on-one or small private group training in a low-stress environment under the supervision of a professional riding coach. More information is available at hdpersonalcoachfinder.com.

–AMA

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–Points to ponder – for the Brits and other English language speakers:

1. If you take an Oriental person and spin him around several times, does he become disoriented?

2. If people from Poland are called Poles, why aren’t people from Holland called Holes?

3. Do infants enjoy infancy as much as adults enjoy adultery?

4. If a pig loses its voice, is it disgruntled?

5. If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?

6. Why is the man who invests all your money called a broker?

7. When cheese gets its picture taken, what does it say?

8. Why is a person who plays the piano called a pianist but a person who drives a racing car not called a racist?

9. Why are a wise man and a wise guy opposites?

10. Why do overlook and oversee mean opposite things?

11. Why isn’t the number 11 pronounced onety one?

12. “I am” is reportedly the shortest sentence in the English language. Could it be that “I do” is the longest sentence?

13. If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen defrocked, doesn’t it follow that electricians can be delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys deranged, models deposed, dog trainers debarked, and dry cleaners depressed?

14. What hair colour do they put on the driver’s licenses of bald men?

15. Why do they put pictures of criminals up in the Post Office? What are we supposed to do, write to them? Why don’t they just put their pictures on the postage stamps so the postmen can look for them while they deliver the mail?

16. You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive.

17. No one ever says, “It’s only a game” when their team is winning.

18. Ever wonder about those people who spend £2.00 a piece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try spelling Evian backwards: NAIVE

19. Isn’t making a smoking section in a restaurant like making a peeing section in a swimming pool?

20. If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhoea, does that mean that fifth one ENJOYS it?

–Sir Wayfarer
Chief Investigator
Bikernet News Bureau
India

PETERSEN MUSEUM’S-– Cars and Coffee is back! Join us for a morning of cars, conversation, and social distancing.

About this Event

Petersen’s Cars and Coffee is back! Immersed in the heart of Los Angeles’s Miracle Mile, extraordinary cars will be gathered at the Petersen Automotive Museum for our monthly Breakfast Club Cruise-In. Join us for a morning of cars, conversation, and social distancing.

Complimentary parking and coffee are provided to those attending!

Please note that all vehicles and spectators must be pre- registered to attend. Vehicles and spectators will be turned away without confirmation of registration. All accepted vehicles and spectators will receive a confirmation email with a parking ticket. Please be prepared to show the ticket upon arrival.

All attendees are required to wear a face covering and adhere to the museum’s COVID -19 policies.

HOT FROM GRIFTER– FLASH SALE: Only $59 Touchscreen Compatible Scoundrels:
$ 59

This is our latest release. We simply added Tocuhscreen compatible tips to our most popular glove, the Scoundrels. The fit and leather is the same. While these don’t have the dexterity of a fabric glove, you are still able to open and use your phone with these on. These could take up to 2 weeks to ship.

AMA NEWS FROM OHIO—Two bills were introduced in the state legislature on the topic of distracted driving.

S.B. 279 would expand the existing law from minors to all drivers. Currently, adults texting while driving may be cited only if they are stopped for another reason.

S.B. 285, would restrict all hand-held e-device use and make use of devices a primary offense. It would add incremental penalties for repeat offences.

–AMA

MotorWeek: 40 Years of Steering You in the Right Direction

MotorWeek celebrates four decades of extraordinary automotive television by taking a look back while delivering advice viewers depend on today

MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series, marks its milestone 40th season starting in September. During the upcoming season, the series will glance in the rearview mirror to take a look at the cars and the people that have made the show such as success while still keeping a focused eye on the road ahead. Every episode of the 40th anniversary season will be punctuated with archival automotive highlights, some funny and some ironic, but all entertaining and informative.

MotorWeek’s 40th season premieres on public television stations across the country beginning Saturday, September 12 (check local PBS listings). Every week, series host and creator John Davis and the MotorWeek team continue their relentless quest to test, evaluate, and understand the insatiable but evolving American appetite for personal transportation, despite major shifts in culture and the global COVID-19 pandemic.

The new season brings the 2021 model year into focus for viewers. While the automotive industry is still ripe with near-term prospects of cleaner electric and self-driving autonomous vehicles, things are cloudier than ever due to ever-changing car company priorities and by the fact that sales having been negatively impacted by the pandemic.

“Despite these grey clouds, Americans continue to purchase pickup trucks and SUVs in near-record numbers, even as traditional sedan sales decline,” explains John Davis. “While consumers are interested in learning more about electric vehicles — and there’s no question that a lot of electrification will be used in all future cars — buyers are still concerned about their high price, range limitations, and the slow growth in the number of charging stations even along frequently traveled routes. These concerns will continue to make EVs niche vehicles at least for the next few years.”

Complete with updated anniversary open animation and music, the MotorWeek 40th season feature lineup continues with its roster of popular segments including Goss’ Garage, in which Master Technician Pat Goss offers up do-it-yourself car care advice; Lauren Morrison keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends in Motor News; daring Over the Edge reporter Greg Carloss turns up the fun with his unique look at the auto world in overdrive; lifestyle reporter Stephanie Hart delivers insights on driving and automotive safety, money-saving advice, and the latest in automotive technology in FYI; Brian Robinson brings his years of motorcycling experience to the Two Wheelin’ segments, reviewing the latest motorcycles on the road; and AutoWorld explores the advancing influence of alternative fuels, electrification, and autonomous driving safety.

“MotorWeek continues to report the facts that most affect consumers in their wallets,” says Davis. “As always, our reporters help navigate the marketplace and identify genuine trends and best values for drivers and their passengers.”

MotorWeek is available for every type of video screen and mobile device with up-to-the-minute automotive news, instantaneous driving impressions, and exclusive videos online at motorweek.org.

Full episodes are available at pbs.org/motorweek, and can be streamed through PBS Living on Amazon Prime. Individual roadtests and feature segments are posted daily on MotorWeek’s YouTube Channel, youtube.com/motorweek, now with more than two million views per month. Viewers can also follow MotorWeek on Facebook and Twitter as well as download complete shows on iTunes.

MotorWeek is nationally sponsored by RockAuto.com.

LATEST FROM THE BUCKLE GUY-– Buckleguy.com with new 1″ D-Rings with removable pin!

We are now stocking our 2014 style removable pin D-Ring in a 1″ size. These d-rings are great on projects where d-rings need to be removed, such as on bag straps, key fobs, small accessories, and purse handles. They are also useful for repairs where the removable pin saves you from having to unstitch thread or remove rivets to attach a new ring.

Made from solid brass, in 4 finishes:

Antique Brass
Natural Brass
Nickel Plate
Nickel Matte
Available in 2 sizes:
3/4″
1″ – NEW
Thank you everyone, and stay safe!

The Buckleguy Team

SWEDISH ROCK STAR, OLLI HERMAN HAS A CHOPPER– Life as a touring musician can be rough—but Reckless Love’s Olli Herman has Penelope, his custom chopper, as an escape.

Check his facebook page.

BRIGGS & STRATTON Enters into Chapter 11 and Sale Agreement–

Milwaukee’s Briggs & Stratton (founded in 1908), a “recognized global leader in providing power to get work done,” has entered into a definitive stock and asset purchase agreement with New York based equity investor KPS Capital Partners, LP (KPS).

Under the terms of the agreement, an affiliate of KPS formed for purposes of this transaction has agreed to acquire substantially all of the company’s assets and assume certain customer, employee and vendor liabilities, and will act as the stalking-horse bidder through a court-supervised sale process (known as a Section 363 process). Among other things, the sale agreement is subject to higher or better bids from other potential purchasers.

Todd Teske, Briggs & Stratton’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Over the past several months, we have explored multiple options with our advisors to strengthen our financial position and flexibility. The challenges we have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic have made reorganization the difficult but necessary and appropriate path forward to secure our business. It also gives us support to execute on our strategic plans to bring greater value to our customers and channel partners. Throughout this process, Briggs & Stratton products will continue to be produced, distributed, sold and fully backed by our dedicated team.”
www.briggsandstratton.com

Posted by DealerWorld

I’m sure many of you guys will agree. This is a classic company. It needs to live on. I hope they can pull it together for the future.–Bandit

BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS OPEN 24/7 WITHOUT MASKS– Georgia
The owner of a golf course in Georgia was confused about paying an invoice, so he decided to ask his secretary for some mathematical help.

He called her into his office and said, “Y’all graduated from the University of Georgia and I need some help. If I wuz to give yew $20,000, minus 14%, how much would you take off?”

The secretary thought a moment, and then replied, “Everthang but my earrings.”

Louisiana

A senior citizen in Louisiana was overheard saying, “When the end of the world comes, I hope to be in Louisiana.”

When asked why, he replied, “I’d rather be in Louisiana ’cause everything happens in Louisiana 20 years later than in the rest of the world.”

Mississippi

The young man from Mississippi came running into the store and said to his buddy, “Bubba, somebody just stole your pickup truck from the parking lot!”

Bubba replied, “Did y’all see who it was?”

The young man answered, “I couldn’t tell, but I got the license number.”

North Carolina

A man in North Carolina had a flat tire, pulled off on the side of the road, and proceeded to put a bouquet of flowers in front of the car and one behind it. Then he got back in the car to wait.

A passerby studied the scene as he drove by, and was so curious he turned around and went back He asked the fellow what the problem was.

The man replied, “I got a flat tahr.”

The passerby asked, “But what’s with the flowers?”

The man responded, “When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back. I never did understand it neither.”

Tennessee

A Tennessee State trooper pulled over a pickup on I-65.

The trooper asked, “Got any ID?”

The driver replied, “Bout whut?”

Texas

The Sheriff pulled up next to the guy unloading garbage out of his pick-up into the ditch. The Sheriff asked, “Why are you dumping garbage in the ditch? Don’t you see that sign right over your head.”

“Yep,” he replied. “That’s why I’m dumpin’ it here, ’cause it says: ‘Fine For Dumping Garbage.’ “

Y’all kin say whut y’all want ‘about the South, but y’all never heard o’ nobody retirin’ an’ movin’ North

–Joe Smith
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina
Bad Joke Library

RALLY RODE HOME REPORT–
Hi Bandit. Hope you survived Sturgis ok. My friend Wes made it but had lots of problems with flat tires and wheel bearing failures and such. There were three bikes in his party. I was surprised to hear about those new 1-inch axle wheel bearings going bad.

–Bill May

TEXAS WEATHER REPORT-– I had never seen this one before. At first, I thought it was photoshop as we’ll never be able to take a picture for granted again. I found several links about it. Pretty cool for 1910

–RFR
Weather reporter
Bikernet

FROM THE LEADER–Why YOU need the Desert Dawgs

The Desert Dawgs cut down on updrafts and helmet buffeting – something that’s especially attractive when it’s cooler out.

And, of course, they’re kick-ass at keeping the rain and splash off your legs and feet (keeping you dryer and more comfortable when those inevitable rain showers find you).

The Dawgs will keep you on the road longer. Ride along with us in the video below (or Click Here to see how easy they are to put on/off)!

Cut Down on Annoying Updrafts and Helmet Buffeting

Desert Dawgs soft lower motorcycle chaps (aka rain guards) eliminate road spray and keep you warmer without a bulky motorcycle fairing! Excellent fit; installs easily on motorcycle engine guard bar, highway bar or freeway bar.

Install in minutes
Protect your legs and feet from rain and cold
Protects your chrome from dirt, salt and bugs
Made of the highest quality materials and crafted in the USA

No temperature restriction – you won’t overheat!
Won’t rust or corrode

Ride longer – enjoy it more!

From a convenience standpoint alone, the Desert Dawgs win hands-down. Factor in a reasonable price and weigh that against the additional hours of enjoyment you’ll get while riding with the Desert Dawgs, and it’s a no-brainer!

Quality American manufacturing … check out the difference!

WHO? WHAT? & WHEN? PLUS, A SAMPLE OF THINGS TO COME

Register for MOTM
It’s taken 36 years for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation to get to a point that an event agenda can be pulled together in a few months, plus or minus a few days. If you’ve been following these E-blasts, then you may have recognized an undercurrent of the “five W’s” – WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN and WHY, and a constant reminder that the 36th Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference is getting close.

You’ve been given samples of WHO helped start the Meeting of the Minds and the MRF, along with WHAT it was all about, WHERE and WHEN it came from and WHERE it’s heading, along with WHY it’s so important to attend. Here’s the tentative (subject to change) agenda for the 36th Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference. Time’s running out to use this link and register at Meeting of the Minds 2020. Room Reservations: 317-767-4769.

For those of you getting in on Thursday, September 24, join the MRF Board of Directors in a “Meet & Greet” at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Ballroom.

With a presentation of the Colors, the General Session opens at 9:00 a.m. Friday, then it’s non-stop with…

Opening Remarks – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard
MRF Financial Report – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard
Legislative Update – Rocky Fox
Election Year & Effective Use of CQ – Rocky Fox
A series of MRF award presentations by Dave Dwyer & Ryan Hubbard, Michelle Holcomb & Duane Justus.
Then it’s on to more presentations, a few awards and recognition of the future of motorcyclists’ rights…

MRFA&E – Deb Butitta

MRFA&E Young Activist Awards – Deb Butitta

Young Activist Scholarship Winners Panel – Deb Butitta

MRF Rep/Reps of the Year Awards – Doc D’Errico

Presidents Cup – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard

A Primer: How Strategic Planning can help your SMRO – Mark Buckner

Lunch by Bill the Chef; a riding and turning demo by Lane Triplett, then an afternoon of workshops…

2020-21 Legislative Strategy – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard
3R’s MRFA&E – Ron Braaksma & Lane Triplett
Media Madness: How to Survive these Wild Times – Brian “Skinny Bob” Clifford
Executive Directors Town Hall – Kirk “Hardtail” Willard
Kickin’ Ass and Taking Names – Pennsylvania’s 35-year Winning Quest for Freedom of Choice – Charles Umbenhauer
Public Relations in a Changing World – Cathy Brush
The afternoon winds into dinner by Bill the Chef and moves into an “evening of festivities and a rodeo!” provided by the folks from ABATE of Indiana.

Saturday morning begins with a breakfast by Bill the Chef… In case you’re wondering, for the first time in recent memory, meals are included with your registration packet. Bill the Chef, renowned for his biker pleasing menus, generous proportions and never failing to make a few thousand hungry bikers happy at ABATE of Indiana’s world famous, Bean Blossom Boogie! You’ll have to specifically ask for a PBJ or a county jail bologna sandwich! They aren’t on Bill the Chef’s menu!

Saturday’s General Session opens with Jay Jackson and blasts WFO into…

State of the Safety Training Programs – Jay Jackson
Ron Sheppard Award – Jay Jackson
Strategic Planning for Your SMRO: Writing Your Own Plan – Mark Buckner
Political Action Committee? Why the Hell Does a Biker Need One? – Ryan Hubbard
MRFPAC Awards – Ryan Hubbard
State Reps Meeting – Doc D’Errico
With Freedom Comes Responsibility – Dave “Chubby” Charlebois
Bridging the gap Clubs/SSMRO – Russell Radke & Paul Landers
All of that before it’s lunch with Bill the Chef! Plus, another Lane Triplett riding demo. After lunch it’s another afternoon filled with more information than you can haul home in two saddlebags!

Sustaining Clubs Meeting – Russell Radke
Advocacy – Beyond Face to Face – Rocky Fox
Kickin’ Ass and Taking Names – Pennsylvania’s 35-year winning quest for freedom of choice – Charles Umbenhauer

CQ & Using technology to Win in Washington – Rocky Fox

Media Madness: How to Survive these Wild Times – Brian “Skinny Bob” Clifford

Public Relations in a Changing World – Cathy Brush
Yeah, there’s a few duplicates, because the presenter and the subject are in such demand there’s only one way to satiate this crowd’s demand – give them the information and tools they need to be more effective at their state legislatures!

Saturday “slows down” just enough for a quick thirst quencher before the banquet starts. It’s an evening filled with a soon-to-be-announced keynote speaker, dinner by Bill the Chef, awards, and a live auction that if history ever repeats itself, this will be one not to miss.

Sunday morning travelers get sent out on the road after a “Blessing of the Bikes” and while everyone else is heading home, the MRF Board hunkers down for a review of The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, of the entire conference and ending it with a commitment to take everything that was learned at the 36th Meeting of the Minds Conference and put it to use on behalf of motorcyclists’ rights.

COKER TIRES FROM LOWBROW–Even if you do not know the company, you know their tires…

Coker Tire is in Chattanooga, Tennessee and was founded in 1958 by Harold Coker.

From Sportster choppers, classic Triumphs and Harley Big Twins to late model motorcycles, Coker Tires can be found on bikes of all type, all over the world…
They supply that vintage style alongside modern materials. Set your ride apart from the rest with a new set of tires.

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM
Hall of Fame Breakfast — Nearly 500 guests attended an unforgettable Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on August 12.

The ceremony opened with a blessing by Auggie Minzlaff and the National Anthem was performed by 8 year old Lainee of Sturgis and joined by the entire crowd in. Dave Mackie joined via video call while Skeeter Todd will be a year late for his induction. There was not a dry eye when Arlin Fatland purposed to his longtime love, Donna. The ceremony concluded with Don Hotop receiving the Arlen Ness Lifetime Achievement Award.

Visitors through the Museum – This year we did not know what kind of attendance to expect. Typically the Museum sees about 5000 guests during Rally and this year we were just shy of that at about 3,975. Overall, guests this year were very respectful, kind and generous; leading to an increase in round-up and general donations.

New Displays & Exhibits – New to the Museum is a large Indian Wrecking Crew display including one original Indian Wrecking Crew motorcycles and two replica’s. Also new to the Museum is Indian Larry’s Wild Child motorcycle. We are excited to have Jessi Combs Cocky Commuter motorcycle on display as well. We have new art work and ever changing memorabilia.

Hamsters USA Make A Huge Contribution!

It is no secret that the Hamsters are a large philanthropic group of chopper riding motorcyclists. For many years Hamster built motorcycles have been displayed in the Museum and individually many of them have donated to the Museum. This year the Hamsters decided to do what they do best, collectively raise a huge amount of money for a good cause. With the help of world famous motorcycle artist, Dave Perewitz, and Museum friend, Keith Terry (pictured above), the Hamsters raised nearly $80,000 to support the Museum.

Hall of Fame Rings Available to All Inductees

This year Nino 925 partnered with the Museum to create one of a kind custom rings for the Class of 2020 Inductees. To further support the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, Nino 925 will work individually with inductees to create a custom ring personalized with induction year and name. Rings start at $525 in 925 Sterling Silver and can be upgraded in most metals with added gemstones. For more information please contact Frank at Nino925.com or 877-Nino925.

Visit the Museum All Year Long
999 Main Street
Sturgis, SD 57785
(605)347-2001

10 AM – 4 PM seven days a week

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2017 Harley-Davidson® FLHR – Road King for $17.995.00
see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=8855587

2017 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King Classic Milwaukee 8 107ci

With this timeless combination of style and touring function you don’t just ride through the landscape, you’re the most majestic part of the scenery… The Road King is where stripped down, nostalgic style meets the performance and versatility of a modern Harley-Davidson touring machine.

The Hiawatha headlamp and nacelle were born in the 1960’s, when chrome ruled the streets. But the power of the all-new Milwaukee-Eight™ 107 engine brings it all into the here and now in a hurry. The all-new double bending valve front suspension and rear emulsion shocks put you in control for a plush ride. With cast aluminum Impeller wheels and one-touch opening saddlebags, this is the timeless classic built for today.

**Just 9,196 Miles**

Road Kings are the best of both worlds, boulevard cruiser and touring bike. This one with Billet Silver paint with gray / red pin-striping and raised tank logos is like new. Chrome console with aluminum face. Chrome bars with mounted speakers and controls, mirrors, Avon chrome / rubber grips and quick detachable windshield. Big chrome daymaker headlamp, nacelle, and passing lamps.

Chrome fork sleeves, polished lowers, chrome axle caps, on 10 spoke lack contrast cut alloy wheels. Chrome engine guard with H-D fat freeway pegs. Chrome S&S exhaust. Black motor with chrome covers including Screamin’ Eagle black accent air intake, black accent horn / timing covers and black accent trans ‘six speed’ cover. 2-up seat with floorboards and passenger mini floors. Bag guards, chrome LED rear blinkers and good tires.

This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 100 point safety and mechanical inspection could come with Lifestyles 90 day / 1,000 mile limited warranty. 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!!!

**Open 7 Days a Week**

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Only $17,995 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

97% OF U.S. MOVIEGOERS RECOMMEND SEEING A MOVIE IN THEATERS TO THEIR FRIENDS, NEW POLL SAYS –– Some 97% of U.S. moviegoers recommend seeing a new movie in theaters to their friends, a new poll says. Additionally, 93% rate the new enhanced safety experience in movie theaters as positive. The PostTrack survey was conducted by Comscore in American movie theaters open for the first time in five months at the first weekend of Unhinged, the new psychological thriller starring Academy Award winner Russell Crowe. Some 57% of the respondents stated their top motivation for going to the movie theater was a desire to socialize and return to normal.

Unhinged opened on August 21 to a box office result of $4 million at 1,823 North American locations. The film is expected to have earned $8 million at the North American box office by Thursday and is projected to reach Solstice Studios’ target of $30 million at a minimum by the time it completes its theatrical run. The number of North American locations for Unhinged will increase by 500 to over 2300 by the second weekend on August 28, as theaters across the United States continue to open. The film has been released in 27 international territories thus far, opening #1 in 15 of them, and has earned $10 million to date. Unhinged has been #1 for four weeks in a row in both Australia and the UK, and was #1 for 3 weeks in a row in Germany.

“The astonishingly high 97% recommendation of safety and comfort in theaters from first-weekend moviegoers is beyond great news-and confirms that movie theaters are not only back but have a promising future,” said Unhinged producer Mark Gill, who is President and CEO of Solstice Studios. “It bodes well for what we’ve seen in Europe and Australia on the film, which is a long run at the box office that in some countries has defied gravity and increased from week to week, or at the very least has held steady for many weeks.”

Paul Dergarabedian, Sr. Media Analyst at ComScore added, “Solstice Studios, through their successful release of Unhinged, showed not only a commitment to consumers and their desire to see a new wide release film with a major star on the big screen, but also a devotion to movie theaters who are diligently at work creating a safe and healthy environment for their loyal customers.”

Solstice Studios is an independent movie company based in Los Angeles, founded in October 2018. The studio develops, fully finances, produces, sells internationally and distributes feature films in the U.S. on a wide-release basis. Solstice plans to produce 3-5 movies per year for a global audience-generally in the $20-80M budget range. It also plans to co-finance or acquire another 1-2 films per year for wide US distribution. The company has a partnership with Ingenious Media.

LATEST FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT— We are currently shipping orders from Sturgis and appreciate everyone’s patience as we get them all headed out the door.

As you may know, David plans on moving forward with his new “Route 66” series in the near future. In the meantime, we are announcing a timely new series, titled “Reminiscence”.

Earlier this year, David presented his “Strange Days” series of three pieces, documenting the historical significance of these times.

“Exiting the Curve”
(Third and final piece, Strange Days series)

As David recently stated, “I have always considered myself more progressive than most, always in favor of imagining a better future. The past 20 years or so, I have not wavered much from my imagined trajectory – however, I have become a bit of a history buff. I can attribute much of this fascination to spending so much time peering into old archival photos. While there, I find myself visualizing to get a feel for how it really felt to be there. I have consistently maintained that my paintings should have a timeless quality, not only subject wise, but style wise as well.

As we all watch current events unfold, I can’t help thinking about my childhood in my small town Luna Pier, Michigan. I remember being entranced and moved by such simple things.

I am old enough now to have witnessed a remarkable change in the fundamental fabric of how our society interacts. I find myself craving some of those wonderful memories that I think many of us share. After spending a few weeks talking to thousands of people up in Sturgis, clearly the conversations always ended up with “What the hell happened?” Even a year ago seemed like the “GOOD OLE DAYS”.

Since I was born in the early sixties, I have some distinct imagery I remember that may make wonderfully beautiful subject matter for a NEW SERIES. Motorcycles are not important here – my emphasis will be on the “American Experience”.

The working title for this series is “Reminiscence”, but I am wondering if you have any thoughts on a different title. 

I think much of my work already has this overall look. I came across this piece I did 20 years ago which illustrates the feeling I want to generate. It’s called “A Simpler Time.”

I’ll keep you posted as David prepares his first piece in this new series. He was called “the Norman Rockwell of Harley artists” by CBS Sunday Morning and I’m sure we’ll see that influence. We are all looking forward to seeing what he comes up with here!

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

Uhl Studios Website

IT’S HOT—It’s not Global Warming or Climate Change caused by humans, it’s just hot. Next year it will be different and so on.

Okay, so here’s the plan at the Wilmington Headquarters. This weekend I will come up with a plan for mounting the Salt Torpedo front fenders, the new Paughco gas tank and the lower body. Seems there is one other thing I need to accomplish before we try a short, slow run around the block.

I need to pull the good doctor’s Pandemic Panhead out of the van and remove the magneto. Jason Moot of Deadwood Custom Cycles is going to help me recharge the magnets in the magneto. “It takes less than ten seconds,” Jason told me. You’ll see the operation on Bikernet.

James, The Tileman, replaced his Dyna rubbermounts, and he used the heavyduty CCE unit on the rear. He’s had his used about 2008 Dyna for a year and felt it needed tightening up. We will bring you the tips.

We are also investigating the new Harley Dynas build in the Softail frame format. So far we are impressed. We want to see Dynas live. We like the new mono-shock Softail format and the new M-8 engines. We are hearing very good things.

The Cycle Source Crew has gone TV with a series on the Sturgis Rally. We are reviewing it and will bring you a complete detailed report as Chris and his co-host travel from the East Coast to the 80th and bring us the history and all the action. The review might be handled by Steve Bauman above.

It’s never dull around here. So, hang on for more reports next week.

Ride fast and free Forever,

–Bandit

https://shop.bikernet.com

by Silvian Secara from https://www.autoevolution.com

This unholy creature looks eager to demonize public roads!

Back in 2013, BMW Motorrad revealed their Concept Ninety, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the astonishing BMW R 90 S and pay homage to this iconic two-wheeler. Just over a year later, Concept Ninety’s successor, going by the name of R nineT, made its spectacular debut.

As of the 2016 model, this vicious beast is powered by a four-stroke DOHC two-cylinder boxer mill, with four valves per cylinder and a humungous displacement of 1170cc. R nineT’s air-cooled engine will gladly generate up to 110 hp at 7,550 rpm, along with a torque output of 88 pound-feet (120 Nm) at 6,000 rpm. This sheer power travels by means of a six-speed constant mesh gearbox, to deliver a top speed of just over 125 mph (201 kph).

Up front, the monstrosity is supported by inverted 46 mm (1.8 inches) telescopic forks, accompanied by adjustable dampers and a cast aluminum single-sided swingarm at the rear. R nineT crawls on a pair of 17-inch multi-spoked wheels, provided with 320 mm (12.6 inches) dual floating brake discs and fixed four-piston calipers at the front, along with a single 265 mm disc and a floating two-piston caliper at the back. We won’t be going into any other details, as the heavily modified BMW R nineT we’re going to be looking at has very little in common with the original motorcycle.

Marco Ferrara, going by the alias Singular Rides, builds custom bikes for pleasure, working on these projects in his spare time. Recently, this one-man army came across a splendid 2016 R nineT in a showroom and decided to not only purchase this damn thing, but also customize the absolute living hell out of it.

For its new design, he drew inspiration from the Concept Ninety and collaborated with Guerino Toscano, a reputed Italian industrial designer, to come up with ideas for several potential layouts. Ultimately, Ferrara aimed to “strike a balance between futuristic, sporty lines and the R nineT’s sensual, organic curves.”

When a decision was made, the folks over at Midwest Composite Technologies were tasked with 3D printing the new bodywork components, while Singular Rides’ mastermind hard-crafted the reinforcing trims using ABS sheets. Furthermore, a couple of custom aluminum subframes were built to accommodate the front fairing and the modified tail section.

Ferrara installed Rizoma valve covers and replaced the original airbox with a set of metallic pod filters. A Shorai lithium ion battery is now nested below the fuel tank and R nineT’s exhaust system received a carbon fiber muffler from SC Project.

Additionally, the bike was equipped with Woodcraft clip-on handlebars that wear Puig levers and a pair of Oberon mirrors. The custom front fairing houses an asymmetrically mounted LED headlight from a Harley Davidson Bobber, which contributes significantly to the overall mean aesthetic. Lastly, Andreani Misano cartridges were fitted to the motorcycle’s front forks, while its suspension was blessed with a fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock and steering stabilizer.

I’m going to conclude by saying that Singular Rides’ Marco Ferrara managed to do a better job on customizing a two-wheeler by himself, than some firms would with a large team working on a single project!

by Neeraj Chand from https://movieweb.com

Hollywood is slowly and cautiously restarting production on big-budget film and television projects. Leading the charge is Tom Cruise, who has restarted production on the upcoming Christopher McQuarrie-helmed Mission: Impossible 7 in the UK. Photos from the set were recently shared, which showed Cruise partaking in yet another death-defying stunt involving a motorcycle and a very high vantage point.

The stunt in question had the actor on a speeding motorcycle as it hurtled off a ramp 500ft in the air. Fans of the Mission Impossible franchise will remember plenty of bike-themed stunts from previous movies, but none have taken place so high up the air. While safety wires ensured Tom Cruise was not launched into the stratosphere, fans were still amazed to see the 58-year-old actor partaking in such a sequence. Previously, McQuarrie had teased that the stunts in the upcoming movie will make the ones in the previous installments seem tame by comparison.

The storylines in Mission Impossible films have always taken a back seat to the stunts showcased by Cruise. In fact, every movie in the franchise follows the same basic path, where government operative Ethan Hunt, played by Cruise, embarks on a dangerous mission to recover a dangerous MacGuffin, gets betrayed, and races to retrieve the MacGuffin before time runs out.

This well-worn formula continues to strike gold at the box-office because Cruise offers something different through the franchise, a return to old-school filmmaking where hair-raising stunts are filmed for real instead of putting the actors in front of a green screen. Over the years, audiences have watched Ethan Hunt climb steep mountains without any gear, hang from the side of a plane, scale the highest building in the world, and now, apparently, perform a bike stunt at 500 feet.

Still, as good as Cruise is, even the megastar cannot stop the march of time, and it is rumored that he is planning to hang up his action boots before his 60th birthday. That would give him time to complete the two final Mission Impossible movies, Top Gun: Maverick, and the untitled space movie that he intends to make with NASA and Elon Musk which will be filmed in the upper atmosphere.

For now, the residents of the town in Oxfordshire where Mission Impossible 7 is filming have grown accustomed to seeing Cruise performing one action-packed stunt after another, all in service of making the upcoming film bigger and better than previous installments in the franchise. The actor is said to enjoy going for 5k runs in London’s parks and frequents Soho Farmhouse, an exclusive members’ club in Oxfordshire, with co-star Simon Pegg, who plays Benji Dunn in the film. It remains to be seen whether the social distancing precautions being taken by the film’s crew will allow production to be completed without any cases of infection among the cast and crew. This was first reported at Daily Mail.

Royal Enfield Introduces 2021 Himalayan

Pre-orders for the Himalayan begin September 1, 2020

Milwaukee, Wis August 26, 2020: Royal Enfield, the global leader in the middleweight motorcycle segment, announced today the launch of the 2021 Himalayan with new features adding to the already impressive legacy of the 411cc adventure motorcycle. Since its introduction in 2016, the Himalayan has earned the respect and admiration of discerning motorcyclists and aspiring adventure riders.

Starting September 1, 2020 interested consumers may reserve a 2021 Himalayan at www.RoyalEnfieldNA.com. Quantities are limited and are only available through the website. Once reserved, consumers will present a unique buyer’s code at participating Royal Enfield dealers within seven days of receipt to confirm the reservation.

The 2021 Himalayan retains the original versatility and durability of the motorcycle, with added features to improve the riding experience. New for 2021 is a switchable antilock braking system (ABS) providing riders with more control when navigating challenging off-road conditions. The new Himalayan also features a revamped rear brake mechanism that improves brake engagement and rider feel for decreased stopping distances. Additional features in response to customer feedback also include an improved side-stand design and hazard light switch in case of road or trail side emergencies.

The new Royal Enfield Himalayan will be available in three new colorways, Lake Blue and Rock Red, and Gravel Gray, adding to the existing portfolio of Snow White, Granite Black and Sleet. The motorcycle comes with a three-year warranty and will be available across all Royal Enfield dealerships in North America starting at $4,999.

“The Himalayan continues to be one of the best-selling units in North America,” said Krishnan Ramaswamy, interim Business Head and President of Royal Enfield Americas. “The affordability, versatility and capability of the Himalayan has established it as a must-have adventure bike and with these updates, it’s better than ever before. Simplicity and a great riding experience are the center of who Royal Enfield is as a brand. We’re pleased that the Himalayan continues to deliver that experience to riders across the globe. It’s not only an approachable bike for the young and entry level rider but also a good dual-purpose addition to the stable of an experienced biker.”

The Himalayan includes a wide variety of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories as well, allowing riders the freedom to customize the Himalayan according to their pursuits. To see the full lineup of accessories and apparel, visit www.RoyalEnfieldNA.com/accessories.

The Himalayan, which was launched primarily for the Indian markets, has become one of the best adventure touring motorcycles in its segment globally. It has paved the path for more accessible forms of adventure touring and the new Himalayan will further strengthen this underserved category.

The perfect motorcycle companion for adventure touring and exploration has just gotten even better.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, please visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, https://www.instagram.com/royalenfield_na/ and www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.