by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com There’s a saying or something that states the inner child in humans never goes away. How else could you explain grown-ups paying money to see superhero movies starring equally-sized adults dressed in funny costumes? For most of us, the inner child comes out to play only then, when it directs our hand to pay for that movie ticket. In others it is much more potent, to such an extent that it makes an adult behave in peculiar ways. Like say having him order a Harley-Davidson motorcycle tribute to Iron Man. Sitting in the gallery above is a recent model-year Harley-Davidson Breakout modified at the request of a customer by German shop Thunderbike. Unlike many of the other projects cooked up in Germany by these guys, this one is not an abstract project, but a built-to-order, life-sized Tony Stark toy. Granted, it doesn’t look like the Iron Man suit (copyright, anyone?), not in the traditional sense. But the lines, the curves, the angles and the paint are there to remind everyone that this is a tribute-build dedicated to the Marvel genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist. “Even a tech freak like Tony Stark would gain some inspiration from this sight. Our customer is a man with a dream – Iron Man & Harley in his garage! So the project was clear. This is exactly how we have perfectly implemented this with our customer and master painter Ingo Kruse,” Thunderbike says about its creation. For the task at hand, the Breakout was gifted with all the required custom parts we usually see coming out Thunderbike’s garage. There’s a GP-style gas tank up front, new fenders front and rear, massive 21- and 23-inch wheels, the usual complement of Ingo Kruse paint job – about 25 custom parts that make the bike look like it does. We are not being told how much the conversion cost, but then again the inner child doesn’t really care. It only wants.

Voxan Motors unveils their first excessive-efficiency electric motorcycle, Wattman.

The Voxan Wattman is specifically designed for the bikemaker’s world velocity document mission. The Wattman will be trying to set a brand new world velocity document in Bolivia subsequent 12 months. Six-time motorcycle racing world champion Max Biaggi will be using this highly effective machine whereas making the try.

The bikemaker unveiled the streamliner model of the Wattman after months of design work and laptop simulations and a quantity of wind tunnel test.

The Wattman took to the observe for the primary time in March this 12 months however the testing programme was interrupted by the Covid Disaster. The Wattman’s styling is full and the motorcycle has a definitive look now, however Voxan will proceed to develop the software program half of the machine which can decide the motorcycle’s pure efficiency and thermal stability.

The Venturi Group, to which Voxan belongs, has already set a quantity of world velocity data. The newest, 549 km/h, was set in 2016 by the Venturi VBB-3 (Venturi Buckeye Bullet). It stands to today.

Professional Motorcycle Racers Association (PMRA) ran its first race of 2020—and its first under new director Shannon Mendenhall—this past Saturday, June 27, at hot and windy Tulsa Raceway in Oklahoma.

 

And right at the hit, Shane “Showboat” Eperjesi set the internet on fire with a PMRA record 6.34 at 215.48 miles per hour on Robert Valera’s Pro Open bike, tuned by Dan “The Man” Wagner.

 

“The track was pretty good that first pass,” said Eperjesi. After that, trying to tame the hot track and wild winds was the big chore for Eperjesi and crew. “The wind was horrible and we should have moved it to eighth mile, ‘cause down track was some freaky stuff!”

 

Shane practically apologized for not going quicker and faster. He and fellow finalist Rob Garcia decided to save their equipment and settle the final on a handshake, with Eperjesi taking the beam for the win.

 

“I was being a good teammate and allowed Shane to go up to break the beams, since he will be running the points series there and I do not have those plans,” said Garcia.

 

It was the second outing ever for the Varela bike, and the first with Mitch Brown’s Monster head on top. “We ran a Vortex head in Valdosta, but Robert wanted to try the Monster so he built another motor,” said Eperjesi. “It’s stupid fast!”

 

Defending class champ Mark Rendeluk was sorting out his new Weismann transmission, qualifying third and losing first round to Mark Chisholm.

Martin Miller beat up on his old man Jim in an all-Miller Super Gas final. Defending class champ Jim took the tree but was .009 quicker to the stripe in the double breakout race.

 

Afterwards, Martin had quite a story to tell. “Two years ago I decided I wanted to be a dirt bike racer and went out on a Saturday morning against a lot of people’s word who told me I shouldn’t—like my mom, my dad, and my wife,” said Martin. “I ended up crashing, breaking my leg in five places, and having surgery

 

“Prior to this I had been saving up money to buy the dragbike that I now ride: ‘Bad Company.’ I had made the first deposit to my dad. He was the middleman, pulling the ropes to get the bike to our family again. Him and his brother Kevin built it in 2005 and won multiple PMRA races and four championships.

 

“I ended up having to take the money back from my dad to keep up with bills while I was off of work and lost my chance at getting the bike.

 

“I spent three months working really hard to get to walk again and spent the next nine months after that buckled down and working really hard at getting another bike. The gentleman who had ‘Bad Company’ held onto it for the nine months while I got back on my feet without telling me, so that when I had enough money I could buy the bike back.

 

“I had to change a lot off the track and a lot about my young life, and lose my teenager punk attitude to change my life on the racetrack. And I believe I did that, so God rewarded me the motorcycle I wanted in the beginning

 

“I have now won my first championship after 12 years of racing, and I’m leading the points in PMRA and in the Summit Series right now. I know it’s early in the year, but I stay competitive to keep my mindset

 

“But I’m also humble. Winning this past weekend against my father meant more than words or pictures could ever tell, but what most of those people back at the starting line couldn’t see is my dad out-running my butt. He took the finish line by 0.009 too fast and still had half a wheel on me. Anyone that can judge that kind of distance at that rate of speed is a pro.

 

“I owe everything to my parents who stuck by me when I was in the wrong. They also molded me into what I am today.

 

“I also owe a bit of gratitude for my life both on and off the race track to Chris Wedman. He’s like that uncle that’s a second dad. He sees the good in you but won’t hesitate to slap you straight when you start to slip up. I can talk about Chris Wedman and all the good he’s done for a lot of people, but that would be another article itself.”

David Ellenbecker overcame some first-race-of-the-season jitters aboard his gangsta Kawasaki ZX14 to take out Kermit Lottie in the Outlaw Grudge final.

 

“The start of the 2020 season has been chaos!” said Ellenbecker. “The team has endured tremendous amounts of stress, hours of work, and several weeks without a full night’s sleep. But this weekend we got to reap some of the fruit of our labor. We secured our first heads-up win of the season and our first PMRA win. We’ve been long overdue and this one feels damn good.

 

“I can’t thank everyone enough for all that they do. None of this is remotely possible without a team behind you. Wil Marquardt particularly has sacrificed an awful lot for this portion of our program in the belief that a few punk kids in a 2-car garage can do something extraordinary.

 

“Also a big ‘Thank You’ to our sponsor Ag & Drag machine shop. Dan put a lot of hours into the bike these last few weeks. Thanks to Robinson Industries and Rob Bush for helping us get the parts we needed to rebuild and the awesome turnaround time. It couldn’t have been done without them.”

Lucas Townsend’s .008 light pretty well finished off Alan Martin in the Super Comp final as Martin’s game try to catch came up exactly .008 short at the stripe.

 

“Got up real early at 5:00 am to make the trip up to Tulsa,” said Townsend. “Got there, got ready for open trials, and took the ‘Grinch’ green 8.90 super comp bike up for the first run and ran 8.85 outta the trailer, and parked it till first round.”

 

Townsend qualified fourth with an 8.964. Number one qualifier Mike Hudson failed to make the call against Townsend in round 2 on Lucas’ march to the win.

 

Top Gas was an all-Townsend final, as Lucas faced his cousin Chad. “We decided to split the money before we ran, so I made up my mind I just wanted to run him to the finish no matter what.”

 

Chad took the tree .069 to Lucas’ .080 and—sure enough—Lucas kept the throttle pinned. “I ran under with an 8.185 (at 163) and crossed in front to his 8.235/160,” said Lucas “He got the winlight but I out-ran him!

 

“All in all, a great day of racing. The bikes were dead on the number.

 

“Thanks to Tulsa Raceway Park and PMRA for having us a place to race. Can’t wait to go back!”

 

“Potato Salad Racing’s” Louis Brown took Heavy Hitter Grudge on his purple ‘Suzuki Hayabusa, with Mac McKnight the runner-up. “We’ve been going to Carolina, working a bunch with Billy Vose, and somehow we ended up getting one of his bikes he had jus put together,” said Brown. “It’s been a dream come true! Kinda crazy, he tuned my bike all the way from Darlington on Saturday and it ran like a bracket bike all day.”

 

In actual bracket racing, Brian Wood’s .013 light pushed Division 4 champ Ricky Kay (.048) to breakout in the Pro ET final. “It was a warm one by the time the afternoon rolled around,” said Wood. “Had alright time trials and found my stride come eliminations. Won first round and earned the buy second round, and raced my way to the finals where I faced Ricky. He missed the light and I was 13 and pushed him out the back door.”

Tim “Nuke” Robbins put .070 on Aaron Vaughan at the tree and kept the gap on his GSXR for the win in the Street ET final.

 

“First time back racing in a while and it was exactly as I remembered—hot and a mad rush a few times to make the round!” said Robbins. “But I managed to walk away with the win.

 

“I gotta thank Shannon Mendenhall and Cycle World PowerSports for picking up the reigns of the PMRA. There wasn’t much time for them to prepare for the event but still pulled it off and made it a great time. Next one should be smoother and I know we’re all looking forward to what the future of organization is going to look like with them in control!”

`

The Pro Stagger 5.60/6.0 final saw both Josh Pilcher and Tony Taylor working the 6.0 index. Pilcher had an .040 advantage at the tree and kept closer to the index on his Kawasaki ZX10 for the win.

 

Shawn Stevens took the Harley-Davidson win over Chris Martin. Shawn’s .059 to .237 starting line advantage pretty well settled this one early. He ran it out to a 10.21 at 129.4 to Martin’s 10.32 at 126.45.

 

Neither Dean Shayna nor John Powers had lights to brag about in the V-Twin final—Shayna with a .236 and Powers with a .330. Both also obliterated their dial-ins, with Shayna taking the double breakout win.

 

At the end of the day it was a great debut for the “new” PMRA, and director Mendenhall has some great momentum to carry into the next event—August 14-15 back at Tulsa Raceway Park, with test and tune on Friday, qualifying and eliminations on Saturday.

 

Find out more about PMRA at https://www.facebook.com/PMRA1/

 

Soriano Motori Launches Revolutionary EV Motorcycle

100-year-old brand sets new bar for the future of motorcycles

NEW YORK, July 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Today the Soriano Group launches Soriano Motori Corp, a high performance EV motorcycle innovation, design, and cultural liaison for the next generation of riders, from a legacy brand of motorcycles originally founded in ’39. The launch of SMC under the leadership of Marco Soriano will continue its family legacy of innovation and invention ahead of its time.

“Soriano Motori’s motorcycles represent the finest Italian design, image, branding, architecture and engineering, that for the first time are being applied to EV motorcycles for the next generation of riders,” said Marco Soriano, founder of SMC. “Owners of Soriano Motori motorcycles are assured the look, feel and lifestyle of what they love about motorcycles, fused with the intoxication of a strong and proud made in Italy brand. We bring elegance and innovation into balance to deliver something that is transcendent for the motorcycle culture.”

For years, the Italian pursuit of both style and grace in the most advanced form of engineering has become a pride of the culture. “The owners of Soriano EV motorcycles are promised to be piloting one of the most advanced, stylist, and environmentally friendly Italian machines on the planet,” said Marco Soriano. Production takes place at two state-of-the-art facilities in Oggiono & Lecco, towns surrounding the outstanding Lake Como, Italy.

Application, design, integration, manufacturing, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) approaches and systems are already established in delivery and production of our V1-R, V1-S and V1-Gara series models, currently available for pre-order and initially capped at 100 total available units. As a modern global brand, SM’s payment systems are secured and enabled to receive multiple global currencies including US dollar (USD), the British pound (BDP) and the Euro (EUR), as well as various mainstream cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).

About Soriano Motori Corp
Founded in 2020, Soriano Motori Corp is the US parent company of the EU division, Soriano Motori Factory SpA. SMC seeks to create a legacy of invention and modernization much like Ricardo Soriano-Scholtz von Hermensdorff did when he established The Soriano-Pedroso SpA in Paris, 1919 and posteriorly R. Soriano SrL in Madrid, 1939 as the First Spanish Manufacturing Company. Well-seasoned EU & US electric propulsion engineers have recreated this motorcycle icon with today’s state-of-the-art technology. For more information, please visit https://sorianomotori.eu.

Veteran Non-Profit Organization Uses “Motorcycle Therapy” to Rehabilitate & Support Veterans Returning from Comba

Veteran Riders to Honor COVID-19 First Responders & Front-Line Workers with PPE Items

 

 Indian Motorcycle®, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its continued support and sponsorship of the sixth annual Veterans Charity Ride (VCR) to Sturgis. This year, in addition to using the organization’s unique brand of motorcycle therapy to aid combat veterans dealing with PTSD, the veteran-operated, non-profit organization will implement a “service before self” initiative to show appreciation to first responders who have been working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Veteran’s Charity Ride uses “motorcycle therapy,” a proven remedy that provides therapeutic solutions to help fellow veterans move forward and adjust to civilian life. The 2020 ride will include 15 total veterans – nine new veterans, along with six returning veterans who will serve as mentors.

“During these extraordinary times, getting our veterans out of the house and supporting them with the liberating power of motorcycle therapy is more important than ever,” said Dave Frey, U.S. Army Veteran and Veterans Charity Ride Founder. “To be able to combine those efforts and honor our selfless and invaluable first responders during this unprecedented pandemic makes this journey even more gratifying. In light of COVID-19, we will be implementing necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy, as we come together to heal and support one another on our ride to the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.”

 

This year’s ride to Sturgis will start on July 29, 2020 in Moab, Utah where the group will cruise through the mountainous roads of Utah, stop in the cities of Craig and Fort Collins, Colorado and ride through some of the nation’s most scenic backroads and highways before arriving at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota on August 7, 2020. The travelers will be riding a variety of Indian Motorcycle models, outfitted with ReKluse auto clutch systems and custom-built Champion Sidecars for amputee and paraplegic veterans. The journey provides an experience for veterans to bond by implementing team-building exercises that allow riders to share stories and memories of their service during a two-week, mind-cleansing motorcycle ride.

For years, VCR has supported veterans by creating a healing atmosphere through motorcycle riding and camaraderie when stopping at several small towns to commemorate and honor our nation’s veteran heroes. This year, the event will have an added focus on lives outside of veterans, extended to first responders who have courageously held the frontlines in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.  By following strict safety and sanitary guidelines, VCR will extend an additional hand out to these frontline workers by providing personal protection equipment and hosting barbecues at select tour stops.

“Our nation’s veterans and healthcare workers are an inspiration, and we’re grateful to be a part of an experience that honors their selflessness and sacrifices for our country,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “We’re honored to continue supporting the Veterans Charity Ride and are humbled by their work and positive impact on our veterans.”

 

The Veterans Charity Ride to Sturgis was conceived and developed by veteran Army Paratrooper Dave Frey and Emmy Award-winning producer and director Robert Manciero, leveraging the therapeutic effects of motorcycle riding to create an adventure of a lifetime for wounded veterans.

 

To support the Veterans Charity Ride, donate, or to learn more visit IndianMotorcycle.com and VeteransCharityRide.org. Riders can also follow along on Indian Motorcycle’s social media channels: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and Veterans Charity Ride’s social media channels: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Reflecting back on our opening days, we were scrambling to understand our POS system, catch up on tagging inventory and educating our brand new staff on Scott, the building and our family.  There was so much we had to learn and even more we had to finish when we opened our doors and welcomed in our first customers inside.

We are so proud of our family, amazing team and you guys, our wonderful collectors and supporters!

Hey,

I could go in a lot of bummer directions today, but that misses the major point. We are absolutely living in the best of times, yet I suppose some folks are bored, so they need attack shit.

But I am moved by the brothers and sisters who recognize our flag, our monuments, our heritage and all the greatness flourishing in this country.

I’m hiding out in Deadwood, South Dakota and it’s crowded with folks and bikers who have come to smell the Jack Pine trees, ride through amazing highways, inhale the history of the Badlands and check the action in Sturgis.

We will get through this virus thing and party once more. In the meantime, the best things you can do to stay healthy and safe are to work out and ride motorcycles.

One of the bikes we shipped out, a 2015 touring Indian is in Vegas and the new owner can’t wait. He’s already figuring out what he can do to it. He built a sharp wooden platform so we can install my 1926 Peashooter in the house.

I’m trying to set up the garage, bought some welding supplies, need to find a bench and a few more tools.

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.

NEWS FROM THE JIMS TEAM– Support American Manufacturing

The crew at JIMS wishes you all a great 4th of July weekend! Celebrate our Independence day by getting out and riding your motorcycle, that’s our idea of social distancing! It is important always, but especially now, to support American made products. Keep reading for news on our latest tools!

Milwaukee-Eight® Oil Pump Alignment Tool

Proper assembly of the cam chest is one of the most common tasks performed on Harley Davidson engines. Assembling the cam support plate along with the oil pump, gerotors, and pump cover to perfectly align with the pinion shaft flats all while properly seating the oil pump O-ring in the case can be a challenge for one set of hands. This new alignment tool, No.5838, is the perfect aid for the technician to either assemble as individual components with the supplied studs, OR as an assembly with the alignment dowel – saving time and money.

Late Model Dipstick Socket Insert

In 2012 Harley-Davidson changed the design of the oil dipstick from a “socket style” cap to a “finger grasp” cap design. Although this design feature is intended to make it easier for the owner or technician to remove the dipstick, often times it is still very difficult to remove. Sometimes the technician needs to remove the dipstick prior to the bike cooling down, or the dipstick is simply “stuck” and hard to remove. No longer should you risk damaging the dipstick cap with a set of pliers. Simply install this insert (No.760), in your existing JIMS dipstick socket tool (Part No.759), and remove the finger grasp cap easily with no chance of damage.

https://youtu.be/BVQAHKFmqwM

FLAG RAISING CEREMONY AT THE CHIP–Jim has various media and television stations in SD & surrounding states. He sent a news crew out last Friday to record our annual flag raising in the Freedom Field.

He was impressed enough to have this 7 minute 30 second video produced. He just called to advise he will be broadcasting it on all media from now through July 4th.

I just want to share it and hope you enjoy it.

–Woody
Mayor
Town of Buffalo Chip

RED CROSS REPORT–40 Million+ Meals Distributed in 15 Weeks:

Red Cross-Los Angeles Unified Partnership Concludes with School Year

Today, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region completed a 15-week partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District serving more than 40 million meals to students and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Red Cross LA partnered with the nation’s second largest school district, Los Angeles Unified, to serve breakfast and lunch to the more than half a million students affected by school closures. Starting March 18, more than 1,200 Red Cross volunteers reported to the Grab & Go sites working shits from 6 –11 a.m.

In addition, the Red Cross is working with other local partners to provide meals, and to date has:

Assembled more than 34,700 meals at the L.A. Food Bank warehouse in Commerce
Distributed more than 35,600 meals at YMCA centers of Metropolitan Los Angeles
Assembled more than 40,300 meals at Khalsa Care Foundation in Pacoima
Distributed more than 2,000 meals at Sowing Seeds for Life Food Bank in La Verne

Facing the new normal head-on, the Red Cross in Los Angeles has also continued its work though new avenues trying to reach the broader community:

Red Cross AmeriCorps members have educated more than 25,800 individuals about disaster preparedness when they picked up food at the L.A. Unified Grab & Go Food sites and the YMCA centers.
This has given children and adults access to COVID-19 safety information, how to make a disaster preparedness kit, and how to download Monster Guard, an emergency preparedness mobile app designed for children.

Red Cross educators have provided free virtual disaster preparedness classes to the community, presented in English and Spanish), with classes geared toward preparing children.

Sign up for a class at redcross.org/la-virtual.

For the latest information on how you can help the Red Cross, please visit redcross.org/la-covid.

VENTED DIPSTICKS

Feuling billet aluminum dipsticks vent/breathe excessive crank case pressure from the oil tank through a PVC style breather consisting of an oil separator system, perforated disc, replaceable filter element and umbrella flapper valve. Feuling vented dipsticks screw into the factory oil fill spout as a stock replacement part. These breathing dipsticks remove unwanted build-up of blow by pressure in the oil tank.

Blow by is pressure that is forced past the rings & cylinders, pushed into the crankcase & then forced back into the oil tank. Feuling dipsticks help remove this unwanted pressure through a Crankcase Ventilation System (CVS). Test results show a decrease in engine oil sump levels, more freely/smoother revving engine, increased MPG & decreased blow by.

WE INCLUDE 2 VENTING OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM WHEN INSTALLING OUR DIPSTICK.ENGINES

The Pandemic Paradox: Motorcycle Sales Are Up

Although the economy is mostly tanking, many segments of the powersports industry showed increased sales in April and May, largely driven by off-road machines.

Read in Cycle World: https://apple.news/AvtETp9-_QOyssGKV5_7kZA

–Geno

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MOTORISTS’ RIGHTS–The need to advocate for motorists’ rights has grown during the time of COVID. NMA members need to be more vigilant than ever in their home communities and states.

This newsletter is a reflection of what we see trending nationally. Last week in Part 1, we looked into our crystal ball at speed limits, automated traffic enforcement, and street surveillance. In Part 2, the focus is on police reform, infrastructure, tolls, and some positive issues we see coming down the pike.

We also want to hear your predictions of “What’s Next?” Please email your comments to nma@motorists.org.

Police Reform

After the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, protests erupted in big cities and small towns around the country. Most protestors are demanding police reform and an end to police brutality. Why is this issue important to motorists? Most police interactions with the public are traffic-stop related.

The issue of police reform, transparency, and the role of enforcement will continue to be an issue in nearly every community. Both the US House and Senate are working on national police reform bills, and President Trump recently signed a related Executive Order.

The biggest concern for motorists in this police reform debate is that automated traffic enforcement does not become a default solution.

Infrastructure

Party politics dominate infrastructure at almost every level of government. Nationally, the Senate released last July a $287 billion plan to fix and maintain highways and bridges across the US. This month, the House offered its plan to tackle infrastructure after COVID-19 with an emphasis on maintenance, and increased funding for public transit. President Trump has also released an infrastructure plan that is receiving opposition due to the $1 trillion price tag.

States were struggling with funding infrastructure improvements before the pandemic crisis. Now, the situation has worsened due to the decrease in gas tax revenues during the pandemic.

Even though the Illinois gas tax will go up on July 1, the state’s DOT projected in early May that it could lose $560 million in revenue this year. Washington State similarly declared that up to 40 percent of revenue would be lost due to the crisis. The two states are not alone in delaying or canceling road projects for the remainder of the year.

How to pay for infrastructure and what kind of infrastructure to fund appear to be the two questions that very few elected officials (or political parties) can agree upon during this time.

Road Tolls, Congestion Pricing, and Road User Charges (ROC)

With the downturn in the economy, government officials and other bureaucrats will hawk road tolls and congestion pricing as the best way to pay for roads and other expenses. Some analysts claim that the gas tax is a nearly dead funding source due to the advent of electric vehicles and more efficient gas-powered cars. The situation isn’t helped by frequent raids on gas tax revenues by both state and federal officials to pay for various programs, including some not transportation related.

States are working hard to come up with answers on how to increase maintenance for older roads and bridges and investing in new infrastructure to support population growth. A prime example is the state of Michigan, which, before the pandemic hit, was already struggling with the magnitude of its infrastructure funding problem.

In 2019, state lawmakers had an open fight with Governor Gretchen Whitmer when she proposed a 45-cent increase to Michigan’s 26.3-cent fuel tax rate. She felt this was the easiest way to provide funds for road and bridge projects. Lawmakers disagreed, creating a six-month impasse until a plan for tolling roads in the state was hatched.

The Michigan Senate passed SB517, a bill that would establish a panel to investigate the feasibility of charging tolls on roads and bridges. That same bill has passed the House Transportation Committee, and now it’s on its way to the full House for a vote. The Governor was against tolls a year ago, and as recently as January said that she would like to see a number of funding sources for infrastructure.

Road User Charges, also referred to as a VMT (vehicle miles traveled) tax, continues to be seen as the alternative to the gas tax. If such a tax is ever implemented, this would mean that every mile you drive would be tracked and taxed.

We addressed the subject last year in this series of three newsletters:

Are we Slinking Ever Closer to a Universal Road User Charge?

Part 1 took a look at the national landscape
Part 2 examined what Congress was doing a year ago
Part 3 investigated regional and local efforts

Many cities will continue to push for congestion pricing. New York state lawmakers have already passed legislation for NYC to start the country’s first congestion pricing scheme. The state, though, has not yet received permission from the federal government to proceed. Boston, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle are toying with the idea.

Some Positive Issues for Motorists’ Rights

Civil Asset Forfeiture laws will continue to be reformed on the federal and state levels.

Overall traffic enforcement may be reduced as state, and local police resources are stretched thin due to budget cuts.
Rank-and-file police officers will feel more comfortable either whistleblowing or even suing police departments over ticket quotas.

Driverless and connected cars will not be deployed as predicted any time soon. There are too many algorithmic flaws and not enough funding to fix the road infrastructure to support them in the near future.

Many issues are ahead, and we need our readers of the Weekly E-Newsletter to support the efforts of the NMA and volunteers across the country who are standing up for motorists’ rights. Thank you for your support!

WILLIE IS ALREADY THINKING ABOUT BIKETOBERFEST--Here is the first draft of the Biketoberfest Ad, please let me know of any changes, corrections or additions.

–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
BLUE SKIES BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for June 25, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/BLUE_SKIES_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_June_25_2020.aspx

Great issue of the news but two comments. Firstly, I thought Stealth was being a bit precious with his Confederate comments about Harley-Davidson. It was okay back in the day to produce a Confederate model. It’s only the twisted snowflakes who get their panties in a knot trying to erase history. And secondly, Indian making the claim that their “HEATED & COOLED SEAT FEATURES

INDUSTRY-FIRST TECHNOLOGY FOR SUPERIOR COOLING”. Wrong, I’ve had one of Mike Corbin’s Fire & Ice saddles for well over a year now, so Indian is playing catch up.

— Doc Robinson
docrob@bigpond.com
Somerton Park, SA, Australia

Doc, how about a report about Mike’s seat. Is it using the same technology as the Indian seat?–Bandit

NEW ISSUE IS OUT FROM THE AMCA–
The current issue is in the mail now. If you are still awaiting the mail man and have not yet received your copy in the mail, you can click on the above cover image to see exactly the same magazine, containing every page, every story and every ad, from your desktop computer, your laptop, your tablet or even your phone!

If you’re a New Member or a recently renewed member whose membership expired before June 1st, your first (next) printed issue will be the following issue but please enjoy this digital issue this month.

For those in the U.S. you will receive your printed copy within days or may have already received it. Members in Canada and Mexico in a week or so and overseas in several weeks. Regardless of your postal services’ speed, everyone gets this version at the same time. Please note that due to the Coronavirus the U.S. Postal service is running very slow on periodic postage and Canadian and all Overseas postal services are experiencing double the time to receive magazines. Some may still be awaiting the previous issue. This is completely out of our control so please be patient.

The digital edition is an invaluable tool for members who want to find a story from an old magazine. As new magazines are posted, we are building up an archive of past issues you can refer to anytime, without fumbling through that stack of printed magazines in the corner of your shop.

All you’ll need to take advantage of this wonderful benefit is login at our website and start reading.

In the July/August issue, you’ll get:
— A look back at the Golden Age of four-cylinder motorcycles that actually began before the dawn of the 20th century.
— A virtual visit to the Perkiomen Chapter National Meet that wasn’t, as told through some of the motorcycles entered in judging there.
— An account of how this year’s Omaha Chapter National Meet turned Nebraska into the Sunshine State for one weekend in February.
— Plus, much more

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
My boss told me to have a good day. so, I went home.

Why is Peter Pan always flying? He neverlands.

A woman walks into a library and asked if they had any books about paranoia. The librarian says, “They’re right behind you!”

The other day, my wife asked me to pass her lipstick, but I accidentally passed her a glue stick. She still isn’t talking to me.

Why do blind people hate skydiving? It scares the hell out of their dogs.

When you look really closely, all mirrors look like eyeballs.

My friend says to me: “What rhymes with orange” I said: “No it doesn’t”

What do you call a guy with a rubber toe? Roberto.

What did the pirate say when he turned 80 years old? Aye maty.

My wife told me I had to stop acting like a flamingo. So, I had to put my foot down.

I couldn’t figure out why the baseball kept getting larger. Then it hit me.

–from Sam Burns
Official Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina Bad Joke Library

WILD NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Green Guru Michael Shellenberger, formerly Time Magazine’s “Hero of the Environment’: “On behalf of environmentalists everywhere, I would like to formally apologize for the climate scare we created over the last 30 years. Climate change is happening. It’s just not the end of the world. It’s not even our most serious environmental problem. I may seem like a strange person to be saying all of this. I have been a climate activist for 20 years and an environmentalist for 30.

But as an energy expert asked by Congress to provide objective expert testimony, and invited by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to serve as Expert Reviewer of its next Assessment Report, I feel an obligation to apologize for how badly we environmentalists have misled the public.”

Some people will, when they read this imagine that I’m some right-wing anti-environmentalist. I’m not. At 17, I lived in Nicaragua to show solidarity with the Sandinista socialist revolution…I became an environmentalist at 16 when I threw a fundraiser for Rainforest Action Network…In my 30s I advocated renewables and successfully helped persuade the Obama administration to invest $90 billion into them…

Scientific institutions including WHO and IPCC have undermined their credibility through the repeated politicization of science.

Until last year, I mostly avoided speaking out against the climate scare. Partly that’s because I was embarrassed. After all, I am as guilty of alarmism as any other environmentalist…I remained quiet about the climate disinformation campaign because I was afraid of losing friends and funding.

But then, last year, things spiraled out of control. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said “The world is going to end in twelve years if we don’t address climate change.” Britain’s most high-profile environmental group claimed “Climate Change Kills Children.”

And so my formal apology for our fear-mongering comes in the form of my new book, Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All.

It is based on two decades of research and three decades of environmental activism. At 400 pages, with 100 of them endnotes, Apocalypse Never covers climate change, deforestation, plastic waste, species extinction, industrialization, meat, nuclear energy, and renewables.

By: Marc Morano – Climate Depot

I immediately ordered this book.—Bandit

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2013 Harley-Davidson FLTRX – Road Glide Custom for $14,995.00

see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=8969957

2013 Harley Davidson street glide FLTRX

Candy Orange with Tan pinstriping

ONLY 39592 Miles !!!!!

*Candy orange paint
*Tan pinstriping
*Diamond stitch Danny Grey custom seat
*Upgraded Harley heal-Toe shifters
*Harley skull highway pegs
*Front L.E.D turn signals
*Open air high flow Air cleaner
*Freedom high flow true dual Header
*Freedom high flow slip-on’s
*Four point docking hardware
*103 cc V-twin
*6 speed Transmission
*Chrome gauge bezels
*Harley radio with handlebar controls
*21 inch flat bar meathook handlebars with internal wiring
*Braided Brake and Clutch cables
*Chrome passenger footpegs
*Color matched candy orange saddlebag latches
*Shorty antenna

This bike is flawless and perfect in every way!

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**

***90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!

Just $14,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

NEWS FROM CHRIS— My husband Gabe’s 1946 Harley Flathead chopper he built has been selected to be in the 2021 Snap-On Snap Shots calendar! Pretty excited; I took the photo.

Also, I just bought a 1969 AMX with a hot 360 and 4-speed.

–Chris Gibbany
Moto-journalist/Event host/Bike builder
Old Iron Never Dies!

[page break]

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–Hall of Fame Highlight Class of 2020

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is featuring Hall of Fame Highlights of this year’s outstanding new group of inductees. Here is a glimpse at what they had to say. For the full story join us at the 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (tickets available at Museum website).

Congratulations and welcome to Allen Alvarez.

Allen’s passion for motorcycles combined with a solid work ethic has defined the last 45 years of his life. Allen worked his way from a young parts dealer to owner of Daytona Twin Tec, in 2001. Allen has developed an extensive network of friends in the industry and he recalls a time when he personally covered a small shop’s spring order so they could get on their feet, “I helped whoever I could,” he said.

Allen has had a hand in the success of so many businesses. What others tried to do and failed at, Allen made happen. What’s the secret to his success? “It’s not because I had a background in any of this. But I was already in the door. There was no one calling on the shops like I did. I went into places no one would go into and I treated everyone the same.”

The fact that Allen remains friends with so many of the people he’s met in his 45 years in motorcycling is a testament to that.

Wednesday, August 12

8:30 AM – 12:30 PM MDT

The Lodge at Deadwood
100 Pine Crest Drive

Deadwood, SD 57732

SALVATION ARMY: OFFICIAL CHARITY FOR THE VIRUS BUSTER RUN
We are very proud and incredibly excited to announce our official charity partner for the Virus Buster Run: The Salvation Army. The Sallies are an organization of tireless workers who build schools, hospitals and provide genuine community support around the world.

They’ve been in New Zealand since 1883 and since then have woven their kindness and community work into our kiwi identity: support your neighbour, offer a smile and lend a hand.

The Sallies recently created an online foodbank by teaming up with a Nelson-based developer and Countdown supermarkets. To donate users select a “food bundle” which includes essential ingredients for cooking. Once paid for Countdown delivers the donated items to the nearest participating Salvation Army Foodbank.

In the midst of the pandemic foodbanks are facing the busiest winter ever seen, and it’s likely to continue into 2021. The Sallies Foodbank Project creates a direct and transparent connection between someone wanting to help and people in need.

The Foodbank Project’s ingenuity coupled with the passion and history of the Sallies is a perfect match for the Virus Buster Run; a ride to support domestic tourism and small businesses throughout the country.

Our Salvation Army liaison, Public Relations Northern Relationships Manager Donna Hedley commented as follows:

“This event aimed to support the hospitality sector across the country is a great way for kiwis to support the industry. And adding value by raising further funds to support our Foodbank along the way is brilliant.”

Donna and other Salvation Army members will be present at events along the run to thank attendees and connect with riders.

NEXT STEPS:
You can donate to the Food Bank Project today, follow this link.

We are about to release the official Virus Buster Run t-shirt which is being designed by Jeremy Bennet who was Art Director for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

$5 from each t-shirt sold goes towards the Foodbank Project.

Raffle tickets are sold in each town on the way South towards the Burt Munro Challenge. (Coromandel, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Geraldine, Queenstown and Burt Muuro Challenge).

The prize consists of donated Planet Chopper merchandise and gift cards donated by motorcycle dealers including Auckland Harley Davidson. 100% of the ticket proceeds go to The Salvation Army Foodbank Project.

On the Saturday night of the Burt Munro Challenge, during an official time slot, we will formally announce the raffle winner and briefly talk about the run and the Sallies. Thanks to the Burt Munro Organising Committee for facilitating this and allowing raffle tickets to be sold at the venue.

Please follow the official Virus Buster Run Facebook page to stay up to date with the latest news.

This is the official page for the ride:
https://www.planetchopper.world/virus-buster-run

On another note, the Long Road will now be heading to our roadhouse in Virginia. They will do a local ride and scavenger hunt in our region.

–Ben

THE TWO-WHEELED LEGACY–
I got this from a friend and thought I would share

I own a motorcycle because of a personal life choice.
One day when I am very old and when I cannot ride anymore, it will be in my garage as a trophy of my memories.
I have met people who taught me something and have the same spirit.
I meet people now who get wisdom from me.

I get wet,
I get cold,
And I have been hot,
I was afraid,
I fell,
And I stood up,
I even hurt myself,
But also, I laughed out loud with the wind.
I spoke a thousand times with myself and God. Still do.
I sang and shouted with joy like a madman,
And yes … sometimes I cried.
I have seen wonderful places because of motorcycles.
I have made curves that even my brothers would be proud of; other times I made curves full of terror.
I stopped many times to see a landscape.
I spoke with perfect strangers.
I go out with frustrations inside and return home with a feeling of absolute peace in my heart.
I always think how dangerous it is, knowing that the meaning of courage is to advance even feeling fear.
Every time I go up to my ride, I think about how wonderful it is. I learned through gestures to communicate with other riders.
I spend money that I do not have, I gave up many things, but it’s all worth it…
My bike is not a means of transportation but is a piece of iron with wheels that God has blessed me with, it’s part of who I am.

May God bless my friends and their joy of great people & motorcycles!

–from Wayfarer and Rogue
Bikernet Staff Members

BILTWELL BIKE OF THE WEEK–WTF
Rouser Rolls a Fatty

Our good friend and Pro-Leisure Tour Champion Rob “Rouser” Galan likes to zig when everyone else zags. With the current rage of lifted, club-style FXRs ripping around our HQ in Southern California, there was no way he was gonna build a bike that blended in.

Starting with an S&S V111, a hand-me-down frame, a pair of 16” tires and some old yellow tins, the shape of “Gordo” started to become apparent. Rob wanted it low, fat and mostly black.

At first glance it seems like an all-black bike. Little bits of Pete “Hot Dog” Finlan’s candy orange paint on the oil tank, inside the fairing and on the tank strap reveal themselves once you give it a second look.

See the whole feature and his video on the Biltwell site. It’s Otto talking about his ugly FXR and telling the world that his EVO was tired and clapped, then all of a sudden he knifes open a box and there is a new S&S V111 long-block in there, and he says, ”Here you go Rob.”

I was so stoked, I watch the video clip a dozen times, my legs were shaking with excitement, all sorts of ideas were racing thru my head on how to make the “ugly” FXR nicer to compliment the new engine that was just gifted to me from Biltwell and S&S.

-Rouser
www.biltwell.com

THE TEXAS ROCK ‘N’ ROLL REPORT– Guitarist, I REALLY need a quality scanner as I might actually have a few good Stevie Ray Vaughan images? Nurse GoodBody snuck my camera into this concert, but I took slide film.

Never really spoke to them, as he had on a white suit & they looked blown out. Just figured I’d go better next time, so one of Ally Venable from the Continental Club in Houston in 2018 and Tyler Bryant from the House of Blues, same year.

–RFR
Certified Event Photographer
Bikernet.com™

MRF AND SMRO TEAMS ROAM THE HALLS OF WASHINGTON SUCCESSFULLY–At the end of last week, Steve Panten, Legislative Director of ABATE of Wisconsin and Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, President of the MRF, made the trip out to DC to meet with members of the Wisconsin delegation. Having missed out on Bikers Inside the Beltway, this was a great opportunity to remind the folks on Capitol Hill about motorcycle priorities.

Capitol Hill still remains on lockdown with most offices working from home and strict restrictions on visitors into the Capitol Complex. Despite these challenges, Steve and Hardtail managed three in-person meetings with Wisconsin offices as well as three calls with staff.

ABATE of Wisconsin and the MRF met in person with Senator Ron Johnson’s Chief of Staff and conducted a phone call with Senator Tammy Baldwin’s staff. The purpose of these conversations was to press the Senate to include identical provisions in their Highway Bill as those that are included in the House version.

Phone calls with the staff of Congressmen Mike Gallagher and Mark Pocan focused on thanking the two offices for their help on motorcycle issues. Congressman Gallagher was the lead sponsor of the amendment to the highway bill that fixes the Motorcycle Advisory Council. Congressman Pocan has been an original cosponsor of our profiling resolution over the past 3 Congresses.

Our team also had an in-person meeting with Congressman Brian Steil to discuss issues facing motorcyclists in the state and the current political environment in Wisconsin. With strict restrictions in place on office meetings, this one took place at a coffee shop down the street from the Capitol.

Our final meeting was with Congressman Tom Tiffany. Congressman Tiffany was elected in a special election earlier in the month as was just sworn into office a few weeks back. This was the first in-person meeting his office has held in DC since he was elected. ABATE of Wisconsin has made a point of personally meeting all newly elected members of their delegation and this trip was made with the main objective of meeting the new Congressman.

MRF PAC Breakfast

On Friday morning, your MRF team attended a private breakfast with Congressman Troy Balderson of Ohio. As you may remember, Congressman Balderson was one of the lead champions of our motorcycle amendments to the highway bill. At breakfast, Hardtail presented the Congressman with a check from the MRF PAC. This check was a way to say thank you for his efforts to protect the rights of all motorcyclists.

For over an hour, we discussed all things motorcycles. The Congressman even knew which Harley shop Tiffany stopped at to find a replacement part while riding through Ohio two years ago. Thank you to everyone that contributes to the MRF PAC. The PAC allows us to support our champions on Capitol Hill and gives us a relaxed environment to share ideas and stories about motorcycles.

A Story for the Ages

As we were finishing our final meeting of the trip with Congressman Tom Tiffany, we discovered that he and Hardtail were on the same flight back to Minneapolis that evening. After realizing that they live relatively close to one another, the Congressman asked Hardtail, “Would you mind giving me a ride home from the airport?” Not one to miss an opportunity Hardtail quickly said, “Sure!”

So, after arriving in Minneapolis, your MRF President chauffeured a newly elected Congressman 3.5 hours home. The only stop along the way was at a Jimmy John’s to grab a sandwich for dinner. It is still unclear who paid the tab for the food.

Needless to say, after over 3 hours in a car with Hardtail, we’re confident that the newly elected Congressman is fully briefed on all our motorcycle priorities and should be an ally for years to come!

We are a little disappointed that Hardtail decided to take his SUV to the airport instead of one of his bikes. Strapping a Congressman onto the back of a Harley would have made for an even better story!

Ride Free,

–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation

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.

METZELER PRESENTS THE NEW RACETEC TD SLICK-– A TIRE THAT MAKES EACH LAP OF EVERY CIRCUIT COUNT

.

RACETEC TD SLICK becomes part of the METZELER slick racing tire range and is dedicated to motorcyclists and club racers for both racing and track day events.

RACETEC TD Slick is a track tire that is quick and easy to use. The RACETEC TD SLICK can be used without tire warmers and does not require any changes to a rider’s normal set-up to perform at its best. RACETEC TD Slick’s main features include consistent high performance over multiple sessions, versatility on different asphalt types and operating temperatures, high abrasion resistance and the possibility of reversing the rear tire between sessions (if the circuit wears a tire more on one side).

RACETEC ™ TD Slick has been designed for motorcyclists who want the advantage of a slick product but without the need for additional racing equipment (stands / electric blankets / power generators, etc.) or the refined set-up of motorcycle and suspension that a slick racing tire usually requires.

RACETEC™ TD Slick is therefore intended for all motorcyclists who look for the performance of a slick tire. Expert riders who need a plug & play product for long practice sessions as well as club racers who require an excellent value for their money. The RACETEC™ TD Slick is a tire that allows riders to focus on improving lap times throughout the race weekend.

RACETEC™ TD Slick is part of the METZELER slick racing portfolio with a range that includes one front and four rear sizes which are most commonly found as original equipment on supersport bikes, to further testify the plug & play characteristics of the product.

The METZELER slick product family includes also the renowned RACETEC™ RR Slick, a tire for top competition, available in different compounds according to the type of use. The K1 compound is dedicated to professional use in the Superbike class of road racing such as the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy and various national championships. The K2 compound is the most versatile within the RACETEC™ RR Slick range and is developed for those competitions at professional and amateur level where it is necessary to combine constant peak performance over several sessions, resulting in the best solution on particularly demanding circuits and in endurance sessions.

The range

The RACETEC™ TD SLICK range includes the following sizes, all currently available:
Size
Front120/70 XR 17 NHS TL
Rear180/60 ZR 17 NHS TL
200/55 ZR 17 NHS TL

NEWS FROM WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM–This month, not only do you have a chance to win this incredible 1939 Harley-Davidson, but you also have the chance to experience the history that inspired it! By entering our annual raffle at the “Great Deal” package or higher, you will also be entered to win a 3-day 2-night stay in the Great smoky Mountains to Visit “The Museum That Runs!”

STURGIS CUSTOM BIKE SHOW–
Sunday, August 9, 2020
FREE TO ENTER – OPEN TO ALL

Cycle Source Magazine presents the 14th Annual Sturgis Custom Bike Show

Sunday, August 9th, 2020
10:00 am – 2:00 pm, awards to follow
Located at Iron Horse Saloon Sturgis

FREE to enter – all entries and spectators welcome.

Best of show wins a custom roller, plus 25 bike show classes offer huge opportunity to walk away with prizes or trophies.

Cycle Source Magazine photographers will be at the event and your bike could be featured in the magazine!

Full Service RV Sites Available

Need a camping for the 80th Anniversary Sturgis Rally? Full-service RV sites are available and include:
Water Connection
20, 30, & 50 amp Power (All 3 included at every site!)
Sewer Drain at Site

Located 3 miles East of Downtown Sturgis on Lazelle Street / Highway 34.

Online reservations at Steel Pony Campground.

HERE’S A GOOD QUESTION …

“I just watched the Democratic leaders of Congress kneel in the halls of Congress for about 9 minutes, for the death of a black man named George Floyd.

I have never seen them kneel for a fallen Police Officer.

I have never seen them kneel for a fallen Soldier. I NEVER SAW THEM KNEEL FOR THE SOLDIERS THAT HILLARY AND OBAMA LEFT TO DIE IN Benghazi!!

I have never seen them kneel for a murdered white man or woman.

I have not seen them kneel for the thousands of black-on-black murder victims.

I have not seen them kneel for the thousands of elderly people that died in nursing homes due to the Corona Virus.

I have to ask: WHY are Democrats putting the life of George Floyd as more valuable than the lives of everyone else?

In fact, Democrats have put so much value on the life of George Floyd, they have allowed rioting, looting, arson, murder, and mayhem in communities nationwide??

–from Mr. Wonderful

Temperature Hits 100 Degrees Above Arctic Circle, Just Like 100 Years Ago
By Anthony Watts, Climate Realism

Over the past few days, the news media, social media, and even the Drudge Report have been overheating about a 100-degree temperature reading in Siberia. For example, a trending tweet, below, claims Siberia is “literally on fire”:

Prominent climate activist Bill McKibben, founder of the climate activist organization, 350.org, tweeted on the 100-degree temperature recorded in Verkhoyansk Siberia:

“Siberian town tops 100 degrees F, the hottest temperature ever recorded north of the Arctic Circle. This scares me, I have to say.”

He’s scared? Well, what about the other times when it got that hot above the Arctic circle, before “climate change” became a social justice cause?

For example, this Associated Press article says “…it was 100 degrees on June 27, 1915, in Fort Yukon, [Alaska] according to official records of the National Weather Service. Records date back to 1904.”

That pretty much cools down Bill’s claim of “the hottest temperature ever recorded north of the Arctic Circle”. Both Verkhoyansk, Siberia and Fort Yukon, Alaska are well above the latitude that defines the Arctic Circle. How is it that 105 years of global warming ago, when “climate change” wasn’t even a factor, that it got that hot? Inquiring minds want to know.

Or how about the fact that the 100-degree reading in Verkhoyansk, Siberia, this week topped Verkhoyansk’s previous record (37.3C / 99.1F) by just 1 degree? Verkhoyansk’s previous record was set back in the 1980s, more than 30 years of global warming ago.

Climate activists spreading alarm about Siberian summer temperatures are ignoring that the geography and meteorological patterns of Siberia make Siberia prone to both cold winters and hot summers. Verkhoyansk has an extreme climate dominated much of the year by high pressure. This has the effect of cutting off the region from moderating temperature factors and facilitating long stretches with little cloud cover. In the winter, this leads to extensive cold. In the summer, the opposite is true, leading to very high temperatures.

According to the Moscow Times:

“Verkhoyansk holds the Guinness World Record for the highest recorded temperature range of 105 C, fluctuating from minus 68 C to a high of 37 C. The previous temperature record for the isolated town of around 1,300 residents stood at 37.3 C [99.1F] in July 1988.”

In other words, such extremes are normal for this place. With only 100 years of temperature records there, and the planet being billions of years old, it isn’t at all surprising that we still haven’t measured the extremes of natural variation, both hot and cold, for Siberia.

[page break]

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT DISCUSSION WITH GEOGRAPHIC CLASS–bight
[ bahyt ]
noun

a bend or curve in the shore of a sea or river.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF BIGHT?
Bight has several senses in Modern English. It can refer to a bend or curve in the shore of a sea or river, a body of water bounded by such a bend, or the loop or bent part of a rope. Following the twists and turns of its morphology, we arrive at Middle English byght, bight, beghte, beythe “the fork of the legs, the pit or hollow of the arm, (in names) bend or bay,” from Old English byht “a bending, corner, dwelling, bay, bight.”

The English word comes from Germanic buhtiz, from the Proto-Indo-European root bheug(h)-, bhoug(h)-, bhug(h)– “to bend,” which is the source of Sanskrit bhujáti “(he) bends,” Gothic biugan and Old English bugan, both meaning “to bow,” and Old English boga “arch, bow” (as in English rainbow and bow and arrow).

HOW IS BIGHT USED?
The boardwalk weaves along the bight from the ferry terminal on Grinnell to the end of Front Street.

MELISSA COLEMAN, “36 HOURS IN KEY WEST, FLA.” NEW YORK TIMES, APRIL 29, 2015

A bight is simply a long and gradual coastal curve that creates a large bay, often with shallow waters. You’re likely already familiar with a number of bights — for instance, the area between Long Island and New Jersey on the East Coast is known as the New York Bight, while California’s Channel Islands live in the Southern California Bight, which stretches all the way from Santa Barbara to San Diego.

HANNAH LOTT-SCHWARTZ, “AUSTRALIA’S SOUTHERN COAST HAS STUNNING VIEWS AND INCREDIBLE WILDLIFE YOU WON’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE,” TRAVEL & LEISURE, JULY 14, 2019

Jason Farrell Sets Motorcycle Track Record with New Pirelli DIABLO Superbike Slicks at Brainerd International Raceway

New, Larger DIABLO™ Superbike 125/70-17 Front and 200/65-17 Rear Sizes Continue to Set the Pace and Are Available now Through Pirelli Trackside Vendors

Pirelli Tire North America congratulates Farrell Performance’s Jason Farrell on capturing the brand’s second absolute motorcycle track record bounty of 2020.

Farrell set the new track record on the Competition Course layout at Brainerd International Raceway during the Central Roadracing Association (CRA) racing series. The success came while using the recently introduced new, larger Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slick sizes, which have been derived from Pirelli’s involvement as the tire supplier for the FIM MOTUL World Superbike Championship.

Farrell’s new lap record of 1:34.870 was set during the Unlimited GP race on Lap 2, topping Kyle Ohnsorg’s track record of 1:34.976 that was set in 2018 on Pirelli slicks. Farrell’s Kawasaki NINJA ZX™-10R motorcycle was equipped with Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike 125/70-17 SC2 front and 200/65-17 SC1 rear slicks.

Pirelli continues to offer a tire credit prize for setting a new motorcycle track record and Farrell became the second rider to earn the reward this season.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

FOUR PLAY FROM ERIC HERRMANN—A confident and determined woman with her 1913 Henderson, four-cylinder race bike. A classic pose that could have been from 1913.

Andrea LaBarbara was my model for this brave woman and she is racing #98 in the 2018 Cannonball Race from Coast to Coast this year. Riding a 1913 Henderson, this commercial jet pilot and avid motorcyclist is the real deal.

“Four Play” an original acrylic painting, has been preproduced in several formats from $45 to $2000 and is destined to become one of the classics of motorcycle art. The original painting is in a private collection.

Slip over to Eric Herrmann Studios in Cave Creek, AZ or to his web site EricHerrmannStudios.com

ANTIQUE MEET CONCERNS--Another day has passed and we received word that they have yet to make a decision on the Davenport Antique Motorcycle Swap Meet yet…

Another meeting is scheduled for July 18th…It is gonna be a tough call to make and much of the decision is going to come from The state, the country, the local and Fairgrounds board executives….It is not going to be just The Chief Blackhawk’s call….So be patient and pray that this meet will come off….We are all so looking forward to a swap meet….

–Jeff Coffman

BIKERNET READER MESSAGE--Just reread “BANDITS RIDE TO STURGIS” in “BIKER” December 1998 issue #165.What a great article that I still enjoy reading from time to time.

Brings back good memories of some of my road trips. Having grown up in Wyoming specifically Shoshoni, I enjoy your take on travel there. I llike your view of the Lucky Five Bar or as you refer to it, as the 5-Ball bar.

What a great place to have grown up in Shoshoni not the 5-Ball bar. Congrats on your move from Commiefornia to the Black Hills. Hope you continue to write more interesting stories.

I look forward to “BIKERNET” articles, news etc. Back to rereading SAM”CHOPPER”ORWELL.

–John Hoffman

THE TEXAS REDHEAD WEATHER REPORT– Headed back to Willis tomorrow to finish cleaning out the barn, but still got a D.I.W. Dead in Willis Bronco. She does have fuel pressure, maybe a PCM?

Moved my toolbox, top on same as the trip out, but it was in an enclosed trailer with both boxes strapped to the wall. Open trailer on the return, top strapped to the bottom!

The tool box is an older girl ‘82 or ‘83, bought the bottom through Snap On, then he just happened to have the top box on the truck next week! Sure “truck credit” is fine! So, I’ve gotten where I don’t like removing the drawers, afraid something will happen?

Glad 98% of the important stuff is situated. Trying to decide if I should use the front elevated for storage and move the table to the main floor. Open up the sides, behind the Dyna 6 big plastic totes. Did I mention my 10×30 storage of my grandfathers, fathers and my bs? Need a 24 ft ladder?

It was a nice barn and the garage from the strip club days & the Little Red Rigid, I miss her so!

Did I share the magazines before Lucky Devil gave em to me a while back, finally got ‘em on the wall.

–RFR
Redhead Blues Specialists Reporter
Bikernet.com™

Someone has nicely explained the irony in the present situation:

“ Never have I seen
such a mess in life.

The air is pure but
wearing a mask is
mandatory.

Roads are empty
but it is impossible
to go on long drive.

People have clean
hands but there is a
ban on shaking hands.

Friends have time to
sit together but they
cannot get together.

The cook inside you
is crazy, but you cannot
call anyone to lunch or
dinner.

Every Monday,
the heart longs to go out, but the weekend does not seem to end.

Those who have money
have no way to spend it.

Those who don’t have
money have no way to
earn it.

There is enough time
on hand but you can’t
fulfill your dreams.

The culprit is all around
but cannot be seen.

A world full of irony!
Be positive but test negative.”

–Wayfarer
Bureau Chief
Bikernet News Desk
India

MORE WAYS TO LEARN-TO-RIDE AVAILABLE NOW FROM
HARLEY-DAVIDSON–“Experience the Ride” and “Learn to Ride” Programs Offer New Ways to Experience Two Wheels.

Turn “Someday I’ll ride a motorcycle,” into “Today” with new ways to learn to ride from participating Harley-Davidson dealers.

Inspired by new rider feedback, select Harley-Davidson dealers are offering two new programs that aim to make learning to ride more convenient and personalized.

These new programs are designed to provide flexible scheduling and a learning pace that suits the rider’s needs. Personal coaching sessions can be scheduled 1-on-1, or as a private group with up to 4 participants.

Experience the Ride

This newly developed program is designed specifically for those who have never ridden a motorcycle but are interested in trying. Under the guidance of a professional coach, participants will ride a Harley-Davidson Street® 500 motorcycle across a practice range. The entire experience takes approximately 90 minutes and is completed on a bike specially equipped for new riders.

Experience the Ride is a low commitment, no pressure way for potential riders to get behind the handlebars and experience riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for the first time.

This program can help participants decide if learning to ride is right for them, alleviate potential anxiety before taking rider training, and help realize how motorcycles can unlock their dreams of personal freedom.

To learn more and schedule a session, visit www.hdpersonalcoachfinder.com

Learn to Ride

For those that have decided to learn to ride, select Harley-Davidson dealers are now offering an additional option beyond the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course.

This new program, simply known as Learn to Ride, delivers the same time-tested rider training curriculum as the Riding Academy New Rider Course. However, Learn to Ride enables students to schedule private sessions with personal coaches and learn all the techniques and riding strategies required to earn a motorcycle endorsement.

For riders that always wanted to learn but couldn’t fit a multi-day course into their schedule or prefer to learn in private session, this program is what they have been waiting for. Sessions can be scheduled 1-on-1 or as a private party with up to 4 participants. This program is a great option for spouses, friends, and individuals to finally learn and fulfill their dreams of riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Benefits of the Learn to Ride program include highly flexible scheduling, learning at the rider’s pace, more focused attention from the coach, ability to repeat training modules if needed, and completion of private sessions solo or with a small group of friends resulting in lower anxiety.

To learn more and schedule your personalized Learn to Ride lesson visit the www.hdpersonalcoachfinder.com website.

About Harley-Davidson Riding Academy
Harley-Davidson Riding Academy is a leader in high quality rider training. These two new options are designed to complement the existing Riding Academy programs and make learning to ride more attainable and accessible. These programs are just one more way Harley-Davidson is leading the industry in building riders.

Offered at select H-D dealers, H-D Riding Academy provides expert guidance from Harley-Davidson certified coaches. In the classroom, students get to know the motorcycle they will be riding and learn the basics of rider safety skills. On the practice range, students learn to build skills and confidence, everything from braking, turning and skilled maneuvers. To find available courses contact a local dealer or search for classes online at www.h-d.com/LearntoRide.

NEW FROM V-TWIN–Retro Style Fork Protectors

A hallmark of the streetbikes of yesteryear, the advent of chromed, polished, DLC and anodized fork tube finishes saw the use of fork boots diminish to the point where there are very few major brand middleweight and above models that come with them as stock.

However, they are one of those finishing touches that convincingly “speak retro”, adding a touch of authenticity, and they do still have a role to play – extending seal life and protecting those expensive fork tube finishes from the rigors of street riding – especially in bad weather and in urban settings.

Made of heavy-duty, ozone-resistant rubber, they fit 39 mm tubes and come with an extra rib for a “more relaxed look”.

TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin

–from AMD News

EICMA/’Milan’ Show–
Canceled for 2020

Following the news that INTERMOT (Cologne, Germany, October) had been canceled until its next due event in 2022, Confindustria ANCMA (the National Association of Manufacturers of Bicycles, Motorbikes and Accessories) that owns and operates EICMA at Milan in November each year has, as expected, confirmed cancellation of its show until November 2021.

CONTROL FREAKS’ SQUARE–
Congressional Democrats today unveiled a “Climate Crisis Action Plan” similar to the Green New Deal proposed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez last year, which sounded like a dream to many progressives and climate activists.

At the heart of the proposal are billions in new subsidies and a federal mandate to achieve 100% renewables.

There has already been widespread attention to the high economic cost of renewable energy mandates. University of Chicago economists found that “consumers in the twenty-nine states paid $125.2 billion more for electricity” because of them.

But now, in response to a growing number of lawsuits and regulations, and a new Michael Moore documentary about the environmental impacts of renewables, the wind industry increasingly finds itself on the defensive.

–Michael Shellenberger
President, Environmental Progress

NHDRO Postpones to One BIG Weekend

Although NHDRO’s Mid-Season Sizzle at Lucas Oil Raceway in Brownsburg, Indiana, this past weekend turned out to be more Drizzle than Sizzle, postponing it to a two-race, four-day weekend on July 30-August 2 creates a full-on hurricane of motorcycle drag racing action!

With a sketchy forecast in play for the Indianapolis area during the first big race of 2020, NHDRO’s Brian and Niki Welch went into their hurry-up offense and scheduled two rounds of qualifying on Friday night. After that it was all rain all the time, so one more round of qualifying and eliminations will be run when the NHDRO family comes back to Indy for The Big Show.

Nothing describes “hurry-up” better than Pro Street provisional number one qualifier Gabe Frederick’s Friday.

“We got a late start to our trip,” said Frederick, who travelled from central Missouri. “We pulled into the track as they were prepping for the pros and had just enough time to throw on my gear and roll the bike out of the trailer and up to the line—just in time to get in at the end of Q1 for the class.”

Frederick’s turbocharged Suzuki Hayabusa may not have a professional paint job, but few owner/tuner/riders could have come off the trailer the way Gabe did Friday night and put up a 6.74 at 213 miles per hour literally minutes after pulling into the pits. That’s a real pro.

“I knew I had a decent tune-up in the bike, but the weather was a little worse than I thought and it was a little lazy in the front half. I tried to give it a bit more for Q2 but it was just more than the track could handle.”

With bullhorns spraying a strong nitrous flame the whole 1320, Gaige Herrera qualified number two with a 6.90 at 206.

Quicktime Racing’s Rudy Sanzottera, Brad Christian, Brett Ware, Kieth Bobo, and Matt Moen filled out the field.

Dan McCarten’s 4.614 is so far, so good in Pro Ultra 4.60—the world’s quickest eighth mile, two wheel index class, presented with the I-65 series.

McCarten took his venerable Kawasaki to Jeff Jones and the Fast Time Motorsports crew to massage the bike over the off-season. “After a disastrous 2019, I wasn’t taking any chances of a repeat,” said Dan. “Jeff did one of his meticulous wiring jobs on the Ol’ ‘War Machine.’ I also had the season-long transmission gremlins addressed.

“This past weekend was the first race of the season for me with only a handful of test passes prior. I’d say it’s 95% back on track with only a minor datalog issue to straighten out.

“It’s obviously very early in my year, but all the indicators are pointing in the right direction. The original plan for Friday was just go A to B and button shift it to be sure all was good. I accidentally short shifted the 3-4 shift. It lugged the motor down pretty hard but I just let it eat because getting all 4 gears was the only real concern. I was surprised to see the 4.64 on the board.

“On the second one, I was a bit more focused on the other details, like shifting, reacting, and actually going straight. Without being able to see any data, I left the same tune-up in and rolled the 4.61 up on the board—which was a far stretch from most of last year.”

Jones sits fifth and champion Smokin’ Joe Rodney sits at the end of the order in 12th, unable to slow his new Kawasaki down to stay within the index.

Kounselor Kenny Schwartz currently leads Hardcore Cycles Top Gas 8.20 index—also presented with I-65—with an 8.211, but even Schwartz knows he’ll have to do better than that to hold the position. “There’s still one round left,” noted the St. Louis lawyer, who added: “I was lucky not to fall off on that pass!”

Schwartz launches his turbo Kawasaki dragbike with a 2-step button. “The button is very, very sensitive. I was lightening up the pressure a bit like I always do and it left. It definitely caught me by surprise.”

Still, with a new engine, new rear wheel, new tire, new sprocket and a new chain, Schwartz was pretty pleased with the bike’s performance.

Fellow St. Louis racer Mike Wagner sits .001 back, with Garreth Shepheard .001 behind Wags.

Dustin “Biscuits” Lee currently sits as the first-ever M2.Shocks 8.70 Quick Street number one qualifier—a feat since no one has had to run to this index before.

“Heck, I didn’t know what I needed to do to run 8.70,” said multi-class champion Lee. “So I made one pass during testing and went a 8.62 and thought ‘Okay, change a couple things and I will be close.’”

Lee was just either side of the number when he ran an 8.72 in Q1 and 8.69 in Q2. “I said ‘That’ll do, little piggy, that’ll do!’”

Dave Page sits second, followed by Colton Gordon, Mitch Pennington, and the rest of the field.

Bob “The” Mann leads 8.90 index Super Comp with an 8.909 after two sessions that saw many superstars running too quick, including Crazy Comp champ David Beshara, Ron “Ju-Jitsu” Arnold, former Top Gas champ Greg Mallett, Bruce Damewood, and Wes Brown and his GSXR of Renown.

Mann doesn’t expect that number to hold up for number one come July. “I left .008 to get by me,” said Bob. “We’ll see what happens next month.”

When NHDRO dropped the Street Fighter index from 9.50 to 9.30 and allowed wheelie bars, dragbike veteran Joseph Klemme stepped in ready to take full advantage. Klemme is a lock to be the first-ever Dirty 30 9.30 index number one qualifier, as his first round 9.300 can’t be beat. Street Fighter champion Ron Arnold sits sixth with a 9.334.

Dustin “Naked Boy” Clark sits number one for the first, full, quarter mile round of the much-anticipated HTP Super Stock class. Patrick Cooper led Q1 on his Suzuki GSXR1000, but wasn’t as clean in Q2 and Clark was able to knock him off with an 8.852 at 159.61 mph on a Kawasaki ZX14.

“I work a bunch, but have managed to test twice and have been a bunch of 8.91.8.92 passes,” said Clark, who then described modifications to his bike:

“These days it’s ‘Run your bike through Brock’s Performance,’ It has a Sprint air filter, Brock’s exhaust, Brock’s clutch mod, Brock’s springs, Brock’s oil, Power Commander 5, and a Dragmax tire. Simple as that.

“The hard part is getting a great tune and chassis set-up to make a smooth, fast pass, and cut a bulb.”

Neither Kevin Dennis Insurance Street ET nor MPS Pro ET had a chance to race, but VooDoo Grudge slipped in some Friday night action. Josh Keller took an all-Louisville win over Brad Holland. Holland led the first 60 feet when Keller’s ‘Busa bogged a touch at launch, but then Brad’s “Killer Bee” launched skyward before settling back for the loss in a shower of sparks.

Three racers entered Jr. Dragster, but never got the chance to race. As part of its family focus, NHDRO is committed to the Jr. Dragster class.

“We consider everybody at the track as family, and family are the ones that showed up this weekend, regardless of the forecast,” said Niki Welch. “We just really appreciate the racers that stuck it out with us. Several people come in registration saying, ‘I don’t care if it rained all weekend, I would come anyway.’ And we certainly appreciate that.”

NHDRO allowed racers who arrived on Saturday but didn’t get a chance to qualify to come and register before they left on Sunday after the race was announced as postponed. “That way we would at least know that they were here,” said Niki.

So the Midwest’s largest all-motorcycle drag racing series is now set up for its biggest race ever at Lucas Oil Raceway on July 30-August 2. There will be over $110,000 in payout, including the $62,000 BB Racing Bracket Shootout on Saturday. The June race finishes on Friday, and the normal racing schedule is set for Sunday.

You will want to be part of the NHDRO family as they come back to the best track on the planet for The Big Show.

Find out more about NHDRO at http://www.nhdroracing.com/

[page break]

TWISTED ROAD NEWS–Twisted Road Engages Windy-City Fox Motorsports, LLC to provide first of its kind motorcycle demo to own program.

Windy City-Fox Motorsports www.windycitymc.com, the premier network of motorcycle dealerships serving the greater Milwaukee and Chicago areas, has engaged with Twisted Road® to offer an incredible new motorcycle riding and purchasing experience, an experience that will provide riders convenient, easy and inexpensive access to motorcycles to test, rent, ride and own.

Twisted Road, the leading peer-to-peer motorcycle rental platform, has joined forces with Windy City-Fox Motorsports and their 15 retail locations with over 1,500 pre-owned motorcycles, to offer riders the largest selection of pre-owned, professionally inspected motorcycles for rentals, test riding and demo-to-own.

This first ever program allows Twisted Road to host Windy City-Fox’s expansive fleet of motorcycles on its site www.twistedroad.com for riders to ride and enjoy and possibly find their perfect ride. In addition, Windy City-Fox will make available to riders through Twisted Road its full array of services – from appropriate financing, VIP maintenance, and warranties – making bike ownership easy, affordable and a dream in reality.

“Finding the right motorcycle to fit your riding style can take some miles”, acknowledges Mike Shedivy, President Windy City-Fox Motorsports. “Giving riders the opportunity to spend extended time on bikes provides a unique experience,” notes Shedivy. “Best of all, riders can also list their motorcycle on Twisted Road to generate income.”

“Our Twisted Road platform along with the premier bikes and services of Windy City-Fox and dealers like them, open the road to easy access to bikes and to the best buying experience to riders,” adds Austin Rothbard, CEO, Twisted Road. “And it will only get better as the number of bikes increase exponentially on Twisted Road as additional dealers across the US take advantage of this unique opportunity.”
About Windy City-Fox Motorsports & Twisted Road.

Windy City-Fox Motorsports commenced business in 2000 and today is among the largest motorcycle distributors in the U.S. representing nine premium OEM brands and serving riders in 15 locations in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. WC-F is listed among Crain’s Chicago Business’ largest privately held businesses in Chicago employing approximately 400 people, teaching over 1,500 people to ride motorcycles annually, and delivering over 5,000 new and used motorcycles a year.

For more information on Windy City-Fox Motorsports, please visit www.windycitymc.com or contact Mike Shedivy, President, at +1.847.849.0227.
Founded in 2017, Twisted Road allows owners to list their bikes for rental to prospective riders who, once verified, can search by brand, location or price to find the perfect ride.

In just over two years of operation, and with a team of fewer than 10 employees, Twisted Road has seen its platform take root in 49 states. For more information on Twisted Road, please visit www.twistedroad.com or contact Austin Rothbard, founder and CEO at +1-847-323-9731.

Bikers For Trump South Dakota and Bikers For Trump North Dakota Members that are planning to ride to Mt. Rushmore this July 3rd to Support President Trump. Please be safe and Represent Bikers For Trump well. Please send us pics and videos. Thank You goes out also to all the other BFT Bikers that are planning on attending.

–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com

What have PRESIDENT TRUMP and his cabinet accomplished?

* Trump recently signed 3 bills to benefit Native people. One gives compensation to the Spokane tribe for loss of their lands in the mid-1900s, one funds Native language programs, and the third gives federal recognition to the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians in Montana.

* Trump finalized the creation of Space Force as our 6th Military branch.

* Trump signed a law to make cruelty to animals a federal felony so that animal abusers face tougher consequences.

* Violent crime has fallen every year he’s been in office after rising during the 2 years before he was elected.

* Trump signed a bill making CBD and Hemp legal.

* Trump’s EPA gave $100 million to fix the water infrastructure problem in Flint, Michigan.

* Under Trump’s leadership, in 2018 the U.S. surpassed Russia and Saudi Arabia to become the world’s largest producer of crude oil.

* Trump signed a law ending the gag orders on Pharmacists that prevented them from sharing money-saving information.

* Trump signed the “Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act” (FOSTA), which includes the “Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act” (SESTA) which both give law enforcement and victims new tools to fight sex trafficking.

* Trump signed a bill to require airports to provide spaces for breastfeeding Moms.

* The 25% lowest-paid Americans enjoyed a 4.5% income boost in November 2019, which outpaces a 2.9% gain in earnings for the country’s highest-paid workers.

* Low-wage workers are benefiting from higher minimum wages and from corporations that are increasing entry-level pay.

* Trump signed the biggest wilderness protection & conservation bill in a decade and designated 375,000 acres as protected land.

* Trump signed the Save our Seas Act which funds $10 million per year to clean tons of plastic & garbage from the ocean.

* He signed a bill this year allowing some drug imports from Canada so that prescription prices would go down.

* Trump signed an executive order this year that forces all healthcare providers to disclose the cost of their services so that Americans can comparison shop and know how much less providers charge insurance companies.

* When signing that bill he said no American should be blindsided by bills for medical services they never agreed to in advance.

* Hospitals will now be required to post their standard charges for services, which include the discounted price a hospital is willing to accept.

* In the eight years prior to President Trump’s inauguration, prescription drug prices increased by an average of 3.6% per year. Under Trump, drug prices have seen year-over-year declines in nine of the last ten months, with a 1.1% drop as of the most recent month.

* He created a White House VA Hotline to help veterans and principally staffed it with veterans and direct family members of veterans.

* VA employees are being held accountable for poor performance, with more than 4,000 VA employees removed, demoted, and suspended so far.

* Issued an executive order requiring the Secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs to submit a joint plan to provide veterans access to access to mental health treatment as they transition to civilian life.

* Because of a bill signed and championed by Trump, In 2020, most federal employees will see their pay increase by an average of 3.1% — the largest raise in more than 10 years.

* Trump signed into a law up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave for millions of federal workers.

* Trump administration will provide HIV prevention drugs for free to 200,000 uninsured patients per year for 11 years.

* All-time record sales during the 2019 holidays.

* Trump signed an order allowing small businesses to group together when buying insurance to get a better price

* President Trump signed the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act that provides funding for states to develop maternal mortality reviews to better understand maternal complications and identify solutions & largely focuses on reducing the higher mortality rates for Black Americans.

* In 2018, President Trump signed the groundbreaking First Step Act, a criminal justice bill which enacted reforms that make our justice system fairer and help former inmates successfully return to society.

* The First Step Act’s reforms addressed inequities in sentencing laws that disproportionately harmed Black Americans and reformed mandatory minimums that created unfair outcomes.

* The First Step Act expanded judicial discretion in sentencing of non-violent crimes.

* Over 90% of those benefitting from the retroactive sentencing reductions in the First Step Act are Black Americans.

* The First Step Act provides rehabilitative programs to inmates, helping them successfully rejoin society and not return to crime.

* Trump increased funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by more than 14%.

* Trump signed legislation forgiving Hurricane Katrina debt that threatened HBCUs.

* New single-family home sales are up 31.6% in October 2019 compared to just one year ago.

* Made HBCUs a priority by creating the position of executive director of the White House Initiative on HBCUs.

* Trump received the Bipartisan Justice Award at a historically black college for his criminal justice reform accomplishments.

* The poverty rate fell to a 17-year low of 11.8% under the Trump administration as a result of a jobs-rich environment.

* Poverty rates for African-Americans and Hispanic-Americans have reached their lowest levels since the U.S. began collecting such data.

* President Trump signed a bill that creates five national monuments, expands several national parks, adds 1.3 million acres of wilderness, and permanently reauthorizes the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

* Trump’s USDA committed $124 Million to rebuild rural water infrastructure.

* Consumer confidence & small business confidence is at an all-time high.

* More than 7 million jobs created since election.

* More Americans are now employed than ever recorded before in our history.

* More than 400,000 manufacturing jobs created since his election.

* Trump appointed 5 openly gay ambassadors.

* Trump ordered Ric Grenell, his openly gay ambassador to Germany, to lead a global initiative to decriminalize homosexuality across the globe.

* Through Trump’s Anti-Trafficking Coordination Team (ACTeam) initiative, Federal law enforcement more than doubled convictions of human traffickers and increased the number of defendants charged by 75% in ACTeam districts.

* In 2018, the Department of Justice (DOJ) dismantled an organization that was the internet’s leading source of prostitution-related advertisements resulting in sex trafficking.

* Trump’s OMB published new anti-trafficking guidance for government procurement officials to more effectively combat human trafficking.

* Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations arrested 1,588 criminals associated with Human Trafficking.

* Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services provided funding to support the National Human Trafficking Hotline to identify perpetrators and give victims the help they need.

* The hotline identified 16,862 potential human trafficking cases.

* Trump’s DOJ provided grants to organizations that support human trafficking victims – serving nearly 9,000 cases from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018.

* The Department of Homeland Security has hired more victim assistance specialists, helping victims get resources and support.

* President Trump has called on Congress to pass school choice legislation so that no child is trapped in a failing school because of his or her zip code.

* The President signed funding legislation in September 2018 that increased funding for school choice by $42 million.

* The tax cuts signed into law by President Trump promote school choice by allowing families to use 529 college savings plans for elementary and secondary education.

* Under his leadership ISIS has lost most of their territory and been largely dismantled.

* ISIS leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi was killed.

* Signed the first Perkins CTE reauthorization since 2006, authorizing more than $1 billion for states each year to fund vocational and career education programs.

* Executive order expanding apprenticeship opportunities for students and workers.

* Trump issued an Executive Order prohibiting the U.S. government from discriminating against Christians or punishing expressions of faith.

* Signed an executive order that allows the government to withhold money from college campuses deemed to be anti-Semitic and who fail to combat anti-Semitism.

* President Trump ordered a halt to U.S. tax money going to international organizations that fund or perform abortions.

* Trump imposed sanctions on the socialists in Venezuela who have killed their citizens.

* Finalized new trade agreement with South Korea.

* Made a deal with the European Union to increase U.S. energy exports to Europe.

* Withdrew the U.S. from the job killing TPP deal.

* Secured $250 billion in new trade and investment deals in China and $12 billion in Vietnam.

* Okay’d up to $12 billion in aid for farmers affected by unfair trade retaliation.

* Has had over a dozen US hostages freed, including those Obama could not get freed.

* Trump signed the Music Modernization Act, the biggest change to copyright law in decades.

* Trump secured Billions that will fund the building of a wall at our southern border.

* The Trump Administration is promoting second chance hiring to give former inmates the opportunity to live crime-free lives and find meaningful employment.

* Trump’s DOJ and the Board of Prisons launched a new “Ready to Work Initiative” to help connect employers directly with former prisoners.

* President Trump’s historic tax cut legislation included new Opportunity Zone Incentives to promote investment in low-income communities across the country.

* 8,764 communities across the country have been designated as Opportunity Zones.

* Opportunity Zones are expected to spur $100 billion in long-term private capital investment in economically distressed communities across the country.

* Trump directed the Education Secretary to end Common Core.

* Trump signed the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund into law.

* Trump signed measure funding prevention programs for Veteran suicide.

* Companies have brought back over a TRILLION dollars from overseas because of the TCJA bill that Trump signed.

* Manufacturing jobs are growing at the fastest rate in more than 30 years.

* Stock Market has reached record highs.

* Median household income has hit highest level ever recorded.

* African-American unemployment is at an all-time low.

* Hispanic-American unemployment is at an all-time low.

* Asian-American unemployment is at an all-time low.

* Women’s unemployment rate is at a 65-year low.

* Youth unemployment is at a 50-year low.

* We have the lowest unemployment rate ever recorded.

* The Pledge to America’s Workers has resulted in employers committing to train more than 4 million Americans.

* 95 percent of U.S. manufacturers are optimistic about the future— the highest ever.

* As a result of the Republican tax bill, small businesses will have the lowest top marginal tax rate in more than 80 years.

* Record number of regulations eliminated that hurt small businesses.

* Signed welfare reform requiring able-bodied adults who don’t have children to work or look for work if they’re on welfare.

* Under Trump, the FDA approved more affordable generic drugs than ever before in history.

* Reformed Medicare program to stop hospitals from overcharging low-income seniors on their drugs—saving seniors 100’s of millions of $$$ this year alone.

* Signed Right-To-Try legislation allowing terminally ill patients to try experimental treatment that wasn’t allowed before.

* Secured $6 billion in new funding to fight the opioid epidemic.

* Signed VA Choice Act and VA Accountability Act, expanded VA telehealth services, walk-in-clinics, and same-day urgent primary and mental health care.

* U.S. oil production recently reached all-time high, so we are less dependent on oil from the Middle East.

* The U.S. is a net natural gas exporter for the first time since 1957.

* NATO allies increased their defense spending because of his pressure campaign.

* Withdrew the United States from the job-killing Paris Climate Accord in 2017 and that same year the U.S. still led the world by having the largest reduction in Carbon emissions.

* Has his circuit court judge nominees being confirmed faster than any other new administration.

* Had his Supreme Court Justice’s Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh confirmed.

* Moved U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.

* Agreed to a new trade deal with Mexico & Canada that will increase jobs here and $$$ coming in.

* Reached a breakthrough agreement with the E.U. to increase U.S. exports.

* Imposed tariffs on China in response to China’s forced technology transfer, intellectual property theft, and their chronically abusive trade practices, has agreed to a Part One trade deal with China.

* Signed legislation to improve the National Suicide Hotline.

* Signed the most comprehensive childhood cancer legislation ever into law, which will advance childhood cancer research and improve treatments.

* The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act signed into law by Trump doubled the maximum amount of the child tax credit available to parents and lifted the income limits so more people could claim it.

* It also created a new tax credit for other dependents.

* In 2018, President Trump signed into law a $2.4 billion funding increase for the Child Care and Development Fund, providing a total of $8.1 billion to States to fund child- care for low-income families.

* The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) signed into law by Trump provides a tax credit equal to 20-35% of child care expenses, $3,000 per child & $6,000 per family + Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow you to set aside up to $5,000 in pre-tax $ to use for child care.

* In 2019 President Donald Trump signed the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support Act (CARES) into law which allocates $1.8 billion in funding over the next five years to help people with autism spectrum disorder and to help their families.

* In 2019 President Trump signed into law two funding packages providing nearly $19 million in new funding for Lupus specific research and education programs, as well an additional $41.7 billion in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most Lupus funding EVER.

* Another upcoming accomplishment to add: In the next week or two Trump will be signing the first major anti-robocall law in decades called the TRACED Act (Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence.) Once it’s the law, the TRACED Act will extend the period of time the FCC has to catch & punish those who intentionally break telemarketing restrictions. The bill also requires voice service providers to develop a framework to verify calls are legitimate before they reach your phone.

* US stock market continually hits all-time record highs.

* Because so many people asked for a document with all of this listed in one place, here it is.

*Trump did all of this while fighting flagrant abuse and impeachment charges.

–Wayfarer
Research Specialist
Bikernet Political News Bureau

Rabble-Rousing Stars of Orange County Choppers/American Chopper
Collaborate With Hard-Rocking Frei.Wild on Brotherhood, to be Released Aug. 7th

2nd Single, ‘Burn Fire Burn For Me,’ Out July 3 as the Teutuls Gear up for 2-Hour Discovery Channel Reunion, American Chopper: The Last Ride

NEW YORK/HAMBURG, Germany — July 2, 2020 — The platinum award-winning, chart-topping, Italian, German-speaking rock group Frei.Wild has partnered with the rabble-rousing stars of Orange County Choppers/American Chopper on a joint project for the Aug. 7, U.S. release of the band’s 16th album, Brotherhood (available for pre-order now), released by Rookies & Kings, through Soulfood Music Distribution.

The album’s release comes as the Teutuls gear up for a long-awaited family reunion—reuniting Paul Sr. and Jr.— on the two-hour, Discovery Channel special, American Chopper: The Last Ride (date to be announced).

The album features vocals in in English by Chopper stars Paul Teutul Sr. and Mikey Teutul (Paul’s youngest son) and Alex Franco, a long-time associate at the famed garage who brings a forceful, slightly raspy baritone to the lyrics and helped with the songwriting; and in German by Frei.Wild band members Philipp Burger (vocals, guitar), Jonas Notdurfter (guitar), Jochen “Zegga” Gargitter (bass) and Christian “Föhre” Forer (drums).

A high-octane rock album, Brotherhood features the catchy melodies and dominate guitar riffs expected by fans of Frei.Wild—described by media as “a punk-inflected variant of Deutschrock,” a description clearly on display in the second single, “Burn Baby Burn for Me”—adding purely American influences such as country music elements and production-technical refinement.

SHAREABLE LINKS:
2nd single (out July 3): “Burn Baby Burn for Me” — https://bit.ly/3g78cdc
1st single: “Friends Brotherhood” — https://bit.ly/2BqtaVF
Preorder the album — www.brueder4brothers.com

Frei.Wild translates to “outlaws” in German, so it was only natural to partner with American “outlaws”—long-time personal friends of the band, who they met in 2018 at a dinner held during the Harley in the Snow event in Ridnaun, Italy—on a joint project under the name Bruder 4 Brothers [Brothers 4 Brothers].

The initial single, “Freundschaft Brotherhood” [Friends Brotherhood], released May 15, was written and recorded long before the current pandemic crisis, it’s a message that is uniquely relevant during the Coronavirus epidemic—Brothers we will always be, to eternity, around the world—as an anthem for what is happening today and the need to all band together.

Other songs on the album include: “Pussy or a Man,” “Do You See My Devil,” “A Man and His Honor,” “Smell the Gasoline,” “You, Me and the Night,” “Steel Horse,” “The True Feeling of Freedom” and “Don’t Get Better Than This.”

Brotherhood is available digitally or in a CD digipak ($14.98 US); and as a 1LP vinyl in gatefold ($24.98 US).

SCAMDEMIC—I received a report recently. It called the Pandemic the Scamdemic. If we pull together, we will survive to party another day. It’s just another one of life’s challenges.

Eric Herrmann is headed this way with some art for me, and his new book about riding in Arizona. Check out my review. https://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=14658&id=14658

I’m working on scanning the layout of the new Prize Possession book reprint. I’m publishing my first book again. It ain’t bad, and I sold out, so I need to reprint. And of course we found some mistakes in the original and this allowed us to make the type slightly larger.

I’m going to start staining the deck tomorrow. Fucking thing will kick my ass, but maybe not. I need to finish painting the bare wood, while the sun is shining. That’s a biggie around here. Thunderstorms almost every afternoon.

Some guys stopped by to measure railings. We are going to have some fun with these puppies.

I’m going to work on a Life and Times of Bandit story about this adventure. I’m going to attempt to spell out all my oblique thoughts regarding these times, the move out of LA and finding Motorcycle Nirvana in the Badlands.

In the meantime, keep riding, feeling the freedom and know that this too shall pass.

–Bandit

Your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association is teaming up with the Princeton Police Department to conduct a Voluntary Motorcycle Sound Emissions Check at the Thomas Prince School on Route 62 in Princeton, Massachusetts on July 11, 2020 beginning at 11 AM.

This is a “no enforcement” and no cost awareness event aimed at educating riders and the public regarding the realities and implications of Motorcycle Exhaust emissions, specifically regarding sound levels.

On Tuesday, June 9, your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association was invited to participate in the Princeton Select Board meeting to address growing and continuing concerns among Residents concerning the problems of Motorcycle Sound Emissions and reckless riding in and around the town of Princeton.

Alerted by a MassMotorcycle member to the concerns, numerous potential approaches to tackling what is perceived as an invasion of residents rights to a safe and peaceful weekend were being discussed including Motorcycle Original Equipment Exhaust Enforcement, Traffic Restrictions for Motorcyclists, and other options. Your MassMotorcycle Association immediately contacted the Chief of Police, Michele Powers, to discuss the concerns and approaches. Chief Powers in turn discussed the MassMotorcycle feedback with the Select Board resulting in the invitation to speak with the Select Board at the June 9th Meeting.

In 2009, in response to similar concerns at the time and numerous town warrants and Legislative Bills aimed at addressing the issue, your MassMotorcycle Association created the “When in Town, Throttle Down!©” program to address a wealth of misinformation concerning Motorcycle Exhaust and Sound Issues, specifically aimed at education and awareness of “What’s the Noise about Noise?” The resulting program included a Voluntary Sound Check program, including investing in Sound Testing Equipment and Training. This program has been used with great affect around the Commonwealth in the following 11 years and the “noise” has significantly quieted down since.

This program has since also been used successfully in numerous towns across the Commonwealth, in other States around the Country, and education sessions have been given at regional and national conferences such as the ABATE of Oklahoma S.M.I.L.E. and Motorcycle Riders Foundation Meeting of the Minds.

To be conducted by the MMA in conjunction with the Princeton Police, the Voluntary Sound Check planned for July 11th will be a “no enforcement” awareness-only event. All riders are invited to stop by for a few minutes for a free bottle of water while they learn about the issues concerning Motorcycle Exhaust Sound Emissions, the legal limits of those emissions, whether their motorcycles are within them, and how to potentially control them. The testing takes only a few short moments – far less time than it will take to finish a bottle of water.

A motorcycle that legally passes these tests may still be perceived by some to be “too loud” depending on how the rider operates the motorcycle. Riders are aware that simple modifications regarding RPM control mitigates the motorcycles’ impact and sound emissions levels upon the public. All testing will be conducted according to Registry of Motor Vehicles stationary noise level standards defined by the Code of Massachusetts Regulations.

Non-riders are also invited to stop by to witness the testing and participate in the program.

Your MMA thanks the Princeton Police Department, Chief Powers, and the Princeton Select Board for inviting riders and the public to participate in this event.

For more information, please contact Chairman@MassMotorcycle.org or visit www.MassMotorcycle.org.

from https://finance.yahoo.com

Comoto Family of Brands Raise $100,000 from month-long The Ride is Calling Charity Campaign to collectively benefit National Motorcycle Safety Fund, The Kurt Caselli Foundation and Motorcycle Relief Project

The motorcycle community overwhelmingly showed their support by participating in the 3-day charity ride, making individual gifts, and shopping in-store to benefit the cause–

Comoto Holdings, parent company of leading moto enthusiast brands RevZilla, Cycle Gear, and J&P Cycles, announced they raised $100,000 from the month-long The Ride is Calling Charity campaign to support National Motorcycle Safety Fund, The Kurt Caselli Foundation and Motorcycle Relief Project.

“The Comoto family of brands has been humbled by the outpouring of support for our efforts to raise funds for our non-profit partners,” said Ken Murphy, CEO of Comoto Holdings. “A record-setting weekend of over 3,000 motorcyclists participating to support these causes is proof-positive that the motorcycling community is thriving.”

The campaign raised in total $100,000, meeting its goal. The centerpiece of the month was The Ride is Calling Charity Ride during the weekend of June 19-21, which attracted 3,030 participants. In partnership with the trip planner app Rever, riders tracked their ride with a combined total of 233,607 miles ridden over three days. Comoto donated $1 for every 10 miles ridden, which amounted to $23,360.

“We are really pleased that the motorcycling community came together to ride what equates to 10 times around the world in a single weekend,” said Justin Bradshaw, Co-founder of Rever. “To have Rever’s technology lend a hand in making these generous donations possible is extremely rewarding for us.”

In addition to The Ride is Calling Charity Ride, on Saturday, June 20, 5% of all in-store and curbside pick-up sales across 148 Cycle Gear, J&P Cycles and RevZilla locations nationwide were donated to the fund.

Individuals were able to make donations through the charity ride pages on each of the brand websites. Over 32,000 users landed on the donation pages across all three websites throughout the month of June. On social media, participants used #irodetoday and #therideiscalling to share the stories of their rides across the country.

With a diverse group of riders across Comoto’s retail brands, the campaign partnered with organizations that have three distinct missions. National Motorcycle Safety Fund, the non-profit arm of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, supports research, rider education and motorcyclist safety. The Kurt Caselli Foundation’s focus is on the safety of riders and racers in off-road motorcycling. Motorcycle Relief Project works with veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD by taking them on structured and professionally-led dual-sport motorcycle adventures.

“We are honored to be able to partner with Comoto to help veterans and first responders who are struggling with PTSD and related issues,” says Tom Larson, president and founder of Motorcycle Relief Project. “RevZilla has been helping out with our program for several years. Then Cycle Gear came on board and now we’re thrilled to be working with J&P Cycles as well. The funding from the Call to Ride event comes at a really important time for us, as our donations have definitely slowed down due to the COVID situation. A huge thank you to Comoto and all the riders who participated in the event and helped raise money. We couldn’t be more grateful for the support!”

About Comoto Holdings

Comoto Holdings is America’s largest and fastest growing omni-channel platform in the powersports aftermarket-products industry; dedicated to advancing the experience of moto enthusiasts across the globe. Comoto’s brands, RevZilla, Cycle Gear, and J&P Cycles, deliver premium products, dedicated expertise, engaging media, and passionate customer support of the rider community, through best-in-class ecommerce and retail experiences.

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

For reasons that have to do with the way they are built and used, motorcycles do not benefit from the same wide array of comfort or safety systems developed for cars. Strides are being made though to have some of these technologies migrate to motorcycles as well.

As far as cars are concerned, cruise control has been around in some form or another from about the time they were invented, but for motorcycles adapting the tech proved a bit more complicated.

There are a few bikes out there with cruise control, such as the BMW S1000RR, or the Yamaha FJR-1300, but the tech is not widely available, and of course not as standard. BMW Motorrad plans to change that, and announced that it would “soon offer this type of rider assistance system.”

Called in BMW speak Active Cruise Control (ACC), it is a brand new system that has been developed together with Bosch. It can automatically regulate the speed at which the bike is traveling based on the speed set by the rider and the distance to the vehicle driving in front.

The system will try to maintain the distance from the vehicle in front as set by the rider, who can choose one of three settings. To calculate the distance, ACC uses a radar fitted at the front of the motorcycle, and it works together with some of the other systems on the two-wheeler, including the brakes and the ABS system.

The system can detect only moving vehicles, and will not react to stopped cars or traffic lights, BMW warns.

According to company, the new system is also able to automatically reduce speed during lean angle cornering, while at the same time trying to keep acceleration and deceleration within tolerable limits during an increased angle cornering.

The German bike maker did not say when the ACC will be rolled out and what models will get it.