by Abhinand Venugopal from https://www.rushlane.com Jawa Motorcycles’ European exports will start with Jawa 300 aka Jawa Classic Classic Legends, owned by Mahindra & Mahindra group, brought down Jawa Motorcycles to the Indian market back in November 2018. As a first, two motorcycles were launched as direct rivals to Royal Enfield’s ‘350’ range: Jawa 42 and ‘Jawa’ (a.k.a. ‘Jawa Classic’ or ‘300’). Prices for the initial BS4 single-channel ABS models stood at Rs 1.55 lakh and Rs 1.64 lakh, respectively. Either motorcycle was recently updated to BS6 specifications and prices increased to Rs 1.74 lakh and 1.83 lakh, respectively, for their dual-channel ABS variants. Meanwhile, Jawa Perak bobber was launched towards 2019 end as the Czech-origin brand’s first BS6 product, at a price tag of Rs 1.95 lakh. All prices mentioned here are ex-showroom. Jawa Motorcycles India plans to commence its European export operations soon with Jawa Classic as a start. The motorcycle has been already homologated for European roads. Compared to its original Indian specifications, Euro-spec Jawa 300 has received some minor updates to comply with local motor vehicle norms. Visually, there are no changes and Jawa Motorcycles is expected to introduce the same colour choices available in India. There is a good demand for classic motorcycles in Europe and the market has already proved to be a success for modern classics. For the same reason, major names in industry have introduced a range of interesting products in this genre. Honda Motorcycle could even bring back iconic CB series in the not-too-distant future. Coming back to Jawa Motorcycles, both its entry-level products are powered by a 293cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder motor derived from Mahindra Mojo’s power plant. The engine, in its latest BS6 format, makes 27bhp and 28Nm of torque while mated to a 6-speed transmission. Jawa Perak gets a re-bored 334cc version of the same unit, mated to 6-speed gearbox. Power figures are significantly high at 30bhp and 31Nm. In European markets as well, Jawa 300 will lock horns with Royal Enfield Bullet Classic 350. At present, Jawa motorcycle is easily a better choice compared to the current-gen UCE ‘350’ Royal Enfield models. However, the story might be different once Royal Enfield launches its next-gen ‘350’ line-up starting with Royal Enfield Meteor 350. One of the major challenges faced by Jawa Motorcycles India was delivery times. At various occasions, buyers had even cancelled their bookings due to unreasonably long waiting periods. Jawa plans to address this issue by ramping up its production capacity. The industry is currently facing a new challenge in the form of COVID-19.

These puppies are the greatest. They are real 100% cotton bandanas dyed through, no silk screening. They are Covid approved and Sin Wu started to sew official Covid masks. She can make three mask from one Bikernet Bandana. They are soft and large 21 by 21 inches. And with each order you will receive a signed K. Randall Ball book and Bikernet and 5-Ball stickers. Hell, what could be better! –Bandit

Dimensions: 21” x 21”

Cost: $19.50 for two Bikernet bandanas, one orange and one black.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP 5-BALL LEATHERS AND GEAR

https://shop.bikernet.com/

Life is Amazing, but a lot of Events are Cancelled

Hey,

Is life wonderful or not. As we roll into May, more bored folks are coming up with wild conspiracy theories regarding the Covid attack, from political twists to Chinese takeovers.

I’m too busy repairing the Salt Torpedo, working on the expanding headquarters in Deadwood, building Dr. Hamster’s Pandemic Panhead and hammering away on the second chapter of my third Chance Hogan book. A friend from Simon and Shusters recommended, years ago, that I write a series. I spoke to the recently passed, Clive Cussler, from Phoenix, who wrote one series after another. He agreed.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE WEEKLY NEWS ON BIKERNET

JOIN THE CANTINA – SUBSCRIBE TODAY

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/custom/subscription.aspx

by Abhinand Venugopal from https://www.rushlane.com

Suzuki Motorcycle has updated the GSX-R150 single-cylinder faired motorcycle for the Taiwanese market. The 2020MY Suzuki GSX-R150 remains mechanically similar to its previous version but receives new colour schemes. The entry-level sports motorcycle is popular in many South Asian markets. It may never come to India as our market has already got the Suzuki Gixxer and Gixxer SF models as compelling alternatives.

If it were indeed available here, the GSX-R150 would have directly locked horns with Yamaha Motor India’s YZF-R15 V3.0. Its output is slightly higher than that of the Yamaha but if there was a beauty contest, the R15 would surely annihilate the GSX-R150. Either motorcycle is somewhat at the same level when it comes to equipment.

The 2020 Suzuki GSX-R150 continues to have conventional telescopic forks alongside a preload-adjustable monoshock from Showa. It rides on 90/80 (F) and 130/70 (R) section tyres shod on 17-inch wheels. Braking duties are carried out by 290mm front and 187mm rear discs, with dual-channel ABS. The sports motorcycle weighs 136kg and its seat height touches 785mm.

As mentioned before, the changes are limited to colour choices. It gets four new paint schemes: Yellow/Black, Red/Black, Black and Suzuki’s iconic Silver/Triton Blue MotoGP livery. The 147.3cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine makes 18.9bhp @ 10,500rpm and 14Nm @ 9,000rpm.

On the other hand, the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 (now in BS6 format) employs a 155.1cc liquid-cooled motor good for 18.3bhp @ 10,000rpm and 14.1Nm @ 8,500rpm. Both motorcycles are mated to a 6-speed transmission but the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 boasts of a slipper clutch.

Suzuki Motorcycle India has already updated the Gixxer and Gixxer SF to BS6 specifications at an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.12 lakh and 1.22 lakh, respectively. The motorcycles are powered by a 155cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine that makes 13.4bhp @ 8,000rpm and 13.8Nm @ 6,000rpm. This is mated to a 5-speed transmission. The Suzuki Gixxer SF is more of a sports commuter while the GSX-R150 is a decent starter motorcycle in the sports category.

The Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer has updated most of its products to BS6 norms and is gradually doing the same in the premium segment. As a start, it will be launching the V-Strom 650 XT BS6 adventure tourer on the market soon. India’s automotive industry is not going through the best of times due to COVID-19 and experts predict that buying a vehicle after the ongoing lockdown would be a completely different experience.

by Abhinand Venugopal from https://www.rushlane.com

Royal Enfield’s Japan operations were carried out by the importer, Wingfoot

Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield operates in more than 50 countries across the globe. The automaker has a huge fan following in many parts of the world, especially for its single-cylinder ‘Classic 350’ model.

In India, the company has updated most of its products to BS6 specifications while readying to launch the next-gen ‘UCE 350’ models, starting with the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 (which replaces the Thunderbird range).

Wingfoot Co. Ltd., Royal Enfield’s official importer in Japan has announced a business termination with the British-origin motorcycle manufacturer. The official statement stated that it has “finished all business related to the import and export of Indian-made Royal Enfield motorcycles” after ending the contract with Eicher Motors — the parent company of Royal Enfield.

In other words, Royal Enfield has temporarily withdrawn from the Japanese market until a new importer takes charge. Royal Enfield Japan’s official website will be taken down by the end of this month while its social media handles will be deleted on May 15. In a matter of days, Eicher Motors might announce a new partner to commence operations in Japan.

Royal Enfield has not been a strong player in Japan since the country has its own compelling alternatives from the likes of Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Kawasaki. Even in India, Japanese two-wheeler brands often come at the top of monthly sales charts while Royal Enfield mostly remains at the bottom of the top 10. However, it is no secret that India is a volume-sale market and six-digit numbers need not always tell the story of a brand’s success or struggles.

As mentioned before, Royal Enfield has already made a smooth transition to BS6 emission norms. In the process, the company has discontinued the higher ‘500’ models on account of poor sales. As a tribute to the decade-old model line, Royal Enfield had introduced the limited-run BS4-compliant Classic 500 Tribute Black. The next-gen ‘350’ models are currently in the works. Various reports state that they will be a huge improvement over the current ‘UCE 350’ range since Royal Enfield has employed a completely new platform.

The Indian automotive market is currently going through a rough phase due to the COVID-19 lockdown protocols. Owing to this, Royal Enfield faced a sales decline of 44% in March and is expected to witness an even more drastic fall this month. Experts predict that the entire scenario of buying a new vehicle would change once the Indian government withdraws its lockdown policy — know more details.

by Satya Singh from https://www.rushlane.com

United States is the worst hit due to coronavirus pandemic, with more than a million confirmed cases and over 61k fatalities

As the lockdown continues to restrict auto sales, Kawasaki USA has announced that it will start home delivery of its vehicles, spares, accessories and apparel. Auto dealerships are shut in most places and people have been forced to stay indoors. There are also the ones who may not want to visit dealerships due to the high risk of infection.

In this situation, online sales and home delivery of products appears to be the only effective solution for auto companies. In India, online sales platform and home delivery option have been launched by various auto companies such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Honda, Tata Motors, MG Motor and Hyundai.

Kawasaki’s product portfolio in US comprises motorcycles, ATVs, utility task vehicles and jet skis. The company already provides online option to buy vehicle accessories, spare parts, maintenance products, apparel and gifts & collectibles.

For buying Kawasaki vehicles, customers will probably need to contact their nearest dealer. It is expected that the necessary formalities, paperwork, financing, and down payment will be processed online in coordination with the dealer. Once the deal is finalized, the vehicle will be home delivered to the customer.

Kawasaki will be working closely with its dealers across the United States to ensure that customers get the best vehicle delivery experience. The deliveries will be done in accordance with guidelines mandated by local authorities. Efforts will be made to ensure that the home delivery experience is just as good as deliveries done at dealerships.

Before delivery, the vehicle will be thoroughly checked by the dealer. At the time of delivery, customers can go through the checklist to ensure that everything is as per their order. All Kawasaki vehicles will be delivered by dealership professionals who are well-acquainted with the operation, maintenance and safety requirements of the vehicle.

This will ensure proper care and handling during transportation and delivery. Kawasaki has purposefully avoided using common carriers and third-party delivery service providers for home delivery of its vehicles. For home delivery of other products such as spare parts, accessories and apparel, Kawasaki will be relying on common carriers or third-party services. This is the same process that was being used earlier as well.

Kawasaki will try its best to provide home delivery option to as many customers as possible. However, due to local restrictions, home delivery of vehicles may not be possible at some locations. Customers will probably need to contact their nearest dealer to know about availability of home delivery option.

from https://medicinehatnews.com

International Female Ride Day was scheduled for this Saturday, and while COVID-19 has pushed the date all the way back to Aug. 22, the local Ladies of Harley motorcycle group will still be celebrating this weekend with a safely-distanced ladies’ ride.

The trip is scheduled to begin at Badlands Harley Davidson at noon and will take roughly two hours with a socially-distanced pit stop planned for Echo Dale Park.

Anyone attending is encouraged to park at least six feet away from other bikes.

Good news! 2020 Sturgis Rally T-shirts are now back in stock… but not for long! These are highly collectible, limited edition designs released to commemorate the 80th Anniversary. Once the rally is over, they will be promptly retired forever!

See the Bikernet Weekly News for news about if the Rally will happen or not.–Bandit

Grab your 80th Anniversary Sturgis t-shirt

Hey,

Is life wonderful or not. As we roll into May, more bored folks are coming up with wild conspiracy theories regarding the Covid attack, from political twists to Chinese takeovers.

I’m too busy repairing the Salt Torpedo, working on the expanding headquarters in Deadwood, building Dr. Hamster’s Pandemic Panhead and hammering away on the second chapter of my third Chance Hogan book. A friend from Simon and Shusters recommended, years ago, that I write a series. I spoke to the recently passed, Clive Cussler, from Phoenix, who wrote one series after another. He agreed.

Just be thankful for what you got–William De Vaughn 

See, life is amazing from the plants blooming in the Bikernet patio, to the lines on Christian’s bike, to the scalloped paint job Deny 925 is creating, to another magnificent sunset over the harbor and the thoughts of building another shop in Deadwood surrounded by rolling pine covered hills.

We will deal with this punk virus and keep riding towards the light. It’s an interesting news, hang on.

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.

WINDVEST IS BACK–Harley Davidson Sport Glide Replacement Windshield

WindVest offers a variety of sizes of our WindVest Windshields for the 2018-present HD Sport Glide. They are designed with our unique flip at the top of the windshield, which gives the screen the ability to work taller than what it is.

This will give the rider the advantage of looking over the windshield and not through it. We use a high impact Acrylic/GE Plexiglass with all of our products.

Function, durability and performance are our goals. Sizes that are available range from 6” to10” in height.

For more details please visit our website at www.windvest.com or give us a call at 408-762-7180
sales@windvest.com

WindVest Motorcycle Products
16840 Joleen Way, Ste B2
Morgan Hill, CA 95037

BIKERNET STIMULUS PACKAGE—Advertising is cheap on Bikernet, but with Covid haunting the world, we’re going to make it cheaper. We are dropping our inexpensive rate by about 15 percent. Hope it helps.

Just reach out to us and we’ll explain.

–Bandit
Bandit@Bikernet.com
310-528-9258

POLITICAL PREDICTION—What if the President saved millions of lives, ended all the wars in the middle east, made us all rich, fixed immigration in the country, lowered crime, fixed the infrastructure for a growing population and fixed all the deals with other countries to have them pay their fair share?

The democrats would still say he didn’t do it soon enough, so he failed. Oops.

–Bandit

NEW FROM BDL--Enclosed conversion for early Tapered and Splined shaft kicker models

BDL’s enclosed drive part #61-39-SK-2 is designed specifically for fitment to 1955-1964 H-D Big Twins. The “S” in SK stands for splined engine shaft and the “K” stands for Kick start only. This is an 8mm belt, enclosed primary drive kit that accepts the OEM clutch hub most commonly known as the 3 finger hub.

The 61-39 indicates sprocket tooth count, 39 front and 61 rear. These two pulleys are the smallest BDL makes for the early model bikes in 8mm. The kit will work on several other splined shaft kick start models.

Call for details.

BDL also offers this conversion for tapered shaft models 1936-1954. The tapered shaft kit part number is 61-39-TK-1. Both kits run just $381.50 and can be ordered direct from BDL and BDL dealers worldwide. Phone 714-693-1313 ext 232 or 227 www.beltdrives.com

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WEEKLY VOCABULARY LESSON–ylem
[ ahy-luhm ]
noun

the hypothetical initial substance of the universe from which all matter is derived.

WHY WE CHOSE YLEM
Today’s word was submitted by one of our readers as part of our Word of the Day Giveaway Sweepstakes! The winner, Matthew Winter, told us: “It makes me think about how everything is connected. All living and inanimate things originate from the same source; we are all ylem.” Congrats, Matthew!

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF YLEM?
The modern definition of ylem is “the hypothetical initial substance of the universe from which all matter is derived, originally conceived as composed of neutrons at high temperature and density.” The spelling of ylem comes from John Gower’s 33,000-line poem Confessio Amantis (A Lover’s Confession) finished in 1390: “That matere universall / Which hight Ylem in speciall” (“That universal matter which is called Ylem in particular”). Gower’s ylem is one of several Middle English spellings (also ile, ilem, ylem) from Medieval Latin hy¯lem or y¯lem, the accusative singular of hy¯le or y¯le, from Greek hy¯´le “forest, woodland, wood, firewood”; Aristotle uses the phrase pr?te hy¯´le “primary stuff, matter, material.”

In 1948 Robert Herman and Ralph Asher Alpher, associates of Russia-born U.S. nuclear physicist George Gamow, adopted the medieval word because, as Alpher said,” it seems highly desirable that a word of so appropriate a meaning be resurrected.”

HOW IS YLEM USED?

One can call the mixture of particles ylem ( pronounced eelem ) -the name that Aristotle gave to primordial matter.

GEORGE GAMOW, “MODERN COSMOLOGY,” SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, 1954

The Ylem is the primordial—the Ur-stuff—out of which everything else is made.

JEREMY BERNSTEIN, “OUT OF MY MIND: THE BIRTH OF MODERN COSMOLOGY,” AMERICAN SCHOLAR, VOL. 55 NO. 1, 1986

—www.dictionary.com

LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Amazing Boot Cut Inlays.

Overview

All of our stitch patterns and inlays are crafted by hand – no computers!

The Boot Cut Inlay shown features genuine red ostrich on our Silhouette Solo with leather seating MSRP $483.00.

More material options can be found here.

Please contact your local dealer or contact us for custom pricing.
Pricing

Embossed Inlay MSRP :
Starting at $170 + std seat price

Genuine Exotic Inlay MSRP :
Starting at $324 + std seat price

EXCLUSIVE HAL ROBINSON T-SHIRTS AND PRINTS FROM 5-BALL RACING AND HAL’S EX–
Received the Hal Robinson T-shirts and the mug print, the latter of which was unexpected and appreciated.

But I really wanted to thank you for the novel. I’m enjoying it immensely. I can’t believe I’d never run across it before, but it comes to me now at the perfect time in my life.

Also, If you ever find the Miraculous Mutha stickers I’d like to buy several.

–Dave Lierz

NEW AMCA ISSUE AVAILABLE– 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 JOIN and then slip over to the AMCA site 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 April 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. That’s the main reason for this email. Regardless of your postal worker’s speed, everyone gets this version at the same time.

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 May/June issue, you’ll get:

— The story of the season-opening Sunshine Chapter National Meet that brought together classic
machines and warm weather in Florida.
— A look at a rare 1912 Pierce Runabout, the lesser-known single-cylinder machine from the pioneer
of American fours.
— A glimpse into the inner workings of the British BSA brand as it tried to reinvent its product lineup
in the face of Japanese competition in the late 1960s.
— Plus much more

So go ahead, join , and experience The Antique Motorcycle Digital Companion Edition.

A WORD FROM THE TEAM AT S&S–We get that a substantial portion of our market is essentially on standby, but for the few guys that are still at it building bikes, we wanted to say a special thank you and flow them a fresh Stealth Air Cleaner kit.

We are insanely thankful and looking forward to a return to riding. ~DZ

Founded in 1958, S&S Cycle has weathered its fair share of storms. With each challenge, we’ve become even more grateful to the shops and riders who’ve continued to support our brand. As our small way of saying thank you, we’d like to offer a Stealth Air Cleaner Kit ($170 value!) for each exhaust purchased between now and May 31st, 2020.

That’s right, buy nearly any S&S Exhaust and we’ll send you a free Stealth air cleaner (good for up to 6Hp!) and some S&S gear as our way of saying thank you for continuing to support us even through difficult times. Offer is good in the US only and requires a receipt to redeem. Take a look at the S&S site for more details and we hope to see you out on the road very soon! https://www.sscycle.com/horsepower-stimulus-package

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
THE BRIGHT LIGHT BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for April 23, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BRIGHT_LIGHT_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_April_23_2020.aspx

Hey Man, just so you know the Pandemic Poem that was deemed to be written in 1869 was actually written in 2020 by Catherine M. O’Meara.

–Steve Scharrer
cycle1915@charter.net
Allenton, WI

I don’t get it. Why do people lie. Just tell the true and let it roll. Thanks for the correction. –Bandit

THE BIKERNET MEMORIAL DEPARTMENT–
Heavy heart and strong spirit of motorcyclism forever. RIP Goodtime Charlie—Adam Croft

Charlie had been out riding with friends and 2 miles from his house he was going around a bad curve and made contact with an oncoming vehicle.

Reports are he died at the scene.

–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com

Our thoughts go out to all the family and friends of former Easyriders staffer Kai Raecke, who passed away April 22 after battling brain cancer.

Due to Covid, only 10 peeps may attend his service, but the family is holding an open memorial ride in Canoga Park, California, on Friday, May 1.

VINTAGE RIDES STAFF INTERVIEW–Cindy, a Vintage Rider turned Office Manager

Age: 32 years old
Born in: Vichy, France
Rider for: 12 years
Lives in: Lyon, France
Vintage Rides favourite trip: On the Trail of Genghis Khan in Mongolia
Nickname in the team: The “Swiss Army knife”

Hey, Cindy, how’s it going? Where are you confined right now?

I’m doing pretty good. I’m confined to my house in Mions on the outskirts of Lyon, with my partner and my cat Sic!

What I miss the most is going on motorcycle rides with my friends from the Moto Club association, of which I am a member. To pass the time until my next ride out, I avidly read Road Trip magazine as soon as I receive it. I also watch motorcycle travel videos: those of Vintage Rides of course, but also the adventures of the Viking Adventurer. I’m also watching videos of motorcycle reviews because I want to change mine. It’s time to get good information but it’s frustrating not to be able to try them out!

You’re one of the newest additions to the team. Can you explain what you’re doing?

I’ve been Office Manager for Vintage Rides for five months. My job is to be the Swiss Army knife: a bit of accounting, finance, HR and a bit of legal… I also support the other departments in the company. One of the nicest assignments I’ve been given is to work with an architect on the plans for our new office in Lyon. I have to make sure that everything is done to make the members of the French team feel comfortable there. It’s going to be our new cocoon and we want to be able to welcome our riders there. The work had just started when the confinement was announced, so I hope they will be able to start again soon!

What motivated you to join the team?

I was seduced by the spirit that I first perceived as a rider on what remains the most beautiful journey of my life: the Trans-Himalayan, guided by Josh. Riding on the highest road in the world… What a memory! I was 30 years old and I wanted to make this trip to mark a milestone.

In addition to discovering a culture so far away from ours and grandiose, breathtaking landscapes, the Trans-Himalayan was a true enlightenment. I learned a lot about myself and my limits in terms of motorcycle riding. Before starting this adventure tour, I had no off-road experience, especially on mountainous and winding roads.

Between the complicated and wearing traffic conditions (alternating between asphalt roads, fords, rocky tracks, muddy roads…), the dense traffic where priority is given to the biggest vehicle, and the altitude which, on the 3rd or 4th day, causes unbearable headaches, everything is played out in the mind.

I got a bit scared because I fell during the first days by not going at the right speed in a passage full of mud. But what a satisfaction it is to push your limits and keep moving forward!

At the end of the road trip in Delhi, I met two other people from the team who had come to debrief us at the hotel and they offered me a visit to the office. I loved the atmosphere. That was two years ago and at the time I had no idea I was going to end up applying for a job with Vintage Rides.

At the time, I was working as a lawyer in a very big company with almost 100,000 employees. Even though I didn’t understand it at the time, this trip turned me upside down. India made me want to live more simply and do something that makes more sense to me. I made the choice to end my career as a lawyer. I was still following VR’s social networks, so when I saw the ad for this job in Lyon I applied right away! I now have a job that I am passionate about and I hope to contribute to make other riders travel and dream.

What kind of rider are you?

I took my license at 20 years old, my father passed down his passion for motorcycling to me. I started riding a Suzuki SV 650 in 2008. I quickly became attached to my bike and I kept it until 2014. Now I have a Triumph Street Triple 675, on which I have ridden more than 40,000 kilometres.

I go out on my bike as often as I can, alone, in pairs or in a group, for short rides of a few hours, over a weekend or for several days. Next to Lyon, we have a lot to choose from. Since 2017, I have been part of a motorcycle club mounted by friends. There’s about thirty of us and we often ride together, we look for nice roads and beautiful landscapes but above all human experiences. Like in this Beaujolais gîte where we spent the evening chatting with the biker owners who share our love of old bikes.

I have already ridden a good part of the French roads (Alps, Corsica, Cevennes, Pyrenees…), and I am starting to tackle Europe (Italy, Switzerland, Spain).

What’s your dream bike?

I’m not sure there’s only one… I’m just thinking about my next one and the choice is complicated. I’m torn between a bike that’s made for adventure, like a trail bike, and a bike that makes me vibrate more, like a coffee racer or a scrambler. I recently tried the new Royal Enfield Continental GT 650, and I have a real crush, but I’m not sure that the café racer style is really suited to my desires.

I also recently rode on a Royal Enfield Bullet that I discovered in India, I was like a kid rediscovering the sensations of travelling.

I also dream of a Voxan Café Racer, for the mythical side of French motorcycling, but here again, it would be more of a collector’s bike, more than a bike to carve the road and go on an adventure.

In short, it’s hard to choose!

Do you have an anecdote to share with us about one of your motorcycle trips?

I have dozens of them! Often related to breakdowns, small glitches that can happen and also bad luck with the weather.

For example, with my Moto Club, we went for a weekend ride in Auvergne, in September 2017. We left Lyon in a rainstorm, we rode all Saturday in the rain, on our way to Puy Mary. At the summit, at only 1783 meters altitude, still under waterspouts, it was barely 2 degrees. At that moment, we settled down at a picnic table, still with our equipment, helmets, gloves and rain suits, to take a souvenir photo, laughing all together about the situation and completely forgetting about the cold.

What is your next motorcycle adventure goal?

The next trip that excites me the most is of course a trip with VR to Mongolia! Everybody tells me about it at Vintage and the immense steppes as far as the eye can see call me… Especially after several months of confinement, we all want to be in open space and nature!

Vintage Rides
Lyon
(by appointment only)
hello@vintagerides.com
+442032898785

[page break]

see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=8797820

At this price, this bike WILL NOT LAST! Custom paint and exhaust system, Only 2,695 miles. Too much cool stuff to list. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles 101-point safety/mechanical inspection.

2013 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Breakout®
The Harley Davidson® FXSBSE CVO™ Breakout® model is a premium custom motorcycle that mixes top-of-the-line features and detailing with a low, long and slammed power profile. Individually crafted and hand-finished, high-impact paint and graphics come standard on this CVO™ touring custom motorcycle.

Driven by a powerful Twin Cam 110™ Engine with 110 cubic inches of power, with a low cruising RPM for comfort and massive torque for performance, the Breakout® Harley® CVO™ model is a street machine with stylish appeal. The Breakout® FXSBSE model sports a unique polished metal paint with amazing hand-crafted graphics, the first time this kind of custom paint has been applied to a production model.

The Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Breakout® model has a chopped, slammed custom style that’s low, long and aggressive. Its LED headlights and two-piece saddle with pillion are high quality features that add distinctive custom styling. Don’t miss this all new model debuting as a CVO™ premium custom vehicle from Harley-Davidson®.

Exclusive CVO™ Enhancements

All the quality. All the legacy of the Harley-Davidson® name. Plus custom touches and performance that distinguish you from every other bike on the road. Sure there’s a little vanity. Premium custom. Big, tricked-out wheels. Deep attention to details.

Twin Cam 110™ Engine Heritage

The knowledge of what makes an engine truly move a rider runs deep at The Motor Company, and it was put to good use when we created the Twin Cam 110™ engine. We sweated bullets perfecting every cubic inch, pushing design and technology forward. And we did it all without compromising one bit of Harley-Davidson®’s unique styling.

Artfully Hidden Technology

Harley-Davidson® leverages the latest in technology without compromising style and function. That means we hide electronics. The whole wiring harness is skillfully routed behind the jewels of the bike—the tank, engine and all the other eye-popping features you want to see. It’s just another way The Motor Company goes the extra mile to give its bikes that premium, top-of-the-line fit and finish.

Low Seat and Pillion (Solo or Two-up)

Roll and stop with comfort and confidence as you sit slung close to your ride with the road in easy reach of your boots. This two-piece seat-and-pillion saddle sports rich black and brown leather styling with Hornback Gator accents. Together with the new CVO™ Breakout® model’s polished metal paint, the saddle creates a custom style that’s unmistakably premium.

THE BEST, New Bikernet Reader Comment!--THE BRIGHT LIGHT BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for April 23, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BRIGHT_LIGHT_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_April_23_2020.aspx

Uh, since we’re experiencing such a National Health crisis, please budget for additional Bikernet Medical Center nursing staff.

— Pauly D.
Chicago, IL

We’re all over it, er, her. –Bandit

STURGIS MAY BE CANCELLED—A secret meeting is planned for June in a Deadwood basement to make the final decision. The three armed men will be sitting at the first social-distancing black jack table.

We will report on the outcome.
–Bandit

LATEST NEWS FROM THE WHITEHOUSE–
For the most up-to-date information about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, its common symptoms, and measures you can take to prevent its spread, please visit www.coronavirus.gov. To learn more about how you can help those affected by the coronavirus, including information regarding the need for medical supplies or equipment, please visit www.fema.gov/coronavirus/how-to-help.

If you or your business have been impacted financially by COVID-19, please reach out to learn more about resources available to you. You can also visit the Small Business Administration’s website to find information regarding relief programs for those affected by this pandemic.

President Donald J. Trump believes the strength of our country lies in the spirit of the American people and their willingness to stay informed and get involved

Sincerely,

The Office of Presidential Correspondence

NEW FROM THE BUCKLE GUY-– Buckleguy.com with new sizes in our 1035 Heel Bar Buckle!

We are excited to bring into stock our classic 1035 Heel Bar Buckle in 2 inches! The sizing refers to the inner dimensions of the buckle. Our 1035 buckle is made from solid, low lead brass, and comes in all of our major finishes.

1035 Center Bar Buckle in 2″ Inches:
Antique Brass
Natural Brass
Nickel Plate
Nickel Matte
Thank you everyone, and stay safe!

The Buckleguy Team

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS–
Midwestern States Easing Business Restrictions

Michigan and Minnesota loosened some restrictions on businesses and manufacturers, allowing some to reopen.

In Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order that allowed industrial, manufacturing, and office-based businesses that are not customer-facing to return to work, with conditions. In Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer relaxed restrictions on some businesses and outdoor leisure activities, and the opening of state parks for day-use.

A new map on the MIC’s COVID-19 Updates page details reopening plans state by state.

A strip club in Oregon has had to alter its business model due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has forced restaurants, bars and venues to close their dining and showrooms. So, to help its employees continue to make money during the shutdown, the club opened up a drive-thru experience.

Shon Boulden, owner of the Lucky Devil Lounge in Portland, Ore., told Fox News that the idea for his club’s new drive-thru lane came about after he was contacted by a local event company.

Boulden said employees at the event company were also out of work due to the shutdown, but that they were willing to work with the Lucky Devil Lounge to create a new experience in the club’s parking lot. Boulden said he mulled over the idea for about a week.

“I didn’t want to bring the wrong kind of attention,” he explained. He says that his club has been following strict safety protocol since news of the outbreak first broke, and he didn’t want to do something that would look like they aren’t taking it seriously.

After figuring out a way to pull off the idea while still keeping the dancers safe and maintaining social distancing, Boulden said the club’s parking lot was transformed using tents, stages, music equipment and barricades.

After setting it up, he invited some friends and coworkers to try it out. He installed a GoPro on top of his car and drove through. When he reviewed the footage, he said, it was “awesome.”

“It reminded me of driving through a haunted house,” he said. “There’s lights, fog and a giant disco ball.” It basically works like this: Cars pull in and the DJ starts playing a song. Several dancers — wearing gloves and face masks — perform for the length of a song and then the customer’s food is brought to their car. The club even throws in a free roll of toilet paper (another item that’s been in high demand since the outbreak).

“They’re happy to see other human beings and to get the strip club experience.” One group even traveled all the way from Seattle to experience the drive-thru, and at least one regular drove through three times in one night, Boulden said.

“The dancers are happy to be working and be labeled as essential workers,” Boulden said.

–Michael Hollan
Fox NEws

BONNEVILLE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIAL OFFICIALLY CANCELLED—Delvene Manning, the boss, spoke to her dad on Wednesday. They informed the AMA and the BLM. Dennis suggested calling the Casinos in Wendover, Nevada. I said don’t forget the whorehouses.

See you on the salt in 2021.

–Bandit
Minion team member
5-Ball Racing Team

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2ortQpF-5I&feature=youtu.be

FOOD REPORT FROM TEXAS CONFIRMED--It’s easy to confirm on a dozen different news sources reporting. This is just neat because it’s straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. So, it’s more emotive than a NYT article, for example.

–Agent Zebra
Official Undercover Investigator
Bikernet.com™

LACONIA POSTPONED– FYI – posted tonight on Laconia Motorcycle Week Rally FB page . . .

Tonight, the Laconia City Council voted to postpone this year’s Rally to August 22nd-30th, 2020. The Laconia Motorcycle Week Association wishes continued good health and safety to all fellow riders. #LaconiaMCWeek

Paul W. Cote
www.CheckTwiceSigns.com
www.RidersHelpingRiders.org

THE OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT– 97th Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week® Rescheduled for August 22-30

LACONIA, New Hampshire, April 29, 2020: Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week has officially been postponed to August 22-30, 2020. The announcement was made shortly after the Laconia City Council unanimously decided to reschedule the rally in keeping with the governor’s mid-May extension of the state’s stay-at-home order. The consensus was that June was too early for a gathering of tens of thousands of people in Weirs Beach and beyond, particularly considering that most visitors travel from out of state.

Organizers are working tirelessly to maintain the look, feel and logistics of the rally by reaching out to vendors and event hosts in an effort to reschedule the signature events that make the world’s oldest motorcycle rally so popular, as evidence by the millions of dollars it pumps into the state’s economy.

Already, New Hampshire Motor Speedway has announced that the 97th Annual Loudon Classic will be moved to August 29th, continuing its tradition of closing out the week. The rally traffic plan will stay the same, with Lakeside Avenue closed to motorcycles only, centerline parking and serving as home to Rally Headquarters for the duration of the 9-day event.

Says Deputy Director, Jennifer Anderson, “We know these are unusual times and are doing everything possible to make this year’s rally the best it can be within the parameters of ever-changing health and safety guidelines. We’d like to thank local businesses and the city of Laconia and town of Meredith for their commitment to ensuring this historic spring event endures. In our 97-year history, this is certainly a first. But, as riders, circumstance has given us the opportunity to experience August in New Hampshire, when the state is in full bloom and the warmth of summer is in the air.”

Stay tuned for event updates over the next several weeks as the rescheduled 97th Progressive Laconia Motorcycle Week takes shape. Any/all updates will be posted to LaconiaMCWeek.com, through their e-newsletter and on all LaconiaMCWeek social media channels.

Laconia Motorcycle Week® gives great appreciation to all of our sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsors: Progressive, AMSOIL, and Team Motorcycle as well as the State of New Hampshire for their large financial support of our rally each year.

“Laconia – where rallies were invented”

NEWS FROM THE MASTER Artist David Uhl–

David Uhl’s 3rd and final offering in the Strange Days series will be released next week. In the meantime, today we are announcing a sale on a brand new piece!

This piece, titled “Legends in the Light” comes from our trip last summer to the Legends Motorcycle Museum in Springville, Utah. An amazing place, run by fantastic people…as we all get out from under this current environment and plan our rides, this museum should be on your itinerary! You can learn more here: https://legendsmotorcycles.com.

While there, David caught some fantastic late-day lighting coming through the front windows and snapped several photos. He brought this one to life in watercolor.

“Legends in the Light”

Signed, numbered prints are now available on watercolor paper at incredible prices. But, they will only be available for 24 hours. At 8:00 am (Mountain Time) tomorrow, Thursday April 30th, we will close the edition.

Print edition specifics:

** Image size 11 x 15, $95.00 unframed

** Image size 15 x 20, $295.00 unframed

NOTE: Framing is available for $250 on either size

The original watercolor is available as well. For anyone wanting to own a beautiful David Uhl original at a very reasonable price, this is your chance. Framed price $4,500.

We anticipate shipping all of the prints will take a few weeks – – edition (print) numbers will be assigned and prints will be shipped according to when orders are placed, so we encourage you to move quickly if you want this one!

Prints will come hand-signed by David and numbered, along with Certificate of Authenticity.

You can place your order by return email, or by calling me at 303-913-4840.

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director

Uhl Studios
15801 W. Colfax Avenue
Golden, CO 80401
303-913-4840

THIS JUST IN FROM THE BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER–Now come the heavy guns. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter also stimulates the body’s organs by increasing oxygen intake to the heart, lungs and muscles, and triggers the release of endorphins. It also helps people handle stress by easing tension, relaxing the muscles and lowering blood pressure.

But considering the pandemic that our world is currently facing, the most important thing is that laughter increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving our resistance to disease. So, as weird as it sounds, memes really can help you to fight the coronavirus. You’re welcome.

SUGAR BEAR UPDATE–
Talked to Sugar Bear yesterday, he said he just got home after a 2-week quarantine in Los Angeles due to exposure to covid-19. He and his people are all ok though. Told me he is waiting to get my frontend back from the chrome shop. Says they are dreadfully slow now. Understandable. He is guessing 2 to 4 weeks. Hope he’s right.

Also said whether they have the Sturgis rally or not, he is not going. Sealed the deal for me. I was on the fence anyhow, but if he ain’t gonna be there, neither am i. Don’t think anything will approach normal until a preventive vaccine is found.

We talked about you for a spell. He said he needs to get a hold of you. I asked him to say hello for me. He really loves his place near Bakersfield. Happy for the old bird.

Take care. By the way, are you all settled in Deadwood?

Later man,

–Andy Assel
King of the Wild Frontier

GEORGE CHRISTIE INTERVIEW-– In our catch up with George Christie, we thought we would ask him some introspective questions from his apartment in Malaga, Spain:

LC: So you achieve a rare thing…you publish a book based on your life experiences that was received well. How did you turn that amazing feat into a television deal?

George: I was told by several people in the entertainment business my expectations were too high, but I kept following my vision to tell my story. In my travels I met studio executive Pat Andrew, who is really just an artist stuck in a suit..he completely got it. It sounds like an overused cliche, but the rest is history…we’ve become good friends.

LC: There’s a lot of positive buzz about the future television show on social media etc…Who would you like to be cast as a young you if you could choose any actor in the world?

George: I like the intensity of Oscar Isaac.

LC: As someone who has read your fantastic book, there are some interesting female characters that I understand will be adapted for the television show. In that vein, what kind of woman is a man like you attracted to?

George: I like strong women who will take a dare.

LC: Tell us something really interesting about yourself that no one knows and that your fans would love to hear about? Eg,. I interviewed the enigmatic author of Catcher in the Rye, Mr JD Salinger and asked him this very question….he told me that he was in the Battle of Normandy as an Intelligence officer with the top secret OSS. So, give us something good!

George: In the late seventies I worked as a communication trouble shooter for the Department Of Defense, with a top secret security clearance. Now, keep in mind this is in the height of the cold war with Russia. Just off the Southern Californian coast are the Channel Islands. On one of the islands was a submarine surveillance system that ressembled something out of a James Bond movie. It had a direct line to Washington and more than once I had direct conversations with high ranking military “brass”. Now what makes this story unique is, at the same time, I was President of the Los Angeles Hells Angels….

LC: For fans who want to get a book or manuscript optioned and made into a television show, what advice would you offer them?

George: That you go into any pitch or creative meeting with an open mind, take suggestions and criticism, if its reasonable, and don’t let your ego get in the way.

–Lucy Carver

For the original news story, please visit https://www.prdistribution.com/news/george-christie-former-hells-angels-president-of-ventura-california-filming-in-marked-the-unforgiven-in-europe.html.

MICHAEL LICHTER PHOTO OF THE WEEK–

Description: Richie Pan’s last ride. Richie out riding with the coast-to-coast “Stampeders” Saturday morning during the Smokeout. Rockingham, NC. USA. June 20, 2015.

150620_MLSC_121015A.jpg

If you would like a classic photo from Mike, of your favorite event or builder, don’t hesitate to reach out to him.–Bandit

NEW BIKERNET ADVERTISER—Suspension Technologies recently came on board Bikernet as a Salt Torpedo Sponsor and Bikernet Advertiser.

If you are a builder or have a special shock application and you want a flexible company to work with, drop Mike Alex a call or an email. –Bandit

Traditional American Excellence

We are mission-driven, high-performing motorcycle component engineers. The mission is to stay focused on doing things right and on doing the right thing to improve upon what is possible. We are seasoned and accomplished elite professionals who know that exercising “discipline with follow-through” is the only way to excel. We are clever enough to achieve responsiveness, comfort and dependability without waste.

It’s an honor to provide the resulting value to the community who rides on the legendary
American motorcycle platform.
https://suspensiontechnologies.com/

–Mike Alex

NEWS FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–INTRODUCING: NICK’S PICKS
Meet Nick. Twisted Road’s resident “all things motorcycle”. If you are part of the Twisted Road community, odds are you have “met” Nick and he’s taken good care of you. And now he’s sharing his love of bikes with us all—10 at a time.

Dreaming about getting out in the fresh Spring air—warmer weather, and outdoor adventure? Spring brings many things to mind and one of them is finally getting back on a bike. For those of us that have been braving a bone-chilling winter, it’s time to explore some warm weather roads on two wheels.

Every landscape has a different version of Spring. Take them all in on one of the bikes below—for a day, a weekend or as long as it takes to take it all in.

Community is more important than ever right now. Here at Twisted Road, we are grateful to have such an amazing community of riders to share bikes, stories and kick-ass routes. Ride safe!

Click each bike to learn more, or visit www.TwistedRoad.com to explore even more bikes.

[page break]

QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!
THE BRIGHT LIGHT BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for April 23, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BRIGHT_LIGHT_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_April_23_2020.aspx

I was thinkin’ that the Bikes, Blues, and BBQ was in Fayetteville, Arkansas in September. Does the North Carolina dealership sponsor it?

— Sam
TX

So far, can’t seem to find out. –Bandit

BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB--How to Build a Patina Volkswagen: Including Bugs, Buses and Derivatives

by Mark Walker

Give your VW a fashionable care-worn look

The explosion of Patina Volkswagens on social media has inspired those car fanatics who realise that you don’t have to restore a car to end up with a good-looking ride. At last, you can stand out from the crowd, even on a tight budget. The look of the cars that result from patina builds is honest, unspoiled, and characterful; it has also inspired the media, movie stars and celebrities.

Covers the appraisal, buying, strip down, repair and sympathetic renovation of original paint and patina Volkswagen cars and vans/Buses across the air-cooled range. This includes matching original paint or patina to repaired areas, coming up with a style and popular modifications.

PRICE: £30 UK • $45 USA • $60 CAN SKU: V5500
FORMAT: Hardback • 25×20.7cm • 160 pages • 333 pictures

MOTORCYCLE TRAINING CLASSES UPDATE— Rider Training in Pennsylvania

On a conference call (Colorado rider training) and was just informed all training in Pennsylvania has been suspended for the rest of this year.

I am told PA is a Total Control state — Lee and the State have come to an agreement to end this year’s contract.

Deb Craig
MRF Corporate Secretary

Same in Massachusetts, but that will depend on whether the current Stay-at-Home (through May 4th) is extended, and until when.

We’re also adding a virtual classroom option.

— Paulette Korte

Illinois is supposed to start June 1. Will see with the governor shutting us down for another 30 days.

–Paulette

Minnesota seems to still be on.
— Doc D’Errico

LINDBY CRASH BAR TECH COMING--The reason why that bar does not fit properly is because It is a Knockoff. Unfortunately, when buying through ebay there Is a huge risk of encountering knockoffs, or sometimes they are our parts but they are miss-labeled or come with different or missing hardware.

Obviously, we cannot accept that bar for an exchange but we can go ahead and send
You the correct Linbar for your Dyna and it would be a great idea if Bikernet
can incorporate news about knockoff bars onto the story write up. That way you bring a bit of light and awareness to the public the risks of purchasing knockoff products through sources like ebay. Not only do they not fit correctly but the cheaper quality in material. Tubing integrity is a Huge risk in the Safety for the Rider.

–Henry Sandoval
Lindby Customs

We’ve run across this issue before. Just pick up a swap-meet knockoff and pick up a true Lindby Bar. Amazing difference in weight due to thin-wall tubing and tabs. –Bandit

ASCOT NEWS–What do Chuck Norris, Ronald Reagan and Steve McQueen have in common? The reverential yet forgotten Southern California racetrack known as Ascot.

A nationally known institution, Ascot Park can be spoken in the same breath as Indianapolis and the Daytona Speedway as one of the most famous oval tracks in history.

Ascot cultivated more rising car and motorcycle racer careers than most, and even launched Evel Knievel’s daredevil ploys on ABC’s Wide World of Sports. This half-mile track drew out thousands of race crowds, five days a week amid a hunger for speed, Americana and spectacle you cannot replicate.

LOS ANGELES STREET RACERS USE EMPTY STREETS–But where some see emptiness, others see an opportunity for racing.

In recent weeks, police across California say street racers have been quick to turn the state’s cleared-out roadways into their own personal playgrounds. From Southern California to the Bay Area, racers have been challenging one another at dangerous speeds on surface streets or rushing intersections to perform burnouts and other dangerous vehicle stunts, investigators say.

–By JAMES QUEALLY, RICHARD WINTON
LA Times

JUNK YARD FINDS ON THE INTERNET–Hello! Tired of ebay restrictions and fees? We sure are! For auto parts and tools….there is an alternative!

JunkYardFind.com is a GREAT way to turn spare parts into cash! If your just cleaning out your garage or a professional seller, our website is a FREE online parts swap meet. NO Listing Fees, NO Final Sale Fees, NO Commissions of any type.

We are a Motor Sports only venue that offers Parts & Tool categories for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, Water Sports, Off-Road & more. We also have a vehicle category for new & used vehicles of every type.

NO listing fees
NO final sale fees
NO commissions
NO fees period to list items

Optional Store & Website link upgrades direct to your listings!

List as many items as you want…WITHOUT extra fees!

Use up to 9 pictures per item and much, much more!

It’s easy to use, has video tutorials on everything and is a good opportunity to gain added internet exposure for your shop or business!

ANOTHER, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–THE BRIGHT LIGHT BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for April 23, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BRIGHT_LIGHT_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_April_23_2020.aspx

I am confused. Not anything new, but when we elect or hire these politicians and petty bureaucrats did we agree to give them the rights to take away ours?

— AJ
Deland, FL

They take an oath to protect our rights, but some miss the, “our rights” portion. They think they’re in office to protect us… Oops. –Bandit

CRAZY—I’m waiting on a call from Performance Wheels in Long Beach. They advertise that they fix mag wheels, but when I showed up, the boss started to buckle. He threw one excuse at me after another.

I pointed out that they mounted the tires. Anyway, they agreed to give it a shot and polish the wheels.

I’m waiting for a call for a guy about a real estate deal that could toss my life into a blender and flip it on high.

I’m waiting for a call from a movie producer about turning one of my books into a major film.

I’m waiting for a call from a woman in Deadwood. I’m waiting for a leather shipment. I’m waiting on a couple of quiet hours to finish this Chance chapter. I’m waiting on a generator for the Doctor’s Panhead.

Hell, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It’s never a dull moment around here, I don’t care if we’re at war, under terrorist attack, global sea-rise, or a fuckin’ Pandemic. Let’s party and adore pretty women.

 

Soon, we will ride fast and free forever, again!

–Bandit

from https://www.livemint.com

• The company’s shares climbed after the motorcycle maker’s new acting chief executive officer laid out plans to cut costs
• The stock had plunged 49% this year through Monday’s close

Harley-Davidson Inc. shares climbed after the struggling motorcycle maker’s new acting chief executive officer laid out plans to cut costs and complexity and focus on the company’s strengths.

The stock rose as much as 17% after the unveiling of a strategy dubbed “The Rewire,” which Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas said could make Harley one of few manufacturers to grow profits in the coming years.

“It is clear to us that HOG will be less adventurous in terms of trying its hand at segments and markets where the brand faces extremely low chances of success with high up-front costs and high risks of brand atrophy that could threaten the company’s long-term survival,” Jonas, who rates the stock the equivalent of a buy, wrote in a report Tuesday.

Jochen Zeitz, a board member and former CEO of sporting-goods maker Puma SE, took over as acting CEO at the end of February. He’s dialing back his predecessor’s turnaround plan to focus on expanding U.S. ridership, iconic profitable bikes such as the Adventure Touring and Streetfighter models, and electric motorcycles. Those goals echo the demands of an activist investor, Impala Asset Management, that reached an agreement calling for Harley to add an independent director to its board later this year.

‘Achievable Plans’

Harley “has become accustomed to over-committing and under-delivering; we need to set achievable plans and realistic goals,” Zeitz said during the earnings call. “It is clear that our strategy needs to be refocused to better align with our capacity and capabilities and also updated given our new reality.”

Harley shares were up about 12% as of 11:53 a.m. in New York; the stock had plunged 49% this year through Monday’s close.

Zeitz was mum on the subject of a permanent CEO search, batting away analyst questions by saying he’s focused on steering the iconic motorcycle maker through the crisis.

The fallout from the coronavirus was swift: U.S. sales had been up 6.6% before the pandemic took hold in mid-March, but the drop during the first three months ended up being Harley’s biggest first-quarter fall since 2010. After that 16% plunge in retail sales, Harley is in all likelihood headed for its sixth straight annual decline.

Slashing Costs

Zeitz resisted giving a new financial forecast, saying it’s too early to see the full scope of the virus’s impact. But he’s slashing costs and borrowing money to ensure Harley can weather the storm.

The manufacturer said it will save $250 million this year by freezing hiring, reducing salaries, trimming capital expenditures and retiming product launches. It’s also halting share repurchases.

Harley announced it’s in talks with major U.S. banks to secure $1.3 billion in funding and expects to tap capital markets for more in the coming weeks after sales of its motorcycles declined in every market worldwide, including a 13th consecutive quarterly drop in the U.S.

John Olin, Harley’s chief financial officer, said he’s tightening underwriting standards and increasing loan-loss provisions at the company’s lending arm. He stepped up provisions by $36 million and wrote off $8.9 million in credit losses in the quarter. Harley has been granting payment deferrals for some customers.