When you’re into riding flat out, you need to be willing and capable to make adjustments. We decided to give our cool Flat Out Vest several snappy upgrades based on road testing. This puppy will now be our classic leather vest with just the right design and upgrades. I got tired of the preacher collar messing with shirts and hoodies, so we removed it and trimmed the collar and arm holes in leather. The back will have the classic western cut trim and the waist band with return on this vest. Of course, it will contain all of our exclusive gun pockets and the too cool media pocket in the back. These puppies will be in stock shortly. Order a Flat Out and receive the new model. Or check out any of our other cool vests, jackets and we now have the perfect Racy women’s jacket and the women’s light Pit Crew Vest. –Bandit

http://shop.bikernet.com/

You always get bling and a signed book with your leather order.

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.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS

NEW BIKERNET AND BANDIT’S CANTINA PROGRAMS FOR 2020

We’ve taken Bikernet Entertainment to a new level.

Join the Cantina, subscribe today https://www.bikernet.com/pages/custom/subscription.aspx

Lot of goodies inside – check it out

Home of 5-Ball Leathers, Denims, bedroll and Books

https://shop.bikernet.com/

Terry the Tramp by K. Randall Ball
The life and dangerous times of a 1% Club President, Terry the Tramp

Get your Signed Copy By Keith Randall Ball – CLICK HERE

There’s crime, drugs, sex, random violence, death aplenty. The core subject of this book is freedom.

Some folks find their way to the bright white side of the tracks, but there’s a small percentage who run through the dark alleys of life. Even a smaller portion of those survive. Terry “the Tramp,” born in 1947 to a broken middle-class home in Alhambra, California, grew up with a violent chip on his shoulder. Terry became the international president of one of the most notorious one-percenter motorcycle clubs in southern California, the Vagos MC, and remained in office through upheaval, indictments, drugs, and gang wars for 26 years, until he was unceremoniously extricated. He is still a member after 42 years and never went to prison until 2010.

World Run by K. Randall Ball

This wild romantic adventure is the second Chance Hogan novel by K. Randall Ball. He never gets it right, with women, but he keeps trying. Hang on for World Run, the ride of a lifetime.

CLICK HERE to check it out

The story picks up shortly after the previous story ends. Even though this tale can stand on its own I would recommend reading Harbor Town. Seduction first as it sets up this book nicely.

World Run finds our hero, Chance Hogan, down and out in the women department only to fall in lust and subsequently in love with a local Asian beauty. This love affair propels Chance into an adventure where he has to count on old friends and new to sort out the cause for events which lead him on a wild journey around the world.

Sam ‘Chopper’ Orwell by K. Randall Ball

Fast-action fiction on two wheels! What does the future hold for rough and ready bikers? Discover how society eliminates motorcycles. Hold on as Sam “Chopper” Orwell fights to find freedom for the last remaining riders!

Discover How Society Eliminates Motorcycles. Hold on, as Sam “Chopper” Orwell fights to find freedom for the last remaining riders.

CLICK HERE TO RIDE THE ADVENTURE

by Elena Gorgan from https://www.autoevolution.com

Like with everything else in this world, there are bikes and then there are… bikes. The Harley-Davidson we’re going to talk about today falls in the latter category, of machines that are so expensive they are more like objects of art than actual rides.

Whereas most luxury cars and motorcycles remain practical, this one is less much so. Many rides cost a fortune either because of one-off customizations or the fact that they’re limited edition, or simply just that awesome. This Harley-Davidson is pretty much the same as it was when it left the factory, but coated with a new layer of paint.

Make that more than 37 of them. This is the Harley-Davidson Cosmic Starship, also known as the Million Dollar Harley-Davidson or artists Jack Armstrong’s bike. It’s actually a 2002 V-Rod that has been painted in Armstrong’s Cosmic Extensionalism style.

In other words, this Hog is a rolling, roaring piece of art, a painting on the move. If you can afford to risk damaging it by actually taking it on the road, that is.

As of the time of writing, the Cosmic Starship is back on the market, with an asking price between $15 million and $30 million, since it’s a one-off. It’s been listed for sale by its current owner since 2017 and, should it ever find a buyer, it will go down in history, officially, as the world’s most expensive motorcycle.

Even if it doesn’t, based on the last price it changed hands for, it is still among the top five most expensive bikes in the world: $3 million.

So what’s the deal with it? Why is it so pricey?

As noted above, there is nothing outstanding about the bike itself. It’s a V-Rod without any modifications, chosen because Armstrong, a vocal Harley enthusiast himself, believed it was the perfect, most luxurious canvas for his revolutionary painting style, which took 30 years to perfect.

“The style of the 2002 Harley V-Rod was revolutionary, and it was the most futuristic creation in motorcycles I had ever seen,” he said ahead of the introduction of the bike. “For several years between 2003-2004 when I lived in Switzerland I rode V-Rods with seven-time F1 World Champion Michael Schumacher. So the V-Rod was my only choice for the most expensive motorcycle in history.”

The Cosmic Starship was introduced in October 2010 at Bartels in Marina Del Rey, California, in a ceremony that saw it being dropped from the sky while lit up by $100,000 worth of lights. It was billed the Million Dollar Harley from the start, based on the fact that Armstrong painted it.

In 2012, it sold for $3 million, and it popped up on the market again in 2017: Cosmic Harley says it’s asking price is of $15 million, but Star Global International (which actually commissioned the work) puts it at $30 million. They both seem to agree, however, that its value will go up in the coming years: the figure $250 million is casually being thrown around.

It took Armstrong (who is Neil Armstrong’s nephew) 6 years to complete the job. You wouldn’t be able to say by just looking at it in pictures, but there’s an elaborate technique about this style of painting. It reportedly involved lots of acrylic paint and no less than 37 coats of clear coat on top, a method Armstrong needed 3 decades to master.

What makes Armstrong stand out among other artists is his belief in “the energy that coexists in inter planetary and multi-dimensional extensionalism,” which is reflected in his work. In more specific terms, his work stands out for hidden messages when viewed at different angles or in different lights, and extreme use of color, texture and light. Reportedly, Andy Warhol, with whom he was friends, dubbed him “The Last Wizard.”

What also drives up the price on Armstrong’s art, including this Hog, is the fact that he vowed to never make more than 100 pieces to showcase it and never to touch canvas. He’s never used an art dealer either, so he deals directly with the most exclusive clients. With all that, not much is known about his personal life or his body of work, and there are suspicions about claims he made about the former in the past. Either he’s onto something as an artist, or he may just be a major con who has been able to talk his way to the top by selling the illusion of exclusivity.

Back to the bike, even if never sells for the kind of money it’s being listed at, it’s still very expensive at $3 million. The Cosmic Starship is currently being held in a climate-controlled vault and remains in pristine condition. Whether anyone’s ever ridden it remains a mystery, but for this kind of money, would you risk damaging that which makes it so expensive by taking it out on the road?

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

Because we chose to dedicate this month to Harley-Davidson, we’ve been keeping you up to date with all things Harley ever since the beginning of March. Most of our coverage focused though on what was and what is, and less on what’s coming from probably the world’s most famous motorcycle maker.

There are three major projects in the works in Milwaukee, and two of them will be released by the end of this year. The three are the Bronx (2020), the Pan America (2020), and the uber-exciting and yet unnamed custom model that will see daylight in 2021.

This piece here is about the Bronx, a bike built on a new middleweight platform that was shown for the first time at the EICMA show in Milan last year.

The Bronx will be Harley’s first product to be fitted with the 975cc version of the new Revolution Max family of engines. Although the official specs have not been announced, the 60-degree V-twin should develop 115 hp and around 95 Nm of torque.

The bike will most likely use a new braking solution from Brembo – one that should make its way on all Revolution Max-engined bikes, as well as dedicated Michelin tires.

There’s no official date for the release of the Bronx yet, but we should have it detailed sometime in the near future. The bike is part of an expansion plan cooked up by Harley that would see over 15 models being developed on the new middleweight platform.

This is one of the ways Harley is using as a means to meet the target it set for itself: 1 million new riders by 2027, bringing the total to 4 million in the U.S. alone.

“We’ll continue to fuel all aspects of the riding experience and add new solutions to fully develop, engage and retain riders through their journey, starting with the very first spark of interest,” said in a statement when the plan was announced in September 2019.

Hey,

I’m having issues with my computer today. This shit always happens on a Thursday. Can’t happen Monday and give me a few days to sort it out. Oh no…

So, since I’ve been delayed, I’m going to hop right to the news. I hope they get a handle on this virus or it warms up and it just goes away, which it will.

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.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY OF XR750
Harley-Davidson celebrates the legacy of the XR750 and continuing its 100-plus-year motorsports history with the XG750R

 The 2020 season marks the 50th year since the debut of the XR750, a motorcycle raced, wrenched on, and beloved among the American Flat Track (AFT) paddock to this day. To celebrate the anniversary, Harley-Davidson® Super Twins and Production Twins bikes along with the Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines NHRA Pro Stock motorcycles will feature the historic color of Harley-Davidson competition motorcycles, Jet Fire Orange, along with team haulers, uniforms, and branded accessories.

“The XR750 is the winningest motorcycle in AMA Pro Racing motorcycle history,” said Jon Bekefy, General Manager of Brand Marketing at Harley-Davidson, Inc. “Harley-Davidson is taking its 50th anniversary as a moment to reflect on the legacy and individuals who have designed, engineered, tuned, and raced the XR750 during its years of competition, and to celebrate Harley-Davidson’s 2020 racing efforts.”

History of the Legendary Harley-Davidson® XR750 model

Born in 1970 with the advent of the new AMA Racing equivalency formula, the XR750 was created by Harley-Davidson’s Race Team Manager Dick O’Brian and team to replace the highly successful outgoing KR750.

Using a Harley-Davidson® Sportster-based engine, the XR750 utilized modified cast-iron heads and cylinders, a magneto instead of generator, and improved oiling. In 1972 a new, more powerful all-aluminum alloy XR750 engine was introduced.
The perfected machine dominated flat track racing for decades to come. Between 1972 and 2008, the XR750 would go on to win 28 of 37 AMA Grand National Championships. The XR750 racked up more wins than any other motorcycle in AMA racing history and earned the description of being the “most successful race bike of all time.”

In addition, the XR750 became a cultural icon with legendary stuntman Evel Knievel at the handlebars. Evel Knievel began jumping an XR750 at the height of his career from 1970 to 1976, and alongside the exploits of the racing versions of the XR750 inspired a generation to ride.

Celebrating 50 Years of Competition, Continuing the Legacy

For 2020, the Harley-Davidson Factory Flat Track team will continue to field Harley-Davidson’s production-based tradition for factory flat track campaigns. The updated Harley-Davidson® XG750R flat tracker, powered by the liquid-cooled, fuel-injected and race-tuned 750cc Harley-Davidson® Revolution X™ V-Twin is based on the production engine originally designed for the Harley-Davidson Street 750 motorcycle.

Full details on the team can be found here.

The Harley-Davidson Factory Flat Track Team will compete on the entire 18-event AFT SuperTwins schedule in 2020. The series kicks off on March 14 with the Daytona TT at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Fla.

For more information, visit www.h-d.com.

–Joseph Gustafson

SUPPORT plans to restore Bonneville Salt Flats land speed record course–Let Interior Secretary Bernhardt know BLM funding is essential

The land speed racetrack at Bonneville — once 13 miles long — is now less than 8 miles, due to salt erosion. It is critically important that the U.S. Department of the Interior contributes funds toward a 10-year restoration program that will dramatically increase the amount of salt pumped onto Bonneville Salt Flats. Help restore the Salt Flats before it’s too late.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the Utah Department of Natural Resources, local company Intrepid Potash and the land speed racing community have identified a strategy and are collaboratiing to restore Bonneville. Please urge Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to fund the Restore Bonneville program through the department’s fiscal 2020 budget.

Go to the AMA website to take action: https://americanmotorcyclist.com/

By following this link Take Action and providing your contact information, you’ll sign and send our email to Bernhardt, explaining the importance of the Bonneville Salt Flats and how he can directly affect funding for the needed restoration.

Even better, if you personalize the email by adding what Bonneville means to you, it will have far more impact. An easy way would be including a sentence at the beginning describing what it is like to attend or even take part in a race on the Salt Flats. Also feel free to amend the subject line of the email to read “I visit” or “I race at” the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Thank you in advance for commenting. If you do submit edited comments, please forward a copy to us at grassroots@amacycle.org. Please forward this alert to your friends and ask them to submit comments, too.

ZERO ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE IS WORTH ZERO DOLLARS—We just posted a story about the new Zero Naked Electric bike for 10 grand. Check this:
My test bike, with the basic 7.2 kWh power pack, has a 98 miles per hour (mph) maximum top speed with a sustained top speed of 80 mph. The rated driving ranges for the Zero S with the base power pack are 89 miles in city driving, 45 miles at 70 mph on the highway, and 60 miles combined.

If you are willing to pay for more range, the Zero SR, which is essentially the same bike, has a 14.4 kWh battery pack. The SR starts at $15,495 and boosts the range to 179 miles for city driving, 90 miles on the highway, or 120 miles combined. For the maximum possible driving distance with Zero S models, you can also add the 3.3 kWh Power Tank for $2,895. The Zero SR with the Power Tank is rated for a maximum of 223 miles in the city, 112 miles on the highway, or 150 miles combined.

Note that larger power packs don’t just drive up the price. They weigh more. The 7.2 kWh Zero S weighs 313 pounds. The Zero SR with the 14.4 kWh power pack weighs 408 pounds, and if you add the 3.3 kWh Power Tank for a total of 18 kWh, the weight climbs to 452 pounds.

Your choice will balance cost, range, and weight. You can’t switch power packs or add the Power Tank later, so it’s essential to buy the right power combination from the start.

Charging the battery

The Zero S has a 1.3 kW integrated battery charger and a thick power cable that plugs into a standard 110/220 power plug. Charging the Zero S requires 4.7 hours for a 95% charge, or 5.2 hours to charge 100%. With a $600 optional quick charger, it takes 3.1 hours for a 100% charge, or 2.6 hours for 95%.

A third option is to buy an optional Charge Tank ($2,495). With the Charge Tank, you can plug into a standard Level 2 charge station for a 95% charge in one hour, or 100% in 1.5 hours. Note that you can’t order a Zero S or SR with both the Power Tank and Charge Tank options.

Here’s the full story: 2020 Zero Motorcycles Zero S review: A naked electric bike

https://blog.bikernet.com/2020-zero-motorcycles-zero-s-review-a-naked-electric-bike/

What the fuck good is a motorcycle with a 45-mile range on the highway and a 4-hour charge time?

NEWS FROM THE DAYTONA BIKE WEEK FRONT--Vendors on Main Street are off this year. Denver’s is missing and most of the vendors are clothes related? As of today Thursday, Main Street is closed today cars.

The chopper show at Willies tattoo was hot, the competition stiff but to me Main Street does not feel the same?

Later!
–STEALTH

JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK–JIMS® 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. This is especially true when the oil is contaminated with water condensation from being run for short periods of time without reaching operating temperature resulting in the dipstick being virtually impossible to remove. With an MSRP of $34, 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. This insert, designed by Gary Smith exclusively for JIMS, is manufactured out of blue delrin and guaranteed for life. The insert is also available as a kit (No.760K) including the socket for earlier model bikes with an MSRP of $55.

For more information please contact us at (805) 482-6913, email us at sales@jimsusa.com, or visit www.jimsusa.com.

–Greg Thiessen
Marketing Associate

JIMS®
555 Dawson Drive,
Camarillo, CA 93012
Ph: 805-482-6913
www.jimsusa.com

GOLDWINGS AND BATTERIES–
I have been trying to get a new battery for the Goldwing but it appears that there is no such thing as a dry battery coming with an acid pack.

Do you have a favorite store that I could purchase one from with an acid pack so that I can charge it the way I want or shall I just give in and get tone that has had a one hour fast charge, which is what I do not want. I have learnt that this is why a battery does not last long. They need a long slow charge initially, after putting the acid in and letting the acid work away for a half an hour before charging.

Went to the March Hare Rally in Waimate this past weekend. It was only a short trip, like about 5 hours one way. Great day for a ride up on Friday hauling the side car with Maree riding pillion and camping gear in the sidecar.

On the way home on Sunday, we had a tailwind after we got to Balclutha and it got cold so Maree sat in the Sidecar rest of the way. It was good as I did not then have to worry about the chair wheel lifting om left hand bends under a 100 kph. The tail wind did improve the economy compared to the head wind on Friday.

–Graeme

We don’t see many acid packs anymore, and shipping is probably an issue. We can get a sealed battery down the street, slow-charge it and have it ready when he arrives from New Zealand to ride to the Badlands.–Bandit

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WEEKLY LESSON–Proof readers needed

Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter

This one I caught in the SGV Tribune the other day and called the Editorial Room and asked who wrote this. It took two or three readings before the editor realized that what he was reading was impossible!!! They put in a correction the next day.

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says
Really? Ya think?
—————————————————————————-
Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
Now that’s taking things a bit far!
———————————————————–
Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over
What a guy!
—————————————————————
Miners Refuse to Work after Death
Those good-for-nothing’ lazy so-and-so’s!
——————————————————
Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant
See if that works any better than a fair trial!
———————————————————-
War Dims Hope for Peace
I can see where it might have that effect!
—————————————————————-
If Strike Isn’t Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile
Ya think?!
———————————————————————–
Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures
Who would have thought!
—————————————————————-
Enfield ( London ) Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide
They may be on to something!
————————————————————————
Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
You mean there’s something stronger than duct tape?
———————————————————-
Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge
He probably IS the battery charge!
———————————————-
New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group
Weren’t they fat enough?!
———————————————–
Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft
That’s what he gets for eating those beans!
—————- ———————————
Kids Make Nutritious Snacks
Do they taste like chicken?
****************************************
Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half
Chainsaw Massacre all over again!
***************************************************
Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors
Boy, are they tall!
*******************************************
And the winner is….
Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead

Did I read that right?
***************************************************

–Joe Smith

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK--2013 Harley-Davidson® FLHRC – Road King® Classic for $12,995.00See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=7906127

2013 FLHRC Road King Classic

The Road King Classic model takes the nostalgic look and feel of the Road King a little further with extra details for this road-worthy touring bike, like leather-wrapped saddlebags, nostalgic chrome fuel tank console, tooled metal detailing on the fender, tank, seat and bags, and chrome laced wheels with wide whitewall tires. Residing beneath all that fine detail is the powerful 1690 cc, Twin Cam 103 engine with integrated oil cooler.

The innovative Harley-Davidson Touring chassis is based on a single-spar, rigid backbone frame and a stout swingarm developed to withstand the demands of long-haul touring riders and today’s powerful engines. You’ll love the way the ‘King’ rides!!!

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT:

Lots of small detail extras on this guy! Vivid Black paint with silver pin-striping and raised tank logo is excellent. Chrome tank strap with aluminum face and bottom leather tank protector. Painted inner fairing, Jensen radio with extra speakers and handlebar controls. Tinted windshield, Willie G (skull logo) visors over the head / passing lamps and Willie G blinker lenses. Custom chrome axle caps on laced chrome rims with whitewalls.

Fork chrome wind deflector protecting your shins and chrome engine guard with extendable freeway pegs. ABS and Vance & Hines curved exhaust. Chrome Willie G 90* cone air filter. Chrome engine covers including cam with H-D logo, custom horn and 103 derby cover. 2-up seat with mini backrest and hardware for a luggage rack. Floorboards, passenger Willie G floorboards and chrome accented heat shields. Chrome bag guards, hard leather coated bags, fender trim, meaty whitewall tires and a pigtail. All this on a super riding Road King!!!

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

EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!

Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

**Open 7 days a week**

Just $12,995 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

—
Looking forward!

–Dan Leadbetter
Director of Marketing
Lifestyle Cycles
(714) 490-0155

BLACK BIKE WHEEL OF THE WEEK-– Dyna Front Wheel 40 Spoke 19×2.5
$725.00Price

Dyna 40 spoke wheels are a complete bolt-on wheel for your Harley, delivering INCREASED STABILITY AND HANDLING, FASTER ACCELERATION, AND BETTER BRAKING.

WHEEL:

-19” x 2.5” front

Produced & hand built in the USA featuring:

-Direct bolt on fitment using all OEM parts

-Precision Billet Hubs CNC’d from 6061 T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum

-Stainless steel spokes and nipples

-Show quality powder coated finish

-OEM size wheel bearings and seals

-All stainless steel hardware

We build all of our wheels custom, Any size any finish!

*Final product might vary slightly from pictures.

www.blackbikewheels.com

[page break]

BRAND NEW BIKERNET READER COMMENT–BIKE WEEK BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for March 5th, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/BIKE_WEEK_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_March_5th_2020.aspx

I agree with Geno. I was just thinking all of this, when I saw the new Softail std. I kept looking, and I kept thinking it’s missing something The original Softails had an edge to the. For me this one does not.

I agree also, enough with the solo seats and enough with the short rear fenders. Get back to what got you here Also, enough with the speakers and lights. Go back to your outlaws roots and you will see those sale numbers climb again!

But what do I know I am just an old biker.

–Mike Pullin
charlotte, nc

“A 2018 study from the American Heart Association found kids and teens ages 8 to 18 averaged more than seven hours a day looking at screens.” https://www.cbsnews.com/news/parents-need-to-drastically-cut-kids-screen-time-devices-american-heart-association/

Obesity rates

“Overweight adolescents who participate in bicycling 3 to 4 days per week are 85% more likely to become normal-weight adults.” Menschik, D., et al., 2008 – Adolescent physical activities as predictors of young adult weight, Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 162, 23-28

“Almost 1 in 5 American 4-year-olds is obese.” Anderson, S., and R. Whitaker, 2009 – Prevalence of Obesity Among US Preschool Children in Different Racial and Ethnic Groups, Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, 163, 344-348

Childhood diseases

“Unfortunately, physical inactivity, which has progressively increased over the past several decades, significantly increases the risk of numerous diseases/disorders, including several forms of cancer, diabetes, hypertension, coronary and cerebrovascular diseases, overweight/obesity, and all-cause mortality, among others. Unless there is a reversal of this sedentary lifestyle, the incidence of these diseases/disorders will increase, life expectancy will decrease, and medical costs will continue to rise.” http://www.annclinlabsci.org/content/42/3/320.full

Top stats on bicycling with links/sources

“In the last decade, there has been a 35% drop in kids riding for fun.”
“In the last decade, there has been a 50% drop in kids riding for transportation.”
“In the last 5 years, another 1.2 million kids quit riding.”

“Currently, ¾ of kids 6-17 years won’t ride one time this year.”
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/06/04/fewer-kids-are-riding-buying-bicycles-industry-is-worried/

To learn more or place an order, please contact the Customer Service team by calling (605) 956-3877 or emailing customerservice@striderbikes.com

THE SHERIFF EXHIBIT IN JAPAN--Japanese Vibes Made a timetravel
With my 25+ years photos out today in Japan

The Sheriff is getting old: 65 since 48 hours.

Two weeks in the Canaries doing nothing

–CJ

AN H-D IN CUBA– Ran across this pic on my computer from my trip to Cuba in 2012. Gave him some magazines that he enjoyed.

–Paul Aiken, owner
Aeromach USA LLC
10015 Metromont Industrial Blvd, Ste F
Charlotte, NC 28269

704-599-1333

LEATHER COASTERS FROM THE BUCKLEGUY--Buckleguy.com is stocking more Wickett & Craig Leather Coasters!

We have updated our line-up of Wickett & Craig coasters with new tannages, colors, and shapes!

Wickett and Craig is a premier tannery based in the USA known for their vegetable tanning, eco-friendly processes, and their rich colors.

All of these coasters are veg-tanned, and can be used for stamping and tooling for further customization.

Our Leather Coasters come in the following options:

Wickett & Craig Circle Coasters:

Circle Size: 3.75″ inch diameter
Square Size: 3.5″
Weight: 8-12 oz (Thickness: 3.2-4.8mm — 1/8″-3/16″)
NEW Traditional Harness colors: Russet, Buck Brown, Medium Brown, Burgundy, Black

NEW English Bridle colors: Olive, Zucchini, Navy, Eggplant, Chili Pepper, Carrot
Thank you everyone!

–The Buckleguy Team

LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—HANG ON! DESIGNED JUST FOR SPORTSTERS.

The world is your playground… shred it! This is the seat that every adventurous rider would be stoked to own. The maximized back support and ample seating area offer plenty of options for riding – or showing off – at a moment’s notice.

Shown with Pleated seating area. Also available with Diamond Stitch, Basket Weave and our new Gripp Tape material – for when traction is needed! Many other custom materials and stitch graphics are available as well!

Specs

Driver Seating:
11″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A

MSRP:
$439.00

Part Number:
LK-596PT [’10-’20] 3.3 Gal Tank
LK-596PT [’10-’20] 4.5 Gal Tank

THE FLAT OUT ADJUSTMENT—When you’re into riding flat out, you need to be willing and capable to make adjustments. We decided to give our cool Flat Out Vest several snappy upgrades based on road testing.

This puppy will now be our classic leather vest with just the right design and upgrades.

I got tired of the preacher collar messing with shirts and hoodies, so we removed it and trimmed the collar and arm holes in leather. The back will have the classic western cut trim and the waist band with return on this vest.

Of course, it will contain all of our exclusive gun pockets and the too cool media pocket in the back.

These puppies will be in stock shortly. Order a Flat Out and receive the new model. Or check out any of our other cool vests, jackets and we now have the perfect Racy women’s jacket and the women’s light Pit Crew Vest cut just right.

–Bandit

THIS WEEK’S EDITORIAL–
“AAAAUUUGGGGHHHHH!!!! We’re ALL gonna die!” The panic stricken are flooding stores, buying up toilet paper, bottled water, canned food, and bags of flour and rice.

How did America get so panicked over something that’s been around for ages? Yeah, things are bad in China because they’re packed tighter than rubber bands in a golf ball, and in Iran, because they wipe their ass with their fingers, but here in the wide open spaces? Not mso much.

What am I gonna do to keep from catchin’ that shit? I’m gonna stop watching the news, wash my hands a lot, an’ buy a big bag of limes in case I do catch it!

–Buckshot

QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!
BIKE WEEK BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for March 5th, 2020

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/BIKE_WEEK_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_March_5th_2020.aspx

Enjoyed seeing, “Flower Power Spaced Out Biker Freak,” by Hal Robinson. It kinda of grows on you. Have been running across this drawing for a long time and always loved it!

Still looking for’ Live to Ride.”

Best always,
–Hal2

— Ann Robinson
Garden Grove, Ca

Goddammit, it was in the news again last week. With the help of Ann we have a couple of limited edition prints and Hal T-shirts in the 5-Ball Racing shop.–Bandit

BIKERNET TEXAS CORRESPONDENT SURVIVES KNEE SURGERY–
A little over two weeks in on the bionic knee replacement, not a lot of bending yet, but lots of walking! Texas Redhead is mad at me again, still? It’s difficult to tell without a scorecard!

Received the FXR Bible today, it had been on back order, flipping through it watching it rain. You could fly me out to the new, Badlands Bikernet headquarters for several weeks, a staff meeting of some kind?

Will the snow be gone in a month? Can I ride around there yet? Texas Redhead might be over being mad at me upon my return? Doubtful though.

–RFR

Just like the Califa headquarters, we have a jail cell in the basement. We can take care of you, as long as you don’t mind bread and water, or stale rice in Deadwood.–Bandit

LEATHER SEAT REPORT COMING FROM THE GEARHEAD–The more I think about writing the story on that seat history , seems like the longer it gets. I can see the history on a bike build, but the history of one lousy seat we reworked seems shy as to what your readers might want .

— Gearhead

Depends how many fights, women and broken whiskey bottles are involved.–Bandit

BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER HEALTH ALERT--Is your meth contaminated with coronavirus?

This Florida police dept. will test it for free– ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida police department wants you to know that if you have recently purchased any illegal street drugs, you can bring it to their station to get it tested for coronavirus.

The Atlantic Beach Police Department posted the PSA on their Facebook page last week. The tongue-in-cheek post issues a warning that if you recently bought cocaine, meth, heroin, or any other street drugs in their area, it may be contaminated with coronavirus.

The police department goes on to urge those to bring their drugs to the police department for free testing. If you’re uncomfortable going to the police department, police say they will come to you — in the privacy of your own home!

–WFLA.com

–from Rogue
Senior Investigator
Bikernet.com™

NEW MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION WISCONSIN ASSISTANT STATE REP APPOINTED–

I would like to officially welcome Cathy Dial as Wisconsin’s newest Assistant State Rep.

She will be at BITB and MOTM this year, so you will get to meet her in person then, if you haven’t already. She has been to BITB a few time already, so some of you may have already met her.

We are looking forward to her assistance in promoting the MRF at our events and helping organize the STEAM conference for 2021.

Please give her a big MRF welcome!

Stay vigilant, my friends,

–Jennifer Dewitz
ABATE of WI
MRF State Rep
(920) 207-4679

THE BIKERNET TOURING CORNER–
Remember me talking to you about the Tourpack back rest pad? Well, I am waiting on one that Corbin is making for me, but in the mean time I decided to take full advantage of the 4-point docking hardware…lol. Hey it works…..

Well as it turns out I am keeping what I have . The Corbin pad came today, and it is too light. Like milk chocolate to dark chocolate.

So, here is a foot note:
Install the sissy bar first, lean it forward. Then install the TP, push the sissy bar down and latch. TP is mounted on the mount as far back as the slots allow and will clear when you open it.

–Barry G.
Official Bikernet Photo Research Specialists
Bikernet.com™

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT--Vagaries of English Language!

Ever wonder why the word funeral starts with FUN?

Why isn’t a Fireman called a Water-man?

How come Lipstick doesn’t do what it says?

If money doesn’t grow on trees, how come Banks have Branches?

If a Vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a Humanitarian eat?

How do you get off a non-stop Flight?

Why are goods sent by ship called CARGO and those sent by truck SHIPMENT?

Why do we put cups in the dishwasher and the dishes in the Cupboard?

Why do doctors ‘practice’ medicine? Are they practicing at the
cost of the patients?

Why is it called ‘Rush Hour’ when traffic moves at its slowest then?

How come Noses run and Feet smell?

Why do they call it a TV ‘set’ when there is only one?

What are you vacating when you go on a vacation?

Did you know that if you replace “W” with “T” in “What, Where and
When”, you get the answer to each of them.

–EL Waggs
Certified Joke Librarian
Bikernet.com™

BROTHER DYING OF BLOOD DISEASE CURED, MAYBE-– Good Morning…

Sat fed ex delivered the goods.

Amazing results so far, spent 3 1/2 hours Sunday riding my mower cleaning up Nirvana.

Two weeks ago my day to day was questionable..

Three days in a row with clothes on and moving around.

Life is amazing..

–Ray

[page break]

Red Line Synthetic Oil Opens Sponsorship Program to Support New Racers and Builders for the 2020 Powersports Season

Red Line Synthetic Oil, a leading supplier of synthetic lubricants and additives, today announced plans to recruit new, influential racers, riders, enthusiasts and builders to promote the Red Line brand and products throughout 2020 and beyond. The company seeks on-brand ambassadors who are committed to powersports and are interested in taking the necessary steps to maintain and prepare their bikes for the most extreme conditions.

Red Line provides a strong amateur and professional support program for sponsored riders of all levels. New additions to the program this season will include lower product order minimums as well as refreshed, branded casual clothing designs.

Unrivaled in its performance and protection for high-revving race motorcycles, the Red Line Four-Stroke line of engine oils is a go-to product in the powersports world. This oil also allows for longer drain intervals due to it high quality base stocks and formulations. Additionally, the Red Line Two-Stroke products are clean burning and offer the best protection for small displacement race bikes, as well as direct injection engines. The company’s Gear Oil is commonly used by flat track race teams and endurance applications to ensure smooth shifting in the toughest conditions for V-Twins. Lastly, WaterWetterTM Cooling Additive is known to be one of the top solutions to keep high horsepower engines cool under extreme temperatures.

“At Red Line, we are all about creating products that our riders and builders can count on,” said Kit Szwarcburg, Marketing Director of Red Line Synthetic Oil. “We are proud to provide high-performance, easy-to-use products that keep motorcycles performing at their best when the engine is pushed well above its rpm red line.”

For consideration, please send a resume, bio, or proposal with recent photos and results. Should you be accepted into the program, you will gain access to Red Line’s VIP ordering portal, as well as direct technical support and product discount support, based upon your level. Currently, only riders in the United States are eligible for the program.

Those interested may submit their applications here. All applications must be submitted no later than April 30, 2020.

For more information on Red Line products, please visit: https://www.redlineoil.com/

CruzTOOLS Releases RoadTech Tool Kit for Indian Motorcycles

Seattle, WA — (March 10, 2020) After 20 years of providing tool kits for Harley Davidson motorcycles, CruzTOOLS has set its sights on serving customers with Indian Motorcycles. The company has developed a new RoadTech™ tool kit that is purpose-built for roadside repairs and adjustments on Indian Motorcycles. The kit contains the right tools in exactly the right sizes to provide the functionality needed in a travel tool kit for Chief, Chieftan, Roadmaster and Scout models.

The kit includes a pair of 27mm axle wrenches for removing rear wheels and a 14mm x 16mm hex axle adapter for removing front axles. Having suspension adjusted properly can improve handling and rider comfort and this kit includes a shock adjustment tool for setting preload to the right level. The RoadTech kit contains just the right sizes of wrenches, sockets, hex and torx keys required on Indian Motorcycles, keeping it lightweight and compact for storing on the bike. Whether riders are taking a day trip or touring the country, the RoadTech kit provides the tools needed to keep the ride rolling. All CruzTOOLS are professional-grade and feature a ‘no questions asked’ lifetime guarantee.

“The pair of 27mm axle wrenches are just right for removing the rear axle and the new axle hex adapter works for removing front axles on a wide range of Indian Motorcycles. Like all CruzTOOLS products, this kit features a lifetime warranty – no questions asked.” -Matt Willson, Product Development, CruzTOOLS

BANDIT MEETS HOWARD NIGHT FOR THE FLYING PISTON STRIDER CHARITY-– Howard knight, the leather master and I will create something wild for the Flying Piston Charity Auction Breakfast during the Sturgis Rally this year. “Damn good to hear from you!!!” said Howard. ” I’d tell you stories of heartache and nonstop fighting leading up to my divorce but I’m sure you know.”

Vance & Hines Kicks off 2020 Racing Season with Talented Riders, Updated Equipment –Partnership with Harley-Davidson’s Screamin’ Eagle Racing Puts Both Brands on Dirt Tracks and Drag Strips

With over 40 years of racing success behind them, Vance & Hines launches into the 2020 racing season this weekend with a stable that includes the most talented motorcycle drag racers and flat track riders ever. Amassing hundreds of wins and numerous championships during their careers, these riders are poised to add more hardware to the Harley-Davidson and Vance & Hines trophy case.

Vance & Hines operates Harley-Davidson’s NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle team and its American Flat Track (AFT) racing teams.

NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle

NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle 2019 Champion Andrew Hines and veteran riders Eddie Krawiec and Angelle Sampey launch their season at the GatorNationals in Gainesville, FL from March 11 to March 14. The three riders have 145 race wins and nine championships to brag about, and Sampey’s 42 race wins are the most ever for a female NHRA rider or driver.

The team’s V-twin-powered, Pro Stock Harley-Davidson motorcycles have bodywork based on Harley’s successful FXDR model. The cosmetics of the trio of bikes are updated for 2020 and Sampey gets a new specification frame, built specifically for her.

“We used the off season to make significant refinements to our whole racing package,” said Krawiec. “We expect to be much more consistent this year and are excited about bringing home another championship.”

American Flat Track

Team Harley-Davidson for SuperTwins, the premier class of American Flat Track (AFT) racing, is a mix of young guns and a seasoned veteran.

Bryan Smith, known for his skill on mile tracks, joins the team intending to take back the Number One plate he earned with his championship in 2016. He retains long-time crew chief Ricky Howarton who made the move to Harley-Davidson as well. Smith joins Jarod Vanderkoii, a former AFT singles champion, and Dalton Gauthier, the youngest member of the team. Gauthier is the first rider to put a Harley-Davidson XG750R on top of an AFT podium with his 2019 race win in the Production Twins class in Springfield IL.

“We’ve learned so much about the capabilities of the XG750R in the past three years and we know these are our fastest bikes ever.” said Terry Vance, co-founder of Vance & Hines.”We’ll be a contender in every race of the series.”

The AFT series includes 20 races featuring mile-long tracks, half miles and short tracks. The season kicks off in Daytona Beach on March 14 and wraps up in New Jersey’s Meadowlands in late September.

— by Steve Piehl, Authentic CX, LLC,

BIKERNET TO SUPPORT THE MOTORMAIDS–Bandit,
I received an email that you were possibly interested in being a sponsor for the 2020 Motor Maids Convention. I hope you have a minute to check out my email, let me know if you are interested or have any questions.

Who: Motor Maid, Inc (80th- Annual)
When: July 6-9, 2020
Where: Rapid City, SD / Black Hills
# of Attendees: 500 Members from all over the US and Canada

We are looking for raffle items for our convention to help offset the cost of hosting this event.
Product donations can be sent to:
Motor Maids Convention
% Ann Hovdenes
24024 Cosmos Road,
Rapid City, SD 57702

We would appreciate any support you and/or your company can give us. In return for your help, your business will be recognized in our Convention Booklet, which is handed out to all our members and guests. We expect to have over 500 attendees, they will be urged to go by our sponsoring businesses to thank them for their support. You are also invited to come visit us at the Rapid City Best Western Ramkota Hotel where you can meet attendees from all parts of the U.S. and Canada riding all makes and models of motorcycles.

Monetary Donations are listed as:
Maids On Tour $100
Bronze $100 – $249
Silver $250 – $499
Gold $500 – $999
Platinum $1000 – $1999

(The amount given will not be printed in the program, just the level of donation, i.e. – bronze, silver, gold and platinum, sapphire and person/company making the donation). Check should be made out and mailed or I can pick up as follows:

2020 Motor Maid Convention Donation
C/O Pam Tiller, Treasurer
P.O. Box 37185
Panama City, FL 32412

Should you require further clarification or questions as to the authenticity of this request, please feel free to contact me,

Honoring the Past Riding to the Future
Ann Hovdenes
Motor Maids, Inc
ND/SD District Director
605-431-9121

Mike Sayre named Director of Government Relations for American Motorcyclist Association
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Mike Sayre is the new Director of Government Relations for the American Motorcyclist Association.

In his new role, Sayre will oversee the AMA’s office in Washington, D.C., and manage the execution of AMA advocacy efforts nationwide. Sayre most recently was the AMA government relations manager for on-highway issues. He has been an AMA member for eight years and has been on staff for four years.

“The AMA Government Relations Department is on the front lines of defending motorcyclists’ rights, and efficient management is critical to ensure the effectiveness of those efforts,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “Mike will bring fresh ideas and focused leadership to his new role.”

Sayre is a member of the federal Motorcyclist Advisory Council and currently serves as its chair. The MAC advises the U.S. Secretary of Transportation on ways to make the nation’s highway infrastructure safer for motorcyclists.

Sayre said he is “grateful for the opportunity to lead the AMA’s advocacy efforts and excited to take on the challenges ahead.”

“I will build on our successes and help ensure that officials at all levels of government understand the benefits of motorcycling and why our community is an asset,” Sayre said. “Motorcyclists should be valued as a key part of the transportation, recreation and competition worlds. And I look forward to working with our dedicated partners in the motorcycling community.”

Before joining the AMA staff, Sayre worked for the University of Michigan supporting a quantitative methodology training program.

Sayre holds a master’s in Public Policy from Michigan State University and a bachelor’s in Political Science and History from the University of Michigan. He has been riding motorcycles for more than 10 years, commuting and touring.

TOUGH DAY—At the headquarters. I’ll head over to check progress on the Salt Torpedo paint tomorrow. Hopefully, the news will be completed tonight.

My computer doctor told me my Apple keyboard is shot on my laptop. I plugged in an old keyboard and kept going, but it’s awkward as shit. I quit my Imac because they were trying to force me into a new model, because I could no-longer upgrade my operating system. What a bunch of bullshit. We are living in strange times, but somehow I’m going to overcome the obstacles and find peace and tranquility.

Saturday Doctor Hamster is coming over with Mike Stevenson, with the doctor’s Panhead project. Currently, our plan is to wrap up his Panhead and take both of our Pans into the Black Hills for the rally. Hang on for the next report.

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever,

–Bandit

by Elena Gorgan from https://www.autoevolution.com/

Ask anyone about Harley-Davidson and probably the first word you’ll hear out of their mouth is “freedom.” This is what the Ride Home is all about.

Even for those who don’t ride or have little knowledge of the Harley-Davidson brand (or bikes in general), the image of the Harley-Davidson rider is that of a man’s man (or woman’s woman, in the case of female riders). Throughout the years, the brand has cultivated this image of the rugged outlaw, of the rebel who forsakes the urban environment for the open road and the sense of ultimate freedom.

While the “outlaw” image has been turned into a cliché by the Hollywood machine, the rebel label still holds water. And it’s for and by these rebels that the big Ride Home was born into reality. The most recent edition, the 2018 one, solidified the event as the biggest of the kind in the world – and Harley-Davidson’s status as a leader in the biker community.

All motorcycle groups and gangs have that brotherhood / sisterhood approach, but it is only Harley that can boast such a loyal following as to go on a cross-country pilgrimage every 5 years, just to honor the Harley-Davidson spirit.

The Ride Home is a tradition that started in 1988, when the company celebrated its 85th anniversary. To mark the occasion, management rented out the front half of the Milwaukee SummerFest grounds, and the city of Milwaukee welcomed bikers from all over the world. They had no idea what to expect or how this event would snowball into something this impressive.

As you probably know, Harley-Davidson was founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by the Davidson brothers and their friend William Harley (with some help from another friend, Henry Melk). It is one of the two American motorcycle companies to survive the Great Depression (the other being Indian), and a legendary brand that, though it’s taken several financial hits in recent years, remains a leader in the industry.

That first year, bikers from across the U.S. rode to Milwaukee to celebrate the milestone together, and they have been doing so every 5 years since then. As noted above, the 2018 edition was the biggest ever, with Harley-Davidson really pulling out all the stops to turn it into a memorable experience. Not that it wasn’t memorable before then.

However, for 2018, Harley-Davidson got more involved and organized 4 separate rides (from Seattle, San Diego, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and Portland, Maine), virtually helping bikers from all 4 corners of the country to get to the Mecca of biking. For those still feeling rebellious but on a smaller scale, organized tours by Harley-Davidson authorized dealers were put together, offering anything from overnight accommodation to guide tours and special events. Imagine going on a cruise, but way more awesome because it’s on a Hog.

Also in 2019, the oldest existing Harley-Davidson club held a separate celebration in their hometown of Prague, the Czech Republic, drawing over 60,000 bikes. It paled in comparison to the 500,000 bikers that descended onto Milwaukee and partied over Labor Day weekend.

Every edition, the Ride Home culminates with special Harley-Davidson events (a visit to the official, local Harley-Davidson museum, rides through biking county, meetings with dealers and custom bikes shows), parties, gatherings, cookouts, vendor demos and other outdoor fun activities, which is why it’s also called Harleyfest. Some also refer to it as HarleyMania because of the Harley chaos it brings into town for the duration of a weekend.

However, the Ride Home is really about the ride. Sure, riders love bonding with like-minded individuals and sharing their passion for Hogs with people who can relate to what they’re saying one hundred percent, but the highlight is the thousand-miles ride.

As one rider explains in the video below, you ride in a group but are alone with your thoughts. You move fast but get to take in everything around you through all senses, with nothing in the way. Whatever hardships may (still) come Harley-Davidson’s way and whatever faults it can be found guilty of, this is one thing it has managed to deliver, short-lived as it might be: that near-impossible feel that you can have it all.

by Jason Marker from https://www.rideapart.com

I hate Florida. Hate it. I hate it with the furious passion of a million burning suns. Years ago I swore that I would never step foot in the Sunshine State again, a promise that I’ve kept religiously. Florida: Not Even Once. That said, when Harley-Davidson calls you up and personally invites you to Daytona Beach to ride brand new bikes and you haven’t touched a bike in three months because Michigan winters suck, well, if you’re me you find that even your most rigidly held beliefs are negotiable.

The Friday before Daytona Bike Week dawned cool and cloudy. I’d rolled in from Orlando International the previous evening around 20:00. After a lovely dinner with the Harley team and my colleagues—among whom was legendary MoJo and RA alum Peter Jones—and a good night’s sleep, I was ready to ride some bikes. We convened for breakfast and the tech briefing, and after a fair amount of drinking coffee and dicking around, we piled into the hotel shuttle and off we went to pick up our bikes.

Now, this wasn’t going to be a typical press ride. We weren’t all going to be riding the same bike all day. Not today. No, we were riding three different bikes—the new Softail Standard (which I can’t stop calling the FX Softail), the 30th Anniversary Fat Boy, and the hi-po CVO Road Glide. The plan was for the four of us to trade bikes on and off all day so that we got seat time on each model. Kind of unorthodox, but I was into it. I mean, I hadn’t touched a bike in three months due to winter and moving to a new house, so I was down for anything.

After an impromptu tour of the greater Daytona Beach metropolitan area thanks to our timid, easily confused driver, we arrived at Daytona International Speedway. The bikes were lined up all gassed up and ready inside Harley’s demo fleet paddock. We got a quick overview of the bikes, took a few minutes for the requisite social media stuff, and finally hit the road.

We spent the next few hours really putting the bikes through their paces. Now, Florida isn’t known for its stunning, technically challenging riding roads, but he Harley team did its best to find a route that wasn’t all straight lines and swamplands. They were the kinds of roads Harleys thrive on—primarily straights with a few sweeping turns and the occasional corner just to keep us on our toes. Overall a really nice ride in pretty weather and not once were we menaced by an alligator or accosted by Florida Man.

Since this was a ride in which I rode three different bikes, I’m going to break up the reviews into three sections—one for each bike. At the end, I’ll sum up my thoughts on all three as a group and give you all my final impressions which, I’m sure, is what you’re all here for anyway. So, without further ado, let’s talk about these sweet new Harleys.

2020 CVO Road Glide

The Road Glide is, hands down, my favorite Harley. It’s my fave despite my general dislike for touring bikes and other big, bulky things that can’t get out of their own way. I love its weird fairing, its close-set dual headlights, and its lines that, while clearly still based on an FL touring frame, seem longer and sleeker to me than their Electraglide siblings.

The monster, hi-po CVO is the Road Glide’s apotheosis. It isn’t just sleek and stylish, it’s also big. From its over-large front wheel to its massive Milwaukee 8 lump to the big sound of the BOOM! sound system, it has all the presence and charisma of Shaquille O’Neil in a $10,000 suit—i.e. a lot.

At the CVO Road Glide’s heart is a 117 cubic inch version of Harley’s stout Milwaukee 8 mill mated to a six-speed transmission. This big stonking engine is the largest installed by Harley in a production bike and comes equipped with an upgraded performance cam and a big old Screamin’ Eagle Heavy Breather (god I love that name) high-performance intake to let this monster breathe. The exhaust is a handsome two-into-two setup with a satin finish and black tips. We’re talking some big iron here.

Out front is a huge 21-inch cast wheel with a skinny tire, a nod to the current, totally bonkers big wheel custom style (which I absolutely love). The wheel is finished in gloss black with smoked satin accents and looks pretty great in that classic FL front end. Aft is a matching, more traditional 18-inch wheels wrapped, like the front, in classic Harley Dunlop rubber. Braking is provided by four-piston calipers fore and aft, backed up by a slew of electronic rider aids like Harley’s Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), ABS, traction control, etc.

The CVO’s infotainment package is the top of the line BOOM! Box GTS system. Controlled by a bright, easy to read, 6.5-inch touchscreen, it comes with everything Harley has to offer. There’s the four-speaker—two in the fairing and two in the leading edges of the saddlebag lids—600 watt stereo, integrated navigation, and Apple CarPlay (with Android Auto coming down the pipe soon). It also features the new Harley-Davidson app, its very own cellular relay, and a slew of customization options. To top it all off, Harley throws in a BOOM! Audio 30K Bluetooth helmet comms system—a reskinned Sena 30K—with every purchase.

Looks-wise, the bike comes in a fantastic color that Harley calls Premium Sand Dune. It’s a kind of bone-white color with a satin pearl finish on it. Depending on the light it looks white, beige, or haze gray and it looks deep and rich in the sun. The color is offset by satin black and red accents, including very nice CVO logos on the saddlebags. The classic Road Glide shark-nose fairing is enhanced by “Fang” lowers which look rad and keep more wind off the rider. It’s an extremely good looking bike.

On the road, the CVO Road Glide is stately, king-like. It has gravitas. It also has an acceleration best described as glacial and a hilariously low, 5,500 rpm redline. I was constantly bouncing off the rev limited in first gear under heavy acceleration, which honestly is mostly my fault since I’m used to high-strung, 40-year-old, Japanese triples and inline-fours. That said, once you lug the CVO up to speed it moves. The big M8 117 pushes the bike along at a very respectable clip and provides the rider with short bursts of blinding straight-line speed which belie the bike’s bulk. Much like a gator or, since we’re talking about him, like Shaq.

The engine does its best work in 4th gear, loping along at around 2,200 RPM at 60 miles per hour. there’s a seemingly bottomless well of torque to draw from, too. The engine is rated at 125 foot-pounds and it pulls like a tractor in every gear. It’s honestly kind of impressive.

My biggest complaint about the CVO Road Glide is its size. It’s a handful, especially at low speeds. Despite the bike’s front suspension being specially set up for it, that big 21-inch wheel I like so much does the handling no favors. I found it kind of numb in traffic, and thanks to its sheer bulk, maneuvering the bike through tight spaces was hair-raising, to say the least. The CVO Road Glide is a lot. Almost too much, if you ask me.

To be fair, high-po, limited edition, $40K touring bikes aren’t exactly my cup of tea. If such a machine is your cup of tea, though, I think you’ll dig the CVO Road Glide. The combination of power, comfort, and looks is a potent one. It’s an excellent addition to Harley’s CVO collection. If you have the means, I highly recommend you pick one up.

2020 Softail Standard

Slid into the Softail lineup as a basic, blank-slate model perfect for customization, the Softail Standard is an extremely good looking bike. Offered only in black with a subtle throwback logo on the tank in dark gray, it’s a stripped-down, no-nonsense, short-ranged cruiser.

As befits a base model bike, all the fat has been trimmed off the Softail Standard. Harley pared away the bits, bobs, and superfluous systems. What’s left behind is simply a motorcycle—nothing more, nothing less—and probably the purest Harley experience currently available in the MoCo’s lineup. From its laced wheels and mini-apes to the basic 107ci Milwaukee 8 and mid-controls to the solo saddle, short rear fender, and simple two-into-two shotgun exhaust, the Softail Standard is just a good, solid bike.

The Softail Standard’s biggest selling point, according to Harley, is that the bike is a blank canvas for customization. To that end, Harley launched four complete custom bolt-on packages that new Softail Standard owners can have bolted on at their dealership. First, there’s the “Day Tripper” package that adds passenger accommodations, forward controls, and a small swingarm bag. Second, a “Coastal Custom” package that adds a quarter fairing, two-up seat, and new bars, risers, and footpegs. There’s a “Touring Custom” package that adds small saddlebags, a more comfortable two-up seat, a windshield, and assorted accouterment to improve comfort and turn the bike into a respectable touring machine. Finally, there’s the “Performance Custom” package that upgrades the engine with a Screamin’ Eagle Stage II kit and a host of intake, exhaust, and tuning upgrades.

I gotta admit, I really like this modular custom package idea. Harley touts them as a starting point, a way for new owners to see various ways in which their new bikes can be customized. They’re a pretty good deal, too, and run between around $1,100 (Day Tripper) to $1,700 (Touring Custom) Yankee Dollars. It’s a nice way to bundle popular accessories for riders who want a touch of customization but don’t want to go hog wild with it, as it were.

Now the bad(ish) news. Out of the three bikes we rode during the press ride, the Softail Standard was my least favorite. Sure, it looks phenomenal as you walk up to it and I really like its clean lines, but as soon as you throw a leg over it you discover something disconcerting in a Harley—it’s small.

Thanks to the weird ergos—mid controls, low-slung solo saddle, mini-ape handlebars—the Softail Standard feels cramped and tiny, especially if you’re a, uh, rider of size like I am. At 6’1 and 240 pounds with a 34-inch inseam, I was incredibly uncomfortable while riding this thing. The whole time I was aboard I was sitting right on my tailbone and had to keep shifting my weight around to relieve the pain in my lower back. I also could never find a good place for my feet on those pegs, especially since there’s no heel rest anywhere to be found.

Combine that with a vague-feeling shifter, weird spacing between the rear brake pedal and the footpeg (it’s both too close and too far away, if you get my drift), and a wicked crosswind during our ride and I never felt like I was in complete control of the bike. I mean, I was, but every time I was in the saddle I kept worrying that I might not be able to handle a road emergency if one came up. That kind of thing doesn’t really inspire rider confidence.

To be absolutely clear, I’m not saying that the Softail Standard is a bad bike. Far from it, in fact. Like I said earlier, I really dig its lines, its attitude, and those modular customization packages. Thing is, at its heart the Softail Standard is a short-range bike, built to bounce between stops close to home, not eat up the miles on the superslab. I’m sure it’s great at that, but I was on this thing for an hour at a time and, no sir, I didn’t like it.

My problems with the bike aren’t primarily due to how it’s built, they’re due to how I’m built. Someone smaller and/or lighter probably won’t have the same I did while in the saddle. If you are built like I am, well, caveat emptor big man. You might want to spring for some forward controls and more sensible handlebars (and a more comfortable saddle) if you’re looking to pick one of these up.

2020 Fat Boy 30th Anniversary Edition

Thirty years ago, Willie G. Davidson stood in front of a jet black tractor-trailer with a new bike and changed motorcycling. That bike, the questionably named Fat Boy, was a burly, low-slung brute with a huge FL front end, fat tires, solid disc wheels, and about fifteen miles of Harley-Davidson attitude. Since then, the Fat Boy has been the go-to ride for legions of Harlista bar pirates, killer cyborgs from the future, and my dad. Now, after three decades at the top of the heap, Harley has released a limited edition 30th Anniversary Fat Boy.

I’ve had a soft spot for the Fat Boy ever since it came out, mostly due to Terminator 2 and the fact that my dad rolls a ’96 model that’s seen so many paint jobs, engine upgrades, and mods that it’s essentially the Bike of Theseus at this point. There’s just something about it, an undeniable presence that is, much like the Softail Standard, quintessentially Harley.

Look, I’m not going to lie to you all here. There’s not a lot of blue sky between the 30th Anniversary Edition and a run of the mill 2020 Fat Boy 114. There’s the paint job, which is, admittedly, phenomenal. It’s Harley’s vivid black color offset with copper-colored accents and a slightly redesigned OG Fat Boy logo on the tank. The paint, combined with the blacked-out M8, handlebars, and other brightwork, lend an air of menace to the already looming Fat Boy. It’s just a paint job, though. Aside from the limited run, though—just 2,500 units—that’s it. That’s everything special about the 30th Anniversary edition.

Honestly, I was hoping for something more. Performance upgrades, maybe, or some one-off grips and floorboards to really set the 30th apart from its mass-market stablemates. That said, just because I felt that the 30th Anniversary Edition wasn’t quite special enough doesn’t mean that I didn’t like it. On the contrary, I loved it. It was my favorite of the three bikes I rode during the press ride. It’s comfortable, confident, surprisingly nimble, and respectably fast thanks to the big boy 114 engine. All that is, of course, chalked up to the huge overhaul the Softail line got in 2018, but still. The Fat Boy rules, and the 30th Anniversary Edition is like the cherry on top of an already delicious, and powerful, sundae.

Sorry about the length of this one, friends. After riding three different bikes over the course of just a few hours, I had a jumble of thoughts and impressions to work out, so thanks for sticking around this long. So, my final thoughts? At the end of the day, after thrashing each bike up and down Florida’s Atlantic coast, I felt a little like Goldilocks in the Three Bears’ house. Despite my love for it, the CVO Road Glide was too much—much too much—for me. The Softail Standard was too little, and its fantastic lines didn’t make up for the cramped confines and sore lower back. The 30th Anniversary Fat Boy, though, was just right. It had everything I could have wanted in a single, good looking package.

All three bikes are fantastic Harleys, though. They do exactly what they’re meant to and I reckon the MoCo’s marketing team will land solid hits with each bike’s target demo. I’m clearly not in any of those three target markets, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t. If you’re a CVO buyer, a new rider looking to get into Harleys, or a long-term Fat Boy stan, these bikes are just what you’re looking for.

Celebrating adventurous bold women on two-wheels

Women travelling on motorcycles were, for a very long time not treated seriously – even today, it happens to be that females are not treated equally to their male companions or other motorcyclists which happen to be males. To celebrate Women’s History Month we would like to introduce you to 25 amazing characters which paved the way for modern, more equal opportunities to discover the world on two wheels as a female.

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The 2010s were an amazing year for cable television, with many calling our current time the golden age of television. In fact, with all of the excellent shows available, there might have been some that you entirely missed in spite of their popularity. So now that the new decade has just begun, we thought it would be a great time to review the brightest and most popular shows of the last, in part to inform and in part to shamelessly invoke nostalgia.

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