FREE SPEECH BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for October 22, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
I woke up too early this morning, at 5:00. I had a whacky dream about trying to get a small girl checked into a hospital. It was one of those frustrating dreams. I couldn’t seem to stumble across the street without one obstacle after another.
Then I started to think about past loves and some of my regrets. There’s a lot I regret and most of them revolve around women. I couldn’t get them out of my mind and finally crawled out of bed and made coffee. Fuck it.
My son bugged me about this documentary business recently. He threw a twist into the mix. He said it could substantially benefit him and my grandson Frankie. Before that, I was ready to blow it off. I don’t like TV, documentaries or the media, except Bikernet and what we do.
I just want to peel out for Deadwood, write and tinker with motorcycles. Another brother lost his him home to wild fires, and the 2Wheelers team encountered a fire in the building next to theirs in Sturgis. The old buildings of the 1800s era were built one against the next, so they also experienced fire damage. I reached out to see if I could help.
I’ve been reminding myself of historical events and sharing them with depressed youngsters. When kids think we are living in hard times, I try to remind them that other than the Wuhan Covid we are living in absolutely the best of times. You’ll see some mention of it in the news. I’ve got a report on shop bikes, but let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
“We are responding to questions on social media and would like to reiterate for you and for any customers who may have questions that the image projected on the Harley-Davidson Museum was done without our consent. Harley-Davidson is apolitical.
We are focused on creating the world’s most desirable motorcycles and welcome anyone who wants to be part of our community and experience freedom for the soul.”
Why in the hell would any company that makes an internal combustion powered anything promote voting for a political party that is dedicated to the elimination of said engines and the fuel that is produced to power them aka the Green New Deal ?
–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION AWARDS CHAMPIONS VEST–I had the opportunity yesterday to have lunch in Detroit Lakes with Congressman Collin Peterson to award him with the 2019 Champion Legislator award.
It was awesome to have an hour of one-on-one conversation. It reminded me that he is one of us and a true patriot. He was honored to receive the award and thanked us for our grassroots lobbying, for as he says, “We are the people making the difference.”
–Gary Goracke
MRF
NEW FROM S&S--We are a culture of horsepower addicts so a monster cam for monster bore M8’s was only a matter of time. Our latest is aimed squarely at making massive power and our conservative dyno runs already have it at 146Hp. We anticipate the market pushing well above 150 with nearly as much torque. ~DZ
NEW – 590 Cam for Big Bore M8 Models
The M8 engine platform is capable of making massive power! It happily accepts big bore kits, stroker cranks and of course high lift cams. The primary supplier of that sort of go-fast stuff is S&S Cycle and they’ve just added a 590-lift cam to the mix. The new cam is designed to work with their 131” stroker kit and other huge bore combinations.
Producing massive horsepower especially in the higher RPM range, the 590 is available in gear or chain drive and is specifically for use with monster bores, ported heads and high RPMs, to make maximum horsepower! Not recommended for stock bore engines! Check out the dyno charts for the hard numbers (146hp & 145tq on a 131” stroker build!) and for more info hit up https://www.sscycle.com/feature/valve-train/m8-valve-train
David Zemla
VP – Marketing
S&S® Cycle, Inc.
Email dzemla@sscycle.com
THREE CLASSICS HEAD TO AUSTRALIA—From the Don Whalen, Richard Bunch Collection.
From time to time, they are called on to supports exhibits all over the world. This time a representative from Australia flew to the states to pick three for the exhibit featured in this photo.
–Bandit
LATEST FROM WINDVEST–WindVest Motorcycle Products, a manufacturer of aftermarket windscreens, announces its newest addition for the Victory Cross Country.
The high performing sport windscreen redirects the wind out of the rider’s face and chest area while looking over the top of the screen, creating a smooth airflow 3 to 4 inches higher. Made of a high impact acrylic GE Plexiglas, DOT approved material and is available in 9”, 10 or 11-inch heights in our gun smoke color (dark smoke).
WindVest is guaranteed to have you covered. Made in the USA for over 25 years!!! For more information check us out online at www.windvest.com.
WindVest Motorcycle Products
16840 Joleen Way, Ste B2
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sales@windvest.com
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WindVest Motorcycle Products | www.windvest.com | 408-762-7180
NEWS FROM THE NCOM CONVENTION–
At the NCOM Convention last night, John Bilotta Jr. was presented their most prestigious award, the Ron Roloff Lifetime Achievement Award.
John is the Operations Director for ABATE of Virginia and a tireless supporter of the MRF and regular attendee of the MOTM and BITB.
It might be nice to reach out and congratulate him on this accomplishment.
Johnblt357@gmail.com
— Jay Jackson
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE WRECKING CREW RIDER BRIAR BAUMAN CAPTURES SECOND CONSECUTIVE AFT SUPERTWINS GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP–Indian Motorcycle Racing Clinches Its Fourth Straight Championship
Since Returning to Professional Flat Track Racing;
Indian Motorcycle Remained Undefeated in 2020 with its FTR750
Indian Motorcycle Racing, presented by Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, and the FTR750 closed out an unprecedented season this past weekend at the Progressive AFT Finale Doubleheader at Daytona I & II, a pair of events which saw Wrecking Crew rider Briar Bauman successfully complete his quest to repeat as AFT SuperTwins Champion. Entering the weekend with a slim lead over fellow Wrecking Crew teammate Jared Mees, Bauman was able to fend off the former five-time grand national champion to earn the No. 1 plate for the second consecutive year.
Mees came into the first leg of the doubleheader on Friday just nine points back of Bauman and had every intention of closing the points gap to put himself in position on Saturday to reclaim his throne. Bauman was reluctant to give up any ground and took control of his own destiny, placing second and needing only an eighth-place finish in the second of the two races to complete his repeat bid.
The AFT Finale at Daytona II on Saturday was met with inclement weather which caused numerous delays to the evening’s proceedings. This only made things that much more difficult for Bauman, who was looking to clinch his championship, and Mees who was looking to mount a comeback. Both riders showed their championship grit amidst the conditions and found themselves in the hunt down the stretch of the main.
With Indian Privateer Brandon Robinson seizing control early and throughout, Mees’ best shot for a potential title win was to overtake Robinson and hope for a mistake on Bauman’s part. Mees fought hard and maintained his position in second for the majority of the race but was ultimately overcome by the odds. In the final two laps of the race, Bauman found himself in the top four with Indian Privateer Sammy Halbert hot on his trail looking to pass him and earn a podium finish. Realizing what was happening behind him and what was at stake, along with the potential risk that came with trying to hold off Halbert, Bauman smartly let Halbert pass and was able to cruise comfortably to a fourth-place finish, more than enough to earn him a second consecutive No. 1 plate.
“We couldn’t be prouder of Briar and we’re extremely happy to see him repeat as champion,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “The same goes for Jared, Bronson and our entire factory team who fought tooth and nail this season and were able to rise to the occasion multiple times in the midst of one of the most challenging years ever.“
The result marked Indian Motorcycle Racing’s fourth consecutive title since returning to professional flat track racing in 2017, with Mees and Bauman each repeating after initial championship victories. Additionally, the Indian Motorcycle FTR750 went undefeated in the 2020 season, earning victories in 15 consecutive races.
The season points standings concluded with Briar Bauman sitting atop the leaderboard with 309 points and Mees finishing in second at 300 points. The top five was rounded out by Indian Privateers Sammy Halbert and Brandon Robinson along with Wrecking Crew Rider Bronson Bauman who finished in third, fourth and fifth place, respectively.
For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
BIKERS FROM ACROSS AMERICA BRAVE PANDEMIC TO ATTEND NCOM CONVENTION
Although smaller than normal, due to the COVID-19 threat, the rescheduled NCOM Convention held Oct. 16-18 in Indianapolis succeeded in “being here for those dedicated Freedom Fighters who were determined enough to brave a deadly health crisis to be here for each other,” explained a masked NCOM Chairman James “Doc” Reichenbach.
Legal and legislative seminars and roundtables were socially distanced but fairly well attended, considering the dire circumstances, and seats at the dinner tables were mostly filled for the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet to honor bikers’ rights activists such as author and filmmaker John E. (Black Dragon) Bunch II (ENTERTAINMENT); Jad Breiner – Sons of Silence MC, editor of Brothers Behind Bars (BBB) Newsletter (MEDIA); Pete Leehey – AIM Attorney, Iowa (LEGAL); with SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS going to Nancy Nemecek and Fred “Sarge” Matthews, and NCOM’s RON ROLOFF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD presented to John Bilotta Jr., Operations Director for ABATE of Virginia.
Dates and location for the 36th annual National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) Convention in 2021 have yet to be finalized, so stay tuned for further details as they are announced.
LOWBROW TEACHES HOW TO MOUNT A REAR FENDER–Check out the Lowbrow Customs YouTube channel to check out all of our videos. We spend a lot of time and effort creating motorcycle how-to videos, product reviews and event coverage for your enjoyment, please let us know what you think. Click here to subscribe to the Lowbrow Customs YouTube channel and stay in the know!
Aligning the fender on the rear tire, supported by a piece of garden hose, to keep the distance off the tire even along the profile.
Cutting a chain relief (clearance for the chain) the rear fender. It is important to have your rear wheel spaced properly and your chain installed before installing the fender!
Aligning the lower fender mounting tab in preparation for fitment and welding.
Welding the upper fender mount tab for curved fenders.
Heating up the DIY fender strut rod to cherry red, preparing to bend it.
TANYA TUCKER’S LIVE FROM THE TROUBADOUR
OUT NOW ON FANTASY RECORDS– FIRST RELEASE SINCE WINNING 2020 GRAMMY® AWARDS FOR BEST COUNTRY ALBUM AND BEST COUNTRY SONG
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Live from The Troubadour, the new album from original female outlaw and country music icon Tanya Tucker is out today via Fantasy Records. It’s Tanya’s first release since winning two GRAMMY® Awards earlier this year for While I’m Livin’, and today, October 16th, marks the one-year anniversary of the historic set from which Live from The Troubadour originates. Stream and/or download Live from The Troubadour, HERE.
Tanya is donating a portion of the proceeds from the new album directly to The Troubadour, including 100% of the revenue generated by custom Live from The Troubadour Hatch Show Print posters available at her online store, HERE.
Garden & Gun spoke to Tanya about the new album and hosted a special online album premiere yesterday, read about it HERE.
In addition, SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country (Ch. 60) and Willie’s Roadhouse (Ch. 59) hosted the broadcast premiere of Live from The Troubadour. Look for the special album preview to repeat today during Shooter Jennings’ “Electric Rodeo” show and this weekend at the air times below.
Friday, Oct. 16
6 p.m. ET – Willie’s Roadhouse (Ch. 59)
9 p.m. ET – Outlaw Country (Ch. 60)
Saturday, Oct. 17
7 p.m. ET – Outlaw Country (Ch. 60) – Shooter Jennings “Electric Rodeo”
Sunday, Oct. 18
1 p.m. ET – Outlaw Country (Ch. 60)
11 p.m. ET – Outlaw Country (Ch. 60) – Shooter Jennings “Electric Rodeo”
Live From The Troubadour features 15 songs including Tanya’s signature hit “Delta Dawn,” and a cache of her #1 Country hits such as “Strong Enough To Bend,” “What’s Your Mama’s Name, Child,” “Blood Red and Goin’ Down” and “Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone).” The set also includes a sublime medley of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire” and Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire,” along with six songs from While I’m Livin’ (produced by Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings), including “Mustang Ridge,” “The Wheels of Laredo,” “Hard Luck” and the poignant, “Bring My Flowers Now.”
Reviewers are applauding Live from The Troubadour including the previously shared medley of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire” / Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” and “Delta Dawn.”
The 2020 CMT Music Awards will broadcast on October 21st at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on CMT and is a fan-voted award. To cast your vote, visit www.cmt.com/cmt-music-awards/vote.
Worst Week Ever for Technoauthoritarian Suppression of Information
Las Vegas, Nevada – Parler, the people-driven free speech platform, is tallying the litany of examples occurring this week in which tech publishers flexed their content curation muscles to restrict or suppress the free flow of information in the run-up to the 2020 election. The information brownout is now well under way.
Facebook preemptively restricted sharing of the same story, saying it needed to be subjected to their “fact checkers.”
Twitter locked the accounts of the New York Post, the Trump Campaign and White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnaney for tweeting links to the story.
Twitter even blocked access to the House Republican Judiciary Committee’s website for posting the piece.
Facebook says it will ban all ads deemed political after the polls close on November 3, making it more difficult to circulate allegations of vote irregularities.
After the World Health Organization walked back their call for global lockdowns as a way to prevent the spread of Covid19, saying the policy is having devastating effects that will kill or impoverish millions, Twitter and Facebook are feeling the heat.
The tech publishers chose to feature information from the WHO, while removing content about competing perspectives. In other words, they were complicit in imposing this failed policy, which hurt everyone while, notably, benefiting the publishers’ bottom lines.
Twitter locked the account of Lauren Witzke, the Republican party candidate in Delaware’s U.S. Senate race, over comments critical of policies allowing “mass migration” in Europe.
Twitter announced that it would slow down its retweet function ahead of the election to make it more difficult for information they don’t like to go viral.
Twitter locked the account of former ambassador to Germany and acting DNI Richard Grenell, because he shared photographic evidence of mail-in ballot irregularities.
Parler was the subject of an attack piece in The Washington Post based on a “report” by paid Facebook marketing consulting firm Graphika. A Senator quoted in the WaPo piece described us as a “walled garden built to provide safe harbor for wild conspiracies, white supremacists, and vile hate speech.” He continued, “It’s of little surprise they would welcome the participation of foreigners cosplaying as Americans.” (The same marketing firm is apparently providing Congressional testimony today at the invitation of Capitol Hill Democrats.)
“Facebook and Twitter continue to make it clear: they are authoritarians who ultimately want to make the rules for all content curation on the Internet,” said Parler COO Jeffrey Wernick. “They’ve enjoyed broad power to block, ban or throttle content that challenges their agenda or their bottom line—and have become increasingly brazen about doing so.
“Their policies are so lockstep, it is as if Facebook, Twitter and Google are a cartel who act in concert, perhaps through copying or signaling of some kind.
“Perhaps we should take it as a compliment that they’ve brought in their bought-and-paid-for lackeys, masquerading as independent “experts”, to denigrate any free speech platform that dares to challenge them. Clearly, we are having an effect, when, aided by their allies in the mainstream media, they brand as public enemies all those who refuse to fall in line.”
“Parler will not fall in line. Parler will not back down.
“We encourage everyone who wants to speak and think freely to Twexit, Erasebook and join the movement at Parler.”
Parler was founded in 2018 and has a community of over 4 million people. The platform is committed to free speech, does not mine or sell data, and does not curate content based on politics or ideology. Parler continues to stand with the People and against Technoauthoritarianism.
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–Don’t recall if I ever shared these or not? My dad when he was younger. I swear I remember my grandmother showing me a color picture of his Panhead, but I haven’t come across it in my searches. And a Back-Seat Driver’s License 1954 to ‘57
Forgot to mention, I had never seen these pictures until after he died. I wondered if maybe my sister and I contributed to his passing by trying to fix him medically? More her than me, but he listened to her more. The date on the Panhead images is January 25,1953, his funeral was January 25, 2014, so I took that as a sign that it was his time.
–RFR
Investigative Reporter
Bikernet.com™
FROM THE POLITICAL FRONT–EASY TO UNDERSTAND!~~ That moment when someone says, “I can’t believe you would vote for Trump.”
I simply reply, “I’m not voting for Trump.”
I’m voting for the First Amendment and freedom of speech.
I’m voting for the Second Amendment and my right to defend my life and my family.
I’m voting for the next Supreme Court Justice(s) to protect the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
I’m voting for the continued growth of my retirement 401K and the stock market.
I’m voting for a return of our troops from foreign countries and the end to America’s involvement in foreign conflicts.
I’m voting for the Electoral College & the Republic we live in.
I’m voting for the Police to be respected once again and to ensure Law & Order.
I’m voting for the continued appointment of Federal Judges who respect the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
I’m voting for our jobs to remain in America and not be outsourced all over again to China, Mexico and other foreign countries.
I’m voting for secure borders and legal immigration.
I’m voting for the Military & the Veterans who fought for this Country to give the American people their freedoms.
I’m voting for the unborn babies that have a right to live.
I’m voting for continued peace progress in the middle east.
I’m voting to fight against human/child trafficking.
I’m voting for Freedom of Religion.
I’m voting for the American Flag that is disrespected by the Democratic Party.
I’m voting for the right to speak my opinion & not be censored.
I’m not just voting for one person; I’m voting for the future of my Country.
I’m voting for my children and my grandchildren to ensure their freedoms and their future.
What are you voting for?
–from Joe Teresi
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK– 2004 Harley-Davidson XL1200C TRIKE For $10,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9542175
This bike is one well put together Trike check out the detail in this Bike
ONLY 6563.00 Miles !!!!!
2004 Vivid Black Harley-Davidson XL1200C Champion Sportster Trike Conversion Kit
Some of the features/Add-ons on this bike
* 1200 c.c.
* 5 Speed
* Engine guard
* Passenger backrest
* Batwing fairing
* Adjustable Progressive rear shocks
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101-point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether you’re 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 $10,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
LE PERA PRODUCT OF THE WEEK—TAILWHIP, Double Diamond Seating.
Overview
Taking the Kickflip one step further
If it’s more comfort for the passenger or just another platform to let your adventurous side explore, the whipped-up tail of the TailWhip will give you what you are looking for!
Available in Basket Weave, Double Diamond Stitch, Pleated Stitch, or anything your imagination comes up with
Driver Area 10.75″ Wide with 6″ of Back Support, Passenger Area 7″ Wide
Molded Marathon Foam
BikerTec Custom Cover
Highly detailed powder-coated steel carpeted base
Driver Seating:
10.75″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
7″ Wide
MSRP:
$469.00
Part Number:
LK-581DD [’06-’17] Dyna
AN OPEN RESPONSE—from the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
To all whom this may concern,
The attached letter was forwarded to our attention by numerous residents of Cape Cod – some current and some past members of our Massachusetts Motorcycle Association. The letter takes aim at our organization and implies that motorcycles and motorcyclists somehow represent the negatives of society and life on Cape Cod and implies an affiliation with a candidate for office in the Commonwealth is therefore somehow tainted. There are numerous assertions based on fallacy, fabrication, and implication that need to be addressed.
First and foremost, the letter opens with an excerpt from a press release memorializing one of our past members and Board Members, Rick Wood. This photo clipping from our website’s news archives was used in violation of US Copyright by removing said copyright from the usage. The clip was NOT used with our permission, nor would we disrespect the memory of one of our members in this fashion. However, it is this memorial press release that is meant to somehow imply a long-standing affiliation between Steven Xiarhos, candidate for 5th Barnstable State Representative and the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association.
Further, the photo selected for the memorial represented Mr. Wood’s passion – prior to and during his tenure with the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association – that of supporting Veterans and Veterans causes. Mr. Wood was an organizer for many years of similar causes and a significant supporter of “Big Nick’s Ride”, an event named after Corporal Nicholas Xiarhos, a Cape Cod resident who sacrificed his life in the pursuit of freedom.
This event also memorializes all of Cape Cod’s 16 fallen heroes and is supported by the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association as what it is – an event to remember and support those who defend the rest of us in the course of human events, be they military, or civil protectors of freedom and life, including Police, Fire, and First Responders.
The author’s use of this article is not only as previously noted a violation of Copyright but maligns the good name and intention of Mr. Wood, Corporal Xiarhos, and the others of Cape Cod’s Fallen.
The letter then goes on to attack Motorcycles and Motorcyclists as somehow contributing to the downfall of society by using inflammatory rhetoric and outdated statistics concerning Motorcycle Sound and Environmental Emissions – asserting that ALL motorcycles and motorcyclists are bad for society and the environment. It further associates these bad behaviors as if they have been somehow protected by our Association and candidate Steven Xiarhos.
Indeed, our Massachusetts Motorcycle Association did provide support and testimony to the Town of Yarmouth (and others) in defense of Big Nick’s Ride and the First Responders’ Appreciation Riders on Cape Cod when challenged several times by residents seeking to stop these rides from occurring. These attempts were also, like the aforementioned letter, based on hearsay, outdated statistics, and inflammatory emotional rhetoric. Each attempt was denied in public Town Meeting, and the last such attempt as a warrant article was not seconded, and thus never brought to a public vote. Candidate Xiarhos was not a deciding factor in any of those attempts, although like his Police Chief, was likely present during the public hearings and votes as both a resident and town official. Rather than Steven Xiarhos, it was the citizens of Yarmouth, not the few officials, who decided the fate of the rides in question.
As for the claims and concerns regarding motorcycle emissions, we at the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association have stated publicly numerous times that we do not endorse nor condone poor behavior by motorcyclists and through our “When in Town, Throttle Down©” program, for over a decade have taken educational steps to work in collaboration with local officials around the Commonwealth with great success. Motorcyclists do, however, like to enjoy the scenery of our beautiful commonwealth among friends – motorcycling is a community experience as well as a means for commuting. And any group of vehicles will most certainly be louder than others.
This letter, however, also uses outdated statistics to imply that Motorcycles are a negative to the environment as well. Yet fails to cite that motorcycles are a significant minority on the roadways, representing less than 1% of roadway miles driven, while at the same time consuming about half as much fuel and contributing far fewer greenhouse gasses such as CO2.
Indeed, some studies about a decade or more old did note that Motorcycles can contribute other forms of hydrocarbon emissions which are cited in the letter. These extremes however are citations with limited exhausts and at a time when motorcycles were generally not equipped with Catalytic Converters – something that many newer motorcycles are indeed so equipped. But even so, and realizing that trading one set of benefits for detriments doesn’t make it right, considering the percentage of miles consumed and the advancements in motorcycle exhausts, not to mention improvements in all roadway vehicles toward higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions, including electric motorcycles from Zero, Harley-Davidson, and others, this is a problem that will work itself out in time and not something to be targeted toward political gain much less attack.
Our Massachusetts Motorcycle Association has little respect for those who hide behind anonymity and the illusion of majority, especially for the purposes of maligning an organization with a 45-year history of positive contribution to the Commonwealth, much less sullying the reputations of 16 of Cape Cod’s finest citizens, an individual who gave time to supporting veterans, and a candidate whose sole offense was to be present in a photo with that individual during an event celebrating the selflessness of Cape Cod’s fallen – an event attended by well over 1,000 motorcyclists.
Doc D’Errico
Chairman, Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
GEORGE CHRISTIE CELEBRATES—One year exiled in Spain, while trying to shoot his long-awaited TV series, “Marked.” He’s beginning to look tough as he prepares to cut the cake for his one-year anniversary.
He’s still hanging in there, primarily due to the Chinese Covid, while his family is stuck in Ventura, CA. The series is based on his biker club book of the same name.
–Bandit
A TEASER FROM THE GANG AT LOWBROW– EMMI’S PASSION – FROM HER CHILDHOOD
Motorcycles have always been a big part of my life, even when I was too young to understand them. My dad, Jeremy Cupp of LC Fabrications, started tinkering with them as a hobby before I was born. Because this is a very expensive hobby he built his business LC Fabrications to help pay for it. By the time we were all old enough to think it was the coolest thing ever, he had already built a couple of show bikes and even won best in show at a few motorcycle shows. This is how I was introduced to the motorcycle industry.
As kids we helped out where we could to support the family business. My brother and sister still hang around a bit and help where they can, but it’s just not really their thing. This is not the case for me. In elementary school I was hanging around my Dad’s machine shop a lot. Just getting comfortable and learning the basics of motorcycles.
When I got to middle school, I started having “teen problems” as we all do and I kind of stopped showing up. It wasn’t until I got into high school that I decided to hang around again. Upset with myself that I had wasted all that time doing dumb teen stuff instead of learning to work with my hands (which is obviously way better), I made it my goal to learn as much as I could from then on out.
See the whole story about this build on the Lowbrow site.–Bandit
Indoor Winter IMS Tour Permanently Dropped in Favor of Outdoor Summer Event Series–
As COVID-19 and the broader ‘new reality’ challenging existing trade show and indoor expo events continues to reshape how specialty markets communicate with their consumers, news that the Progressive International Motorcycle Show (IMS) series, as we have known it for past decades, is no more.
Instead, phoenix-like from the ashes, an interesting new concept is slated to arise as organizer UBM (United Business Media AKA Advanstar) takes the shows into the summer and outdoors in a reimagined format for the annual tour with IMS Outdoors.
The United States’ largest consumer motorcycle tour will return in summer 2021 “and be the most immersive powersports experience yet.”
“Attendees can also expect the remodeled tour to be more interactive than ever with an array of on-road and off-road demo opportunities for all ages and riding abilities, including the continuation of the successful ‘Discover the Ride’ program.
The reimagined tour, which has been five years in the making, comes at a perfect time as 2020 has seen off-road product sales soar.”
Dates and locations will be announced in December. As The shows traditionally held in various cities from November through February will not take place this year.
Planned dates will likely be between mid-May and October.
At this time, it is unclear as to whether the J&P Cycles sponsored Ultimate Builder custom competitions will continue (either as part of IMS or otherwise). We have seen indications both ways in third party channels, but UBM/Advanstar’s announcement press release didn’t mention the custom shows either way.
Also, it is unclear yet which of the major OE manufacturers will be backing the initiative – we certainly hope they will support this opportunity as their involvement will no doubt be critical to the viability of the concept. AMD Magazine certainly wishes the organizers well with the plan.
www.outdoors.motorcycleshows.com
–Posted by DealerWorld
1938 GALBUSERA 500CC V8 DISCOVERED– Don’t know about this bike, but it appears to be a flathead V-8 with 4 carbs. Photo came from Switzerland.
–El Waggs
NEW TO BIKERNET, THE VINTAGE MONKEY--Every Sunday from 11am – 6pm Vintage Monkey is open to the public
Drinks are available for purchase at the bar …including beer & wine,
enjoy shopping and exploring our historic exhibit
Cocktails and Curiosities! October 31st
Looking for something to do Saturday October 31st?
Celebrate the 2nd annual COCKTAILS & CURIOSITIES along with a variety of wonderful pop-up vendors! A bewitching evening to shop, sip, and be inspired with a beautiful array of drinks to purchase and stroll through the thoughtfully curated pagan curiosities.
Bring your friends or a date and make it an evening Saturday October 31, 2020 from 5pm-10pm
This event is being held inside the historic Vintage Monkey building in downtown Sacramento, California and is only $5 at the door.
There is PLENTY of room to social distance and come wearing your best face mask. Drinks are for purchase; shopping will be abundant and ambient music by the amazing DJ Duc Jones! Let us make it a beautiful evening!
Located at 400 N16th Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
Hosted by The Altar Room
I TOLD YOU, WE LIVE IN THE BEST OF TIMES–
‘Today, we live some 100 times better than did our ancestors at the end of the 18th century’
The luxuries that we take for granted — abundant food on demand, clean running water, electricity, electronic communications and media, advanced medical care, inexpensive clothing, home and office heating, rapid transportation, universal basic education, free libraries, and dozens of other important advances — are linked to warming temperatures that have afforded enough surplus food to support educators, scientists, inventors, technicians, physicians, and the suppliers of so many of our modern conveniences.” …
“Global food production has exploded since 1970, due in part to a favorable climate. For the first time in human history, we live in an age during which it is not necessary for large numbers of human beings to go hungry.”
–CLIMATE DEPOT
–Glenn Priddle
CRUZ SPEEDKIT TOOL KIT FOR HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES–This ultra-compact tool kit is packed with functionality for Harley Davidson motorcycles. The kit includes wrenches to cover most common metric fasteners, 4-in-1 screwdriver, nut driver, torx bits, hex keys, pliers, 2-in-1 spark plug socket and tire gauge in a durable zipper pouch. The SpeedKit provides a major upgrade over OEM tool kits, and still fits in a relatively compact space. Lifetime Guarantee – no questions asked!
Dimensions: Approx 7 x 2 x 2 Inches
KIT INCLUDES
14 x 17mm Open End Wrench
12mm Combination Wrench
10mm Combination Wrench
8mm Nut Driver
5/8? & 18mm Combo Spark Plug Wrench w/ lever
Mini 5-in-1 screwdriver w/ Torx T20,25,27,30 bits
Hex Keys: 3,4,5,6mm
0-20 psi tire gauge
Locking Pliers
Heavy-duty zip-up pouch
$34.95
We just installed one of these in a Bandit’s Dayroll for the Mudflap Girl FXR. We are writing a review as we go to press with the News.–Bandit
NEW GRIPS FOR MR. GREEN– So I bought these, just installed them. They are real wood. Love the look and very comfortable.
Woodysmotorcyclegrips.com
–Barry G.
DRAG BIKE FOR SALE-– Own a piece of history. Bonnie Truett’s last double. Campaigned by Jack and Mike Romine. Fresh 110-inch engines, Hilborn injection, B&J transmission. Starting at 35k or offer or trade. Pm me if interested.
–Dan Rognsvoog
Drag Bike Trader
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY CAMPUS STILL ALIVE WITH ANXIOUS TO LEARN STUDENTS–
“Panic Attack” vs. “Anxiety Attack”: Which One Is Which?
That gut-wrenching feeling that creeps up as you read the news each morning, is it a “panic attack” or “anxiety attack”? Stop reading the news and read this instead, to learn the difference.
Ever been worried, apprehensive, or even panicky at times?
Yes? We thought so. We all have. Suddenly, you feel a knot in your throat, your heart starts pounding, you’re short of breath, shaky, drenched in sweat, and a bit dizzy.
Brace yourself. Your body’s fight-or-flight response is switched on and is quickly taking over. You are in survival mode.
We hope there are no imminent dangers or actual threats nearby: no tigers, no serial killers or zombies in sight—not that you know of, at least. Still, you feel under attack. And, in some ways, you are.
The word attack, first recorded around 1590–1600 and borrowed from the French word attacquer, means “to join battle.” It makes it quite clear: hostilities have begun. So, that was a panic attack. Right? Wait, or was it an anxiety attack?
Well, chances are high that you have just experienced one of the two. But, which was it?
Same … but different?
Plenty of people use either term to describe a sudden feeling of overwhelming fear and frantic agitation that—if this was not enough—come together with a wide array of physical symptoms.
Anxiety and panic attacks share more than a few traits and, truth be told, could feel the same, sometimes. Except they are not.
If you have ever had a panic attack, you will know the difference. If you haven’t, it could be hard to tell. Don’t feel bad, though. If you can’t tell which is which, you’re not alone. And if you have ever used those terms interchangeably, you’re not alone either. Let’s get to the root of it.
So, what does anxiety exactly mean?
The first known use of the word anxiety dates back to the 1500s. Ultimately, it comes from the Latin verb ango, which means “I torment, trouble, vex, or distress,” or even “I choke, strangle. I cause physical pain.” Well, what can we say, anxiety? Indeed, you do.
The term anxiety describes an unsettling and persistent state of inner turmoil that is normally associated with an event we perceive as challenging. Oftentimes, we hear people say they are anxious about a job interview, an exam they are studying for, or a meeting they are invited to speak at.
The uneasiness of mind and distress that stem from the anticipation of the dreaded event—whatever it is—tends to build up over time. Until it gets out of hand and anxiety goes straight through the roof. And there you have it. A full-blown anxiety attack.
It isn’t all bad though. Let us put in a good word for it. At its core level, anxiety is actually a natural and potentially life-saving reaction to danger. It’s the response of your fight-or-flight system, a clever built-in mechanism designed to keep you safe and alive.
What does panic mean, then?
The word panic takes things up a notch or two. It refers to a feeling of pure terror, with or without an obvious trigger, that produces hysterical or irrational behavior and can often spread quickly through a group of people or animals.
Sure enough, the adjective widespread and the noun panic get on pretty well. First evidenced in 1595–1605 and meaning “pertaining to Pan,” panic owes its name to the half-goat, half-man Greek god, Pan.
God of shepherds, rocky hills, and pastures, Pan was believed to spend his days wandering peacefully through the woods, while playing a pipe and unsuccessfully courting amiable nymphs. He was also thought to have a terrifying voice. If accidentally awakened from his noontime nap he would let out such a loud scream that would inspire irrational and contagious fear in others, herds, and crowds. (Who likes to be abruptly disturbed in their sleep, anyway? We hear you, Pan.)
A panic attack would catch you off guard in the middle of nothing or in a crowded place with no apparent reason, set off by something you can’t quite put your finger on. When we say we panic about something, what we probably mean is that we feel extremely anxious about it. Nothing wrong with that. We are in such distress that it feels like panic but, strictly speaking, it’s most likely not.
On a side note, we also use panic to describe an economic or financial disaster and, although the idea of it could trigger an attack, that’s a whole other story.
–from Dictionary.com
SAM’S PICKS PART 1— I so much enjoyed reading part #1 about your life in the Cantina. I find it fascinating and am looking forward to reading the second part.
–Ann Robinson
THIS JUST IN FROM THE HOME OF THE MAGNIFICENT ARCH–Simple. Elegant. Efficient. Design Redefined
The ARCH Motorcycle design and engineering philosophy encapsulated in three words. Our design process is unique in the application of innovative engineering solutions to deliver an unrivalled ride. A quest for clean, simple solutions that maximize the performance potential of the motorcycle results in engineered elegance such as the direct mount shock absorber on the KRGT-1 – removing the need for a linkage and therefore deleting unnecessary components and weight.
The perfection of the ARCH BST carbon wheels works to reduce unsprung mass and improve handling dynamics. Every single aspect of the motorcycle form and function is carefully considered – from how it will cruise, turn and accelerate through to the breathtaking profile and stance at any angle when parked. Every single element of the finished motorcycle speaks to the ARCH philosophy to deliver the ultimate performance cruiser experience.
RISPOLI CHARGES TO AFT PRODUCTION TWINS CHAMPIONSHIP ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON XG750R–
Latus Motors Racing Rider Clinches Flat Track Title at Daytona Speedway
Latus Motors Racing rider James “The Rocket” Rispoli clinched the 2020 American Flat Track (AFT) Production Twins championship with a fourth-place finish aboard a Harley-Davidson XG750R motorcycle at the Progressive AFT Finale at the Daytona International Speedway Short Track in Daytona Beach, Fla. With one race left in the season Rispoli has 300 points and an insurmountable lead over the rest of the AFT Production Twins field.
“I’m so fired up! Thank you to my HogSpoli Nation out there,” an exuberant said Rispoli after receiving the #1 championship number plate following the race. “Tonight, I thought we had a shot at the win, but these guys were riding so good. To be honest, I didn’t want to throw it away. Tomorrow we’ll come back and go for the win, and then we’ll let the celebrations begin.”
The championship is the first for a rider competing on the Harley-Davidson XG750R, a motorcycle built for competition and powered by the liquid-cooled, fuel-injected and race-tuned Harley-Davidson® Revolution X™ V-Twin based on the production engine originally designed for the Harley-Davidson Street 750 motorcycle.
After finishing in second place in the first three races of the season, Rispoli won for the first time on the Indy Mile in August and has won six more races, including a mid-season string of five in a row – Springfield Mile II, Williams Grove I and II, Dallas Half Mile I and II – that powered the number 43 Harley-Davidson bike into first place in the class standings. Rispoli scored his seventh win at the Atlanta Short Track II race on Oct. 3.
The 29-year-old racer from Londonderry, N.H., began racing AMA flat track in 2008 and finished second in the GNC2 class in 2009. Rispoli then turned his attention full-time to motorcycle road racing, winning AMA SuperSport national championships in 2010 and 2011, and raced in the British Supersport series from 2014 to 2018. In 2019 Rispoli returned to AFT competition, placing sixth in AFT Production Twins with four podium finishes.
For the 2020 season Rispoli joined the Latus Motors Racing team, founded by George Latus, owner of the Team Latus Motors Harley-Davidson dealership in Gladstone, Oregon. In the mid-2000s, Latus Motors garnered race wins and top-three championship finishes while serving as the title sponsor for the 2000 Grand National Champion Joe Kopp, who is now the manager of Latus Motors Racing.
“I was involved in flat track for a lot of years, and we kind of put a hold on things for a couple of years, but we saw the direction American Flat Track was going, and it’s moving forward in a very positive way,” said Latus. “We were looking to get back into it and recognized the potential of the Harley-Davidson XG750R and the Production Twins class as the perfect way to do that.”
The AFT season concludes Oct. 17 with AFT Singles, AFT Production Twins and AFT SuperTwins racing again at the Daytona International Speedway Short Track.
U.S.-MEXICO BORDER WALL REPORT– 360 Miles and Counting
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has made substantial headway on construction of the border wall—at a pace of nearly two miles a day. By the end of 2020, the Trump administration expects to meet and exceed its goal of 450 miles.
And despite what critics say, this is an entirely new wall system, replacing either dilapidated or ineffective wall or wall where nothing existed before. The wall is as high as 30 feet, complete with anti-climb features. The wall works.
FIVE tips to stay organized in the garage–
The thrill of making progress assembling your DIY project can quickly be overshadowed by the frustration of a missing part or piece of hardware that you’re pretty sure you set down right there. Despite how confident we all are in our memory and ability to stay organized and remember exactly where each piece went, a little preparation and awareness goes a long way. Here are five tips for how to stay on top of your game:
Get small trays for small parts (and bigger trays for big parts)
trays to organize car parts
I don’t remember where these small plastic trays came from, but they live on top of my workbench now, making organization of bolts and small parts easy. Kyle Smith
If your project isn’t going to be apart long, use a handful of small trays to organize bolts and hardware. Muffin tins are great for this, and you can label each grouping of hardware directly on the tin with a permanent marker. I also keep these stacking plastic trays on my workbench and I can number the order in which the hardware or small parts came off the car and assemble in reverse order to ensure I am doing things in the correct order. I say to do this only if the project won’t be apart long because if you just have random tray and dishes of hardware on your workbench, it is only time before they get knocked and scattered across your floor. In my shop they seem to always make it under something immovable.
Grab your camera
This is one piece of advice that has been relayed to me 100 times, and I have recommended it to others just as often, yet I still catch myself not actually doing it. So, do as I say and not as I do, because taking pictures during disassembly can—and will—save you from massive headaches. Sure, there are times where you end up not needing the references upon reassembly. When you do, though, those jpeg files feel like they’ve been downloaded from the heavens rather than your digital camera.
Tape is your friend
tape flag to ID parts
I probably would remember to reconnect the oil pressure gauge connection, but this guarantees it. Kyle Smith
wires labeled with tape flag
Tape flags work perfect for wires as well. Kyle Smith
The term “tag and bag” is great, but what about items that cannot be bagged? Grab some tape, write the info you will need to remember for reassembly, and then slap it on your part. For greasy bits where tape doesn’t stick, make yourself a few quick and easy “toe tags” by attaching a flag to a piece of wire or string, writing the info you need on it, and then tying the wire or string to the part.
Keep it all in one spot
workbench to organize parts
All the parts from the engine removal of the Austin Healey are all on this workbench. The fact I can roll it next to the car is an extra luxury. Kyle Smith
Typically, I try to only have two big projects going at once, and that is why I own two workbenches. The concept is simple: keep everything related to a project on its assigned bench. Be disciplined about this one. I run little risk of cross pollinating the Austin Healey water pump with the Corvair parts bin, but fasteners, heat shields, and a multitude of small parts might not be immediately recognizable as belonging to one car or the other if I have been away from the project for a week or two. I know everything on one workbench should be parts for project A, and everything on the other is parts for project B. If you don’t have much worktop space, a folding table is a wise investment to keep parts in one place and off the floor.
Work clean, stay clean
clean workbench
This is how I strive to keep my workbenches and spaces. It ensures that my projects don’t get muddled. Kyle Smith
The last few points have been all about general organization, but a good foundation of success for any project is a clean and ready environment in which to do the job. If you are having to shuffle spare parts and other dirty pieces out of your way as you are trying to work, it’s less likely to end well. Get your space cleaned up before diving into the task at hand and remember to keep tidy as you go. That means having a few rags or towels on hand, as well as floor-dry or trays to contain spills and greasy parts.
These five tips will get you started, but over time you’ll develop your own system. If you’re a seasoned wrench and have some helpful tips for the Hagerty Community, we’d love to hear about them below. There is always room for fine-tuning and improvement.
–Kyle Smith, Hagerty Media
LIFE IS INCREDIBLE—I’m trying to make a list of crates, if I’m ordered pack up my shop and move it to Deadwood. It’s one of those daunting tasks. I love this building, but not LA or California anymore. Got to get outta Dodge.
I’m going to try some Lucas fuel stabilizer or tune-up in a bottle in some of these bikes. Finally, I moved onto my dicey ’46 Knuckle. I checked the fuel and started to kick her. It has another Morris Magneto. We shipped Dr. Hamster’s mag to Jason Mook at Deadwood Custom Cycles in Deadwood to have the batteries recharged and maybe replace the condenser. We started to look at automatic advance distributors and batteries.
Mike Stevenson discovered a reproduced product on J&P and I popped for one as a test. I was a big fan of mags for a decade, although I did have issues. After dealing with the Doctor’s for almost two years, I’m beginning to lose my flare for them.
Here’s a question. Someone recently told me of a electronic plate to replace the points. I haven’t found it yet. Let me know if you are aware of a manufacturer.
Okay, stay calm. We’ve only got a few weeks before the election. Can’t wait.
Ride fast and free forever!
–Bandit
THE SALT TORPEDO BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for October 29th, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
The weather is rapidly changing. The election is almost over and I hope everyone voted. Next week will be damn exciting. I have confidence in America and as you know, in freedom.
Here’s the really good, positive news from the Bikernet Headquarters in Wilmington, California. We may have a plan for moving some unwanted staff members to Deadwood and keeping the Wilmington fort. That’s not the news.
Micah McCloskey came from the valley to the coast on Sunday, when the traffic is nil around the Port. With the help of Zack and Gearhead, we lifted the Salt Torpedo off the lift and set it on the deck. Micah guided it into the backyard and fired it to life. The JIMS engine sounds magnificent with the exhaust system build partially by Bub and partially by me and San Pedro muffler. It was recently repaired after we rolled the torpedo during a test run.
Zack jumped on his Sportster, which we recently rewired and repaired and prepared to pace the Torpedo on it’s first handling test. Mike Stevenson and I recently did our damnest to align the Torpedo after the new front axle was installed, and the wheels repaired. Paughco also built us a new gas tank.
I installed the bottom of the belly tank last week in hopes that our test would be successful and we could prepare for a speed run, maybe in the desert. Micah assured me that he would take it easy on his first pass down Harry Bridges, the largest thoroughfare leading in and out of the Port of LA.
It sprinkled in the morning, the first rain of the season, so the worn asphalt was slick. Micah followed the code and took it slow for the first couple of blocks. With Zack pacing him he slipped along the wide boulevard and then turned right for the return pass. I stood in the street to watch the Torpedo heading back towards the shop. It seemed to be tracking straight.
Micah was positive but wanted to let the street dry, so he could make one more pass and hit some speed over 50 mph. We waited and shot the shit in the shop. The sun threatened over the harbor and dried the cracking asphalt.
More confident, Micah slipped under the canopy with his race helmet on and fired the JIMS 135 Twin Cam to life. He popped over the gate railing, into the street with Zack beside him and blasted down the street. He was back in a flash and again seemed to track perfectly. He blasted into the shop with his gloved thumb held high.
Sometime today, I’m going to make a call about a speed run in the desert. Let’s hit the news.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
THIS DAY IN HISTORY
October 29, 1929
Stock market crashes on Black Tuesday
Black Tuesday hits Wall Street as investors trade 16,410,030 shares on the New York Stock Exchange in a single day. Billions of dollars were lost, wiping out thousands of investors, and stock tickers ran hours behind because the machinery could not handle the tremendous volume of trading. In the aftermath of Black Tuesday America and the rest of the industrialized world spiraled downward into the Great Depression.
During the 1920s, the U.S. stock market underwent rapid expansion, reaching its peak in August 1929, a period of wild speculation. By then, production had already declined and unemployment had risen, leaving stocks in great excess of their real value. Among the other causes of the eventual market collapse were low wages, the proliferation of debt, a weak agriculture, and an excess of large bank loans that could not be liquidated.
–from History.com
A BROTHER RECEIVES HIS BANDIT MADE BELT BUCKLE--Incredible Righteous Distinctive and Massively Cool Piece of Art! Comfortable and beautiful on my favorite leather stiched belt! Blew my mind to see it arrive so fast!
My mind however was even more blown when we first chatted. You sir are a Living Legend! Your Enormous contribution to our life style is Massive Greatly Appreciated and Forever!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for the extra stuff. I’m gonna start on the book tonight, and look forward to joining your Cantina. If I can ever help you in anyway please let me know.
Your grateful brother
–Robert
BLACK TECHNICIANS AT HARLEY–
I read the story on Paris McGowan it very uplifting to see another woman in the field but the story is Incorrect she is not the first female black technician at Harley-Davidson she is actually the third.
To explain why I said she is third with the history behind my statement along with the details of the 2 women before her. I am not discrediting her accomplishment but the lack of research to claim she is the first is a total discredit to the two ladies before her.
The first black Lady is named Alisha Healy she is a Master Technician of the Rubber City Harley-Division in Ohio she has been in the position as Master Tech for 9 years and was featured in the magazine Harley’s University Shop Talk Magazine article Women on the Rise 2018. She talks about her struggle and determination to be in a field dominated by men and an inspiration to other women in general.
The second black lady who is not only Black but Hispanic is Selena Terrazas she is 25 years old she graduated from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix AZ in November of 2017 specializing in Harleys Davidson motorcycles. Her first position was with Top Rocker Harley-Davidson in Canoga Park Ca for a 1 and 1/2 year she now has moved to Harley- Davidson of Santa Clarita and has been there 1 year with advancement training to be completed at MMI again to become an Advanced Technician her current career time is 2 1/2 years. She is known around the dealers in California and Harleys Master Techs as the first women they have worked with in California under Harley in the past 30 years.
Please understand that an article that showcases women of color should be correct since there are other women in the field that may not be known to the author but substantial researched should be done to give credit to all women.
In conclusion, I am the mother of Selena Terrazas and I am extremely proud she is in her career and has encouraged her to be independent and strong in the world where men dominate a field. As I am the only Black female in my company who is a Property Inspector in a male-dominated field of working with Commerical, Residential, New Construction housing for investors in the Southern California Region and out of state properties.
As a woman of color, I pride myself and my children to excel and take on positions that challenged the mind. I commend the article showcasing Paris Mcgowan but not the statement she is the first, that should go to Alisha Healy then followed by my daughter Selena Terrazas and Paris McGowan who have broken barriers in Harley as black female technicians.
Sincerely
–Dana Marzette- Hernandez
UNDISPUTED: INDIAN CHALLENGER OFFICIALLY BECOMES “KING OF THE BAGGERS” WITH DRAMATIC VICTORY AT LAGUNA SECA
Inaugural Bagger Road Race Sees Indian Challengers Claim Two of Three Podium Spots as Road Racer Tyler O’Hara Takes the Victory on the S&S Cycle Indian Challenger & Frankie Garcia Takes Third Place on the Roland Sands Design Indian Challenger
MINNEAPOLIS (October 27, 2020) – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, added to its racing legacy with a historic win at the inaugural Drag Specialties King of the Baggers invitational at Laguna Seca Raceway.
Facing a field of 11 Harley-Davidsons, the S&S Cycle Indian Challenger, piloted by highly decorated motorcycle racing Champion Tyler O’Hara, captured the win, while veteran rider Frankie Garcia put his Roland Sands Design Indian Challenger on the box with a third-place finish. Claiming two out of three podium positions, the Indian Challenger dramatically showcased its superiority on one of road-racing’s most iconic and technical tracks.
The historic race played out in truly dramatic fashion. Barely, 24-hours after an accident where he “looped” his 600-lb. machine during qualifying, Frankie Garcia rebounded taking the holeshot.
But it was O’Hara who immediately established a commanding lead through the first three laps. With five laps remaining, an off-track mishap sent O’Hara back to third and Garcia to second, allowing veteran rider Hayden Gillim to take the lead. From there, O’Hara began a patient, methodical comeback, working his way past Garcia and dramatically passing Gillim while diving into the famed “corkscrew” during the penultimate lap. O’Hara held strong for the final lap winning the inaugural race by 1.9 seconds and earning the title “King of the Baggers.”
“It’s an incredible honor for us to race on this historic track at this historic event, against a field of incredibly talented teams and riders, and we’re absolutely thrilled to come away victorious,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “Tyler, Frankie and the S&S Cycle and RSD teams did an incredible job and ultimately, they were able to show the world just how special the Indian Challenger is. We couldn’t be more proud of them or our bike.”
Race fans witnessed history, as the inaugural King of the Baggers reached social media viewers in record numbers – recording over two million views and more than 30,000 Facebook shares.
“Watching 13 baggers carving through Laguna Seca’s famed “Corkscrew” was a special moment in motorcycle racing,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “That said, watching the new Indian Challenger defeat 11 highly-modified Harley Davidsons was a monumental achievement and dramatic validation for the work our product designers and engineers have put into developing the Indian Challenger.”
The inaugural King of the Baggers race could not have been more appropriately timed for the Indian Challenger. In a year that saw Indian Motorcycle introduce the new bagger with the Challenger Challenge – a dealer test-ride program that invited riders to compare the Indian Challenger head-to-head against the Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® Special – the inaugural race created a dramatic extension of the marketing program in a full-fledged competitive racing format.
The victory at “King of the Baggers” also came on the heels of Indian Motorcycle Racing earning its fourth consecutive Grand National Championship and Manufacturer’s Championship in the American Flat Track racing series.
Biker Calls for Community Support to Win Custom Bike Build on Popular TV Show
Local biker makes an appeal for votes to bring attention to his cause.
Orange County Choppers is giving away an opportunity to build a custom chopper to the fan with the most votes. The show’s main character and owner of Orange County Choppers Paul Teutul Sr. wants to give one lucky bike enthusiast the opportunity of a lifetime.
World of Soul Motorcycle Community’s founder Terry Hardy wants you to vote for him.
The winner will receive a custom dream bike built entirely from scratch. This year’s winner will also join Paul Teutul Sr. and the Orange County Choppers crew on an upcoming episode and receive their very own feature on the cover of Cycle Source Magazine!
Terry is a community advocate who is involved in encouraging bikers to surface on the issue of education, primarily exposing students to Historically Black Colleges and Universities through a college tour experience.
“Fifteen years ago, I found my passion in motorcycling and using it as a platform to help students get to and through college.
My most recent motorcycle’s engine failed me. I have struggled to get back behind the throttle under the circumstances; an over $45,000 expense. A new motorcycle is necessary to reach riders where they are locally, regionally and nationally to garner attention and support.
I want the exposure of a custom-build featured on the Orange County Choppers show.
To have a bike built by a national icon such as Paul Teutul Sr. and be featured on the cover of a magazine would be good, not only for me, but for Chicago also as we move forward a major campaign to support students with their pursuit of a post-secondary education.
I would take the motorcycle to major rallies and at as many motorcycle industry trade shows our budget would allow. I would take it to various high schools and college campuses as part of our promotion to support the motorcycle community’s role in education.”
Vote for Terry Hardy at https://dreamchopper.com/2020/terry-hardy-2 today and every day until voting for the top 15 candidates ends Thursday the 5th of November at 11PM EST.
For more information regarding how you can support the organization’s work go to www.rideforchangerideforhope.org or call Terry Hardy directly at 773-220-2602.
Terry Hardy
President
World of Soul, Inc., a for profit corporation
World of Soul Motorcycle Community, Inc.
Ride for CHANGE Ride for HOPE Foundation
2150 S. Canalport Ave. Suite #2A-11
Chicago, Illinois 60608
773.220.2602
www.worldofsoul.me
NEW FROM TWIN POWER– M-8 Electrical Components
Distributed exclusively by Tucker Powersports, Twin Power has introduced new high-quality M-8 electrical components that meet or exceed OEM specifications.
Starters
The new high-quality 1.4 kW starters are genuine, 100% new replacements, not remanufactured or refurbished items, and are backed by a limited manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. Available for 2017-2020 FLH/FLT and for selected (most) 2018-2020 Softails.
Stators
Offered in both molded and unmolded variations, these premium grade 48A replacement stators are wound with high-temperature 100% copper wire and feature heavy-duty, oil resistant leads with O.E.M. style connectors. The kits include mounting hardware, are produced by an ISO certified factory and backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. Available for most M-8 Touring and Softail models.
Electronic Regulators
“High quality 50A electronic regulators at an affordable price,” says Brand Manager James Simonelli. Backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, they are available for 2017-2020 FLH and FLT.
Starter Clutch
Often hard to source, “especially for late-model applications,” says Simonelli. This Twin Power starter clutch is a 100 percent stock replacement for all M-8 models from 2017-2020.
Ignition Coils
“Twin Power coils are a high-quality direct fit with at least 20% more voltage than stock,” says Simonelli. “These high-quality, molded epoxy coils in a late O.E.M. style molded case are for 12 volt (0.4 ohm) H-D ignition systems and really do increase peak spark voltage by 20% or more – I’ve seen the test results! They improve starting, stops, high-speed misfires, mileage and overall performance.” Available in black and chrome for M-8 Touring and Softail applications, they come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Starter Solenoids
Available for all M-8 applications and another component that is “not yet as readily available as it’s going to need to be,” according to Simonelli, “it is another robust, durable 100 percent stock replacement from Twin Power.”
TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.twinpower-usa.com
–from AMD
JUST IN FROM THE FACTORY–Harley-Davidson officially spins off new electric bicycle company with stunning first model
This is it. Harley-Davidson has been teasing us with the prospect of their own in-house electric bicycles for over two years. And today the bar-and-shield motorcycle manufacturer has finally announced its new dedicated electric bicycle brand known as Serial 1 Cycle Company.
The brand’s name is an homage to the very first motorcycle ever built by Harley-Davidson in 1903, named “Serial Number One.”
Back then, motorcycles were essentially just bicycles with a small engine placed in front of the pedals.
And so it is fitting that the company’s first electric bicycle is a nod to that very first H-D motorcycle. Check out both in the video below to see how well they nailed the tribute.
As Serial 1 Cycle Company’s brand director Aaron Frank explained in a statement provided to Electrek:
When Harley-Davidson first put power to two wheels in 1903, it changed how the world moved, forever. Inspired by the entrepreneurial vision of Harley-Davidson’s founders, we hope to once again change how cyclists and the cycling-curious move around their world with a Serial 1 eBicycle.
The new e-bike brand from H-D actually began life as a skunkworks project in Harley-Davidson’s Product Development Center.
As the company explained, they began with “a small group of passionate motorcycle and bicycle enthusiasts working with a single focus to design and develop an eBicycle worthy of the Harley-Davidson name.”
Ultimately, they decided along with H-D to spin off the brand into a dedicated electric bicycle company that could focus purely on delivering a premium e-bike product and experience.
In addition to Aaron Frank, other major players from H-D’s in-house e-bike program that made the jump to Serial 1 Cycle Company include Jason Huntsman, president; Ben Lund, vice president; and Hannah Altenburg, lead brand marketing specialist.
–Micah Toll, Electrek
Harley-Davidson Inc. stock rises Tuesday, outperforms market
Shares of Harley-Davidson Inc. HOG, +22.06% soared 22.07% to $35.40 Tuesday, on what proved to be an all-around dismal trading session for the stock market, with the S&P 500 Index SPX, -0.30% falling 0.30% to 3,390.68 and Dow Jones Industrial Average DJIA, -0.80% falling 0.80% to 27,463.19. Harley-Davidson Inc. closed $5.46 below its 52-week high ($40.86), which the company achieved on October 29th.
The stock outperformed some of its competitors Tuesday, as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG ADR BMWYY, -3.14% fell 3.14% to $24.06, Honda Motor Co. Ltd. ADR HMC, -1.39% fell 1.39% to $24.12, and Polaris Inc. PII, +0.53% rose 0.54% to $92.04. Trading volume (41.5 M) eclipsed its 50-day average volume of 3.1 M.
Editor’s Note: This story was auto-generated by Automated Insights using data from Dow Jones and FactSet. See our market data terms of use.
–MarketWatch
SCARY SHIT FROM LOWBROW– When it comes to motorcycles, there is a lot of tacky stuff out there.
We wanted to create some motorcycle-related Halloween photos that weren’t hokey and share them with you all.
Several of us donned some classic movie monster costumes and enjoyed some time in a local graveyard…
Werewolf on a Triumph motorcycle
Frankenstein (Tyler), Bride of Frankenstein (Amanda) with a 1975 Harley Shovelhead chopper and and a Werewolf (Todd) with a Triumph bobber.
We hope you enjoy them!
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!--Sam’s Picks for the Week, October 27, 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Sams_Picks_for_the_Week_October_27_2020.aspx
Great story, I love these. Here in Charlotte I had a great friend He passed away about 4 years ago. I met him when I came to Charlotte. I worked part time at a small shop here. He would come in and sit for hours telling stories of the outlaw life here I miss him We were in a club together. By the way great looking bikes!
–Mike Pullin
THE POLISHED NUTS KNUCKLE HAMMER-– Jason Momoa’s Hands-On Collab With Nash
This newest version of the Jason Momoa x Nash Motorcycle Co Knuckle Hammer is truly unique. We’ve taken the original design and finish to a new level by hand polishing the iconic Knucklehead nuts just like they would have been on a 1930’s-40’s Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. This piece really stands out and makes for a great addition to your tool chest or something to hang on the wall for Harley enthusiasts to gawk at for years to come.
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY—No Mask Required.
The Woman Marine Pilot
The teacher gave her 5 th grade class an assignment: Get their parents to tell them a story with a moral at the end of it.
The next day, the kids came back and, one by one, began to tell their stories.
There were all the regular types of stuff… spilled milk, pennies saved, etc.
But then the teacher realized, much to her dismay, that only Janie was left.
Janie, she asked, “Do you have a story to share?”
‘Yes, ma’am. My daddy told me a story about my Mommy. She was a Marine pilot in Desert Storm, & her plane got hit.
She had to bail out over enemy territory, & all she had was a flask of whiskey, a pistol & a survival knife.
She drank the whiskey on the way down so the bottle wouldn’t break, & then her parachute landed her right in the middle of 20 Iraqi troops.
She shot 15 of them with the pistol, until she ran out of bullets, killed four more with the knife, till the blade broke & then she killed the last Iraqi with her bare hands’.
‘Good Heavens,’ said the horrified teacher. ‘What did your Daddy tell you was the moral to this horrible story?
‘He said to stay away from Mommy when she’s been drinking.’
–El Waggs
Officially Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina™
Bad Joke Library
NEW OLD FROM THE NATIONA MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM--1974 Triumph TR5T Trophy Trail. By 1973 two-stroke powered motorcycles dominated off-road competition of all types. Yet in 1972, Triumph Corporation, USA decided to field an ISDE team of three riders on their 500cc twin, the TR5 Trophy Trail. This was late in the life of the traditional British motorcycle. Frames were iron lugged with steel tubing, suspension travel minimum and true weight near 400 pounds. Yet a group of riders skilled at handling these big machines did well in international competition.
The International Six Days Enduro is a traditional event held annually at various points on the globe since 1913. With no cooperation from the Triumph factory, project manager Bob Tryon and six techs in their southern California shop, reworked six freshly uncrated stock machines. With a combination of after-market and custom fabricated parts they built one bike, thoroughly tested and perfected it, went about completing six total and headed for Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the site of the 1973 ISDE. Dave Mungenast, John Greenrose and Ken Harvey each finished this grueling enduro with silver medals, a great accomplishment made greater when considering the dated technical status of their machines.
According to the Triumph Factory Records only a total of 921 TR5T’s were made in 1974 with 759 of them shipped to the United States. The TR5T was touted as an ‘off road’ bike, and the majority (634) were shipped to the East coast Distributor Triumph Corporation in Baltimore. The other 125 were shipped to the West coast Distributor, Johnson Motors. Perhaps that split was because the bike made a great name for itself in the East due to its performance in the 1973 ISDT held that year in Massachusetts, or the West coast riders were riding Bultacos, Huskys, Maicos, Pentons, even Hondas by then.
Read the whole story in the NMA web site.–Bandit
[page break]
HARLEY-DAVIDSON LIVEWIRE MOTORCYCLE SHOWS THE THRILLS OF DRAG RACING’S FUTURE IN “SCIENCE OF SPEED”–Watch Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Drag Racing Team Launch into the Future
MILWAUKEE (October 29, 2020) – See what it takes to win in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle championship and the future of drag racing with the 10-time champion Harley-Davidson™ Screamin’ Eagle™/Vance & Hines drag racing team in Harley-Davidson’s latest production “Science of Speed.” Team racers Eddie Krawiec, Andrew Hines, and Angelle Sampey talk through the skills, strategies, and experience of running a motorcycle through the quarter-mile dragstrip.
“Science of Speed” looks at how electric vehicle propulsion will change the sport of drag racing by comparing a 2020 Harley-Davidson FXDR motorcycle to a 2020 Harley-Davidson LiveWire™ motorcycle. With the LiveWire motorcycle’s immediate torque and seamless twist-and-go acceleration, the racers are immediately aware of what the future of fast can bring: more time for preparation before launch; thrilling, instant acceleration; and seamless speed to the finish line.
“Let me tell you what’s amazing,” said Sampey. “That was the first time I rode the LiveWire. I could not wait to get it on the track. The LiveWire is so easy to ride. Just twist the throttle and go – and you really go!”
On September 4, 2020, Sampey, a three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion, set new records for elapsed time and top speed by an electric-powered production motorcycle with the LiveWire on a drag racing course. She stepped off her Harley-Davidson FXDR™ Pro Stock competition motorcycle to pilot the LiveWire bike to capture world record-breaking runs on the quarter and eighth-mile, covering the eighth-mile distance in 7.017-seconds and the full quarter-mile course in just 11.156 seconds at 110.35 mph. The 2020 LiveWire motorcycle’s top speed is limited to 110 mph.
The Harley-Davidson LiveWire motorcycle is an all-new, all-electric model designed to offer riders a thrilling and high-performance motorcycling experience infused with a new level of technology, and the premium look and feel of a Harley-Davidson product. The LiveWire motorcycle is capable of rapid acceleration with just a twist of the throttle – no clutching or gear shifting required.
The instant torque provided by the H-D Revelation™ powertrain delivers exhilarating acceleration from a stop; the LiveWire motorcycle can rush from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 kph) in 3.0 seconds and 60 to 80 mph (100 to 129 kph) in 1.9 seconds. Because maximum torque is always on tap, roll-on acceleration for passing is outstanding. An optimized center of gravity, rigid aluminum frame and premium adjustable suspension components give the LiveWire motorcycle dynamic handling. With up to 146 miles of range (city)*, performance is optimized for the urban street-rider.
The H-D Revelation™ electric powertrain produces minimal vibration, heat, and sound, all of which enhance rider comfort and creates a unique riding experience, even on the drag strip.
Licensed riders can take a complimentary test ride and feel the performance themselves on the LiveWire motorcycle at select EV Authorized LiveWire Harley-Davidson dealerships in the United States, Australia, Canada and most European countries.
*Estimated riding range: 146 miles (city) / 95 miles (combined). Riding range estimates provided following SAE J2982 Riding Range Test Procedure and are based on expected performance of a fully-charged battery when operated under specified conditions. Actual range will vary depending on riding habits, ambient weather and equipment conditions.
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!--FREE SPEECH BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for October 22, 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/FREE_SPEACH_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_October_22_2020.aspx
I read the part about lying awake at night and thinking. I do the same thing Think about people in my past, regrets from the past Maybe it is normal to do this? Who knows?
Funny at the time we are dealing with these things, we never think years down the road, when we will still go over them?
Somethings if I had to do over, I would change others would stay the same. I guess it’s part of life?
–Stealth
charlotte, NC
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–Found another one – “Antique” Jockey Shift Knobs – Possibly from the cabinets of the ORIGINAL Harley-Davidson factory – $500 each or 2 for $1100.00 Just add YOUR Favorite Flavored Motorcycle!
The other shot remind me of when I recovered two lost rings, the H-D lost while moving, had it over 20 years. The wrench was under Red’s drier. She was undergoing major floor replacement and the contractor found both. The H-D ring was in the driveway for almost 4 months and never got run over!
–RFR
Panhandle Photographer
Bikernet.com™
BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB–Chevrolet ½-ton C/K-Series Pickup Trucks 1973-1987 – “Built to Stay Tough”
Norm Mort
Taking a slightly different angle to ‘open top’ motoring, Norm Mort’s latest book takes a look at the Chevrolet C/K-series ½-ton pickup trucks, the trucks “Built to Stay Tough.”
This new book from our Those were the days … ™ series covers the 3rd generation C/K series, and includes specifications, model option details, and explains the market forces that influenced the pickup’s evolution. The book includes rare cutaways, previously unpublished photos, and some great examples of restored and customized vehicles.
Following a brief history of Chevrolet’s building of the corporation’s ½-ton pickup trucks, the book takes an extensive look at Chevrolet’s ½-ton C/K-Series pickup trucks, with emphasis on the all-new model, followed by a year-by-year description of the evolving 1970s models, and the various market demands that often led to the introduction of niche models to broaden market base.
Chevrolet reacted to a changing marketplace that included a greater interest in 4WD, while being detoured by fuel shortages, ever-changing fuel economy and pollution regulations, and the constant quest to reduce overall weight.
Paperback • 7.48×7.97in (19×20.5cm) • 96 pages • 112 pictures
Chevrolet ½-ton C/K-Series Pickup Trucks 1973-1987 – “Built to Stay Tough” costs $25 US (£15.99, $32.99) and is available now.
CLIMATE AT A GLANCE REPORTS— Livestock and Methane
Bullet-Point Summary:
American ranchers and meat consumption have virtually no impact on overall greenhouse gas emissions or climate.
EPA reports cattle and beef account for just 2% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
EPA reports all livestock account for less than 4% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
By contrast, crop production accounts for more greenhouse gas emissions than total livestock production.
Short Summary:
Climate activists, many of whom are vegans for other reasons, often claim that ranchers, livestock, and meat production are a leading cause of rising greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), however, has compiled information on greenhouse gas emissions by source. According to EPA, beef production accounts for just 2% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, while livestock production as a whole, accounts for less than 4% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. By contrast, agricultural crop production accounts for more greenhouse gas emissions than total livestock production. This is the case even though the United States leads the world in beef production.
The primary manner in which livestock impacts greenhouse gas emissions is through methane released when livestock burp or pass gas. Yet, this is clearly not a growing problem, as U.S. methane emissions actually declined between 1990 and 2018, according to data compiled by the EPA.
Further reading:
Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/inventory-us-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-sinks
Greenhouse Gas Inventory Data Explorer, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency https://cfpub.epa.gov/ghgdata/inventoryexplorer/
The Sacred Cow Project, https://www.sacredcow.info/
FROM SPEEDWAY MOTORS–How to Reduce Under Hood Temp – Exhaust Wrap also helps motorcycle exhausts and eliminates some heat shields.
To assist with keeping under hood temperatures down you may want to try wrapping your exhaust. Even though I am running stock cast iron exhaust manifolds on my 454 I was able to utilize Speedway Motors part number 91013804, 1-inch by 50-ft Black Header Wrap. Every little bit helps with keeping your car cool on those hot summer days when cruising. And with the smaller 1-inch design I was able to wrap the manifolds with sharp bends around the primary tubes fairly easily. Of course, it would be a lot easier to do this with the manifolds off of the car and I highly recommend removing them to wrap them. However, I gave it shot with them still on the vehicle.
Before I started I devised a plan of attack. I started with the first primary tube and wrapped it down to the main collector and past the second primary. For this, I wrapped one complete revolution around the primary tube, then removed the wrap and folded it over itself. Then I could gauge how much wrap I needed by overlapping the folded over portion working my way down the tube without actually wrapping it. That way I wasn’t feeding 50-feet of wrap through a small area. Once I cut the length of wrap I needed to start I secured the top of the wrap by the head using Speedway Motors stainless steel exhaust wrap ties, part number 91560014 in 14-inch length. To secure this style of tie you feed the length through the head just like a normal zip tie.
Stainless Steel exhaust wrap ties
However, the head on these don’t have a clip and the length of the tie is smooth. So you pull it tight onto itself and cut the excess off. I then used a pair of needle-nose pliers to roll the end over on itself up to the head of the tie to secure it tightly and not leave any sharp edges to catch on.
securing exhaust wrap tie
With the first primary tube wrapped I moved to the second and repeated the process until the entire exhaust manifold was covered. This was fairly easy to accomplish with the exhaust manifold still on the car and leaning over the fender. But as I stated earlier it would be a whole lot simpler to wrap the exhaust manifold off the vehicle and re-install.
I did extend the wrap all the way down the downpipe on my exhaust as well utilizing 50-feet of wrap per side. With both sides done I noticed a considerable difference in heat exposure versus the unwrapped manifold. This resulted in dropping my underhood temperatures and keeping my Big Block Chevy running cooler. It also gave my vehicle that old school performance look and covers up a pretty unsightly cast iron manifold.
–By Kevin Webel
SLINGSHOT’S BEST OF THE BUILDERS: EAST VS WEST
We challenged two of the best builders in the country. We partnered them with two celebrities and asked them to customize, personalize, and build the sickest 2020 Slingshot SL in the United States. Welcome to Slingshot Best of the Builders: East vs. West.
The builders will compete to see who can design and create a 2020 SL that truly signifies their celebrity partner. We want them to put their mark on that indescribable feeling the Slingshot brings, the Slingshot Effect. Representing the East Coast is The Auto Firm, featuring Alex Vega. Alex and crew have partnered with Pop Superstar, Teyana Taylor. From the West Coast, is DUB – DUB is designing its Slingshot for Travis Barker.
FOLLOW ALONG
Follow along via Slingshot’s social channels for behind the scenes footage of the builds.
November 17: Both customs are unveiled.
November 17 – December 1: Fan vote opens up at PolarisSlingshot.com to crown Slingshot’s Best of the Builders.
Stay connected to our social channels to follow the journey, vote on which Slingshot Accessories should be used, and ultimately select your favorite custom that’s most deserving of the Slingshot’s Best of the Builders title!
WEST: DUB® PUBLISHING
DUB® Publishing is a leading, authoritative voice in the urban automotive lifestyle scene. Its eponymous magazine was the first in the industry dedicated to covering celebrity-driven vehicles and giving a first-hand look at the expansion of a multi-billion dollar industry that revolves around the vast world of car customization. They are widely recognized as pioneers in the celebrity car culture space as well as what is known as the DUB market.
As the founders of the influential urban automotive lifestyle publication, DUB Magazine (January 2000), as well as the highly-rated television show, The DUB Magazine Project, which featured custom work on celebrity automobiles performed in the DUB Garage, the brand has had the opportunity to custom design and build hundreds of vehicles for top celebrities, including David Beckham, Tyga, Snoop Dogg, Tony Hawk and many others. They are also the creators of the DUB Show Tour, which combines performances by today’s top artists with one of the most exciting car shows in the world. With over four million active fans, the brand is also well known as a social media powerhouse.
EAST: ALEX VEGA, OWNER – THE AUTO FIRM
For creative designer, Alex Vega, customizing cars is his way of inspiring others to dream big. Alex, the owner of The Auto Firm, is known to be “the main designer for the entertainment industry.” Since 2004, his clients include elite athletes and world-renowned celebrities who go to him for all their automotive needs. He has an extensive history in building and modifying Slingshots. Through trials and tribulations, Alex has maintained long-standing clients, while continuing growth and expansion. Today, The Auto Firm is one of the largest custom shops in the automotive industry and caters to anyone looking to personalize their ride.
QUEEN OF NOWHERE–Before I met Jenny, all I wanted to do was meet Jenny. She was my first and only Instagram idol. The minute I got Instagram in 2013, the first people I followed were girls that rode bikes. There were only about 4 of them that were continually posting being on bikes, going on rides, and just having a cool biker attitude and style. I hadn’t owned a Harley yet and thought that these girls were so strong and badass on their big bikes.
Jenny was out there with her sparkle panties, a line of colorful sequined panties that she and all her friends wore on their motorcycle trips, traveling all over the West Coast. I was so jealous of their lives and thought their crew was so amazing. I hadn’t had any other women to ride with yet.
After following Jenny and her crew for some time, I eventually met them. Back then, there really weren’t many women riding and posting about it on Instagram, so friendships were easy to make. There was a biker party down in LA and I went up and introduced myself to them and since then, it’s history! We have traveled together in Utah, rode around the Oregon Coast, frolicked many many consecutive Falls in Joshua Tree, and even collaborated with her brand Strange Vacation.
Jenny is an extremely spiritual individual and we’ve had some really big talks at very big times in both our lives. She was the first person to visit me at my first home in California and I saw her off in her Sprinter van in Canada which she lived in for over a year.
–by Becky Goebel
Black Girls Ride
THIS JUST IN FROM THE DIME BAG HEADQUARTERS–We are building the Dime Bag Leather Handmade Leather product lineup. At this point and time, the leather wallet, card wallet, time cover, two different solo leather hardtail seats are all ready to begin production. I still need to have the heavy steel logo stamps made. Items and pricing will be available soon.
Developing more handmade parts such as handmade leather belt, Dime Bag Leather belt buckle, front pocket wallet, King/Queen leather chopper seat, early HD swingarm frame leather solo seat and King/Queen leather seat, and a classic leather spring seat. More to come…
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Visited Sasha’s Cycles of Sturgis while at Bike Week, awesome people and cool motorcycle shop on Lazelle Street. You will have to visit to get the full experience. Sasha’s Cycles of Sturgis will have Dime Bag Leather products available at their shop soon.
Some goals we have for the next 5 years at Dime Bag Leather is to create a website with parts & apparel available for ordering and grow social media, secure new accounts across the nation with M/C shops, Marijuana Dispensary’s, and unique shops. Move the Dime Bag Leather manufacturing into a bigger facility to create great jobs for skilled craftsmen to make all products under one roof. Create a builders seat category, this will be for specially designed handmade seats featuring their stamped logo for custom builders to make available to their customers.
Always growing and expanding across this great nation as the leading handmade leather company in the world.
It’s a never-ending story that is growing at Dime Bag Leather.
Remember to Go Vote!
All the Best
–Adam Croft
Dime Bag Leather
Follow @Dimebag.leather on Instagram!
SUPPORT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY–I am reaching out to you about something that is very important to me. I am asking you to make a gift to the
American Cancer Society to help fund the future of research.
With the current pandemic, the future of cancer research is at risk. ACS is looking at a reduction in funding of 50% if current trends continue. COVID-19 has changed many aspects of our lives, unfortunately it hasn’t changed the reality that cancer continues to affect each of us in far too many ways. We can’t and won’t allow progress to be put on hold. At risk are more and better treatments and discoveries halted in its tracks that will improve and save lives.
Although I cannot invite you to purchase a Champions of Hope Gala ticket, to get dressed up, and to raise your paddle for this important cause this year, what I can do is ask you to make a tax-deductible donation to the fight against cancer. And right now, I will match every donation made up to $5,000.
There are many ways to make a contribution. The easiest is to use the following link: https://e.givesmart.com/events/gfU/
If mailing your contribution is easier, please send to the address below:
American Cancer Society – MKE COH Gala
PO BOX 902
Pewaukee, WI 53072-0902
And if you would like to be invoiced, you can reach out to Sarah Zander at sarah.zander@cancer.org or 262.312.2067.
For more information about the Nov. 13th Champions of Hope Gala @ Home, you can visit: www.championsofhopewi.org
Michael Hupy is a major supporter.—Bandit
DIRECT FROM MOMMA TRIED— Watch the On Track Flat Track race from Brazil online for FREE!
Flat Out and Mama Tried fans!! The Mama Tried Show and Flat Out Friday crew are so stoked to be invited to participate in “On Track” in Sorocaba, SP, Brazil on November 1st, 2020. The Brazilian Flat Track League along with Brasil Motorcycle Show and Lucky Friends Rodeo have created this race with online viewing as the focus due to current limitations on public events. Flattrack racing fans from all over the world can watch the racing action for FREE. Just sign up HERE!
You’ll catch Mama Tried Show founders Scott Johnson and Warren Heir Jr. sliding around the track along with all kinds of wild Brazilian style race action. Flat Out Friday’s Jeremy Prach will be on hand doing some race officiating too!
American Flat Track racing star and fan favorite Jeffrey Carver Jr. will also be making the trip to roost some Brazilian dirt!
You are NOT going to want to miss this!
Did we mention the race was FREE to watch?
How cool is that?
Race Watch Link: https://videos.netshow.me/t/rNl0-BRe9ls/form
KRAWIEC LAUNCHES HARLEY TO PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE WIN IN HOUSTON–Krawiec Jumps to Second Place and Title Contention at Finals Next Weekend
HOUSTON, Texas (October 26, 2020) – Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines rider Ed Krawiec battled to a Pro Stock Motorcycle victory at the Mopar Express Lane NHRA SpringNationals presented by Pennzoil at Houston Raceway Park on Sunday. The win moves Krawiec into contention for his fifth NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle championship with one event remaining on the 2020 schedule.
The victory in Houston ended a long drought for Krawiec, who last won a Pro Stock Motorcycle final at Brainerd International Raceway in 2018, despite nine subsequent final-round appearances and a string of strong qualifying performances this season.
“Pro Stock Motorcycle is so competitive right now. You can never take winning for granted,” said Krawiec. “We have strong Harley-Davidson motorcycles and a great team. I feel we always come prepared to lead the class, but sometimes there’s some luck involved. Today things went my way.”
The Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines team races competition Pro Stock drag bikes inspired by the Harley-Davidson® FXDR™ 114, a high-performance cruiser based on the Softail® platform that combines the unrelenting power of the Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine with the liberal use of new weight-saving aluminum and composite components to amplify every aspect of performance.
Krawiec qualified third for the Houston finals with a best elapsed time (ET) of 6.799 seconds. In Sunday eliminations, Krawiec defeated Michael Phillips in the first round, got a win in round two when Jerry Savoie did not make the start, and defeated Hector Arana Jr. in round three to advance to the final against Ryan Oehler. Krawiec posted his quickest run of the day in the final, a 6.801 ET to best Oehler’s time of 6.905. Krawiec now has won 48 Pro Stock Motorcycle finals in 85 appearances.
Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines teammates Angelle Sampey and Andrew Hines also qualified for eliminations at Houston. Sampey was the number 2 qualifier at 6.789 seconds, and lost in the first round on Sunday. Hines, the defending Pro Stock Motorcycle champion, qualified fifth at 6.811 seconds and lost in round two.
Krawiec leaves Houston with 504 points, tied with Scotty Pollacheck for second place in the Pro Stock Motorcycle standings and 78 points behind first place Matt Smith. Hines is in fourth place 496 points, 86 points out of the lead. Sampey is in fifth place with 447 points. The final race awards “points-and-a-half” so Krawiec and Hines have a shot at catching Smith.
The Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines drag racing team will close out the 2020 season Oct. 30 – Nov. 3 at the Dodge NHRA Finals presented by Pennzoil at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, Nev.
BIKERNET BLOG COMMENT FROM A READER–
Just read the blog about Mr. McCarvel’s good fortune at having a long-lost bike show up out of the blue.
Made me think back when my ‘49 pan was stolen. It was in a shop and coming along. It had a brown over silver metal flake with ribbons on a coffin tank ( 70’s ). 21 front on a 4 over girder front end.
The owner of the shop, as I understood it, got into some money trouble with a local bike club in Massachusetts in the Bellingham area and the end result was they took his shop along with the bikes being worked on as payment.
I tried in vain to try and get it back. I understand the sense of loss and I am happy that McCarvel was able to get his machine back. Once in a while a feel–good story is a good thing.
–RH
BIKERNET REAL ESTATE DEAL OF THE WEEK--Posting ID # 7215712823:
“COVID FRIENDLY LIVE/WORK” (business/commercial – by owner)
Should now be viewable at the following URL:
https://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/bfs/d/long-beach-covid-friendly-live-work/7215712823.html
ERIC HERRMANN ON THE ARIZONA ROAD—Finding dealers to sell his riding books.
The legendary biker bar, The Spirit Room, in Jerome AZ, is now selling our ride books. Cool! #thespiritroom
Dustin & I are riding throughout the state setting up accounts to sell my book. Most are biker bars and restaurants featured within. Books in the saddlebags as we haul ass down the road and squeak out a meager living. Tough job
! Or you can order online at www.EricHerrmannStudios.com
EMERGENCY COVID BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPEN—NO MASKS…
This is a sad story of the depression that can haunt a snowflake.
Marcel was sick and tired of the world; of Covid 19, Brexit, Russian belligerence, global warming, racial tensions, and the rest of the disturbing stories that occupy media headlines.
Marcel drove his car into his garage and then sealed every doorway and window as best he could. He got back into his car and wound down all the windows, selected his favorite radio station and hit the cars ignition.
Four days later, a worried neighbor peered through his garage window and saw him in the car. She notified the emergency services and they broke in, pulling Marcel from the car. A little sip of water and, surprisingly, he was in perfect condition, but his Tesla had a dead battery.
–EL Waggs
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS – Street Glide Special for $18,995.00
SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9010926
Superial Blue 2016 Harley-Davidson STREET GLIDE SPECIAL TOURING FLHXS
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* Twin Cam 103
* 6 Speed
* Phantom Exhaust
* 14″ Apes
* Tinted windshield
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!!!
*******************90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!****************************************
EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!
Fill out an online application and ride today!!!
**Open 7 days a week**
***90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!
Just $18,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
WHAT’S NEXT?--I almost have all of the bikes in the shop running. I now have two automatic advance distributors. One is new from J&P. I wonder where it was manufactured. The other Flathead Fern found at the Long Beach Swap meet and is setting it up and shipping it to me.
I may take the mag off the Dicey Knucklehead, but that involves adding a battery, and a coil. All are possible. I need to get the Knuck on the lift. Dr. Hamsters Pandemic is waiting on the mag testing results from Jason at Deadwood Custom Cycles. I would like to give the mag a shot on the Pandemic. It’s set up for it.
I should know about the magneto tomorrow. At least I know I can have a juicy steak tonight and not destroy the planet. I still think we’re living in the best of times, not the worst.
Ride fast and free forever!
–Bandit
ELECTION 2020 BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 5, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
It’s been a strange week for sure. It’s still strange and perhaps getting more strange by the hour. I quit turning on the television. I just go to the internet and look up election results and check the stats.
I tried to stay very busy yesterday. I bought a deer guard bumper for my van. I figured as much as I am hauling ass to Deadwood, the more likely I am to encounter a deer or other wild life. First they don’t make a deer grille for Nissan NV vans. It took me weeks to research and actually reach out to companies to come to that conclusion.
They make a bumper guard, but not a deer grille. So, I bought the bumper guard and started to modify it. It’s junk, made with thinner wall tubing than our Harley exhaust pipes. It was most likely made in China. I added strips of 1.5 by 3-inch rectangular tubing, 24 inches long and 3/16 wall. Serious shit. And I’m about to dress it out with some Pauchco parts. This will be a trip. Hang on.
In the meantime, I put the Dicey Knuck on the lift. I need to take the super E off of it and clean it out. I bought a J&P Automatic advance distributor, just in case I decide to remove the mag.
Let’s hit the news and I’ll report back.
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 IS BRINGING BACK THE ORIGINALS– THE CARDIGAN SWEATER
This sweater design with the large Bar & Shield logo dates to among the very first apparel items in 1914.
They have launched a very cool line-up of vintage clothing. Check it out, but watch out for the prices.–Bandit
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DIRECT NEWS FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE–
More news coming from Carl Pusser and The Amethyst Triumph Chopper. Been working with Carl for years now, he is very busy as usual. I got to meet John Parham, before he passed, at the Iowa Grand Rally, so it is a pleasure to have Dime Bag leatherwork on another badass Triumph chopper built by our friend Carl Pusser on display at the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, IA!
The Amethyst is officially on display at the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa IA. In great company with Von Dutch Triumph and Big Daddy Roth trike. Thanks to Bill Barber and Jill Parham to let me be a part of motorcycle history
–Adam Croft
Dime Bag Leather
Follow @dimebag.leather on Instagram
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY, MASK FREE, FORMERLY THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
A car full of Irish nuns is sitting at a traffic light in downtown Dublin, when a bunch of rowdy drunks pull up alongside of them.
*”Hey, show us yer tits, ya bloody penguins!”* shouts one of the drunks.
Quite shocked, Mother Superior turns to Sister Mary Immaculata and says, *”I don’t think they know who we are; show them your cross.”*
Sister Mary Immaculata rolls down her window and shouts, *”Piss off, ya fookin’ little wankers, before I come over there and rip yer balls off!”*
Sister Mary Immaculata then rolls up her window, looks back at Mother Superior, and asks quite innocently, *”Did that sound cross enough?”*
–from the Wayfarer
MICHAEL LICHTER PHOTOS OF THE WEEK— Eric Bennett’s 1977 custom Harley-Davidson Shovelhead that used the front water-cooled engine from the original Jammer Streamliner in the RSD Moto Beach Classic custom bike show. Huntington Beach, CA, USA. Sunday October 28, 2018.
Punk rock aficionados Sarah (lead singer of the rock band Seratonen) and her husband Dr. Aalok Shah (an ER pulmonary doctor) took a break from work and their 6-kids to attend the Surf City Blitz and RSD Moto Beach Classic. Huntington Beach, CA, USA. Sunday October 28, 2018.
Photography ©2018 Michael Lichter.
TODAY IN HISTORY–November 05
The order is given: Bomb Pearl Harbor
On November 5, 1941, the Combined Japanese Fleet receive Top-Secret Order No. 1: In just over a month’s time, Pearl Harbor is to be bombed, along with Malaya (now known as Malaysia), the Dutch East Indies and the Philippines.
Relations between the United States and Japan had been deteriorating quickly since Japan’s occupation of Indochina in 1940 and the implicit menacing of the Philippines (an American protectorate), with the occupation of the Cam Ranh naval base approximately 800 miles from Manila. American retaliation included the seizing of all Japanese assets in the States and the closing of the Panama Canal to Japanese shipping. In September 1941, President Roosevelt issued a statement, drafted by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, that threatened war between the United States and Japan should the Japanese encroach any further on territory in Southeast Asia or the South Pacific.
Why Did Japan Attack Pearl Harbor?
The Japanese military had long dominated Japanese foreign affairs; although official negotiations between the U.S. secretary of state and his Japanese counterpart to ease tensions were ongoing, Hideki Tojo, the minister of war who would soon be prime minister, had no intention of withdrawing from captured territories. He also construed the American “threat” of war as an ultimatum and prepared to deliver the first blow in a Japanese-American confrontation: the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
And so, Tokyo delivered the order to all pertinent Fleet commanders, that not only the United States—and its protectorate the Philippines—but British and Dutch colonies in the Pacific were to be attacked. War was going to be declared on the West.
SADDLEMEN SEAT OF THE WEEK–2018-2020 FXFB/FXFBS Fat Bob Kraus Pro Series Solo Seat
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Top Stitch Color
BEANIE™ HELMET – LOW PROFILE MOTORCYCLE HELMET (DOT APPROVED)– (FREE SUNNIES)CLICK ADD TO CART TO GET THIS DEAL
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Fits Head Circumference: 22 1/4″ to 24 3/4″ (57 to 63 cm) smallest DOT shell ever made! Weight – 600g
To measure your head for the correct size take a tape measure just above your brow around your head just at the top of your ears. If your head measures in between sizes order the size smaller. Our helmets should fit snug when new they stretch and mold to the shape of your head. Also see hat sizes below
PLEASE check size chart
S-55 -56 22 1/4″ – 22 1/2″ = hat size 7
M-57 – 58, 22 3/8″ – 22 3/4″ = hat 7-1/8 to hat 7-1/4
L-59 – 60 , 23 1/4″ – 23 5/8″ = hat 7 3/8 to hat 7 3/8
XL-61- 62, 24″ – 24 3/8″ = hat 7 1/2 to hat 7 5/8
XXL-63cm , 24 3/4″ = hat 7 3/4 to hat 7 7/8
NEWS FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–10 Steps to Winterize Your Motorcycle
I vividly remember the first time I needed to store my bike for the winter. I had only owned my Moto Guzzi for four months, when fall started shifting into winter and I knew I needed to be prepared. But what did this even entail? I didn’t know how to winterize a motorcycle. I wasn’t handy, and the closest I ever got to working on my bike was when I read the first three chapters of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.
So, I now bring you the 10 steps to winterize a motorcycle:
1. Ride Her One Last Time
Go ahead. Really appreciate the ride. You’re going to miss it. Trust me.
2. Fill Up the Tank
Make sure that the tank is completely full of fuel. This minimizes the amount of air in the tank, which in turn decreases the chances of rust forming.
3. Add Fuel Stabilizer to the Tank
This will prevent evaporation, and in doing so, it also prevents fuel from forming sticky resins. Then run the machine for a minute or two.
10. Travel and Rent
We both know that in about two weeks, you’ll be itching to hop back on two wheels. So, plan your next trip. Take a break from the cold. And rent a bike. Want to ride Los Angeles? Or Vegas? How about renting a motorcycle in Austin? We have plenty of bikes to choose from in warm climates that are ready to go!
Read all the tips and the special tip at the end tomorrow on Bikernet.–Bandit
CHINESE COVID BUSINESS HELP LOANS STILL AVAILABLE–Congress has extended the PPP Application deadline to August 8th
Roughly $130 billion of the $670 billion set aside for the PPP remains available for small businesses.
LATEST NEWS
PPP Borrowers – NEW “EZ” Forms for Loan Forgiveness
PPP Loan Bill Passed. Gives Small Businesses More Flexibility
(Members Only) Affiliation Rules for Small Business Stimulus Under the CARES Act
Powersports Employees Included Among Essential Workers
CISA Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Version 3.0 (April 17, 2020)
President’s Guidelines for Reopening the Country
Call for Additional Funding; MIC Joins over 150 National Trade Organizations
ONE STOP SHOP FOR SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE – UPDATED 6/5/20
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is providing small businesses with the resources they need to maintain their payroll, hire back employees who may have been laid off, and cover applicable overhead.
Program Overview
For Borrowers
For Lenders
Program Rules
For more information and updates, visit Treasury.gov/CARES and SBA.gov/PayCheckProtection.
COVID-19 STATE RESOURCE AND REOPENING GUIDELINES MAPS
COVID-19 State Response Resources
The maps are updated by 5 pm PDT daily and is intended to be a guide for informational purpose
“We are like books. Most people only see our cover, the minority read only the introduction, many people believe the critics. Few will know our content.” — Emile Zola
“When you go out into the woods, and you look at trees, you see all these different trees. And some of them are bent… you sort of understand that it didn’t get enough light, and so it turned that way. And you don’t get all emotional about it. You just allow it. The minute you get near humans, you lose all that. And you are constantly saying “You are too this, or I’m too this.” That judgment mind comes in. And so, I practice turning people into trees. Which means appreciating them just the way they are.” – Ram Dass
–Wayfarer
Senior Monk
Bikernet Two-Wheeled Temple
At the base of the Gray Mountain
TEXAS STREETS–Well I did it, paid off THE 2016 ROAD GLIDE. Man, I had originally agreed to pay on that bike for 84 months! I paid it off 30 months early and saved thousands…what a knucklehead. I don’t know how I get into these messes.
Oh, and I’ve ridden the M8 Fatbob a few times at it is a scream to say the least. I bought it for my wife. I appreciate the HIPPO I normally ride. It’s definitely a different ride. To celebrate, I bought the tour pak quick release kit and put my bike on a diet. It’s like a whole new motorcycle now.
–Johnny White
DIRECT FROM THE NMA—Eliminating Jaywalking Laws will make roads safer? A response.
By Tom Pearson, NMA Alabama Member
Editor’s Note: The issue of abolishing jaywalking regulations, particularly where high-volume, inner-city streets are concerned, is a tricky one. In last week’s NMA E-Newsletter, #615, Arthur Miller made a compelling case that road safety suffers when one set of users (pedestrians) can cross the street whenever and wherever they like, and another set (drivers) is held responsible for dealing with the uncertainty involved. Tom Pearson provides a thoughtful rebuttal in this newsletter, presenting a rationale for eliminating jaywalking rules.
Eleven years ago, NMA Newsletter #32, A Different Kind Of Distracted Driving, described how the town of Drachten, in the Netherlands, removed all traffic regulatory signs — and even street-to-sidewalk curbing — in the spirit of what Hans Monderman espoused, as noted by Tom in this newsletter. The result was fewer accidents and better overall road safety.
But there is a key difference between eliminating all regulations, like what Drachten did, where every road user knows that having no rules actually means everyone is reacting to the same set of circumstances, and what New York City is proposing by eliminating jaywalking rules. In the latter case, the pedestrian (and presumably, bicyclist) class of road user is free to cross the road with impunity, leaving the driver to guess what each pedestrian’s personal decision-making behavior outside of normal crosswalk protocols will be, while also bearing responsibility for any mishap that occurs.
Attorneys Miller and Pearson make solid cases on either side of the jaywalking issue. We present both for your consideration.
Eliminating Jaywalking Laws Will Make Roads Safer? A Response
I don’t usually comment, but I must speak up in opposition to aspects of this week’s newsletter.
Though certainly not appropriate for all roadways, I believe that the elimination of jaywalking rules is, in general, a very good thing. While rules are important, more important, is that everyone using the roadway space pays attention to what they are doing when using that space.
As the pioneering work of Hans Monderman has demonstrated, too many rules, especially those providing right-of-way to drivers or pedestrians, are associated with less attention to driving or walking in a shared space. The rule creates the psychological presumption that everyone knows and will follow the rule. The rule seeks to ensure safety and draws attention to the “rights” in the space rather than what is actually happening. Drivers and pedestrians assume that the rule has covered the safety aspects of the space and, therefore, they can relax. Relaxed, inattentive drivers and pedestrians cause accidents.
We don’t want people thinking primarily about rules when they are in shared spaces like roads. Instead, we want them to keep an eye out in an environment where not doing so often means the difference between life and death.
In this case, on the fly negotiations between users of the space using eye contact and a variety of signals is safer than implementing right-of-way rules. For accidents that occur, tort doctrines like the “last clear chance” work well in resolving liability in such cases.
Further, the author dismisses the racial component of law enforcement out of hand because the rule is neutral on its face. Well, so what? Every rule issued by a state is a potential point of bias or corruption because its enforcement relies on armed officers interacting with citizens. Because a significant number of officers don’t seem to be able to keep their personal biases out of or cannot resist abusing the power that comes with their law enforcement duties, it behooves us to keep their duties restricted to the enforcement of only rules that are absolutely necessary and effective for ensuring the liberty of the people to go about their business in a reasonably safe manner.
Absolute safety cannot and should not be the goal.
I share the author’s opposition to dirty license plates being a pretext for a police stop but wish that he could see that the same logic applies by and large to jaywalking rules.
I am also an attorney and, though I share the author’s concerns about road safety, I firmly disagree with much of what he advocates as a solution to road safety issues. As Monderman has demonstrated, making the rules in shared spaces ambiguous often results in safer use of the spaces as well as more efficient flow. In the experiments he carried out in a dozen European cities, he went so far as to remove all traffic lights and other indications of how one should navigate the space. That required users of the space to remain focused on the situation rather than using the “rules” as a psychological excuse for not devoting full attention to a risky activity.
That approach aligns the risks of everyone who uses a roadway with the necessity of paying attention and the benefits of staying alive. Reliance on rights of way, on the other hand, subsidizes inattentive behavior and makes everyone less safe.
–NMA
By Luli Ortiz
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) —
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is trying to figure out why some battery-powered cars are catching fire while parked and unattended.
Just a few weeks ago, a Port St. Lucie family woke up to the smell of smoke.
St. Lucie County Fire District were called in and soon discovered it was coming from the garage.
Their 2019 Chevrolet Bolt Electric Vehicle was burning.
Shane Kozac with St. Lucie County Fire District says extra resources were called in once they realized the fire was likely caused by the car’s lithium-ion battery.
“It’s enough to seriously hurt or kill you,” district’s Fire Engineer Shane Kozac said. “For us, we treat it as a hazmat.”
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, those batteries can reach temperatures of up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which for perspective, is twice as hot as molten lava.
A clear threat to first responders and everyone else in the immediate area.
“They off-gas toxins and it could be hours, even days after a protect has been under that heat condition can off-gas still, so it’s always a concern when we’re working those conditions,” Kozac said. “Our investigators may come in two to three hours after a fire has been extinguished, and they’re still wearing a certain level of outer protection, a type of respirator.”
Kozac says the 750 gallons of water carried by most fire trucks are not enough to put one of these electric vehicle battery fires out.
He adds the lithium-ion cells have been known to reignite, even a day later.
“The ability to extinguish it is extremely difficult,” Kozac said. “You’re better off protecting the vehicle, or the home, or another vehicle, versus trying to extinguish that fire because the reaction is occurring.”
Chevy Bolts Electric Vehicles received a 5-star federal safety rating, but the model is now under investigation by the NHTSA after at least three cars have caught fire while parked.
In one of the complaints, the owners of Chevy Bolt EV reported last year intense headaches from fumes after their battery-powered car caught fire, filling their Massachusetts home with smoke.
The cause is still unknown.
The owner of another Chevy Bolt EV, a Virginia woman, said her bolt caught fire twenty minutes after she parked it and she felt obligated to raise the alarm, according to WJLA.
“I would see smoke just growing, and getting bigger and bigger behind the car,” Hajime Rojas told WJLA. “ If I don’t say anything, and I hear later on that this happened to somebody else, I’m going to feel horrible.”
It’s even happening overseas, a friend of a Chevy Bolt EV owner shared a video on social showing the vehicle burning in the Ukraine.
Here at home, that Port. St. Lucie family has hired a lawyer to look into the fire that destroyed their garage.
General Motors would not comment on any of these incidents, only telling CBS12 News the carmaker is “cooperating with NHTSA’s investigation” for its part.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not ruled out issuing a recall.
For now, investigators are still working to determine how common these fires are among the 78,000 bolts manufactured and sold by General Motors in the 2017 through 2020 model years.
–CW34
–from the National Motorists Association
ALL KIDS BIKE NEWS– I come to you with some VERY EXCITING news!
Out of 2,000 submissions for the State Farm Neighborhood Assist Grant, the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Program for New York City Schools was selected by State Farm and voted by the public into the TOP 40!
This means the $25,000 grant will teach thousands of NYC kids how to ride a bike in school, and YOU made this possible!
THANK YOU!!!! We want to share our most sincere gratitude for all of you who helped make this happen. This is a huge deal, and we truly could not have done it without you and your votes!
Watch our social media for the big announcement so you can share and celebrate with us!
#AllKidsBike
–Breiane Williams
Campaign Marketing Specialist
Strider® Education Foundation
Rapid City, SD 57702
605-956-3877
www.AllKidsBike.org
[page break]
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–2018 Harley-Davidson® FLSL – Softail Softail Slim for $15,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9491797
This bike is a cool Softail Slim low stance low mean look
ONLY 17314.00 Miles !!!!!
2018 Industrial gray denim Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL SLIM FLSL
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* H.D. low profile seat
* MX style bars
* Chrome shotgun exhaust
* 103 C.I.
* 6 Speed trans
* Blacked out rear pegs and rider floorboards
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!!!
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WUHAN COVID REPORT: Are Indians more immune to Covid-19?
The World Health Organization says safe water, sanitation and hygienic conditions are essential for protection of health against Covid-19. A joint study by the WHO and the United Nations’ children’s agency, Unicef, found that nearly three billion people – some 40% of the global population and living almost entirely in developing nations – lack “basic hand washing facilities”. This was enough to spark concerns that the coronavirus would tear through their populations, and lead to millions of deaths in countries such as India.
“Typically access to healthcare facilities, hygiene and sanitation is poorer in these countries and is often believed to be the contributing factor of higher incidence of communicable diseases there. It was not unexpected that Covid-19 would have catastrophic consequences in the low and low-middle income countries,” says Dr Shekhar Mande, director general of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
India has a sixth of the world’s population and a sixth of the reported cases. However, it accounts for only 10% of the world’s deaths from the virus, and its case fatality rate or CFR, which measures deaths among Covid-19 patients, is less than 2%, which is among the lowest in the world.
Now, new research by Indian scientists suggests that low hygiene, lack of clean drinking water, and unsanitary conditions may have actually saved many lives from severe Chinese Covid-19.
In other words, they propose that people living in low and low middle-income countries may have been able to stave off severe forms of the infection because of exposure to various pathogens from childhood, which give them sturdier immunity to Covid-19. Both papers, yet to be peer reviewed, looked at deaths per million of population to compare fatality rates.
Praveen Kumar and Bal Chander from Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College looked at data from 122 countries, including 80 high and upper middle-income ones. They suggest that Covid-19 deaths are lower in countries which have a higher population exposed to a diverse range of microbes, particularly of what is called “gram-negative bacteria”.
These bacteria typically are responsible for severe pneumonia, blood and urinary tract and skin infections. But they also are believed to produce an antiviral cytokine – molecules which help fight pathogens – called interferon which protects cells against the coronavirus.
“So far, the existing predictive models for Covid-19 have not taken into account the immune status of populations caused by microbiome or environmental microbial exposure,” Dr Chander told me.
Scientists believe it all boils down to the “hygiene hypothesis”.
Its philosophy is that our environment has become so clean that it has left our immune system insufficiently trained, according to Matt Richtell, author of An Elegant Defense: The Extraordinary New Science of the Immune System. “The broad idea is that we are starving our immune systems of training and activity by excessive focus on cleanliness,” he says.
By itself, it’s not a new idea.
A paper on hay fever, published in 1989, found a striking association between the likelihood of a child getting hay fever allergy and the number of his or her siblings. The paper hypothesised that “allergic diseases were prevented by infection in early childhood, transmitted by unhygienic contact with older siblings or acquired prenatally from a mother infected by contact with her older children”. Another paper published by the World Allergy Organisation and quoted by Mr Richtell said migration studies showed that types of both allergy and auto-immunity “rise as people move from poorer to richer countries”.
Smita Iyer, an immunologist at the University of California, Davis, believes the “hygiene hypothesis” in Covid-19 “does fly in the face of our understanding of anti-viral immune responses”.
Soutik Biswas
India correspondent
BBC
This is typical of the media. They try anything to make the point of their story. I just googled 1/6 and found that it’s 16 percent. Suddenly the different between 10 percent and 16 percent doesn’t seem that significant. More research is needed.—Bandit
NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–
Aussie Scientist Dr. Jennifer Marohasy: ‘Experts can’t see anything ‘unusual about current rate or magnitude’ of climate change’
Biologist Jennifer Marohasy says natural disasters such as Australia’s recent bushfires are not caused by land getting hotter or drier it’s because “we’ve changed how we manage the landscape”.
Ms. Marohasy is the editor of ‘Climate Change: The Facts 2020’ which details the facts around climate change by dissecting the major myths propagated by climate alarmists.
The book features works from leading scientists including atmospheric physicists and chemists who discuss the technical side of climate change. She told Sky News, the scientists and experts in the book “can’t see catastrophes, they see cycles”.
“They can’t see anything unusual about the current rate or magnitude of climate change.”
–Sky News Australia
UPDATE: TELL NEW MEXICO TO ALLOW MOTORSPORTS TO RESUME–
DON’T DELAY!
Please contact New Mexico’s leaders and ask them to support the New Mexico Motorsports Coalition’s updated plan to safely resume racing with spectators.
YOU MAY USE THE FOLLOWING POINTS IN YOUR MESSAGE:
The New Mexico Motorsports Coalition (NMMC) has put forth an updated plan to safely allow racing to resume statewide with spectators.
NMMC’s proposal allows motorsports to safely operate under Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s reopening plan for the state.
NMMC’s plan allows residents to enjoy racing in their communities instead of traveling to neighboring states that have already implemented similar guidelines.
New Mexico has a rich motorsports tradition and is home to 16 racetracks and the businesses and enthusiasts that support them.
The safe resumption of racing would provide desperately needed economic stimulus to New Mexico and a morale boost to its residents.
Overview: The New Mexico Motorsports Coalition (NMMC), a group comprised of racing facilities across New Mexico, has submitted an updated, comprehensive SAN-supported plan to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham that would allow motorsports to safely resume with spectators statewide. As it stands, New Mexico residents must travel to neighboring states in order to enjoy racing.
–SEMA
D E C E P T I O N–
“Your mind is continuously creating distractions. Just watch your mind, and you will understand what Buddha is saying. It never allows you to sit silently even for a few moments. If you sit silently it says, ‘Why not listen to the radio? The newspaper must have come, the mail may have arrived. Why not go to the movie? Why not watch TV?’ If you are in the shop your mind says, ‘Go home, rest – you are tired.’ If you are at home your mind says, ‘What you are doing here, wasting your time? Go to the shop – you could have earned something!’
The mind never allows you to be where you are, it never allows you to see things as they are. It is always taking you somewhere else, either into the past or into the future; it never allows you to be in the present. Either it drags you into memories – which are nothing but footprints on the sands of time – or it drags you into the future: great projections, great expectations, desires, goals . . . And you become so much involved with them – as if they have some reality! And the reality is slipping out of your hands while you are engaged in all these trips into the past, into the future.
The mind never allows you and will never allow you to see that which is; it always takes you to that which is not. One of the names of Buddha is Tathagata – one who lives in suchness, one who has become free from all the distractions of the mind. And the miracle is that the mind consists only of distraction, so once you are free of all distractions there is no mind left. In the present there is no mind. In the present there is only consciousness, awareness, watchfulness.
Live in the world, but not through the mind. Don’t let the past or the future stand between you and reality. And if you can manage the state of no-mind even for a few moments – that’s what meditation is all about – you will be surprised: suddenly you are in rhythm with existence. You will know what Buddha calls aes dhammo sanantano – the eternal law.”
–O S H O
‘Dhammapada, Vol 5, Ch 9’
OSHO
Never Born
Never Died
Only Visited this
Planet Earth between
Dec 11 1931 – Jan 19 1990
–from the Wayfarer
Senior Bikernet Monk
Bikernet Two-Wheeled Temple
At the Base of the Gray Mountai
Washington Activist Blasts State Efforts To Block Future Car Tax Cuts–Attorney general in Washington state seeks lifetime ban political activist who has led public revolt against car taxes.
On the day Washington state motorists began submitting ballots for the 2020 election they learned the state Supreme Court had nullified a hotly contested decision they made in 2019 — and perhaps permanently.
With 55 percent of the vote last year, motorists endorsed Initiative 976 which was supposed to roll back legislative increases in car registration fees, known as car tabs. Earlier this month, high court justices accepted the argument of car tax beneficiaries that voters must have been confused by the measure’s wording.
On Tuesday, initiative sponsor Tim Eyman blasted state attorney general Bob Ferguson (D) not only for losing the high court case on purpose but also seeking to ban Eyman from introducing ballot initiatives in the future.
“By spending nearly $2 million of taxpayer money aggressively attacking me and my family, Ferguson hoped to break me,” Eyman explained in an email to supporters. “During mandatory arbitration a few months ago, the attorney general told my attorney Richard Sanders that the state would only stop if I ‘voluntarily’ agreed to the lifetime ban.”
Eyman rejected the offer as an attack on his First Amendment rights. The political activist has become a high-profile target from his introduction of dozens of statewide initiatives, many passed by voters, that reduce taxes — including three car tab fee reduction initiatives. He also led the successful ballot effort that banned red light cameras in his hometown of Mukilteo. Eyman claims his measures have saved voters $43 billion, but Ferguson has filed a lawsuit that says Eyman may have violated campaign finance rules to make that happen. Losing the suit could end Eyman’s initiative-writing career.
“That’s what it’s always been about — shutting down the most effective taxpayer protection organization in state history,” Eyman said.
The Washington Supreme Court said in its ruling earlier this month that “the average informed lay voter” did not understand that voting in 2019 to reduce car fees would also repeal a subset of taxes that had been approved previously by voters. It also argued the measure violated the rule requiring initiatives to be about only one subject. Eyman said the justices were applying a different standard to his measure after upholding far more confusing proposals introduced by special interest groups.
“When an initiative is approved by voters, judges are required to bend-over-backwards to uphold them — initiatives, and legislative laws, are assumed to be constitutional and there’s a very heavy burden to prove they’re not,” Eyman said.
Source: PDF File Garfield County Transportation Authority v. Washington (Washington Supreme Court, 10/15/2020)
MIC RESEARCH & STATISTICS
Third-Quarter Sales Success:
Bikes Up by Double Digits
The good news on sales keeps rolling.
The MIC is reporting a new-model sales increase for the third quarter of this year. Year-to-date sales of new motorcycles and scooters through September increased 10.2 percent compared to the same period last year.
More detailed information by model type is available in the MIC Retail Sales Unit Summary. All MIC members who have signed restricted use agreements may access the summary on the MIC.org website.
MIC members can also access the MIC Tire Sales Report, showing total September year-to-date motorcycle/scooter tire sales, compared to the same period last year. The quarterly report, an excellent indicator of industry tire sales trends, as well as motorcycle usage, vehicle population, and aftermarket sales trends is available on the MIC website.
–MIC
MORE BIKERNET COVID FREE BANDANAS FROM HAL ROBINSON—We, or actually Marie has been working on this art for a Hal Robinson bandana for almost a year, maybe longer.
We finally came up with the killer color combination. We are currently working with a new manufacturer. Ann Robinson, Hal’s ex is determined to keep Hal’s legacy alive through his magnificent art from the pages of Easyriders.
I’ll let you know if we are able to order a batch. In the meantime, check out our other Hal Robinson products.
–Bandit
REALITY CHECK–‘Today, we live some 100 times better than did our ancestors at the end of the 18th century’
The luxuries that we take for granted — abundant food on demand, clean running water, electricity, electronic communications and media, advanced medical care, inexpensive clothing, home and office heating, rapid transportation, universal basic education, free libraries, and dozens of other important advances — are linked to warming temperatures that have afforded enough surplus food to support educators, scientists, inventors, technicians, physicians, and the suppliers of so many of our modern conveniences.” …
“Global food production has exploded since 1970, due in part to a favorable climate. For the first time in human history, we live in an age during which it is not necessary for large numbers of human beings to go hungry.”
–Climate Depot
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WORD OF THE DAY– Where Did The Word “Achoo” Come From? Every sneeze has a different ring to it, but there are only a few words in English that name the sound. Achoo is one of the most favored, but is it really a word?
Where did achoo come from?
This instance of onomatopoeia imitates the sound of sneezing. The first syllable mimics the quick intake of breath, while the second corresponds with the tone of the convulsive expulsion of air through the nose and mouth. Achoo is also considered an interjection, in the same class of words as ouch or gosh.
Other languages follow the same approach. A sneeze sound in Russian can be apchkhi; in Korean, achee.
In the medical world, ACHOO is an acronym for a sternutation disorder called Autosomal Dominant Compelling Helioophthalmic Outburst Syndrome that results in uncontrollable sneezing.
What about God bless you?
After a sneeze, there are a few common responses. God bless you (or bless you) and gesundheit are two. Gesundheit is German for “healthiness.”
As for the origin of God bless you, there are a number of ideas. There are superstitious beliefs that connect evil to sneezing, such as the idea that a sneeze releases a soul to the waiting grasp of evil spirits. Hence, a blessing is needed.
A false belief that originated during the Renaissance dictates that a sneeze causes the heart to momentarily stop. The blessing was a brief prayer that the heart would not fail completely.
There are numerous other tales that have to do with sneezing. For example, one folk saying asserts a sneeze means that someone is thinking amorously about you.
What are some alternatives to bless you?
If you’re not a fan of bless you, what should you say? In some countries, people tend to ignore sneezes (China and Japan, for example), but in most, there is some expectation of a response. To say these vary quite a bit is an understatement.
If you’re looking for an alternative to bless you, we humbly propose one of these:
health (or recover): Since Gesundheit means “healthiness,” why not use the English word as a substitute? (You’ll never struggle to spell it.) The Dutch, Armenians, Greeks, Ukrainians, and many others use a version of their own word for health to acknowledge a sneeze. You might try salud (Spanish) or noroc (Romanian) to give your blessing a bit of flair. To your health and recover also have nice rings to them.
Live long: Again, there are multiple variations of this one, some longer than others. (One Telugu phrase offered up after a sneeze translates to “May you be blessed with a life without death.”)
It’s the truth: The Czech, Slovenian, and Marathi languages use a phrase that translates to “it is true/truth,” while the Polish and Croatian languages use “truth” due to a superstition that sneezing means something the sneezer said is true.
You shall grow tall: This is the translation of the German Großwachsen. For a child, you might use May you grow up (as they do in Romania).
Go away, kitten: This one might be the most creative of the responses. Serbians use this phrase with children for the most part, as a sneeze supposedly sounds like a cat’s cough. Hmm. We can’t say we disagree. (But how many cat videos should we watch to be sure? All the videos, right?)
Are you all right? After multiple sneezes, maybe you should simply pose a polite question. In Japan, sneezes are seldom noted, but they might inquire about someone’s health after a particularly noisy sneezing fit.
A sneeze by any other name is still a sneeze, though … even if you call it a sternutation. Read more about that and other fancy words for bodily functions here.
–from Dictionary.com
BRAND NEW New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Top Ten Motorcycle Road Trip Safety Tips for Beginners
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/5_Motorcycle_Road_Trip_Safety_Tips_for_Beginners.aspx
Excellent
— Jonathan Coltman
Springs, Gauteng, South Africa
KEEP THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN—Mask Free!
A 65-year-old man walked into a crowded waiting room and approached the desk.
The Receptionist said, ‘Yes sir, what are you seeing the Doctor for today?’
‘There’s something wrong with my dick’, he replied.
The receptionist became irritated and said, ‘You shouldn’t come into a crowded waiting room and say things like that. ‘
‘Why not, you asked me what was wrong and I told you,’ he said.
The Receptionist replied; ‘Now you’ve caused some embarrassment in this room full of people. You should have said there is something wrong with your ear or something and discussed the problem further with the Doctor in private.’
The man replied, ‘You shouldn’t ask people questions in a roomful of strangers, if the answer could embarrass anyone. The man walked out, waited several minutes, and then re-entered.
The Receptionist smiled smugly and asked, ‘Yes??’
‘There’s something wrong with my ear,’ he stated.
The Receptionist nodded approvingly and smiled, knowing he had taken her advice.. ‘And what is wrong with your ear, Sir?’
‘I can’t piss out of it,’ he replied.
The waiting room erupted in laughter…
–El Waggs
Officially Certified
Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina™
Bad Joke Library
Autonomous Race Car Starts Test Lap, Immediately Slams Into Wall–And we mean immediately.
Driver assistance systems are gradually getting closer to full autonomy; however, none of them are quite there yet. Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” is not actually capable of driving on its own, and Cadillac’s Super Cruise only works on the highway. There’s also a slew of startups attempting to develop fully driverless tech that has yet to offer anything for sale to the public. However, it should be easier on racetracks, right? There are no intersections, no stoplights—just the mapped course ahead.
Well, as easy as it may sound, an autonomous vehicle in the Roborace series seems to be having a bit of trouble with it. After starting a race as the only vehicle on-track, it took a sharp right turn and accelerated, running straight into a barrier while livestreaming on Twitch. You can’t help but laugh at the immediate mishap.
To be clear, not all Roborace vehicles do this. The plan is for each race team to develop its own autonomous tech with the electric drivetrains and chassis all being identical. So, in a race, that means this car would just DNF while other AIs drove around it, hopping on the radio and screeching like an old dial-up modem…or something. That’s how robots express joy. At least, I think.
Jokes aside, this incident is one of a few embarrassing mistakes Roborace cars have made in the past. That doesn’t mean they don’t also have good laps, though. One of the vehicles successfully drove up the hill climb at the Goodwood Festival of Speed a year ago, impressing spectators when the driver monitoring the car got out midway through the run, sending the vehicle on its way.
So, while not every autonomous racecar outing ends in an accident, all of the funny ones do. It would be interesting to see what a Tesla with FSD would do around a racetrack. I wouldn’t be surprised if it ran into a barrier as well.
Got a tip? Send us a note: tips@thedrive.com
–By Peter Holderith
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS–Eyes and Ears on Moab
The scenic Southwestern city of Moab, Utah, for decades a favorite destination of powersports enthusiasts, has voted on new restrictions aimed at local noise reduction following a record number of public complaints.
The Grand County Commission and the Moab City Council met last month and decided on three joint resolutions:
A temporary moratorium on issuing new business licenses for the sale, rental, or leasing of all-terrain vehicles, as well as commercial outdoor recreational uses involving an ATV, and ATV outfitting, guiding, and touring. Plus a temporary moratorium on issuing new special events permits for all-terrain vehicle vendors, associations, and groups.
“Despite receiving comments from industry organizations and their intent to compromise on the issue, the county and city have taken this direction,” said Scott Schloegel, MIC senior vice president of government relations. “Nationwide, we’ve seen greater interest in outdoor OHV recreation and Moab has seen a recent increase in city and county business license applications for sales, rentals, and licensing of ATVs, and related guide services that serve non-residents.
The MIC Government Relations Office is monitoring developments in Utah and will continue to represent industry and enthusiast interests.”
–MIC
Voxan claims 11 records with the world’s fastest electric motorcycle–While some speed records are going through a heated patch of controversy right now, others appear to be agreed upon. French manufacturer Voxan and the global sanctioning body for motorcycle racing, the FIM, have put out joint press releases announcing no less than 11 new electric motorcycle speed records.
After COVID-19 forced it to abandon a planned record attempt on the salt flats in Bolivia earlier this year, Voxan went home to France and hired out a runway instead. Last weekend, the team went out to Châteauroux airfield, a few hours south of Paris, and got the job done in comprehensive fashion.
Despite using a scarily-short 3.5-km (2.17-mi) runway instead of an expansive, smooth salt flat, ex-MotoGP racer and the 362-horsepower (270 kW) Voxan Wattman managed to substantially raise the bar for electric land speed motorcycling.
The first big-ticket record was a two-way average of 228.05 mph (366.94 km/h) for the “partially streamlined electric motorcycle over 300 kg (661 lb)” class, measured over a full mile (1.6 km) after a flying start, beating the previous record of 204 mph (329 km/h) set by the Mobitec EV-02A. The bike peaked at 254 mph (408 km/h) for just an instant during the record run, giving the team a taste of what it might be able to achieve with a longer track.
The second was the same flying mile using a non-streamlined naked version of the bike with a tiny bikini fairing instead of a giant dustbin. This version of the bike can be seen in the hero image at the top, revealing the Wattman’s single-sided front swingarm, presumably hub-steered. This bike managed a two-way average of 217.14 mph (349.38 km/h), reaching a peak speed of 231 mph (372 km/h) that would’ve felt absolutely crazy from the saddle.
The team chalked up nine more records including:
¼ mile, flying start, partially streamlined: 394.45 km/h (245.10 mph) – no previous record
¼ mile, flying start, non-streamlined: 357.19 km/h (221.95 mph) – no previous record
1 km, flying start, partially streamlined: 386.35 km/h (240.07 mph – previous record: 329.31 km/h (204.62 mph)
¼ mile, standing start, non-streamlined: 126.20 km/h (78.42 mph) – no previous record
¼ mile, standing start, partially streamlined: 127.30 km/h (79.10 mph) – previous record: 87.16 km/h (54.16 mph)
1 km, standing start, non-streamlined: 185.56 km/h (115.30 mph) – no previous record
1 km, standing start, partially streamlined: 191.84 km/h (119.20 mph) – previous record: 122.48 km/h (76.11 mph)
1 mile, standing start, non-streamlined: 222.82 km/h (138.45 mph) – no previous record
1 mile, standing start, partially streamlined: 225.01 km/h (139.81 mph)
While the team is happy with its performance, the plan is to go faster, and Voxan now has the 400 km/h and 250 mph marks in its sights with further attempts planned up until the end of 2022.
By Loz Blain
News Atlas.com
I kept moving the Bandit’s Dayroll around on the Pandemic. I like what I did to the front end and hate to hide it, including the Paughco brass dogbone risers. I think I found a cool spot.
I’m wrapping up another Bandit’s Dayroll story with Cruz Tools. They make three versions of this super small took kit. There’s another Cruz tool kit in the Pandemic dayroll.
RFR in Texas is running a Bandit Bedroll on this classic.
Have a helluva weekend and Ride Fast and Free!
–Bandit
BOB AND WEAVE BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 12, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
I’ve been sort of stressed over the non-stop election rhetoric, and in a sense I don’t get it. It’s sorta like watching a nail-biting Superbowl game for two weeks. There’s only so much you can handle.
I also was forced to upgrade my blinking with alerts, cell phone. Talk about stress. It’s more involved than buying a car. We were forced to travel to a Costco and encounter the blinking, whirling cell phone kiosk, the myriad of spinning, flashing phones and colorful displays. It was as if we were trying to buy a phone while riding on a neon embossed carnival ride.
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.
TODAY’S PITCH FROM INSTAGRAM–
Instagram is a great place to be in the motorcycle world.
Filled with stunning pictures of motorcycles, industry news, videos, and more – you can get lost for hours browsing motorcycle Instagram.
We took a close look at the millions of posts using the #BikersOfInstagram hashtag in order to find the most popular motorcycles around the world: https://www.budgetdirect.com.au/blog/motorcycles-of-instagram.html
Digging further, we also created:
A world map that shows what cities and countries around the globe post about motorcycles the most
A map showing each country’s favorite motorcycle manufacturer.
A list of the top 10 motorcycle influencers to follow on Instagram.
To give you an idea, here’s a peek at each country’s most popular motorcycle manufacturers:
Taylor Tomita
NeoMam Studios
@TvylorTomitv
MOTOR BAR AND RESTAURANT IN MILWAUKEE IS STILL OPEN–Eat well while doing good at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant this holiday season
New catering packages take the stress out of meal planning for your special occasions.
MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant is still open! If you have a hankering for the bold, American classics found at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant, we’ve got you covered! While we continue to place guest and staff safety as our top priority, we have been working alongside the City of Milwaukee Health Department to ensure proper protocols are in place for your next visit. Dine-in, takeout and delivery are all available for lip-smacking BBQ, juicy ground chuck burgers, monthly specials and more.
And beginning today, bring in your new, unwrapped toys and receive 10% off your bill at Motor Bar and Restaurant as a part of the Kids2Kids Toy Drive†! Help brighten spirits during the holiday season.
Visit MOTORRestaurant.com to plan your next night out or get a delicious feast delivered to your front door.
HAPPENINGS
Kids2Kids Toy Drive at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant, Nov. 9 – Dec. 13, 2020
Donate an item for the Kids2Kids Toy Drive at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum and receive 10% off your bill†. Your donation will help spread joy to children in need during the holiday season. Guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys that will be gifted to children in need.
Kids2Kids Christmas not only makes an impact on the children who receive the toys, but it also helps instill the values of caring and giving in the children who donate the toys. Since the program began in 2006, more than 230,000 toys have been collected and distributed to families. Help us hit our goal of collecting more than 20,000 toys! Don’t forget, MOTOR’s kids menu is perfect for the pint-size set. More details are available at kids2kidstoydrive.com.
10% off your bill at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum before tax with a donation for Kids2Kids Toy Drive hosted by Kapco Inc. on November 9 – December 13, 2020.
Cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent. Offer not valid on previous visits. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer can be changed at any time without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Monte Cristo: Shaved turkey and ham, bacon, Swiss cheese, and blackberry jam on battered thick toast ($13.95)
Braised Short Rib with Gnocchi: Braised beef short rib, sautéed carrots, onions, and mushrooms with a red wine-thyme demi-glace. Served over fresh potato gnocchi ($20.95)
Warm Pumpkin Blondie: Pumpkin blondie served with spiced pecans and cinnamon ice cream ($7.95)
SMALL-PLATE LUNCH MENU
Entrees
Chicken Biscuit Sliders: Two buttermilk biscuits with house-breaded fried chicken, topped with mayo and pickles; served with fries ($7.95)
Nashville Chicken Sliders: Two Nashville hot chicken sliders topped with pickles, coleslaw, and mayo on a brioche mini bun; served with fries ($8.95)
Quesadilla: Tortillas with shredded cheese, black bean-corn salsa with choice of BBQ chicken, shredded pork or brisket; served with chipotle ranch ($7.95)
Butternut Squash Ravioli: Brown butter sage with toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese ($7.95)
Asian Rice Bowl: Grilled chicken, peppers, celery, carrots, green onions, edamame with sesame teriyaki rice ($8.95)
Baked Pasta: Chunky marinara sauce, mozzarella & provolone cheese, onions and mushrooms ($7.95) Add on sausage or chicken for $2
H.O.G.® MEMBER SPECIAL
H.O.G.® Members can enjoy a 16-oz can of Budweiser, Bud Light, or Busch Light for just $3.
VANCE & HINES Wraps Up Successful Relationship with Harley-Davidson–
Moves Resources to New Racing Development Center
With the announcement that Harley-Davidson has chosen not to field factory racing teams in American Flat Track(AFT) or NHRA drag racing in 2021, Vance & Hines will redeploy its racing development team towards creating high performance products for a variety of vehicles, brands and race series in both two and four-wheel segments.
Vance & Hines employees were informed earlier today that the Indy Operations Team will be refocused on performance products for two and four-wheel vehicles and will be redeployed under the name Vance & Hines Racing Development Center (RDC). Vance & Hines will continue its racing tradition in 2021 with sponsored riders in a variety of racing series.
In addition, Vance & Hines will remain the sole licensee, manufacturer and seller of Harley-Davidson XG750R Production Twin motorcycles and Harley-Davidson XG750R Super Twin motorcycles. This racing variant of the Harley-Davidson Street 750 was the motorcycle that won the AFT Production Twins championship in 2020. The Production Twins bike is being manufactured and shipped to Harley-Davidson dealers at this time.
“Vance & Hines is having its best year in over a decade. We’re strong and we have a strategy that drives our growth and expansion in our current markets and in new ventures,” said Mike Kennedy, President and CEO. “While we loved our time running the factory race teams for Harley-Davidson, we couldn’t be more excited about the future.”
Vance & Hines has been contracted to run factory race teams for a range of companies during its 41-year history including Suzuki, Yamaha and Ducati. The partnership with Harley-Davidson was focused on drag racing and flat track racing.
SKULL POLO™ MOTORCYCLE HELMET DOT APPROVED LOW PROFILE MAYANS STYLE–Regular price $98.00
SLEEK FIT WITH A GREAT DESIGN – SKULL POLO
BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO GET ONE AVAILABLE NOW
UNIQUE SKULL PRINT ON HELMET
NO MORE MUSHROOM HEAD
A TRUE SKULL CAP
POLO HELMET SITS LOW AND SNUG WONT BLOW BACK IN THE WIND
EPS Liner
Light & Comfortable
PROTECT YOUR BRAIN! The fact that this helmet meets and exceeds D.O.T. Safety Standards FMVSS 218
Simple! Mushroom or no mushroom look? Go for the Low profile Polo No Mushroom Head Helmet
FOR SMALL & BIG HEADS – If you’ve been searching for a half-helmet with a wide range of sizes, then your search is over! comes sizes S,M,L,XL,XXL
Quick release helmet chin strap clip
WEIGHT: 600G
To measure your head for the correct size take a tape measure just above your brow around your head just at the top of your ears. If your head measures in between sizes order the size smaller. Our helmets should fit snug when new they stretch and mold to the shape of your head. Also see hat sizes below
PLEASE check size chart
S 55 -56 22 1/4″ – 22 1/2″ = hat size 7
M-57 – 58, 22 3/8″ – 22 3/4″ = hat 7-1/8 to hat 7-1/4
L-59 – 60 , 23 1/4″ – 23 5/8″ = hat 7 3/8 to hat 7 3/8
XL-61- 62, 24″ – 24 3/8″ = hat 7 1/2 to hat 7 5/8
XXL-63cm , 24 3/4″ = hat 7 3/4 to hat 7 7/8
ELECTION DAY BLUES—Seems on Election day Google searches for nearest liquor store, anxiety and move to Canada went through the roof.
—from the Week Magazine
LATEST FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH
With the XL model line, the “H” for touring, the “CH” as the high-performance version, Harley-Davidson satisfied the needs of riders looking for lighter, nimbler high-performance motorcycles.
Following in the tracks of the side-valve K model, which remained only in racing form as the KR750, the XL Sportster arrived in 1957 with the XLCH added in 1958.
The biggest advancement over the K Model was the overhead valve design plus eventually electric starting on the basic H model. But the XLH options list included saddlebags, a windshield, buddy seat and riders could even opt for two ride heights by specifying 18-inch or 19-inch wheels. Seat options varied from traditional sprung post to rigid mount in…
Read the whole story at the National Motorcycle Museum web site.—Bandit
SHENANDOAH RELEASES “THEN A GIRL WALKS IN” WITH BLAKE SHELTON–AVAILABLE NOW
NEW ALBUM EVERY ROAD OUT NOV. 13 PRE-ORDER NOW
GRAMMY®, ACM and CMA winning Shenandoah gears up for the release of Every Road on Nov. 13 via Foundry Records through the final instant-grat track, “Then A Girl Walks In” with Blake Shelton, available now. Every Road also includes star power collaborations with Luke Bryan, Ashley McBryde, Dierks Bentley, Lady A, Zac Brown Band, Carly Pearce, Cody Johnson and Brad Paisley.
Download/Stream “Then A Girl Walks In” HERE.
People.com exclusively premiered a first listen to “Then A Girl Walks In,” written by Adam Sanders, Lance Miller, Brad Warren and Brett Warren, with Tomás Mier writing, “The laid-back and sweet love song showcases Raybon’s trademark vocals, paired perfectly with Shelton’s voice.” Frontman Marty Raybon shared, “Blake Shelton is truly a big piece of this new record.
His vocals are as solid as a slab of concrete.” Co-founding member Mike McGuire added, “We knew Blake must be a Shenandoah fan when he picked one of our songs for the past four seasons in a row on ‘The Voice’ for his artists to sing, but we never dreamed we’d have the opportunity to actually do a duet with him personally. What a blessing!”
Every Road will be Shenandoah’s 10th studio album, and first album of all-new music since 1994, after notching 13 No. 1 hits and charting 26 singles on Billboard country charts throughout their career. Wide Open Country’s Bobby Moore described Every Road, produced by industry veteran Buddy Cannon, as “a thank you from Nashville for such influential Shenandoah hits as ‘Next to You, Next to Me,’ ‘The Church on Cumberland Road,’ ‘Sunday in the South’ and ‘Two Dozen Roses.'”
EVERY ROAD TRACK LIST:
Produced By: Buddy Cannon
Executive Producer: Cole Johnstone
Engineered & Mixed By: Tony Castle
1. “I’d Take Another One of Those” (with Zac Brown Band)
Brett Beavers, Stephen Robson, Brett James
*Zac Brown Band appears courtesy of Home Grown Music
2. “Make It Til Summertime” (with Luke Bryan)
Dallas Davidson, Marty Raybon, Mike McGuire
*Luke Bryan appears courtesy of Capitol Records Nashville
3. “If Only” (with Ashley McBryde)
Lori McKenna, Phil Barton, Jaron Boyer
*Ashley McBryde appears courtesy of Warner Music Nashville
4. “Every Road” (with Dierks Bentley)
Brett Beavers, Jamie Moore, Kevin Griffin
*Dierks Bentley appears courtesy of Capitol Records Nashville
5. “Then A Girl Walks In” (with Blake Shelton)
Adam Sanders, Lance Miller, Brad Warren, Brett Warren
*Blake Shelton appears courtesy of Warner Music Nashville
6. “High Class Hillbillies” (with Cody Johnson)
Marty Raybon, Mike McGuire, Wade Kirby, Jim Collins
*Cody Johnson appears courtesy of Warner Music Nashville/COJO Music
7. “Every Time I Look At You” (with Lady A)
Dallas Davidson, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood
*Lady A appears courtesy of BMLG Records
8. “Life Would Be Perfect” (with Brad Paisley)
Wade Kirby, Phil O’Donnell, Bill Luther
*Brad Paisley appears courtesy of Sony Music Nashville
9. “I’ll Be Your Everything” (with Carly Pearce)
Marty Raybon, Barry Hutchens, Mark Narmore
*Carly Pearce appears courtesy of Big Machine Records
10. “Boots On Broadway”
Austin Merrill
For real-time updates on Every Road, visit shenandoahband.com. Follow Shenandoah on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
BIKERNET HEALTH AND SAFETY WARNING— Women often receive warnings about protecting themselves at the mall and in dark parking lots, etc. This is the first warning I have seen for men. I wanted to pass it on in case you haven’t heard about it.
A ‘heads up’ for those men who may be regular customers at Lowe’s, Home Depot, Costco, or even Wal-Mart. This one caught me totally by surprise. Over the last month I became a victim of a clever scam while out shopping. Simply going out to get supplies has turned out to be quite traumatic.
Don’t be naive enough to think it couldn’t happen to you or your friends.
Here’s how the scam works; Two nice looking, college-age girls will come over to your car or truck as you are packing your purchases into your vehicle. They both start wiping your windshield with a rag and Windex, with their breasts almost falling out of their skimpy T-shirts. (It’s impossible not to look). When you thank them and offer them a tip, they say ‘No’ but instead ask for a ride to McDonald’s.
You agree and they climb into the vehicle. On the way, they start undressing. Then one of them starts crawling all over you, while the other one steals your wallet.
I had my wallet stolen Oct. 4th, 9th, 10th, twice on the 15th, again on the 17th, 20th, 24th, and the 29th. Also Nov. 1st, 4th, 8th, twice on the 16th &17th, and very likely again this upcoming weekend.
So, tell your friends to be careful. What a horrible way to take advantage of us older men. Warn your friends to be vigilant.
Wal-Mart has wallets on sale for $2.99 each. I found even cheaper ones for $.99 at the Dollar Store. Also, you never get to eat at McDonald’s. I’ve already lost 11 pounds just running back and forth from Lowe’s, to Home Depot, to Wal-Mart.
So please, send this on to all the retired men that you know and warn them to be on the lookout for this scam. (The best times are just before lunch and around 4:30 in the afternoon.)
Beware!
–Joe Smith
Certified Health Officer
Bikernet Medical Center
SEAN CONNERY PASSES AT 90–Sean Connery’s Most Famous Ride as James Bond Was Aston Martin DB5
Aston made a limited run of the cars recently, and behind the wheel of this car is how we will remember Connery, who died on Oct. 31 at 90.
Sean Connery, the actor whose portrayal of James Bond was considered by many to be definitive, has passed away at age 90. As Bond, the BBC said in its obituary today, “He strode across the screen . . . like a panther, hungry and in search of prey.” He also drove a memorable series of gadget-laden cars, from the Bentley Mark IV in From Russia with Love to the Ford Mustang Mach 1 in Diamonds Are Forever—but he will forever be remembered in tandem with the Aston Martin DB5 in Goldfinger, pictured here, and which Aston Martin reproduced as a “continuation” series in 2018, as the story below relates. —Ed.
For James Bond fans, the desire to own a real version of 007’s iconic Aston Martin DB5 is a dream that soon will be realized—at least for those willing to spend $3.5 million. Following the “continuation” DB4 GTs that the company produced earlier this year, Aston Martin Works is now set to produce a limited run of DB5s built to the exact same spec as the famous car from the James Bond movies. And, yes, these will include a full set of the often lethal gadgets that agent 007 uses to escape from various scrapes and predicaments.
The plan is to build 25 for customers, plus one car for Aston Martin, one for Eon Productions, and another that will be auctioned for charity. Now, how about a Lotus-built replica of the Esprit submarine from The Spy Who Loved Me?
By Mike Duff
Car and Driver
From the NMA
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–10 Steps to Winterize Your Motorcycle
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/10_Steps_to_Winterize_Your_Motorcycle.aspx
Good article and I think it will help a lot of people. I live in Florida so get to ride all year so my motorcycle stays more in a Maintenance State than Storage.
— Rogue
Palm Bay, FL
HOMELESS TROUBLES IN LA—Many of the homeless in LA have drug and alcohol issues and little funds, because they ain’t working. The city helps them with essentials and food even parks toilets in the streets, although that doesn’t help the taxpayers. They still shit on their lawns.
But recently a buddy had a Ninja stolen, then Willie, a longtime friend of Ray Wheeler, had his truck full of tools broke into and stolen at a local marina. This type of thievery is running rampant with the help of the homeless. It seems the drug dealer and thieves use the homeless as scouts to find their next score.
We will bring you additional reports in the near future. In the meantime, if you see homeless roaming your streets on bicycles, you have a clue–Bandit
Virginia DMVs are on a nearly 5-month backlog— Visits are by appointment-only – and most don’t have openings until 2021
Taciya Brown’s only option was to wait three months to get her first-time driver’s license. She followed the instructions, booked an appointment in August and chose the next available date: Oct. 28.
She walked into the Richmond Central location of the Department of Motor Vehicles on Broad Street on Wednesday, her files with city residency documents and proof of identity and Social Security buckled under her arm.
Brown had waited 18 years for this, and now, only a road skills test separated her from loosening the strain of finding a ride to her job at Walmart — a 20-minute drive away.
Then the DMV clerk told Brown, 18, that her appointment wasn’t in the system. The next available slot was in January.
Eight months into the COVID-19 crisis, all 73 DMV centers opened are by appointment-only, and most in Virginia are booked three months out. Statewide, residents are traveling past their county’s lines — and beyond — to access an available date, though depending on the service needed, such as license renewal or vehicle titles, some locations in the Richmond area have availability in December, a DMV spokesperson said.
Gov. Ralph Northam announced March 17 that the DMV’s 75 locations would close their doors. Nine centers opened in phases in mid-May, 35 offices in June, 49 by the end of July and the rest in mid-August.
Even with Northam granting 60-day extensions for license and registrations renewals, the state agency opened in August to nearly five months of backlogged services for an organization that pre-pandemic saw 17,700 people daily.
Now, on average, the DMV is serving 11,000 people per day across 73 centers. Only two of the 75 remain closed due to their small spaces.
The Virginia DMV does not have an estimation of when the agency will catch up to the demand.
To address the inundation of the state system, the DMV implemented a two-year online renewal option for driver’s licenses in September. About 100,000 residents are eligible for this option, according to the DMV.
Vehicle registration, driver’s license renewal and title replacements, three of 40 online services available on the DMV’s website, can still be done virtually.
But navigating the online services requires an account that, when attempting to create a password, has provided some users with a default page that reads, “You will need assistance setting up your online account. Visit www.dmvnow.com to schedule an appointment at a DMV customer service center.”
And, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 30% of households in Richmond between 2014 and 2018 did not have a broadband internet subscription. About 14% did not have a computer.
Yet statewide, about 74% of vehicle registration renewals in September 2019 were conducted online or by mail. In 2020, that number increased to 91%.
Alternatives to the DMV centers — and online, mail or in-person transactions — include DMV Selects and DMV Connect, which is comprised of 14 teams traveling through communities with portable equipment to conduct appointments.
Contractors were hired to assist with call volumes, but residents statewide have flooded the Virginia DMV Facebook page saying it wasn’t enough.
With the DMV’s call options, the phone rings. Then rings again. No one answers.
“YOU GUYS SAY THE LINE IS BUSY IMMEDIATELY AT 8am,” said a Facebook user on the Virginia DMV Facebook. “I HAVE A BETTER CHANCE REACHING THE UNEMPLOYMENT OFFICE THEN YOU ALL.”
“Planning to call everyday until someone answers by accident,” said another.
The DMV is staffed to handle 4,500 to 5,000 calls per day, said spokesperson Jessica Cowardin. One week in June, it logged more than 600,000 call attempts, or at least 120 times its capacity.
Since centers began reopening on May 18, nearly 7 million transactions have been conducted and more than 1.5 million appointments have been rescheduled — including 8,800 that were disrupted after a cut cable in Chester on Oct. 13 shut down multiple state agencies including the DMV on the last day for voter registration.
By SABRINA MORENO Richmond Times
Milwaukee Champions of Hope Supporters–Our silent auction is LIVE!
Visit www.cohmke2020.givesmart.com to check out all of our awesome items and join us in the fight against cancer. You’ll find workout memberships, sports memorabilia, fun baskets, and much more! We also have a drawing for a YETI Tundra Haul Cooler that can be found listed as item 100 on the GiveSmart page!
Don’t see any items you like? Consider “raising your paddle” and making a donation to our Fund a Need: ACS’s Hallmark Research program here.
Other event updates…
The approximately 25 min. virtual program will stream on our Facebook page on Friday, November 13 at 7PM, CT (Preshow starting at 6:45PM) and will feature our MC Brandon Cruz from FOX 6, our Champion of Hope award winner Dr. Sandra Millon-Underwood, and our mission speaker and local cancer survivor, Jennifer Ott.
Speaking of preshow- we’ve partnered with Milwaukee-based Bittercube to create a signature cocktail for the Champions of Hope Gala @ Home this year.
Visit www.championsofhopewi.org/bittercube to order your kit. Tune in to the preshow to see Bittercube demonstrate how to make “the Moonbeam” to be enjoyed during the program.
Silent auction will close at 9PM on 11/13 (YETI Cooler drawing winner will also be picked at this time).
We can’t wait for you to join us in supporting the important work of the American Cancer Society in a safe and healthy way this year! “See you” next Friday!
Contact Sarah Zander at 262.312.2067 or sarah.zander@cancer with questions.
Chartbook on Healthcare for Veterans National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report—
The VHA Office of Health Equity, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), and the National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Inter-Agency Workgroup collaborated to develop a new chartbook that explores the quality of healthcare Veterans receive with non-Veterans. The Chartbook on Healthcare for Veterans is part of the National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report and provides information on disparities in access to and quality of healthcare received by Veterans. Chartbook findings were based on 65 quality measures. Key findings show that:
Veterans
• Had higher rates of vaccinations for flu, shingles, pneumonia and tetanus.
• Had higher rates of screening for blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose.
• Had more difficulty contacting their usual source of care by phone during regular business hours.
• Were more likely to receive an inappropriate medication for older adults.
VHA users
• Compared with younger VHA users, older VHA users had better care for 79% of measures.
• In access to care, disparities occurred frequently across racial/ethnic categories.
• Compared to male VHA users, females had worse care for 39% of measures.
Download the complete Chartbook on Healthcare for Veterans in PDF and PowerPoint formats.
–from Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–EACH SHOULD PROVIDE A SMILE OR A GROAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I didn’t think the chiropractor would improve my posture. But I stand corrected.
I took my new girlfriend out on our first date to the ice rink, and entry was half price. She called me a cheap skate.
Studies show cows produce more milk when the farmer talks to them. It’s a case of in one ear and out the udder.
I used to date a girl with one leg who worked at a brewery. She was in charge of the hops.
My cross-eyed wife and I just got a divorce.
I found out she was seeing someone on the side.
My wife claims I’m the cheapest person she’s ever met.
I’m not buying it.
Did you know that a raven has 17 rigid feathers called pinions, while a crow only has 16.
The difference between a raven and a crow is just a matter of a pinion.
I told my carpenter I didn’t want carpeted steps.
He gave me a blank stair.
What did the surgeon say to the patient who insisted on closing up his own incision?
Suture self.
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–ELECTION 2020 BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 5, 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/ELECTION_2020_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_November_5_2020.aspx
It was interesting reading about the Salt Torpedo while you were in town, Keith. Good luck om your trip back to Deadwood.
— Ann Robinson
Garden Grove, CA
Who IS Responsible in a Driverless Car Accident?-
For years, an ongoing debate has been raging in the media about who would be responsible when a driverless vehicle injured or killed another road user. Perhaps, we will soon have the answer.
In March 2018, Elaine Herzberg jaywalked from a center median with her bicycle across a dark street in Tempe, Arizona, and was hit by a driverless car. This tragic accident was the first US death involving another road user and an autonomous vehicle.
Dashboard video was taken of the street and inside the car at the time of the accident. The safety driver on board, Rafaela Vasquez, was distracted and unable to avert from the accident at the last minute. In autonomous mode, the Uber traveled 38 mph in a 35 mph zone and did not attempt to brake.
I have written about this accident quite extensively in the past. The week after the accident, I detailed what happened and some of the issues involved on the NMA Blog.
The Tempe police chief stated at the time that the autonomous Uber was not at fault in Herzberg’s death. Chief Sylvia Moir told the San Francisco Chronicle after reviewing the video, “It’s very clear it would have been difficult to avoid this collision in any kind of mode based on how she (Herzberg) came from the shadows right into the highway.”
Local police and both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigated the accident. The state of Arizona immediately suspended permission for Uber to continue testing driverless vehicles in the state. Uber reacted by pulling all of its related programs from other states until partial reinstatement several months later. Soon after the accident, Uber also settled for an undisclosed amount with the Herzberg family.
In March 2019, Yavapai County Judge Sheila Sullivan Polk declared that Uber had no criminal liability in the death of Elaine Herzberg.
In November of that same year, the NTSB concluded its investigation with a 400-page document that stated that neither Uber, the state of Arizona nor the car’s operator were vigilant. The report also concluded that Uber’s driverless car technology revealed a cascade of poor design decisions that led the Volvo XC90 SUV to process improperly and respond to Herzberg’s presence as she crossed the roadway. The vehicle’s radar did not detect Herzberg until about six seconds before the accident. The system could also not classify an object as a pedestrian walking a bicycle unless they were near a crosswalk. Herzberg was 100 feet from the nearest crosswalk.
The Volvo’s automatic braking system had also been disabled because its electronics interfered with Uber’s self-driving sensors.
The NTSB report also criticized the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the federal road safety agency, for not regulating driverless car tests on public roads. One of the NTSB members stated, “There’s no requirement. There’s no evaluation. There are no real standards issued.”
NHTSA has avoided autonomous driving regulations and instead issued voluntary guidelines, including safety assessment reports. As of this week, more than 2-1/2 years later, NHTSA has not yet issued its report on the accident.
Fast forward to September 2020—a Maricopa County grand jury has charged the Uber safety driver Rafaela Vasquez with negligent homicide in the death of Elaine Herzberg. Her employer, Uber, and the company that built the automated system involved in the fatal crash won’t be charged.
Before the accident, Vasquez (a backup driver waiting for the primary autonomous driving system to alert her when an intervention was needed) was watching her phone instead of the road. Ryan Calo, University of Washington School of Law Professor (who studies robotics), stated to Wired Magazine in a recent interview, “That’s a simple story, that her negligence was the cause of (Herzberg’s) death. Bring a case against the company, and you have to tell a more complicated story about how driverless cars work and what Uber did wrong.”
Even if Vasquez had been watching the road, could she have reacted in time? For decades, research has shown it is challenging for humans to keep attention focused on partially automated tasks. That is why up until late 2017, Uber used two safety drivers to solve the “automation complacency” problem. However, the company went to a one driver requirement a few months before the tragic accident, presumably to save money.
Also, weeks before Herzberg was killed, an Uber whistleblower named Robbie Miller warned company executives in an email about safety issues. He told top officials, “A car was damaged nearly every other day in February (2018). We shouldn’t be hitting things every 15,000 miles.” He also added, “Several of the drivers appear not to have been properly vetted or trained.”
As we slowly gravitate to autonomous levels 3, 4, and 5 (no human intervention), the responsibility factor will become even more acute.
The trial of former Uber safety driver Rafaela Vasquez, the least-deep-pocket target on the liability list, begins soon.
– By Shelia Dunn, NMA Communications Director
HISTORY LESSON FROM THE SHERIFF—
Daytona ’85, still having a blast during Bike Week.
SHERIFF MEDIA GROUP
S-36030 LAMMHULT
SWEDEN
HARLEY-DAVIDSON RACING EFFORTS TO REFOCUS ON DEALERS’ COMPETITIVE PROGRAMS—
H-D will Support AFT SuperTwins, Production Twins and NHRA Pro Stock Competition
Harley-Davidson is harkening back to the foundations of the company’s competitive spirit by refocusing on building within the brand and celebrating the heritage of grassroots flat track racing by offering support to its entire dealer network through the development of contingency programs.
“Harley-Davidson’s heritage is rich with racing lore and legacy, and throughout our brand’s history, Harley-Davidson dealers have been the cornerstone of our racing programs,” said Jon Bekefy, general manager of Brand Marketing. “We are excited to continue to support the XG750R racing motorcycle and NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle efforts through our dealers.”
As it leans into a more grassroots approach, Harley-Davidson would like to thank the Vance & Hines organization, the riders, team members, and every individual involved with the Screamin’ Eagle™/Vance & Hines NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle and American Flat Track (AFT) team efforts for their passion, commitment, and expertise for over a decade of winning competition and championship titles.
Over the past 18 seasons, the Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle team has been wildly successful, generating 107 wins and 10 championships, proving to be one of the most successful programs in the history of the sport. Additionally, Vance & Hines has been instrumental in ushering a new era of flat track competition with the development of the Harley-Davidson® XG750R SuperTwins and Production Twins motorcycles and earning a championship in AFT Production Twins for the 2020 season. Vance & Hines will continue to manufacture and support the sale of XG750R SuperTwins and Production Twins bikes to qualified teams.
In a return to the foundations of Harley-Davidson’s racing efforts, the company will refocus efforts by offering support dealer racing programs in 2021, including the development of contingency programs for AFT. To kick off, Harley-Davidson is already committed to supporting Latus Motors Harley-Davidson as they campaign their XG750R in the AFT SuperTwins series.
The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Motorcycles: Twisted Road Expands Its Demo-to-Own Program to the Texas Hill Country
The leading motorcycle rental company is helping riders try before they buy at Destination Cycle.
Twisted Road, the leading motorcycle rental community, is partnering with Destination Cycle to allow riders to take extended test rides before they purchase a bike. By allowing Destination Cycle to safely rent out their pre-owned motorcycle fleet, Twisted Road gives riders an opportunity to explore Texas Hill Country before adding a motorcycle to their garage.
“Choosing the right bike is an important decision,” said Austin Rothbard, founder and CEO of Twisted Road. “We’re enabling riders to try different motorcycles before they commit to their perfect bike.”
Riders can rent any pre-owned motorcycle within Destination Cycle’s inventory — from a Ducati Multistrada to a Harley-Davidson Dyna Street Bob. The Twisted Road insurance policy covers everything from rider and dealer liability to any damage that might happen during the ride.
“We’re excited to be launching this program with Twisted Road,” said Jason Herod, General Manager of Destination Cycle. “We enjoy seeing riders take our bikes out on the open road.”
Twisted Road’s demo-to-own program allows dealers to increase conversion without risk. With their secure insurance program, thorough rider background checks and verifications, and dealer inventory management platform, the company is helping dealers earn money on their existing inventory.
“We connect the motorcycle world — two wheels at a time — and I’m very excited that we’re finding innovative ways to bring the community together,” said Rothbard.
For more information on Twisted Road’s program and to see all of the bikes listed for rent, please visit www.twistedroad.com
–Sean Cottrell
258384@email4pr.com
415-613-5540
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY FOR THE HOLIDAYS, MASK FREE–
Had to warn you… WARNING – RANT?
For those of you who are placing Christmas lights / decorations in your garden/front lawn, can you please avoid anything that has Red or Blue flashing lights together? Every time I come around the corner, I think it’s the police and I have a panic attack. I have to brake hard, toss my beer out the window, fasten my seat belt, throw my phone on the floor, turn my radio down, and push the gun under the seat, all while trying to drive. It’s just too much drama, even for Christmas.
–EL WAGGS
Librarian
DIRECT FROM THE H-D MUSEUM–Two new special exhibits premiere at the Harley-Davidson Museum
Plus, celebrate the season with a special Holiday Weekend Sale, the H-D Museum shows its appreciation to those who served with free admission to Veterans* on Veterans on Veterans Day and special gallery talks focused on H-D’s long history with the U.S. military.
Art, engineering and the timeless pursuit of adventure are always on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum. And beginning this month, two new special exhibits bring those elements to the fore.
“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” opens to the public Nov. 21 and tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. Dating back to the Motor Company’s earliest days and shining a spotlight on what the all-new, all-electric LiveWire® motorcycle is capable of, this exhibit is sure to thrill those who prefer the road less traveled. “Performance Builds from Born-Free” brings together four customized Harley-Davidson® motorcycles where imagination and ingenuity take center stage.
And in what has become an annual tradition of expressing gratitude for those who serve and those who have served, the Veterans Day 2020 appreciation includes free admission to the H-D Museum on Nov. 11 and 12.
Finally, be sure to check out the H-D Museum’s Holiday Weekend Sale and score on your favorite H-D branded gear. Give as a gift or add to your wardrobe!
As always, the safety of our guests is a top priority for the Harley-Davidson Museum. Guests may notice changes since their most recent visit, including limited capacity. Visit the H-D Museum website to find out more about our safety measures or to purchase tickets in advance.
Veterans Day Appreciation
Nov. 11, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Nov. 12 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
We salute you! On November 11th and 12th, the Harley-Davidson Museum will offer free Museum admission for all active Military, Veterans and their families.* ???Learn more about H-D’s military involvement during the Military Gallery Talks on November 11th at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. and November 12th at 11 a.m., 2:30 and 6 p.m. For more than a century, Harley-Davidson has been on the front line – right next to the troops. The first American to enter Germany after World War I did so on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Active military and veterans always enjoy special discounts at The Shop and while dining at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant.
*Receive free admission to the Harley-Davidson Museum by presenting valid identification of service in the US Armed Services (active duty and veterans are welcome!) for the named servicemember, one (1) additional adult and up to four (4) children (under age 18). Valid on November 11, 2020 and November 12, 2020 for in-person use at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Not valid for online purchases. Non-transferable. Cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent. Offer not valid on previously purchased Harley-Davidson Museum tickets. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Harley-Davidson® Merchandise Holiday Weekend Sale
Nov. 27 – 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Come for the sale in The Garage and stay to explore. Pick up a few gifts for the holidays: shop 50%-70% off discontinued, end-of-season MotorClothes® products**
Including holiday festivities:
• “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” Special Exhibit
• H-D Museum Campus Walking Tour, Audio Tours & Youth Activity Guides
• H-D Museum holiday specials at The Shop
• MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant burgers, BBQ and monthly specials
**Valid for onsite use in The Garage only at the H-D Museum on purchase of select, end of season men’s and women’s Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® merchandise. Not valid for online purchases; not valid in The Shop at the H-D Museum. Prices as marked in The Garage. Sale prices valid from November 27 – 29, 2020. While supplies last. Offer not valid on previously purchased merchandise. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Engines 101
Thu, Fri, Sat and Sun – 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3 p.m.
What is a powertrain? What makes the Milwaukee-Eight® engine different? The Engines 101 class takes you inside the Milwaukee Eight engine and transmission. In a classroom setting, we break down the components and their functions while describing the performance of a 4-stroke engine. Engines 101 shows how an engine and transmission come together to make a powertrain. Advance tickets and more information can be found here.
H-D Museum Campus Walking Tour
Explore the campus of the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum and enjoy the great outdoors. This 20-acre site is the place to see and experience Harley-Davidson history and culture. Download the PDF to your phone or mobile device and follow the path around the H-D Museum campus.
Enjoy free shipping on all online orders Nov. 27 – Nov. 30.***
***Offer valid for online purchases only. Get free standard shipping to locations within the continental United States, Alaska and Hawaii on purchases at the Harley-Davison Museum online store (https://hdmuseum.archivea.com/perl/home.pl) any time from Nov. 27, 2020 – Nov. 30, 2020. Additional restrictions apply.
As we approach the holidays, please note the H-D Museum will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Make your plans to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum at H-DMuseum.com.
THE PINEHURST PRESS NEWS & VIEWS--Interesting Take on Electric Cars
As an engineer I love the electric vehicle technology. However, I have been troubled for a longtime by the fact that the electrical energy to keep the batteries charged has to come from the grid and that means more power generation and a huge increase in the distribution infrastructure Whether generated from coal, gas, oil, wind or sun, installed generation capacity is limited.
IF ELECTRIC CARS DO NOT USE GASOLINE, THEY WILL NOT PARTICIPATE IN PAYING A GASOLINE TAX ON EVERY GALLON THAT IS SOLD FOR AUTOMOBILES, WHICH WAS ENACTED SOME YEARS AGO TO HELP TO MAINTAIN OUR ROADS AND BRIDGES. THEY WILL USE THE ROADS, BUT WILL NOT PAY FOR THEIR MAINTENANCE!
In case you were thinking of buying hybrid or an electric car:
Ever since the advent of electric cars, the REAL cost per mile of those things has never been discussed. All you ever heard was the miles per gallon in terms of gasoline, with nary a mention of the cost of electricity to run it . This is the first article I’ve ever seen and tells the story pretty much as I expected it to.
Electricity has to be one of the least efficient ways to power things yet they’re being shoved down our throats. Glad somebody finally put engineering and math to paper.
At a neighborhood BBQ I was talking to a neighbor, a BC Hydro Executive. I asked him how that renewable thing was doing. He laughed, then got serious.
If you really intend to adopt electric vehicles, he pointed out, you had to face certain realities. For example, a home charging system for a Tesla requires 75 amp service. The average house is equipped with 100 amp service. On our small street (approximately 25 homes), the electrical infrastructure would be unable to carry more than three houses with a single Tesla, each. For even half the homes to have electric vehicles, the system would be wildly over-loaded.
This is the elephant in the room with electric vehicles. Our residential infrastructure cannot bear the load. So, as our genius elected officials promote this nonsense, not only are we being urged to buy these things and replace our reliable, cheap generating systems with expensive, new windmills and solar cells, but we will also have to renovate our entire delivery system! This latter “investment” will not be revealed until we’re so far down this dead end road that it will be presented with an ‘OOPS..!’ and a shrug.
If you want to argue with a green person over cars that are Eco-friendly, just read the following. Note: If you ARE a green person, read it anyway. It’s enlightening.
Eric test drove the Chevy Volt at the invitation of General Motors and he writes, “For four days in a row, the fully charged battery lasted only 25 miles before the Volt switched to the reserve gasoline engine. “Eric calculated the car got 30 mpg including the 25 miles it ran on the battery. So, the range including the 9-gallon gas tank and the 16 kwh battery is approximately 270 miles.
It will take you 4.5 hours to drive 270 miles at 60 mph. Then add 10 hours to charge the battery and you have a total trip time of 14.5 hours. In a typical road trip your average speed (including charging Time) would be 20 mph. According to General Motors, the Volt battery holds 16 kwh of electricity. It takes a full 10 hours to charge a drained battery. The cost for the electricity to charge the Volt is never mentioned, so I looked up what I pay for electricity.
I pay approximately (it varies with amount used and the seasons) $1.16 per kwh. 16 kwh x $1.16 per kwh = $18.56 to charge the battery. $18.56 per charge divided by 25 miles = $0.74 per mile to operate the Volt using the battery. Compare this to a similar size car with a gasoline engine that gets only 32 mpg. $3.19 per gallon divided by 32 Mpg = $0.10 per mile.
The gasoline powered car costs about $25,000 while the Volt costs $46,000 plus. Simply pay twice as much for a car, that costs more than seven times as much to run, and takes three times longer to drive across the country.
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—TOURING MODELS :: ’08-’20
Sprocket // Pleated Seating
Overview
Classic style meets modern comfort with the Sprocket. The sinfully bobbed and chopped design makes this solo seat a guaranteed head-turner. That bobbed design is about more than style: it also creates ample back support to provide even more comfort while riding.
The Sprocket solo seat is available in three finishes, including Smooth, Diamond and Pleated (shown here) Contrast color stitching is available for each. Many other custom materials and stitch graphics are available as well!
Specs
Driver Seating:
11.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A
MSRP:
$359.00
Part Number:
LK-327PT [’08-’20]
THE BRAND NEW SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM CREATED BY BIKERS–The time has arrived. We’re shooting to get an initial next round of 10,000 people to try Paths. On Thursday, we want to do a synchronized push with all our closer supporters and friends.
Can I take advantage of your offer to help please? On Thursday, can we ask you to help by simply sharing the stuff underneath the line below (that is not in red)
Email, texting and/or socially sharing the good word would be huge to us.
A bonus would be to share our video in your outreach. It can be downloaded here: https://rb.gy/zkksqj
Below are some suggestions that can help keep the integrity of our message this time.
Thank you so much Keith! We sure can use your help man.
–Scout
MAIN OBJECTIVE:
(Not only do we want people to install Paths, but we want them to also recruit 5 more of their friends. So please tell people to get Paths and then find 5 others to join them in there. Below is an example message:)
“Get Paths, get five others to do the same, and get together on permanently holding onto the good times of the past!”
REQUESTED OVERALL TALKING POINTS:
(Paste this into your social media wall, email or text…or write your own explainer)
Taber and Scout ran into a problem of being able to recall even a sliver of all the memories motorcycles have brought them, so they set out to fix the problem by building the Paths app.
Paths is an app that revives your old social media posts, turning them into memory cues so you and your friends can generate a rich legacy together. The process of asking each other “Remember when…?” is fun, easy and fulfilling because Paths is:
A quick, easy way to backup, expand and secure your social media trail
A fast way to re-discover past memories
A delightful way to link similar memories with those of friends across multiple social networks. Doing so starts a beautiful “Remember when…?”
A personal diary, or a public showcase, or a private collaboration between friends all in one place
Entertaining, because many claim that getting 5 or more of your closest friends on board really kick starts the action! (Pro tip)
See a video that expresses the spirit of Paths: https://youtu.be/zWoJfzq_GTA
Apple Install: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/paths-friends-memories-life/id1480890359
Android Install: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.getpaths.paths
DIRECT FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE–
Fresh hand-tooled leather seat completed for a chopper that Ray Llanes at Copper Top Garage is finishing. He made a well built fiberglass seat pan for the hardtail its going on. Excited to see the completion of his build. Checkout the new CycleSource magazine, Ray built the cover bike feature. Rays been a long time friend and supporter of Dime Bag Leather.
I like use 7-9 oz cowhide shoulder on top and 4-5 oz cowhide shoulder for the lacing and side leather on the handtooled seats. It forms great and holds our deep smooth handtooled art for years. Very nice tooling leather from Tandy Leather at the homebase in Fort Worth, Texas.
The helpful and kind staff have been supplying Dime Bag Leather with tools, leather, dye, hardware and knowledge from the beginning. Did a online order at the beginning of the week and thought it would take over a week to receive. We were pleased to see the order arrive to the Dime Bag World Headquarters that Friday! Great to company to work with and grateful to have solid contacts at Tandy Leather.
Dime Bag Leather
Adam Croft
Follow us on Instagram @dimebag.leather
Email photos of your custom seat pan for quotes to dimebag.leather@yahoo.com or call/text 309-336-0714
Remember to ask for the 20% off on labor on customs seats reserved exclusively for all active military and veterans.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK--2016 Harley-Davidson FXDB – Dyna Street Bob for $13,995.00
see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9455817
This bike is a custom color factory Harley paint job
ONLY 9233.00 Miles !!!!!
2016 Hard Candy Blue custom ordered paint Harley-Davidson DYNA STREET BOB FXDB
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* Saddle bags
* Shorty chrome exhaust
* Detachable windshield
* Mustang seat
* 103 C.I. motor
* 6 Speed Trans
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101 point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether your looking to commute to work, ride the coast or take that dream vacation, this bike is ready to go!!!
EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!
Fill out an online application and ride today!!!
**Open 7 days a week**
Just $13,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
—
Looking forward!
Dan Leadbetter
Director of Marketing
Lifestyle Cycles
(714) 490-0155
LOWBROW HOOKS UP WITH MOONEYES–
A piece of gearhead history…
Mooneyes was started in Santa Fe Springs, California in the 1950s.
The name and logo is known the world over by aficionados of the internal combustion engine.
Lowbrow has carried a selection of Moon motorcycle parts and other gear for man years. Pay homage to your gearhead roots.
Moonliner
The Mooneyes ‘Moonliner’ on display at Bonneville Speedweek a couple years back.
Alp Vincent 666
Spun aluminum rear wheel discs custom made by Mooneyes in Sante Fe Springs, California.
Lowbrow Customs sponsored racer Alp Sungertekin just finished this build, the 1948, nitro-burning Vincent 666 (engine cases are #666). Top speed at it’s debut race event, Bonneville World Finals in October 2020, was 182 mph.
Alp & his Vincent set a record at this event. Note the Mooneyes logo on the chin spoiler and Lowbrow Customs script on the oil tank.
THE SINGIN’ HILLS SESSIONS – MOJAVE
AVAILABLE NOW–“Billy Ray Cyrus puts his own Kentucky spin on LL Cool J’s ‘Mama Said Knock You Out’ on the second installment of his Singin’ Hills Sessions… with his usual country gravitas, relishing the defiant opening line of “don’t call it a comeback.”
–Rolling Stone
“With acoustic guitars, banjos, a foot-stopping rhythm and Cyrus’ sung-spoken drawl, the veteran country singer transforms LL’s brawler’s snarl into a flinty-eyed Western croon. The EP also features versions of Billy Ray’s ‘Ghost Dance,’ ’99 Single Wide,’ ‘Holdin’ On’ and ‘Good at Goodbyes.'”
–Billboard
“With “Mama Said Knock You Out” … Cyrus has taken Marley Marl and Bobby “Bobcat” Ervin’s Golden-Age thump and translated it to banjo-led arena rock twang, with a chorus of “whoa-oh” backing vocals contrasted against Cyrus’ own low-slung vocals.”
–StereoGum
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Fresh off the highest RIAA® 13x Diamond-certified song in history and worldwide smash, “Old Town Road,” which garnered two GRAMMY® Awards, four Billboard Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, two BET Hip Hop Awards, a CMA Award, a Teen Choice Award and an American Music Award, among others, global multi-hyphenate superstar Billy Ray Cyrus returns with The Singin’ Hills Sessions – Mojave, via BBR Music Group. But like the lead lyric of the project says in “Mama Said Knock You Out,” which debuted on Rolling Stone Country, “don’t call it a comeback.”
GLAD I GOT AN EARLY START–
I’m cleaning and rebuilding an S&S Super E for the dicey Knucklehead. Ethanol is bad shit if left in a carb for any length of time. It made a complete mess out of my FXR’s CV carb. This Super E is still gummed-up and brass corrodes like brass on a sailboat if left to the elements. I’m waiting on an S&S rebuild kit, but while hanging out I’m soaking parts and trying to get my phone to work, take photos and save them along with the photos transferred from my old Samsung phone.
I’m waiting on a shim set from McMaster Carr to deal with the front axle nuts on the Salt Torpedo. I need to shim the axles to allow for the proper bearing tension and be able to install cotter keys in the axles. There’s a rule about safety wiring the axle nuts.
I’m packing for another run to Deadwood. I made a deer grille guard and I hope to show you an image of it. I thought it was cool. Paughco helped me out.
I installed the rebuilt mag on Dr. Hamster’s Panhead, but now I might be forced to operate on the Linkert carb on his bike. I didn’t have a problem with the Linkert on my Panhead. They must have been pre-Ethanol. Let’s see. Deadwood Custom Cycles handle the mag.
I hope all the military brothers and sisters had a comfortable Veterans Day. I wish them all the best.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
THE EDUCATIONAL BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 19, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
I tore into an S&S Super E carb this week to make my ’46 Dicey Knucklehead live again. The Morris automatic advance distributor has been in place, untouched, for 25 years, since Dave Morris helped me install and tune it. It fired right up after getting the ethanol out of the carb. Whatta mess.
I’m reading a book by Dr. Pat Allen, “The truth about Men.” My Son, Frank, very wisely recommended it to his growing daughter, when she was just a teenager. It could have been a life saver.
I was going to write a book years ago called the Dogs vs. the Evil Nesters. Pat covers this issue in her book, but it’s something all young people should read. Two things I have gained from this experience. Society often tries to force us to act in opposition to reality. And if we are open to learning, we can learn something everyday.
As Pat explains, men are very different from women, and if we weren’t our race wouldn’t be here today. And because we are it’s good for our race and very bad for the evil nester who expects us to stay home and be good little boys.
We better get to the news before I get in trouble with the Redhead.
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.
HOW TO SIZE HELMETS FROM BIKERLIDS–HELMETS ARE POSSIBLY THE MOST IMPORTANT ITEM OF GEAR THAT YOU WILL EVER BUY. IT IS CRUCIALLY IMPORTANT TO GET THE SIZING RIGHT, THE FIRST TIME. AND BUYING THE WRONG ONE CAN BE AN EXPENSIVE LESSON TO LEARN.
BUT DON’T WORRY. WE ARE HERE TO HELP. FOLLOW OUR HANDY TIPS TO MEASURING UP, AND WITH OUR EASY TO UNDERSTAND SIZE GUIDE, WE WILL MAKE SURE YOU GET IT RIGHT. THE FIRST TIME.
NEWS FROM GENO–Hmmm nothing like behind force fed the new way. I really don’t know anyone who wants this. What is the upside for us? I know the upside for Mary Barra-big bonus for all the extra profit. I’ll always take IC over EV.
General Motors will roll out details of an expanded and accelerated electric vehicle strategy on Thursday in an effort to convince investors it can be a serious competitor to Tesla, people familiar with the plans said.
Hopefully, someone will have the balls to have an open discussion about Climate Change, weather, Carbon Dioxide and Polar Bears. More and more these issues are being attacked on both sides and Al Gore made it that way, when he should have said science is never settled, but let’s keep an eye on all aspects.
Alarmism is not to correct approach. But there’s nothing wrong with taking a city and testing different approaches for the future. Let’s see what works before we shove it down society’s throat.–Bandit
BIKERNET TRADE TECH OPENS DURING PANDEMIC— Spinning levers – How a transmission… – Mechanical Engineering
Spinning levers – How a transmission works (1936) Engineering Books Join our group : Mechanical Engineering.
https://www.facebook.com/Mechanicalengineering95/videos/881926408936509
–EL WAGGS
Professor if metallurgy
Bikernet Trade Tech™
FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE–Came across this photo of “Piracy” at the Dime Bag World Headquarters. In 2006, we built a handtooled leather seat for an Arlen Ness chopper.
Got some really great seats projects coming up…. A lot of dream builds in the works with more legendary builders and motorcycle personalities.
Stay tuned!
Dime Bag Leather
Follow us @Dimebag.leather on Instagram
To order custom seats call/text
309-336-0714
Dimebag.leather@yahoo.com
The Great Reset: Climate Realism vs. Climate Socialism
The future of climate policy is about to be decided.
Join the fight for Climate Realism over Climate Socialism at ICCC-14 on Friday, April 16 and Saturday, April 17, 2021 at Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.
The climate alarmism industry and its media allies present a daily barrage of false, misleading, and one-sided information designed to convince people that a climate crisis is at hand. As the years pass, the “climate crisis” keeps being pushed into the future. Why? Because the forces of collectivism and big, controlling government are using it as a means to gain more control over us.
The global climate agenda, as promoted by the United Nations, is to overhaul the entire global economy, usher in socialism, and forever transform society as one in which individual liberty and economic freedom are crushed.
Klaus Schwab, the founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum, recently penned an article for the special edition of TIME that focused exclusively on the Great Reset, titled ‘A Better Economy Is Possible. But We Need to Reimagine Capitalism to Do It.’ That article reveals the crux of the Great Reset.
As The Heartland Instituite’s Chris Talgo explains, Klaus and the WEF plan to exploit the COVID crisis in the short term, and the “climate crisis” in the long-term, to replace free-market capitalism with what they call “stakeholder capitalism. That would usher in a command-and-control structure on a global scale. And there appears to be little to stop them.
This will be the most important event of the year to counter climate alarmism and the imposition of Great Reset with the best scientists and experts from around the world on those topics.
Will you join us and take a stand against the further aims of those exploiting climate fear to obtain more power over all of us?
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT THE EARLY BIRD RATE OF $199.
Although the program is still coming together, there will be six plenary sessions and 16 panel presentations – with two concurrent tracks – featuring some 40 speakers.
If you have any questions, call The Heartland Institute at 312/377-4000 and ask for Keely Drukala, or email her at kdrukala@heartland.org.
David Frizzell To Perform Hour-Long Live Stream Concert On 615 Hideaway & RFD-TV Monday, November 16 at 6pm CT–
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – CMA and ACM award-winning and Grammy-nominated hitmaker, David Frizzell will host an hour-long live stream concert at 615 Hideaway in Nashville, performing some of his biggest hits from throughout his career as well as other fan favorites including “I’m Gonna Hire A Wino To Decorate Our Home”, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” and more. Join David Frizzell Monday, November 16 at 6pm CT live on Facebook or on RFD-TV.
“We have a wonderful show planned for everyone watching and are looking forward to spending some time with fans from all over the world,” says Frizzell. “I hope you will tune in and sing along!”
Frizzell is currently celebrating the 40th anniversary of “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma,” a duet with Shelly West which was released in 1980 and reached number one in 1981. Although turned down by countless labels, it was featured in Clint Eastwood’s film “Any Which Way You Can,” providing the boost needed to be heard. Once released, it shot to number one and secured a contract for the duo with Warner Brother Records. The duet was even ranked in CMT’s 100 Greatest Duets in country music, reaching number six.
David Frizzell is one of the greatest voices in country music with a haunting resemblance to his older brother, the ultimate stylist, Country Music Hall of Fame member Lefty Frizzell. Both share that raw, forlorn quality that is essential to the interpretation of traditional country themes. Even during the duet years with Shelly West, David Frizzell continued his solo career as well with “I’m Gonna Hire A Wino To Decorate Our Home.” As the producer of the popular Frizzell & Friends series of projects, David brings together some of the top performers in the business for both live and recorded projects such as Crystal Gayle, T. Graham Brown, Johnny Lee, Lacy J. Dalton, and more.
For David Frizzell’s most updated concert calendar visit www.davidfrizzell.com.
Custom Harleys in for a Fight as Indian Launches Build-Off Challenge–Like it or not, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are the rulers of the custom two-wheeler world. There are so many of them out there that they simply dwarf all competition and, knowing this, the Milwaukee company keeps pushing people down the custom route.
It was at the beginning of the year that Harley held it’s King of Kings competition, a race between 15 motorcycles designed by Harley dealers worldwide. The competition called for machines to be customized, within a budget, and using mostly the bike maker’s parts.
The project that went on to win is called Apex Predator, and was made by a dealer in Mexico, Harley-Davidson Queretaro, but all the entries in the race were worth at least a mention, and caused quite a stir back then online.
Now winter is upon us, and as Harley is battling some other challenges, its major foe, Indian, announced it is launching its own build-off competition. Called 2021 Project Scout 3K Challenge, it too is meant for dealers, but sadly just for the ones in the UK.
The rules are simple: those taking part will have to use an Indian Scout as a base, and only 3,000 British pounds ($3,900 at the current exchange rates) can be invested in the project. Why this much?
“Our customers tend to invest an average of three thousand pounds upgrading and customizing over their ownership period, so we wanted our dealer network to showcase that average customer spend in our Project Scout 3k Challenge,” explains in a statement Indian Motorcycle UK Sales Manager, Andrew Simpson.
The bike maker gave its dealers a 12-week deadline to complete the projects, meaning we’ll only get to see the finished products in the early weeks of 2021 – Indian says Project Scout 3K builds will be shown publicly on January 31, 2021, when it kicks off the celebrations for its 120th anniversary.
–Daniel Patrascu
Autoevolution
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT— Just doing a random Pigeon Head search, wouldn’t be the first time. Anyone else.
–RFR
Certified Meteorologist
Bikernet.com™
MRF REPORTS RIDING FREE FROM DC–Your Weekly Biker Bulletin from Inside the Beltway
Your Motorcycle Riders Foundation team in Washington, D.C. is pleased to provide our members with the latest information and updates on issues that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. Count on your MRF to keep you informed about a range of matters that are critical to the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle. Published weekly when the U.S. Congress is in session.
Picture Time!
Over the last few weeks MRF members and SMROs have had the opportunity to meet and thank elected officials for their support of motorcyclists. Below are some pictures of MRF members with lawmakers. Remember if you or your SMRO meet with a lawmaker take a picture and send it to us. We love seeing bikers talking motorcycles and politics with members of Congress!
Getting Organized
The current session of the 116th Congress expires at noon on January 3rd. On that day, the 117th Congress will be sworn in. While the current Congress still has a number of items to deal with, planning for the 117th Congress is already underway. Last week, newly elected members of Congress (A.K.A. Freshmen) traveled to Washington, D.C. for orientation.
Over the course of several days, incoming lawmakers will learn about the mechanics of being a Representative or Senator including office budgets, personnel regulations and travel limitations. Freshman lawmakers need to set up offices both in Washington D.C. and back in their home state. There is no automatic carryover of staff from one lawmaker to the next, so offices will need to hire a full complement of legislative aides.
For many new members, the most highly anticipated aspect of the next few weeks is the Congressional office lottery. Based on seniority, all members of Congress are offered the opportunity to move to new office space. The most coveted offices on Capitol Hill tend to have views of the Capitol Dome, extra square footage or historical significance.
While senior lawmakers rarely move offices, less tenured lawmakers draw numbers to determine the pecking order to pick from newly open offices. Just remember if you came to Washington, D.C. for Bikers Inside the Beltway in the past, the next time you meet with that same lawmaker it might be in a totally new office or building!
The most important activity of the coming weeks will be election of congressional leadership by both parties and the announcement of committee chairmen, ranking members and committee membership.
While there may be some minor changes to congressional leadership it appears the same “Big Four” will return to their leadership posts in 2021. Nancy Pelosi (Speaker of the House), Kevin McCarthy (House Minority Leader), Mitch McConnell (Senate Republican Leader) and Chuck Schumer (Senate Democratic Leader) should all retain their leadership posts. If you’ve been following the news, you know that runoff elections in Georgia will decide which party has the majority in the Senate.
Additionally, in the next few weeks the chairmen and ranking members of all congressional committees will be selected. The membership and ratio of Republicans to Democrats on these committees will also be decided. Seniority will determine which lawmakers get the most sought-after committee assignments.
The MRF will continue to track who ends up where and be prepared to take our message to Capitol Hill when the 117th Congress begins early next year.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK—2019 STREET GLIDE
see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9562180
THIS MOTORCYCLE CAN ONLY BE REGISTERED OR SOLD OUTSIDE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA!
ONLY 5118.00 Miles !!!!!
2019 Wicked Red Harley-Davidson STREET GLIDE FLHX
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* 107 M8 motor
* 6 speed trans
* SVT Boneshaker exhaust
* Custom levers
* Custom mirrors
* 12 Meat-hook ape hangers
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 $19,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
FEMA Wants To Keep Home Recycling Of Motorcycles Alive— Europe has rules in place for the collection and destruction of cars that have come to the end of their life. Motorcycles are exempt from these rules. That may change, if it’s up to the European Commission.
Wim Taal. FEMA’s communications officer: “Inclusion of motorcycles in the scope of the directive could also mean a serious threat to historical motorcycles. These bikes are especially dependent upon on available and affordable original spare parts to keep them in working order.
And who wants to see oldtimers disappear into state approved demolishing facilities?”
These rules are part of the End-of-life Vehicles Directive, aimed at the prevention of waste from vehicles that have come to the end of their life. The directive also tells Member States to set up systems for the collection and de-registration of all end-of life vehicles.
The directive also pushes producers to manufacture new vehicles without hazardous substances (in particular lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium), thus promoting the reuse, recyclability and recovery of waste vehicles.
The directive tells Member States to have all vehicles that have reached the end of their life ‘transferred to authorized treatment facilities’ to be demolished in an environmentally friendly way.
If motorcycles were to be included in the scope of the directive, that could mean the end of so-called home recycling. Recycling of motorcycles and motorcycle parts is an inherent part of motorcycle use.
Home recycling, where you end the bike’s registration and take it apart for reuse of its parts, is a significant part of the motorcycle culture. Home recycling helps to keep bikes on the road with used spare parts, instead of using new parts that have to be produced from raw materials.
As we did in the 1990s, FEMA still believes that the private reuse of motorcycle parts is one of the best ways to prevent waste and to prevent the unnecessary use of raw materials. This way, motorcyclists play their part in the circular economy as well as being environmentally friendly.
Luckily motorcycles and other powered two-wheelers are not included in the scope of the current directive, a position that was lobbied for by FEMA when the directive was written and adopted in the late 1990s.
The European Commission now plans to revise the End-of-life Vehicles Directive and asked for feedback (there will be a public consultation in the second quarter of 2021 and the Commission’s adoption of a revised directive is planned for the second quarter of 2022). As part of the revision of the directive, the European Commission wants to explore the need to have powered two-wheelers include in the scope.
FEMA responded to the European Commission’s request for feedback with the following statement and explains why in our view motorcycles and other powered two-wheelers should not be included in a new directive.
The Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations (FEMA) thanks the European Commission for the opportunity to give its vision on the revision of the End-of-life Vehicles Directive (2000/53/EC).
In FEMA’s view, the current Directive succeeded in preventing waste from vehicles, the reuse of parts from vehicles and improvement of the environmental performance of all economic operators involved in the life cycle of vehicles. We can also understand the need to extend the scope of the directive to other kinds of vehicles than cars.
However, extension of the working of the Directive to powered two-wheelers (PTWs) is less obvious because of the different nature of both use and build of PTWs. PTWs do not have a body like cars; they can have body parts attached to the frame, but this cannot be compared with the body of cars. Most PTWs spend the largest part of their live indoors and as a rule are used for far less kilometres than cars. Because of this, and because parts can easily be removed, PTWs seldomly reach the end of their life like other vehicles do.
Virtually all PTW parts can be reused, through a large network of specialised second-hand part suppliers throughout the European Union, or by users themselves who swap and change parts with other owners. Parts that are not reused are recycled through local recycling schemes or sent on by second-hand part shops. There is no evidence of PTWs being dumped beside the road or otherwise disposed of in an inappropriate manner.
Inclusion of PTWs could even be contrary to the aim the directive, by causing a problem where none exists now. In particular, the certificate of destruction may prohibit users from dismantling their vehicles for the purpose of reusing components. Furthermore, the administrative requirement on specialised second-hand parts businesses, which are generally small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), could mean job losses.
If the European Commission does propose to include motorcycles and other powered two-wheelers in an End-of-life Vehicles Directive, FEMA would ask the Commission to ensure that the possibility of controlled in-house demolition remains possible (as part of a circular economy), either by including it in the Directive, or by allowing Member States to make their own rules and regulations for in-house demolition.
If the European Commission does propose to include motorcycles and other powered two-wheelers in an End-of-life Vehicles Directive, FEMA would ask the Commission to ensure that historic PTWs or PTWs of value to collectors or intended for museums, kept in a proper and environmentally sound manner, either ready for use or stripped into parts, do not fall within the scope of this Directive.
Written by Wim Taal
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN AND MASK FREE–*Bill*: Why are you so tense?
*Jack*: Just fought with my wife. That woman just fights for no reason at all.
*Bill*: Why what happened?
*Jack*: We both were excited and about to start having sex … she removed her Top and jeans ….
I just asked why are you wearing your sister’s Underwear……!!!
–Udey Way
Editor in Chief
Bikernet.com™ International News Bureau
India
PLANET CHOPPER IS ALIVE— Most of you are tarmac adventures, that’s a perfect fit for these tours — no off-road experience is required. Hey Keith, We know you love motorcycling and the freedom of the road, but have you ever considered a motorcycle adventure in India and the Himalayas?
We are very excited to be introducing you to Giant Leap Motorcycle Adventure Tours.
If you’re looking for a way to create great memories, India is the place:
· Motorcycling hasn’t been understood until you’re above the clouds on a dirt road atop the Himalayan mountains. You leave behind petty rules, and a world gone mad.
· Camaraderie has a greater meaning when you share the discovery of new cultures and lands — and when you get a flat tire in the middle of the Great Indian Desert and your new-found friends are by your side.
· These tours are about creating a sense of achievement and doing what most people on the planet wouldn’t even dare to.
Most of you are tarmac adventures, that’s a perfect fit for these tours — no off-road experience is required.
That said, these tours are challenging, but the rewards are huge. Lifelong friendships, stunning scenery and lots of laughs await.
As a Plant Chopper, subscriber you’re getting early bird access to the website and a coupon code* to receive 10% off any of our current tours.
To redeem your voucher use the code PLANETC. *Terms and Conditions Apply.
Visit the website here:
Yourgiantleap.com
Cheers and safe Riding,
–Ben
SADDLEMEN SEAT OF THE WEEK—2018-2020 Scout Bobber Brown Step-Up™ Front LS Seat
Brand Fitment: Indian
Model Fitment: Scout Bobber
Year Fitment: 2018-2020
Color: Black with Black Stitching
GEARED SCIENCE – IAN OLSEN’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOVELHEAD BUILD PART 1 -UNBOXING LOWBROW CUSTOMS ORDER
This 1981 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead is currently in progress by Ian Olsen from Milwaukee, WI. Ian is a welder fabricator that has been involved with about 10 builds at this point. Only one of them was his own.
He is always helping out all of his friends for little or nothing. Now we’re all coming together to get him going on his own build. So far, all that’s been done is the springer installation and the hardtailing of the frame but with the help of Lowbrow he has the fuel to push this build past the finish line!
We sent Ian a handful of parts, like our 120 Piece Pro Builder’s Bung and Tab kit, AMF grips, a Gasbox 2 into 1 Shovelhead Exhaust and much more to get this Shovelhead build closer to reality. Check out this unboxing and the beginnings of what looks like a hell of a cool project.
Geared Science is filming this build for us. Be sure to check out the Geared Science YouTube channel. While you are there subscribe so you get updates as they release killer new videos!
Geared Science Is a short video series about motorcycle builders and contributors. Brian Radmond started shooting these videos with his friends to share their build stories with the world not just showcasing the same Harley Panhead build that you see at every bike show.
His goal is to showcase the daily riding choppers, the track bikes, and everything in between. They might not be the prettiest bikes but they for sure are the ones you see out on the road. He’s diving into how builders create real bikes with the intention of inspiring viewers to have the confidence to take that leap and build their own bikes. Which is an idea we believe in full heartily and support here at Lowbrow Customs!
Ian’s Harley Shovelhead is a roller!
Check out the Lowbrow Customs YouTube channel to check out all of our videos. We spend a lot of time and effort creating motorcycle how-to videos, product reviews and event coverage for your enjoyment, please let us know what you think. Click here to subscribe to the Lowbrow Customs YouTube channel and stay in the know!
MIKEY ARNOLD
Mikey “Revolt” Arnold is a Cleveland based photographer and videographer for Lowbrow Customs and Forever The Chaos Life.
See all the action at Lowbrow Customs:
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT AND MUSIC REVIEW—
The first night I heard her sing, I couldn’t get enough. Check out Tara Thompson – Sadr City.
So, are you on your way back to Deadwood? I like the roads up there, so when does it snow enough they close off the highways? Like that gate at Sturgis, I would love to ride Spearfish Canyon again! I can’t believe I got to ride it twice with no one in front of me! I can’t believe I never went sooner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=ht9tSLkaMvg&app=desktop
–RFR
[page break]
THE ART OF NO MIND BIKERNET TEMPLE PHILOSOPHY CLASS–
“Meditation starts by being separate from the mind, by being a witness. That is the only way of separating yourself from anything. If you are looking at the light, naturally one thing is certain: you are not the light, you are the one who is looking at it. If you are watching the flowers, one thing is certain: you are not the flower, you are the watcher.
“Watching is the key of meditation:
“Watch your mind.
“Don’t do anything – no repetition of mantra, no repetition of the name of god – just watch whatever the mind is doing. Don’t disturb it, don’t prevent it, don’t repress it; don’t do anything at all on your part. You just be a watcher, and the miracle of watching is meditation. As you watch, slowly mind becomes empty of thoughts; but you are not falling asleep, you are becoming more alert, more aware.
“As the mind becomes completely empty, your whole energy becomes aflame of awakening. This flame is the result of meditation. So, you can say meditation is another name of watching, witnessing, observing – without any judgment, without any evaluation. Just by watching, you immediately get out of the mind.”
“If you want to understand exactly what meditation is, Gautam Buddha is the first man to come to its right, exact definition – that is witnessing.”
“The moment you put the mind aside, you have entered into the world of meditation.”
Osho, The Invitation, Talk #21
–Wayfarer
Bikernet Monk
Meditating at the base of the Gray Mountain
STURGIS 1996 FROM THE SHERIFF—
I Have One memory Barry told a story he slid under a truck like in the movies.
But I don’t remember any hospital or ambulances.
However, Barry was always Joking with me. If I went down he had an ice cooler to put my liver in!
–Christer
SHERIFF MEDIA GROUP
S-36030 LAMMHULT
SWEDEN
Over 40% Of Minority-Owned Businesses, Beauty Salons & Retaurants Struggled Paying November Rent
BOSTON, MA: November 12, 2020: Alignable’s Monthly Rent Poll, conducted among 8,092 small business owners from 10/24-10/27/20, found that 44% of minority-owned small business owners could not afford to pay their full rent on time in November.
That’s compared to 35% of women-owned businesses and 32% of nonminority-owned small companies.
Similar trends were seen among minority-owned and women-owned businesses in terms of who received PPP funding earlier this year.
And now, with no additional PPP in sight, the lack of federal funding is causing even more burdens for businesses that are most-affected by the devastating COVID threat.
Lack Of Federal Funds + COVID Surge = Tougher Times
Unfortunately, the rent struggles, and related cash flow issues, are not likely to improve any time soon given the surge in COVID cases across North America. Small business owners say that surge is elevating their fears that the government will force them to close their ailing businesses once again. In some cases, that could mean those businesses won’t survive into 2021.
REPORT FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–
The holidays will be here before we know it. If you’re looking for a David Uhl piece for that special someone (or yourself!), please read on.
Occasionally, we send out emails trying to help find new homes for sold out and rare pieces owned by clients. These do not belong to the studio and are for sale by private collectors. Please view the listings and let me know if any are of interest. Some of these are really tough, if not impossible to find these days.
This is not an all-inclusive list. If the piece you’ve been looking for isn’t listed below, let me know and I’ll check secondary market availability.
Due to an order cancellation, the studio has one set of all 3 Strange Days pieces (matching numbers). All 3 are the 14×18 size and the framed set is priced at $1,200.
“Live to Ride, Ride to Live”
“Timber Titan”
26.5 x 20, $2,200
Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios website
303-913-4840
I only ran a couple of examples, they have many more on their web site.–Bandit
SHARE THE THRILL OF MOTORCYCLE RIDING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON– MILWAUKEE (Nov. 18, 2020) – As we put 2020 in the rearview mirror and focus on the new year, Harley-Davidson wants to help friends and family reconnect with the shared passion of the open road by giving away 500 H-D™ Riding Academy classes this holiday season.
Now through Dec. 31, riders will be able to nominate the non-rider in their life they want to gift the thrill of riding to in 2021. Winners will receive a free H-D Riding Academy class in addition to a $200 Harley-Davidson ™ Gift Card* to use for riding gear to prepare for their course. And the best part is, if your non-rider is selected, you win a $100 Harley-Davidson™ Gift Card* to enjoy for yourself.
“The thrill of riding with your best friend and reconnecting over a shared adventure is the gift that will always keep giving,” said Theo Keetell, Vice President of Marketing, Harley-Davidson. “From backroads to coastal highways, motorcycle riding offers open-air exploration to free your soul and sense of adventure.”
Nominating is easy – and winners will be picked randomly – just follow these steps on your preferred social media platform. The giveaway runs from Nov. 18 to Dec. 31, 2020.
• Instagram: Upload your favorite personal Harley-Davidson motorcycle image. Then @mention the non-rider friend or family member in your life you want to learn to ride and use #GiftOfRiding and #Giveaway. Post must include #GiftOfRiding and #Giveaway.?
• Twitter: Upload your favorite personal Harley-Davidson motorcycle image. Then tag the non-rider friend or family member in your life you want to learn to ride. Tweet must include #GiftOfRiding and #Giveaway.
The Gift of the Open Road
For anyone interested in learning to ride in 2021, H-D™ Riding Academy can help you build your skills on two wheels in just a few days. Offered at select Harley-Davidson dealers, the New Rider Course provides you with expert guidance from Harley-Davidson certified coaches. In the classroom, you’ll get to know the motorcycle you’ll be riding and learn basic riding skills. On the practice range, you’ll build skills and confidence, learning everything from braking, turning and skilled maneuvers. Best of all, you will be connected to a growing community of new riders.
Make the Season Your Own & Dash Through Your Gift List
H-D.com and H-D® Authorized Dealerships are perfect one-stop shops for everyone on your gift list – whether they already ride or have it on their wish list. From inspiring the next generation of riders with the LEGO® Creator Expert Harley-Davidson Fat Boy® Building Sets to fashion forward apparel including customizable flannel and plaid shirts to keep your loved ones warm and toasty this holiday season. For those on the go – whether commuting to work or hitting the road, loved ones will feel like going on an adventure every time they leave the house with the desirable and useful Waxed Canvas Backpack or the Overwatch Dry Bag.
Harley-Davidson has all the season’s hottest gifts, from classic-cool leather jackets to the latest tech and audio toys. For more information on how to make this holiday season your own, visit H-D.com/holiday and be sure not to miss our Black Friday and Cyber Week deals. For more information on the H-D Riding Academy holiday giveaway, visit Harley-Davidson’s Instagram and Twitter pages.
*Card is issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC. Use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Cardholder Agreement. This is an advertisement.
NO SUNSHINE STATE: Many Florida Drivers Don’t Have Valid Licenses . . . Or Insurance–If you drive in Florida, don’t have an accident. One in four vehicles that speed past you or run a red light isn’t covered by insurance. If your car is damaged, the odds of recouping your losses from someone else aren’t good unless you yourself are fully insured.
Florida has the distinction of having the highest percentage of uninsured motorists, according to the Insurance Research Council, at about 27%. And compounding the problem is that many of these motorists—nearly 2 million—are driving with a suspended license, which has usually been revoked due to unpaid fines.
The dilemma: One difficulty renders the other one even worse.
When Insurance Goes Dark
“When a driver’s license has been suspended due to unpaid fines, auto insurers will typically cancel or not renew their auto insurance policy,” says Mark Friedlander, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, a trade group.
When an auto insurance policy is canceled or renewed, the insurer immediately notifies the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) that the vehicle is in violation. Both a valid driver’s license and insurance are required in the Sunshine state—where public transportation is an iffy proposition since nine out of 10 Floridians drive to work.
So being uninsured creates yet another violation.
Florida’s motor vehicle department maintains that about 14 million of its 15 million registered vehicles carry at least the minimum coverage. But don’t count on that in a crackup.
“Just because the vehicle is insured doesn’t mean that the driver has a valid license or is covered by the vehicle’s insurance policy,” says Friedlander. “The unlicensed driver is counted as an uninsured driver.”
Friedlander’s ominous warning: “If you let an unlicensed driver use your car and he or she gets into an auto accident, your insurance claim will be denied.”
It’s easy to understand why people would choose to drive and ignore a license suspension. “People are forced to choose between driving illegally . . . or . . . losing the ability to pay the court debt that triggered their suspensions in the first place,” says a study by the Fines and Fees Justice Center (FFJC).
Could the situation get even worse? Yes, as the cost of driving in the Sunshine State continues to rise.
“Florida ranks second on a list of the least-affordable states for auto insurance,” says another study by the Insurance Research Council. Floridians currently pay an average annual auto insurance premium of $2,239, according to Friedlander.
In March, legislative efforts by Sen. Tom Wright and Rep. Byron Donalds to eliminate driver’s license suspension penalties for unpaid fines died in committee, and won’t be taken up again until at least next year.
Meanwhile, drivers with suspended licenses are “just holding their breath they don’t get caught,” Wright has said.
“We strongly recommend drivers in Florida carry both collision and uninsured motorist coverage to protect yourself,” says Friedlander of the Insurance Information Institute.
–Ed Leefeldt and Amy Danise, Forbes Magazine
NORWAY Victory: more wire rope barriers are removed in Norway
Norwegian motorcyclists celebrate the fact that life-threatening wire rope barriers will be removed along a six-kilometre stretch of the E6 north of Oslo.
–FEMA
COVID-19 UPDATE
Take Note of Evolving State Mandates
With COVID cases spiking across the nation, many states are enacting mask mandates to reduce the spread of the virus. Iowa and North Dakota are the most recent additions to the growing list of more than 34 states with mask requirements.
Each state is taking a unique approach to implementing and managing compliance to the mandates. Some states, including Ohio, are fining people for non-compliance and are requiring businesses to insist patrons wear masks. If a business receives two citations for non-compliant patrons, the business is subject to a 24-hour closure.
The MIC RideReport and @followMIC on Twitter will continue to provide updates.
–MIC
SPLITSVILLE! Terry Vance Dishes on the Harley-Davidson/Vance & Hines Breakup–I think that Terry explained it very well in Thunder Press.
The partnership has lasted for 20 years.
The people who are now riding motorcycles has changed drastically during that time.
While there is still a lot of interest in racing I believe the numbers have gone down. If I read the article correctly Harley is looking for more dealers to get involved like it was in the old days before the factory took over the major financial support.
Vance and Hines will still be building race bikes and products for street bikes, though not clear if items like their exhaust, even if installed by the dealership will void the warranty.
Sound like something that happened with the factory and Eric Buell so years ago.
I suspect Vance and Hines will be around for a long time.
Some new strategies from the factory to boost sales and where to spend money to make that happen are in question.
If that is the case advertising and internet programs may benefit.
–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Bill Tuman passes
Racer was part of Indian Motocycle’s famed Wrecking Crew
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Bill Tuman, a member of Indian Motocycle’s famous racing team dubbed the “Indian Wrecking Crew” and winner of five AMA Grand Nationals during a professional racing career that spanned from 1947 to 1955, has died. He was 99.
The Indian Wrecking Crew was a group of top racers in the late 1940s and early ’50s that included Mr. Tuman, Bobby Hill and Ernie Beckman.
Known as the “Rockford Rocket,” the Illinois resident rarely ventured outside the Midwest to race. So, one of his most surprising victories was at an AMA Grand National on the mile dirt oval in San Mateo, Calif., on June 22, 1952. Mr. Tuman beat all of the top riders from the West Coast on one of their own tracks, something that rarely happened in those days.
Mr. Tuman didn’t begin racing until he was 25. While living in San Francisco after World War II, he got a job building racing bikes at the famous Hap Jones race shop. After watching the legendary Sam Arena win a race, Mr. Tuman became hooked on the sport. His first competition bike was a souped-up Indian Army surplus bike.
Mr. Tuman turned pro in 1947 and entered his first professional race in Daytona Beach, Fla.
He earned podium finishes in 1948 and 1949, before taking his first national win in Des Moines, Iowa, on Sept. 17, 1950. A month later Mr. Tuman took his second national win in Reading, Pa. In March 1951 at the annual AMA Awards Banquet in Daytona Beach, Fla., he was voted the AMA’s Most Popular Rider of 1950.
Mr. Tuman’s best season came in 1953 when he won the legendary Independence Day weekend event at Dodge City, Kan., a 200 miler over a two-mile dirt oval, on a Norton.
Mr. Tuman was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998. He also was inducted into the AMA District 17 Hall of Fame.
His full biography is at motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail.aspx?RacerID=92.
For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
MORE SHIT IN THE DIME BAG–Yo, been seeing cool folks, custom motorcycles and events down south from Kentucky to Florida over to Texas. Met the folks at Born to Ride media at Daytona Bike Week. They supplied me with a Born to Ride shirt and a copy of Born to Rude Magazine. It featured Toth Fabrications chopper with a Dime Bag Leather custom seat in the magazine.
Starting another custom seat for Choppers Inc this week. Been working with his customer for weeks now with the artwork. Always exciting to work with Billy.
Also heard from Paul Sr. Hoping to get the opportunity to work with OCC. Made a Dime Bag Handtooled Leather Mudflap for our friend Dan Starkeys Shovelhead.
Busy as always in the Dime Bag World Headquarters. Starting some handmade leather chopper seats, wallets and time covers that will be available for purchase soon. I need to get to work on the Dime Bag Leather Facebook page.
Happy Thanksgiving the everyone and be blessed with great family and friends
–Adam Croft
Dime Bag Leather
309-336-0714
Follow us @dimebag.leather on Instagram
Ask about our Active military/Veterans 20% off discount.
CALIFA ALERT–California Seeks 150 Participants for Road User-Charge Research–As part of continued work to study an alternative to the state fuel tax, the California Department of Transportation is seeking 150 volunteers for road user-charge research.
The California Road Charge Phased Demonstration program, represented in four phases, is meant to explore how drivers could be charged for the miles they travel, rather than the fuel they use. The program outlines several methods for collecting revenue, such as paying at the pump or at electric vehicle charging stations, or through a usage-based insurance approach.
Through the insurance-related approach, state officials would coordinate with insurance companies, which could use mileage numbers to calculate someone’s road charge and add it to his or her bill.
In California, the excise tax rate is 38.5 cents per gallon on diesel and 50.5 cents per gallon on gasoline. Fuel taxes are California’s primary source of state funding for road and highway projects. However, because vehicles have become more fuel-efficient, Caltrans is testing various options that assess mileage fees based on drivers’ use of the roads.
“Caltrans is continuing its research to explore how a future road user charge can fund transportation projects throughout the state,” Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin said. “We want Californians to join us in testing payment options that will inform our research in designing an equitable and sustainable road charge program.”
The demonstration program will start in January and is expected to run for six months. According to Caltrans, participants will be eligible for up to $100 in incentives for their time and feedback. Participants must be California residents older than 18. They do not need to own or lease a vehicle to participate.
In the future, phases of Caltrans’ demonstration program will test app-based payment of rideshare miles and the use data from autonomous vehicles. The rideshare model would involve the growing popularity of ride-hailing services, calculating a road charge using technology that already is incorporated in these services to capture mileage. The autonomous vehicle phase would rely on mileage data collected from the vehicles themselves to develop a charge system.
Read the whole story on ttNews.com
Yep, and what about electric cars. It’s too bad the bucks don’t seem to get to the streets and highways. They are a mess and we need infrastructure for a growing population, not for the old one.–Bandit
NICK’S PICKS OF THE MONTH— Introducing Nick’s Picks: November 2020
BY NICK MARIETTA
As Thanksgiving approaches, everyone here at Twisted Road would like to say how thankful we are for the incredible community that you all helped to create. We’re also grateful for wind therapy, open roads, and fall foliage. Rent one of the bikes below—or one of the thousands available on our site—to find what you’re thankful for.
1. Robert C.’s 2015 Yamaha FJ09
Sterling, VA
2. Justin B.’s 2012 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Touring
Howell, MI
3. Destination Cycle’s 2013 Yamaha Super Tenere
Kerrville, TX
Questions or comments?
Have a bike you want to share on Nick’s Picks?
nick@twistedroad.com
MOTO QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“NO ROAD IS TOO LONG IF YOU HAVE GOOD COMPANY”
WHAT WEATHER?!
WE OFFER FREE ENCLOSED PICKUP AND DELIVERY FOR SERVICE APPOINTMENTS, SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY WHAT THE WEATHER LOOKS LIKE!
BOOK YOUR SERVICE TODAY!
DON’T BE THIS GUY…
LET US BABY YOUR BABY. CHECK OUT OUR BASIC AND PREMIUM WINTER STORAGE PACKAGES FOR YOUR BIKE. COMES WITH FREE PICKUP AND DELIVERY!
ASK ABOUT OUR WINTER STORAGE
LAYER UP: A snug-fitting base layer, a fleece or down jacket as a mid layer, and A wind/water-proof outer layer
…FROM HEAD TO TOE: A warm pair of water and windproof gloves, heated grips, Goretex boots, and grippier pegs.
CHECK YOUR TIRES: Your tires should be fairly new with at least 50% tread life on them, but ideally you’d be using a set of all-weather tires.
KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE ROAD, EVEN MORE THAN USUAL: Watch for salt, ice, and cracks in the road.
HAVE A PLAN..OR TWO: Keep the number of a motorcycle towing service handy. Keep an eye on the forecast.
For pricing on any bike accessories, winter riding gear or winter services give our service department a call at 610-369-3120.
–Dennis
Martin Moto
MEMO FROM THE BIKERNET™ TWO-WHEELED MONKS--Attitude of Gratitude
I have seen better days,
but I’ve also seen worse.
I don’t have everything I want,
but I do have all I need.
I woke up with some aches and pains,
but I woke up.
My life may not be perfect,
but I am blessed.
–Wayfarer
Master of the Mind Philosopher
Bikernet™ Temple
At the base of the Gray Mountain
India
MOTORISTS VOTE 2020 Ballot Initiatives Final Count— Statewide ballot initiatives and local votes on infrastructure and transit have now been finalized from the November 3, 2020 election. Check out the final results below from the motorists’ rights statewide initiatives we outlined in the NMA weekly E-Newsletter #612. Important local election results follow the state ballot initiatives reporting.
Statewide Ballot Initiatives
Arkansas
Arkansas Transportation Sales Tax Continuation Amendment (2020)
Passed by a 55 percent majority.
The state will create a permanent 0.5 percent sales tax that pays for infrastructure funding.
California
California Proposition 22, App-Based Drivers as Contractors and Labor Policies Initiative (2020)
Passed by a 58 percent majority.
Rideshare and food delivery companies spent $205 million to win this vote. Gig drivers are still gig drivers with few benefits. Here are a few articles on this important vote with national implications:
Uber wins big over gig workers in California Prop 22 vote (Fast Company)
California’s vote to keep Uber drivers as contractors is a blow to the labor movement (Fast Company)
Proposition 22 Passes, But Uber and Lyft Are Only Delaying the Inevitable (Vice)
Uber, Lyft see California ballot win as national model (Auto News)
California’s Prop 22 Wins in Massive Handout to Unsustainable Transportation (Streetsblog USA)
California Proposition 24, Consumer Personal Information Law and Agency Initiative (2020)
Passed by a 56 percent majority.
California will now expand the state’s consumer data privacy laws and will create the Privacy Protection Agency to enforce the state’s data privacy laws.
Georgia
The Georgia Dedicating Tax and Fee Revenue Amendment (2020)
Passed by an 82 percent majority.
State officials will now change the state constitution to ensure that the legislature spends funds from fees or taxes on designated projects, rather than divert them.
Maryland
Maryland Question 1, Legislative Authority over State Budget Amendment (2020)
Passed by a 76 percent majority.
State officials may now change the state constitution to allow the Maryland General Assembly to increase, decrease, or add items to the state budget as long as those items do not exceed the total proposed budget submitted by the governor.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Question 1, “Right to Repair Law” Vehicle Data Access Requirement Initiative (2020)
Passed by a 75 percent majority.
Question 1 received a great deal of national press because of its potential to establish a precedent for other states on crucial car ownership issues. Automakers spent $43 million to defeat the measure.
Massachusetts Voters overwhelmingly back ‘Right to Repair’ ballot question, reject ranked-choice voting (Boston Globe)
Massachusetts voters pass right-to-repair expansion opening up car data (Auto Blog)
Massachusetts Voters Affirm the Right To Repair Your Own Car (Reason)
Michigan
Michigan Search Warrant for Electronic Data Amendment (2020)
Passed by an 89 percent majority.
This constitutional amendment will now require a police search warrant to access a suspect’s electronic data and electronic communications. Other states will hopefully be encouraged to build their own initiatives on personal data protection standards.
Virginia
Virginia Motor Vehicle Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans Amendment (2020)
Passed by an 86 percent majority.
Permanently disabled vets will now have an exemption from state and local property taxes on one car or truck.
Credit: Michael Rivera
[page break]
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN, MASK FREE–Hahahahahaha
1. When one door closes and another door opens, you are probably in prison.
2. To me, “drink responsibly” means don’t spill it.
3. Age 60 might be the new 40, but 9:00 pm is the new midnight.
4. It’s the start of a brand new day, and I’m off like a herd of turtles.
5. The older I get, the earlier it gets late.
6. When I say, “The other day,” I could be referring to any time between yesterday and 40 years ago.
7. I remember being able to get up without making sound effects.
8. I had my patience tested. I’m negative.
9. Remember, if you lose a sock in the dryer, it comes back as a Tupperware lid that doesn’t fit any of your containers.
10. If you’re sitting in public and a stranger takes the seat next to you, just stare straight ahead and say, “Did you bring the money?”
11. When you ask me what I am doing today, and I say “nothing,” it does not mean I am free. It means I am doing nothing.
12. I finally got eight hours of sleep. It took me three days, but whatever.
13. I run like the winded.
14. I hate when a couple argues in public, and I missed the beginning and don’t know whose side I’m on.
15. When someone asks what I did over the weekend, I squint and ask, “Why, what did you hear?”
16. When you do squats, are your knees supposed to sound like a goat chewing on an aluminum can stuffed with celery?
17. I don’t mean to interrupt people. I just randomly remember things and get really excited.
18. When I ask for directions, please don’t use words like “east.”
19. Don’t bother walking a mile in my shoes. That would be boring. Spend 30 seconds in my head. That’ll freak you right out.
20. Sometimes, someone unexpected comes into your life out of nowhere, makes your heart race, and changes you forever. We call those people cops.
21. My luck is like a bald guy who just won a comb.
–EL WAGGS
Mother superior librarian
Bandit’s Cantina Bad Joke Library
SONG LYRICS OF THE WEEK–
Black and Blue by Louis Armstrong
Cold empty bed, springs hard as lead
Feel like old Ned, wished I was dead
What did I do to be so black and blue?
Even the mouse ran from my house
They laugh at you, and scorn you too
What did I do to be so black and blue?
I’m white inside, but that don’t help my case
‘Cause I can’t hide what is in my face
How would it end? Ain’t got a friend
My only sin is in my skin
What did I do to be so black and blue?
How would it end? Ain’t got a friend
My only sin is in my skin
What did I do to be so black and blue?
POSTPONED SHOWS–Custombike-Show/Germany Postponed to December 2021; Motor Bike Expo/Verona Postponed to Spring 2021
Following the financial problems encountered this year by custombike magazine publisher and show organizer Huber Verlag, the operators of the Bad Salzuflen, Germany, regional expo center, where Huber had staged its annual Custombike-Show on the first weekend of December each year, had taken over ownership of the show and hoped to be able to stage it as usual in December this year.
However, with infection rates, hospitalizations and deaths on the rise again in Germany and the rest of Europe, the show has been postponed until December 3-5, 2021.
Meanwhile in Italy, Motor Bike Expo (the ‘Verona’ Show) has announced the postponement of its 2021 show from the planned January dates to later in the spring of 2021.
“Aware of the difficult situation we all face, we have come up with an alternative solution. With the hope that the international situation will soon take a significant turn for the better, we are convinced that the best choice at the moment is to postpone MBE 2021 to the beginning of spring.
“At this stage it is impossible for us to guarantee the expected level of success of the event, both in terms of commercial results for exhibitors as well as offering the full, dynamic visitor experience.
“For these reasons – and above all for the protection of everyone’s health and to offer an even more significant and satisfying edition of the event – postponement is the best option.”
The organizers of Motor Bike Expo are looking at the positives where they can and have quite rightly pointed to one big upside of a spring timing, namely that many more visitors will be able to come to the show by motorcycle.
“As with every situation which may initially seem negative, we focus on the positive implications and new opportunities that this scenario can present to us, such as the possibility for visitors to reach the event directly by motorcycle, further expansion of exhibition spaces with greater use of outdoor areas, strengthening of test ride activities and an increase in outdoor entertainment activities.
“Longer days and milder weather can be a winning combination and we look forward to being able to deliver a different kind of show when we all hope the world will be in a ‘better place’ in terms of this health crisis.”
www.custombike-show.de
www.Motorbikeexpo.it
–DealerNews
MORE FROM GENO ON H-D— Jeez $88,000 for a fancy bagger? Insanity !!!!!!!!
Harley-Davidson sees sales drop after an initial surge and its India operation suffers from executive turnover.
Iconic motorcycle company Harley-Davidson (HOG) reportedly plans to leave India, the world’s largest market for two-wheelers, because on poor sales.
The New York Times reported that Harley-Davidson was pulling out of India after its bikes sold poorly in a country where incomes are low and manufacturing is challenging.
India is one of the world’s largest motorbike and scooter markets but the bulk of sales come from low-end, commuter models.
The company sold a total of 2,470 bikes in India in the 12 months that ended in March, almost half the number it reached five years ago, the Times reported, citing the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.
Harley-Davidson’s top model exceeds $88,000 in Delhi after taxes and licensing fees, which is 41 times India’s average yearly income.
Harley-Davidson said in September it would discontinue its sales and manufacturing operations in India after a decade of struggling to gain a foothold, Reuters reported.
A month later the company entered a distribution deal with India’s Hero MotoCorp which will also develop motorcycles to be sold under the Harley-Davidson brand.
On Tuesday, Reuters reported that Harley-Davidson dealers in India said they were exploring legal action against the company. General Motors (GM) , MAN Trucks and UM Motorcycles have also exited India in the last three years.
Harley-Davison said it planned to concentrate on about 50 markets, primarily in North America, Europe and parts of Asia Pacific, that represent a high percentage of the company’s expected volume and growth potential.
–By Rob Lenihan, The Street
Read in TheStreet: https://apple.news/A6VxWv88WR-2AxqNpJy3nxQ
You should read our most excellent, at the India front report from the Wayfarer regarding H-D in India.—Bandit
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=14723&id=14723
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY POLITICAL DEPARTMENT WORD OF THE DAY–irenic
[ ahy-ren-ik, ahy-ree-nik ]
adjective
Tending to promote peace or reconciliation; peaceful or conciliatory.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF IRENIC?
Irenic “peaceful, conciliatory” comes straight from Greek eirenikós “belonging to peace,” a derivative of the noun eir?ne. Eir?ne was also the name of the Greek goddess of Peace, the name of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, and the name of several Christian saints, whence the English female name Irene. The bewildering number of dialect forms (ira´na, ir?na, ireina, etc.) point to a non-Greek origin. Irenic entered English in the second half of the 19th century.
HOW IS IRENIC USED?
When casual readers of poetry think about Heaney, his Irishness, his charisma, his connection to thousands of years of poetic tradition …, and his irenic political attitudes first come to mind.
STEPHANIE BURT, “HOW SEAMUS HEANEY BECAME A POET OF HAPPINESS,” THE NEW YORKER, OCTOBER 3, 2019
After a presidential election that deserves the word it was given in headlines—historic—welcome to the newly irenic but still newsworthy period in American politics that goes by the ancient Latin name of interregnum, “between reigns.”
WILLIAM SAFIRE, “INTERREGNUM,” NEW YORK TIMES, NOVEMBER 14, 2008
–from Dictionary.com
THE DAV NEEDS RECRUITS–
We’re in the final stretch of our Recruit a Warrior Challenge. And with the holiday season right around the corner, there’s truly no better time to join the challenge for your chance to win $1,000!
Remember, it’s easy to participate — simply copy and paste your FULL link and share it with the veterans in your life through email, text or even social media. For every new member you recruit, you’re entered into our drawing to win $1,000. Here’s your current recruitment status:
Without members like you, there would be no DAV. You are our lifeblood, and we depend on you to help ensure DAV is strong for future generations of veterans. Thank you so much for doing your part to grow our community of veterans helping veterans.
Douglas K. Wells, Jr.
DAV National Membership Director
TURN SIGNALS OF THE WEEK--Kodlin Elypse
LED Front Turn Signals
FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
• Super small, amazingly bright amber turn signal
• Smoked lenses with SMD-LED technology
• Engineered in Germany
• Available as universal fit or a direct bolt-on for M8 Softails
• Chrome and Black finish
• The housing is CNC machined from billet aluminum
• Some applications may require the use of a
load equalizer
• To add the running light function to the Kodlin turn
signals (dual-function), we suggest using Badlands
part number IHL-03 or Kodlin part number KUS11300
Retail: $119.95 (Sold in pairs)
PART # FITMENT
K68458 Kodlin Black Elypse LED Turn Signals for M8 Softail models
K68486 Kodlin Chrome Elypse LED Turn Signals for M8 Softail models
K68460 Kodlin Black Universal Elypse LED Turn Signals
K68488 Kodlin Chrome Universal Elypse LED Turn Signals
Lady bikers smile for LIFE Magazine, 1949
Whoever said men used to be the only ones who rode motorcycles have never seen this 1949 photo.
For these women, there was nothing more electrifying than hitting the open road and feeling the wind blow in your hair as you drive that steel horse.
The American lady bikers were more than thrilled to ride their bikes after the war has been won. For once, they had hope again. Everything was going to be okay. Here’s to riding until we ran out of road.
–from Barry Green
Photo Editor
Bikernet.com™
And no helmets. That’s when freedom mattered—Bandit
BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB–This officially licensed 120th anniversary edition of Indian Motorcycle tells the complete story of Indian Motorcycle.
America’s first mass-produced motorcycle maker is covered, from its start as a bicycle manufacturer to the purchase of the brand by Polaris Industries in 2011 and the subsequent new Indian motorcycles. It was approved by Polaris Industries and updated to include new photography, the story of the latest models, including the FTR1200, Chieftain, Challenger, and Roadmaster, and Indian Motorcycle’s return to racing.ca
$50.00 / £35.00
Author: Darwin Holmstrom
Format: Hardback, 232 Pages
ISBN: 9780760366530
Publisher: Motorbooks
MOTORCYCLE ESSENTIALS FROM BIKERLID--TOP ESSENTIALS ON A MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIP–Power Banks
This is an indispensable item to have while on your road trip. You wouldn’t want a situation where your phone battery is dead, and you can’t power it back up. While on a road trip, it is very dangerous to have a “dead” phone. There may be a security situation that will warrant you call for help. Therefore, having a power bank while going on your motorbike road trip is very important.
An Extra Phone Battery
Another important motorcycle road trip essential is a backup phone battery. If you can’t have a power bank, an extra phone battery can suffice. However, it all depends on the length of time you intend to spend on your trip. Never embark on any road trip without a backup for your phone battery. It can be your lifesaver in dire situations.
A long cable with a length of 24-36 inches with loops on each end comes in handy when you are on your motorbike road trip. It is a great way to lock up your jacket and helmet to your bike when you don’t want to carry it around with you. You can slide it through the sleeves of your jacket and the visor opening of your helmet. This way, you will secure it with a disc lock that doubles as extra bike security.
Spare Key
This is one of the motorcycle road trip essentials that you hardly think of having on your trip. You will not know the importance of having a spare key until you lose your keys during the trip. There are a few good places to keep your spare key. You have it zip-tied inside a storage compartment, duct-tape it to the bottom of your passenger seat.
An Extra Helmet
You may think it is not important to have an extra helmet with you while going on your motorbike trip. There is the possibility that you may run into a stranded individual along the road. Beanie helmets are always light and easy to carry around.
Ziplock Freezer Bag
You may have a good water-resistant motorcycle gear while on your road trip. However, you could be caught off guard with some unexpected rainfall while on your road trip. There are certain items you cannot risk getting wet, like your cell phone and wallet. A Ziplock freezer bag is the perfect dry bag for all these small items you want to protect from showers.
This is an essential item you can’t afford to leave behind while embarking on your motorcycle road trip. There will be a time you go outside on a cold morning and find your seat, grips, and gauges wet with condensation. In such situations, you will be glad you have your microfiber rag. It also serves to clean surfaces, wipe off the hot water, or a rag when you are doing road maintenance. This is a must-have item for your motorbike road trip.
You never know when your bike might develop some fault and will need maintenance. Therefore, having your tool kit with you while going on a motorbike trip is essential. Always keep a small travel kit with you, and a multi-tool is always something you need to have around. You wouldn’t want to be stranded because you don’t have a tool kit to repair a fault on your motorbike.
This is arguably the most overlooked but most essential tool to have while on your motorbike road trip. You can’t do anything if you are caught in the dark. It is also important for you not to rely on your cell phone light because it drains the battery faster. You can get a small but powerful LED light or a headlamp. Always keep it handy because when its need arise, you will be glad you have it.
Having a map is good, but a GPS unit is great and a more convenient way of knowing where you are at every point in time. Meanwhile, if you have a cell mount on your motorbike, you use your cell phone and save yourself some money. However, it is great to have a motorcycle specific GPS unit. Most of these motorcycle GPS units come with big touchscreens that are designed to work with your motorcycle gloves. A Bluetooth helmet communicator will be a great asset because you can connect it to your navigation system to hear the directions.
This is highly essential because you might never know when you will get a flat tire. You can re-inflate the tire with your portable air compressor. This tool can help you get to a garage, irrespective of where you punctured your tire. This comes in handy for adventure riders who deflate their tires while off-roading but would need to re-inflate for the road.
This is a must-have, especially when you are travelling all by yourself. Nobody prays to have an accident, but you need to be prepared whenever you are on a trip. If you crash on a lonely route or gets trapped under your motorbike, you can use this emergency communicator to reach out to your friends, family members, or rescue services. Although it is something, you don’t pray to need while on your motorbike trip, you must always have it on you while travelling on your bike.
These motorcycle road trip essentials will be of great help to you if you always take them along for your motorbike trips. For your contributions, kindly use the comment section below.
Success in the US-EU trade war: no extra tax on American motorcycle parts
The United States government put extra taxes on European products like whisky and French cheese and it is now Europe’s turn to impose extra charges on American products. However, American motorcycle parts are taken off the list and will not be taxed.
–FEMA
TODAY IN HISTORY— THIS DAY IN HISTORY
NOVEMBER 19, 1863
President Lincoln delivers Gettysburg Address
On November 19, 1863, at the dedication of a military cemetery at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, during the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln delivers one of the most memorable speeches in American history. In fewer than 275 words, Lincoln brilliantly and movingly reminded a war-weary public why the Union had to fight, and win, the Civil War.
The Battle of Gettysburg, fought some four months earlier, was the single bloodiest battle of the Civil War. Over the course of three days, more than 45,000 men were killed, injured, captured or went missing. The battle also proved to be the turning point of the war: General Robert E. Lee’s defeat and retreat from Gettysburg marked the last Confederate invasion of Northern territory and the beginning of the Southern army’s ultimate decline.
Charged by Pennsylvania’s governor, Andrew Curtin, to care for the Gettysburg dead, an attorney named David Wills bought 17 acres of pasture to turn into a cemetery for the more than 7,500 who fell in battle. Wills invited Edward Everett, one of the most famous orators of the day, to deliver a speech at the cemetery’s dedication. Almost as an afterthought, Wills also sent a letter to Lincoln—just two weeks before the ceremony—requesting “a few appropriate remarks” to consecrate the grounds.
At the dedication, the crowd listened for two hours to Everett before Lincoln spoke. Lincoln’s address lasted just two or three minutes.
The speech reflected his redefined belief that the Civil War was not just a fight to save the Union, but a struggle for freedom and equality for all, an idea Lincoln had not championed in the years leading up to the war.
This was his stirring conclusion: “The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Reception of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was initially mixed, divided strictly along partisan lines. Nevertheless, the “little speech,” as he later called it, is thought by many today to be the most eloquent articulation of the democratic vision ever written.
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/lincoln-delivers-gettysburg-address
BY HISTORY.COM EDITORS
–HISTORY CHANNEL
RED CROSS BRINGS YOU THANKSGIVING SAFETY— 5 ways to prevent cooking fires
While COVID-19 has changed many holiday plans, continue to protect yourself from cooking fires, which typically peak on Thanksgiving
LOS ANGELES, November 19, 2020— While the coronavirus may have changed many of our Thanksgiving gatherings, the need to protect ourselves from cooking fires continues.
Typically, Thanksgiving is one of the peak days for cooking fires, which is the top cause of home fires in the U.S. Most often, these emergencies are caused by unattended cooking — a common behavior shared by nearly 70 percent of us, as shown in a national American Red Cross survey earlier this year.
Keep an eye on what you fry! Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a short period of time, turn off the stove.
Move items that can burn away from the stove. This includes dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper and curtains. Also keep children and pets at least three feet away.
Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking.
When frying food, turn the burner off if you see smoke or if the grease starts to boil. Carefully remove the pan from the burner.
Keep a pan lid or a cookie sheet nearby. Use it to cover the pan if it catches on fire. This will put out the fire. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
TWO MINUTES TO ESCAPE A FIRE Test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can get out in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.
Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to practice with your family. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in app stores).
Additionally, the Red Cross PrepareSoCal campaign provides resources for families across Southern California to help them prepare for disasters like home fires. More information can be found at preparesocal.org.
For COVID-19 safety tips, visit redcross.org/coronavirus.
For more information, please visit redcross.org/la or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossLA or @CruzRojaLA.
HANG ON!—The Holidays are fast approaching. Hell, Thanksgiving is next Thursday. And a new Panhead project just landed in the shop.
I may have an intern around here to help with the shop. She’s just a tattooed 28-year-old, electrician who just broke up with her old man and got her Santee rigid frame back. She just bought a 1962 Panhead engine from Ryan McQuiston, at McQuiston’s Custom Cycles in Long Beach. She will be on the hunt for a 4-speed transmission at the Long Beach Swap meet this weekend.
She’s currently a Redhead, Hang on!
We are ready for a speed run with the Salt Torpedo, but Micah is or was trying to escape Los Angeles and California. He looked in Prescott, Arizona, but didn’t find what he needed. He’s a member of the Uglies and has Carlos and Emma in Auburn, CA, so he went to check it out. He’s currently in escrow. That may delay our trip to El Mirage.
Tomorrow, we will cover another Cruz Tool kit and how we used it with a Bandit’s Dayroll.
We have more road tests of CVO models and I’m working on another Sam’s Picks of the Week. Hang On!
In the meantime, Ride Free, while you can!
–Bandit
THE THANKSGIVING BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for November 26, 2020
By Bandit |
HEY, HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE BIKERNET STAFF
The Bikernet staff wants to say, “Thanks!” In a very big way, we are thankful to still be doing what we love to do everyday.
Just the other day a perfect stranger, a 28-year-old Redhead wandered into the shop. Honor’s friend, Megan, just broke up with her old man and needed a place to stay. All she had to her name was a rigid frame, a link to a partial Panhead engine, and pieces of a primary belt drive.
Immediately, Honor shared her space in the front of the Bikernet headquarters. Ryan McQuiston, of McQuiston’s Custom Cycles offered her a job, while she worked on transferring her electrician union standing to a local group. And the brothers in the shop checked her frame (not that one) and started to chase parts for her first bike. It’s like that with bikers all over the world. Always willing to help anyone with anything.
We are damn thankful to every Bikernet Reader, staff, Contributor, Cantina Member and 5-Ball Customer for helping us keep the lights on, sharing the action and enjoying the ride everyday.
I wish everyone the absolute best this Thanksgiving. See you in Bonneville next year.
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.
DIRECT FROM THE TOWN OF BUFFALO CHIP–Don’t give up your fun in 2021.
There’s a place where you can still experience
MUSIC, MOTORCYCLES, FREEDOM & FRIENDSHIPS
in a way that will enrich your life and feed our soul.
THE STURGIS BUFFALO CHIP®
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Exotic and custom seats are available.
All of our stitch patterns and inlays are crafted by hand – no computers!
Please note: This continuous inlay can only be made on a King Cobra or a Cobra. We can make the Demon Solo Inlay on a driver and passenger section; however it will be two separate patterns.
The Demon Full Inlay shown features embossed blue gator on our King Cobra in full leather MSRP $853.00
More material options can be found at the Le Pera web site.
Please contact your local dealer or contact us for custom pricing.
Embossed Inlay MSRP :
Starting at $255 + std seat price
Genuine Exotic Inlay MSRP :
Starting at $520 + std seat price
AMA NEWS — The AMA cautioned the California Air Resources Board and offered to work with the agency as it revamps its testing fee structure for off-highway and dual-sport motorcycles.
Fee increases that raise the price of motorcycles or aftermarket equipment reduce the demand for those products. And that reduced demand affects economic opportunities related to the use of those products, such as hotel stays, restaurant visits and other spending by individuals and families.
“With respect to youth-oriented off-road models, recognition of different use and cost implications of a new testing fee structure is critical,” the AMA wrote to CARB. “AMA members and their families need continued access to reasonably priced, youth-appropriate vehicles. Without access to these appropriately sized vehicles, younger riders might be wrongly encouraged to ride adult-sized machines.”
Those bastards are after us. Although their mandate is deeply flawed, unrealistic, and inaccurate, it’s their control religion, and we let it get too far. Hang on!–Bandit
Gettysburg Bike Week 20th Anniversary Black Friday Sale–Gettysburg, PA (November 25, 2020) – Gettysburg Bike Week is back for the 20th anniversary rally at the Allstar Events Complex in Gettysburg, PA with a Black Friday special on tickets, the deepest discounted ticket offer leading up the event.
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Gettysburg Bike Week is offering $33 tickets for the weekend pass and $22 for the 2 day passes and $14 one day pass. The event will be held Thursday July 8th-Sunday July 11th.
“We wanted to give riders something to look forward to for 2021. 2020 has been hard on everyone, so we decided to offer our best rate on tickets for the 20th anniversary of our event.” says Gettysburg Bike Week Owner Kelly Shue. “We have already started to work on COVID-19 safety protocol so our event can be put on safely. We missed everyone in 2020 and can’t wait to see everyone.”
This year’s musical acts include Thursday’s lineup starts the weekend with a bang featuring The Colt Wilbur Band, Fade to Black a Tribute to Metallica and Dave Bray USA. Friday will feature the every popular Jasmine Cain, Honey Pump and headliner Buckcherry. Saturday always features a full day of rides and an evening of rock n roll.
Saturday nights lineup features local favorites Small Town Titans, Redemption Road and headliner KIX. Ever present emcee Jack Schit will once again perform master of ceremonies duties throughout the week on the Budweiser Stage, Gin Gypsies will be slinging drinks in their usual boisterous fashion (with some safety restrictions in place). The cornhole tournament and mini-bike racing have been huge successes and you can be sure that they are coming back with a vengeance.
Expect heavy competition in the Cycle Source Ride-In Bike Show, Bike Games and Rodeo. Discounted tickets for two and four-day passes are available here starting Thursday November 26th at midnight and ending Sunday November 29th at midnight, once it hits midnight the deal is done so make sure to head over and buy them for your friends and family.
Gettysburg Bike Week tickets make the perfect stocking stuffer and will be the deepest discounted ticket price offer for Gettysburg Bike Week 20th Anniversary.
No rally is complete without great riding, and Gettysburg has some of the best riding around. Whether riders want to see historic battlegrounds or just hit the road for a great cruise, hundreds of miles of the best riding in the East surrounds Gettysburg. In addition to fantastic solo riding, GBW also features awesome group rides throughout the weekend event.
Black Friday Discount Pricing for Gettysburg Bike Week is as follows:
$33 per-person 4-day passes, available online
$22 per-person 2-day passes, available online
$14 per-person 1-day passes, available online
New and returning riders can find updates, the schedule of events, lodging information and anything they ever needed to know about Gettysburg Bike Week by visiting http://www.gettysburgbikeweek.com.
NMA CONFIRMS IT–Illinois Supreme Court Confirms Existence Of Illegal Traffic Ticket Quota–
Sparta, Illinois, traffic ticket quota struck down as illegal by the state Supreme Court.
Illinois Supreme Court
Many states have laws prohibiting government officials from imposing traffic ticket quotas on police officers, but they are routinely ignored. Localities are often able to achieve the goal of increasing ticket-writing activity without having the formal “quota” label for the revenue generating demands placed on police officers. On Thursday, the Illinois Supreme Court refused to play word games and struck down an “activity point” system as illegal.
The city of Sparta had thought in 2013 it could use the activity point label to get around the ticket quota ban, which outlaws the practice of requiring an officer to issue “a specific number of citations within a designated period.” Officers on the day shift were required to rack up 82 “points” and night-shift officers needed to score 65 points, with a traffic ticket counted as two points, but a warning written to a motorist earning a single point.
“Failure to reach the minimum monthly points will result in discipline,” the Sparta police policy explained. “Discipline will be corrective and progressive in nature.”
The local police union, the Policemen’s Benevolent Labor Committee, decided to file suit to protect officers from this policy. A circuit court judge rejected the idea that the point system was merely a traffic ticket quota in disguise. Officers could, in theory, meet the points target without issuing any tickets at all, the city argued. The high court justices did not buy that argument.
“The policy, at least indirectly, may compare police officers based on the number of citations issued because points are awarded for citations and officers are compared and receive awards based on points of contact,” the high court ruled. “By granting awards based on points of contact, the policy may provide an incentive for officers to write citations to accumulate as many points as possible.”
The court noted that the points system could still be used for other elements of the policeman’s job — just not the issuance of tickets.
“As we have found, the statute could not be clearer on the specific issue presented by this appeal, i.e., whether issuance of citations may be included as points of contact in the city’s policy,” the court concluded. “The statute simply cannot reasonably be read to permit municipalities to include the issuance of citations as points of contact.”
A copy of the ruling is available in a 50k PDF file at the source link below.
–The Newspaper.com
NEW Barnett Clutch Tools–Ventura, California specialist Barnett Clutches & Cables’ decades of experience as a leading clutch and primary components manufacturer has translated into an unparalleled range of specialty clutch tools.
From diaphragm spring compression tools to clutch ‘lock plates’ that assist in removing inner hubs, Barnett clutch tools make clutch replacement and maintenance a lot easier.
Available for Sportsters through 1970, 1986-present Sportsters, 1941-84 Big Twins, 1990-’97 Big Twins and 2001 and later Victory models. Clutch tools designed specifically for use with the Barnett Scorpion line of clutches are also available.
BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES
www.barnettcables.com
–Posted by Dealerworld
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER PRODUCT TESTING FACILITY–
DrySee has created the first waterproof bandage with a liquid indicator. If the seal of the bandage is broken and the wound site gets wet, the gauze around the perimeter of the bandage or at the center covering the wound site will turn blue indicating it needs to be changed. This color changing technology is intended to help you know when a wound may have been exposed to germs and is at risk for infection.
–Laura Baumgartner
NATIONAL MOTORISTS ASSOCIATION INVESTIGATION--We like clever wordplay as much as the next guy. The double entendre of the title, however, stirs an emotion stronger and more negative than “like.”
Christopher Matthew Spencer, one of our most active members in Southern California, led the charge by submitting a public records request to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (LADA). He had strong suspicions about the unethical use of funds seized by the county under state civil asset forfeiture statutes.
His October 2020 request sought:
“(A) List of expenses relating to all promotions, conferences, events, functions, and so forth that was spent by the DA’s office to promote and hold their asset forfeiture seminars. For a period of 36 months.”
Spencer’s action was triggered by the knowledge that such seminars cost over $100 per hour of DA’s staff time to organize. As he wryly notes, “There are plenty of ways for the government to (appear to) reduce cost.”
It took Christopher Matthew 45 days to get a response to his records request because of claims by LADA that they “didn’t pay anything.” Only through persistently aggressive follow up by Spencer did the stonewalling crumble.
LADA’s response was careful to note that “No taxpayer dollars are used to promote and hold asset forfeiture seminars. The training is funded with assets seized and forfeited in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 11489(b)(2). Under the law, 1% of assets seized and forfeited shall be distributed to “a private nonprofit organization composed of local prosecutors which shall use these funds for the exclusive purpose of providing a statewide program of education and training for prosecutors and law enforcement officers in ethics and the proper use of laws permitting the seizure and forfeiture of assets under this chapter.”
With that, LADA produced records that showed that it knew how to lead the monetary charge. LADA entered into an agreement with the Los Angeles County Prosecutors Association (CPA) through which the CPA would provide reimbursement for associated costs. That reimbursement ostensibly fell within the 1% rule of using seized assets from citizens, of which motorists are particularly vulnerable, to conduct such training.
Among the records that Spencer received were those related to a March 14 – 16, 2018 “Asset Forfeiture Summit for Law Enforcement Executives” at the luxurious Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point, CA. Was the ethics clause of 11489(b)(2) served by charging over $88,000 worth of rooms and catering at an out-of-county luxury resort? The Marriott provided some credits to the overall charges, but the fact remains that property seized by law enforcement was used to fund posh seminars designed to teach participants how to optimize the handling of forfeitures.
We’ve seen this playbook before. LADA/CPA hold lavish asset forfeiture seminars for prosecutors and law enforcement agencies that are supported financially by property seizures that often occur without the property owners being charged with a crime, let alone convicted. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hands out annual enforcement grants to the states based in large part on how many tickets a given state issued the year before. In other words, the states are encouraged to conduct ticket quota campaigns to get more government funding to run revenue-producing ticket quota operations.
Is it any wonder that the NMA’s agenda in Washington DC continues to be the reform of civil asset forfeiture laws and the elimination of government-funded ticket-quota incentives? In both cases, the systems feed on themselves, enriching government agencies while targeting the public for sanctioned abuse.
Spencer reached out to Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger as well as Deputy District Attorney Joseph Iniguez to seek answers and ask for an investigation into the asset forfeiture seminars. “I recommended to the DA’s office that instead of enriching the owners of luxury resorts and fancy restaurants, they could use legally retained proceeds from seizure activities to rent high school auditoriums to conduct seminars. We’ve heard over and over again how schools across the nation are suffering budget crises. The $88,310.63 spent at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa would help educate a lot of school children—the DA can pay school districts for the use of their idle spaces for these events,” he added.
–NMA
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY, MASK FREE— At an Irish Pub
John O’Reilly hoisted his beer and said, “Here’s to spending the rest of me life, between the legs of my wife!”
That won him the top prize at the pub for the best toast of the night!
He went home and told his wife, Mary, “I won the prize for the Best toast of the night”
She said, “Aye, did ye now. And what was your toast?”
John said, “Here’s to spending the rest of me life, sitting in church beside me wife”
“Oh, that is very nice indeed, John!” Mary said.
The next day, Mary ran into one of John’s drinking buddies on the street corner.
The man chuckled leeringly and said, “John won the prize the other night at the pub with a toast about you, Mary.”
She said, “Aye, he told me, and I was a bit surprised myself. You know, he’s only been in there twice in the last four years. Once I had to pull him by the ears to make him come, and the other time he fell asleep”
–Wayfarer
International Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina Library
[page break]
BEWARE S&S SUPER E KNOCKOFFS ON EBAY– They’re knock offs, we chase them down on Ebay and Amazon all the time. They’re shit as well, we get tech calls all the time and the guys are bummed when we can’t help them.
–David Zemla | VP – Marketing
S&S® Cycle, Inc. | 14025 County Highway G, Viola, WI 54664
Office 608.627.0358 | Mobile 714.615.1150
Email dzemla@sscycle.com
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT-– Got the Dyna BACK on the air table, apparently she’s just decided to leak at every major component!
Puddle of clean trans oil I believe this morning, guess I need to start using pipe dope on the drain plugs. Road Glide never leaked! This one didn’t the first two changes. She must not like me, anymore. I have realized I really need a rigid frame something again! Shovelhead got a bath & a Sportster seat. Kidding, I’ve seen it done though.
–RFR
Certified Weatherman
Bikernet.com™
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–H.O.G. HEAVEN – 2020 CVOs
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/HOG_HEAVEN__2020_CVOs.aspx
I like the article, But I Think That I Should Be Given One To Try Just So We Have A Second Opinion.
Better Yet loan me one for a year, so I can put some serious miles on it and do tech articles on one.
Hey, it don’t hurt to ask.
–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
NEW FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES— The Knucklehead madness continues with the latest Jason Momoa x Nash Motorcycle Co collaboration. Jason’s love for the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead has manifested itself in a wearable piece of made in the USA art that will last a lifetime and longer.
These belt buckles are available in a regular and large size with the option to add the Knucklehead leather belt to complete the look.
The Knuckle Buckle and Knucklehead Belts being produced in limited quantities so don’t miss out on an opportunity to grab a truly unique piece of moto history.
Copy/paste this code below during checkout for the big, black deal:
30OFFTHANKSNASH
…and you get 30% off the stuff on the Blackened Friday Rules! page on the Nash website.
–Taber
THE SHERIFF REMEMBERS ARLEN AT THANKSGIVING—He gives thanks to all the friendship and fun Arlen and Bev constantly bestowed on their friends and the custom motorcycle community.
–Christer
Sheriff Media Group
THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING—Science is working non-stop to find the meaning of life, the question of why and how the universe started and where it might be going.
As far as we know, this is the only planet with life or the ability to search for knowledge. There are 200 billion galaxies and 700 quintillion planets.
Imagine all these galaxies and planets on the surface of a massive pool table, and if one asteroid hits the earth we’re all toast, immediately. If you consider only those larger than 100 meters orbiting in only our Solar System, there are 150 million.
Think about that for a minute. And a bunch of folks are worried about climate change.
–Bandit
SPEAKING OF GLOBAL WARMING–Stay fat if you care about ‘global warming’?! Losing weight releases carbon dioxide – ‘To lose 100 grams of fat, you have to exhale 280 grams of CO2’
“Fat is converted to carbon dioxide and water. You exhale the carbon dioxide and the water mixes into your circulation until it’s lost as urine or sweat.”
“If you lose 10kg of fat, precisely 8.4kg comes out through your lungs and the remaining 1.6kg turns into water. In other words, nearly all the weight we lose is exhaled.”
“To lose 100 grams of fat, you have to exhale 280 grams of carbon dioxide on top of what you’ll produce by vaporizing all your food, no matter what it is.”
But wait!
Report: Obesity promotes global warming — ‘The more each individual eats – the more he or she will contribute to rising emissions’
Researchers Suggest Link Between Obesity & Global Warming: ‘Global weight loss would result in a drop in the production of the major greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide’
WEATHER CHANNEL hypes study claiming ‘climate change’ causes both starvation & obesity! ‘Exploring the Intricate Link between Climate Change and Obesity’
–Climate Depot
BIKERNET PRISON BREAK OF THE WEEK–
“Longest-serving cannabis offender” to be released early from 90-year prison sentence
Richard DeLisi was sentenced in 1989 for conspiring to traffic more than 100 pounds of marijuana into the U.S. from Jamaica.
Read in NBC News: https://apple.news/A-SP9B3BPSH-ZB49jBXwjpA
–from Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2013 Harley-Davidson FLHTK – Electra Glide Ultra Limited for $14,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9469852
This bike is fully load bike ready to travel
ONLY 27006.00 Miles !!!!!
2013 Metallic Yellow/Black Harley-Davidson FLHTK ULTRA LIMITED TOURING
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* Two tone paint
* Touring pak
* Black/Chrome mag wheels
* Highway pegs
* Klock works windshield
* Passenger radio controls
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101 point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether you’re 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 $14,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–We are pleased to announce David’s newest series, titled “Entropy”. He will be moving around in the historic reclamation of some wonderful old American creatures – – trucks, motorcycles, trains, tractors, etc. Patina is the key here!
In David’s words, “I am really exited to explore this series, called Entropy….I find incredible colors lurking between the paint, rust and various natural foliage. This series will include trains, tractors, trucks, buses, cars, bikes and so on. I am intrigued by the interplay between the organic fractals and the hard edged geometry of the machine itself. Too much Fun!”
We are offering an exclusive canvas print edition of “Golden Glow”. Each print will be hand-signed by David and numbered, with Certificate of Authenticity.
As with any new series, we are offering first right of refusal on future matching edition numbers for those who purchase “Rust to Dust”.
** Image size 24×18, $895 framed. Edition of 24 plus 2 Artist Proofs and 2 Hors d’Commerce.
** Image size 32×24, $1,295 framed. Edition of 24 plus 2 Artist Proofs and 2 Hors d’Commerce.
NOTE: David has agreed? to sell the original oil. Serious inquiries only, please.
Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. You can reserve your piece by return email, or by calling me at 303-913-4840.
?
As always, thanks for your time and have a great week!
–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
303-913-4840
They Protected Us. NOW IT’S OUR TURN.
Veterans deserve many things: Praise. Honor. Security. Respect. Here’s what they don’t deserve: attempts to take advantage of their service. Yet every day, scammers attempt to swindle our veterans of their hard-earned benefits, steal their identity, take their life savings, and worse.
According to an AARP survey, veterans are twice as likely to fall victim to scams as the population at large. Some scammers offer veterans the opportunity to refinance Veterans Affairs (VA) loans at extremely low rates. Others will pose as government agencies in order to access personal information, or offer lump sum payments up front, in exchange for signing over all their future monthly benefit checks. There have even been instances where scammers will create fake charities that target veterans or pretend to be old friends offering “sure thing” investments.
Why are veterans so susceptible to these particular scams?
For starters, veterans implicitly trust fellow members of the military, making them vulnerable to imposters claiming to be veterans themselves. Sometimes, because of their military experiences, veterans also find it more difficult to recognize and combat the emotional manipulation used by scam artists.
That’s why the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and AARP joined forces to create Operation Protect Veterans, and provide valuable information and resources that veterans, their loved ones, and their friends can use to help protect against scammers.
Together, we can fight back and take one small step to repay our veterans for the service they’ve given and the sacrifices they’ve made.
MORE FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Pave Beaches, To Construct Four New Airports For Future Tourism!
By P Gosselin on 20. November 2020
Despite all the money-generating gloomy predictions of sinking islands, we reported in 2013 on how the Maldives was planning to build 30 new luxury hotels for future tourists.
The resort island of Landaa Giraavaru (Baa atoll), photo by: Frédéric Ducarme – CC BY-SA 4.0.
Underwater in 7 years?
We recall how in 2012, the former President of the Maldives Islands, Mohamed, Nasheed said: “If carbon emissions continue at the rate they are climbing today, my country will be underwater in seven years.”
4 new airports!
Well, today the islands have not gone underwater and remains popular with tourists like never before. And to help with the job of ferrying the 1.7 million (2019) tourists to and from the resort islands, the Maldives have recently opened 4 new airports, according to German site Aero here!
Long-term investment defies alarmist claims
No, the airports are not designed to evacuate tourists because sea levels are “rapidly rising”, as climate alarmists claim. The airports are a long-term investment aimed at drawing in even more tourists and they are based on the projection that they’ll still be very much in unhindered operation in 30 or 50 years from now. Obviously the catastrophic climate warnings are not being heeded. Most likely these warnings are not really serious at all.
The Maldives comprise 1200 islands, which were made accessible through a total of ten airports. However, they are not enough to handle the expected traffic. So, four new domestic airports would open this year alone, announced Transportation and Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula,
Deforestation, paved beaches
The new airports will feature 2200 meter runways, thus allowing commercial passenger jets to takeoff and land. According to Aero, citing the Arabian Business news site, some 52 million dollars was financed by Abu Dhabi to cover the construction costs.
Environmentalists expressed anger at the project because “forests had to be cut down and beaches concreted over”.
THANKSGIVING FROM WINDVEST— Shipping is on us from now until December 31st, 2020.
We are also giving away a Free Neck Gaiter (face mask) with every WindVest purchase
This is our way of saying thank you for your support
We will be closed November 26th and 27th
MIDNIGHT RIDER SERIES, THE TRILOGY– I am ready to launch The midnight Rider Trilogy book, it’s all Three in one.
–Koz Mraz
Author
BURLY BRAND THANKSGIVING DEALS-– SALE RUNS NOVEMBER 27-30, 2020
ENTER PROMO CODE 24 FRIDAY AT CHECKOUT
BLACK FRIDAY OR CYBER MONDAY PROGRESSIVE HOLIDAY SALE–
SAVE ON SHOCKS, FORK KITS AND ACCESSORIES
ENTER PROMO CODE 25FRIDAY AT PROGRESSIVESUSPENSION.COM
Why Harley-Davidson Is The Tesla Of Motor Bikes-– Visionary CEO Keith E. Wandell should go down in history as the man who introduced the electric motorcycle to the US market and possibly the first CEO to bring it to the world.
It was in 2011 that Mr. Wandell first showcased his unbranded team-made creation to a keen San Francisco motor bike enthusiast crowd. He might be the most notorious CEO that the iconic US bike manufacturer Harley-Davidson HOG -1.1%has had (founded 117 years ago in Milwaukee, Wisconsin).
However, The Edge (the global leader for activist ideas, special situations and Spinoffs) believes new CEO Jochen Zeitz is the best thing to happen to the company since Mr. Wandell left and successor Matthew S. Levatich was fired suddenly thanks to Impala Asset Management, the $2.4 billion activist hedge fund led by Bob Bishop.
The US military purchased over 20,000 motorcycles from Harley-Davidson in World War I and the company also lent itself to supporting US and Allied troops in World War II, with 90,000 military motorcycles handed over.
Harley-Davidson’s global fan club run in the millions of members, called Harley Owners Group (HOG), and their constant support of US military and Allied troops gives to many charities around the world.
–Jim Osman
Contributor
Forbes.com
Bike Week/Biketoberfest Master Plan Guidelines Changes Review Meeting–
Meeting Notice: Bike Week/Biketoberfest® Master Plan Guidelines Changes Review Meeting
This meeting will take place Monday, November 30, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ocean Center, 101 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32118. Room: TBD
The meeting is open to the public; however, due to public safety concerns regarding the coronavirus, anyone exhibiting signs of illness (such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath) should not attend the meeting. The meeting’s attendance will be limited to 50 people.
AMA News National News–The federal Motorcyclist Advisory Council ended its official duties Oct. 24, after meeting regularly since 2017 and sending its recommendations to the U.S. Department of Transportation in February.
Legislation to reauthorize the MAC was contained in an amendment to the federal highway bill that passed the House of Representatives. The MAC was established to provide advice and recommendations concerning infrastructure issues related to motorcyclist safety, including barrier design; road design, construction, and maintenance practices; and the architecture and implementation of intelligent transportation system technologies. Mike Sayre, AMA government relations director, was the MAC chair.
IF ONLY I KNEW—What the hell to do next. I’m trying to get as far from politics as possible for a minute and get the Doctor’s Panhead running.
This young redhead who showed up the next day with a Panhead engine, just went to work at the shop where she got it. I told her to take it back. The heads are inside oiler and the cases outside oiler. One head has a lot of busted fins and no guts, the other is complete but well worn. The barrels are Shovelhead. The left case is Merch (no numbers) and the right case has maybe bogus production numbers. If you get rid of all the bad shit, you’re left with an oil pump, without gears.
For a minute all the bros were excited. We could make it live again with new cases, new, new barrels and we found a set of outside oiler heads. But the cost was way over her budget, so we told her to take it back and see if Ryan could make it work.
I ordered a S&S Super E for our 45 flatty Bonneville Racer called the Bonne Belle. Hell, I just found one on Ebay for $53. Incredible. Hell, it comes with a jet kit, sparkplugs and a fuel filter. It’s gotta be a scam. It was a knockoff scam. I ordered the real thing from S&S.
There’s progress at Departure Bike Works on the Bonne Belle. We are going to run an S&S Super E carb, which is monster for a 45 cubic inch, but they work with the DBW intake manifold. They have been highly successful at the Sons of Speed races at Bike Week. They are getting over 45 horses out of a 45 cubic inch engine.
Next week, we will publish another Koz piece about riding Rt. 66 where the Easy Rider team rode.
His story contains some behind the scene tales. That reminds me. The astute powers in the region changed the number on a stretch of Rt. 66 because it was too popular and folks stole the street signs. Couldn’t they come up with better notion?
I hope you all have a relaxing Thanksgiving Day. Rest and be kind, you have nothing to prove.
–Bandit
HAPPY HOLIDAYS BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for December 3, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
We’re in December of 2020 and the mayor of Los Angeles said he will cut your water and power if you have a holiday party. In South Dakota you would die. Fortunately, a vaccine has been released and is starting to spread.
As you know by now, life is nuts and then you die. We’ve actually had the best life has ever had to offer in the history of mankind. Nothing could be as cool or as safe as we have seen it in our lifetime. Hell, we had a ten-year war and only about 5,500 Americans died. I’m not discounting one life, but the statistics are amazing. Violence is down, health, except for the Chinese Covid is up. You can lose an arm and get another one. Your heart can be replaced.
Of course, there is a growing number of folks who fear doom is all around us. Hell, I know guys who build exhaust systems and carb parts who believe the Climate Change doom is coming. Why the hell would they keep building fossil fuel parts if they felt that way. Celebrities proclaim doom and then board private jets to their island mansions.
I watched a documentary about the evils of fascism last night. A strong concluding point to prevent this evil was and is free speech and the flow of unbiased information. It’s the only way we will know if doom is true or not. Well, there is another way, that can’t be denied. If the doom doesn’t happen, there you have it, someone goofed. Let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
THE LATEST FROM BDL—BDL’s 3-inch Open Drive for Shovels is the #1 choice for custom and high performance Shovelhead builders around the world.
Tried and proven part # SHS-630 fits machines 1970 – 1978 with Ratchet top transmissions only.
Conversion comes as a complete drive system, stator rotor stator/rotor guard, pulleys, belt and high performance clutch with a ball bearing pressure plate. The formidable 3” unit boasts BDL’s legendary quality, precision fit, flawless function, and reliability. Along with a distinctive sound the SHS-630 provides smoother operation with less stress on shafts and bearings.
The package provides an excellent way to cure all those “floating basket” and starting issues. Kit requires use of a 1989 -2006 style starter. Minor modifications and use some customization skills are also a must. This conversion is offered with polished finish only.
If you’re into that cool open look this is the real deal. Suggested retail is just a $1418.50 and can be purchased from BDL dealers worldwide or straight from the manufacturer at www.beltdrives.com.
INTERVIEW WITH ENFIELD BOSS–He is not interested in buying Ducati from VW. The revival and growth of the Enfield company almost seems like magic. But they did the research and make only carefully selected moves ensuring they do it well.
The way we’re working on EVs is that we are not going to be the first to the market. But rather we’d study the market, understand the technology – there’s a full team at Royal Enfield who does EVs now. We’re constantly studying the market, riding bikes, making our own mule bikes, prototype bikes and riding them ourselves, seeing what happens, seeing what we like, don’t like.
You’ll certainly see stuff from us on EV like concept bikes and prototypes. But you’re not going to see a production EV from us for another three years or so at least. It might be longer. We’re in a tearing rush to work on it and to develop, but we’re not in tearing rush to be in the market and do a silly job.
–Wayfarer
Chief Investigator
Bikernet New Bureau
India
THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS OPEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS—Mask Free.
Headache & testicles
Veteran had suffered from really bad headaches for the last 20 years. He eventually decides to go and see a Doctor at Military Hospital.
The Doctor says, “the good news is empaneled hospital can cure your headaches. The bad news is that they will require removing your testicles.”
“You have a very rare condition, which causes your testicles to press on your spine and the pressure creates one hell of a headache.”
“The only way to relieve the pressure is to remove the testicles.”
Veteran is shocked and depressed. He wondered if he had anything to live for.
He had no choice but to go under the knife. The surgery cost the Government $25,000/-.
When he left the hospital, he was without a headache for the first time in 20 years, but he felt like he was missing an important part of himself.
As he walked down the street, he realized that he felt like a different person. He could make a new beginning and live a new life.
He saw a Men’s clothing store and thought, “That’s what I need. A new Suit.”
He entered the shop and told the salesman, “I’d like a new Suit.”
The elderly salesman eyed him briefly and said, “Let’s see size 44 would fit fine.”
Veteran laughed, “That’s right, how did you know?”
“Been in the business 60 years sir!” the salesman said.
Veteran tried on the suit it fitted perfectly. As Veteran admired himself in the mirror, the salesman asked, “How about a new shirt?”
Veteran thought for a moment and then said, “Sure.”
The salesman eyed the Veteran and said, “Let’s see, 34 sleeves and 16-1/2 neck.”
Veteran was surprised, “That’s right, how did you know?”
“Been in the business 60 years sir.”
Veteran tried the shirt and it fitted perfectly.
Veteran walked comfortably around the shop and the salesman asked, “How about some new Underwear?”
Veteran thought for a moment and said, “Sure..”
The salesman said, “Let’s see….. size 36.”
Veteran laughed, “Ah ha! You got it wrong this time! I’ve worn size 34 since I was 18 years old..”
The salesman shook his head, “You can’t wear a size 34 sir. A size 34 would press your Testicles up against the base of your spine and give you hell of a Headache.”
Surgery – $ 25,000 through Government empaneled hospital, New underwear at local store – $ 25.00.
Second Opinion-Priceless.
Always take second opinion before going under the Surgery through Government empaneled hospital.
–Wayfarer
Librarian
NTSB: Pickup driver’s drug use critical in death of 7 bikers.
A pickup driver’s drug use was the reason he crashed last year into an oncoming group of motorcyclists in New Hampshire, leading to the death of seven bikers, the National Transportation Safety Board found Tuesday.
The board unanimously approved a report that determined that Volodymyr Zhukovskyy’s impairment from the drugs was the “probable cause” for him crossing the center line on a highway and sparking the fiery crash. NTSB investigators told the board that Zhukovskyy had drugs, including opioids, in his system.
–from Rogue
Senior Editor
GETTYSBURG BIKE WEEK– 20th Anniversary Black Friday Sale
Gettysburg, PA (November 25, 2020) – Gettysburg Bike Week is back for the 20th anniversary rally at the Allstar Events Complex in Gettysburg, PA with a Black Friday special on tickets, the deepest discounted ticket offer leading up the event. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Gettysburg Bike Week is offering $33 tickets for the weekend pass and $22 for the 2 day passes and $14 one day pass. The event will be held Thursday July 8th-Sunday July 11th.
“We wanted to give riders something to look forward to for 2021. 2020 has been hard on everyone, so we decided to offer our best rate on tickets for the 20th anniversary of our event.” says Gettysburg Bike Week Owner Kelly Shue. “We have already started to work on COVID-19 safety protocol so our event can be put on safely. We missed everyone in 2020 and can’t wait to see everyone.”
No rally is complete without great riding, and Gettysburg has some of the best riding around. Whether riders want to see historic battlegrounds or just hit the road for a great cruise, hundreds of miles of the best riding in the East surrounds Gettysburg. In addition to fantastic solo riding, GBW also features awesome group rides throughout the weekend event.
Black Friday Discount Pricing for Gettysburg Bike Week is as follows:
$33 per-person 4-day passes, available online
$22 per-person 2-day passes, available online
$14 per-person 1-day passes, available online
New and returning riders can find updates, the schedule of events, lodging information and anything they ever needed to know about Gettysburg Bike Week by visiting http://www.gettysburgbikeweek.com.
–Ken Conte
EMERGENCY COVID UPDATE–Hi all. I wasn’t allowed to say anything until today, but it’s now okay for me to share. I have volunteered for the Covid-19 vaccine from Pfizer.
The vaccine is the one that has been developed in Russia. It is in 6 different stages and I received my first dose this morning at 08:20 am, and I wanted to let you all know that it’s safe and I’m ok. ?o side effects whatsoeve?, and that I feelsh?? ? ???? ???? ??????? ????? ? ? ????, ??? ???? ????? ???. ??????? ???? ????? ?????.
–Comrade Harvinski
DIRECT FROM THE AMERICAN RED CROSS--7 Tips to Safely Decorate your Home for the Holidays
LOS ANGELES, December 2, 2020 — Decorating with holiday candles? Consider the flameless kind — as December is the peak month for candle fires.
The risk is so common that nearly one-third of us have done this – left the room or fallen asleep while candles are burning, according to a 2020 national American Red Cross survey. If you must use candles, never leave them unattended, keep them away from anything that could burn and place them out of reach from children and pets.
With Los Angeles County facing a three-week Safer at Home order, many more of us will be indoors and with a smaller group of loved ones. The Red Cross Los Angeles Region urges everyone to follow these decorating safety tips to prevent fires and keep everyone safe:
Check all holiday light cords to make sure they aren’t frayed or broken. Don’t string too many strands of lights together — no more than three per extension cord. Turn off all holiday lights when going to bed or leaving the house.
Ensure outside decorations are for outdoor use and fasten lights securely to your home or trees. If using hooks or nails outside, make sure they are insulated to avoid electrocution or fire hazard.
Look for the fire-resistant label when buying an artificial tree. Keep it away from fireplaces, radiators and other sources of heat. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
If getting a live tree, make sure it’s fresh and keep it watered. Bend the needles up and down to make sure no needles fall off.
Don’t light the fireplace if hanging stockings on the mantel.
Check the labels of older decorations. Some older tinsel is lead-based. If using angel hair, wear gloves to avoid irritation. Avoid breathing in artificial snow.
Have good, stable placement when using a ladder and wear shoes that allow for good traction.
STAY SAFE FROM HOME FIRES Test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.
Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to practice with your family. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in app stores).
Additionally, you can learn how to keep your family safe in the cooler months by joining Red Cross LA’s next Community Conversation: Home Fire Safety During Winter joined by the Los Angeles Fire Department on Dec. 2 and in Spanish on Dec. 9. For more information or to view past Community Conversations, visit redcross.org/la.
A HOLIDAY NOTE FROM THE GEARHEAD DIARIES–You wrote a story in the old Easyriders mag. It is that time of year for a re-visit to it . It was a story of a biker headed home on his bike in the dead of winter up north. He ran across a woman and her kids had no Christmas to look forward to.
He became the secret Santa. That kind of stuff gives me that warm felling just like a smooth bourbon.
Have a Merry Christmas to all.
— Gearhead
LATE NEWS FROM KIDS RIDE–It’s a wonderful day for giving!
You have the opportunity to give the gift of two wheels to more special kiddos this school year.
More than ever, children need to know that we are willing to persevere alongside them. Together we can help etch this reality into their developmental history and usher in what kids need most this very moment – a lifetime of mobility, confidence, and overall wellbeing distinctively found in the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Program.
Give the gift of learning to ride and your
donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar!
NEW FROM THE BUCKLEGUY--Buckleguy.com ….HAS…. A….CATALOG….WOOHOO!!!
This has to be our most anticipated email of all time! Maybe not for you, ha! But this catalog has been in the works for a very long time, and we are overly excited to share it with you. You will find 136 pages of our in stock products including hardware, leather, tools, zipper, supplies, and more!
Our intention was to make a catalog that showcased close up product photos to help designers, crafters, manufacturers, and others to make conclusive decisions on the design and style they are looking for. The pages flow through all of the category types in a logical manner with helpful info on sizing, finishes, how-to, characteristics, and more.
Yes, we are charging $10, BUT, inside every catalog we are including a $5 coupon code to be used on your next order! We wish we could send for free, but for a litany of reasons it simply wasn’t in the cards on this initial round.
Additionally, we have uploaded a ‘virtual catalog’ for those that don’t wish to have a physical one but still appreciate the page flow of a catalog in web format. To see the virtual catalog please click here.
Thank you everyone for the daily catalog requests and inspiration to put this together. We hope you love the catalog as much as we do, and who knows, perhaps it will become your favorite new coffee table book ??.
Thank you everyone, and please stay safe!
LATEST FROM THE NMA–City dismissed red-light camera tickets against Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s security detail.
The city of Chicago dismissed the majority of tickets issued to Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s security detail by red-light and speed cameras, including some that were recorded at times when the mayor was scheduled to be attending non-city events, records show.
Since Lightfoot became mayor in May 2019, the police security detail assigned to her protection has received 13 tickets for speed and red-light camera violations, and 10 of those have been dismissed, records show.
Though city officials did not address specific questions about her whereabouts at the time each ticket was issued, listings in her official calendar show some were given at times when her calendar suggests she was on the way home from a personal event or en route to a “non-city breakfast.”
Four were issued at a time when her official calendar doesn’t note her scheduled whereabouts or indicates “rest,” and another says she was supposed to be attending a virtual gala.
A city spokeswoman defended dismissing the tickets, saying cops are allowed to run red lights under certain circumstances.
–By GREGORY PRATT
CHICAGO TRIBUNE
NEW FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES—Long Tall Kidney Belts.
Our version of a kidney belt, designed how they used to be made back in the day. Our new belts are the perfect solution to supporting your lower back, abdomen, and kidneys when riding any distance.
These belts are handmade from high quality local leather and come in black or natural leather. The straps on the belt are sewn and riveted on for extra strength. Also, if you’re looking to have custom designs tooled into the leather, just give us a call, we can quote you a price.
Long Tall Kidney Belt
THE POWDER FILE–#1 Powder Coating, Paint, Remover, for Paint: Powder Coating Removal from Aluminum.
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Contact Us For a FREE – Paint Strip Products Recommendation or Paint Stripping Services, Quote:
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LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2018 Harley-Davidson FLSL – Softail Softail Slim for $15,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9491797
ONLY 17314.00 Miles !!!!!
2018 Industrial gray denim Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL SLIM FLSL
Some of the features/Add-ons on this bike
* H.D. low profile seat
* MX style bars
* Chrome shotgun exhaust
* 103 C.I.
* 6 Speed trans
* Blacked out rear pegs and rider floorboards
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 $15,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
[page break]
MAYOR CARCETTI SHUTS DOWN LOS ANGELES–
The Redhad read Garcetti’s shut down rules. You heathens can’t do anything. Although the righteous can still go to Church. And social unrest can continue, protests are a constitutional right.
So, I’m having a protest party, protest New Years Celebration and a protest Bike show. How’s that?
–Bandit
Chief Economist
Bikernet.com™
GIFTS FROM CHOPPERS MAGAZINE–Color Me Gone
Well here it is… the coloring book you’ve always wanted your kiddos to want. 20 fun filled pages of chopper goodness from our pal @Saucerman63. Comes with a free six pack… of crayons silly.
$7.00
THE MANDATORY MASK STUDY—More and more info is coming out about mandatory mask wearing from harmful effects to little help with the numbers of covid cases. It seems the countries that have never had mask rules have reduced covid numbers. Social distancing and hand washing seems to do the trick. But check this out:
The Cobra Effect: Lessons in Unintended Consequences
Human beings react to every rule, regulation, and order governments impose, and their reactions result in outcomes that can be quite different than the outcomes lawmakers intended.
Every human decision brings with it unintended consequences. Often, they are inconsequential, even funny. When Airbus, for example, wanted to make its planes quieter to improve the flying experience for travelers, it made its A380 so quiet that passengers could hear, with far too much clarity, what was happening in the plane’s bathrooms. Other times unintended consequences have far-reaching, dramatic effects. The US health care system is a case in point. It emerged in its present form in no small part because of two governmental decisions.
First, wage and price controls during World War II caused employers to add health insurance as an employee benefit. Why? The law prohibited employers from raising wages, so to attract workers, they offered to provide health insurance. Then, in 1951, Congress declared that employer-provided health insurance benefits would not count as taxable income. This made it cheaper for employees to take raises in the form of increased tax-free insurance benefits rather than in the form of increased taxable wages.
Unintended consequences happen so often that economists call them “Cobra Problems,” after one of the most interesting examples.
In colonial India, Delhi suffered a proliferation of cobras, which was a problem very clearly in need of a solution given the sorts of things that cobras bring, like death. To cut the number of cobras slithering through the city, the local government placed a bounty on them. This seemed like a perfectly reasonable solution. The bounty was generous enough that many people took up cobra hunting, which led exactly to the desired outcome: The cobra population decreased. And that’s where things get interesting.
As the cobra population fell and it became harder to find cobras in the wild, people became rather entrepreneurial. They started raising cobras in their homes, which they would then kill to collect the bounty as before. This led to a new problem: Local authorities realized that there were very few cobras evident in the city, but they nonetheless were still paying the bounty to the same degree as before. In the end, Delhi had a bigger cobra problem after the bounty ended than it had before it began.
City officials did a reasonable thing: They canceled the bounty. In response, the people raising cobras in their homes also did a reasonable thing: They released all of their now-valueless cobras back into the streets. Who wants a house full of cobras?
In the end, Delhi had a bigger cobra problem after the bounty ended than it had before it began. The unintended consequence of the cobra eradication plan was an increase in the number of cobras in the streets. This case has become the exemplar of when an attempt to solve a problem ends up exacerbating the very problem that rule-makers intended to fix.
Air Pollution
There is, of course, nothing special about cobras. The same sort of thing happened in the late 1980s in Mexico City, which was at the time suffering from extreme air pollution caused by cars driven by its 18 million residents.
The city government responded with Hoy No Circula, a law designed to reduce car pollution by removing 20 percent of the cars (determined by the last digits of license plates) from the roads every day during the winter when air pollution was at its worst. Oddly, though, removing those cars from the roads did not improve air quality in Mexico City. In fact, it made it worse.
Come to find out, people’s needs do not change as a result of a simple government decree. The residents of Mexico City might well have wanted better air for their city, but they also needed to get to work and school. They reacted to the ban in ways the rule-makers neither intended nor foresaw.
Some people carpooled or took public transportation, which was the actual intent of the law. Others, however, took taxis, and the average taxi at the time gave off more pollution than the average car.
Another group of people ended up undermining the law’s intent more significantly. That group bought second cars, which of course came with different license plate numbers, and drove those cars on the one day a week they were prohibited from driving their regular cars. What kind of cars did they buy? The cheapest running vehicles they could find, vehicles that belched pollution into the city at a rate far higher than the cars they were not permitted to drive. The people released their cobras into the streets, except this time the cobras were cars.
Unintended Consequences Everywhere
These examples of unintended consequences aren’t aberrations. Unintended consequences arise every time an authority imposes its will on people. Seat belt and airbag laws make it less safe to be a pedestrian or cyclist by making it safer for drivers to be less cautious. Payday lending laws, intended to protect low-income borrowers from high lending rates, make it more expensive for low-income borrowers to borrow by forcing them into even more expensive alternatives.
Requirements that corporations publicize how much they pay their CEOs in order to encourage stockholders to reduce CEO pay resulted in lesser-paid CEOs demanding more pay. Three-strikes laws, intended to reduce crime, increase police fatalities by giving two-time criminals a greater incentive to evade or even fight the police.
The Americans With Disabilities Act gives employers an incentive to discriminate against the disabled by not hiring them in the first place so as to avoid potential ADA claims. Electrician licensing requirements can increase the incidence of injury due to faulty electrical work by reducing the supply of electricians, thereby encouraging homeowners to do their own electrical work.
Venezuela
But perhaps nothing illustrates the scope of the potential problems arising from unintended consequences better than Venezuela’s terrible game of whack-a-mole that began with the 1976 nationalization of its oil industry. The government’s intent was to keep oil profits in the country. And that’s how it went—for a while.
That is without question incorrect given that no other oil-producing nation suffered what Venezuela was to suffer.
As oil revenues and production plummeted, Venezuela’s government acted the way governments inevitably do when revenues disappear. It borrowed and taxed as much as it could, and then it started printing money.
The printing led to the unintended consequence of inflation, then prices rose so high that people could no longer afford food. To respond to this unintended consequence, the government-imposed price controls on food. But this created a new unintended consequence wherein farmers could no longer afford to grow food. And so, the farmers stopped growing food. Finally, the government forced people to work on farms in order to assure food production.
The ultimate unintended consequence of Venezuela’s nationalizing its oil industry was slavery.
The Lesson
None of this means there is no place for legislation. What it does mean is that lawmakers should be keenly aware that every human action has both intended and unintended consequences.
Human beings react to every rule, regulation, and order governments impose, and their reactions result in outcomes that can be quite different than the outcomes lawmakers intended. So, while there is a place for legislation, that place should be one defined by both great caution and tremendous humility. Sadly, these are character traits not often found in those who become legislators, which is why examples of the cobra problem are so easy to find.
–Anthony Davies and James R. Harrigan
FEE Foundation for Economic Education
NYC Snitches Could Get Cash for Illegal Parking Tips –City Council proposal would give snitches 25 percent of any fines resulting from their reports. A Policing for profit scheme plus a citizen surveillance core equals Big Brother at its highest level!
–NMA
FROM THE SHERIFF’S ARCHIVES—This photo was taken in Sturgis 1994. She’s still waiting…
–Christer
Sheriff Media Group
Sweden
OPEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS–Bandit’s Cantina Bad Joke Library is mask free.
“Praise the Lord”
The pastor asked if anyone in the congregation would like to express praise for an answered prayer. Suzie stood and walked to the podium.
She said, “I have some praise. Two months ago, my husband, Frank, had a terrible bicycle accident and his scrotum was completely crushed. The pain was excruciating and the doctors didn’t know if they could help him.”
You could hear a muffled gasp from the men in the congregation as they imagined the pain that poor Frank must have experienced.
“Frank was unable to hold me or the children,” she went on, “and every move caused him terrible pain.” We prayed as the doctors performed a delicate operation, and it turned out they were able to piece together the crushed remnants of Frank’s scrotum, and wrap wire around it to hold it in place with metal staples.”
Again, the men in the congregation cringed and squirmed uncomfortably as they imagined the horrible surgery performed on Frank. “Now,” she announced in a quivering voice, “Thank the Lord, Frank is out of the hospital and the doctors say that with time, his scrotum should recover completely.”
All the men sighed with unified relief. The pastor rose and tentatively asked if anyone else had something to say.
A man stood up and walked slowly to the podium. He said, “I’m Frank.” The entire congregation held its breath. “I just want to tell my wife that the word is sternum.”
— Ray
–from El Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina Bad Joke Library
HORNY AIR CLEANER BY JIM WAGGAMAN— I thought you might be interested in seeing my ‘Horny Air Cleaner’ featuring and useless without, a kustom backing/mounting plate, made by Lee Wimmer. It’s made from the bugle part from an original ’34/’35 Ford horn.
That’s NOT the bike it will be going on. I just HAD to see how it was going to look on a bike. Eventually it’s going on a chopper I’m doing right now.
Let me know what ya think…my turkey’s really excited about it
–El Waggs
Custom Technician
Bikernet.com™
We will bring you a tech shortly.–Bandit
TEXAS LICENSE PROBLEM–After 27 million driver’s license records are stolen, Texans get angry with the seller: the government
The Watchdog asks, why doesn’t the state do a better job protecting our privacy?
The Watchdog’s revelation last week that personal information on 27 million past and present Texas driver’s license holders is for sale on the dark web leaves many Texans incensed.
Texas state government sells its data sets to outside parties who are not allowed to use them for marketing purposes. But some of these companies then resell to companies who do use it to sell and annoy us.
The FBI and the Texas attorney general’s office are investigating.
If you get a boatload of calls, for example, like I do, trying to sell me an extended car warranty, you can thank the state.
In the breach, stolen information includes your name, address, date of birth, driver’s license number, VIN, make, model, color and year of car and the lending institution to whom you make car payments.
Some other states do not sell this data, but Texas does. State lawmakers could change the law in their 2021 session.
I first reported this in 2015 when I learned that several state government departments sell information to outsiders. In an open records request that year, I learned that in 2014, the Department of Motor Vehicles earned $2.4 million in sales.
This year, CBS 11/KTVT reporter Brian New updated those numbers. The DMV made more than $3 million in 2019 selling drivers’ names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and VIN information, he reported.
Before I show you how these sales march through what is possibly the biggest loophole in state government, here’s what you’re saying to The Watchdog about the data theft:
Jimmy M.: “Well, if the state is making money from our personal data I want my share.”
Tom W.: “The state of Texas is responsible directly for this data breach.”
Ted K.: “Why is the state allowed to sell data in the first place, especially since they obviously have no idea as to what happens to that information once it leaves their control? Let’s fix this and prevent future instances by prohibiting any government entity from selling its citizens’ data.”
Deborah B.: “Why is the state allowed to sell this information? Can we opt out?”
The buyers are data-mining companies, insurance companies, banks, police departments, car dealers, toll companies, school districts, corporations, private investigators, tax-collecting law firms, tow truck companies and electricity companies, to name a few.
Follow this — the biggest loophole. In Texas, it’s against the law for companies who buy the information to use it to sell to us. So, to get around that, some companies sell the lists to other marketing companies, which go ahead and use the information to sell — and annoy us.
Because our information isn’t sold directly to marketers, the state doesn’t have to give us a privacy statement when we buy a car or apply for a driver’s license. We don’t get to opt out, as residents of California are now allowed to do.
The solution
State lawmakers could fix this, giving us privacy statements and allowing us to opt out of the information sold. Or they could go one better and prohibit the sale of the databases entirely. Other states do.
If you bring this up, state departments other than the DMV complain loudly about how these are open records that often can help consumers. (For example, your car is towed, and the towing company can figure out whom it belongs to). Besides, selling our data makes a lot of money for the general fund.
One way to see how loosey-goosey Texas is with our information is on the paid subscription lookup site PublicData.com.
Years ago, there were multiple states listed where you could quickly look up a person’s driver’s license information. Now there’s only Florida and Texas. The other 48 now have higher standards of privacy.
Same goes for vehicle information. Only five states are listed for searching, but four are marked “[OLD].” The fifth is up to date and active. That’s us.
If you get unwanted spam email, postal mail or phone calls and wonder how they got your information, often enough it’s because of our state’s lax laws. Thank you, state leaders.
When it comes to cheap and easy data distribution that violates our privacy, we’re No. 1. Hoo-ray for Texas.
First, note that Experian was the first alert here. My identity theft service has yet to inform me.
Second, keep an eye on your credit report, which you can get free. Go only to AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
Third, Vertafore is offering one year of free credit monitoring and identity restoration services. You can check in with Vertafore at 888-479-3560. Their website for this is vertafore.kroll.com.
Fourth, put a fraud alert on your credit accounts. I’ve shown how to do that before with Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.
If you want to learn more, The Watchdog recommends consumer.gov/idtheft and the Texas DPS Identity Theft Information Guide and the Identity Theft Resource Center (Idtheftcenter.org).
Become a citizen of Watchdog Nation. Join Dave Lieber and learn to be a super-consumer.
–from the NMA
[page break]
A BROTHER’S RIDE FOR 49 YEARS–Still Kickin’ After All These Years, been with me for 49 years this month not bad for this old gal.
Bought new at Inglewood Harley-Davidson for $2695 out the door in ‘72. I must have been out of my mind to spend that much money, she has had many face lifts and she made her way into many magazines.
She never let me down, except a front tire blowout at 65 mph coming back from Utah in ‘74, and a cow we hit on the way to Cooks Corner.
She had a Tank Shift, Mouse trap and Jockey shift. A kicker from a 1918 knuckle knife, very early belt drive from Nez, a rear 12-spoke, 15-inch Mag. She has got me in and out of trouble. Escaped the cops. Chased many Split Tails (LOL). She is still here after all these years.
–Bob T.
Young Tech Editor
Bikernet.com™
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS ROCKING THIS WEEK—NO MASKS!
There were 3 good arguments that Jesus was Black:
1. He called everyone brother
2. He liked Gospel
3. He didn’t get a fair trial
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Jewish:
1. He went into His Father’s business
2. He lived at home until he was 33
3. He was sure his Mother was a virgin and his Mother was sure He was God
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Italian:
1. He talked with His hands
2. He had wine with His meals
3. He used olive oil
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was a Californian:
1. He never cut His hair
2. He walked around barefoot all the time
3. He started a new religion
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was an American Indian:
1. He was at peace with nature
2. He ate a lot of fish
3. He talked about the Great Spirit
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Irish:
1. He never got married.
2. He was always telling stories.
3. He loved green pastures.
But then there were 3 equally good arguments that Jesus was Mexican:
1. He treated his mama like she was a saint.
2. He always wore llantas and a serape.
3. He was a carpenter who could fix anything.
But the most compelling evidence of all – 3 proofs that Jesus was a woman:
1. He fed a crowd at a moment’s notice when there was virtually no food
2. He kept trying to get a message across to a bunch of men who just didn’t get it
3. And even when He was dead, He had to get up because there was still work to do
–Sam Burns
NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–Artist David Uhl
Now that we’re in December and 2020 will soon be behind us, we’re excited to start the “12 Days of Uhlness”.
As you may know, in the past we’ve offered a holiday promotion with the display pieces we’ve used at shows and here at the gallery at discounted prices.
We’re taking it a step further this year, in that anyone who spends a minimum of $500 during the 12 days will be entered in a drawing to win a David Uhl original oil painting (we’ll have four for the winner to choose from) valued between $20,000 and $35,000! You can see the four choices at the bottom of this email.
Pieces offered this year include the gently used display pieces, some of David’s earliest works, pieces that were on payment plans that fell through, consignment returns, etc. They are all signed by David, numbered and will come with the appropriate Certificate of Authenticity.
For the next 12 days, you’ll see a different group of pieces each day. These are being offered in a 24-hour flash sale each day. You will only have 24 hours to reserve your piece from the time that day’s email is sent out. And, only one of each is available in most cases, so you’ll want to act quickly on these.
If you’d like to temporarily opt-out of these emails, then rejoin afterward, simply let me know.
You can click on each piece below to go to that page on our website. Please let us know if the piece(s) you order are for Christmas gifts and we will do our best to accommodate this.
Today’s pieces:
“Eternity”
2018 European Anniversary in Prague
** 24×18 canvas framed – normally $1,250, now $950
** 32 x 24 canvas framed – normally $1,850, now $1,250
And the one above…
Please email me or call me at 303-913-4840 with any questions, or to place your order. Thanks for your time!
–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
Uhl Studios website
303-913-4840
There were a bunch of samples posted, but I picked my two favorites. Go to the Master’s web site to check all the offerings.
–Bandit
GUN NUT REPORT--Armed Philly Restaurant Customer Shoots and Kills Robber Who Pointed a Gun at Him
DEFENSIVE GUN USE OF THE DAY
Apparently suffering from a late evening craving for chicken wings, a 27-year-old Philadelphia man walked into a local WingStop restaurant just after 10:00 pm Sunday night, only to find a robbery in progress. An unidentified 53-year-old had pulled a gun and demanded all of the money in the joint.
“(He) walked in, went behind the counter, announced a robbery and asked for all the money,” said Philadelphia Police Department Chief Inspector Scott Small.
Before the three employees who were inside could comply with his demands, a customer walked in talking on his cell phone.
When the stick-up man pointed his gun at the hungry customer, who had a valid concealed carry license, the new arrival drew his own firearm and shot the robber once in the neck. The perp soon began to assume room temperature.
The customer, who does have a valid permit to carry a weapon, stayed on the scene and cooperated with police.
“We do have his weapon. We know that’s just one shot was fired from that customer because we found one spent shell casing on the floor on the customer side of the counter,” said Small.
Yet another successful defensive gun use — a crime in progress stopped — by a law-abiding gun owner. It’s almost as if this kind of thing happens regularly. Oh wait…it does.
–BY DAN ZIMMERMA, Truth About Guns
NEWS FROM THE TEXAS WEATHERMAN–So, I’m starting to realize barometric pressure affects my old ass! When hurricane get close and something this morning too! Every part of me hurt this morning. Even after all the Biofreeze, my Underdog Secret Energy pills(legal) & other stuff I still hurt!
Funny how it how goes away once the motor starts.
–RFR
Official meteorologist
Bikernet.com™
COVID AND THE SHIPPING INDUSTRY-–
The Future of Delivery–Black Friday kicked off the 2020 holiday gift-buying season. As a matter of fact, Black Friday sales this year started in the early part of November instead of the day after Thanksgiving. Most of these sales will likely be online due to the pandemic.
According to Digital Commerce 360, US consumers are projected to spend $198.73 billion with online retailers this holiday season. That is 43.3 percent higher than the same period last year.
Even before the COVID crisis, online shopping expanded so quickly that delivery companies struggled to keep up with demand. In September, Ware2Go (founded by UPS) released a survey that showed market shift brought on by COVID-19 prompted unprecedented demand. Ware2Go CEO Steve Denton said in a recent interview, “We’re anticipating this year’s shipping volumes to hit a new peak. With most supply chains already working above their 2019 peak shipping volumes, we recognize that this holiday season will be unlike any the industry has seen.”
That’s this year, but what happens to delivery when the pandemic is over?
Many companies are investing heavily to develop the newest delivery device, whether it’s sidewalk robots, flying drones, or electric cargo bikes. Several plan to go driverless to cut down on the cost of drivers and more will likely make their fleets electric.
Whatever happens, consumers will continue to shop online at unprecedented rates, which means the demand to deliver our stuff will be greater than ever. Logistyx Technologies President Ken Fleming said recently in an interview the changes will last beyond the pandemic, “E-commerce growth is great news for most trucking businesses, especially those supporting e-commerce order fulfillment, as delivery volume to distribution centers and directly to consumers keeps rising.”
One of the most significant changes in delivery is that instead of shipping to a grocery retailer, trucking companies are delivering to an e-commerce middleman warehouse, which then does the final hand-off. This means more final-mile deliveries.
Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer, announced earlier this month that it would expand in-garage delivery for Prime members to 4,000 US cities. In 2017, the company launched Amazon Key to deliver packages inside homes with smart front door locks and indoor cameras for customer reassurance. They wanted to solve the problem of porch theft. Amazon Key drew mixed reviews and had since focused on delivery to garages (and car trunks) in 50 US cities.
Walmart also recently announced that it would team up with Cruise, a driverless car operation owned primarily by General Motors. The two companies will begin a program to test driverless-vehicle delivery of goods directly to Scottsdale, AZ customers. Walmart has also teamed up with Waymo (the driverless-vehicle unit of Google parent Alphabet) in a similar program. The Arkansas-based company has also started experimenting with delivery via flying drones.
Fight for curb space is also intensifying in urban centers. Four cities (Aspen, CO; West Palm Beach, FL; Omaha, NE; and Nashville, TN) are the latest to participate in pilot programs to evaluate apps that supposedly will help improve congestion by renting curbside time for delivery and rideshare companies.
Cities, mobility companies, urban planners, anti-car activists, and Big Bike all see dollar signs when it comes to the lowly street curb, which was paid for with taxpayer dollars.
New York City recently stepped up efforts to curb deliveries during morning and afternoon rush hours between Sixth and Madison Avenues from 45th to 50th streets. Trucking Association of New York President Kendra Hems said even though a group of trucking associations has asked about the pilot program’s effectiveness, the ad hoc coalition has not yet received an answer from the city. She added there are two other problems for NYC delivery trucks:
Business owners schedule deliveries, leaving truck drivers and delivery companies to pay any fines that are levied, and
Closed streets and newly placed streetside restaurants due to the pandemic have made it harder for truckers to deliver goods.
The future of delivery looks bright for delivery and freight companies, but what about the rest of us? Of course, the convenience of having stuff delivered directly to our doors might save us time and money, but convenience should not be the only consideration.
As more and more delivery trucks and other automated delivery devices crowd the roadways, what impact will this have on overall congestion? More personalized delivery intermingled with rideshare and increased driverless car traffic has already had a significant impact on motorists in urban cores. For rural residents, finding goods in stores might become an issue if more products go to a middleman warehouse instead of directly to stores.
Auto manufacturer, delivery, and tech company executives have formed a new group that will grapple with future transport’s thorniest issues. The Commission on the Future of Mobility plans to put together a new regulatory framework for the global transportation sector going through a worldwide transition driven by shared, connected, autonomous, and electric technologies.
Can the industries that profit from these changes be trusted to make decisions that serve the public’s best interests? Likely, corporate interests will take priority, leaving the rest of us to cope with the mobility landscape that emerges.
–NMA
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS WIDE OPEN—MASK FREE!
Caller: Hi, my name is Matt and I’m an alcoholic.
AAA: Sir, this is triple A.
Caller: I know, I’m explaining why my car is in the lake.
CLASSIC FROM LOWBROW–$59.44 $69.95
HARLOT P-PAD – BLACK VERTICAL TUCK N ROLL VINTAGE STYLE PILLION PAD
BiltwellSKU: 011274
Put the cherry on top of your chopper sundae with a P-pad to match your solo seat. Easily custom mounts to your fender with hardware of your choice.
Technical Details:
-1/4-inch (4mm) thick laminated leather base with vinyl veneer for weather resistance
-Pre-curved shape to fit the radius of most rear fenders
-One-piece molded polyurethane foam padding
-Four nickel-plated brass grommets on the corners for custom mounting
-Hand-sewn smooth and embossed vinyl covers available in a variety of stitched upholstery patterns
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON OF THE WEEK–fussbudget
[ fuhs-buhj-it ]
noun
a fussy or needlessly fault-finding person.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF FUSSBUDGET?
Fussbudget “one who is fussy or needlessly faultfinding” is a transparent compound of the nouns fuss “bustle, commotion” and budget “itemized list of funds or expenses.” The word entered English in the early 20th century; it became associated with the character Lucy Van Pelt in the comic strip Peanuts in the 1960s.
HOW IS FUSSBUDGET USED?
He was a fussbudget. His interest in ideas didn’t match his interest in small, and often silly, facts. Much of the time he saw neither the forest nor the trees but only a bit of the undergrowth.
RICHARD ROVERE, “THE MAGNIFICENT FUSSBUDGET,” HARPER’S, JUNE 1975
“Friends,” the ever-popular television comedy, has already directed the action away from Chandler, the fussbudget, and Ross, the whiny paleontologist, to Joey of the big biceps and unambiguous urges.
GINIA BELLAFANTE, “SEEING A NEW MAN CALLING THE TUNE, FASHION GETS IN STEP,” NEW YORK TIMES, JANUARY 22, 2002
MOTORCYCLE TOURS ARE STILL AVAILABLE IN INDIA–We called our business Giant Leap because once you commit, your world will never be the same.
You leave behind petty rules and a world gone mad, you reconnect with nature, people and curiosity.
Experience the thrill of camaraderie and feel the achievement of doing what most people on the planet wouldn’t even dare to.
Get the T-shirt and join the club who can wear it with pride:
—— “I Took The Giant Leap”
Motorcycling hasn’t been truly understood until you’re at the top of a mountain on a dirt road and simply observing the worlds thousands of metres below you.
Awesome. Amazing. Inspiring. Challenging. Adjectives do no good in describing these motorcycle tours.
Take a risk, take a chance, take your Giant Leap.
Visit our Website Here: Yourgiantleap.com
–Ben
LET’S CELEBRATE—All we are capable of doing, all our friends and all we’ve been able to do in this amazingly short chunk of history.
I’m in an interesting time slot. With the help of Lee Clemens of Departure Bike Works in Richmond and Kent Weeks or Lucky Devil Metal Works in Houston and our Pandemic Panhead project, I’m learning a whole bunch about engines and I’m trying to write it down. Hang on for this tech.
I’m also working in the 91st issue of the Bandit’s Cantina series, and it’s getting way too long. I may need to cut it in half. Bandit’s on a run to save the Cantina financially and his staff physically.
I’m also working on a piece about my life to dance on Bikernet with a group of Sam’s wild photos. Again, it’s sort of long-winded about 1969 and a Sportster I rode back and forth from San Diego to Long Beach to see my first wife to be.
I’m about to finish removing the mag from the Pandemic and installing an auto-advance circuit breaker, a coil, an ignition switch, a battery and wiring. Hang on for an upcoming report.
Ride fast and free, forever! And happy holidays!
–Bandit
SHOPPING FROM HOME BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for December 10, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
Life is whacky. But one thing is for certain. We are still going to have Christmas, the joy, the happiness, the warmth and caring. No matter what is happening in the world or health wise, Christmas reigns supreme.
So, let’s share the brotherhood, the fun, and the joy of Christmas with everyone in every way we can this year.
All the best for the Holidays. Let’s hit the News:
–Bandit
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.
DIME BAG NEWS– DIME BAG WORKING TO CREATE THE PRODUCT EVERY BROTHER NEEDS—A cell phone holster. The Bikernet staff is testing the first one. And here’s news from the Master.
Yo, Worked up this custom seat for Billy at Choppers Inc. I used the same font as the one that Choppers Inc had on the Easyriders Centerfold Tour. More epic seat builds are coming, working with legendary builders is always a great goal to share.
All the best
AC
Dimebag Leather
309-336-0714
Follow us on Instagram @dimebag.leather
SADDLEMEN SEAT OF THE WEEK—2018-2021 Fat Boy FLFB/FLFBS Brown Step-Up™ TR Front & LS Rear Seat
Brand Fitment: Harley-Davidson
Model Fitment: Fat Boy FLFB/FLFBS
Year Fitment: 2018-2021
From the early days of the Wheelie King to the present day, Saddlemen® has been there to support talented riders with purpose-built equipment to help them push the limits of both man and machine. The latest creation born out of this relationship is the Saddlemen® Step-Up seat. A beautiful blend of the rider and passenger comfort you have come to expect from Saddlemen® combined with ergonomics required to keep the rider locked in place, providing the highest level of bike control available in an aftermarket Harley-Davidson seat.
Don’t take our word for it, just ask the guys over at Unknown Industries. These talented riders have been pushing the limits of their purpose-built HD motorcycles for years. If you are not already familiar with these guys, you can see them performing at Monster Energy’s latest V-twin productions or locally at rallies like Sturgis. No matter where you see them, you will notice that they only ride Saddlemen® seats.
? Designed and made in the USA.
? The seat combines a Gel-Core interior and Ultra-Foam that creates a foam that is a perfect balance of rigidity and user compliance.
? Ultra-Foam unique molding process creates an element-resistant self-skinning process that seals the foam from water and enhances the seat’s durability as well as comfort.
? The Co-molded Gel-Core is the largest comfort advancement in motorcycle seating since the creation of the suspension.
? True Tuck and Roll will complete an awesome look.
? If you are looking for the ultimate performance upgrade, look no further
? Installs easily with all necessary mounting hardware and instructions included.
NEWS FROM LOWBROW–REDEMPTION ON THE SALT – RACING AT THE BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS 2020– However, in this case it was not because of the world-wide pandemic.
On my first run at Bonneville Speed Week in 2019, I crashed at over 120 mph…
ARRIVAL AT THE BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS
Like most things this year, preparing for racing at Bonneville in 2020 was very different than other years. However, in this case it was not because of the world-wide pandemic. On my first run at Bonneville Speed Week in 2019, I crashed at over 120 mph.
Lowbrow Customs – Redemption on the salt – 1First day on the salt at Bonneville Speed Week 2019 with my 1950 Pre-unit Triumph land speed bike.
For most of the year leading up to Speed Week 2019 I had worked on my race bike and engine, dyno testing and preparing engine and chassis for a record setting season. The attention to detail and meticulous work had paid off; my horsepower was up 12% since the prior year, when I had first built and raced (and set a record with) the bike.
The arrival to the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2019 was a bit disappointing, as the surface was partially flooded and there were standing puddles of water everywhere. Just walking around the pits led to soaking wet, salty shoes, and everything became a mess very quickly. A rain storm had swept through the area the night before. The salt flats are surrounded by mountainous foot hills and the water streams down to the lake bed.
About 500 racers and an additional 1500 or so crew members and SCTA volunteers were now there, ready to race and waiting for the sun and light wind to dry up the salt.
Four long (but fun) days of waiting and everyone was ready to race on Tuesday. Instead of 3 or 4 courses as usual, there was only 1 good enough to race on. We were up at 5am and in line on the road to get onto the salt, and we were late! Some people had gotten in line hours before that, sleeping in their vehicles to ensure they would be some of the first to race.
Read the whole story on the Lowbrow web site:
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT-– So my friend Greg Hale of MC Creations had a swap meet today, couldn’t have been a better day for it! Started off early about 39 degrees then warmed up into the 60s.
It was a great turn out, be it vendors or folks looking for that one particular piece need to continue forward on their project or others just coming out to visit. Greg is just a couple years older, we ran basically the same places in our younger days, just different circles.
I’m 98% sure it was Greg that sold me the S&S 84-inch kit I bought in ‘81 when he worked for ??? Before he started his own shop after winning a contest to attend MIC to learn all you need to know to repair Harley-Davidsons.
Ran into a few folks I hadn’t seen in a while, talking about how we are the old guys now. Thing is the younger riders aren’t building the stuff we did. One of Greg’s friends has as part of his retirement plan 50 or so OEM glass tombstone taillights. But will that turn out to be a good strategy?
There are no other shops in Houston that have the older parts and knowledge that Greg and MC Creations has. Who will step up to take on this task when a Greg decides it time to retire? Things are changing that’s for sure. Guess it’s just the mechanic in me. I just don’t understand doing a burnout until the engine explodes.
–RFR
Tech Reporter
Bikernet.com™
ERIC HERRMANN REACHES OUT–Deal of the Day “Thumpers” I positioned the 441 Victor to be reflected in the tank of a BSA Goldstar. I altered the background & sky, but tried to keep the irregularity of the reflection.
The original sold to a friend in Canada who’s first bike was a Victor. A good home!
I have (1) 20 x 30 Canvas Giclee’ available for $600.00/ frt.
Normally $850.00
Metal 8×12 @ $45.00
Paper prints 14 x 21 @ $125.00
Eric@EricHerrmannStudios.com (480) 575-7559…
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS WIDE OPEN—MASK FREE!
A family is at the dinner table. The son asks his father, “Dad, how many kinds of boobs are there?”
The father, surprised, answers, “Well, son, there’s three kinds of breasts. In her twenties, a woman’s breasts are like melons, round and firm. In her thirties to forties, they are like pears, still nice but hanging a bit. After fifty, they are like onions.”
“Onions?” asks the boy.
“Yes,” said the father, “you see them and they make you cry.”
This infuriated his wife and daughter so the daughter said, “Mom, how many kinds of willies are there?”
The mother, surprised, smiles and answers, “Well dear, a man goes through three phases also. In his twenties, his willie is like an oak tree, mighty and hard. In his thirties and forties, it is a birch, flexible but still reliable. After his fifties, it is like an old Christmas tree.”
“A Christmas tree?”
“Yes, dead from the root up and the balls are for decoration only.”
–Wayfarer
RODDER’S JOURNAL NEW YEAR CALENDARS–
The Holidays are fast approaching, and we would like to take a moment to showcase the official Rodder’s Journal 2021 Calendars.
Just like the magazine, these calendars feature a wide variety of hot rods and customs from coast to coast. They’re printed on heavy stock right here in the United States, and each one is individually signed and numbered by the publisher, Steve Coonan.
This year’s theme is Traditional Trendsetters. These are cars that pushed the envelope when they were first built and their timeless designs have helped to define what we now refer to as traditional hot rods and custom cars. With a combination of studio and location photography, we like to think of this calendar as an oversized issue of TRJ for your wall.
We have less than 1,000 left, so make sure to get yours while supplies last. To place an order, click the red box above, or give us a call at (800) 750-9550 in North America or (804) 496-6906 internationally.
Cheers!
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal
NMA ALERT–Pennsylvania legalizes autonomous delivery robots, classifies them as pedestrians
Personal Delivery Devices or PDD enjoy the status of pedestrian in several states. According to the new Pennsylvania law, the PDDs can weigh up to 550 pounds without cargo and can be used everywhere there is a sidewalk. These sidewalk bots must yield the right-of-way to actual human pedestrians and cyclists and allowed only to travel 12 mph (Average walking speed for humans is about 3 to 4 mph).
When they are not on sidewalks, the PDDs can travel on roadways or shoulders (or bike lanes) at 25 mph.
Other states have different weight and speed limits. Does this indicate a trend or perhaps just a reality foisted on all of us by tech companies?
Harley-Davidson LiveWire versus Zero SR/S: Premium electric motorcycles face off—It was a very promotional piece, but we ran an important clip.–Bandit
Range and recharging
How far you can go and how long it takes to recharge are two considerations that require some scrutiny with electric motorcycles, far beyond what you have to do with an ICE motorcycle. With the LiveWire and the SR/S, I found some similarities and some key differences.
Zero claims a max range of 161 miles for the SR/S (in the city) and Harley-Davidson specs the LiveWire’s max urban range at 145 miles. There’s a high degree of variability in how far you can actually ride on one of these high-performance electric motorcycles, however, depending on which riding mode you use and the type of riding you do, and that exposes an ongoing drawback of electric versus gas motorcycles.
Putting either in high power mode and heading out on the highway makes for a pretty short trip. Testing these two electric motorcycles (and others), I’ve found you get the most out of them by riding in efficiency mode most of the time — which still offers a good deal of zip — switching to Sport when the occasion arises and then switching back to Range or Eco modes to conserve power.
Following that modus operandi, the LiveWire and SR/S were pretty evenly matched, and offered around 85 to 100 miles of range per charge, on my mix of roughly 25 percent city riding, 45 percent curvy two-lane and 30 percent highway cruising.
An important difference is revealed when it’s time to recharge these two motorcycles. Zero and Harley took different approaches and that may determine which bike works better for how and where you ride.
Level 1 charging is plugging the bike into a regular home outlet. Level 2 charging stations basically double that power. Level 3, also called DC Fast Charging, uses DC instead of AC power. DC fast charging stations provide the quickest way to replenish any EV that’s equipped to handle it.
charging the LiveWire
The LiveWire charges faster than the SR/S — assuming you find a compatible Level 3 charging station. If you’re charging either motorcycle from a regular wall outlet, it’s an all-day (or overnight) wait.
The SR/S Premium accommodates Level 1 or Level 2 charging. The LiveWire gives the rider the options of Level 1 or Level 3 and free Level 3 charging is available for two years at Chargepoint stations at all Harley-Davidson dealerships that sell the LiveWire.
Using a Level 3 fast charger, the LiveWire can charge to 80 percent of battery capacity in 40 minutes and reach 100 percent in roughly an hour. The Zero SR/S Premium charged to 100 percent in around 90 minutes, using a Level 2 charger. Charging either bike at Level 1 on a home outlet happened at a snail’s pace.
I clocked it at 11 hours for a charge after I ran the big HD’s battery down to two percent state of charge. Basically, Level 1 charging is for when the bike is parked overnight or maybe at your workplace, if your employer lets you plug in while you’re on the job.
The Harley’s faster Level 3 charging sounds great, but the advantage is not so clear cut. Only 15 percent of public charging outlets in the United States are Level 3 DC Fast Charging Stations, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, you have to make sure the DC fast charging station has the SAE Combined Charging System (CCS) plug to match your LiveWire.
What does all this mean for this comparison? With the SR/S Premium, I could charge relatively quickly from a lot of charging stations. With the LiveWire I could charge faster but at far fewer locations.
For riders who plan to ride further than the range a full battery provides, the availability of charging stations is an important consideration. Electric motorcycles still require riders to accept a high degree of inconvenience over gas-powered bikes in how far you can ride and the time it takes to top up your scooter.
–Jake Bright, revzilla
THIS DAY IN HISTORY–December 10
The first Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm, Sweden, in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace.
The ceremony came on the fifth anniversary of the death of Alfred Nobel, the Swedish inventor of dynamite and other high explosives. In his will, Nobel directed that the bulk of his vast fortune be placed in a fund in which the interest would be “annually distributed in the form of prizes to those who, during the preceding year, shall have conferred the greatest benefit on mankind.”
Although Nobel offered no public reason for his creation of the prizes, it is widely believed that he did so out of moral regret over the increasingly lethal uses of his inventions in war.
Alfred Bernhard Nobel was born in Stockholm in 1833, and four years later his family moved to Russia. His father ran a successful St. Petersburg factory that built explosive mines and other military equipment.
Educated in Russia, Paris, and the United States, Alfred Nobel proved a brilliant chemist. When his father’s business faltered after the end of the Crimean War, Nobel returned to Sweden and set up a laboratory to experiment with explosives.
In 1863, he invented a way to control the detonation of nitroglycerin, a highly volatile liquid that had been recently discovered but was previously regarded as too dangerous for use. Two years later, Nobel invented the blasting cap, an improved detonator that inaugurated the modern use of high explosives. Previously, the most dependable explosive was black powder, a form of gunpowder.
Nitroglycerin remained dangerous, however, and in 1864 Nobel’s nitroglycerin factory blew up, killing his younger brother and several other people. Searching for a safer explosive, Nobel discovered in 1867 that the combination of nitroglycerin and a porous substance called kieselguhr produced a highly explosive mixture that was much safer to handle and use.
Nobel christened his invention “dynamite,” for the Greek word dynamis, meaning “power.” Securing patents on dynamite, Nobel acquired a fortune as humanity put his invention to use in construction and warfare.
In 1875, Nobel created a more powerful form of dynamite, blasting gelatin, and in 1887 introduced ballistite, a smokeless nitroglycerin powder. Around that time, one of Nobel’s brothers died in France, and French newspapers printed obituaries in which they mistook him for Alfred. One headline read, “The merchant of death is dead.”
Alfred Nobel in fact had pacifist tendencies and in his later years apparently developed strong misgivings about the impact of his inventions on the world. After he died in San Remo, Italy, on December 10, 1896, the majority of his estate went toward the creation of prizes to be given annually in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace. The portion of his will establishing the Nobel Peace Prize read, “[one award shall be given] to the person who has done the most or best work for fraternity among nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies, and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses.” Exactly five years after his death, the first Nobel awards were presented.
Today, the Nobel Prizes are regarded as the most prestigious awards in the world in their various fields. Notable winners have included Marie Curie, Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, George Bernard Shaw, Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, Martin Luther King, Jr., the Dalai Lama, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Nelson Mandela In 1968, a Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science was established by the Swedish national bank, Sveriges Riksbank, and first awarded in 1969.
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences decides the prizes in physics, chemistry, and economic science; the Swedish Royal Caroline Medico-Surgical Institute determines the physiology or medicine award; the Swedish Academy chooses literature; and a committee elected by the Norwegian parliament awards the peace prize. The Nobel Prizes are still presented annually. Each Nobel carries a cash prize of nearly $1,400,000 and recipients also received a gold medal, as is the tradition.
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/first-nobel-prizes-awarded
–History Channel
A&E Television Networks
GUN NUT REPORT—New Bill Would Ban Texas Private Firearm Sales
Against all hope and experience, Texas Democrats have been busy throwing all kinds of gun control bills up agains the legislative wall in advance of the upcoming biennial session. One of those pre-filed bills, HB 118 which would outlaw private gun sales without a background check, making it a crime to sell a gun without one, is real doozy.
Texas Rep. Lina Ortega [D] really doesn’t like private sales one little bit. Allow me to quote a considerable portion of the bill:
Sec. 205.051. REQUIREMENTS FOR PRIVATE FIREARM TRANSFER;
OFFENSE. (a) A person may not sell or otherwise transfer a firearm
to another person unless:
(1) the person is a licensed firearms dealer; or
(2) the person is not a licensed firearms dealer, and:
(A) the person sells or transfers the firearm to
a licensed firearms dealer, a peace officer, a law enforcement
agency, or a person licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H,
Chapter 411, Government Code;
(B) the transferor and the transferee are related
within the third degree by consanguinity or within the second
degree by affinity as determined under Chapter 573, Government
Code; or
(C) before delivering the firearm to the person
to whom the firearm is being sold or transferred, the person selling
or transferring the firearm requests that a licensed firearms
dealer conduct, in the manner required by 18 U.S.C. Section 922, a
national instant criminal background check to verify that the
person to whom the firearm is being sold or transferred may lawfully
possess a firearm.
I’ve added some emphasis here and there to help make a point.
To sell a firearm either you must be a Federal Firearms Licensee or (see that emphasis above?) meet the requirements of part (2). To wit that you aren’t an FFL but you follow the conditions in (A) and (B), or (C). Note that neither (A) nor (B) have an “or;” that means all three conditions must be met”
the buyer is an FFL, law enforcement, or licensed to carry a handgun, and
the buyer are closely related, or
a NICS check is completed
As the bill is written, you can only sell a firearm if at least one of you, the buyer or the seller, is an FFL (or LEO or CCW) and close family; or you do a background check. I’m not sure if Ortega is being stupid or clever here.
It’s possible there was supposed to be an “or” at the end of (2)(A), making any one of the conditions a requirement. I suspect a bit of both — stupidity and cleverness — because requiring that the seller or buyer be an FFL suggests Ortega thinks the FFL would have to enter this into their bound book, creating a permanent record and requiring a background check anyway.
But — FFLs, correct me if I’m wrong here — items to or from the licensee’s private collection (as distinct from commercial inventory) don’t have to be entered.
In any case, this is a poorly written bill that has little to no chance of ever becoming law as both the House and Senate remain under solid Republican control despite Democrats’ fervent pre-election dreams and all of the bogus media predictions
BY CARL BUSSJAEGER, Truth About Guns
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK— 2015 Harley-Davidson® FLRT – Freewheeler for $18,995.00
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BRAND NEW BIKERNET READER COMMENT--Horny Air Horn by Air Stream Studios
Waggaman, Wimmer, and Women. Nice article. My memory shot back to Lee Wimmer’s Kobalt Kruiser. All the K’s tell us right away that Brian Klock was instrumental. I read about Mr. Wimmer’s bike in “How to Hop-Up and Customize Your Harley-Davidson Bagger” by Timothy Remus.
This was 2004 and the builds in this book from Wolfgang Publications still personifies what a bagger can be.
–Sam Burns
Somewhere in Texas
[page break]
WIN ONE OF THESE GUITARS QUICK–
One lucky ticket holder to our upcoming live stream will be winning this customized Epiphone Hummingbird
We even pay for shipping
Friday Dec 11th
2 showtimes
Grab a ticket to either show and you’re automatically entered to win
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https://nickperritheundergroundthieves.veeps.com/
NEW Twin Power Rotors--Produced in the United States for Twin Power by a “premier manufacturer”, its direct bolt-on rotors are “specially ground to help prevent warping,” says Brand Manager James Simonelli.
“They are laser-cut 11.5″ rotors and include an alumimum adaptor ring to fit 1984 – 1999 H-D models with 2″ center hole. On floating rotors, the carriers have been precision CNC-machined.”
The aluminum adapter ring adapts 2 1/4″ rotors to a 2″ hub to “give a tight fit and plenty of braking power.”
TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.twinpower-usa.com
5-BALL LEATHER SPEEDWAY SHIRTS TESTIMONIAL–
Shirts are the best on the planet. Super laid back yet ready for action. Finest quality and styling is super swag. Worth every dime.
Appreciate all you do.
Best of everything to you and yours.
Happy holidays to you and your staff!!!
–RAR
INNOVATION OF THE WEEK--Porsche Has a Wild Idea to Save Gas-Powered Cars
EVs may be the future, but a new type of fuel could clean up the cars of the present.
The future of the automobile, it’s pretty clear by now, is electric. But even if the boldest corporate and governmental plans for EV mandates come to pass and half the planet no longer allows the sale of new internal combustion-powered vehicles, that still leaves hundreds of millions of existing ICE rides on the road.
So how, then, do we minimize the damage these old cars do — and help make sure any new ICE-powered cars don’t ravage the environment as much as their predecessors? Well, Porsche has a clever idea that could help keep gas-powered cars and trucks around well into a more environmentally friendly era: give them less-destructive fuel to burn.
To do that, Porsche is joining forces with German conglomerate Siemens and several international energy fims to create a new plant in Chile that will crank out climate-neutral eFuel — synthetic gasoline with a net-zero carbon footprint — starting in 2022. While the initial rollout will be fairly modest — Porsche plans to make around 34,000 gallons of it in 2022 — the goal is to scale up quickly; 2023 should see the plant whip up more than 14 million gallons of the stuff, and 2024 should see it producing around 140 million gallons, if all goes according to plan.
How does this apparent miracle of science work? Well, it’s a fairly simple process, assuming you have a ton of clean energy lying around. (Hence the decision to base the facility in Chile, where there’s wind power aplenty.)
Step 1: Use that redolent cleanly-generated electricity to power electrolysers, which split water into its constituent Hs and Os: hydrogen and oxygen.
Step 2: Scoop up the carbon dioxide from the air and combine it with the hydrogen to create methanol.
Step 3: Using technology licensed from ExxonMobil, convert the methanol into gasoline.
While the synthetic gasoline still emits CO2 when burned in an engine, that’s ultimately balanced out by the fact that the creation of said gasoline already extracted, in theory, an equal amount of carbon dioxide, which means the total net impact to Earth’s atmosphere should be a wash. (The process also adds oxygen to the atmosphere, but given how much more O2 there is up there than CO2 — there’s roughly 500 times as much oxygen as CO2 in the average sample of our blanket of gases — it seems likely to cause a negligible impact.)
Don’t expect to see an eFuel pump showing up at your local Porsche dealership anytime soon, though. Initially, Porsche’s share of the new synthetic gas generated at the Chilean plant will be used in a place that electrification still has yet to find purchase: the company’s motorsports efforts. It’ll also be used in the test vehicles found at Porsche’s Experience Centers around the globe. The carmaker does say that it’ll be used “later, in series production sports cars” as well, however, suggesting that 911 owners of the late 2020s might also score a hookup for the carbon-neutral sweet stuff…
–By Will Sabel Courtney
GearPatrol.com
ALL KIDS BIKE Movement Needs
More to Meet Year-End Goal–Edwards Motorsports in Council Bluffs, Iowa, recently made a $5,000 donation to fund an entire local All Kids Bike school program that will help put kids on two wheels.
The program has everything a school needs to make learning to ride a fundamental part of their kindergarten educational process, including teacher training and certification, curriculum and resources, bikes, helmets, pedal conversion kits, and program support for five years. Over the life of this program, organizers said, more than 500 kids will reach the first rung of the ladder of learning to ride.
“We hope many of them climb that ladder all the way to motorcycling and a lifelong love of two wheels,” said Bobby Edwards, the Iowa dealership’s owner/operator.
But, All Kids Bike is seeking support from more motorcycle businesses nationwide to help finish the year strong. Its fourth-quarter “moto campaign” has a goal of teaching 5,000 kids to ride two-wheelers, along with a fundraising target of $50,000 by December 31. Every $10 teaches one kid to ride, according to the organization, which is looking toward the motorcycle industry to support future riders.
All Kids Bike is a nationwide movement of the Strider Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that rallies parents, educators, community leaders, health officials, and donors to place kindergarten PE programs into public schools for free.
Visit All Kids Bike to make a donation.
–MIC
J.J. WRITES TO THE WRITER–
Dear Peter Baker; I read your NYT article in today’s Dec 6 Yahoo news feed about Trump’s increasing rage and despair, and all about Shakespeare, who you personally have likely never read, and all the quotes from other people, one of them from omigod A Harvard Graduate so he MUST be intelligent, just like Natalie Portman is, and I mean…..you are about as interesting a writer at writing as I am at talking about how mud accumulates below leaf-clogged roof gutters.
In fact….I am actually more interesting talking about how mud accumulates below clogged roof gutters than you are at telling me your childlike and petulant conclusions about people whose names other people actually recognize. Unlike your own. I asked 100 people if they ever heard of Peter Baker. They all said no. I asked them if they ever heard of Donald Trump. They all said yes.
Ya know, before I go on, have you noticed that, so far, everything I have written is already much more interesting and professionally composed than your entire news article about President Trump?
And that’s the great thing about news journalism, you don’t have to be a good writer to do it. In fact actual writing talent is a hindrance because having talent at anything is an indication and demonstration of a brain-configuration unalloyed by physical damage, emotional trauma, or bad genetics. And without an inherently faulty intellect you can’t summon the hubris to imagine that you, not the people you write about, are what actually is controlling world events.
And then there’s the prose.
There’s a reason all journalists have failed as novelists. Composing a successful novel requires a modicum of …. write this down ….. talent.
Journalism, as you have so searingly demonstrated in your article, requires no talent. All journalism requires is envy and an inability to succeed as a novelist.
What is the ambition-level of a writer with no talent who, insisting on being heard no matter how many readers have to suffer, writes about a man who failed at a vote-count, not at life. He failed at a vote count. You failed at novel writing. You failed at your main ambition. Trump failed at getting a second term at a hobby. Not that writing is an ambition. It’s more of a default-setting for homely men and women with no breeding or table manners. A guy who no one ever heard of is writing about a guy everyone on earth has heard of…. and the guy no one has heard of is claiming the moral and sanctimonious high ground. Now that’s funny. Can you imagine yourself as President? You would be changing your Depends every two seconds. Or your mom would be doing it for you, more likely.
Have you read your own article? There is not one actually-interestingly-written sentence – or even sentence fragment – in it. That’s astounding. There are signs at the Post Office that captivate the reader with more fascinating word-play than your entire article did to anyone who read it. There’s a reason no one has ever heard of you. You’re boring.
You are not bored reading this, are you. No. you are wide awake muchacho. You are setting down your coffee cup because right at the moment you do not need it. You are awake. And that’s what good writing does! It wakes you up!
Haha I know what you’re thinking: “I must be more interesting than Donald Trump!” No. that’s not the case. The case is, I am much more interesting than you are. My writing has invigorated you. Your writing invigorates no one.
Aside from your long list of people you quoted, the hacks at the Huffington and Pop Sugar and She Knows are every bit as boringly in-the-pocket as you are. You are a cookie-cutter philosophical dunce writing what your philosophically dunce publisher agrees with. You write for a publisher. Not for an audience. Face it. You’re a failure as a writer. You have one reader. Your boss. And if he doesn’t like it he changes it. And doesn’t tell you. Because you’re a tape recorder that types. You are not a writer.
Ya know, I don’t know anyone at Harvard or anyone who has all the cachets of all the illustrious people you know, but I was talkin’ to some guy at the strip club and he said “Ya know what the thing is about journalists?” I said, “When did you ever read anything by a journalist.” And he said “Here’s the thing with them dopes: civilization failed them by not recognizing that their – ya know, the journalists – by not recognizing that the journalists’ lack of writing talent…was actually superior writing talent. Civilization didn’t recognize that this clear lack of talent was actually great talent. ‘Cause all the journalists are all convinced they are goddamn Edward Everett Horton.”
“Do you mean H.V. Kaltenborn?”
“Whatever. And they ain’t. As civilization keeps telling them over and over with every rejection from Random House. So they need to get even with civilization. By destroying it. That’s why they’re all Commies and Muslims. Birds of a feather.”
And that’s the gist!
Thank you.
God bless.
–J.J. Solari
CAST ALUMINUM FROM American Prime Manufacturing–Main Shaft for 4-Speeds and Alternator Shroud
Southern California based American Prime Manufacturing specializes in clutches for American V- twins (Comp Master), but its new 4-speed transmission main shaft support and alternator shroud prove that “4-speeds won’t ever die,” says company President Ben Kudon.
“On the contrary, they are very much alive and popular, and these high-quality components are made from the original tooling here in the United States.”
The castings are poured with high-grade die cast aircraft quality aluminum alloy with a percentage of silicone, copper and zinc. “We use a spectrometer to analyze the material for alloy content. All ‘bad metal’ is removed prior to the pour to get a perfect die cast part every time.
“These two parts have a unique over 50-year history and provide reliable, trouble-free operation if installed correctly.”
AMERICAN PRIME MANUFACTURING
www.americanprimemfginc.com
–Posted by DealerWorld
RESEARCH FROM THE DEADWOOD ARCHIVIST— Attached, please find two photographs from the Charles C. Haas scrapbook titled “Deadwood”. Haas was an amateur historian back in the 1930s and 1940s. He would talk with local longtime residents of Deadwood and then go out and photograph the places they pointed out during the interviews. Many of his notes are written into the scrapbooks and on his photographs. The Deadwood scrapbook contains a nice section on Deadwood’s first cemetery including the attached two photographs. Unfortunately, the exact location has been lost to time.
I have researched this cemetery and tried to locate the boundaries in our neighborhood. Based on historic newspapers, burials have been unearthed at 33 and 33 ½ Jackson Street (Forest Service houses), 34 Jackson Street (built ca. 1952) and 66 Taylor Avenue (built 1942). I also checked the land records and discovered a 5-acre parcel of land sandwiched between the Ingleside Townsite map and Probate Lot 205. The above mentioned homes all fall within this area. When you are back in the area, I would be happy to talk cemetery history with you-it’s one of my favorite Deadwood topics!
–Michael Runge
City Archivist
108 Sherman Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
www.cityofdeadwood.com
P: (605) 578-2082
F: (605) 578-2084
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Sam’s Picks for the Week of December 6, 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Sams_Picks_for_the_Week_of_December_6_2020.aspx
This is a great story. It is amazing how I see myself sometimes in these stories?
–Stealth
Charlotte, Nc
ALERT FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–
In Geological Terms, Today’s Atmospheric CO2 Concentrations Are Still Uncomfortably Low– Disaster was narrowly averted
Under 180 ppm atmospheric CO2 concentration, life on earth begins to die.
The earth came very close to that point not long ago during the Ice Ages (20,000 years ago). Then the planet warmed naturally, and an increase in atmospheric CO2 to over 200 ppm followed (new study here).
The earth saw CO2 levels of close to 8000 ppm in the past, i.e. about 20 times more than today. The following chart shows the earth’s atmospheric CO2 concentrations for the past 600 million years.
Today, thanks in large part to mankind, concentrations have risen to over 400 ppm, yet historically this remains at the very low end of the scale compared to the thousands of ppm seen naturally earlier in history.
Greening planet
Today, definitely a safer level would be near 1000 ppm. Studies unanimously show plant growth at these higher levels is far enhanced. Already today we see clear evidence the planet is greening Zhu et al. (2016), in part due to the fertilizations taking place through human emissions:
Figure 1: Trends in Leaf Area Index around the planet. Note the units are in hundredths (10-2) of meters per square meter. An increase of 25 (Purple, right end of scale) is actually an annual change of .025 square meters per year. Note that the largest greenings are in fact over the South American, African, and Australasian tropical rainforests.
Greening across the world
German science magazine Wissenschaftreported not long ago: “Vegetation on earth has been expanding for decades, satellite data show.”
Some alarmists claim drought is spreading, but Wissenschaft magazine reports: “The opposite is the case: according to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, satellite observations show a greening of vegetation over the past three decades in parts of Asia, Europe, South America, Central North America and Southeast Australia.”
“Although there are regions that would become browner, the bottom line is that there is a larger area on our planet that is greened than browned,” the German science magazine notes.
Thanks to CO2 fertilization
For the welcome trend, scientists attribute the surprising development on “a mixture of factors”, foremost the recent increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration, which plants thrive on and humans have been mislead into believing is a “pollutant”.
HOLIDAY NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–
Now for something different on Day 8…today’s offerings will include the release of David’s 2020 Holiday piece, along with special deals on his previous holiday pieces.
In 2015, David started his Holiday Series with “Timber Titan”. Each year since, he has added a new piece to this collection. We offer special holiday pricing on these through January 1st each time. This year’s addition, titled “Warm Heart, Cold Start”.
As David states, “I wanted to move on to a more modern timeline and illustrate what can happen when you get distracted the night of the Christmas party and forget to check the weather. Happens here in Colorado all the time.”
This digital image does not do it justice! The thick, expressive paint, atmospheric sections and the beautiful sky are best seen bigger and in person. I hope you are at least able to zoom in and really enjoy these nuances.
We are left to wonder if the weather forecast was dead wrong, or whether the festivities from the night before were just too distracting.
Either way, we hope you enjoy this new one! Rest assured that no Road Kings were harmed in this production…
“Warm Heart, Cold Start”
David Uhl Holiday Series 2020
BIKERNET TEMPLE MEMO–The Ghost Media
A donkey was tied to a tree. One night a ghost cut the rope and released the donkey.
The donkey went and destroyed the crops in a farmer’s land. Infuriated, the farmer’s wife shot the donkey and killed it.
The donkey’s owner was devastated at the loss. In reply, he shot dead the farmer’s wife.
Angered by his wife’s death, the farmer took a sickle and killed the donkey’s owner.
The wife of the donkey’s owner got so angry that she and her sons set the farmer’s house on fire.
The farmer, looking at his house turned into ashes, went ahead and killed both the wife and children of that donkey’s owner.
Finally, when the farmer was full of regret, he asked the ghost as to why did it kill them all? The ghost replied, “I killed nobody. I just released a donkey that was tied to a rope. It is all of you who released the devil within you which resulted into everything bad that happened.”
Today the media has become like the ghost. It keeps releasing donkeys on a daily basis. And people react and argue with each other, hurt each other, without even having a second thought.
In the end, the media dodges all responsibilities. So, it’s our responsibility to not to react on every donkey released by media and preserve our relationship with our friends and relatives.
–Wayfarer
Official Bikernet™ Monk
At the base of the gray mountain
India
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Life and Times 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Life_and_Times_2020.aspx
Robinson’s ” Live to Ride” bandana is outstanding! Thanks Marie and Keiith for collaborating with me on this bandana art project. The man sure knew how to draw! Enjoyed all the detail in his caricatures and cartoons.
Thanks again
–Ann Robinson
Garden Grove, CA
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS ALWAYS OPEN—Mask Free!
A man wakes up at Strong Memorial hospital bandaged from head to foot. The doctor comes in and says, “Ah, I see you’ve regained consciousness. Now you probably won’t remember, but you were in a huge pile-up on Monroe Avenue. You’re going to be ok, you’ll walk again and everything, but your penis was severed in the accident and we couldn’t find it.”
The man groans, but the doctor goes on, “You have $9000 in insurance compensation coming and we now have the technology to build a new penis. They work great but they don’t come cheap. It’s roughly $1000 an inch.” The man perks up.
“So,” the doctor says, “You must decide how many inches you want. But I understand that you have been married for over thirty years and this is something you should discuss with your wife. If you had a five incher before and get a nine incher now she might be a bit put out. If you had a nine incher before and you decide to only invest in a five incher now, she might be disappointed. It’s important that she plays a role in helping you make a decision.
“The man agrees to talk it over with his wife.
The doctor comes back the next day, “So, have you spoken with your wife?”
“Yes I have,” says the man.
“And has she helped you make a decision?”
“Yes” says the man.
“What is your decision?” asks the doctor.
“We’re getting granite countertops.”
–Sam Burns
IT’S ALL ABOUT PERSPECTIVE—I’m watching a series about the growth of the Roman Empire and how it started as a small community in the center of Italy on the West Coast about 600 years before Christ and grew to control the entire Mediterranean region. They never gave up.
Okay, we’ve had wars on this planet for almost 3000 years, mostly around religion, expansion and control.
We now have a new perspectives on life. Instead of being a vast unknown planet that needs to be conquered and controlled. We all live together on a tiny planet in a vast universe. There’s nothing to fight about. There’s only freedom and joy everyday, because who the hell knows what might happen next. And the Climate is guaranteed to change, whether we drive SUVs or not.
Speaking of unknown. So, we tried everything to get the Pandemic started. But being proactive, I worked with Flathead Fern on a auto-advance circuit breaker. We gave in, installed it, a coil, an ignition switch and a battery. Wired the puppy and it started first kick. Fuck!
Went to the VA this week for a Covid Test. It didn’t work out, so they want me back this afternoon. Damn, I can’t handle the pressure. I saw this bike in the parking lot, a classic.
NEW BAGGER MARKET REVEALED BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for July 30, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
I had an epiphany this week. Here’s the definition:
noun (plural epiphanies) (also Epiphany)
the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12).
• the festival commemorating the Epiphany on January 6.
• a manifestation of a divine or supernatural being.
• a moment of sudden revelation or insight.
The last one is the one I’m referring to in this case. I had a meeting with David Zemla from S&S and Bradley from the Indian PR group about the King of the Baggers Race later this year in Laguna Seca. S&S is modifying a new Indian Challenger for this bagger road race against 13 other bikes, all Harleys.
Just 30 minutes after the interview I jumped into the 5-Ball Racing van to blast from Deadwood into Boulder Canyon 6 miles away. Hooking up with Eric Herrmann, the mission was to collect a piece of vintage Henderson motorcycle art for the new Deadwood digs.
Eric and his son were staying on a cool, sorta vast estate owned by Joe, a contractor from Denver. Joe owns five Road Glides and Street Glides and they are all massively performance baggers. Eric just bought a cop Kawasaki capable of doing over 200. Joe also owns a Stupid Fast Ducati.
I jumped from a high dollar race discussion, to see who can build the fastest, best handling road race bagger, to a very serious performance bagger customer. One of Joe’s baggers can ride with Eric at over 140 mph and he has over $90,000 into an all-black and carbon fiber Street Glide.
So, I will attempt to cover the whole nine yards as I describe Joe’s collection of motorcycles in a Bikernet Feature. But the key is a new, stupid fast Harley or bagger performance market. This is not just about big-inch engines. It’s also about suspension and handling.
I started to imagine a wealthy guy thinking about buying a luxury sports car in a crowded city and how he can’t get around or through the traffic. He sells the Ferrari and goes after a performance touring bike with massive balls. “They are taking Baggers and building extremely fast FXRs,” Eric said to me. Hang on for what might happen next.
Let’s hit the news.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
Harley-Davidson Investors Sour on CEO Zeitz’s Turnaround Plan–
(Bloomberg) — Harley-Davidson Inc. investors who cheered the appointment of a turnaround artist don’t like the early rendition of his makeover for the ailing motorcycle maker.
Jochen Zeitz, a former Puma SE boss who became chief executive officer in February, has been working to shrink the company and narrow its focus amid a five-year sales slump in its core U.S. market. He has cut roughly 14% of the workforce, pruned its dealer network and delayed product launches.
“We’re not willing to sacrifice the strength of our legacy in a quest for pure volume growth going forward,” Zeitz said on a conference call. “We are an extraordinary and desirable brand but that doesn’t mean we want to become everything for everybody.”
That sobering message came after Harley on Tuesday posted its first quarterly red ink in more than a decade. The bikemaker reported a loss of 35 cents a share, missing the lowest analyst estimate and below a consensus for a profit of 18 cents a share.
Investors reacted by pushing down its shares as much as 11.3% to $25.98, the steepest decline in four months.
Zeitz, who joined Harley’s board in 2007, rose to prominence by reviving a nearly bankrupt Puma in the early 2000s. Since taking the handlebars at the motorcycle manufacturer earlier this year, he’s sketched out a turnaround plan dubbed “Rewire” and has promised a five-year strategic plan due by the fourth quarter, which he calls “Hardwire.”
His steps so far include starving dealers of new bikes to clear out excess inventory, a move the company says has helped it charge full price for 2020 model-year bikes. Zeitz told analysts Tuesday he aims to increase the brand’s desirability by putting quality ahead of quantity.
The Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based manufacturer said it would speed up restructuring by cutting about 30% of its model lineup and concentrating on 50 markets. Harley said in its latest annual report that it had dealers in about 100 countries worldwide.
What Bloomberg Intelligence Says:
New management may be embracing its history and core rider demographic, while remaining a niche player to attract a larger automotive or motorsports partner.
— Kevin Tynan, senior automotive analyst
Zeitz’s belt-tightening wasn’t enough to offset a 59% plunge in Harley’s second quarter shipments after the coronavirus halted production in its factories in the U.S. and Thailand and temporarily closed dealerships around the world.
There may be more pain to come as Harley is pushing back the debut of its first adventure touring bike, the Pan America, to early 2021 instead of August.
The CEO said he will invest savings from the cost cuts into new marketing campaigns. He is reorganizing the company’s structure to reduce complexity and improving outreach between its field offices and headquarters in Milwaukee.
Harley declined to give financial guidance for 2020, saying the impact and the duration of the pandemic is still too uncertain.
–by Gabrielle Coppola
Bloomberg.com
I made a couple of suggestions to the boss. One mentioned above. In a sense they embrace it with their Screamin’ Eagle CVO packages. But this market wants suspension and handling as a major portion of the Stupid Fast package.
I also suggested embracing a model that was built to modify, perhaps the Sportster. Design the platform so guy could customize readily. Done deal, and build the excitement around this ability.
Finally, remember when the Shay company built a reproduction Model A 20 years ago. I still see them on the road. I suggested that Harley create a similar model. Build on the legacy of the Past. All these suggestion are about building excitement around the brand inside and outside of the factory.—Bandit
Ps. One more, which has been an industry bone of contention since the ‘70s. The factory should embrace the aftermarket instead of fight or try to kill it. Imagine the excitement and the learning everyone could benefit from by sharing.
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM Hall of Fame Highlight–Class of 2020
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is featuring Hall of Fame Highlights of this year’s outstanding new group of inductees. Here is a glimpse of what they had to say. For the full story join us at the 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Congratulations and welcome to Dave Mackie.
*Please note: Hall of Fame Highlights will be published as we receive them from the Inductees. We look forward to sharing information about all of our Inductees in the weeks and months to come.
Between 1978 and 1984, Dave Mackie set over 60 National Records in several different classes, and was a five-time National Champion against some very tough competition.
Always working to get better and faster he analyzed products on the market. At the time, there were several carburetors and he chose to contact Rivera Engineering about running their Eliminator SU. This is where Dave’s longtime friendship with Mel Magnet began. Dave says “Mel was a great guy who helped a lot of racers including the great Jim McClure. He sent me a carburetor and all the needles and jets and manifolds I might need”.
When Dave was asked what was the first thing he ever raced he laughed and said “everything I ever drove”. His passion for racing became fully ignited when he purchased his first Harley, a 1974 Superglide FX.
Dave was innovative, persistent and always testing the limits. In his words, “if you don’t blow it up once in a while you aren’t trying hard enough”.
Learn More About the Hall of Fame
Wednesday, August 12
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM MDT
The Lodge at Deadwood
100 Pine Crest Drive
Deadwood, SD 57732
NEWS FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–A motorcycle at 50: midlife crisis
or best thing ever? (Part I)
I will be 50 years old in 2021, and I finally bought a Harley. Is this a midlife crisis or is it something else? It’s been almost 20 years since I last rode a motorcycle, let alone owned one. So, the question is this: why did it take so long, and why now?
I think it’s a hard question to answer. I’ve wanted to ride a motorcycle since I was a kid. My parents always said “NO!” I remember once in high school, a friend had a motor scooter, and he let me ride it around; the minute my mother saw me riding it, I was grounded. Did I give up? Hell no. I waited until I was out of college, out of the house, and out on my own — an adult. Okay, I was 26 or 27 years old, I was old enough. My (twin) brother and I took a motorcycle safety course, and that was it — I was hooked.
As soon as we passed the class and got the “M” on our license, I went shopping for my first motorcycle. Of course I wanted to be like Reno Raines from the show Renegade, I wanted a Harley.
But I couldn’t afford a Harley, so I ended up with a really old Suzuki 650 standard as my first motorcycle. It cost me about $600 and that was okay. I outgrew that thing in a week. Yet, as I rode and rode, I realized it was my therapy. See, back then I was single, still trying to find the right girl. I was in the gym at 5:00 a.m. then I’d head to work to put in my 8-hours and I’d hit the gym again, then go out with friends at night — rinse and repeat. The gym was where I got any aggression out; hopping on the bike and taking a drive along Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive, through the city, up into the ‘burbs and sometimes even further, well, that cleared my head. To me, being on a bike was — and is — the greatest feeling in the world.
Then, I met my wife.
I’m not a rich man. I wasn’t at 30 and I’m not at almost 50. So, when I realized she was “the one,” I needed money to buy a ring. Bye-bye motorcycle. It was like losing my best friend — I’m pretty sure I recited the Kaddish (the Jewish prayer for mourning). I figured, “Okay, I sell this bike, buy the ring, I can get another bike in a year.” What they don’t tell you is that you have to buy a house, and you’re going to want to go on vacations, and you’re starting a family — and pretty soon the dream of getting another bike is just that… a dream.
So, here we are, almost 20 years later. My kids are teenagers, my career is better (there’s life insurance), and I’ve worn my wife down enough (whining about wanting a motorcycle) to get the “Okay.” I’m a chef, and I’ve always had this dream to own my own restaurant; I’d pull up on my Harley like a bad ass, and when my customers would hear the roar of that engine, they’d know “the chef is here.” And I’d drive up and park it right in front of the restaurant — like a real asshole!
Except, now I’m almost 50 years old, I’m doughier than I want to be, and I don’t have my own restaurant. I work for a big corporation, I still do private events, I’m not famous. but I can afford to buy a bike. I think that’s where everything comes into focus: I can afford it. I had to work a 2nd job cooking private dinner parties to put enough cash away, but I was finally able to walk into a dealership and just purchase a used bike. It’s not a crisis, it’s a lifestyle — one that I’ve waited 20 years to continue. What’s crazy is that my Harley FatBoy is 20 years old. I waited 20 years and was only able to afford (without having to finance anything) a bike that was 20 years old!
I’ve recently learned more about motorcycle rental—the idea of renting out my motorcycle for a little extra cash, or renting a motorcycle from another owner (especially when I didn’t have one) is pretty interesting. Some of my friends use and love Twisted Road when they want to rent a motorcycle in Chicago. But they have owners with bikes available to rent everywhere. Definitely noting that for the next time I’m traveling and want to explore on two wheels!
Check back soon to find out how his new Harley fueled Heath Schecter’s imagination…
SMRO’s Hitting the Phones–
In the Senate, our focus the last few weeks has been on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. This is the committee with jurisdiction over most of the motorcycle priorities we won in the House bill.
Over the last two weeks, nearly 1,000 MRF members, who live in one of 25 states with a Senator on the committee, have answered our call to action. To reinforce our message with these critical Senators, SMRO leaders in specific states and your D.C. team have done conference calls with Senate offices. Over the last two weeks, nine states have participated in a call with Senate staff, pressing them to include our hard-fought motorcycle provisions in a Senate bill.
Special thanks to leaders in Alaska, Massachusetts, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin for taking the time to join these phone calls and make the connection between the riders back home and the lawmakers in Washington, D.C.
In the coming weeks, we plan on having other states join in this process. We are already working out the details for calls with leaders in Arizona, Colorado, and Michigan.
We are fortunate to not only have great leaders in these states, but great leaders throughout the country. Having the ability to tap into this talent is vital to our collective success in Washington D.C.
MRF President and Vice President Score Cosponsors
While the last few months turned our focus to the highway bill in the House of Representatives, we haven’t forgotten other priorities like H. Res 255 regarding motorcyclists profiling.
Strict rules regarding how the House has operated since the middle of March made it difficult to add cosponsors to legislation. However, recently the House has relaxed some of its internal protocols, making it easier to add cosponsors.
Late last week, we added our first new cosponsors since right before the pandemic struck. It’s fitting that the two new cosponsors were direct results of the work done by MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard and Vice President Jay Jackson.
As you may remember, Hardtail drove Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-R) home from the airport after the two ended up on the same flight back from D.C. last month. Obviously, 3.5 hours in the car with Hardtail did the trick, and the Congressman became the 7th member of the Wisconsin delegation to sign onto the resolution.
In January, Jay Jackson attended an event in Kentucky with the riders of the Bluegrass State. In attendance was Congressman Brett Guthrie. The riders in Kentucky and Jay worked their magic, and the Congressman just joined H. Res 255 as a cosponsor.
With these two additions, we now have 139 cosponsors of H. Res 255 the motorcyclists profiling resolution.
NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–
George Jones is one of the most legendary of country music singers. First hearing country music on the family’s new radio when he was seven, that and his father’s interest in music got George his first guitar at age nine.
By 16 he had left home and began playing at venues and on the radio. You will recall a few of his hits; White Lightning, He Stopped Loving Her Today and Tennessee Whiskey. Married four times, it was mostly country singers singers he chose to be with.
As early as 1982 Jones was riding Harley-Davidson sidecar rigs as he made headlines in his local newspaper. Jones was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992.
This 1995 FLHTC with matching Harley sidecar was bought new by Jones from C&H Harley-Davidson in Nashville and the original title remains in Jones’ name. With only a little over 1000 miles on the odometer it was used little and cared for well.
He and his wife Nancy rode the rig in an MDA benefit in Nashville in 1995. Jones and subsequent owners have done a good job of keeping documents together.
The first ‘Glide’ came about in 1949 when Harley-Davidson added hydraulic telescopic fork front suspension to their big twin making the Hydra Glide.
The FL arrived in 1941 when Harley offered the Knucklehead motor in a 61 cubic inch configuration. Harley’s first sidecar was offered in 1914, and in 2011 they ended sidecar production moving toward the three-wheeler approach with the Tri-Glide.
Though challenged as the king of heavyweight touring machines by many motorcycle makers in the 1980s and beyond, the Electra-Glide maintains its classic lines though it has enjoyed updated engineering along the way. It remains the choice of hundreds of thousands of riders world-wide.
When you visit the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, Iowa you will walk among a great array of Harley-Davidsons including several sidecar rigs from 100 years ago through the 1940s and beyond. George Jones sidecar rig is on temporary display by its current owner so try and plan a visit soon to see it.
Specifications:
Engine: Four-Stroke V-Twin, OHV
Type: 45 Degree, Two Valves / Cylinder
Bore & Stroke: 88.8mm x 108.0mm
Displacement: 1337cc / 81.5 Cubic Inches
Compression ratio: 8.5 : 1
Induction: CV Carburetor
Ignition: Map Controlled Spark
Starting: Electric
Horsepower: 67HP
Primary: Chain Driven
Clutch: Dry, Multi-Plate
Transmission: 5-Speed
Final Drive: Belt
Suspension: Telescopic Fork / Dual Shocks
Brakes: Dual Disks / Single Disk
Tires: T80-16T / T80-16T
Weight, Dry: 760 Pounds
TEXAS DYNA WEATHER REPORT– I’ll probably need a new Bikernet Bandana Cloaking device, it’s been hiding the plastic bag covering the wires the current idiot owner cut!
We interrupt this fork seal/lower leg/Dyna Boy Fork Boot Installation for some Janky Neck Bearings or My Dyna has that new “self-centering front end.
You can tell I’m a mechanic, by the tools I took to Willis to mess with the Bronco Sunday, 1/4-inch drive sockets and 3/8-inch ratchet, oops.
Wish I was in SD, got to thank Lucky Devil for allowing me to bust my Sturgis virgin back then. I’d really like to come up a few weeks before, get another crack at Spearfish Canyon with a bike that will top 70mph!
Took the jets out of my toolbox, didn’t make em in the trailer. Should have hit up S&S but still can’t believe I got to run it twice with no one on it!
Enjoy the festivities, saw they cancelled the drags.
–RFR
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
The Deadwood Diaries
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_Deadwood_Diaries.aspx
That is what I call history. I thought Deadwood would be a creative environment for the infamous Bandit, and I was right. You research stuff at a micro level and that’s way cool.
I did not know it was just two pairs, and I assume the last high card was either a red card ace or a red card eight. I know it’s off the biker story line but these guys were the original 1 percenters. Lived by their rules. Don’t want to be messed with and don’t poke their noses into somebody else’s business, unless asked or paid for.
Thanks and real good story.
— Gearhead
Torrance, CA
More research is underway. As it turns out Wild Bill’s original grave might have been on my land. It’s been confirmed, but I need to back it up with photos or documents.
The original cemetery was moved up the hill to allow for more housing to be built for the town of Deadwood. A neighbor recently found bones while moving land for a new garage. The truth was revealed. More to come. —Bandit
[page break]
LINDBY PRODUCT OF THE WEEK—
We are doing well and staying healthy even though we are getting hit pretty hard here in Cali with the whole covid-19 crap that’s going on.
Unfortunately, I am not heading over to Sturgis this year.
We are working on a new part right now and almost done with the design part of it.
But for Sturgis, we are now offering the Multibar and Unibar models for the new 2018-2021 Softail models.
Hope you are doing well and staying safe, have a great time at Sturgis!
–Henry Sandoval
Manager
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–The Afghan Quarterback
The coach had put together the perfect team for the Chicago Bears. The only thing that was missing was a good quarterback. He had scouted all the colleges and even the Canadian and European Leagues, but he couldn’t find a ringer who could ensure a Super Bowl win.
Then one night while watching CNN he saw a war-zone scene in Afghanistan . In one corner of the background, he spotted a young Afghan Muslim soldier with a truly incredible arm. He threw a hand-grenade straight into a 15th story window 100 yards away.
KABOOM!
He threw another hand-grenade 75 yards away, right into a chimney.
KA-BLOOEY!
Then he threw another at a passing car going 90 mph.
BULLS-EYE!
“I’ve got to get this guy!” Coach said to himself. “He has the perfect arm!”
So, he brings him to the States and teaches him the great game of football. And the Bears go on to win the Super Bowl.
The young Afghan is hailed as the great hero of football, and when the coach asks him what he wants, all the young man wants is to call his mother.
“Mom,” he says into the phone, “I just won the Super Bowl!”
“I don’t want to talk to you, the old Muslim woman says.”You are not my son!”
“I don’t think you understand, Mother,” the young man pleads. “I’ve won the greatest sporting event in the world. I’m here among thousands of my adoring fans.”
“No! Let me tell you!” his mother retorts. “At this very moment, there are gunshots all around us. The neighborhood is a pile of rubble. Your two brothers were beaten within an inch of their lives last week, and I have to keep your sister in the house so she doesn’t get raped!” The old lady pauses, and then tearfully says,
“I will never forgive you for making us move to Chicago !!!!
–from Joe Smith
WTT RAFFLE DAY IS RAPIDLY APPROACHING–
Summer is flying by, and our annual raffle day will be here before you know it! One lucky winner is going to ride away with the 1939 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead, along with second and third place winners taking home $10,000 and $5,000.
This month is the perfect time to enter because we’re giving away a custom WTT Jersey, hand-made in the USA! But there are only two days left to win one of these incredible jerseys. Just enter our annual raffle at the “Better Deal” pack or higher, and you will automatically be entered to win.
But that’s not all, with each purchase at the “Better Deal” package or higher, you will also receive one of our WTT Pandanas.
An American Classic
Our 2020 Wheels Through Time Raffle Bike is this beautiful 1939 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead hand-built by the team in the Wheels Through Time restoration shop. This year’s masterpiece is powered by an all original 1939 61c.i. OHV Knucklehead engine mated to a genuine H-D 4-speed transmission, making it one of smoothest running motorcycles ever built by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
Finished in classic black with ivory panels, the bike has been accurately restored to showroom condition and is ready for the road. Pre-war Harley-Davidsons are among the most desirable motorcycles in the world and have become nearly unobtainable in today’s collector market. Now is your chance to take home an iconic piece of American motorcycle history!
We collaborated with many of the industry’s top vendors and artists for the build of our 2020 raffle bike, and next November she’ll be given away to one lucky winner.
STURGIS RALLY WOMEN RIDERS TURNOUT–Have I mentioned the inaugural Women Riders Turnout? It seemed appropriate to me to celebrate the recent substantial contributions of women riders to motorcycling, especially in this year of the 19th amendment’s centennial. Not to mention we could gather in state that was pivotal to the struggle for women’s voting rights, here in the west where women worked as hard – or harder – than men to settle the western frontier.
Here’s my manifesto, a graphic and a link to the Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/events/571471623671227/?active_tab=about
–Marilyn Stemp
Editor
Buffalo Chip Gazette
A LITTLE SOMETHING FROM THE BIKERNET MONK—Even though a speech is composed of a thousand words, but those words are senseless, one word of sense is better. When people hear it, they become quiet.
–Ming
NEWEST LIFESAVER FROM LOWBROW– When you need it, you need it.
A Fuel Reserve Bottle from Lowbrow is super cheap insurance that will keep you from being stuck on the side of the road.
That extra fuel can be just as handy while cruising around town or on a cross-country adventure.
We have several different Reserve Bottle Carriers, available in ballistic nylon or leather, which make carrying your Reserve Fuel Bottle a cinch…
They can be mounted to front forks, sissy bar, frame, or luggage with ease.
The Lowbrow Customs Reserve Bottle Carrier 2.0 is a secure and easy way to carry a drink, thermos, can of chain lube or any cylindrical object.
Customers use our Fuel Reserve Bottles on every type of bike you can imagine.
They come in handy on motorcycles with small gas tanks but ensure you get home on your sport or touring bike just as well.
Also available, the Lowbrow Stainless Steel Water Bottle. These fit our Carriers perfectly. With spare fuel and water you can be prepared for any adventure!
“Driving While Black” Billboard Shines Light on City Ticket Records:
By a Michigan NMA Member
On July 6, an electronic billboard appeared along I-96 in Redford Township, Michigan, just east of the city limits of Livonia. It warned drivers leaving Detroit, “Driving while black? Racial profiling just ahead. Welcome to Livonia.”
Livonia is a racially-mixed city of 97,000, covering 36 square miles of 1950s homes just west of Detroit. The sign was crowd-funded by a grass-roots citizens group and attributed to Livonia Citizens Caring About Black Lives. The group requested statistics on police traffic stops.
The city responded by posting data on citations issued to black and white male drivers. A Detroit News article of July 12 contains a link to www.LivoniaPACT.org, which features citation statistics for 2019. The city also billed the citizens’ group $13,000 for its FOIA request.
These are fascinating data, showing how many citations were issued for each kind of traffic violation, giving a rare look into the behavior of a big suburban police force.
The numbers show exactly what kind of behavior will get you a ticket in Livonia, Michigan.
Livonia issued 30,551 citations following traffic stops or crashes in 2019, 24.45 percent to black males and 30.23 percent to white males (and presumably 45.32 percent to females of all races).
Many of the citations are for bad driving performance and causing crashes. Failure to yield, failure to stop in the assured distance, improper turns, signal violations, and other crash causes generate the expected proportions of tickets. But some statistics invite questions as to whether motorists are being stopped to raise revenue or for undue harassment.
As you might expect, speeding is the most common citation, for 8,730 tickets or 29 percent of the total:
Ticket Reason Number of Citations
Violating posted speed limit 5,330
Violating basic speed law (“reasonable and proper”) 103
The vast majority of these speeding tickets—5,154 of 5,330—on city streets and county roads were written for one to five mph over the limit. Police seldom stop drivers for such small violations, so these citations represent “roadside breaks” that encourage drivers not to challenge tickets in court. This is a likely indicator of a ticket mill, run for revenue, and not for safety. Only one driver was cited for driving too slowly.
Another indicator of policing for profit is pleading citations down to nonmoving violations such as “blockading a road:”
Impeding traffic 244
Livonia includes nine miles of high-speed, multi-lane freeways. These roads are the primary connections to Detroit Metro Airport and between Detroit and its western suburbs. The statistics call out freeway violations separately:
Limited-access highway speeding 3,297
Livonia police wrote almost 10 tickets a day to freeway drivers passing through from out of town. Of these, 2,994 were written for 1 to 5 mph over the limit, although the drivers were probably exceeding the 70-mph limit by more than that—these freeways operate at close to 80 mph. Citing suburban drivers on I-275 and I-96 helps Livonia even its racial balance in ticketing: only 17.77 percent of the ticketed freeway drivers were black males vs. 38.28 percent white males.
If all 8,730 speeding tickets end in conviction and a fine, they will yield about $1.1 million for the city in 2019.
Certain violations raise suspicions of “pretextual stops” of drivers singled out by police:
Ticket Reason Number of Citations
Tinted windows 204
One headlight 324
Broken taillight, or white light to rear 895
Improper lane use 226
Object hanging from mirror, or obstructed view* 113
Cracked windshield 170
Dirty or obstructed license plate 30
Amber-light violation** 14
*It’s been legal to hang trinkets from your mirror in Michigan for several years.
**Michigan is the only state where drivers must stop for a yellow signal, but few police stop anyone for it.
Registration and insurance violations generate a lot of citations, partially attributable to Michigan’s mandatory-insurance law and the lingering effects of the driver responsibility tax:
Ticket Reason Number of Citations
Expired or improper plates 1,271
No registration form 1,082
No proof of insurance 1,099
Operating with suspended or revoked license 1,135
Some dangerous behavior doesn’t generate many citations in Livonia. Its police only managed to ticket one drunk a night in the city’s 36 square miles:
Ticket Reason Number of Citations
Operating while intoxicated or impaired 385
Careless driving, including crashes 138
Texting 101
Tailgating 43
Failure to yield to pedestrians 4
Not every ticket went to drivers; bicyclists received nine citations in Livonia in 2019.
The City of Livonia is to be commended for posting these statistics, even though they aren’t entirely flattering. Every city should post data like these, to let citizens see if enforcement matches traffic-safety problems and locations. Livonia’s mayor has ordered her administration to begin talking with civil-rights groups. More postings are said to be coming on the city’s web site. The police promise to use data to inform decisions and citizens will be watching to see if future citations are aimed at safety and not revenue.
–NMA
KEEP THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN–Subject: Second Opinions
Ever since I was a child, I’ve always had a fear of someone under my bed at night. So I went to a shrink and told him, “I’ve got problems. Every time I go to bed, I think there’s somebody under it. I’m scared and I think I’m going crazy.”
“Just put yourself in my hands for one year,” the shrink told me. “Come in and talk to me two times a week and we should be able to get rid of those fears.”
“How much do you charge?”
“$100 per visit,” replied the doctor.
“I’ll sleep on it,” I said.
Six months later the doctor met me on the street. “Why didn’t you come to see me about those fears you were having?” He asked.
“Well, $100 bucks a visit, two times a week for a year is over $10,000—- A bartender cured me for $10.00. I was so happy to have saved all that money that I went and bought me a new pickup truck.”
“Is that so? The shrink said with a bit of an attitude, “and how, may I ask, did a bartender cure you?”
“He told me to cut the legs off the bed. Ain’t nobody under there now!”
FORGET THE SHRINK, HAVE A DRINK
AND TALK TO A BARTENDER!
ITS ALWAYS BETTER TO GET A SECOND OPINION!
–Joe Smith
HARLEY-DAVIDSON INVITES YOU TO RIDE TO WIN
WITH THE LET’S RIDE CHALLENGE–
It’s Time to Ride
For more than 117 years, the experience of two wheels is Harley-Davidson’s contribution to the world to bring people together and help riders experience freedom for the soul. Now, more than ever, Harley-Davidson is showcasing the power of riding with the Let’s Ride Challenge.
Through riding-related activities, participants earn Let’s Ride Challenge entries for a chance to win prizes celebrating the community and spirit of two wheels including a custom 2020 Harley-Davidson Low Rider® S motorcycle and weekly drawings for additional prizes.
“More than building machines, Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure,” said Jon Bekefy, General Manager of Brand Marketing. “The Let’s Ride Challenge is Harley-Davidson’s invitation for all riders in this challenging time to rediscover adventure through socially-distanced riding to find freedom for the soul.”
Let’s Ride Challenge
Riders can earn entries by participating in the following:
Join the Let’s Ride Challenge to earn 5 entries
Join the Let’s Ride challenge on the Harley-Davidson app and track miles
Ride 0 – 600 miles to earn 5 entries
Ride 601-1200 miles to earn an additional 5 entries
Demo Harley-Davidson® motorcycles
Demo a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle for 5 entries. Take a second demo ride for an additional 5 entries.
Take Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course and learn to ride to earn 15 entries.
Ride Epic Rides
As part of the Let’s Ride Challenge, Harley-Davidson has curated rides from passionate members of the Harley-Davidson community and dealerships to provide new ways to get out of the garage and start riding again.
There are three types of rides to explore through a dealership or through the app, all while promoting safe and socially-distant riding:
Short Rides: It may have been a minute since the last ride around the block or seeing something new. These short rides can help mix up the daily routine.
Day Ride: Nothing helps seize the riding season more than a full day of riding. These day rides help plan an epic day trip.
Overnight Ride: Take a ride to celebrate what it means to get on the open road, all without crossing state lines. These rides will help plan an epic ride while riding responsibly.
We invite all riders, and riders of all skill levels, to celebrate life on two wheels:
Ask a local Harley-Davidson dealership about rides with fellow motorcyclists to experience new ways to interact with the riding community and discover new rides.
Download the Harley-Davidson App to plan a route, share it with friends, track a ride, and find epic rides nearby.
Win a Custom Harley-Davidson Low Rider S Motorcycle
This customized 2020 Low Rider S motorcycle celebrates how the culture and community of motorcycle rallies have inspired Harley-Davidson motorcycle designs. The custom Low Rider S motorcycle is inspired by the 1980 FXB Sturgis and features a 117 Stage IV kit and a bevy of Harley-Davidson Parts and Accessories.
In addition, every week a winner will be randomly selected to win an assortment of Harley-Davidson General Merchandise and a Yoder Smokers Competition Pellet Grill.
Enter the challenge on July 31st and explore all the ways to win at H-D.com/LetsRide.
NEWS FROM THE BIKERNET CLIMATE QUESTION RESEARCH LAB–
Yesterday I raised hard questions about the $2 trillion that Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress want to spend on green energy.
In response, sitting members of Congress publicly smeared me — and then denied me a chance to defend myself.
Here’s the full ugly story.
–Michael
I Was Invited to Testify on Energy Policy. Then Democrats Didn’t Let Me Speak
Yesterday, shortly after giving expert testimony to Congress about energy policy, I had the startling experience of being smeared by sitting members of the United States House of Representatives.
The context was a special House Committee hearing to evaluate a Democratic proposal similar to the one proposed by Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, which would spend $2 trillion over four years on renewables and other climate programs.
Congressional interest in my testimony stems in part from the fact that I advocated for a Democratic energy proposal very similar to Biden’s between 2002 and 2009. Back then, the Obama administration justified the $90 billion it was spending on renewables as an economic stimulus, just as Biden’s campaign is doing today.
But then, late in the hearing, Representatives Sean Casten of Illinois and Jared Huffman of California, both Democrats, used the whole of their allotted time to claim that I am not a real environmentalist, that I am not a qualified expert, and that I am motivated by money.
Had I been given a chance to respond, I would have noted that: I have been a climate activist for 20 years; my new book, Apocalypse Never, has received strong praise from leading environmental scientists and scholars; the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently invited me to serve as an expert reviewer; and that I have always been financially independent of industry interests.
But I wasn’t given the chance to say any of that. After Casten and Huffman lied about me, Rep. Garret Graves asked the committee’s chairperson, Rep. Kathy Castor of Florida, to let me respond. She refused and abruptly ended the hearing.
What, exactly, had I said that was so dangerous as to lead Democrats to engage in character assassination and undermine liberal democratic norms? Nothing I hadn’t already said last January when I testified before Congress about climate change and energy.
Back then, I testified that climate change is real but isn’t the end of the world nor even our most important environmental problem. I pointed to the inherent physical reasons renewables can’t power a high energy industrial civilization. And I noted that cheap and abundant natural gas and nuclear, not industrial solar and wind, have been the big drivers of emissions reductions.
I further made the case that climate change was distracting us from a far greater and more urgent threat, which is the global domination of nuclear energy by China and Russia, which could be disastrous for US interests and the future of liberalism and democracy around the world.
Nations that partner with Russia or China to build nuclear plants are effectively absorbed into their sphere of influence. The line between soft power and hard power runs through nuclear energy. On the one side is cheap and clean electricity. On the other, a stepping stone to a weapons program.
During today’s hearing, several Democratic members claimed that renewables today are cheaper than existing grid electricity. But if that were true, I replied, why do solar and wind developers require hundreds of billions of dollars from American taxpayers in the form of subsidies?
The Democrats are basing their climate agenda on what California did. But California’s electricity rates since 2011 rose six times more than they did in the rest of the US, thanks mainly to the deployment of renewables and the infrastructure they require, such as transmission lines.
Instead of answering that question, Democrats claimed that solar and wind projects were somehow part of the battle for environmental justice. In reality, I noted, solar and wind projects are imposed on poorer communities and successfully resisted by wealthier ones.
In fact, a major new report found nearly 200 cases of human rights violations when renewable energy projects were imposed on poor communities. In Hawaii and Nebraska, indigenous leaders are resisting wind energy projects that threaten native bird species, including the nene and whooping crane, whose number one cause of mortality is transmission lines.
Renewables also hurt working people by raising the cost of electricity for industries that offer good jobs with high pay. From 2011 to 2018, California’s industrial electricity prices rose 32 percent, while the average price in the other 49 states fell one percent.
The good manufacturing jobs in renewables are mostly in China, which makes most of the world’s solar panels, including America’s, while the US is stuck with temporary low-wage service jobs installing solar panels and wind turbines, and doing energy efficiency retrofits. By contrast, nuclear power plants, which can operate for 80 years or longer, require high-wage, high-skilled, and permanent jobs for multiple generations.
What’s going on? Why do Democrats, who imagine themselves to be on the side of working people and the poor, advocate for renewables and against nuclear? It’s hard not to notice that some of the Democrats’ largest donors, including Tom Steyer and Mike Bloomberg, are renewable energy and natural gas investors. Even one of my main antagonists, Rep. Casten, was a renewable energy investor before joining Congress.
Democratic interest in subsidizing renewables comes at a time when industrial renewable energy projects are being blocked around the world, as even their boosters now admit. “Biden plots $2tn green revolution but faces wind and solar backlash,” read a Guardian headline a few days ago. And just yesterday, a new coalition of community and environmental activists formed the Energy and Wildlife Coalition to block industrial renewable energy projects around the world.
The last time Democrats spent big on renewables, during the 2009 green stimulus, 10 members of former President Barack Obama’s finance committee, and more than 12 of his “bundlers,” benefited from $16.4 billion of the $20.5 billion in stimulus loans, as I note in my new book.
Steyer, Bloomberg, and many other renewable energy investors also donate hundreds of millions of dollars to groups like the Sierra Club, which turn around and lobby for more spending on renewables, and for the closure of nuclear power plants. Killing nuclear plants is a lucrative business for competitor fossil fuel and renewable energy companies. That’s because nuclear plants generate such large amounts of electricity.
In 2016, two top former aides to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo worked with a major Cuomo campaign contributor, the natural gas company Competitive Power Ventures, to close Indian Point nuclear plant. A federal indictment on influence peddling filed by Preet Bharara in 2016 alleged that Competitive Power Ventures and the Cuomo administration both recognized that if Indian Point were taken offline, it would be replaced by natural gas, not imported hydro and wind, as Democrats had claimed.
Democrats have worked to shut down nuclear plants and replace them with fossil fuels and a smattering of renewables, since the 1970s, as I note in my new book, Apocalypse Never. They created detailed reports for policymakers purporting to show that neither nuclear plants nor fossil fuels are needed to meet electricity demand, thanks to energy efficiency and renewables. And yet, almost everywhere nuclear plants are closed, or not built, fossil fuels are burned instead.
Now, if the Democrats’ $2 trillion climate proposal passes into law, a lot of very powerful people stand to make a lot of money, from winning tender for industrial projects such as building wind turbines and transmission lines all the way to the outright cash payments that we saw during Obama’s green stimulus.
In the end, the war on nuclear energy threatens more than political corruption and higher emissions. At a time when China is committing a potential genocide against its Muslim citizens, and Russia’s president is expanding his domestic and international powers, the US should not allow these two nations to dominate nuclear power plant construction.
If the US keeps closing nuclear plants and fails to build new ones, we will cede our ability to compete with the Russians and Chinese in building new nuclear plants abroad, which will undermine national security, and good industrial jobs at home. The threat posed by America’s illiberal, nuclear-building rivals will, like the crisis facing renewables, continue to grow, regardless of whether Democrats succeed in shutting me up.
Michael Shellenberger is a Time Magazine “Hero of the Environment,” and president of Environmental Progress, an independent research and policy organization. He is the author of Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All. Follow him on Twitter @ShellenbergerMD.
–Michael Shellenberger
President, Environmental Progress
2569 Telegraph Avenue,
Berkeley, CA 94704
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QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!
Life and Times 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Life_and_Times_2020.aspx
It’s a great pad for sure! I loved the walk to the gravesites. You haven’t described the hills there at all. I will never forget walking that hill, panting like a marathon runner, while you strolled up it, taking one step to every four of my short strides…Thanks again for showing it to me.
–John T White
Humble, TX
There’s more. I made it up to the Seth Bullock grave site last week. The view is amazing. Come back anytime. –Bandit
GETTING CLOSE, STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM Hall of Fame Highlight–
Class of 2020
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is featuring Hall of Fame Highlights of this year’s outstanding new group of inductees. Here is a glimpse of what they had to say. For the full story join us at the 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Congratulations and welcome to Arlin Fatland.
Arlin Fatland
Arlin owns and operates one of the few original, independent motorcycle shops that have held firm to their traditions over the decade with 50 years in the same location.
Innovative from the start, 2 Wheelers became known for carrying the newest components, manufacturing their own after-market parts, and their catalog since the 1970’s.
Arlin also builds custom choppers and his bikes are regularly featured in magazines. He has been attending Daytona and Sturgis every year since the 1970’s too and has opened stores in both locations to fulfill the needs of riders.
Arlin has also worked with the Hamsters for over 40 years in various charity efforts industry wide. The story of 2 Wheelers and Arlin is one of steady, consistent, and humble industry engagement fueled by an unabashed love of motorcycles and riders.
Learn More About the Hall of Fame
Wednesday, August 12
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM MDT
The Lodge at Deadwood
100 Pine Crest Drive
Deadwood, SD 57732
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2010 Harley-Davidson FLHXXX – Street Glide Trike for $16,995.00
see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9109983
ABOUT THIS BIKE…..
ONLY 3,214 Miles !!!!!
Vivid Black Harley-Davidson Street Glide Trike (FLHX)
This bike is a RARE STREET GLIDE TRIKE !!!!
Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike
* 103 Twin Cam Motor with pressurized dry sump oil system with oil cooler
* 6 Speed Transmission
* Electric reverse integrated with rear differential assembly
* 26* Raked and lengthen front forks for optimize steering
* Steering Stabilizer
* LED Chrome windshield trim
* Air-adjustable rear shocks
* Dual front and rear disc brake system with a lever-actuated,parking brake
* Huge trunk with 4.3 cubic feet of storage space
* Lighted rider and passenger floor boards
* Large whitewall tires front and rear
* 40 Watt Advanced Audio System by Harmon/Kardon power two speakers system
* Smoked turn signals
* Engine guard
* Highway pegs
This bike is a RARE Harley Street Glide Trike in great condition
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101-point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether you’re looking to commute to work, ride the coast or take that dream vacation, this bike is ready to go!!!
***90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!
EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!
Fill out an online application and ride today!!!
**Open 7 days a week**
***90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!
Just $16,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES NEW SCREAMIN’ EAGLE 128/131 STAGE IV KITS FOR MY17 + TOURING MODELS
“Go Big or Go Home” With New Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson Performance Parts
The all-new Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle products for your ride are here to keep the thrills rolling mile after mile. High-flow exhaust kits, performance cams, ultra-powerful Screamin’ Eagle engines and a comprehensive line of upgrades get you to peak exhilaration quickly and smoothly with the power to handle whatever comes. Conquer the road ahead with H-D® parts and accessories.
SCREAMIN’ EAGLE® MILWAUKEE-EIGHT® ENGINE STAGE IV KIT 114CI OR 117CI TO 131CI
Go big or go home. With the largest displacement of any Harley-Davidson Stage Kit, this 114/117CI to 131CI Stage IV Kit was designed to deliver maximum horsepower – all the way to the redline. Packaged with patent-protected cylinder technology, it allows for the largest Harley-Davidson bolt-on engine upgrade to any Milwaukee-Eight motor.
Features new CNC-ported heads with 1mm bigger valves than the previous generation, and fully machined combustion chambers. Coupled with the kit’s high-lift SE8-517 cam, high compression pistons and a 64mm throttle body and intake manifold, this combination delivers a thrilling 131 ft-lb of torque and 121 HP rear-wheel output when paired with Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannon Mufflers.
It’s designed to run at high-end RPMs and provide a significant boost of torque from cruising speed. You’ll feel the difference as soon as you twist the throttle.
The Screamin’ Eagle 131 Stage IV Kit is eligible for Custom Coverage under the motorcycle’s factory 24-month vehicle limited warranty when dealer-installed by an authorized H-D Dealer within 60 days of vehicle purchase and is otherwise backed by a 12-month limited warranty.
Performance components include:
Screamin’ Eagle CNC Ported Cylinder Head with CNC machined chamber and 1mm larger valves than previous generation
131 Stage IV Timer cover
SE8-517 High-Lift Cam
Forged High Compression Pistons
Screamin’ Eagle High Performance Cam Bearing
Screamin’ Eagle High Performance Tappets
Screamin’ Eagle 4.31″ Steel Sleeve Cylinders
Screamin’ Eagle 64mm Throttle Body and Cast Manifold
Screamin’ Eagle High Flow Injectors (5.5 g/sec)
Complete fitment information can be found on H-D.com.
SCREAMIN’ EAGLE® MILWAUKEE-EIGHT® ENGINE STAGE IV KIT – 107CI TO 128CI
This Stage IV Kit was designed to deliver maximum horsepower – all the way to the redline. Features new CNC-ported heads with 1mm bigger valves than the previous generation, and fully machined combustion chambers. Coupled with the kit’s high-lift SE8-517 cam, high compression pistons and a 64mm throttle body and intake manifold, this combination delivers a thrilling 126 ft-lb of torque and 121 HP rear-wheel output when paired with Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannon Mufflers. It’s designed to run at high-end RPMs and provide a significant boost of torque from cruising speed. You’ll feel the difference as soon as you twist the throttle.
The Screamin’ Eagle 128 Stage IV Kit is eligible for Custom Coverage under the motorcycle’s factory 24-month vehicle limited warranty when dealer-installed by an authorized H-D Dealer within 60 days of vehicle purchase and is otherwise backed by a 12-month limited warranty.
Performance components include:
Screamin’ Eagle CNC Ported Cylinder Head with CNC machined chamber and 1mm larger valves than previous generation
128 Stage IV Timer cover
SE8-517 High-Lift Cam
Forged High Compression Pistons
Screamin’ Eagle High Performance Cam Bearing
Screamin’ Eagle High Performance Tappets
Screamin’ Eagle 4.31″ Steel Sleeve Cylinders
Screamin’ Eagle 64mm Throttle Body and Cast Manifold
Screamin’ Eagle High Flow Injectors (5.5 g/sec)
Complete fitment information can be found on H-D.com.
Both the 131CI and 128CI Stage IV Kits comply with noise and emissions standards in all U.S. states other than California on 2017-later Touring Models. Street-compliant statements may not apply to markets outside the United States. The 131CI Stage IV Kit fits ’17-later Touring models equipped with Twin-Cooled™ Milwaukee-Eight® 114CI or 117CI engine. The 128CI Stage IV Kit fits ’17-later Touring models equipped with Twin-Cooled™ Milwaukee-Eight® 107CI engine. Neither kits fit Trike models. ’17-’19 models require separate purchase of High-Capacity Oil Pump P/N 62400248. 17-’18 models require separate purchase of Screamin’ Eagle High-Capacity Clutch Plate Kit P/N 37000258. Not for use with Screamin’ Eagle High-Flow Exhaust Systems with Street Cannon Mufflers. All models require additional purchase of ECM recalibration with the Screamin’ Eagle Pro Street Tuner for proper installation. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for details.
COMMENT FROM LONGTIME BIKERNET READER– Just read your piece on where your head is with the move to Deadwood. I am happy for you that in some way contentment has filled your being.
Judging by your stories and what I have read you have had a very full and exciting life with all the excitement and downsides that are part of the journey. I do hope you have many more adventures before you…
Being a couple of weeks shy of 70 myself I realize that I have more years behind me than ahead. Like you I’ve had my joys, excitement, failures and some regrets but still having good health and still kickin’ there is much to be thankful for.
Just felt the need to respond as that article did touch a cord.
— Rhys
Well said. If we have health, strength and mobility, we gotta keep rolling, riding and loving every minute of it.–Bandit
CARDO’S SPECIAL-EDITION PACKTALK BLACK
COMBINES SLEEK, DARK STYLING WITH SUPERIOR SOUND BY JBL
New Special-Edition Model Joins Industry-Leading, DMC-Powered PACKTALK Lineup;
First Motorcycle Communicator Featuring Stock 45mm JBL Speakers
Plano, Texas (July 28, 2020) – Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, today announced PACKTALK BLACK, a new special-edition model that pairs sleek, dark styling with unmatched, industry-leading sound by JBL. In addition to utilizing Cardo’s proprietary, and proven, Dynamic Mesh Communication™ (DMC) technology, PACKTALK BLACK features powerful 45mm JBL speakers, a sleek, blacked-out design and a three-year warranty to create the industry’s most sophisticated and dynamic motorcycle communications system.
Making its global debut via a YouTube Q&A with motocross icon Ricky Carmichael, PACKTALK BLACK offers the same industry-leading features riders have relied on with the PACKTALK BOLD and PACKTALK SLIM. Cardo’s state-of-art, DMC-powered devices function with a self-adjusting network that automatically maintains a connection, thus allowing up to 15 riders to seamlessly join, leave and rejoin at a distance of up to five miles. Like other PACKTALK models, PACKTALK BLACK is water and dustproof, offers 13 hours of battery life, and features the always-on Natural Voice Operation – allowing riders to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the bars, and activate their device by simply saying “Hey, Cardo.”
“The PACKTALK BLACK is the ultimate choice for riders who demand the highest level of style and performance, coupled with the industry’s best, most proven and reliable technology,” said Dan Emodi, Cardo Systems’ Chief Marketing Officer. “With the industry’s first, and only three-year complete warranty, riders can reap the benefits of PACKTALK’s superior, proven technology and unmatched features, but do so with a darker, edgier expression of personal style.”
PACKTALK BLACK joins Cardo’s robust lineup of PACKTALK and FREECOM communication systems. Starting with Cardo’s Bluetooth FREECOM series, riders can select a model best suited for their needs at various price points. The FREECOM 1+, $139.95, was designed for two-up, rider-to-passenger communication, while the FREECOM 2+, $169.95, provides two-way, mid-range Bluetooth communication. The FREECOM 4+, $249.95, is the ultimate in four-way Bluetooth communication. Riders who prefer DMC connectivity can select between the PACKTALK SLIM, PACKTALK BOLD, both available for $339.95.
Available now for $389.95, riders can visit CardoSystems.com to learn more about the all-new, special-edition PACKTALK BLACK. To join the conversation, follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
LOWBROW RIDING GLASSES AND CLEARS– Don’t get a fly in your eye. Protect those peepers.
Lowbrow sunglasses and riding clears are ideal for riding your moto or jamming around town, regardless of mode of transport.
Featuring:
Articulated spring hinges
Small, raised Lowbrow Customs logos
Subtle checkerboard imprint on the inside of the arms
Micro-fiber storage pouch included
More importantly, Lowbrow riding glasses:
Hold up to the daily rigors of the average 21st century S.O.B.
Ooze classic style.
Are reasonably priced.
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Kick-Flip Basket Weave for Sportsters.
Overview
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 Basket Weave seating area. Also available with Diamond Stitch, Pleated Stitch 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:
$419.00
Part Number:
LK-596BW [’10-’20] 3.3 Gal Tank
LK-596BW [’10-’20] 4.5 Gal Tank
INCREDIBLE—I have one major question and maybe I know the answer. I keep saying that we’re living in the best of times. That takes an historic prospective. If you lived 100 years ago, you would immediately nod your head in agreement. You would have felt the suffering from WWI, the Spanish Flu, you name it. Hell, during the Civil War and there were no antibiotics and few pain killers. In most areas there wasn’t electricity.
In many areas there were no sewers or running water. Okay, so now we are so damn lucky to have so much at our fingertips. We can travel the world quickly, have cars that do everything for us and phones capable of answering anything, entertaining, you name it. So, why do folks want to be pissed off about bullshit, or stuff that happened 200 years ago? Why do politicians want to take your cars and motorcycles away? They are rapidly proving that fossil fuels are fine and Climate Change is bullshit.
The answer is probably that folks just have a drive to control others, a big reason for some religions. When that quits working, they needed another ploy, how about you’re killing the planet. Fuck it, just go for a ride. Some folks have a tough time with Freedom. They just can’t let go.
Bikers get it. Let’s continue to ride fast and free.
–Bandit
THE BIG QUESTION BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for August 6, 2020
By Bandit |
Hey,
You’ll see in the news wild announcements. The Authorities shut down Las Vegas Bike Fest and Daytona Biketoberfest, but we’re still rocking in Sturgis.
It’s going to be a helluva test. I hope like hell no one gets sick. I don’t see a lot of mask wearing in these parts. This might be the only run this year. I’ve got LA brothers who still want to make it out. The opinions are all over the map. Some folks think it’s cool. Some folks need to make the money. Some folks think we’ll have an outbreak after the rally and are pissed off. I know of stores that will be completely closed during the rally.
One thing is for certain. Whatever happens, we’ll experience it, deal with it and move on.
But wait, Laconia is still happening. I’m sure they will look long and hard at the Black Hills Rally.
Let’s hit the news.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
LACONIA IS ON–We’re less than one month away!
Get ready, the 97th Laconia Motorcycle Week kicks off Saturday, August 22nd. If you haven’t booked your lodging accommodations yet, do so soon, as the summer temps have made New Hampshire’s Lakes Region a popular retreat from the heat. Expect a toned down version of the country’s oldest motorcycle rally but with plenty of the food, fun and rides you’ve come to expect.
Safety is our #1 priority
As you can imagine, there’s been a lot of zigging and zagging in the planning for this year’s rally. First, of course, we’ve postponed the event from our traditional June dates and later adapted to all the regulations and restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, things will look a little different.
We will encourage all attendees to wear a face mask when not riding and have teamed up with sanitization experts, Nano Coating Technologies, LLC (NCT NH) to assist us in disinfecting public surfaces as well as Partnership for Public Health of NH to promote COVID safety guidelines, such as frequent hand-washing/sanitizing and maintaining appropriate social distance.
Some events, like the popular Gunstock Hill Climb have been postponed to 2021 and vendor booths will be limited to non-profit organizations such as Laconia Motorcycle Week Association, the VFW, Laconia Kiwanis Club and Laconia Rotary Club to help minimize large gatherings.
While there will be less souvenir offerings as well as food and beverage options, nearly all restaurants, bars and hotels will be in full operation.
Expect a lot to remain unchanged
Despite all this, many of the things we all love about this event will remain the same. Nearby New Hampshire Motor Speedway will host races all week long, capped off by the 97th Annual Loudon Classic, August 28-30th.
The Gypsy tours and charity rides that attract hundreds are happening daily as well as entertainment at local establishments like the NASWA Resort, Patio Garden, Winnipesaukee Marketplace, and Tower Hill Tavern. Stay updated with all happenings including event changes by visiting LaconiaMCWeek.com daily.
POLARIS 2020 Second Quarter Results – “Far Above Our Expectations”
Polaris has unveiled second quarter results that CFO Mike Speetzen described as nothing short of “far above our expectations” as the better than anticipated performance of the motorcycle and wider powersports markets during the pandemic lockdowns starts to translate into filings.
For Q2, the company’s reported and adjusted sales decreased 15% to $1,512m and $1,510m, respectively. The company reported a second quarter 2020 net loss of $235m. Second quarter reported net loss was $3.82 per share; adjusted net income for the same period was $1.30 per share.
North American retail sales increased 57% for the quarter compared to last year, with both ORV and Motorcycle retail sales up significantly.
Dealer inventory levels decreased 47%, given the strong retail sales growth and lower shipments resulting from the COVID-19 related temporary suspension of production during the quarter.
consumer retail sales for Indian Motorcycle increased mid-teens percent
Evaluation of the company’s aftermarket goodwill and other intangibles resulted in a pre-tax $379m non-cash impairment charge taken during the quarter. Operating expenses, excluding the impairment charge, decreased 15%, given the substantial reduction in discretionary and non-essential spending in response to the pandemic crisis.
Polaris’ liquidity profile remains solid with debt/EBITDA below three times and total liquidity of $1.2bn at quarter end; Polaris re-initiated full year 2020 sales and adjusted earnings guidance with full year adjusted earnings in the range of $6.40 to $6.60 per diluted share and full year sales in the range of $6.650bn to $6.750bn.
Scott Wine, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Inc., stated: “Polaris’ second quarter results significantly outperformed expectations, once again demonstrating the resiliency and dedication of our global team.
“We overcame a near complete shutdown of our dealers and the U.S. economy early in the quarter to capitalize on unprecedented retail demand for our motorcycles and off-road vehicles through May, June and now July. Our broad array of best-in-class products provided an attractive social distancing solution for both existing, and encouragingly, a wide range of new powersports customers.
Retail demand accelerated throughout the quarter, benefiting company performance as both new and existing customers took advantage of off-road vehicles and motorcycles to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining social distancing etiquette, partially mitigating the COVID-19 driven economic slowdown.
Motorcycles segment sales, including PG&A, totaled $141m, down 28% compared to the second quarter of 2019, driven by decreased sales of both Indian Motorcycle and Slingshot. Polaris motorcycles segment sales were down driven by the COVID-19 related temporary suspension of production that impacted shipments primarily in April.
Gross profit for the motorcycle sector for second quarter was $4m compared to $23m in the second quarter of 2019.
North American consumer retail sales for Indian Motorcycle increased mid-teens percent during the second quarter of 2020 in a weak mid to heavy-weight two-wheel motorcycle industry that was down high-teens percent.
North American consumer retail sales for Polaris’ Motorcycles segment, including both Indian Motorcycle and Slingshot, increased low-twenties percent during the second quarter of 2020, while the North American motorcycle industry retail sales for mid to heavy-weight motorcycles, including three-wheel vehicles, was down high-teens percent in the second quarter of 2020.
Despite the strong retail sales, Polaris Motorcycles segment sales were down driven by COVID-19 related temporary suspension of production during the quarter.
The 2020 second quarter net loss includes a $379m pre-tax, non-cash goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges related to the company’s aftermarket business, principally Transamerican Auto Parts (TAP).
Gross profit decreased 24% to $333m for the second quarter; reported gross profit margin was 22.0% of sales.
2020 Business Outlook – The company re-initiated its sales and adjusted earnings guidance for the full year 2020. Adjusted net income is expected to be in the range of $6.40 to $6.60 per diluted share for the full year 2020 compared to adjusted net income of $6.32 per diluted share for 2019. Sales are now expected to be in the range of $6.650bn to $6.750bn, flat to down two percent compared to 2019 adjusted sales of $6,783m, due to the pandemic-driven plant shutdown in the second quarter 2020.
Posted by DealerWorld
TRIP REPORT FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–Before my hands so much as touched a throttle, I knew one day I would ride the Pacific Coast Highway. It was a bucket list item, something I let motivate me as I stumbled through my motorcycle license course, something I dreamed of as I took my first Harley home—white knuckling the grips—and something I saved for over the years, waiting and planning for the right time.
That time came last October in the form of Babes Ride Out, an all-women’s camping event happening in Santa Margarita – another bucket list item for me.
With a full-time corporate career, two dogs at home, and a budget, making the trip happen wasn’t going to be a walk in the park. My most pressing concern? Snagging a motorcycle rental. But what I expected to be a daunting, expensive, and complicated experience ultimately turned out to be seamless, budget-friendly, and life changing.
With that, I’d like to welcome you to blog numero tres, in which I share a little bit of the story of the best trip of my life and how Twisted Road was instrumental in making it happen.
The Plan
The moment my mind was made up and flights had been booked, I knew that securing a bike would be my biggest headache, what with Harley’s rental program Eagle Rider being a constant over-priced, limited option pain in my ass, and the Riders Share platform so limited in their offerings. My plan was to fly into L.A., rent a motorcycle, and ride it along the PCH to Santa Margarita, where I would ride sunup to sundown for three days with thousands of other women, then make the trek back.
I needed a bike that I could ride comfortably for many hours over the course of four days; something nimble for California lane splitting, fast enough to have fun on the twisties, light enough to maneuver through rough terrain, all without compromising my incredibly important cool-kid aesthetic. I present to you the Triumph T120 Black, otherwise known as the one that got away. But we’ll save that story for another time.
Late at night, just a few short weeks from the impending trip, I was looking at my options when I found Twisted Road, basically the Airbnb of motorcycles. Sexy interface, smooth online user experience, and a bounty of great bikes. Unlike Eagle Rider and Riders Share, Twisted Road seemed to have the most diversity in their offerings, both in bike style and price. There were sport bikes of every brand, a surprising number of restored classics, and even a few cutting edge new-to-the-market bikes. But I was there for the cruisers, and boy did I find them.
Sportsters galore, some stock, some altered with Vance & Hines exhausts, Biltwell handlebars, one even decorated as a Wonder Woman bike. And then I found her. The ultimate all black Triumph T120, upgraded exhaust, bars, suspension, heated grips, and beautiful seat. It was love at first sight. I booked it immediately.
The Twisted Roads rental was incredibly simple, I submitted my info and got an email shortly after from the Twisted Road folks, letting me know I had been approved. I liked how they have an approval process for the protection of both the renters and the owners. They connected me with the owner of the bike I’d be renting, and we made plans for my pickup.
The Trip
I flew into L.A. on a Thursday morning, hitched an Uber ride to Long Beach, and met up with Paul at his photography studio. Walking in, I saw the Bonnie lifted up, a smiley face made of duct tape on the headlight. Good vibes all around. Paul and I inspected the bike together, a requirement of Twisted Road, then got to talking about my trip. About five minutes in, we decided Paul had to play hooky for the day to teach me how to lane split in California, take me up some twisties, and ride with me to my first stop – Neptune’s Net.
The foundation of Twisted Road is laid by available bike rentals worldwide, but the heart and soul of the company is in how it builds, strengthens, and grows the motorcycle community. Paul and I became instant friends – connected by our deep love for two wheels and the open road, our need for the freedom only motorcycles can provide, and a passion for adventure.
Me and Paul at Neptune’s Net
There was magic in the air as soon as we hit the pavement together. Riding in California is a trip – cars parting for you like the mythical sea— the taste of the ocean on your tongue and the smell of distant mountains filling your helmet. A hundred times in the first hour I thought “I could spend the rest of my life just riding this one highway”.
We made it to Neptune’s Net, most noted for it’s appearance in the end scene in the Fast and the Furious, but known to me as the pit stop for bikers in need of classic fish and chips overlooking the ocean. Paul and I couldn’t help but reenact the scene before stuffing our faces with salty, oceany goodness. We parted ways here, and I started my solo journey to a tiny town hundreds of miles away.
“Do not stop thinking of life as an adventure. You have no security unless you can live bravely, excitingly, imaginatively, unless you can choose a challenge instead of a competence.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt
MRF 2020 FREEDOM FIGHTERS’ HALL OF FAME Inductee Announcement–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation announces the 2020 Freedom Fighter Hall of Fame Inductees.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is pleased to release the names of the 2020 class of Inductees to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame (MRF HOF). These will be presented at the Annual Meeting of the Minds conference September 25-26, in Indianapolis, Indiana. To include deserving activists from the motorcyclists’ rights community that have already been recognized elsewhere, the class of 2020 Legacy Inductees are:
Dick “Slider” Gilmore
Charles Umbenhauer
This year’s MRF HOF Class of 2020 – Freedom Fighter Inductees are:
Wanda Hummel-Shultz
“Biker” Jim Rhoades
Lee Ryan
Marc Falsetti
Gary Klinker
Charlie Williams
Dave Dwyer
“Radio” Bob Letourneau
“Farmer” John Eggers
Michael “Boz” Kerr
Past Motorcycle Riders Foundation Hall of Fame inductees are: Keith “Bandit” Ball, Mark Buckner, Wayne Curtin, Michael “Balls” Farabaugh, “Still” Ray Fitzgerald, Richard Gray, Bob Illingworth, Nathan “Buck” Kittredge, Ed Netterberg, Sherman Packard, Todd Vandermyde, Paul Vestal, Penny Walker, Ed Youngblood, Vince Consiglio, Fredric Harrell, Rodney Roberts, Simon Milward, JoAnne Packard, Karen Bolin, Lee Richardson, Jerry “JT” Thomas, and Teresa Hepker.
Congratulations to all from the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Board of Directors.
About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.
UNSAFE ROADWAY MARKINGS -– Notice of Dangerous Conditions –A letter to the City Clerk – Nikolin Vangjeli,
City Hall Room 206 – 455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608
RE:: Roadway Markings – Notice of Dangerous Conditions – Public Records Request
Dear Clerk Vangjeli:
As communicated earlier last week by e-mail and phone conversation, a roadway danger and defect, for the citizen-biker owners and operators and their passengers, of the more than 2,800 Worcester registered motorcycles and 28,500+ in Worcester County, and others, as well as area bicyclists, pedestrians, and all other road way users, was created and allowed by the City of Worcester, on or about July 15 – 16, 2020, at and upon Major Taylor Boulevard.
The ‘danger’ and ‘defect’ was created by allowing use of an ‘epoxy’ highly slippery paint, especially and more so when moist and wet, without sufficient ‘grit’ to allow what our Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires in most of its proposals for road way repair / marking, that include marking or painting public roadways requiring “Material must be highly skid resistant and reflective, even on wet conditions and have glass beads throughout the material,” and may further to found to be in violation of requirements in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and Title 23 of the United States Code, in particular but not limited to Subpart F—Traffic Control Devices on Federal-Aid and Other Streets and Highways, and other Codes, and subject the City to loss of Federal funding for additional road maintenance and repair.
As such, this is Notice to the City of Worcester of this road way defect it and others created with the City’s allowance and resultant dangerous condition, and is a request to rectify and repair this dangerous and defective condition immediately, by the City and/or its Partners – by adding to the newly created road way markings – additional ‘grit’ and/or other ‘highly skid resistant’ materials to / upon the paintings, and, that road way signs being placed in front and in advance of the affected road way until such changes are made, warning users of the dangerous conditions created and / or detour temporarily until the defect and / or corrections are made.
While Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 84, Section 34 may limit the City to $5,000 exposure for bodily injury and property damages if claimed within the thirty (30) day ‘notice period’ required and if the “sole cause” of this defect is attributed, that limit may be challenged and it also exposes other partners who may be obliged to repair, under ordinary negligence principals, which such limit of damages is not available. It is requested the City give “notice” to such Partners of this potential financial exposure and request their cooperation in correcting the defects, for the safety and well being of all road users.
–Paul W. Cote
PWC/s
cc: City Manger, Edward M. Augustus, Jr., via E-Mail – CityManager@worcesterma.gov
Tim Garvin / United Way of Worcester via E-mail – tim.garvin@unitedwaycm.org,
FYI . . . after ALL that work . . . with lots of research and proof-reading help, timely communications . . .
resolution in principal reached today over the phone . . .
Within the next week, area will be covered with clear anti-skid high traction high grit content ‘traffic paint’ – per MA DOT specs – at no cost to City and safe(r) for all road users
. . . 
Thank YOU ALL for your help over these past three weeks – and the open ears of City Officials and United Way’s Tim Gavin leading to this resolution . . .
the DPW head rides . . . he 100% ‘knew’ this mural’s paint content was incorrect, for all road users . . .
Tim at the local United Way confirmed he had ‘fund money’ from the targeted project donations to pay the City for the redo . . .
We are getting what we want – no compromise – with some good will earned for future ‘motorcycle awareness’ messages . . .
Thank YOU for your review / oversite over these 3-weeks . . .
–Paul Cote
RED CROSS NEWS BRIEF–
Isaias became a Category 1 hurricane before making landfall near Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina last night. It was downgraded to a tropical storm this morning but is bringing threats of damaging winds, flash floods and tornadoes as it races through the Northeast. Earlier the storm impacted multiple states and U.S. territories, including Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This is the ninth tropical storm and second hurricane of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season. Our staff and volunteers are tirelessly working with partners to support individuals needing help in the aftermath.
Meanwhile, the American Red Cross is also supporting evacuees impacted by recent wildfires like the Apple Fire in Southern California, providing assistance to families affected by Hurricane Hanna in Texas, and helping people after apartment fires and other local disasters across the country.
Red Cross volunteer does damage assessment
After disasters, Red Cross volunteers assess damage as part of relief efforts to support people in need.
Support our disaster efforts
Many families will face unimaginable hardship as hurricane and wildfire seasons collide with an ongoing pandemic. As our Senior Vice President of Red Cross Disaster Cycle Services has said, “The pandemic has required us to adapt and learn new ways to operate, but we know that people are counting on us now more than ever, and we’ll be there — albeit looking a little differently than in the past — to meet the need.”
Red Cross volunteers distribute relief items like water and clean-up kits to disaster-hit areas while following social distancing protocols.
It is because of supporters like you that we’re able to assist people in need during this unprecedented time. With this busy disaster season, your gifts help ensure that we can respond quickly when disasters strike, while maintaining the safety of our staff and the people we serve.
Our team’s ability to meet the needs of those suffering depends on you and your generous support. Please donate now to help the Red Cross prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. You’ll be giving hope and help to those who need it most.
Lauri Rhinehart
VP, Humanitarian Services
American Red Cross
[page break]
MEET EMMA AND NICK FROM LOWBROW–
After 25+ years in the industry, I’ve seen countless custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles and met many custom Harley builders . One thing that I’ve come to believe is that the Sportster is the most difficult HD model to get right.
Having the engine and transmission combined into one unit makes for a compact power plant which can be easily mis-proportioned with the rest of the motorcycle, ruining the entire look of the build.
When I spotted Emily Myers’ Sportster last year at Fuel Cleveland, I could see right away that Emily and her husband Nick shared my views on what a proper custom Sportster should look like. Tight lines, just the right components and no extra fat.
THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THEM
What really impressed me about this couple was that they both ride and wrench. Emily started riding when she was 16 on a Honda Rebel 250. Inspired by her grandmother who rode motorcycles, Emily said “I never wanted to just be the girl on the back of a bike. Getting my license was a huge confidence boost and made my self esteem rise.”
Nick began building bikes when he was in college, starting with a Yamaha XS that he turned into a chopper. From there he became a bike builder of Harley Davidsons, building another chopper, but this time using an Ironhead Sportster as the base.
After attending Fuel Cleveland for the first time, Emily knew she wanted to build a custom bike, but it wasn’t until Nick mentioned he was going to buy a wrecked Sportster that things started to come together.
Instead of letting Nick buy the bike, Emily stepped up and bought it herself. Then with the help of some of their friends, they tore the whole bike down in a day and the project officially got underway.
See the whole story on Lowbrow.
VETERANS’ NEWS FROM THE VA–
Working together to ensure Veteran food security
Here are valuable links to information about nutrition
A Veteran named “Shannon” spoke recently about the difficulties she encounters at her local corner store. She doesn’t have transportation to get to a grocery store or produce market. She’s in her late 20s and also has diabetes.
“I can get banana flavored-pudding, but I can’t get bananas,” she said.
Shannon has been hospitalized five times in past three months. She often did not have enough money for food or a place to reliably refrigerate her insulin. Shannon didn’t have a reliable place to refrigerate her insulin because she lacked stable housing, in part because she couldn’t get regular work. She couldn’t get regular work because she kept ending up in the hospital.
“Many Veterans like Shannon struggle with this cycle, but we have resources within VA to help,” says Dr. Alicia Cohen, VA primary care provider.
Food insecurity means you have problems accessing adequate nutrition due to financial issues, transportation or other problems.
Talking about access to nutritious food should be part of your health care.
Working to address the problem
VA’s Nutrition and Food Services (NFS) and the Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) are working together to address Veterans’ hunger and food insecurity. They:
Screen Veterans for food insecurity during medical visits.
Train staff on resources and counseling for Veterans with food insecurity.
Educate clients on new SNAP eligibility and benefits.
VA and USDA know that it can be difficult to talk about this problem or how you’re struggling. VA wants to make it as easy as possible for Veterans and staff to open a conversation about it. Nutrition is fundamental to health and talking about access to nutrition should be part of your health care.
Pam Miller, FNS administrator, adds “Veterans are America’s heroes, and they deserve our fullest support. The USDA FNS team collaborates closely with VA to help combat food insecurity among Veterans. They also provide them with the skills or work experience they need for employment opportunities.”
Teams deliver access to food for Veterans
USDA FNS is the program that administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as “Food Stamps”). VHA NFS is the program that provides clinical nutrition care to Veterans enrolled in VA. Together, these offices work with a national VA multi-disciplinary team and leverage organizational partnerships to screen, refer and deliver direct access to food for Veterans.
To date, staff have screened over six million Veterans. Those who screen positive for food insecurity are offered referrals to VA clinicians for information. In approximately 50 VA medical centers, there is direct access for Veterans via VA food pantries through organizational partnerships, such as Feeding America.
This takes a village and the VHA has established agreements with Feeding America and MAZON a Jewish Response to Hunger. The national Ensuring Veterans Food Security Workgroup connects these groups to facilitate communication and resources.
Programs for rural Veterans
“Malnutrition is not just a problem for older or homeless Veterans. It can happen to any Veteran or family member at any time,” said Dr. Lynda Davis, VA’s Chief Veterans Experience Officer. “If this is a challenge for you or a Veteran you know, let us reach you with resources. Let us be of service to you and support others who have served.”
Additionally, the VA Office of Rural Health (ORH) implements a diverse range of programs that help improve the health and well-being of rural Veterans by increasing their access to care and services. These national programs research, innovate and disseminate new innovations to support the 2.7 million rural Veterans who are enrolled in and rely on VA’s health care system.
VHA NFS FOOD INSECURITY:
https://www.nutrition.va.gov/Food_Insecurity.asp
https://www.nutrition.va.gov/Recipes.asp
FIND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ABOUT SNAP:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/recipient/eligibility
FIND YOUR STATE AGENCY TO APPLY FOR SNAP:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory
FIND WHERE YOU CAN USE SNAP BENEFITS:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-locator
FIND MORE INFORMATION ON THE SNAP EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/et
USDA NATIONAL HUNGER HOTLINE NUMBER:
1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) and 1-877-8-HAMBRE (1-877-842-6273) or text 97779
Anne Utech, PhD, RDN, LD, works for the national director of Nutrition and Food Services.
SPEAKING OF HISTORY~ 101 YEARS AGO ~
2nd Annual Harley-Davidson Dealer Conference (during the Spanish Flu epidemic) circa 1919. Apparently masking up for a national dealer meeting really is a thing?
–Dealer News
NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–Since no one is really immune to what the Corona Virus has done to our favorite Spring and Summer activities, you can probably imagine how it has affected our Museum and staff, and certainly our visitors.
So, I wanted to take a minute to thank all of you who have stopped by to see the Museum again and have graciously cooperated with all the safety measures we have taken. As we are hearing daily each of us can act in certain ways to slow this beast until a cure is found, or thousands more of us will die.
Closed for eight weeks early in our peak season hurt in more ways than one. Hundreds called to check on us and see if the Museum was open and how Iowa was doing in the Pandemic. Now open again for about two months visitation is good. Staff are on the front lines to sanitize and to encourage safety, and most visitors are being smart. Many will soon be headed to the Sturgis Rally and stop by on the way, and we hope you observe every precaution on the road and in Sturgis. We care about you!
So, we are open everyday year around, just like before. Stop by, mask up and walk through the National Motorcycle Museum. You’ll remember your 2020 visit for a long time, as we all work to put the virus in our rearview mirrors.
Very Sincerely Yours,
–Jill Parham
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
NEW BAGGER MARKET REVEALED BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for July 30, 2020
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/NEW_BAGGER_MARKET_REVEALED_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_July_30_2020.aspx
Bandit, it was good to see what you said. I asked the same at a dealer about years ago. Why can’t we get a new, old Harley, no fancy electronics, no fuel injection?
What we were able to do, when we built our own out of what we could get, make or modify, when I was at Robisons. I and with the help of the other guys, built a 67 XLCC-K model flat track hardtail, with a WLA springer, 12 overs, very small rigid frame, very fast Sportster–all mix and match Harley stuff.
Have a great day and enjoy Sturgis.
–A.J.
Deland, FL
NEWS FROM S&S–It’s a weird world but it won’t stop us from doing everything we can to support our dealers and our customers. For the next sixty days most of our popular cams and cam chest kits are reduced by 15%. Our small way of saying thank you to the market that’s always supported us! ~ DZ
NEW – S&S Cycle Horsepower Stimulus Package -V2 – The Bump Stick Bonanza
S&S Cycle has weathered its fair share of storms. In spite of any unforeseen challenges, they’ve never failed to express their gratitude to the shops and riders who support their passion for performance.
That being said, they’ve expanded their Horsepower Stimulus package and are offering a special thank you in the way of a 15% price reduction on their most popular cam products. This includes performance cams, cam kits and their complete cam chest kits (cam, pump, plate, pushrods, etc) for M8, Twin Cam, Evo, Sportster® and other models.
Beginning August 1st and lasting through the end of September, purchase S&S Cycle cams from your local dealer or favorite reseller and you’ll automatically see a 15% price reduction as their small way of saying thank you. Check out their site for more details
WIN ONE OF TWO David Uhl signed limited “Rolling Thunder” (2018) series prints!
“Memorial Colors” and “Acknowledged” – either commemorative print would look GREAT in your house, office or Clubhouse . . . wouldn’t they ?
Joint “Bikers Helping Bikers Art Raffle” – co-hosted and benefiting local 20+ year nonprofit organizations helping local families of riders in need, promoting motorcycle safety and awareness aimed at reducing accidents and injuries, and working within local, State & Federal Governments for bikers. Raffle is permitted and run in accordance with Massachusetts State Lottery Commission rules.
Drawing is Sunday, August 30th, – need not be present and will be ‘Live-Streamed’ on the Boston Biker Facebook page, Sunday, August 30th, the last day of the rescheduled 97th Laconia Motorcycle Rally Week (8/22 – 30/2020), with Paul W. Cote, Sue Hart, and Laconia Rally leaders pulling the winning tickers from the bucket !
Tickets available via secure Paypal sites with your debit / credit card on-line –
$10 each or six (6) tickets for $50 (1 FREE !) –
Click on the “Check Twice Signs” Event Page at https://www.facebook.com/events/753724838715355/
or any one of these web sites
https://massmsf.org/art-raffle-2020/
http://www.thesurvivorsfund.com/
http://www.checktwice-savealife.com/art-raffle-2020/
http://citizenbikerpac.com/art-raffle-2020/
For all David Uhl’s art collection, see www.UhlStudios.com
IT’S SUMMER AND BIKES ARE SELLING–
These past few weeks have shown us that used bikes are in high demand! Here at the Boars Nest we offer a simple, hassle free consignment option that some people are not aware of.
If you are looking for another way to sell your used Harley Davidson, give us a shot! Bring down your used bike and we will facilitate all listings and sale of the bike for a very reasonable consignment fee. Give us a call, email or stop in to get all the details!
Store hours
Tuesday-Saturday: 9am-6pm
SHOP CONTACT 760.757.4294
Boars Nest Choppers 3207 Roymar Rd. Suite A, Oceanside, CA 92058
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY– ADULT Fairy Tale
Once upon a time there lived a King who had the most beautiful daughter. But there was a problem. Everything the princess touched would melt. No matter what: Metal, Wood, Stone. Anything she touched would melt.
Because of this, men were afraid of her. Nobody would dare marry her. The King despaired. What could he do to help his daughter? He consulted his wizards and magicians. One wizard told the King, “If your daughter touches one thing that does not melt in her hands, she will be cured.”
The King was overjoyed and came up with a plan. The next day, he held a competition. Any man who could bring his daughter an object that would not melt would marry her and inherit the King’s wealth.
THREE YOUNG PRINCES TOOK UP THE CHALLENGE.
The first brought a sword of the finest steel. But alas, when the Princess touched it, it melted. The prince went away sadly.
The second prince brought diamonds. He thought diamonds are the hardest substance in the world and would not melt. But alas, once the Princess touched them, they melted. He too was sent away disappointed.
The third prince approached. He told the Princess, “Put your hand in my pocket and feel what is in there.” The Princess did as she was told, though she turned red. She felt something very hard. She held it in her hand. And it did not melt!!!
The King was overjoyed. Everybody in the kingdom was overjoyed. And the Prince married the Princess and they both lived happily ever after.
Question: What was in the Prince’s pants????
Answer below ?
M&Ms of course! They melt in your mouth, not in your hand.
What on earth were you thinking?
I DO WORRY AB0UT YOU
–Joe Smith
BREAKING NEWS: After lengthy discussions and the submission of a ground-breaking COVID-19 Safety Plan, the BLM is officially issuing the permit for the 24th Annual Maxxis Tires “Casey Folks” Vegas to Reno Presented by Fox. According to our insider at Best In The Desert’s Scot Harden, the race will run as originally scheduled Aug. 12 -15, 2020, featuring a record field of entries including all the top names from every segment of the sport. The 550 mile point-to-point race from Las Vegas to Reno, Nevada, the longest off-road race in the United States.
The BLM is granting the permit under the condition that Best In The Desert and its racers adhere to additional COVID-19 mitigation guidelines. These conditions will be spelled out in greater detail in an email to all racers entered in the event.
“We are happy to report the race will run as scheduled,” notes BITD CEO Daryl Folks. “We sincerely appreciate the work done by the Nevada BLM State Office and the Battle Mountain BLM District Office along with their hard-working team to help us arrive at this point. It’s only fitting that the race named after our father and the founder of Best In The Desert will be run after all. In the end, it came down to the fact that we were able to prove that our racers know how to follow rules and will comply with the special measures we have put in place to make sure we run a safe race and respect the special COVID-19 safety protocol we’ve established.”
“I too am very grateful for all the hard work and cooperation by the BLM,” adds BITD CMO Bryan Folks. “I cannot stress enough how crucial it is for the racing community to follow the new COVID-19 guidelines that will be set forth in the next announcement. The future of Best In The Desert depends on everyone putting aside their personal views and following what is being asked of us.
I feel like this is an opportunity for the off-road community to come together and shine and prove that we can follow the rules. We want to thank our racers, sponsors, and staff for their support as we worked through this situation. Finally, we would like to thank our Nevada elected officials and for many other prominent voices for also supporting our event.”
Best In The Desert Race Operations Manager Donald Jackson added, “It has been challenging from all fronts to get the permit approved to run on the original date. There were many obstacles to overcome but ultimately it was a huge team effort that got us to this point. I want to especially thank all those that took time to write letters of support, make phone calls, give medical advice and help us put together a solid COVID-19 mitigation plan especially Medical Director Doc Lippmann, Silver State Offroad Alliance (SSORA), and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Without all of us collectively working together, we wouldn’t be able to see all the best off-road racers go head to head in the ‘Longest Off-Road Race in the United States.’”
And BAJA 1000 GETS GREEN FLAG
Appropriately on the date of the running of the original Baja 1000, Mexican officials gave the 2020 race a green flag. An agreement was signed between the Government of Ensenada and SCORE International to run the 53 edition of the race on November 17-22. Municipal President Armando Ayala Robles noted that health protocols as established by the Mexico Ministry of Health will be adhered to and there would be no mass gatherings of fans.
–from Dealer News
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON OF THE WEEK–obfuscate
[ ob-fuh-skeyt, ob-fuhs-keyt ]
verb (used with object)
to make obscure or unclear: to obfuscate a problem with extraneous information.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF OBFUSCATE?
The verb obfuscate comes from Late Latin (especially Christian Latin) offuscat(us), also obfuscat(us), the past participle of offuscare (obfuscare), literally “to darken, obscure.” Offuscare is a compound of the preposition and prefix ob, of– “toward, against,” also used as an intensive prefix, as here, and the verb fuscare “to make dark, become dark.” The Latin root word is the adjective fuscus “dark, somber, dim, drab.” Fuscus is possibly related to Old English dox, dosc “dark,” source of the English noun and adjective dusk. Obfuscate entered English in the first half of the 16th century.
HOW IS OBFUSCATE USED?
Of course all this talk of carbon emissions obfuscates the other significant dangers associated with the nuclear cycle.
MARK DOWIE, “NUCLEAR CARIBOU,” ORION, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009
“But it will take moral clarity, which will require both editors and reporters to stop doing things like reflexively hiding behind euphemisms that obfuscate the truth, simply because we’ve always done it that way.”
WESLEY LOWERY, “A RECKONING OVER OBJECTIVITY, LED BY BLACK JOURNALISTS,” NEW YORK TIMES, JUNE 23, 2020
–Dictionary.com
SERVICES AT DAKOTA V-TWIN IN SPEARFISH–
Here at Dakota V-Twin we strive for excellence on ever motorcycle that comes in the doors! We take pride in our shop and provide only the best customer service for you and your motorcycle, and always stand behind out work! Rest assured that your bike is in professional hands at Dakota V-Twin. Here is a list of services that we provide here at Dakota V-Twin. Please give us a call or click the link below to contact us with any questions you might have or to make an appointment.
Maintenance and Repair on all Harley Davidson’s and Custom American V-Twins
Big Dog Warranty and Service
Performance engine building, anything from Mild to Wild
Parts and Accessories sales
Dyno Tuning on Fuel Injected and Carbureted on ALL makes of motorcycles
Headwork
Cylinder Boring
Electrical Diagnostics and Professional Wiring
Winterization and Storage
Crash Repair and Estimates
Custom Paint
Complete Restoration
Tires and Oil Changes
Machining and Custom part fabrication
Complete Detailing
Polishing
Coming to the Sturgis Rally / Black Hills Rally?
With our state of the art Dynojet Dyno model 250i, we are able to Tune, Diagnose, and Fix almost any running issues your motorcycle may have, whether it’s carbureted, or fuel injected. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about Dyno tuning.
Why should I have my bike Dyno tuned?
Dyno-tuning isn’t just for measuring Horsepower and Torque, it gives our factory trained dyno technician the ability to map and adjust fuel levels at any rpm and throttle position. We all know that performance upgrades are not cheap! With that said, what if I told you that you weren’t getting the most out of those upgrades.
Can Dyno tuning improve fuel mileage?
Are all “Dynos” the same?
Absolutely not! Please be advised that many shops are currently using old or outdated equipment and software that are just not suited to do the job correctly. Here at Dakota V-Twin we house a state of the art Dynojet Dynamometer model 250i with load capabilities, an air/fuel ratio “EGA” machine, using Winpep7, and always being connected through Tuning Link, which is a very necessary program that still today, most tuning centers do not have.
Dakota V-Twin
3123 East Fairgrounds Loop
Spearfish, SD 57783
(605) 717-0009
DIRECT FROM THE NMA–What about Police Traffic Stop Reform Part 1
2020 has undoubtedly been a tough year for all of us. The COVID-19 crisis has changed many aspects of our lives, and so have the protests around the world in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
At first, the protests were against police brutality, and now they have turned into calls for police reform.
Much of the call to defund the police essentially means taking police officers out of various call scenarios such as mental health issues, welfare checks, working with the homeless, and even traffic enforcement. This idea of defunding scares many who believe that police are still necessary for keeping the peace. The national debate on what police should be in a community is an important one.
A traffic stop, for instance, is when most people encounter police. Many feel intimidated and afraid for their lives when stopped by the police for something as simple as having a deodorizer hanging from their rearview mirror as in Michigan.
Motorist racial profiling and illegal vehicle searches have been a regular part of the police toolbox for a long time. Such actions shatter the trust between community and law enforcement, violate constitutional rights of citizens, and often result in lawsuits that cost taxpayers millions of dollars to settle.
By the same token, police will often tell you that traffic stops, the most frequent enforcement encounter with the public, create security anxiety for them too because the stop itself can create uncertain situations.
For years, the NMA has offered guidance to drivers on how to best handle traffic stop interactions. True traffic stop reform starts with actions such as these:
Federal Reforms
Congress must pass legislation that prohibits the government from funding ticket-quota-based traffic enforcement campaigns.
All lawmakers should actively support civil asset forfeiture reform. Motorists too often are easy targets for property seizures unrelated to chargeable violations.
“Keeping the peace” has somehow morphed into militarized police departments in many communities. A bill such as the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act could be a step in the right direction.
State Reforms
Stop counties, parishes, and municipalities from funneling money garnered from traffic fines and fees back to police departments or traffic courts as a reward for ticketing activity. The conflict of interest is obvious.
Require better training of police officers on traffic stop protocol and de-escalation techniques.
Encourage local municipalities to build community-police oversight boards that set higher police accountability standards with the goal of building better public trust.
Provide better protection for officers who whistleblow against their departments over ticket quotas. The same protection must be afforded to police department leaders who are pressured by city officials to generate a certain level of revenue through ticketing practices.
Place ticket revenue caps on cities that limit traffic ticket revenue to a standard percentage of the city’s annual budget. For example, after Ferguson erupted about six years ago, Missouri capped the routine traffic violation revenue a city could take in at 20 percent of its overall revenue. Also, states must enforce this cap by placing state funding limits for cities that go over the cap and do as Arkansas did in the last several years by officially naming these towns that violate the cap, a speed trap city.
Fund skilled (behind-the-wheel) driver’s education for all high school students and novice drivers.
Local Reforms
Facilitate community-police oversight boards to set policing standards, to ensure accountability, and build public trust.
Endorse policies that encourage safe driving behaviors through proper engineering rather than for-profit schemes.
Apply legitimate ticket revenues toward road safety improvements and driver education, eliminating the incentive to use motorists as ATMs for general purpose projects that have nothing to do with driving or road-user safety.
Recent, well-publicized events have brought police-community interactions to the forefront of national debate. We encourage all NMA members to become part of that discussion, particularly at the local and state levels.
Next week, a look at some thornier issues of traffic stop reform related to questions of due process and other constitutional rights.
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DIRECT FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION– What’s this “Meeting of the Minds” & Where’d it come from? When did it start? Where’s it going?
A 36-year, 36 city bikers’ rights advocacy tour of the United States that had its beginnings in campgrounds at Perry, Kansas, and somewhere in South Georgia on the way to Bike Week in Daytona, Florida. A handful of dedicated individuals grew a miss-matched congregation of freedom fighters and rights advocates into a well-orchestrated and internationally recognized organization called the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. And…
What’s this “Meeting of the Minds” & Where’d it come from?
1985 St. Louis, Missouri
1986 Hot Springs, Arkansas
1987 Quad Cities, Iowa
1988 Wichita, Kansas
1989 Indianapolis, Indiana
1990 Carlisle, Pennsylvania
1991 Ames, Iowa
1992 Columbus, Ohio
1993 Denver, Colorado
1994 St. Louis, Missouri
1995 Little Rock, Arkansas
1996 Cedar Rapids, Iowa
1997 Madison, Wisconsin
1998 Indianapolis, Indiana
1999 Denver, Colorado
2000 Oak Brook, Illinois
2001 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2002 Lansing, Michigan
What’s this “Meeting of the Minds” & Where’s it going?
2020 — Indianapolis, Indiana. Check this out…
It’s 8 meals – that’s right folks – it’s 8 meals included with your event registration!!
It’s 15 workshops!
It’s a host of keynotes speakers bringing up-to-the-minute information from Washington, D.C.!
It’s more useful information than you can haul home in two saddlebags!!!
It’s brothers and sisters knowing about freedom and wanting more information on how to protect their rights, their motorcycles, and their lifestyles!
Now’s the time to use this link and register at Meeting of the Minds 2020.
What’s this “Meeting of the Minds” & Where’s it going?
Waterfront Hotel Conference Center
Indianapolis, Indiana
Room Reservations: Call 317-767-4769
See you in Indianapolis!!!
Now’s the time to use this link and register at Meeting of the Minds 2020. Call 317-767-4769 for Hotel reservations. The Meeting of the Minds is in Indianapolis, Indiana, September 24-27, 2020.
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MARK TWAIN GOES OUT WEST —Back before Samuel Clemens became Mark Twain, he came out west to work with his brother as a newspaper reporter.
As was the norm of travel, on August 8, 1861 he took the Ben Holladay and Wells Fargo stages from St. Joseph, Missouri to Carson City, Nevada. He recorded his impressions of the trip in his 1872 book “Roughing It”.
Mark Twain described the stagecoach as “an imposing cradle on wheels.” Fortunately, Mark had had experience on the water because the constant sway made some people seasick. Then there was the “forty memorable miles of bottomless sand, into which the coach wheels sunk from six inches to a foot. We worked our passage most of the way across. That is to say, we got out and walked.”
Although stagecoach travel was the best means of travel back in the early 1860s, it was by no means a comfort.
Many stagecoaches were built for transporting mail and freight, with passengers an afterthought. Even those designed for passengers were packed with some passengers having to ride on top of the stage.
In addition to cramped space, there were accidents and an occasional robbery or attack by Indians. And then there was the food, when it was available. According to Mark Twain, a meal consisted of “last week’s bread… condemned army bacon… a beverage which pretended to be tea, but there was too much dish-rag, and sand, and old bacon-rind in it to deceive the intelligent traveler.” And to rub salt in the wound, meals were not included in the $200 a traveler paid for passage.
Mark Twain, known for his exaggerations, may have done so on this occasion. But according to the diaries of other travelers, it wasn’t by much.
–Sam Burns
Resident Historian
Bikernet.com™
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9016171
2015 Harley-Davidson® Road King®
Timeless cruiser styling combined with all the features you need for the long haul. The Road King® motorcycle truly is the king of the road.
Project RUSHMORE – Control
Here are some of the innovations Project RUSHMORE led to: the Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS, the Daymaker™ LED headlamps and fog lamps, brighter Tour-Pak® lighting, brighter turn signals, brighter brake lights, and a steering head with stiffer front forks. Locked-up tires are now history even when there’s wet pavement. We’ve made it feel even better to lean your way through a turn. Now you can see better. And we’ve made you more conspicuous to the cage-driving public. Because one thing we all agree on is this: bikes that work better make riders who ride better. Take a ride. See how good you can be.
With air-adjustable suspension that comes standard, you can dial in your ride to accommodate heavier or lighter payloads, battle unexpected road conditions or simply set it to how you like to roll. The lighter the load, the softer you can go by decreasing the air pressure a bit, or increase the air pressure for a more firm ride. A convenient air valve is located between the saddlebag and rear fender for quick adjusting. It’s all about rider and passenger comfort and setting your bike to fit your taste—the easy way.
Confidence. Control. High-performance dual disc Brembo® brakes offer consistent stopping power at all speeds. The 4-piston front and rear caliper with dual front rotor brake system is state of the art and top of the line. It’s just another way The Motor Company puts a high level of detail into their bikes to give you peace of mind throughout your journey.
No doubt about it, there are times when you need to haul things down in a hurry. And you don’t get to pick those times. Or decide whether or not they occur when you’re on a flat, smooth, dry, perfect stretch of pavement. That’s why our touring models feature the Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS. ABS turns a locked-up front wheel or a rear wheel skid into a relic from riding’s history. And the front and rear brakes are electronically linked to provide exactly the right amount of brake to each tire no matter what the road condition is. No matter how good you are, this will make you a better rider.
Fire up the Twin Cam 103™ engine and feel the low-end torque unleashed. Thanks to the lightweight piston design, delivery of the added power is more refined than ever. Then put your foot on the shifter and feel how the engine and Six-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission were designed to work together. Six speeds. A strong driveline and strong internal parts. Low routine maintenance. And a low cruising rpm couldn’t feel better.
TO OUR VEGAS BIKEFEST FAMILY– It is with great sadness that due to government regulations and orders by Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak, Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, Clark County, City of Las Vegas and other local, county, state and federal authorities, we have been forced to postpone the 2020 installment of Vegas BikeFest.
We are disappointed that we will not be able to bring you the celebration of motorcycles, music and motorcycle culture we had planned, in a way that only Las Vegas can provide.
We look forward to seeing you again on September 30-October 3, 2021 for the 20th anniversary of Vegas BikeFest!
All pre-registered attendees will be receiving a 100% refund for tickets purchased.
If you have already booked airline or hotel reservations, please contact them directly to make necessary arrangements.
Ride safe, stay well and thank you for your tremendous support over the past 20 years!
With Love – Vegas BikeFest Team
CLUB WARS–Angels Battle Pagans as the Outlaw Biker War Hits the Bronx
Last year, the Hells Angels moved out of their famous Third Street clubhouse in the East Village to an old two-story brick building and former American Legion hall in the Bronx. To mark the occasion, on January 2nd, the Pagans, a rival outlaw biker gang, welcomed them to the neighborhood with a round of semi-automatic gunfire, allegedly shooting up the side of the Hells Angels’ new digs.
A thoroughly working-class borough, the Bronx has long been known to be the Pagans’ turf. The post-New Year’s
Read in MEL Magazine: https://apple.news/AS5TMU-nESIKOyUSFd_-MnQ
–from Geno
DAYTONA BEACH MAYOR– Unless Things Turn Around, No Biketoberfest This Year
Unless there is a drastic turnaround with the coronavirus, Biketoberfest, the fall motorcycle festival, will not happen this year.
That’s according to Daytona Beach’s mayor, Derrick Henry, who spoke on CNN Monday.
“We are in the process of deciding if we will move forward with those or not,” Henry said. “As it stands for me, it’s a definitive no at this moment in time, unless things drastically turn around.”
Biketoberfest and its spring counterpart, Bike Week, are two of the biggest annual events in Daytona Beach, bringing in thousands of bikers — and dollars — to the World’s Most Famous Beach and its surrounding communities.
Biketoberfest is planned for October 15 through 18.
Bike Week, which is a much bigger event, took place in March as Florida began reporting its first coronavirus cases. City businesses and event organizers took precautions, but the event went on as planned.
With other events and vacations canceled since then, Daytona Beach businesses, like other parts of Central Florida, have struggled with the lack of tourism dollars. Cancelling Biketoberfest would extend that hardship.
Other motorcycle events have been postponed or canceled around the state and the country. Leesburg BikeFest, another large motorcycle festival in Central Florida, moved its annual event to November. St. Pete Beach’s bike fest has been canceled. Panama City Beach’s spring event was canceled, but its smaller fall event in October is moving forward.
One festival that is not going away is perhaps the biggest in the country — the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August in South Dakota. Some of the major events have been canceled to avoid large organized gatherings, and the city is asking visitors to take personal responsibility and follow CDC guidelines. More than 250,000 are expected at the rally.
By Christie Zizo Volusia County
CLIMATE-CHANGE HYSTERIA COSTS LIVES — but activists want to keep panic alive
“Apocalypse Never” author Michael Shellenberger writes that elites have used climate alarmism to justify efforts to control food and energy policies for over 30 years.
Last month, I published a book, “Apocalypse Never,” which debunks popular environmental myths. Among them: that humans are causing a sixth mass extinction and that climate change is making natural disasters worse.
While I expected my book to be controversial, I didn’t expect CNN’s top climate reporter to compare it to an advertisement for cigarettes. Or to have an environmental journalist with nearly half a million followers on Twitter accuse me of promoting “white supremacy.”
I’m hardly a climate denier. In fact, I have been a climate activist for 20 years and an environmental activist for more than 30. Governments, including the US Congress, regularly ask me to offer my testimony as an energy expert. And this year, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change asked me to serve as an expert reviewer of its next major report.
I decided to speak out last year, after it became clear to me that alarmism was harming mental health. A major survey of 30,000 people around the world found that nearly half believed climate change would make humanity extinct. Mental-health professionals now routinely find themselves addressing adolescent anxiety over climate. In January, pollsters found that one in five UK children reported having nightmares about it.
And yet the IPCC doesn’t predict billions or even millions of deaths from climate change. That’s in part because economic development and preparedness mitigate natural disasters, diseases and other environmental impacts of climate change. And scientists expect our ability to mitigate harms to expand and improve long into the future.
There has been a 92 percent decline in the per-decade death toll from natural disasters since its peak in the 1920s. In that decade, 5.4 million people died from natural disasters. In the 2010s, just 0.4 million did. The decline occurred during a period when the global population nearly quadrupled and temperatures rose more than 1 degree centigrade over pre-industrial levels.
Would deaths have been even lower had temperatures not risen that 1 degree? Maybe, but we will never know. Huge reductions in deaths outweighed any increase in deaths from more forceful disasters. Could future temperature increases reverse the trend of declining mortality?
Perhaps, but the IPCC doesn’t predict that happening. That’s partly because — again — we are so much better at protecting people from natural disasters, climate-fueled or not.
Climate alarmists steadfastly ignore our capacity to adapt. To take just one example, France in 2006 had 4,000 fewer deaths from a heat wave than anticipated thanks to improved health care, an early-warning system and greater public consciousness in response to a deadly heat wave three years earlier.
Even poor, climate-vulnerable nations like Bangladesh saw deaths decline massively thanks to low-cost weather surveillance and warning systems and storm shelters.
Some have said that climate change will make epidemics like COVID-19 more frequent or more severe, but the main factors behind the novel-coronavirus pandemic had nothing to do with climate and everything to do with the failure of the Chinese regime to protect public health.
It’s why the IPCC names “poverty alleviation, public health interventions such as the provision of water and sanitation and early-warning and response system for disasters and epidemics” — not emissions reductions — as the keys to lowering disease risk in the future.
So why do some alarmists claim that climate change is making disasters worse? In part, it’s so they can use the world’s most visual and dramatic events, from Hurricane Sandy to California’s forest fires, to make the issue more salient with voters.
If it were acknowledged that Hurricane Sandy’s damage owed overwhelmingly to New York failure to modernize its flood-control systems or that California’s forest fires were due to the buildup of wood fuel after decades of fire suppression, alarmist journalists, scientists and activists would be deprived of the visually powerful events and “news hooks” they need to scare people, raise money and advocate climate policies.
Climate alarmism isn’t just about money. It’s also about power. Elites have used climate alarmism to justify efforts to control food and energy policies in their home nations and around the world for more than three decades.
In just the last decade, climate alarmists have successfully redirected funding from the World Bank and similar institutions away from economic development and toward charitable endeavors, such as solar panels for villagers, which can’t power growth.
Contrary to the claims of CNN’s top environment reporter, using energy that emits carbon dioxide isn’t like smoking cigarettes. People need to consume significant amounts of energy in order to enjoy decent standards of living. Nobody needs to smoke cigarettes.
In the end, climate alarmism is powerful because it has emerged as the alternative religion for supposedly secular people, providing many of the same psychological benefits as traditional faith.
Climate alarmism gives them a purpose: to save the world from climate change. It offers them a story that casts them as heroes. And it provides a way for them to find meaning in their lives — while retaining the illusion that they are people of science and reason, not superstition and fantasy.
There is nothing wrong with religious faith and often a great deal right about it. Religions have long provided people with the meaning, purpose and consolations they need to weather life’s many challenges. Religions can be a guide to positive, pro-social and ethical behavior.
The trouble with the new environmental religion is that it has become increasingly destructive. It leads its adherents to demonize their opponents. And it spreads anxiety and depression without meeting the deeper spiritual needs.
Happily, real-world events, starting with the coronavirus pandemic, are undermining the notion that climate change is an “emergency” or “crisis.” After all, it was a disease that brought civilization to a halt, not climate-fueled natural disasters. And while COVID-19 has killed more than half a million people and counting, alarmist scientists struggle to explain how climate change will make diseases and disasters worse.
Meanwhile, emissions are declining in much of the world. In Europe, emissions in 2018 were 23 percent below 1990 levels. In the United States, emissions fell 15 percent from 2005 to 2016. And emissions are likely to peak and start to decline in developing nations, including China and India, within the next decade.
As a result, most experts believe that global temperatures are unlikely to rise more than 3 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. No amount of warming is ideal, since it will change conditions for both people and wildlife. But 3 degrees isn’t catastrophic for, much less an existential threat to, human societies and economies.
For pointing out these basic facts, I have been smeared, bizarrely, as a racist. Yet readers will discover that, far from being a defense of white supremacy, “Apocalypse Never” exposes European and North American environmentalists for promoting discriminatory anti-development policies toward poor African, Asian and Latin-American nations.
The activists and their media allies censor news articles. But eventually, the public will get to review the evidence and realize that the censors are wrong.
It is my hope that, after the public reckoning, everyone, particularly anxious adolescents, will go from seeing climate change as the end of the world to viewing it as a highly manageable problem.
Michael Shellenberger is the author of “Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All.”
Follow him on Twitter @ShellenbergerMD.
–Michael Shellenberger
President, Environmental Progress
2569 Telegraph Avenue,
Berkeley, CA 94704
BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN, NO MASK REQUIRED–
A pirate walked into a bar, and the bartender said, “Hey, I haven’t seen you in a while. What happened? You look terrible.”
“What do you mean?” said the pirate, “I feel fine.”
“What about the wooden leg? You didn’t have that before.”
“Well,” said the pirate, “We were in a battle, and I got hit with a cannon ball, but I’m fine now.”
The bartender replied, “Well, OK, but what about that hook?
What happened to your hand?”
The pirate explained, “We were in another battle. I boarded a ship and got into a sword fight. My hand was cut off. I got fitted with a hook, but I’m fine, really.”
“What about that eye patch?”
“Oh,” said the pirate, “One day we were at sea, and a flock of birds flew over. I looked up, and suddenly my eye was filled with bird droppings”
“You’re kidding,” said the bartender. “You couldn’t lose an eye just from bird droppings.”
“It was my first day with the hook.”
–Sam Burns
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina™
Bad Joke Library
SBS NEWS–Find the right brake pad compound
New selection tool from SBS makes it easy to find the best match between bike and riders braking preferences
Some riders prefer more stopping power than others, some ride in dry conditions, others in wet conditions. It can be hard to find the perfect match of brake pad compound as it really is a combination of rider’s preferences, bike model and use of bike.
SBS has now made an online tool that makes it easy to find the best brake pad compound that will not only fit the right bike model, but will also match the riders braking preferences and riding style. You just need to answer 2-3 questions, and you will get the best fit right away.
After finding the right compound, you might want to use the SBS model look-up widget to find the right size of brake pad for exactly your bike model.
Both tools are available for free at www.sbsbrakes.com
SURGICAL STEED FOR SALE– I have a bike that I rebuilt in 2010. It has 8700 total miles on it.
It’s a Surgical Steed custom Softail with a TP motor. I would like to sell it, but am not sure the right avenue to head down selling a bike like this.
Is there something you can suggest?
Again, I appreciate any help you may lend my way.
–Ron Johnson
johnsonronj@icloud.com
We were able to help him out with a couple of leads. If you are interested in this hot rod Softail, drop him a note. –Bandit
NEVER A DULL MOMENT –Here’s another event cancelled. I got a call from LA today. Everybody has it.
My brother got it at his Doctor’s office and just had a relapse. He’s pissed. I need to get back and hang with Cash, my aging Lab.
I’m watching a lecture series about writing successful mystery novels. It’s by James Scott Bell. At first he covered many aspects of writing I knew, but then he started in on structure. It should seriously help assist with the book I’m currently working on.
This guy is amazing. He’s written over a dozen book just about writing. Always something new to learn, write, build or tinker with. And always a new place to ride.
Ride fast and free forever.
–Bandit