Performance replacement clutch packs for 1990 & later stock or slightly modifies Harley! 1048-0026 High performance extra plate kit. Fits 1990-1997 Big Twin, 1991-later XL models. Includes 9 friction plates, eight tempered steel drive plates with 15% stiffer diaphragm spring. 1048-0028  High performance extra plate kit. Fits 1998-2017 EVO & Twin Cam models. Includes 9 friction plates, 8 steel plates & stiffer diaphragm spring. Pre-measured stack height. 1048-0018 High performance extra plate kit. Fits 1998 to 2017 Big Twin & Twin Cam. Includes nine Kevlar friction plates on 6061 T7 aluminum cores, and eight tempered steel drive plates. Spring is not included. Way better than stock. Aggressive materials and tougher springs makes these clutch packs ideal for your modified or stock HD.

• Carbon Kevlar friction material.
• Precision cores.
• Competitive pricing
• Made in the U.S.A.

If your bike is super modified, our Comp Master™ Clutch would be your next step!. FIND OUT MORE – http://americanprimemfginc.com/shop/

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Park Service has reversed its September decision to allow ATVs and side-by-sides in Utah’s five national parks. The change was scheduled to go into effect Nov. 1. The Park Service initially intended to allow the vehicles, because Utah law allows some of them to be registered and operated on state roads. Anti-access groups and Grand County officials objected to the change and urged the NPS to rescind its decision.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) re-introduced S. 2602, Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act, which would protect the right of vehicle owners to convert their personal vehicles, including motorcycles, into competition machines. In 2015, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was granted authority to fine amateur racers for such modifications. The AMA supports this legislation. Click on this link to contact your senator http://cqrcengage.com/amacycle/app/take-action?engagementId=503034.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released highway crash fatality data for 2018, showing a 2.4 percent decline in overall fatalities, the second consecutive year of reduced crash fatalities. Motorcyclist fatalities declined 4.7 percent. The report shows that 4,985 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2018, down 244 from the 5,229 fatalities in 2017.

RENO, Nev. – The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council’s annual conference drew about 200 people from across the country in October. The AMA was represented by Western States Representative Nick Haris and Steve Salisbury, government relations manager for off-highway issues. The conference brings together off-road enthusiasts, government officials, industry leaders, OHV rights advocates and vendors. The 2020 conference is scheduled for Aug. 17-22 in Knoxville, Tenn.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – To attract new riders and encourage motorcyclists to ride more, the motorcycle industry must tap into people’s positive emotions, while offering easy and practical ways to enter and stay a part of the two-wheeled community, four presenters from the Motorcycle Industry Council said during the AIMExpo in September. Those were the findings by the research firm Centauric LLC, hired by the MIC to determine why some people ride and others don’t. Among the suggestions to attract riders were more support for rider communities and networks, development of rider mentorship programs and offering new ways to access motorcycles that are not ownership-based. The MIC is refining these elements into an action plan, which will be presented to MIC members at the MIC annual symposium in November.

State News

WRANGELL, Alaska – At a Nov. 6 meeting, the Wrangell-Petersburg Resource Advisory Committee will review the progress of previously funded projects, consider new project proposals and take up remaining recommendations for the allocation of Title ii project funding. The meeting is 6:30-9 p.m. in two locations: Wrangell Ranger District Office, 525 Bennett St., Wrangell, Alaska; Petersburg Ranger District Office, 12 N. Nordic Drive, Petersburg, Alaska. The locations will be connected via videoconference. For more information, contact Linda Slaght, RAC coordinator, (907) 772-5948 or lslaght@fs.fed.us.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have denied the off-highway vehicle community a long-overdue opportunity for additional motorized recreation at the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area. Assembly Bill 1086, introduced in the last days of the legislative session, was a “gut and amend” bill that used language from the failed Senate Bill 767. Both bills would have declared the 3,100-acre Alameda-Tesla Expansion Area to be surplus property, making it available for sale. Newsom’s veto message cited a lack of evidence regarding mismanagement of the property. The agency that oversees the property has procedures in place for disposing of unneeded property. Carnegie SVRA has been part of the California State Parks system since 1980, when the site was acquired by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Prior to that, the site was privately owned and was enjoyed by generations of motorized recreationists, including a period when it was operated as a private motorcycle park.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Using a $700,000 federal grant, the California Highway Patrol developed the Get Educated and Ride Safe II campaign, or GEARS II, to promote motorcycle safety and awareness. The GEARS II goal is to reduce the number of crashes and crash victims. With the grant, the regions with the highest number of motorcycle incidents will see increased safety operations. A year-long series of safety education campaigns, including the “May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month,” is planned. The campaigns will promote the use of motorcycle helmet that meet U.S. Department of Transportation standards and will work to increase motorists’ awareness of motorcyclists on the road. The campaigns will also focus on the most dangerous traffic violations, including speeding, improper turning and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Funding came from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

AUGUSTA, Maine – Steve Salisbury, AMA government relations manager for off-highway issues, attended the fourth of six planned meetings of the Maine Governor’s ATV Task Force in October. The task force is charged with six tasks, primarily considering ATV trail funding and the size and weight of vehicles allowed on Maine’s state-administered 6,500-mile ATV trail system, nearly all of which is on private land. Before the task force meeting, Salisbury huddled with members of the AMA-chartered Pine Tree Trail Riders and with Maine AMA State Chapter coordinator John Painter. The state’s off-highway motorcycle riders are concerned, because two influential task force members suggested revising the ATV definition to exclude OHMs, ending riders’ legal access to the trails. During the public comment portion of the task force meeting, Salisbury described the AMA’s familiarity with private land issues, highlighted misconceptions around OHM trail use, addressed best management practices for OHM trails, noted the available OHV ethics messaging and strongly supported OHM registration options that would encourage club membership.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Ninety-two percent of those commenting on a proposal to reduce tolls for motorcyclists favored the idea. Seven percent opposed it. And 1 percent were neutral. The Maryland Transportation Authority has proposed reducing tolls for motorcycles by 50 percent, among other changes. Of the 287 comments received, 167 addressed the motorcycle proposal. The AMA put out a call in July to support the proposal and also urge officials to simply eliminate the tolls for motorcycles. A final decision on the proposal is expected by the end of the year. The MTA report is available for download at https://mdta.maryland.gov/sites/default/files/Files/Documents/TollModernization/Toll_Moderization_Public_Comments_Final_Report.pdf

ALBANY, N.Y. – The Adirondack Council filed a lawsuit Oct. 7 against the town of Clare in St. Lawrence County over its use of a road through a forest preserve as an all-terrain vehicle trail. The lawsuit seeks to overturn a law passed this year by the town that authorized the use of the road by ATVs. The Grass River Wild Forest holds about 14,000 acres of forest preserve, which is managed with three conservation easements-Grass River, Tooley Pond and Long Pond-for a total of more than 125,000 acres of public access. Some ATV use is allowed on the conservation easements, according to a report by NNY360.com.

International News

Brussels – The Brussels government plans a study to determine whether motorcycles should be banned from the Capital Region, based on the amount of fine dust and greenhouse gases emitted in 2020. The Capital Region is Brussels’ low-emissions zone. A report in The Brussels Times states that a recent French study showed motorcycles emit as much as 11 times the carbon monoxide and six times as much nitrogen as cars. New motorcycles fall under the Euro 4-norm, while cars must meet the Euro 6-rating. The car and motorcycle federation Febiac said the idea is “pure provocation” and called a motorcycle ban “simplistic reasoning.” “It has been proven that daily traffic jams could be reduced 40 percent if only 10 percent of drivers would choose a motorcycle instead of a car,” said Febiac Chairman Philippe Dehennin. “We invite the Region to look at mobility in a different way instead of announcing a ban.”

VARANO MELEGARI, Italy – Carboni e Metalli, a startup manufacturer, has produced a “composites-intensive concept motorcycle” that pays homage to the U.S. Apollo missions, according to a report at CompositesWorld.com. The Lunar Project motorcycle won the “Best of Show” award for best motorcycle at the 2019 Wildays in Italy. The motorcycle is based on a KTM 250GS. It uses the bike’s original steel frame and engine, with a carbon fiber composite sub-frame, a rear swingarm built from a combination of carbon fiber and 3D-printed titanium. “In 1969, mankind first stepped on the moon. Now, 50 years later, we wanted to pay homage to that historical achievement doing what we do best in the part of the world: combining unique materials and advanced technologies with artisanal craftsmanship and passionate design,” said Massimo Bercella, co-founder of Carboni e Metalli.

Industry News

AUSTIN, Texas – Porsche Taylor, Alisa Clickenger, and Robyn Kocienski have joined the Women Riders Now Leadership Board. The board also includes co-chairwomen Erin Sills and Sarah Schilke. The WRN Leadership Board will help guide the strategic direction of WomenRidersNow.com, which was founded in 1999 by 2019 AMA Bessie Stringfield Award winner Genevieve Schmitt. Taylor is the founder of Black Girls Ride magazine, an online publication serving African-American riders. Clickenger is a motorcycle journalist and tour leader. Kocienski is a motorcycle tour guide with Motoquest Tours.

CHARLOTTETOWN, Prince Edward Island, Canada – Havoc Motorcycles, the makers of Canada’s Performance Supercruisers, has announced details of its newest muscle bike to be released for the 2020 model year. The Havoc 127 Voodoo sports a 2.081 liter (127ci) V-Twin producing 140 horsepower and 140 pound feet of torque. With 1960s styling, the 127 Voodoo is a retro-themed bike, including a hidden shock frame, springer front end, thick spoke wheels, sprung solo saddle and high tracker pipe. The company is taking orders for spring delivery. Pre-order pricing is $22,500. Get more information at www.havoc-motorcycles.com/127-voodoo.html.

VARESE, Italy -MV Agusta, a producer of premium motorcycles, has announced its five-year business plan, with funding provided by the Sardarov family, MV Agusta’s shareholder. The business plan calls for reaching a sales volume of more than 25,000 motorcycles in the five-year time frame and includes investments in a new premium and medium-capacity range bikes. The company’s plan also provides for an investment in its global distribution network, focused primarily on Europe, Asia and the United States.

MATTIGHOFEN, Austria – KTM Industries AG successfully concluded negotiations with Black Toro Capital-the owners of GASGAS Motorcycles-for future industrial cooperation with GASGAS under the lead of KTM Industries AG. New models will be developed alongside the Trial and Enduro bikes of GASGAS. As part of the Joint Venture the production of GASGAS products and TORROT electric vehicles will be continued in Girona/Spain. GASGAS will be added-alongside KTM and HUSQVARNA Motorcycles & eBikes-to the sales network of the KTM Industries group, which will soon change its name to PIERER Mobility group. The deal is subject to antitrust authorities’ approval.

COVENTRY, United Kingdom – Arc Vehicles Ltd., which planned to produce the $114,000 Arc Vector electric motorcycle, has entered administration, the British equivalent of filing for bankruptcy. The motorcycle was expected to produce 95 kW (127 horsepower), with a top speed of 150 mph. And the company claimed a range of 362 miles, with a recharge time of 45 minutes.

 

 

–from Rogue

Senior Editor

Bikernet.com

Looks like my offer on a house in Deadwood found a dead end. Maybe it’s not meant to be. Then again, you never know.

Regarding The torpedo. I welded the helmet canopy in place and painted it. I drilled the holes for the fire suppression lines to the engine compartment.

Suddenly, my 1946 Indian Chief is hot property. We’ll see. And my VA effort seems to be moving forward.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE WEEKLY NEWS IN THE CANTINA

JOIN THE CANTINA TODAY FOR MORE EXCLUSIVES

by Fraser Addecott from https://www.mirror.co.uk

Build your own experience at the UK’s biggest bike show

BRITAIN’S biggest motorbike show returns to the NEC, in Birmingham, next month.

Promotion for this year’s Motorcycle Live features a design based on the plastic model kits of aircraft and bikes we used to build when we were kids.

The idea is that the show provides visitors with everything they need to build their own “perfect day out”.

Show MD Finlay McAllan told Mirror Motorcycling: “We pride ourselves on being a show that offers everything under one roof and we place a lot of importance on making sure there is something for everyone.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve been riding for 40 years or you’ve not got your licence yet, Motorcycle Live is a great place to visit.

“We know that visitors make the show their perfect day out – we just aim to give them the tools to do that.

“Whether you’re bringing your great grandparents or a toddler, there’s something for everyone.”

Mr McAllan added: “There are retail bargains and the chance to try on kit, interviews with riders, chat directly with manufacturers on their stands and much more.”

The show features all the new machinery for 2020, as well as classics, customs and examples from the motorsport world.

There are also no fewer than 10 different opportunities to actually get on and ride something – all for free.

The MCIA Try Ride offers visitors the chance to take a first step on two wheels, with a 20-minute taster session on a 125cc scooter or motorcycle.

For those who want to experience the feel of riding and try out the controls, but don’t want to go the whole hog, both the BMW Rolling Road and the Harley-Davidson Jumpstart offer the chance to get behind the bars of a motorcycle on a rolling road.

Try out some of the latest bikes in the Test Ride Zone, or have at go at off-road riding in the Adventure Zone or the Try Trials zone.

There are even three different riding experiences for children aged from two upwards.

As always, the show also offers the opportunity to meet and be entertained by some of the biggest names in motorcycle sport.

These include recently crowned British Superbike Champion, Scott Redding and five-time World Superbike Champion Jonathan Rea, four-time World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty and three-time BSB Champ John Reynolds.

For further information and advance tickets, visit motorcycle live.co.uk

from https://www.equitybulls.com

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has crossed yet another milestone in its illustrious journey, with its manufacturing facility at Haridwar, in the northern Indian hill state of Uttarakhand achieving the unique distinction of surpassing 25 million units in cumulative production.

The manufacturing facility, commissioned in April 2008, has achieved the milestone in just over 11 years of operation – an industry record. The Haridwar facility of Hero MotoCorp is also the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturing plant with an installed capacity to produce 9500 vehicles per day.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Kasbekar, Executive Director (Operations) and Chief Technology Officer, Hero MotoCorp said, “This is a significant milestone for not just our Haridwar manufacturing plant, but also the entire organization. The manufacturing practices that we follow at Hero MotoCorp have always set new benchmarks in the industry. The production of 25 million two-wheelers at our Haridwar plant in such a short period of time since its commencement of operation bears testimony to the dedication and competency of the team. We are grateful to all our valued customers, partners, investors, the state government of Uttarakhand and all other stakeholders for their continued support and faith in us..”

Keeping Hero MotoCorp’s focus on sustainability, the Haridwar manufacturing facility has the world’s largest green-roof, spread over 4500 sq. mtr. The plant produces 1.95 MW of solar power, has zero liquid discharge and a lake for rain water harvesting.

The plant produces Hero MotoCorp’s popular motorcycles – HF Deluxe, Splendor+, Splendor iSmart 110, Passion Pro and Passion 110. With a robust supply chain, it sources 75% (in value) of the parts from industries within Uttarakhand.

Hero MotoCorp currently has seven globally benchmarked manufacturing facilities, including five in India and one each in Bangladesh and Colombia. The plants located in India are at Gurugram and Dharuhera in Haryana, Neemrana in Rajasthan, Halol in Gujarat and Haridwar.

The Company’s eighth manufacturing facility is coming up at Chittoor in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

The combined installed annual production capacity of Hero MotoCorp is currently around nine million units.

Shares of HERO MOTOCORP LTD. was last trading in BSE at Rs.2705.05 as compared to the previous close of Rs. 2683.05. The total number of shares traded during the day was 14182 in over 1019 trades.

The stock hit an intraday high of Rs. 2715.9 and intraday low of 2688.4. The net turnover during the day was Rs. 38353159.

Hey,

I’m watching a documentary series on the Curse of Oak Island. Folks have been searching there for buried treasure for 200 years. Six dudes have died hunting, and so far, no one has found anything except little trinkets. Amazing.

Get this, I even published an article 35 years ago about Shakespeare original manuscripts buried on Oak Island by the real author. Incredible.

I’m also watching another series on the Brain and much of it discusses mindfulness and recently the history of meditation. Meditation started before Buddha, but he was a great practitioner and student of meditation. It works for anxiety and brain strength and longevity. Amazing.

What’s this got to do with motorcycles? Nothing and everything. The first speaks to brothers who want to build their own custom motorcycle, but never seem to get off the dime. Desire is everything. Following the correct path is everything.

And the brain is often the only thing keeping us moving forward, or not. Through meditation we’ve discovered we can change and or open our minds. One of the major benefits for meditation is decision making. We react less and relax and take more time with decisions. Could save your life or a relationship. 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 the Smoke Out and Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

VINTAGE ELECTRIC INTRODUCES POWERFUL NEW 48-VOLT THROTTLE BIKE INSPIRED BY CARROLL SHELBY’S LEGENDARY COBRA–
Using Most Powerful Battery Pack Yet, Vintage Electric Presents Hot Rod Two-Wheeler Celebrating One of Motorsports Most Famous Race Cars, the Cobra

SANTA CLARA, CA – Vintage Electric is known for designing high-performance electric bikes that perfectly pair bygone-era aesthetic with state-of-the-art technology. Now, ahead of the major motion picture release documenting one of the greatest racing victories of all time in Ford v Ferrari, Vintage Electric is excited to present the all-new 48-volt Shelby throttle bike. Inspired by Carroll Shelby’s personal metallic blue 289 Slabside, Vintage Electric partnered with Carroll Shelby International to craft a two-wheel hot rod that celebrates the iconic race car that started it all, the Cobra.

“To channel Carroll Shelby’s spirit of design, you have to be in the presence of the phenomenal vehicles that he created. Walking around these celebrated Shelby cars, touching them, driving them, and seeing every last detail that Carroll poured into them is truly where our inspiration came from in making the new Shelby bike,” comments Vintage Electric Founder/Lead Designer Andrew Davidge. “When you walk up to a Cobra, this first thing you notice is the timeless aesthetic that has been celebrated for generations. The Cobra is an American icon, and we wanted to express that in our newest Vintage Electric Shelby bike.”

As part of the bike’s development process, Vintage Electric also met with Aaron Shelby, Carroll’s grandson and closely researched one of the racing legend’s very first personal 289 Slabside cars. Alongside driving the Cobra, Vintage Electric also took great care in incorporating the smallest details and classic finishes into the new bike’s overall design. The new Vintage Electric Shelby is outfitted in the exact matching blue metallic N6 paint scheme as Carroll’s own 289 Cobra with matte black racing stripes and iconic Shelby logo alongside distinctive Cobra badging.

To further express the classic Slabside aesthetic, Vintage Electric crafted the rugged handle grips and saddle seat to perfectly mirror the interior design of Carroll’s original blue 289. In fit and finish as well as color, tires, wheels, and brakes, every facet of the new bike echoes the legendary Cobra car it was modeled after. The black striping and metallic blue are tastefully accented with tones of silver throughout to make sure that the new Shelby bike immediately makes an impression out on the road.

Above all, the Cobra is known for its visceral, aggressive performance. Vintage Electric kept that in mind by integrating the most powerful battery pack the company has ever used for the new Shelby bike. The newest Vintage Electric throttle bike features a massive 48-volt battery along with a muscular 1,123-watt battery cell. The more powerful amerpage allows Vintage Electric Shelby bike riders quicker off the line speed and torquey performance on road. The large battery is housed in a stunningly crafted matte black cast-aluminum housing that briskly charges in a speedy 4.5 hours.

In another nod to classic Shelby race cars, the new high-performance Vintage Electric Shelby bike features a specially tuned ‘Race’ mode that is capable of speeds up to 36 mph on private-property/closed-courses. To unlock the full performance of the ‘Race’ mode, Vintage Electric Shelby riders must take out a specially designed speed key that is installed in every battery pack.

After a full charge, the Vintage Electric Shelby reliably offers up to a 75-mile range. The new bike features a high quality hydroformed aluminum frame made for striking the perfect balance out on the road with an MRP inverted-fork system. The front suspension supplies 60mm of front wheel travel. The Vintage Electric Shelby also integrates a stately LED headlamp and rear taillights that not only illuminate the open road for riders but recaptures the celebrated American spirit of race cars.

“As a company, Vintage Electric is really trying to blur the lines between an electric bicycle and electric motorcycle,” continues Vintage Electric Founder/Lead Designer Andrew Davidge. “For this new Shelby bike, our company is taking a platform that is relatively simple in theory, and we’re applying a very Shelby formula to every detail, which means we’re adding significant amounts of power and performance while giving this new Shelby bike an incredibly unique, one of a kind Cobra look.”

Pairing classic aesthetic with the best in modern technology, the Vintage Electric Shelby bike features groundbreaking EV technology. The sleek electronic interface on the handlebar is clear and intuitive, allowing riders of all levels easy, on-demand acceleration at the simple push of a button. Alternately, the thumb-throttle provides convenient access to five extremely smooth power modes. Speed ranges from a steady ramp to a powerful launch for riders looking to go full throttle. Another helpful feature on the Vintage Electric bike is the rear regenerative disc brake, which provides incredible stopping power while also recharging battery power.

For more information on the $7,249.00 Shelby bike or other Vintage Electric models, please visit www.vintageelectricbikes.com, or call (408) 969-0836.

THE EASYRIDERS LEGACY—
With all the talk about ER ‘s demise I came across an old Easyrider’s T and the remnants of another. The old skull logo, along with a signed pic of the Miraculous one. Enjoyed that rag from the early ‘70s.

Sold my collection years ago when money got a little tight. Ya gotta do what ya gotta do.

–Rhys H. Ralston

NEWS FROM INDIA–
It is the time for the biggest festival in India – Diwali – the festival of Light. I wish for you that the Divine Light brighten your present and future and cast away all shadows of the past.

Happy Diwali and wishing you a prosperous New Year.

– Ujjwal Dey
International Editor Supreme
Bikernet News Desk India

THE CALIFORNIA DISASTER–If I’m not mistaken Trump has alluded to this type
scenario on a few occasions when speaking about the necessity of the wall. Imagine a government capitulating to something completely disastrous to its citizens and economy. Hmmm, sort of like the current California government giving in to political correctness, becoming a complete sanctuary state and turning it over to the homeless and we’ve all seen the effects of that brilliant move in at least three of our major cities; San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. I’m not sure how many of you have seen the newly proposed state flag so I’m including a picture of it.

https://medium.com/navigating-life/what-the fuck-just-happened-in-mexico-b98eff2b340c

–from Steve B.
Undercover agent

Pirelli is Confirmed as the Official Tire Supplier for all Classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Until 2023–With the extension of the partnership with Dorna WSBK Organization for an additional three years, the relationship established in 2004 between Pirelli and the production-derived series will boast a unique 20-year collaboration in motorsport

In response to the evolution of supersport machines, and confirming Pirelli’s role as a leading tire manufacturer in the international racing scene, starting from 2020 all WorldSBK Championship classes will use DIABLO™ Superbike slick tires

In the WorldSBK category, the larger sizes become the new standard, as well as the rear 190/60 for WorldSSP, and the switch to slick tires will gradually involve the national championships in which Pirelli participates. The SCX option will enter the DIABLO™ Superbike range and become available on the market

Pirelli has been confirmed by Dorna WorldSBK Organization as the Official Tire Supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship up to and including the 2023 season. In agreement with the promoter and organizer of the production-derived series and with the FIM, the International Motorcycling Federation, the Italian tire company has extended, as per contractual conditions, the current supply agreement, set to expire in 2020, for three additional seasons.

Pirelli, in agreement with Dorna WSBK Organization and the FIM, also announces that from 2020 all WorldSBK Championship classes will exclusively use DIABLO™ Superbike slick tires. This means, starting from next season, the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 classes and the newborn Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup will also have the maximum technology and performance offered by the top product in the Pirelli range, replacing the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC treaded tires used in those classes.

Beginning in 2004, and initially designed to contain the overall costs of running the Championship, the technical partnership established by Pirelli with the Federation, promoter, teams and racers represented the first example of single tire formula in the history of top motor racing competitions. Now, after almost 20 years, it has proven to be a winning choice that has been followed by other two and four-wheel championships, offering all riders and teams the same opportunities to compete for victory, through a fair and identical tire supply for all.

Also, the choice of Pirelli, which has always been a leader of market trends and needs, to make the WorldSSP, WorldSSP300 and new Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup compete with slick tires, is the result of the brand’s strategy to respond to market changes and to the performance evolution of modern medium and small displacement supersport machines. Then the goal of Pirelli is to gradually involve the national championships in which it participates, offering the same product that will be used in the World Championships. The slick solutions are in fact not only able to guarantee better performance than treaded ones, thus allowing riders to exploit the full potential of their machines, but they have also become the new reference for all motorcyclists and amateur racers who love to use their own motorcycle on the track while participating in track days.

In the WorldSBK class, the rear tires will all be in the 200/65 rear and 125/70 front sizes which, as per the rules, the riders will be able to use a maximum amount of 11 front and 13 rear to cover the entire race weekend.

— Casey Huntley

VISION ZERO MEANS ZERO FREEDOMS—This was my response to a recent NMA article regarding Vision Zero efforts and Infrastructure. We are living in the best of times, yet the control freaks (Halloween) never relax.

Beyond the above statement, these vision Zero statements miss the point entirely. I defined it as infrastructure for a growing population. This includes not just fixing roads and bridges, but building additional roads, two-tiered roads, additional lanes for more cars and a growing population.

We should take a pro-active stance for making the population more comfortable while driving, having more fun and more able to travel. The other side seems anxious to attack, ban and regulate everything. They are missing the point.

–Bandit

LOWBROWS LATEST FILM–Fuel Cleveland 2019 Show Video

The 5th annual Fuel Cleveland took place at the end of July. We hadn’t made a show video since 2016 and we figured, as Fuel was at a new venue this year and the show has grown quite a bit since, it was overdue…

Scope out the Fuel Cleveland 2019 video or take a look at photos of the event. Leave us a comment on the video or reply to this email and let us know what you think. And plan on being in Cleveland in July 2020 for the next Fuel Cleveland!

The people are what really makes the show. Yes, the motorcycles are great, but so is the varied and eccentric crowd that makes its way to Cleveland from all over North America.

#lowbrowlife

The people below are using motorcycles in the proper fashion: excitement, adventure and passion. Get out of the house, out of your comfort zone, tag @lowbrowcustoms and hashtag #lowbrowcustoms, #lowbrowlife, #lowbroworder or #rideeverywhere for a chance to see your post highlighted here.

VINTAGE RIDES ROLLS THROUGH MONGOLIA–Mongolia on a Royal Enfield Himalayan,quite a story in itself…

That’s it! Mongolia’s 2019 summer season is over. We thought it would be an emotional one…

Let me tell you a story. We need to go back to the summer of 2018. Our fleet of Machismo in Mongolia (our old Royal Enfields) was beginning to crack up. They weren’t going to make another summer in the steppe….

It was a tough call for us. Vintage Rides was born with the Royal Enfield Classic 500. And at the time there was only this model in Chennai. But in 2018 the Himalayan was available. So began a heated debate at the office between supporters of the Classic 500 and those in favor of using the Himalayan on more off-road destinations. Conservatives versus progressives. When you wear the word Vintage, it’s legitimate to debate the question.

Part of the team had the opportunity to rub shoulders on the tracks of Kashmir and Ladakh with the new trail. Guillaume, Jean and Baptiste had been delighted by the capabilities of this small motorcycle, designed for the trip. It still aroused the curiosity of the locals, without being frightening because of its size. The old-fashioned trial will tell….

So, we decided to embark on this new adventure. The character of a motorcycle journey is, above all, a state of mind. We ordered motorcycles and sidecars from our friend Jean Burdet of Alternative Sidecar. We do offer sidecar trips in summer and winter – on a frozen lake – in Mongolia.

Very excited and waiting for our riders’ reactions on the first laps, we decided to capture it on video when the time came. We shared the idea with a group of friends, led by Fred, who have already gone to Rajasthan with us. They had just registered to travel this summer. A cheerful team of fellows, mostly from New Caledonia. They seemed just as impatient as we are.

The bikes arrive in Ulaanbaatar in the spring, just long enough for the running-in. The snow melts in the steppe. They are waiting for the first riders. Tuk will be our local guide for the season. A dependable guy.

The first groups finally arrive. As they discover the steppe and the capabilities of this new bike, the smiles are ear to ear on the faces of our Vintage Riders. The bike is easy and playful. It makes it possible to get to grips with off-road driving for those who are not great endurance riders. In other words, it is perfect for the large expanses of the steppe.

Thank you to Fred’s group for their patience and kindness.

Thanks to all the Vintage Riders of the Mongolian 2019 season. Your feedback has been valuable, and we have modified our trips to adapt them to the pace difference between the Classic 500 and the Himalayan.

Thank you to Tuk and our mechanics for helping you discover their beautiful country by motorcycle.

Thanks to Jules and Maryne from the blog Explore the World for the pictures and to Seb Sega for the editing.

Thanks to Royal Enfield and Mutuelle des Motards for their support.

Photo credits: Jules Bloseur & Maryne Amar

—www.vintagerides.com

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5-BALL FATHER AND SON IN AUSTIN—My grandson, Frank Jr. flew out on a red-eye to tattoo with his dad Frank Ball at All Saints, on 6th in Austin, Texas. They were both wearing 5/8 Jak shirts from 5-Ball Leather. They better..

Atomic Bob is working on our new image as we prepare the puppy for its first runs.

We have a photoshoot scheduled for Monday with Markus Cuff, Frankie, Em and Maxine. Shortly afterwards we will bring you updated, lower prices, new products and hot photography. Hang on!

–Bandit

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
WEEKEND ROUND-UP for October 30, 2019

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/WEEKEND_ROUNDUP_for_October_30_2019.aspx

Hey Bandit, I was born in Laconia, NH. At 68, I had enough of moving snow from the roof, the driveway and digging out my 18- wheeler.

I am now a couple miles from Daytona Beach. Hope I never have the pleasure of snow and freezing my ass off for several months every year.

Ride safe have a great day.

–AJ
Deland, FL

We will see. Maybe I’ll keep the headquarters. But I would like to do something in the Badlands for motorcycling. I have a couple of notions I’ll share with you very soon.–Bandit

SCARY DEAL FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES–Happy Halloween.

This is the holiday that allows us to celebrate all things black, a staple motorcycle color choice. In celebration, we’re giving you 33% off all things black in the store!

1/3RD OFF ALL THINGS BLACK…Use Code:

Colorourworldblackened

ALLIANCE FOR TOLL-FREE INTERSTATES UPDATE–Summer/Fall 2019

Despite all of the negative impacts of tolls, the growing use of tolling pilot programs, such as the Value Pricing Pilot Program (VPPP), and the federal bridge exemption illustrates that lawmakers throughout the country still view tolling as a viable option to raise funds for transportation needs. The Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates (ATFI) is committed to keeping existing interstates toll-free and open as they were intended.

At ATFI, we strive to educate the public, policymakers and the media about the negative ramifications that tolling existing interstates has on American communities and businesses and why it will not solve our transportation needs. Here are the states we have been monitoring and engaged in during 2019. We welcome your involvement to find substantial solutions for our country’s highway funding difficulties that don’t involve tolling existing interstates.

Alabama – A proposed toll bridge on Interstate 10 (I-10) across Mobile Bay and Mobile River estimated at $6 each way for vehicles has been getting a lot of attention lately. This would be one of the nation’s largest infrastrucutre projects at over 10 miles in length and suspended hundreds of feet in the air above the water near downtown Mobile. While the bridge is badly needed, transportation officials claim the state can’t afford this massive $2.1 billion project on its own. The hotly contested proposal has enormous public opposition and even state officials have failed to reach a consensus. Despite Governor Kay Iver’s outspoken support, Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth voiced his opposition, calling it a burden on the region’s working families. At the end of August, Governor Ivey declared this plan dead after the Eastern Shore Metropolitan Planning Organization voted to eliminate it from its short-term plan. However, many residents fear that this tolling project might show up again in the near future.

Connecticut – Connecticut is undergoing a heavy battle on funding its Special Transportation Fund. At the start of the 2019 Connecticut General Assembly Session, Governor Ned Lamont went back on his campaign promises to not toll cars in the state by proposing to establish electronic tolls across the state. There are claims that tolls could raise $800 million annually, and as much as 40% of revenues could come from out-of-state travelers. However, information from the governor’s office has not been consistent by constantly changing details about the number, location and rates of the tolls. Republican legislators have offered a counter-proposal, named Prioritize Progress, which would steer clear of tolls. Lamont intends to call a special session on tolls before the 2020 regular session, but it has not been scheduled at this time.

Florida – In the spring, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill from the Florida House creating three new toll roads in western and central Florida, including Orlando. No studies have been completed that address whether the toll roads are needed, and basic questions about the projects are set to be figured out at a later time. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will manage the projects and have final say over whether the roads become reality. At the end of July, FDOT set up a website for public comments on these three toll projects. To learn more, see here: www.FloridaMCores.com.

New York – New York became the first American city to impose congestion pricing to alleviate traffic and raise money for other transportation needs in the spring. Beginning in 2021, motorists will have to pay to enter the heart of Manhattan. The Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, which is a piece of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, will decide how to implement congestion pricing after hearing to reflect on public comments and the findings of a traffic study.

South Carolina – Fortunately, South Carolina rejected tolls on existing interstates this year. At the request of the legislature, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) completed a study recently about turning Interstate 95 (I-95) into a toll road. The comprehensive study examined how much it would cost to build the tollbooths and how long it would take the state to complete the project. The 199-mile stretch of I-95 would be separated into four points where a toll would be charged to cross each of four bridges. SCDOT found it would take the state 35 years to produce the money to pay for the project and cost an estimated $3.5 billion.

Rhode Island – In December 2018, the state announced that it would begin construction on the next 10 truck-only toll gantries on I-95. Despite opposition from major trucking groups and a lawsuit from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the first toll booths opened in June 2018. In March 2019, the lawsuit from the ATA challenging Rhode Island’s truck-only tolls was dismissed by a federal judge who said the case needs to be tried at the state level. In early April, ATA appealed a federal judge’s ruling to dismiss the group’s lawsuit. Moreover, state officials say drivers crossing Rhode Island’s Newport Pell Bridge have tallied up $9.6 million in unpaid tolls, fees, and fines throughout the last six years.

Virginia – During the 2019 Virginia General Assembly Session, legislators considered several bills to toll Interstate 81 (I-81). ATFI partnered with the Virginia Trucking Association, Virginia Manufacturers Association, Virginia Forest Products Association, and several other trade associations to oppose the toll proposals. After the legislation was defeated, the General Assembly adopted a series of sales and gas tax increases and higher fees to fund improvements to I-81. This was a huge victory and complete reversal from the Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s original plan for tolls in January. His message was clear: Virginia rejects tolls on existing interstates.

Wisconsin – In July, Governor Tony Evers signed the two-year state budget while using his line-item veto power to eliminate of several provisions. Most notably was a $2.5 million Department of Transportation study on mileage based fees and tolling that he deleted. Governor Evers vetoed this provision, saying: “I am vetoing this section because I object to the financing of another study that will show, yet again, that the motor fuel tax is the most effective way to approximate a user fee of roadway use and the most cost-effective way to collect revenue. The Legislature has had more than enough evidence and enough time to study the issue. It is time for the Legislature to stop stalling and act to secure a long-term transportation funding solution.”

Federal – The United States Senate released the Investing in America’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure (IATA) Act, a comprehensive surface transportation reauthorization bill, which would expire in September 2020. The tolling highlights include a pilot program mentioned as the Congestion Relief Program. On September 11, the House Highways and Transit subcommittee held a hearing called “Pricing and Technology Strategies to Address Congestion on and Financing of America’s Roads.” Elected officials and six witnesses discussed whether tolling, congestion pricing or even a fuel tax is the best way to resolve congestion across the country. Darren D. Hawkins, CEO of YRC Worldwide Inc., spoke out against tolling existing interstates on behalf of the American Trucking Associations (ATA).
ATFI continues to be the voice of the anti-tolling movement at the national and state level. As these efforts move ahead, please join us in saying No to Tolls!

BAD COP FILE IS NOW OPEN–This $2 Test Identified Bird Shit as Cocaine. Cops Keep Using It to Arrest People.
Donut crumbs also once tested positive for meth.

Police across the country have used the same breed of shoddy $2 test to arrest people for cocaine that was really bird poop, meth that was actually crumbs from a glazed donut, and oxycodone that turned out to be vitamins.

In all of those cases, the possession or drug trafficking charges were eventually dropped after police sent the “drug” samples to a state lab that returned more-conclusive results. The original tests, known as presumptive field tests, have a history of being almost laughably wrong — if they weren’t putting people behind bars, even temporarily. And the follow-up lab tests that eventually clear people’s names can take weeks, if not months.

In the meantime, innocent people may be spooked into taking a plea deal instead of risking a longer sentence at trial. And if they can’t afford their bail, they’ll languish in jail as they decide whether to take a guilty plea or wait on better test results.

Cody Gregg, a homeless man in Oklahoma City, took the guilty plea in early October, supposedly because he wanted to get out of the city’s problem-plagued jail. Police charged him with possession after a field test incorrectly identified powdered milk inside a clear baggie as cocaine. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison and had been in jail for nearly two months before drug-lab results cleared him.

“You cannot indict somebody — put somebody in jail — over something you know has a very high rate of false positives,” Omar Bagasra, a biology professor at Claflin University and director of the South Carolina Center for Biotechnology. “It’s ignorance.”

–Vice.com

PENNSYLVANIA MAY MAKE HARLEY-DAVIDSON THE OFFICIAL MOTORCYCLE OF THE STATE–Just months after naming the Eastern Hellbender as the official state amphibian, some lawmakers are ready to add Harley-Davidson motorcycle to Pennsylvania’s collection of objects associated with the Keystone State.

The House State Government Committee on Tuesday approved legislation to name the Harley as the official state motorcycle. Getting the committee’s blessing is a first for this legislation that has been offered by state Rep. Bill Kortz, D-Allegheny County, in at least each of the last five legislative sessions. Joining Kortz is sponsoring the bill is Rep. Keith Gillespie, R-York County, whose district is home to Harley-Davidson’s Springettsbury plant.

In selling the idea to the committee, Kortz, a long-time Harley owner, said, “This is an iconic motorcycle. It’s made right here in Pennsylvania.”

He said the Harley plant employs about 1,000 workers and with announced closing of the company’s Kansas City, Mo., plant, that number will swell by 450 more.

“I truly believe this would help the business in Pennsylvania and help move this iconic motorcycle to another level,” Kortz said.

The only opposition to the measure came from Rep. Drew Lewis, R-Dauphin County, who said his reservation stems from naming a privately manufactured item as a state symbol. However, committee Chairman Garth Everett, R-Lycoming County, said the state aircraft (Piper J-3 Cub) falls into that category. Others pointed out the official state steam Iocomotive (K4s Steam) and electric locomotive (GG-1 4859) do as well.

Rep. Cris Dush, R-Jefferson County, said he fully supported naming the Harley as the official state motorcycle but joked that he wanted to amend the bill to require Harley to name the “hellbender” as one of its models.

Everett rejected that suggestion, replying, “Let’s not complicate things.”
–By Jan Murphy
From www.PennLive.com

NEW FROM WINDVEST–Replacement WindVest Windshields for H-D Sport Glide
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KIMI BY WEST COAST CHOPPERS BREAKS COVER IN TEXAS–Those who follow Formula 1 will know that Kimi Raikkonen is The Man of Few Words so when he speaks we tend to listen, thus when he offers his good name to a new fashion brand from the house of an iconic one, that’s a huge talking point because this is a rare occasion!

Kimi, a 2007 F1 World Champion, a veteran of over 300 grand prix starts, a 21-time winner of those, with 103 podiums to his name, has partnered with Jesse James of West Coast Choppers to launch the KIMI by West Coast Choppers range of merchandise.

The exciting new range broke cover during a press conference at West Coast Choppers headquarters in Austin on Tuesday, where Jesse and Kimi spoke about their plans and vision for the new range which combines Kimi’s love for choppers and motorcycle culture to his prowess as one of the best Formula 1 drivers of the past two decades.

James said of the venture: “The West Coast Chopper brand is based in Holland since early 2000s. I’ve been a big Formula 1 fan, and Rupert and Johan, who manage the brand in Europe, always wanted to get our foot in the door. I feel like a lot of the same fans who like West Coast Chopper stuff are into Formula 1

“We were talking about the idea (and I’m friends with pretty much the whole crew of the Mercedes team) and I asked them if they had a contact for Kimi because I [needed] someone to represent the brand and create a sub-brand under his name. I thought that would be a pretty good idea so that’s how we got hooked up.

“I’ve seen, obviously, Jesse on TV for many years, and I think it’s a great opportunity. I’m excited about it and hopefully, the people who buy it are excited also.”

According to West Coast Choppers, “The collection reflects the dedication, determination and hard work needed to get to the very top with a hat tipped to the blue-collar backgrounds of both Jesse and Kimi.

“The products are made of high-quality fabrics using the finest craftsmanship to deliver a unique product where the focus is on attention to detail. Exactly how Kimi and Jesse are as people.

“The wide launch collection carries t-shirts, headwear, jackets and sweatshirts for men, women and kids. Soon new products will be added including accessories, shorts and other products. The range will be dynamic and will evolve during the course of different seasons and developed on a need to basis to keep the look continuously current and original.”

On the day of the launch, the website www.kimibywestcoastchoppers.com went live offering the products to the public, with shipping worldwide on competitive rates.

Kimi is in Austin for this weekend’s United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas where he will line-up on the grid for Alfa Romeo to contest his 313th Formula 1 race. Last year he won at the venue as a Ferrari driver.

THE WARS ON CARS BUREAU–Cities Adopt Car-Free Zones To Push Drivers Out Of Cars.

Thanks to Green New Deal ideology, cities around the world are banning cars to force drivers to give them up: San Francisco, New York, Olso, Madrid, Chengdu, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Brussels and Mexico City, among others. ? TN Editor

In her 1961 book The Death and Life of Great American Cities, urbanist writer Jane Jacobs posed a prescient concern. She forecasted one of two possible outcomes for our urban future: “erosion of cities by automobiles, or attrition of automobiles by cities.”

To put it simply, Jacobs declared that if cars (and the highways and streets they run on) were left unchecked, the nature of the city would be gradually stripped away. She predicted that sprawl would make streets unwalkable, detaching neighborhoods and public spaces from one another. It sounded all doom and gloom, unless cities could impede that growth by limiting cars and reduce their influence on the streets.

The problem isn’t cars themselves, she argued, but the cumulative effect of an urban planning system that prioritizes cars over other modes of transportation. “The point of cities is multiplicity of choice,” Jacobs wrote. “It is impossible to take advantage of multiplicity of choice without being able to get around easily.”

Cities across the US and the world are experimenting with the “attrition of automobiles” by closing certain streets and areas to cars. San Francisco recently approved a $600-million plan to remove private vehicles from its busy Market Street, which will be renovated into space for street cars, buses, cyclists, and pedestrians. (Taxis will share the curbside lane with buses and commercial delivery vehicles, but Uber and Lyft cars are not allowed on the street.)

In October, New York City turned a one-mile stretch of 14th Street into a busway, banning all cars except some trucks and emergency vehicles. European cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Oslo have established car-free zones in downtown centers, and these initiatives can prompt backlash but are often strongly supported by residents.

Citizens enjoy having a variety of options to fulfill their transportation needs, and cities are realizing that. In the past, before vehicles like electric scooters or city bikes were widely available, people were limited to cars, buses, or the subway. With more diverse transit options, cities are forced to plan for improved safety and access, to build streets that accommodate all types of transportation. And that means scaling back on what they’ve built themselves around for decades: the car.

The idea of a car-reduced city isn’t entirely new; cities have looked to close streets to vehicular traffic and create pedestrian corridors for decades. But what is new is the surge in micro-mobility options afforded to people, which have pushed cities to reassess how to organize their streets. The impending threat of climate change has also added pressure on local officials to cut back on carbon emissions. (Transportation is one of the top producers of carbon emissions for the US.)

These small, often electric vehicles — shareable bicycles, scooters, and mopeds — have popped up on city streets in recent years. Dockless scooters appear in cities overnight seemingly without warning, from companies like Spin, Bird, Lime, and Skip; ride-sharing giants Uber and Lyft also invested in dockless bikes.

Their sudden arrival has caused confusion and even anger (mainly with the scooters) among residents and the local politicians tasked with regulating them. Some cities have required their swift removal, while others have more openly embraced scooters and started crafting laws for their usage. And whether scooters are actually environmentally sound is questionable.

But one thing is certain: Residents find these vehicles convenient, and they influence how people travel short distances — closing the gap left by cars, buses, and trains as a more direct means of transportation. Certain areas in cities, particularly low-income communities, are located far from transit hubs or lack direct bus or subway routes. Micro-mobility is a cheap, accessible option that could benefit communities previously overlooked by urban planners.

“Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of scooters will be that they will force a larger discussion of whom or what we prioritize when we design cities,” wrote Vox’s Umair Irfan.

That’s a philosophical approach some cities are taking, but it’s also being played out like a turf war, says Uwe Brandes, director of the Global Cities Initiative at Georgetown University: “How much territory in the public realm should be allocated to individual modes?”

–from Technocracy News

[page break]

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE PUSHES AMERICAN V-TWINS FORWARD WITH THE ALL-NEW 2020 CHALLENGER – THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN BAGGER

Featuring a Fixed Fairing, Inverted Front End, the Most Powerful Motor in Its Class and Intuitive Ride Technology, Indian Motorcycle’s State-of-the-Art Modern Bagger Redefines “Fully Loaded”

The bar for American motorcycles has officially been elevated. Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, has dramatically redefined the American bagger with its introduction of the 2020 Indian Challenger – a striking combination of American muscle, next-level technology, and premium comfort to deliver a truly unmatched riding experience.

Designed for the most knowledgeable and discerning riders, Indian designers stopped at nothing to ensure that the Challenger out-classed its competition and delivered the highest performing, fully loaded bagger on the market.

“The Indian Challenger delivers a new level of performance for riders who understand that the seemingly small details make a huge difference,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “Our mindset was to leave no stone unturned and deliver a bagger that exceeds the standards in categories like power, handling, comfort, and technology.”

It starts with the all-new Indian PowerPlus engine, Indian’s first liquid-cooled large displacement motor (108 cubic-inch, 60-degree V-twin) that packs a best-in-class 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque. The new powertrain also features a six-speed transmission with true overdrive, assist clutch to reduce clutch effort, and hydraulic valve lash adjusters and camshaft chain tensioners for a low maintenance, reliable powerplant.

The PowerPlus’ overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder deliver incredible V-twin performance and power. Riders can customize the bike’s throttle mapping by selecting one of three ride modes, including Rain, Standard and Sport – resulting in one motorcycle with three distinct performance personalities. Each ride mode has been engineered with its own distinct traction control setting to align with each mode’s specific throttle mapping.

Starting at $21,999, the Challenger features all the premium touring amenities riders expect from Indian Motorcycle, including electronic cruise control, full LED lighting, a long-haul seat, ABS, keyless ignition, and weatherproof saddlebags with over 18 gallons of storage space. In addition, a modern and aggressively styled chassis-mounted fairing sits over the Challenger’s inverted front suspension. This, combined with the bike’s lightweight cast aluminum frame and hydraulically adjustable FOX® rear shock, delivers unrivaled handling and rock-solid stability.

Pricing for the 2020 Indian Challenger, available in Titanium Metallic paint, starts at $21,999, while the Challenger Dark Horse, starting at $27,499, is available in Thunder Black Smoke, Sandstone Smoke, and White Smoke. The Indian Challenger Limited starts at $27,999, and is available in Thunder Black Pearl, Deepwater Metallic, and Ruby Metallic.

MORE FROM THE EASYRIDERS FRONT–Just sent my order via website for the new Easyriders, had to use the refund or loose it in a few days.

I WILL LET YOU KNOW HOW IT GOES. A SIDE NOTE, IT TOOK SOME SEARCHING TO FIND MY REFUND CODE.

RIDE SAFE.

–AJ

HISTORIC TIP OF THE WEEK— Ray Weishaar Hung on to his Helmet Four Laps With his Teeth

(Chicago Speedway, September 12, 1915) “In the 13th lap, however, his helmet became unfastened, Weishaar hung on to the strings with his teeth for four laps and then threw the helmet into the pits.

Chairman John L. Donovan of the F.A.M. copetition [sic] committee and Referee Frank E. Yates saw the helmet go into the pits and insisted on knowing to whom it beloged [sic]. There was considerable dispute for several laps as a result of their determination to make Weishaar stop and put on his helmet again.

As Weishaar came around each lap in the lead, those of us who where [sic] in the pits did out best to argue the officials out of their idea of forcing Weishaar to make an extra stop but they were determined in their course and as a result we had to call Weishaar into the pits in the 27th lap. This undoubtedly cost Weishaar the race.” (The Harley-Davidson Dealer September 1915)

Weishaar was made a part of the Harley-Davidson factory team in 1916. That year he came in third place at Dodge City, and he won the FAM 100-Mile Championship in Detroit. He became a dealer of Harley-Davidson motorcycles for three years after being given a dealership, but he returned to racing in 1919.

His greatest victory was in Indiana, in the Marion Cornfield Classic Road Race, which took place in 1920. He won the race, as well as beating the standing race record by 18 minutes.

The Harley-Davidson team’s mascot was a small pig, which they would take around the track with them on victory laps. Weishaar was particularly fond of it, and many photographs exist of him and the pig. It is because of this mascot that Harley-Davidson motorcycles are called “hogs.”

Weishaar had a reputation as a cautious rider who often succumbed to the forces of bad luck. Many times, he would be leading national events only to be forced to drop out to equipment malfunction. In 1923 he moved to Los Angeles after signing a contract to race at the newly built Legion Ascot Speedway Speedway.

It was with such a talented team, highly capable machines, and the deep coffers of a successful, well established brand that Harley-Davidson had become one of the top three competitive manufacturers by 1917. However, the American war effort halted the momentum of the Milwaukee crew as well as the other factory teams as all professional racing in the country was suspended for 1917 and 1918. Supplies were heavily rationed and production shifted towards war machines which marked the end of the line for many of America’s smaller motorcycle manufacturers. The vast majority of America’s professional racers too halted their own career for the war, trading in their colorful wool racing jerseys in for the olive drab tunics of the U.S. Army.

By the end of the 1919 season Harley-Davidson’s racing guru, Bill Ottaway had cherrypicked some of the best and brightest racers for his new powerhouse factory team, a group that would become known as the Wrecking Crew.

I’m working on a racing motorcycle screenplay based in 1919 after WWI. I running through the draft one more time and digging through history. It’s a blast.–Bandit

CHANGE IN LINEUP FOR THE CORAL HEAD MUSICFEST, PINELLAS PARK FL–JACKYL JOINS THE LINEUP NOVEMBER 2, 2019

Due to circumstances beyond the artist’s control Vince Neil was forced to cancel his current tour. However, JACKYL has stepped up and filled the open slot.

THE NEW LINEUP/SCHEDULE FOLLOWS:

12:00 Jen
1:30 HairDaze
3:00 MPG (Mitch Perry Group)
5:00 Slaughter
7:00 Jackyl
9:00 Sebastian Bach

We are thrilled to have JACKYL performing with us again. They worked with us in Marathon Fl and the performance was incredible!

We expect nothing less from them this time around. We look forward to seeing you at the show.

Get your tickets today for only $34 at www.coralheadmusicfest.com
GET TICKETS

American Legion Riders Post 154 | 4115 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Sent by legionriders154@gmail.com 

LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–2006 Harley-Davidson FLSTN – Softail Deluxe for $10,995.00

See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=7940558

**JUST 21,371 MILES**

When the Softail Deluxe hit the showrooms, riders big and small couldn’t wait to take this plush ride to the road. How could we blame them? Whitewall to whitewall, every detail is sheer beauty.

Softail Deluxe combines easy-riding comfort with a heavy dose of nostalgia to create an eye-catching custom that’s a joy to ride. It hugs the road on lowered suspension. The 24.5-inch seat height make the Softail Deluxe comfortable for a wide range of riders. It’s also the lowest Softail in the line.

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT:

Loads of chrome on this Softail!!! Glacier White Pearl / Vivid Black paint with raised tank logos is absolutely gorgeous. Chrome beach bars with steel braided lines, chrome switch housings, slotted levers, speedo with chrome hood, custom teardrop mirrors and Performance Machine chrome / rubber grips.

Chrome console with black face and leather strap with chrome badge. Chrome nacelle headlamp, passing lamps, blinkers all with thick visors. All chrome forks, axle caps, fender trim and beautiful chrome spiral spoked rims. C chrome 2:2 shotgun exhaust.

All chrome engine covers including shift link covers and H-D arm, regulator, oil bag, side mount tool box, oval 88 air, swing arms, rotors, large rear axle covers, fender supports, drive sprocket, chain guard, and more.

Solo seat with chrome passenger handle, pillion and luggage rack. Chrome / rubber floors and all controls matching grips. Tombstone taillight and chrome blinkers with visors. Beautiful softail with tires ready to eat some miles!!!

EZ FINAN

EXCLUSIVE FROM THE RODDERS JOURNAL— 2020 TRJ “Hall of Fame” Calendar–$19.95 – $29.95

In the past quarter-century, we’ve featured quite the mix of milestone cars. From the McMullen roadster and the Hirohata Merc to “Ohio George’s” Willys, we’ve always gravitated towards the machines that made a difference. For our Hall of Fame calendar, we’re zeroing in on 15 of the fastest, coolest and most influential hot rods, customs and racecars ever to grace the pages of TRJ.

In signature Rodder’s Journal style, the calendars measure 15×23-inches, are printed on heavy stock and list popular car show dates. As an added bonus, each and every one will be signed by the publisher, Steve Coonan. You will receive your calendars by the Holiday Season.

—www.RoddersJournal.com

CRAZY TIMES—Looks like my offer on a house in Deadwood found a dead end. Maybe it’s not meant to be. Then again, you never know. 

Regarding The torpedo. I welded the helmet canopy in place and painted it. I drilled the holes for the fire suppression lines to the engine compartment. I started to install the firewall permanently with gobs of fire puddy. I finished the left side and started to move to the right. Our firewall is like a puzzle of about seven aluminum pieces made to link to the steel sheet metal welded in the center.

Okay, about the time you think something is all wrong, shit starts happening for the good. I spoke to a brother who is active in the CBD community. He put together a formula to help with inflammation. Two of the major aging factors can be slowed down with anti-inflammation efforts and meditation. Amazing. I’m going to test it for him.

Suddenly, my 1946 Indian Chief is hot property. We’ll see. And my VA effort seems to be moving forward.

Let’s see what this weekend brings, breaks, builds, fixes or enlightens. It’s never dull around the Bikernet, 5-Ball, Bandit’s Cantina headquarters.

Ride fast and free forever,

–Bandit

By Frosty Wooldridge, News with Views

This past week, a high school classmate of mine got rear ended by a lady texting at 70 miles per hour. She killed my classmate and two of his friends landed in the hospital with critical injuries.

This summer, on my 40-state journey around the United States, I witnessed women, men and teens texting by the thousands. They texted racing down the highway, in gridlock traffic, and at stop lights.  I saw a school bus driver texting driving down the road, I-70 in Denver, Colorado.  I reported her. My wife witnessed event.  I gave the bus number, license plate, Jefferson County Schools, time of day, and the route number.  They said I should have taken a picture of her while I was riding my motorcycle.

“You want me to take a picture with my cell phone while I’m driving my bike to prove that she was texting?” I gasped.  “It’s against the law!”

“If you don’t have a picture, we can’t follow up on her,” the lady dispatch officer said.

Good grief!  We need a national discussion concerning cell phone texting. It’s killing a lot of people and injuring hundreds of thousands.

Last year, 2018, 4,647 needless deaths because drivers of all ages texted their friends about inane topics while driving at 40, 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.

“With the latest statistics available as of 2018, according to statistics compiled by the Department of Transportation, 4,647 people died and another 391,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes caused by drivers who were distracted because they were texting or using cell phones.”

Hello America!  You think we face an opioid epidemic?  Steve Jobs and the tech industry created a cell phone addiction epidemic leaving hundreds of thousands of cell phone users, and, innocent drivers at risk of getting killed and/or maimed.

• Almost 390,000 injuries occur annually in the US due to texting while driving.

• Driving while texting causes 1.6 million car accidents in the US every year.

• 21% of US drivers reported sending emails or text messages while on the road.
• 14% of all fatal crashes in the US involved the use of a cell phone.

Have you ever attended a funeral of a friend or family member who died because some idiot texted while driving at some terrific speed, only to crash into your loved ones?

Not only drivers:

• The rate of pedestrian deaths rose by 27% percent from 2007 to 2017.

This can happen when pedestrians talk on their cell phones when crossing the road. According to statistics, more than 80% of drivers saw pedestrians absorbed by their phones while crossing the street.

• 11 Teenagers die every day because of texting and driving. 

The distracted driving and texting stats don’t favor young drivers. Overall, this demographic is 400% more likely to be involved in a car accident while texting and driving compared to more experienced drivers. (Source: IceBike.com)

How would you like to be one of the fathers or mothers who attends your own child’s funeral because someone texted him or her to death?

• Distracted driving causes 35% more injuries than drunk driving.

According to distracted driving stats from 2015 alone, driving while using a cell phone caused 391,000 injuries while driving under the influence of alcohol caused 290,000 injuries.

(Source: TheZebra.com)

We desperately need a national conversation-debate on how to stop people from texting while driving.  THAT much carnage on our highways, especially when it’s totally avoidable, needs to be addressed.

My solution:  when you earn a driver’s license or renew it, you sign a piece of paper that you will not drink and drive, or text and drive.  If you should break your sworn promise, you lose your license for five years the first time and you lose it for life the second time you’re caught.  You pay a $20,000.00 fine and your car is impounded for five years. You must pay for all towing and impound fees, or your car will be sold at auction.

This texting and driving, and drinking and driving can be stopped when we make the  law SO prohibitive that you would have to be a mental moron to commit the crime.  But if you did, you’re off the road without a license, and/or you’re in jail.

It’s time to step up and step into this national outrage. Talk to your state representatives, federal senators and House members. Make them act or vote them out for someone who will act.

As for me, I’m leaving for my classmate’s funeral this weekend. Makes me sick to my stomach, because it could have been my funeral or my wife’s or my kids.  It could be your kids or spouse.  For certain, all those fatalities are someone’s family members.

“The National Safety Council reports that cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million crashes each year. Nearly 390,000 injuries occur each year from accidents caused by texting while driving. 1 out of every 4 car accidents in the United States is caused by texting and driving.”

–Frosty

From NewsWithViews.com

After Micah leaves I will interview James about his Vegas Bikefest experience and I reached out to Mindi Cherry for all the winners’ lists from the event. Hang on for the Conway Report on Vegas Bikefest.

READ THE WEEKEND ROUND-UP IN THE CANTINA – CLICK HERE

 

“Marked-The Unforgiven” a new television show adapted from the novel by former Hells Angels Ventura President, George Christie, to start filming in Almeria, Spain.

 

According to Wanda-Halcyon Television executive Maria Jose Morales – “Almería is dubbed the Hollywood of Spain on account of the past iconic Clint Eastwood Western movies filmed there and more recent productions such as Game of Thrones have made it a Hollywood favorite for filming. Almeria also has one of the highest tax rebate programs for productions in Europe. The dramatic backdrop of rugged landscapes, vast unspoiled sandy beaches, impressive fortressess and year round sunshine make Almeria a director’s dream and an ideal setting to enhance the overall aesthetic and viewer experience of productions such as “Marked- The Unforgiven”.

 

According to Pat Andrew, a producer on the show- “George Christie, former Hell’s Angels, Ventura President and renaissance man will play one of the lead characters, based on his best-selling novel “Marked”. The working title for the series is “Marked the Unforgiven”. The location functions for the production as the fictitious Jiminez Cartel headquarters. The Cartel is the nemesis of the “Marked-The Unforgiven” Motorcycle Club” in this exciting new television series”

Read more in Bandit’s late Weekend Round-Up in the Cantina.–Wrench

Old School Chopper Action by Rogue

For me and many others this is an event not to be missed. It’s obvious because of the large amount of people that show up.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE PHOTO FEATURE IN THE CANTINA