Click here to read the weekly news this Thursday only on Bikernet.com

* * * *

Get yourself some 5-Ball Racing Leathers to fight the good snowfight ! Click here https://5-ballgarage.com/

Hey,

I love progress. I don’t care what the hell it is, as long as we’re making progress. It snowed last night and at the crack of dawn I was forced into 7 degrees to clear the driveway for the redhead. She rolled south to work in the dreaded Chocolate Mines in Deadwood.

 I’m working with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, the IMA and the CO2 Coalition on a flier to be supplied to motorcycle rights groups all over the country regarding the attack on everything we do. With plenty of work, approval and support it’s coming together. Chris from Source Media is laying out the text and Becky from ABATE of Wisconsin is going to print them.

I’m working with Eric from the MRF to determine and supply me with addresses to distribute them to over 20 state organizations. We will make them available to everyone, including you if you want some.

We better hit the news:

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

THIS WEEK ON GREASE & GEARS TV—

You can watch the video now on our network Grease & Gears TV – please help spread the word and share it. Tell them you saw it on Grease & Gears TV.

Ride Safe & Be Cool!

Mr. Slippery Grease

FIRST MOTORCYCLE WITH THE SENSE OF SIGHT

Verge Motorcycles upgrades flagship model with both hardware and software to make motorcycle safer than before. All Verge TS Ultra motorcycles now feature cameras and radars that use artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Electric superbike manufacturer Verge Motorcycles has announced that it has updated the hardware and software of its flagship TS Ultra model. The motorcycle now has six cameras and high-resolution front and rear radars. The upgraded Verge TS Ultra replaces the previous version, and customers who have already placed an order will automatically receive their bike with the new features.

In November, the company unveiled its Starmatter software and intelligence platform with four different elements: automatic over-the-air updates (OTA), sensor technology, artificial intelligence and a Human-Machine-Interface (HMI). This package has now been completed with the advanced machine vision announced today, Starmatter Vision. With new functionalities, Verge is the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to bring these advanced safety features to motorcycling. Besides the standard features, such as traction control and ABS brakes, Verge’s bikes have a low center of gravity, which enhances the control of the bike making the riding experience safer.

“Verge is making riding even smarter and safer, for example by improving the rider’s ability to observe the environment and the functions of the bike with the help of artificial intelligence and machine learning. The TS Ultra’s new cameras combined with the software update announced today make it the world’s first motorcycle equipped with the sense of sight, advising the rider and acting as a ‘whisperer’ while riding,” describes Verge CTO Marko Lehtimäki.

The Verge TS Ultra now also features updated displays. The display on top of the tank is larger than before, which makes it easier to use. The new Starmatter Dash display and user interface that was unveiled today revolutionizes the way the rider interacts with the bike. The new dash makes managing essential functions easier and more intuitive, it informs and warns of potential hazards, and it displays the image from the rear-view camera when the rider uses the turn signal, for example.

“Verge is developing the world’s most advanced electric superbikes that focus on the riding experience. We do not want to compromise on that. Starmatter Dash provides a visual and intuitive interface, which gives the rider a clear real-time view of the bike’s features and status at a glance,” says Mark Laukkanen, VP of User Experience at Verge Motorcycles.

JUST IN FROM THE PALACE OF ROYAL ENFIELD–

Enfield might launch a fifth motorcycle with the 650cc engine. It is rumored the top-selling model of Enfield, the Classic 350 will get the 650cc twin-pipe parallel twin engine. The others sharing the engine are the Continental GT, Interceptor, Super Meteor 650 and the soon to be launched Shotgun 650. Alleged road test mules have been spotted, photographed and posted on the net.

Enfield has clocked a remarkable 11% growth in one of the world’s most intensely competitive market, the world’s largest for two-wheelers–India. This is thanks to its bread and butter models: Classic 350 and Bullet 350 plus the new 650cc model namely the Super Meteor 650 and their fastest growing model Hunter 350 which has been named best entry level motorcycle runner up in lists such as those by Motorcycle.com

All eyes are on Honda CB350 which is the best retro styled motorcycle to match up against Enfield and offers a better “deal” in terms of specs and features. Yet, people who buy an Enfield keep blindly buying an Enfield. It’s not at all about price-benefit ratio for these fanboys(-men). Honda CB350 motorcycles will soon be delivered to their first owners. People have reported good showroom experience –whereas Enfield showrooms are a victim of their own success–too many customers inside most of the time.

Meanwhile, Kawasaki has thrown its hat in the ring against the ring-leader Enfield. Kawasaki Eliminator was launched on 3rd Jan 2024 and is priced to rival the best cruising Enfield model, the Super Meteor 650. Eliminator has a 450cc engine and lot of goodies.

Yet, Kawasaki Eliminator suffers all the same problems and limitations as that of Honda CB350.

1. handful of showrooms and service centers in the world’s largest motorcycle market

2. expensive to maintain, service, repair, replace parts

3. low resale value due to the above and hence not preferred

Other players providing comic relief to these leading actors in this segment are Benelli, Keeway, Bajaj Dominar 250 and Yezdi Roadster. They are hardly seen on roads and their showrooms / service centers even less so located on the map. Serious contenders such as Triumph Speed 400 and Harley-Davidson 440X don’t fit the retro-cruiser profile and are simply an option for those looking for middle-weight motorcycles with engines between 300cc to 750cc.

–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet News Bureau

MRF MOTORCYCLE SAFETY DEPARTMENT REPORT–The MRF’s Motorcycle Safety Department (MSD) has been quite busy.

Thanks to Ryan’s assistance and patience, the MSD strategic plan is up to date and the department operations manual should be complete soon.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is looking to update several documents. The National Agenda for Motorcycle Safety (NAMS), the NAMS Implementation Guide, the Model National Standards for Entry-Level Motorcycle Rider Training and the Model National Administrative Standards for State Motorcycle Rider Education and Training Programs are all being reviewed.

NHTSA has contracted with a third party (TOXCEL) to collect input regarding these documents. They will be convening Communities of Practice (CoP) to discuss each of these areas. In an effort to ensure that participants have an understanding of the motorcyclists rights movement, as well as motorcycle safety, the MRF communicated with a number of rider education professionals from the State Motorcyclists Rights Organization (SMRO) family. Advocates that stepped up to the challenge include: Ron Braaksma – Iowa, Vince Consiglio – Michigan, Jay Jackson – Indiana, Gary Klinker – Wisconsin, Ed Schetter – Ohio, Imre Szauter – New Hampshire. The first meeting is scheduled for January 18th.

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) is now (finally) seating the Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC). Applications were due December 15 and we are optimistic that appointments will be made soon. The MSD worked closely with our lobbyist to assemble the supporting documents for the application. Many SMROs offered their support as well as several members of Congress and the former MAC Chairman.
Thank you to all that assisted.

The status of the industry is still uncertain, depending on who you listen to. There was a slump in sales prior to COVID, but the pandemic spurred sales as people looked for outdoor activities to socially distance. It appears that we may be headed back toward pre-COVID numbers. Sales, new riders and rider education are all intertwined so we will watch closely to see what happens.

–MRF

WILD AND NEW FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–

We are starting off the new year by offering restoration-quality paint jobs! This will include factory original colors or any color you wish. We can also provide patina style if shiny is not your thing.

NEWS FROM THE MASTER’S DESK

Robinson & Ball dealing with year of “78” helmet laws.

We collaborated with Hal right up until his death. But we still honor his superlative talents through his wife Ann. We also helped her with a small line of T-shirts and art examples.

–Bandit

SUCH A DEAL FROM THE PRISM GANG— FLASH SALE, Sissy Bars

Get any of our 1986 and up Sportster Sissy Bars for 15% off, today!

Discount shown on website, no promo necessary.

NEW YEARS BLUES—

I guess it is natural to get new year’s jitters — it is like standing at the foot of a new mountain and then having to visualize conquering it within the next 12 months— all the ambitions, goals, desires, expectations…

Well, if anyone’s got the new year’s blues, why not just sing along with it. “…..this is not our fate”

Here is a desktop wallpaper illustration done by me, inspired from the illustrious lyrics in Dylan’s All Along The Watchtower.

–Wayfarer
Master Deep Thinker
Bikernet.com™

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–

Movie Mystery Bike Solved, the Mickey Rourke Black Death, click to read

The black death bike is an enigma. Can’t be recreated. And the version Mickey owns is the Zito / Jay Brainard version of it, before and after it got laid down and run over. The real one, whichever one that was is nothing more than a few video stills and rare pics. God loves the black death.

–Mickey Bike
Columbus, NE

OPEN ROAD RADIO ROCKS—

We met with Gina, Penny and Dazzlin’ last week and discussed the good and bad from 2023.

These were the catagories and Marilyn Stemp, from Flying Piston and the Buffalo Chip and I attempted to offer insights and answers.

• Craziest Motorcycle News Story
• Most important Motorcycle News Story
• Most interesting…
• Dumbest
• Most controversial
• Most heartfelt
• Most predictable
• Most unlikely……Motorcycle News Stories of 2023!!

Check it out on the Open Road Radio Website.

NEWS FLASH FROM STURGIS—

Sturgis is in the final steps of adding a new event to the end of their motorcycle rally.

AMA Pro Racing will feature a flat-track style of racing in Downtown.

At one time the Sturgis Rally incorporated street racing and with the AMA as the sanctioning body, they are hoping to bring it back.

“We brought in AMA Pro Racing as a partner of ours. You know, one of the most well-respected motorcycle racing companies in the world,” Outkind Partner Ben Keane said.

This new event brings with it a unique twist, with three different divisions of racing all taking place throughout the downtown streets of Sturgis on a half-mile loop.

The details of the deal are being worked out and we will report on the final stages.

–Bandit and Kelo News

FEDS HOLD HEARING ON CALIFORNIA ONGOING RESTRICTIONS–

Yesterday the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) held a hearing on California’s plan to eliminate the sale of cars and trucks powered by internal combustion engines by 2035.

The Clean Air Act allows California to seek a waiver of the preemption which prohibits states from enacting emission standards for new motor vehicles. The EPA must grant a waiver before California’s rules can be enforced. Put more simply, this hearing is where the California Air Resources Board asks the EPA permission to enact its plan.

If the waiver is approved, beginning with model year 2026, a growing percent of new light duty vehicle sales must be zero emissions. The MRF will be submitting formal comments to the EPA on California’s plan and the threat it poses to our lifestyle. Stay tuned, this battle is heating up!

–MRF

ON THE OTHER END OF THE SPECTRUM—

The CO2 Coalition is the “tip of the spear” for advancing scientific knowledge challenging the notion of man-made catastrophic warming.

We do this through interviews, blog articles, commentaries and op-eds, social media efforts on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.
In the last 12 months I’ve been very busy, publishing articles and commentaries, creating amicus and legal briefs and giving presentations (live and via Zoom).

In addition, I have done more than 230 interviews via television, radio and podcasts. I regularly issue statements for the media that are often then used in newspaper articles or in online media commentaries.

My new book, A Very Convenient Warming has just been released and its publication amplifies our CO2 Coalition message of the benefits of warming and more CO2.

When I took over the reins here in late 2020, I had a vision of how to unleash the power of this wonderful organization, but we only had two employees. That was not nearly the staff required to mount the national effort that I had planned.

The increase in funding that we have received from donors like you has enabled me to hire quality employees that we so desperately needed. These new hires have allowed us to greatly amplify our messaging and take on new projects.

With the recent addition on December 1 of our new Development and Operations Associate, we now have a total of eleven full and part-time employees, including one in Brazil and one in Scotland.

Vijay Jayaraj is a researcher and author who recently transitioned from his home in India to Aberdeen, Scotland, where he is studying for an advanced degree in energy economics. He has published more than 60 articles in the last year and often writes about energy poverty in the developing world.

Also assisting me is Byron Soepyan, our new Science and Research Associate who has a Ph.D. (Chemical Engineering). He previously worked as a carbon capture engineer until he realized that he was working to advance the harmful removal of a beneficial molecule from the atmosphere. He has seen the light.

Nothing we do here in terms of editorials and publications would be as effective without our Senior Advisor, Gordon Tomb. Gordon is our primary editor for all publications and also occasionally writes, mainly on energy. Everything we write, Gordon makes better.

I’m very proud of each and every publication our office has produced. It is our role as scientists to provide the scientific basis to reject policies that are based on incorrect projections – truly hyperbolic assertions – of catastrophic climate change.

–Gregory Wrightstone
CO2 Coalition

TODAY’S MANTRA—

Today is a beautiful day of opportunity.
I’m exactly where I need to be.
I open my mind to the universe and trust to the unfolding of my life.
–Jade

“Bullshit, get off your ass and get something done.” –Bandit

HANG ON FOR THIS—

In Memoriam Professor Ray Bates

The author of this debated the climate question with Ray before the members of the Law Society of Ireland. I’ve cut to the chase here.–Bandit

But then I had written a model to take the monthly global temperature data from the various datasets and plot the trend. Practically no one else was doing that. There was endless talk about global warming, but no one was letting us in on the secret or how much (or, rather, how little) global warming was actually happening.

I discovered, and named, the Pause. From 1997 to 2015, a period of almost 19 years, there was no global warming at all. Yet the vast majority of the world’s news media had kept this fact secret. On seeing the temperature plot emerge on the screen as a least-squares linear-regression trend that was horizontal, I realized the world was being fooled.

I wondered why the world had not been warming for so long. For the greenhouse effect is a real effect. Why was it not warming the planet at even half the long-predicted medium-term 0.3 K/decade? That is why I began to investigate feedbacks, since feedback response constitutes three-fifths of midrange predicted warming.

At our meetings from time to time since the Galway debate, we would often talk with sadness of those in the scientific community who were unwilling to think for themselves but were instead wedded to the Party Line because it was temporarily fashionable and undemandingly safe.

Ray was one of many who quietly encouraged me and my team in our research, and he was among the many distinguished scientists, from Freeman Dyson to Will Happer, who had generously given us their time and support when no one else wanted to know. From time to time, he would send me his own learned papers and ask for my comments before he submitted them.

Ray Bates, then, dazzlingly and publicly exemplified the ancient truth that he who changes his mind when the evidence requires it provides irrefutable proof that he has a mind.

How, then, shall we honor the memory of that great man?

What I propose is this. We have now been working on our research for close to a decade. We submit that our result is no longer in doubt. It is not at all likely that global warming will be large enough or rapid enough to do net harm. Yet the journals of climatology will not publish our paper, not because it is wrong but because it is – to coin a phrase – the inconvenient truth. We have had some hilariously dopey reviews.

Therefore, if there are any learned readers of WattsUpWithThat who are curious, and would like to read our paper and give me any comments they would like to make, they can honor the memory of Ray Bates by doing what he did, asking for a copy of our paper, reading it, thinking about it and then letting us know whether we are right and, if so, how we can improve the paper. Just drop me a note at monckton[at]mail[dot]com and I shall send you the paper. It is just six pages long.

Meanwhile, may Ray Bates make merry in Heaven as he made us merry on Earth.

By Christopher Monckton of Brenchley
WUWT

THE TATTOO STORY OF THE WEEK—

Get this. I know a girl who rides a Sportster and lives on a boat in a Los Angeles Marina. She met a rich guy recently, very rich who lives overlooking the beach. He plays video games during the day and parties at night.

So, the other night she’s hanging out with him and he says, “If you get ‘Property of Big Dog” tattooed on your cute ass, I’ll give you 100 grand.”

I don’t know if she’s a blonde or a redhead this week, but she didn’t mess around and the next afternoon texted him a shot of the tattoo. He needed to touch it before he’d pay.

He did and she’s a 100 grand richer.

–Bandit

[page break]

WHY THE INDEPENDENT MOTORCYCLE AFTERMARK MATTERS–

In the current world of chaos, motorcycle riders and motorcyclists’ rights advocates stand for a brotherhood and sisterhood. We are united by a culture of independence that transcends political and geographical boundaries. We choose internal combustion motorcycles as a personal means of expression and utility to navigate our way through this world of bullshit.

We stand tall in a world of mindless followers, misdirected political agendas, and a general lack of balls to do the right thing.

As American bikers we have each other’s backs and we have learned to work together to protect the lifestyle, and in some cases, the livelihood we value.

Having traveled the world, I have ridden and partied with bikers from the Netherlands to Russia. Even with different languages and different cultures, motorcycles erased the differences. The battles we fight against false environmental narratives and misconceptions of our culture are not unique to America. It is so important that we continue to speak out and fight for the right to be individuals.

Our bikes are not just a mode of transportation but a personal expression of our individualism. The universal attack on internal combustion engines threatens the very core of our ability to repair and modify our machines. A government that wants to control every aspect of our lives does not want us building our own parts, much less building a complete custom vehicle.

The onslaught of regulations and restrictions must be stopped now if we are to continue running the highways and byways of this great country.

The MRF has done and will continue to do a great job keeping us informed and leading this fight. The new IMA division is dedicated to representing the independent dealers and custom builder businesses. As a current shop owner and five decades of working in the motorcycle industry, I understand how the daily challenges can be overwhelming.

I know shops get so busy they may not have time to keep up with the outside world or even believe it is ever going to be able to stop them doing what they do. I am asking you to get your favorite shop to join the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket through the MRF, so some government agency doesn’t shut that shop down or stop it from doing what they do for you.

Thank you for reaching out to your favorite shop owner and telling him/her how essential the IMA and MRF are to the future of motorcycling. Thanks for getting them to join today.

–Bob Kay
IMA

SOUTH DAKOTA GUN NUT REPORT— January 9th, the South Dakota Legislature began the 2024 legislative session. As in 2023, the Legislature can expect to see both pro and anti-gun bills introduced this year. Gun owners and sportsmen throughout the state must stay actively involved to defend freedom.

Your NRA will continue to fight to promote and protect your right to keep and bear arms and hunting heritage. Our members remain the most powerful political force in American history, and together, we will secure the Second Amendment for present and future generations.

Please continue to check www.NRAILA.org and your email inbox for NRA-ILA alerts on the latest action items. NRA-ILA will keep you updated on Second Amendment and hunting-related legislation.

HANG ON FOR–Clutch Control Motorcycle Shows at MotoAmerica for Six Events in 2024

Hard Knocks Unlimited Announces Expanded Collaboration with MotoAmerica for Clutch Control Moto-Lifestyle Experience

Hard Knocks Unlimited is excited to announce the expansion of its collaboration with MotoAmerica for the Clutch Control Motorcycle Show, sponsored by ICON Motosports. This year, the Clutch Control experience will join six rounds of the 2024 MotoAmerica race events, offering a comprehensive moto-lifestyle experience to race fans across the United States.

Clutch Control at MotoAmerica 2024 Schedule:

– March 7-9: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

– April 19-21: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, GA

– May 17-19: Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, AL

– June 14-16: Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, MN

– September 13-15: Circuit of The Americas, Austin, TX

– September 27-29: New Jersey Motorsports Park, Millville, NJ

Beyond the high-octane MotoAmerica race action, attendees can look forward to an array of vendors, delectable food options, live music, and the opportunity to test-ride the latest motorcycle models. Additionally, several rounds will feature adrenaline-pumping motorcycle stunt shows, adding another layer of excitement to the experience.

“Clutch Control is not just a motorcycle show; it’s a three-day moto-festival that forms part of a 6-round tour with, and in support of, MotoAmerica’s 10th anniversary season,” stated Allan Lane, CEO of Hard Knocks Unlimited. “Our successful joint effort during the 2023 NJMP season finale was just the beginning.

This year, we’re enhancing MotoAmerica’s overall race weekend experience, providing the paddock festival that every race fan deserves. Collaborating with MotoAmerica has been both refreshing and inspiring. Together, we are elevating motorcycle culture and community.”

“MotoAmerica is always looking for more off-track activities for our fans to enjoy,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “The Clutch Control Motorcycle Shows coming on board for six events fits that bill perfectly. The show made its debut with us last year at New Jersey Motorsports Park and was well-received even though it was hampered by difficult weather conditions. We’re looking forward to Allan (Lane) bringing our fans his team’s moto-lifestyle experience.”

Tickets for this thrilling moto-lifestyle experience are on sale now and can be purchased at www.motoamerica.com. For those interested in vending opportunities at these events, please contact Allan Lane at allan@hardknocksmoto.com for more information.

Hard Knocks Unlimited and MotoAmerica are committed to bringing an unparalleled experience to the motorcycle community, celebrating the spirit of racing and the moto-lifestyle. Join us in 2024 for an unforgettable series of events.

LAP DANCE FOR WIND TURBINES?— British Green Energy Developers Accused of a New Low

“… The clean energy company strongly denies this allegation, saying that no such offer was ever made. …”

Farmer claims he was offered lap dance if he agreed to wind turbine on his land

Energy company offering Welsh landowners incentives to sign up to green schemes denies the allegations

Telegraph Reporters8 January 2024 • 11:09am

A farmer was offered cash and a trip to a lap dancing club in exchange for allowing a company to build a wind turbine on his land, according to a council document.

The apparent bribe was made as part of an alleged “dirty tricks” campaign to use financial incentives as a sweetener for more turbines across the Welsh countryside.

During an emergency meeting of Nelson community council near Caerphilly, South Wales, to discuss controversial new green power installations, minutes show a member of the public claimed that Bute Energy, a Scottish company focused on green power schemes in Wales, had made the offer to a local farmer.

The clean energy company strongly denies this allegation, saying that no such offer was ever made.

–Essay by Eric Worrall
WUWT

RECORD BREAKING BIKERNET BLOG HITS 27 IN THE WORLD—

With all the unique AI enabled images created by Wayfarer, the Bikernet Blog has again got itself back into Top 30 Motorcycle Blogs on the world wide web and is now at 27th place.

There are literally thousands of motorcycle blogs and many websites dedicated to motorcycling— not to mention shops, garages and auction platforms.

Feedspot has ranked us 27 out of 143 active, popular motorcycle Blogs that they evaluated.

There is a clear distinction between motorcycle Blog and Motorcycle Website in their evaluation.

–Wayfarer
Editor, Illustrator, Author at Bikernet.com Blog

FROM THE DESK OF AN MRF MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE–The year 2023 was a great year for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and now the mission is to make 2024 even better. As we look at the year ahead there are many challenges that threaten our lifestyle and with the help of our members, we will face those threats head on.

Issues like fuel choice, protecting the internal combustion engines, the elimination of motorcyclists profiling, a federal definition of a motorcycle, and the dangers that autonomous vehicles pose to motorcyclists are just some of our concerns.

The threats to our lifestyle are real and strength in numbers is the key to our success. Motorcyclists love freedom, we live it, and freedom is the most important part of our riding lifestyle.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation will continue to bring our fight to the policy makers and politicians in Washington D.C. and with the help of our members we will ride to victory. We are asking our members to make the commitment to sign up one new member and retain one member in 2024. Just click the link below to help double our membership numbers. Together we will take the fight for our freedom of the road to our Nation’s Capital.

Thank you for all that you do and thank you for your support of the MRF.

Total Vigilance,
–Todd Riba, MRF Member Rep.

ALL KIDS BIKE REPORT–
We’re on a mission to teach every child in America how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As we bid farewell to 2023, All Kids Bike proudly wraps up a year filled with accomplishments and a profound impact on the lives of young learners.

Our commitment to promoting health, independence, and joy came to fruition through the successful delivery of 326 programs this year. This number brought us to a total of 1150 schools, across the United States, teaching an impressive 124,270 kids the invaluable skill of riding a bike in 2023.

Over the next decade, the programs running are poised to make a significant impact, offering 1.2 million children the chance to embrace the thrill of learning to ride a bike during PE class.

In tandem with the triumph of the All Kids Bike Kindergarten Program, we proudly introduced our Inclusive Learn-to-Ride Program, in August. Before the year ended, we’d already launched 5 programs, extending the joy of biking inclusively.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW INCLUSIVE PROGRAM!
The impact of our program extends beyond the immediate thrill of learning to ride a bike. It encompasses the development of crucial life skills such as balance, coordination, and perseverance.

Throughout the year, we have collaborated with dedicated educators, enthusiastic parents, and passionate community members to create an environment where children can embrace the joy of cycling in a safe and supportive setting. The success of the program lies not only in the numbers but in the countless smiles, newfound friendships, and the tangible sense of accomplishment witnessed in the eyes of these young riders.

Looking ahead to 2024, All Kids Bike remains committed to expanding our reach and making a positive impact on even more lives. Our vision of a future where every child in the United States has the opportunity to learn how to ride a bike in PE Class continues to inspire and drive our efforts.

As we celebrate the achievements of 2023, let us acknowledge the collective dedication and support that made this transformative year possible. Together, we are laying the foundation for healthier, happier, and more resilient communities.

5-BALL HELL RAISER BIKE SHOW THIS WEEKEND—In the heart of downtown Los Angeles.

QUICK YOUTUBE OF THE WEEK–Dr. Matthew Wielicki: I Refuse to Stay Silent about Climate Change

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGaNghtj41I

When Dr. Matthew Wielicki refused to stay silent about climate change and earth science, he became a professor-in-exile. Even though members of the scientific community routinely discuss the negative effects of irrational fear in private, they dare not speak out lest they lose their positions and research funds.

Dr. Wielicki shares his story and encourages the next generation to reject the doomsday narrative and maintain hope for the future.

ANOTHER QUOTE OF THE WEEK–

 “I learned a long time ago that there is something worse than missing the goal, and that’s not pulling the trigger.” — Mia Hamm

–sent in by Doc Robinson

WIN A VIP BIKER CRUISE FOR TWO!

–Law Tigers

BIKERNET BOOK CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT— This is the story of Bob Bitchin, who went from outlaw biker and bodyguard for Evel Knievel to sailing on the Flagship for Green Peace that had no engine and used kerosene running lights.

SIGNED HARDCOVER COLLECTOR’S EDITION $24.95

AUDIO BOOK $10.95

DIGITAL eBOOK $6.95

Biker to Sailor (2015)

Bob traded life on two wheels to experiencing a hurricane in Cabo San Lucas where 27 boats ended up blown onto the beach. He then sailed across the pacific with nothing but a sextant, making an 800 mile “error” and ended up arriving as a volcano is erupting! If you’ve ever wondered where the saying “Attitude is the difference between ordeal and adventure” came from, it’s in this book.

By the creator, publisher, and editor of Latitudes & Attitudes, Cruising Outpost, Biker Lifestyle and Tattoo Magazines. This is Bob’s 8th book, and it’s all true (well, how he remembers it anyway!).

Shipping: 3-5 days

OPPORTUNITY–Poem by Berton Braley

With doubt and dismay you are smitten
You think there’s no chance for you, son?
Why, the best books haven’t been written
The best race hasn’t been run,
The best score hasn’t been made yet,
The best song hasn’t been sung,
The best tune hasn’t been played yet,
Cheer up, for the world is young!

No chance? Why the world is just eager
For things that you ought to create
Its store of true wealth is still meagre
Its needs are incessant and great,
It yearns for more power and beauty
More laughter and love and romance,
More loyalty, labor and duty,
No chance- why there’s nothing but chance!

For the best verse hasn’t been rhymed yet,
The best house hasn’t been planned,
The highest peak hasn’t been climbed yet,
The mightiest rivers aren’t spanned,
Don’t worry and fret, faint hearted,
The chances have just begun,
For the Best jobs haven’t been started,
The Best work hasn’t been done.

—-sent in by Wayfarer
Editor, Bikernet.com Blog

HERE’S THE EDITED TEXT FOR OUR MRF FREEDOM FLIER–

Climate Alarmism’s Threat to a Cycling Lifestyle

Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz tells us in the Jalopnik newsletter that after 120 years of producing big gas-powered cycles, electrification is the logical next step in a so-called age of decarbonization.

REALLY? What’s the real deal? The true science?

FACT: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a necessity for all life, not a pollutant that threatens our existence.

For millions of years, Earth has been in a relative CO2 famine. However, since the Industrial Revolution, increasing atmospheric CO2 has had a measurable, positive effect on plant life.

This reversal of CO2’s downward trend may very well prevent the eventual demise of all life from CO2 starvation, according to scientists at the CO2 Coalition.

YOUR UPSWEPT PIPES FERTILIZE THE AIR.

CO2 will continue to boost farm productivity, help feed a growing population and contribute to an overall greening of Earth that began nearly a century ago.

Challenging Net Zero With Science

Net Zero plans to eliminate emissions of CO2 are dangerous and unsupported by science. According to 600 million years of geological evidence, CO2 levels are near a record low and atmospheric increases of the gas follow warming periods rather than precede them. This is enough to debunk the notion that CO2 is a dominant driver of global temperatures.

TRUTH: Net Zero means zero freedoms.

FIGHTING BACK: The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) stands for the freedom to choose internal combustion engines far into the future.

YOU should be able to decide what you ride and when you ride. We believe in liberty and the ability to ride free forever.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation and the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket are aligned in maximizing the freedom of riders and independent dealers and custom bike builders.

Having fought for more than 40 years to protect the cycling lifestyle, MRF has excellent lobbying efforts in D.C and is connected to state organizations all over the country.

JOIN MRF and IMA.

CO2 COALITION, with a membership of 150 scientists and researchers, is the leading organization standing for the truth about CO2’s benefits and for honest science.

JOIN the CO2 Coalition.

FINAL THOUGHT: Did you know that every wind turbine contains 80 gallons of oil?

We will never give in or give up on Freedom, the Truth or our Motorcycles.

–Keith R. Ball
Bikernet.com

— Gordon Tomb
Senior Advisor
CO2 Coalition
610-213-5056

NEW FROM GREASE AND GEARS TV–

We’re stoked to announce the release of our latest video, The Prowl 2023 – A Chopper Show In Bisbee, Arizona! We can’t wait for you to check it out.

You can watch the video now on our network Grease & Gears TV – please help spread the word and share it.

Tell them you saw it on Grease & Gears TV.

Ride Safe & Be Cool!
–Slippery Grease

TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–

I’m currently heading down to pull the 13.5s off the Dyna and put them on the RP. Then raise the front tubes up. They were lowered by the previous owner.

I had to remove the kick stand stop to even make regular left turns. But she is a fun little girl, when you keep her up around 4g, she runs! There is something different about an FXR, my friend Henry has an ‘85, but it needs help. He’s working a deal to trade his street glide for two FXRs. But he also has 11 bikes currently. I sent him this to tell his wife the plan is in motion, it can’t be stopped!

I’m going to focus on trying to find a police fairing in Texas somewhere, since it is an EF build originally. There’s one in California, but shipping is crazy expensive.

Thanks for the calendar, too cool.

Happy New Year!

–RFR

[page break]

4-SPEED TRANS REBUILD ARTICLE COMING—I Just completed rebuilding a 1960 something Harley trans. I spoke to brother far and wide for advice. I watch Youtubes, you name it. Before my memory fades, I’m going to write all this shit down and share it with you.

OHIO STEPS UP–

Representatives Hillyer, Demetriou
Cosponsors: Representatives Seitz, Cross, Cutrona, Barhorst, Klopfenstein, Stein, Willis, Williams

A BILL

To enact section 3704.20 of the Revised Code to 1 prohibit a state agency, county, or township 2 from restricting the sale or use of a motor 3 vehicle based on the energy source used to power 4 the motor vehicle and to prohibit a state agency 5 from adopting the California emissions standards 6 for motor vehicles. 7

BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF OHIO:

Section 1. That section 3704.20 of the Revised Code be 8 enacted to read as follows: 9
Sec. 3704.20. (A) No state agency, township, or county 10 shall restrict the use or sale of a motor vehicle based on the 11 energy source used to power the motor vehicle, including an 12 energy source used for propulsion or used for powering other 13 functions of the motor vehicle. 14
(B) The environmental protection agency or any other state 15 agency shall not adopt any motor vehicle emissions standards 16 that are established by California as a result of California 17

–from the MRF

WHY WE RIDE TOURS–

The Ultimate Guided Motorcycle Ride through epic California scenery!

Limited Tickets Available.

Get Yours Today!

THE BIKERNET TOUCHY ELECTRIC FILES–

Electric vehicles were supposed to be inevitable. Two years ago, President Joe Biden climbed behind the wheel of a beefy white electric Hummer to tout his plan to make half of all new cars sold electric by 2030.

The following year Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which created a bevy of incentives for drivers to buy electric and for automakers to invest in EVs. That set off a flurry of new projects: EV plants, battery-manufacturing facilities, and mining operations began popping up. By the end of 2022 the situation looked promising: More and more Americans were going electric, and soon everyone would be driving an EV, reducing emissions in the process.

But the electric-vehicle takeover has hit some serious roadblocks.

Sure, sales of EVs keep going up — a record 300,000 cars sold in the US in the third quarter of 2023 were electric — but the pace of adoption has markedly slowed, and analysts have suggested the country is no longer on track to hit the government’s sales targets.

The trickle-down effects of this decreased demand are everywhere. EVs accumulated at dealerships this fall, even as automakers cut prices to try to entice customers. Automakers have backtracked on their promised investments: Ford delayed $12 billion of its planned $50 billion investment in EV manufacturing capacity, while General Motors delayed production of key EV models and scrapped a $5 billion partnership with Honda to make cheaper EVs.

Even Tesla — once the superstar of EVs — announced it would delay a planned factory in Mexico. Auto execs who were once trumpeting the potential of electric cars are even publicly acknowledging that EVs aren’t working.

“The entire myth at the heart of this whole transition is that the battery car seamlessly fits right into the gas car’s position,” Edward Niedermeyer, the author of “Ludicrous: The Unvarnished Story of Tesla Motors,” told me. “It doesn’t, and that’s the problem.”

https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-car-ev-sales-prices-problem-transportation-2024-1

–Marc Morano

DIRECT FROM THE SCOTT JACOBS GALLERY– HAPPY NEW YEAR!

It’s finally feeling like winter here with cold and snow.

It’s 50 degrees below “freezing” here so we’re offering a random Cold Day Sale!
15% OFF ALL ART

Until Friday at midnight, every artist’s works are 15% OFF with Code: Burr

Scott and Olivia are throwing in FREE calendars for everyone that utilizes this random sale on their art.

Click their website and find the artist you like to be taken to their collection. Above is a painting by Daniel James.

BILTWELL ACTION–

You are invited! The holidaze are behind us and it’s time for some swappin’ and choppin’. We hope to see you this Saturday at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Here’s all the details and whatnot…

– Saturday, January 13
– 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
– Food & Drink
– Show bikes and Go bikes!
– Tons of killer vendors
– Custom helmet painter showcase
– Adult Admission: $10 (cash only)
– Active US military with ID: Free
– Kids 10 and under: Free
– Parking: $20 per car or bike or $15 if you buy in advance online HERE
– Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014

GOOD TO KNOW FROM THE DAV—

Did you know that even if you’ve never filed a claim with the VA, you’re still eligible to become a member of DAV? DAV is an inclusive community of veterans helping veterans, and we hope to welcome YOU as a member soon.

To join our ranks, you must have:

* Become ill or injured — to any degree — as a result of your military service (examples include PTSD, physical injury, TBI, etc.)

* Served in the armed forces at any time between September 16, 1940–October 14, 1976 or November 4, 1979–present

* Been discharged from military service with better than a dishonorable discharge

If you fall under all three of these categories, then great news — you are eligible to become a member of DAV! Take the step to join our community of more than 1 million veterans today.

When you do, you’ll unlock the amazing benefits and perks waiting for you, including thousands of discounts from local and national businesses. And you’ll help us carry on the fight to improve the lives of all veterans.

Join Now

DAV Membership

“Even if you joined another veteran support organization and filed a claim, you can switch. It’s all about finding someone who will listen and help. The DAV helped me big time. There’s a difference and it takes work on your part. Don’t ever give up or give in…” –Bandit

DOOMSDAY ISN’T COMING–

Musician Ted Nugent slammed climate change as a scam and made false claims that global warming is “bulls—t” in a recent episode of his podcast Spirit Campfire.

“You have to have sh—for brains to believe this global warming bullsh—t,” Nugent said. “If you believe it, you have sh—for brains. While you were sleeping, someone opened your skull and took a dump inside your skull.”

Nugent, who is known for his role in The Amboy Dukes band and for his successful solo career, has made controversial statements and become a conservative voice against Democrats, transgender rights, the COVID-19 pandemic and science-backed climate change.

On his podcast, Nugent also attacked electric vehicles, dubbing them a scam. He said people “have to be mentally ill to believe in electric vehicles” and to believe that “wind turbines are better than coal or oil or natural gas or propane.”

PROJECT REPORT–

1937 Chief going together at Greer’s in Deadwood.

–Eric

BELATED 100-WORD FICTION ENTRY—

Brushed the inch or so of fresh snow from the saddle of my ole girl. Kicked her to life and let her warm up. Eased out onto the road and headed to the hospice where a good friend was in the last phase of his time.

Pulled into the parking lot shaking off the chill and walked to the counter to check in. Too late, he had passed in the night.

RIP my friend.

Tears turned to ice drops on the ride home.

* * * 

“We all should relish our precious time– good and even not so good times.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.”
–Rhys

TODAY’S HISTORY LESSON–1901

Gusher signals start of U.S. oil industry

On this day in 1901, a drilling derrick at Spindletop Hill near Beaumont, Texas, produces an enormous gusher of crude oil, coating the landscape for hundreds of feet and signaling the advent of the American oil industry. The geyser was discovered at a depth of over 1,000 feet.

–History.com

The new year brings new ways to experience the Harley-Davidson Museum

Resolve to explore more in 2024! Jan. 18 marks the return of Milwaukee Museum Days. The H-D Museum is proud to be among the 30 area attractions looking to highlight the meaningful impact museums have on our residents, tourism in Wisconsin and the local economy.

Get tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10*! Score admission from free up to $15 to explore your favorite museum or discover a hidden gem you’ve been wanting to explore from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24 at the H-D Museum).

Also this month, get ready for the dawn of a new era. Join us for the premiere of Harley-Davidson’s all-new 2024 motorcycle model lineup on Jan. 24.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS

Milwaukee Museum Days, Jan. 18 – 22 & 24 – 28
One more reason to love Milwaukee. During its 10-day run, 30 museums will offer discounted admission, special programming and more during Milwaukee Museum Days.

Running Jan. 18 – 28, immerse yourself in some of Milwaukee’s incredible museums, experiencing everything from the innovative hands-on exhibits at Discovery World to the whimsical National Bobblehead Museum and Hall of Fame, the roaring fun of the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum to the wide-open spaces of the Lynden Sculpture Garden.

With admission discounts at up to 30 museums, you’ll soon discover that there’s always more to explore in the 414. Score tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum for just $10* from Jan. 18 – 28 (excluding Jan. 23 & 24).

And on Jan. 19, join Lubar Center Director Derek Mosley for a conversation about Milwaukee Museum Days and the state of funding for museums and the arts in Wisconsin at Marquette University’s On the Issues forum.

*Mention Milwaukee Museum days and receive one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Adult General Admission pass per adult for $10 and one (1) Harley-Davidson Museum Child General Admission pass per child under the age of 18 for $5 (kids under 5 are free). Valid from January 18, 2024, through 28, 2024 for in-person use at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Not valid for online purchases or previous H-D Museum purchases.

“The Marquette Basketball Hour” with Shaka Smart, select Thursdays, 6 – 7 p.m., Nov. 30 – March 7

MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum is the place to be for all Marquette fans this season. Join us on select Thursdays at 6 p.m. when men’s basketballs Head Coach Shaka Smart, Jen Lada and players will break down all the Marquette action. Don’t miss Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant on the Harley-Davidson Museum campus to support the defending Big East Champions.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” (on display now)
The Mama Tried Motorcycle Show and adjoining Flat Out Friday races are a bright spot in the dead of cold, Wisconsin winters. The show has amassed an army of followers and fans that give the weekend its signature style: People are the heart of the show; the bikes are the social lubrication. The Harley-Davidson Museum’s special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together,” focuses on the builders, the racers and the fans that gather over a bike or a brew.

Experience Gallery (on display now)

With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new 2023 Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride! And now you can hop in the saddle of the newest, CVO™ Road Glide, Breakout, Road Glide Trike, Pan America Special and Nightster motorcycles – the perfect photo op to commemorate your visit.

Long-Time Riders: Lee & Pearl (on display now)

At the H-D Museum entrance, a new case featuring two long-time Wisconsin riders is on display. Lee and Pearl Christopherson have been together since meeting on a motorcycle in 1958. Lee was a member of the Blue Knights, a group of active or retired law enforcement officers. While Lee can’t begin to guess how many miles he’s ridden over 76 years, Pearl has kept track of her time in the saddle and surpassed 175,000 miles in the summer of 2023. The display features Pearl’s Motor Maids shirt and vest along with a Blue Knights Club vest from Lee, and the couple’s H.O.G. patch and pin collection.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes apparel sold in H-D product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. This exhibition will close in March, so make tracks to see “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” before it hits the road.

Harley-Davidson Shop + H-D Factory Outlet
New year … new looks for you! And both the H-D shop and the Factory Outlet got the goods for your wardrobe in 2024. Bundle up against the cold with flannels, hats, coats and more!

NEW YEAR WITH OPERATION GRATITUDE–

I hope your New Year is off to a great beginning! As we start 2024, I want to thank you for your continued support and generosity. Your donations have helped us make a significant impact on the lives of those who serve our nation.

As you plan for the year ahead, would you consider making your end-of-year donation now? By doing so, you can help us continue our mission to say “thank you” to our Military, First Responders, Veterans, Wounded Heroes, and Military Children.

Please click HERE to make your 2024 end-of-year donation today. Thank you for your steadfast support and we look forward to another year of making a difference together!

Best regards,
Operation Gratitude

SHIT’S HAPPENING EVERYWHERE—

We are rolling with it. I’ll bet you can’t miss that gorgeous AI image above. I’m writing a story about women and boobs. Hang on…

I found a place in the shop for a different style of calendar. The art actually can be peeled off and framed. Not bad.

I had a 5-Ball vest without any pins, so I started looking in drawers fulla pins from various events. This 2Wheelers 25th anniversary pin was a major, high quality standout. That 25th anniversary was almost 30 years ago. Arlin and Donna are still going strong in Denver and Sturgis during the rally. Incredible.

It’s starting to get serious about snow and cold, but check it out at the shop home. Not bad.

Chopper Dave is finally coming across with our point cover coasters, but I believe he got the order wrong. Oh, what the hell, we’ll survive. Can’t wait to see them finished. We’ll have Xmas gifts for next year already…

Lowbrow still makes stripped grips, but they don’t make the orange and black jobs, so I had to modify them. I would still buy a batch if I could.

Chopper Dave was having a problem with the orange on the point cover, so I sent the shot of the grips and a 5-Ball

I have a couple of techs hanging-fire. I’ll get to them or die trying. 

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever, goddammit.

–Bandit

Sparks
by Jeffrey aka JJ Spain
with illustration by Wayfarer

He leaned hard right into the curve, pushing his hands down while keeping his head erect, doing 55 mph in a 35. He tried his best to force sparks to ignite from his exhaust pipes against the concrete on Highway 14 A, Boulder Canyon to Deadwood, SD. The Michelin tires held tight as the next curve approached. He rolled the throttle on, pushing to 70 mph on the last notorious bend before the straightaway. Sparks flew!

Yelling in exhilaration, he threw a fist in the air.

Glancing in his rearview mirror, red and blue flashing lights came into view.

Totally worth it.

(publication dated 10-January-2024)

* * *

Winner for the month of December 2023: “Nap Time” by Jeffrey (J J Spain) — that’s back-to-back wins for Jeffrey, aka JJ Spain of https://mikesalasnovels.com/.

Who will win the first one in year 2024? Lot of Bikernet swag and 5-Ball Racing goodies to be won.

Simply subscribe to our weekly newsletter by clicking here and email your fiction in 100 words or less to wayfarer@bikernet.com

List of 2023 entries and winners at: https://www.bikernet.com/pages/100_Word_Fiction_Contest.aspx

by Prince Najar

Coming to the Flying Piston Breakfast 2024

Kelly Campanile’s art is a riot of humor and irreverence, brought to life with a palette of bright, bold colors and exaggerated, cartoonish forms. She’s not just an artist; she’s a trailblazer, pushing the boundaries of what’s expected.

If that wasn’t impressive enough, Kelly has earned her spot on the Flying Piston Benefit “Art On Deck” presented by BIG FRIG contest. This breakfast event kicks off Monday, March 4, 2024 at Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson dealership.

Join us as we unravel the mind behind the art, where every stroke tells a story and every color sparks the imagination.

Click here to read this interview, only on Bikernet,com

* * * *

Support Flying Piston Benefit. Tell ’em Bikernet.com sent ya

Today, I decided to burn all the pine straw accumulating in my front yard. The air just this side of too cold to be outside, I relished the brilliant Arkansas sun. I knew the fire and the labor would soon warm me, make me hurt and make me smile.

The concrete of my barn floor was damp and cold beneath my bare feet as I pulled my yard broom from behind dusty motorcycle fenders hanging on the wall. I navigated my wheelbarrow through my menagerie of Harleys towards the front yard. The fire caught quickly, and I dumped wheelbarrow after wheelbarrow of straw on the pile, while ignoring the cold air and engulfing the sunshine.

I built a fantastic flame that billowed smoke and flushed my cheeks in a way that no human touch has in a very long time. A weed-eater-like-buzz of a crotch rocket ripped over the hill behind me, and the beautiful young boy smirked as he rode past the barefoot old lady in a long denim skirt and worn flannel shirt. I propped one foot on the rake handle and absentmindedly offered him the biker’s wave as he buzzed by… He thought I was ridiculous, of course, and I laughed to myself as I made my way to rest on the porch steps and enjoy the dancing flames. If he only knew… who I used to be.

I picked up my phone, and there was a text from an old friend I might could have loved, once upon a time, if the 1%er lifestyle hadn’t been more than he could handle. If only he had never turned to speed to try to keep up with the younger boys… if the sordid world of drugs and hard living, whores and lies and all the other vile things that slither though the darkened underbelly of our world hadn’t destroyed the intimate closeness we once shared and hadn’t killed my respect for him.

The text just said, ‘Missing you.’ I replied ‘well, you always know where I am.’ I sat there on the step for a moment and allowed myself to ponder him. I remembered curling into his body heat in ragged cheap motel rooms after long days of riding, feeling the heat of my sunburn and wind burns touching the heat of his own reddened skin. I felt his massive heart in his massive chest slow as he slid off into his dreams of being someone he never became.

I sighed, and picked up my rake to stir my fire… and my memories stirred with the embers. That first Road King I straddled… and her owner who could make my spine twist like a cat in heat with just his wink and smile… the way he slept with a Bible on the nightstand, a Colt in one hand and my tit in the other. And finally the way he died and turned so cold, after an hour in my arms, in his hot sweaty bed, one bright summer day.

The Deuces and the Dynas and the Softtails and the Electra Glides rode through my memory in a languid procession as I worked the fire, and the men who I wrapped my thighs around their hips and rode away, did too.. The feel of their ponytails whipping my breasts, the scent of leather and pot and wind and freedom mixed with the thump of their heartbeats against my own, their hands dropping off of handlebars to rest on my thigh as they carried me away, again and again and again.

I thought of the worthless drunk I married the first time… of the day he told me I had to choose my Harley or him. I grabbed my scuffed leather jacket and walked resolutely out the door.

I thought of my darling second husband, how he went to bed so warm one night, and I woke to find him cold. I glanced toward my barn, at his Triglide shining in the sun, in glistening tribute to the soldier who loved her and loved me too.

I thought of the one who I tried so hard to share my warmth, to cauterize the chill so many women before me left frozen around his old heart. But no amount of miles could stop him from leaving me, shivering alone in the cold winter snow, again and again, Until, destroyed and half frozen to death, I dragged myself and my stuff back home to heal in the comforting, warm embrace of the Arkansas sun.

I thought of the one that was so beautiful, so smart, so perfect and so out of my league. The Doc to my Kate, the Rhett to my Scarlett, maybe the one I loved most of all. A long forgotten heat stirred within me as I remembered how his laughter and his warm molasses drawl warmed my heart. But no matter how many nights I drifted to sleep with his smile in my mind, my knight in leather armor will never carry me away on his chrome laden steed. His heat, I will only ever know in my dreams.

As the last smokey ashes died in the setting sun, so did my fleeting memories of the warmth of the men that filled my body, now and then and once upon a time. Even now, barren and alone, I am glad they all broke my heart and made me sweat, over and over again. I am glad I loved them all.

In the smoldering ash of my heartbreaks, remains the memory of the flames… They still warm my soul, even the ones who are buried in the cold, cold ground. So many people believe bikers are the wind, but they’re not. They are the fire, they are the burn, they are the heat and they are the sun. And though I am now long withered and cold, they are the old flames that warm me in my dreams and sometimes still flicker a little bit of heat in my tired old mind.

–The Wicked Bitch

100 word fiction contest continues…. #100WFC

Little Lady on the Road
by Jeffrey aka JJ Spain
with illustration by Wayfarer

Riding west on 44 out of Rapid, I pulled to the shoulder, parked the Harley to talk to a little girl. She was alone, maybe three years old.

She wasn’t dressed for walking the highway in December weather. She said her name was Abby as I picked her up, opened my jacket and held her close to my body.

I dialed 911. An officer was there in three minutes. A woman in a red Lexus was there in five.

She yelled, “Get your hands off her!”

“Ma’am, have you been drinking?” the officer asked.

Abby began to cry when CPS took her from me.

I did too.

(publication dated 08-January-2024)

* * *

Know past winners and read all entries ever published by visiting:
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/100_Word_Fiction_Contest.aspx

All you gotta do is subscribe to Bikernet’s free weekly newsletter and send in your entry to wayfarer@bikernet.com

If that wasn’t impressive enough, Kelly has earned her spot on the Flying Piston Benefit “Art On Deck” presented by BIG FRIG contest. This breakfast event kicks off Monday, March 4, 2024 at Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson dealership.
Join us as we unravel the mind behind the art, where every stroke tells a story and every color sparks the imagination.

A: I would describe it as a depraved Lowbrow cartoon. It’s improved over the years because of learning how to tattoo has taught me a few things about blending techniques and placement.

A: No, no weed. I have been non-stop partying since October. And, well, I have plenty of shit from Colorado that a buddy gave me and I was thinking about staying dry through January. Then I might switch over to this Colorado shit and see what I come up with.

Q: So, are you saying this is autobiography art? 

 A: Yes.

www.FlyingPistonBenefit.com

https://www.instagram.com/kellycampanile/

As the world seeks cleaner sources of electricity, renewable energy is heralded for not burning fossil fuels to produce energy.

However, wind turbines contain moving parts and they require lubricants to operate at peak performance due to environmental and mechanical pressures.

The amount of oil used by a wind turbine varies greatly depending on the size and type of turbine. A small turbine for powering the home only requires a very small amount of oil, whereas the largest offshore wind turbines regularly need topping up with large amounts of oil and other lubricants to keep them running efficiently.

Proper maintenance including the use of oil ensures the reliability of cost-effective wind energy.

As the fleet of wind turbines ages, many are entering a post-warranty period. This means that equipment repairs are becoming more costly for wind farm owners. Thus, proper maintenance including the use of oil to prevent equipment failure is critical to reduce costs and promote renewable energy production.

Lubrication protects wind turbines from premature wear of many critical parts so they operate at maximum performance for greater productivity. Grease oil and grease are used in the gearbox, pitch gear, open gear, and yaw gear.

Did you know every wind turbine contains 80 gallons of oil?

At the moment, the average wind farm has 150 turbines. Each wind turbine requires 80 gallons of oil for lubrication, and this isn’t vegetable oil; this is a PAO synthetic oil based on crude… 12,000 gallons for one 150-turbine wind farm. Once a year, its oil must be replenished.

To power a city the size of New York, it is estimated that about 3,800 turbines would be required… For just one city, that’s 304,000 gallons of refined oil.

–Edward Rivis
Wind Turbine Magazine

and –Utility Smart

* * *

Just before the end of 2023, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed H.B. 201 into law. The focus of the bill is to; “Prohibit a state agency, county, or township from restricting the sale or use of a motor vehicle based on the energy source used to power the motor vehicle; to prohibit a state agency from adopting the California emissions standards for motor vehicles.”

As you may remember, the Clean Air Act allows states to seek a waiver to enact emission standards outside of those set by the federal government. In 2022, California received a waiver allowing the state to establish guidelines requiring every new car and truck sold there to have zero emissions by 2035. This requirement has set off a debate in state capitals around the country. Some states seek to align with California, while others, like Ohio, are pushing back against California’s plans.

ABATE of Ohio received the support of other groups in support of the bill, including the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Ohio Auto Dealers Association. Ed Schetter, Executive Director of ABATE of Ohio, testified in December, backing the bill. In his remarks, he said, “ABATE of Ohio is concerned with the push towards electric power and pressure to eliminate the internal combustion engine from the marketplace. This may leave many motorcyclists without options on how to power the motorcycles we ride. We also feel this may limit the availability of sales, parts, and service to the motorcyclists of Ohio. Many of these businesses are ones we’ve relied on for years.” After the hearing, lawmakers thanked ABATE of Ohio for their participation. Multiple legislators noted that ABATE of Ohio was the only “citizen-led” group involved in the hearing. Comments like that help reinforce the importance of engagement and participation by citizens in the legislative process.

Remember, the debate on this issue is happening nationally in Washington, D.C., in addition to state legislatures. In 2023 the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1435, a bill to revoke California’s waiver for setting these emission standards. It now awaits action in the Senate, where its companion version, S. 2090 Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act of 2023, has garnered 17 Senate cosponsors.

The MRF would like to congratulate ABATE of Ohio on their victory in defense of the internal combustion engine! Well done!

Ride With The Leaders ™ by joining the MRF at http://mrf.org/ or call (202) 546-0983

* * * *