NCOM Biker News Bytes for April 2020
By Bandit |
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Coalition of Motorcyclists 35th annual NCOM Convention has been rescheduled for the middle of October at the Marriott Indianapolis East (7202 East 21st Street), the same location in Indiana as previously planned.
“At this time, the NCOM board urges you and your families to follow the advice of the health departments and keep yourselves safe,” said James “Doc” Reichenbach II, Chairman of the NCOM Board of Directors, adding that “Losing one person is one too many.”
Stay tuned for further details as NCOM continues to monitor this deadly global outbreak and its impact on the motorcycling community.
Bikers have always had a reputation for watching each other’s backs, and during these trying times the need to band together is even more critical, so know that you can continue to count on the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) and Bikernet.com to keep you informed and up-to-date on a wide range of issues of importance to motorcycling and its associated lifestyle.
Through the monthly NCOM Biker Newsbytes column, the organization will strive to provide timely and accurate information to the riding community, and we encourage all motorcycle publications, websites and internet forums to reprint and share this news source with your readers and fellow concerned riders.
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As the COVID-19 hysteria makes international headlines, the motorcycling world has come to the aid of those in need. Yamaha Motor Manufacturing has donated hundreds of respirators, Tyvek suits, and thousands of gloves and alcohol wipes to a local hospital in Georgia. Other manufacturers are donating PPE, such as Honda and Polaris.
In addition, Honda made an initial $1 million pledge to food banks and meal programs across America, Canada and Mexico, and has repurposed its North American 3-D-printing capabilities to create protective face shields for medical providers.
Polaris, through its foundation, has donated nearly a quarter million dollars in technology to meet the needs of local students in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa to transition to distance learning, and employees have volunteered to work at a local ventilator manufacturing plant.
BMW even went as far as switching to face mask production during the global pandemic.
Kawasaki, which temporarily shut down production, is producing face shields for health care providers, and donated four 55-gallon barrels of chemicals needed for hand sanitizer.
In Italy, small motorcycle manufacturer Benelli has stepped up and donated ventilators and Tyvek suits to the Italian Red Cross, while tire manufacturer Pirelli and its partners donated $800,000 as well as 65 ventilators, 5,000 protective suits, and 20,000 protective masks to help local health care providers.
After being forced to close its doors as a “nonessential business,” road gear company Vanson Leathers in Massachusetts revamped its facilities to produce face masks for local hospitals.
Cycle Gear and parent company Comoto are chipping in with donations of supplies and eyewear for frontline health workers.
Companies aren’t the only ones helping out, as countless motorcyclists around the world are helping out with their time and motorcycles. The owners of a motorcycle riding school in Littleport, England, are offering people in their area to pick up prescriptions and deliver them where needed for free. Similarly, groups of riders in the Italian region of Umbria are helping seniors who can’t leave their home due to the lockdown by picking up their prescriptions and delivering them to their door. In Sudbury, Canada, members of the Warriors MC volunteered to help the Meals on Wheels service by delivering meals to local seniors on a daily basis.
In New York City, a group of motorcyclists collaborated with MasksForDocs.com to distribute personal protective equipment to doctors and hospitals. If you have an old pair of dirt bike/dual-sport, ski/snowboard, or general lab goggles collecting dust somewhere, Goggles for Docs would gladly take them off your hands, and they have over 200 drop-off locations in 35 states as well as Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, Spain and Panama.
Alamo Cycle Plex, a dealership in San Antonio, Texas even donated a new Kawasaki Ninja to a local nurse whose bike was stolen while she was busy fighting against COVID-19.
“When the car business sneezes, motorcycles catch a cold,” is an old saying in the motorcycle industry, so it should come as no surprise that as the Coronavirus pandemic has negatively impacted automobile sales, it has hurt motorcycle sales even worse.
Worldwide, motorcycle sales have plummeted nearly fifty percent, with hard-hit Italy reporting a 69% reduction. In India, one of the world’s strongest bike markets, sales were down some forty percent in the first quarter of 2020, and Q2 numbers portend more dismal numbers as lockdowns and factory shutdowns persist.
China, where the virus started, not only has numerous motorcycle manufacturers who are suffering, but is also home to many parts manufacturers that other companies around the globe rely on to continue building their bikes, causing extreme disruptions to the supply chain.
Here in the U.S., financial analysts forecast the hit to Harley-Davidson sales will be about 25%, according to Reuters. The Milwaukee-based bike maker has suspended production, laid off staff and implemented salary cuts.
Even those motorcycle dealerships that have remained open have reduced hours and staffing and, even worse, are missing out on peak springtime sales.
According to newly revised federal guidelines, powersports employees, in manufacturing, distribution, sales, rentals, and maintenance, are now considered “essential workers.” This clarifies that many powersports businesses nationwide can remain open, thanks to the addition of new language added to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Guidance on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers.
This guidance, which outlines the federal government’s position on essential workers, is currently in use by 33 of the states with stay-at-home orders, and has always listed “automotive repair” employees as essential workers. According to the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), the CISA 3.0 guidance for the transportation sector now expressly includes: “Workers critical to the manufacturing, distribution, sales, rental, leasing, repair, and maintenance of vehicles and other transportation equipment (including electric vehicle charging stations) and the supply chains that enable these operations to facilitate continuity of travel-related operations for essential workers.”
“Stay at home, shelter in place, self-quarantine, and practice social distancing,” are the current buzzwords in response to the Coronavirus worldwide outbreak, but is it okay to just go for a ride? It’s not a simple answer, and may vary between states depending on public mandates in place, but for many the answer is “No.”
For example, Michigan State Police First Lt. Mike Shaw told WWJ News that “One of the biggest questions that we get through our social media is: ‘Does the order allow me to just clear my head by driving around in my car or on my motorcycle?’ — and it does not,” referring to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home” executive order in effect since March 24.
Like many other states, Michiganders are instructed to avoid all unnecessary travel until the order is lifted. “You are supposed to stay at home,” Shaw said. “The reason for that is if you break down, the police are going to have to come out there, the tow truck driver, and you’re making contact with all those people,” Shaw explained. “If you get in a crash we’re gonna have to come out there and police up that crash (not to mention the hospital).”
People are permitted to drive to their jobs, the grocery store or other places they need to be, and police will not be stopping travelers to ask where they’re going, so if your state limits travel to essential needs, you’re of course allowed to ride your motorcycle.
If you do ride, be sure to plan your trip ahead and avoid contact with other people. Pay at the pump with a credit card instead of going inside the gas station. Wear gloves, a full-face helmet or mask. After your ride, clean and disinfect your bike, helmet, gloves, and phone.
On the bright side, the roads are clear and most police officers won’t be pulling people over for minor traffic infractions, or going a couple of miles over the speed limit.
Travelers have myriad other things to worry about, thanks to the COVID-19 virus, but federally compliant driver’s licenses are not among them for now.
Real ID is the federally compliant driver’s license that was, until recently, supposed to be required for boarding a domestic flight beginning October 1st (if you didn’t use some other form of acceptable identification, such as a passport), but is now postponed until Oct. 1, 2021.
The desire for a more secure form of identification is based on legislation that became law in 2005, on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.
Idaho Governor Brad Little (R) signed SB1292 into law on March 26, 2020, making Idaho the fourth state to pass legislation to “provide that law enforcement shall not engage in motorcycle profiling,” and now joins the states of Washington, Maryland and Louisiana.
The bipartisan measure, pushed by Rep. Robert Anderst (R-Nampa) for the past three years to forbid “motorcycle profiling” by police — deciding to pull someone over or arrest or search them solely because they’re riding a motorcycle or wearing motorcycle gear — handily passed the Senate by a vote of 25-9 on February 26, and then 38-29 in the House on March 18.
As they have for the past two years, motorcycling enthusiasts and members of motorcycle groups turned out in big numbers to testify in favor of the bill, saying they’ve been profiled by law enforcement officers when they were abiding by all laws.
“This is not an anti-law enforcement bill,” Rep. Anderst told the legislature. Instead, he said the process has helped improve the relationship between law enforcement and motorcyclists.
~ Lenny Bruce (1925-1966), comedian and social critic
BIKERNET BIKE BUILDER OF THE MONTH
By Bandit |
This is a kick-off piece. For years I attended every show in the country and met all the old and new builders. As my travel budget decreased and my desire to work in the shop and go to Bonneville increased, I missed out on some of the shows and the chance to meet new builders.
With the help of Michael Lichter, we are going to introduce Bikernet Readers to new, young, less well-known builders. The first one is Cole Rogers, from Lebanon, Ohio, who is 46 and has been building bikes since he was 15, when his brother scored a 1972 BSA A-70L for $300, 750 Lightening. There were only 201 built.
The big bro rode it home and broke it. The five-year-older brother told Cole, “If you can get it running, you can ride it.” Cole peeled to the library, checked out a manual and went to work. His dad was a molecular physicist. He was familiar with libraries. His dad worked for the government during the Cold War, but he was cool, hands-on, did everything including mechanics, repairs and woodworking.
Until his dad passed, they continued to keep gramps ’59 Corvette up and running together.
Cole fixed the BSA and went for a ride. Done deal, he’s been messing with motorcycles ever since, builds one-off ground-up scooters for customers and has a significant product line. He built one of his first bikes with his pops, a Triumph. When Michael Lichter contacted him about a build for one of his Sturgis exhibits, Cole reworked the Triumph as a tribute to his dad. It’s featured below.
He builds his own frames, two styles of front ends, foot controls, bars, seat pans and handles the leather engraving. “I don’t paint or powder coat,” Cole added, “But I do lace and true wheels.”
Hell, he’s building a base guitar and working with his 10-year-old daughter, who is already playing more than one instrument.
Although most of his bikes contain the wild classic board track style, he builds them to fit his customers and they are rideable, agile and fun, not art objects. He builds a series of custom foot controls from forward, to mid, to semi-mid. His frame geometry stays under 36 degrees of rake. He drops the neck but keeps the handling clean. He uses .188 wall tubing, like Paughco for his frames and designed his first girder front end with the help of his dad. He doesn’t stretch the rear of frames to keep the handling tight and agile.
“Cole is a great hard-working builder, who’s work I have admired for a lot of years,” said Michael Lichter. “He has always built small tight bikes. It’s his style. He also sells his unique front end and other parts.”
His line-up of parts includes two front ends, a springer and a girder, seats and seat pans, gas tanks, oil tanks, gas and oil tank caps, foot pegs, handlebars, frames, and now he’s working on jockey shift systems for Sportsters.
“He is a real family guy, so proud of his daughter who he is very involved with, and his wife is super cool,” said Michael, “She has a high-powered position with a pharmaceuticals company. She used to bring me bottles of Tylenol and other over the counter drugs, and she bakes great cookies!”
Cole is a big fan of Evo Sportsters for his style of bike. “They make a terrific, low-buck drivetrains for a sharp scooters,” Cole said. He also rebuilds and carefully balances all of his customer’s engines to minimize vibration and make for a much smoother ride.
“I have photographed ten of Cole’s bikes, but only five of those are on our current website,” said Michael.
Cole is a sharp guy, who could do anything, but chose to build and ride custom motorcycles. I dig it, and I need to start a story, sorta like we studied the Code of the West and what it meant for various brothers. We need to discuss the reasons why a brother decides to become a biker, but even more. Why does a guy decide to be a biker and try to make a life in this dinky little industry full of outlaws and pitfalls? I know what it means to me, but what will happen if I try to put it into words?
Check out Cole’s bikes and hang on for the next builder report.
Description: Rocket to Russia is Cole Rogers’ tribute to his late father who was a physicist in rocket technology. The 1970 Triumph engine is sitting in a custom frame built by Cole at his shop 138 Cycle Fabrication.
Description: “Sid”, built from a 1970 Bonneville Triumph by Cole Rogers of 138 Cycle Fabrications in Lebanon, OH.
Description: A brown, board track style Shovelhead built by Cole Rogers of 138 Cycle Fabrication in Springboro, OH.
Description: 138 Cycle Fabrication’s “Simon” 1970 custom Triumph by Cole Rogers.
Description: Cole Roger’s1972 Harley-Davidson 94″ FX known as “The Cafe Killer.”
Photographed by Michael Lichter on February 6, 2014 in Columbus, Ohio.
Cole Rogers
138 Cycle Fabrication
7569 Woodbridge Ct.
mobile (937) 478-2558
cole@138cyclefabrication.com
Instagram – @138cyclefab
The Different Types of Motorcycle Shipping Carriers
By Bandit |
A professional and reliable team of full-service movers can certainly make your life easier and make moving less of a nightmare. But what about your special items that require extra care and professional approach? Say, your vintage piano…or your motorcycle? Fortunately, there are plenty of shipping carriers that specialize in proper handling and transportation of items of every kind. You can find some of the basics in this 2016 piece, but keep reading for a more in-depth look.
In this article, we are going to look at different types of motorcycle shipping methods and carriers to help you better understand the process and your options. It is often said that the difficulty and cost of transporting a motorcycle makes it more practical to just ride it to a new place, rather than shipping it there. However, professional shipping companies that can handle specialized motorbike delivery might actually save you money and headache if you count all the potential damage and expenses such as packing, feeding, and gas.
Besides, if you own a vintage vehicle riding cross-country with little to no breaks might not be an option for you, considering how much mileage it may add to the odometer. Motorcycle shipping is a common service, thanks to the increasing demand. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the number of registered motorcycles in the United States has been exponentially increasing each of the past 10 years and relocation is the most common reason to transport the vehicle. While it is generally similar to shipping a car, it is certainly best to work with companies who have special expertise and experience.
What are the Different Types of Motorcycle Shipping?
First, think about how you want to ship your motorcycle. Do you prefer air freight, ground or ocean shipping? The latter would be the most economical but also the slowest. Take your budget, distance, and delivery timeframe into consideration. Specify your method when asking for a quote as this will determine the amount.
● Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: this is a perfect option for riders looking to save a buck, especially if riding a bike to a terminal for drop-off and picking it up from one, which might be a little out of the way, is not an issue. Just confirm with the carrier there are terminals in both areas.
● Door-to-Door Shipping: this is a popular option and is readily offered by shipping companies at discounted rates. Similarly, just confirm exact collection and delivery locations with the agency beforehand as there is always a chance that shippers may not be able to drop off or deliver at certain places, in which case, it might cost more to arrange additional transport.
● Enclosed Trailers: this is the safest way to ship your bike, ensuring maximum protection from damage and theft thanks to its shock-reducing soft-tie strapping system. It is, for this reason, also the most costly. It is an ultimate option for shipping vehicles long distance, especially highly expensive and vintage ones. Some companies can pack and ship more than one bikes together in an enclosed trailer.
● Open Trailers: also known as Open Air. If your motorbike is not expensive or fragile and the distance is quite short, then this is a good option. That is because motorcycles are attached to a flatbed truck or a tow trailer and, unlike the enclosed trailer, an open one does not have sides or a roof which leaves vehicles exposed to weather and other exterior conditions; hence, a much lower price.
● Crate Shipping: this is a popular option that ensures the safety and protection of your vehicle from any wear and tear. A bike is attached to a pallet and secured in a wooden crate before it is loaded on a truck. It is important to keep in mind that extra preparation is required for this kind of shipping. For example, batteries need to be removed and fluids must be drained.
When choosing a motorcycle shipping carrier take different factors into consideration to make a weighted decision that is right for your situation. These include:
● Delivery timeframe and dates: do you have a specific deadline in mind?
● Weather conditions and season: inclement weather may call for more protection from rocks, rain, or snow, while off-season shipping may significantly reduce fees.
● Distance: the longer the distance, the more protection you’ll need.
● Motorcycle type: vehicles that are highly expensive, vintage, or fragile would be safer in enclosed carriers, properly strapped and shielded from external elements.
Dimensions and weight, shipping method, distance, and pick-up and delivery locations are all determining factors when it comes to price. But each company can quote different amounts and while many customers might consider this the most important item in determining a carrier, choosing a reliable shipping company is extremely important and there are many other facts to consider.
● Motorcycle Shipment. Although it may be tempting to hire a generic vehicle transportation company, it’s worthwhile choosing one with proper experience and expertise in motorbike shipping specifically. Reputable companies like A-1 Auto Transport offer such services and are capable of accommodating virtually any motorcycle shipping requests domestically and internationally.
● License and Insurance. Review and choose a company with proper insurance coverage and liability. Per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration order all motorcycle shipping agencies need to carry a license which they should be able to provide a copy of upon request.
● DOT Registration. All vehicles and carriers are mandated to be registered with the Department of Transportation which issues them a DOT and MC numbers. Narrow down your options to companies that carry the required licensing as they would have the necessary quality and reliability.
● Communicate with carriers. Once you’ve identified your type of shipping, talk to companies and ask them questions. For example, ask about their delivery procedures, payment, specific policies and so on. Familiarize yourself with any details and issues before booking.
In Conclusion
Shipping a motorcycle is a lot more commonplace than you might think and thousands of people do it annually. Trustworthy companies with relevant experience and knowledge will make it less of a daunting task so you can focus on other aspects of your move.
Make sure you dig into the available resources on the topic of motorcycle shipping to inform and prepare yourself and your vehicle, review your options, plan ahead, and let carriers take care of the rest.
Weekly Dimebag Chopper Feature
By Bandit |
Adam Croft was kind enough to send us this very tough looking classic chopper built by Dan Starkey & Friends. Every custom aspect reminds us of open roads and the freedom to build something super cool for the summer ahead.
Check the spec sheet, lots of the coolest parts. Connect with @dimebag.leather in Instagram and watch it grow and grow. Also connect with the builders. You can find @danstarkey on Instagram and Facebook.
Motorcycles With Car Engines: A Brief History of Two-Wheeled Absurdity
By Bandit |
We don’t generally cover motorcycles, but we’re going to make an exception for these bikes since they feature car engines. Not powerplants that are cut-down or derived from an automotive application—no, these are quite literally car engines shoehorned into motorcycle frames with varying degrees of success and ergonomics.
To make this list, the resulting car-hearted bike needs to have been a streetable production model, although some were series production and some were conversions or customs built in bulk. There are plenty of one-offs out there with even wilder engines than these, but we’re using this criteria to pare things down. And that means that the wild and wickedly cool Dodge Tomahawk concept, perhaps the most famous car-engined bike around, gets a nod here in the intro but won’t be found below. It’s memorable but not streetable.
EVA Track T800-CDi
Who would have guessed that the European Smart ForTwo’s minuscule turbodiesel engine—at the time, the world’s smallest direct-injection diesel engine—would ever find its way into a motorcycle? But that’s exactly what the Dutch producer of the Track T800-CDi did for a few years. It was a big, adventure-style bike with lots of torque (89 lb-ft), although curiously it was only available with a CVT.
For the adventure-bike set, this could have been a game-changer, offering stupendous fuel economy and taking advantage of the easy availability of diesel in the hinterlands. Maybe someone will revive the concept with a similar engine.
Boss Hoss
If a 117-cubic-inch Harley Davidson V-twin isn’t enough motor for you, the folks at Boss Hoss will shoehorn a 350-cube V-8 into a frame of their own design to create what has to be one of the largest production bikes ever. The “standard” model has an incredible 80-inch wheelbase and a choice of three incredibly powerful engines: a 445-hp GM LS3, a 430-hp 383 Stroker, or a 454 small-block good for 563 horsepower. All are equipped with a two-speed automatic transmission. And they’re no lightweights, generally weighing between 1,100 and 1,300 pounds depending on exact spec. But they’re not bodge jobs, for sure—these are well-made, well-finished machines. Why is Ozzy Osbourne sitting on one? No idea. Must be a Boss Hoss thing.
Münch Mammut
It wasn’t the first bike with a car engine, but the Münch Mammut made a massive impression when it was revealed to the world in the mid-1960s. Emphasis on massive—while its 996-cubic-centimeter NSU engine, derived from the Prinz 1000, wouldn’t raise an eyebrow today, it was outrageous back then. That wasn’t the end of its wild equipment list: a huge 10-inch drum was laced into the front wheel, while in the back a cast magnesium wheel held an integral drum. The bike used a lot of magnesium for weight savings—in total, it weighed about 480 pounds and with 55 horsepower on tap could reach 115 mph on a good day. If there was a downside, it was that the bikes were massively expensive, starting at nearly $4,000 in 1966 dollars. That was several times the cost of an average car. Think of the Mammut as the Bugatti Veyron of 1960s bikes and you won’t be too far off. There was a short-lived attempt at a revival circa 2000, called the Mammut 2000 and utilizing a Cosworth-modified 2.0-liter engine that was turbocharged for extra measure. That’s what you’re looking at on top of this article. A handful were made before the project was shut down.
Sabertooth Motorcycles
Now apparently defunct, in the early 2010s Sabertooth would build you a cruiser with a Ford V-8, creating in some respects a FoMoCo fan’s equivalent to the more established Boss Hoss. Several models were available, from the basic WildCat with a Ford Racing 302 all the way up to the improbable TurboCat, featuring a twin-turbocharged Ford Modular 4.6 V-8 good for a claimed 600 horsepower through a 330-mm-wide rear tire. Like the Boss Hoss, these were big machines that clocked in at 1,000 pounds or more, while they also featured two-speed manual transmissions. (A four-speed automatic was in the works at one point.) Too big to fail? Apparently not.
Olson’s Flathead V-8 Motorcycles
Dale Olson’s creations are more custom than the other factory-built creations on this list, but we thought they were too cool to exclude. Olson fits Ford Flathead V-8s into modified frames. He’s even built a bike housing a classic Lincoln-Zephyr flathead V-12, which you can see and hear above. Olson is apparently still building bikes, and if you’re interested you can check out his Facebook page here.
Van Veen OCR1000
Many automakers and even a few motorcycle manufacturers got excited about the Wankel rotary—just as reliability issues and a succession of oil crises sank most of the attempts. Companies as diverse as Norton and Suzuki fielded rotary bikes, and Van Veen’s was perhaps even more obscure. The Dutch company had previously imported Kriedler motorcycles, but the OCR 1000 was a mostly in-house affair.
The motor, however, was sourced from the ambitious but doomed Comotor project, a joint venture of rotary pioneer NSU and Citroën. Van Veen didn’t have the resources to solve any of the Comotor’s issues. The bike, also, was heavy and thirsty, and shockingly expensive. Less than 50 were built in total.
Brough Superior Austin Four
Between the World Wars, there was perhaps no finer maker of motorcycles than the Brough Superior. George Brough was, you might say, the Ettore Bugatti of British bikes. And the BS4 was his Bugatti Royale. The engine was a small inline four-cylinder pulled from the tiny, affordable, and decidedly non-luxurious Austin 7—think of it as the Model T of the U.K. But its engine was compact and readily available, a 696-cc sidevalve engine. Brough retained the Austin gearbox, which meant the driveline was very long. The ingenious solution was to give it split rear wheels with the shaft-drive terminating in between them at a bevel drive hub. Not only was this bike car-engined, it was also a dually.
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NEW INDIAN CRUZ TOOL KIT MEETS BANDIT’S DAYROLL
By Bandit |
Okay, as we all know tool kits are terrific presents for any biker. They are everywhere, in fact, the other day I was digging around and found a flashlight setting on a shelf. No big deal, right? This damn flashlight was six inches tall and the last two inches were devoted to tools like a massive Swiss Army knife with fold-out blades, screwdrivers, scissors, you name it.
As much as my first reaction was to keep it along with all the other Swiss Army knife knock-offs I have, I tossed it. It’s been setting on that shelf for a decade and I’m moving to Deadwood. Gotta get rid of shit.
Wow, my mind is spinning this morning of moving, the Sturgis Rally 2020, Pandemic, Panhead and Redheads. I’m also conflicted about a couple of things. Bikernet has always been about the fun of being a biker. We’ve been discussing writing a manifesto about what it is to be a biker (I’m open to suggestions and alternate reports). For a while we studied the Code of the West and covered it on Bikernet.
So, our bit has always been about the fun, the freedom, the party, the girls and building cool shit. It’s so interesting the varied notions, but we are staying true to the Bikernet Way, screw the corporate giants who don’t like us. We’re all about having fun, freedom and sex.
Bottom line, I hope Cruz Tools gets it. Okay, let’s get to the nuts and bolts and the curves of this story. I’ve had a thousand tool sets over the years. I just started a canvas tool roll for Dr. Hamster’s Pandemic Panhead project. We should all carry tools, but it’s not always easy or convenient on a custom motorcycle.
My 2014 Indian classic has a very small tool pouch under one of the clip-on side panels. It contains limited tools and that’s against the code, especially for long runs. For the run to Sturgis, I often carry a spare quart of oil. Indians use one oil for all applications, the engine, primary and transmission.
I usually try to carry a can of fix-a-flat, which can be a lifesaver. And the tool kit is a must. When I received this particular kit I was blown away. It’s a very distinctive set of tools, specifically designed to cover almost any work project on an Indian and of course all of these tools are metric.
This is a 2.0 Cruz Tool Kit designed specifically for new Polaris built Indians, which are amazing bikes. The tools in this kit include classics like baling wire, ty-wraps and duct tape, amazing.
It also contains two specific 27 by 22 by 14 mm axle wrenches and a special tool adapter for the front axle.
It contains a standard adjustable wrench and vice grips. It also contains an Indian mono-shock adjustment spanner wrench.
Of course, it contains a multi-head Phillips and flat blade screwdriver, a motorcycle tire gauge and a set of Torx wrenches for Indian body fasteners.
It also comes with a set of metric Allen wrenches for all the socket head fasteners on an Indian.
This puppy also contains sockets, a ratchet and an extension. It’s one of the most complete, well-thought-out, quality kits I’ve ever run across. Here’s a short bit about the company:
After more than twenty years of providing tools for powersports, musicians, and pilots we’ve split CruzTOOLS into two companies. CruzTOOLS will continue to serve the Powersports market; meanwhile musician and pilot tools have been spun off as GrooveTech Tools. Both are led by enthusiasts who are passionate about what they do. Click on Powersports for CruzTOOLS products, and either Musicians or Pilots to be redirected to GrooveTech Tools. 
Okay, so I might suggest one of those right-hand screwdriver tools, for hard to reach screws (I discovered one in the stock kit). I might also try to carry a pair of needle-nose pliers with wire cutters.
I could have left the Cruz set in its handy carrying case, but we sell Bandit’s Bedrolls and Dayrolls, with the tool flap incorporated, so I shifted this set of tools into our system and it worked like a champ.
Now, I feel completely secure to ride across the country on my Indian knowing I’m equipped to meet almost any roadside mechanical need. Just as long as I can reach the Redhead’s apartment before midnight.
Ride Fast and Free, Forever!
–Bandit
TEXAS EVENT COVID-FREE
By Bandit |
Leaving Willis this Sunday morning after online church. It was still a bit damp from the early morning rain. While it stayed cloudy most of the way down I-45 to the 99 toll road, I couldn’t resist heading to the Destroyer Garage Swap Meet. I couldn’t resist my first Covid escape.
Upon my arrival the skies parted & the sun began to heat up my multiple layers, including my 5-Ball vest! (My only complaint with my vest is it needs some sort of pocket inventory system. I’m sure I’m still missing half a samich & a small bottle of Jack in one of the 32 pockets).
There was already a good crowd on hand, even with the opening rain parade.
I originally met Eric and family at one of Greg Hale owner of MC Creations swap meets and began following his shop on Instagram. He’s building some sharp and essential bikes over by the beltway, but today was my first opportunity to check out his shop.
There was a very clean and classic black (my favorite color) Shovelhead up on one of the tables and various other projects displayed around his area. He’s also a dealer for Chopper Hauss products a local Texas based company with some Texas pride products and some cool Dyna & FXR stuff!
I’m for sure interested in the highway peg/front motor mount combo! You might also check out the CH Selfie stick rear pegs, could be handy for pointing out the location of the side view mirrors to oblivious drivers? I even found a ride for the 14-month-old grandson!
As I left, I passed more folks making their way over to look for bargains, spend time with friends and check out some cool rides and enjoy the spring like 86-degree temps! Probably should have rod the Shovelhead!
–RFR
https://www.destroyergarage.com
https://www.chopperhauss.net
NAMZ THROTTLE BY WIRE TECH TIP
By Bandit |
Editor’s Note: Us old school guys need to know about this new shit. It’s not that new anymore, but what the hell, we need to know the does and don’ts and where we can find solutions. More and more I find myself helping guys with newer bikes, and I’m intrigued by the new M-8 configuration, since it slipped back in the direction of the EVO.
Here’s a quote from a builder recently who said, “Evos were capable of any horsepower we could get from a Twin Cam, but the price of modifying Twin Cams is high. Now you can get double the power of an Evo with a 117-inch M-8 and the cost isn’t so high.” He recently built a 117 from a 107 and got 145 Horsepower and 133 pounds of torque. Incredible. We hope to bring you more M-8 performance techs in the near future.
Thanks to the guys at NAMZ we can understand how the Throttle-by-Wire system works.–Bandit
Q. Should I cut and soldier my Throttle-By-Wire harness
when I install taller bars onto my “throttle-by-wire” bike?
A. From the desk of Marty Norris, Sales & Marketing Manager, I know what you are thinking, this guy again! (Don’t worry if all goes as planned, Steve will back by the time the next newsletter comes out.)
The subject of to cut or not to cut the throttle-by-wire harness has led to great debate, since it was introduced by Harley in 2008. To help you decide the risk here brief overview of how the Fly-By-Wire system works.
Anytime you cut a wire and solder it you change the characteristics of the energy flow or signal that travels thru it. So, if your soldering skills are not spot on this may leave you in limp mode (not the type a little blue pill will fix either.) Save yourself the hassle worry, NAMZ “Makes it easy to do it right the first time” offering you plug and play harness throttle by wire extensions form 2008 to current model year that will save you time and money. For more information check out www.namzccp.com.
If you thought about changing your handlebars on your 2008 Bagger, you’ll need one of our Throttle-by-Wire Extension Harness Kits. It’s not that easy anymore with the introduction of throttle-by-wire. There may not be throttle cables to deal with but it can become a wiring headache, but not anymore with the introduction of this kit!
Our Throttle-by-Wire Extension Harness Kits have been tested and designed by our engineers to work perfectly WITHOUT causing any harm or interference to the motorcycles computer. *NOTE, extensions MUST be used on ALL CVO & Screaming Eagle models due to the hard-wired twist grip assembly.
Our NEW Throttle-by-Wire “Plug-n-Play” wiring harness is a no brainer when adding taller handlebars. Longer than stock, one size fits ALL handlebars, simply remove OEM harness, plug ours in. Comes complete with OEM connectors. *NOTE, will NOT fit CVO or Screaming Eagle models.
They carry 4, 8, 12 and 15-inch extensions for Softail and Bagger models ’16 and up.
They carry 4, 8, 12, and 15-inch extension for ’04-’14 FL models.
Some they don’t carry versions for CVO or SE models. Check their web site for more info and kits.
NCOM Biker Newsbytes May 2020
By Bandit |
RIDING BACK FROM COVID-19
All 50 states are now in various stages of reopening, and along with restrictions being lifted and the COVID-19 curve flattening, hopes for more normalcy are high; and none higher than amongst the motorcycling community.
Most industries have been hit hard by the global pandemic, and motorcycle sales and production have been among the most impacted, with factories shut down, dealerships closed, events cancelled or postponed, and even ridership restricted in many parts of the world.
Around the globe, motorcycle manufacturers and the supply chain are reopening production, shops and dealerships are doing business within certain constraints, and bikers are realizing a late-Spring bloom amid the gloom.
Harley-Davidson is reopening its U.S. factories in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania and will accelerate production in phases, launching a new five-year strategic plan to revive sales.
Looking forward, the landscape is changing, as major events are planning comebacks. Americade in Lake George, NY, after much deliberation, has decided to move their dates from June to July 21-25. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s spring Bike Week and Atlantic Beach Bikefest have been postponed, with Horry County leaders giving their blessing to a July motorcycle rally date. Laconia Motorcycle Week, America’s “Oldest Running Motorcycle Rally,” has officially postponed their 97th annual event in Weirs Beach, NH, to August 22-30, following a unanimous decision by their city council. The 80th annual Sturgis Rally in South Dakota is still on track for August 7-15 as experts predict COVID-19 will have peaked and continue into decline before the end of the summer.
Speaking of ‘track’, the MotoGP World Championship racing calendar is expected to drop the checkered flag in July, adapting to a new format of hosting motorsports events with minimal staff and without spectators, while employing social distancing where possible.
ILLINOIS BIKER BAR FIGHTS TO REMAIN OPEN UNDER CORONAVIRUS ORDERS
A popular 24-year old biker bar near Rockford, IL has had enough with Illinois’ stay-at-home order, and has decided to sue Governor JB Pritzker, claiming his executive orders are unlawful.
Like many businesses, Poopy’s Pub & Grub is feeling the economic sting of the pandemic, and after being shut down by local authorities when bikers began congregating on his property this spring while ordering curbside service, owner Kevin Promenschenkel hired a lawyer to make a legal run at the governor’s executive order.
Specifics of the lawsuit, shared by Northwest Herald (nwherald.com) assert that “…he (Governor Pritzker) lacks the statutory authority to issue executive orders putting restrictions on businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and therefore a cease-and-desist order issued to the biker bar as a result of such an order should be voided.”
In addition, only the Carroll County Health Department, acting through the Illinois Department of Public Health, has the “supreme authority” vested by the constitution to shut a business down for health code violations, and it has not done so, according to the suit filed in Carroll County Circuit Court.
TRAFFIC FATALITIES DECREASE FOR THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) early estimates of 2019 Motor Vehicle Traffic Data show reduced fatalities for the third consecutive year. According to preliminary estimates for the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 2019 data on highway crashes demonstrate a continued decline in traffic fatalities. The nation saw a decline in traffic deaths during 2018 and 2017, and these newest estimates suggest a continuing decline in traffic-related deaths.
“Safety is our top priority so this report that traffic fatalities appear to have decreased again for the third year is great news,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.
Fatalities decreased in most major traffic safety categories:
Drivers (down 3%)
Passengers (down 4%)
Motorcyclists (down 1%)
Pedestrians (down 2%)
Pedalcyclists (down 3%)
A statistical projection of traffic fatalities for 2019 shows that an estimated 36,120 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes, representing an estimated decrease of about 440 (down 1.2%) from the reported 36,560 fatalities in 2018, even though Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) increased by 0.9%. As a result, the fatality rate for 2019 was 1.10 fatalities per 100 million VMT, down from 1.13 fatalities per 100 million VMT in 2018. If these estimates are reflected in the final data, the fatality rate per 100 million VMT would be the second lowest since NHTSA started recording fatal crash data.
IN-CAR INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS MORE DANGEROUS THAN TEXTING OR ALCOHOL
For a few years now, most new cars have come with high-tech, flashy infotainment systems that can control everything from the stereo, air conditioning, and even seating position, but a recent European study has determined that car infotainment systems can be as detrimental to a driver’s reaction times as texting, alcohol and even cannabis are.
Among the results, IAM RoadSmart found that motorway stopping distances were increased by between four and five car lengths when the driver was using infotainment systems. The study also found that drivers took their eyes off the road for as long as 16 seconds while driving (equivalent to a distance of nearly 550 yards at 70 mph), while using the touch-controlled systems — results that are even worse than texting at the wheel.
Among the key findings from the report;
– Controlling the vehicle’s position in the lane and speed suffered significantly when participants failed to react to stimulus on the road ahead.
– Reaction times were slower when selecting music through Spotify while using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
– Drivers would take their eyes off the road for longer than 12 seconds.
– Participants underestimated time spent looking away from the road, by as much as 5 seconds.
“We’re now calling on industry and government to openly test and approve such systems and develop consistent standards that genuinely help minimize driver distraction,” said Neil Greig, policy and research director at IAM RoadSmart. “Anything that distracts a driver’s eyes or mind from the road is bad news for road safety.”
HONDA PATENTS EXTERNAL AIRBAGS FOR CARS
While external airbags are not a new idea in the automotive industry, the new system patented by Honda is smarter than just an airbag mounted to the front of a car, and could cut injury rates for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycle riders.
Instead of having just one airbag that deploys automatically in the event of an accident, the new system scans the road looking for a potential hazard. Once located, the system actually measures the target, determining the size, shape, and location in order to deploy the appropriate airbag at the proper pressure for each scenario. For instance, if a large target is detected, the largest airbag will fire and the bonnet of the car will raise slightly and move backwards, an action designed to help catch the person, rather than bouncing them over the roof of the car. If a smaller person or child is detected, the airbag deploys at a lower pressure to keep them from bouncing off the car and onto the ground or into traffic.
For motorcyclists, the Honda airbag system could help in certain situations, and ultimately the extra crash protection for us and other vulnerable road users can only be a good thing.
WASHINGTON STATE EXPANDS PROTECTIONS FOR “VULNERABLE ROAD USERS”
A new law in Washington protects pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists and other “vulnerable roadway users” from careless motorists who cause serious injury or death.
Senate Bill 6045: “Concerning vulnerable users of a public way,” was passed unanimously by the state legislature (45-0 in the Senate on Feb 12, and 97-0 in the House on Mar 6) and signed into law on March 25 by Governor Jay Inslee (D), becoming effective June 11, 2020. If convicted, a negligent driver could face penalties up to $5,000 in fines and have their driving privileges suspended for ninety days.
SOUTH DAKOTA CLARIFIES CONCEALED CARRY OF FIREARMS ON MOTORCYCLES
When the state legislature in 2019 passed its concealed carry reform, often referred to as “Constitutional Carry,” making it legal for every South Dakotan eligible to own a firearm to keep it concealed without a permit, it didn’t apply that right to motorcycle riders, snowmobilers and ATV riders. So, this legislative session, state senators and representatives are addressing that oversight to make it clear that motorcyclists can conceal firearms while riding in South Dakota.
“It was brought to our attention that people on motorcycles were having a little trouble with the definitions of law and whether they were allowed to carry concealed,” Rep. Thomas Brunner, (R-Nisland), a sponsor of the measure, testified in support of HB 1094. “Certainly, our intent wasn’t that once you get on a motorcycle, snowmobile or four-wheeler that the law changes.”
The legislation went on to pass both chambers overwhelmingly (64-4 in the House and 33-2 in the Senate) with the backing of the influential motorcycle lobby group ABATE of South Dakota (A Brotherhood for Awareness, Training and Education), and was signed by Governor Kristi Noem (R) on March 25, 2020.
Dianna Miller, representing ABATE, said left in the state statute, despite passage of last year’s concealed carry legislation, are two provisions that restrict possession of firearms on motorcycles and off-road vehicles. That caused confusion for law enforcement and motorcycle riders, especially during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, she said.
‘NAKED RIDER’ SPURS ATTIRE RULE
A “naked rider” wearing only a helmet and briefs was apprehended by local authorities in metro Manila, Philippines, and for two seconds enjoyed social media fame, which has prompted authorities to revisit an “attire rule” requiring all motorcycle riders to wear heavy/padded jackets and riding pants as it would be safer to ride wearing all the riding gear.
Last year, during a press briefing, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Jojo Garcia told reporters that the agency is looking to penalize motorcycle riders, including pillions (passengers), who wear shorts when riding their motorcycles.
The MMDA GM also said that their office met with their counterparts in the LTO (government) to recommend the creation of laws and policies concerning the proper attire for motorcycle riders; “Protective devices shall include: helmets, goggles, leather boots, and protective clothing such as heavy pants, heavy jacket, leather gloves, and rain suit” added GM Garcia.
Local motorcycle groups do not agree with the proposed rule, citing that with the hot, humid tropical weather in the Philippines, requiring motorcycle riders, especially in congested traffic conditions, to wear heavy jackets and pants may do more harm than good.
So far, the laws of the land concerning proper attire for motorcycle riders require only: a standard helmet and closed-toe shoes, but it’s important to note that sometimes stupid is as stupid does, and inappropriate actions such as motorcycling in your skivvies can invite unwanted and unnecessary attention.
NCOM CONVENTION — MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
The 35th annual NCOM Convention in Indianapolis, originally planned for Mother’s Day weekend at the Marriott Indianapolis East (7202 East 21st Street), has been rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic to October 16-17, 2020 at the same location, so SAVE THE DATE and make your plans now to attend one of the largest and most informative bikers’ rights gatherings in the world. More information to follow…
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “America has never been perfect. Freedom never is.”
~ Howard Kurtz (b. 1953), host of Fox News “#Media Buzz”
SportBike Chic Kevlar Jeans Review
By Bandit |
Although I have been riding motorcycles for years, it has only been in the last few years that I have really wanted a pair of Kevlar riding jeans. Two things have kept me from buying a pair; cost and sizing.
Not having a brick and mortar store that allowed me to try on a pair, kept me from ordering a pair online not knowing if they would fit or not. Now, I can tell the world about an awesome pair of Kevlar jeans made by a woman rider to help other women riders be safe and look great while doing it, at a very reasonable price.
SportBike Chic was launched in 2016 by U.S. Marine veteran and motorcycle enthusiast, LaShundra Rucker. I got a pair of the riding jeans and I absolutely LOVE them!
I am not easily impressed but I think any woman would love to have a pair of these jeans to ride in, whether you ride a sport bike or a cruiser. The jeans are a mid-rise, traditional five pocket jean design with a skinny fit. The front of the jeans have super deep pockets to keep your items safe while riding. The pants come with a strong YKK zipper and large belt loops. The denim is super soft and boasts a very attractive medium wash.
The SportBike Chic jeans weigh 11.5 ounces and are lined with 100% Kevlar® for added protection. They are made of 98% cotton and 2% elastane spandex that allows them to be flexible while riding. The Kevlar® lining begins at the waist and reaches well past the knees on the front of the jeans and covers the back of the thighs with an additional section on the outer calves.
The jeans have large cotton pockets inside with Velcro to attach the CE level 1 knee and hip armor that is included with each pair. In my opinion, the stitching on the outside of the jeans where the Kevlar® starts and ends add a very attractive detail to the jeans.
These jeans are not only AMAZING but are priced very affordable at just $117.58! The first day I wore the jeans riding my Panhead, it was 58 degrees, and I never got cold. The next time I wore them while riding my Knucklehead it was 90 degrees, and I never once got hot.
The trip on the Knuckle also included stopping at a chili supper where I spent a considerable amount of time off the bike. Both bikes have a different riding position, but the extra lip built into the rear of the jeans kept me from getting drafty in the back while also showing no skin.
The sizing is spot on as I am 5’10”, weighing 175 pounds, with a size 8 fitting perfect! If you follow the size chart and do your measurements, you can ensure a great fitting pair of jeans. A welcome feature for many women is the fact that these jeans are available in sizes 0 to 20.
I love the fact that the jeans look as good off the bike as they do on. No one thinks I am wearing motorcycle specific jeans when I am sporting these off the bike. I am in love with how they are so comfortable and non-restrictive. All of my bikes have open belt primaries, so I wear gaiters to protect my legs. With these having a skinny leg, I have no problem fitting my gaiters over them.
If you are a lady rider looking for protection, style and comfort in a riding jean, look no further. These jeans are budget friendly, well fitting, and attractive.
Check out all of SportBike Chic’s products here-http://lddy.no/g4su
–Chris Gibbany
Moto-journalist/Event host/Bike builder
