It’s incredible how life twists and turns, but now we’re in the fast lane and of course the Redhead contributed. She’s the manager of a marina in the LA Port ghetto and comes across interesting characters, who end up living on boats for one reason or another. Part of her job is to interview and access whether the new entrant is capable of living on a swaying sailboat and capable of paying the bills. There’s a rule in most marinas. Only 10 percent of the customers are allowed to live on their boats and there’s an additional fee for live-aboard status. Read more.

March 27, 2009

The Honorable Fran Pavley
State Senator 23rd District
The Capitol
Room Nº 4035
Sacramento, California 95814

Dear Senator Pavley,

My letter pertains to SB 435 and what was characterized on your Web site as a loophole in California law, singling out motorcycles for further emission regulation and enforcement. If this bill passes, well, many motorcycles probably will not.

Is that necessary? Practically everyone who rides a motorcycle has an abiding respect for ecological issues. It’s as much a matter of self interest for riders as it is for everyone; perhaps more so because one of the joys of riding is to inhale the myriad scents in the air as they change continually with passing landscapes. There is no comparable experience for hermetically cocooned and air- conditioned automobile drivers. But I digress.

I challenge your figure of “5.2 tons of smog-forming pollutants” resulting from motorcycle use (in California daily). It’s a preposterous number, Djakarta, Bangkok, or Tehran notwithstanding. The California Air Resources Board says motorcycles generate six thousandths of one percent (0.006%) of the emissions generated by all road vehicles [in the state]. For example, there are more than seven million registered cars and trucks in your district; fewer than 125,000 motorcycles. Of the latter, the preponderance are ridden only once in a while or on weekends. And that number includes scooters: hardly motorcycles at all. Those who ride for sport exclusively will be affected disproportionately by your proposed legislation. That’s not only discriminatory, it’s bad fiscal policy.

California has already adopted the strictest emission standards in the country. No one has proven that motorcycles pose an increased threat to air quality under the status quo. It doesn’t make sense to expand a bureaucracy and its administrative costs because, even though you might fine every scofflaw biker in California, you won’t add more than chump change to the state budget.

On any given day the cookstoves in hundreds of McDonald’s and other fast-food franchises spew more carcinogens into the atmospheric miasma than all of the motorcycles in LA County combined by an order of magnitude. And I’ll bet dollars to doughnuts the smoke innocently spewed by your own backyard barbeque out-pollutes the grand total of all motorcycles on the road on any given day in your district. Now, add up your neighbors’ grills.

In all fairness, consider this hypothetical situation too. Would you legislate the length of, let’s say, snow skis so they become less than optimal for an exhilarating downhill run just to discourage enthusiasts of that sport from felling swaths of forested slopes and piling into their cars by their millions to head for the hills? Technically, they could still ski. But where would the fun be? What difference is there in principle?

Suppose you pass this legislation. Would you go after motorboats next? How about smog-checking sailboats with auxiliary engines? How about lawnmowers? I’m all for checking diesel trains or ocean-going ships docking in LA, Long Beach, and Oakland instead because it would make a difference. But if we took every single motorcycle off the road it would not contribute to a reduction in air pollution. When we achieve President Obama’s goal to ween ourselves from conventional, combustion engine propulsion for cars, as I trust we will, motorcycles should be exempt. They can be augmented by bikes employing newer, cleaner technology for those who wish to ride them: most likely riders who commute to work. Nor should fire-breathing, gas-guzzling, hydrocarbon- emitting sports cars be restricted (and probably will not) because they cause no significant adverse impact. Sports cars and bikes are as much a part of our American heritage and culture as a Boy Scout campfire — and less polluting. The motorcycle is a simple machine. Its internal organs and circulatory systems are exposed to view, supported by an exoskeleton of steel. There is nothing under the hood because there is no hood. And perhaps not everyone appreciates its transparent beauty. In other words, the allure of the motor itself is a great part of its appeal to riders, just as much as their prerogative to simulate the sensations of flight on two wheels. Already, the state defiles its allure by compelling it to bristle with oxygen sensors, cables, converters, computers, and other unattractive gewgaws which hardly improve air quality. Why, now, would you want to make them perform even more poorly for the few who really care about such things? Please don’t try to undermine the joy of riding a motorcycle as much as the joy of simply beholding its beauty has already been diminished by careless legislation.

There are many more reasons why you should not fight this battle, Senator Pavley, not the least of which is that for every driver who opts out of a car to sit astride a less-polluting motorcycle (smaller engine size, shorter transit times while engine running, better gas mileage, etc.) there will be one less driver clogging our streets and parking spaces, not to mention crashing into other drivers and running down bicycles and motorcycles.

I would hate to see common sense precluded by political polemics at the expense of a minority (still a lot of voters). So, finally, let me apprise you that, with respect to the complexities of a car, virtually anyone who rides a motorcycle has the wherewithal to remove a loophole-plugged exhaust system with little more than a screwdriver and a wrench. In less than an hour the offending pipes can be replaced with factory-stock equivalents — just in time for a smog check. So, please don’t make honest citizens take up civil disobedience just to indulge your own political fantasy. Riding is our passion and our obsession. If you persist in pushing SB 435, I will do my best to mobilize our community to oppose you with utmost vigor.

Sincerely yours,

–Tom Zimberoff
Author. Art of the Chopper (Volumes 1 and II; Bulfinch Press)
Curator, Art of the Chopper at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library

Fresh from last weekend’s wildly successful Hot Rod Custom Show in Yokohama, Japan, our friends at Mooneyes are gearing up for another Mooneyes Xmas Party this Saturday, December 8^th at Irwindale Speedway. And we’ll be broadcasting the party on Facebook Live all day long! We’ve included a few photos from this year’s Moon Yokohama show and last year’s Xmas Party at Irwindale—and you can click the red box at the bottom of this email to see even more.

To watch our live videos, hosted by veteran journalist and designer Thom Taylor, just visitwww.facebook.com/roddersjournal on Saturday. Thom will be interviewing participants and covering the action, from nostalgia drags and a Cacklefest to live music, a pinup contest, and rods, customs, choppers and lowriders as far as the eye can see. Irwindale is the place to be this Saturday if you’re in Southern California. And if you aren’t, our live video stream will make you feel like you are!

Bandit will be there with a couple of the local riders too!

Hey,

It’s raining cats and dogs and of course someone will blame it on man-made climate change. Can’t be Global Warming, it’s too cold.

This is a big weekend in Los Angeles. Arch Motorcycles is having a party Friday Night, Mooneyes is having a show in Irwindale on Saturday and the David Mann Chopperfest is rocking Ventura on Sunday. I hope to make two outta three if it will stop raining.

Let’s hit the news:

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently the Smoke Out and Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

GUN NUT REPORT–California: Firearm Excise Tax Legislation Introduced

This week, the California Legislature convened for an organizational session and swearing in ceremonies for legislators. During their short stint in Sacramento several new anti-gun proposals were introduced, including Assembly Bill 18, sponsored by Assembly Member Marc Levine (D-10).

AB 18 would place an additional excise tax on handguns and semi-automatic firearms. While the legislation lacks details of how the actual proposal will look, it expresses the intent to place an additional tax on handguns and semi-automatic firearms for distribution to various community based intervention and prevention programs. Once again, lawmakers are saddling lawful gun owners with additional taxes and fees for the misdeeds of criminals.

The legislature reconvenes on January 7 for the 2019 session and we are anticipating many more gun control proposals to be introduced. We are expecting the same push we see by anti-gun lawmakers in California year after year, more restrictions and costs placed on law abiding citizens while criminals will continue to operate outside the system and circumvent the existing laws already on the books.

Continue to check your inbox and the California Stand and Fight web page for updates on issues impacting your Second Amendment rights and hunting heritage in California.

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
A CHANGING WORLD SUNDAY POST

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

Two things, Frank is laying down some killer ink! Impressive work.

Second, have you watched the Man in the High Castle on amazon tv? The premise is the US lost WW2 and the country is German run in the east and Japanese on the west coast. In between is the neutral zone. The neutral zone reminds me of your book where we have to go to live out our lives on motorcycles in the wild west.

You are prescient ol’ wise one!

Ride on

–Paul Aiken
aiken@aeromach.net
Charlotte, NC

LAW NEWS OF THE WEEK–
New Joint FAU/UM Study Shows Laws Designed to Ban or Curb Drivers’ Use of Cell Phones are Saving Lives of Motorcyclists

Laws to ban or curb drivers’ use of cell phones and other handheld devices have greatly reduced the rate of fatalities for motorcyclists, according to a new study by faculty at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Miami.

The study’s findings, recently published in Social Science & Medicine, show that states with moderate to strong bans have motorcycle fatality rates that differ by as much as 11 percent compared to states with no bans.

“In the case of motorcycles, these laws seem to be effective,” said study co-author Gulcin Gumus, Ph.D., an associate professor in health administration in the Department of Management Programs at FAU’s College of Business. “While it’s not clear that these laws have had an impact on reducing the overall number of traffic fatalities, when we focus specifically on motorcycles, we find that these laws are having a major impact in reducing deaths among motorcycle riders.”

Motorcyclists account for a much higher proportion of traffic fatalities relative to the share of motorcycles among all motor vehicles and vehicle miles driven in the U.S. The study’s authors obtained annual data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System on total and motorcycle-specific traffic fatalities for all 50 states during the period of 2005-2015.

Those data were then merged with state-specific characteristics, texting/handheld device laws, as well as other traffic policies to estimate the effectiveness of strong, moderate and weak bans compared to no bans.

While automobile safety has greatly improved over the last several decades, bringing the overall fatality rates down with it, motorcycle fatality rates have not declined. Although research is mixed on the effectiveness of texting/handheld bans for overall traffic fatalities, the study’s findings indicate that motorcyclists are at elevated risk of being a victim of distracted driving and thus could greatly benefit from these policies. This result is driven mainly by multiple-vehicle crashes (e.g., car hitting motorcycle) as opposed to single-vehicle crashes.

“Every day about nine Americans are killed and more than 1,000 are injured in traffic crashes that involve distracted drivers,” said study co-author Michael T. French, professor of health economics in the Miami Business School’s Department of Health Management and Policy and an avid motorcycle rider. “While our initial goal was to understand whether these laws save lives on the road, the broader application of our findings is even more powerful.”

The researchers argue policy makers should consider strengthening texting/handheld bans along with their enforcement to improve safety and save lives, especially among motorcyclists.
“We have a better appreciation for the range of policies across states and years, and what makes texting/handheld bans strong and effective, especially for motorcyclists,” French said. “Hopefully these results will facilitate a more informed discussion between legislators, law enforcement officers, and the general public about distracted driving and traffic safety.”

These areas provide opportunities for faculty and students to build upon FAU’s existing strengths in research and scholarship. For more information, visit www.fau.edu.

–Jim Hellegaard

HEAD OF BIKERNET SECURITY STAFF PASSES—In a surprise show of aging process, Tank shut down and stopped eating suddenly. We raced him to the Western Vet Clinic and they drew blood.

The findings were confirmed and after some investigation we determined Tank’s age well over 100, amazing for a pound mutt. He will be sorely missed.

–Bandit

NEWS FROM THE RODDER’S JOURNAL–Page Flippin’ & Calendar Shippin’

Our 2019 calendars are in stock and shipping now! These full-size calendars celebrate our 25th anniversary, and they’re filled with a carefully curated mix of hot rods, customs and racecars that we feel represents our first quarter-century in print. (That’s right, TRJ has been publishing since 1994). Only 2,500 have been printed and when they’re gone, they’re gone. Each calendar is signed and numbered by the publisher.

Measuring 15×23 inches, these calendars are like oversized issues of TRJ for your wall. In addition to the world-class, full-color photography, they also include important car show dates throughout the year. Just like the magazine, they’re printed with pride in the U.S.A.

To place an order, click the box above or give us a call at (800) 750-9550 in the United States, (877) 479-2627 in Canada or (650) 246-8920 internationally.

Cheers!
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal

P.S. Our 2019 Holiday Catalog is in the mail and on our website here.

CRY WOLF STORY–Short Stories: The Boy Who Cried Wolf by Aesop. A shepherd-boy, who watched a flock of sheep near a village, brought out the villagers three or four times by crying out, “Wolf! Wolf!” and when his neighbors came to help him, laughed at them for their pains. The Wolf, however, did truly come at last.

In our case Al Gore cried wolf about Climate Change and the real wolf is Infrastructure.

–Bandit

EASYRIDERS COMING TO CHARLOTTE– Just realized the Easyriders show here in Charlotte NC is the National Invitational Show. It has always been in Columbus Ohio.

This is great news for the bikers here in Charlotte!

–STEALTH

THE NEWEST CANTINA GALLERY– The 2018 Deadwood Legends Ride. What a terrific ride and especially its reason for being.

The bikes are amazing and Jack does it again with stellar photos, even from the top of buildings.

Check out the images in this gallery of the pre-ride and next year, try to attend. You won’t be disappointed.

The Deadwood gallery has been added to the site – https://www.bikernet.com/pages/DEADWOOD_2018.aspx

–JACK MCINTYRE
Co-editor of Bandit’s Cantina
BIKERNET.COM
jackmcintyrephoto.com

GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!–The new exclusive t-shirt for all BMW GS riders and fans

What were weekends invented for? Tons of fun on exciting excursions with a BMW GS, of course! That is why the print of the new t-shirt for the riders and fans of this bestseller on two wheels reads: “GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!”

The white supersized print brings this motto to life in concert with a GS emblem, which takes up the domains of this enduro bike – winding roads and high mountains.

The black high-quality “GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!” t-shirt sells for 23 euros and comes in sizes M to 3XL. It sells exclusively online at www.BeemerGS.com.

NEWS FROM HAWAII–Aloha to everyone that came out to support & who joined us on the 44th Annual Toy Parade Ride this past Sunday. Also thank you all for showing and welcoming Kurt Yeager & Jenny to Hawaii. It was great to share the Aloha Spirit, Hawaii’s Culture and the “Local Biker Life Style” with Kurt & Jenny.

They really enjoyed there visit here & enjoyed everyone’s company. I also want thank & give a Big Mahalo to the Kanaka Hekili MC for allowing Kurt & Jenny to be our “Guest Riders” on the Toy Parade Ride and also making them feel like part of the Ohana!

Thank you also to the Street Biker Union of Hawaii SBUH for organizing such a great event each year. The 44th Annual Toy Parade was another successful event…. will see you guys next year & Ride Safe!
This is the divider

Race Ready Fitness

I would like to acknowledge a really close friend of mine. Thank you to Chris Cousins for bringing down Kurt Yeager & Jenny to Hawaii & having me be their guide and giving them a glimpse on the Biker Life Style here in Hawaii.

Chris has created Race Ready Inc. as a means to help you prepare to meet and exceed your goals and dreams through coaching, managing, and health, fitness, and nutritional training. No matter who you are, you’re background or history, Chris and the Race Ready Team want to prepare you for the ride of your life.

Visit: racereadyfitness.webs.com

Kanaka Hekili MC

Big Congratulations to the Kanaka Hekili MC on recently celebrating their 15th year Anniversary!

Thank you to our club President Mr. B for organizing one of Hawaii’s Finest “Family Oriented Bike Clubs” in Hawaii & giving me the opportunity be part of a great club and to ride next to some of Hawaii’s Finest Bike Riders!

Thank you to all my Kanaka brothers & Sisters that always give their time to coordinated and volunteer on every special events that we we organized especially for making this year’s Xmas Party one to remember!

Thank you to the “Kanaka Officers” for doing what they do best….and I thank all the Kanaka Hekili MC Chapters from the Outer-Island and from the mainland who made the journey to make it to the 15th Kanaka Hekili MC Anniversary!

Last but not least, I wanted to address & give a Special Thanks to two Kanaka Hekili MC Members for lending out their motorcycles to Kurt Yeager & Jenny making their ride with the Kanakas one they will never forget!

Thank you “Hambone” for letting Kurt Yeager use your Street Glide for the ride, and Thank you “Gerry Welsh” for letting Jenny use your Slim for the Toy Parade Ride. You guys are Awesome & are true Brothas!

Visit Kanaka Hekili Mc

CHOW HALL OF THE WEEK– WINGS, BONE SAUCE and PORK CHOP!!

https://youtu.be/geAooanWplA

These wings will lift you right up off of your feet! The Bone Sauce that Pit Master Pork Chop makes is so good that I can drink it straight out of a cup (They make a Bloody with it).

These wings are Dry Rubbed, Smoked, Deep Fried and then tossed in The Bone Sauce! Get to South Moon BBQ in Hinckley, IL. Their food is so good they have been on Chicago’s Best twice.

They also have a location in Sandwich, IL.

–Bikerdude

POWERPLANT PARTS THAT WORK–P16 RISERS – BLACK
$ 289.95

Please select a size
5, 8 and 10-inch

DESCRIPTION

High Quality Aircraft Aluminum. Includes Stainless ARP Hardware. Features I-Beam design for maximum strength and stability.

Fits 1-inch bars and most stock Harley- Davidson models.

Made Here in Los Angeles, CA. Available in 5, 8 and 10-inch tall.

GEORGE CHRISTIE ESCAPES TO SPAIN–
George left for Spain on Thursday. He is working on the series, but I don’t exactly what he is doing from day to day. He will be acting sometimes, and working with the writers and advising the producers on other days.

More specific info and photos coming soon.

–Fred Anderson

[page break]

WACO NEWS–Judge says Twin Peaks civil lawsuits can proceed

U.S. District Judge Alan Albright’s ruling during a 40-minute teleconference with attorneys in the cases does not include the two dozen bikers with pending criminal cases in McLennan County, only those with civil suits pending whose criminal cases have been dismissed or those who were never indicted.

The lawsuits allege McLennan County, city of Waco and state officials violated the plaintiffs’ civil rights by wrongfully arresting the bikers en masse and without probable cause after the May 2015 shootout at the former Twin Peaks restaurant that left nine bikers dead and 20 wounded. About 200 bikers were arrested and 155 initially were indicted on identical engaging in organized criminal activity cases.

The bulk of those criminal cases were dismissed after McLennan County District Attorney Abel Reyna was defeated by Barry Johnson in the March Republican primary.
The lawsuits were filed in Travis County, where Senior U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks had issued a stay on the civil proceedings while state and federal criminal cases against leaders of the Bandidos motorcycle group were being played out in Waco and San Antonio.

Sparks has since transferred the cases to Albright, who was sworn in as Waco’s new federal judge in September.

Sparks denied a motion last year from defendants in the case to transfer the cases from Austin to Waco. On Friday, Albright was asked by Mike Dixon, who represents the city of Waco in the Twin Peaks suits, if he would consider another motion asking that the cases be heard in Waco.

Albright said he will review Sparks’ ruling on the venue matter, but said his “gut reaction” is to allow the plaintiffs to have the cases heard where they chose to file the lawsuits, which is in Austin.

Federal courts in Waco and Austin are part of the sprawling federal Western District of Texas.

Albright’s lifting of the stay allows the plaintiffs to amend their petitions and for the defense to file challenges to the claims. After that stage, attorneys will seek discovery and schedule depositions.

Tom Brandt, who represents McLennan County and Reyna, told the judge he will be filing motions claiming defenses of qualified immunity and said deposing Reyna and others should be postponed until the judge rules on his motion to dismiss the cases.
Albright left it with the attorneys on both sides to work together and said he would get involved in discovery issues when the sides could not agree.

He compared the complex case with multiple parties to “herding cats.”

No trial date has been set for any of the lawsuits.

Besides McLennan County, Reyna and the city of Waco, other defendants include former Waco Police Chief Brent Stroman; Waco Detective Manuel Chavez; Waco police officials Robert Lanning, Jeffrey Rogers and Patrick Swanton; and Department of Public Safety officials Steven Schwartz and Christopher Frost.

One of the suits also names Peaktastic Beverage, which held Twin Peaks’ liquor license; Front Burner Restaurants, the former franchise holder; and Twin Restaurant Investment Co., the restaurant chain owner.

— https://www.wacotrib.com/news/courts

–from Rogue

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
Q: What does it mean when your boyfriend is in your bed gasping for breath and calling your name?
A: You didn’t hold the pillow down long enough.

–from Rogue

HAL ROBINSON ART DISPUTE RESOLVED, SORTA—After reviewing Ann Robinson’s documents from Lou Kimzey and her attorney, we concluded that she never had any rights to use Hal’s work and Joe Teresi, the Supreme Emperor of Easyrider was correct in his request.

Joe cut me some slack on the time we have to sell off our inventory, and Ann Robinson wants to know how much it would take to purchase Hal’s art? The game isn’t over yet.

Hang on for more reports. This maybe the last of them and then maybe not.

–Bandit

5-BALL BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS BOOK NEWS FROM WOLFGANG– You should have a copy of the Pete Hill book – if not it will show up soon.

And… I plan to convert the Bonneville Salt Flats motorcycle to a print-on-demand book – available through the ‘net.

The POD version will carry a higher price of $32.95 US. (Amazon has some copies for sale at $64.00).

–Timothy Remus
Wolfgang Publications

I believe the Worlds Fastest Panhead build book is $22 at the 5-Ball Racing Garage Shop site.

NEWS FROM THE CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE DEALERS ASSOCIATION–
CARB is determined to do away with new Red Sticker (2-stroke) motorcycle sales, so I’ve been busy trying to forestall the inevitable, as long as possible.

Since the last time that we spoke about the increased enforcement for the use of non-CARB-certified aftermarket parts, there were one or two more workshops, but then, CARB went dark. So, I don’t have much to report on that.

The enforcement staff was going to try and get a booth or presence at the last SEMA show; if you attended, did you see them there? They would have been clearly identified. They wanted to access as wide a dealer and user audience as possible.

They chose cars because that represents a much bigger problem than motorcycles, even though probably more motorcycles per population have, at least, technically been modified.

— John Paliwoda
Executive Director
California Motorcycle Dealers Association

MUSIC NEWS–Plus, Cody Johnson concert rescheduled to March 2, 2019.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – East Tennessee’s most legendary nightclub, Cotton Eyed Joe, is proud to announce their #ShowAtTheJoe December lineup which brings Tobi Lee & Mustang Sally, and The Lacs to the stage.

New Year’s Eve at Cotton Eyed Joe will be done the right way, with tons of party favors and giveaways, plus a balloon drop at midnight with champagne. More details to be announced at CottonEyedJoe.com

Additionally, the Cody Johnson concert originally set for November 30, has been rescheduled to March 2, 2019. All tickets purchased for the November 30 date will be transferred to March 2, 2019.

December Concerts & Special Events:
DEC 06 – Tobi Lee & Mustang Sally
DEC 07 – The Lacs

NEWS FROM INDIAN LARRY–Because we know you had enough in your inbox regarding Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday sales, we’ve decided to wait and send our savings a week later! Our Cyber Monday deals will only apply to online orders where we are gifting 25% OFF all apparel, accessories and select parts. Take advantage of this great ONE DAY ONLY deal and get your holiday shopping done early.

Enter code ‘CYBER’ upon checkout

All of our parts are handmade and built to last. The attention to detail is so unique to the Indian Larry name and is the definition of quality. Treat yourself or that special someone to something that is both practical and eye catching.

Question Everything Foot Pegs
$300

Push Rod Collars
$150 – $240

Our fashion encompasses styles for both men and women. Graphic tees, vets, caps and more you’re sure to find something for everyone!

Sale does not apply to bikes for sale, builds or frames.

Our mailing address is:
Indian Larry Motorcycles
70 North 14th Street
Brooklyn, NY 11222

FEMA’s news update–This is a news update from FEMA, the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations.

FEMA’s mission is to promote riders’ interests, to defend riders’ rights and to protect and preserve motorcycling throughout Europe and globally.

European Council: ‘motorcycle safety must be part of road safety procedures’
The European ministers for transport agreed to reform and strengthen road infrastructure management rules. It will become mandatory to take account of vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists in road safety management procedures.

The European ministers for transport gathered in Brussels for a meeting of the Council of the European Union, where they agreed to reform and strengthen road infrastructure management rules.

The Council of the European Union agreed its position on a proposal from the 3rd Mobility package by the European Commission to strengthen road infrastructure management to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries.

The Council of the European Union is the institution representing the member states’ governments. Also known informally as the EU Council, it is where national ministers from each EU country meet to adopt laws and coordinate policies. Photo: European Union.

The reform of the Road Infrastructure Safety Management Directive will extend the scope of the current rules to motorways and other primary roads beyond the trans-European transport network (TEN-T). This will contribute significantly to the improvement of road infrastructure safety across the European Union. The directive would also cover roads outside urban areas that are built using EU funding (which is something FEMA has been lobbying for extensively).

‘It will become mandatory to take account of vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists in road safety management procedures’
The proposal introduces a network-wide road safety assessment, which is a snapshot of the entire road network covered by the directive used to evaluate accident risk. Authorities will use the findings to carry out more targeted road safety inspections or take direct remedial action.

It will become mandatory to take systematic account of pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists and other users of powered two-wheelers in road safety management procedures. These road users accounted for almost half of road fatalities in the EU in 2017.

The presidency of the European Union is currently held by Austria. Norbert Hofer, Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology of Austria, said: “Well-designed and properly maintained roads reduce the risk of road accidents. This reform will help the EU to progress towards its goal of halving the number of road deaths by 2020.”

FEMA general secretary Dolf Willigers “This is a pleasant surprise. The decision of the Council is exactly what we have asked for. This is great news for motorcyclists. From now on road authorities will have to take vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, into account with all decisions regarding the main roads in Europe. This will lead to an better road safety for us. It is now up to the European Parliament to follow this good example.”

Top photograph by Husqvarna.

VETERANS’ NEWS--Bike club, nonprofit say Cove police hurt fundraiser for veterans

Frenchy Brea, chairman of the United Clubs of Waco, was joined by more than 20 fellow motorcyclists in Tuesday night’s regularly scheduled Copperas Cove City Council meeting.

The otherwise laid back council chambers inside the Technology Center grew tense when Brea expressed “great disappointment” in the city’s police department.

The Copperas Cove Silverbacks, a motorcycle club among 70 that comprise United Clubs of Waco, and Killeen nonprofit We Leave No One Behind, held a bike washing fundraiser in support of veterans Sept. 17 at the nightclub TrackSide on Joe’s Road off U.S. Business Highway 190. They say the Copperas Cove Police Department had an over-the-top presence that dissuaded residents from attending the event.

“They staged their vehicles just off the property and created the appearance that something was going on at this establishment, causing several groups who were planning on attending this event to turn around,” Brea said. “This, in turn, took money away from the fundraiser.”

Squad cars lined around the property, Brea said, and eight police officers and several Department of Public Safety officers could be seen inside the club.

“Your police department is attempting to profile, harass and intimidate motorcycle clubs,” Brea told the Copperas Cove City Council, mayor and interim city manager.
After Brea’s alotted five minutes during the public forum portion of the council meeting expired, James “Righteous” Norwood, president of We Leave No One Behind, echoed many of his sentiments.

We Leave No One Behind works with area police to connect veterans in crisis to mental health resources. In addition to free counseling, the group says it has provided hotel rooms, meals and transportation in certain circumstances.

Norwood, an active-duty major in the Army, said forming the organization was inspired when a police officer in 2015 contacted him after encountering a veteran in crisis while on call.

“There were things that were done and decisions that were made that negatively affected the motorcycle club’s ability to sponsor our charity,” Norwood said. “We provide person-to-person contact continually … the prejudice that was used against the individuals in the motorcycle club, who were doing something to benefit the community on a whole — is that a good thing to do? Should we allow preconceptions to affect our decision-making process?”

“They just kept showing up,” Bryant said. “They surrounded us in the bar. There was nothing for them to do.”

Sgt. Kevin Miller, CCPD spokesman, said the department assesses the necessary response in every situation, and feels the presence at the event held by the Silverbacks and We Leave No One Behind was appropriate.

“It is distressing that the presence of public safety officers at an event is viewed as being prejudiced or inappropriate when it was neither,” Miller said in a written statement. “CCPD and the City will continue to work proactively with organizations and events to provide an environment that’s safe for all involved.”

TrackSide staff could not be reached for comment.

–by Matt Payne
Herald staff writer
http://kdhnews.com/news/local/

–from Rogue

THE NEW BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY FOCUSES ON ONE-LINERS–
Q: What do you call 2 guys fighting over a slut?
A: Tug-of-whore.

Q: If the world is a Jacket where do poor people live?
A: In the hood.

Q: What’s the cure for marriage?
A: Alcoholism.

–from Rogue

ANOTHER PIECE FROM THE BALL DYNASTY–Angel I made today at the shop, my client was in town from San Jose. I tattooed him in October up at the Bay Area convention in San Francisco a couple months back. He wanted a cherub to represent the good.

–Frank Ball Jr.

MORE FROM FEMA–Will Banning Bikes Solve Spain’s Pollution Problems?
Member news by Wim Taal – November 26, 2018

The Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid will make entering the city centre on a motorcycle virtually impossible. This is reported by Spanish FEMA member AMM (Asociación Mutua Motera).

In the last decade the Spanish city of Madrid, for example, took measures to counter pollution by lowering speed limits on roads entering the capital. Madrid also introduced APRs (Áreas de Prioridad Residencial), areas where non-residents are not allowed to drive.

Until now, motorcycles have been exempt from any restrictions, but that is about to end on 30 November 2018. At that date the existing APRs will be extended and united into one big APR, called Central Madrid. The new APR will cover practically the entire downtown area of Madrid.

Residents may enter the area in their vehicles but only park in their own neighbourhood. Non-residents whose vehicles hold CERO and ECO energy labels may also enter the area. And those with B or C energy labels may only enter to park in a private or public parking lot, not in the street.

AMM will be part of the protest on Sunday 2 December in Barcelona. The protest is organized by AMC (Catalonian Motera Association) along with other organizations. Click on the AMM logo for a full statement in Spanish.

– Zero: electric with a range of 40 km or more
– ECO: electric with a range of less than 40 km
– C: internal combustion, Euro 3 or Euro 4 regulation
– B: internal combustion, Euro 2 regulation
– Without classification: they do not fulfil any of the previous conditions

For motorcyclists, the new rules in Madrid will forbid access to the city centre with bikes that are registered before 2003 (38.79% of motorcycles in Madrid are registered before 1 July 2003 and have no classification). There are only 1,625 electric motorcycles and 897 electric mopeds in Madrid. Motorcycles registered after 1 July 2003 can only enter the city between 07.00-22.00h. The fine for riding a bike into the city without the correct environmental classification label will be 90 Euro’s.

The determent of motorcycle and moped use in Madrid will not be limited to the new environmental regime: under new rules, motorcycle parking on sidewalks will be restricted. However, Madrid has 350,164 registered motorcycles and 94,113 registered mopeds, and only 6.500 dedicated parking spaces for motorcycles.

Approximately three quarters of a million people commute into the city to work every day; approximately 32.250 of these commuters use a motorcycle or other powered two-wheeler to go to work or school. If these riders were to switch to a car or to public transport, congestion (and therefore pollution) would become a lot worse.

Motorcycles should be exempt from any measure because of the benefits they bring in easing congestion in the city. Motorcyclists are not standing still in traffic jams and motorcyclists do not ride around looking for a parking space. Authorities in Madrid are focussing on walking, cycling and public transport, omitting the fact that motorcycles should be part of the mobility mix.

Top photograph by Moto1pro

NEWS ALERT FROM THE ANTIQUE MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF AMERICA--Seven AMCA Members Lose Homes to California Fires

We are writing to let you know about a serious loss suffered by a group of your fellow AMCA members. On November 8, seven Club members, all from the Ishi Chapter in Northern California, had their homes destroyed in what is now known as the massive Camp Fire in the state.

Never before in the AMCA’s history have we had so many members involved in a single tragedy. Jim Dent, Rick Haner, Craig Horner, Tom Kelly, Al Kmiecik, Mike McKinley and Brad Watkins experienced the loss of their homes and a combined total of nearly 100 antique motorcycles.

Those of us in the AMCA family are looking for ways to help in this difficult time. Although each of these members is covered by insurance, we know that the process of settling claims and rebuilding their lives will take time and resources.

Therefore, we have setup a GoFundMe account to facilitate any donations to which our membership can contribute.

In addition to or in lieu of monetary support, any help with tools, parts, vehicle loan, etc., would be greatly appreciated.

For more information please contact AMCA Ishi Chapter President, Budd Schwab at:

To make a financial donation via GoFundMe.

Photo by: AP

–Antique Motorcycle Club of America

EBR Motorcycles are back in limited production--EBR Motorcycles, the American-made superbike designed by the legendary Erik Buell, are back in limited production.

“We are going to keep the iconic brand in production with specialized and performance builds.” says Bill Melvin, an avid motorcyclist who is leading the company he acquired in 2016.

When high volume production at EBR’s Wisconsin assembly plant ended in 2017, Melvin moved a smaller operation to his e-commerce warehouse in Grand Rapids, Mich. EBR, which maintains its original offices in East Troy, Wis., has been fulfilling parts orders from the inventory for dealers and existing EBR owners ever since.

Now, EBR plans to keep the iconic brand alive on the street and track with production in Grand Rapids. EBR brought two of its top assemblers to Grand Rapids, where they are hand-building three of the exotic EBR 1190 superbikes, capable of hitting over 185mph in race trim.

“The approach is to keep it boutique and high performance driven, ala Bugatti, Koenigsegg, or Lotus,” Melvin says. More updates and motorcycles are planned for 2019, he adds.
Engine builder Eric Weber “Eroc” and chassis builder Elliot Malzahn recently put the finishing touches on their first three editions, whose fairings will get custom paint treatments to celebrate their return.

Weber began building motorcycles at the Buell factory in 1996. Malzahn began in 2000.

“It’s great to see the iconic legacy in experienced hands like Eroc and Elliot,” says Melvin. “We are fortunate the team of legacy employees stay involved to keep the only American Superbike in production. We recently received our 2019 EPA certification.”

The Erik Buell-designed motorcycle is unique with its fuel tank incorporated into the aluminum frame to keep its center of gravity in an ideal position. The front brake rotor is located on the perimeter of the wheel with an 8-piston inside-out caliper to maximize stopping power.

The hand-built fuel-injected 1190cc V-twin engine produces a peak of 185 hp at 10600 rpm. The final pricing will be determined by the custom finishing touches.
The company is part of the 35 year legacy of Erik Buell, a motorcycle racer and world renowned engineer for Harley-Davidson and the Buell Motorcycle Company in the 1980s.

Mr. Buell started EBR in 2010 and Mr. Melvin acquired the assets of the company in 2016.

Melvin and his father, Bill Melvin Sr., are motorcycle enthusiasts & industry experts with involvement in the sale process of the Indian Motorcycle factory in 2004, the American Ironhorse Motorcycle factory in 2009, the Buell factory in 2010, and have assisted in the sale of major distributors, dealers, and suppliers.

For more information about EBR Motorcycles, call 262-642-1627 or email info@EBR.com

MAG UK Discusses Biking With The Mayor Of London

The British Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has held a long-awaited meeting with Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. The topics: motorcycle access to bus lanes and the threat bikers will be charged in London’s Ultra-Low Emissions Zone.

The meeting was the result of months of lobbying, and the hugely helpful intervention of Greater London Authority Assembly Member Keith Prince AM, who secured and attended the meeting. Lembit Öpik and Colin Brown from MAG’s Political Unit were also present.

Following MAG’s visit to Mayor Khan at the Greater London Authority’s headquarters in City Hall, on 27th November 2018, MAG’s London Regional Rep, Tim Fawthrop said: “It’s been a long time coming, but it was worth the wait.”

“We covered two items,” continues Tim. “One was bus lanes and the other was the threat to charge bikers in the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ Charge) if their motorbikes are beyond a certain age. MAG argues that this is unfair because bikes reduce congestion and pollution and make no measurable contribution to London’s emissions. I suggested that we should find a way to exempt those bikes that can be shown to have very low emissions, and the Mayor agreed to allow us to explore this further with his staff, which is a good outcome.”

The discussion on bus lanes was even more encouraging. Mr Prince, who organised the meeting, said: “Mayor Khan agreed that motorcycles should be allowed into bus lanes. He assured us that all the so-called Red Routes in London, which are directly under TfL’s control, would remain open to bikes. He also said he’ll work with MAG to encourage the London Boroughs to open their routes up too. I’m glad to see the Mayor honour the promise he made on this matter.”

Next, MAG will meet the relevant officers to explore the best way to progress both matters. MAG’s Lembit Öpik adds: “It’s a credit to the Mayor that the meeting was not just a box-ticking exercise, but a real chance to talk about our ideas and suggestions. It leaves me optimistic about Mr Khan’s attitude towards biking now, and I’m happy to say so.”

Member news by Wim Taal
–FEMA

CLIMATE QUOTE OF THE WEEK– Identifying a potential human fingerprint on recent sea level rise is confounded by the large magnitude of natural internal variability associated with ocean circulation patterns. There is not yet convincing evidence of a fingerprint on sea level rise associated with human-caused global warming:

The slow emergence of fossil fuel emissions prior to 1950 did not contribute significantly to sea level rise observed in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The recent acceleration in mean global sea level rise (since 1995) is caused by mass loss from Greenland that appears to have been larger during the 1930s, with both periods associated with the warm phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation.

by Judith Curry

I’m publishing this through my company Climate Forecast Applications Network (CFAN) as a Special Report. I regard the currently posted version to be final, although I will correct any errors that are spotted.

NEWS FROM KLOCKWERKS–Shout out to my beautiful fiancé’ tonight. She works full time at Klock Werks, goes to Dakota Wesleyan University full time for her CPA and Marketing degrees, works another part time job at LA Realty Partners and has private accounting clients as well.

Not to mention an upcoming wedding (23 days left) come celebrate my #wcw in Deadwood,SD Deadwood Mountain Grand on December 28th from 6:30 pm on at our reception!!

Love you
— Vanessa Nay
with Deadwood Mountain Grand.

–from Rogue

VINTAGE RIDES IN THAILAND– Every rider will tell you the same: What makes motorcycle trips so unique is that they offer a new approach to travelling, to discovery. On a saddle, you remain open to people and the elements, the smells and colours. With a twist of a handlebar you can go wherever you please, at your own pace, while steering clear of the timed tourist tours.

This week, we’d like to introduce two atypical trips around Thailand.

This summer, for those of you who want to have it your way, we feature a Freedom Formula: starting at two riders, you can rent our trusted Royal Enfields, a GPS and set out for the Thai roadtrip of a lifetime. The land of smiles offers stunning open roads, misty forests and lush jungle, dazzling temples and some of the most hospitable people around. The essence of motorcycle travel, we dare say!

Freedom Formula in North Thailand
13 days incl. 10 days riding
Set your own dates

Many consider motorcycling more of a man thing. We beg to differ! After a first in Rajasthan, the Girls Ride — Vintage Rides 100% female motorcycle adventure — is taking the most daring riders to Southern Thailand.

Staying true to our authentic way to travel, they’ll take their wheels alongside stunning beaches, verdant tropical mountains, national parks bustling with wildlife and ancient cities. Ladies, it’s time to make your engine roar!

Girls Ride
9 days incl. 6 days riding
22nd to 31st March 2019

https://www.vintagerides.travel/motorcycle-tour/thailand

Photo credits: Elisabeth Fieujean / Hervé Fieujean

–Vintage Rides
At Grand Tour Coworking (by appointment only)
30 rue des Trois Bornes
75011 PARIS
hello@vintagerides.com
+442032898785

THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS IMPROVING–
An elderly, but hardy, cattleman from Texas once told a young female neighbor that if she wanted to live a long life, the secret was to
sprinkle a pinch of gunpowder on her oatmeal each morning.

She did this religiously and lived to the ripe old age of 103. She left behind 11 children, 30 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, five
great-great-grandchildren…. and a 40-foot hole where the crematorium used to be..

–Sam Burns

THE MOST EXPENSIVE WATCH IN MONTANA– Debuting January 2019

Jeffrey created the Montana Watch Company 20 years ago and we have been extremely loyal to our look…but time’s are a-changin’ and we decided to update the look and feel of our travel showcase and branding to reflect the look our truly American Made brand.

The main background above shows off our Paradise Valley and the meandering Yellowstone River as it makes its way past Mallards Rest. The beautiful image, captured by Tyler Sharp (Modern Huntsman Magazine) really depicts everything there is to love about our neck of the woods. And a big beautiful Model 1920CE displaying the engraving of Jake Newell’s talented hands (Custom Hand Engraving) and Clint Wilkinson’s expert leather work (Wilkinson’s Fine Goods) is like nothing you have ever seen.

Then when the whole 20 feet is lit up…POW! It’s pretty impressive.

We will be debuting it in Reno at the Safari Club Convention January 9-12. Then it will travel with us to Dallas on January 17-20 for Dallas Safari Club then to Reno in February for the Wild Sheep Foundation. We are really excited to show it and our new aesthetic off. We will be continuing the feel on our social media and paper collateral as Jeff has been busy designing a new website to complete the new look for our 20th as well. Stay tuned and here’s to 20 more years!

The incredible 1930GT Lifestory Timepiece. This particular Lifestory is the second we have built as it highlights Bristol, Talledega, Atlanta IR and Daytona in addition to Nascar itself along with the family farm of the owner of this one-of-a-kind heirloom custom timepiece.

SCOTT JACOBS SITE HACKED–THANK YOU!

My family and staff saw how stressed out and emotional I was this past week. I tried keeping my emotions hidden from our collectors as I scrambled behind the scenes to save the website I’ve worked so hard to build.

I received numerous emails and messages from clients letting me know exactly what was happening on the customer’s side.

It brings tears to my eyes knowing so many people are looking out for the well-being of my family business. As a Thank You, I’ve created a coupon to show our gratitude.

15% OFF Code: thankyou2018
Expires 12/31/18. Excludes Sale Items.

 
HOUSEHOLD WARNING OF THE WEEK—Never buy a dog when you’re drunk.

–Tom Roth and Bobby Stark

NEVER STOP OR EVEN SLOW DOWN—Sam Burns suggested we take a hard look at the Can-Am Ryker. I’ve assigned it to couple of our reporters. Let’s see who grabs the reigns and runs with it.

The rain has slowed some and the streets are less flooded. In Califa or in LA they have installed grates over the storm drains. I clean the one on the corner on a regular basis, but I wonder what happens around the city. They can immediately clog the drains and prevent them from doing what they were intended to do.

Moving forward, we are making changes to the Bikernet business model and I reach out to anyone and all of our contributors. Jack McIntyre was very helpful this week and I hope we can count on him to load his galleries on a regular basis. He’s also involved in a trucking company, which snatches most of his time, but he would rather cover events photographically. Unfortunately journalism doesn’t pay the bills currently.

I believe Jack hit the nail on the head with his suggestions, but it’s up to me to implement them. My son and grandson are on their way to New York to be tattooed by a master. We will bring you a report.

I’ve mentioned a couple of times about the roll of business owners. Small or large these people are basically responsible for everything from the janitor to product development, to marketing. Some look at rich guys and scoff, but essentially they are making the boat float or sink. I’m in a roll-the-dice situation. It’s time for change.

Now making the tough decision are key and implementing them my job. Times are tough in the publishing world, but what the hell. At Bikernet and Bandit’s Cantina we’re all about having fun, fighting for freedom and keeping the light on. Can’t be that tough.

Ride free forever,

–Bandit

EBR Motorcycles, the American-made superbike designed by the legendary Erik Buell, are back in limited production.

“We are going to keep the iconic brand in production with specialized and performance builds.” says Bill Melvin, an avid motorcyclist who is leading the company he acquired in 2016.

When high volume production at EBR’s Wisconsin assembly plant ended in 2017, Melvin moved a smaller operation to his e-commerce warehouse in Grand Rapids, Mich. EBR, which maintains its original offices in East Troy, Wis., has been fulfilling parts orders from the inventory for dealers and existing EBR owners ever since.

Now, EBR plans to keep the iconic brand alive on the street and track with production in Grand Rapids. EBR brought two of its top assemblers to Grand Rapids, where they are hand-building three of the exotic EBR 1190 superbikes, capable of hitting over 185mph in race trim.

“The approach is to keep it boutique and high performance driven, ala Bugatti, Koenigsegg, or Lotus,” Melvin says. More updates and motorcycles are planned for 2019, he adds.

Engine builder Eric Weber “Eroc” and chassis builder Elliot Malzahn recently put the finishing touches on their first three editions, whose fairings will get custom paint treatments to celebrate their return. Weber began building motorcycles at the Buell factory in 1996. Malzahn began in 2000.

“It’s great to see the iconic legacy in experienced hands like Eroc and Elliot,” says Melvin. “We are fortunate the team of legacy employees stay involved to keep the only American Superbike in production. We recently received our 2019 EPA certification.”

The Erik Buell-designed motorcycle is unique with its fuel tank incorporated into the aluminum frame to keep its center of gravity in an ideal position. The front brake rotor is located on the perimeter of the wheel with an 8-piston inside-out caliper to maximize stopping power. The hand-built fuel-injected 1190cc V-twin engine produces a peak of 185 hp at 10600 rpm. The final pricing will be determined by the custom finishing touches.

The company is part of the 35 year legacy of Erik Buell, a motorcycle racer and world renowned engineer for Harley-Davidson and the Buell Motorcycle Company in the 1980’s. Mr. Buell started EBR in 2010 and Mr. Melvin acquired the assets of the company in 2016.

Melvin and his father, Bill Melvin Sr., are motorcycle enthusiasts & industry experts with involvement in the sale process of the Indian Motorcycle factory in 2004, the American Ironhorse Motorcycle factory in 2009, the Buell factory in 2010, and have assisted in the sale of major distributors, dealers, and suppliers.

For more information about EBR Motorcycles, call 262-642-1627 or email info@EBR.com

Here’s an updated version ofMustang’s popular Fastback series, the all-new HighTail Fastback. It features all the comfort that put Mustang on the map in a sporty, low profile package that positions riders lower and 1” further back than the original.

Available for 2006-’17 Dyna and 2008-’19 Touring models, the HighTail provides a comfortable but aggressive riding position that allows riders to get the most out of their machines. The HighTail’s signature 6” high wall offers exceptional lower back support and keeps riders from sliding back in the saddle, making it perfect for aggressively twisting back the throttle or casually feasting on mile markers. A contoured and low-profile 13.5” wide driver bucket positions the operator lower and further back compared to most stock seats, while Mustang’s proprietary controlled-density foam provides even weight distribution to eliminate pressure points for long-haul comfort.

The hand-sewn cover is made from premium expanded vinyl that has the appearance of leather and durability to withstand the elements. Features include detailed stitch work and a blend of smooth vinyl with perforated vinyl inlays for a subtle contrasting effect. Additionally, Mustang’s Custom Seat Program offers a wide variety of stitch patterns as well as thread and vinyl color variations to create your own one-of-a-kind design. The HighTail for 2008-’19 H-D Touring is also available as part of the Dave Perewitz Signature Series by Mustang, which features classic diamond-stitched panels for added style.For more information on the new HighTail offerings, visit www.MustangSeats.com or call to speak with a Mustang representative at 800-243-1392 or 413-668-1100 to learn more about custom seat options.

Motorcycling greatness is found on tracks, in shops and on roads and trails across America.

It’s born in the minds and hearts of riders who, at one point or many, put motorcycles above all else in their lives to accomplish amazing things, inspiring the rest of us to ride more.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2018 includes six riders who have done just that. Read more.

At the 2018 Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) 34th annual Meeting of the Minds Conference held in Denver, CO, a Legislative Strategy Session was hosted by the MRF’s Legislative Committee. The purpose of the Session was to establish and prioritize the MRF’s Federal Legislative Agenda for 2019. These priorities are categorized below. Note that at any time, an item may move to a different category depending on the likelihood of activity. This list should remain fluid and can be adaptable depending on the issue and political environment.

“Our legislative agenda, which is determined by our members each year, ensures that the MRF is laser-focused on those issues important to motorcyclists nationwide,” said President Kirk ‘Hardtail’ Willard. “Our network of volunteers and staff are some of the most talented and influential in the world of motorcycle rights, and we look forward to working with the Administration and our Senate and House leaders in identifying legislation that will not only defend, but enhance the motorcycle lifestyle and community.”

The MRF’s legislative agenda showcases the diverse range of interests that the organization advocates on behalf of each year, with issues impacting independent riders, State Motorcycle Rights Organizations, motorcycle and riding clubs, the aftermarket industry and others in the community.

In addition, the Agenda prioritizes aggressive campaigns to combat government intrusion with a particular emphasis on motorcycle profiling, overreach by the Environmental Protection Agency, highly automated and connected vehicles, as well as new initiatives on the clarification of the ownership of vehicle data and information.

2019 HIGH PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

• Continue to lobby for the passage of legislation (H.Res.318 & S.Res.154) promoting public awareness of
and condemning instances of motorcycle profiling by law enforcement officials.

• Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard including the following actions:

The indefinite and universal availability of approved fuel blends, containing no more than 10 percent ethanol by volume.

Additional research and independent studies concerning the effects of higher blends of ethanol on motorcycles as well as targeted consumer education programs.

Where higher ethanol blends are available, ensure separate pumps (i.e. no blender pumps) to minimize the risk of damage to motorcycle engines.

• Advocate and monitor for motorcyclists concerning laws and regulations related to connected and autonomous vehicles, specifically, (AV START Act, S.1885);

Required testing for motorcycle recognition and responsiveness.

Strong standards to ensure the safety of motorcycle users as it relates to electronic and cyber security systems.

The inclusion of motorcyclists’ perspectives in discussions regarding Intelligent Transportation System (ITS).

Clarification of the rights of data ownership of any recorded data in the context of connected and autonomous vehicles.

• Fully engage the EPA & Congress on any activity related to motorcycle emission regulations (i.e. RPM Act – H.R.350 & S.203).

• Work with appropriate stakeholders concerning the federal definition of a motorcycle, ensuring that crash
and fatality statistics continue to be separate from other classes of vehicles including auto-cycles, non-motorcycle powered vehicles such as mopeds, scooters, and various cabin-based steering wheel type
vehicles.

• Consider limiting funding of any federal government entity with increasing involvement in advocating for a
universal helmet law or similar initiatives.

• Continue to promote our theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging NHTSA to focus on crash prevention and rider education.

• Fiercely oppose any federal mandatory helmet, apparel or conspicuity standards.

• Pursue legislative language that any collected vehicle data is property of the consumer and in which the
consumer has the option to opt out of having their personal data communicated to interested parties.

• Pursue and monitor efforts related to the next highway bill (expiring in 2020). Ensure the following provisions are included:

Motorcycle Education & Awareness Program Grant Funding:

Continuation of the NHTSA Lobbying Ban.

Continuation of Motorcycle Advisory Council (MAC) to advise the FHWA.

Oppose any motorcycling related federal blackmails or federal sanctions.

Monitor for any action that would negatively impact motorcycles, motorcycling, and motorcyclists.

Continuation of ban on federal funding for Motorcycle Only Checkpoints.

MEDIUM PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

• Pursue safer roadway design strategies in federal infrastructure legislation or discussions (i.e. MAC).

• Oppose any motorcycling, motorcycle, or motorcyclist-based discriminatory legislation or rules proposed by the U.S. Congress or by any federal agency.

• Monitor and ensure that the term “vulnerable roadway users” does not include motorcyclists.

MONITOR

• Work to discourage ALL forms of distracted driving.

• SAE Motorcycle Roadside Sound Testing (addressed by individual states).

• Continue participation in motorcycle related activity in the European Union, United Nations, and Canada informing
membership of key developments.

• Continue monitoring any federal studies concerning motorcycles (i.e. Federal Crash Causation Study MSF Naturalistic Study).

• Monitor and strongly oppose any federal standard proposing stamping and certifying of motorcycle exhaust systems.

• Monitor private and public organizations that oppose the legislative agenda or mission of the MRF.

• Monitor fair tolling concepts on federally funded roadways and projects supported by federal bonds.

• Monitor and support federal efforts to study and review the benefits and concerns of lane splitting and lane filtering.

• Monitor and respond to federal legislative or regulatory activity concerning the usage of the terms gang, club, known associate, and associate when referring to motorcyclists.

• Monitor and report on any litigation related to motorcycle emissions violations.

Hey,

Yesterday was strange. In fact the week started out fine then twisted several times. We are going to reconfigure Bikernet and Bandit’s Cantina at the first of the year.

We are going to focus on the Bikernet Blog and roll Bikernet into Bandit’s Cantina. I’m trying to slow down some and focus on the Salt Torpedo for Bonneville this year, while working on a couple of books.

We will keep you posted moving forward. Seems everyone else went with the blog format a decade ago and I’m just catching up. We will keep you posted.

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently the Smoke Out and Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.

LET’S KICK IT OFF WITH THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPENING–
Q: Why can’t you hear a psychiatrist using the bathroom?
A: Because the ‘p’ is silent
Q: What do you call a party with 100 midgets?
A: A little get together.

Q: What is the difference between an illegal immigrant and E.T.?
A: E.T. eventually went home!

–from Rogue

The 2019 POLITICAL AGENDA—from the Motorcycle Riders Foundation:

2019 Legislative & Regulatory Priorities
At the 2018 Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) 34th annual Meeting of the Minds Conference held in
Denver, CO, a Legislative Strategy Session was hosted by the MRF’s Legislative Committee. The purpose of the
Session was to establish and prioritize the MRF’s Federal Legislative Agenda for 2019.

These priorities are categorized below. Note that at any time, an item may move to a different category depending on the likelihood of
activity. This list should remain fluid and can be adaptable depending on the issue and political environment.

• Continue to lobby for the passage of legislation (H.Res.318 & S.Res.154) promoting public awareness of and
condemning instances of motorcycle profiling by law enforcement officials

• Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard including the following actions:
The indefinite and universal availability of approved fuel blends, containing no more than 10 percent ethanol by volume.

Additional research and independent studies concerning the effects of higher blends of ethanol on motorcycles as well as targeted consumer education programs.

Where higher ethanol blends are available, ensure separate pumps (i.e. no blender pumps) to minimize the risk of damage to motorcycle engines.

• Advocate and monitor for motorcyclists concerning laws and regulations related to connected and autonomous vehicles, specifically, (AV START Act, S.1885);

Required testing for motorcycle recognition and responsiveness.

Strong standards to ensure the safety of motorcycle users as it relates to electronic and cyber security systems.

The inclusion of motorcyclists’ perspectives in discussions regarding Intelligent Transportation System (ITS).

Clarification of the rights of data ownership of any recorded data in the context of connected and autonomous vehicles.

• Fully engage the EPA & Congress on any activity related to motorcycle emission regulations (i.e. RPM Act –
H.R.350 & S.203)

• Work with appropriate stakeholders concerning the federal definition of a motorcycle, ensuring that crash and
fatality statistics continue to be separate from other classes of vehicles including autocycles, non-motorcycle
powered vehicles such as mopeds, scooters, and various cabin-based steering wheel type vehicles

• Consider limiting funding of any federal government entity with increasing involvement in advocating for a
universal helmet law or similar initiatives

• Continue to promote our theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging NHTSA to focus on crash prevention and rider education.

• Fiercely oppose any federal mandatory helmet, apparel or conspicuity standards.

• Persue legislative language that any collected vehicle data is property of the consumer and in which the
consumer has the option to opt out of having their personal data communciated to interested parties.

• Pursue and monitor efforts related to the next highway bill (expiring in 2020). Ensure the following provisions are included:

Motorcycle Education & Awareness Program Grant Funding.

Continuation of the NHTSA Lobbying Ban.

Continuation of Motorcycle Advisory Council (MAC) to advise the FHWA.

Oppose any motorcycling related federal blackmails or federal sanctions.

Monitor for any action that would negatively impact motorcycles, motorcycling, and motorcyclists.

Continuation of ban on federal funding for Motorcycle Only Checkpoints

Your rights, your lifestyle, your motorcycle
are under siege. However, the 34th Annual
Meeting of the Minds demonstrated that the
strength in unity needed to turn that siege is
alive and well within the Motorcycle Riders
Foundation.

With a commitment to build upon what was
strengthened during the 2018 Bikers Inside
the Beltway and reinforced during the 34th
Annual Meeting of the Minds, ABATE of
Minnesota is dedicated to continuing those
efforts when they bring the 35th Annual
Meeting of the Minds to Minneapolis in
September 2019.

In the meantime, start making plans to attend the 11th Annual Bikers Inside the Beltway, May 20-21, 2019. Thank you for your commitment to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and your support of the
efforts to promote and protect the rights of all motorcyclists.

POLARIS SLINGSHOT ENHANCES INDUSTRY-LEADING RIDE COMMAND® INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM WITH MOBILE PHONE CONNECTIVITY–New Ride Command Software & Mobile App Allows
Remote Accessibility, Online Route Planning

Polaris Slingshot, the three-wheeled, open-air roadster which promises to deliver the most fun on the road, announced today at the Los Angeles Auto Show an all-new software update and mobile app for the vehicle’s industry-leading Ride Command infotainment system. The enhancements allow drivers to remotely access key vehicle data with an all-new Slingshot Ride Command mobile app and conveniently plan ride routes ahead of time via a desktop platform.

Slingshot models featuring the seven-inch multi-touch Ride Command infotainment system will pair with a Slingshot Ride Command mobile app and allow riders to view vehicle data, check service recommendations and log maintenance from the convenience of their mobile device. Drivers can also plan a ride route online at RideCommand.Slingshot.Polaris.com and wirelessly transfer the route to the Slingshot’s navigation system via Bluetooth®. Slingshot’s Ride Command updates are available to current Slingshot owners with Ride Command as part of a software update, which can be downloaded at RideCommand.Slingshot.Polaris.com. The Ride Command App is available in the Apple Store and on Google Play.

“The new Ride Command updates not only make it easier and more convenient for our owners to manage vehicle maintance and plan rides, but the new mobile app allows our owners to share their drives to Facebook and further connect with the Slingshot community,” said Josh Fulkerson, Slingshot Sr. Director. “We have a passionate group of Slingshot owners, and we’re extremely excited to utilize these technologies and deliver a convenient means to sharing and engaging with friends, family and fellow Slingshot owners.”

The industry-leading seven-inch, multi-touch Ride Command system comes standard in three 2019 models, including the SL, SLR, and Grand Touring. The infotainment system is equipped with convenient features such as mobile phone integration, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and customizable vehicle information screens. Additionally, Ride Command offers GPS with turn-by-turn navigation in the SLR and Grand Touring models as standard equipment and can be added as an accessory upgrade to the SL. Slingshot S owners can add Ride Command to their vehicle from the Slingshot accessorie catalogue.

Each Slingshot model packs a GM Ecotec 2.4L DOHC four-cylinder engine that delivers 173 horsepower by way of a five-speed manual transmission. With four models, the S, SL, SLR and Grand Touring, Slingshot’s 2019 lineup offers a variety of fit and finish options at a price point that ranges from $19,999 to $29,499. Drivers can further personalize and customize their Slingshot with dozens of Slingshot Engineered Accessories, including premium 200-watt Rockford Fosgate audio kit, 10-way adjustable BILSTEIN shocks, quilted comfort seats or add custom style and comfort with a color-matched Slingshade top.

For more information about Slingshot, visit PolarisSlingshot.com.

KAWASAKI DONATES MORE THAN $300,000 IN PRODUCT SUPPORT TO MMI EDUCATION EFFORTS
Foothill Ranch, Calif. – Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., announces its support of Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI) education efforts that will include a donation of 36 Kawasaki products, including motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and personal watercraft. The equivalent retail value reaches a total of more than $300,000 and utilizes Kawasaki’s wide-range lineup with Ninja®, Z family, Versys®, Vulcan®, KX™, and KLX® motorcycles, Brute Force® ATVs, Mule™ side-by-sides, and Jet Ski® personal watercraft models.

“The MMI is a fundamental part of our industry,” said Bill Jenkins, Senior VP Sales and Operations. “The industry-leading technical training educates and guides future professionals of our industry and feeds our dealers with qualified technicians.”

Kawasaki’s efforts are designed to support MMI’s technical training programs that prepare its graduates for future technician positions and careers at Kawasaki dealerships across the nation. After completing MMI’s core program, students take elective courses that help to familiarize them with specific product lines and maintenance procedures, ensuring professional-level service.

“For nearly three decades, Kawasaki has trusted MMI to train the skilled technicians who maintain and service their products across the nation,” said Roger Speer, Campus President, MMI Phoenix and Orlando. “This latest contribution of vehicles gives our students the opportunity to train on the very latest Kawasaki products, so they graduate from MMI ready to hit the ground running.”

“We’re thrilled to give the MMI and future technicians the best education on Kawasaki models,” said Patrick Kelly, Director Customer and Technical Support. “These 36 Kawasaki models will add to the curriculum and continue the successful K-Tech Specialist Program.”

Throughout the years, MMI’s technical training programs have paved the path for Kawasaki dealership technicians as well as several of Kawasaki’s amateur and factory racing support team technicians.

MORE HORSE MAGAZINE NEWS—First the HORSE changed their name back to IRON HORSE and more recently this surfaced:

Hugh Hefner’s plan was to use Oui as the ultimate challenge to Penthouse magazine threat to Playboy. Leaving Playboy as the men’s ‘sophisticated’ magazine, as mentioned in an article, (“Adventures in the Skin Trade”, Time, Jul. 30, 1973), Oui was able to present “rambunctious editorial slant with uninhibited nudes pictured in the Penthouse mood.” And that they did and were very successful.

Being too successful with Oui, Playboy started having major concerns about competing with itself, Playboy eventually sold Oui ?Óin June 1981 to Laurant Publishing Ltd. owned by Goshen Litho Inc. Their first issue was September 1981.
In April 14 1997 New Sound Media Corporation S. A. sold Oui to Princeton Trademarks Inc.

Then in late 1998 Princeton Trademarks Inc filed for bankruptcy and sold Oui to Global Media Group Ltd. in May 10 1999.

Oui ceased publication in 2007 with it’s last issue being February 2008 #413 and is now being revived in 2018 by the owners and publishers of The Horse BackStreet Choppers Magazine and Iron Horse Magazine.

–Paul Aiken
Owner
Aeromach USA, LLC
www.aeromach.net
www.highwayhawk.us

NEWS FROM SECURE CAPS–
I just want to share these with you.
Keith’s partner built these. They are awesome.

Oops, I miss quoted. It is Keith’s employee who built these.
His name is Fred Houston, he has been working for Keith for about 7 years now.

SecureCaps Engineering

949-441-0438

1411 N. Batavia st. unit 117

Orange, Calif 92867

www.securecaps.com

SBS BRAKE Aims For 100% NRS Safe

SBS Friction A/S on the way to complete implementation of mechanical bonding for both ceramic and sintered brake pads.

The leader in power sport brakes, SBS Friction is committed to work towards implementation of 100% NRS Safe usage throughout its brake pad product line. NRS Safe products eliminate glue and other ways of bonding the friction material to the backing plate. Instead, SBS will exclusively use the NUCAP Retention System (NRS), the most advanced mechanical attachment technology with a zero failure rate in over 1 Billion units Worldwide.

SBS last year released the SP sinter compound with NRS Safe technology for street riding, a first in the motorcycle industry. The SP line was well received by customers and garnered great reviews by industry media worldwide. NRS Safe was previously used only on organic brake pads, but through extensive Research and Development, SBS is now able to expand this technology into sinter compounds.

“The braking environment demands components that are capable of standing up to its violent vibration as well as incredible heating and cooling fluctuations. NRS Safe attachment is a mechanism that does not fail” NUCAP CEO Montu Khokhar comments.
A new range of industry leading road racing brake pads with NRS Safe technology was developed over the past few years and launched as the new Dynamic Racing Concept at EICMA in Milan, Italy in early November 2018. This underscores SBS’ position as the high standard in braking through design, quality, performance and durability.

“There is no room for error in motorcycle braking. By going 100% NRS Safe, SBS is using the absolute best in mechanical attachment enabling its riders to feel confident that they are using the safest performing brakes available” SBS Friction A/S CSO Christel Munk Pedersen says.

SBS Friction A/S is a Danish based company that develops, manufactures and markets brake pads and friction solutions for motorcycles, scooters, special cars, ATVs and industrial applications such as wind turbines.

LATEST FROM THE BAD COP FILE–We need this for the cops who frame and or lie about motorcycle people
–Rogue

Former Florida police chief gets 3 years in prison for framing black people

MIAMI (AP) — The former police chief of a small Florida city will serve three years in prison for a conspiracy in his department to frame black people for crimes they did not commit.

A federal judge in Miami imposed the sentence Tuesday on ex-Biscayne Park chief Raimundo Atesiano, who had faced a maximum 10-year sentence. Three other former officers have also pleaded guilty in the case, which centered around efforts by Atesiano to improve his department’s crime-solving rate.

Former Florida police officers land in prison after admitting to falsely arresting a teenager

Atesiano’s lawyer says the victims were not randomly selected but were known to police as having criminal pasts.

Prosecutors say the crimes for which black people were falsely arrested included burglaries and vehicle break-ins.

Two ex-officers were sentenced to a year each in prison, while the third got just over two years behind bars.

–abcactionnews.com

–from Rogue

RODDER’S JOURNAL UPDATE–The all new TRJ #80 is shipping to subscribers now. On the newsstand cover, we showcase the restored Eddie Dye roadster basking in a pool of light outside Bob Dron’s replica service station on his property in Northern California. For subscribers, we have an up-close-and-personal studio shot of the Buick nailhead in Don Prieto’s tribute to Tommy Ivo’s first dragster.

Inside, the new issue is filled with a carefully curated blend of traditional rods, customs and other unforgettable features. From a cross-country trip in a souped-up Model T to a custom ’47 Cadillac convertible built from a forgotten four-door, we cover every end of the traditional spectrum. On top of that, we look at ’50s hot rodding in New Hampshire, Tom Fritz’s new art and a W-motor equipped Deuce highboy.

At over 160 pages, TRJ is proudly printed in the U.S.A. It’s a must-have for any diehard hot rod and custom car enthusiast.

To place and order, click the red boxes or give us a call at (800) 750-9550 in the United States, (877) 479-2627 in Canada or (650) 246-8920 internationally.

Cheers!
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WORD OF THE DAY–
keek

[keek]
verb
1.
Scot. and North England. to peep; look furtively.

QUOTES

I will be near by him, and when he keeks round to spy ye, I will bring him such a clout as will gar him keep his eyes private for ever.
— Alfred Ollivant, “Danny,” Everybody’s Magazine, Volume 6, January to June, 1902

ORIGIN

Keek “to peep” is a verb used in Scotland and northern England. It does not occur in Old English but is related to, if not derived from, Middle Dutch and Middle Low German kiken “to look.” Keek dates from the late 14th century, first appearing in The Canterbury Tales.

IRWINDALE SPEEDWAY NEWS–Hey Irwindale Speedway Race Fans,

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YRLA Testimonials v1 2

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Purchase Your Experience Today @
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[page break]

Merry Christmas from Southern Biker Magazine! —If you watch/read/listen to the news, you may find a lot of what is going on in the USA rather disturbing with the Mexican caravan, sanctuary cities and the destruction of our historical monuments.

Why is this allowed to happen? How can we stop these things from occurring? How can a handful of wealthy individuals, i.e. Soros, influence so many with their propaganda?

It’s time we (the motorcycle community) band together and protect our way of life and stop others from destroying our heritage and our nation. I think we have it pretty good here in the USA and so do many others outside the USA.

Many people have shut the door on God and we need to bring back the values taught to us in the Bible and apply them to our every day lives and in school. Be kind to one another, and pay it forward are two good ways to start. I remember saying the pledge of allegiance and having a moment of silence in school, but that has disappeared and slowly prayer is being banned in many of the activities we grew up participating.

The biker community is a force to be reckoned with. Our presence is noticed around the world. If we come together and show how we feel about the negative events occurring, people will take notice and maybe it will change things for the better. Let me know how you feel. Send an email to Kristin@southernbiker.us

You’ll find lots of information / ads / articles about upcoming motorcycle rallies and events that you won’t want to miss. If you have an event you would like to see printed in our magazine, feel free to submit that to www.SouthernBikerMagazine.com and we will add it.

CHOWHALL OF THE WEEK—Chef Bob Rules.

Flavor for Days!! Chef Bob Rules!! I am still thinking about this perfect Riff on Nashville Hot Fried Chicken. The meat itself is perfectly seasoned and juicy, the crunch and flavor on their crust is outrageous and the slow building burn of heat is so addicting!!

https://youtu.be/ly5xLvNjkg0

This awesomeness is only available on Tuesdays. Also in this vid is their amazing whole hog pulled pork! We didn’t highlight them, but Chef Bob makes the best Collard Greens that I have ever had! Get here!

Zingerman’s Roadhouse is located in Ann Arbor, MI.

–BikerDude

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) Contracts with Husch Blackwell Strategies–As the 115th Congress nears an end the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has contracted with Husch Blackwell Strategies (HBS) a Washington, DC. based lobbying firm to pursue passage of our anti-profiling resolutions in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Our membership has stressed to the MRF how important these resolutions are to the motorcycling community and we are taking proactive steps to seek passage before the end of the year. HBS will advocate for us on Capitol Hill and continue the momentum that we have built over the last two years with this Congress.

Husch Blackwell Strategies (HBS) is a Washington, DC based lobbying firm with a dozen federal lobbyists representing both ends of the political spectrum. The staff at HBS has decades of experience both on Capitol Hill and on K Street advocating for client interests. HBS has a diverse client base representing everything from Fortune 500 companies to small trade associations. Additionally, HBS has a growing state lobbying practice with offices in Texas, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Missouri.

William “Rocky” Fox will lead our efforts with assistance from his colleagues at HBS. Mr. Fox has over a decade of experience in the lobbying world. He has helped represent such clients as the Outdoor Amusement Business Association, MGM Casinos, Drive Right USA and AT&T. Mr. Fox began his career as a staffer on the House Transportation Committee during the passage of the 2005 Transportation bill (SAFTEA-LU). He is a graduate of the University of San Diego and holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from American University.

Below in a link to the HBS website:

hbstrategies.us

NEW/OLD 5-BALL RACING TRUCK—We picked up a ’72 Ford F-250 and got it California registered yesterday. Then, in the mail popped a catalog of truck components from LMC. Amazing. We were saved.

I immediately ordered new grill inserts and gas caps. I believe it’s a Canadian based company.

Customer Care

lmctruck.com

NOW 50 STATE LEGAL – Grand National 2:2 Exhaust for 2018+ Fat Bob

Inspired by their total domination in American Flat Track, S&S Cycle has taken performance exhaust to the next level. Combining a two into two format with a hidden crossover, the new Grand National system is designed for pure, relentless performance.

Clean bends, stainless header tubing and full shielding to create an exhaust that makes real power without the punishment of melted boots and uneven torque delivery of most other short tract systems.

S&S also includes wide band O2 sensor ports as well as removable secondary baffles that allow for sound and back pressure tuning. Available in chrome or black ceramic, the Grand National 2:2 is now 50 State legal and CARB compliant (yes, it still sounds great and makes killer power!) .

Click Here For More Information https://www.sscycle.com/grand-national-2-2-m8-softail/

Finally got CARB approval on this one. Doing our part to make Softails cool, even in California! ~ DZ

EXCLUSIVE: 72 percent say media ‘dividing Americans,’ spreading ‘hate’–

Nearly three-quarters of the country believes that the media are “dividing Americans” along political, racial, and gender lines, a stunning condemnation of the press, according to a new national survey.

What’s more, the Zogby Analytics poll provided to Secrets said that the media bias is sparking hate and misunderstanding.
And while Americans also blame President Trump for dividing voters, the survey analysis said the media are worse.

Those surveyed, said Zogby Analytics, “felt the mainstream media spreads hate and misunderstanding, also felt that President Trump is responsible for the spread of hate and misunderstanding, but more voters overall, and in most sub-groups, blame the media slightly more!”

Overall, 72 percent said “the mainstream media has played a major role in dividing Americans along racial, gender and political lines. This has led to a spread of hate and misunderstanding among some people.”
Only two-thirds said the same about Trump.
While 7-in-10 men and women agreed that the media are to blame for dividing the nation, Republicans were nearly unanimous while just 51 percent of Democrats said the press was to blame.

There was a similar division among black and white voters, as the analysis here shows.
The key summary analysis from Zogby:
Based on the results of the recent midterm election in the U.S., in which the Democrats took back control of the House and the Republicans regained a majority in the Senate, suffice it to say, Americans are politically divided.

The country is also divided as to who should shoulder the blame: There are some people who feel racial, gender, and political issues are made worse by the coverage of the mainstream media, while there are others who feel the divide we currently suffer from is the result of President Trump’s rhetoric.

In order to determine who voters blame more, we asked likely voters in separate questions, “Do you agree or disagree: The mainstream media/President Trump has played a major role in dividing Americans along racial, gender and political lines. This has led to a spread of hate and misunderstanding among some people.”

It’s no surprise that strong majorities blame both the mainstream media and Trump: Nearly three-quarters agreed (strongly and somewhat agree combined) that the mainstream media plays a major role in the spread of hate, while only 29% disagreed with this notion. This was more than the two-thirds of respondents, who felt the same about President Trump, while one-third disagreed. We will get into the specific details of the president’s role, regarding America’s political divide, in our next release.

by Paul Bedard

THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRAY IS EXPANDING–
A doctor who had been seeing an 80-year-old woman for most of her life
finally retired. At her next check-up, the new young doctor told her
to bring a list of all the medicines that had been prescribed for
her..

Looking through these, his eyes grew wide as he realized Grandma had a prescription for birth control pills. “Mrs. Smith, do
you realize these are birth control pills?”

“Yes, they help me sleep
at night.” “Mrs. Smith,

I assure you – there is absolutely nothing
in these that could possibly help you sleep!”

She reached out,
patted the young doctor’s knee and said, “Yes, dear, I know that. But
every morning, I grind one up and mix it in the glass of orange juice
that my 16-year-old granddaughter drinks. And believe me, it
definitely helps me sleep at night”

–from Sam Burns

NEW FROM THE GEARHEAD DIARIES–Going back to broken wings of the Harley logo. The first time I seen a pair I did not like them at all. I remember Big Jim with a pair at the bottom of his cut when I was a teenager.

I asked him about them and his only answer was, they have to be earned. I didn’t get it, not understanding the bike culture, I was still a lot greener to it then.

When I learned many years later about them. I had a friend whom had lost his leg in an auto accident on his Sportster. He had them on an old train engineer hat. I had my share of high sides and crashes, so I learned how broken wings are earned. I have put a pair on leathers ever since.

I have given away many pairs myself. It is just a sign of respect to those of us who survived and to those who did not.

–Gearhead

ALL NEW Flyover States Manifesto–The “flyover states.” As in, “Those idiots in the flyover states.”

It’s a derogatory term coined with malicious intent by arrogant, domineering politicians, news anchors and entertainment “personalties” who control the national airwaves, and who are waging a campaign to silence and coerce all who fail to agree with them.

But silence they will not have.

They seek to destroy local pride held by Americans living in the huge regions of this great nation, to which the term sarcastically refers. It has been said that anywhere one might fly over to get from New York to LA qualifies as a “flyover state”. So be it.

FOS is the response to these “thought leaders” attempts to shame, silence and coerce our dignified, well-run families, our proud neighborhoods, cities, farming and ranching communities and states.

What are the real ‘flyover states’? FOS are where the sound of breaking glass means somebody has a new football. FOS are where a prairie fire means neighbors show up with food, clothing, hay, livestock, whatever is needed to stand a neighbor, their family, and their family business back up.

FOS are where the elderly get snow shoveled from their driveways first. FOS are where people wave as they pass while driving, or pull over to ‘visit’ on a gravel road. FOS are where kids grow up working alongside parents and grandparents and learn how to value, family values.

FOS are where differences are respected, and the weak are protected by the strong. FOS are where those jets we all fly in are actually built. The FOS are what the entire world hopes America is, and will always be. For the FOS are where honor, integrity, generosity, humility, selflessness and bravery still stand unwaveringly.

We are the flyover states, and we stand for all that, which “FOS” represents. Henceforth we wear this mark, FOS, and we wear it with pride.

–Agent Zebra

Watch for more from the FOS gang coming right up.

PERFORMANCE BAGGER EXHAUST SYSTEM IN THE MAKING–Picked up this 2017 OEM bagger exhaust
from www.ShopGarageSaleStore.com

Don’t know if I sent this picture. It shows what I’ve done so far. I just bought the exhaust system yesterday. It also has ‘02 bungs welded in place on the header tubes.
Yes, $55.00! It was a brand new take off complete system. What I found is that the M8
exhaust can be used on earlier Twin Cam bikes.

This newer style exhaust keeps the crossover for left side pipe under & to the rear of the oil pan.

To use it with earlier Twin Cams S&S makes a real nice sturdy bracket system so you can bolt it up to the rear of the oil pan. No fabrication needed!!

You might need a another mounting point say like under the tranny. Don’t know for sure yet.

Putting the exhaust crossover underneath really helps with the excess heat from the earlier baggers!! Alot!!

For me I want the stainless head pipes with the collector for a cheap 2-into-1 exhaust so I could use a tunable Supertrapp car muffler.

The Supertrapp muffler is only $250.00 & comes with 15 discs. Based on experience I’ll probably need 10 more. It has a 2 ½-inch dia. inlet with a 4-inch diameter x 17 inches long.
All from Summit Racing. The outlet of the OEM pipe is 2 ½-inch diameter.

–PSD

AUSTRALIAN NEWS–
Rider’s widow urges vote for roads
POSTED ON 20TH NOVEMBER, 2018 BY MARK HINCHLIFFE.

Widow at Bad Roads Rally rally.

The widow of a rider killed when he hit wire rope barriers has urged riders to vote in this weekend’s Victorian election for the party that pledges to improve the state’s roads.

Jan White was speaking at the Bad Roads Rally in Bendigo at the weekend.

Her husband, Phil, died a year ago when his Harley hit a kangaroo on the Calder Highway and was thrown from his bike, hitting the WRBs.

Widow calls for halt on wire rope barrier ads
Phil and Jan White

Jan says the most important issue to her is halting the rollout of wire rope barriers while a “proper safety review” is undertaken in consultation with motorcycle groups.

“This would have to include a review of our accident reporting systems in my strong view,” she says.

“I want to see the promise of action to make all roads safe for all vehicles on our roads, no matter if four wheels or two.”

Rally organizer Damien Codogntto of the Motorcycle Riders Association of Victoria (formerly the Independent Riders Group) claimed the event attracted about 100 people, including five candidates in Saturday’s Victorian election and members of the media.

Widow at Bad Roads Rally rally
Damien at the rally (Image: Full Throttle Ministries).
Earlier this month the Liberal Nationals promised to halt the rollout of wire rope barriers but did not advocate against their use.

MP Peter Walsh told the rally that if they attained government they would also restart the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into VIicRoads management of country roads.

On the same day as the rally, Victorian Police called for doctors to dob in old drivers and riders that they deemed unfit, lower speed limits and deploy more speed cameras.

–MotorBiker Writer

NEWS FROM MAVERICK ART–
With Veteran’s Day having come recently, and with the firefighters in California risking their lives daily on the front lines of those devastating fires, I thought I would take a moment to give some thanks to all first responders and military service-people as well as their family, friends and fans.

As many of my friends know I am very supportive of law enforcement, military and first responders. My family has a long tradition of serving in America’s Armed Forces all the way back to serving in George Washington’s Armies (Lt. Stephen Olney).

Even as I followed my own personal calling to art instead of military service, I have a deep respect for all who serve and I cannot even begin to adequately express my enduring gratitude for the sacrifices that they risk and endure as a part of their daily lives.

If you ever have an opportunity to say thank you, or give something back to your community or those who need a hand up, please give when you can.

I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving and I look forward to sending you Moore News and Art soon! – BAM!

— Monte

CHRISTMAS GRINCH ATTACKS DEAD ARTIST—The publisher of Easyriders, Joe Teresi notified us this week that we can’t use or sell copyrighted Hal Robinson Art.

Mr. Teresi admitted that his surveys called for not using Hal’s art a long time ago. And I was under the impression from Hal’s first wife, Ann Robinson that she had received permission from Lou Kimzey, the previous publisher, and authority from her attorney, but unfortunately her attorney is now in prison.

This may be your last opportunity to buy these rare Hal Robinson art samples. We will keep you posted as Ann Robinson reviews her paperwork and we submit out findings to the Emperor of the Easyriders kingdom, Joe Teresi.

Hang On!

–Bandit

ZERO MOTORCYCLES AND QUADRO VEHICLES SA REACH AGREEMENT–
Partnership between revolutionary powertrain builder and cutting edge scooter designer
SANTA CRUZ, Calif., (November 28, 2018) Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in high-power electric motorcycles and electric powertrains, today announced that it has entered into a partnership with Quadro Vehicles.

This exciting collaboration combines the California company’s Silicon Valley technology with the Swiss firm’s precise manufacturing to bring an all-electric, four-wheeled maxi-scooter to market. The combined results will reset the standards of accessibility, performance, and safety in the realms of personal mobility and urban commuting.

Zero Motorcycles has been designing and building electric components to propel their category defining motorcycles for over 12 years. The result of Zero’s tireless pursuit of technological advancements is a durable and consistent powertrain system that Quadro recognizes as the perfect choice for their first electric vehicle.

Quadro’s premium four-wheeled tilting scooter, the Qooder, boasts a revolutionary built-in hydraulic tilt system (HTS) design that allows it to bank upwards of 45 degrees into corners without losing all four wheels of traction. This original platform will incorporate the Zero Motorcycles powertrain and arrive as the new, all-electric “e-Qooder” by the end of 2019.

“Quadro Vehicles stands for advanced mobility solutions and has already launched in Europe Qooder which is a new category of commuting mobility, patented and unique in the world. For this reason we wanted to partner with the best to enter decisively the ZEV market with a unique point of view by the end of 2019,” said Paolo Gagliardo, CEO of Quadro Vehicles.

“We selectively enter into powertrain partnerships with an exclusive few companies that share in our values of innovation, leadership, passion and a commitment to quality,” said Jim Callahan, Director of Business Development.

“Collaborating with Quadro made perfect sense from the very start and the electric Qooder prototype has been great fun to ride already. Electrifying the Qooder experience with a Zero powertrain is certain to be a game changer when it comes to describing options for individual mobility.”

Zero Motorcycles powertrains have already been introduced across a wide array of industries including automotive, powersports, industrial equipment, agricultural equipment, and a variety of automation applications. Designed entirely in their offices in Santa Cruz, California, Zero Motorcycles Z-Force Powertrains stand alone in innovation, modularity, performance, and reliability.

To learn more about Zero Motorcycles visit: www.zeromotorcycles.com
To learn more about Quadro visit: www.quadrovehicles.com

[page break]

MIC UPDATE–Lame Duck Session May Be A Last Chance

Dynamic shifts are coming to Congress after the midterm elections and the MIC has been working closely with the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable to move on a number of public land access and infrastructure legislative priorities.

“The coming ‘lame duck session’ may very well be the last opportunity to advance these critical pieces of legislation in the near future,” said MIC Federal Affairs Manager Callie Hoyt, who also serves as co-chair of the ORR Government Relations Committee.

Legislation the ORR is pushing to pass includes funding to continue and expand the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account of the Bureau of Economic Analysis. ORSA measures the economic impact of outdoor recreation, and funding would help ORSA update the results released in September and help to develop state-level assessments.

ORR members are also supporting a public lands package that reduces the deferred maintenance backlog for key visitor infrastructure, reduces red tape around sensible land management projects, modernizes fisheries management, expands access to America’s public lands and waterways, and reauthorizes the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Significant recreation-friendly provisions — such as language calling for investment in outdoor recreation in rural America — are also being lobbied for inclusion in a reauthorized farm bill.

All of this matters to keeping public lands open and maintained for motorcycle, ATV and side-by-side enthusiasts, today and for future generations.

Click here for a compilation of key “lame duck session” issues from the ORR government relations committee. Click here to learn more about ORR’s long-term policy priorities.

–MIC

NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Special Report on Sea Level Rise

by Judith Curry

I have now completed my assessment of sea level rise and climate change.

My preliminary compilation of information was provided in the 7-part Climate Etc. series Sea level rise acceleration (or not).

This report reflects 18 months of work on this topic.

Report summary

The overall report is 80 pages long, with 7 pages of that being the reference list. The focus of the report is on the 21st century, with one Chapter specific to U.S. coastal sea level rise.

Here is the text of the introduction, minus the references and footnotes.

The alarm over sea level rise

The public discourse on the threat of sea level rise is typified by these dire statements from climate scientists:

“That’s the big thing – sea-level rise – the planet could become ungovernable.” – Dr. James Hansen, former Director, NASA GISS

“We’re talking about literally giving up on our coastal cities of the world and moving inland.” – Dr. Michael Mann, Penn State

The alarm over sea level rise is not so much about the 7-8 inches or so that global sea level has risen since 1900. Rather, it is about projections of 21st century sea level rise from human-caused global warming.

This Report refers extensively to the Assessment Reports prepared by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), since these Reports are used to guide policies developed by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, including the 2015 Paris Agreement.

According to the IPCC, the projected 21st century sea level rise depends on the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. The likely range of projected sea level rise by the end of the 21st century is from 0.26 to 0.82 m [10 to 32 inches], depending on the emissions scenario.

The primary concern over future sea level rise is related to the potential collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, which could cause global mean sea level to rise substantially above the IPCC’s likely range in the 21st century. The IPCC AR5 has medium confidence that this additional contribution from the West Antarctic ice sheet would not exceed several tenths of a meter [less than a foot] of sea level rise during the 21st century.

Subsequent to the 2013 IPCC AR5, there has been a focus on the possible worst-case scenario for global sea level rise. Estimates of the maximum possible global sea level rise by the end of the 21st century range from 1.6 to 3 meters [5-10 feet], and even higher.

These extreme values of possible sea level rise are regarded as extremely unlikely or so unlikely that we cannot even assign a probability. Nevertheless, these extreme, barely possible values of sea level rise are now becoming anchored as outcomes that are driving local adaptation plans [link].

Is the alarm over sea level rise a ‘false alarm,’ or not? The following four issues frame this report:

Whether recent global sea level rise is unusual in context of the historical and geological record.

The extent to which recent global sea level rise is caused by human-caused global warming, relative to natural causes of global sea level rise.

The extent to which local sea level rise is influenced by the global sea level rise, relative to local vertical land motion and land use practices.

Projections of sea level rise (global and local) for the 21st century, from all causes.

This Report critically evaluates the assessment and conclusions from the IPCC and other recent assessment reports regarding sea level rise, and includes an assessment of recent research and the knowledge frontiers. The IPCC and other assessment reports have been framed around assessing support for the hypothesis of human-caused climate change. As a result, natural processes of climate variability have been relatively neglected in these assessments. Arguments are presented here supporting the important and even dominant role that natural processes play in global and regional sea level variations and change.

Understanding and predicting sea level rise is a vibrant and active area of research. The challenges and uncertainties are well recognized by international scientific community, as formulated by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Grand Challenge on Regional Sea Level Change and Coastal Impacts.

Conclusions

Here are my conclusions:

Mean global sea level has risen at a slow creep for more than 150 years; since 1900, global mean sea level has risen about 7-8 inches. The implications of the highest values of projected sea-level rise under future climate change scenarios are profound, with far reaching socioeconomic and environmental implications. However, these projections are regarded as deeply uncertain and the highest of these projections strain credulity.

The IPCC and other assessment reports are framed around providing support for the hypothesis of human-caused climate change. As a result, natural processes of climate variability have been relatively neglected in these assessments. Arguments have been presented here supporting the important and even dominant role that natural processes play in global and regional sea level variations and change.

With regards to the four issues raised in the Introduction:

Is the recent sea level rise (since 1993) of magnitude 3 mm/year unusual?

No, although this conclusion is conditional on the quality of the global sea level data. The available evidence shows the following:

Sea level was apparently higher than present at the time of the Holocene Climate Optimum (~ 5000 years ago), at least in some regions.

Tide gauges show that sea levels began to rise during the 19th century, after several centuries associated with cooling and sea level decline. Tide gauges also show that rates of global mean sea level rise between 1920 and 1950 were comparable to recent rates.

Recent research has concluded that there is no consistent or compelling evidence that recent rates of sea level rise are abnormal in the context of the historical records back to the 19th century that are available across Europe.

Has recent global sea level rise been caused by human-caused global warming?

Identifying a potential human fingerprint on recent sea level rise is confounded by the large magnitude of natural internal variability associated with ocean circulation patterns. There is not yet convincing evidence of a fingerprint on sea level rise associated with human-caused global warming:

The slow emergence of fossil fuel emissions prior to 1950 did not contribute significantly to sea level rise observed in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The recent acceleration in mean global sea level rise (since 1995) is caused by mass loss from Greenland that appears to have been larger during the 1930s, with both periods associated with the warm phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation.

I’m publishing this through my company Climate Forecast Applications Network (CFAN) as a Special Report. I regard the currently posted version to be final, although I will correct any errors that are spotted.

KEEP THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN–

Q: What’s the difference between roast beef and pea soup?
A: Anyone can roast beef.

–from Rogue

NEWS FROM Barnett Clutches and Cables–
Big Twin Clutch Lock-up Head

New from Ventura, California based manufacturer Barnett Clutches and Cables, this new clutch lock-up head for 2013 and later Big Twins uses the “assist and slip” three spring clutch.

“This lock up head bolts to the stock pressure plate with no modifications required. More pressure is added to the clutch resulting in a more positive engagement and a clutch capacity of 150+ HP.”

Stainless inserts that install on the stock pressure plate are also included to prevent the lock-up arms from grooving the stock cast pressure plate.

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES
www.barnettcables.com

NEWS FROM CHOPPERTOWN–50% off All DVDs and Downloads
(While supplies last.)

Choppertown presents
Mad Fabricators Complete Set on DVD

Mad Fabricators Super Bundle (9 hot rod DVDs)
$79.95

The monsters are coming out! If you remember when Choppertown came out in 2005 then you also remember a cool hot rod movie that was bouncing around a few months before that.

Mad Fabricators would go on to create a whole series of the baddest movies about the hot rod scene ever. Choppertown is now one of the only places on earth you can get these DVDs and we’ll be selling them until we run out! Get the complete series today and we’ll make sure you have it in time for Xmas.

Mad Fabs, definitely staying independent.

We’re offering 50% off all DVDs, including the Complete Collection. While supplies last.

Revolution Performance–
M-8 124-inch Bolt-On Big Bore Kit

Plymouth, Wisconsin based Revolution Performance says its 124-inch M-8 Bolt-On Big Bore Kit is “the most reliable way to increase power and torque on the 2017-2018 M-8 107-inch engine,” for Tourers and Softails.

“Each 124-inch kit comes with our state of the art all aluminum 4.250-inch Nickel Silicon Carbide (NSC) plated cylinders, which last longer and run cooler than the conventionally iron lined OEM cylinders and are matched with a premium forged piston kit and a complete Cometic gasket kit.”

Subject to the cylinder head combustion chamber volume, the forged flat-top piston kit delivers a 10.4:1 compression ratio and the company says the kit installs without the need for any other engine modifications, “but can benefit from our other products and services such as our 124-inch M-8 Velocity CNC Cylinder Head Porting Package.”
Testing is said to have shown that the kit can produce as much as 28.4 percent gain in power and 17.8 percent gain in torque, and that the NSC plating process “forms an extremely hard barrier on the cylinder bore with exceptional wear resistant with excellent oil retention and a low coefficient of friction.

“Because our cylinder and piston are the same material, they expand at the same rate when exposed to heat – this means tighter, more precise tolerances can be used and the cylinder will run up to 40 degrees cooler.”

REVOLUTION PERFORMANCE
www.revperf.com

GUN NUT REPORT FROM TRUTH ABOUT GUNS–A constitutional amendment has been proposed for Florida’s 2020 ballot that would ban most semi-automatic long guns in the state. The petition drive and effort is being pushed by a Miami-based organization known as Ban Assault Weapons NOW (BAWN) and they have some big names in their corner. A former Republican member of the Florida Senate is part of their committee, of course, to give it a bipartisan veneer.

Their mission statement is simple:

Congress won’t act. The Florida Legislature won’t act. The only way to ban assault weapons like AR-15s and other weapons of war is for the people of Florida to go to the polls and vote. This campaign will place an amendment on the 2020 ballot in Florida to do what our elected leaders refuse to: Ban Assault Weapons NOW.

According to the Tampa Bay Times, the group has raised nearly $410,000 since March, while spending almost $284,000, according to finance information. The expenditures included $75,000 last month to a California-based company for what was described in the finance information as “petitions.”

Our own research into BAWN shows that they have a lengthy donation record through the Florida Department of State records.

Additionally, they are part of ActBlue, a nonprofit technology organization established in June 2004 that enables Democrats, progressive groups, and nonprofits to raise money on the internet by providing them with online fundraising software. Its stated mission is to “empower small-dollar donors.” Basically it’s a leftist GoFundMe for their pet political causes.

Here is the actual petition.

If this petition gets enough signatures and passes in 2020, it would designate any semi-automatic long gun in Florida with a capacity of more than ten rounds an “assault weapon” and ban them for future sale or possession. Additionally, it would require that Floridians register their firearms with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Failure to do so or possession after the grace period would be a third degree felony and that would automatically strip Floridians of their Second Amendment rights. Furthermore, this would also invalidate Florida Criminal Statute 790.335 and 790.336, the prohibition on registration and keeping of lists/records.

Still another more radical ballot measure is being proposed by Stop The Killing. Their goal is to outright ban the ownership of all firearms with a capacity of more than seven rounds in Florida. A search of their financial records show they’ve had little support of any kind so far. But their mission statement is plain as day.

To change the Constitution of the State of Florida to include banning the ownership of military style weapons by private persons and restricting the ownership or possession of guns by criminals, habitual law breakers, repeat abusers, and persons who make violent threats to others.

–Truth about Guns

SHIFT LEVERS FROM Baker Drivetrain–
No More Stripped or Broken Shift Levers

Baker Drivetrain says that replacing a stock shift lever with its truss style shift lever “is a big step forward in both function and form. The stock shift lever has cast splines, which are prone to stripping, but our shift lever has broached splines, just like the gear splines in our transmissions.

“They’ll stand up to the rigors of daily and spirited use. Our truss style lever features design cues inspired by the structure of connecting rods and highly stressed airplane levers, and they’re as tough as they look.”

They are currently offered for ‘80-‘06 (except 2006 Dyna) 5-speed Big Twin models and Big Dogs, and are under development for 2007-up models.

BAKER DRIVETRAIN
www.bakerdrivetrain.com

TUCKER AND V-TWIN FORT WORTH SHOW–Tucker Powersports
Record Number of Exhibiting Brands and Dealer Pre-Registrations as Tucker Gears-Up for 2019 Fort Worth Show

With some weeks still to go, Tucker Powersports says that its 2019 Tucker Show at the Fort Worth Expo Center (January 24/25) has already attracted a “record number of brands registered to attend – to date we have approximately 162 brand partners committed to our 2019 show, making it the ideal business networking event for dealers to kick off the new year.”

Of those 162, there are 21 that are said to be new to the Tucker Show line-up, and 11 that are not only new to the show, but also new Tucker brands.
“That’s not all though, with our larger venue at the downtown Fort Worth Expo Center we have also seen an increase in dealer pre-registrations with like for like numbers running ahead of the same time last year already.”

The show will be an expo debut for industry veterans Greg Blackwell and Greg Heichelbech, who recently joined the group as Senior VP of Sales and Marketing for Tucker and President of the MAG Accessories Group (Kuryakyn and Mustang Seats) respectively.

The show will also mark a return for former Vance & Hines Sales and Marketing Director John Potts who recently rejoined MAG as Global VP of Business Development as interim CEO Mike Buettner moved to strengthen the leadership teams.
www.tucker.com

–posted by Dealerworld

WOW, THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS KICKING IT–
Q: What do you call two fat people talking?
A: A heavy discussion.

Q: How do you start a parade in the ghetto?
A: Roll a 40 down the street.

–from Rogue

A BROTHER OF MINE WROTE A BOOK ABOUT STAYING CALM—In one of his chapters he discusses making life changes to keep your life fresh and vibrant.

I’ve made many changes to my life over the years, but as you get older it’s gets tougher, but I’m determined to shift a couple of gears, try a new format and slow down some. Is that possible? Like I tell my friends, when they propose a new plan or widget, “Time will Tell and Shit will Smell.”

Hang on. One guarantee, it will never be dull.

Ride free forever,

–Bandit