Merry Christmas,
Christmas can mean so much to so many of us. It can bring up the blues, hardships, wonderful family experiences, almost fantasy delights and religious warmth.
I wish only the best holiday experiences for all the riders who read Bikernet. I have a pact with Dr. Hamster. We promised to cut bullshit out of our lives in 2017, so we can enjoy time with friends, racing endeavors and holidays even more .
We all need to think about this formula rolling into the New Year.
I want to thank all of our Bikernet Sponsors for a tremendous year and thank the growing number of Bikernet weekly News Sponsors for their support sharing our news.
They include: Las Vegas Bike Fest, Choppertown, Cycle Source magazine, Iron Trader, Born to Ride and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
Come see us at the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati January 28th and 29th.
Let’s hit the news, and for Cantina Members, we’re taking a break on Xmas—No Sunday Post.
SAFETY VEST ALERT— This just in from the machine shop down south.
–El Waggs
Hazardous Cycles Comes to Bikernet
Awesome bike, so glad you guys and gals run these articles. Love that old school look!
— Speed
Wyandotte, MI
Thanks Speed, we’re on the hunt for more scooters to feature. Just drop me an image to Bandit@Bikernet.com and we will take care of it.
–Bandit
BIKERNET SPONSORS LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST FOR 2017–
Las Vegas BikeFest 2016 was one of our best events ever. We had over 33,000 attendees from 44 states and 19 countries. We gave away four motorcycles and over $100,000 in cash and prizes. And 2017 promises to be even better! Attendees and Vendors all raved at what a great event it was and plan on coming back next year. And we will be back on Fremont Street East for the third year in a row — right in downtown Las Vegas.
JOIN US for Las Vegas BikeFest 2017. The link below has tons of information on why Las Vegas BikeFest should be part of your 2017 schedule.
Our attendees come from all over the world, with money to spend – and our records show that year after year they spend money at Las Vegas BikeFest.
We spend time, effort and money to market the event and your participation. Plus, add in the non-stop entertainment, competitions and contests, bike shows and fun that keeps them at the Rally and happy so they spend more with you.
Click the button, find out about Las Vegas BikeFest and we’ll be calling you soon to lock up your space.
–Mindi Cherry
Vice President/Event Manager
Las Vegas BikeFest
702-216-5832
mcherry@LasVegasBikeFest.com
HOT ROD ENGINE DEAL OF THE WEEK— Lizette from All American Wheel has eight of these engines, for sale. They’ve never been used and are still in their precious crates. Call her for the skinny.
S&S V111 Black and chrome with assembled Black and chrome with 546 cam and Delphi fuel injection system $5600.00 (Item # 310-0632)
The V111 is a great all-around performance/touring engine for carbureted 1984-’99 Harley-Davidson® big twins and it’s a great choice for custom bikes built with this popular chassis style.
The V111 engine is designed for torque more than top end horsepower. The short 41/8″ stroke is equal to the large 41/8″ bore, which minimizes vibration. The relatively low lift S&S 585 cam and the single coil Sidewinder® valve springs minimize valve train noise. A smooth, quiet, torque engine is ideal for touring applications where vibration and noise can get old on a long ride, and a loaded bagger pulling a trailer can overtax a stock engine.
Fitment
* 1984–’99 carbureted chassis
Features and Benefits
* Short stroke produces less vibration and longer engine life
* S&S 585 cam and lightweight single coil Sidewinder® valve
springs reduce valve train noise
* S&S forged rocker arms
* Shorter than stock height engine makes installation easy
Asking $5,600.00 each plus shipping
10 available
Dimensions of Crate: 36”x 36” x 36”
Shipping Weight: 160 lbs.
If interested, contact me.
Lizette Hotinger
VP of Sales & Marketing
ALL AMERICAN WHEEL CO
(562) 602-6560
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK— Sorrento for Breakout 13-17. Cool and sleek for those hot new Softails.
Overview
The Sorrento is a fusion of Silhouette style and Maverick comfort.
The entire seat has been shaved down for a flowing profile.
Perfectly formed, 13″ wide rider area and 10.5″ of passenger comfort.
Specs
Driver Seating:
13″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
10.5″ Wide
MSRP:
$533.00
Part Number:
LKB-900
COUNTRY SUPERSTAR DUO BIG & RICH TO HEADLINE RIAA/MUSICIANS ON CALL INAUGURAL BENEFIT
WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 20, 2016) – Country music superstar act Big & Rich will be the headlining entertainment at the Recording Industry Association of America’s (RIAA) second-ever inauguration charity event benefiting Musicians On Call. The hit duo will perform their set at the 9:30 Club the evening of the presidential inauguration on Friday, January 20, 2017.
Comprised of Big Kenny and “Celebrity Apprentice” winner John Rich, Big & Rich have exerted a definitive gravitational pull to the direction modern country music has taken. Known as “America’s Technicolor cowboys,” Big & Rich have made a career of being relatable and musically relevant since exploding into the public consciousness in 2003. Their 2004 debut studio album Horse of a Different Color shot to RIAA triple-Platinum and included smash hit “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy),” while their latest album Gravity scored three back-to-back-to-back Top Ten country hits with “Look at You,” “Run Away With You,” and “Lovin’ Lately” featuring Tim McGraw. Meanwhile, their hit “Comin’ to Your City” is nearing a decade as the theme song for ESPN’s College GameDay.
“Musicians On Call brings the healing power of music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities nationwide,” said Pete Griffin, President of Musicians On Call. “We are so grateful for RIAA’s long term support of our mission and to be the charitable beneficiary of Big & Rich’s performance in Washington, DC.”
About Musicians On Call (MOC):
Musicians On Call (MOC) was founded in 1999 at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in NYC by Michael Solomon and Vivek Tiwary, with the mission of bringing live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities ranging from children’s hospitals to adult facilities, VA hospitals and hospices.
To date, its volunteers have played for nearly half a million people in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Baltimore, with additional cities being continuously added. Musicians On Call continues its mission through room-to-room hospital performances by both local musicians and an esteemed list of national celebrities. MOC supporters over the years include Pharrell, Bruce Springsteen, Ed Sheeran, Lady Antebellum, James Taylor, Jessie J, Justin Timberlake, Gavin DeGraw and Imagine Dragons. For more information, visit www.musiciansoncall.org.
NEWS FROM THE REVIVAL– Can You Spot Yourself?
Thanks to all that braved the polar vortex and celebrated with us. We were honored to see new and old fellow MotoNerds in the shop to share a toast or two. We took some pictures to celebrate the moment. See if you can spot yourself in the blog post.
–Revival Cycles
‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY!–
This is from last year, but just as good every year. US Army Air Corps unit!.
Jingle Bells like you have never heard it before! FANTASTIC!!
These ‘surprise’ performances are becoming more commonplace,
but I’d love to be around when one took place. I wouldn’t have
minded missing my train for this performance.
–Vern
KJAZZ END OF THE YEAR SWEEPSTAKES— You can listen to Jazz and the Blues every day, free on KJAZZ.
Anyone who donates $60 a year or $5 a month sustainer between December 2nd – December 31st automatically* will be entered for a chance to win the End of Year Sweepstakes Prize – One package of 88 CDs and DVDs from KJazz!
The prize package includes Frank Sinatra’s That’s Life, Benny Goodman’s The Birth of Swing 3 CD box 1935-1936, Shirley Horn’s Live at Queens, Tony Bennett’s As Time Goes By Great American Songbook and The Definitive Vince Guaraldi.
Plus, Latin Jazz CDs such as Mongo Santamaria’s Mongo at The Village Gate, Cal Tjader’s Black Orchid, Chic Corea & Bela Fleck’s Two as well as blues CDslike Buddy Guy’s Born to Play Guitar, Tedeschi Trucks Band’s Let Me Get By, Toronzo Cannon’s The Chicago Way, and many more!
On behalf of everyone at KJazz, we thank you for your generous support this year and look forward to providing you with more great jazz, blues and Latin jazz music in 2017.
Warmest regards,
Pamela Aronovitz
KKJZ Fundraising, Inc.
Development Director
BEAN’RE COMING TO THE V-TWIN EXPO– Breaking a Guinness World record AND being a part of Aidan’s Posse.
Some of you remember me breaking a world record 2 years ago by riding a 50cc mini bike from Louisville, KY to Sturgis, SD. It was a distance of 1,470 miles and took nine days. Since then that record has been broke by about 100 miles so it was only natural that I attempt it one more time.
Hang on for this attempt. I will be riding with my friend Tim Ford. No, we won’t be riding on the same minibike. We will each have our own stock Yamaha 50cc minibikes. We also will be riding together unassisted in that we will NOT have a chase vehicle the whole way. That is the plan, however according to Guinness rules, it makes no difference whether or not a support team is incorporated.
More exciting news we decided to make it coast to coast. Yes, that’s right, we’re going to ride from Daytona Beach Florida (the day after Bike Week) to San Diego, California, on back roads, a distance of 3000 miles.
We are also going to do this for one of the greatest causes ever. Aidan Jack Seeger and The Aidan Jack Seeger Foundation. On this ride we will spread the message about what ALD is and to advocate for ALD newborn screening in every state.
You’ll have a chance to quiz the man and check out his bike at the V-Twin Expo, the only show of its kind in Cincinnati, January 28 and 29. And we will follow his efforts on Bikernet.
HOLIDAY NEWS FROM METALSPORT WHEELS– “Metalsport Wheels gives back to the Community” It’s the season for giving Ron the owner of Metalsport Wheels for over 15 years still finds time to give back to the community with this event.
Just one of the ways Metalsport Wheels is helping to give back to the community, so all can have a “Merry Christmas”
NEWS FROM KENTUCKY–
This morning I was alerted by our friends at the Kentucky Motorcycle Association that they are facing issues concerning toll roads for three of the five bridges that connect Louisville, KT and Southern Indiana via the Ohio River.
In the spring of this year, a panel decided that they will initiative “RiverLink” in 2017 which will require tolls for any vehicle that uses it. It is an entirely electronic system meaning there are no toll booths. Instead, vehicles must have a transponder which will automatically charge a fee. For motorcycles and other two-axel vehicles, that charge is $2.
From my understanding, many motorcycles face issues with these transponders – from them being exposed to the elements to functionality when used on a motorcycle.
Members of the Kentucky Motorcycle Association will be meeting with State officials in 2017 to discuss this issue to raise concerns and ask for either an exemption for motorcycles or a reduced rate. However, they are looking for support from other SMROs that have faced similar issues.
They are interested in hearing how you addressed the issue in your state and what the final outcome was as well as any information you can provide to them to help them make their point.
Please contact Megan Ekstrom via phone (202-552-7435) or via email Megan@mrf.org if you would be willing to share your experience in dealing with similar types of issues.
This is part of the reason why the MRF exists, folks – lets help out our fellow bikers!
Tiffany Cipoletti
Office Administrator
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
1325 G Street N.W. Suite 500
Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: (202)546-0983
Fax: (202) 546-0986
www.mrf.org
Is there federal money involved? If so, the legislation that the MRF sponsored and passed could help. As I recall, HOV lanes require free passage of motorcycles. However, toll roads are a much different animal. If it is a state sponsored toll road, the local SMRO better get active.
–Mack Backlund
noun
Quotes
… nobody might ever have found out that it was the confoundedest, brazenest, ingeniousest piece of fraud and humbuggery that was ever concocted to fool poor confiding mortals with!
— Mark Twain, Life on the Mississippi, 1883
Origin of humbuggery
MRF’s Federal Legislative Agenda for the coming year– At the 2016 Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) 32nd Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference held in Oklahoma City, OK, a Legislative Strategy Session was hosted by the MRF’s Legislative Committee. The MRF’s Federal Legislative Agenda for the 2016 Meeting of the Minds to the 2017 Meeting of the Minds annual cycle is as follows:
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 related to helmets
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
SAE Motorcycle Roadside Sound Testing will be addressed by individual states
Continue monitoring any federal studies concerning motorcycles:
the Federal Crash Causation Study
MSF Naturalistic Study
Strongly oppose any federal standard proposing stamping and certifying of motorcycle exhaust systems
Work to discourage ALL forms of distracted driving
Advocate at the federal level concerning the federal definition of a motorcycle ensuring that crash and fatality statistics are separated from other classes of vehicles including autocycles,non-motorcycle powered vehicles such as mopeds, scooters, and various cabin-based steering wheel type vehicles
Oppose any motorcycling, motorcycle, or motorcyclist-based discriminatory legislation or rules proposed by the U.S. Congress or by any federal agency
Seek a legislative vehicle to include motorcyclist anti-profiling language in the 115thCongress
Continue participation in motorcycle related activity in the European Union, United Nations, and Canada
Fiercely oppose any mandatory helmet, apparel or conspicuity standards
Advocate for changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard including the following actions:
Additional research and independent studies concerning the effects of higher blends of ethanol on motorcycles
Guarantee the indefinite and universal availability of approved fuel blends, containing no more than 10 percent ethanol by volume
Make additional changes to EPA’s Misfueling Mitigation Plan (MMP) ensuring that motorcyclists are educated and protected from using federally prohibited fuel in their small engine products such as motorcycles including improving existing at-pump signage and labeling
Ensure the inclusion of motorcycles and biker perspective in discussions regarding Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) and emerging technologies
Advocate and monitor for motorcyclists concerning laws and regulations related to Autonomous Vehicles, specifically;
Required testing for motorcycle recognition and responsiveness
Electronic and cyber security systems of self-driving vehicles to maintain strong standards to ensure the safety of motorcycle users
Establish clear liability in crashes between autonomous and non-autonomous vehicles
Pursue safer roadway design strategies at the federal level
Continue to promote our theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging NHTSA to focus on crash prevention and rider education
Pursue limiting funding in a relevant legislative vehicle for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and their increasing involvement in motorcycling safety issues
Monitor private organizations that oppose the legislative agenda or mission of the MRF and
investigate their funding sources to make certain they are not receiving federal tax dollars
Monitor public organizations for funding sources when in opposition to our legislative agenda or mission, respond appropriately if they receive federal tax dollars
Closely monitor the federally mandated Affordable Care Act (ACA) for potential
motorcyclist and motorcycling discrimination as well as attempts to repeal and replace provisions of the ACA for potential motorcyclist and motorcycling discrimination
Fully engage the EPA on upcoming activity on motorcycle emission regulations and motorcycle drive train mandates
Support the Black Box Protection Act to regulate black boxes in motorcycles, seek to clarify the rights of the vehicle owner to ownership of the recorded data
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 harms 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
In addition to the Federal Legislative Agenda issues, the MRF has partnered with the Sustaining State Motorcyclists Rights Organization (SSMRO) members to act as support and a resource on the following state specific issues:
Oppose any mandatory helmet, apparel or conspicuity standards
Engage with multiple partners to draft federal anti-profiling language specific to motorcyclists and work to include it in the upcoming state legislative sessions
Work with SSMRO members to shape autocycle legislation at the state-level as it relates to the definition of motorcycle and/or fatality and crash statistics
Help to inform our partners and allies the MRF position on autonomous vehicles to ensure consistency in state laws and regulations in the safety of this emerging class of vehicles
About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders.
The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.
–from the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association
BIKERNET GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAYS–
This is an article submitted to a 1999 Louisville Sentinel contest to find
out who had the wildest Christmas dinners. It won first prize.
As a joke, my brother Jay used to hang a pair of panty hose over his
fireplace before Christmas. He said all he wanted was for Santa to fill
them.
What they say about Santa checking the list twice must be true because
every Christmas morning, although Jay’s kids’ stockings overflowed, his
poor pantyhose hung sadly empty.
One year I decided to make his dream come true. I put on sunglasses and
went in search of an inflatable love doll. They don’t sell those things at
Wal-Mart. I had to go to an adult bookstore downtown.
If you’ve never been in an X-rated store, don’t go, you’ll only confuse
yourself. I was there an hour saying things like, ‘What does this do?’
‘You’re kidding me!’ ‘Who would buy that?’ Finally, I made it to the
inflatable doll section.
I wanted to buy a standard, uncomplicated doll that could also substitute
as a passenger in my truck so I could use the car pool lane during rush
hour.
Finding what I wanted was difficult. ‘Love Dolls’ come in many different
models. The top of the line, according to the side of the box, could do
things I’d only seen in a book on animal husbandry. I settled for ‘Lovable
Louise.’ She was at the bottom of the price scale.
To call Louise a ‘doll’ took a huge leap of imagination.
On Christmas Eve and with the help of an old bicycle pump, Louise came to
life.
My sister-in-law was in on the plan and let me in during the wee morning
hours. Long after Santa had come and gone, I filled the dangling pantyhose
with Louise’s pliant legs and bottom. I also ate some cookies and drank
what remained of a glass of milk on a nearby tray. I went home, and
giggled for a couple of hours.
The next morning my brother called to say that Santa had been to his house
and left a present that had made him VERY happy, but had left the dog
confused. She would bark, start to walk away, then come back and bark some
more.
We all agreed that Louise should remain in her pantyhose so the rest of
the family could admire her when they came over for the traditional
Christmas dinner.
My grandmother noticed Louise the moment she walked in the door. ‘What the
hell is that?’ she asked.
My brother quickly explained, ‘It’s a doll.’
‘Who would play with something like that?’ Granny snapped.
I kept my mouth shut.
‘Where are her clothes?’ Granny continued.
‘Boy, that turkey sure smells nice, Gran,’ Jay said, to steer her into the
dining room.
But Granny was relentless. ‘Why doesn’t she have any teeth?’
Again, I could have answered, but why would I? It was Christmas and no one
wanted to ride in the back of the ambulance saying, ‘Hang on Granny, hang
on!’
My grandfather, a delightful old man with poor eyesight, sidled up to me
and said, ‘Hey, who’s the naked gal by the fireplace?’ I told him she was
Jay’s friend.
A few minutes later I noticed Grandpa by the mantel, talking to Louise.
Not just talking, but actually flirting. It was then that we realized this
might be Grandpa’s last Christmas at home.
The dinner went well. We made the usual small talk about who had died, who
was dying, and who should be killed, when suddenly Louise made a noise
like my father in the bathroom in the morning. Then she lurched from the
mantel, flew around the room twice, and fell in a heap in front of the
sofa. The cat screamed. I passed cranberry sauce through my nose, and
Grandpa ran across the room, fell to his knees, and began administering
mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
My brother fell back over his chair and wet his pants.
Granny threw down her napkin, stomped out of the room, and sat in the car.
It was indeed a Christmas to treasure and remember.
Later in my brother’s garage, we conducted a thorough examination to
decide the cause of Louise’s collapse. We discovered that Louise had
suffered from a hot ember to the back of her right thigh.
Fortunately, thanks to a wonder drug called duct tape, we restored her to
perfect health..
I can’t wait until next Christmas.
[page break]
THE CLIMATE CALAMITY REPORT–
It appears to me that CARB has its eyes set on ridding CA of motorcycles in favor of all electric vehicles just as it has set its sights on diesel trucks. The time for use of coordination is now before any regulations become final—and I have not verified that they haven’t been made final. My instincts are that they are still in the development stages, which is where local governments should be involved.
Yesterday I attended a water-control board hearing for my two clients, the Roseville trucking company and the Tracy dairyman and I was astounded by the local elected officials who testified, almost begging, the Board not to impose the restriction that will ruin their economy—–when they should be demanding coordination (a rule of law).
California is a hardnosed state, witness its determination in legislature to be a sanctuary state and to fight Trump on every step of the staircase. But, it can be stopped in INDIVIDUAL CASES WHERE the right process is followed.
My client was fined $800,000, but after three hearings, I got it down to $31,000 where I recommended they settle because of the cost to me in fees of winning the case outright.
My dairyman is almost free of the contempt citation that he was faced with when I entered my pro hac vice appearance. I am confident now that I can save his dairy and keep him from contempt.
The first was a victim of CARB and the second the Water Control Board, the two most autocratic of the agencies.
—FRED KELLY GRANT
www.standandfight.com
ARE THEY TRYING TO CONTROL THE CLIMATE OR YOU?
FIRST-EVER COMIC CON CRUISE nearly sold out as new celebrity guest announced–
Fans of comic conventions are planning to take to the high-seas aboard Fan2Sea, and with the cruise nearly sold out, organizers suggest those who are still wishing to embark should book now.
According to Flying Dutchmen Travel, the founders of the inaugural comic-con themed cruise, nearly 90 percent of the ship has been booked, with only a few dozen balcony rooms and suites remaining.
Fan2Sea is scheduled to depart from Tampa, Florida on Jan. 19 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas, for a four-day cruise, which will make port calls in Key West, Florida and Cozumel, Mexico, before returning to Tampa on Jan 23.
Passengers aboard the cruise will be able to mix and mingle with celebrities from The Walking Dead, Guardians of the Galaxy, Netflix’s Stranger Things, and share company with Frank Miller, the creator of the Dark Knight and Sin City.
On Wednesday, organizers announced the addition of Gaten Matarazzo, who stars as Dustin Henderson on Netflix’s new hit show, Stranger Things.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gaten on board the Fan2Sea Comic Con Cruise,” said Stefan Lawrence, creative director of Fan2Sea. “His performance as Dustin “Toothless” Henderson was amazing, and we think our guests will be excited to meet him as part of our Stranger Things programming.”
Other featured DC Comics and Marvel Comics guests of Fan2Sea include, Gail Simone, Amanda Conner, Jimmy Palmiotti, Greg Capullo, Scott Snyder, Arthur Adams, Joyce Chin, Mark Brooks, Reilly Brown, Gerry Duggan, Scott Koblish, Phil Noto, Chris Sims, Charles Soule, Frank Tieri, Mark Waid, Laura Martin, Chrissie Zullo, Chris Uminga, Clay Mann, Adam Kubert and Tim Sale.
Also on Tuesday, Millie Bobby Brown, who had previously committed to attend the cruise, regretfully cancelled her appearance due to a scheduling conflict related to filming the next season of Stranger Things, representatives from Fan2Sea said.
For more information, visit fan2sea.com.
MRF AUTOCYCLE UPDATE–
As many of you know, January will signify the beginning of the majority of the state legislative sessions. As such, I wanted to pass along some recent intelligence regarding autocycles and potential bills you may face next year.
BACKGROUND & IMPLICATIONS TO MOTORCYCLISTS
One of the major autocycle manufacturers has been very active in this area and over the past year, they have pushed their model bill at the state level, which would define an autocycle as a motorcycle.
In effect, these vehicles would comply with many of the legal requirements (licensing, helmet law, registration, etc.) that traditional motorcycles are subject to. It is alarming for many of us, as grouping these very different vehicles together, will result in any crash and fatality data attributed to autocycles adversely affecting and skewing motorcycle crash and fatality statistics. And as we all know, as motorcycle crash and fatality stats go up, so does interference from the government on mandatory helmet and gear laws.
This manufacturer will continue to ‘shop’ their autocycle bill to any state in 2017 that has not already adopted the legislation. HOWEVER, I have it on very good authority that this manufacturer will not stop the inclusion of language that requires the state to separate crash and fatality statistics between autocycles and traditional motorcycles. In the short term, this does address our primary concern with these vehicles.
A number of states have already taken this approach and in most cases, this was considered a compromise between the manufacturer and state motorcycle rights advocates. States where this this compromise was already adopted into law include the following: (***please note this list is only current as of August***)
STATES WITH MOTORCYCLE & AUTOCYCLE COMPROMISE LANGUAGE
Alabama
Connecticut
Indiana
Kansas
Louisiana
Maryland
Minnesota
New Hampshire
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
However, in some states such as New Jersey, state laws were adopted that do not require the separation of autocycles and motorcycles for reporting and statistical purposes. See bill language below: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2016/Bills/AL16/35_.PDF Clearly, this NOT a compromise nor the direction motorcyclists want to go.
POTENTIAL STRATEGY FOR 2017
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/li/uconsCheck.cfm?yr=2016&sessInd=0&act=34
Again, we have it on good authority that the lobbyists for the autocycle manufacturer will not try and stop this separation language from being included in any new state laws going forward. HOWEVER, they will not request it, either. Therefore, if you or your organization wants to deploy the strategy of keeping autocycle and motorcycle statistics separate, you will have to actively ASK your legislative champions to include this language. (SEE Pennsylvania law – specifically § 3752).
As always, thanks for your support and let me know if you have any questions or need additional talking points or background on this issue.
–Megan Ekstrom
Vice-President, Government Affairs & Public Relations
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
1325 G Street N.W. Suite 500
Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: (202) 725-5471
Fax: (202) 546-0986
www.mrf.org
HOLD ON FOR– Two guys were roaring down the road on a motorcycle when the rider slowed up and pulled over. His leather jacket had a broken zipper, and he told his friend, “I can’t drive anymore with the air hitting me in the chest like that.”
“Just put the jacket on backwards.” His friend advised. They continued down the road but around the next bend, they lost control and wiped out. A nearby farmer came upon the accident and ran to call the police. They asked him, “Are they showing any signs of life?”
“Well,” the farmer explained, “the driver was until I turned his head around the right way!”
–from Rogue
5-Ball Bagger Project Bike — The Infamous Harley Wobble — Part 1
Like to know what is the best way to make it better. Front motor mount? I have a 2000 Road King !
— Jerry helms
Winston Salem , NC
Hey Jerry, check out what we’re doing and reach out to the team at Custom Cycle Engineering. They have all the components you need.
–Bandit
REMEMBER WHAT TRULY COUNTS–
Just another Sunday morning like any other for the last couple of decades. Your body aches from pushing it a little too hard the day before. Your head hurts from pushing it a little too hard the night before.
Your old lady sits across from you in the little cafe waiting on bacon and eggs. She is going on about a “honey do” list a mile long, the mother-in-law’s latest issue. That is when you notice her hair has a few stray curls wondering from the pack.
Her words melt away into the dim of the restaurant. You remember when you first saw her. She was way out of your league, but you mustered up enough courage to say hello. You kept the pickup lines to a minimum happy to just be spending comfortable moments in time with her.
You thought it was fleeting, but here all these years later, a couple kids and a couple grand kids, she is still there, still as beautiful. She takes a bite of her toast leaving the tell tale speck of jam at the corner of her mouth that she always does.
She has been the supportive ropes holding you up as you rolled with the punches of life. She put up with all your bullshit and used it to fertilize the beautiful garden you call home. She is the reason you are still here today, why you’ll be here tomorrow.
A wiser woman would have left long ago but when you thought she had no more forgiveness left she would take you in her arms and tell you everything was going to be alright.
Today was to be a riding, fixing, raising a little hell day. She keeps talking but you haven’t heard a single thing she said. Your day changes to be just about her and you together.
-bad Uncle Monkey
THIS JUST IN FROM THE BIKERNET TRIKES ZEN MASTER– Zen Master Ujjwal Dey
“Pleasure is not the same as Happiness.”
–Supreme Udey
The Khan of Bikernet Trikes
VINTAGE RIDES EXPLORES MONGOLIA’S TRAILS ON ROYAL ENFIELDS IN 2017—
Vintage Rides
98 rue Baudin
92 LEVALLOIS PERRET
contact@vintagerides.com
SADDLEMEN PART OF THE WEEK—
MX Seat Covers.
Replace your OEM motorcycle seat cover with higher performance and better looking cover, quick.
Four different styles to choose from: black gripper, pleated gripper top, black gripper top with OEM color matched sides, and pleated black gripper top with OEM color matched sides.
Highly durable, yet lightweight, gripper material offers unprecedented traction.
Traction rib top panel increases rider to bike traction and control, excellent for wet or muddy conditions.
Reinforced seams for durability.
THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING.
Race Proven Durability in Every Saddlemen Seat Cover
Ride confidently with the toughest seams on the market. Sure it cost a little more but we are proud that every cover we make is constructed with double reinforced seams with bias backing and UV resistant thread to prevent stretch failures typically found on replacement covers.
Industry-first Directional Pleat Technology (DPT)
OEM Color Matched
Attention to detail is what sets Saddlemen seat covers apart from the competition. Just using the latest manufacturing and material technologies isn’t enough if it looks out of place on your machine. That’s why you can count on Saddlemen for the Function and Style you deserve.
DUMP TRUMP EFFORT IN THE DUMPS–
In a last-ditch effort by Democratic strategists and the Hollywood elite to derail President-Elect Donald J. Trump’s ascension to the presidency, U.S. Electoral College delegates have been swamped with requests to ignore their pledge and “vote your conscience,” but longtime bikers’ rights advocate Jim Rhoades of ABATE of Michigan, one of that state’s 16 electors, says they’re cries are falling on deaf ears because he’s obligated to speak for the voters of his state.
Appearing on FOX News network’s “Your World” wearing his ABATE shirt, Rhoades revealed that he’s gotten over sixty thousand emails, phone calls and basketfuls of form letters calling on him to vote against Trump, as well as some threats, but believes fellow electors also feel steadfast about their duty and will support the will of their states’ voters when they cast their ballots on Monday, December 19th.
Calling the pressure tactics a “waste of time,” Rhoades told FOX News host Neil Cavuto in the nationally televised interview on December 15 that “I’m not intimidated by any of this stuff,” and added “I’ve been riding Harleys since the sixties, so I’ve been around a long time, I’m a grass roots political animal… and I love what Trump says, and he’s got me fired up looking for great things and looking to make America great again.”
In the aftermath of a norm-busting 2016 Presidential campaign, Trump won 306 Electoral College votes to Hillary Clinton’s 232, but if 36 “faithless electors” changed their ballots it would send the election to the U.S. House of Representatives to be determined, where Republicans hold a majority. In the past, some electors turned “faithless” in nine out of the last 17 elections, and a total of 179 times throughout American history, but no electors have ever changed the outcome of an election by voting against their party’s designated candidate.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “MERRY CHRISTMAS!”
~ PEOTUS Donald J. Trump, 45th U.S. President
–Bill Bish
NCOM monthly legislative news
See the whole tamale on Bikernet right now!
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET HOLIDAY BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
Motorcycle rider pulls into a diner in upstate N.Y. Seats himself and asks the waitress for two headlites and two wheels. The waitress who had just worked all night wasn’t in a good mood said,” what are you talking about?”
The rider already tired but happy to relax at the diner said, “Just tell the cook he’ll know what I mean but the expression two headlights and two wheels.
By this time the waitress is pissed and yells back at the old cook, “I got this weird one out here who thinks you’ll know what he wants if he orders tow headlites and two wheels”.
“Yeah I know what he wants,” Yells the cook, “He wants two eggs sunny side up and two pancakes. No problem.”
Well this just pisses off the waitress even more than before. SO, just before the breakfast is served to the rider, she walks up with a big plate of chili beans and slams them down on the table. “Here,” she yells for all to hear, “Here’s your chili!”
But, the rider who didn’t order the chili answers back. “What is this for?”
The waitress is ready for this and yells back, “I thought you would want to gas up before you took off”
–from Rogue
THANKS FROM THE CREW AT THE DAVID MANN CHOPPERFEST–
We’d like to thank our sponsors, partners, builders and artists for supporting us in our mission to bring like minded motorcycle enthusiasts together to pay tribute to the past history, inspire one another through the art of creation, and influence future generations of artists and builders to push the limits of motorcycle art.
Please support our sponsors, their links are on our website, click link below.
www.chopperfestival.com
It is an honor and privilege to work with you all on this event, it is the artists and builders who make the event so spectacular. We can’t wait to see what you create in 2017!
The spirit of David Mann lives on! –
— ChopperFest Family
AND THE WINNERS…
2016 “If You Build It They Will Come” All Brand Antique and Custom Motorcycle Show Results.
Presented by GEICO Motorcycle and Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys.
Chopper
1st place Dalton Walker 1951 Triumph
2nd place Mike Nunez 1973 Shovelhead
3rd place Shannon Aikau 1969 Shovelhead
Bobber
1st place Ben Pecqueuer 1958 Panhead
2nd place Justin Klein 2001 Sportster
3rd place Jerry Demille 1948 Panhead
Antique
1st place Bret Hatt 1945 Knuckle UL
2nd place Andrew Potash 1948 Indian Chief
3rd place Bruce Tischer 1968 XLCH
Modern Chopper
1st place Grant Thompson 2016 Panhead 2 Carb
2nd place Rob Camire 2017 Blown Pan
3rd place Bill Holmquist 2013 Big Bear Chopper
Special Construction
1st place Ron Garner 2017 Custom
2nd place Martin Cottrell 1958 Panhead
3rd place Richard Jones 2015 FXR
Sportster
1st place Andrew Ursich 1980 Sportster
2nd place Justin Klein 2001 Sportster
3rd place Ashley Mitchel 1956 K Model
British
1st place Richard Jones 1966 TR6C
2nd place Kristine Peach 1953 Triumph
3rd place Anthony Robinson 1969 Triumph T-100
Bagger
1st place Paul Wheeler 1946 Knuckle
2nd place Chris Cambell 1986 FXRT
3rd place Bart Mason 2013 Custom Roadglide
Racer
1st place Phil & Dan 1936 VLD
2nd place Norm Newman 1940 Indian Scout
3rd place Noise Cycles 2009 Dyna
Metric
1st place Austin Lee 1978 Yamaha XS650
2nd place Jamie Cambell 2016 Honda XR650DT
3rd place Jeff Wolf 1978 Yamaha
Koolest Paint
1st place Oliver Jones 1984 FX
2nd place Anthony Robinson 1961 Triumph T-100
3rd place Ashley Mitchell 1956 K Model
Radical Design
1st place Jon Schruder 1999 FXST
2nd place Anthony Robinson 1969 Triumph T-100
3rd place Tree 1947 Knuckle
Ladies
1st place Stephanie Cota 2005 Spec Const.
2nd place Tracy Ainsworth 1956 Panhead
3rd place Jen Campbell 1984 Honda CB125S
FXR
1st place Kirk Taylor 1993 FXRP
2nd place Kirk Taylor 1985 FXRT
3rd place Todd Atkins 1992 FXR
Best Shovelhead Dave Shaw 1971 FLH
Best Panhead Martin Cottrell 1958 Pan
Best Knucklehead Landy Brakke 1941 Knuckle
David Mann Memorial Award Phil Swanson 1943 Knucklehead
Ross “Kiwi” Tomas Award Mike Klingerman 1946 Indian Chief
**Best of Show** Andrew Ursich 1949 “Pink” Panther M100
NEW ROADSTER SHOCKS–
Suspension Technologies Ships High-Tech Performance Shocks for the Harley-Davidson Roadster
Suspension Technologies, a Yelvington Company, announced today they are shipping their Black Hill Series shocks for the Harley-Davidson Roadster. Suspension Technologies is the only shock manufacture to dyno test each shock set, before they are shipped to customers, to ensure the performance profile of the shock.
A Suspension Technologies’ performance shock is built with premium components in a design that allows it to significantly outperform stock and increase the capability of the bike, including stopping, accelerating and turning capabilities. In addition, because it is designed for the Roadster, it reduces fatigue and improves the rider’s satisfaction with the motorcycle.
Using his racing connections, Mike Alex, Suspension Technologies’ Shock Specialist, sourced the best American shock components, including rods, bushings and seals, and applied them to the tried and true racing-oriented performance designs that he had been working on for over the last twenty years.
“We balance the valving between the piston and the base valve, and this allows us to get more dampening out of the base valve and deliver a more consistent, plush and comfortable ride,” said Mike.
Each one of the Black Hill Series shocks for the Harley-Davidson Roadster is manufactured to a strict standard to deliver the optimum damping for the bike. To ensure consistency, each shock is hand assembled, dyno tested and matched to 2% of dampening force. The preload is adjustable and requires no special tools.
Another technique born of racing is the utilization of low pressure nitrogen gas in a monotube shock. This enhances the comfort of the bike because it provides a more linear transition from compression to rebound. Conversely, utilizing high gas pressure can become a de facto gas-spring, which can be difficult to tune.
The combination of a strong engineering staff with the in-house CAD design and CNC machines allows the firm to deliver the highest quality motorcycle parts and accessories available today.
Each shock utilizes aircraft-quality 6061 T6 billet aluminum components, which are powder coated for long term durability and good looks. Shocks are provided in midnight black, show-quality chrome or a combination.
The Black Hills Series’ Roadster shocks are available from your local dealer or directly from Yelvington USA.
LOWBROW HOLIDAY DEALS– Lowbrow passes on the entire discount we get from FedEx directly to our customers. Take advantage of the killer shipping prices (50% off Next Day Air and 2-Day!) we offer and get that last minute gift order in time for Christmas! Or grab a Lowbrow gift card that comes via e-mail and get it instantly!
Also, we still have a small amount of Weirdo Christmas Ornaments left. Instead of ponying up the $100,000 you can get yours FREE with the purchase of any 3 shirts or hoodies!
SERVICE FLYER FROM AN H-D DEALER–
Received a service flyer from my local Harley dealer The following is an
interesting quote:
“Screamin’ Eagle* performance parts such as air cleaners, mufflers and
cams replace Original Equipment to give your motorcycle more power, an
aggressive sound and a distinctive appearance. Plus, there’s some great
news! As of August 2016, all new Screamin’ Eagle performance products
are 50-state U.S. Environmental Protection Agency compliant on select
vehicles.
Never said which vehicles. I will inquire next time I visit.
http://products.vanceandhines.com/store/harley/16781/
Distinguished by its EPA compliance stamping on the topside of the muffler, the EPA Compliant Twin Slash Slip-ons are 50-state compliant when used on stock 96 cubic inch displacement 2009 and later Harley-Davidson Touring models equipped with stock 2-1-2 dual exhaust headers.
–Frank Carbone
[page break]
MEANWHILE BACK IN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY– An old, well traveled biker sits in a bar watching as a haughty young man come in and order a shot of 12-year-old scotch. The bar tender is irritated and gives him a shot of bar scotch.
The man takes a sip and spits the drink out and demands a shot of 12-year-old scotch. The bar tender decides to fuck with the man and gives him a shot of 6-year-old scotch.
He takes a sip and spits it out again and exclaims, “that’s 6-year-old scotch, I said I wanted 12-year- old scotch!”
The bar tender smiles and pours a shot of 9-year- old scotch. The man takes a sip and, again, spits it out, exclaiming ,angrily, “I said 12-year-old scotch!”
The bar tender decides that the man does, indeed, know his scotch and pours him his shot of 12-year- old scotch.
He sips it once, then sips it again, and says, “ Now that is 12 year old scotch !”
The old biker sidles up to the young man with a glass of liquid and says to him. “Here, taste this”! The young man takes a swig and immediately spits it out and says “It tastes like piss”!
“Yeah”, says the old biker,”It’s mine, How old am I?”
–from Rogue
TRAILBLAZERS NEWSLETTER AND BANQUET INFORMATION
73RD ANNUAL TRAILBLAZERS BANQUET
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017
Tickets go on sale online on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at www.trailblazersmc.com. If you wish to send a check, it will not be processed until January 4th.
A LITTLE BIT OF NEWS TO TIDE YOU OVER UNTIL JANUARY
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR
CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR JIM MCMURREN
Saturday, January 7th at 1:300 pm, 13951 Sprint Lane, Jamul, CA 91935. Please RSVP to Nancy (619) 318 0222 or Kelli (619) 318 0221. For those of you coming from out of town. A discount on rooms for January 6th and 7th has been arranged at the La Mesa Holiday Inn. Contact Shonda at (619) 698 7747 X 133 (The McMurren Group) 8000 Parkway Dr. La Mesa, San Diego,corner of Interstate 8 & Fletcher. Parking is a problem at Jumul, so if you are driving, stop by the hotel to car pool or give a lift to someone that flew in. If you need a ride from the airport to hotel, call or text Judy at (909) 226 6038.
8th ANNUAL RACER PARTY
Time to purchase plane tickets and room reservations for the 8th Annual Racer Party at Donelson Cycles in St. Louis on Saturday, January 28th. It is a celebration of the greatest era of flat track racing. Meet at the Embassy Suites (314) 739 3929 (they have an airport shuttle) on Friday, January 27th. Saturday morning the shuttle takes us to Donelson’s for lots of good food, drink and a trip down memory lane at their Flat Track Museum. Your hosts are Carl and Kathy Donelson and Kim Keen. (314) 427 1204 or (314) 369 8342.
TROY LEE ON DAVE DESPAIN SHOW
On Sunday, December 25th (Christmas), designer, Troy Lee will join Dave Despain on his show on MAV.TV. at 8:30pm ET. www.mavtv.com
DAYTONA VINTAGE RACING
Roger Reiman racing at Daytona, with a broken arm. He was longtime wrench for Evel Kneivel and set a speed record on an HD Sprint 250 at 150 miles per hour. He died at Daytona
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHlxDGtNsYs&sns=em
The above sent by Bob Bryson with some notes about Nobby Clark. Nobby is a wonderful guy. With more racing stories from the Big Circus then anyone can remember. He is writing a book, I hope he can finish. Don’t forget he wrenched for Kenny Roberts, Bill Ivy, Agostini and was best friends with Mike Hailwood. He was the only non Japanese man that ever wrenched on a Honda six. Every spec committed to memory–nothing written!
While in Japan he became super friends with Takahashi. Was at his wedding. He was wrenching for Katayama the day Jarno and Pasolini were killed. The true story will be in his book. He said Jarno was the most naturally gifted rider he ever knew. He really liked the young man. He had to pack up Jarno’s bikes and all his belongings and drive back to his home. The list of famous racers he worked with is simply amazing. Nobby is a true motorcycle racing treasure with a really really cool sense of humor.
25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM
This program is funded by a tax of 18.4 cents per gall of gas. It is administered by states (20% match required from states) It benefits millions of trail users and has funded 22,000 projects. For more info www.americantrails.org/rtp/rtp-25-years-2016 or www.funoutdoors.com/crt
OUT ON THE OPEN ROAD
Forwarded by Mary McGee
Liz Jansen, writer, speaker and adventurer is author of Women, Motorcycles and the Road to Empowerment, Life Lessons from Motorcycles (series) She sends out a newsletter once a week. www.lizjansen.com
MOTORCYCLE BOOKS
Theodore Evans from Quarto Publishing has quite a few motorcycle books to offer. McQueens Motorcycles, H-D Knuckle Head, Classic Motorcycles (The Art of Speed) and Vincent Motorcycles to name a few. You can reach him at theodore-evans@quartos.com (612) 344 8192
ONLINE TICKETING FOR AMERICAN FLAT TRACK RACES
American Flat Track (formerly AMA Pro Racing) is sponsoring eight of the eighteen events on the calendar this year. You can purchase tickets for the eight events at: http://americanflattrack.com
All of the events can be watched live on fanschoice.tv. For more info: http://www.fanschoice.com
BSA OWNER CLUB SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
21st Wintergreen Ride, January 8th. Fun Ride, Easy off-road (if dry). Approximately 90 miles, 40% off road. Start and finish at 37129 Tovey Ave., Palmdale. Art Sirota (661) 273 7005 (BSA Members & British Motorcycles Only)
British Singles Ride “Toluca Loop” on Sunday, January 15th. All British bikes welcome but single cylinders are preferred. Start at Griffith Park Zoo parking lot at 9am John Searock (818) 843 2892
COMING UP:
January 2-8 Round 1 2017 WORCS in Mesquite, Nevada
Saturday, January 7 AMA Supercross in Anaheim Round 1
Saturday, January 14 AMA Supercross in San Diego Round 2
Saturday, January 14 Speedway winter series 5pm Perris Raceway
January 14-15 2017 D37 Big 6 Grand Prix in Adelanto
Saturday, January 21 AMA Supercross in Anaheim Round 3
January 27-29 Round 2 2017 WORCS in Primm, Nevada
76th Annual Bike Week in Daytona, March 10-19. For the first time AFT TT inside Daytona International Speedway on March 16
Saturday, April 8th is the San Jose Pro Indoor Short Track at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds-Expo Building. On Facebook: sanjoselegendsindoor
SMOKEOUT HOLIDAY TICKETS– Well, we checked our list and we know who has been naughty and nice. However, we are going to give you a great present anyway.
We all know the Smokeout is a weekend of speed, crazy fun, chaos and great times. But did you know our pre-sale tickets prices kicks off during the Christmas Holidays?
Yep, you can save some coinage buy getting your tickets today and you will make someone very happy.
The best price that you will ever get on Smoke Out 18 tickets this year is here for the holidays!. (click for pre-registration tickets).
From our family to yours, have a Merry Chistmas!
– Edge
BIKERNET EMPLOYMENT AGENCY– A retired man went into the Job Center in Downtown Denver, and saw a card advertising for a Gynecologist’s Assistant.
Interested, he went in and asked the clerk for details.
The clerk pulled up the file and read; “The job entails getting the ladies ready for the gynecologist. You have to help the women out of their underwear, lay them down and carefully wash their private regions, then apply shaving foam and gently shave off the hair, then rub in soothing oils so they’re ready for the gynecologist’s examination. The annual salary is $65,000, and you’ll have to go to Billings, Montana.”
“Good grief . . . Is that where the job is?”
“No sir . . . that’s where the end of the line is right now.”
–from Rogue
AUSTRALIAN REGULATORS ADVANCE– Derestricted Harley-Davidson Bikes Are Too Loud For Australia.
EPA has released data showing that of the 5,000 noisy vehicles notices issued since January 1st, 2014, about 12 percent went to motorcycle owners.
BATES Footwear’s American-Made
“Bomber” Riding Boot Now in Stock
Bates Footwear’s highly anticipated Bomber riding boot is now in stock and available online and through select powersports dealers. The Bomber is 100% sourced and manufactured in the United States, and offers motorcyclists premium performance, protection and all-day comfort both on and off the bike.
The Bates product design team drew inspiration from the company’s military heritage, incorporating motorcycle-specific features and materials into their tried and true military boot platform. The result is a sturdy yet comfortable 9-inch riding boot that features water-resistant leather and nylon uppers with a rugged Vibram® outsole. Poron XRD® impact foam in both side panels offers ankle protection while leather toe shift reinforcements ensure longevity.
The Bomber riding boot was designed to pay tribute to Bates Footwear’s American Military heritage. Embossed stars on the heel represent the five branches of the United States military, while the red welt stitching along the top of the sole symbolizes those who sacrificed for our freedoms. The embossed Made in the USA emblem on the tongue signifies that these boots are 100% sourced in the United States and manufactured in the Wolverine Worldwide factory in Big Rapids, Michigan. In accordance with US Army Regulation, the American flag on the outside of the right boot is shown with the field of stars facing forward to symbolize the flag being carried into battle.
Bates Footwear Bomber Features
Water-Resistant Leather & Nylon
Dri-Lex® Lining
Leather Heel Pull
Leather Toe Shift Reinforcement
Poron XRD® Side Impact Foam
Vibram® Rubber Lug Outsole
Leather Welt Construction
Made in the USA
Available in Black/Camo or Brown
100% Sourced and Manufactured in the United States
Leather made in Vicksburg, MS
Upper Nylon made in New York, NY
Laces made in Cumberland, RI
Lacing Hardware made in Stoughton, MA
Thread made in Mt. Holly, NC
Inside Lining made in Weymouth, MA
Cushion Insert made in Wadsworth, OH
Insole made in Hampton, NH
Midsole and Outsole made in Concord, MA
Assembled in Big Rapids, MI
Learn more about the Bates Footwear PowerSports Line at www.BatesFootwear.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
DOC ROBINSON RIDES 1948 5-BALL RACING PANHEAD IN GREAT AUSTRALIAN RACE—Yes I’m in for the race, but between stopping to take photos and trying to catch up I usually finish around the middle of the field.
Still, it’s a lotta fun!
Cheers
–Doc
What is The Great Race?
The Australian Great Race is a timed navigation and reliability trial for Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycles manufactured before 1958. It has been held every year since 1993. The event rekindles the rivalry that existed between these two manufacturers in the first half of the twentieth century. Competitors compete for team scores as well as individual honours. A co-efficient applies for riders of early machines. Scoring is accumulated from a combination of navigational, average speed tests and special features which may be introduced on an annual basis.
The events location can vary from year to year and the location is usually being announced on July 1st. Entry requests are emailed on September 1st and acceptances posted in October. The event is usually oversubscribed. Riders who wish to have an entry considered and have not competed previously should email info@great-race.com.au with their contact details and the bike they wish to participate with.
NEW FROM BRASS BALLS– Brass Balls Cycles has designed a timeless air cleaner cover inspired by all things performance. The baddest air cleaner cover you will ever want on your bike. Machined from billet aluminum with a carbon fiber backer insert.
Available in three finishes, Clear Anodize, Hard Black Anodize and Raw Machined finish.
Fits most 5.5″ diameter, center bolt mount air cleaners
If you already have a round 5.5″ diameter air cleaner and would like to upgrade the look of your bike, you can simply replace your existing air cleaner cover with the F1. It’s the easiest custom design upgrade you can do to your bike.
Machined from 6061 T6 aircraft grade billet aluminum.
Real Carbon fiber backer insert included.
Fitment for 5.5″ diameter, center hole mount air cleaners with 5/16-18 threaded hole. There are several brands out there that this fits on.
Includes 5/16-18 3/4″ counter sink stainless bolt
$89.95 Introductory price through the end of the year.
$99.95 MSRP
Customers can order direct from our site http://store.BrassBallsCycles.com or from our awesome dealers.
If you do not have a 5.5″ diameter air cleaner or you aren’t in love with the one you have… If you want the style of the F1 and increased air flow performance, Brass Balls Cycles offers the F1 Air Cleaner Cover with the S&S Stealth Air Cleaner Kit.
This kit includes the S&S Stealth air cleaner kit and our F1 Air Cleaner Cover.
The S&S Stealth air cleaner kit fits Sportster Models & HD® Big Twin models.
It has increased filter area, combined with an air horn like radiused inlet and unique S&S® stinger cone result in smoother faster airflow for more power.
$199.95 introductory price through the end of the year for most models*
$229.95 MSRP for most models*
Customers can order direct from our site http://store.BrassBallsCycles.com
or from our dealers.
*Model Fitment & pricing on the Brass Balls Cycles web store.
Motorcycle shops wanting to become parts dealers can email sales@BrassBallsCycles.com to get set up with preferred dealer pricing.
Easy bolt on style for your bike. F1 Air Cleaner Cover.
Several new parts are in development & production. Look for new parts being launched on a regular basis. Don’t miss your chance to put some Brass Balls coolness on your bike.
Carry on my wayward son…
–Sam
METZELER Unveils its 2017 Calendar:
a Tribute to the Family of Female Motorcyclists
Natural Born Lady Rider Campaign Gives its Name to the 24th Edition of the METZELER Calendar: Courage, Determination and Talent to Show Pure Femininity on Two Wheels
Celebrating the talent and passion transmitted by women riders throughout twelve months of imagery: the 2017 METZELER calendar. Titled, Natural Born Lady Rider, it was created with the aim to dedicate a tribute to female motorcycle pride, emphasizing the determination shown by women of all ages to ride their motorcycles.
This METZELER initiative celebrates the 125th anniversary of the productive activity of motorcycle tires, as it continues with the theme of the campaign, Natural Born Lady Rider, launched last November with a movie marathon lasting 48-hours. Focused on women motorcyclists: from the movies shown at Deus Leica Theatre in Milan comes a full color calendar, produced in a limited edition with the collaboration of “Somewhere”, showing professional athletes and pure bike enthusiasts, from all over the world yet united by their love for motorcycling.
The calendar year opens with Vaune Phan, a blogger from Singapore, as the January star, followed by the blonde queen of the road races, Maria Costello, a professional rider who has achieved three podiums at the legendary Isle of Man TT Races. British motoblogger Joanna Benz, who is very active on the social network Instagram, beautifully graces the March page.
April goes around the world with Lea Rieck, a German biker who rode around the planet on a Triumph Tiger 800 XCA named Cleo. Italy triumphs in May with Sara Trentini, six-time Italian Trial Champion and 2012 European Champion.
The summer opens up with Alicia Sornosa, the first Spanish woman to have ridden five continents riding a two-wheeler. Three American women, a mother and two daughters, are portrayed in the month of July. Their world record as the first mother-daughter-daughter trio to simultaneously hold land speed records: their names are Laura Klock, Erika and Karlee Cobb.
France is represented by the motorcyclist Lydia Truglio Beaumont (August) and Sarah Lezito, 24 year old stuntwoman among the most followed on social networks and also considered by many as some of the best in this field (September), while the United States open the page dedicated to October with Jody Perewitz, who holds 15 speed records, as well as being the first woman to have reached 200+ mph on a V-Twin. The Dakar Rally is the November page, starring Tina Meier, a German rider.
To close the year we return to the Land of the Rising Sun, where we find Yuka Izutani, a journalist that shares a deep passion for motorcycling.
METZELER’s communication activities will continue in the next months: for any other information, please visit our website www.metzeler.com.
Original frame, matching numbers? What a waste.
— Sam
Texas
NEW FROM S&S We have new 4-INCH bolt on big bore kits for Twin Cams!–
S&S 4 inch big bore Sidewinder kit is available now!
No machining, no rebalancing, just bolt in pistons and cylinders in place of the stockers. 1999-2006 Twin Cam 88 engines roll up to 100ci, and 2007-later (except 2017 touring models) become 110ci monsters! No machining necessary and install can be done with engine still in the bike.
Kit works well with stock cylinder heads, or let S&S CNC port those heads for even more power.
S&S 4-INCH bore kits are available in color matched silver or wrinkle-black powder coat finish. The 10.5:1 compression makes for a very streetable and dependable engine that also responds well to performance cams.
As always, S&S Proven Performance® products…Made In The USA! For more information see your local dealer or click here https://goo.gl/DpF4YW
S&S Cycle, Inc.
pgarvin@sscycle.com
THE HOLIDAY BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL OPEN– Husband and Wife Christmas Shopping
A couple were in a busy shopping center just before Christmas. The wife suddenly noticed that her husband was missing and as they had a lot to do, so she called him on the mobile.
The wife said, “Where are you, you know we have lots to do.”
He said, “You remember the jewelers we went into about 10 years ago, and you fell in love with that diamond necklace? I could not afford it at the time and I said that one day I would get it for you?”
Little tears started to flow down her cheek and she got all choked up…
“Yes, I do remember that shop.” she replied.
“Well I am in the gun shop next door to that.”
–from anonymous donor…
A MYSTIC MESSAGE FROM THE MOST MAGNIFICENT– Today I Uncover the Perfection Within
What is success in its truest meaning? Is success material possessions, money, fame or power? Maybe, but I don’t believe one is successful when they don’t have happiness and a true sense of certainty.
External things are not keys to success. One, may have great possessions but, have their days filled with sadness and grief. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think there is anything wrong to have possessions long as you have them for the right reasons. There are people who continue to buy things hoping to find contentment in the purchases and only have to buy more for they only feel fulfilled for a short time.
I believe real success comes from within, the Mahabharata tells us, treasures cannot be found while one is a slave to objective appearances or lack of control of one’s thoughts. What that tells us is that success, even in our objective undertakings, depends first on the stability of mind, consistency of purpose and concentration of effort.
I think we should take a moment consider the great Power we have within. The Power of our Higher Power, God, that can take us anywhere we want to go. As I have said many times and take yourself off automatic pilot and Pause to go within.
Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.– Albert Schweitzer
–YALE
The Magnificent
BIKERS FOR BOOBIES AZ CELEBRATES 9 YEARS FIGHTING BREAST CANCER WITH CHARITY RIDE AND BIKE GIVEAWAY– Arizona Charity Enlists Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation and Lane Splitters to Build Custom Motorcycle
Celebrating its 9th year of fighting breast cancer, the Arizona-based charity Bikers For Boobies AZ will hold its 9th Annual Poker Run in October 2017.
“It is hard to believe we’ve been doing this for 9 years,” said Jack Estes Vice President of Bikers for Boobies AZ. “It feels really good to raise awareness and fight breast cancer. We’re hoping to break our fundraising record this year, and we’ve got something special cooking for the bike giveaway, which ought to help.”
The grand prize awarded at this year’s charity ride will be a custom designed Road King built by some of the most renowned custom motorcycle builders in the country. Legendary bike builder and trendsetter Paul Yaffe, of Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation and Paul Yaffe Originals, is teaming up with Miguel Samaniego of Lane Splitters. The two Arizona shops will collaborate on the design, and utilize various performance components while Paul oversees every aspect of the build. Steel Vision Garage is handling all the paint, coatings and concept drawing. Vance and Hines has offered to step up the engine to give it the performance it deserves.
“We are excited to help out with this build. We wanted to take some of the concepts we have been seeing applied to Dyna’s and FXR’s and see what we could do with a Road King. We see this as an opportunity to help a local charity that we believe in, work with other great shops like Lane Splitters and strip down a Road King and give it a sport treatment.” Said Paul Yaffe of Bagger Nation.
Bikers for Boobies AZ will sell raffle tickets throughout the year to raise much-needed funds for cancer awareness and research, and one lucky winner will ride off on one incredible motorcycle conceived of by two visionary builders. Additional prizes will be awarded at the raffle. This will be Bikers for Boobies AZ 5th Anniversary of a bike raffle – which started 5 years ago and now they have partnered with Paul Yaffe and other great builders.
The first Bikers For Boobies poker run saw 120 bikes participate. In 2015, there were 2,500 riders, and the charity raised over $65,000 . Bikers for Boobies AZ has also assisted 60 women with mammograms and supplied over $25,000 in grants for medical and survival needs. Bikers For Boobies is looking to top both numbers in 2017. It’s for a good cause, and the ride’s a lot of fun, so B4B encourages as many people as possible to participate, donate and be a part of the solution to breast cancer.
www.bikers4boobiesaz.org
–Ken Conte
ken@riseaboveconsulting.com
WORLD RUN BOOK REVIEW– Good read and the girl-on-girl stuff was pretty hot.
Enjoyed your use of names from the past, your inside joke that only a few readers will get. So thanks for sharing your latest creation with me.
–Brian Wood
IT’S AMAZING— We are fraught with challenges, but daily you can still go for a ride and enjoy it, feel the freedom and get away from everything.
A brother sent me some shots of old commercial trucks. When I was a kid the Helms Bakery truck cruised our neighborhood every week. Amazing, I can still remember these cool trucks and the warm jelly-filled donuts.
Have a helluva holiday. There’s more to come next year.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
