Hey,
This is one of those crazy days. The Long Beach Show is this weekend and we’re hosting an Ultimate Builders Reception at the Bikernet Headquarters. That means spring cleaning, and scrambling. The Redhead volunteered to make two wonderful soups. It should be a blast, and then Brenda mentioned Thankgiving a week away. Holy shit. Never a dull moment.
Hang on. 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.
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE NEWS– Motorcycle Racing Statement Regarding American Flat Track, Rule Changes for 2019 Season
American Flat Track recently communicated a series of rule changes for 2019, designed to increase the competitive balance in the sport. Two of the three rule changes single out Indian Motorcycle and the FTR750, and one of the three unfairly handicaps Indian Motorcycle’s ability to compete.
Indian Motorcycle developed a superior purpose-built race bike that conforms to AFT’s rules and regulations. While our efforts over the past two years produced unparalleled success on the track, the result has also been a competitive imbalance that ultimately does not benefit the sport. For this reason, we are fully supportive of efforts by AFT to restore competitive balance. However, we believe the changes for 2019 do not create the competitive balance we all desire and instead put Indian Motorcycle Racing at a competitive disadvantage.
First is the change from Sonoco Supreme fuel to Sonoco GTX-260 fuel, a lower octane, lead-free fuel that will force reductions in compression ratios and, ultimately, reduced power output. This is something that affects all teams equally, and Indian Motorcycle is aligned with this change.
Second is the allowance of street-legal production engines up to 900cc. The change to allow smaller displacement engines to increase bore and stroke past 750cc to 900cc will produce broader torque curves and higher peak power where desired, which is a significant advantage. “Production” engines are also allowed to change out all internal components including crankshafts, cams, pistons, connecting rods, and valves. Although this change puts Indian Motorcycle at a disadvantage, we support this as part of AFT’s effort to create competitive balance.
We take serious issue with the third rule change – allowing production engines to increase from 38mm throttle bodies to 40mm. This rule excludes Indian Motorcycle Racing, because the Scout FTR750 is not a street legal production motorcycle. Not only does the rule singularly handicap Indian Motorcycle, it represents a significant impairment of our ability to compete on an equal level with every other team in the paddock, specifically on mile tracks.
We have done extensive testing in this area, and our results have shown that 40mm throttle bodies produce 20% to 22% more air flow than the 38mm throttle body. In previous years, larger throttle bodies have been allowed, but limited specifically to larger production motors. This will be the first time that smaller, lighter production motors, similar in dimension and weight to the FTR750, will be able to increase throttle body sizes, creating a significant advantage over larger, heavier motors, let alone over the FTR750, for which this allowance does not apply. This is extremely significant on mile tracks where the increased air intake is maximized over the longer straights. Considering that the mile tracks are the predominant racing format in the series, this puts us at a drastic disadvantage and is detrimental to our ability to fairly compete at mile tracks.
It is critical to us that American Flat Track fans understand how these changes exclusively impair Indian Motorcycle Racing. Despite these changes, we will attack 2019 with the same competitive focus and determination that resulted in back-to-back championships over the past two years.
ROY CLARK DIES AT 85–
“Before we go any farther, I want to lay somethin’ on you; it’s not heavy and it’s not to imply that you don’t already do it. It’s just a reminder… to all of us.
The next chance you get, do somethin’ nice for somebody – say ‘good day,’ hold a door open – and don’t wait around for a thank you… you don’t need it. And because of you, that person will go out and do something nice for somebody, and then that person will go out and do something nice for someone else, and this whole world can wind up doing nice things for each other and we can be the ones that start it.
It takes all of us working together to get things done – no one does it alone. Only One did and I’m not that strong. Let’s start it – here’s to love – it’s still the best!” – Roy Clark
Roy Clark, the legendary ‘superpicker’, GRAMMY, CMA and ACM award winner, Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member and co-host of the famed ‘Hee Haw’ television series, died today at the age of 85 due to complications from pneumonia at home in Tulsa, Okla.
Roy Clark’s decade-defying success could be summed up in one word — sincerity. Sure, he was one of the world’s finest multi-instrumentalists, and one of the first cross-over artists to land singles on both the pop and country charts. He was the pioneer who turned Branson, Mo., into the live music capitol of the world (the Ozark town today boasts more seats than Broadway). And his talents turned Hee Haw into the longest-running syndicated show in television history.
But the bottom line for Roy Clark was the honest warmth he gave to his audiences. Bob Hope summed it up when he told Roy, “Your face is like a fireplace.”
“A TV camera goes right through your soul,” says the man who starred on Hee Haw for 24 years and was a frequent guest host for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show. “If you’re a bad person, people pick that up. I’m a firm believer in smiles. I used to believe that everything had to be a belly laugh. But I’ve come to realize that a real sincere smile is mighty powerful.”
For a man who didn’t taste major success until he was 30, the key was not some grand plan but rather taking everything in its own time. “Sure,” he said, “I had dreams of being a star when I was 18. I could’ve pushed it too, but it wouldn’t have happened any sooner. I’m lucky. What’s happened has happened in spite of me.”
In fact, that’s what Clark titled his autobiography, My Life — In Spite of Myself! with Marc Elliot (Simon & Shuster, 1994). The book reminded many that there is much more to Roy Clark than fast fingers and a quick wit.
Roy is preceded in death by his beloved grandson Elijah Clark who passed at the age of fourteen on September 24, 2018. Roy is survived by Barbara, his wife of sixty-one years, his sons Roy Clark II and wife Karen, Dr. Michael Meyer and wife Robin, Terry Lee Meyer, Susan Mosier and Diane Stewart, and his grandchildren: Brittany Meyer, Michael Meyer, Caleb Clark, Josiah Clark and his sister, Susan Coryell.
A memorial celebration will be held in the coming days in Tulsa, Okla., details forthcoming.
5-BALL LEATHERS HOLIDAY SALE—Throughout the holidays all leather orders will receive a new Bikernet custom bandana and a signed book with every order, plus Bikernet Bling.
Chance of a lifetime.
–Bandit
LOWBROW FIND OF THE WEEK–Almost all of us dream of that ‘barn-find’ motorcycle. Billy Balcer (owner of Balcer Performance & Restoration in Bedford, Ohio) had that dream come true and became second owner of this ’47 Knuckle.
This motorcycle was found by the perfect caretaker, one who would maintain, ride and enjoy this time capsule. Enjoy!
–Tyler
BOXING NEWS FROM RAQUEL–
Yummy sandwiches, vegetarian sandwiches, all kinds of chips, cheetos, water, soda, sugar free soda, all so nice for us. That was the welcome the media received from the camp at Churchills Boxing Club.
Premier Boxing had the Wilder media workout today on the west side at what used to be Wild Card Boxing Club. That’s a lot of W’s. Hopefully it will result in a lot of great boxing. A knockout is always spectacular, but I’d love to see Wider and Fury box a few rounds.
Wilder came into the ring, and was instantly mobbed. Wilder has a lot to say, and boy can he multi task. This professional athlete was non-stop words, answers, thoughts, and recollections while getting treated like a Gumby. His trainer stretched him out for a quick 10.
Wilder is a super giant good looking guy with beautiful gold Everlast gloves. It was perfect for today’s get down. A photographers delight. All through his stretch he talked. He said all of his training is in Alabama and very isolated. “I feel like a killer” he said. Wilder is the currant WBC heavyweight title holder since 2015. The “Bronze Bomber” is 6’7? tall and 33 years old. He is 40-0 39 by KO. Watch the fight this Dec 1st, 2018. Showtime Boxing PPV.
Deontay Wilder vs Tyson Fury December 1st, 2018 by Premier Boxing Championship Promotions Showtime Boxing PPV
–Raquel Vasquez
NEWS FROM FOX RIVER HARLEY–We’re changing it up this year and doing our very first ever Harley Holiday Fashion Show! November 16th, come out and see the hottest new fashions for the holiday season as some of our staff, customers and even some NEW faces walk or ride down the runway!
6:00 pm Food & Beverages
7:00 pm SHARP – Fashion Show Starts!
9:00 pm Fashion Show ends
Fox River Harley-Davidson® | 131 S. Randall Rd., St. Charles, IL 60174
NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Gov. Brown blames climate ‘deniers’ for worsening wildfires – Scientific evidence refutes him: ‘Less fire today than centuries ago’ –
Wildfires are NOT due to ‘climate change’ – Book Excerpt
STUDY: HUMANS, NOT ‘GLOBAL WARMING’, SPARKED ALMOST ALL OF CALIFORNIA’S WILDFIRES
The following is an excerpt from author Marc Morano’s new 2018 best-selling book, The Politically Incorrect Guide to Climate Change.
“There is increasing evidence that there is overall less fire in the landscape today than there has been centuries ago, although the magnitude of this reduction still needs to be examined in more detail.”…
“The ‘wildfire problem’ is essentially more a social than a natural one.” Researchers from the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid found that “climate change” is not to blame for increased forest fires in the Mediterranean basin.”…
“In the United States, wildfires are also due in part to a failure to thin forests or remove dead and diseased trees. In 2014, forestry professor David B. South of Auburn University testified to the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee that “data suggest that extremely large megafires were four-times more common before 1940,” adding that “we cannot reasonably say that anthropogenic global warming causes extremely large wildfires.” As he explained, “To attribute this human-caused increase in fire risk to carbon dioxide emissions is simply unscientific.”
By: Marc Morano – Climate Depot
California Governor Jerry Brown is blaming “climate deniers” for more California’s devastating wildfires despite the overwhelming scientific evidence that wildfires are not historically worse or caused by “global warming.” See:
Jerry Brown: Climate-Change Deniers ‘Definitely Contributing’ to the ‘New Abnormal’ of Wildfires– California Gov. Jerry Brown said all climate-change deniers are “definitely contributing” to the fatal wind-whipped wildfires that have pummeled northern and southern parts of the state over the past few days, as well as blazes “in the coming years.”
Al Gore also thinks he knows all about wildfires. “All over the West we’re seeing these fires get much, much worse,” Gore said in 2017, adding, “the underlying cause is the heat.”
But the science tells a very different story. A 2016 study published by the Royal Society reported, “There is less fire in the global landscape today than centuries ago” and the “global area burned” has seen a “slight decline over past decades.” The study, by Stefan Doerr and Cristina Santín of Swansea University in Wales, noted that “many consider wildfire as an accelerating problem, with widely held perceptions both in the media and scientific papers of increasing fire occurrence, severity and resulting losses. However, important exceptions aside, the quantitative evidence available does not support these perceived overall trends.”
THE FOLLOWING AUTHORS WILL BE ON HAND AT THE HEADQUARTERS FRIDAY NIGHT TO SIGN BOOKS–
MOTORCYCLE DRAG RACING: A History
By John S. Stein
DARE TO BE NUTTER
By Sonny Nutter
SAM “CHOPPER” ORWELL
By K. Randall Ball
Harbor Town Seduction
By K. Randall Ball
WORLD RUN
All the authors will be on hand to sign books and discuss them. Booze, Beer, sodas, and soothing soups by the Redhead. Plus a glimpse at the first Belly Tank Streamlined 5-Ball Racing Trike for Bonneville International Speed Trials 2019. And of course, the Ultimate Builders.
SALT TORPEDO CONNECTIONS—Check the following sites for racing frame components.
http://www.dragstersupply.com/Contact_us.html (don’t know these guys)
https://neilparks.com/chassis-services.html (well known in the industry)
–Paul Aiken
Owner
Aeromach USA, LLC
10015 Metromont Ind. Blvd, Ste F
Charlotte, NC 28269
800-990-9392 orders
704-599-1333 office
www.aeromach.net
Highway Hawk is a product of Motolux
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NEW M8 CAM CHEST SYSTEMS FROM S&S–Always on top of performance and reliability, S&S Cycle recently launched their complete Cam Chest Kits designed specifically to update the M8 engines with the latest in pump, plate and cam technology.
They’ve put together sixteen unique kits designed to match your bike, performance demands and riding style combining all of the best components into one perfectly matched package. Kits include Cam, Outer Drive Gears for Gear Drive Kits, Cam Plate, Tappets, Tappet Cuffs, High Flow Oil Pump, Quickee Pushrod Kit and all bearings and gaskets needed for installation.
Each part is designed to work with everything around it and create optimum power and reliability for 2017-2019 M8 Powered big twins. Each kit includes their new oil pump featuring 44% increase in flow and 58% increase in scavenge paired with either a Torque or Hp cam and even black or chrome pushrod tubes.
More importantly, the kits are comprised of parts designed to work perfectly together and make serious and reliable power!
Check out the details on their site at https://www.sscycle.com/cam-chest-kits-for-m8/
Real deal COMPLETE cam chest kits for the M8! Best oil pump flow, cam selection, and only kit with pushrods and tubes!
–David Zemla |
VP – Marketing
S&S® Cycle, Inc
Email dzemla@sscycle.com
QUICK, JOIN BANDIT’S CANTINA–Daddy is back with Dad Jokes.
Only family PG rated content in the Bikernet Weekly New, but inside the notorious Cantina it’s a different story. Age proof required to get inside.
“From one Dad to another Dad’s adult baby.”
Enjoy, goodies inside the Cantina Section, sign in today.
www.Bikernet.com
–Wayfarer
Wayfarer@bikernet.com
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SCREAMIN’ EAGLE/VANCE & HINES TEAM
CLOSES ANOTHER SEASON OF DRAG-RACING EXCELLENCE —Krawiec Defends His NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Title to the Final Round
Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines riders Ed Krawiec and Andrew Hines capped another successful season on the 2018 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series with a strong run in Pro Stock Motorcycle final eliminations at the 2018 Auto Club NHRA Finals in Pomona, Calif.
Winners of nine of the last 16 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle drag racing world championships, the Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines team scored four wins in 11 final-round appearances during the 2018 season racing Harley-Davidson® Street Rod™ competition motorcycles. Both factory riders qualified for the Countdown to the Championship playoffs.
In one of the most-competitive seasons in the history of the class, Krawiec battled to defend his 2017 Pro Stock Motorcycle championship to the final round of the season at Pomona, but came up one win and 39 points short of claiming his fifth NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle championship. Aboard his Harley-Davidson® Street Rod™ motorcycle, Krawiec finished the season in second place with 2,627 points and won four events (Gainesville, Atlanta, Norwalk and Brainerd) in seven final-round appearances.
“Every race weekend the Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle®/Vance & Hines drag racing team arrives at the track ready to win,” said Scott Beck, Harley-Davidson director of global brand marketing. “Win or lose our crew represents the Harley-Davidson brand and our loyal fans with grit and class.”
Hines, a five-time NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle champion, raced his Harley-Davidson® Street Rod motorcycle to the second round of eliminations at Pomona. Hines made four final-round appearances in 2018 and finished the season in sixth place with 2,450 points.
The Street Rod competition drag bikes are based on the Harley-Davidson® Street Rod™ production motorcycle, an agile middle-weight powered by the liquid-cooled High Output Revolution X 750 engine tuned for maneuvering through traffic and congestion.
Harley-Davidson and Vance & Hines Motorsports created the Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines team in 2002 to compete in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle division. In 2004, the team was the first to win the NHRA title with a V-Twin-powered motorcycle. The Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines team is led by Vance & Hines Motorsports owners Byron Hines and Terry Vance and crew chief Matt Hines, a three-time Pro Stock Motorcycle champion.
About Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Since 1903, Harley-Davidson Motor Company has fulfilled dreams of personal freedom with cruiser, touring and custom motorcycles, riding experiences and events, and a complete line of Harley-Davidson motorcycle parts, accessories, general merchandise, riding gear and apparel. For more information, visit www.h-d.com.
BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB–
“A good martial artist does not become tense, but ready. Not thinking, yet not dreaming. Ready for whatever may come.
When the opponent expands, I contract; and when he contracts, I expand. And when there is an opportunity, “I” do not hit, “it” hits all by itself.”
– Bruce Lee: Enter the Dragon (1973); In a conversation with an older member of the temple.
Enjoy! Dance in the streets. You will have to read all of the below to understand the second sentence of the Bruce Lee quote above. This is why without the Theory Education in yoga and martial arts schools, the black belt or certificates does not help the many fighters and so called — become an Official American Association / Federation Certified Yoga Teacher / Karate Sensei / Sifu, etc.
“The Art of Fighting Without Fighting”, is mentioned in that same movie by Bruce Lee.
–Wayfarer
BILTWELL FLAT TRACKER–
Bill’s 1941 Harley-Davidson Flat Tracker
A few months ago, we featured an 883 Sportster that Biltwell co-founder Bill Bryant had spec’d for the notoriously harsh NORRA Mexican 1000 all-terrain race in Ensenada, Mexico.
While the ‘Frijole 883” took shape, an unfinished project languished in Bill’s garage – a self-confessed “not great” flat track racer. Bill had decided to try racing a re-built 45” Harley having gotten nowhere on his venerable TT500: “I wanted to give the whole tank shift thing a shot. I built a 45” Harley for the street years ago, but was never that into it. I loved working on it because of the simplicity and the aesthetic, but riding it in modern traffic just wasn’t much fun.
“However, for racing other nerds around in a small circle, an old flathead is a great choice. I picked up this WLA engine as a mostly complete basket case with an original frame that was slightly raked. I took the engine to Rico Fodrey (Hi-Bond Modified, in Pomona, California) for a full rebuild, and we went out to 45’s Unlimited in Anza, California, for a transmission and a bunch of other small parts.
“The frame went to the wizard who is Mike Palazzo at 47 Industries in New Jersey and he de-raked the neck back to stock geometry, added the rear WR-style braces, bored holes in the frame castings and straightened everything out.
“The wheels, WR gas and oil tanks and rear fender were all sourced from W&W in Germany. The foot controls are sourced from Jeff Leighton out of SLC, Utah – less vulnerable than stock controls. The bars were custom bent to my specs by Jason Ball over at S&M in Santa Ana, California.
“With the ‘Frijole’ project consuming most of my “extra” time over the winter, the beautifully rebuilt flatty engine and frame sat lonely in the shop just mocking me and my poor time management skills. Once I realized I just wasn’t going to get it done, I dropped it all back off at Rico’s shop and asked him if he could get it wrapped up by Born Free. He did, and the bike ran great at the Stampede race the Thursday before the show.
“Pete at Hot Dog Kustoms sprayed the 1966 VW Sea Blue and bright white single stage paint, just in time for the race. It definitely looks even better than I imagined, but I’ll probably cry when I lay it down for the first time! As for my performance at the Stampede? I sucked, but I didn’t crash and didn’t finish last – I’ll take that all day long!”
www.biltwellinc.com
–from AMD
RODDER’S JOURNAL DEADLINE–Get the 2019 TRJ Calendar & Win Original Tillrock Art
Our 2019 TRJ calendars are available now! To celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’ve assembled a special edition calendar that we feel represents our first quarter century in print. While picking the cars, we sifted through 79 issues, selecting the rods, customs and racecars that show the breadth and depth of The Rodder’s Journal. In short, it’s an oversized issue of TRJ for your wall.
Each calendar will be signed and numbered by the publisher, Steve Coonan. For a custom number, you must place your order by Friday, November 16th at 5 p.m. PST either online or over the phone. For online orders, please put your two top number choices in the “notes” section at checkout. They will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis.
We’re only printing 2,500 and when they’re gone, they’re gone. The calendars measure 15×23-inches, are printed on heavy stock and list popular car show dates.
To order, click the red box above or call us at (800) 750-9550 in the United States,
(877) 479-2627 in Canada or (650) 246-8920 internationally. Get yours while supplies last!
Cheers,
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal
Our mailing address is:
The Rodder’s Journal
South San Francisco, CA
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPENS AGAIN–Here is a list of one liners that should take care of things for awhile.
Q: When do you kick a midget in the balls?
A: When he is standing next to your girlfriend saying her hair smells nice
Q: Did you hear about the guy who died of a Viagra overdose?
A: They couldn’t close his casket.
Q: What’s 6 inches long, 2 inches wide and drives women wild?
A: a $100 bill!
–from Rogue
SOFAR Sounds at Standard–Connecting over 400 intimate music venues world-wide, through secret performances, Sofar provides a live curated music experience bringing together artists and fans in an extremely special way.
This Saturday night, in partnership with Sofar, we’re taking our Secret Show concept to a whole new level and we’d love for you to join us.
GET TICKETS NOW
EXCLUSIVE for Standard patrons, use code “ORLANDO-34DBE” and get immediate access to purchase tickets.
Screen Shot 2018-11-08 at 11.43.46 AM.png
Brand Name
STANDARD MOTORCYCLE CO, 2545 INDUSTRIAL BLVD, ORLANDO, FL 32804, USA
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FROM THE HAL ROBINSON ARCHIVES– Red has a tattoo of Bette Boop on his left arm. He lights up a joint as he gets ready to take off to meet his destiny. Old guys rule is his motto. Shirts and prints with Red and Bette and much more by Hal Robinson and Five Ball are still for sale while they last. Get your orders in today in time for the holidays!
–Ann Robinson
VOTER REFORM FOR OLD BIKER CRIMINALS– Tomorrow or Friday I’m going to FAX a request to our US Senator’s Office asking the seek to add an amendment to this bill Trump endorsed today, . . . to add an ‘expunge felony criminal record after 15 years incident free’ . . . amendment, . . . via local State Superior Court petitions, upon approval, (expunge Order), Petitioner to forward to Federal and State Criminal Offender Records Information (CORI) bureaus to expunge . . .
We will need to ‘rally’ other contacts in other states for their support in contacting their US Senators . . . and some of the ‘usual’ likely supporters of prison reform . . .
Quick thoughts ?
Paul W. Cote / Massachusetts
B.O.L.T.
FIRST STEP ACT
Summary of Bill H.R. 5682
https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr5682/summary
Full text (82 pages)
https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr5682/text
–from Rogue
Supreme Leading Editor
Bikernet Baggers
Have been all over the Country and have not ever seen Smoked Brisket Poppers on a menu!! They are flavor bombs! One of the best appetizers I have ever had!
Noonan’s is cranking out awesome BBQ, Burgers, Wings and Award winning Chili! Get there as soon as you can!
–BikerDude
Off-Highway Riding Stands to Gain From Motorcyclist Inside D.C. Beltway–
A fellow rider and genuine enthusiast has a key role in our federal government, at the U.S. Department of Interior. Rick May, senior national advisor to the Secretary for recreation, was in Las Vegas and delivered the keynote speech at AIMExpo presented by Nationwide. It’s a talk that everyone in the industry needs to hear.
“Largest contributor to the economy used to be agriculture,” May said. “It’s now recreation. And now, it’s motorcycling … the biggest contributor within the recreation budget. … Recreation is not something to be ignored anymore. … Our politicians are listening to us, policies are changing, regulations are changing.”
–MIC
So, Infrastructure should be the main priority.–Bandit
MOTORCYCLE ARTS FOUNDATION– The Motorcycle Arts Foundation (MAF) is a nonprofit company “dedicated to the preservation and distribution of motorcycle arts.”
Founded by Paul d’Orléans, Sasha Tcherevkoff and Corinna Mantlo, the MAF says it aims to highlight and promote the cultural and artistic aspects of motorcycling through film, photography, writing, and public works projects.
The organization recently announced the launch of its official website, and launched its first public initiative – the Custom Revolution motorcycle exhibition, with the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, CA.
“The concept for Custom Revolution was to display the world’s most exciting alternative custom motorcycles from the best builders around the world.” The exhibition opened in April 2018 to huge success and will run until March 2019.
MAF’s Paul d’Orléans Guest Curated the exhibition, helping coordinate the assembling of 23 motorcycles from eight countries and hosting the opening night panel discussion. “I’m very thankful to the Petersen Museum for giving myself and the MAF the opportunity to come in as outsiders and help put together this wonderful exhibition,” said d’Orléans. “It’s a truly amazing collection of bikes and the interest from the press and general public has shown us these machines really can serve as art pieces in of themselves.”
MAF’s Sasha Tcherevkoff and his agency Man & Moto, created, designed, built the online exhibition and produced the 121 page Custom Revolution catalog that is available for sale at the museum and online.
“Custom Revolution is particularly interesting because it’s an artistic example of how the motorcycle culture has shifted in the past decade. We have seen the cultural decline of custom choppers and the rise of alternative customs,” said Tcherevkoff.
“Historically, the general public has viewed motorcycles as utilitarian machines. We at MAF aim to change that. We are going to present some compelling projects that highlight the artistic purpose and huge influence that motorcycles have had on culture, love, politics, and how they have shaped trends.”
www.motorcycleartsfoundation.org
www.thevintagent.com
–Posted by DealerWorld
SALT TORPEDO UPDATE—Shit is happening fast. I have a list of tubing and hole cutters I must get before December 15th.
Kevin Kahl, of the Hot Rod Underground, is heading this weekend back to Kansas for an operation to his spine. When he returns, he will bring his tubing bender back and we will make the frame in two weeks.
In the meantime I need to shorted the existing frame 6 inches and cut the belly tank to fit over the axle and drop down over the riders cage. I may even cut the tank for the rear wheel.
Hang on, we’re on the move. Gary Maurer sent me a steering box.
BEST GIFT FROM THE ANTIQUE MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION–Wrap up your holiday shopping early
New 2019 Medallions
Limited Supply
Perfect for your license plate
or for your wall collection.
$17
?Ó
–AMC
ACTION AT ACE CAFÉ IN ORLANDO–
Hi Keith, we want to personally invite you to join us at Ace Cafe for two days of epic car shows that are so awesome and unique, they are both being filmed for TV!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17th
9am to 4pm
MICRO SOUTH CAR SHOW
Join us on Saturday, November 17th from 9am to 4pm for the Micro South Car Show!
The car show will be filmed for a Christmas special episode of “My Classic Car” featuring Dennis Gage!
Check out impressive vintage micro cars, mini cars and vintage scooters!
Prizes awarded for Best in Show!
Fun for the whole family!
Also, bring an unwrapped toy for a child in need and get your picture taken with Santa himself!
Ballot Decisions that Affect Motorists–
The mid-term elections are officially over. Ballotpedia stated this week on its website that voters in 37 states decided a total of 155 statewide ballot measures.
Not all, of course, were motorist related but a few certainly were. We have also included some important county or city ballot issues that asked voters to raise the sales tax or bonds to maintain and repair streets and roads or at least some of the new funding raised would be for roads.
Our friends at TheNewspaper.com released this analysis: Voters Send Mixed Message on Gas Tax Measures.
Here is a list of ballot issues on a statewide, county or city level that will affect mostly infrastructure decisions for years to come in state order.
Arizona
Arizona Proposition 127: Renewable Energy Standards Initiative—Failed
Would have required electric utilities to increase the percentage of electricity from renewable resources to 50 percent by 2030.
Pima County Proposition 463: Bond issue for roads—Failed
Scottsdale, AZ Question 1: Transportation Project Transaction Privilege Tax—Passed
California
California Proposition 6: Gas Tax Repeal approved by the Legislature since January 2017 If approved, would have repealed fuel tax increases and vehicle fees enacted in 2017 by the legislature including the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 or RRAA. Also would require voter approval for the legislature to impose, increase or extend fuel taxes or vehicle fees in the future.—Failed
Here are the many other sales tax or bond issues that California city or county voters were asked to approve (P= Passed, F= Failed)
City and/or Measure Name
County
Details
P/F
Berkeley-Measure R:
Alameda
Vision 2050 (tackle climate change & failing infrastructure
P
Bolinas-Measure X
Marin
Prohibition of Overnight Parking for Large Vehicles Advisory Question
P
Carpentaria-Measure X2018
Santa Barbara
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Measure F
Alameda County
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Dixon-Measure N
Solano
Sales Tax Increase for Road Repair only
P
Eureka-Measure I
Humboldt
Sales Tax Increase for Road Repair only
P
Glendale-Measure S
Los Angeles
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Kerman-Measure M
Fresno
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Measure 1
Kern County
Sales Tax increase on Unincorporated areas (some to be used for road repair)
F
King City-Measure K
Monterey
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Los Banos-Measure H
Merced
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Los Gatos-Measure G
Santa Clara
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for reducing congestion and road repair)
P
Measure AA
Marin County
Transportation Sales Tax Renewal (roads and transit)
P
Marina-Measure N
Monterey
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Monterey (city)-Measure S
Monterey
Street & Infrastructure Sales Tax Renewal
P
Murrieta-Measure T
Riverside
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Norco-Measure R
Riverside
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Oroville-Measure U
Butte
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Paso Robles Measure K-18
San Luis Obispo
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
F
Paso Robles Measure N-18
San Luis Obispo
Sales Tax Increase for Streets & Sidewalks Advisory (make sure funds from K-18 are used for streets and sidewalks only)
P
Pomona Measure PG
Los Angeles
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Port Hueneme Measure U
Ventura
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Porterville Measure I
Tulare
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Red Bluff Measure A
Tehama
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Roseville Measure B
Placer
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Measure G
San Benito Country
Transportation Sales Tax
P
San Fernando Measure A
Los Angeles
Sales Tax Renewal (some to be used for road repair
P
San Jose Measure T
Santa Clara
Public Safety & Infrastructure Bond Issue
P
Measure W
San Mateo County
Roads and Transit Sales Tax
F
Santa Ana Measure X
Orange
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Measure G
Santa Cruz County
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Santa Fe Springs Measure Y
Los Angeles
Sales Tax Increase (some to be used for road repair)
P
Colorado
Proposition 109: Authorize up to $3.5 billion in bonds for statewide transportation projects. Known as “Fix our Damn Roads.”—Failed
Proposition 110: Authorize a 62-cent increase of the sales and use tax for the next 20 years and would authorize the CO DOT to issue bonds up to $6 billion. Known as “Let’s Go Colorado.”—Failed
Aurora, CO Measure 31: Shall the city continue the Photo Red-Light Enforcement Program? Two-thirds voted to abolish!
Connecticut
Connecticut Amendment 1: Create a lockbox for transportation funds—Passed
Florida
Florida Amendment 5: Supermajority Vote Required To Impose, Authorize, or Raise State Taxes or Fees—Passed
Broward County: 1% Sales Tax Increase for Transportation Improvements—Passed
Hillsborough County, Florida No. 2 Referendum—1% Sales Tax Increase to Fix Roads—Passed
Idaho
Ada County—increase in vehicle registration fees for transportation mobility and safety—Failed
Louisiana
Louisiana Amendment 4: Prohibit money form the Transportation Trust Fun to be dedicated to the state police. It would be solely dedicated to road and bridge maintenance, flood control, ports, airports and transit.—Passed
Maine
Maine Question 3: Authorize bonds for transportation infrastructure, $106 million in general obligation bonds and can only go towards capital projects.—Passed
Missouri
Missouri Proposition D: If approved, would increase the state’s per-gallon gas tax over four years, to 27.3 cents from a current 17.3 cents. Increase fuel tax, boost state highway patrol revenue, finance repairs, and create Emergency State Freight Bottleneck Fund (which would help finance repairs on portions of I-70 in the St. Louis area. 500 million tons of freight are carried in those 165 miles with 16 interchanges per year.)—Failed
Nevada
Nevada Question 6: Renewable Energy Standards Initiative
If passed, would require electric utilities to acquire 50 percent of their electricity from renewable resources by 2030.—Passed
New Mexico
Bernalillo County, NM Bond Question NO. 4: Transportation Bond—Passed
Texas
Austin Proposition G: Transportation Infrastructure Bond Issue—Passed
Utah
Utah Nonbinding Question 1: Raise the state motor and special fuel tax by 10 cents to fund education and local roads—Failed
Washington State
Washington State Initiative 1631: Carbon Emissions Fee Measure—Failed
Addendum to NMA E-Newsletter #512, To Record or Not to Record, That is the Question
It should be noted that while the newsletter provided information about motorists’ rights vs. state law regarding the right to record law enforcement, some states may draw legal distinctions between audio and video recordings. The newsletter should be supplemented by this excellent resource, Is It Legal to Film or Photograph the Police?, published by LegalMatch this past May.
[page break]
BOB NICHOLS R.I.P.
September 14, 1921 October 31, 2018
Trailblazer Hall of Famer, Bob Nichols, passed away on October 30, 2018 at the age of 97. Since 1940 Bob’s business was motorcycle, auto and airplane performance, engineering and manufacturing of parts, specializing in Indian Motorcycles and other V Twin & single cylinder engines. And he was a master at it. Among other venues, his Indians raced on the AHRMA circuit at Delmar, Ventura, Temecula, Sacramento and Willow Springs. In later years he would be in the pits at local races, in his wheel chair, a wrench in his hand and a grin on his face. He had a great amount of success and lots of fun. We will miss you and your stories. God Speed. Take a look at this short clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXwKltt1zHQ
Bob Nichols’ Celebration of Life Sunday, November 18th 12:00 Noon Lunch
Mile Square Park Banquet Center 10401 Warner inside golf course.
Because Bob was so well liked, his family needs a rough head count so they may accommodate all wishing to attend. Please RSVP to either of Bob’s daughters.
Debra Summers debras@sevengables.com or text Belinda (714) 651 6214
They thank you for all your condolenses.
OPPOSE THE YEAR-ROUND SALE OF E15
The AMA is asking for your support to urge President Trump to reconsider directing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to allow year-round sales of E15 fuel, a blend of gasoline that is 15 percent ethanol by volume. It would waive the Clean Air Act requirements related to Reid Vapor Pressure. This action would put the owners of millions of motorcycles and ATVs at significant risk, because this fuel can cause engine and fuel system damage and may void the manufacturers’ warranty. None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles in use in the U.S .are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to use E15 or higher ethanol blends.
UPDATE FROM CRAIG AND CAROL VETTER
It has been 3 years and 2 months since Craig Vetter received grave injuries when he collided with a deer while motorcycle riding. He is coming back slowly. The positive things are the return of his design ability, reasoning and planning ahead. Not so good is the dizziness, hearing and his emotions are on the surface. Carol and Craig have attended the last two Trailblazers Banquets and both look happy and healthy. We are so glad that improvement continues. Love you guys.
DUBB FERRELL THANKS YOU
A big Thank You from Dubb Ferrell. The first week of October, Dubb had heart by-pass surgery. He had tons of cards and visits and is home now and doing well. He doesn’t expect to go back to work until the first of next year. He doesn’t do Facebook but he wants all of you to know how much he appreciates your well wishes.
1 MINUTE OF THE LA SPORTSWALK
Chris Agajanian sent us a 60 second IG post made by Chris Forsberg. It was taken at the LA Sportswalk of Fame a few weeks ago.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpUl4ItAij-/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1doat95u4ivxf
SAMMY TANNER SELECTED AS FIRST GUEST ON LIVE MOTORYCYCLE TALK SHOW
Gene Woods said to watch for “The Trailblazer Show” to air live sometime in January on World Center of Broadcast Media (WCOBM.TV). The show is not part of our Trailblazer organization. Watch Facebook and Instagram for times and dates. www.genewoods.com Meanwhile, check out some of the others shows.
NASCAR VETERAN, MIKE HELTON, JOINS AMA
Mike Helton will be on the Pro Racing Management Board of the AMA. Mike was the Vice Chairman of NASCAR and also Chairman of the NASCAR Foundation. He joins other former NASCAR officials at AMA, Tom Bledsoe, former treasurer and financial officer of NASCAR and George Silbermann, Vice President of NASCAR.
SOMETHING IS LOST IN TRANSLATION
Sent by Mary McGee
How to ride motorcycles: Taken from a 1962 Honda Motorcycle Club Instruction Book. It was translated by Honda for the American Motorcycle Rider.
1. At the rise of the hand by Policeman, stop rapidly. Do not pass him by or otherwise disrespect him.
2. When a passenger of the foot, hooves in sight, tootel the horn trumpet melodiously at first. If he still obstacles your passage, tootel him with vigor and express by word of mouth, warning Hi, Hi.
3 Beware of the wandering horse that he shall not take fright as you pass him. Do not explode the exhaust box at him. Go smoothingly by.
4. Give big space to the festive dog that makes sport in roadway. Avoid entanglement of dog with wheel spokes.
5. Go smoothingly on the grease mud, as there lurks the skid demon. Press the brake foot as you roll around the corners, and save the collapse and tie up.
TWO DAY LAND SPEED RECORD EVENT AT EL MIRAGE DRY LAKE
Saturday and Sunday, November 10 & 11. This event is sponsored by the Southern California Timing Association and is the last one of the season on the 1.3 mile dirt surface. www.landracing.com www.scta-bni.org
LAKE ELSINORE GRAND PRIX
This event was a legend in the late 1960s and it is now your turn to make you own memories. Race in & around the town of Lake Elsinore, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 9, 10 & 11. Get online for more information at: dirtseriesracing.com/lake-elsinore-gp.html elsinoregrandprix.com
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CYCLE NEWS
If you want to read the whole story go to cyclenews.com and you can read it for free. Lots of really great photos too.
In Issue # 42 there are 7 pages on the 2019 Honda Monkey Bike. Yep! It’s back! The new one is retro designed to look the Monkey of the 1960’s. The MiniMoto is 125cc, Single Cylinder, 2 Valve, Four Stroke Engine. Pure fun.
In Issue # 43 there are 14 pages on the future of World Enduro.
Larry Lawrence in Issue #42 has written about Bob Hansen, the man who helped get Honda racing in America.
Larry Lawrence in Issue #43 about photographer Randy Marrs, and preserving memories.
50 YEARS AGO IN CYCLE NEWS
5TH Annual ACA USGP road races at Willow Springs. Winners included Jerry Green, Dave Damron and George Kerker. Mike Patrick won the Check Chase Hare & Hound. SoCal M.C. AMA/D37 Championship won by Phil Bowers. Keith Mashburn won short track at Ascot. Speedway racing at Whiteman in Pacoima. Ivan Mauger led the pack. Story on Gary Nixon’s road to GNC crown. Phil Bowers won and Al Baker 2nd at the 100 mile Championship Hare & Hound in Red Rock Canyon.
40 YEARS AGO
Bob Hannah won round five of the Transaction AMA MX Series in St. Peters, Florida. Barry Sheene won Mallory Park. USA won the first AGV World Team Cup at Imola. Mike Baldwin won the WERA Grand National Finals at College Station, Texas. Rex Staten winner at the Trans-AMA MX in Lake Whitney, Texas, but Bob Hannah clinched the championship. Bruce Penhall won the Ascot National Long Track Speedway Championships.
30 YEARS AGO
Steve Lucero won the National Speedway Championship at Costa Mesa. Dan Smith won the Check Chase Hare and Hound. Front page news when Eddie Lawson changed teams from Yamaha to Honda. Team Suzuki won the WERE National Endurance Road Race from Summit Point, West Virginia.
FREDDIE SPENCER NAMED MOTOGP STEWARDS CHAIRMAN
Fast Freddie, from Louisiana, was not only fast, but had a reputation as a clean and fair rider. He defeated “King Kenny “For the 500cc title in 1983. He was 21years old. In 1985 he won both the 250cc and 500cc titles. His mount of choice was a Honda. The Stewards Panel sits in judgement of riding offenses. Congratulations Freddie.
HOLD THE DATE. OLD SCHOOL TT SCRAMBLES SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9
These races are a family affair. It is a fun day of racing for the whole family. There are practice days preceding race days so get on their email list. For information, visit: www.oldschoolscramblesracing.com.
If you don’t have a vintage bike, rent one. TMC Co. (760) 403 3634
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FLAT TRACK ASSOCIATION
A DOUBLE HEADER COMING UP
Saturday, November 10 will be Round 9 of the SCFTA Championship Series. Gates open at 12:30, Practice at 3:30pm, Racing to follow
Sunday, November 11 will be Round 10. Gates open at 8am, Practice at 10:00 am, Racing to follow Bonus points for running both days.
www.scftaracing.com (951) 443 7622
SOCAL NORTON RIDE
RUN FOR THE ROSES DECEMBER 31ST
Final ride of the year. Meet at Lucky Baldwins Trappiste, located at 1770 East Colorado, Blvd in Pasadena. Ride to Newcomb’s Ranch on Angeles Crest/Hwy 2. Return to Congregation Ale House, 300 S. Raymond Ave in Pasadena. Take your CLASSIC motorcycle out for the last day of the year and enjoy this fantastic ride in our backyard. Ride maps at departure. Departs at 10am Sharp. www.socalnorton.com info@socalnortonclub.com
BSA STUFF
Sunday, November 11 is the BSAOCSC Fall Swap Meet & bi-monthly meeting at Triumph Classic Motorcycles, 1281 Logan Ave. Costa Mesa, Ca 92626. British Motorcycles Only! Begins at 7am to 11am. (951) 440 3521(swap meet) (661) 703 9249 (meeting) (310) 398 6406
Sunday, November 18 BSAOCSC “Phelan Phling” Dirt thing Dual Sport Ride. Ride starts at 7675 Cambria Road. Phelan, CA 92371. For vintage British motorcycles only, with street registration, and spark arrestors. Arrive at 9am, ride at 10am. (310) 292 8997, (760) 964 4526, (760) 365 9191
Saturday Nov 10 MX Practice
Sunday, Nov 11 SRA GP
Saturday, Nov 17 REM MX/MX Practice
Sunday, Nov 18 SoCal OTMX
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Nov 23-25 Day in the Dirt
www.glenhelen.com (909) 880 3090
–Judy Whitson
THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS STILL SORTA OPEN– Q: What do you call two fat people talking?
A: A heavy discussion.
NOW AVAILABLE--2019 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Calendar!
Twelve months of motorcycles that have graced the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Musuem, beautifully photographed and featured alongside their histories.
Limited quantity available, order yours today.
All proceeds support the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation,
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
FROM THE GEARHEAD DIARIES–I ponder these things sometimes. We lose Dave Mann years ago. We lose Ed Roth too. Guys like George Barris that have a big influence to the custom industry and now we lose Stan Lee. How many customs or custom paint jobs have had a big influence by these geniuses.
How many Capt. America or Hulk paintings have we seen in a gas tank or fender. I hope we see new customizers that will push the envelope past the mundane standard. They have not only had an influence on the custom industry for cars and bikes but also our tattoo industry.
I ponder these things sometime. Who is going to carry on? Hopefully a new generation will learn these skills form the masters.
–Gearhead
ROLANDS SAND’S NEWS–The second annual Moto Beach Classic partnered with the inaugural Surf City Blitz for an epic weekend of 40,000 guests, the Greatest Punk Rock Line up ever assembled, custom motorcycles, surf contest, and moto + surf + punk rock inspired art.
On October 27th & 28th 40,000 concert goers, racers, artists, surfers and motorcyclists descended on Huntington State Beach to celebrate The Moto Beach Classic and Surf City Blitz. Joining forces, they set the bar high with the first true motorcycle & music lifestyle inspired festival with a soundtrack of Social Distortion, The Offspring, Pennywise, Bad Religion, Rancid and many more.
–Dan Hartloff
LABOR UNION STRIKE Ends at Enfield–No one was interested about a small company called Royal Enfield when it was small and was selling engines / chassis designed in 1955 in the 21st century – even in 2010. But when they invested in technology and a modern factory and started selling better products which showed 150% growth in sales every quarter – of course, they became big and attracted the big scoundrels who hold every business and businessman to ransom – who enjoy the “Free Money” and “Free Lunch” from politicians, citizens, foreign investors, foreign companies.
So the Democratically elected Communist Party in Kerala Sate, needs Donations from all over India and the world for Flood Relief even though it boasts of 100% literacy for many decades and has the same Communist Party of India in power at Government for many decades. Kerala Government surprisingly does not have the money for basic infrastructure to provide that Flood Relief for its own residents.
And the world media will tell you, there is No Democracy in India – where there is such incredible Liberal Democracy where Communist Parties and Islamic Republican Party – having the words “Communist” and “Islam” in the name of the Parties itself – winning elections since 1947 independence of India.
Well, what more democracy does this world media wants India to have, to live and have a daily basic food, water or income for its 1.2 billion known citizens and its millions of illegal immigrants from the well-known neighbouring terrorist Nations.
Strike over, but the road ahead for Royal Enfield remains bumpy
RE’s volume growth has been impacted due to Kerala flood in August 2018.
After losing 26 per cent in the past two months, the stock of Eicher Motors gained nearly 6 per cent on Tuesday after the maker of iconic Royal Enfield (RE) bike announced the end of workers’ strike at the Chennai plant.
While this may help in resuming the timely supply of bikes to dealers, it may not improve the overall volume growth for FY19 considering moderation in demand over the past few months. Which may limit the stock’s upward movement in the near term.
RE’s volume growth has been impacted due to Kerala flood in August 2018, all-India Truckers’ strike and workers’ strike at the Chennai facility since September. Kerala market constitutes nearly 11 per cent of the total volume of the RE and it lost around 28,000 units due to workers’ strike.
While reporting the September quarter numbers, Eicher reduced the production guidance for RE to 9,25,000 units for FY19 from 9,50,000 units earlier. It implies that the company expects 13 per cent volume growth year-on-year in the second half of the fiscal, which may not be an easy task due to several factors.
First, the company stated during a conference call after the second quarter results that the same-store volume dropped in the quarter compared with 10 per cent growth in the previous quarter. The measure captures volume growth for showrooms operating for at least two years.
Second, the waiting period for RE models has not increased from typical 2-3 weeks despite the production loss due to floods and strike. Ideally, the waiting period would have expanded amidst supply disruption.
In addition, the premium bike segment, where Eicher operates, is most impacted due to higher insurance cost and introduction of rear disc brakes to comply with a new regulation on anti-lock breaking system (ABS) from April 2019. The price of its bestselling model Classic 350 has risen by 9 per cent in the past three months.
RE volume grew 18 per cent in the first nine months of 2018 compared with 19 per cent growth of the overall bike segment. Consequently, RE’s contribution to the total motorcycle volume dropped to 4.4 per cent in September 2018 from 6.1 per cent in January 2018.
Given the bumpy road ahead, analysts expect sales of 8,75,000-8,95,000 units for FY19, which is 3-5 per cent lower than the company’s guidance. They have also trimmed the projected earnings per share for the fiscal by 7.5 per cent to Rs 941 from Rs 1,016 in June 2018, according to Bloomberg data.
–Wayfarer
International Motorcycle Business News Chief
Bikernet Bureau India News Desk
wayfarer@bikernet.com
THAT’S IT?—My mind is scrambling with the Bike Show Party, the Redhead’s menu and the Salt Torpedo.
I have another report on the Stealth’s Shovelhead rebuild. I should post it next week along with a party report.
I hope as we move forward the parties can work together for the people, for the infrastructure and for Freedom in mind.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
