Hey,
Sturgis is just around the corner. My Indian is leaning toward the gate. It’s the 40th anniversary of the Hamsters and 115th of Harley-Davidson.
I’m reading a book called Save the Cat about writing screenplays. My goal is to finish the one I’m working on before the end of the year. I watched a movie made in New Zealand last night about a girl, with her two little kids, who is caught up in a violent crime investigation, gone wrong. It’s unbelievable. It follows the pattern of about a thousand adventure crime movies. But the actress did a helluva job and it was shot in an quirky fashion.
So, what else? I’m about to head north, before or after Sturgis to pick up the Salt Torpedo. Need to make progress on this puppy this year or die trying. I’m pulling together my Flying Piston sculpture for the builders’ breakfast at the City of Buffalo Chip in South Dakota. It needs to be there on the 5th. I’m burnin’ daylight.
I quit reading Factfullness. I get it, but every chapter points out that us humans can’t answer his questions any better than a chimpanzee. Gets old. The World is a better place is his bottom-line contention and the population is shifting. He can prove the population will almost double and then stop growing. Not sure doubling is a good thing? He would like industry to start to invest in Africa and Asia, because the potential is larger there. Okay, I get it, let’s move on. Oh, he pointed out that during your 70s you have a 50/50 chance of dying each year. I said I was burning daylight.
Two riders from New Zealand stopped in the headquarters yesterday to bring me a Burt Munro sweatshirt. I left it in New Zealand. I helped them with some of their travel plans and they bought a used Gold Wing. After a trip to Disneyland they are heading to Sturgis.
Let’s hit the news. I need to weld.
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.
MRF REPORTS–Motorcycles, Boats, & Lawnmowers Ask for Help on Ethanol
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, representatives from the marine, motorcycling, and outdoor power equipment gathered on Capitol Hill to discuss concerns over ethanol-blended gasoline and a lack of consumer education and understanding of the risks associated with ethanol.
Hosted by the Congressional Motorcycle and Boating Caucuses, the breakfast briefing featured a panel of industry representatives and welcomed congressional staff and policymakers to learn about the issue from those with direct experience.
Speaking on behalf of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation was Mike Sponseller, an avid motorcyclist, professional racer and part owner of a Washington, D.C. motorcycle shop. Sponseller explained to the audience why higher ethanol blended gasoline is such a concern for riders, showing images of corroded and damaged motorcycle engine parts including fuel injectors, tank liners, fuel lines and even showing a snapshot taken directly from a Harley-Davidson owner’s manual explaining the risks of using E15, E30 and E85.
He outlined riders concerns and the lack of consumer education that currently exists despite these types of fuel being federal prohibited for use in motorcycles. “The problem with E15 isn’t that motorcycles are unreliable, but it creates the perception that they are because of the damage it can cause. When in reality, it’s the fuel that we are being forced to use.”
Panelists agreed, citing their own industry examples of damage, lack of consumer education and misfuelling.
The event also touched on newly introduced legislation, H.R.5855, the Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act of 2018. Authored by Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) and U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel (D-Fl.), the legislation would require the EPA to revise the labeling requirements for fuel pumps that dispense E15 and conduct a consumer education campaign to inform the public about the risks of improper use of E15 and the vehicles and equipment that are prohibited from using E15.
In coordination with the panel, a letter was sent to all Members of the House and Senate signed by the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, the National Marine and Manufacturers Association, the American Highway Users Alliance and others conveying support for the legislation.
More information on the legislation can be found here:https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr5855
NEW DEADBEAT DUFFLE FROM KURYAKYN–A scaled down version of the popular Freeloader Duffle, the Deadbeat shares the same wide roll-top design featuring high-strength hook-&-loop closure that provides added water resistance and easy access to the main storage.
Additional features include multiple MOLLE modular attachment points, large quick-stash pocket, external adjustable bungee storage system for coats, bedrolls or other items, low profile carrying handle and removable shoulder strap for convenience off the bike, and a rain cover for added weather protection.
Pick one up at your local Biker’s Choice Dealer.
FIM plans Moto-e World Cup–Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, better known as FIM, has announced an electric motorcycle racing category, called Moto-e World Cup, for 2019. The governing body has finalized Energica as the official supplier of racing motorcycles for the grid.
The Moto-e World Cup will be a support series, run alongside select MotoGP rounds. While the first few seasons will be run as a one make championship with Energica, it will eventually become an open series allowing other brands to compete. The race bike used by the teams will be a tuned version of Energica Ego.
In its street bike guise, the Ego churns out 145 horsepower with top speed limited to 241kmph. However, considering that the standard Ego weighs over 259 kilograms, it is quite evident that a diet would be in order. As the race will last for up to 10 laps, we can expect the Ego to get smaller and lighter batteries which should contribute towards weight saving.
Dorna, the organizer of MotoGP, is yet to confirm which venues will host the Moto-e World Cup.
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM, International Motorcycling Federation) is the global governing/sanctioning body of motorcycle racing. It represents 111 national motorcycle federations that are divided into six regional continental unions. The British Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) was one of the founding members.
The FIM is also the first international sporting federation to publish an Environmental Code, in 1994. In 2007, a Commission for Women in Motorcycling was created by the FIM in order to promote the use of powered two-wheelers and the motorcycle sport among women.
Clearly, they have always focused on the future of motorcycles since it was founded in 1904.
–Ujjwal Dey
Supreme Commander
Bikernet New Bureau India
wayfarer@bikernet.com
NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Meet the new second in command at EPA — Henry Darwin
A former Arizona state official brought to EPA by Scott Pruitt to streamline agency operations got a promotion yesterday in the wake of the embattled administrator’s departure.
Henry Darwin is taking on the duties of deputy administrator at EPA.
Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced Darwin’s move up yesterday in his address to employees. Darwin joined EPA last summer as assistant deputy administrator and chief of operations.
An EPA spokesman told E&E News that while he is serving as acting administrator, Wheeler will be delegating his deputy administrator responsibilities to Darwin.
In his year at EPA, Darwin has been at the forefront of effort framed as making the agency quicker and more effective, measuring its performance with new metrics and instituting the so-called Lean management system. He had done similar work in Arizona as chief of operations for Gov. Doug Ducey (R) and before that as director of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
Pruitt touted Darwin’s reforms at EPA as well as his time at ADEQ in an interview last year with The Daily Signal, the conservative Heritage Foundation’s news organization.
Pruitt said Darwin had told him that ADEQ under his watch had gone from an agency of 700 employees to 350 but was improving its performance and would better tabulate its results. At EPA, Darwin has set up a “dashboard” to measure the agency’s results every day, the former administrator said.
“The Darwin Effect is in full force and we are going to make sure that we achieve accountability,” Pruitt said.
Darwin has been an advocate for bringing the Lean system more into play at EPA, speaking to staff about its benefits over the past year.
“The system at its core is designed to keep small problems from becoming big problems,” Darwin said in one meeting with EPA employees.
By Kevin Bogardus, E&E News reporter
YELVINGTON NEWS–Now expanding our
Front Fork Cartridge Product Line for HD Touring Models 1994 to 2013
We have expanded our current product line of Front End Suspension Kits! Replace your 1994 to 2013 Harley-Davidson Touring front end suspension with our new Suspension Technologies Front Fork Cartridge Kit.
Our cartridge design, allows for superior oil management, improving your ride quality and maximizes handling performance. Your bike will stop better, run through the corners with greater control, and deliver an outstanding ride quality.
Available in 1-inch lower and standard length
Have a newer Harley-Davidson Touring model?
Check out our 2014 to 2018 Front End Suspension Kits, which also are available in 1-inch lower and standard length. Visit our website for more information!
FROM THE BAD COP FILES–It Looks Like The Cops Did Not Make Enough Money Over the 4th Of July With Their Traffic Stops, So They Are At It Again
STATE BRIEFS
Florida, Georgia, Alabama, 2 other states in speed enforcement task
ATLANTA – Georgia joins Alabama and three other states in a week-long speed enforcement operation beginning today.
“Operation Southern Shield” will run through July 22.
Law enforcement in Georgia and Alabama will join Florida, Tennessee and South Carolina in pulling over drivers who are traveling above legal speed limits on interstates, major highways and local roads.
Col. Mark W. McDonough, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety, said the focus will be to encourage motorists to slow down. He said they hope the effort will reduce crashes and provide a safer experience for motorists.
–from Rogue
JIMS NEW Axle Installation Guide–
Installation of motorcycles axles has always been problematic.
Trying to align the wheel with other components such as swing arms, caliper brackets, wheel hubs and spacers can be frustrating, especially when trying to do the job alone.
For only $43.50 you can easily eliminate these problems by purchasing the brand new JIMS axle installation guide (Part no.5820). This tool is exclusive to JIMS® and was designed by our talented partner, Hiro Koiso. For more information please contact us at (805) 482-6913, email us at sales@jimsusa.com, or visit www.jimsusa.com.
–Greg Thiessen
JIMS
555 Dawson Drive,
Camarillo, CA 93012
Ph: 805-482-6913
www.jimsusa.com
WILD CUSTOM OF THE WEEK–TMC Dumont sits 36-inch hubless rims either side of a roaring aircraft engine
Impractical? Sure! Vulgar? Most certainly. Unique? In every sense. This staggering custom motorcycle uses the biggest pair of hubless wheels we’ve ever seen, as well as placing the rider astride a snarling, 300-horsepower Rolls-Royce aircraft engine. Live in fear – of corners, if nothing else.
One of the most outrageous custom motorcycles in recent years: the TMC Dumont.
TMC Dumont: does not look practical, but who cares?
TMC Dumont: 300-horsepower Rolls Royce aircraft engine makes a heck of a racket
TMC Dumont: the work of Brazilian former F1 driver Tarso Marques.
The TMC Dumont is the work of Brazilian ex-Formula One driver and champion motorcycle custom builder Tarso Marques. Its name is a tip of the hat to Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont, who Brazilians believe got an airplane aloft before America’s Wright Brothers.
Hence the aircraft engine – a monstrous Continental flat six from the Rolls-Royce aircraft company that was lifted from a 60’s-era aircraft and polished within an inch of its life.
Three hundred horsepower (224 kW) is a heck of a lot for a motorcycle, and it’s even madder when you look at the bike’s signature feature: gargantuan, hubless 36-inch wheels that sit high enough to block the rider’s view, and connect to underslung swingarms by the flimsiest of connections.
Here’s a video of this bizarre contraption on the road, in which you can watch the rims flex and wobble at a standstill, without any of those 300 horses wreaking vengeance upon them.
— Loz Blain
news atlas.com
–from Buckshot
METAL BENDING CLASSES–Since you like bending metal so much and made that belt buckle sold in Bikernet store, making pieces for the Sturgis etc – I thought you and your fellow metal-heads would like this man.
Kevin Caron has plenty of free videos on youtube where a complete newbie can learn about metal sculpting. He even has a video for people who ask what is a “collet” what is a “mill”, etc.
On his website he has a range of small and really large metal sculptures which he sells as metal art installations or jewellery, etc.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/kevincaron/about
Website: http://www.kevincaron.com
Installed in public or private outdoor locations: http://www.kevincaron.com/installations.html
Artist Kevin Caron has a broad knowledge of and love for tools and processes from many disciplines. He shares tips and tricks about a variety of welding and fabrication tools and techniques. Keep up with the latest by subscribing now! Please note that he is self taught and not a certified welder. If he mentions products, it is because he believes in them.
–Ujjwal Dey
Chief Technical Correspondent
Bikernet New Bureau India
wayfarer@bikernet.com
BROCK’S WHEEL DEAL OF THE WEEK–Brock’s Performance Product, 4064 East Patterson Road, Dayton, OH 45430 | Phone: (937) 912-0054
THIS COULD ALSO APPLY TO SOME BIKES–15 ‘Car Tips’ Every Driver Needs To Know
While driver’s education may teach a person how to drive, it doesn’t teach everything a person needs to know about their car. Here are 15 ‘car hacks’ that all drivers need to know. These things could also help you in the case of an accident or emergency situation!
1. Use A Plunger to Remove Small Dents
Those annoying small dents in the car can amount to thousands of dollars to fix up! But a simple hack that works for most small dents is to use a toilet plunger by placing it over the area of the dent and getting the air pressure tight and giving it a nice little tug. Works for small and medium sized dents most of the time!
2. Know What Your Check Engine Light Means
While it may not always mean you’re going to destroy your car if you continue to drive it, in many cases, the check engine light does indicate a major problem. There’s a new device though that can actually save you thousands of dollars in car repairs. It’s called FIXD and plugs into cars manufactured after 1996. If your “check engine light” comes on it will tell you the exact reason why. This is great because it means that mechanics won’t be able to lie to you in the hopes of taking more of your hard earned money (you’d surprised how many do).
Learn More About FIXD »
3. No Tickets? Get A Lower Auto Insurance Rate
You might think you’re already paying a low auto insurance rate, but recent research shows that only 5% of Americans over the age of 30 are paying less than $50 per month for car insurance. If you’re currently paying more than $50 per month, and have had no accidents or tickets in the past two years, you can probably secure a much lower car insurance rate. The best way to do that is to compare quotes from multiple insurers – let them compete for your business. Check out Best Quotes Auto Insurance. Once you fill out the form on their website they’ll provide you with multiple quotes you can choose from. .
4. Change Your Air Filter Every 6 Months
If you want to help increase your fuel efficiency, make sure you change your air filter every six months or as recommended in your owner’s manual. A lot of people often neglect doing this, and they find that they just aren’t getting the fuel efficiency they were promised by their car manufacturer. This alone can save quite a few hundred dollars yearly.
5. Get A Roadside Emergency Flare
Being stuck on a highway with a puncture or engine problem is most peoples ideas of a bad day. The Haylo Safety flare is something everyone should have with them. Offering the highest level of roadside safety for on-the-road situations and more, it can be used as a road flare and emergency beacon. It’s perfect for emergency use, camping/outdoors, road flares etc.
It’s easy to use: Just press the button and hold to turn on and cycle through the different lighting options. The super bright array can be seen up to 1 mile at night and can also provide additional protection during the day as well. The strong magnetic backing allows the Haylo to adhere to your vehicles hood.
Click Here To Get The Haylo Safety Flare »
6. Keep A Multi-tool In Your Car
For anyone who has ever been involved in a serious car accident, you know just how traumatic it can be. In the United States alone nearly 40,000 people per year are killed in car accidents. That’s why it’s imperative that every American have something like the ‘RoadSide Hero’ in their cars. It has 9-in-1 Multi-Function life saving tools. It can function as a belt/rope cutter, glass breaker, hammer, compass, mounting magnet, strobe/emergency light, powerbank and solar panel. This is the ultimate tool that should be in every vehicle.
7. Free Frozen Locks With Hand Sanitizer
Even if it’s only parked out front, getting from the front door to your car in the middle of a harsh winter can be pretty miserable. It’s worse if you get there only to find the door locks are frozen shut. Hand sanitizer is your key to getting inside. The alcohol works to thaw the ice, so you can hop in and get the heater turned on high.
8. Get a Portable Handheld Car Starter
We have all experienced that moment where you turn the key and nothing happens. Nothing can be more annoying, especially when you are in a rush! Using a portable car starter is far quicker than having to find someone else to help you get the car started and finding jump cables to make it happen.
This portable car starter is the next-generation of rechargeable 4-in-1 multi-function power banks.
It is compact enough to store in a glove box or under a seat when not in use, ensuring that drivers anywhere have a power option to start their vehicle in a number of situations without the need to rely on towing services or the generosity of a jumpstart from a stranger.
9. Use Toothpaste To Clear Cloudy Headlights
After many miles on the road, your car’s headlights are going to get scuffed up and cloudy. It might not majorly affect their performance, but it certainly doesn’t look good. Smear a little bit of toothpaste on a clean rag and start scrubbing the headlights. It contains mild abrasives that can remove a thin layer from the headlight housing and fill in any tiny scratches. Toothpaste is an easy and convenient compound to get your headlights clear again.
10. Transform Night Driving By Using Night Sight Glasses
Did you know that the vast majority of car accidents happen at night and right before dawn? A lot of that has to do with glare and the problems with vision many people experience.
These Night Sight HD glasses promise to reduce night driving glare and eye strain, and dramatically improve seeing at night during snow or rainy conditions. They let you see enhanced colors, are durable, lightweight and fully equipped with polarized lenses. Unlike clip-ons they protect your eyes from all sides, and you just slide them over your existing pair, if you wear glasses.
11. Fill Window Damage With Nail Polish
Small stones and other road debris can leave chips and cracks in your car’s windows. Oftentimes a crack can grow, meaning you need to shell out for an expensive window replacement.
Try filling in window damage with (clear) nail polish. Carefully apply a thin layer to the damaged area. When it dries, it will be almost completely invisible, and might even help prevent a crack from growing. The money you’ll save against a whole new window is worth it, but use this advice with caution.
12. Extend Your Car Warranty
While most manufacturers offer factory warranty coverage on new vehicles, they typically expire within 3 years or after 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Has your car’s auto warranty expired? Purchasing extended auto coverage offers the same peace of mind as a no-cost factory plan without the restrictions. That means if your car breaks down, malfunctions or requires a replacement component, you could enjoy huge savings on repair costs without the new car price tag.
Make sure you shop around for rates on this.
13. Know When Your Oil Needs Changing
This is an obvious one that every car owner should know. While the rule of thumb used to be every three months or around 5,000 miles, that’s no longer true for all new cars.
Read your manual to know when your vehicle’s oil change is due, we recommend setting the date on your calendar. If you’re not sure when you should change your oil, some signs to look for are if your oil looks black & gritty, your engine sounds louder than usual, or you notice the oil level drops.
Some newer luxury models will also provide you with an alert when you need to change your oil.
14. Turn Your Smartphone Into A Heads Up Display
If you never used a heads up display before then that means you are bound to look down to your phone once in a while if it isn’t properly placed.
This brilliant new device turns your smartphone into a heads up display for your car. It’s called VIZR. All you have to do is take it out of the box and place it on your dash, place your smartphone on top of it and let it do all the navigating while you drive. It’s a transparent display that works in any weather, day or night.
It also fits any smartphone no matter the size, and it’s slip resistant. Best of all, there are tons of apps available that you can use to see traffic conditions, a speedometer, street maps & much more. You can use it in any car – it has an ultra-grip mat that leaves no messy residue on the dash.
15. Park Your Car Facing East to Defrost Windscreen in the Morning.
Although it seems simple you can save some considerable time in the morning. If you live in a place where frost is a big problem on winter mornings and leave your car parked outside then this is for you.
Whenever you can make sure you park your car facing east. As the sun rises in the east you’re using the suns warmth to defrost the ice on your windscreen rather than you having to stay outside in the cold and scrape it off yourself.
With this trick you should be able to use your windscreen wipers to do the not so heavy lifting for you. Who doesn’t want a little bit of added comfort on a cold winters morning?
–Lifed.com
–from Sarge
[page break]
NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON COOLING VESTS: BEAT THE HEAT & KEEP COOL ON THE ROAD
With the help of Harley-Davidson’s Cooling Vests, any rider can beat the heat and keep cool.
Made with HyperKewl™ lining, the Women’s Cooling Vest (P/N 97076-15VW, $60*) and Men’s Cooling Vest (P/N 98215-18VM, $60*) work by absorbing water after a quick one to two minute soak. The vests then slowly evaporate to cool the core and back for up to three hours on the road. Stretch panels and a snug fit let this lightweight vest fit perfectly under a riding jacket. Plus, it can be re-hydrated up to 100 times.
Take it down another level of chill with the Men’s Dual Cool Cooling Vest and Cooling Kit (P/N 98186-17VM, $199*). Featuring the same cooling effect and HyperKewl™ lining as the Women’s and Men’s Cooling Vests, this product steps it up a notch for a greater cooling effect.
With removable inserts that activate in just 45 minutes after being in a fridge, freezer, or cooler with ice water, the cooling effect doubles. Slide the inserts into the interior pockets of the vest, and it’s ready to go. The kit includes four cool packs that can be reused up to 1,000 times and a thermal tote bag designed to fit into saddlebags for easy storage.
Harley-Davidson Riding Gear & Apparel is available at more than 750 authorized retail locations in the United States and online.
NEW HOG BOOSTER PORTABLE BATTERY PACK: BOOST A BATTERY BACK TO LIFE
Motorcyclists can easily bring their batteries back to life with Harley-Davidson’s new HOG Booster Portable Battery Pack (P/N 66000130, $129.95). Small enough to fit right in a saddlebag or backpack, this 1000-amp pack can boost a battery back to life in a matter of seconds.
This pack is a simple fix for a weak battery. With the help of high quality alligator clamps and spark proof and reverse polarity connections, this product protects from damaging the bike’s electrical system.
The battery easily recharges from a wall outlet with a cell phone’s charging cube, from a computer’s USB port or from a 12V power outlet. Plus, as an added bonus, it even has the ability to power and charge USB devices like cell phones and cameras.
A 100-lumen flashlight with high, low and strobing SOS modes comes in handy on the pack when a light source is needed. The kit includes a HOG booster unit, 12/V cigarette lighter adapter, a USB charging cord and a storage bag.
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts and Accessories are available at more than 750 authorized retail locations in the United States and online. To request a Parts & Accessories catalog, visit www.h-d.com/catalogs.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
“If you do not love yourself totally, wholly, and fully, somewhere along the way you learned not to. You can unlearn it. Start being kind to yourself now.”
—LOUISE HAY
CRANK AND STROKER DEAL OF THE WEEK–Free T-shirt and Free Shipping Extended!
Any purchase over $20 dollars recieved a Free T- Shirt and Free Shipping.
Dont miss this killer deal and grab some tees or gear today!
P.S. In order to have a chance at Limited production runs of unique items please follow us on social media.
CHOW HALL OF THE WEEK–LEGENDARY BRISKET!! Insane Porchetta!! Chicago Culinary Kitchen!! The Dynamic Husband and Wife duo of Greg and Kristina Gaardbo have created a BBQ and Craft beer Mecca! Greg is an amazing and award winning Pit Master and Kristina is a Graduate from the World Brewing Academy, she knows more about beer then anyone I have ever met!
You no longer have to go to Texas to get Real Texas style BBQ, it is right here in Palatine, IL and their Craft Beer selection will blow your mind! Get here now!
They are open on Saturday and Sunday 11:00am-2:30pm unless they sell out which they do everyday they are open!
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND PROGRESSIVE MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE PARTNER ON NATIONAL DISPLAY & TEST RIDE TOUR–Indian’s Cruisers, Baggers & Touring Models Go Coast-to-Coast to Reach Riders
at Events & Dealerships Across the Country
Indian Motorcycle, America’s first motorcycle company founded in 1901, and Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, the leading provider in motorcycle insurance, today announced a collaboration to showcase Indian’s 2018 model lineup.
The Indian Motorcycle Demo Tour, sponsored by Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, will travel to key events and dealerships around the country to provide riders the opportunity to test ride Indian motorcycles. The demo tour visits nearly every Indian Motorcycle dealership in the calendar year, along with 18 of the major motorcycle rallies in the U.S. Demo rides are free of charge and riders can ride as many models as many times as desired.
Indian Motorcycle on Tour is a traveling display that showcases select models at various motorcycle and lifestyle events, including boat shows, air shows, festivals and more. It allows the brands to connect with both existing and new riders in a very grassroots and approachable manner.
“We’re excited to be collaborating with Progressive on our display and demo tour,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director of Marketing and Product Development, Indian Motorcycle. “Our newly-forged relationship creates a unique opportunity for riders to engage with both brands, and not only test ride any of our 2018 models, but also learn more about Progressive’s robust coverage options.”
“As America’s #1 motorcycle insurance company, we understand the passion of the motorcycle community and its incredible excitement around the return of Indian Motorcycle over the last several years,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive’s Recreational Vehicle Business Leader. “Teaming up with Indian provides Progressive a unique platform to engage with riders across the country passionate about Indian Motorcycle and eager to check out its 2018 lineup.”
To learn more about the Indian Motorcycle demo tour and its test ride schedule, visit IndianMotorcycle.com. To stay up to date with the latest news and events from Indian Motorcycle follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For information on Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, visit Progressive.com/Motorcycle.
TESLA SAYS NO TO ELECTRIC BIKES— Elon Musk says no to electric bikes, Says they are unsafe
Tesla, the company that changed the electric vehicle scene across the globe doesn’t plan to get into the growing e-bike business.
This news was confirmed by Tesla boss, Elon Musk, at the firm’s 2018 shareholder meeting. One of the audience member asked if Tesla ever thought of about going into the motorcycle business.
“I actually used to ride motorcycles when I was kid, dirt-biking for like eight years or something. Then I had a road bike until I was 17, and was almost killed by a truck. So we’re not going to do motorcycles,” replied Elon Musk.
It’s clear that Musk was talking about the safety aspect of motorcycles. Two-wheelers are more prone to accidents as compared to four-wheels due to lack of physical structure around the rider and the bike.
It would have been super interesting to see Tesla made e-bikes, considering the fact that it will look cool and will have a good charging support, especially in the developed markets.
Of course all the start-up companies trying to sell electric motorcycles in USA and Europe won’t be complaining – Elon Musk with his ability to always get investors with deep pockets for completely unheard of business ideas would have been a huge rival competitor for an existing thriving business concept of electric two-wheelers.
–Ujjwal Dey
Chief Tech Wizard
Bikernet News Desk India
wayfarer@bikernet.com
TELLURIDE Festival of Cars and Colors September 29 & 30, 2018– 4th Annual Golf Course Concours in the beautiful San Juan Mountains of Telluride, Colorado!
–Sam Burns
FUEL CLEVELAND–My good friend Carlos Amador of Daily Driver Choppers LLC is an invited builder to Fuel Cleveland.
This year has been a roller coaster and he is making his way. His build backed out about halfway through and he had to regroup for the show. Carlos made arrangement to show his bike Ringmaster and was stoked and ready for the show.
A couple of weeks ago I get notified that Carlos had a stroke. Over the last couple of weeks he has had tests and is set for heart surgery.
Back to Fuel Cleveland, his doctor cleared him for travel. He is doing well and getting better everyday, in-fact he was back on his bike this weekend. Amazing man and he is making a great recovery.
If everything goes to plan I will drive with Carlos to Fuel Cleveland and share the adventure. Bringing coverage of Fuel Cleveland to Bikernet.
–David “Dangerous Dave” Campbell
Bikernet Event and Girl of Bikernet Photographer
Earl’s Garage – Motorcycle, Hotrod, and Event Photography
www.earlsgarage.co
WISCONSIN ATTACKS BIKERNET—Beware of this if you have a business crossing state lines. The attack on internet businesses is coming. South Dakota passed a state sales tax to be applied to businesses selling to folks in SD. This is likely to spread as a measure to raise money for state governments.
In 2012 Wisconsin passed an income tax law to raise funds from mail order businesses, publishers or internet publishers. They waited for five years then started to send us nasty letters. We tried to comply, but they wouldn’t have it.
We had to find an accounting firm in Wisconsin. That didn’t help and we found a consultant and paid him to find out the deal. He couldn’t help much and the accounting firm offered to file for six years– $400 a year, but the consultant said we only owed as little as $50 a year, so I reached out to my local accountant.
He reached out to Wisconsin and with the help of the tax agency filled out one year’s return. We didn’t own anything, zero. We have currently,filled out the forms for two years and we still don’t owe anything. My accountant has submitted the forms and is waiting for their response.
And you don’t think we should be involved in our governments. –Bandit
BIKE SHOWS CELEBRITY–Cross-country adventure rider, racer and Columnist for Motorcyclist, Tiffani Burkett hosted the Adventure Out Space in Cleveland and Washington, D.C. at the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS).
HANG ON FOR MORE MOONEYES ACTION!–13th Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet & Hot Summer Cruise
Date: September 9 (Sunday) 2018
9:00am ~ 15:00pm Rain or Shine
Location: Odaiba, Tokyo Aomi Parking
Swap Meet: Swap meet type Event that Motorcycle shop and individuals exhibit and sale Motorcycle parts.
Admission Fee: 1,000Yen (Under 12years old is FREE)
When it comes to Summer of Odaiba, it is Motorcycle Swap Meet!
There will be many Special Prices, rare items at this swap meet with many booths! You may find the Motorcycle parts you were looking for!!
At the end of summer, on your way of touring, visit to Good Location Odaiba.
Moreover, continued from last year, at the same location there will be HOT ROD & CUSTOM Car Only Morning Cruise ” HOT SUMMER CRUISE”! If you are Owner of that valid car let’s participate!
ARTICLE TEASE, COMING SOON TO BIKERNET–I recently wrote an article for Car Craft that is getting a great response.
It was a nostalgic piece looking back at a car event.
It got me thinking, I have a great story about one crazy night after work in 1981. We all had badass bikes and cars. On Friday nights after work we would hang out in the parking lot of a local shopping center and “release the tension” of the week.
But there was one night where it all went sideways. It was one of those once in a lifetime crazy nights when all kinds of things happened at the same time. From a guy crashing a Triumph Bonneville into the wall of the shopping center, to an incident of bike dragging (not a race), to an almost ass whooping, to little kids smashing a big window of the shopping center, to several people going to the hospital.
I think Bikernet would be the best place for it.
–JoAnn
Sounds perfect to me.–Bandit
VA BURIAL BENEFITS–National Cemetery Administration
Veterans’ Burial benefits available include a gravesite in any of our 136 national cemeteries with available space, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, a Government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate, at no cost to the family.
Some Veterans may also be eligible for Burial Allowances. Cremated remains are buried or inurned in national cemeteries in the same manner and with the same honors as casketed remains.
Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the Veteran, perpetual care, and the spouse or dependents name and date of birth and death will be inscribed on the Veteran’s headstone, at no cost to the family. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried, even if they predecease the Veteran.
The Veterans family should make funeral or cremation arrangements with a funeral provider or cremation office. Any item or service obtained from a funeral home or cremation office will be at the family’s expense.
–from Rogue
Extremely Powerful Editor in Chief
New BANDIT’S CANTINA Reader Comment!–QUESTIONING SUNDAY POST for July 15, 2018
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=13704
Ah yes! The power of positive thinking! And being lucky enough to enjoy the company of a fine Redhead, who actually may seem to give a shit about you. Life IS good.
— Pauly D.
pdispensa@plrb.org
Chicago, IL
Yep, amazing. Couldn’t be much better for an old grubby biker. As long as I don’t run out of welding rod again.–Bandit
[page break]
Ink Mayhem is Coming to Vegas BikeFest–
Don’t miss Ink Mayhem in the Grand Ballroom at the Golden Nugget all four days of Vegas BikeFest.
Free admission with BikeFest wristband!
Grab your passes at the super early bird price today!
Registration will increase Aug. 1st.
The Baddest Bagger Bike Show returns to Vegas BikeFest!
Check out the bikes at Rally Central in front of the stage on
Saturday, October 13 from 11am – 5pm.
Register today to enter your bike*!
Check out the categories that will be on display
Stock Class: Up to 23″ Front Wheel
Modified Class: Up to 26″ Front Wheel
Radical Class: Up to 30″ Front Wheel
Pro Class: 32″ and up Front Wheel (Professional Builders Only)
*Free for Party, Ultimate, and VIP registrants. $25 for non-registrants
Register today for your chance to win any of the remaining prizes.
Check our social media pages to see if you’ve won!
NEED A LIGHT BREATHEABLE VEST FOR THE SUMMER—A vest with class and toughness, built out of ballistic nylon with leather trim.
Check out the 5-Ball Pit Crew light vest offering with two gun pockets and a media sleeve. We will ship it out with a sign book about the future of motorcycling by K. Randall Ball.
–Bandit
BRAND New Bikernet TRIKES Reader Comment!–Iron Horse Trikes TV Concept Bike
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Iron_Horse_Trikes_TV_Concept_Bike.aspx
I just bought one of these! Well built, lots of fun! I was told that it weighed a little more than a Corvette.
Mine has a brand new chromed
out crate 350 4-bolt main that sounds as good as it looks. I would like
to redesign my gauges though. I can barely see my speedo and tach. Let me know if you have any notions?
–Curtis
csanderson1974@yahoo.com
Hot Springs, AR
I’m sure an online search will find anything you need, maybe on hot rod sites.–Bandit
KICKSTARTER OF THE WEEK–
I want to let you know that Domio Pro will be hosting a Kickstarter live stream on July 23 at 12 p.m. EST. Domio Pro is a smart wearable device that mounts to any helmet, transforming it into an incredible audio and communication system.
This would be a great opportunity for you to see the new product and ask questions for the team in real time. Follow this link to learn more about the live stream and check out the campaign at Kickstarter.com.
If you have any questions please let me know. We hope you’ll join us on July 23.
–Paxton
MEETING OF THE MINDS COMING–Nine nuts & bolts workshops. A battery of speakers on a wide range of topics emphasizing motorcycling rights history, unity, working with non-traditional resources, and looking to the future of motorcycling and motorcyclists rights. Plus, over 30 years of bringing leaders and great minds together for a common purpose – promoting & protecting the rights of all motorcyclists — that’s the Meeting of the Minds!
Whether you’re a veteran attendee or this is your first time, you’ll be blown away by what the Motorcycle Riders Foundation brings to the table. Promoting & protecting the rights of motorcyclists is what the MRF is all about. However, the Meeting of the Minds is more than meetings. It’s about bringing old friends together, meeting new friends and giving you tools to take home to your SMRO to help protect your right to ride.
The Meeting of the Minds is about building networks of freedom fighters to help quell the never ending onslaught of motorcycling detractors. Rooms are still available, but the hotel is filling up. While this is still fresh in your mind, log on, register and get ready to be enlightened, educated, challenged, provoked, and even entertained. The 2018 Meeting of the Minds is a motorcycling event you don’t want to miss.
Register Online: Meeting of the Minds 2018
Register by Phone: 202-546-0983
Register by mail: MOTM 2018 Flyer
See you in Denver!
–Fred Harrell
Director of Conferences & Events
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation
RumbleOn to Sponsor 78th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally–
RumbleOn to act as the exclusive online pre-owned motorcycle company sponsor at the annual rally
RumbleOn is pleased to serve as the exclusive online pre-owned motorcycle company sponsor for the 78th annual Sturgis® Motorcycle Rally on Aug. 3-12, 2018. This partnership will continue for the next three years at the rally held in Sturgis, S.D.
RumbleOn will also have an onsite presence during the rally at the corner of 6th and Lazelle St. where guests have the opportunity to partake in motorcycle appraisals, receive immediate cash offers and shop RumbleOn’s inventory of over 1,000 bikes.
“When people think about rallies, they think about Sturgis. This is such a highly respected event in the motorcycle community and we’re here for the first-time rider, to the person who has been here for decades and anyone in between. While at Sturgis we want to share that age and experience don’t matter, but love for the open road does,” said Marshall Chesrown, CEO of RumbleOn.
RumbleOn aims to transform the way pre-owned vehicles are bought and sold by providing users with the most efficient, timely, transparent and trustworthy transaction experience. To accomplish this feat, RumbleOn utilizes an e-commerce platform where consumers and dealers can buy, sell, trade and finance pre-owned motorcycles 100 percent online.
“Every year brings change, but the heart of the rally is always here. RumbleOn is shaking things up this year by ensuring that the buying and selling of motorcycles is easier and more accessible than ever, giving everyone a chance at the bike of their dreams,” said Lance Scherer, Sponsorship Coordinator, Sturgis Rally and Events. “Their presence here is about improving the festival for everyone, not a select few of the most seasoned riders.”
For more information visit www.rumbleon.com and RumbleOn Events.
New TECH Bikernet Reader Comment!–
Stiffey Installation from Rivera-Primo
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=10761
I just added the “Stiffey” to my 2005 Ultra Classic, I do like them as far as the handling but the vibration is quite noticeable, has anyone come up with a idea to lessen the vibration? I was hoping someone has tried a different material spacer? Any Ideas?
— John
johnfire@msn.com
Spring lake, MI
I’ll bet you’re referring to the STIFFEY SWINGARM STIFFENER KIT. FITS
RUBBER MOUNT MODELS 1980-2008? If so, I do not have any immediate plans to
resurrect these, maybe in the future when I have money!
–Ben Kudon
American Prime
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT HIGHFALUTING WORD OF THE DAY–
hoity-toity
adjective
1.
assuming airs; pretentious; haughty.
2.
giddy; flighty.
Always crowing about their kid with the straight A’s at that hoity-toity school.
The adjective hoity-toity now means “pretentious, haughty”; formerly it meant “frivolous, giddy.” The phrase is probably an alteration and reduplication of hoit, an obsolete verb of obscure origin meaning “to romp, play the fool.” Hoit may also be the source of or akin to hoyden “boisterous, carefree girl, tomboy,” possibly a borrowing from Dutch heiden “rustic, uncivilized person.” Hoity-toity entered English in the 17th century.
ANOTHER QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
ANYONE WHO BELIEVES THAT PROFILING IS ONLY APPLIED TO BLACK PEOPLE HAS NEVER BEEN A BIKER
–Rogue
NEWS FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT–Activists claim Trump & Putin ‘climate villains’ who are ‘colluding to destroy our planet’s climate system’
Climate activists see climate treason: “The world’s increasingly desperate effort to preserve a livable climate just took another hit, now that the two biggest climate villains — Putin and Trump — have clearly teamed up.”
The uproar over President Donald Trump’s summit in Helsinki with Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended into the climate change debate.
Climate activist Eric Holthaus is warning the world that “the Trump-Putin alliance as a deliberate attempt to delay action on climate change.” In a July 16 article at Grist, Holthaus declared that President and Trump and Putin were “colluding to destroy our planet’s climate system.”
“Trump and Putin are clearly in cahoots — over propping up fossil fuels,” he wrote, adding, “the quicker we resolve to move away from our dependence on fossil fuels, the quicker Putin and Trump will become powerless.”
Climate activist Joe Romm, a former Clinton Administration official, declared of the Trump/Putin summit the “world’s biggest climate villains team up to do more damage to the environment.”
“If Putin keeps swaying elections toward pro-pollution populists in America and Europe, climate action is doomed,” Romm wrote on July 16.
Romm summed up the summit this way: “The world’s increasingly desperate effort to preserve a livable climate just took another hit, now that the two biggest climate villains — Putin and Trump — have clearly teamed up.”
To Romm, President Trump pulling out of the UN Paris climate pact is evidence that Trump is colluding with Putin. “Putin has never liked the Paris deal because it means a large fraction of Russia’s fossil fuel reserves would remain in the ground, unable to provide vast revenue for him and the Kremlin,” Romm wrote.
“Trump could and did announce last June his intention to unilaterally pull this country out of the Paris agreement,” Romm wrote. “Trump himself came out of the Helsinki summit downplaying the impact of global warming more than usual,” Romm added.
At least Trump and Putin are up front in their disdain for climate stupidity. Other world leaders don’t have the guts to break ranks with the global scammers. Instead, they fly all over the world to climate change summit meetings spewing CO2 as they go.—Climate Depot reader
WOW, Incredible stuff—I often don’t know which way to turn. I’m trying to find balance. Of course that’s what I want from the government, balance.
I run a lot of reports about Climate Change and the bullshit side of it. But nobody responds. Sometimes I think folks think we’re all guilty, so why fight back. Maybe city dwellers look at the traffic in horror and think most of the cars need to leave anyway.
I’ve worked for years with groups like the MRF and recently with Fred Harrell who has fought for our rights all his life. Also recently I was working with John Paliwoda, the boss of the California Motorcycle Dealers association. We’ve tried to muster the industry. Some guys have worked with the MIC, but that didn’t work. Most of the industry is either too busy or they join the AMA and the MIC and hope they can fix something.
One thing is for sure. Times are changing, and we can’t just sit back and let them change. We know what they are planning in California, and it isn’t fun. I have a plan and will keep plugging away. Remember, we can’t stop or ever give up.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
