Crazy,
I don’t know where to start today. A brother died unexpectedly day before yesterday. Jim Murillo painted many of our custom bikes, and was in the process of painting our Bonne Belle. He was a concerned custom painter who always went the extra yard for his customers. He will be severely missed as a devoted clean and sober, Triumph aficionado, and true classic chopper-riding enthusiast.
See you in the wind, brother.
Let’s hit the news. Sturgis is just around the corner.
HOKA HEY REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED–The deadline to register has been extended until the 4th of August but the number of registered participants will be announcement on Friday July, 20th
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hoka-Hey-Motorcycle-Challenge/169060858080
In the mean time… You should know that the Hoka Hey tracking will be live on August 1st and when users hover over a rider’s icon they will be able to see a picture of that Challenger and a bit of background information about them. This will make it a lot more fun for the folks at home to watch the riders as they ride across country!!
There is still time to apply so you can contact us now to register for the event that continues
to change lives & shape ideas!
*Please read all forms carefully before submitting your application package.
Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge
Beth Durham
Director of Operations
beth.durham@hokaheychallenge.com
Wait a minute. What if I’m riding the Hoka Hey and I stop at a whorehouse, then my woman checks my progress?—Renegade
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK AND TECH ARTICLE–I have attached a seat picture for you. This is Aviator with Silver Carbon Fiber on a 3.5 tank XL.
Please visit our web site www.lepera.com
Check out our current showing on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khnUcGzor_I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aSQtkG9QYw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U_ve9zo2X0
Plus, next week we will bring you a custom seat by Le Pera tech. Yes, if you need a custom seat, the family-owned seat makers can make it happen—Wrench
EASYRIDERS SWEEPS MAIN PRIZE BUILT BY PAUL YAFFEE–Witness master builder Paul Yaffe, the team at Rolling Thunder, and the team at Renegade Wheels construct the “Paul Yaffe Bagger Nation Dream Bike”, the grand prize in the $100,000.00 EASYRIDERS Magazine Sweepstakes sponsored by Dennis Kirk.
Watch Renegade Wheels bring to life the 30-inch Racine Phantom Cut Wheel. Feast your eyes on the one-off frame by the experts at Rolling Thunder. The frame will house a special 111-inch S&S Evo motor. Follow the photos, watch the wheels and frames being made, and check out Paul Yaffe bringing it all together. For video of the build, to see more images or to just see these images in full size please click on the link below!
http://paisanopub.com/mcsweepspromo/
BUT REMEMBER YOU CAN’T WIN THIS ONE OF A KIND DREAM BIKE UNLESS YOU ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES!
$100,000.00 Magazine Sweepstakes Sponsored By Dennis Kirk! Grand Prize – Paul Yaffe Custom Dream Bagger, First Prize – Brand New Harley-Davidson Or $15,000 Cash Equivalent, & More! Enter Now For Your Chance To Win…Special Low BIKERNET Sweepstakes Subscription Prices – Only $19.99 For 12 Issues Of Easyriders, V-Twin, In The Wind, Or Road Iron. 79% Off The Newsstand Rate Only $1.67 Per Issue! Special FREE Subscription Premium.
With Your Paid Subscription You Get The Easyriders 40th Anniversary Online Edition For FREE! That’s 40 Years & 40 Issues Of Easyriders For FREE! For Easyriders & Road Iron Subscribe To The Print & Also Get The All New Easyriders Digital & Road Iron Digital for FREE. Or If you just want the all new Easyriders Digital or Road Iron Digital Subscribe Now – Only $9.99 For 12 Issues…
That’s Just 83 Cents Per Issue! Subscribe Now & Be Automatically Entered For Your Chance To Win – To Enter & For Complete Details Go To http://paisanopub.com/ersweeps/ersweepsbikernet.cfm
MOTORCYCLE CHECKPOINTS BANNED IN CALIFORNIA–AB1047– An act to amend Section 2814.1 of the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles. legislative counsel’s digest
AB 1047, Jeffries. Vehicles: motorcycle safety. Existing law establishes the motorcyclist safety program in the Department of the California Highway Patrol, to be administered by the commissioner of the department.
Existing law authorizes the commissioner, through contracts with other public agencies or with private entities, to fund projects to enhance motorcycle operation or safety such as rider training programs, to sponsor and coordinate efforts to increase motorists’ awareness of motorcyclists, to sponsor research on communicating motorcyclist safety to highway users, and to adopt standards relating to a novice motorcyclist training program.?
This bill would expressly prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies from conducting motorcycle only checkpoints.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(a) Other states have established motorcycle only checkpoints to address the growing problem of increased motorcycle fatalities. (b) ItistheintentoftheLegislaturetoprohibittheestablishment of motorcycle only checkpoints in California and that this prohibition is in no way intended to affect the establishment or conduct of other enforcement programs conducted by state or local
law enforcement agencies. SEC. 2. Section 2814.1 of the Vehicle Code is amended to
read: 2814.1. (a) A board of supervisors of a county may, by ordinance, establish, on highways under its jurisdiction, a vehicle inspection checkpoint program to check for violations of Sections 27153 and 27153.5.
The program shall be conducted by the localagency or department with the primary responsibility for traffic law enforcement.
(b) A driver of a motor vehicle shall stop and submit to an inspection conducted under subdivision (a) when signs and displays are posted requiring that stop.
(c) A county that elects to conduct the program described under subdivision (a) may fund that program through fine proceeds deposited with the county under Section 1463.15 of the Penal Code.
Pickerington, Ohio: Every two years, the AMA Government Relations Department surveys the association’s members to assist in establishing government relations priorities and activities. Members are asked to share their views about on-highway motorcycling-related issues by paper or online. On-highway riding member-enthusiasts have done a great job of supporting this survey in past years. Knowing how our members ride and what you consider important in motorcycling enables us to do a better job of setting AMA government relations priorities. Please take a few minutes to complete the latest member survey.
BIKERNET TRIKES STUDIES CAMPAGNA V13—Check this Campagna trike featured in Bikernet Trikes. It’s amazing: http://www.bikernettrikes.com/pages/CAMPAGNA_V13R_ROADSTER.aspx
BAD JOKE OF THE WEEK–
Five Horses’ Is Her Name.
This is mythical and deep.
Truly beautiful…
A man asked an American Indian what was his wife’s name.
He replied, “She is called Five Horses”.
The man said, “That’s an unusual name for your wife.
What does it mean?”
The Old Indian answered,
“It old Indian Name. It mean…
NAG, NAG, NAG, NAG, NAG!
–from Willie
BONNE BELLE PIPE COMPONENTS COMING FROM D&D—We are working with Aaron Whitney from D&D on a set of stepped stainless pipes for the Bonne Belle.
“I was thinking about this bike this weekend,” Aaron said. “What do you think about some open megaphones on it. I was thinking stepped headers with megs might just be the ticket.
“Will you have room on the bike to tuck in megs?”
Aaron J Whitney
Chief Engineer
D&D Performance
www.danddexhaust.com
JUST A FEW WEEKS AWAY– for the “Big Show”, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Follow the link below for news on museum related events / activities happening this year at the rally. There is plenty to do, much to see, and numerous ways to support this great organization while having a great time doing it. Again, check it out and don’t miss the fun.
http://www.sturgismuseum.com/news/read-more-news/july-newsletter-now-online
Thanks and we hope to see you at the events or the rally and of course at 999 Main Street downtown Sturgis.
–Joe Distefano
Director of Sales/Marketing
Pro Riders Marketing
Toll Free Fax (866) 205-2422
IN GOD WE TRUST
www.proridersmarketing.com
www.sturgismuseum.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sturgis-Motorcycle-Museum-Hall-of-Fame/144185710480
MEDICARE TURNED DOWN MOTORCYCLIST– Written by Fred Tuesday, 19 June 2012 10:19
I want to make everyone aware of a situation that arose last week. If you are aware of anyone else who has experienced a similar situation please let me know or have them contact me.
I received a telephone call from a gentleman who was injured in a single vehicle accident. He freely admitted that he was to blame. He merely lost control momentarily and went down. It can happen to the best of us. His concern was his hospital bill.
His primary health insurance is Medicare and he has no medical expense coverage on his motorcycle. When he went to the emergency room he provided the hospital with all of his insurance information. Last week the hospital sent him a letter which he provided to me. The letter states in pertinent part the following:
“We are aware that you have Medicare as primary and Mutual of Omaha as secondary insurance, however we cannot bill Medicare for an motorcycle accident.”
Apparently the hospital is under the belief that if you are injured on a motorcycle that Medicare does not and will not cover you. That is clearly not the case.
We are assisting him at no charge being that this is of importance to all motorcyclists. Hopefully this is an isolated incident. However, many times we see trends in the insurance industry and we want to take care of this one early if that is the case. If you are anyone that you know has experienced a similar situation please let us know.
I will let you know the outcome of this incident once it is resolved. As usual, if anyone has any questions or comments about this or any other matter upon which I have written please feel free to contact me. Until next time I wish each of you good riding.
Matt Danielson
McGrath & Danielson
Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group
1-800-321-8968
www.Motorcyclelawgroup.com
The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation To Launch “Hands On Nutrition” Educational Program–Oakdale, California – The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation is launching a new educational program called Hands On Nutrition, designed to teach children from kindergarten to third grade, the importance of eating healthy foods.
“We feel a program like Hands On Nutrition will limit potential digestive problems for kids, by teaching them the value of eating good foods at an early age,” says Cindy MacFarlane, chairman of The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation. “The program will allow kids to learn about their body’s digestive system and the effects certain foods have on it, using fun and interactive methods they can understand.”
The program intends to visit many schools across the country using visual aids, educational cartoons, and letting kids cook healthy foods in fun ways they’ll hopefully take home with them.
“We can definitely teach kids to prefer healthy eating habits,” says MacFarlane. “We can also show educators the link between life-threatening digestive disorders and poor nutrition, so they can consider offering healthier foods in their school lunch programs.”
As the Hands On Nutrition program grows, the foundation will work on building a custom motorcycle that will be used for a Hands On Nutrition bike ride to Washington DC. The ride will be promoted to draw government support for improving childhood nutritional education, and healthier lunch programs for our schools.
A section of the Kyle MacFarlane Foundation website will be dedicated to Hands On Nutrition, and feature additional tips and recipes for healthier eating. Later, a video series demonstrating how to prepare healthy foods for kids and adults will be hosted by Kyle MacFarlane and celebrities such as Steve Harwell, of the group Smash Mouth. For more information contact The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation, P.O. Box 1560, Oakdale, CA 95361. Or visit the website at www.thekylemacfarlanefoundation.org.
About The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation:
The Kyle MacFarlane Foundation was started by Kyle MacFarlane, a 23 year-old who suffers from life-threatening gastrointestinal disorders for which there are no current cures. The Foundation is a charitable organization whose mission is to increase awareness, education, and funding for scientific research in the field of digestive disorders, and is currently working with research doctors at Stanford Medical Center, in Stanford, California.
WHOLE AUSSIE CHAPTER FINED ON RUN–Police say nearly every member of the Queensland-based chapter of the Life and Death MC was issued with a traffic infringement notice for speeding a fortnight ago.
The group of 22 was stopped on the Pacific Highway in Coffs Harbour around 2.30pm – during a torrential downpour of rain.
Police said the club was clocked speeding on the Pacific Highway at 1.55pm as they headed south on the Dirty Creek Range towards Corindi.
Five highway patrol vehicles and two general duties crews enforced the highly visible roadside stop.
Police said most of the members were issued with tickets for travelling more than 10kmh over the legal limit of 100kmh.
WHEELS THROUGH TIME HENDERSON 4– The bike was a 1917 Henderson. It was originally built for Maldwyn Jones to run a 24-hour record attempt on the board track in Cincinnatti. He crashed the bike in the middle of the night and it laid in pieces for 80 years.
My dad, Dale Walksler, found it, restored it, and then took it from L.A. to N.Y. in 6 days and 4 hours, rebreaking the 1917 Transcontinental Record that was set by Alan Beddell on a similar machine.
But the short answer is 1917.
-Matt
STURGIS SALOON COMPANY– adds more entertainment to Sturgis lineup:
Sick Puppies will have free concert 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 9
Sturgis, SD June 1, 2012: Originally from Sydney, Australia, this modern-day rock band has been added to the impressive lineup of bands performing for free on the Sturgis Saloon Company stage during the 2012 Sturgis Rally.
The Australian rock band, Sick Puppies, will be performing at 6 p.m., Thursday, August 9th at the Sturgis Saloon Company in Sturgis, SD.
Arch Allies: With Arch Allies’ uncanny, musical abilities of mimicry, their covers of Styx, REO Speedwagon and Journey songs will be sure to impress as you reminisce on your favorite bands of the past!
6 pm, Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday, Aug. 4
The Kentucky Headhunters: Grammy Award winning country rock band, The Kentucky Headhunters, has a style often said to be “guitar –heavy rambunctious music!” These country legends released their latest album, Dixie Lullabies, in 2011 to wide critical acclaim! See them perform and hear the songs that have earned them fame!
8 pm, Wednesday, Aug. 8
Aultimate Ozzy: This Ozzy Osbourne cover band will have you in awe! If you love Black Sabbath and The Prince of Darkness, you do not want to miss this show!
3 pm, Thursday, Aug. 2, 3 pm, Friday, Aug. 3 and 11 am, Saturday, Aug. 4
Monsters of Southern Rock: Concert series featuring former and founding members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, .38 Special, Blackfoot, and Molly Hatchet! Playing all the hits that made them famous!
10 pm, Friday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 5
Shooter Jennings: Son of Country music legend Waylon Jennings, Shooter Jennings has garnered widespread critical acclaim for his Country and Southern rock albums.
7 pm, Saturday, August 4
Jasmine Cain: Sturgis native Jasmine Cain has paved a way for female rockers in the motorcycle culture. Current JPF Female Artist of the Year and Nashville’s Music City Mayhem two-time Female Rock Vocalist, she has set the standard and raised the bar.
9 pm, Saturday, Aug. 4 and Tuesday, Aug. 7
Foghat: Blues Rock legends Foghat have achieved 8 gold records, one platinum and one double platinum record in their long-standing career. Their hits include “Slow Ride” and “I Just Want to Make Love to You.”
7 pm, Sunday, Aug. 5
Warrant’s Cherry Pie Tour: Warrant, Firehouse and Trixter. Rockaholics unite! The 21st Anniversary tour of the Warrant’s Cherry Pie tour is hitting Sturgis with a FREE concert at the Sturgis Saloon Company featuring rock legends Warrant, Firehouse and Trixter!
7 pm, Monday, Aug. 6
Blackberry Smoke: With influences that run the gamut from country to bluegrass to metal to gospel and yes, southern rock, Blackberry Smoke is more than the sum of its diverse parts. This is truly a band you have to see to believe, their live performances have garnered them a cult-like following around the world.
4 pm, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 6 pm, Wednesday, Aug. 8
Blue Oyster Cult: Best known for such classic rock songs as “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”, “Burnin’ for You”, and “Godzilla,” Blue Oyster Cult has sold over 24 million albums worldwide, including 7 million in the United States alone.
7 pm, Tuesday, Aug. 7
Max Fights LIVE MMA: Come see the region’s top Mixed Martial Arts fighters compete.
2 pm, Wednesday, Aug. 8 and Thursday, Aug. 9
Rev. Horton Heat: The Rev. Horton Heat’s music is a mixture of country, surf, punk, big band, swing and rockabilly, all played loud and energetically with lyrics that are often very humorous.
7 pm, Friday, Aug. 10 and Saturday, Aug. 11
Gilby Clarke: Yes, Gilby Clarke was in Guns N’ Roses. But he also has played guitar for the MC5, Nancy Sinatra and Heart, along with a host of producing creds. You may have seen him on CBS’s Rockstar: Supernova, where he, Tommy Lee and Jason Newstead started a band. Gilby is a legendary guitar hero and sure to put on a great show!
9 pm, Friday, Aug. 10 and Saturday, Aug. 11
The legendary biker mecca of Sturgis, South Dakota comes alive during the summer at the Sturgis Saloon Company. Boasting more than 25,000 square feet of raucous entertainment space, three floors including a VIP room, hard core drinks, kick ass sounds, the hottest free concerts during the 2012 Sturgis motorcycle rally, and of course – beautiful women, it’s everything you expect from Sturgis!
For more information about the Sturgis Saloon Company, or to set up an interview, please contact Kerry Fernholz at Kerry@starmarkhospitality.com or 701.478.2040.
JAY ALLEN donates vintage 1967 BSA Lightning — to support Re-Cycle For the Troops– Jay Allen of Jay Allen’s Road Show has donated a 1967 BSA Lightning motorcycle to be restored and customized by Dar Holdsworth of Darwin Motorcycles. The bike will be given away live at the Thunder Dome in Sturgis on the evening of August 8th.
“We are giving this amazing bike away to a military serviceman or woman, active duty, reserve or veteran. This is part of our ‘Re-Cycle For The Troops’ program in conjunction with Pros for Vets,” said Holdsworth. While the bike was already in great condition, Dar and crew are completely restoring it and replacing out worn parts. Avon Tyres donated the new tires. The winner must be present to win and prove military status.
Dar Holdsworth is an Air Force veteran passionate about military causes. He started the Insiders Club online to help make a difference in the lives of military personnel. The Insiders Club helps Holdsworth realize the goal to restore or build five bikes a year to give-away and to raise money for Pros for Vets. The Club is an all access membership pass to the world of Darwin Motorcycles which features online instruction for fabricating parts, building motorcycles, special discounts and give-aways. The membership fee funds the military charity projects.
Darwin Motorcycles is also one of four chosen builders for the Rolling Thunder XXV Custom Bike Tribute. Holdsworth and his team built the Navy tribute bike. The other builders are Mike “Kiwi” Tomas, Brigitte Bourget, Billy Lane, and Jay Allen has provided his own custom Army themed motorcycle as a tribute bike. All five bikes honoring each service branch will be on display exclusively at Jay Allen’s Road Show at the Thunder Dome.
“It makes me proud to be a part of a program and to be a friend of such a person who puts so many man hours and money into a project and then gives it away,” said Jay Allen. “Dar does this because it’s the right thing to do and I’m honored to give him the venue to give the bike away and I’m honored that he chose the Thunder Dome to do this fine gesture.”
Jay Allen’s Road Show is at the Thunder Dome Sturgis 2012 from August 3 – 12th. The Thunder Dome is located three miles from Sturgis on Highway 34 across from Full Throttle Saloon. The full event scheduled can be seen at www.thunderdomesturgis2012.com
www.brassballscycles.com and prosforvets.org
–Sasha Mullins Lassiter
THE FATALITIES MUST STOP IMMEDIATELY—By now you may have heard that there has been a shift in the dynamic of Transportation Safety attention away from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), which is under the Federal Department of Transportation. What has happened is that there is a new player and a new battleground. Our new challenger is the CDC (Center for Disease Control) which operates under the DHHS or Department of Health and Human Services.
This transfer is dramatic and troublesome in that our previous techniques and relationships are no longer applicable. This also means a whole new set of players and unwritten rules and methods must be used to engage and derail their plan.
A few weeks ago ABATE of Wisconsin attended the National Lifesavers conference to gain insights into the plans of large insurance research institutes, along with various federal and states agencies who are actively applying techniques to restrict freedoms of motorcyclists including licensing, training, apparel and checkpoint methodologies.
We also heard wind of the use of technology to allow existing vehicle systems to prevent speeding, alcohol impairment and emissions modification via a term that is new to many called ITS (ITS or Intelligent Transportation Systems.)
So — How do we stop this storm in its tracks? The solution is easy to say, but damn hard to swallow. It’s called riding responsibly so the fatalities stop.
THE FATALITIES MUST STOP IMMEDIATELY
If we continue to see the trends we are watching, all we are doing is giving everybody ammunition for ink and public opinion. Marlene Bautch, ABATE’s oracle of all things and embodiment of practical thinking, taught me years ago to never ever argue with somebody who purchases ink by the truck load and paper via rail cars as you will never ever win that battle.
NO MORE EXCUSES.
This issue is real. This issue is a very hot topic on the ABATE of Wisconsin Board of Directors (BOD) email string daily. For years we bitched about ROW’s causation as an “excuse” or helmeted fatalities as proof they don’t work. But the reality is that this year the fatalities issue isn’t ROW’s in Wisconsin: While the ROW’s are there, and some have been very public, they are not the major factor in the fatality numbers in Wisconsin. The majority of the fatalities seem to be single vehicle involvement — white males 30-60 running off the road due to operator error or unsafe conduct/stupidity.
You heard me loud and clear. It’s our fault.
The fatalities are now over double of last year and climbing.
And lack of helmets is NOT the issue as the fatality numbers are split between helmets and no helmets.
–ABATE of Wisconsin Newsletter Jul. 2012.
STURGIS SNEAK PEEK–Baggster show bike in process….should be up and running for the 2012 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This motorcycle will showcase the “Baggster” conversion that will be available to Sportster riders who want a Bagger look for their motorcycle.
More on this coming to Bikernet Baggers
ANOTHER WOOD CARVING FROM THE MASTER– gotta love the tat EH..when you gonna come pick up the one I made for ya..ROTFLMAO
Tucker Rocky and BIKER’S CHOICE add Speedway Motorsport Shelters
to the product line and available immediately– Santa Cruz, CA 7/17/12 — Speedway Motorsport Shelters, the company that offers one of the most unique lines of bike covers to protect your investment continues to make it easier than ever to sell or buy this great product.
“Speedway Motorsport Shelters is proud to announce that Tucker Rocky/Bikers Choice have agreed to distribute our product line. We feel with the expertise of the vast field representative staff servicing the U.S. dealers, the numerous distribution centers, and the unique quality, and universal appeal of our product and service, a homerun is eminent for all concerned……Speedway, Tucker Rocky / Bikers Choice, their dealers, and the retail public.” Said Don Reeves, President of Speedway Shelters.
To order from Tucker Rocky and Bikers Choice:
Dealer Order Line 800-347-1010.
Dealer Fax number is 800-304-1020.
www.powersportrider.com
www.trdealer.com
www.bikerschoice.com.
About the Product
After your ride, you pull into your driveway and into your bike’s own, personal shelter. The retractable waterproof cover is easy to use, keeps out weather, dust and debris, with the added feature of cross-ventilation to prevent any condensation from occurring inside.
Included is an LED Bright Light which mounts to hardware inside the shelter, for easy night access; and with the addition of a Diamond-Tough floor (available separately), worries about oil drips, condensation and dust on the driveway are over. Now your bike can be parked in the garage, along side the house, or in the driveway, fully covered and completely safe with the security of a padlock.
Features and Benefits:
· Built-in locking hardware for added security (lock not included)
· Retractable structure makes access simple and quick — no waiting for pipes to cool
· Two Sizes Fits All: Standard/Sport and a Touring Shelter for full-dress touring bikes
· Diamond Tough Floor (available) to prevent driveway drips and to keep out dust and moisture
· Cross Ventilation with large window on each side of the shelter
· Waterproof seams keep weather and condensation out
· LED Bright Light (included) for night access
· Carrying Case with Handles for portability
· Wheel Chock available for perfect bike placement and stabilization
For additional information or a sample copy contact:
Don Reeves
Speedway Motorsport Shelters
T: 831.477.9600
F: 831.477.9606
Email: dr@speedwayshelters.com
www.speedwayshelters.com
–Joe Distefano
Director of Sales/Marketing
Pro Riders Marketing
Toll Free Fax (866) 205-2422
LEGISLATOR RENEWS HELMET REPEAL PUSH IN NEVADA–
A motorcyclist travels Friday on U.S. Highway 95 near Decatur Boulevard. A bill to repeal Nevada’s helmet law will be introduced at the 2013 Legislature. Thirty-one states have repealed helmet laws; the most recent was Michigan in April.
CARSON CITY – As he has done in every Legislature since 1997, Sen. Don Gustavson intends to introduce a bill next year to repeal Nevada’s 40-year-old law requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets.
Gustavson, R-Sparks, said he believes the bill will pass this time because of the national move to give riders the “freedom of choice” to decide whether to wear a helmet. Thirty-one states have repealed helmet laws; the most recent was Michigan in April.
“I am a fighter for what is right,” Gustavson said . “The opposition is just continuing the ‘nanny state’ view that government should protect people from themselves.”
He is introducing the same bill he sought to pass in 2011. The bill would require all riders and passengers under age 21 to wear helmets. Motorcyclists 21 and older could ride without helmets, as long as they have at least one year of experience and have passed an approved motorcycle safety course. Passengers 21 and older also could ride without helmets.
But opponents such as Sen. Mark Manendo, D-Las Vegas, said Wednesday that repealing the helmet law only would cause more motorcyclists to die and lead to more serious injuries to those who survive. State and local governments ultimately would have to pay a large share of the hospital costs for those who suffer traumatic injuries, he added.
“Even if you are wearing a helmet, you are very vulnerable to severe injuries,” Manendo said.
The statistics support his view. The four Nevada trauma centers – University Medical Center; Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center; St. Rose Dominican Hospital, Siena campus; and Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno – admitted 5,559 injured motorcyclists or passengers between 2005 and 2010.
Ninety percent of them were wearing helmets, and their average hospital charges were $68,734. The 10 percent not wearing helmets had average charges of $84,004.
In 2008 and 2009, Clark County-run UMC ate $45 million of the cost of treating injured motorcyclists, according to the state Office of Traffic Safety.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/legislator-renews-repeal-push-of-nevada-s-helmet-law-162453316.html
“I haven’t seen a study that the fatality rate has gone down in a state that repealed its helmet law,” said Bill Brown, director for the Center for Traffic Safety Research at the University of Nevada Medical School in Las Vegas.
Nineteen motorcyclists were killed in Nevada in the first half of 2012. In recent years, 40 to 57 motorcyclists have been killed a year.
Beginning in 1967, the federal government began threatening to withhold highway construction funds from states that did not impose helmet laws, and within eight years, 47 states had the laws. But in 1976, Congress removed the threat, and states started repealing their laws.
Nevada imposed its law at the urging of Gov. Mike O’Callaghan. Even after his terms as governor, O’Callaghan continued to push to retain the law as executive editor of the Las Vegas Sun. He died in 2004.
“He refused to endorse candidates who did not support the helmet law,” Gustavson said.
Gustavson said he has the support of Gov. Brian Sandoval in his repeal effort. But Sandoval’s spokesman, Mary-Sarah Kinner, said the governor has not taken a position.
During the 2011 legislative session, Gustavson’s bill passed out of the Senate Transportation Committee, but was blocked by the Democratic leadership from coming up for a vote in the Senate.
He does not consider helmet repeal a partisan issue. A map of the states shows that it is the more liberal Pacific Coast states and the conservative South that have helmet laws.
California has a helmet law, but Arizona, Utah and Idaho do not.
Motorcyclists have money and are willing to spend it at the numerous rallies around the state, Gustavson said.
If Nevada’s helmet law is repealed, more cyclists from California would take trips to Nevada to attend rallies and events, he added.
Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles statistics show there are 129,000 registered motorcyclists in the state. Only 142 are under the age of 21.
When Michigan repealed its helmet law in April, it included a provision that motorcyclists must have at least $20,000 in medical insurance. Gustavson doesn’t consider that necessary, arguing that most motorcyclists already have more than that amount of medical insurance.
But Manendo said $20,000 is hardly enough to treat brain injuries. Those who consider riding without a helmet a freedom of choice issue don’t have the freedom to force the rest of us to pay their medical expenses, he added.
–Jeff Scheid/Las Vegas Review-Journal
–from Rogue
[page break]
THE DUCATI COURSE WORLD SUPERBIKES BY ALAN CATHCART & JIM GIANATSIS– Introducing the definitive book on all 5-Generations of the Ducati Corse World Superbikes, the winningest motorcycles in the history of the sport in a beautiful 224-page 12×12 Collector’s Edition Coffee Table book.
The year 2011 marked the 25th anniversary of the creation of the first, of a now legendary line of Ducati Superbikes with their trademark Desmoquattro 4-valve V-twin motors hung below a lightweight trellis tube frame, race bikes that went on to dominate the then new World Superbike Championship for next quarter of a century. Arguably the most significant motorcycle engine design of any kind, and surely the most remarkable and successful volume production engine format ever used in world competition by any single manufacturer, the venerable Ducati 4-valve desmodromic engine has recorded to this date 14 World Superbike Championship titles in the 24 year history of the world’s premier production bike based world roadracing series.
This book chronicles the development and history all five Ducati Corse World Superbike generations from the first Desmoquattro 750cc prototype to the revolutionary new 1199 Panigale Superquadro together with interviews with the Ducati designers, team racers and managers. This unique insight is provided by renown motorcycle racer and journalist Alan Cathcart who has had the envious and often exclusive opportunity to test ride every one of the factory Corse race bikes over the last 25 years, those tests of which are featured here. Photography of the Corse factory bikes and riders is proved by the world’s most renown motorcycle roadracing photographers.
Adding icing to the cake, and to warrant this big collectors edition book, included are the incredible high definition photographs of the bikes taken by former racer, moto journalist and photographer Jim Gianatsis as featured in the Fast Dates World Superbike Calendars from those years with the beautiful Fast Dates Calendar Kittens who served as the official SBK and Team Ducati Corse grid girls at the races where the bikes were photographed.
Suggested Retail: USD $69.95 • UK £55.00 • EUR $55. The Ducati Corse World Superbike book is available in the USA on the FastDates.com Website and at Amazon.com.
Dealer Inquires please go to the Contents / Distributor Page at FastDates.com. In Europe the book is available from Orca Book Services, Star Book Services, Giorgio Nada Editor and on Amazon.com.uk.
A special hand signed Collector’s Edition Package including both Ducati Corse World Superbikes and the SBK 2013 Fast Dates World Superbike Calendar with Carlos Checa’s Althea Ducati on the cover is available for $125 at: http://www.FastDates.com
PARTS UNLIMITED BACKS SAM WHEELER IN LAND SPEED RECORD ATTEMPT–400 MPH will be needed to set the new world record on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Vance & Hines supplies Suzuki 500+HP Hayabusas.
Janesville, WI…July 18, 2012. Parts Unlimited will be the major sponsor for Sam Wheeler and his motorcycle streamliner in his quest to set a new motorcycle land speed record. Sam Wheeler of Arcadia, CA who is considered to be the best designer/constructor/driver in the motorcycle Land Speed Record (LSR) game, will attempt to break the current motorcycle land speed record of 376.156 MPH on the Bonneville Salt Flats this fall. With good weather and salt conditions, Sam feels he will be capable of exceeding 400 MPH.
Sam has over 50 years of motorcycle LSR experience. He built his first streamliner with some friends in high school. Sam’s present liner has one of the most aerodynamic shapes in LSR racing, and for this new attempt he plans to almost double his horsepower. Sam is switching from two Kawasaki KZ 1100 engines to a single Suzuki Hayabusa 1300 engine that will be built by Bryon Hines, of Vance and Hines. The turbo charging system will be built by Terry Kizer of Mr. Turbo. Sam explains his changes at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfbVf4YLRqw .
Fred Fox (Parts Unlimited CEO) has always admired Sam’s streamliner. When he discovered that Sam was thinking about a major revision to the proven streamliner with more horsepower, a new drive system, and a new rear tire, Fred made the decision to get on board and help turn Sam’s dream to a reality.
“Sam has a brilliant plan to break this record. I was impressed that he had designed almost every component on computer aided drawing. It was all very well thought out.” said Fox. “One look at his ideas, and I was hooked. As a mechanical engineer, I find the challenge and Sam’s solutions nothing short of brilliant. We are happy and honored to help Sam Wheeler. This is typical of how we support the sport of motorcycling, and it’s extra nice with a great guy and a very big goal.”
Fox then sought the help of Terry Vance at Vance & Hines to furnish support for the pit crew and turned to Performance Machine to build the new rear wheel. Fred helped convince Goodyear to supply their very special Land Speed Record tires. Other sponsors currently include Dynojet, Saddlemen, Belray, ICON, Z1R, Roland Sands Designs, Alpinestars and UPS (Parts Unlimited and Parts Europe’s primary shipper). EZ Hook was given a prime sponsor logo location on the tail of the streamliner in appreciation for their many years of supporting Sam’s efforts.
“I can’t tell you how happy I am to have Parts Unlimited join our effort. They really support the motorcycle sport and have fun doing it. Fred Fox came to my shop in December and we talked for hours about what it would take to get this record. He is 100% committed to working with us to finish the job.” said Sam Wheeler.
The Sam Wheeler streamliner is considered to be the most technically advanced and meticulously constructed motorcycle streamliner in the World. The main competitors’ motorcycle streamliners are Denis Manning’s Seven and Mike Akatiff’s Ack Attack. Manning and Akatiff have traded records back and forth since 2006 when both of them topped the existing record during the same week time trial. Wheeler had the fastest one-way time in that event, but crash damage prevented him from doing the mandatory second run. Many knowledgeable observers feel that Sam’s streamliner definitely has the potential to break the existing record. Any new challenger to the record will need the capability of going over 400 miles an hour. Sam’s major competition presently is Mike Ackatiff who is the current world record holder.
Sam hopes to run at Bonneville this fall if the conditions are right and everything is ready to go. A world record is the average of 2 runs – one in each direction on a 12 mile course. The center mile has timing lights. The runs must be done on the same day with a maximum of 2 hours elapsed time between the runs. At 300 MPH approaching the timed mile it takes less than 10 seconds to cover a mile.
A 7 minute video is available at : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfbVf4YLRqw
ANDREW LEE SCOTT DEAD– Lake County Police Fatally Shoot Wrong Man While Hunting Murder Suspect
Police in Florida fatally shot an innocent man over the weekend after they mistook him for an attempted murder suspect.
Lake County sheriff’s deputies were searching for a man named Jonathan Brown when they arrived at the Blueberry Hills Apartment complex in Leesburg early Sunday morning.
When the police banged on the wrong door, Andrew Lee Scott — who did not expect visitors — answered armed and ready, only to be fired at by the surprised officers.
“When we knocked on the door, the door opened and the occupant of that apartment was pointing a gun at deputies and that’s when we opened fire and killed him,” said Lt. John Herrell, according to WESH.
Officers admit they never identified themselves to Scott, a 26-year-old pizza deliveryman. Still, Herrell holds the victim at least partially responsible.
“It’s just a bizarre set of circumstances,” he said. “The bottom line is, you point a gun at a deputy sheriff or police office, you’re going to get shot,” Herrell said.
Jonathan Turley, a law professor at George Washington University, responded to the incident in his blog.
“This is technically not a ‘no knock’ search,” Turley wrote. “In such searches, there is no knock but the officers are supposed to announce their identities in going into the property… Indeed, I have criticized the increasing use of ‘no knock’ warrants.”
Police later arrested Brown and another suspect at a second apartment building. The two are currently at the Lake County Jail, the Orlando Sentinel reports.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident and police authorities placed the officer who shot Scott on administrative leave.
–Huffington Post
–from Aric Heckman
SADDLEBAG LIDS WITH J&M ROKKER SPEAKERS–Looking for speakers for your Bagger and not finding any large or loud enough? J&M’s Rokker speakers may be just what you’re looking for.
These 7 ¼” round subs are the largest diameter speakers that can be installed into your Bagger saddlebag lids. The cone volume and mass makes them comparable to a 6”X 9” speaker, and with 2 ohms impedance and 170 plus watts max power, these speakers provide the ultimate in raw audio.
The lids are finished in primer black color ready for the custom color of your choice and the top quality hardware, custom plug-n-play wiring harness and complete installation instructions are included. The 3-way, high performance speaker/lid set has been designed specifically
for the 98-12 Bagger style saddlebags, and retails for $749.99.
For more information visit www.bikerschoice.com or visit your local Biker’s Choice dealer.
Happy Riding!
–Carmen
CHANCE TO TAKE CALIFORNIA BACK FOR BIKERS– CA S-27 (San Fernando): Zink vs Pavley
Todd Zink is running against incumbent Senator Fran Pavley for state senate, and it’s a very close race. This senate district includes Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Malibu, and the western half of San Fernando. This is the kind of race we can really gain political ground with.
Pavely is the California Senator who is responsible for getting SB 435 passed into law – the worst anti-motorcycle legislation since the helmet law.
Bottom Line: Either Zink wins in November, or we’ll get four more years of Pavley (who already screwed us with SB435). It is payback time. Let’s do what we can to get Pavely out, like we did to Dick Floyd after he passed the helmet law.
Todd Zink is now seeking volunteers from the motorcycle community, and he is asking for your help in this effort.
If you’re determined to knock Pavley out of office, reply and I’ll let Douglas at the
Repeal Machine know what you are willing to do. It will definitely be worth it.
visit www.toddzink.com for info on Zink.
–Mark Temple
BOLT of California
(916) 402-7981
“The two enemies of the people are criminals and government, so let us tie the second down with the chains of the constitution, so the second will not become the legalized version of the first.”
–Thomas Jefferson
THREE BIKER CHICKS DIE– and go to heaven.
At the Pearly Gates, they are met by Bandit. He says, “Sisters, you all Led such exemplary lives that the Lord is granting you six months to go Back to earth and be anyone you wish to be.
The first chick says, “I want to be Sophia Loren;” And *poof* she’s gone.
The second says, “I want to be Madonna and *poof* she’s gone.
The third says, “I want to be Sara Pipalini..”
Bandit looks perplexed. “Who?” he ask?
“Sara Pipalini;” replies the woman.
Bandit shakes his head and says, “I’m sorry, but that name just doesn’t ring a bell.”
The chick then takes a newspaper out of her vest and hands it to Bandit. Bandit reads the paper and starts laughing He hands it back to her and Says.”No sister, the paper says it was the ‘ Sahara Pipeline’ that was laid by 1,400 men in 6 months.”
PS I wonder if she will be in Sturgis.
–Rogue
SAMSON EXHAUST INSTALL COMING– IT WAS NICE TO MEET YOU LAST SATURDAY. THANKS AGAIN FOR INSTALLING THE SAMPSON EXHAUST PIPES, I LOVE THEM. THEY LOOK AND SOUND GREAT, ALONG WITH GETTING MORE HORSEPOWER OUT OF MY ’06 FATBOY.
HOME-OWNERS FLAG RULE PROTEST– Here is the most brilliant statement ever made without a word being said!!!!! This guy was told by his Homeowners Association that he could not fly the American Flag in his yard……
This is his response:
–from Rev Carlr
2WHEELERS BEST DEALER AWARD–I am pleased to announce that 2 Wheeler’s Service Dept has been selected as a winner of the 2012 Denver Awards in the Motorcycle Dealers category by the Denver Award Program committee.
Our selection of 2WHEELERS, DENVER, STURGIS, AND DAYTONA is a reflection of the hard work of not only yourself, but of many people that have supported your business and contributed to the subsequent success of your organization. Congratulations on joining such an elite group of small businesses.
Don’t miss the chance to stop in and see Donna and Arlin in Sturgis on Main. If you need anything for your bike, or have a question about the Rally, they are old hands. Tell ‘em Bikernet sent ya.
BIG BEARS CHOPPERS IS BACK– On February 18, 2012 one of BBC’s dealers announced it had purchased all their assets. Simon Scott, Owner of PT Ragehard Choppers Indonesia announced the opening of our new Motorcycle Manufacturing Facility in San Bernardino, California, producing and marketing an extensive range of Motorcycles including the full range of Big Bear Choppers previously available through Big Bear Choppers.
I went to their new facility, rode the new bikes. Full story coming soon to Bikernet.com.
They are building new choppers for international and domestic dealers. The new shop has all state-of-the-art equipment to manufacture high-quality, American-made motorcycles. They also have a complete line of BBC parts and accessories. See more at http://www.bigbearchoppers.com/ or call (909) 478-7788.
–Triking Viking
Supreme International Editor in Worldwide Charge
Bikernet Trikes
HUNTER S. THOMPSON’S BIRTHDAY– Walk tall, kick ass, learn to speak Arabic, love music and never forget you come from a long line of truth seekers, lovers and warriors.—Hunter S. Thompson
Hunter S. Thompson wrote that advice in a letter to his grandson, Will, in 2005, just days before his death.
So much of what we do is lead by the wisdom and weirdness, insanity and hilarity of our Gonzo Godfathers – Hunter, Ralph Steadman, and George Stranahan. It runs through our veins. It talks to both the angel and the devil on our shoulders. It gets us out of bed in the morning (and often keeps us up at night). And, most importantly, it never fades even as this ever-changing world keeps on spinning.
Hunter would have been 75 today. To quote his beloved wife, Anita: “We all miss Hunter more than a blog post can describe…Here’s to a beautiful new chapter, with Hunter in our hearts, with a future bright and right ahead of us.”
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK, BIG DOG ROLLING CHASSIS, ONLY FOUR LEFT—Here’s WHAT YOUR ROLLING CHASSIS COULD LOOK LIKE WHEN YOU FINISH IT! BIG DOG PIT BULL ROLLING CHASSIS: ONLY $3,995.00
You will NEVER see this deal again! We have four Big Dog Pit Bull rolling chassis! These are complete and ready for you to add your own finishing touches! The rolling chassis features bare sheet metal (ready for your paint!), 23-inch billet front wheel, 20-inch billet rear wheel with 280 tire (that alone is worth over $3,900), oil bag, gas tank, bars, frame and triple trees.
This is the steal of the century! Don’t wait! These are going fast!
COWBOY TOMBSTONE–Headstone of Russell J. Larsen in the Logan City Cemetery, Logan, Utah. I wonder if he died knowing he won the ‘Coolest Headstone’ contest??
FIVE RULES FOR MEN TO FOLLOW FOR A HAPPY LIFE:
1. It’s important to have a woman who helps at home, cooks from time to time, cleans up, and has a job.
2. It’s important to have a woman who can make you laugh.
3. It’s important to have a woman who you can trust, and doesn’t lie to you.
4. It’s important to have a woman who is good in bed, and likes to be with you.
5. It’s very, very important that these four women do not know each other or you could end up dead like me.
–from Jim Waggaman
Charlie and his crew were in Russia from June 27th – July 10th, 2012. Performances were scheduled in Moscow at the Total Flame festival as well as numerous other local venues.
The American biker vibe that Charlie brought to Moscow was overwhelming for many of the locals that have never experienced a real American motorcycle legend! His music rocked the Russian biker community and left them begging for more! So much that he was asked to play many impromptu venues and was already asked to come back again in September!
UNiQ Cycle Sounds, Total Flame and BIC Productions are the Global Sponsors of The Charlie Brechtel Band.
The Total Flame Festival in Moscow was put together by Vladimir of Total Flame Cigars and brought out thousands of Russian bikers that were more than ready to rock! The festival helps promote motorcycle awareness and helps disprove stereotypes between Americans and Russians as well as bikers worldwide. The festival offered music, vendors, food, beautiful Russian women, tasty cigars, motorcycle clubs and of course a rockin’ good time!
More information available at www.bicproductions.com.
–Kristopher Winkler UNiQ Cycle Sounds
888-864-7721 x705 http://www.uniqcycle.com
Watch for the Russian event feature coming to Bikernet tomorrow, written by that bastard, Bandit.–Snake
2012 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF CUSTOM BIKE BUILDING– SHOW YOUR STUFF IN STURGIS – The World Championship is on a tight fuse… registration/check-in at Champions Hall on Saturday August 4th. The World Championship of Custom Bike Building exists to showcase and promote international custom motorcycle design and engineering quality, craftsmanship and innovation; and to promote the evolution of custom motorcycling in ways that will help secure the unique enjoyment of custom motorcycles for future generations of riders.
Show Dates?5-8th August, 2012
Bike Registration?Saturday August 4th, 9am to 6pm
Bike Shipping Address?World Championship of Custom Bike Building, 1205 Lazelle St, Sturgis, SD 57785 USA. Located on the lot at Lazelle/3rd, next to Lynn’s Dakotamart.
Enter here… http://www.amdchampionship.com/worldchamps
The Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building program encompasses some 32 events in total, in 20 different countries: Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, the Russian Federation, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, United Arab Emirates and the United States of America.
DRAG SPECIALTIES/HOTOP DESIGNS FENDER-TO-FORK ADAPTER FOR 21″ WHEEL–Together, Drag Specialties and Don Hotop will always exceed your expectations. With the duo’s reputation for quality parts and unrivaled service always at the forefront, they continue to bring you the parts and accessories that today’s riders are looking for. The Fender-To-Fork adaptor for a 21-inch wheel is a prime example.
The state-of-the-line billet aluminum adapters lift stock front fenders to fit a 21-inch wheel are sold in pairs, and colors include chrome and gloss black.
From everyday needs to custom dreams, if the Drag Specialties and Don Hotop names are on it, you can rest assured that you will be happy with your purchase and keep coming back for more
SUG. RETAIL: $99.95
For more information, go to www.dragspecialties.com or contact your local
Drag Specialties dealer.
They are right about their statement regarding Don Hotop. He’s the best, when it comes to quality product design.–Wrench
HARLEY-DAVIDSON STOKES STURGIS TRADITION AT 2012 RALLY
Product Displays and more on 3rd and Lazelle, Motorcycle Demo Rides at I-90/Exit 30 Lot
MILWAUKEE (July 19, 2012) – Harley-Davidson riders and motorcycle enthusiasts will revel in one of America’s most unique and exciting cultural events at the 72nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota’s legendary Black Hills region.
The Harley-Davidson Road Tour will run from Saturday, August 4 through Saturday, August 11 at the intersection of 3rd and Lazelle streets in downtown Sturgis. All Harley-Davidson activities in Sturgis are free of charge and include the following:
• 2012 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, H-D1 customization and MotorClothes riding gear and apparel
• Harley-Davidson Custom Ride-In Show, Friday, August 10
• Harley-Davidson Insurance Parts Challenge, photo booth, Roof Top Deck and sweepstakes
• Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) pin sales and Custom Motorcycle Raffle
• Free Bike Wash
• Willie G. Commemorative Merchandise
• AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building, August 4-8
• Women’s Area including the JUMPSTART rider experience, bike lift and more
Harley-Davidson demo rides for 2012 motorcycles will be available in Sturgis at Hersrud’s Chevrolet Dealership near Interstate 90 at Exit 30 from Saturday, August 4 to Friday, August 11. Riders can enjoy as many bikes as they want, but must have a valid motorcycle license and adhere to riding gear requirements and safety rules. There will also be a 2012 Harley-Davidson motorcycle display at this location, including a Fit Shop display for motorcycle customization.
D&D EXHAUST PIPE PERFORMANCE SALE FOR LATE MODEL SLEDS– This one is for you… We are having a performance pipe sale for big twins this July and it is… hot. D&D is celebrating their 40th year anniversary by giving back to our customers!!! Without you there would be no us, just a little thank you from D&D. Take a jump here for details…
http://www.danddexhaust.com/news/2012/05/dd_40th_anniver.htm
Forty years and 250,000 pipes later D&D Exhaust exhaust systems are some of the leading performance motorcycle exhaust systems in the world. Built by a reputation of excellent customer service, quality in every detail of the product, and the basic value of a system that performs as specified…. which means that D&D pipes are designed for looks, tone and performance. Check them out today at http://www.danddexhaust.com/news/2012/05/dd_40th_anniver.htm
BIKERNET SAFETY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH STUDY–Suspicion Confirmed: The smoke detector industry is covering up research showing more people are injured every year falling from ladders and stepstools while trying to replace smoke detector batteries than are injured in house fires.
–from Rogue
INVITING ALL BUILDERS TO THE CUSTOM BIKE SHOW WEEKEND–Bob Kay and the Harley-Davidson Museum is awarding $7,000 in cash prizes during the AMD Affiliate Custom Bike Show Weekend located at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.
Come show your bike and participate in one of the largest custom bike shows in the U.S. This event has something for riders and non-riders, and offers unique opportunities to experience and participate in the artistic side of motorcycling and its remarkable custom culture, plus that bastard Bandit from Bikernet.com will be a judge. ENTER YOUR BIKE HERE… http://www.prmedio.com.
ILLINOIS PRO-HELMET RETORT–
http://www.nwherald.com/2012/07/15/motorcycle-clarification/ai5hdv6/
Motorcycle clarification
To the Editor:
I would like to respond to a letter from Jake Getter that was published on July 10.
First, motorcyclists do pay tolls with an I-PASS that is in the saddle bag or attached to our windshield.
Second, you obviously do not ride a motorcycle. If you did, you would understand how obstructive helmets can be. They obstruct vision and hearing. Yes, they can be a lifesaver in some instances, but I and many other riders would rather be able to see and hear, which can prevent many accidents.
If people in cars would be more aware of motorcyclists, most accidents would be avoided. Besides, we still have the right to choose whether we wear a helmet or not, and we certainly do not want another law that takes away another freedom that affects no one other than the rider.
–Gary Cotshott
McHenry
— from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
www.bikerrogue.com
AMA IN TROUBLE–Paul Jamiol weighs in ?on the Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s
current situation?(7/18/2012)
As much as any other single event, it was Dave Despain’s return of his Motorcycle Hall of Fame medal in protest of the treatment of Nobby Clark that catalyzed anger toward the Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the AMA officials who involved themselves in the process that resulted in Clark’s “unduction.” (See Motohistory News & Views 7/12/2012).
At that time, Despain declared, “Something smells about the process.”
Whether it is the suspicion that third-party influence was involved at the highest level of the AMA, or simply the utterly inept handling of the public relations fiasco that has taken place since the announcement that Clark would be removed for the 2012 list of inductees, many people still think something stinks.
Paul Jamiol, who usually aims his sharp cartoonist’s pin toward national politics, seems to think so as well. Jamiol, a dedicated motorcyclist who has followed developments over the past week, offers his view of the current state of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame. It is a state that many still hope can be improved upon by swift remedial action by its Board of Directors at their meeting this week.
BIKERNET TRIKES REPORTS NEXT WEEK–Champion Frankenstein & Motortrike are good, and I will write on them and a pre-Sturgis piece next week.
I will received a WindVest for an install story next week, also on Bikernet Trikes.
–Gary Mraz
Emperor of Trike and Bagger advertising
Bikernet Trikes
Hells Angels Annual USA Run In Spearfish July 25-29– Up to 1,200 people, including 400-600 club members, are expected to attend. “We expect them to follow the rules that the citizens do in this area for 365 days out of the year. As long as they follow those rules, there shouldn’t be any issues,” Police Lt. Curt Jacobs said.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol will have extra troopers in the area, and other law agencies will help patrol the area, Jacobs said. The Hells Angels are used to this. Anytime they have their USA Run they know that law enforcement is going to beef up their numbers in that area.
The Question that comes to mind when reading this is WHY are the same procedures Not put in place when Law Enforcement Motorcycle Clubs (Gangs) are in the area?
–from Rogue
Midnight Rider: Gold Base turns to Gold Dust EPISODE 17– We head toward Sturgis South Dakota and plan the incursion. The vibe in the big rig is solemn. Since the Goldlance attack on board, we’re all painfully aware of our vulnerability. For two days, we travel across northern United States, heading toward Sturgis and strategize the fullscale attack on Goldlance headquarters.
The plan is to attack Gold Base Scientology compound in Gilman Hot Springs California first. The goal is to commandeer their human harvesting database and destroy central command. Because of their secretive nature there’s no real concern of media exposure by the Scientologists.
–Gary Mraz
Senior Author, Historian, Science Department Director
Bikernet Archives
Okay, so his shit is far-fetched. We are looking for the real deal midnight rider episodes. Tell them from the heart and we will publish them on Bikernet Baggers.—Bandit, Bikernet Janitor
UNCLE MONKEY ON TO CHOPPER OR NOT TO CHOPPER–You should put a windshield, saddlebags and a passenger seat on your bike. As I let the comment roll around in my head I couldn’t prevent the puzzled look on my face. Bikers fall into all categories and types from the crotch rocket guys, to the bare-bones chopper ones, and the bagger guys, to the three-wheeled trunk touring bastards hauling down the road. There is bike for everyone for every taste but we all don’t ride the same thing or want to ride the same thing. Thank the chromium god.
I thought about my friend’s suggestion. I would be forced to change my exhaust, which mounts to the passenger peg and rewire and move my taillight which is mounted to the peg on the other side. I’d need to drill holes into the molded and modified custom rear fender with built in fender struts for the saddlebags and mount a seat to scratch the hell out of the freshly laid gleaming white paint.
The easiest part of their suggestion would be a windshield but a custom Softail with a windshield? As I mentioned bikes come in all shapes and sizes from stripped down old school choppers to loaded down full tourers. I don’t question why people ride what they do, but I prefer a stripped down bike with my trusty BikerNet bedroll to a Heritage Softail or a Goldwing.
I like the wind in my face and traveling light. From day one my softail, it was designed and built to be a solo ride. To put those things on the bike, while practical suggestions, would ruin the look of the bike, and my design goals. Not all bikes are built and equipped to handle every single situation. While I would like my beautiful wife to accompany me, she understands this bike was built just for me (and it is obvious that I won’t haul anyone else home from the bar on it either.) I don’t need saddle bags and trunks for several outfits and the latest from the bar and shield boutique, or a place to mount my iPod/Pad/Phone, cup holders and warmers. This bike will never sport those chrome accessories as long as I own it.
My softail is done and finished and turns heads everywhere it goes, which is what I wanted. Ugly- the-bike-up is not an option. But it is a finished bike and my mind is already pondering the next build, the next project, a slammed down bagger with a thumping stereo. The only question remaining is whether I will have somewhere for the misses to sit.
-bad Uncle Monkey
HERE IS THE THURSDAY USED HARLEY-DAVIDSON DEAL OF THE WEEK FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 1987 Softail Custom: 1340cc or 80-inch EVO, five-speed tranny, Andrews EV3 cam, S&S E carb, Vance & Hines exhaust, and $5800 takes it home!
QUICK GO CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS WAITING TO BEGIN! YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU WILL FIND!
–MIKE the STEALTH
LATEST BIKE FROM CRO CUSTOMS ON DISPLAY AT THE MICHAEL LICHTER TWO-WHEELED BORN FREE ART EXHIBIT AT THE CHIP IN STURGIS–Built this for Born Free 4 builders invite. Took 1st place again!
–Caleb Owens
cro customs inc.
310.923.2613
www.crocustoms.com
NUMBERS FOR BIKERNET AND RELATED SITES IMPROVING—We are getting a handle on our stats reports and for the month of June we hit 99, 234 unique visitors, and over 178,529 page views or impressions. Not bad for a handful to dedicated riders doing their thing while spread all over the world.
We appreciate your support.
–Bandit
LOVE RIDE ENTERTAINING LINE-UP UNDER DEVELOPMENT–Mailing Address:
Love Ride Foundation
3717 San Fernando Road
Glendale, CA 91204
US
Contact Name: Love Ride Foundation
Telephone Number: 818-246-5618 x 127
BIKERNET 5-BALL RACING WHEELER REPORT—Actually Wheeler is in the great north west still working on his 124-inch Rick Tedder built turbo-charged 5-Ball Raycer hot rod for his attempt a two records at Bub’s Bonneville Speed Trials.
One of Ray’s missions this week, register our three bikes for the AMA and FIM record books.
Bonne Belle
Lee Clemens is wrapping up the Wheels Through Time/Mikuni intake manifold and hopefully starting the engine tomorrow. We are praying for a shipping solution with Keyboard shipping early next week.
CRAZY SHIT—I wish I could make sense of it all, but I can’t. My positive self wants to find a solution for all our country’s stifling issues. I gotta believe someone will step up and lead us back to the righteous Code of the West.
We have Bonneville deadlines, book deadlines, article deadlines, project deadlines. Okay, get this. I spoke to an architect yesterday, and he suggested not to make improvements to our building, since it would cost maybe ten times the actual mod costs due to the expensive, time-demanding, over-bearing permit process. Plus, because we are near the port, we would be forced to satisfy the restrictions of numerous agencies. He said, “Just handle repairs and leave the rest alone.”
Fortunately Bikernet is only regulated by the Code of the West, my ridiculous self-induced deadlines, the spirits of Chrome, and the redhead’s nightmares. Oh, and of course our sponsors. So, here’s the line-up heading into the weekend. Finally Sin Wu worked on Mike Pullin’s Smoke Out Coverage. I will post Charlie’s Russian Blues Adventure tomorrow.
The Samson Exhaust tech is on the schedule, and we are working on a Mudflab Girl Le Pera seat tech. We shifted back to my Grandson’s XS project this week, while waiting on Bonneville paint. My son’s FXR is ready for a test ride, but I need the tags and insurance.
On the controversial side we have Uncle Monkey’s take on freedom, then for romance we will publish another chapter of World Run. Get this, a lifeguard in Florida saved a drowning swimmer. Unfortunately, Tomas Lopez, 21, stepped out of his designated area to perform the rescue, so he was fired.
We also have a couple of new bike features headed your way, so have a helluva weekend, and check back often. There’s always something new brewing, or check with Bikernet Baggers or Trikes. Buck lives in Sturgis, the motherland. And the Triking Viking lives on another planet far, far, away.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit