Hey,
Sturgis is winding down, and it’s been a wild one. The final Cycle Source event smacks the Broke Spoke today at the Editor’s Choice show and Bikernet is a sponsor. We will feature one of the bikes.
Hell, I still need to work with Jeff Cochran on his feature for Bikernet and the HORSE.
In years past the ride to Sturgis was always an adventure. I built fresh bikes and broke them in on the road to the Badlands. I wanted a redhead in every state, and could I outrun the cops through small towns. At one time we were crazed outlaws looking for adventure in every saloon or a fight.
So, what’s the deal now? I was reunited with the woman who saved my life in Wyoming. Can’t ever beat the ride to Sturgis.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored by Cycle Source Magazine, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and Iron Trader News. If the news is sort of a mess, my lovely assistant is on the road. Can’t blame it on her…
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A MILLION BIKERS at 75th Sturgis rally? Probably not, but likely record crowds– Law enforcement and transportation officials won’t hesitate in predicting that attendance at the 75th Sturgis motorcycle rally will almost certainly blow away all previous rally records.
But thus far, they are stopping short of using the “M-word,” as in “million,” to count the number of bikers and other visitors that have jammed this normally sedate town of 6,700 and who have clogged roads and highways across much of western South Dakota during the opening days of this milestone rally’s historic week-long run.
Ever since the 2014 rally wrapped up, officials from Sturgis, the state of South Dakota and from the rally itself were predicting that a million people, even as many as 1.2 million, might roll into the region for the big milestone rally.
And while they are reticent to go that far this early in the week, as far as Sturgis Police Chief Jim Bush is concerned, the 75th is the biggest gathering he has ever seen.
On patrol Sunday night, he said two-wheeled and four-wheeled traffic was the worst he has seen in 38 years as a police officer in Sturgis, including the last 25 years as chief.
“I don’t care where I went, every bar, every venue — and this was about 8:30 or 9 p.m. — was packed,” he said Monday. “It doesn’t matter if you were in a great big bar, a parking lot at a convenience store or in a campground, everything I saw was way beyond what I ever saw before.”
Previous records for attendance go back to 2003, Harley-Davidson’s 100th anniversary year, and 2000, the 60th Sturgis rally — both of which drew an estimated more than 700,000 visitors, according to city and state Department of Transportation estimates. Those final figures are based on factors ranging from DOT traffic counters placed on highways in and around Sturgis, to the tons of garbage collected during rally week.
Bush wouldn’t commit to saying a million people have attended this year’s rally, not yet anyway.
“I think we’re over our largest rally for sure,” he said.
Dean Kinney, the president of the board of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc., which owns the trademark name of the iconic event, says this is the monster rally they have been predicting.
“It is the largest rally ever, by a mile,” he said. “I would say it is at least 50 percent larger than any rally before it.”
DOT spokesperson Kristi Sandal also refused to mutter the M-word, but estimated significantly higher attendance than normal based on soaring traffic counts based on early numbers gathered from 22 traffic counters scattered throughout the Hills.
Sandal said trip counts have been rising steadily since July 24 when the traffic counters, cables stretched across a roadway that tally the number of passing vehicles, were first installed.
On Friday through Sunday, before the rally officially started, a total of 236,283 vehicles made their way to Sturgis.
Sandal said she couldn’t translate the vehicle numbers, which are 37 percent higher than the same time frame in 2014, into numbers of visitors. But the increases are significant: on Aug. 1, 2014, 43,250 vehicles were counted at the DOT’s 22 traffic-counting sites, compared to 82,250 on Aug. 1 this year. On Sunday, Aug. 2 this year, 90,300 vehicles were counted, compared to about 70,000 on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2014.
“We don’t speculate on the numbers of people, just vehicles,” she said.
The highest-ever daily vehicle total, 96,612, was recorded on Aug. 4, 2003, she said. “We are expecting to beat that just based on the numbers and how they are rising,” Sandal said.
Law enforcement data also supports the theory of record attendance this year. State and local police have been far busier this year compared to last.
While judgement calls can greatly impact enforcement statistics, the jump is unmistakable. As of 6 a.m. Tuesday, the South Dakota Highway Patrol had issued 811 citations and 2,484 warnings this year, compared to only 575 citations and 1,980 warnings at the same point last year. Accidents are also up: the patrol reports 76 injury accidents so far this year compared to 28 at the same time last year. Cash seizures so far are also double this year compared to last.
Garbage collection also may indicate a larger crowd. Since Friday, the Sturgis Public Works Department collected 353 tons of garbage, compared to 259 for the same time period last year, a 36 percent increase.
What is known is that the highest number of vendor’s licenses issued by the city for any rally was in 2000 when it issued 943 vendor licenses.
As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, the the City of Sturgis has issued 891 temporary vendor licenses. This compares to 663 at the same time last year. That number surpasses the total vending permits issued in 2014 which was 679.
And, volunteers at the Sturgis Red Cross tents helped 62 people and handed out more than 4,500 cups of water on Monday. Last year, volunteers treated 140 people during the entire rally.
But the most noticeable impact for visitors may be on the roads, which have more bikes and longer travel times.
Christina Bennett, a state highway department engineer, said Monday traffic throughout the Black Hills was heavy and slow-moving, but still moving.
Interstate 90 exit ramps at Sturgis, exits 30 and 32, and at Exit 55, serving essentially its own small town of vendors and bikers at Black Hills Harley-Davidson, were heavy with traffic, but DOT engineers were manually operating stoplights to keep the flow of cars and motorcycles moving, Bennett said.
In Deadwood, a new, free motorcycle parking program on Historic Main Street for the 75th rally has helped the gambling town stay busier than last year, Mayor Chuck Turbiville said.
After walking Main Street over the weekend and talking to dozens of business owners and managers, Turbiville said Monday he was astounded by reported increases in retail and alcohol sales.
“Retail sales are up $500,000 a day in Deadwood,” the mayor calculated. “Free parking on Main Street has extended the rally by a week and last week, you didn’t even know the rally hadn’t already started we were so busy.”
Turbiville noted city officials would have to wait for August sales tax statistics from the state Department of Revenue to confirm his estimated increases in sales.
The bikers seem to have steeled themselves to the potential for tight traffic and big crowds, knowing the 75th would be a biggie.
Doug and Anita Macklin of Spokane, Wash., kicked off their first-ever Sturgis rally by participating in the annual Mayor’s Ride from Sturgis to Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park on Monday.
“It’s overwhelming, but we’re having a great time,” Anita Macklin said.
— Staff writers Tom Griffith and Deb Holland contributed to this report. Sturgis Daily
–from Rogue
Bikernet Senior Editor
Member Sturgis Hall of Fame
BRAND New Bikernet BAGGERS Reader Comment!–2015 RoadGlide Windscreen Shootout
http://www.bikernetbaggers.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=12928
Recently bought a ’15 Road Glide and love the bike but the stock windscreen is worthless. Been looking for a good comparison of all the options and your article was just what I was looking for.
Thanks guys for a very informative and detailed review of all the options I had been looking at, your article has made my decision an easy one.
— Dan Schuyler
dan.schuyler@yahoo.com
Riverton, UT
Watch for more reports and techs in the near future.—Bandit
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY–An 18-year-old suicide bomber blew himself up and appeared before Allah. He said, “Oh, Allah, I did your bidding, but I have a request. Since I’m only 18 and spent all my time in terrorist training school, I have never been with a woman. So, instead of 72 virgins, who also won’t know what to do sexually, can I have 72 whores?”
Allah regarded him for a moment, then replied, “Actually, the 72 virgins are here in heaven because assholes like you murdered them before they could experience the pleasure of sex. So you’re here to service them. Since they’re virgins, they’re quite sexually ravenous; and, frankly, you’ll be on constant, exhausting duty.”
The bomber responded, “Well, I guess I can live with that. How hard can it be to keep 72 women satisfied for all eternity?”
And Allah replied, “Who said they were women?”
–from Rogue and Jerry
?
From the book “The Truth about Hillary” by Edward Klein, p.5; Hillary shouting at a Secret Service officer.
ON THE GROUND IN MEETEETSE, WYO.
Cowboy Bar’s tale of woe
Hard times have come to a storied saloon. The latest sign: For sale
Perched in his wheelchair, “Big Jim” Blake confidently rolls the wooden floors of his old shoot-’em-up saloon, founded here in 1893. The history of the Cowboy Bar is populated with drifters, outlaws and outliers, and its present proprietor brims with wild yarns and tall tales.
Big Jim truly is a big, big man who once weighed 550 pounds. Still, his large frame is always on the move. Wheeling along the ornate wooden bar shipped here in 1893 from the Chicago World’s Fair, he proudly patrols this watering hole where a young Butch Cassidy once downed shots of whiskey before his arrest here for horse rustling.
Big Jim tells the story as he offers a visitor a “drizzle” of Kentucky bourbon.
Like a long line of settlers who hammered out lives in this High Plains outpost, Big Jim fends for himself. For years, he toted a personal arsenal that included a.45-caliber handgun on one side of his wheelchair, a sawed-off shotgun on the other, with a knife and handcuffs stuffed in behind him.
They’re precautions the 67-year-old learned as a bodyguard for country singer Marty Robbins and later for Nevada brothel owner Joe Conforte. Patrolling the Mustang Ranch can make a man leery.
“This is big country,” Big Jim says of the rolling hills outside his bar. “If the sheriff ’s upriver, it’ll take him two hours to get here.”
But lately, Big Jim’s tales are tinged with sadness.
Last month, he returned to his beloved bar after a massive heart attack that left him bedridden for more than a year.
During his surgery, he says, doctors found a slug he’d carried in his gut since 1967, when he stepped in front of a bullet intended for Robbins inside a Spokane honky-tonk.
In all, Big Jim says, he’s been shot twice, stabbed three times and lost the use of his left eye when hit with a shovel while protecting Robbins in another honky-tonk fracas. Since his heart attack, he’s hung up his guns, but he still tells the old stories again and again to waitresses and teetering barflies.
The heart attack moved the Covina, Calif., native to take charge of his failing health. He lost half his weight, dropping to 274 pounds.
Even though he’s feeling better, Big Jim and his Cowboy Bar still face a passel of problems.
His surgery racked up mammoth medical bills. Outside the bar, along with a life-size wooden cigar-store cowboy, and a painted ad touting “whiskey and ribs,” now hangs a large for-sale sign.
Big Jim worries he’ll soon roll outside for the last time as Cowboy Bar owner.
“Hell, no,” he says when asked if he wants to sell. “This place is my life.”
But his wife, Sharron, is weary of working seven days a week in the kitchen. She wants to sell so the couple can pay their debt and start a new life.
Several possible buyers have contacted Sharron and the couple’s daughter-in-law, whose names are now on the deed. “If somebody walks in here with cold hard cash, those two ladies are going to take it,” Big Jim frowns. “If I don’t agree, I’m going to be very unpopular with the woman I love.”
Still, he knows he’s not the first character to suffer heartache in this former frontier town of 327 hardy residents in northwest Wyoming.
In its heyday, Meeteetse, named from combined Crow and Shoshone phrases, had seven saloons, 11 brothels, three newspapers and three banks — a stopover point for adventurers headed to the Montana gold fields. Native Americans pronounced it “Meh-teh-say,” but locals said “Meh-TEET-see” because they thought it sounded Italian and might attract settlers from the East.
At least that’s how Big Jim tells it.
The Cowboy Bar long attracted a rowdy clientele of law-dodgers, varmints and vagabonds. Big Jim passed through here in the late 1960s while on tour with Robbins and his band. In 1992, he landed here again. Bored with L.A., he had hit the road, revisiting his old haunts with Robbins, and ended up standing outside the Cowboy Bar.
Spying a for-sale sign out front, he offered to buy the place — without even knowing the asking price of $80,000. Next door, he later opened the Outlaw Parlor Cafe at the site of an old livery stable.
Even today, his bar attracts a colorful crowd, their cowboy hats pulled low over their eyes. Like the brothers called Cotton and Cactus, the latter who named his three children Skeeter, Skye and Scobie. One night, a drinker jokes that she wants to file a complaint about the bar.
“The forms are in the second door to the right,” he says. “Rolls of little white paper on the wall.”
In 2010, Tracy Province, an escaped killer from an Arizona prison, walked in and took a seat among Big Jim and his boys.
Big Jim is also a writer and has chronicled the region in 28 books. He opens one of his books and reads his fictional account of real Meeteetse resident, Grasshopper Bill Stark: The old man takes a melancholy draw of whiskey, shoots out the streetlight with his .45 and sits dreaming of an old flame, still smelling her hair, before passing away in the darkness of his hotel room.
It’s a fitting tale of a man who went out on his own terms. When he’s done reading, Big Jim’s voice is choked and his eyes are wet. john.glionna@latimes.com ?
–By JOHN M. GLIONNA
LATimes
SOON TO BE FEATURED IN AMERICAN IRON--Rudy’s rad Road King, yesterday’s catch, Orange,California.2004 Road King, 1st spotted by your eagle-eyed reporter at Moon Eyes.Onward to American Iron with it…
The photography will be handled by Bikernet’s Feature Certified Photographer, Markus Cuff. Watch for it.
BOARD TRACK BIKES RETURN–20th Century Racing presented a 1920s Class A Board Track Era Racing Exhibition in Sturgis this week Featuring Antique Motorcycle Racer Miss Brittney Olsen.
Last year during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, renowned antique motorcycle racer and South Dakota native, Brittney Olsen of 20th Century Racing raced her 1923 Harley-Davidson, the oldest competitive motorcycle in Sturgis at the inaugural Pappy Hoel Half Mile Classic vintage races and won first place. Now, Brittney is returning to the historical Sturgis half mile to defend her title against seven of the world’s best antique motorcycle racers like four time board track class champion Michael Lange, from Big Bend, Wisconsin and the Merten Brothers. Other racers include Korey Postitnik, Kris Thompson and returning to Sturgis is ten time board track class champ, Jim Wall, who is racing the fastest Indian Motorcycle in Sturgis with his 87 year old, 1928 Indian!
Here’s what happened this week:
Tues. Aug. 4th at 10 A.M. Pappy Hoel Vintage Half Mile Classic 1802 Ballpark Road, Sturgis, SD
Tues. Aug. 4th at 5 P.M. Black Hills Half Mile Pro AMA Flat Track Black Hills Speedway Rapid City, SD
Wed. Aug.5th at 10 A.M. Pappy Hoel Pro Half Mile Classic 1802 Ballpark Road, Sturgis, SD
Thurs.Aug.6th at 6 P.M. Harley-Davidson Hooligan Flat Track Races 1802 Ballpark Road, Sturgis, SD
These antique races bike may look small and similar to the bicycles you rode as kids, but they can reach speeds in excess of 70 miles per hour on a half mile track without brakes, clutches or transmissions. All it takes is a simple push to start their engines and they are off.
“Watching these primitive machines really brings back the bygone mechanical era, where Harley and Indian would duke it out every race at the old wooden tracks. Just seeing them run today on a track is a spectacle in its self, most bikes like these are held in museums, only to be viewed from a distance!”
After the races, fans are invited to come down to meet the 20th Century Racing antique motorcycle racers for autographed posters and see their antiquated board track racing motorcycles up close!
BOARD TRACK CLASS RULES – TEENS THRU 1928
1. No brakes
2. Rolling starts
3. No transmission, gearbox or clutch
4. Wheels & Tires: 28 x 2 1/4 ribbed racing tires on clincher rims or 28 x 3 tires on clincher rims or 21 x 3 Avon-style ribbon Speed Master tires on 21 inch drop-center rims. Button tread or Non-Skid clincher tires can also be used.
5. Handlebars must drop below the horizontal plane of the motorcycle.
BOARD TRACK CLASS RACERS COMPETING AT THE BLACK HILLS PRO HALF MILE EXHIBITION ON AUGUST 4TH, 2015
BRITTNEY OLSEN #13 – ABERDEEN, SOUTH DAKOTA
1923 HARLEY-DAVIDSON J MODEL – 68 CUBIC INCH MOTOR 1100CC
2014 PAPPY HOEL CLASSIC HALF MILE BOARD TRACK CLASS CHAMPION
—
JIM WALL #33 – ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO
1928 INDIAN CHIEF – 74 CUBIC INCHES MOTOR 1200CC
10 TIME BOARD TRACK CLASS CHAMPION
—
MIKE LANGE #21X – BIG BEND, WISCONSIN
1921 HARLEY-DAVIDSON TWINCAM ML SPECIAL – 68 CUBIC INCH MOTOR 1100CC
4 TIME BOARD TRACK CLASS CHAMPION
—
KRIS THOMPSON #58 – LINCOLN, NEBRASKA
1923 HARLEY-DAVIDSON J MODEL – 68 CUBIC INCHES 1100 CC
—
KORY POSTOTNIK #74 – MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN
1924 HARLEY-DAVIDSON JDCA – 74 CUBIC INCHES 1200CC
—
KURT MERTENS #26 – COLBY, WISCONSIN
1926 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FHAC TWINCAM –61 CUBIC INCHES 1000CC
—
JONNY MERTENS #23 – TRIPOLI, WISCONSIN
1924 HARLEY-DAVIDSON JDCA – 74 CUBIC INCHES 1200CC
If you would like more information about 20th Century Racing, please visit www.20thcenturyracing.com or contact Brittney Olsen via email at 20thcenturyracing@gmail.com.
# # #
20th Century Racing sets their sights high and aim to preserve the magnificent history of early motorcycle racing by generating excitement, gaining interest and educating current and future motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world, through their antique motorcycle racing adventures!
SALT TORPEDO CONCEPT DRAWING– Hey hey!! The Atomic Team wasn’t able to make Sturgis, I wish we could have though! I have other pinstripers and paint friends out there and they made a killing!
We are however on course to get to OC bike week. Got our hotel booked and Jeff has the itinerary all laid out. We have been quite busy here at the compound! Lot of paint work mostly, and if you would like to add a new tidbit. I have found my way back into the airbrush world. As I get time I’ll have some good airbrush and hand painted helmets.
–Mr. Atomic
We will bring you the report on the new Atomic Salt Torpedo monster concept drawing in the very near future. In addition, we will cover some of Mr. Atomic’s hand painted leather art to be available for 5-Ball Racing Leathers ™. Hang On!
–Bandit
JUST BONES FROM PAUGHCO–
Lookin’ for something a little edgy to set your bike apart from the crowd? These very cool Yankee Engineuity “BONES” hand levers from Paughco will do the trick.
Cast from heat treated aircraft quality aluminum, each lever is shaped to be as comfortable to grip as they are eye catching. Currently Paughco is offering BONES levers in matching sets for all 1965 through 2006 Bagger, Sportster and Big Twin models. They are direct replacement for the stock levers and many found on custom machines using the same fitment dimensions.
Levers go for $114.95 individually and $228.95 per set. Before ordering make sure you call 775-246-5738 or go to www.paughco.com and get the proper part number for your year and model machine.
SOMETHING COMING FROM CHICA– Throwback Thurs– Chica’s 2 Face! This bike is soon to be featured in Cycle Source Magazine. Hang on!
–Markus Cuff
Certified Bikernet Feature Photographer
[page break]
STURGIS DRAG RACING NEWS—Mike Bahnmaier just won first and third place at the Sturgis Drag Races. Here’s a report from CycleDrag.com.
Freddie Robbins Wins Top Fuel at Amsoil WMDRA Sturgis Nationals
When Mike Bahnmaier Racing Team’s pulls into a track, they’re there to make a statement. This powerhouse team brought five Nitro bikes for their 2014 trip to Sturgis for the Amsoil WMDRA Nationals.
Bahnmaier’s team started as it has for almost a decade with a visit to the Ft. Meade VA Hospital on August 4th. In past years Verl “Smitty” Smith organized a display drag bikes, but this year Jody Dukelow took the reigns as Smith was unable to attend. It is quite rewarding to be the group who has been visiting the facility since 1998, but other groups have picked up the cause with a local group providing a barbeque for the Vets and Jay Allen of Easyrider providing a ride in bike show later in the week.
This year the team played bingo with the veterans who won many nice prizes. Mary Lou Brewton served as bingo caller and team members participating were Mike Bahnmaier, Freddie Robbins, Drew Moldenhauer, Bill Hendren, Billy Hendren, Chuck & Linda Bowen , Greg Janosik and Jody Dukelow.
The first day of racing, August 5th was rained out after only one test session with the next day scrambling to catch up.
Bahnmaier’s team includes; Team Owner: Mike Bahnmaier; Crew: Jody Dukelow, Drew Moldenhauer, Doug Davis; Riders: Mike Bahnmaier, Freddie Robbins, Bill Hendren & Billy Hendren
In the wrap up below, you can visualize the dominance of this multi bike effort.
A new feature of the Amsoil WMDRA Sturgis Nationals was the presentation of Grand Marshall’s. Pete Hill, 1st winner of the Sturgis Nationals racing the coolest, fastest Nitro Knucklehead; Marion Owens, King of the Doubles; and Bonnie Truett who had only hours before had been inducted in the National Motorcycle Hall of Fame were trackside for autographs and photo ops. Even the most jaded of drag race fans lined up for a picture of the kings of Nitro. The icing on the cake was Mike having his picture taken with racing legends Bonnie Truett, Marion Owens, and Pete Hill.
Freddie Robbins
Freddie Robbins
Top Fuel Qualifying
#1 Mike Bahnmaier
#2 Freddie Robbins
Pro Drag Qualifying
#1 Dave Larson
#2 Billy Hendren
#3 Mike Bahnmaier
#4 Kirsten Heling
#5 Bill Hendren
#6 Howard Wiggins
Top Fuel
Round 1 – Mike Bahnmaier – Bye
Semi-Finals – Mike Bahnmaier def. Doc Hopkins
Finals – Freddie Robbins def. Mike Bahnmaier
Pro Drag
Round 1 – Billy Hendren def. Bill Hendren
Semi-Finals – Billy Hendren def. Kirsten Heling
Finals – Billy Hendren def. Dave Larson
— Published on August 26, 2014 by Mary Lou Brewton
JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK– JIMS No. 944 Ignition Switch Housing Alignment Tool .
If you have ever used JIMS® No. 943 Ignition Switch Alignment Tool for 2003-2013 FLH models, you know how useful it is when working on the ignition switch and knob.
Harley changed the parts in 2014, so JIMS now offers one for the late knob/switch assembly. JIMS No. 944 will align the parts in the ignition switch if they become misaligned and is handy any time the knob is removed.
JIMS No. 944 retails for $109.50. It has JIMS lifetime tool warranty and is made in USA. For more info, contact sales@jimsusa.com, visit us on the web at www.jimsusa.com, or call (805) 482-6913.
–Kirk
Obamacare research institute plans to spend $3.5 billion, but critics question its worth–
PCORI projects are meant to help patients, but do awards to medical societies and the health insurance industry accomplish that goal?
On the 9th floor of a glassy high rise in downtown Washington, partitions are coming down to make more room for workers handing out billions of dollars in Obamacare-funded research awards.
Business has been brisk at the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute or, PCORI, as it is known. The institute was created by Congress under the Affordable Care Act to figure out what medical treatments work best — measures largely AWOL from the nation’s health care delivery system.
Since 2012, PCORI has committed just over $1 billion to 591 “comparative effectiveness” contracts to find some answers, with much more spending to come. Money has thus far gone to researchers and medical schools, advocacy groups and even the insurance industry’s lobbying group, which snagged $500,000.
Institute officials say they are reshaping medical research by stressing “patient centered” projects that offer practical guidance to people living with chronic diseases. They cite a $14 million study to settle the debate over how much aspirin people should take daily to help ward off heart disease, or the $30 million project to reduce serious, even deadly, injuries from falls in the elderly.
But like all matters rooted in Obamacare, there are sharp disagreements — both political and scientific — over the core mission of the independent institute. PCORI expects to spend $3.5 billion by the end of the decade. Then it expires.
On both the right and the left, there’s simmering doubt about whether the unusual nonprofit can live up to expectations, or even what those expectations should reasonably be. Others argue these sorts of decisions should have been made prior to committing up to $3.5 billion.
By Fred Schulte
Center for Public Integrity
BUCKLEGUY.COM now stocks PVD Black Matte watch hardware!– We are experimenting with new matte black watch strap hardware. These new pieces are finished in PVD Matte Black. PVD is the method in which the pieces are plated.
PVD plating is one of the strongest plating processes achievable and highly scratch resistant. It is used on golf clubs, stainless steel watch buckles, and other high value items.
As many of you already know, our main business is custom hardware manufacturing. If you like this PVD Matte Black finish or any other finish, and would like it on our other solid brass hardware please get in touch! For custom hardware the order minimums typically start at 1,000 pieces.
–The Buckleguy Team
SKWOOSH SHEEPSKIN GEL PADS – LIGHTWEIGHT, COOL, PLUSH AND COMFORTABLE– Plush sheepskin wool and fluidized gel in SKWOOSH™ pads relieve pressure, dampen vibrations and keep riders comfortable regardless of weather.
The wool fiber in the natural sheepskin gel pad is soft, plush and resilient. It’s nature’s thermostat so it’s comfortable in any weather. SKWOOSH™ gel relieves pressure and dampens vibration for a smoother ride. SKWOOSH™ comes in three sizes. The XL Touring model is 16½” wide, 12½” long and tapers to 9½” fits most touring bikes; the Mid-Size is 13” wide, 11” long and tapers to 8” in the front and fits passenger seats, metrics and sport bikes; and the classic passenger pillion is 8¾” wide and 11” long.
SKWOOSH™ gel pads fit every budget and are priced from $49.99 to $114.99. They are available around the world at bike shops, parts stores, on the web and through catalogue distributors. Visit us online at www.skwoosh.com for the latest in gel cushions for watersports, motorcycle, auto/truck, travel convenience, wellness and stadium comfort.
SKWOOSH™ is a USA manufacturer and a leader in medically proven, lightweight gel applications that relieve pressure, maintain circulation and reduce spinal compression.
For information, catalogs and specifications visit www.skwoosh.com; email info@skwoosh.com; or call Katie Myers at 978-689-0500 Ext.26
SKWOOSH™ gel is covered by one or more US Patents.
BO HUFF has passed away–
He was like an older brother to me and an incredible customizer.
He will be seriously missed.
Heaven will never be the same…
–Geno
Delux Magazine
More stopping power to US dealers – SBS Brakes opens US office.
After seeing significant growth in the North American market throughout 2014 and the start of 2015, SBS is upgrading its presence in the US powersports market.
The Scandinavian based manufacturer is proud to announce the addition of Mr. Chris Jensen as SBS Brand Manager for the USA. He will be touring the country to support dealers, reps and SBS partners alike in growing our common business and raise the overall awareness of these great products and trusted performance brand.
Chris comes from a position with Erik Buell Racing where he was working on supporting EBR dealers worldwide. Before joining EBR, Chris used to run his own performance parts shop and is recognized for his many years in the powersports industry, working for performance leaders like Pirelli, Öhlins and SBS.
SBS Sales Director, Ms. Christel M. Pedersen states: “It is of the utmost importance for us, that our business partners throughout North America feel that SBS delivers on all our promises and we are therefore very happy with this solution where a strong cooperation between the dedicated SBS HQ and Production team in Denmark and a US based solution with Chris as SBS brand Manager”.
Based in the Chicago area, SBS believe that Chris will bring an even higher value to its American customers and partners, through a closer and stronger market presence. This means any SBS dealer or SBS distributor can benefit from Chris’ many years and experience in the business and as a rider himself, as he will be available for event support, product and training seminars and other support activities.
Chris Jensen is available on our new toll-free number 888-268 1119 and through usa-support@sbs.dk
BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY STILL OPEN–
“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history, when everybody stands around reloading”
–Thomas Jefferson
A tour bus driver is driving with a bus load of seniors down a highway when he is tapped on his shoulder by a little old lady. She offers him a handful of peanuts, which he gratefully munches up. After about 15 minutes, she taps him on his shoulder again, and she hands him another handful of peanuts.
She repeats this gesture about five more times… When she is about to hand him another batch again, he asks the little old lady, ” Why don’t you eat the peanuts yourself?”.
“We can’t chew them because we’ve no teeth,” she replied.
The puzzled driver asks, “Why do you buy them then?”
The old lady replied, “We just love the chocolate around them.”
–from Jerry and Rogue
STURGIS METALSPORT DEAL OF THE WEEK–
LET’S CELEBRATE STURGIS 76TH WITH A SUPER DEAL
21″ WHEELS IN STOCK
Here is what we have left to choose from
they are going fast, more sold only a few remaining, don’t pass this deal up.
call for special pricing
FLATHEAD 2-D 21X3 CHROME
FLATHEAD 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
IMPERIAL 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT SHOW POLISHED
CLEAN 5 2-D 21X3 BLACK W/2nd CUT
LOCASH 2-D 21X3 ALL BLACK
Metalsport Wheels
10112 Miller Way
South Gate, CA 90280
P# 562-7769594
F# 562-7769635
www.metalsportwheels.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY BUSINESS CLASS—The good doctor is revamping and expanding his business and taking a course on training and growth. The instructors pointed out various classes of associates. There are the willing to learn, to help and to grow. You need lots of them on your team. There’s the Wholy Shiftless who don’t do anything except pull the team down and spread bad vibes. Recognize them as quickly as possible and get rid of them. And then there are the covert negatives. They like the idea, but… There’s always a “but.”
These folks can change to the willing class with the correct training, but if they don’t come around quick, they must go.
–Professor Wrench
HOW TO GET SAND OFF AFTER A BEACH DAY—Shake out your hair and scratch your scalp, then brush through the strands with a fine-tooth comb. If shampooing doesn’t remove the remaining sand, generously spread baby powder onto your dry hair, massage it into your scalp, and shampoo again.
Baby powder works its magic on skin, even if you’re wet. Just rub it on and brush it off. The sand will fall off.
Never use Q-tips in your ears. They will push grains deeper into your ear. Instead, tilt your head to the side and shake it while pulling your ear up and back. If you experience pain see a doctor.
Never try rubbing sand from your eye, because it can scratch the cornea. Instead, use water and a small cup to flush the eye. While holding the cup over the eye, look from side to side.
–from the Week Magazine
–source Goodhousekeeping.com
KLOCK WERKS RAFFLE BIKES, Helping with Horsepower at Klock Werks Kustom–This year’s Helping with Horsepower motorcycles were unveiled Thursday evening at Klock Werks Kustom Cycles in Mitchell during the business’ Pre-Sturgis Party.
Laura Klock, at left, spoke to the crowd gathered at her family’s business about this year’s Helping with Horsepower Motorcycle Rebuild project, which included two motorcycles for the first time. It’s the fourth year of the project, where Abbott House girls repair and rebuild motorcycles.
This year’s motorcycles, named “Second Chances,” are a 2000 and 2004 Harley-Davidson Sportster and will be raffled off in October. Tickets are on sale now and are six for $100 or one for $20. They are available at Klock Werks, County Fair Food Store, County Fair Food & Fuel, Graham’s Mobil, Highland Travel Plaza, J&L Harley-Davidson in Sioux Falls and the Abbott House’s website at www.abbotthouse.org.
The winner gets both motorcycles. The ninth annual Pre-Sturgis party also included free food, drinks and live music.
–By Candy DenOuden
–from Rogue
Bikernet Senior Editor 
THE POPE OFFERING A PRAYER…!!! ??? The photograph of the day. Is it real?
–from Billy Tinney
BOBBY FONG HEADS TO INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY
AFTER FIRST CAREER POLE AT LAGUNA SECA– Round eight of the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship moves to Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Ind. as MotoAmerica joins the international stars of MotoGP this weekend, August 7 – 9.
Bobby Fong comes into the weekend hungry for a win after riding the #50 Latus Motors Racing / Castrol / Triumph Daytona 675R to his first career pole during the last round of the championship at Laguna Seca. Currently sitting sixth in the Supersport point standings, Fong knows he has what it takes to get his first win after a season of running up front.
“Getting my first ever pole, especially at my home track, was amazing, but its time for me to get a win,” said Bobby Fong. “The Latus Motors Racing / Castrol / Triumph Daytona 675R has been running great the past few races and it’s always exciting to race in front of the MotoGP racers and crowd. Hopefully that will translate to another great result.”
As part of VETMotorsports outreach initiative, Sgt. Chad C. has been hired for the entirety of the MotoAmerica season as a crew member of the Latus Motors Racing team. Through Castrol’s VETMotorsports Performance Match Fund, the on-track performance of Triumph teams in both AMA Pro Flat Track and MotoAmerica competition has earned VETMotorsports $6,375 in bonuses thus far this season.
Fans can stream the MotoAmerica Supersport race live online, free of charge, through www.MotoAmerica.com
To see the full range of Triumph motorcycles, visit www.TriumphMotorcycles.com
POLITICAL CONTROVERSY OF THE WEEK–Limits unclear on new political party ‘slush funds’
Inaction by election cops gives Dems and Republicans free rein on spending.
The Democratic and Republican parties certainly don’t agree on how to run the country, but they are in sync when it comes to capitalizing on a new law letting them raise eight times as much money from rich donors than before.
The new money technically must be used only for specific purposes, such as legal expenses and improvements to party headquarters. The limits are, however, murkier than they seem, with some lawyers saying the money could legally pay for some election-related costs such as opposition research and data mining.
And the Federal Election Commission, tasked with regulating and enforcing federal campaign finance laws, is at an impasse over whether and how to issue rules governing the new party accounts. As a result, decisions about spending the money are pretty much up to the parties and their lawyers.
“The parties will do what they always do, which is use these new accounts as slush funds to pay for anything they feel like paying for that they can possibly get away with arguing falls within the meager constraints of the plain language of the statute,” said Paul Ryan, senior counsel for the Campaign Legal Center, a nonpartisan campaign finance reform group.
The ‘cromnibus’
Their opportunity comes thanks to a December stocking-stuffer from Congress: higher contribution limits via a series of new accounts, jammed through as part of a must-pass appropriations bill.
The language on limits was on page 1,599 of a 1,603-page spending bill widely known as the “cromnibus.” The new law allows parties to accept more than $800,000 per person per year, compared to $97,200 under the old limits.
The catch: the increased contributions go into special accounts that pay for expenses related to presidential nominating conventions, election recounts and “other legal proceedings,” and “the construction, purchase, renovation, operation and furnishing of one or more headquarters buildings.”
The accounts give parties the ability to take six-figure contributions, easing restrictions they’ve chafed at since reform legislation in 2002 curtailed their fundraising ability.
“There’s a bipartisan agreement among … party leaders that they would like more money,” said Michael Malbin, head of the nonpartisan Campaign Finance Institute. “That’s not surprising. And it’s certainly easier to get that money quickly by going to large donors.”
The funds were especially important given the Supreme Court’s 2010 decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. The decision opened the floodgates for unlimited money given through super PACs and nonprofits, threatening the parties’ relevance.
Republicans, especially, have been aggressively raising cash through these new accounts — more than $16 million so far this year compared to about $1.7 million for Democrats, according to a Center for Public Integrity review of federal campaign finance filings.
Expect a lot more in coming months.
The impact of the higher limits will inevitably be more money made available for expenses directly related to elections. Republicans have used money from the convention and headquarters accounts, for instance, to cover some staff salary and benefit expenses — money that would have previously come from general funds.
By Carrie Levine
Center for Public Integrity
[page break]
MOTORCYCLES AS ART EXHIBIT BY MICHAEL LICHTER–I look forward to seeing Michael’s Motorcycles As Art show every time I come to Sturgis. It is held at the Russ Brown Events Center next to the East Gate of the Buffalo Chip Campground and open to the public at no charge.
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This years event was named “NAKED TRUTH – 35 Customs – 35 Years – Motorcycles Exposed”. This being different than many of the other shows because all of the motorcycles were Naked meaning they did not have any paint or graphics on them.
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THE BUILDERS ARE
Aki Sakamoto – Hog Killers; Hawaiian Gardens, CA
Alan Stulberg – Revival Cycles; Austin, TX
Ben Jordan – Jordan Designs; Waxhaw, NC
Bill Dodge – Bling’s Cycles; Daytona Beach, FL
Bill Rodencal – Harley-Davidson Museum; Milwauke, WI
Billy Lane – Choppers Inc; Daytona Beach, FL
Brian Klock – Klockwerks; Mitchell, SD
Bryan Fuller – Fuller Moto; Atlanta, GA
Cristian Sosa – Sosa Metalworks; Las Vegas, NVB
Dale Yamada – Mad Jap Kustoms; Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Dalton Walker – Split Image Kustoms; Hanford, CA
Dan “Bacon” Carr – DC Chopper; Austin, TX
Hunter Klee – Vance and Hines; Santa Fe Springs, CA
Jeff Cochran – Speedking Racing; West Harrison, IN
Jeff Wright – Church Of Choppers; Des Moines, IA
Jeremy Cupp – LC Fabrications; Mt Crawford, VA
John Stein – Stage Fright drag racer; Pacific Palisades, CA
Jordan Dickinson – Union Speed And Style; Monticello, MN
Kaichiroh Kurosu – Cherry’s Company; Tokyo, Japan
Ken “Kenji” Nagai – Ken’s Factory; Nagoya, Japan
Kenny Cummings – NYC Norton; New Jersey City, NJ
Kevin Dunworth – Loaded Gun Customs; Selbyville, DE
Kyle Shorey – Shade Tree Fabrications; Roanoke, TX
Lock Baker – Eastern Fabrications; Los Angeles, CA
Matt Olsen – Carl’s Cycle; Aberdeen, SD
Max Hazan – Hazan Motorworks; Venice, CA
Nate Jacobs – Harlot Cycles; Murfreesboro, TN
Pat Patterson – Led Sled Customs; Daytona, OH
Paul Cavalo – American Made Motorcycles; Fontana, CA
Paul Cox – Paul Cox Industries; Brooklyn, NY
Paul Yaffe – Paul Yaffe Originals; Phoenix, AZ
Rick Bray – RKB Kustom Speed; Fresno, CA
Roland Sands – RSD Design; Los Alamitos, CA
Shinya Kimura – Chabott Engineering; Azusa, CA
Tim Harney -Tim Harney Motorcycles; Brooklyn, NY
Will Ramsey – Faith Forgotten Choppers; New Albany, IN
–from Rogue
Watch for the full report from Rogue on Bikernet in a couple of days.–Bandit
TAKE A MOMENT, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–R.I.P. Richie Pan
http://www.bikernetbaggers.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=12968
I knew Richie only through reading The Horse Magazine but met him briefly at this last Smokeout (my first).
He was sitting in front of his tent having a conversation with someone. Not really wanting to interrupt, I walked up and said simply “I know you” and shook his hand.
Not knowing what else to say but “Have a great day” I walked on my way and let him return to his conversation. Sadly it was his last day, and I will never know what I have missed by not talking with him more.
My deepest most sincere sympathy go to his wife & sons and those who knew him best.
–PHIL P
phpum79@yahoo.com
Poquoson, VA
GARAGE COMPANY BIKE TO BE FEATURED IN CYCLE SOURCE– Yoshi & his grey Pan at the beach yesterday. There will be no speedometer shots, and no mirror shots. There was no license plate. Didn’t see any turn signals– call the cops!…upcoming in Cycle Source.
–Markus Cuff
SHOCKSTRAP Introduces Revolutionary 10-foot
Tie Downs for Your Toys that Don’t Stretch–
ShockStraps is proud to add their new 10-foot ShockStraps to their product line up. ShockStraps are a unique shock absorbing tie down that incorporates three of the most versatile tie down principals into one superior system. It is quick and easy like a motorcycle tie down, has the reliability of a ratchet system and versatility of a shock cord.
SHOCK ABSORBING STRONG TIE DOWN
We incorporate a ShockStrap that when stretched maintains tension on the webbing, locking it into the buckle. When road vibrations cause loads to shift and settle, other tie downs can loosen and become unsafe. Under these conditions, our ShockStrap stretches acting like a shock absorber and contracts with the load keeping it secure.
SHOCKSTRAP FEATURES:
Dependable – ShockStraps provides superior shock absorption without coming loose
Durable – The ShockStrap is made from our own formula and is not affected by most chemicals, sunlight, oil, salt water, fungus and moisture
Rust Resistant – Hooks and buckle are yellow zinc coated, which lasts 8 to 10 times
longer than powder coated metal
Wider Hook Openings – Hooks have wider opening to allow for more connection options
Shock Absorber Qualities – You never have to worry about checking your tie downs every 30-60 miles you travel like other tie downs.
Available in an assortment of colors in 6′, 10′ and 19′ Lengths for your BIG Toys! To order call: 888-334-3456 or shop online at www.shockstrap.com or email sales@shockstrap.com.?
Visit Our Website…Click Here!
THE REAL REASON THERE ARE MORE COPS IN STURGIS–Police seize $10,000 more in cash during Sturgis this year.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol says authorities have seized over $10,000 more in cash this year compared to last year’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
The Department of Public said Wednesday that authorities in western South Dakota have seized over $17,600 in cash since July 28, the majority of which was in Sturgis. Last year at this time authorities had taken approximately $7,300.
Authorities have also had 17 more felony drug arrests and issued over 200 more citations compared to last year.
The only category in which officials have seen fewer crimes is DUI arrests. So far, law enforcement officers have made 134 DUI arrests, compared to 138 last year.
–from Rogue
LUCAS NEWS: Top Chemist Greg Hewgill joins Lucas Oil– Greg Hewgill has joined Lucas Oil Products, Inc as Technical Director it was announced today by Lucas Oil COO, Tom Fredrickson. “Greg has a wealth of experience in the science of oil products technology,” said Fredrickson. “We look forward to him playing a key part in the development of Lucas Oil products as we continue to expand into new markets around the globe.”
Hewgill began his in-depth oil industry career soon after leaving Cal State Fullerton, Ca where he studied science. His first full time in the oil industry was with Union Oil (later Unocal) Research Center in Brea, Ca, as part of a team, developing, testing and implementing new technologies in the area of well stimulation. After 15 years with Unocal, he opted to stay in California when they closed the research center and transferred the rest of the group to Houston, TX.
In 1997 Hewgill went to work at Wynn Oil as an industrial chemist working primarily in metal working fluids before transferring to automotive aftermarket research with the title of ‘Sr. Chemist and Lab Manager’. During his time at Wynn’s, Hewgill helped develop new products in every area of automotive fluids including engine oil, ATF, power steering fluids, gear oils and coolants.
Hewgill was born and raised just outside Ontario, Canada, but moved with his family to Anaheim, Ca when he was five. He is married with three children. He will be based at Lucas Oil’s worldwide headquarters in Corona, Ca.
NEW FROM KURYAKIN, Top Dash Accent for ’14-’15 Indian Chieftain & Roadmaster–Carry the classic lines and styling found on the outer Indian Fairing into the cockpit with this easy-to-install Top Dash Accent.
Made from lightweight chrome-plated ABS, the accent incorporates the same raised center and grooved scallop features found above the OEM headlamp housing.
A simple peel-and-stick application also creates the perfect complement to the stock gauge cluster trim.
•Top Dash Accent for Indian Chieftain & Roadmaster (P/N 5631) MSRP: $59.99 http://www.kuryakyn.com/products/4922/top-dash-accent
GUN NUT ALERT–California: The NRA Reaches Out to the New California Fish and Game Commissioners On Behalf of Hunters.
On June 18, 2015, California Governor Jerry Brown appointed two new members to the California Fish and Game Commission. Newly appointed Commissioners Eric Sklar and Anthony Williams will replace former Commissioners Michael Sutton and Richard Rogers, both of whom resided on the Commission despite well exceeding their official term limits.
Commissioner Williams comes from Huntington Beach, California. He was formerly director of government relations at the Boeing Company, and served as policy director and counsel to California Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg from 2010 to 2014. Commissioner Sklar comes from St. Helena, California. He is a former Napa Valley vineyard owner who served on the St. Helena City Council from 2003 to 2010.
Following their appointments, the NRA and its California affiliate, the California Rifle and Pistol Association (CRPA), sent the new Commissioners a letter welcoming them to their new positions and calling to their attention three petitions that NRA and CRPA currently have pending before the Commission.
The first petition, requests the Commission amend certain regulatory provisions to address shortcomings with the current Conflict of Interest Code. Specifically, the petition seeks to have the entire Conflict of Interest Code published in the California Code of Regulations to allow the public easy access and give it the force of law. The petition also seeks to require that Commissioners disclose any potential conflicts of interest, including funds coming from non-profit organizations, because the law does not clearly require as much currently.
The second petition requests the Commission adopt protocols and procedures governing its Wildlife Resources Committee (WRC) meetings. As the petition explains, without formal guidelines for those meetings, many stakeholders are left uninformed. Previously, this allowed anti-hunting groups to take advantage of the chaos and push their agendas through the WRC with little opposition. While that is hopefully not a danger with two new Commissioners in place, it is best for all to have formal procedures in place for meetings discussing matters of such great public importance.
The most recent petition requests the Commission adopt formal regulations requiring Commission representatives to conduct business with all stakeholders or official Commission matters via government-issued communication means only. The petition seeks to avoid the difficult legal and practical questions that arise when public officials use personal communication platforms (e.g. personal email and cell phones) to discuss government business. The NRA and CRPA believe this petition if acted upon favorably, will help avoid the exclusion of any stakeholder group, allowing interested members of the public full access to the information being contemplated during the regulatory process.
As the letter explains, the NRA and CRPA believe that should the Commission adopt the actions requested in these petitions, it will help usher in a new and needed environment of trust between the Commission and the public that will allow the Commission to focus on matters of importance rather than political sideshows.
FROM WOMEN RIDERS NOW, How To Ride Your Street Motorcycle in Gravel–Tips for riding in reduced traction situations
At some point in your street motorcycling life you’ll find yourself faced with riding in gravel. Roadside pullouts that are not paved and road construction are the two most common scenarios where you’ll encounter loose rocks and/or dirt and sand.
Another common gravel scenario (one where you could kick yourself for not asking about ahead of time) happens when you’ve arrived at that cute B&B or lodge where you had planned to stay only to be faced with a long, deep gravel driveway.
Gravel happens. Street motorcyclists rarely choose to ride in gravel. You can choose to turn around, but that’s not always an option. You need to be able to get through it in one piece. (Experienced rider tip: when making lodging reservations, always ask if there is any gravel on which you must travel to get there.)
How to ride your street motorcycle in gravel riding
Seasoned motorcycle riders know that riding in gravel is inevitable. So learning to be comfortable riding through it is part of becoming a better rider.
Whether it’s gravel, dirt, sand, grass, or any slick surface, the same rules apply. You want to minimize the motorcycle’s lean and abstain from any sudden input such as braking, accelerating, or swerving.
I’ll say it again:
Minimize the motorcycle’s lean and abstain from any sudden input such as braking, accelerating, or swerving.
For the whole story slip over to WRN:
http://www.womenridersnow.com/pages/how_to_ride_your_street_motorcycle_in_gravel.aspx?utm_campaign=8%2F4%2F15%20NL&utm_source=Robly.com&utm_medium=email
By Tricia Szulewski, MSF RiderCoach
The Spanish edition is available now.
–Senor Pelota
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON FOR THE DAY—Argonaut; AHR-guh-nawt, -not
noun
1. (sometimes initial capital letter) a person in quest of something dangerous but rewarding; adventurer.
2. (initial capital letter) Classical Mythology. a member of the band of men who sailed to Colchis with Jason in the ship Argo in search of the Golden Fleece.
Quotes
In that era before we could carry on deep conversations about the virtues of Humboldt Fog versus Pleasant Ridge Reserve cheese, the newsletter was a gourmand’s playground—and an argonaut’s, too. Ari Weinzweig, the author and one of the deli owners, spanned the globe finding unusual and delicious victuals—and the newsletter was packed with culinary stories and histories.
— Michael Paterniti, “An American Man’s Quest to Become an Old Castilian,” New York Times, August 1, 2013
Origin
Argonaut comes from the Greek term Argonaútes meaning “crewman of the ship Argo.” In Greek legend, the argonauts board the Argo, named after its builder, Argus, in pursuit of the Golden Fleece, which is guarded by a dragon that never sleeps. Naûs is the Greek term for “ship.”
HAMSTERS IN THE NEWS, Hamsters USA raises $253,828 for special kids at LifeScape Children’s Services in Rapid City, South Dakota
Hamsters USA kicked off the biggest Sturgis Rally in history by breaking the $2 million mark in total dollars raised for LifeScape Children’s Services in Rapid City. Having raised and donated funds at their annual meeting for the last eleven years, the $253,828 announced on Monday, August 3rd at their annual gathering in Spearfish brought the total to nearly $2.2 million.
Hamsters USA generously supports LifeScape Children’s Services out of a desire to give back to the greater Black Hills community, which many Hamsters consider their second home. Their gifts help provide physical, occupational, and speech therapies, plus psychological services, to children in their Black Hills area homes and communities. LifeScape personnel drive over 10,000 miles a month to provide these services, helping children have the best life possible.
Keith Terry honored with 11th annual Chrome Heart Award
Hamster member Keith Terry received the Chrome Heart Award, presented by LifeScape Children’s Services to honor individuals in the motorcycle world “whose philanthropic support and civic duty represents everything positive in the industry and sport of motorcycling.”
Keith Terry, who along with his wife, Fran, owns the largest supplier of motorcycle starter motors and battery cables in the industry, has been involved in motorcycling since he was 15 years old. The former professional baseball player built his first custom motorcycle in 1994, and more than 20 years later continues to build as well as mentor others in the industry through Buffalo Chip’s Legends Ride Student Build Challenge.
Terry was selected for the 2015 Chrome Heart Award for his commitment to the motorcycle community, his dedication to mentoring youth, and his contributions to making sure the children in the Black Hills area get the healthcare, therapies, and attention they need to be successful.
The inscription on the award read:
For his commitment to the motorcycle community and especially for his dedication
to mentoring youth and providing opportunities for children to succeed, this 2015 Chrome Heart
Mr. Terry, through his leadership and passion for the motorcycles, gives youth the opportunity to be involved in the industry and build valuable life skills along the way. His personal and corporate generosity also makes a difference in giving kids access to the healthcare they need to thrive.
Presented by
LifeScape Children’s Care and Hamsters USA
This 3rd day of August, 2015
Spearfish, South Dakota
LifeScape Children’s Services of Rapid City, SD, is affiliated with LifeScape, based in South Dakota. LifeScape is a private, independent, non-profit organization with a mission to empower children and adults with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. The organization as a whole served over 2,400 children and adults last year.
–Sheri Gunderson
Director of Development
LifeScape Foundation
2011 W. 26th St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
(605) 444-9806
sheri.gunderson@lifescapesd.org
Custom Cycle Control Systems Introduces Newly Engineered Climax Hand Controls– Custom Cycle Control Systems Inc. is proud to introduce their newly engineered “Climax Hand Controls” package. Now for the first time, you can solve the “clean handlebar” dilemma with one complete package.
You supply the bars…we supply the rest. Climax Hidden Hand Control Systems produces by far the cleanest looking “self-contained” handlebar systems available. Designed to function as good as they look, these concealed handlebar systems will enhance the look of any bike, whether H/D, Metric, or Custom.
The hand controls are completely concealed…All the lines, wires, and cables run through the bars and exit below the top tree. CCCS also has five different handlebar styles to choose from, ranging from old school drag bars to Ape Hangers.
Additional features and benefits of a CCCS complete hand control system include:
• 100% internal wires, cables and hoses
• All wires, cables & hoses come extra long so you can “cut to length”
• Hidden brake and clutch fluid reservoirs
• Quick and easy syringe action reservoir filling and bleeding with onboard funnel located inside the grip
• 7 micro switches (maintain all stock control functions plus custom use)
• Controls are designed to work as good as the look
• Convenient push pin accessibility to the internal throttle, and reservoirs (no special tools needed)
• Dual Cable Internal Throttle (easily accessible)
• EZ Pull Throttle Lock
• Custom Handlebars available for any bike
• Multiple Grip Choice – 6 CCCS styles to choose from, or we can also modify grips visit www.accutronix.com or www.xoprodox.com for more grip choices
• Relocate your front marker lights with our extremely bright LED Hand Levers
• Hollow Riser Mount kit- Standard H/D rubber mount bushings w/ hollow riser studs
• Install Kit (includes everything necessary to complete the job…hydraulic fittings, relay, bleeder bolt, fill funnel, throttle cables/ends and ferrules)
• Available in polished show chrome finish or black anodized
• MSRP: $1,899.00
• Made with pride in the USA
For those interested in obtaining more information on other award winning products from Custom Cycle Control Systems, Inc., you can reach them at 866-438-2129 or 702-438-2129. Check them out online at www.customcyclecontrols.com or email them at info@customcyclecontrols.com.
BAGGER DEAL OF THE WEEK—The master’s Road Glide for sale. 2004 FLH, Road Glide – Fuel Injected, 88cc 1450cc – 036890 Mileage – Very clean – no dents. $9,000.00. (310) 429-2233 Rick
THE EXCITEMENT NEVER STOPS—We are hitting the Bagger site hard with techs and Mrs. Shannon’s bagger feature with Samson pipes.
There’s much more coming including the rundown of new bagger products from Kuryakyn. Hang on.
We are covering shit so fast I can’t keep up, but it’s all about the fun, adventures, the romance, the racing, and building wild motorcycles.
We don’t know any different. Have a safe trip home from the Badlands.
Ride free Forever,
–Bandit
