Hey,
My son called last night. He’s a tattoo artists at All Saints in Austin, Texas. He’s been sorta shut down at home in Texas and like so many, started to watch all the weird shit conspiracy theories. I’ve noticed that some of my brothers are getting a little edgy. It’s time we got back to the business of life.
I completely understand the need not to overwhelm our medical industry. And recently the Sturgis Rally discussion surfaced. One report worried that all the decision makers had solely financial cards in play and that the decision might be forced in one direction, to make money off the rally.
I said the players run the gamut from Zero tolerance control freaks to freedom riders, party animals and the money makers. I hope they can find balance. But in the end motorcycling wins. As long as we are riding, we’re safe and free. Just ride through Sturgis and keep going. Ride into the hills of the Badlands. Ride through Yosemite and Zion. Ride through Flagstaff and Monument Valley. Just Ride!
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Most recently Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
INDIAN OF LIBERTYVILLE CLOSES–
Today we are officially announcing the closing of our dealership here in Libertyville. This was not an easy decision to make as each and every one of our customers are like family to us. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve you over the past several years.
Our commitment to servicing our customers will extend beyond this announcement. We will do everything we can to communicate the best possible options for sales and service going forward. Please feel free to call or stop by. We are still complying with local COVID19 business practices.
We will be selling off all remaining inventory of bikes, parts, accessories and apparel until it is gone. Our official closing date is set for May 31, 2020.
Thank you for your friendship, it’s been a lot of fun!
Don and Todd
Indian Motorcycle of Libertyville 847.984.2542
I spoke to one of the owners. This is the chance of a lifetime to buy an Indian under cost and all the apparel is going for a steal. –Bandit
I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT ENJOY A LITTLE CHURCH HUMOR–A minister decided to do something a little different one Sunday morning.
He said “Today, in church, I am going to say a single word and you are going to help me preach. Whatever single word I say, I want you to sing whatever hymn that comes to your mind.”
The pastor shouted out “CROSS.” Immediately the congregation started singing in unison, “THE OLD RUGGED CROSS.”
The pastor hollered out “GRACE.”
The congregation began to sing “AMAZING GRACE, how sweet the sound.”
The pastor said “POWER.”
The congregation sang “THERE IS POWER IN THE BLOOD.”
The Pastor said “SEX”. The congregation fell into total silence. Everyone was in shock. They all nervously began to look around at each other, afraid to say anything.
Then all of a sudden, way from in the back of the church, a little old 87-year-old grandmother stood up and began to sing “PRECIOUS MEMORIES”.
–from Sam
Certified Bikernet Curator
Bandit’s Cantina
HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND BONHAMS AUCTION ONE-OF-ONE LIVEWIRE MOTORCYCLE FOR COVID-19 RELIEF
All proceeds will go to United Way Worldwide’s COVID-19 Community Response & Recovery Fund
Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Bonhams will host an exclusive motorcycle auction with proceeds, excluding taxes and fees, to be donated to United Way Worldwide’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund.
Up for auction is a one-of-one LiveWire motorcycle customized by Harley-Davidson for this moment and accompanied by an exclusive delivery experience. The auction will be held digitally from Tuesday, May 12th, 2020 – Tuesday, May 26th, 2020 by Bonhams to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
“We are all affected by the current situation, and the impact it has on the most at risk portions of society,” said Jon Bekefy, general manager of brand marketing at Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “As a longtime partner of the United Way, and inspired by their continued resilience in this crisis, Harley-Davidson is honored to have a part to play in the relief effort and to inspire our community about the open road ahead.”
In addition to the custom LiveWire motorcycle, the winning bidder and one guest will take part in an exclusive delivery experience and “behind-the-scenes” Harley-Davidson tour. This private, hosted experience will include an archival tour of the Harley-Davidson Museum. It is an unparalleled look at the heritage and future of Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
The LiveWire model up for auction is an exclusive version of Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle. The custom LiveWire motorcycle features a one-off paint scheme and unique graphics package created by the Harley-Davidson styling and design team for this opportunity. This model also features a full array of carbon fiber Genuine Parts and Accessories including carbon fiber Speed Screen Blade, Tail Section Cowl, and Tank Trim, and the motorcycle will be signed by members of the Davidson family.
“The Harley-Davidson design team created the custom paint and graphics on this motorcycle to accentuate the natural forms of the LiveWire,” said Bekefy. “It’s a very unique and stunning motorcycle that is truly one of a kind.”
To mark the historical significance of the motorcycle, the LiveWire model being auctioned is number #500 of the 500 “First Strike” edition LiveWire electric motorcycles. The First Strike edition LiveWire models are specially numbered versions created to celebrate the first 500 units produced by Harley-Davidson
This auction is available for participants from the United States.
“When entire communities come together to support people in times of need, organizations like United Way are able to make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “The funds raised by auctioning this customized motorcycle will allow us to better provide needed services for individuals and families recovering from COVID-19 and support our efforts to bring communities back stronger than before. Thank you Harley-Davidson, Bonhams, and everyone involved in supporting this special event.”
The auction will go live online here and opens for bids on Tuesday, May 12th at 10:00am EST, closing at Tuesday, May 26th at 4:00pm EST. All proceeds, excluding taxes and fees, will be donated to United Way Worldwide’s COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund. Potential bidders can find more info about the bike and prize package at Bonhams.com/LiveWire.
Learn more about the LiveWire motorcycle at Harley-Davidson.com/LiveWire.
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY HISTORY LESSON– Perspective.
“Imagine you were born in 1900. On your 14th birthday, World War I starts, and ends on your 18th birthday. 22 million people perish in that war.
Later in the year, a Spanish Flu epidemic hits the planet and runs until your 20th birthday. 50 million people die from it in those two years. Yes, 50 million.
On your 29th birthday, the Great Depression begins. Unemployment hits 25%, the World GDP drops 27%. That runs until you are 33. The country nearly collapses along with the world economy.
When you turn 39, World War II starts. You aren’t even over the hill yet. And don’t try to catch your breath. On your 41st birthday, the United States is fully pulled into WWII. Between your 39th and 45th birthday, 75 million people perish in the war.
At 50, the Korean War starts. 5 million perish.
At 55 the Vietnam War begins and doesn’t end for 20 years. 4 million people perish in that conflict.
On your 62nd birthday you have the Cuban Missile Crisis, a tipping point in the Cold War. Life on our planet, as we know it, should have ended. Great leaders prevented that from happening.
When you turn 75, the Vietnam War finally ends. Think of everyone on the planet born in 1900. How do you survive all of that?
When you were a kid in 1985 and didn’t think your 85-year-old grandparent understood how hard school was. And how mean that kid in your class was. Yet they survived through everything listed above.
Perspective is an amazing art, refined as time goes on, and enlightening like you wouldn’t believe. Let’s try and keep things in perspective.”
–Author unknown
–from Sam
History Professor
Bikernet University
VISIT THE MARTIN MOTO VIRTUAL SHOWROOM—They are open!
Sales:
Our sales department currently has their foot on the gas and we’re not slowing down! We are utilizing our online services, virtual showroom and our Search|Sign|Deliver program and we think you should too! Visit our website today to find your next adventure! Following Governor Wolf’s orders—we are still not offering test rides on any bikes/off-road vehicles at this time. We are more than happy to send you walk around videos, photos, or FaceTime you if requested. We’re all in this together—why not enjoy it on a new motorcycle?!
Service/Parts:
Our service and parts departments are available, with a few limitations/restrictions. Please call before dropping off/picking up a vehicle from service. If picking up parts, you must also call ahead to let us know you have arrived, as we will be following a strict pick-up/drop-off procedure internally.
Since vehicle repair is an allowed function under the Pennsylvania Decree, we have our techs available full-time. They will continue following all appropriate and necessary social distancing procedures while maintaining a sanitized working environment.
Call us at 610-369-3120 or email us at service@martinmoto.com for any service requests or questions.
1037 UNGER LANE
BOYERTOWN
PA 19512 (610) 369-3120
BUT WAIT, THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS WIDE OPEN–
What’s more dangerous than the Coronavirus pandemic? Misinformation.
You know if you die from the coronavirus, even your death will be “Made In China”.
Why are people hoarding toilet paper? Because when one person coughs or sneezes, everyone else shits themselves.
What song do they sing at the end of Lego Movie 3: Coronavirus?
Everything is cancelled……..and now we’re all stuck in quarantine. What’s the difference between a Chinese zoo and an American zoo?
A Chinese zoo has a description of the animal on the front of the cage, along with a recipe.
source: http://www.jokes4us.com
THE LATEST FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–
1957 Harley-Davidson KRTT Road Racer
The “K Model”, an “import fighter” was hot on the on the streets in 1952. Starting in 1953 its factory racing version, the KR750, was a strong and consistent contender on the dirt tracks of America. Race boss Dick O’Brien and his team also road raced the KR in its TT (road racing) trim.
In 1952 Harley-Davidson brought out the K model to compete with the middle weight British machines from Triumph, BSA, Matchless and Norton as well as Indian’s famed Scout.
The K came with rear suspension, the FL Big Twins remaining rigid until 1958. Unique among Harleys at that time, the K model even shifted on the right, like a British bike. And the K model was designed as a unit construction machine, Harley’s first V-Twin designed that way.
The Harley-Davidson factory also made available road racing components for the KR750. Besides engine internals, brakes, six gallon fuel tanks, big oil tanks and full fairings were available as catalogued factory racing parts.
Note that this machine has an Italian twin leading shoe front brake, Fontana or Ceriani. Its rear brake is based on a factory racing bulletin that outlined converting a factory front brake to serve as a rear.
While the factory KR750 dirt track racer was a rigid like the old WR, the KRTT was designed for road racing and used a swing-arm and twin shock rear suspension; a bolt on subframe allowed riders to switch back and forth for any type of track competition. Strong and lightweight, chrome moly tubing was used with traditional cast iron frame lugs.
This #50 bike was originally owned by the late Phil Peterson, a Miami, Florida Harley-Davidson dealer. Next Tony Murguia rode the bike for Smitty’s Harley-Davidson of Moundsville, West Virginia with Bobby Hill as tuner. The bike and rider placed at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1963, also won third at Daytona Beach in 1964.
Of 15 Daytona Beach National Championship races from 1955 to 1969 riders on KRs took first place in 12 of them. Dave Estep, Columbus, Ohio, a fine racer himself, restored this KRTT. It’s part of the Jill and John Parham Collection and one of numerous Harley racers from board trackers to dirt trackers you can see on your next visit to the National Motorcycle Museum.
Specifications:
Engine: 45 Degree Flathead V-Twin
Type: Air-Cooled, Unit Construction
Bore & Stroke: 2.75? x 3.18?
Displacement: 45 Cubic Inches, 750cc’s
Primary: Chain Driven
Horsepower: 42 – 45HP
Transmission: Four-Speed
Frame: Brazed Iron Lug, Chrome Moly Tubing
Suspension: Telescopic Fork / Swing Arm w/ Twin Shocks
Brakes: Drum Brakes Front and Rear
Wheels/Tires: 3.50 x 19 and 4.00 x 18 or 19
Wheelbase: 54 Inches
CONNECTICUT SHOOTS FOR HELMET FREEDOM AGAIN—State lawmakers are considering a bill that would require helmets for all bikers under the age of 21.
Is Freedom to choose important or what?
–from the AMA
GROWING THE DIMEBAG PRODUCT LINE-UP— Still in the early stages of promotional art. Completed more steel templates to keep it all handmade.
All the Best,
Dimebag Leathers
ZIEN MILITARY MEMORIAL EFFORT–To the Town of Wheaton Representatives
My name is John Reiter, Town of Anson, Chippewa County.
I am submitting this letter of support to Senator Dave Zien.
Dave has been building a monument out of rocks to honor the Veterans of the Vietnam War.
In recent years, this tribute has been modified to include veterans of all wars and peacetime.
Dave also seeks to honor not just Veterans but also civilians. Dave understands that in every war, every person was involved on the homefront.
Troops deployed overseas count on the supply chain back home and also the support they receive and have received in the history of every conflict abroad that included Americas military.
Dave’s memorial is built of rocks.
How appropriate to use rocks and stones, small and large, diverse in color and content.
What a wonderful metaphor to represent the many individuals of age, race, background etc. Rocks are as diverse as snowflakes as are human beings.
Rocks have long been used not just for monuments but also for foundations for buildings and lasting structures.
The 10 Commandments were etched in rock. David killed Goliath with a stone. Fifty pavers are marked in Solomons Temple representing Pennecost.
The Eygptians built their amazing Great Pyramids out of rock. The Incas and Aztecs did also.
Native Americans used rocks to build tributes. Early American Settlers set stones for foundations.
Rocks are a fundamental base for society and have been in every culture and nation.
I implore you to offer support and acceptance of Dave’s existing rock pile. I request that you allow continued building and further development of this Monument.
Please consider the huge impression this Tribute may have.
President Trump has been invited to the dedication this summer. Other prominent officials also.
I respectfully request your careful consideration in this most important endeavor.
Respectfully submitted
John Reiter
Town of Anson
Chippew
QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
“Practice random acts of kindness every day and see how you feel.”
–Dustin Hoffman
5-BALL LEATHERS NOTE OF THE WEEK—Sales are up and we are offering two Bikernet Corona Bandanas with every order from the 5-Ball shop for the entire week, today until next Thursday. You can’t go wrong with these puppies.
–Bandit
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON–cleek
[ kleek ]
verb (used with object)
to grasp or seize (something) suddenly and eagerly; snatch.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF CLEEK?
The Scots verb cleek (past tense claucht or claught) “to grasp or seize” comes from Middle English (Northern and Scots) cleke, cleken, a more conservative form than Southern English clechen “to grab, capture.” Both cleke, cleken and clechen come from Old English clyccan “to bend one’s fingers, clench,” the source of Modern English clutch.
The Scots noun cleek means “(large) hook (as for hanging a pot over a fire)”; a second sense, from the shape of a cleek, is “arm” (the body part); a third sense, from the second one, “a golf club with an iron head, a narrow face, and little slope, used for shots from a poor lie on the fairway.” The verb cleek entered English in the late 14th century, the noun in the early 15th.
HOW IS CLEEK USED?
Aw’ve sin the’ time when thi’d’n ha’bin cleeked up like lumps o’ gowd.
EDWIN WAUGH, SKETCHES OF LANCASHIRE LIFE AND LOCALITIES, 1855
Archie was just about to cleek him, when he made one terrible rush up water, taking out nearly all my line.
SAMUEL ABBOTT, ARDENMOHR, 1876
MICHAEL LICHTER PHOTO OF THE WEEK–PAT PATTERSON • Dayton, OH • ledsledcustoms.com
(937) 879-4645
Pat Patterson has risen to the top of the customer motorcycle world with his skills and eye for design. Pat thrives in the Sportster market with his custom bikes, complete product line and unique approach to style. Pat and Led Sled Customs have separated themselves and continue to plow a path for the new generation of bike builders.
Led Sled Customs has been featured in nearly every major motorcycle publication in the world with their custom builds. Pat has also led the way in the custom Sportster components and modifications. For the last decade, Pat has focused his attention on the overlooked Sportster market, chopped it up, rebuilt it, and stamped his style all over it.
It actually all started while Pat was running a trucking business. Having a few drivers and still driving himself, time on the road kept him dreaming. What began as a hobby trying to fab up his own 1993 Sportster, ended up as a side business out of his 100 sq ft garage. Led Sled Customs had its own business card in 2002. After a few paint jobs and the first frame modification, in 2003 Pat Patterson ended his trucking business and opened the doors at an old five-n-dime store with a huge future ahead of him.
Going from mostly paint jobs to an entire line of custom Sportster parts and builds, Led Sled has skyrocketed to truly becoming the Sportster Authority. There was such a need to make this really cool, fast Sportster model into something people, at first glance, have no idea is a Sportster! Working in space that doesn’t really seem like more than 100 sq ft… Led Sled has produced hundreds of custom bikes and shipped parts not only to all 50 states, but over 80 countries worldwide.
Two decades later and Pat is not stopping. With solid production capabilities and growing product line, Led Sled Customs is aggressively making the push into the Dealer and Wholesale markets with the primary goals of supplying the highest quality USA made aftermarket Sportster components at the best pricing in the industry.
PAT PATTERSON
Dayton, OH
ledsledcustoms.com
(937) 879-4645
Mike has many world class builders featured on his site with their bikes. If you have a favorite, Mike can make you a world class print. –Bandit
CALIFORNIA HARLEY-DAVIDSON EXTENDS HOURS--We’re excited to announce that our Service & Parts Departments have extended their hours and are now open Tuesday-Saturday from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm!
As events continue to develop and new ordinances are put into place, to protect the safety of our customers and staff, our Showroom and MotorClothes Departments are still temporarily closed to the public. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Don’t worry. You can still buy a bike! Our Sales & Finance Department are open by appointment only for the time being. Please call (310) 539-3366 to schedule your appointment.
NEWS FROM THE TWISTED ROAD--10-day California Motorcycle
Trip Itinerary
Every year, I take a 10-day motorcycle trip somewhere in the US. I rent a motorcycle from Twisted Road, chart my path, and then go. In 2019, it was…
Our company is connecting the motorcycle community: two wheels at a time.
Through our network of verified riders and thousands of motorcycles, we bring trust and safety to motorcycle rentals. What makes our company different? All bikes are privately owned – we are doing for motorcycles what Airbnb did for homes.
So whether you want to test ride a bike before you buy, try something new (and cheat on that bike of yours in the garage), or you no longer own a motorcycle and you need some wind therapy, our growing community has what you need.
–Austin Rothbard
Founder and CEO
Twisted Road
[page break]
WINDVEST SHIELD OF THE WEEK–
NEW REPLACEMENT WINDSHIELD FOR INDIAN CHALLENGER
WindVest Motorcycle Windshields is in full production of replacement windshields for the 2018-Present Indian Challenger. Like the Indian Chieftain and Road Master, the windshield is motorized. You have the option of moving the windshield up when on long distant rides or put in a lower position for cruising around town.
The replacement WindVest is available in either a 7” or 8” screen. Both come in a dark smoke tint only. All of our windshields are designed to look over the top of, out of your line of vision.
Contact us with any questions you may have.
408-762-7180
877-370-7326 toll free
sales@windvest.com
www.windvest.com
Some “Stay’n’ In & Stay’n Safe” entertainment…..sound on.
S&S FOR SPORTSTERS FROM LOWBROW–Introducing the S&S Cycle Hooligan Kit
George Smith Sr., founder of S&S Cycle on his Knucklehead, “The Tramp”. S&S Cycle has a passion for speed, and a history of proven performance.
S&S produces performance parts such as the Hooligan Kit for Sportsters
.
More than just a big bore kit, the included bolt-in cams and premium tappets make the most of the added displacement.
This kit, backed up with dyno data, increases the horsepower of a stock 883 Sportster up to 85% along with a performance air cleaner and exhaust!
In the install video above follow along as Todd disassembles this 883 Sportster engine in preparation for the S&S Hooligan Kit. This 4-part video series is a great way to learn about Sportster engines in general and how to work on them. We hope you enjoy!
–Lowbrow Team
Former Motorcycle Riders Foundation Vice President of Government Relations, Tom Wyld, passes away.
Thomas Wyld, retired U.S. Navy Commander, 71, passed away after a long battle with cancer.
Following his distinguished Navy career he became the Vice President of Legislative Affairs for the National Rifle Association, after which he joined the Motorcycle Riders Foundation as Vice President of Government Relations in our Washington D.C. Offices.
Tom was instrumental in our efforts to protect our right to modify motorcycles when the EPA rolled out their restrictive Tier 2 regulations that became known as the Color and Chrome Campaign. At this same time Tom was responsible for commissioning and overseeing the famed Vaughn Study. The MRF’s most significant legislative accomplishment concerning rider education was achieved during Wyld’s tenure. The Murkowski Amendment to the federal highway bill, which provides for financial incentives to state motorcycle safety programs, continues to this day, thanks to Tom’s efforts.
In discussing Tom’s contributions with MRF Board Members who worked with him it was felt he brought a genuine technical acumen and professional congeniality to his position. He also coined our oft used tag line “Ride with the Leaders”
Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK--2019 Harley-Davidson® FLHC – Softail® Heritage Classic for $17,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=8797811
FROM THE SHADY SIDE OF THE FAMILY TREE
The dark style, modern edge and reinvigorated ride of the Heritage model take nostalgia ripping into a new place.
Features may include:
TRADITION IS GOOD, BUT IT DOESN’T MEAN SITTING STILL
A DARK CLASSIC WITH MODERN EDGE
Dripping with gangster-era style and vintage details. If Bonnie and Clyde rode a Harley®motorcycle, this would be the one.
SOFTAIL®FRAME
The reinvented frame retains the classic Softail®lines, but its lightweight design and stiffness translate to a responsive ride unlike anything you’ve felt before.
MILWAUKEE-EIGHT® BIG TWIN ENGINE
A powerful, smooth-running engine with crisp throttle response and a pure, soul-satisfying rumble. Available in 107 and 114 engine displacements.
SIGNATURE LED FORWARD LIGHTING
Darkness-defying lighting that gives you great visibility at night.
LOCKABLE AND SEALED SADDLEBAGS
A sleek look on the outside and roomy on the inside with enough space to stash your riding essentials. The lids open with one touch.
DETACHABLE WINDSCREEN
Go from touring to cruising in a heartbeat. Leave the screen on for a clean envelope of air over the long haul. Or remove it in seconds for a completely new look and ride.
HIGH PERFORMANCE FRONT SUSPENSION
Sophisticated suspension technology provides the performance of a racing-style cartridge fork for reduced weight with linear damping characteristics.
HIGH PERFORMANCE REAR MONO SHOCK
Easily adjustable mono-shock rear suspension allows for dynamic cornering capability while preserving the hardtail look.
AUCTIONS MOVE–
After its recent move into a new 45,000 sq./ft. facility, National Powersport Auctions Denver will be playing host to its live Simulcast auction on Thursday, May 21.
“We’ve been doing business in the Denver area for a while now, but with this new larger location, we’re looking forward to giving dealers the experience they expect from NPA,” says NPA CEO Jim Woodruff. “This location will make it even more convenient for our customers in the region to buy and sell with NPA.”
Located conveniently off Highway 70, just 20 minutes from downtown Denver and the Denver International Airport, the new location will be able to better service dealers from all over the region. NPA Denver is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is currently receiving powersports vehicles. Between May 11 – 15, NPA is offering free local pick-up for consignment dealers within 100 miles of NPA Denver, as well as offering $100 inter-facility transportation between NPA Dallas and Denver. Both of these promotions apply to 2-wheeled motorcycles and standard ATVs.
The NPA Denver live action will be hosted 100% online via NPA Simulcast. However, local dealers may attend preview day in-person on Wednesday, May 20. In order to maintain social distancing and conduct safe business practices, previewing in-person is by appointment only. Dealers must contact Regional Sales Manager Donny Erickson at (469)401-1378 or at derickson@npauctions.com to schedule their appointment
“Despite the challenges of the recent pandemic, we have worked hard to adapt and overcome in order to expand our business, to bring live Simulcast auctions to our eighth location is incredible,” concludes Woodruff.
–DealerNews
OHIO EARPLUGS LAW—Ohio Gov, Mike DeWine signed into law a bill that allows motorcyclists to wear earplugs or earphones for ear protection while riding.
Ear plugs can help protect riders and passengers from potential damage to their eardrums from exhaust and wind noise.
The bill was supported by the AMA and ABATE of Ohio.
–from the AMA
NOTES FROM THE 5-BALL RACING GARAGE–
DRILL PRESS: A tall upright machine useful for suddenly snatching flat metal bar stock out of your hands so that it smacks you in the chest and flings your beer across the room, denting the freshly-painted project which you had carefully set in the corner where nothing could get to it.
WIRE WHEEL: Cleans paint off bolts and then throws them somewhere under the workbench with the speed of light. Also removes fingerprints and hard-earned calluses from fingers in about the time it takes you to say, ‘Oh shit!’
DROP SAW: A portable cutting tool used to make studs too short.
PLIERS: Used to round off bolt heads. Sometimes used in the creation of blood-blisters.
BELT SANDER: An electric sanding tool commonly used to convert minor touch-up jobs into major refinishing jobs.
HACKSAW: One of a family of cutting tools built on the Ouija board principle… It transforms human energy into a crooked, unpredictable motion, and the more you attempt to influence its course, the more dismal your future becomes.
VISE-GRIPS: Generally used after pliers to completely round off bolt heads. If nothing else is available, they can also be used to transfer intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.
OXYACETYLENE TORCH: Used almost entirely for lighting on fire various flammable objects in your shop. Also handy for igniting the grease inside the wheel hub out of which you want to remove a bearing race.
TABLE SAW: A large stationary power tool commonly used to launch wood projectiles for testing wall integrity.
HYDRAULIC FLOOR JACK: Used for lowering an automobile to the ground after you have installed your new brake shoes, trapping the jack handle firmly under the bumper.
BAND SAW: A large stationary power saw primarily used by most shops to cut good aluminum sheet into smaller pieces that more easily fit into the trash can after you cut on the inside of the line instead of the outside edge.
TWO-TON ENGINE HOIST: A tool for testing the maximum tensile strength of everything you forgot to disconnect.
PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER: Normally used to stab the vacuum seals under lids or for opening old-style paper-and-tin oil cans and splashing oil on your shirt; but can also be used, as the name implies, to strip out Phillips screw heads.
STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER: A tool for opening paint cans. Sometimes used to convert common slotted screws into non-removable screws and butchering your palms.
PRY BAR: A tool used to crumple the metal surrounding that clip or bracket you needed to remove in order to replace a 50 cent part.
HOSE CUTTER: A tool used to make hoses too short.
HAMMER: Originally employed as a weapon of war, the hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to locate the most expensive parts adjacent the object we are trying to hit.
UTILITY KNIFE: Used to open and slice through the contents of cardboard cartons delivered to your front door; works particularly well on contents such as seats, vinyl records, liquids in plastic bottles, collector magazines, refund checks, and rubber or plastic parts. Especially useful for slicing work clothes, but only while in use.
ADJUSTABLE WRENCH: aka “Another hammer”, aka “the Swedish Nut Lathe”, aka “Crescent Wrench”. Commonly used as a one size fits all wrench, usually results in rounding off nut heads before the use of pliers. Will randomly adjust size between bolts, resulting in busted buckles, curse words, and multiple threats to any inanimate objects within the immediate vicinity.
SON OF A BITCH TOOL: Any handy tool that you grab and throw across the garage while yelling ‘SON OF A BITCH!’ at the top of your lungs. It is also, most often, the next tool that you will need.
(This is a mutation
of a column written by Peter Egan and published in Road and Track back in 1996.
–from El Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina Bad Joke Library
RACES DISCUSSED--More than 400 people participated in Best In The Desert’s virtual “Town Hall” meeting on Friday, May 1, 2020. Topics included the 2020 race schedule amidst COVID-19 pandemic as well as answering questions and comments in real-time. While the Silver State 300 is still in limbo BITD confirmed the dates for the following races:
-The 2020 Maxxis Tires “Casey Folks” Vegas to Reno Presented by Fox will take place as planned on Aug. 12-15, 2020. It will be the biggest and best Vegas to Reno race ever held with an all-new start near Beatty and 60 miles of racecourse not used in several years. It is suggested that attendees do not cancel room reservations in Beatty just yet.
-The Jagged X National Desert Cup Presented by Quantum Motorsports will replace the Battle Born 250 and take place on Sept. 25-27, 2020. The Battle Born 250 will be dropped from the 2020 schedule.
-The 2020 BlueWater Desert Challenge will be held on Oct 22-25, 2020 pending the reopening of the Blue Water Resort. The Blue Water Desert Challenge will close out the 2020 Best In The Desert race season and the Maxxis Triple Crown.
Currently, Best In The Desert is working with the assumption that regulations will be relaxed by June 1, 2020. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has given permission to host the race on the dates provided and Best In The Desert is working with the host hotel to get the dates approved as well. The hope is to run the Silver State race either June 11-13, 2020, or June 25-27, 2020. This race is, of course, dependent on shelter-in-place restrictions in Nevada and neighboring states.
Best In The Desert is taking the following social distancing precautions at the upcoming VT Construction Silver State 300 Presented by Polaris to ensure that events stay safe for everyone involved:
-Time Trials will be held so that participating classes do not overlap during registration and while qualifying.
-Registration will have scheduled times per class to register and will be limited to only those racers who need armbands and parents to minors.
-The Event Expo will see limited vendors. Best In The Desert is limiting the event expo to essential service providers (i.e.: fuel, radio communications, etc.).
-If the situation changes and full displays are allowed, they will be considered at a later date.
-Contingency will still be offered but a new format will be in place to avoid direct contact with our contingency team.
-Tech will also be a new format.
-VP Fuels will supply a hand sanitizing product they are now producing at various locations at the race.
-The driver’s meeting will be held virtually via Facebook Live. It will not be held as a group meeting face-to-face.
-Trophies will be presented at the finish line at the Ford Mesa.
More information on COVID-19 precautions will be announced in the coming weeks.
“As organizations begin to plan ahead, this will be a crucial time for communication,” says BITD’s Darryl Folks. “There is no playbook for how things will proceed in our new normal. That’s why Best In The Desert is making sure to be transparent with changes as soon as they are internally agreed upon.”
PART 1 BITD VIRTUAL TOWN HALL CAN BE FOUND HERE:
https://www.facebook.com/BestintheDesert/videos/239469307263590/
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Kickflip Double Diamond White for Dynas.
Overview
The world is your playground… shred it! This is the seat that every adventurous rider would be stoked to own. The maximized back support and ample seating area offer plenty of options for riding – or showing off – at a moment’s notice.
Shown with Double Diamond seating area. Also available with Basket Weave, Pleated Stitch and our new Gripp Tape material – for when traction is needed! Many other custom materials and stitch graphics are available as well!
Specs
Driver Seating:
11″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
N/A
MSRP:
$449.00
Part Number:
LK-591DDW [’06-’17] Dyna
STRIDER FOR KIDS–
Thank you for your support and passion for improving children’s health and providing ALL kids the opportunity to learn to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class.
With the state of this global pandemic, we know providing children the lifelong skill of learning to ride a bike in school is now more important than ever. Not only does biking provide physical and mental health benefits, it is a lifelong skill that teaches spatial awareness and offers a mode of transportation as we all adjust to the “new norm”.
As the school bell rings once again – whether that be later this month or year – we hope to continue to share the joy of two wheels with kindergartners across the country.
We are currently hosting the Handlebar Hustle, a month-long virtual race activity. The suggested 7k distance represents the average 7 hours a day teens are spending on an electronic device.
Registration proceeds will directly support waitlist schools seeking the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-To-Ride Program.
Please consider participating in this race, and sharing the All Kids Bike Handlebar Hustle Virtual Event with your friends and following.
I attached a graphic we are using on social media. Be sure to tag @AllKidsBike and #HandlebarHustle to show your support of getting bikes in schools!
Thank you, again, for your commitment to the health, mobility, and freedom of kids across the country. We hope the shiny new bikes and Learn-To-Ride program will bring sunnier days to kids returning to school. Let’s get active for ALL kids’ health.
In health and on two wheels,
Your friends at All Kids Bike
#AllKidsBike
SOUTH DAKOTA –The Sturgis city council delayed the annexation of the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Cub property until May 4 to give the club and the owners of other land time to assess the effect of the annexation.
Jackpine Gypsies representatives told the council that annexation of the club grounds, which include a dirt oval race track, motocross and hill limb course, might fall under current or future city restrictions that could impact the ability of the club to continue activities.
The club earlier estimated the annexation would result in about $2,500 a year in additional property taxes.
–AMA
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CANCELLED VENICE RIDE IN SANTA MONICA--Third Sunday Ride – May 17th
Hello all,
With the continuing threat of the coronavirus, we are again canceling the 3rd Sunday Ride.
Please be safe and we will see you all soon.
Cheers,
-VVMC
THE GOOD NEWS FILE–
Powersports Retailers are Reopening
The riding community is seeing some positive news, and just in time for riding season. Iron Pony Motorsports in Ohio is one of the latest dealerships and retailers to reopen since updated federal guidelines clarified that powersports businesses are considered essential.
“We are so happy and honored to open our doors again to the riding community of central Ohio,” said Iron Pony Motorsports owners Chris and Tammy Jones, Derek Jones, and Cory Atwood, in an email. “Never in our over 40 years of serving the motorcycle community did we ever think we would have to close. But with our incredible staff of passionate employees, we came together to ride out what seemed like a lifetime of uncertainty.”
Iron Pony Motorsports, which has locations in Westerville and Mansfield, reopened May 1 and is following all Ohio guidance and protocols for essential businesses and operations. Among measures to keep employees and customers safe, the stores have installed Plexiglas partitions at all service counters and marked recommended physical distances on floors. The stores also offer curbside pickup and shipping.
“We initiated logs for cleaning all high-point touch areas and posted reminders of social distancing protocols,” the owners stated. “A customer line has been put at the front of the store to limit the number of people who can enter at any one time. We have over one hundred employees who could not wait to help get the store open again. It just goes to show what a great team we have and the passion they bring every day to serve our community. We would like to thank everyone in the industry for the support through these uncertain times.”
FROM THE MASTER Artist David Uhl–
David is currently working on a new series and we need to know if it’s of interest to you.
Specifically, if you’d like to receive notifications about this series or not. We greatly appreciate your feedback, as we know this subject matter may not be for everyone.
The back story – – David and a small group of artist friends in Denver have been meeting weekly for years to paint classic female figures with live models.
In David’s words, “I have been asked many times over the years to do tasteful classic female figures with the motorcycle theme. I found the time recently and now plan on doing a series. I am very interested in exploring this as an artistic expression, not sensationalistic clickbait.
Most any serious artists have portrayed the nude – in fact I started in art school with nude models in life drawing. Interesting that nobody has tried this combination…it’s almost impossible to find anyone who has put these two together without falling into the centerfold trap. Fine line I know, but I’m going to try.
I really look forward to exploring the limits of this, it becomes so much more about the “painting” than a story or subject. Makes you look at “how” it’s portrayed. With this approach I’m trying to play one of the oldest games ever… hide and seek. Makes the viewer use his/her imagination rather than rendering it all out so it’s like a photo. Becomes more about the way it’s painted than the subject matter.”
Oil paint historically has been the ideal medium for depicting the nude. By blending and layering paint, the surface can become more like skin. Its slow drying time and various degrees of viscosity enable the artist to achieve rich and subtle blends of color and texture.
We will launch the first piece in this collection in a week or so but only to those wishing to view the pieces. I will start a separate email list for interested parties.
He recently completed the piece below and it has received wonderful reviews thus far (offered in either color or sepia tone). He’s currently working on another piece as well.
The original oils will range from $6,000-$16,000 and we will offer signed/numbered canvas prints as well.
Please take a moment to respond to this email with your level of interest. Thanks much!
–Greg
Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
Uhl Studios
15801 W. Colfax Avenue
Golden, CO 80401
303-913-4840
Uhl Studios Website
THE WILDEST CARS AND GUITARS—from ZZ Top Legend, Billy F. Gibbons
COMING JUNE 2! Billy F Gibbons: Rock + Roll Gearhead throws wide the ZZ Top legend’s garage and studio doors for an exclusive look at the exquisite vintage and way-out custom guitars and the influential hot rods and custom cars of the Grade-A Texas gearhead. All in a deluxe slipcase!
From the famous cars like Eliminator, CadZZZilla and Kpperhead, to the near-mythical ’59 Les Paul sunburst known as “Pearly Gates” and the “Furry One” of MTV renown, they’re all here—more than sixty guitars and fifteen astounding vehicles, all expounded upon by BFG himself and shown in commissioned color and artistic black-and-white photography.
While BFG’s cars ’n’ guitars are the stuff of legend, no less intriguing are the tales behind his incredible music career. From teenage Houston garage rocker to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the whole story is between these covers, told in the Good Reverend Willie G’s own words and illustrated with photos and memorabilia from his personal archive.
As with many rockers, Billy F Gibbons’ jones for hot rods and customs is the stuff of legend. But beyond this bona fide bluesman’s mastery of the six-string and unrepentant love for internal combustion is a noted collector whose own designs have manifested themselves in hundreds of mind-bending cars and guitars. This is the definitive and official record of that genius. Scroll down for a preview!
PRE-ORDER ONLINE WHEREVER YOU BUY BOOKS!
AMA SUPERBIKE SERIES RETURNS, SANS FANS–While Best In The Desert is ready to do it in the dirt, MotoAmerica announces the return of roadracing in America… just without fans for now.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor of Wisconsin’s safer-at-home order being set to expire on May 26, the racing portion of the opening round of the 2020 MotoAmerica Series, May 29-31, at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, will continue, but without fans.
“We worked hard with Road America to try to make the original date work with fans, but after Governor Evers extended the safer-at-home order to May 26, we couldn’t make it work due to the unknown restrictions on public outdoor gatherings,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “But we still intend to run the event May 29-31, without fans and air it on Fox Sports and MotoAmerica Live+.
“This is not something we ever imagined, but then again we never thought we’d be faced with something like COVID-19,” Rainey continued. “We will continue to work towards making the event special for everyone tuning into the broadcast and will keep everyone posted moving forward for the next event in June. In the meantime, we urge our fans, teams, and riders to continue to do the right things to keep them safe and healthy.”
MotoAmerica, however, is planning to return to Road America, June 26-28, along with all previously scheduled activities, including Vintage MotoFest. The June 26-28 event will also feature the MotoAmerica Heritage Cup and the opening round of the Mini Cup by Motul.
In the meantime, all five classes of the premier National motorcycle road racing championship in the U.S. – Superbike, Supersport, Liqui Moly Junior Cup, Stock 1000 and Twins Cup – will compete in the series opener, May 29-31.
–DealerNews
Obama-era heavyweights accuse Trump of fueling pandemic with climate-change stance
A cadre of Obama-era heavy hitters led by John Podesta fired up another effort Wednesday to put global warming at the forefront of the presidential campaign, this time by linking President Trump’s skepticism of a climate doomsday to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
Mr. Podesta, the former Obama White House chief of staff who chaired Hillary Clinton’s unsuccessful 2016 presidential bid, unveiled Climate Power 2020 with a blast at Mr. Trump’s “anti-science policies,” which he said have “fueled the pandemic.”
“President Trump must be held accountable for his rejection of science, facts, and reality. For both COVID-19 and the climate crisis, the anti-science policies from this administration are pushing our nation into crisis,” Mr. Podesta said in a written statement.
In addition to Mr. Podesta, the advisory board features San Francisco billionaire Tom Steyer, the Democratic Party’s largest individual donor and a candidate for the party’s presidential nomination, as well as Obama administration figures including Secretary of State John F. Kerry, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz and science adviser John Holdren.
“Today, it fueled a pandemic,” Mr. Podesta said. “Tomorrow, we will see the consequences in a world destabilized by climate change. Climate Power 2020 will change the politics of climate — pushing all candidates to aggressively campaign on climate action and holding science-denying campaigns accountable.”
Skeptics called the link between climate change and COVID-19 a stretch — given that the virus originated late last year in Wuhan, China, a signatory to the 2015 Paris climate agreement — while noting that this isn’t the first time Democratic power brokers have sought to push climate to the electoral forefront.
JunkScience.com’s Steve Milloy, a member of the Trump Environmental Protection Agency transition team, called it “the umpteenth time the usual cast of climate leftovers have been reheated.”
–Valerie Richardson
Washington Times
STURGIS RALLY NEWS—Fox News reported that members of the Rally organization are still planning for an event. Is that positive news, hopeful news or wishful news.
Our investigators on the ground in and around Sturgis are still hunting for the June 15th secret meeting place. Hang on!
–Bandit
UTAH FINALLY ACTS—House Bill 101 would require hands-free use of cell phones, except for “one-touch” or one-tap operation and would elevate distracted driving to a primary offense.
Currently, distracted driving is a secondary offense in Utah, meaning law enforcement authorities cannot ticket drivers for the offense unless they were stopped for another infraction.
–AMA
QUICK—Pack your shit and get outta Dodge. I’m trying, but we’ll see. Life is so interesting, and then you die.
I’m reading a book about Buddha’s teaching. If you find yourself in a frump, try reading something about Buddha. He makes you think, ponder and let go. It’s all about your mental nirvana.
I’m writing a piece about what it meant to me, as a kid, to be a biker. I may finish it, tear it up and toss it in the shit-can. My life is my life and maybe I shouldn’t share it. I’ve been a Bandit all my life and did some bad shit, but generally I’ve always tried to help others.
My addiction was redheads, and some of the guys I helped the most turned on me. I’ve tried to take the higher road and ignore the bullshit to make more positive use of my creative time. Buddha would agree. Ya see, it’s all about putting yourself in Nirvana, no matter what’s happening around you.
Think about it. Life can be fucked or fun, it’s up to each one of us. Find the path and follow it to Nirvana or another Redhead, both are heaven. And make sure you ride all the way…
Freedom Forever,
–Bandit
