THE WHACKY BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for Cinco de Mayo, 2023

Hey,

The world is completely whacked as we know. Today is the 30th anniversary of the World Wide Web. A country in Europe wants to ban farming. The Fed raised the interest rates again. California is trying to add a tax on how many miles you drive. I went to pick up my ’58 Chevy. As I rolled onto the freeway a wheel fell off. The same tow truck driver came to my rescue, plus Buck Lovell who worked for Hot Bike and American Bagger for years.

Let’s hit the news. I know this day is going to be insane. A guy called and said he can start to work on the road to my shop today. Hang on.

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.

EASYRIDERS EVENTS ARE HAPPENING—

Attention All Gold Rushers

Gold Rush reservations are now available to purchase for the Fowlerville, MI and Bloomville, OH Rodeos. Get yours today!

Attention All Vendors

The 2023 Easyriders Rodeos are just around the corner, and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to showcase your products at the original Easyriders Motorcycle Rodeo!

This event will attract thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts for a weekend of camping, dirt track motorcycle rodeo competition, live concerts, and more. As a part of the biker rally, we are seeking the best motorcycle-lifestyle related vendors from all over the country, and with limited vendor space, it’s important to sign up today!
If you have any used motorcycle parts lying around, you can also take advantage of our special pricing in the “Used Parts Corral” and turn those unused parts into cash instead of collecting dust in your shop.

If you have any questions shoot us an email at info@easyridersevents.com

Complete vendor and event information can be found at EasyridersEvents.com

DAMON’S MOTORCYCLES UPDATE—

I am happy to share a much-anticipated update on Damon’s progress so far, and plans for the upcoming year.

Late last year, we completed the final bodywork design for the HyperSport and made hundreds of firmware, software, and throttle mapping improvements to ensure that the bike is the best it can be.

Soon, we will begin implementing and testing regenerative braking, followed by ABS and traction control testing.

If all goes smoothly, we hope to have customer test ride bikes coming off production lines later this year.

On behalf of the entire Damon team, I want to express heartfelt gratitude for your support over the last few years. We can’t wait to see you on a Damon Motorcycle in the future.

See you on the road,
Jay Giraud
CEO, Damon Motorcycles
PRODUCTION-LOCKED HYPERSPORT DESIGN

MOTORCYCLE FINANCIAL SNIPPETS—

Harley Q1 North America Retail Unit Sales -17%, with Global down by -12%; Revenue up by +20%

Polaris Reports Total Sales Revenue +22%, with Domestic Indian Motorcycle Unit Retail Flat in a Down Market

–Headlines from AMD Custom Week

WHO CAN YOU HIRE TO DO THE JOB?—

New York City is expected to pass a proposed bill next month that would make it illegal for employers to discriminate on the basis of weight.

At the end of April, ResumeBuilder.com surveyed 1,000 working Americans to find out if they have experienced discrimination in the workplace due to their weight, height, or level of attractiveness.

Key findings:

36% of working Americans have experienced one of these forms of discrimination

26% have faced weight discrimination, 23% discrimination based on level of physical attractiveness, and 12% height discrimination

Those who self-identify as overweight or unattractive were more likely to say they experienced weight or physical attractiveness discrimination

As a result of discrimination, employees’ careers and mental health were impacted 1 in 12 say concerns about how their physical appearance is perceived prevents them from wanting to go into the office more

You can view the full results here: https://www.resumebuilder.com/6-in-10-overweight-american-workers-have-experienced-weight-discrimination/

–Julia Morrissey
PR Team
julia@resumebuilder.com

BLACK HILLS MOTORCYCLE SHOW REPORT—

We have scheduled our next planning meeting for the Black Hills Motorcycle Show for MONDAY MAY 8, 2023 at 10 am MST. If you are able to attend in person, we will be at Deadwood Custom Cycles, 10 Lee Street Deadwood, SD 57732. If you plan on being on the zoom call, the link is below.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83776656387?pwd=WEhXV3pBZmJOa0NmeVhpV0w3MnFFUT09

Meeting ID: 837 7665 6387
Passcode: 917205
One tap mobile
+16694449171,,83776656387#,,,,*917205# US
+16699006833,,83776656387#,,,,*917205# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 719 359 4580 US
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+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
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+1 360 209 5623 US

Meeting ID: 837 7665 6387
Passcode: 917205

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdOOy4KzWV

Thank you for being involved with this incredible event!

Jason Mook
Owner/Operator
Deadwood Custom Cycles
10 Lee Street
Deadwood, SD 57732
(605) 717-2492 (Shop)
(605) 499-8661 (Shop Mobile)
www.DeadwoodCustomCycles.com
D.A.M.N. Podcast

MESSAGE FROM PAUL COX—

“We are going to run one of his wild chain primary drives on our VL, XA, FL Knucklehead project bike. A brother was concerned about strength and no compensator sprocket. I reached out to Paul.” — Bandit

No reason for concern and complications.

I thought of that issue when I first started making these 20 years ago. The power at the motor sprocket is less than any load carried by the final drive chain through the gears. Only in Top gear is the load even equal, as those are 1:1 ratio gears. In any gear below Top, the load on the final-drive chain is more that that of the primary drive chain. So, this is why I had no worries about adapting final-drive chain for use on the primary.

–P.

Paul Cox Industries
Port Jervis, NY

VTWIN VISIONARY TOUR STOP–

TMMR: Go for the Bikes, Stay for the Music (and the Bikes)

We’re pretty sure you already know about the motorcycle part of TMMR for 2023 but in case you’re not up on the music side of it, here’s what you can expect. That’d be three great nights of music highlighted by Whey Jennings, Nikki Lane, and Paul Cauthen.

And if you’re thinking of staying at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch for the weekend, they’ve still got lots of space for you to set up camp. Enjoy the fun of camping under the stars, meeting tons of great folks and the creek, open fields and shady trees all just steps from the action.

Come by RV, camper, tent, van, or even a hammock if that’s how you roll. Just get your spot locked in and start packing.

Note: All of the RV power hook-ups are sold at this time, so get yourself a primitive (no hook-up) RV site, plan to run on generator, and if you like, you can still get on the waitlist should any power-spots become available.

(Just click on the waitlist at checkout; your credit card will only be charged if a spot opens and you approve). Pump-out and water service is available on-site as well as two showerhouses, a camp store and nearby general store.

So, don’t miss out on the memories, mayhem and magic you experience when you stay at the ranch at #TMMR23, May 18-21, 2023 at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, Hurricane Mills, TN. And, of course, we’ll be there as part of the 2023 VTV USA Tour, so stop by and check out our show too.

–Jeff Holt

MAJOR MOTORCYCLE BUST—

Illegal bike racing in Bandra, Mumbai, INDIA

Police traced a resident of Bandra Reclamation area as the man behind drag racing on city highway. They are looking for him while his accomplice is already behind bars.

Dozens of young bikers had gathered for motorcycle drag racing on Western Express Highway in the affluent suburbs of Mumbai city, on the intervening nights of Monday and Tuesday (2 am on April 4) with the intent to set a record and thus win a cash prize, as mentioned on an Instagram post, but Mumbai police foiled their plans.

“Since money was involved in this illegal race, we invoked the Maharashtra Prevention of Gambling Act besides booking the bike racers under IPC and the Motor Vehicle Act,” police stated.

In one of the major crackdowns on late-night bike racing, 72 people were arrested while 10 minors were detained and 48 motorcycles and scooters seized by Kherwadi police. This was not just a nuisance on the roads but dangerous to any persons and vehicles and passerbys on roads during such racing events.

For the first time Mumbai police invoked the Maharashtra Prevention of Gambling Act in bike racing case.

The racers race on stretches of 400 metres at different locations on the highway. Once the racers entered the trap, the cops shut both the ends. A large number of policemen were deployed for the operation.

Bikers increase the engine capacity on the sly through something called porting. When the bikes are ported, the fuel is sucked into the engine in a rush, boosting the velocity. Indian bikes that max out at a 125 kmph notch up to 220 kmph after porting.

One wrong move will send riders flying, screeching, tumbling to death, or if they are lucky, to a hospital.

In another instance a biker performing a wheelie with two girls on his bike was traced and arrested after a video of his stunt became viral.

Refer detailed source:
https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/mumbai-police-trace-man-behind-drag-racing-on-western-express-highway-23279460

https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-crime-news/article/mumbai-illegal-bike-racing-in-bandra-cops-book-72-people-for-betting-and-dangerous-riding-seize-48-bikes-23279150

— Wayfarer

TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT REPORT FROM THE NMA—

For the past few years, we’ve been monitoring a concerning trend in traffic enforcement: a steady shift towards more and more automated ticketing. Unfortunately, this trend appears to be gaining momentum. In California, we’ve witnessed a surge of bills introduced that attempt to authorize various forms of ticketing cameras, speed cameras, school bus cameras, bus lane cameras, and bike lane cameras. Last legislative session, California lawmakers even proposed a bill to allow cameras to ticket for loud mufflers. Washington D.C., in addition to its already intrusive red light and speed camera program, is considering stop sign and pedestrian right-of-way cameras. And just this month, the state of New York began deploying highway work zone cameras.

Is this really about safety? Or is it about money?

As one of our loyal NMA members, you are aware of the problems with these revenue-generating programs. First of all, photo enforcement programs are implemented with the promise of improving “safety for all,” however the statistics will often fail to show results. Once put into place, these programs insulate the public from post-implementation studies, if they are even conducted at all. Worse yet, we learn that those photo ticket cameras, if deemed to be ineffective (a monetary measure, not a safety measure), are sometimes moved to more profitable intersections. This often coincides with intentionally shortened yellow lights.

What makes camera tickets difficult to fight?

In many states, camera tickets are re-classified as civil violations, not infractions. As such, these ticketing programs are able to “automate” the adjudication process as well. Instead of receiving a traditional hearing in traffic court, drivers are relegated to administrative hearings, where jurisdictions can deny defendants most of the due process rights to which they would normally be entitled. In effect, these hearings are not designed at all to be platforms for justice. Defendants are presumed guilty, with limited options for a defense. It’s essentially “pay up and move on.”

The NMA is intervening on your behalf.

Fortunately, we’ve been able to defeat most of the automated enforcement bills in California. Last year, we successfully blocked the loud muffler bill, a school bus camera bill, and a speed camera bill. So far this year, we’ve blocked a school bus camera bill (for the seventh time) and are currently fighting against another speed camera bill (for the sixth time).

Try as we might, we simply can’t be everywhere, nor can we know about every new attempt to impose automated enforcement on an unsuspecting population.

Please tell us when you hear of ticketing programs in your area!

If you hear about any new efforts to pass legislation authorizing ticketing cameras or jurisdictions looking to start their own programs, please let us know. We may not be able to fight every battle across the US, but we can at least help you fight the good fight in your city or state.

If we’re not vigilant, we’ll soon see automated ticketing replace live police for all traffic violations everywhere, resulting in massive ticketing and a significant loss of rights. Let’s not allow that to happen. By being our eyes and ears on the street, you can help us help you.

–By Jay Beeber, Director of Policy & Research

TRIUMPH CUSTOM OF THE WEEK—

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY—

Why do seagulls fly over the sea? If they flew over the bay, they would be bagels.

How does the man in the moon get his hair cut? Eclipse it.

Why don’t ants ever get sick? Because they have little anty bodies.

–EL Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina™

SALT TORPEDO UPDATE, EPISODE 26

Outlaw Runs Outside the Notorious Buffalo Chip

At the last minute we decided, I’m not saying who, to do it outlaw style and go for a road test on the remote, infrequently traveled Sturgis back road. I started to coordinate the team for the end of April and pray for clear weather. It snowed significantly last week.

Micah needed to study his schedule. He’s involved tuning TROG race bikes. Also, plans for the next cross-country Cannonball loomed.

Our team included Sturgis Museum, Sinner Irish Rich, 45-Trike John Martinesko, Luke from Switzerland, the Redhead, Cabana Dan, bike builder, Sturgis Hamster, and the Calamity Vickie from Florida.

It’s was wild and successful. Check the story at:

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/SALT_TORPEDO_UPDATE_EPISODE_26.aspx

–Bandit

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!—

ACTION BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for April 27th 2023

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/ACTION_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_April_27th_2023.aspx

I’m interested in the Greg Wrightstone CO2 Pamphlet.
I have passed along Green Murder and Inconvenient Truth to a coworker. She has just been accepted for a masters program. Wondering if the argument on CO2 would be a good subject for a thesis once she completes the program and looks at the next level.

–Rhys
FL

“I will ship the pamphlet out right away. Glad you enjoyed Greg’s book. I will ship pamphlets to anyone who wants one. It’s bullshit that we can’t trust our lovely government to share the truth with us.”
— Bandit ( Bandit@Bikernet.com )

BIKERNET ART GALLERY WEEKLY EXHIBIT—

High Point: Shandaken Mountains
by Asher Brown Durand
(1853)

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 759

This work, first shown at the National Academy of Design’s annual exhibition in New York City in 1853, depicts a scene near the town of Olive, New York, where Durand spent the summers of 1853 and 1855.

During those months, he repeated sketches he had made of a nearby mountain, High Point (also known as Ashokan High Point), on an earlier visit to the region in 1847.

In this painting, in contrast to his large “historical landscapes,” the artist focused on depicting light and shade in the type of bucolic setting popular with an increasingly urban American public—represented here by the couple fishing on the bank of the stream, enjoying the bounty of nature.

Title: High Point: Shandaken Mountains
Artist: Asher Brown Durand (American, Jefferson, New Jersey 1796–1886 Maplewood, New Jersey)
Date: 1853
Culture: American
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 32 3/4 x 48 in. (83.2 x 121.9 cm)
Credit Line: Bequest of Sarah Ann Ludlum, 1877
Accession Number: 77.3.1
Signature: [at lower left]: A.B. Durand 1853

Details visit: https://www.metmuseum.org

Wayfarer
Editor
Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

NEW HOT BIKE MAGAZINE IS OUT—

GET THE ALL-NEW HOT BIKE MAGAZINE TODAY!

The all-new Hot Bike: Issue 1 2023 printed magazine is out now! This is the first issue to print since 2018 and we had to make sure it was special and worthy of your time.

We take a closer look at Team Saddlemen’s Cory West and Patricia Fernandez-West. The teammates, competitors race professionally in the Mission King of the Baggers and Mission RSD SuperHooligans series. Did we mention they’re also married? Learn more about the Wests’s wild ride in the new issue of Hot Bike HERE.

An Arch motorcycle is unique. So much so, that each is aesthetically tailored to its owners preferences. We take a detailed look into Arch Motorcycle’s 1s from the Arch owner’s perspective as we sit with co-founder Gard Hollinger and one of his customers/friends to understand the process of designing and building a truly one-of-a-kind motorcycle.

BIKERS INSIDE THE BELTWAY 2023– BUILDING TOWARD TOTAL SUCCESS!

Bikers inside the Beltway – “Building toward total success!”? The event is two weeks away and the claim is either arrogant or wishful thinking. It’s neither.

Since the late eighties, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and motorcyclists’ rights advocates have journeyed to Capitol Hill on behalf of the nation’s motorcyclists. Since 2009 and the inception of Bikers inside the Beltway, the journey matches the MRF’s immediate and long-term legislative goals.

With over one hundred registered attendees, the hotel is totally booked. Although rooms may be available at neighboring hotels, we can make no recommendations. Finding rooms on the Blue or Yellow Metro lines is possible on a first-come basis.

The event hotel (Embassy Suites at 1900 Diagonal, Old Town Alexandra) is on notice to expect more attendees than we’ve experienced at the past three Bikers inside the Beltway, and they are preparing for the MRF Board meeting (open to all) on May 15. Briefing packets and “leave-behinds” are being assembled for the 6:00 p.m. briefing on Monday evening.

Registration for Bikers inside the Beltway is free, and even if you are staying at another hotel, you are requested to register now to ensure we have your state’s leave-behind packet ready. Use the link or the QR code below for Bikers inside the Beltway registration.

To ensure that the mission of getting our message to Congress continues to be successful, it is not too late to act on the following:

Make your appointments locally or in Washington.
Familiarize yourself with the briefing points.
Confirm your appointment locally or in Washington.
Virtual or in person, make notes on your meeting.
Share your meeting notes with the MRF.

The MRF’s victories, realized in the waning hours of the 117th Congress in December, came to fruition because of dedicated freedom fighters and events like Bikers inside the Beltway. The MRF will continue to stand and hold common ground to oppose profiling, support the right to repair, support policies to protect motorcyclist from the perils of sharing the road with autonomous vehicles, and oppose the distribution of ethanol-15 without pump identifiers.

Bikers inside the Beltway — an essential element of the MRF’s grassroots activism. Act now to attend the pre-event briefing and Q&A for visits to Congress, scheduled for 6:00 p.m., Monday, May 15. Again, briefing packets and “leave behinds” will be available during the briefing.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Bikers inside the Beltway — May 15 & 16, 2023.

Thank you for your commitment to the ongoing fight to promote and protect the rights of all motorcyclists.

Yours in Freedom,
Fredric Harrell
MRF Director of Conferences & Events

PS The event recap and de-briefing will take place at the Embassy Suites on Tuesday, May 16 from 6-8:00 p.m.

https://motorcycleridersfoundation.wildapricot.org/widget/event-5008758/Registration

[page break]

BAKER TRANSMISSION FOR SALE— Available for sale.

Does anyone need or looking for a Baker 6 into 4 transmission? Save big here. I have this brand new setup that retails for over $3600….

This one can be yours. it is in perfect condition asking for $1300

Jason Hamswerth

(559)464-5062

San Diago, California

QUICK, SUPPORT GOOD TIMES—

SGT Here For A Good Time, Not A Long Time Tshirt. Available worldwide.

SUPPORTGOODTIMES.COM

THE ANTI-AI FILE WAS OPENED—

AI is taking the jobs of Kenyans who write essays for U.S. college students

Ghostwriters say the meteoric rise of ChatGPT has coincided with a drop in income.

Kenya is a major hub for the contract cheating industry, where freelancers help American students write essays and handle classwork. On average they earn between $900 and $1,200 a month from this work.

The proliferation of AI tools like ChatGPT is reducing the earnings of Kenyans involved in contract cheating.

Refer detailed article:
https://restofworld.org/2023/chatgpt-taking-kenya-ghostwriters-jobs/

–Wayfarer
Editor
Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

CALLING ALL MOTORCYCLE FILMMAKERS!–

We are excited to announce the first annual VAHNA Motorcycle Film Festival in partnership with Triumph Motorcycles! A film competition and festival tour celebrating the art of motorcycle cinematography that offers filmmakers a platform to showcase their unique storytelling abilities and creative vision to the world. Entries are open to anyone who is passionate about motorcycles and has a talent for capturing the essence of riding on film.

After the submission deadline, we will select the top 10 films to go on tour and be screened in various cities across the US to be enjoyed by public audiences and voted on by guest judges in each city.

The top three winners will receive amazing prize packages with products from our supporting partners, and the overall winner will receive a brand new 2024 Triumph Bonneville T120 Black!

SPEAKING OF AI—We asked ChatGPT to sum up Harley-Davidson.

Harley-Davidson has been a cultural icon and a symbol of American freedom for over a century. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and changing consumer preferences, many people have questioned the relevance of the company in the modern era.

Despite these concerns, Harley-Davidson has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing market. The company has invested in new technology, such as electric motorcycles, and has expanded its offerings to include a range of lifestyle products and experiences.

In 2023, Harley-Davidson is poised to remain a relevant and significant player in the motorcycle industry. One of the key drivers of this relevance is the company’s continued commitment to innovation. With the release of its electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, Harley-Davidson has demonstrated its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technology trends.

Additionally, Harley-Davidson’s strong brand recognition and reputation for quality and durability will continue to be a valuable asset in the years to come. The company has built a loyal following of riders and enthusiasts, and its products and experiences continue to appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Furthermore, Harley-Davidson has expanded its offerings beyond motorcycles to include a range of lifestyle products, such as apparel and accessories, as well as experiences, such as guided tours and events. This diversification has helped the company reach a broader audience and create new revenue streams.

In conclusion, while the motorcycle industry may continue to evolve, Harley-Davidson’s commitment to innovation and its strong brand recognition and reputation position the company for continued relevance in 2023 and beyond.

–Wayfarer / ChatGPT

GREASY KULTURE MAGAZINE Shovelhead choppers – five of the best!

Here we go again, with a selection of some of the most memorable Harley Shovelhead choppers we’ve featured over the past 16 years.

As our 100th issue looms into sight we’ve been flicking through our back issues, reminiscing about the bikes we’ve featured that really stand out for us. So, here’s the second instalment in our new series of exclusive email features.

Cones, Pan-Shovels and gennys – Shovelheads are cool and here’s the proof!

Shovels are still the entry-level ‘classic big twin’ Harley for most riders and though they’re not as affordable as they once were, they still represent the glory days of H-D and a great base for creating a cool custom. Have a look at the rigid-framed Shovels that have really floated our boat and see if you agree – it was very, very tough to narrow the list down to five!

(And yes, this is today’s choice – tomorrow’s will probably be different…)

The main photo, above, is of Terry Godschalk’s glorious VL-framed Shovel, which we brought to you in issue 32.

Terry wanted something “nimble and peppy” so he transplanted a Shovelhead engine he had under his workbench into a VL frame “already lowered at the back two and a half inches by having the rear legs cut and bent down; the stock frames sit very high at the back. This one had been modified for a UL motor”. With a whole lot of clever fabrication and a Schwinn-inspired paint job, this is a beautiful bike we come back to again and again.

See the whole collection at Greasy Kulture.

–Greasy Kulture

APPALACHIAN Harley-Davidson
Spring Open House and Demo Ride Event–

We are excited to see you, talk suspension, and have a good time! We will be located at Appalachian Harley-Davidson. Stop by, we will be there May 5-7!

For more information and location details please visit:
https://www.legendsuspensions.com/events/

WWW.THIRTY YEAR ANNIVERSARY–30 years of world wide web

30 years ago, one decision altered the course of our connected world

I would say it was as life-changing for the world as the polio vaccine for which there was no patent/royalty fees, etc.

CERN owned Berners-Lee’s invention, and the lab had the option to license out the World Wide Web for profit. But Berners-Lee believed that keeping the web as open as possible would help it grow.

“The web setting out as something which was universal, something which anybody could use, I felt was very important,” he said. “It’s no good having something which will run on any platform if, in fact, there is a proprietary hold on it.”

Berners-Lee eventually convinced CERN to release the World Wide Web into the public domain without any patents or fees. He has since attributed the runaway success of the web to that single decision.

Refer detailed article at:
https://www.npr.org/2023/04/30/1172276538/world-wide-web-internet-anniversary

–Wayfarer

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special

URL: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=12711990

Want top-end touring technology, infotainment, and unruly stripped-down bagger style? We vote yes.

Features may include:

Blacked-out Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin Engine

A powerful, smooth-running engine with crisp throttle response and a pure, soul-satisfying rumble.

Front Wheel

New 19-inch Talon Front Wheel and 18-inch

Rear Wheel

Cast aluminium Talon wheels featuring spokes that extend all the way to the edge of the rim, creating the illusion of a larger wheel diameter.

Stretched Saddlebags

Designed to accentuate the long and low profile for an iconic, custom look.

Blacked-out Everything

Blacked-out front forks, handlebars, tank console and exhaust for an aggressive, modern look.

Premium BOOM!™ Box 6.5 Infotainment System

A stylish 6.5-inch full-colour touch screen display with hands-free mobile phone, media, and navigation. Delivers powerful, pure sound and dynamic full-range audio

Responsive Suspension

High-performing front and rear suspension with easily hand-adjustable rear shocks put you in control of a plush ride.

–Richard Allstun
Marketing Director
Lifestyle Cycles
714.490.0155

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY HISTORY LESSON–Great Trivia

‘A SHOT OF WHISKEY’ – In the old west a .45 cartridge for a six-gun cost 12 cents, so did a glass of whiskey. If a cowhand was low on cash, he would often give the bartender a cartridge in exchange for a drink. This became known as a “shot” of whiskey.

BUYING THE FARM – This is synonymous with dying. During WW1 soldiers were given life insurance policies worth $5,000. This was about the price of an average farm so if you died you “bought the farm” for your survivors.

IRON CLAD CONTRACT – This came about from the ironclad ships of the Civil War. It meant something so strong it could not be broken.

RIFF RAFF – The Mississippi River was the main way of travelling from north to south. Riverboats carried passengers and freight but they were expensive so most people used rafts. Everything had the right of way over rafts which were considered cheap. The steering oar on the rafts was called a “riff” and this transposed into riff-raff, meaning low class.

COBWEB – The Old English word for “spider” was “cob”.

SHIP STATE ROOMS – Travelling by steamboat was considered the height of comfort. Passenger cabins on the boats were not numbered. Instead, they were named after states. To this day cabins on ships are called staterooms.

SLEEP TIGHT- Early beds were made with a wooden frame. Ropes were tied across the frame in a crisscross pattern. A straw mattress was then put on top of the ropes. Over time the ropes stretched, causing the bed to sag. The owner would then tighten the ropes to get a better night’s sleep.

SHOWBOAT – These were floating theatres built on a barge that was pushed by a steamboat. These played small towns along the Mississippi River. Unlike the boat shown in the movie “Showboat”, these did not have an engine. They were gaudy and attention grabbing which is why we say someone who is being the life of the party is “showboating”.

OVER A BARREL – In the days before CPR, a drowning victim would be placed face down over a barrel and the barrel would be rolled back and forth in an effort to empty the lungs of water. It was rarely effective. If you are over a barrel, you are in deep trouble.

BARGE IN – Heavy freight was moved along the Mississippi in large barges pushed by steamboats. These were hard to control and would sometimes swing into piers or other boats. People would say they “barged in”.

HOGWASH – Steamboats carried both people and animals. Since pigs smelled so bad they would be washed before being put on board. The mud and other filth that was washed off were considered useless “hog wash”.

CURFEW – The word “curfew” comes from the French phrase “couvre-feu”, which means “cover the fire”. It was used to describe the time of blowing out all lamps and candles. It was later adopted into Middle English as “curfeu” which later became the modern “curfew”.

In the early American colonies homes had no real fireplaces so a fire was built in the center of the room. In order to make sure a fire did not get out of control during the night it was required that, by an agreed upon time, all fires would be covered with a clay pot called-a “curfew”.

BARRELS OF OIL – When the first oil wells were drilled, there was no provision for storing the liquid so they used water barrels. That is why, to this day, we speak of barrels of oil rather than gallons.

HOT OFF THE PRESS – As the paper goes through the rotary printing press friction causes it to heat up Therefore, if you grab the paper right off the press, it’s hot. The expression means to get immediate information.

There, don’t you feel smarter now?

LATEST FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM—

Today we know that Indian motorcycles are manufactured in Iowa, but even decades ago, Iowa had a motorcycle industry. The Doodle Bug and Egley scooters were manufactured in Iowa. The Doodle Bug is small, only about 1.5 horsepower, was meant for use as local transportation and was promoted to youth.

Doodle Bugs were manufactured in Webster City, Iowa just after World War II, 1946 to 1948, by Beam Manufacturing. They were part of the scooter craze that lasted into the early 1960’s when Japanese motorcycles started to dominate sales. Over 40,000 Doodle Bugs were made, some Clinton four-cycle engine powered at the beginning, but most later machines like this one used 1.5 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engines, all with kick-starting and bright red paint.

Using the Hiawatha brand name, Beam sold the scooters through Gambles department stores to compete with Cushman and Allstate scooters. A range of accessories from Doodle Bug allowed owners to make them street legal. Headlight and taillight kits could be operated from a 6-Volt battery, or with the available generator kit. Looking back, though they may have been street legal, most would agree they are somewhat small and underpowered to be out in today’s traffic on public roads but probably OK in their era.

Today the following for these interesting machines, with a cool name, is very strong and there’s even an annual gathering in their town of manufacture, Webster City, Iowa.

This nicely restored Doodle Bug will be among hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of pieces of memorabilia offered in the John Parham Estate Collection Mecum Auction.

Watch for information on the Mecum Auctions website, Mecum.com, motorcycles and memorabilia from the John Parham Estate Collection, all auctioned at the National Motorcycle Museum, Anamosa, Iowa, September 6 – 9, 2023.

For schedule information, to consign a vehicle or to register as a bidder for this and all Mecum events, visit Mecum.com, or call (262) 275-5050 for more information.

BABE OF THE WEEK–

–Sam Burns
Exclusive curator
Bikernet.com™

DEALERS CALL FOR A MORATORIUM ON MAJOR CAP EX IN 2023

Noting that “No one wants to repeat the 2008/2009 failures of the Powersports industry, especially the self-inflicted ones,” the National Powersports Dealer Association members are requesting a 12-month moratorium on requirements for extensive facility upgrades and other capital expenditures.

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA—
Announces Participation in Historic Three-day Event on National Mall to Welcome Home and Honor our Nation’s Vietnam Veterans

National nonprofit’s Mobile Education Exhibit will be on display and Wreaths Across America Radio will be broadcasting LIVE at The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration’s event: “Welcome Home! A Nation Honors our Vietnam Veterans and Their Families”

Wreaths Across America (WAA) is proud to announce participation in a historic three-day event taking place in Washington D.C., May 11-13, on the National Mall, as part of the 50th anniversary of The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration (VWC). The VWC will be hosting a multi-location event: “Welcome Home! A Nation Honors our Vietnam Veterans and Their Families.” This interactive, immersive experience will feature over 90 participating organizations, and is open to the public. Everyone is encouraged to come to this generational learning opportunity with their family.

WAA’s Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE) – currently on a national tour – will be on display as part of the event’s Camp Legacy which will be set up at both the JFK Hockey Fields and West Potomac Park and will be open for free tours.

The MEE is traveling to Washington D.C. to support this important event and share the yearlong mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach. Wreaths Across America Radio will be broadcasting live from the MEE over the three days. The radio team will be speaking with Vietnam veterans as well as other Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) onsite, sharing stories of service and success with our listeners who are unable to attend in person.

Wreaths Across America Radio, A Voice for America’s Veterans, is a 24/7 internet radio station that can be heard anytime and anywhere on the iHeart Radio app, Audacy app, TuneIn app, or at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/radio.

In addition, on Thursday evening, May 11, 2023, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm ET, at Thomas Jefferson Building LJ 119, Wreaths Across America Radio will broadcast LIVE from the Library of Congress for a prominent event entitled “Live! at the library: The War and Peace of Tim O’Brien.” This free and open to the public to attend, however, on-line registrations are required. You can click here to register for your ticket.

“Being part of a historic event is something we wish every American could experience,” said Karen Worcester, executive director, WAA. “Now, with our Mobile Education Exhibit we can be a part of this meaningful event and thanks to Wreaths Across America Radio, we’ll be able to share it with all those who wished they could be there. We are both grateful and excited to share these important experiences with our supporters as we continue to Remember, Honor and Teach all year round.”

The festivities will commence Thursday, May 11, at 11 a.m. with an opening ceremony at the West end of the JFK Hockey Fields. A ribbon cutting with special remarks and a flyover by four Vietnam War period Huey helicopters in a 4-ship formation will formally open Camp Legacy. For a complete itinerary and location of events click here.

ENGRAVER OF THE WEEK—Bruzz metal work

–Sam Burns
Tech Editor
Bikernet.com™

THIS JUST IN FROM THE SENIOR MONK—

Here are five things that have become my context for living.

1) There is nothing wrong with you.
2) We are not here to be good; we are here to practice authenticity and being real.
3) The only prayer is thank you. Gratitude opens all doors to abundance.
4) Nothing outside of you needs to change.
5) Everyone is perfect just as they are.

May these serve as a reminder of how wonderful you are.

–Ray Russell
Senior Monk
Emerald Temple
Australia

DYNA AND SPORTSTER ADVICE FROM LOWBROW–

It’s that time of year again!

It’s time to go over your motorcycle and get it road-ready for the season!

A Springtime service is straight-forward stuff that you can do yourself with basic hand tools.

Todd performs, step-by-step, the following tasks (among others) on a Sportster & Dyna:

Changing Engine, Primary & Transmission Oil
Primary Chain Inspection & Adjustment
Checking Tire Pressure
Belt Drive (as well as Chain Drive) Adjustment
Lubricating The Chain
Checking & Cleaning Air Filter Element
Throttle Cable Lubrication
Fixing A Sticky Throttle
GOING FOR A RIDE!

Watch the video on the Lowbrow web site.

[page break]

NEWS FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE—

Getting good use of my Iwata Ninja airbrush setup for custom leather. Customer requested two-tone fade. Feibings light brown dye without diluting. It’s really great control to achieve color blending. Best way to apply leather dyes evenly and smoothly that’s for sure.

Handmade leather production chopper seats like this one, start at $350 plus shipping. Fits most hardtails, including early rigid Harleys.

–Adam Croft
Founder and president
Dime Bag Leathers

NRA CERTIFIED FIREARM TRAINING
FIND A COURSE NEAR YOU!

No matter why you own a firearm, NRA Certified Firearm Training can help you take your skills to the next level.

Our training schedule has recently been updated and now’s the time to find a course that’s right for you.

Simply click any of the training categories below to browse our instructional schedule and find the training you want in your local area.

But please hurry. Enrollment is strictly limited for most courses and many are filling up fast.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our NRA Certified Training Courses in the near future!

–Joe DeBergalis
Executive Director
NRA General Operations

STURGIS BOUND–The motor is finished. I even started it right here on the garage floor. I will probably work all summer on that body though.

When it is on the road, if my health holds out, I’ll drive it to Sturgis. Maybe pull my bike. It will be more comfortable than the ‘34. I turned 76 today. Doc says I’m fine.

Ride free forever

— Bill May

“Happy Birthday brother! See you in the Black Hills.” — Bandit

HAMSTER HITS THE DRAGS–

In March, there were a few Hamster brothers that made the trip to Carolina Motorsports Park, in Kershaw, SC., to watch Jeff Nelson race in the AHRMA races. Lee Wimmer or Greg “Edge” can fill in the details if needed.

A good time was had by all and a conversation was had about Barber and the museum and what a great place it is. Some have never been to, or may not have even heard of Barber Motorsports Park.

Jeff will be racing his Hamsters themed Superbike at Barber Motorsports Park Oct 5-8; practice rounds Oct 5-6 and races are Oct 7-8 and many Hamsters are making plans to enjoy the festivities in October.

If you have interest in seeing the greatest motorcycle museum in the world and catching the races at Barber Motorsports Park, please call or text Jeff at 501.918.8050. Or, you can call or text Lee Wimmer at 267.718.8400

KEEPING THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN— 100% in Agreement

The local bar was so sure its bartender was the strongest man around that they offered a standing $1000 bet.

The bartender would squeeze a lemon until all the juice ran into a glass, and hand the lemon to a patron. Anyone who could squeeze one more drop of juice out would win the money.

Many people had tried over time, including the professional wrestlers and bodybuilders, but nobody could do it.

One day a scrawny little man came in, wearing a tie and a pair of pants hiked up past his belly button.

He said in a squeaky annoying voice, “I’d like to try the bet.”

Even the hillbilly chicks burst into laughter.

After the laughter had died down, the bartender said, “Ok,” grabbed a lemon, and squeezed away. He then handed the wrinkled remains of the rind to the little man.

But the crowd’s laughter turned to total silence as the man clenched his fist around the lemon and six drops fell into the glass.

As the crowd cheered, the bartender paid the $1000, and asked the little man, “What do you do for a living? Are you a lumberjack, weight lifter, or what?”

The man replied, “I work for the IRS.”

–Micah McCloskey
Pilot
Salt Torpedo
5-Ball Racing Team

SPEAKING OF TAXES– Here are the 7 big tax hikes Californians are Potentially Facing:

1. Mileage Tax: Politicians are already imposing a 6-cents per mile tax costing an average of $900 per car per year!

2. Healthcare Tax: Politicians propose to double California state taxes to fund government-run healthcare – costing average of $16k per household per year

3. Exit Tax: Politicians want a new tax for up to 10 years on residents who move out of California

4. Savings Tax: Politicians want a new tax on your personal savings and investments

5. Gas Tax: The law passed last week imposing a new tax on oil companies would be invalidated.

6. Utility Taxes: The crazy proposal to charge you higher utility rates if you earn “too much” will be blocked. In addition, the $4.5 billion in hidden state taxes on utility bills have to be voted on – or eliminated.

7. Local Tax Hikes: Any local sales or property tax hike adopted after January 2022 would be invalidated for not complying with the provisions of the CTPI.

Great Guy that Newsom…

–El Waggs

BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT–

Make plans now to attend an important NRA-ILA Grassroots Webinar on critical Second Amendment grassroots programs, resources, outreach opportunities, and how you can be best prepared for the fight. Join NRA-ILA Grassroots Staff on Tuesday, May 23rd, at 7:00 p.m. EST: Be sure to RSVP below for the webinar link:

RSVP for the Grassroots Webinar

The fight to protect our rights at all levels hinges on active participation by patriots that remain educated on important Second Amendment issues. Your NRA-ILA team looks forward to sharing important updates, hearing your questions, and providing the grassroots tools you need to make your voice heard.

All NRA-ILA webinars are Webex based and can be accessed via desktop computer, smartphone, or via call- in. You can find more information by clicking HERE.

We hope you’ll join your NRA-ILA team on May 23rd!

Yours in Freedom,
Ken Lan
NRA-ILA Grassroots
http://www.nrailafrontlines.com/

DON’T FORGET MOTHER’S DAY—

For Mother’s Day I’m getting my mom beads for her abacus.

It’s the little things that count.

–Sam Burns

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ENTHUSIAST COLLECTION INTRODUCES FAST JOHNNIE

High-Performance 1960s and ‘70s Muscle Cars Inspire Limited-Edition Trio of Motorcycles

Harley-Davidson celebrates muscle car culture and its racing heritage with the introduction of Fast Johnnie, the 2023 addition to the Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection of limited run bikes featuring factory-direct custom paint and graphic treatments. Executed in Celestial Blue with white racing stripes, this special Enthusiast Collection paint scheme is offered factory-installed for three 2023 Harley-Davidson models: the Low Rider ST, the Street Glide ST and the Road Glide ST motorcycles, with combined production limited to no more than 2,000 models globally.

Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection models celebrate Harley-Davidson riders and are inspired by their stories and legacies. The Fast Johnnie paint scheme taps into iconic design themes featured on high-performance muscle cars and pony cars of the 1960s and 1970s – contrasting “racing” or “rally” striping over a bold base color, and a clever or symbolic character or logo incorporated into the graphics package.

Both elements served to create an obvious visual difference between the high-performance version of a car and the standard version of the same model.

The Fast Johnnie character applied to the left side of the fuel tank also appears on the Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle factory team motorcycles raced in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series.

It was inspired by the story of a piglet named Johnnie adopted in 1920 by Harley-Davidson racer and member of the infamous “Wrecking Crew,” Ray Weishaar, which became a team mascot. The piglet often perched on a motorcycle fuel tank for a post-race victory lap and is usually cited as the source of the “Hog” moniker that to this day is often applied to anything Harley-Davidson.

“The striping graphic effect is a powerful signal to the generation that came of age during this era, and is still impactful today,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design and Creative Director.

“The Celestial Blue base color selected for Fast Johnnie recalls a popular tone from the muscle car era. For the graphic striping, we created a custom white color formulated to authentically reflect the era, executed in a classic thin-wide-thin pattern on the sides and top of the motorcycle bodywork. The look is a nod to pure Americana.”

On the tank and front fender “Harley-Davidson” script replaces one of the thin stripe elements. Depending on the motorcycle model, the striping is applied to the front and rear fenders, the fuel tank top and sides, the front of the fairing and the side covers and saddlebags. The Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection logo is on the rear fender.

Low Rider ST Fast Johnnie Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection

Strap down your bedroll and make a run for the border. The Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST model is an American V-Twin sport-touring bike for the rider who digs clean-and-lean West Coast style and craves the outrageous performance of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin powertrain. The Low Rider ST model connects these riders with pure Harley-Davidson attitude. Mechanical features are identical to the 2023 Low Rider ST model.

Special Styling Features

Celestial Blue with custom white detailing
Enthusiast Collection logo on rear fender
Graphic on both sides of the fuel tank – Fast Johnnie on left, Bar & Shield on right

Street Glide ST Fast Johnnie Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection

Elevated pro-touring bagger performance and style for the rider who just can’t get enough of either. The Street Glide® ST model pairs the muscular Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain with tough West Coast styling influences and new dark-and-bronze finishes. Undiminished comfort and the iconic batwing fairing appeal to the traditionalist mindset. Meet the new breed of speed and style from Harley-Davidson. Mechanical features are identical to the 2023 Street Glide ST model.

Road Glide ST Fast Johnnie Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection

The sleek Road Glide ST model projects more menace than ever and backs it up with the street-scorching power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. West Coast styling elements and black-and-bronze finishes set this bike apart from the performance bagger crowd. Legendary comfort and the “sharknose” fixed fairing appeal to a rider who wants to make quick work of the open road. Mechanical features are identical to 2023 Road Glide ST model.

Road Glide ST and Street Glide ST Special Styling Features

Celestial Blue with custom white detailing
Enthusiast Motorcycle Collection logo on rear fender
Graphic on both sides of the fuel tank – Fast Johnnie on left, Bar & Shield on right

Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories offers color-matched King Tour-Pak luggage carrier, Chopped Tour-Pak luggage carrier, and saddlebag speaker lids.

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON OF THE WEEK—

jambalaya

[ juhm-buh-lahy-uh ] SHOW IPA
noun

a Creole dish consisting of rice cooked with ham, sausage, chicken, or shellfish, plus herbs, spices, and vegetables.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF JAMBALAYA?
Jambalaya is a borrowing from the dialect of French spoken in Louisiana. Before French, jambalaya appears to have come from Occitan, a language from southern France. The explanation that jambalaya contains the name Jean or French jambon, “ham,” plus balayer, “to sweep,” is false. Jambalaya was first recorded in English in the 1740s.

EXAMPLE OF JAMBALAYA USED IN A SENTENCE

A savory, simmering jambalaya was the centerpiece of the New Orleans-themed buffet.

CHOPPER SHOW COMING–THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2023 AT 12 PM – 4 PM CDT

Time Warp Turnout Chopper Show

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH—

Report Highlights Rising Fatalities, Distracted Driving, Speeding, and Alcohol

Peak motorcycle riding season is underway just as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released a grim report showing traffic fatalities across the board up sharply from 2020 to 2021, with distraction, speeding, and alcohol as key factors. Motorcycle and scooter riders, with their smaller profiles, are at an even greater risk of not being seen by drivers, so the Motorcycle Safety Foundation is urging all roadway users to “Expect Us, See Us,” and actively search for riders and stay focused on the road.

“The NHTSA data may be from 2021, but distraction, speeding, and driving or riding while under the influence continue to be problems today – however, these are all things we can change,” said Rob Gladden, MSF vice president of training operations. “May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and we want to call attention to how smart, attentive driving and riding behaviors can save lives.”

Distraction-affected crashes rose 12 percent from 2020 to 2021, according to NHTSA, while speeding-related fatalities increased by 7.9 percent, and alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities rose 14 percent.

“One of the biggest risks to motorcyclists is drivers who don’t see the rider and turn across their paths, even if they are not driving distracted,” Gladden said. “So if you are distracted – using your cell phone, eating, or engaged with other passengers – the risks rise exponentially for riders. If driving, please be vigilant. Actively search for motorcyclists and look twice, especially before changing lanes or turning.”

NHTSA also reported that in 2021, motorcyclist fatalities were up 7.7 percent from the year before, while passenger vehicle occupant fatalities rose 10 percent, large-truck occupant fatalities rose 23 percent, pedestrian fatalities increased 13 percent, and pedalcyclist fatalities increased 1.9 percent.

The number of alcohol-impaired riders involved in fatalities jumped 19 percent from 2020 to 2021, according to NHTSA. Among passenger car and light truck/SUV drivers, alcohol-impaired-driving fatalities were up 12 percent and 27 percent respectively, making it clear that if you drink, don’t drive or ride. Alcohol not only affects a rider or driver’s judgment, it also affects their perceptions and reaction time.

–MIC

PIRELLI Expands Spring Moto Rebate to Canada—

Rebate has Also Been Extended to July 31, 2023, for US Residents and Available on Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires

Pirelli Tire North America is excited to announce the extension of the spring moto rebate for motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Pirelli tires through their local participating dealerships and select online retailers through July 31, 2023.

The spring moto rebate program is now available to both United States and Canadian residents. It allows enthusiasts to take advantage of as much as $25 USD / $40 CAD rebate per tire or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires.

PIRELLI DIABLO ROSSO IV in action (8).jpg

Eligible Pirelli street tires will receive a $25 USD / $40 CAD per tire rebate or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set and include the Diablo™ Supercorsa V3 SP, Diablo Rosso™ IV Corsa, Diablo Rosso™ IV, Angel™ GT II, Angel™ GT, Night Dragon™, Night Dragon™ GT, Scorpion™ Trail II, MT 60™, MT 60™ RS, Scorpion™ Rally STR, Scorpion™ MT 90 A/T, Phantom™ Sportscomp, and Sport Demon™.

For off-road, eligible tires will offer a $30 USD rebate per tire set or $20 CAD per tire / $50 CAD per tire set and include the Scorpion™ MX Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Soft, Scorpion™ MX32™ Mid Hard, Scorpion™ XC Mid Soft, Scorpion™ XC Mid Hard, MT 43™ Pro Trial, MT 16™ Garacross, and Scorpion™ Rally.

This limited-time offer is only valid on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and July 31, 2023, and only for legal United States and Canada residents. After purchasing a set of qualifying Pirelli tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out a claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital VISA prepaid card.

DICE MAGAZINE BLING—

Look how freakin’ cool these little fellas are!

The legend himself, Mr Butts Seats hand made 100 of these sweethearts which are only available to magazine subscribers.

Want to get one? Find out how below.

One Moto Show Recap – Our man on the ground Samson Hatae was at the One Moto Show last weekend to capture all the action just for you.

Peep the blog below or full re-cap video on DicE TV.

NEVER DULL IN THE BLACK HILLS—

Lots of us look at our horoscope daily to find guidance. How about fortune cookies. I got one back in the ‘80s that said I would be lucky for life. It worked.

For the kicks I keep track of the Chinese calendar in which I’m a Rat. I thought I was a Hamster. I open Lillian Too’s (with her daughter) annual book for Rats and check out the annual outlook for the year. Then I watch each month about a week ahead of time just to see where I might be headed.

Who knows if April was truly aligned with the Chinese April. It’s a kick because it warned about the last couple of months and they’ve been nuts. In the last 30 years, I haven’t had a single pal charged with a felony. Now I have two criminals in the Badlands. Hang on.