General Posts

Bandit, Yes — it has been against Federal law to tamper with any vehicle since the late 60s and 70s! However, only states with auto smog inspections enforce the tampering provision. And, since there are no smog inspections for motorcycles anywhere in the U.S., there is little, or NO, enforcement of the federal EPA motorcycle tampering rule outside of California. Some states have annual or biennial motorcycle safety inspections, but I have not heard of any inspecting for vehicle emissions systems tampering. That’s why CARB and the California Bureau of Auto Repair (BAR) would love to see smog checks for motorcycles. That’s at least a battle that we probably can win, like we did in 2010, if any such bills rear their ugly head. As far as noise (which CARB does not regulate) — it has been against the law for aftermarket muffler manufacturers to produce and sell aftermarket mufflers any louder than stock since 1983. The federal fine for manufacturers of non-compliant and unstamped mufflers is $10,000 per muffler, plus 1 year in jail and $25,000 plus 2 years in jail for subsequent violations! However, have you ever hear of an aftermarket muffler manufacturer getting fined $10K, much less going to jail? Another example of federal noise law non-enforcement! Not to rain on your parade — these unpleasant facts are provided so that you know what all of the rules of the game are. As we discussed when I visited your authentic “Motorcycle Museum” home the other day, here’s my bike (1971 real Norton Commando Production Racer [only 200 ever made]) reposing in the den of our crib. Authentic Motorcycle Art! — John Paliwoda

If you have ever been to the Harley Museum in Milwaukee this book will bring back good memories. If you have not then reading this book and seeing the photos will make you want to go. Read more.

The spirit is still here, but the kids don’t care about paper magazines anymore. They live the 70s the way they though it was. Say hello to my friends at exit 61 Rapid City, they could give you a horseback ride so you get the right expierence of SD! SHERIFF MEDIA GROUP S-363 94 LAMMHULT SWEDEN

It’s a fascinating Story of motorcycle love, business survival and toughness. But if you mentioned this to Larry, he would tell you to, “fuck off.” Every time I asked Larry to open up about the shop or this bike he’d frown and tell me to read the tech chart he prepared. Read more.

At the FEMA meeting in Brussels on 2 June, the FEMA Committee voted in a new member. FEMA is proud to welcome our newest member, Asociación Mutua Motera (AMM) from Spain. Joining us with observer status, with the intention to become a full member a year from now, is Comitato Coordinamento Motociclisti (CCM) from Italy. CCM represents four Italian riders’ organizations (AMI, Biker Alto Adige, CCM & Motor Lab). Read more.

Hey, We live is such strange times. On one hand we could be at a terrific juncture in out history, having a great time, living longer, healthier, safer and more free. But the same old shit gets in the way, control freaks (government) and religion. Damn, I’m glad I’m a biker. I’m fighting the California Air Resources Board for internal combustion motorcyles to continue to exist. But they are like the sheriffs in a town paid for by the Mayor. In this case the governor who has mandated (don’t you love that word) Zero emissions by 2030. That means only electric motorcycles and no barbecues. Get this. Last year the California Legislature passed a new fine for motorcycle products that are not CARB approved (at a major expense). The old fine was $500 per widget sold. It has been raised to $3,700 per product sold. Can you imagine receiving a ticket for that amount for your backyard barbecue? Read more.

Many moons ago I made my way to Stockholm, Sweden, where I found work in a restaurant at the Hotel Domus, and very much enjoyed the endless summer days and the local fauna and flora—lots of it very blond. At that time, vehicles drove on “the other side of the road” as in England, and I dodged many a Volvo and Saab, but not one Husqvarna TT of 1934 vintage. That would have to wait until I migrated to Los Angeles where all things motorcycle are possible. As a result, and this several years ago, I had the good fortune to meet  Chris Carlson, a native Swede now living the SoCal life, but also realizing a childhood dream to own and ride that very rare Husqy. Like all odysseys, it took time and determination and a few thousand miles traveled, and no small expenditure of hard-earned coin. Read more.