Hey,
We received a call this morning at the crack of dawn. “The mudflap girl is ready to ride,” Buster Cates, from Saddlemen, said and hung up. The Saddlemen crew go to work at 6:30 in the morning to 3:30. What terrific hours, except for folks who don’t crawl out of the sack until 8:00. I grabbed my Hot Leather helmet, Lee Parks deerskin gloves, and Ray C. Wheeler snatched my Bandit’s Dayroll bag fulla tools and a can of gas. We hit the bricks for the first ride on the Mudflap Girl.
Avery and Jose, the seat designer, met us at the door. We fired the bike, tinkered slightly, and I peeled out. What a terrific feeling. That puppy purrs, and is absolutely the most comfortable motorcycle (FXR) I have ever built for myself. Let’s hit the news, so I can change the oil, adjust the GMA brakes, and go for another ride.
THE STORY BEHIND BANDIT’S MILITARY KNIFE–One of our most trusted friends, Mark Lonsdale, spent the last ten years in Iraq training troops. He attended my recent BD party and handed me this knife.
“There’s a story behind it,” Mark said. “This is General Satar Khan – 2nd pic – and next to me in group pic – who gave me the bayonet. He was head of General Dostum’s security detail in Northern Afghanistan in 2003 when I was training them. It’s sharp, watch out.”
SPECIALLY BLENDED LAT GEAR OIL FIGHTS HEAT, FRICTION AND LOAD SHOCK– LAT’s unique 75w140w gear lubricant is blended specifically for use in American V-Twin transmissions.
This hi-tech lubricant provides maximum protection under extreme loads and high temperatures encountered by High Performance street machines and Baggers alike. LAT gear oil provides superior shock load and wear protection while enhancing smoother more precise shifting.
The unique lubricant is formulated from the highest quality synthetic base oils fortified with VI improvers, rust inhibitors, foam suppressants and LAT’s exclusive LFR extreme pressure additive. Available in 75w140w, the unique gear lube exceeds API GL-5. LAT GEAR OIL promotes lower operating temperatures, reduced friction, less wear, superior overall performance and longer life.
For complete details contact LAT at 888-528-6457 or visit them on the Web at www.latracingoils.com
BIKERNET READER TECH QUESTION–I just became the proud owner of a 1990 Softail classic. The S&S super E shorty popped at mid to high rpm. I took it apart to find the ejector nozzle would spin around and eventually pulled right out of the carb.
Can somebody tell me if it is part of the carb body or a separate part on its own, and if not, do I need the whole bottom half of the carb replaced?
–Tate Langley
The ejector nozzle is part of the bowl and is a press fit. Unfortunately it has a hex on it and some folk want to twist it, which can loosen it. If it comes loose you can usually just put it back in with a LITTLE Loctite(r), but you have to be careful not to goober it into the passages.
In other words: Don’t be afraid to use it sparingly! If you would prefer, you can send it back to S&S and our remanufacturing dept will put it back to factory spec. BTW – was the little blue o-ring still on top of the ejector nozzle?
The popping at mid and high rpm may or may not be related to the ejector nozzle. If that persists after the nozzle is fixed, the jetting should be checked. If this bike is running drag pipes it’s going to be more difficult, but it can be done. I’d recommend looking at our tuning videos on YouTube. Also I’d recommend downloading a carb instruction sheet from our website. Here’s a link! http://www.sscycle.com/instructions/instructionslist.php?x_cat=24 You want sheet #51-1012.
–Bruce Tessmer
Marketing Manager
S&S(r) Cycle Inc
608-627-0283
A VOTE AGAINST HORSFORD IS A VOTE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS– When the State of Nevada had a bill submitted that would give motorcyclist the Freedom of Choice to decide if they should wear a helmet while riding or not the Senator refused to pass it out of his committee.
Was it because the motorcyclist refused to go along with his “pay to play” proposal that offered access to himself and other lawmakers in exchange for campaign contributions?
After following what was going on in Nevada during this it sure looks like the people who wanted to keep the Mandatory Law did get to someone.
I am a firm believer in screw me once shame on you, screw me twice shame on me. To stop being screwed by Horsford Vote Him Out Of Office!!!!!
He continues to ignore rules that citizens must follow and now he wants to go to Washington.
YA GOT TA BE KIDDIN’ ME
–ROGUE
Republicans document Horsford financial woes
Jessica Ebelhar/Las Vegas Review-Journal
National Republican Congressional Committee website
thehorsfordrules.com By Laura Myers LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Nevada Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford has a history of defaulting on car and home loans, not paying bills, and being repeatedly sued to force him to pay, according to legal documents that show the congressional candidate also ignored a traffic ticket until his driver’s license was suspended.
Most of the financial problems date between 1998 and 2002 when Horsford, in his 20s, was struggling to pay rent and help raise two younger siblings. But one occurred last year when the Senate leader was sued in July 2011 for failing to pay $397 for installation of audio and video equipment in his Las Vegas home.
In the end, Horsford, 38, resolved all of the liens and legal financial disputes, paying about $20,000. But Republican foes of the Democratic House candidate who provided documents verified by the Las Vegas Review-Journal contend they show a pattern of Horsford playing by his own rules.
“The more Nevada voters learn about Horsford, the more it becomes clear that he has a troubling history of ignoring the rules the rest of Nevadans follow,” said Daniel Scarpinato, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee in Washington, D.C.
BIKERNET TRIKES STUDIES REVERSE–Bikernet Trikes recently installed a reverse gear into a Twin Cam Five-speed transmission. The robust unit from Champion was a relatively straightforward install thanks to our ace wrench Wes Blankenship and very detailed instructions from Champion.
Applications are available for 84-99 EVO trans and all Five- or Six-speed Twin Cams.
Obviously these units work equally well on 2-wheelers; especially heavy bikes like Baggers. Heck, even sidecars or that unique 5-wheel contraption your Uncle from Unadilla built.
We’ve started two complete Trike builds: an Independent Suspension setup on a Bagger along with another utilizing a Straight Axle unit and a trick, hot rod Sportster. Check it out! Click on the Bikernet Trikes logo at the top of this page from the comfort of your living room, 24 hours a day. Come back to check on the build progress or revisit any article, anytime, any day, forever.
–Toph
AMA MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCED 2012 NOMINEES–
The American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation (AMHF) is proud to announce the 2012 nominees for induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. The names of 26 individuals, each highly accomplished in the sport, business and lifestyle of motorcycling, compose the ballot from which the class of 2012 will be selected for induction into the Hall of Fame.
“It’s an exciting time for everyone involved in the process of selecting Hall of Fame inductees,” said AMHF Board of Directors Chairman Jeff Heininger. “We are so proud of our nominees and their accomplishments, each of whom embodies the passion, spirit and dedication to excellence that exemplifies the Hall of Fame members already honored at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”
Located on the campus of the AMA in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame tells the stories of motorcycling’s heroes and legends, and preserves the history of motorcycling. Hall of Fame nominees are selected from a number of specialties within two main categories. The non-competition category includes ambassadors/industry, design/engineering and leadership/motorcyclist rights advocates, and the competition category includes flat track, motocross/Supercross, off-road, roadracing, and specialty competition.
The 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame nominees are (alphabetically):
Mark Buckner – National/international motorcycling rights advocate, past state coordinator for ABATE of Colorado, past board member/president/chairman of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
Rod Bush (d. 2005) – Industry leader as former president of KTM North America and member of KTM worldwide board of directors, former member of AMA Board of Directors.
Derek “Nobby” Clark — Factory mechanic and tuner for numerous World Grand Prix roadracing championships and Daytona 200 and Imola 200 victories from the 1960-80s.
Ty Davis – Multiple championships in AMA Grand National Enduro, AMA National Hare & Hound and Baja 1000, 1990 125cc Supercross champion, multitime ISDE gold medalist and top American.
Skip Eaken – Tuner/builder for riders who finished first in dozens of AMA Grand National Dirt Track competitions, crew chief for three AMA Grand National Championships and an AMA Superbike Championship.
Jimmy Ellis – First AMA Supercross Series champion and multitime motocross champion.
Louis Gerencer – Multitime National Hillclimb champion and past president of the Hillclimbers Association.
Charles Gustafson Sr. (d. 1951) – Indian chief engineer who developed the first side-valve engine that debuted in 1916, and is also credited with developing the first kickstarter.
Tommy Hays – (d. 1941) The dominant TT rider of the pre-Grand National Championship era who won numerous AMA National Championships in four years.
Jack Johnson – Multitime desert racing champion with numerous Baja 1000 wins, silver and gold International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) medalist.
Ron Lechien – 1983 AMA Rookie of the Year, 1985 125 Motocross National Champion, multitime USGP winner, numerous outdoor national motocross wins and Supercross wins.
Bob Leppan – World’s fastest motorcyclist 1966-1970 who directed the team that set the 2007 land speed record for production motorcycles.
John Long – Bonneville Land Speed record holder, five-time U.S. Team member for Anglo-American Match Races, numerous starts in AMA national roadraces and Daytona 200s.
Dennis Mahan – Mechanic for numerous dirt-track, motocross and roadracing champions, first U.S Motocross des Nations team manager, industry racing manager and product specialist.
Rob Muzzy – Engine builder/tuner, crew chief, team owner and businessman with numerous AMA roadracing, drag racing, dirt-track and motocross titles and Daytona 200 wins, a World Superbike Championship and a Suzuka 8-hour endurance championship.
Don Pink – (d. 1984) Dominant 1940s competitor in numerous disciplines, AMA congressman, founder of the New York State Dealers Association and the NY/NJ Metropolitan Sports Committee.
Randy Renfrow – (d. 2002) Multitime AMA National road racing champion, winner of numerous AMA national races, and a consistent winner in 250 GP racing.
Jarno Saarinen – (d. 1973) Finnish roadracing world champion and the first European to win the Daytona 200.
Brian Slark – England-born motocross organizer in the 1960s, imported/built Rickman, Metisse and Cheney motocrossers and helped establish the Mungenast and Barber motorcycle museums.
Gloria Struck – North American and European world traveler and motorcycling ambassador, Motor Maids member since 1946.
Charlie Vincent – Top 1960s off-road racing competitor in the eastern United States, ISDT gold medalist and AMA congress delegate.
Lance Weil – (d. 2006) Roadracer, mechanic, designer, fabricator and businessman, competed in Europe and the Isle of Man, and the founder of Rickey Racer.
Al Wilcox (d. 2011) – Life member of the AMA and the Mid-Atlantic Road Racing Club who flagged AMA races for 50 years (and WERA for 30), including 15 years at Daytona.
Gene Wirwahn – Credited with building the foundation for the AMA’s government relations advocacy efforts, championed numerous legislative victories and actively promoted responsible riding on behalf of the AMA and the FIM.
In the coming weeks, six new members representing the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2012 will be elected from these nominees — three from non-competition categories and three from competition categories. The Hall of Fame class of 2012 will be announced this summer, and the new members will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame at a gala ceremony on Nov. 16 at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev., during the AMA Legends Weekend. Ticket information will be announced soon at MotorcycleMuseum.org For more information about the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the induction process, please visit MotorcycleMuseum.org
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY HISTORY LESSON–Finally this age old question is answered…..
Women always say that giving birth is way more painful than a guy getting kicked in the nuts.
Here is proof that they are wrong.
A year or so after giving birth, a woman will often say “it might be nice to have another child”.
You never hear a guy say “I would like another kick in the nuts”.
Case closed.
–Willie
AUSTRALIAN ARTIST RETURNS TO BIKERNET–Perry painted the magnificent art on the Bikernet.com official refrigerator. I will take a shot in the next couple of weeks.
“I am a professional airbrush artist with 20 years experience in custom painting. If you are interested in airbrush artwork services and want the highest quality, please take a few minutes to look at my website – www.malletcustomairbrushing.com “
“If there is anything I can do for you, work wise, don’t hesitate to let me know. Riders
can send me the work, and I can ship back insured, etc.
Perry Mallet – MALLET CUSTOM AIRBRUSHING
FICTION FROM INDIA– Welcome to Twenty-Twelve! Hope all of you are seated ‘cause we are blasting off this year’s first issue. An awesome collection of fiction that takes you all around the globe and then into outer space too. Many new authors, many new adventures. This year’s first is one issue to reckon with http://freedomfiction.com/twisted-tales/
We open this edition with an “adults only” story. Why? Because it is easily the best of the lot. An amazing pulp story that will give you the jitters and make you rethink your opinions on relations and friendships. It’s from an amazing new talent – author Nicomedes Austin Suárez. Other true pulp tales in here are from John Medaille, Steve Prusky and Jeff Poole. Real hardcore action and entertainment. Feel the filth of the urbane creep up on you. These new FFJ authors will take you to places that will change your view of the world. Give rise to emotions inside you that will make you shiver at your own mindset.
And that’s just half the “story”. Yeah! Science Fiction! Amazing spectacular adventures. We have a brilliant scifi tale from Anna Sykora. Casey Murphy and T.L. Bodine give us Superhero adventures. If you thought that was it, well it isn’t. Who is Alan Dawson? Yes, the rural Sergeant Bert Dalton author is back with yet another investigation into local extraordinary crime. We even investigate the supernatural and not just through Sergeant Dalton, but also in a horror story by Monika Ragland.
So what are you waiting for, dig in. Be sure to check out our new look website. It has been a big upgrade since the last time you visited the site. We completely rebuilt the website on Feb 2012. There will be some dead links for your old bookmarks but all stories are saved and archived in free downloadable PDF formats at http://freedomfiction.com/twisted-tales/
Pulp To Grind Your Senses !!!
Best Wishes,
Ujjwal Dey
Editor for Issue 12, Vol 04. http://freedomfiction.com/twisted-tales/
Freedom Fiction Journal | http://freedomfiction.com/
SPEAKING OR STORIES, BIKERNET BETSY RETURNS– I’ve got stories on the near horizon! Miss you guys! We are moving back to Cali this summer, yippee. I miss it. Not enough days of outside fun to suit me!
–Bikernet Betsy
Calamitybz@aol.com
ED SAVKO, WHO BOUGHT THE ROCK STORE 51 YEARS AGO PASSED AWAY-– I would guess that right about now he is probably looking for his old drinking pals Steve McQueen, Ronald Reagan, Lee Marvin and god knows who else.
Ed was a true man’s man. If you wanted someone to give you his opinion with no B.S. and without holding anything back he was the guy. He pissed off hundreds of people over the years and for every one of those hundreds brought joy to tens of thousands. The Hells Angels used to tie him up to his own tree when he gave them crap. Those same Hells Angels later returned to the Rock Store not too long thereafter to help him wet the roof of his store to prevent its destruction during a wildfire.
Three years ago I ventured up to Laguna Seca to the G.P. and it will remain one of the most memorable trips I ever took. Not for the machine that took me there (it was a late model Dodge wagon) or for the route (unless you’re a big fan of the interstate) but for the company. I drove up there with Ed riding shotgun. During every stop for food and gas one or two people always knew Ed from the store.
Ed served in the Pacific in WWII where many of his friends died on the sands of remote islands or as a result of kamikaze attacks. He was part of what is known today as the greatest generation and within that greatest generation he truly was one of the greatest.
RIP buddy.
–Bikernet Betsy
FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOMS, We Want to See You at BEAST!–GOOD NEWS! If you have been on the fence about attending the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) BEAST of the East conference in Atlanta this year, April 13-15, IT’S NOT TOO LATE! You can register online through the MRF’s website at www.mrf.org/events.php or call Tiffany in the MRF office at 202-546-0983 to register over the phone.
GREAT NEWS! The Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel has extended our $89 room rate through this Friday, April 6! If you haven’t yet made your hotel reservations, you can still do so at the conference rate this week. For room reservations, call 404-762-7676, and be sure you mention Motorcycle Riders Foundation BEAST of the East conference to get the conference rate.
OUTSTANDING NEWS! For those of you who are planning to attend BEAST, Matt Danielson from Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group and Rod Taylor from ABATE Legal Services have generously agreed to co-sponsor a free breakfast for all conference participants on Saturday morning! We are very grateful for their continuous support of the MRF and motorcyclists’ rights.
HOPE TO SEE YOU IN ATLANTA NEXT WEEK!
ILLUSIONS CYCLES CELEBRATES SPEEDWAY SEASON–APRIL 15, Celebrate with us the 2012 Speedway Season, see up close the ONE & ONLY Speedway Sidecar on the planet with a Harley Davidson Motor — TEAM 25 is fierce & ready !!
Please join us from 1pm till 5pm.
Visit our new Showroom & Retail Store for Team 25 merch, SFV merch and Illusion Cycles all new merchandise for men and women, sizes small thru 4x.
Thank you from: T-Rod & Gene Stone Team 25
…. and K.O. & Rusty
LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST OPENS REGISTRATION AND HOTEL RESERVATIONS– Las Vegas, Nevada, March 29, 2012: Registration and hotel reservations for the 2012 Las Vegas BikeFest are now available on the event’s newly designed website, www.LasVegasBikeFest.com.
“Enthusiasts and fans can purchase Ultimate and Party Passes at early bird prices.” Mindi Cherry, Las Vegas BikeFest organizer described everything included.
Just $30 gets you entry all weekend into the Vendor Village, an event t-shirt, ride pin, free shuttle from Fremont Street to the Vendor Village, music and more. This year, we’ve added additional events such as a Thursday Poker Walk in the Vendor Village at Cashman Center.
“For those planning to participate in one of the Poker Runs, the Friday Poker Walk or entering a bike in the Custom Bike Show, an Ultimate Pass will get you all of it,” Cherry said.
In addition, hotel reservations for the official Las Vegas BikeFest hotels are now open, including the Golden Nugget Las Vegas, the Headquarter Hotel. Other participating hotels include The D (formerly Fitzgeralds), Four Queens, Golden Gate, Plaza and Vegas Club. Each hotel offers Las Vegas BikeFest attendees special amenities along with convenient access to the famous Fremont Street Experience, which will have activities throughout the weekend.
“Rooms at the popular hotels will fill up quickly”, commented Cherry. Las Vegas BikeFest 2012 will be held September 27- September 30, 2012 at Cashman Center, 850 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas, NV 89101, as well as returning its headquarters to the Golden Nugget on the world-famous and wildly popular Fremont Street Experience.
More information regarding vendor space or event registration can be found at www.LasVegasBikeFest.com, or by calling 1-866 -BIKEFEST(1-866-245-3337)
PROJECT BUILD TEASER OF THE WEEK– Santa Ana’s finest by Scott more later.
–Christer Johansson
hamsters666@me.com
SADDLEMEN INTRODUCE THE DESTINATION PACK– Developed by Saddlemen’s design engineers, the Destination Pack is a 44 liter portable security bag featuring Saddlemen’s exclusive Steel Cage technology. Every bag is lined with a cut resistant stainless steel wire mesh cage interwoven between two soft, scratch free liners that provide weather and theft resistant storage for gear while on the road.
The Destination Pack is the perfect portable trunk for a jacket, helmet or gloves at the end of a ride or a stop along the way. The Destination Pack with Steel Cage protection simply opens up when needed and quickly folds away into a stylish carry bag when not in use. The supplied wire cable and lock not only positively prevent the bag from being opened or moved, they also double as a possible deterrent against bike theft.
Exclusive features:
Portable weather and theft resistant bag securely stores valuables within a Steel Cage
The Steel Cage consists of steel wire mesh sandwiched between a scratch free, soft inner liner and a tough water resistant nylon outer bag to provide vault like protection
A six foot long flexible stainless steel cable with a keyed pad lock prevents unauthorized access to the bag and secures the bag to the bike or other permanent structure
Cable can be used to secure motorcycle
Easily holds a combination of most jackets, helmets, gloves and other gear; keeping them out of view and protecting them from thieves and the elements
The soft sided and flexible Destination Pack Folds into a small bag (included) that attaches to any motorcycle or can be worn as a pack – a portable trunk for your motorcycle
Destination Pack unfolds at destination and is easily and quickly secured.
Size – 12 inch diameter opening X 24 inches long, 44 liter capacity
Available at Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties Dealers. Part#: 4010-0260, MSRP $99.95
HERE IS THE THURSDAY DEAL FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 2004 1200 Custom Sportster! Mid Glide front end, Le Pera seat, Custom exhaust, 21-inch spoke front wheel, 16-inch rear mag wheel, Drag bars on 8-inch risers, Side mount license plate mount and tail light, custom headlight, raised tank , 3500 miles on the clock all for $6000!
A GREAT Bar Hopper! GO CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN! YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU WILL FIND!
–MIKE the STEALTH
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/XL-1200c/2530785/04-Custom-1200-Sportster.html
BIKERNET TRIKES WELCOMES WESTMINSTER HARLEY-DAVIDSON– to the Bikernet family. Westminster H-D is the ONLY authorized Champion Trikes dealer in Orange County.
Check them out at http://www.hdwesttrikes.com/index.asp and check out the cool Dyna for sale at Bikernet Trikes classifieds.
BIKERNET CORRESPONDENT ATTEND WASHINGTON D.C. MOTORCYCLE SAFETY NETWORK MEETING–Thought you might find the following interesting. I will go through it in depth in the next day or two.
Spent the day in Washington D.C. for the Motorcycle Safety Network Meeting which was hosted this time by the MSF.
Gathered a lot of information and will be going through it over the next several days. One of the things that I found most interesting is the Motorcycle Safety scan report had finally been completed and just released after about a year.
By the TRB it’s report is dated September 11 however it has just hit the streets so to speak.
Chapter 7 is the meet and potatoes of the report with the recommendations and implementation. The scan should have interest locally as Wisconsin was one of the few states surveyed for it.
http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/docs/NCHRP20-68A_09-04.pdf
Take a read through, from what I have seen so far there is much that can be learned from it and some great examples of good things going on in other areas to save lives.
–Rogue and Steve Johnson
Road Guardians – Program Director
LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK, THE HOT ROD SERIES–Founded in the ’70s by legendary seat designer and craftsman, Bob Le Pera, the company by his name is digging the “throw back” styles of today’s custom bikes. Bobbed, Chopped, flat colors, pinstripping, all of these design cues are at the essence of what a custom bike used to be.
Le Pera’s love of and involvement in those “early days” can be seen clearly in their new HOT ROD SERIES. The latest, very cool, styles feature simple, bitchin’ designs that are available on any number of their seat styles.
Shown here from left to right, the DADDY O’, OL’ 32, AVANTI and BEL-AIR, will truly capture the soul of your Harley or custom ride.
Be sure to catch these styles, options, and the entire Le Pera line at www.lepera.com.
BIKERNET BAGGERS CHECKS IN WITH WESTMINSTER HARLEY–While at Westminster Harley-Davidson, walking past an Electra Glide something out of the ordinary caught my eye. First- the unusual shape of the dual Akrapovic mufflers. Actually, that could be thought number 2. The first being a singular WTF, followed up by, WTF? I haven’t seen these mufflers on anything that revs less than 12,500 rpm.
Circling the Bagger, suspiciously eyeballing it along with my own reflection in the paint, I spot a silver, machined-aluminum knob contrasted against its black Bagger background. Hmm. What might this be? Kneeling down, I noticed a cable exiting aforementioned dial that disappeared behind the primary. I investigated.
Then everything changed. A voice boomed through the parking lot, “Hey you! What the hell are you doing to my bike?” Uh, oh…
Check it out on Bikernet Baggers.
[page break]
D&D SEZ… Get Out & Ride Your Motorcycle – 2012 April–The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has declared April to be “Get Out and Ride! Month” and is orchestrating activities keyed to different themes each week.
TIN LIZZIE AND LUCAS PARTNERS with RAFFLE BIKE– Tickets are free for you to give to any customer/wear-house/jobber/ or anyone you want to. Certainly it is a limited promotion as one must be present to win At the show on Thursday Bike Week, however the entire concept still has some cool factor as almost everyone in both the car industry and motorcycle industry know someone going to SturgIs and again shows the generosity of Lucas Oil to our industry.
The Motorcycle has now been to five rallies all over the mid west and Daytona and is currently on the Lucas truck with Joe. If anyone needs more materials or tickets after the first mailing just ask. Steph, the model will be in Sturgis signing.
The motor is a 110-inch, 6-speed tranny, gas tank is 2 gallons. I huge Thank you to Tin Lizzie for the great partnership. —-TICKETS ARE FREE TO GIVE AWAY——
THE SMOKE OUT IS COMING THE END OF JUNE–Riding to the Smoke Out (http://www.smokeoutrally.com/) with your buddies is half the fun… This trip started in New Orleans and ended at the Smoke Out in Rockingham, NC.
Don’t miss your 2012 adventure… It’s right around the corner – June 22-23, 2012 Rockingham, NC. The Smoke Out is sponsored by Baker Drivetrain, Quality Lift, Bikernet.com and Spectro Oil.
BIKERNET 5-BALL RACING WHEELER REPORT–The sun is blazin away and SERIOUS is the new motto of the day posted behind the mud flap girl magnet on the refrigerator door located in the musty gym next to the dimly lit Cantina. Wake up, it’s time to rock n’ roll until the wheels fall off, full speed ahead, lock the throttle, add the nitros-oxide and add a turbocharger.
Support your local shops
It’s summer one more time somewhere and the roads are callin all motorcycle riders to hit the highway and burn up the high dollar gasoline you find locked and guarded in underground storage tanks conveniently located damn near everywhere. For you convenience of course.
Hey! You do not need an excuse to ride, just ride.
Hardtailz, San Jose, CA. 96 inch Twin Cam Build
My low mileage heart therapist now has a brand new rebuild 96 inch, Fuel Injected Twin Cam installed in the well traveled chassis. All of the throttle body parts and electronic gizmos are renewed and at the ready position with a top secret throttle body ready for installation by the weekend. Ron and his crew will filter the air with the latest Performance Machine see-through, high-flow air cleaner. The top secret throttle body has an unobstructed bore, no butterfly.
The Sunday post may contain the new, super-secret throttle body images, we’ll see.
Stay tuned, it’s good for your heart.
96-inch Twin cam vitals.
Here’s the list, as the Hardtailz crew refines the beast and waits for the final element, the throttle body: Rebuilt cases by Hyperformance, well seasoned 2004, H-D Screamin’ Eagle cam plate and oil pump, Darkhorse 4-inch H-Beam rods, RevTech 96-inch cylinder and piston kit, Branch/O’Keefe massaged heads, ET Krank Vents, Crane Roller Rockers and support plate, H-D oil pump w/hydraulic support plate, Fueling Reaper Series .574 chain drive cams, Fueling race series lifters, Fueling race series Push Rods, Jim’s Heat Sink cam cover, PM see through air cleaner.
We’ll delve into and share the in-depth-specs/details of the top shelf build in the near future for all of you global gear heads that require numbers, not bullshit. Specs and a dyno sheet after a few miles and hours on the road.
See the top end build right here, lower end next week: http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=10440
124-inch Twin Cam Raycer
As of Monday morning, the frame table was cleaned and ready for our Bonneville race chassis build. In between finishing an on-going car project this, Rick started the 124-inch frame build.
But first-things-first: Seems the perfectly good Paugcho motor adapter needed a bit of modification due to the fact we are not using a stock frame. Not to worry, once the engine and transmission are connected properly the frame construction begins. The build will utilize, complete late model Busa suspension, axel to axel with a mono-shock connecting the highly modified aluminum swingarm.
Race Tech is on-board with the latest front fork gold valving and a proper mono-shock for maximum traction on the slippery salt. We’ll strategically attach ballast for added traction, if and when needed.
Just to keep things aerodynamic, like a 22 caliber long, we’re mounting a narrowed Air Tech fairing that’s tried and proven many times over in land speed racing the years on record setting 2-wheeled hot rods at warp speeds.
124-inch, Turbo, Twin Cam, Raycer Drive Train
R&R Cycle, Hyperformance, Aerocharger Series 66 Turbo, R&R Stage 5 heads, S&S Twin Cam Cases, S&S 4 5/8 Lower end, DTH Performance oil pump billet 3-Stage, TP Pistons, S&S .640 gear drive cams, S&S cam support, Screamin Eagle lifters and pushrods, R&R Roller Rockers, R&R billet rocker shaft support, ET Performance Krank Vents, Pure Power Oil Filter, HPI Throttle body, Daytona Twin Tec closed loop computer, Sharp Eye, JIM’s 5-speed, Fisher Harmonic Balancer, Rivera-Primo Pro clutch w/Lock up pressure plate, Tsubaki primary chain and more.
Haul Ass!
Ride for your Life!
–Ray c wheeler
Performance Editor
wheeler@bikernet.com
2012 PAUGHCO CATALOG AVAILABLE IN HARD COPY AND CD FORMATS– Paughco’s must-have 2012 catalog is now available in a rugged, easy to search, hard copy version that’s great for around the shop and home table top, or on convenient CD. Shops will probably want both.
The print version can be ordered for just $12.00 including shipping or you can get the complete catalog on CD for “FREE” plus $2.95 shipping and handling. In case you’re wondering the CD is no watered down version, but contains a PDF file which lays out the entire 368 plus page collection of the world’s oldest, most respected line of Chopper, Bobber and restoration parts.
From the largest and most comprehensive line of Springer front ends, tanks, fenders, primaries, replacement wheels, exhaust, handlebars and related accessories to the unprecedented collection of custom and replacement frames, you’’ll find all “3800” plus part numbers on the CD and print formats.
To order yours visit Paughco on line at www.paughco.com or call direct to 775-246-5738. Visa and MasterCard accepted.
APRIL EDITION STURGIS MUSEUM NEWSLETTER–As promised, I have more good news to send you today.
The link below will lead you to the latest edition Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame newsletter known as “The Exhibit”.
http://www.sturgismuseum.com/news/read-more-news/march-newsletter-now-online
We hope you will find the news of the life of the museum worth your time and effort to help us spread the word.
We appreciate your continued support and hope you have a great Easter weekend!!
— Joe Distefano
Director of Sales/Marketing
COMING EXCLUSIVELY TO BIKERNET BAGGERS–Midnight Rider Day Two– My thoughts turn dark and I feel out of sync, like a prop in some bizarre Salvador Dali painting. People die on these deserted highways every day and I am completely alone in this darkness.
It’s a dangerous place for many reasons. One momentary lapse of concentration and the motorcycle is hurled into some unknown abyss completely undetected. It could be weeks, months before my body is found.
–Gary Mraz
The MULTIBAR–The Lindby Custom, Inc. MULTIBAR highway bar is a combined engine guard and highway peg with unique rounded corners. The rubber footrests provide traction and comfort for even the longest road trip.
We feature fitments for Harley-Davidson, Victory, and many other metrics. Available in chrome or a gloss black powder coat finish for select models. Check out www.lindbycustom.com for more information.
MSRP: $269.95
Contact info:
Lindby Custom, Inc.
320 East Crowther Ave.
Placentia, CA 92870
Phone: (714) 528-0085
D&D ROARS INTO SPRING SALE– D & D is Roaring into Spring Sale for 1995 – 2012 Baggers, the sale starts April 1st through April 30th. The team at D&D spent hours on the dyno testing the combination of the Fat Cat pipe with high-performance air cleaner to extract the greatest amount of horsepower with soul-satisfying tone.
The pipes are dialed-in to deliver power where you use it most… off idle and in the passing zone.
Get more information at http://www.danddexhaust.com/news/2012/04/april_bagger_sa.htm
U.S. GOVERNMENT’S SAFETY CRUSADE– They’ve attempted bans on everything from excessive horsepower to distracting chrome finishes, but the U.S. Government’s safety crusade is far from finished. Next on the agenda? A bill from the Department of Transportation that enforces the installation of so-called gyroscopic stabilizers to all production motorcycles.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again,” said DOT spokesperson Melvin P. Meyers in a statement, “Motorcycles are inherently unstable machines responsible for too many casualties. We tried enforcing trike training and that didn’t work,” he added, “so our next battle for safety will be on the technological front.”
The government solution involves installing a standardized piece of equipment called a “gyroscopic stabilizer,” which embeds a small module with internal components that spin at up to 30,000 rpm. The package, which costs approximately $149 per unit and piggybacks onto the engine near the bike’s center of gravity, draws power from the electrical system and has a calming effect on the motorcycle’s kinetic dynamics, making it harder to fall over at speed.
However, unintended side effects have also encouraged wanton hooliganism. “I put one on my Gixxer,” says stunter Jason Flipsalot, “and man, I could hold wheelies forever!” Other anecdotal reports indicate enhanced confidence during extreme lean angles, the elimination of steering wobble during hard acceleration, and a pleasant saddle hum that makes male motorcyclists reluctant to dismount, and females begging for rides.
When confronted with news about the grassroots movement to install control units that enable gravity-defying positions to be held, Meyers simply said, “We’ve already caught wind of those claims, and will be announcing another solution shortly.*”
–by Basem Wasef
www.About.com
–from Doc Robinson
SO CAL COUPLE TAKES MOTORCYCLE SERVICE BUSINESS ON THE ROAD– Anthony and Melissa Garcia opened Splitting Lanes, their repair, modification and custom bike business, in a brick-and-mortar facility in Mission Viejo, Calif., back in 2002. A couple years later, high rents forced them to relocate the shop to City of Commerce, near Los Angeles.
Even with a lower rent, they struggled to keep the business afloat. All the logistics of running a stand-alone shop — customers getting the time to drop off and pick up bikes, offering rides home or pickups — proved to be a roadblock to success. In 2008, the Garcias opted to close down the shop.
Anthony went to work designing forward controls for an aftermarket company while building custom bikes on the side. He was even commissioned by General Motors to build a bike that was displayed in their exhibit at SEMA in 2008.
The Garcias still dreamt of owning their own business, but knew customer access was a key problem in running a successful repair shop. Given the busy schedules of most people, what was the best way to get customers to bring them their business? How about taking the business directly to the customer?
And with that, Anthony and Melissa took Splitting Lanes mobile.
The two began working on a different business model, what they conceived of as a rolling brick-and-mortar motorcycle repair, maintenance and custom shop. They recognized that mobile repair services already existed and that theirs would have to offer something different to compete. They noticed that most mobile services operated out of the back of a van or pickup truck. Theirs would be different. It would utilize a larger vehicle that could provide a more professional appearance, and allow Anthony to work in some comfort, out-of-sight in the cargo area of the truck.
They settled on a used Chevrolet T65 step van — a former Snap-on Tools truck. They gutted the back and added lighting, a compressor, a large tool box, a hydraulic lift, and a tire changer. What they ended up with is a totally self-contained repair shop, one that can contain all liquids, including hazardous materials on board until they can be delivered to an authorized disposal facility. The rig finally finished and they opened for business in August of 2011.
According to the couple paperwork required by state and local governments has been minimal, and not difficult to deal with. They carry a business insurance policy like any brick-and-mortar operation and have had to secure a business licenses from several cities, though it’s not a requirement for all the cities in which they operate.
Splitting Lanes caters to a wide swath of Southern California that includes Orange County, Los Angeles county and the Inland Empire — portions of San Bernardino and Riverside counties. It’s a sprawling area with a combined population of about 17 million and is the core of California’s motorcycling population.
Splitting Lanes hourly rate is $85, which is about average for the area. However, for most work he’ll usually quote a flat charge that works out to something less than the hourly rate.
While the benefits to the consumer are huge — not having to take time off work to get their bike serviced or deal with the hassle of arranging transportation to and from a dealership — the Garcias also benefit by not having to pay a lease, utilities or staff salaries. Of course there are liabilities such as the ever-increasing cost of fuel and the staffing issues of being a one-man shop. There are also business-related hassles — distributors like Parts Unlimited and Tucker Rocky won’t do business with him.
He can even work from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. if he wants, or he can schedule less or none for a specific day.
He’s confident they can build and shape their business model into a consistently profitable enterprise. To find out more about Splitting Lanes, navigate to www.splittinglanes.com.
By: Mike Vaughan
Published courtesy of Dealernews: www.dealernews.com
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FLORIDA STATE ABATE ELECTION COMING– My name is Frankie Kennedy, past longtime president of the Southwest Chapter, as many are aware I was again nominated for the state president’s position. This is the reason for this writing, It is my hope that after sending this communication to all the chapter presidents around the state, that they will share the information in it with their members.
I am 54 years young, I have been self employed most of my adult life, I have been founder, owner, and operator of many successful businesses in my life and was fortunate enough to retire back in 2004, I went back to work last year as the lull in the economy cost me dearly, as it did to many around the country.
The opportunity for me to bring my experience and expertise to our organization is timely; one of the first orders of business would certainly be membership. It is my thought that this states MRO is lacking desperately in membership, in my opinion as a grass roots organization the first line at gaining membership is to have qualified, informative, people in place to help promote our MRO.
It is my goal to make ABATE a household name in our state and to enlist the expertise of all of our states residents motorcyclists as well as non motorcyclists. Our mission is to save lives and bring awareness to those that are currently unaware of our cause.
Any questions and or response can be sent to swchief2000@yahoo.com and will be answered upon receipt.
At your service ride safe
–Frankie
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT THURSDAY VOCABULARY LESSON–sylph silf, noun:
1. A slender, graceful woman or girl.
2. (In folklore) one of a race of supernatural beings supposed to inhabit the air.
The sylph had been as slender as a willow, with long silver hair and eyes like the dark between the stars.
— Jenna Reynolds, Kiss of Honor
Ben was frantic. He lifted the stricken sylph in his arms and held her close against him
— Terry Brooks, Magic Kingdom for Sale – Sold!
The girl’s slender and sylph-like figure, tinged with radiance from the sunset clouds, and overhung with the rich drapery of the silken curtains, and set within the deep frame of the window, was a perfect picture.
— Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Snow-Image, and Other Tales
Sylph was coined by Paracelsus. It is a blend of sylva, which meant “forest” in Latin, and the Greek word nymph.
UNCLE MONKEY MEETS THE OLD MAN AND HIS SCOOTER IN A PARKING LOT– I watched the old man step out of the grocery store. The bright spring sun made him turn his face skyward and breath deeply the warm air. He smiled savouring the moment before continuing on his way. In amongst the cars of the parking lot was a small scooter. He placed his bag on it, strapped on a worn helmet with a smiley face and fired the engine.
The small displacement motor puttered to life. He gave me a nod before he headed out of the parking lot with his bag balanced between his feet. He scurried into traffic, crossing a couple of lanes and disappearing around the corner. It is a scene that is played out everyday all around the world but is a rarity here in North America. Here the big twins rule the road. Harley, Victory, and the metrics are joined with race bred crotch rockets but the humble scooter is absent from our city streets.
Scooter are scoffed at by many as being too small, too awkward, too impractical for our way of life however in most parts of the world they are as common as our cars. The scooter is the family work horse used to run errands, get to work, get through the heavily congested city streets. Goods are placed between feet, in trunks and even saddlebags. From the young working class and students to the young at heart everyone rides a scooter.
The lowly scooter has changed little in the decades since its introduction; much like stock Harley’s have changed little over the decades. While they may not drip with the cool factor of a Harley they do have a charm, a whimsy to them that says that through rain, snow, or sleet, grid lock, and road block it will get you where you need to go.
You feel a youthful invincibility on one. Not the bad ass, “I’m a hard core biker” invincibility of a Harley but the I will bounce back, brush the dust from my sleeve and carry on like nothing happened ten- year-old invincibility. So the next time you see a scooter scooting think about the young soul riding it. Give him a nod and a wave and realize he is enjoying the ride as much as you
-bad Uncle Monkey
UPDATE FROM LAST WEEK’S REPORT–Shawn’s little moped from last week was short lived. A suspicious fire burnt up his building, his belongings, and his scoot. Homeless and literally with only the clothes on his back he is thankful he is alive and the rest of the people in the building got out in the middle of the night.
On that note take a moment savior everything you got, everything you’ve accomplished and realize as long as you are breathing you have everything.
ONLY THREE WEEKS LEFT!–Online registration for the 1st Annual Vegas Poker Run closes on April 24. Register today so you don’t miss out on the great prices ($10 more if you register the day of the ride) or the great ride!
SHERIFF ARRIVES FROM SWEDEN AND EATS–We picked up the Sheriff from LAX late one night last week, in the Bikernet Hearse. We hauled him to Newport Beach and dumped him just a mile from the beach.
He was scheduled to drive a hot rod hauling truck to a rod meet, but he had to eat first.
EDUCATION… BAKER DRIVETRAIN STYLE! — Join Baker Drivetrain at the Power Sports Institute main campus in Cleveland Ohio in Saturday April 21, 2012 for a full day Drivetrain Seminar with Bert and the BAKER Crew. This will be a very comprehensive hands-on seminar covering every aspect of V-Twin Drivetrain including:
1936 – 1984, The 4-Speed Era: The complete evolution of the 4-speed transmission, how they work, what makes BAKER better, and the latest upgrades to fully modernize your 4-speed bike. This includes an in depth look at the 4-speed starter, primary, and clutch system and a live demo of the BAKER fully equipped 4-speed Shovelhead.
1980 – 2006, The 5-Speed Era: Learn the evolution and development of the 5-speed transmission, from shift systems to gear ratios. Get the BAKER 6-speed history lesson, the OD6, the DD6, their differences and applications as well as a hands-on DD6 install with Bert himself. Discover the F5R and DD6RV reverse kits and see a live demo of the BAKER reverse demo bike.
The Cruise Drive Era, 2006 Dyna and 2007 to Present Softail and Dresser models: The DD7, why was it developed and how does it improve your late model bike? Follow Bert through a live DD7 install. F6R reverse kits, F6F Factory Six Fix kit and Street Door explained and reviewed. The newest N1 shift drum for Cruise Drives revealed. The hottest of our new products, the Bully Primary and Attitude Adjuster manual tensioner will be on display and ready for your inspection.
– The BAKER XL6 6-speed transmission for 1989 – 2003 5-Speed Evolution Sportsters: Take a hands-on look at the XL6, the only true bolt-in 6- speed conversion available.
Don’t miss this opportunity, space will book fast! For more information regarding the seminar please contact BAKER at 1-877-640-2004 or the Power Sports Institute at 1-877-PSI-MOTO or visit www.bakerdrivetrain.com
For Reservations Visit: http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=vbkxtcdab&oeidk=a07e5s8bps2a3032131
THE CONTEST IS ON, THE GARAGE GIRLS MAKEOVER– Contestants (guys and girls) must submit a 600 words or less essay – describing why they are most in need of a biker makeover as well as a photo to bikermakeover@garage-girls.com by May 25th 2012.
Submissions will be narrowed down to the final four by selected judges from Garage-Girls. Once the final 4 are chosen, the public will then be allowed to vote online at www.garage-girls.com for who they feel most deserves the Ultimate Biker Makeover.
The one with the most public votes will take home all the prizes which include; A wardrobe of shoes from Harley-Davidson Footwear, a case of full synthetic oil from Spectro Oils, A new Mustang Motorcycle Seat, a set of Progressive shocks, a set of tires from AVON Tyres, a cool kit cleaning kit from Wizards, Jacket, Gloves AND helmet from Hot Leathers, a $50.00 gift certificate to Otterbox and more!
For more information, rules, eligibility and submission procedures, visit www.Garage-Girls.com
If interested in getting your company involved please contact Sara Liberte at sara@garage-girls.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY POLITICAL SCIENCE CLASS–I became confused when I heard the word “service” used with these agencies.
Internal Revenue ‘Service’
U.S. Postal ‘Service’
Telephone ‘Service’
Cable TV ‘Service’
Civil ‘Service’
State, City, County & Public ‘Service’
Customer ‘Service’
This is not what I thought ‘service’ meant.
But today, I overheard two farmers talking, and one of them said he had hired a bull to ‘service’ a few cows. BAM!!! It all came into focus. Now I understand what all those agencies are doing to us.
–Lizette
NEW HAMPSHIRE SENATE DEBATES NOISE TEST– A proposal for a new motorcycle noise test is roaring into the Senate, but the debate is revving down.
The Senate debates Wednesday whether to replace the current motorcycle noise standards with the J2825 test from the Society of Automotive Engineers International.
The new test would allow for 92 decibels while idling and either 96 or 100 decibels while revving the engine at a certain speed, depending on the engine type. This is lower than the current 106 decibel standard, but supporters say it is due to increased accuracy in testing protocols.
The Hampshire Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization has advocated for the new test over an earlier proposal to implement what it said were unreasonable and hard to enforce restrictions.
The bill passed 261-80 in the House.
SAMSON INTRODUCES THE LEGEND SERIES “POMONAS’ EXHAUST– Samson recently introduced their new “Pomonas” exhaust, part of their Legend Series (two individual pipes on one side) for most Harley-Davidson Softails.
The removable 2 ½” massive one-piece heat shields are pre-installed and the system is ready to bolt on right out of the box.
• Fits ’95-2012 Harley-Davidson Softail Motorcycles, 2006 and earlier models require O2 sensor plugs, purchased separately
• Fits 2006-2012 Harley-Davidson Dyna models
• Two stepped high performance system produces up to 20% more horsepower
• Mounting hardware included
•Equipped with 1 3/4″ diameter x 10″ long removable baffles
•Available in luxurious chrome or “Sinister” Black Ceramic (special request)
•Limited 1 year warranty
• MSRP: $699.95
*$629.95 (*If ordering directly off of the internet)
• Don’t forget about Bikernet.com viewers special 15% DISCOUNT…order direct from Samson and mention Bikernet.com to qualify
• Listen to the sound of Samson’s exhausts right on their website
• FREE SHIPPING
Check out Samson Exhaust’s entire product line at www.samsonusa.com or contact them directly at (888) 572-6766; Samson Exhaust, 655 Tamarack Ave., Brea, CA 92821…email them at info@samsonusa.com.
Legend Series “Pomonas” Exhaust
Samson Exhausts are not intended for use on noise or pollution controlled vehicles (except those used in organized and sanctioned racing or competition events) when the installation of the same would be in violation of state or federal laws governing noise or emission standards.
RIDE FOREVER–Every day I get the feeling motorcycle represents Freedom in this country, especially custom motorcycles. They represent the last bastion of pure unrestricted innovation. So, join your local state or national motorcycle rights organization and support the ability to ride or build motorcycles. We need your help.
This weekend, we will finish the seat pan for my son’s Mudflap Girl FXR, and ship it back to Le Pera for fine upholstery. I hope to finish my Baker tech with Trish, and bring you an update on the Harley-Davidson and Marlboro Man motorcycle. I still need to read some fiction, and we have another Midnight Rider story, this time from Scooter Tramp Scotty. Night rider stories will find a home in the Bikernet Bagger site. Once Frank’s seat pan is ready for shipment we can return our focus to the evil Bonne Belle flathead. We need to modify and mount the seat. I might call on Jeremiah’s assistance. He has the touch of the master.
Feel free the throw suggestions at us as we move forward with these new sites. Some exciting changes are afoot, if we don’t kick ourselves in the process. Here’s a couple of shots of my 18-year-old grandson on his first chopper ride.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
