Hey,
The rally came and went in the blink of an eye. I’m trying to write my rally report and get a handle on my experience and the vibe for this year.
I’m also experiencing post rally and flooded Bonneville blues, while studying the Texas mile for Salt Torpedo test runs in March. My son Frank, called this morning to discuss a friend who is wrapped in the Flat Earth notion and then he said, “Okay pops, what’s next?”
I think I am enjoying the outta-of-gear feeling right now. I’m still quizzing folks about their rally experience. My grandson had a blast, then was forced to ride back to war-homeless torn Los Angeles.
I wonder if Sturgis doesn’t represent so much more than motorcycles and new parts this year. Maybe it represented an escape from the madness. We’ll see. Let’s hit the news.
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.
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Congratulations to the Law Tigers Challenge Winner at Sturgis!
Congratulations to Travis Bailey, a US Navy veteran, who won the 2022 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse provided by Indian Motorcycle. He lasted 77 hours in the competition!
Contestants were allowed a 15-minute break every 4 hours, and Law Tigers provided food and water. Thank you for your service, Travis; we can’t wait to see you on your new ride at Sturgis next year!
TIRE NEWS–Stefano Mesa Proves to be Unstoppable with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike Slicks at Pittsburgh International Race Complex
Pirelli Makes it Six Track Records for the 2022 Season
Pirelli Tire North America captured its sixth absolute motorcycle track record of the 2022 racing season as Stefano Mesa proved to be unstoppable at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Pennsylvania on Sunday, August 14. It marked the third time this season that Mesa and his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R motorcycle equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slicks have prevailed with a new track record.
“What a weekend!” said Mesa. “I always say these things never come easy, but we are on a pretty good roll these past few weeks. That’s three for me this season with my Pirelli slicks. My bike and tires are just working unbelievable right now. We’ve got a great setup and I want to try and keep this momentum rolling!”
Mesa’s new lap record of 1:41.619 was set during the WERA Motorcycle Roadracing Series in the A Superbike race on the non-chicane configuration while using Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike SC2 125/70R17 front and DIABLO Superbike SC0 200/65R17 rear slicks.
“Another weekend, another record,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager, Pirelli. “Stefano has been on fire with the way he’s been getting along with his bike and Pirelli tires. His riding really demonstrates the capability and continued performance of the DIABLO Superbike tire lineup. Stefano worked with our trackside vendor Alex Spellman at Trackside Tires to get dialed in for another great weekend of racing and it paid off. Congrats, Stefano!”
Mesa’s first two absolute motorcycle track records of the season were set at Roebling Road Raceway and Carolina Motorsports Park. He be became the first rider this season to earn three track records, topping JC Camacho who has two. Pirelli continues to remain the motorcycle tire of choice for North American riders looking to reach the top step of the podium and log fast laps at events and series that do not have a spec tire rule. Reward prizes are offered to riders who set a new motorcycle track record while using Pirelli race compound tires.
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com
WHY WE CHOP SERIES, Chapter 2
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/WHY_CHOP_SERIES_Chapter_2.aspx
Good stuff
–Steve
Nelson, State, New Zealand
HERE’S THE TEXAS MILE—
–Wikipedia
Location(s): Beeville, TX
Next event: October 28-30, 2022
Also in March…
TRIKE OF THE WEEK–1895 Tricycle of Count Albert de Dion
Engine 185 cm3 with electric ignition of 2.25 hp, speeds up to 40 km / h.
De Dion entered his first tricycle in the 1896 competition on the route Paris – Marseille – Paris with a length of 1700 km and won them, having covered the entire distance at an average speed of 24 km / h
–from Fred Cuba
Indian 741 Scout Dirt Track Racer—
This Indian Scout dirt track racer powered Joe Ferrini to the 1950 New England Half Mile Championship. The bike is probably a good example of a typical post-World War II era homebuilt racer for AMA Competition Committee approved Class C* dirt track racing.
Indian Chief Engineer and Designer Charles B. Franklin’s Indian Scout, first introduced in 1919, has a strong history of both street riding and racing. Initially, the Scout had a 37 cubic inch 42 degree V-Twin with a gear primary. The motor was mounted in a cradle frame. In 1927 a 45 cubic inch engine was introduced which greatly increased the Scout’s power. In 1934 the Model 634 Sport Scout was introduced with a two-piece bolt-up rigid keystone frame and girder forks.
The new frame also increased ground clearance and agility when compared to former Scouts. The Sport Scout became a very good AMA Class C race bike, winning many races. An aside, in 1922 as Indian’s big machine, the first Chief was produced based on the Scout.
This homebuilt racer consists of a fabricated keystone frame and many Model 741 Military Scout components. The front bottom frame casting appears to be from a Sport Scout, the rear frame is from a 1941 Model 741 as is the girder fork and the crankcase halves. The cylinders and heads are from 1940 and later Sport Scout, and the primary case appears to be Sport Scout. It was typical of post war era homebuilt racers using 741 cases to bore out the cases to take Sport Scout cylinders. The bottom ends are pretty much the same in both models.
The net result of using these components is a bike of just under 45 cubic inches or 750 ccs, legal for AMA Class C racing. But typically, a Class C bike would use “matched” components, a factory engine assembly. Note that AMA racing rules called for “brakeless” race bikes through the mid-1960s, and down shifting was not permitted once the green flag dropped.
This fine racing Scout was restored by Ray Janelle 1992. The bike, a jacket, trophy and helmet came with the bike, now part of the Jill and John Parham Collection. A wide range of dirt track racers are displayed at the National Motorcycle Museum including a Harley-Davidson WR, an XR750, a KTM, a Yamaha, a BSA Gold Star and others, all near the Board Track Racing display at the Museum.
Specifications:
Displacement: 45 Cubic Inches / 750 cc’s
Ignition: Magneto
Carburetor: Linkert
Transmission: 3-Speed (4-Speed Optional)
Primary: Gear driven
Horsepower: 18HP, Stock
Suspension: Girder Front, Rigid Rear/Sprung Seat
Brakes: None
Wheelbase: 57 Inches
–NMM
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: PLEASE JOIN
The MIC wants more members for its new working group built to examine PFAS legislation and proposals and develop a comprehensive approach to federal and state regulations that could forever change manufacturing across the industry.
“We’re calling on MIC members with expertise and vested interests to contact us about joining our new PFAS working group,” said Eric Barnes, MIC technical programs vice president. “PFAS presents a major powersports industry challenge, and whether you’re an OE, aftermarket, or riding gear manufacturer, you must learn about government PFAS proposals and start looking for ways to replace PFAS in products you sell.”
–MIC
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION – MEETING OF THE MINDS 2022
“Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.” – Thomas Jefferson
For nearly forty years, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation has been eternal vigilant. Nothing demonstrates more the MRF’s commitment to freedom and liberty than the MRF’s ongoing presence on Capitol Hill and the offices of members of Congress.
Eternal vigilance comes from an unyielding commitment by the MRF that goes to the roots of the nation’s premier bikers’ rights advocacy organization – the Annual Meeting of the Minds Conference.
The 38th Annual Meeting of the Minds, scheduled for September 22-25 in Des Moines Iowa, will do everything to reinforce the MRF’s commitment to motorcyclists’ rights and staying eternal vigilant.
Charlie “Chopper” Gilmore – U.S. Army veteran, motorcycle restorer, and freedom fighter is on deck as just one of the presenters at the 2022 Meeting of the Minds. His presentation – The Price of Freedom – is taken from life experiences and will certainly motivate and inspire attendees. Plus, the conference is sure to reinforce the MRF’s commitment eternal vigilance.
The Meeting of the Minds – renewing old friendships and making new ones. The Meeting of the Minds – three days of nuts-and-bolts workshops to augment the tools needed to promote and protect the rights of all motorcyclists. The Meeting of the Minds – more than a dozen presentations and workshops to build and strengthen individual’s and state motorcyclists’ rights organization’s commitment to protecting the freedoms motorcycling brings us all.
Workshops and presentations include but are not limited to:
- Up-to-the-minute Legislative Updates
- The necessity of Political Action Committees
- Riding skill enhancement
- What aging demographics means to motorcycling
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation lives and understands Eternal Vigilance… understands The Blessings of Freedom… and understands the commitments needed to protect rights, liberty, freedom, and our motorcycles from the pending siege from over-regulating and callous bureaucracies. Jefferson, Paine, and a host of others took stands to promote and defend the freedoms that all motorcyclists’ rights advocates understand.
Thank you for your support of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and we look forward to seeing you in Des Moines for the 38th Annual Meeting of the Minds.
Greetings from The Rodder’s Journal!
It has been sometime since we have sent out a Rodder’s Journal email blast to you, but we are excited to announce that we are in full swing and working hard to get back on track. It has been a tough road getting back to this point, but we’re confident we are headed in the right direction, and we are excited about the future.
You may have heard that we debuted the new issue, TRJ #85, this past weekend at the Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky. First of all, we would like to thank everyone for the positive and supportive reception we received. Thank you to all that took the time to stop by.
We’d like to give you a quick run-down on where things stand without going into too much gory detail. You will be able to read more about all of that in the Editorial of TRJ #85.
But, first off, we do want to thank you for your patience, and your continued support in all of this. Failure is not an option and we have never faltered in our efforts to continue with The Rodder’s Journal. It has been a tough couple of years and many challenges lay ahead, but we firmly believe that we are well on track to bring the Rodder’s Journal back to its former glory.
Rodder’s Journal #85 is at the mailing house ready to ship. It will ship out to all current and Lifetime subscribers in the next few days. At Louisville we were asked quite a few times if existing subscriptions including Lifetime subscriptions will be honored and the short answer is yes.
For those of you that are not subscribers and prefer to pick up your copy in person. We will be shipping our Dealer copies over the next few days as well. We will not be going back to the large retail newsstands at big box retailers, so check with your local hot rod shop or independent book retailer in the next couple weeks to see if they have it in stock.
Our idea was really just to get an issue finished and out to you, so a lot of the logistics such as customer service phone calls, emails etc. are on the back burner until we have the capacity to handle them all. We expect that in a few weeks we should be able to start taking phone calls on the same 1-800-750-9550 number as we have in the past and answering any query emails at customerservice@roddersjournal.com too.
We are also rebuilding the website from the ground up. But all of this will take time. We will keep you posted as we make these changes.
On the International front, we know that the vast majority of subscribers did not get TRJ #84. We now have enough TRJ #84s and #85s to go to each international subscriber and they are at the mailing house ready to ship. We hope to have these out in the coming weeks also. Due to being two magazines, we are looking at the logistics of shipping both together, so this may take a little longer.
We are already in the midst of producing TRJ #86 and it’s beginning to shape up into what we think is a great issue. We’ll bring you more details of what to expect soon.
We are still rebuilding from the ground up, so it will take time, but you can be sure that we are working as hard as we can to get TRJ back to where it once was if not better!
Once again, thank you for your patience and support. We will try to keep you all as updated here as possible.
Sincerely,
The Rodder’s Journal
National awards program recognizes outstanding efforts to honor veterans and their families
The mission of Wreaths Across America (WAA) is to Remember the fallen, Honor those that serve and their families, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Although the organization is best known for laying veterans’ wreaths on headstones of our fallen each December on Wreaths Across America Day (December 17th this year), the WAA mission is year-round and supported by the efforts of thousands of dedicated local volunteers throughout the country.
Each year, WAA recognizes some truly outstanding individuals with its national Remember, Honor, Teach and Learn awards.
Each award recipient is chosen from recommendations by our volunteer base and staff, culminating in an extensive review process by the WAA Executive Leadership Team.
Other awards include the Jim Prout Spirit of Giving Award which is chosen by the WAA Logistics Team based on recommendations from professional truck drivers, volunteers and staff, and the Founder’s Award which is an honor bestowed by the organization’s Founder, Morrill Worcester, for appreciation of outstanding contributions in the effort to honor our nation’s veterans. These two additional awards will be presented later this year.
On Saturday, August 6th, as part of its annual Stem to Stone event, WAA recognized this year’s Remember, Honor, Teach and Learn Award recipients.
And the winners are:
REMEMBER Award: Given to an individual or group who REMEMBERS the fallen and their sacrifice in a way that goes above and beyond. This year’s recipient is Richard “Richie” Poirier of Maine.
Corporal (ret) Poirier of Bravo Company 2nd 34th Mechanical Infantry Division of the United States Army served his country between 1983 and 1985. Following the events of 9/11, Poirier moved into a role of community service, helping to raise funds for people in need, coordinating blood drives, and served as a local Fire chief in Maine.
In 2015, his most satisfying community project was building a display case for a piece of steel that originally came from the twin towers in New York for the Wreaths Across America Museum. Recently, Poirier helped complete renovation work on the newly completed Gold Star Family History and Hospitality House located next door to Wreaths Across America’s headquarters. This 1800’s home features period rooms that honor many eras of American service, bravery, and sacrifice.
HONOR Award: Given annually to an individual or group who HONORS those who serve and their families in a way that supports the Wreaths Across America mission. This year’s recipient is Cyndi Valencia of Illinois.
As a proud descendent of Revolutionary War patriots, Cyndi has made it her personal mission to Honor our present and past veterans. For over two decades, she has been volunteering for numerous causes including Operation Care package, the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad and support committee, Grateful Nation Remembers, Daughters of the American Revolution, Illinois Children of the American Revolution, Honor Flight Chicago, and many others through the years.
TEACH Award: Given annually to an individual or group who has made a large contribution in TEACHING the next generation to Remember and Honor those who serve in our nation’s military. This year’s recipient is Cindy Tatum of Tennessee.
Cindy Tatum became a Gold Star Mother on December 24, 2007, when her son, Cpl. Daniel Lee Tatum, USMC, who had served two deployments in Iraq, was killed outside of Camp Pendleton in an automobile/train collision. Approximately two years later, Cindy knew she had to “do” something to help keep the memory of her son’s service alive. In 2009, Cindy joined American Gold Star Mothers in her home state of TN. Cindy served on the National Executive Board of AGSM from 2013-2021 and served as the 2020-21 National President. She retired as an educator in May 2020, after spending 26 years as a Government and Economics teacher at Milan High School.
Cindy was delighted when she was approached by Wreaths Across America and asked to help develop a curriculum for the Teach component of the Mission. The programs she developed for teachers in their classrooms, from Kindergarten through Senior year of high school, can be found at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/teach. Cindy lives in Milan, TN, with her husband of 39 years Andy, and her service dog Linus. They have two adult children and four wonderful grandchildren.
LEARN Award: Given semi-annually to a young individual who has LEARNED, and understands, the Wreaths Across America mission and incorporates it into their young life. This year’s recipient is 11-year-old Trevor Geer of Maryland.
Despite the challenges associated with concerns over a pandemic, for the past few years Trevor Geer found a way to overcome these obstacles and still manage to honor over 500 fallen service members buried in four cities along the Chesapeake Bay. He attended his first wreath-laying ceremony at the Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery at the age of six, Trevor remembers being upset that some headstone did not have a veteran’s wreath to honor the interred. He said, “The people who fought for us is what made the country what it is today, and they deserve a wreath.”
This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022. It is a free event, open to all people. Click here to find a local participating cemetery near you to support go to and type in your town and/or state. For more information or to find a participating cemetery near you, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.
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- Frame is low profile aluminum construction
- Very bright white LED’s
- Frame dimensions: 7-3/16” length x 4-1/4” width, mounting hardware included
- Direct fit black powder coated bracket
- Available in black
We recommend the use of the Kodlin 3-1 Light Bar K68499 to complete the look
Fits HD Sportster S (RH 1250 S) models 2021-up
OVERLAND EXPO– Ladies! So, You Want to Ride a Motorcycle?
Join an all-women panel facilitated by Christine Kathryn, a lady rider who’s just a year and a half into her journey at age 55! Christine was inspired to pull together more experienced lady riders to share their wisdom and advice for any woman who is curious about the two-wheeled experience but maybe doesn’t have other women to go to for help getting started or just has questions!
Come on out and slay some of your fears! This is the class Christine wishes she’d had when she first decided to go for it!
Saturday, August 27, from 3 to 3:50 pm at Overland Expo Mountain West.
–MIC
5-BALL RACING LEATHERS NEWS—Check out our new Shopify sales site. Let us know what you think, even if you don’t buy anything.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7QGX61N
Of course, our leathers and bedrolls are now available on Shopify.
LATEST BURMA SHAVE SLOGAN—
The cock slides all along the ‘toris, both combatants scream in chorus
There is often semen sloppage, and twats can gush requiring moppage
All this mess creates more babies that wriggle out from between mom’s labies
This is how we all got here, from two people fucking who were not queer
— Burma Shave
–J.J. Solari
KEEP THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY WIDE OPEN–Worms
A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon.
Three worms were placed into separate jars.
The first worm was put into a jar of alcohol.
The second worm was put into a jar of cigarette smoke.
The third worm was put into a jar of good, clean soil.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the minister reported the following results:
The first worm in alcohol – DEAD.
The second worm in cigarette smoke – DEAD.
The third worm in good, clean soil – ALIVE.
So, the minister asked the congregation, “What can you learn from this demonstration?”
A little old woman in the back quickly raised her hand and said, “As long as you drink and smoke, you won’t have worms!”
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXSE CVO FOR ONLY $24,995
Plus, license $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING and EXTENDED WARRANTIES available!
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92806. Open 7 days a week.
We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory,
Please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys
NEWS FROM THE DENIERS’ DEN–20 myths about fossil fuels, refuted
In Fossil Future I refute literally hundreds of myths about fossil fuels. Here are 20 myths that 11,000,000 people heard on Joe Rogan’s podcast this year.
Monday Andrew Dessler debated physicist Steve Koonin, author of Unsettled, whom Dessler unconscionably smeared on Joe Rogan as akin to a tobacco lobbyist. Dessler lost the debate, but we need more open debates. Science is never settled.
Myth 1: We can rapidly reduce fossil fuels at very low cost.
Truth: Fossil fuels are a uniquely cost-effective form of energy, which is why they are 80% of global energy and still growing. Rapidly reducing fossil fuels, in a world that needs far more energy, is catastrophic.¹
Myth 2: Solar and wind are cheap.
Myth 3: Solar/wind is cheaper than fossil fuels because Lazard’s “Levelized Cost of Electricity” (LCOE) is lower for solar/wind.
Truth: LCOE, by Lazard’s own admission, doesn’t include many costs of solar/wind—above all the cost of a reliable grid needed for 24/7 life support.³
Myth 4: Solar and wind are “winning in the marketplace,” outcompeting fossil fuels and nuclear with superior economics.
Truth: Unreliable, parasitical solar and wind are only “winning” when given massive preferences—mandates, subsidies, and no penalty for unreliability.4
Myth 5: Renewable energy is projected to exceed fossil fuel energy by 2026.
Truth: No one has come close to even 50% unreliable solar/wind without huge dependence on reliable neighbors. And without the flexibility and scale that only natural gas provides.6
Myth 7: Anti-fossil fuel activists just want the most energy for the least CO2.
Truth: Anti-fossil-fuel activists are hostile to hydro and nuclear. E.g., Andrew Dessler said this year “I agree that hydro is not something to expand” and has attacked nuclear for years.7
Myth 8: Nuclear is too expensive, so we should use solar/wind instead.
Truth: Solar/wind can’t provide reliable energy; nuclear can. And nuclear is only expensive because it has, with the help of many “green” activists, been falsely labeled unsafe and effectively criminalized.8
Truth: All their untested schemes involve many ruinous, unaccounted-for costs—e.g., a crash program of unprecedented mineral/infrastructure development in an anti-development political environment.?
The academics who have supported fossil fuel restrictions based on the false promise that their untested schemes full of false assumptions could replace fossil fuels in a world that needs far more energy, are irresponsible cranks who have brought about a global energy crisis.¹°
Myth 10: The TX winter blackouts were a failure of fossil fuels, especially natural gas.
Truth: Fossil fuels perform beautifully in far worse winter weather than Texas had in February 2021. TX blackouts were caused by defunding reliable/resilient power in favor of unreliable solar/wind.¹¹
Myth 11: Hugely varying estimates of “the social cost of carbon” mean that economists warning about the costs of reducing CO2 can’t be trusted.
Truth: These variations show that little definite is known about any net harm from CO2. But the huge harms of reducing CO2 are certain.¹²
Myth 12: Replacing fossil fuels with solar/wind will make us more secure because we’ll depend less on hostile countries.
Truth: Not only are solar/wind incapable of replacing fossil fuels, but the control of their supply by China dwarfs any nation’s influence over fossil fuels.¹³
Myth 13: Climate changes from rising CO2 levels will require ruinously costly adaptation.
Truth: Speculated climate changes would be slow and thus affordable to adapt to—while rapidly eliminating fossil fuels would make billions far poorer, including more endangered by climate.¹4
Myth 14: Continued CO2 emissions will cause “irreversible” climate change.
Truth: At some point future technologies will enable us to reverse the rise in CO2 levels if we want. But nothing can reverse mass-death caused by trying to rapidly eliminate CO2 emissions.¹5
Myth 15: Because we could reduce CFCs without disaster, we can do the same for CO2 emissions.
Truth: While it’s sometimes non-disastrous to rapidly reduce something, it often isn’t. E.g., “green” attempts to reduce DDT and nuclear radiation killed countless millions.¹6
Myth 16: Rising CO2 levels will be bad for agriculture.
Truth: Rising CO2 levels will continue to come with the huge agricultural benefits of oil to power equipment and natural gas for fertilizer. And with GMO technology, higher CO2 can be leveraged to make crops grow even more.
Myth 17: We should be terrified of a 5°C temp rise, because that’s ½ the distance from an ice age.
Truth: Global temp rises are not the same kind of threat as global temp decreases, because human life, like most life, does better when it’s warm.
And 5° is extreme speculation.¹7
Myth 18: Melting permafrost could be a terrible “tipping point” that will lead to rapid, dangerous warming.
Truth: Significant methane release from permafrost is a very speculative and slow-paced potential impact that a more advanced world will be able to deal with if needed.¹8
Myth 19: Fossil fuels “kill” millions of people a year via air pollution.
Truth: This claim
1. Ignores how fossil fuels extend every life on Earth
2. Uses pseudoscientific speculation about pollution deaths.
3. Ignores the fact that fossil fuels can be burned very cleanly.¹?
Myth 20: The anti-fossil-fuel movement is leading to better sources of energy.
Truth: Anti-fossil-fuel activists like Andrew Dessler are responsible for artificially restricting the supply of fossil fuels and thereby causing a deadly, worsening global energy crisis.²°
Not only were 20 myths about fossil fuels dangerously spread on Joe Rogan to 11 million people by Andrew Dessler, Dessler has not corrected even one of them. This despite the fact that I have publicly refuted most of them in debates with him. (See the footnotes.)
If you want to learn the full truth about the future of energy, read my new book Fossil Future. It’s been out for 2.5 months and despite its phenomenal success not one advocate of fossil fuel elimination has even attempted to refute it. (They’ve just smeared or straw-manned me.)
–Alex Epstein
BAD News for Motorcyclists–
In the last few weeks two national stories related to motorcyclists have been in the headlines. Last week a jury in New Hampshire acquitted a truck driver accused of killing seven motorcyclists in 2019. The Boston Globe reported, “The verdict was at odds with findings from the National Transportation Safety Board, which concluded in 2020 that the driver’s drug use was the probable cause of his initiating the collision.”
The story out of New Hampshire comes on the heels of news from California and Utah in which two different Teslas, allegedly operating on autopilot, killed motorcyclists in each state. In response, the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) sent investigative teams to the two crashes last month.
These two stories, less than one month apart, are very disturbing. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has long advocated for accountability from individuals and manufacturers when their actions result in the loss of a motorcyclist’s life. The MRF remains committed to defending the rights and safety of our nation’s 10 million bikers. We will monitor the finding from NHTSA and remain vigilant in Washington, D.C. on behalf of all bikers. Remember, if we don’t stand up to protect our rights and safety no one will!
Now more than ever, Ride Safe and Ride Free!
–MRF
Congratulations! You got your motorcycle license, took the required safety classes, and you’re ready to buy a brand new (or previously loved) bike. The question is, which bike is best for a rider who is just starting out?
Before making an impulse purchase, check out our recommendations to learn more about what motorcycles are most suitable for beginners.
What to Look for in a Beginner Motorcycle
The first thing to determine is what you plan on using your motorcycle for. Is it for joyriding on the weekends? Will it be your primary form of transportation? Do you plan to go off-road? Once you’ve figured that out, you can begin narrowing your selection.
BUDGET
First things first. How much do you want to spend? A motorcycle can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $35,000 or more. For most beginners, the recommended price range is under $10,000, but there’s still a lot of range. Pick a price you’re comfortable paying and stick to it.
Remember that the amount you pay for your bike is not the only cost you’ll face. You will also have to buy insurance, gear, and incur additional costs for maintenance.
POWER
The size of your motorcycle engine affects not only speed and power but also the weight of the bike. You can get anything from a 125cc (cubic centimeter) engine to something more than 2,000cc.
For beginner motorcycle riders, the recommended engine is 500cc to 600cc. The lower the cc figure, the easier the bike will handle, and the more forgiving it will be to the inevitable mistakes that new riders make.
Just because a bike has a smaller engine doesn’t mean you can’t still ride fast. A 600cc motorcycle can easily go up to 200mph and be ridden comfortably at 75 to 80mph.
WEIGHT
You might have your eye on a beast, but it’s important to realize that heavy bikes can be a challenge to handle, and they go down hard. When you’re comparing manufacturers and models, stick to the lightweight end of the spectrum.
TECHNOLOGY
Features like Bluetooth connectivity, variable ride modes, and advanced handling features will add to your bike’s price tag, but you might appreciate the convenience and flexibility that technology adds to the riding experience. If you plan on keeping the motorcycle for a while, the cost could be well worth it.
COMFORT
As you already know, riding a motorcycle feels a lot different than driving a car. Generally, that’s a good thing! However, from a practical standpoint, it’s also important to acknowledge that riding isn’t going to be as comfortable as driving.
Before you commit to a bike, make sure it fits your body right, and you feel at ease. You might need a different seat height depending on how tall you are, for example.
MANUFACTURER
Premium, iconic brands are inevitably going to be more expensive than less established companies. On the plus side, you’ll have an expansive dealer network and easy access to parts. How well a model does at retaining resale value can also be a consideration if you plan on selling the bike for a more advanced model down the road.
Our Top 3 Picks
There are several bike categories, but to keep things simple, we’ve picked a favorite from three categories: Adventure bikes, sportbikes, and cruisers.
TOP ADVENTURE BEGINNER MOTORCYCLE: BMW G 310 GS
BMW has been in the adventure bike game for more than 40 years, and they’re a solid contender. Known for luxury vehicles, quality engineering is also prevalent in the brand’s motorcycles. This bike is versatile and lightweight, perfect for touring and limited off-road adventures.
TOP SPORTBIKE BEGINNER MOTORCYCLE: APRILIA RS125
This Italian stallion will have you feeling confident on the road in no time. Its eighth-liter engine is a pared-down version of the liter-sized model that’s more suitable for experienced riders. Other than the reduced engine size, there’s almost no discernable difference between this bike and its flagship model.
TOP CRUISER BEGINNER MOTORCYCLE: YAMAHA V-STAR 250
Cruisers are known for being large and unwieldy, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Yamaha’s V-Star has the authentic look of a cruiser without the bulk. With top speeds of more than 80mph and incredible fuel economy, you’ll love the experience of this bike. You can even add a passenger.
Enjoy Your Ride with Law Tigers
At Law Tigers, we’re not just motorcycle accident attorneys. We’re also a team of motorcycle riding enthusiasts. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, callus at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation. Sign up for our free riders benefit package today..
Love is reliable, comfortable, and dependable. And Twisted Road member, Steven N. knows he found love—in a Yamaha FZ-07. The duo took on the Florida Keys, soaking up the sun, exploring the roads, and more Steven loves every mile they conquer. Luckily, he is generous enough to share his story (and Yamaha!) with the Twisted Road Community.
–Austin
I have three suggestions:
Drink pomegranate juice. I’ve read several reports on this juice. I’m sure you eat well, but you know the drill about fats, cheese and bad processed foods.
Second would be meditation. They have found recently that you can actually improve your brain, like lifting weights for muscles, through meditation. You can get a free app on your phone called let’s Meditate. You just lie down and take your brain out of gear for 10-30 minutes. If you take naps, it’s the perfect time. Believe me, it’s difficult and takes practice, but man-o-man it works.
Finally, there’s an exercise I do with tennis balls. I can’t juggle three, but I juggle two tennis balls to the left and to the right. Just start taking 2-3 minutes and stand facing a blank wall (if possible). After you get the hang of it, start counting each time you throw a ball. Then start multiplying like 4-8-12-16 etc. I say as I throw the balls, “4 plus 4 is eight, plus 4 is 12, plus 4 is 16 and so on. Try to do it at least three times a week.
Give it a shot
Stay strong and healthy goddammit!
–Bandit
Research Director
Bikernet Medical Center
WE THE PEOPLE — FREEDOM PLUS RESPONSIBILITY CREATES LIBERTY
To have a better understanding of the basis of this writing, it is suggested that you read the Preamble of the Constitution, the First Article of the Constitution, and the Declaration of independence, as well as any writings of your preferred Higher Power that apply to Freedom and Liberty.
I am very weary of hearing people demanding their FREEDOM. The only freedoms guaranteed in the Constitution are in Article 1. Freedom of religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition for redress of grievances.
Back in my younger years, there was a very popular song by Janis Joplin, Bobby McGee. The phrase that burns in my brain is, “freedom is just another word for nuthin’ left to lose.” Exactly. You may have guarantees of Freedom, but if you do Nuthin’ to guarantee your LIBERTY, there IS nuthin’ left to lose. One must apply Responsibility to Freedom to realize LIBERTY.
The Preamble of the Constitution states: “in order to SECURE the Blessings of Liberty”….. we must DO things to secure Liberty. The government, your Higher Power and centuries of brave fighting men and women have provided us with Freedom. We cannot enjoy those freedoms without applying our own personal Responsibility.
We the People, MUST add Responsibility to Freedom to achieve our Liberty.
Please share this concept as it applies to your Life with all in your Circle of Life, young, old, relatives, friends and acquaintances. Realizing this concept seems to be the only way to preserve our country and the lifestyles we have, evidently, taken for granted.
Looking forward to talking to many about their reaction to this article.
Respectfully submitted, July 24, 2022
Carol A Simpson
“Granny Carol”
csfreedom@aol.com
BUILDER PARTS FROM BILTWELL— Whiskey Throttle
Another classic Biltwell DIY part for home and pro bike builders. Our Whiskey throttle is available for 1″ or 7/8″ bars and in black or polished aluminum finishes.
Precisely constructed with investment-cast clamshells and a CNC lathe-turned 6061 T-6 aluminum throttle tube, these components give a well-tuned Whiskey throttle its distinctive snap, and allow builders to use a wide range of molded rubber grips.
Four Harley-specific cable ferrules included with each assembly interface with a wide model-year range of Motor Company cables. Whiskey throttles are available in single or dual cable styles.
AMERICAN BIKER SPECIAL–GET READY FOR FOOTBALL SEASON
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–Cary
See Choppers Magazine website for the full report. –Bandit
Say hello when you see them in the crowd at the Show!
Name: Robert Hultz “Bobby Good Times”
Instagram : @bobbygt
ANOTHER SELECTION FROM TRIKES OF THE WEEK—
Hang on for this batch.
–Sam Burns
Trike Editor Supreme
Bikernet.com™
Tucker is a noted distributor of products for motorcycles and utility vehicles (UTV’s), with thousands of dealers in the United States. After launching a full lineup of electric-powered bicycles, scooters, skateboards and related gear in April of 2021, Tucker has become a leader in electric powered recreation and transportation as well.
Viewpoints with Dennis Quaid digs into the ease of accessing powersport-focused recreation and directs consumers to their local dealer to find the right products and gear to get started. The news show interviewed Marc McAllister, Tucker’s President and CEO, and Steven Reed, Brand Manager for Tucker’s ProTaper product line. The segment includes video of some of the company’s most popular products, especially the company’s range of e-powered vehicles.
The Tucker segment will air on several public television stations over the next few weeks. The first showing will be on FOX’s Business Network (available on cable systems, streaming systems and via apps on most mobile devices) on Thursday, August 18 at approximately 8:50pm Eastern Daylight Time.
Joining SAF are the California Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. B&L Productions, Inc., d/b/a Crossroads of the West; Gerald Clark; Eric Johnson; Chad Littrell; Jan Steven Merson; Inc; Asian Pacific American Gun Owners Association; and the Second Amendment Law Center, Inc. The case is known as B&L Productions v. Newsom.
SAF is represented by noted civil rights attorney Donald Kilmer, who successfully represented SAF in overturning the ban on gun shows at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego County, where the defendants were ordered to pay plaintiffs close to half-million dollars in combined damages and attorney fees
Named as defendants in this case are California Gov. Gavin Newsom in his official capacity as Governor of the State of California, Attorney General Robert Bonta in his official capacity as Attorney General of the State of California, Karen Ross, in her official capacity as Secretary of California Department of Food & Agriculture, and Todd Spitzer, in his personal and official capacity as District Attorney of Orange County. The 55-page federal complaint was filed in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
“The state has been regulating gun show operations almost out of existence, and more restrictive than brick-and-mortar retail gun shops or even internet sales,” explained SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb, “Now the California Senate Bill 256 ban amounts to a total deprivation of rights under the color of law, including the First Amendment rights of free speech and freedom of assembly, and the 14th Amendment’s equal protection under the law.
“This lawsuit follows our successful action against the Del Mar Fairgrounds,” he added, “but the regulatory ban regime now in place in California applies to any gun show on public property, anywhere in the state. What is alarming to us is that Crossroads of the West has followed the rules, and so have vendors at their gun shows. Yet, the state is prohibiting constitutionally protected activities that are common all over the country, and are already highly regulated.
“Like it or not,” Gottlieb observed, “gun shows are public forums where like-minded people can meet and discuss various issues, engage in firearm sales and purchases, learn about gun safety and enjoy the camaraderie inherent at such events. Obviously, the defendants don’t like that, but they simply cannot violate constitutional rights to satisfy a personal disdain.”
–from Truth about Guns
I also stole a photo RFR took of Joe while he was still with us, please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. Sorry to hear about the flats by the way, but if I’m lucky that might mean a trip to the Texas mile!
–Kent Weeks
The Real Lucky Devil
Billet aluminum paired to a super-strong , non-scratch rubber coated magnet. The Freakmount is designed to hold at high speed without killing the looks of your bike.
Holds smartphones from 2 1/2″ to 4.3″ (63 to 109mm) wide and up to 1/2″ (12.7mm) thick.
When you think you don’t have a choice, guess what, you just made one!
It has become very clear to me over the years that each and every day I am going to be faced with challenges and obstacles, this is just part of Life. How I handle these challenges and obstacles is the key to how my day is going to go.
Will I allow someone to tick me off first thing in the morning and ruin the rest of the day? Does a regret from the past pop up and I beat myself up? Does an old fear or doubt that was programmed into me years ago still hold me back? These are just a few questions I think we should contemplate. Whom or what are we giving our Power to?
One of the reasons I do these morning writings is to keep me on track, to take My Power back and to Live My Truth. I have learned that I have a choice of who is going to control my day, and it is up to me to take responsibility for my thoughts and beliefs.
Today Know: Today I choose to Live Life to the fullest. I move to a Higher Level of Living, a Higher level of Expression, a Higher level of Being. I am no longer haunted by my past for I Live fully in the present. Right here and right now counts.
I am controlling My Day, for it is My Day!
And So It Is!
Thank You
–Yale Gelfant
Choppers cycle
NEWS FROM THE PRISM GANG— My Garage with Zach Hindes
Our latest series, in partnership with Harley-Davidson, My Garage, brings us inside the garage of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts around the world.
We get to see the collections and workspaces of some truly talented and inspirational individuals, beginning with Prism Supply co-founder, Zach Hindes.
The green agenda needs to become the topic of open, honest, balanced, and very public debate.
By Edward Ring
Earlier this summer, the CO2 Coalition was banished from LinkedIn. The CO2 Coalition, with only three full-time employees and an annual budget of under $1 million, had committed the unpardonable sin of sharing contrarian perspectives on climate science. Its work, produced by a network of volunteers that includes dozens of distinguished scientists, offers indispensable balance on a topic that requires honest debate now more than ever.
Among the many comments that followed LinkedIn’s decision, the mentality of the climate crisis mob came through loud and clear. If “the science is settled,” then any contrary perspective is dangerous and must be silenced.
A typical comment: “Why does LinkedIn allow so much Climate Disinformation to persist throughout its platform?” Brigades of these content wardens continuously log complaints with LinkedIn against climate skeptics. The impeccable work of Bjorn Lomborg is one of their next targets.
This is not the environmentalism of previous generations, and this new zealotry does not negate or diminish the common-sense concern for the environment that most reasonable people share. But this new breed of intolerant, fanatical environmentalism, manifested in the movement to avert a “climate crisis,” is perhaps the most virulent and dangerous expression of fascism in America today. If left unchecked, this fascistic climate change movement will destroy freedom and prosperity while it destroys the planet it purportedly wants to save.
Ideological and Economic Fascism Combined
This is not a frivolous accusation because, in this case, the shoe fits. There are two types of fascism. One is based on ideology and manipulates popular emotions, and the other is based on economics and appeals to elitist greed. The climate crisis movement has found a way to combine both.
Read the full report at: AMGreatness.com
https://amgreatness.com/2022/08/16/green-fascists-are-destroying-the-world/
HOLY SHIT—This is sort of my vibe from the rally. I saw brothers from all over the country riding free and enjoying the freedom we have all worked for forever. But in the back of their minds, they know something bad is coming, especially after Biden signed the Climate bill.
Watch for my Rally report next week.
I finished and posted our 4-speed clutch wars article. I also sent it to Cycle Source. I won’t pull the plug on Bikernet until I see it in print. It’s the code of the west.
Someone gave Irish Rich this virgin Elite oil bag build by an original Oakland Hells Angel. It’s never been in a bike, and he got it with the original instructions and mounting hardware. I tried to talk him out of it…
The day after they canceled Bonneville, I received two calls. One, my FIM required stickers were ready. And second, our team shirts were finished at Alpine impressions. The next day I looked into running at the Texas mile in March.
Fred Cuba, a serious builder in Hastings, Nebraska stopped by during the rally. He built this and brought me some stickers. I put one on the Torpedo.
Two days before the rally ended Adrian showed up at our door with LuLu the manic dog. “I gotta ride to Nebraska. Can you watch my dog?”
LuLu and the neighbor’s bulldog Tank immediately kidnapped a local kid’s stuffed animal and sent a ransom note to the parents. The animal is severely wounded.
I will touch on Michael Lichter’s exhibit at the chip in my rally report. We might have the opportunity to cover his stellar exhibit in a month or so.
Nick Trask, Trask Turbo, with one of his Turbo Twin Cams. It makes over 200 HP. On my way back to Deadwood I saw him pulled over.
Hang on for next week and major shop progress. And think about freedom and joining your local motorcycle rights organization, or join the MRF or even the AMA.
Like Carol said above, if we don’t fight, we won’t have freedom.
–Bandit
