Hey,
I’m trying to write a mission statement for the H-D Board of Directors. You can help me out. I want to explain how important the Brand is to motorcycling, America and the World. It’s way beyond just making motorcycles. Harley-Davidson represents freedom, innovation, strength, toughness, romance and hard work.
It’s just not another vehicle dealership. It’s a place of open road worship. And in the back is just not a service center changing tires or computer chips. It’s an active vibrant place full of innovation for the custom world, or world record breaking Bagger technology, flat track tuning and land speed record performance.
Harley is so much more than a brand, it’s a lifestyle. It’s freedom to build and fly across the country on two wheels. It’s the tough American who can conquer any obstacle and look sharp and polished at the end of the day.
What do you think?
Let’s hit the news, quick:
The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including: Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Laura, Barry Green, El Waggs, J.J. Solari, Amy White, Jenn and the rest of the crew.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
FREEDOM FIGHT FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS ASSOCIATION–Bikers Inside the Beltway – Your Motorcycle Rights
“Riding where you want, with whom you want, when you want, wearing what you want without government interference.” It is what we wanted 50 years ago when a handful of bikers started State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations (SMRO) throughout the country.
Today, that commitment is just as strong with some of the same “old guys” who were younger than thirty back then. However, the attack against motorcycling and motorcyclists’ rights has not gone away.
Witness: Profiling, motorcycle-only roadside “checkpoints,” ethanol 15 (it kills motorcycle engine O-rings), “end of life directives” – coming out of the European Union to get “undesirable” motorcycles off the road, banning the internal combustion engine, need you hear more? The MRF stands strong against legislation such as this.
Now, we are working to protect the aftermarket industry. You can do so too, by answering the Calls to Action on HR 1566 and S 1379; two bills currently in the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, written to protect the Right to Repair and Modify.
How much do you care about your motorcycle, your right to ride, and the people you ride with? Enough to join the nation’s only full-time (since 1987) motorcyclists’ rights advocacy group fighting for your rights on Capitol Hill?
If “Riding where you want, with whom you want, when you want, wearing what you want without government interference” means anything at all, it means the MRF remains strong in defense of the rights of all motorcyclists, regardless of what they ride. It means that the MRF is in Washington, D.C., standing between those individuals who want to do away with motorcycling and those of us who want to ride forever.
Join the MRF and motorcyclists’ rights activists from state organizations and motorcycle clubs at Bikers Inside the Beltway, May 19-20. Together we will be effective as we visit all 535 Congressional offices to make our message heard clearly.
SCHEDULE
Monday, May 19th
MRF Board Meeting @ Embassy Suites
Lobbying Prep. Session @ Embassy Suites 6-8 pm
Tuesday, May 20th
Lobby Day @ Congressional Offices (KSU: TBD)
Post Debrief Session @ Embassy Suites 6-8pm
HEAVY-DUTY MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA HITS–Issue 200 – May/Jun 2025
A$13.95
Our 200th issue!
We’re proud to reach this milestone. Damned proud.
Looking back over the first 34 years has brought out a range of emotions.
Brum passed in 2020, Craig Pattison passed in 2021, Mike Hess retired in 2023, and now Doc Robinson has retired.
Because she spent the longest time working alongside Doc, we invited Viv to put together a few words. She has also shared selected memories of her time keeping Brum on track for deadlines.
From the current crew, we asked David Cohen for the highlights of his history to date, and Craig Fryers for his favourite covers.
HISTORY FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–Excerpt taken from Cyber Motorcycle
A Brief History of the Marque
The Dutch Simplex was made between 1902 and 1968. Early machines were fitted with Fafnir, MAG, and Minerva engines, Motosacoche in the early twenties, and from the mid 1920s utilised both Blackburne and Bradshaw power units. In the 1930s, they also used Villiers (including a water-cooled version) and Sachs 74cc two-strokes in moped-style machines for Gents and Dames.
Simplex merged with Locomotief in 1952, then Juncker in 1965, joined VAR in 1968 and later Gazelle.
1925 ModelsThe 1925 catalogue included three V-twins – the PV6, the PV4, and the 5 P.K. Sportsmodel. There were also two 2¾ h.p. singles. Most were offered with electric lighting.
N.B. Several firms used variations of the Simplex brand.
Scooterette Designed by Wim Gillesis in 1958, this was a foldable autocycle with a 50cc two-stroke Sachs auxiliary engine. Simplex-Locomotief took an interest in the concept in 1960, and had it ready for production in 1963. However, the company was in financial difficulties and to compound the problem, the legislation changed, making it both more expensive to register and unavailable to unlicensed younger riders. It did not enter production.
Read the whole tamale at the Competition distributing website.
–Bandit
SEE YOU AT HOMECOMING–July 10-13
Get ready for an exciting weekend of music and moto action in Milwaukee. Experience performances by Chris Stapleton, Hank Williams Jr., Turnpike Troubadours, Sierra Ferrell, Treaty Oak Revival, and more. Join the 4-day party at Veterans Park, H‑D Museum, H‑D Headquarters, and H‑D Powertrain Operations Facility.
YOUR DUTY IS OUR HONOR
Whether you wear the uniform today or did years ago, we honor your service with more than words. Our support runs deep—with tangible benefits, strong partnerships, and the freedom to ride bold and free.
How We Support
CARBON CAPTURE BULLSHIT– Costly, Useless & Harmful– Carbon capture and storage (CCS) has been presented by some as a promising technology to address the supposed threat of global warming while making possible the use of fossil fuels that emit carbon dioxide the promoters view as a pollutant. None of this is true.
CCS is expensive and unnecessary. It would raise the cost of energy, make uneconomic the operation of power plants and other facilities fueled by coal and natural gas, raise the cost of energy, and would have no positive effect on the environment. In short, CCS costs too much and is certain to fail at what its proponents promise.
Using data from the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), we found the following:
Costly
• The cost of retrofitting 114 U.S. coal-fired power plants (not scheduled for retirement) to achieve 90% carbon capture would be more than $148 billion, or about $2 million per megawatt of net power output. Operation and maintenance costs of coal plants would increase by more than 40%.
Useless
• Based on analysis using the Model for the Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Induced Climate Change (MAGICC), if the United States ceased all CO2 emissions in 2010, the amount of warming averted would be only 0.07°F by 2050 and 0.19°F by 2100.
Harmful
• Higher concentrations of atmospheric CO2 have contributed to increased crop production and a greening of Earth, 70% of which NASA has attributed to CO2 fertilization. CCS would reduce these benefits of atmospheric carbon dioxide and lead to reduced crop productivity.
Download the CO2 Coalition one page summary here.
https://files.constantcontact.com/c9e43177001/7ce97446-c608-4ebb-a01e-04ad96f1bcf3.pdf
–CO2 Coalition
MAGNIFICENT ACTION FROM THE CHIP EMPIRE–GET EXCITED
Band Announcements Are Coming
Starting
Thursday, May 8
In celebration, you’ll get opportunities for VIP experiences that are hard to beat.
Keep scrolling to
GET A 50% OFF VIP PROMO CODE
at the bottom of the email!
Every week this month, we’ll drop a band announcement into your mailbox
In between each one, you’ll get a
50% OFF SPECIAL VIP SURPRISE
Pay attention and be ready to act.
These specials will end soon.
TODAY’S VIP SPECIAL
50% Off VIP for KISS’ GENE SIMMONS
Monday, Aug. 4, 2025
(Get Code Below)
Learn More
Reserve Now
You know this is still a steal
3-Day Admission Passes are Still Only $199
AND NOW FOR TODAY’S ANNOUNCEMENT
What Could Be Better Than A Fiery Nickelback Performance, You Ask?
How about a modern country rock show right beforehand with…
JOSH ROSS
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 6, 2025
Like biscuits and gravy, these two just go together.
Catch Josh Ross’ explosive performance and have your face happied right before Nickelback takes the stage on Wednesday, Aug. 6!
KUSTOMIZED FXR SWINGARM–Here are some shots of a Kustom FXR swingarm I just finished for a friend of mine back in Mass. After highly modifying the original Harley swingarm I had a friend help make the custom axle adjuster blocks I designed.
I also modified the rear brake caliper bracket (last 2 pictures)to work with the stock brake caliper.
–El Waggs
FACT SHEET: SUPPORT S.66 – A QUIETER VERMONT
The Problem: Excessive Transportation Noise
Vermont’s roadways and communities are increasingly affected by excessive vehicle noise from a small number of egregiously loud vehicles. These include:
– Any motor vehicle exhaust modified to increase noise beyond factory-installed levels
– Illegally modified motorcycle exhaust systems
– Unmuffled engine braking by commercial trucks
Due to Vermont’s weak muffler laws, these vehicles may often pass state inspection, disturbing communities and affecting public health and quality of life.
The Solution: Strengthen Vehicle Noise Regulations
S.66 would modernize and tighten Vermont’s muffler laws by:
– Ensuring improperly muffled vehicles fail the state inspection
– Establishing clear muffler standards for motorcycles, cars, and trucks
– Requiring muffled engine braking, with exceptions for emergencies
– Allowing local regulation of engine braking in sensitive areas near homes, schools, parks, and hospitals
S.66 focuses on stopping noise at its source through inspections.
FAQ
How will these changes to the law be enforced?
S.66 will be enforced mainly at the state motor vehicle inspection level. As already allowed, law enforcement has the authority to stop drivers for motor vehicle violations.
Can commercial fleets still self-inspect?
Yes, but they must follow updated muffler standards in the Vermont Periodic Inspection Manual (VPIM).
Does requiring muffled engine brakes affect safety?
No. Engine brakes can still be used, and unmuffled brakes are permitted in emergencies.
Quiet zones can be created in sensitive areas.
What counts as improper muffling?
– Any vehicles lacking an effective muffler, or with a muffler cutout or straight pipe exhaust
– Motorcycles that do not have an EPA-stamped muffler
– Engine brakes on trucks that are not muffled
Bill History and Status
– Introduced by Sen. Rebecca White
– Received strong support from residents, health experts, and transportation professionals
– Amended to address trucking industry concerns
– Bipartisan support! Passed Senate Committee 5-0 and full Senate unanimously.
– Now in the House Transportation Committee
Next Steps: Studies and Proposals Ordered by the Bill
– Identify appropriate maximum decibel levels for possible future enforcement, methods to
determine vehicle is operating in excess of sound limits, and procedures for enforcement
– Review the citizen complaint process for vehicle noise issues
Together, We Can Make Vermont Quieter
S.66 gives us a practical, fair way to reduce transportation noise. Support this bill to protect Vermont’s tranquility for residents, visitors, and wildlife.
For further information contact: Laura Hill-Eubanks lhilleub@mindspring.com or 802-485-6277
NEW FROM AMERICAN PRIME–It’s all about Control, right?.
Our almost world-famous Mini Handlebar controls are finally back in stock. They sell so fast it’s frankly exhausting trying to keep them in stock.
These controls are small in size, but very large in stature! Designed to handle the harsh environments typically found when on a motorcycle, they come in 9/16″, 11/16″ & 7/16″ master cylinder bores for all types of different applications. Available in stunning show chrome, polished or black powder coated finish. Features a sight glass in the master cylinder for visual inspection of the amount of brake fluid and every kit includes a mirror stem.
Whether you’re building a minimalist chopper, old skool sled or a bobber, these controls will definitely round out the “look”!
EASYRIDERS RODEO 2025–
Get ready, Bloomville! The Easyriders Rodeo is coming to town. Secure your Bloomville Campground Wristbands, One Day Passes and Parking Passes today!
BLOOMVILLE, OH
Smokin’ Cole Farms
AUG. 28-SEPT. 1
Click a button below to make your purchase
Bloomville Campground Wristbands
Campground Wristband Prices:
Wed. Weekend Pass (Wed thru Mon) (Early Bird Camping) midway not open: $150
Thurs. Weekend Pass (Thurs thru Mon): $135
Fri. Weekend Pass (Fri thru Mon): $120
Sat. Weekend Pass (Sat thru Mon): $105
Sun. Weekend Pass (Sun thru Mon): $90
CHEMTRAILS ARE CLIMATE FICTION–I’m all for banning climate geoengineering. But don’t confuse “chemtrails” with geoengineering.
There are methods of geoengineering that will change the climate, and for the worse, but that is another subject.
My goal in this article is to save JFK, Jr., and other good people from getting entangled in the false science of imaginary “chemtrails.”
The people who promote “chemtrails” do not know about the physics of the atmosphere, the formation of clouds, and the science of contrails. No one wins when lawmakers make laws about something they do not understand.
Jet aircraft add water vapor to the air because water vapor is a product of combustion of carbon fuels.
At high altitudes, this added water vapor will become small water droplets when the added water vapor increases the humidity to 100 percent. If the air is cooler than -26C, these water droplets freeze into ice crystals.
It is easy to see the difference between a cloud with water droplets versus ice crystals. Water droplets cause a cloud to look clean and sharp. Ice crystals cause a cloud to look fuzzy. Water droplets evaporate quickly but ice crystals last much longer.
Other than the addition of water vapor by the jet aircraft, everything else in this picture is natural. Contrails modify the appearance of the sky and scatter the sunlight. They slightly cool the Earth in the day and heat the earth at night.
Beyond these small heating, cooling, and visual effects, contrails do not damage people or the environment.
There are people who claim the contrails we see are “chemtrails” caused by poisons the government uses to damage people and plants below the contrails.
First, you can’t damage people and plants with small particles from 30,000 feet. You can do it with a bomb but the particles in contrails fall as fast as cigarette smoke.
Before these small particles could get to the ground, they would be thousands of miles downwind and maybe in the Atlantic Ocean.
Second, if the government wants to poison us, they can do it from 800 feet, cheaper and more precisely.
They say the government is putting poisons in jet fuel.
First, no government is going to add anything to jet fuel that may harm the engines. But let’s suppose the additions pass the safety test.
Second, poisons in jet fuel have nothing to do with “chemtrails” because a jet would distribute the poisons from takeoff to landing, especially on takeoff.
The land most affected would be the area around major airports.
Does anyone have data that shows chemicals from departing aircraft has harmed the people, plants, and dogs in these areas?
–Dr Ed Berry
S&S CYCLE ANNOUNCES ROB ANDOLSEK PROMOTION–S&S Cycle is excited to announce Rob Andolsek’s promotion to Sales and Technical Support Manager. Andolsek steps into this role with 23 years of S&S Cycle experience under his belt. Andolsek started his powersports career with PSI performance developing exhausts and two-stroke engines for snowmobiles. But they were not just winter fun snowmobiles, his involvement had primed him for S&S by focusing on drag race, hill climb and oval racings sleds. At S&S Cycle Andolsek has held a number of significant roles in preparing for his new position to include Product Development Project Lead, Product Line Manager and Sales Engineer. Notably Andolsek led both the Stealth Air Cleaner and T-143 Projects.
“With all his years of experience in Product Development and Product Line management, Rob is a perfect fit for this new role,” said Charlie Hadayia, Executive Vice President. “I look forward to seeing the innovation he creates in both departments.”
“I am excited to jump into this newly created role and deliver the best possible service to our dealers, distributors and customers,” said Rob Andolsek. “With oversight of both sales and technical support, it places me in a great place to really understand what is happening in our market—and that will translate to helping our internal engineering and product development teams as well.”
With a new dealer catalog in the market, Rob steps into his role at a time when dealers and distributors have more S&S Cycle product information than they have had in a long time. His inherent S&S Cycle knowledge will be a huge benefit to customers, dealers and distributors alike from both a sales and technical perspective.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2015 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight for Sale
Vivid Black • Used Motorcycles
Forty-Eight®
Stock# 14495C
2015 Harley Davidson XL1200X Forty Eight with only 5,120 miles!
Forty Eight, your local road terrorizer.
* Vivid Black Factory Paintjob
* 1200cc Engine
* Mid Controls
* Stock Adjustable Suspension
* Whitewall Tires
* 13″ Windscreen
* These tires are ready to ride the pavement again!
This bike is only $7,995.00
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.This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806. Open 7 days a week.
NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.
Huge selection of Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!
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/
THE AGAJANIAN FAMILY COLLECTION– from Mecum Auctions
Saturday May 10th:
The Corvettes and the Rat Rod hit the auction block between 1-3 pm EST (10 am-noon Pacific) on YouTube Mecum Channel or MECUM.COM.
Friday May 16th:
We will be on the podium as our Indy Cars hit the blocks. 5-7pm EST (2-4pm Pacific). Prime Time Live on ESPN Plus or MECUM.COM.
TO BID:
Go to MECUM.COM and find the “Register to Bid” section, select internet-only or in-person at the INDY auction, and follow the instructions.
Click “View Collection” below. Then click on each car to see a pictorial with it’s provenance.
THE ALL-NEW 2025 PAN AMERICA 1250 ST–SUPERHERO SPEED. H‑D POWER.
Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* demanded real speed and raw power. Go behind the scenes with stunt pros Heidi Moneymaker and Joe Dryden to read about how the all-new 2025 Harley‑Davidson® Pan America® 1250 ST fueled some of the movie’s most thrilling action scenes.
RIDE LIKE A HERO
The bike featured in the film was unmodified and fresh off the factory floor. See what all the hype is about and take it for a spin at your local dealer.
FULL THROTTLE ACTION–Jackyl Celebrates 25 Consecutive Years of Rocking the 85th Rally at Full Throttle Sturgis
Rock ‘n’ roll history is being made again! This August 7th, join Jackyl, the hardest-working band in rock ‘n’ roll, as they celebrate 25 legendary years of Thursday night performances at the iconic Full Throttle Saloon during the 85th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
What began as a twist of fate in 2000 has spiraled into a tradition like no other. Great White was originally set to headline that night, but an unexpected turn left the band grounded. Jackyl stepped in, delivering a blistering performance that became the heartbeat of the Rally itself. Frontman Jesse James Dupree, with chainsaw in hand, ignited the stage and carved out a legacy that only grows louder with time.
“Jackyl isn’t just a band; they’re the soundtrack to the ultimate Sturgis experience,” said Michael Ballard, owner of Full Throttle Saloon. For 25 years, this Southern hard rock powerhouse has defined the essence of biker rebellion and camaraderie, turning Thursday night into an unmissable spectacle that captures the essence of Sturgis and all those who attend.”
To Jackyl’s dedicated fans, Thursday at Full Throttle is far more than a concert; it’s a rite of passage. From Jesse’s unforgettable chainsaw solo during “The Lumberjack” to the flying beer, fire, and surprise guest stunts that only add to the chaos, each year is an experience that defies description.
Their unapologetic energy and raw Southern rock anthems mirror the rebellious spirit of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally itself. Couple that with a track record of breaking barriers and records—including 100 shows in 50 days and 21 full-production concerts in 24 hours across Texas—and it’s no surprise that Jackyl continues to dominate the Sturgis Rally stage.
There couldn’t be a more fitting setting for such a tradition than Full Throttle Saloon, the world’s largest biker bar and an iconic epicenter of the Sturgis experience. Rebuilt and reimagined on a sprawling 600-acre property after a fire in 2015, Full Throttle now boasts multiple stages, burnout pits, on-site camping, and more. Together, Jackyl and Full Throttle are a perfect storm of adrenaline, chaos, and camaraderie.
Even 25 years later, Jackyl Night remains the soul of Sturgis. Under the South Dakota stars, tens of thousands will gather again at Full Throttle Sturgis, sharing in a night of unparalleled music, freedom, and unforgettable memories.
If you’ve never experienced Sturgis, Jackyl Night at Full Throttle is where you start. And if you’re a Sturgis veteran, you already know that Thursday night means only one thing. Mark your calendar for Thursday, August 7th, 2025. Because when Jackyl takes the stage and that chainsaw roars, the Rally truly begins.
Camping, Cabins & VIP Upgrades Available!
Rally attendees can make the most of their Sturgis experience with accommodations to it every style, including tent and RV camping, deluxe cabin rentals, and VIP upgrades.
Book Now!
Camping & RV Spaces: www.pappyhoelcampground.com
Cabin Rentals: www.fullthrottlesaloon.com
Concert Passes & VIP Upgrades: www.fullthrottlesaloon.com
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT BANDIT’S 5-BALL EMPORIUM–New from Danial James
TAKING A MOMENT
Taking a moment, on their way to a weekend of
motorcycle racing, hill climbs and stunts, put on
by the Jackpine Gypsies motorcycle club in Sturgis, SD.
A couple good old boys stop to stretch their legs and
look at the prior years stats on the races and events back
in the Good ol Days.
Unframed Print – 24” x 16” – $795.00
Unframed Print – 36” x 24” – $1095.00
THERE’S MORE
Kenny the famous Silver Skull Jewelry designer has created a complete line of Quinoa based, completely gluten free, no preservatives Quake products in Northern California. They make the make the best PanQuakes and we will carry them and his jewelry in the Emporium on Main in Sturgis.
Don’t miss it!
–Bandit
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REVEALS NEW LIMITED-PRODUCTION FAT BOY GRAY GHOST MODEL–Fifth Icons Motorcycle Collection Model Celebrates 35 Years of Fat Custom Style
Harley-Davidson today introduced the gleaming Fat Boy Gray Ghost model, the fifth installment in its Icons Motorcycle Collection. This new, limited-production Icons model celebrates the 35th anniversary of the introduction of the Fat Boy, a motorcycle that remains a cultural icon and one of the most recognizable bikes to ever roll down the road. The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model salutes a superstar of motorcycle design with a gleaming new Reflection finish that gives the entire motorcycle the appearance of being dipped in chrome.
The Icons Motorcycle Collection features a limited release of a new motorcycle model that offers a fresh interpretation of an iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Icons Motorcycle Collection models are serialized and may include additional features above the base motorcycle. Production of the Fat Boy Gray Ghost model will be limited to 1,990 total motorcycles globally, (paying homage to the original 1990 Fat Boy) with an MSRP of $25,399* (U.S. pricing).
The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model celebrates the enduring significance of the original “fat custom” motorcycle.
“The original Fat Boy model took the look, proportions, and silhouette of a 1949 Hydra-Glide and completely modernized it for a new generation of riders,” explains Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design and Creative Director, Motorcycles. “Those riders appreciated our post-war design DNA but also found themselves drawn to the clean simplicity of contemporary industrial design.”
At its inception, the bike was intended to have a limited lifespan. Instead, the Fat Boy motorcycle has spanned three powertrain generations and a complete redesign of its Softail® chassis and for 35 years has maintained its original power to impress with unmatched presence and undeniable style.
Stunning Reflection Finish
The Fat Boy is a big, bold motorcycle designed for riders who want to make a statement. That statement is amplified by an Icons Collection Fat Boy Gray Ghost model that will shimmer in sunlight like it was machined from a solid alloy billet and polished to a mirror finish. The Reflection finish is created using the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, also known as thin film coating, in which a solid material is vaporized in a vacuum and deposited onto the surface of a part, in this case the fuel tank and motorcycle fenders. This is accomplished by applying a positive charge to the solid material (an aluminum alloy) and a negative charge to the motorcycle part. Following the deposition process, the part is painted with a standard clear coat finish.
PVD has been used in the past by Harley-Davidson to finish some small parts such as tank medallions and exhaust shields. Its use on the Fat Boy Gray Ghost model fenders and fuel tank is the first time PVD has been used on parts this large for a production Harley-Davidson® model. The precision of this coating results in a stunning finish that is chrome-like in appearance but is more comprehensive than chrome plating and thus will meet Harley-Davidson standards for corrosion resistance that are not possible with chroming on these parts.
Chrome side covers complete the bike’s overall bright finish, complemented by a frame finished in bright silver powder coat. Styling cues inspired by the original Fat Boy model include a round air cleaner, yellow accents on the lower rocker covers, powertrain covers, and tank console insert. Additional details—such as a leather seat valance with lacing and tassels, and a black leather tank strap with laced edging—add to the nostalgic aesthetic. Three-dimensional fuel tank medallions replicate the iconic winged graphic from the original Fat Boy. A commemorative tank console insert is etched with the bike’s unique serialization number, while the Icons Collection medallion is positioned on the rear fender.
Lakester cast aluminum wheels, exclusive to the Fat Boy model, emphasize a bold stance. High-performance Michelin® Scorcher® 11 tires (Front 160/60R18, Rear 240/40R18) enhance the ride.
Elevated Performance and Technology
The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model shares the elevated performance and technical features introduced with the 2025 Fat Boy motorcycle.
NEW Milwaukee-Eight 117 Custom powertrain is tuned to deliver 101 horsepower (75 kW) and 122 lb. ft. (171 Nm) peak torque, a power increase – 7 percent more horsepower and 3 percent more torque – over the 2024 Fat Boy 114 model.
This engine is equipped with a 2-into-2 exhaust with individual catalysts. Mufflers feature advanced lightweight material that works to trim high frequencies and emphasize low frequencies for a powerful sound.
Four-valve cylinder heads feature revised combustion chamber shape, oval intake ports and low-profile intake valve seats designed to improve performance and fuel economy.
Engine oil is routed from a frame-mounted oil cooler through cylinder head cooling passages. This cylinder head cooling system further optimizes thermal comfort for the rider, especially in low-speed riding situations and hot weather.
NEW Suspension is recalibrated to optimize rider comfort.
Dual-bending valve 49 mm forks keep front wheel in contact with the road surface a comfortable ride.
Under-seat hydraulic pre-load adjustment allows the rider to maintain optimal rear suspension performance for the prevailing load and road conditions.
NEW Selectable Ride Modes (Road, Rain and Sport) electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle and the level of technology intervention.
NEW Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson is a collection of technologies designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or adverse road conditions.
o Straight Line/Cornering Antilock Braking System (ABS/C-ABS)
o Straight Line/Cornering Traction Control System (TCS/C-TCS)
o Straight Line/Cornering Drag Torque Slip Control (DSCS/C-DSCS)
o Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)
NEW All-LED Lighting – including headlamp, tail and brake lights and signals – enhance conspicuity.
NEW USB-C Power Port offers faster data transfer than the previous USB-A port, reversible plug orientation, and compatibility with newer devices. The port location is at the front-left side of the motorcycle beneath the fuel tank.
NEW Heated Gear Connectors have been relocated from behind a side panel to the top of the rear fender below the seat where they are much easier to access.
NEW 5-Inch Console-Mounted instrument places an analog speedometer above a multi-function LCD digital display. The rider can use the Trip hand control button to scroll through available information in the LCD display.
There’s way more. Check the factory website.
–Bandit
THE QUESTION OF THE YEAR– Hey Dusty,
I was on your call the other day but couldn’t ask or make a suggestion.
This administration has made a major shift in energy development. For the last 25 years Al Gore shouted from the rooftops, we’re doomed. Don’t you think it’s of major importance to explain to your voters and the public why the major shift? Don’t kids all over the world deserve to know?
Here’s a source of info:
HIGH PRAISE FOR THE CO2 COALITION–Recent commentaries have identified the CO2 Coalition and its members as the primary scientific authorities refuting the false notion of a man-made climate crisis:
Daily Caller April 14, 2025 – A key player here is the CO2 Coalition, which includes scientists and researchers from across the globe devoted to educating the public and policymakers about the benefits of CO2 . Not only is the naturally occurring substance not a pollutant, but it’s in fact the great elixir of life on Earth.
The regulatory attack on CO2 is essentially an attack on humanity itself. Dr. William Happer, a retired Princeton University physicist and founder of the CO2 Coalition, explains why:
“Carbon dioxide is at the basis of life on Earth.” Happer said in an interview with Freedom Research. “We live because plants are able to chemically transform carbon dioxide and water into sugar and a byproduct is the oxygen that we breath, and so we should all be very grateful that we have carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.”
“Life would die without carbon dioxide,” he explained.
Happer and other members of the CO2 Coalition view the recent warming trend as a natural response to planet’s emergence from the Little Ice Age beginning in the 1800s. Overturning the Endangerment Finding is therefore a matter of sound science.
THE CAT RENTAL STORE POWERS PROGRESSIVE AFT 2025 SEASON–
MotoAnatomy’s Johnny Lewis helps prep the track in Chico at Silver Dollar Speedway on equipment provided by the Cat® Rental Store [Photo: American Flat Track/Tim Lester]
Progressive AFT is thrilled to announce that Caterpillar through The Cat® Rental Store brand will continue to serve as the Official Heavy Equipment Provider of Progressive AFT for the 2025 season.
Since 2019, The Cat Rental Store, with each location owned and operated by an independent Cat® dealer, has consistently delivered best-in-class earth-moving equipment, scissor lifts, water trucks, light towers, and generators, helping to ensure that America’s Original Extreme Sport benefits from flawlessly prepared racetracks every weekend. Through its extensive dealer network, The Cat Rental Store has proven time and again that it can meet the tough demands of building and maintaining surface conditions for world-class racing.
The machines and equipment needed for each track can differ, but The Cat Rental Store delivers it all. You may see machines like motor graders leveling the dirt between each round to ensure that track conditions are just right for the racers. Water trucks will be circling the track to add moisture to the soil so it can be compacted and smoothed out. Light towers and generators may be set up around the grounds to help racing teams safely perform maintenance and repairs for their bikes.
“We’re proud to continue our relationship with Progressive AFT,” said Jeff White, Vice President – Rental at Caterpillar and Representative for The Cat Rental Store brand. “From sculpting premier racing surfaces to lighting the track, our equipment has become a critical piece of the puzzle. We can’t wait to see more thrilling action in 2025.”
In addition to providing critical track-prep equipment, The Cat Rental Store will keep a strong presence throughout the season, giving fans an exciting, hands-on look at the impressive capabilities of Cat® machines and equipment. At many rounds, local Cat dealers will bring customers right into the action with VIP hospitality and trackside experiences that highlight the power and versatility of Cat products in a high-octane setting.
“We’re excited to have The Cat Rental Store’s continued support,” said Cameron Gray, Director of Sales and Partnerships. “Their equipment is second to none, and their expertise is vital to shaping a track capable of producing the action that fans love. Together, we’re making sure every Progressive AFT round is second to none.”
For more information on The Cat Rental Store, visit CatRentalStore.com.
The 2025 Progressive American Flat Track season will continue next with the Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway at Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, MO on Saturday, June 7.
To purchase Short Track and Lucas Oil Speedway tickets, click HERE.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, tickets and streaming options, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com.
For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2025. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast
FIRST 100 DAYS SPELLED OUT–“Victor Davis Hanson just exposed what the media refuses to admit about Trump’s first 100 days.
This was a masterclass breakdown—and it changes everything you think you know about Trump’s second term.
Victor Davis Hanson kicked off the list with the most jaw-dropping revelation of all.
In just 100 days, Trump pulled off a border miracle that the so-called experts said was impossible.
“He has completely reversed 10,000 people coming in a day, over 300,000 a month, 12,000,000 in 4 years to essentially 97. 98% of the border is secure,” Hanson said.
“In fact, there is no open border now.”
And Trump’s just getting started.
Hanson explained that the next battle is already underway:
“Now, he has pivoted to try to address the 12 million people that Joe Biden not only let in, but scattered all over the United States on often state federal local subsidy.”
It’s a massive mess. But if Trump could shut the border when everyone said it couldn’t be done — what’s stopping him now?
“That’s going to be a task,” Hanson admitted.
“But he has shut the border. No comprehensive immigration reform, none of the things they said was necessary, none of the things that said that it was impossible, that hampered by. He just did it. We’ve never seen anything like it.”
He didn’t ask for permission.
He didn’t wait for Congress.
He just got it done.
Next up: energy. Hanson said Trump hasn’t just altered America’s energy strategy—he’s completely transformed it.
The Green New Deal is gone.
The electric vehicle mandates? Dead in the water.
Instead of wasting billions on failed climate fantasies, Trump is tapping back into the energy sources that made America strong.
Clean coal is being revived.
Fracking is expanding.
Oil and gas fields are being reopened.
And America is once again exporting LNG to Europe, which desperately needs it.
During the Biden years, oil prices soared to $120 a barrel.
Today, they’ve dropped by half—AND Trump isn’t draining the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to fake those numbers like Biden did before the midterms. He’s preparing to refill it.
The message is clear: under Trump, energy independence isn’t a dream—it’s reality.
Then came a move that few presidents would touch.
This was a mini revolution.
Instead of dancing around the DEI issue, Trump simply walked in and ended it.
Hanson called it “the third rail”—the issue no one dares confront. But Trump didn’t hesitate.
He pointed to a Supreme Court ruling that declared race-based admissions at Harvard and UNC unconstitutional and used that momentum to wipe DEI from federal agencies and push back against its corporate grip.
“The law is on Donald Trump’s side,” Hanson said. “The court decisions are on Donald Trump’s side.”
And the cultural shift has been fast and dramatic.
For years, Americans were told to judge people by the color of their skin. Now, Hanson said,
“We’re doing exactly the opposite of what Martin Luther King taught us.” MLK was teaching that ‘one day we will live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character’.
On the economy, Trump has shattered expectations and flipped the global trade order on its head.
“Everybody said he wiped out the stock market because he insisted on not just free trade, but fair trade,” Hanson said.
They mocked him for taking on China. Now the world is lining up to make deals.
“And he said he was going to sanction China. And he did. Now all of a sudden we have 70 countries trying to negotiate. And as I’m speaking, nations such as Italy or Japan want to make a deal,” Hanson explained.
So what’s the plan?
“A deal is they’re not going to run up surpluses at the same extent. We have a $1.1 trillion trade deficit.”
And Trump’s momentum is just beginning.
“Donald Trump is going to get in the next few weeks a few major nations. And once he does make a deal, all the others will not want to be without a chair. When the music stops, they will want to follow. When they follow. China will be eager to negotiate because its efforts to get Europe on its side have failed.”
Trump isn’t just fixing America’s economy — he’s rewriting the global rules of the game.
On foreign policy, Trump is restoring America’s strength — and making peace possible again.
“If you look very quickly abroad, Donald Trump is still trying to find peace. And no, he’s not Putin’s puppet. He’s been very tough on Putin,” Hanson said.
And Trump’s strategy is tough where it counts.
“He suggests he would have a secondary oil boycott on nations that bought Russian oil, something Biden never imagined. But he is getting frustrated by both sides, and he’s putting renewed pressure in the Middle East.”
Iran is crumbling.
And Trump isn’t playing games.
“Iran is at its weakest point. Israel is ready to take out the nuclear facilities to the extent it can without sophisticated heavy bombers. And Donald Trump is not looking for an optional war. He’s telling the Iranians; time is running out. Settle, dismantle.”
The Red Sea is open for navigation. The Houthis are in retreat,” Hanson explained.
There’s no appeasement here — no deals with terrorists.
“There is nobody in the United States who wants to negotiate with Hamas or Hezbollah. It’s an entirely new game.”
Meanwhile, China is starting to sweat.
“China is very worried that its companies are going to be delisted, that are fraudulent from the stock market in the United States. They’re very worried,” Hanson added.
And finally, Hanson closed with this:
Trump’s first 100 days have been revolutionary.
Not since Reagan or FDR has a president driven this much change in so little time. That, Hanson said, is exactly why the system is panicking.
“No one in their right mind thought anybody would try to stage a counter-revolution and be so successful in the first hundred days.”
This isn’t just another shift in policy.
It’s the end of an era—and the beginning of something new.
– The Vigilant Fox (X)
IT’S ALL INTERESTING–The President lifted the veil of change and made it happen. I feel like it’s happening everywhere. We were bullied and beat-on for four years. Now we can get up and dance, build, buy and get to work.
I don’t know if anything is connected, but my grandson is building a new FiveBall Tattoo parlor on Melrose in downtown LA. In Sturgis we’re refurbishing the Museum. Across the street we are rebuilding Bandit’s 5-Ball Emporium. A whole new racing program is coming to Sturgis.
Maybe it’s spring. Maybe a new political climate, but folks are getting to work, traveling, and getting ready for the 85 anniversary of the Sturgis Rally. I’m going to start the process of registering my VLXAFL tomorrow. Maybe it’s time for a ride.
Stary Free and In the Wind.
–Bandit
