Helluva weekend. Non-stop, we hauled ass to Laughlin on Thursday at 5:30 in the morning escaping the city. We ducked most of the traffic, some mist but not the wind. I leaned the King over as we entered the desert and cut a dusty trial until I passed Vidal junction and the CHP (California Highway Patrol) nabbed me at 92 mph, as we leaned in a corner heading due west for the border.
While we were pulled over beside the road an 18-wheeler screamed past and blew my detachable windshield off the king. Layla grabbed it before another truck could crush it into the hot asphalt, but she didn’t want to hold it securely on board while trucks whizzed past. I signed the paperwork graciously, bowed with respect, dusted the windshield off, attached it and we peeled out.
Other than the ticket, the weekend was packed with warm rides, hot babes, out of this world customs and whiskey. Couldn’t be better. Check out the Frank Kaisler report later this week. Let’s hit the news:
Crazyhorse Report of the Week
This week’s paint job belong to Fred Poppleman. Fred wanted to bring his road king to life and I guess he picked the right paint scheme because I’ve heard from several people who saw it down in Daytona at Bike Week. He wanted a metalflake red basecoat that glowed.
I used House of Kolor red flake and layered some HOK Kandy Brandywine over that. I wasn’t too sure about the ragged pinstripe but it seems to work very effectively here. All these details were Fred’s ideas which proves it is sometimes best to listen to the customer’s ideas.
A few weeks ago I kidnapped my husband, tossed him a cruise ship, and landed in Key West. The weather was perfect and the company was even better. I hooked up with a real Key West legend- VonHilde. He’s been living in the keys for years, having fun and building bikes, usually Panheads. He dragged Jim and I over the docks where you seldom see any tourists. Screw all the regular overpriced tourist traps.
The bar he took us to had great food, tasty tropical drinks, and was full of regulars whiling away the day. It was wonderful. I need to go back there very soon. You can’t beat Key West for people watching and it was fun seeing the spring breakers nearly mutilate themselves while figuring out how to ride scooters and look ahead at the same time. Turn a corner and suddenly you’re away from zoo on Duval St, soaking up the quiet serenity of the lush tropical side streets.
VonHilde’s latest Shovelchop is pure VonHilde. Betty Boop and a hand grenade. It’s a no nonsense chopper that starts on the first kick. It was a wonderful week away from the paintpit, but now I’m back – trying to come up with killer work and new ideas. All kinds of crazy projects are lurking on the horizon and somehow this old gal will try and keep up with it.
And now for my big news- looks like Bandit may not be the only published author here at Bikernet. I’ve signed two contracts with Motorbooks International- the people who brought you “The Art of the Chopper” , the “Monster Garage” book, and Mike Lichter’s Sturgis book. I’m coming out with two custom motorcycle painting books. One deals in advanced painting techniques and airbrushing. It’s a no bullshit, straight talking, very comprehensive guide to doing kickass artwork without losing your mind. I leave nothing out-any fool can custom paint like a pro with this book.
My friends tell me I’m nuts to do this book and give all my secrets away. I guess I’ll have to come up with new ones. The second book deals with basic motorcycle painting. But there’s nothing basic about this book- it will very throughly explain how to mold a frame and do bodywork on fabricated parts. How to build paint stands, how to do flames, the best way to lay down stressfree coats of custom paint.
Killer artwork don’t mean squat if you don ‘t have a solid foundation and this book will tell you how to do a paint job that will last longer than you do. I ought to know- I’ve made every mistake a painter can make. So both books will deal extensively with how to not screw up or what to do when that big boo boo happens. Shortly before the book’s release I’ll be publishing painting how tos here on Bikernet and in various magaines. I’m also thinking of doing a best bike paint contest in Dec- the winner gets a copy of the advanced custom painting techniques book and an Iwata airbrush.
Ok that’s it for now. If only Wild Angie can stay out of jail I may be able to go riding with her soon. I’ll have more paintwork to show you next week.
–Crazy Horse
New California Handlebar Law
Just wanted to share (since the victories are rare in our legislature) that our handlebar height bill got out of Transportation Committee last night with no resistance (13-0)…part of that is because of the compromise we took…which will make the new law read as follows: “A person shall not drive a two wheel motorcycle that is equipped with…handlebars so positioned that the hands of the driver, when upon the grips, are more than six inches above his or her shoulder height when sitting astride the seat.”
The compromise (six inches above the shoulders) eliminates a lot of officer discretion which was the source of many problems throughout the state…we’ll keep you posted as this bill moves thru…but thanks to all who offered data, input, support !!!
Jean Hughes
Nebraska helmet modification dies…
Just got word – LB 303 is dead. Senator Curt Bromm will NOT put it back on the agenda before the end of session. This sets NE back about 2 years. What we ALL fought so hard for – what we sent thousands of emails for – is dead. Back to square one for our friends in Nebraska.
We gave it a hell of a fuckin’ fight…for two years, you guys jumped when asked and kicked fuckin’ ass. We got through to some, but not all.
It is now up to ABATE of NE (of which I’m a NEW FUCKIN’ MEMBER!) to send this Bromm son-of-a-bitch back into a private sector job where he can kiss my hairy white ass.
I will ask for permission for us to send him e-mails…until then, I ask that you hold your rage. I’ll get back to you.
–Spotman
Presidential Humor
A tragic fire on Sunday destroyed the personal library of President George W. Bush. Both of his books have been lost. A presidential spokesman said the president was devastated, as he had not finished coloring the second one.
–from Chris T.
Question Of The Week?
How many animals can you fit into a pair of pantyhose?
Answer: 10 little piggies, 2 calves, 1 ass, 1 beaver, an unknown number of hares, and a fish no one can find!!!
–from Australian Ray
Find This T-Shirt!
I was surfing your web site…great site by the way…but on the home page there is a girl on the home page with a shirt that says ” GET A REAL BIKE YOU FUCKIN PUSSY” I looked through your web site I didn’t see it advertised for say anywhere. Can this shirt be purchased..as several girlfriends and myself would love to purchase a few?
If you’ll don’t offer them if you could direct me to the site that does, I would be very greatfull. And if I could talk you into throwing them in for free I could transfer some ….might I say… pretty damm good pics of me and my girlfriend on our 03 night train. But we have got to get a couple of these shirts.
Would appreciate all the help you could forward back to me.
Rhonda (AKA a pretty hot biker chic)
sagerwife@cox.net
Ya gotta help us out.–Bandit
Old School Project Bike Of The Week
It’s powered with an Evo engine, so it’s not entirely old school, but the chassis is clean, light and simple. It came from Melody King, and as Indian Larry would say, “It’s nimble.” We look forward to more shots.
–Bandit
Bandit – Bike was built by suckerpunchsallys out of Miamitown, Ohio. Has 80 inch motor , 4-speed jockey shift. Runs like a bat outta hell. Those guys build a heck of a chop, good people to deal with. Their names are Donny Loos and Jeff Cochran.
Thanks,
Shannon
Big Dog Motorcycles( To Host Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration At Its World Headquarters)
Hundreds of enthusiasts, riders, and dealers will gather June 11-12 to celebrate Big Dog Motorcycles? history and future in Wichita, Kansas, the city of its birth
WICHITA, Kansas (April 23, 2004): Big Dog Motorcycles (the leading designer and manufacturer of high performance, highly-styled heavyweight cruisers), is honoring its ten years of passion, innovation, cutting-edge design, and year after year of record sales growth with a celebration this summer at the company’s headquarters in Wichita, Kansas.
The celebration, aptly named “Ten Years, One Party”, will be held June 11-12 and is designed to appeal to the nation’s Big Dog Motorcycle riders, motorcycling enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the high performance, custom cruiser industry. “So far, our tenth year has seen our 10,000th bike roll of the production line, record shipments, the naming of another Big Dog Motorcycles branded dealership, engineering department growth, and extensive factory expansions. No doubt there are many reasons to ride in, get together, and have a party,” stated Nick Messer, company president. “So we are doing just that.”
The festivities will include a custom bike show, factory tours, calendar girl contest, swap meet, and a trials demonstration. On display will be the first Big Dog Motorcycle, a 1994 Vintage Classic called Old Smokey which was built in the founder’s garage just a few miles away from the factory; the 5,000th bike a 2003 Chopper; and the most recent commemorative bike, a 2004 Ridgeback, representing Big Dog Motorcycles’ 10,000th. In addition, Big Dog Motorcycles will award the longest ride, oldest bike, most miles on a bike, and the like. Celebrity riders are also expected to make appearances.
Partygoers will enjoy music by Dewy & The Big Dogs. Dewy is company founder and CEO, Sheldon Coleman, and his band has been playing classic rock in the Wichita area for over twenty years. Big Dog Motorcycles was named after the band, one of Wichita’s top party bands. Attendees can find specific information about the event, including event schedule, area maps and hotel recommendations on-line at http://www.bigdogmotorcycles.com.
NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFTAIL PLANT OPENS AT YORK
Construction of the new Softail plant began in 2001. The $145 million, 350,000-square-foot facility was completed in February 2003 and hit full production in September 2003. It is the birthplace of the entire family of Softail motorcycles. This new plant is a major step in Harley-Davidson’s long-term plan to add production capacity, and to simplify and add flexibility to manufacturing operations. It is the latest chapter in a line of spending on facilities and production capabilities that totals $1.2 billion in the last five years.
Bikernet Fish Hook Salesman A young guy from Wisconsin moves to Southern California and goes to one of those big “everything under one roof” department stores looking for a job.
The manager says, “Do you have any sales experience?”
The kid says, “Yeah, I was a salesman back home in Wisconsin.”
Well, the boss liked the kid, so he gave him the job. “You start tomorrow. I’ll come down after we close and see how you did.”
His first day on the job was rough but he got through it. After the store was locked up, the boss came down. “How many sales did you make today?”
The kid says, “One.”
The boss says, “Just one? Our sales people average 20 or 30 sales a day. How much was the sale for?”
The kid says, “$101,237.64.”
The boss says, “$101,237.64? What the hell did you sell him?”
Kid says, “First I sold him a small fish hook. Then I sold him a medium fish hook. Then I sold him a larger fish hook. Then I sold him a new fishing rod. Then I asked him where he was going fishing and he said down at the coast, so I told him he was gonna need a boat, so we went down to the boat department and I sold him that twin engine Chris Craft. Then he said he didn’t think his Honda Civic would pull it, so I took him down to the automotive department and sold him that H2 Hummer”
The boss said, “A guy came in here to buy a fish hook and you sold him a boat and truck?”
Kid says, “No, he came in here to buy a box of tampons for his wife and I said, ‘Well, your weekend’s shot, you might as well go fishin’!!!
–from Dr. Hamster
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REMINDS MOTORISTS MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MONTH
Harley-Davidson is reminding motorists across the country to remember to be aware of their safety skills on the road during Motorcycle Safety month this May. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is part of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) campaign to focus on highway and traffic issues concerning motorcyclists.
More motorcycles are on the road than ever before. As this year’s riding season starts, motorcyclists need to be more aware of the proper safety skills. Skilled and new riders alike need to practice responsible riding techniques on the road. This could mean taking a Rider’s Edge, Skilled Rider or Group Riding Course, buying a new helmet or safety gear or being alert to the actions of fellow motorists and motorcyclists.
For more information on Rider’s Edge rider education courses offered through Harley-Davidson dealerships check their site.
Subject: Government warning about UPS
Government Warning regarding purchase of UPS uniforms: There has been a huge purchase, $32,000 worth, of United Parcel Service (UPS) uniforms on eBay over the last 30 days.
This could represent a serious threat as bogus drivers (terrorists) can drop off anything to anyone with deadly consequences! If you have ANY questions when a UPS driver appears at your door, they should be able to furnish VALID I.D. Additionally, if someone in a UPS uniform comes to make a drop off or pick up, make absolutely sure they are driving a UPS truck. UPS doesn’t make deliveries or pickups in anything, except a company vehicle. If you have a problem, IMMEDIATELY call your local law enforcement agency right away! ,
TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY!
It’s all bullshit according to the Highwayman. It’s a myth like the girl at the top of the article. Dream on that someday she’ll deliver a package to your door or even to Bandit’s Cantina. I can only hope.
Kimberly Bush-Carr Management Program Specialist
U.S Department of Homeland Security Bureau Customs and Border Protection Washington, DC 20229
Road House Picks Up New Sponsor
The Road House program picks up where Camel left off with a place for riders to hang out at several events. The tent hangout at Myrtle Beach, Daytona, Laconia and several other events will house a hot group of custom bikes from Cory Ness, Eddie Trotta, Chica and Kendall Johnson. Bikernet is a sponsor and Carrie recently picked up a diet company? Maybe it’s the big-titted spokesperson that drove Carrie to their door. Check out their site and her tent at all the major events.
–Bandit
Move Over Ambulances, Miami-Dade Adds Motorcycles To Line-up
MIAMI — With sirens blaring and lights flashing, Lt. Roman Bas and firefighter Charley Hay raced through the snarling midday traffic on souped-up BMW motorcycles to answer a 911 call.
Before a firetruck arrived at the scene, the pair had evaluated the victim’s condition and fitted him with a neck brace. They also determined the man — who suffered a head injury in a fall from a second-story roof — needed to be flown by helicopter to Jackson Memorial Hospital.
And that was just their first day.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue started using motorcycles this week to respond to emergency calls. The department is believed to be the first in a major U.S. metropolitan area to do so. Emergency responders on motorcycles — common in Europe and Asia — are deployed in some smaller U.S. cities.
By CORALIE CARLSON Associated Press Writer
–from Rogue
Bill Furr Still in ICU at Baylor Medical Center
After a horrific crash at Ennis, Texas, Bill Furr remaind stable and improving in ICU at Baylor Medical Center.
Tuesday evening, he stepped down an ICU unit, but remains under constant care. His chest tube continues to trickle blood, which means healing continues but the tube will not be removed until it’s clear.
Pain management continues to be vital in his continued improvement.
Today’s MRI results revealed some cranial swelling. Results tomorrow may help his doctors learn why he has no short term memory since Friday. –MaryLou Ken Miller Launches T-shirt Line HELLO EVERYONE,WE HAVE FINALLY RECIEVED OUR KEN MILLER CUSTOMS SHIRTS WE HAVE ALL SIZES AND THEY ARE AVAILABLE IN RED,NAVY BLUE,BLACK AND WHITE.SHORT SLEEVE ONLY.PRICES ARE 15. EA.PLUS SHIPPING IF YOU BUY 3 OR MORE I`LL PAY FOR THE SHIPPING.XXL SHIRTS ADD 1.00.THE SHIRTS ARE 4 COLOR FRONT AND BACK.THANKYOU KEN ALSO WE WILL HAVE EMBROIDERED 3 COLOR HATS AND SHOP SHIRTS SOON. –Miller4Nitro@aol.com IT’S MARGARITA TIME–I need to blow this fire trap. The sun and the road is calling. Watch for the Laughling report. I’ve made an executive decision; I’m shutting down some freelance writing assignments to devote more time to Bikernet and building bikes. The site is growing like crazy thanks to you. It’s my job to keep it active. Oh yeah, there’s another project on my plate. This goddamn building and Bandit’s Cantina that will open sometime this year. Hang on as the reports come flooding in. My next project bike is a Paughco rigid. I’m calling it the ultimate chopper, light and tight. Something I can ride anywhere, anytime. Tough as nails, a beater for the Wilmington ghetto. Oh, one more goal this year, I’m going to publish my next book. The first of a series on a loner, Chance Hogan. I’ll keep you posted. Ride Forever, –Bandit
