Hey,
This is an interesting week. Guys are scrambling to peel to Bonneville, including our own Ray C. Wheeler and the 5-Ball Raycer. Eric Bennett from Bennett’s Performance is riding a rocket at Bonneville. We were going to work on his Dyna this week, but he called me at the last minute. “This is like the week before Laughlin,” Eric said. “It’s nuts, and I’ll be in Bonneville all next week.”
Ray faced daunting issues on his final week. He hauled his bike to Napa for tuning, but they couldn’t get it to idle. It can’t be tuned without an idle. Then they discovered a cocked rear mono-shock, that snapped the shaft. Either the shock needs to be offset, or the tabs moved and re-welded by Dr. Feng, our official Bikernet Certified Welder.
While kids around us struggle with drugs, we are having more fun than ever before. There’s more positive action in the industry, new models, new products, and new motorcycles. Watch out for the rumors about new liquid cooled touring Harleys, and I’m having a styling discussion about the new Indian.
I don’t like the rear fender outside the swingarm. The Gilroy guys did that to deal with the fat tire craze. To me it messed with the classic Chief styling, and I’m sure Polaris designers can pull off the finest looking Chief ever imagined.
NEW HARLEY 2014 MODELS–Gary Porter. In advance of its 110th anniversary party, Harley-Davidson is unveiling eight models retooled with what it calls Project Rushmore:
By Rick Barrett of the Journal Sentinel
New Harley-Davidsons unveiled Harley-Davidson Inc. on Monday is unveiling 2014 touring and trike motorcycles, developed under the name Project Rushmore, that have liquid-cooled engines and touch-screen electronics more akin to luxury automobiles.
Eight models were retooled and enhanced under Project Rushmore, making it the largest new model launch in Harley’s history, the company says. The new bikes are being unveiled as Harley plans to celebrate its 110th anniversary in Milwaukee over Labor Day weekend.
“This is beyond anything we’ve ever done,” Harley spokesman Matt King said.
The Rushmore cycles are the first to come under a new product development initiative, announced four years ago, that aims to bring new bikes and features to the marketplace faster.
Eight new motorcycles will have Project Rushmore features: the Road King, Street Glide, Street Glide Special, Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited, Tri Glide Ultra, CVO Ultra Limited and CVO Road King.
“Project Rushmore is the overarching name we are using for this family of bikes,” King said.
New features include the first liquid-cooled engine for a Harley-Davidson touring bike, integrated front and rear anti-lock brakes, integrated audio, communications, navigation and vehicle information in a single electronic touch screen, five-way joy sticks on the left and right motorcycle hand controls for most of the system’s functions, and a more comfortable passenger seat.
Linked braking, where braking with the front and rear wheels is synchronized, is activated at speeds above about 20 miles per hour. At highway speeds, the system will automatically calculate the amount of braking that’s necessary under the existing conditions.
The company’s styling team influenced every aspect of the makeover, with considerable input from customers.
“When we got this assignment, we knew that we were messing with the Holy Grail of motorcycles,” said Brian Nelson, lead stylist on Project Rushmore.
“We don’t do trend bikes or fashion-statement motorcycles. We try to make something that will last forever. But we also have an obligation to move the brand forward, to make it look and function better,” Nelson added.
The bikes’ hand controls are redesigned, and the number of dash gauges has been reduced from six to four — with temperature and oil pressure readouts moved to the electronic screen and the gauges made larger for better visibility.
Designing a motorcycle involves art, science and emotional appeal. Harley’s Willie G. Davidson Product Development Center, in Wauwatosa, has a large conference room called the “bunker” where motorcycle designs and prototypes are reviewed. Its tall glass windows have motorized shades to keep prying eyes from getting even a glimpse of bikes that might not be released to the public for several years, if ever.
Under CEO Keith Wandell’s leadership, Harley has cut product development time by about 30%, and it has a new way of gathering ideas for motorcycle designs.
“We gather input and ideas at formal focus groups, but also at all the events we attend and at our demo rides, sometimes just talking to that rider or passenger sitting on the next stool at a diner,” said Scott Habegger, director of motorcycle styling.
“We take our ideas and solutions back to customers as prototypes and get more feedback before settling on a final design,” he added.
Other changes in the 2014 lineup include anti-lock brakes on all five Sportster models, a new CVO Softail Deluxe that comes with a detachable windshield with GPS navigation, Daymaker LED lighting and detachable saddlebags. Also, the Twin Cam 103 engine is now standard equipment on the Street Bob and Super Glide Custom models.
–from Rogue
This is a departure and I’m sure the factory has faced this notion for a few years, as they watched autos pull farther and farther away from a mechanical public to the world of high-tech advances, reliability, and sophisticated accessories. It’s a tough call, but doable.
Models can be built for the guy who wants every accessory and will never lift a wrench. Other more stripped-down, traditional models could roll off the line. They could and should embrace the man or woman who was born with a crescent wrench in their hands. It can and should be apart of the H-D code of the west.–Bandit
WHY ARE SWAT TEAMS ANSWERING ROUTINE POLICE CALLS?
–by s.e. smith
The SWAT team is the big guns of policing in the United States, reserved for kidnappings, gunmen and other highly dangerous and potential volatile situations. Right?
Wrong, apparently, because in recent years, the use of SWAT teams for routine law enforcement matters has been on the rise, with sometimes fatal consequences. These highly trained police personnel are being sent out on gambling raids, ordered to break up underage parties and even dispatched to handle student loan fraud. Not the best use of taxpayer resources, given the expense of maintaining a SWAT team and sending members out on calls, but more than that, it’s a troubling indicator of something going deeply wrong in America.
In the United States, the police are kept separate from the military for a number of social and political reasons. Paramilitary forces like SWAT teams, developed in 1960s Los Angeles to address considerable social unrest, are intended to be used judiciously, in situations where a threat to civilian wellbeing and social stability is so significant that it justifies the use of considerable force and organized military tactics against members of the civilian community.
Thus, a potential terrorist threat or situations in which people’s lives are endangered by a gunman or another threat of violence is an appropriate use of a SWAT team or similarly-trained arm of a police department.
But what about routine law enforcement situations? These are supposed to be the purview of the police, who are trained in how to handle them, and when to determine if they need more substantial backup. When a police raid includes a SWAT team, the mix can turn explosive and dangerous extremely quickly; and police killings, particularly of young black men, are a problem across the United States thanks to the criminalization of ordinary activities like walking down the street in baggy jeans or even existing while black.
Such activities are also including searches under nebulous circumstances, the use of excessive force, and other abuses of law enforcement power that have a net effect of intimidating civilians. This is a troubling development in a nation that enshrines civil liberties and the ability to live without interference from police forces unless clear evidence of lawbreaking is occurring, and it’s evident that some police forces and their SWAT teams are overstepping boundaries, sometimes with inadequately trained personnel who aren’t prepared to deal with the complexity of a chaotic raid situation.
Has policing in the United States evolved to the point of no return, making it impossible to dial it back and put SWAT teams back where they belong? Or can organizers and advocates push for a return to the basics when it comes to policing, paired with more conscientious treatment of civil liberties?
Wow, is that the question of questions? Can we dial anything back in this government? Can we ever think Freedom First?–Bandit
BIKERNET READER COMMENT ABOUT THE COMMENT ABOUT THE BIKERNET SURVEY–POST STURGIS, RACING TO BUB’S, THURSDAY NEWS for August 15th, 2013
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=11220
Thursday News rocked as usual. Tasty bits and info we all can use.
I enjoyed seeing my survey response posted. A great cheap thrill…just like me.
Ride hard!
–Mike
slamon@sbcglobal.net
Windsor, CT
BIKE MASTER FLUID EXTRACTOR FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–
Safely siphons or transfers fluids. The tool comes with over 6-feet of clear hose for visual confirmation of fluid transfer.
No more bad taste from manually siphoning. Easy to operate.
PN: 15-2166MSRP: $19.95
For information on BikeMaster products visit www.BikeMaster.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BikeMaster.Products
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARLY LESSON OF THE DAY–
impolitic im-POL-i-tik, adjective:
not politic, expedient, or judicious.
“The cruelty, the impolitic cruelty,” he replied, with great feeling, “of dividing, or attempting to divide, two young people long attached to each other, is terrible…”
— Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility, 1811
“From my point of view it might be impolitic,” said Stephen. Jack looked at him, saw that the matter had to do with intelligence and nodded. “Are there any others you would object to?” he asked.
— Patrick O’Brian, The Wine-Dark Sea, 1993
Impolitic combines the prefix im- meaning “not,” with the Greek root politikos meaning “of citizens” or “pertaining to public life.” It entered English around 1600.
MOTORCYCLISTS LAUNCH $100M SUIT AGAINST QUEBEC INSURANCE BOARD
The Motorcyclist Movement of Quebec, which represents more than 8,000 motorcyclists in the province, says sky-high hikes in insurance premiums are unfair and discriminate against motorcycle owners, and held a protest in downtown Montreal to launch a $100 million class-action lawsuit against Quebec’s automobile insurance board (SAAQ).
The organization’s president and founder, Michael Mosca, says license plate registration fees have increased by 400% since 2008. “They’re being discriminated upon. It’s a very abusive law,” he says.
However, the SAAQ says the premiums are needed in order to compensate victims involved in motorcycle accidents. The board adjusted insurance premiums after a review revealed a $109 million deficit in 2006. While Mosca admits that motorcycles are higher-risk vehicles, he claims that “When there are accidents between cars and motorcycles, 94 or 95% of the time it’s the car’s fault, so the motorcyclist is being punished when he’s not at fault.”
Instead of increasing fees, Mosca suggests the SAAQ should do more to educate people about road safety, adding that it’s time people change their minds about motorcycles. “Motorcycles consume less fuel, they cause less pollution, less damage to the roads, which is beneficial to the whole planet,” he said.
MOTORCYCLE RIDE RAISES $2,000 for veteran memorial –KELLIHER — With ground broken at the Old School Center in Kelliher, and several granite slabs already sitting on the property waiting to be put in place, a 100-mile motorcycle fundraising event kicked off Saturday morning to raise additional funds to sponsor the all-veterans memorial that will sit on the northeast corner of the Old School Center grounds, facing Highway 72.
The “Ride for the Memorial” was intended to raise awareness about the memorial in addition to raising the needed funds to construct the monument which will cost approximately $50,000, not including installation and transportation costs of the different pieces.
The fee for the ride totaled $25 per bike or $35 if the bike bunked an additional rider. That fee included breakfast, mid-afternoon lunch and possible door prizes.
Over 25 motorcyclists showed up Saturday morning between 8 and 11 a.m. to participate in the ride which would cover 100 miles through three of Minnesota’s northwoods towns starting in Kelliher, across to Big Fork, up to Big Falls and then back to the Kelliher community center where the riders would receive lunch. Each town along the way provided a stopping point where riders could get off their bikes and rest before continuing on.
“Ride for the Memorial” is just one of the many fundraisers that has been organized by six-member Northern Beltrami Veterans Memorial Committee formed between members of the local American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Kelliher Schools, to raise the goal of $50,000 through events, grants and private donations.
According to Robert Hoyum, committee financial officer and local veteran, the committee is about halfway to its goal.
“We’re hoping to have it done in a year from now, even if its done in stages,” Hoyum said. “There’ll be a dedication and we’ll invite everybody in the whole country if they want.”
The committee formed in 2012 and held a Veterans’ Day contest for Kelliher High School students to design the memorial for a cash reward of $50. The contest was won dually by three girls who contributed two designs and were later incorporated into one final design that will feature a hexagonal-shaped centerpiece featuring the five branches of the service — Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard — a kneeling soldier in bronze and a paved walkway around it that will have imprints of combat boots to “follow the path of a soldier.”
Hoyum added that the memorial will also feature a battle cross — a rifle with its bayonet pointed into the ground with a set of boots and a helmet resting on the buttplate — but the cross will not be included in the original design projected to be completed in a year.
The committee has not yet signed a contract to mold the kneeling soldier or create the service branch plaques that will be around the centerpiece, but Hoyum says that the committee has his eye on an outfit in Utah that creates bronze designs and much of the cement and granite work will be done locally.
Irvin Creger, retired Air Force veteran who served in South Korea as part of the military police, attended “Ride for the Memorial” after hearing about the event on the radio where he was staying with his brother near Lake Plantagenet.
“I come up and spend time with him every summer because we’ve been separated for about 40 years,” Creger said. “Now that we are retired, we can get together.”
That separation is because Creger lives in California and only spends about two months in Minnesota per year. This year, he trailered his motorcycle from Los Angeles and, after hearing about the “Ride for the Memorial” fundraiser, decided to trek up to Kelliher to get involved.
“It was advertised on a local radio station that said something about being part of Kelliher and it was at about 8:30 every morning,” Creger said. “I said, ‘Hey, why not? I’m only an hour’s drive away.'”
For Creger, the fundraiser wasn’t only an opportunity to ride his motorcycle, but to also help his fellow veterans become more visible.
“It’s always interested me that, being a veteran myself, that they get the recognition that they deserve,” he said, pointing to the baseball cap atop his head. “Since I’ve been wearing this cap that says I was in the Air Force, I’ve actually had, in biker areas, the bikers that will come up to me and say, ‘thank you for your service.'”
Hoyum and the other committee members expected more than the 28 riders that attended, but due to a heavy fog that morning, many of the motorcycles in route to the event were forced to turn around.
That fog cleared up for blue sky by late afternoon when the group hit the road. And, despite less than expected numbers, the committee was pleased to report that it raised more than $2,000 for the all-veterans memorial at the Old School Center.
“People were very generous,” Hoyum said. “The day went very, very well. There was very little traffic and everyone was supportive of one another. We took a group picture at Big Falls. It was just the perfect day.”
–from Rogue
CLASSIC BOB GEORGE RACER DISCOVERED–I spoke with Tim Weitzel, who is my race partner with Gypsy. Gypsy is our Bob George built original 90-inch Shovel Land Speed Bike. It has Bob’s water jackets and is very much how he built it for Tim and Dennis.
With the exception of a radiator and some electronics and the exhaust, it is original as how Bob built it. Tim and Bob were close. And I am honored to be half-owner of the bike. I did get my “C” license on Gypsy
–Terry Stewart
Shaker Products Distribution and Services
714-366-9012 Cell / Text
714-398-7952 Message
moversandshakers@cs.com
[page break]
BIKERNET PHILOSOPHER DISCUSSES ABUNDANCE–Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into. –Wayne Dyer
Know that the Universe is abundant. If you take the time you can see its abundance everywhere you look you.
This abundance can be seen in many ways, you can see It when you look up at the sky at night and see all the stars, the people on the street, the leaves on the trees, you can also see the abundance of co-creation like the cars on the street, the buildings and homes in our cities, the groceries in the grocery store.
This abundance is always there waiting for our recognition and acceptance. The Universe does not restrict its flow in our Lives we do. When we hold a consciousness of lack and limitation the Law has no choice but to manifest exactly that in our Lives. We must let go of all our beliefs that we are limited, that we may not deserve to share in this wonderful abundance. Know that what you have been led to believe is not true and that you do deserve your piece of Spirit’s Bounty.
And So It Is
Namaste’
–Yale
Yale Custom Cycles
403-453-1999
2003 11 ST SE
Calgary AB
BIKERS FOR BINI& CLASSIC CAR SHOW–
Staten Island’s premier motorcycle ride, classic car show and concert has returned for 2013.
Come help us rev up and serve the Staten Island Community in their time of need.
Join Bikers for Bini at binifund.org
August 25th, 2013 at the Staten Island Mall, 2655 Richmond Avenue.
Registration: 9:00 am – Kickstands Up: 11:00 am
Live Music, Vendors, and Food Following the RIDE!
To register for this event, please log on to binifund.org
For more information contact Lisa Voils at 718-442-1851 or email at lisa@binifund.org
— Adrienne
HARLEY-DAVIDSON APPLIES FOR WATER-COOLED HEAD PATENT—
by Paul Crowe on American Motorcycles, Motorcycle Business, Pupular
Harley Davidson V-Twin with water cooled heads.
Everyone keeps talking about Harley Davidson making the move to water cooling, but there’s nothing like a patent to show us what they’re up to. Charles from Strasbourg sent me a note about this patent they just turned up, and sure enough, it’s Harley Davidson’s plans to water cool the heads on their touring models by hiding the cooling system within the leg shield portions of the fairing.
WOW suddenly times are changing. Read the whole story here on Bikernet Baggers: http://www.bikernetbaggers.com/pages/Harley_Davidson_Water_Cooled_Heads_Patent_Updated.aspx
2014 MOTORCYCLE CANNONBALL COMING–
“Clear the decks, there’s a cannonball coming.” A motorcycle cannonball that is as the Motorcycle Cannonball Run gets ready for its 3rd coast-to-coast antique motorcycle endurance ride across the United States on September 5-21, 2014. If the Motorcycle Cannonball Run’s route comes anywhere near where you live and if you love motorcycles this is a must see event.
I had the privilege of viewing the 2012 edition and it was probably the most awe inspiring motorcycling events I’ve ever witnessed. I got to see machines in person that I’d only seen as pictures in a magazine or a museum, and they were all running. The intrepid people who were riding them were as gracious, even overcoming language barriers, a bunch of riders that you’ll ever meet as they proudly showed off their fantastic old machines.
“In the spirit of famed motorcycle daredevils and cross-country endurance riders of the previous century like the Motorcycle Cannonball’s namesake, Erwin “Cannonball” Baker, organizers are gathering momentum to hit the back roads with a pack of 100-adventurous souls on vintage motorcycles for another historic ride across America in September 2014.
Lonnie Isam, Jr., promoter and owner of Jurassic Racing in Sturgis, South Dakota, has taken on the challenge of the road once again and the Motorcycle Cannonball Run of 2014 is taking shape. For the run’s third iteration, the run’s route master, John Classen has laid out a Southeast-to-Northwest course to be made in 17-days beginning September 5, 2014. The event requires that participants ride antique pre-1937 motorcycles.
The estimated 4,100-mile transcontinental ride is currently scheduled to start on the East Coast at the world-famous Daytona Beach in Florida. To the greatest extent possible, the ride will utilize non-Interstate roadways and will conclude on the West Coast 2 1/2 weeks later in Tacoma, Washington after taking in some of America’s most scenic areas. Entrants will appreciate one day of rest to be spent in Junction City, Kansas.
The adventurous riders will face the most difficult ride of all the Motorcycle Cannonball runs.
“We expect this to be the most challenging of our routes to date. We will be going coast-to-coast again, but it’s going to be a lot tougher this time,” said Isam, “and it’s likely that some may not complete the ride. We’ll see more BMWs this time, and more of the big 4-cylinders, the Hendersons and Indians.
The JDs will be back and it will be interesting to see how the VLs compete with them so the Harleys will be fun to watch as will the Class I bikes (with engines smaller that 700 cc), which will have a very tough time completing the ride. We also have 3 bikes that will be over 100-years old, which will tackle the same course the bikes from the 1930s will be tackling so it’s going to be really hard on those bikes going over the mountains.
This is a true endurance run, and it won’t be easy. There should be plenty of drama along the way.” Motorcycle Cannonball Course Master John Classen reports that a meticulously mapped out route was chosen in order to avoid having the riders enter the interstates whenever possible.
“We’re counting on 12-hours of daylight,” Classen said, “with an average of 300-miles a day. Every rider will check in at the ending point one hour before sunset each evening to avoid wildlife and other after-dark safety issues. There are extreme mountain passes to contend with through some incredible scenery, but this will not be a simple course. I expect the riders will find this run inspiring.”
To date, the 2014 Motorcycle Cannonball Run has drawn riders from around the world. Entrants thus far come from Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, South Africa, Poland, Ireland, Italy, Australia, Canada and the United States. Several riders from the prior two Cannonball runs will be returning to compete alongside the first-time entrants.
Complete information about the Motorcycle Cannonball Run, including sponsors including Bikernet.com and entry requirements, is available at www.motorcyclecannonball.com.”
Source: Motorcycle Cannonball
Images and post: Sam Kanish
–from IronWorks Magazine
City of Hope Employees Become
“Part of the Team at Speedway”–
Irwindale, Calif. – – Beginning immediately, all City of Hope employees who show their City of Hope employee ID card at either of the Irwindale Event Center’s ticket booths will receive an instant $5.00 (each) discount on two tickets for that night’s motorsports event. No coupon, mail-in, or pre-ordering will be required to take advantage of this special price.
“Our association with City of Hope has made us very aware of the vital work that the nearly 4,000 employees of that institution do on an everyday basis.” said Irwindale CEO Jim Cohan.
“This is our small way of showing our appreciation for the way that the people who work at City of Hope serve our community and the world. We look forward to welcoming them at the track and sharing many nights of great NASCAR Home Track Racing and exciting NHRA Street Legal Drag Racing entertainment with them!”
The discount applies to both of Irwindale’s racetracks: its NHRA Dragstrip and its NASCAR oval track, and is good at any regular IEC-operated racing event.
110th COMING TO MILWAUKEE--Bar, restaurant owners ready for Harley-Davidson street parties
by Justin Williams
MILWAUKEE (WITI) — The music might be the only thing as loud as the motorcycles as the lineups for the Harley-Davidson street parties are announced in Milwaukee. There are three parties in all.
In less than two weeks, the corner of North and Farwell in Milwaukee will be in the middle of all kinds of action — much to Gary Johnson’s delight. “Definitely excited! Can’t wait! Brings back memories of the 100th, and 105th. And those were just outstanding days. And I’m lookin’ forward to more of the same,” said Johnson. Johnson is the owner of BBC Bar and Grill. He says he’s already preparing for Harley-Davidson’s 110th Anniversary Celebration. “I’ve got roughly 40 to 50 employees. But probably that day, I’m gonna be pushin’ 60,” said Johnson.
The street party takes place on E. North Ave. between Prospect and Oakland. It’s the first of three during the celebration’s four days. Johnson says he enjoys the chance to show off his business — but not as much as he enjoys being part of the effort to show off the city. “That’s the game plan. I mean, you want to impress all the people who are in from out of town. We’re going to have a lot of visitors from all over the world — and we want to show ‘em what a good time it is here,” said Johnson.
A block away at Beans and Barley, co-owner James Neumeyer says he and his staff are plenty pumped about the pending party. “On the 105th there was a ton of activity, all up and down the street. All up and down North Avenue,” said Neumeyer. Anticipating a similar level of activity, Neumeyer says he’ll have extra staff available to help ensure everyone enjoys the event. “What we saw it as was, you know, a Milwaukee-event, a community-event, which– we’re a very community-minded restaurant business.
The other two Harley-Davidson 110th Anniversary street Parties are scheduled for downtown Milwaukee. On August 31st, it will be held on N. Milwaukee St. — and on September 1st, you’ll find it on E. Juneau.
http://110.harley-davidson.com/en_US/events/milwaukee2013/activities Schedule of activities for the 110th Anniversary.
–from Rogue
FLORIDA STUDY SHOWS CARS CAUSE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS–In the last few years, motorcycles have become a popular mode of transportation around Orlando and it is common to see these two-wheeled vehicles on the highways and neighborhood lanes around the city.
However, motorists often view motorcyclists as a nuisance and fail to give them the respect and space they need. When this happens, motorcycle accidents are often the result.
In 2010, the Florida Traffic Crash Statistics Report revealed that there were over 8,000 crashes involving motorcycles around the state that year. Over 7,400 injuries were sustained by motorcyclists, 376 cyclists were killed and 767 passengers on motorcycles died.
According to the Sun Sentinel, motorists feel that motorcyclists are reckless and motorcyclists feel that motorists aren’t paying attention, thereby colliding with motorcycles. A study conducted by the University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research shows that motorcyclists have a point.
The study, which examined motorcycle accidents during a period of ten years, showed that drivers often fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles and driver distraction appears to be a major factor. While there are many motorcyclists that cause their own accidents, motorists are responsible for the majority of crashes. In fact, the study reveals that motorists are found at fault for 60 percent of collisions involving cars and motorcycles.
It is important for motorists to understand that motorcycles have a place on Orlando’s roads and building an awareness of the presence of motorcycles can be an effective way to reduce the number of bikers who suffer serious injuries each year. Some of the things that drivers should be aware of include:
Motorcycles are smaller in size and therefore can be difficult to see – drivers should be aware of this around other vehicles, signs and buildings. Always look twice before turning left or merging into traffic.
Avoid distractions in the vehicle such as a cell phone or food, which may prevent a driver from seeing a motorcycle.
Drivers should always alert motorcycles to their intention by using turn signals.
Motorcycles should always be given their own lane and space.
Motorcycles move and operate in a different manner than cars do. Motorists should educate themselves on these differences so that they understand why motorcyclists behave the way they do.
When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident with another vehicle, their risk of being severely injured or killed is great. This is not surprising since they only have their helmet and protective clothing to shield them from harm. As such, motorcyclists may lose income and incur thousands of dollars in medical debt.
If you have been injured by a motorist in a motorcycle accident, you should speak with a qualified and experienced attorney to understand what your legal rights are.
–by the Daytona News Journal
–from Rogue
WHITE KNUCKLE, THE CANNONBALL DOCUMENTARY—
Movie Review by Dr. Feng
“White Knuckle” by Atomic Hot Rods is a present day documentary about a current coast to coast motorcycle race called Cannonball in Honor of “Cannonball Baker” (more on that in the movie) centers around three guys with a love of riding and in this case of racing pre 1916 bikes across the U.S.
If you are looking for a slick Hollywood production with special effects and an overdone sound track, this is not your movie. A basic down to earth tale of American motorcycling grit and ingenuity mixed with a heavy dose of patience and endurance reminding us of our forefathers and the just birthing days of the American Motorcycle Industry.
First reviewing was with bikers of both sexes and various ages and stages of sobriety. A good time was had by all, with lots of audience participation and commentary, “That reminds me of…” along with “That’s amazing, cool, ect…” Second viewing was just myself and my friend Sherry… enjoyed it just as much the second time around, if not more. Should you have it in your Collection, I recommend it!
UNCLE MONKEY DISCUSSES The nice thing about having lots of friends is that there is usually someone you can lean on. The Kawi was running well enough to putter around on but it was a handful to say the least. I mentioned the problem to my friend Randy who offered his services and expertise in the foreign world of multi-carb import bikes.
Randy was a good teacher and took the time to explain how the gauges worked, how the carbs needed to be paired, then matched together. It took a while as the carb were way out to lunch. It was almost surprising the bike ran as well as it did.
I asked lots of questions, repeating myself to make sure that I full grasped the concept. Today, while I’m far from an expert, I’m not afraid to sync the carbs on my bike and maybe yours if I have time. There is still a lot of finesse and simply recognizing patterns and trends, but I learned the basis to build from.
The Kawi runs like a completely different bike, pulls well through out the power band without the fuel starvation from lack of vacuum to open the petcock at high speeds. If you don’t know how to do something don’t be afraid to ask your friends, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Respect those who do, and respect that they are taking their time to teach you something. I won’t be replacing Randy as a Kawasaki expert anytime soon but I will pass the lessons along telling my student about the time my friend showed me how to sync the carbs.
–bad Uncle Monkey
SHOOTING SPARKS CALL FOR COPS TO PUSH FOR ANTI-BIKER LAWS–
Senior staff from the office of Police Minister Mike Gallacher met officers, including Detective Chief Superintendent Mal Lanyon, who leads the anti-gun-crime Operation Apollo, earlier this month to discuss the new legislation.
In the wake of spiralling gun violence in the city, the minister’s staff asked if the laws, which allow a group to be formally declared a criminal organisation, could be used to target the notorious Brothers For Life street gang.
The request, which is understood not to have been pursued by police, is a potential indicator of the concern in the O’Farrell administration to be seen to be tackling the shootings, which have cost 20 lives in the past two years.
There is also frustration on both sides of politics that no group has yet been outlawed under the new legislation, more than a year after NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione ordered the paperwork be drawn up to target the Hells Angels.
The Crimes (Criminal Organisations Control) Act, introduced after a wave of ‘gang’ violence last year, means courts can formally declare a group to be a criminal organisation, allowing police to individually target its members.
The legislation replaced similar laws that were successfully challenged in the High Court, but the attempt to implement it has been delayed by a separate, failed, court challenge in Queensland and by the sheer volume of work involved.
At a parliamentary hearing last week, Mr Scipione said he had 10 officers working full-time on the application but “I think no matter what any government or any state jurisdiction does in this space there will be a High Court challenge”.
NSW police were instead using other new powers, including legislation making it illegal for known criminals to communicate, to challenge crime gangs, he said.
During the same hearing, Mr Gallacher responded to criticism that his government did not have the shootings under control.
“Even one shooting is one shooting too many, I can assure you of that. The police are putting every available resource into this and they are certainly making the arrests,” Mr Gallacher said.
It’s believed that Brothers For Life, which has been linked to extortions, murders and knee-cappings in western Sydney, cannot be declared a criminal organization as it lacks the rigid hierarchical structure the legislation demands.
Instead, a reorganization of the police force to integrate the work of its various anti-gun-crime operations with that of local beat police will come into effect from today.
The change will bring Operation Apollo, as well as its predecessor Operation Spartan and the anti-biker Strike Force Raptor, under the direct control of Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas, who already commands most of the force’s uniformed officers.
Announcing the reorganization, Mr Scipione said: “This closer alignment will build on the achievements of Apollo, Raptor and Spartan. This is a natural transition.”
THE NEW AUGUST 2013 Issue of the Clubhouse magazine is out and online–As our cover story this month we profile a few bikes out of Sweden. As we have always said we bring Texas to the world and the world to Texas. We have three really unique bikes from Peter Strom. He built one for himself, one for his wife and one for his wife’s daughter. All three have their own personalities that reflect their owners. I especially love the extensive etching done on both the trike and the Purple Queen bikes.
We also have coverage of an organization that we have supported and featured before, Equusearch. If you haven’t heard about this organization please take a moment to look at the videos and lend a hand. Tim and his crew do amazing things and bring comfort to grieving families.
Next we have coverage of Harley-Davidson World Ride that absolutely blew away last years numbers. If you can believe it there was a 28% increase in the number of bikes participating.
Next we have the brand new 2014 Victory motorcycle lineup for you. They have the Bobbers and the Cruisers and the Baggers and the Touring bikes all new and revamped for 2014.
As always we have a great story from our featured writer Kanga. We also have some very important information on laws trying to be enacted in Texas and the Country that directly and indirectly affect you as a rider. Be sure to check them out in our News from the Capital article. Finally in Shop Talk we have some new products for you to review.
As always our online version of the magazine has many informative and entertaining videos so be sure to check out our EXTENDED CONTENT feature in the Online Version of our magazine.
As always we bring you the most content of any magazine in Texas both Online and in Print. So pick up your issue today and be sure to visit us at our WEBSITE www.theclubhousemagazine.com.
QUICK, OPEN THE BAD JOKE BAR–And the boss thought they heard every excuse!!!! Here is a new one!!!
Reason given by a woman for being absent from work on Monday…………..
“My husband took an overdose of Viagra and I couldn’t leave him with the maid”
—from Rogue
[page break]
ALLSTATE INTRODUCES “GOOD RIDE GRANTS” FOR MOTORCYCLE SAFETY IDEAS
Allstate Insurance Company announced the newest initiative under its Rider Protection Project portfolio – a series of programs all focused on making the roads a safer place to ride. The Allstate Good Ride Grant contest will award a combined total of $25,000 to five contest winners with the best ideas for advancing motorcycle safety and awareness.
Now through August 31, 2013, contest applicants may submit their Good Ride Grant submissions through the designated tab on Allstate Motorcycle’s Facebook page at facebook.com/AllstateMotorcycle. Entries are welcome from anyone, including local governments, dealerships, rider clubs and individuals.
A six-person judging committee will determine the top 15 finalists, whose ideas will then be featured on the Allstate Motorcycle Facebook page where fans can vote for their favorites and the top five will each receive a $5,000 grant to help put their ideas into action.
Join the motorcycle rights group of your choice, quick. They need your support. See below.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or industry in which he is engaged. No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within his sphere.”
~ Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) 26th President of the United States
MYSTERY OF THE TRAUB MOTORCYCLE AT THE WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM–
By Matt Williams
In 1967, a plumber doing renovations of an apartment building outside Chicago tore down a brick wall and found what would prove to be a baffling mystery to vintage motorcycle enthusiasts – a one-of-a-kind motorcycle bearing 1917 plates and the name “Traub”. The building’s elderly owner admitted that his son had stolen the bike before going off to WWI, never to return. But where the bike came from and who made it remains a unknown to this day
Currently residing in the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, the Traub is considered by many to not only be the rarest motorcycle in their collection, but in the world.
The Traub was sold to Torillo Tacchi, a bicycle shop owner in Chicago after its discovery who later sold it to Bud Ekins – famous as Steve McQueen’s stuntman – while Ekins was on set of the Blues Brothers movie in the late 1970s. The Traub was later sold to collector and restorer, Richard Morris, who then sold it to Wheels Through Time Museum curator, Dale Walksler, in 1990.
It has been on permanent display in the museum collection ever since. Don’t think this unique motorcycle is merely a museum piece though. Walksler rides the Traub fairly regularly. When asked about the engine components, he enthusiastically replied, “Everything inside the engine is just magnificent. The pistons are handmade, and have gap-less cast iron rings, the engineering and machining being simply years ahead of their time.”
“When comparing other top motorcycle makes and models of the era, the Traub has no equal. Comprised of a sand-cast, hand-built, 80 cubic-inch “side valve” engine, the machine has the ability to reach speeds in excess of 85 mph with ease,” says Walksler. Aside from its few off-the-shelf components, the Traub has many unique handmade features. The three-speed transmission is thought to be one of the first of its kind and the rear brake, a dual-acting system that employs a single cam that is responsible for pushing an internal set of shoes, while pulling an external set, has never been seen on any other American motorcycle.
“For a machine to have such advanced features, unparalleled by other motorcycles of the same era, is truly outstanding,” said Walksler. “It’s my opinion that The Traub was an attempt at a new breed of motorcycle. But how on earth could a machine have been produced in such great form, with capabilities that far exceed that of any comparable machine, without the knowledge of the rest of the motorcycle industry during that time?”
The hunt for the Traub’s elusive origin hasn’t stopped. “While we may never know why the machine was placed behind that wall, we do hope to one day find out more about its history and the genius that created it,” said Walksler.
To learn more about the Traub and the Wheels Through Time Museum’s other 240 bikes, visit their site.
–from Jim Waggaman
THIS JUST IN, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
New Indian Motorcycle Assurance Program
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=11226
I had the opportunity to test ride the new Chieftain. I would definitely be in the market for this machine. It rode great and had some snap with a twist of the throttle. Although the ride was too short, I did get a real feel for this bike, which felt light and agile. It is a beautiful bike. Well done.
It did run hot much like my ‘05 RK but perhaps with an addition of oil cooler that could be addressed.
I do plan to check them out in more detail when they arrive around December to the Daytona Beach location.
–Rhys
ralsta0b@erau.edu
South Daytona, FL
EXEC CASHES IN HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHARES--Even though there have been no cries of impropriety yet, eye brows were raised in the financial world when it was reported that Harley’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) John Olin sold over 11,100 shares of his stock in the company. The transaction, with the stock selling for about $59.00/share, went down on Friday, August 9th and netted the exec over $655,000.00. Following this transaction Olin still directly owns 12,702 shares in the company.
Some analysts recently gave Harley a “neutral” rating with a $59.00 price target on the stock. Others have given target prices ranging from a high of $63.00 to a low of $56.00 with most in the more neutral $58.00 range. Meanwhile research analysts are mixed with 1 giving the stock a sell rating, 6 a hold rating, 8 a buy rating and 1 a strong buy rating.
Harley posted its quarterly earnings July 25th where it reported earnings of $1.21/share which beat analysts’ estimates. The company reported a quarterly revenue of $1.79 billion which was 4.0% better than the same quarter last year.
Source: DailyPolitical
Posted by Sam Kanish
–from Ironworks
The subject of the stock and selling shares surfaced with the announcement of the new liquid cooled heads. “It’s the end of the brand,” a contributor announced, concerned that the stock would tank. We will bring you more reports on the new models, and the dread water-cooled technology in the very near future.—
Bandit
A BUCKET LIST MUST DO–Sail a Tall Ship–
October 18-20, 2013–We have an amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity. Come sail on the Brigantine Irving Johnson out to Catalina Cruiser’s Weekend. Attend Cruiser’s Weekend in all of it’s glory, then sail back. Learn from her crew, eat and sleep aboard this historic ship for two nights and three captivating days.
AV Updates…
•Sail with us in the Golden Rock Regatta around St. Martin, Kitts, Barths – Nov 13-19
•Two cabins left on 5 boat Sail Bahamas – Nov 3-10
•Catalina Cruiser’s Weekend – Free Event – Oct 18-20
•Have a boat, Join ‘Round the Rocks to Cruiser’s Weekend
•See pictures from past sailing Adventures – el Carib, the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, SE Asia, and on…
Talk about a chance of a lifetime. I signed up today, and a couple of brothers are going. If you want to ride down, you can keep your bike secured at the Bikernet Headquarter under constant McCaw surveillance while we sail across the channel to Catalina. It will be a blast.—Bandit
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK, 2001 FATBOY FLSTF, 10,995–This awesome Fat Boy has a lot going for it! It comes with 18-inch Carlini ape hangers, CVO wheels, a La Pera diamond solo seat, chrome switch housings, chrome levers, stainless braided lines and cables, chrome lower fork sliders, chrome fork cover cans, black knurled grips, black knurled passenger pegs, black knurled floor boards, black knurled highway pegs, black knurled brake pedal pad, black knurled shift peg, chrome headlight bezel, high flow air cleaner, Samson exhaust, quick release hardware, chrome rear axle covers, leather handlebar mounted bag, digital gas cap, blacked out low profile brake light lens, chrome laydown license plate with integrated turn signals, and a cigarette lighter!
This bike WILL NOT last long at this price!
CMT FIREY CRASH–The Clint Ewing tunnel of fire episode on CMT’s Bike Week last night was sensational. As you saw on the show, Clint’s attempt to break the world record was unsuccessful and ended in a fiery but non-life threatening crash.
Please share the link below and do what you can to support Clint as he heals from wounds:
http://www.gofundme.com/3wk6wk?utm_campaign=Emails&utm_source=sendgrid.com&utm_medium=email
The 360 foot tunnel of fire world record attempt was made on August 7th at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip during the inaugural Daredevil Wednesday at the Crossroads.
Embed the charity drive image here:
Additional episodes of CMT Bike Week at the Buffalo Chip will air tonight August 21st and tomorrow, August 22nd at 8pm EST on CMT.
Please reach out with any questions.
–Rea McLean
AUGUST 110TH ANNIVERSARY TICKET WINNERS--Thank you to everyone who entered the drawing for the H-D 110th Anniversary tickets. 24 lucky people will be enjoying the wide variety of music as well as displays at the Summerfest Grounds, courtesy of Hupy and Abraham, S.C. Each winner received two ticket packages valued at over $200.
The winners of the August 15th drawing are;
Dennis Murphy, Milwaukee
Tiger Beyer, Milwaukee
Sue Kah, Milwaukee
The other winners were:
May:
Greg Mc Mahon, Robert Jansen and LeAnn Tretow
June:
Patricia Niemi, Tom Boukidis and Max Von Dahlen
July:
Laura Martin, Kristine Chapman and Valarie Wingo
June winner Patricia Niemi accepts her tickets from
Attorney Tim Schelwat
By Tony Pan
****FALL FOLIAGE RUN 2013****
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
September 20, 2013 – September 22, 2013
Hey Hamsters and Friends of Hamsters:
It’s time for the 21th annual Fall Foliage Run on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Everyone has had a “wicked pissa” time previous years, think about coming out, we’d love to see ya!
The price of the events will be $125 per person. This will include 2 meals (Friday & Saturday,). The meals will be: fish fry & lobster cookout Friday night and banquet buffet and cash bar on Saturday night. There will be a band Friday night and a DJ Saturday night. Poker Run is to be paid for separately.
We are going to limit the auction to a silent auction Saturday night. We know that people are there to have a good time and often can’t concentrate on the auction. Please bid on the items in the silent auction!
Some of the activities planned for the weekend are:
Friday, September 20, 2012
•Ride to Cape Cod from Perewitz Cycle Fabrications in Bridgewater to Hyannis (50 miles).
Ride leaves Perewitz at 1 pm. (But you all know that’s Perewitz time)
Check into motel
•Cookout at Hyannis Elks Club. (About 1 mile from Cape Codder) Fish fry, lobster, raw bar, steak tips, chowdah, corn on the cob, and more! We have a school bus that will shuttle us back and forth from Elks to hotel.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
•Poker Run through upper and middle Cape on new route. ($25 motorcycle & $15 each additional hand)
Stop for burgers and dogs for lunch at Cape Cod Canal
Prizes for first, second, & third. Proceeds to charity.
•Shopping, cape cod sightseeing, whale watching if the poker run does not excite you.
•Banquet at Cape Codder at 6 pm. This is an AWESOME party!! Great food, cash bar, music, silent & live auction and raffles. We have awesome donated items for the door prizes, raffles, and auction. Proceeds to charity.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Whatever….Ride, Relax, Sleep, Shop, Sightsee, Party, Drink, Eat…
We have reserved the Cape Codder Resort in Hyannis (508-771-3000) & Holiday Inn Hyannis, walking distance from CCR, (508-775-1153). Rooms are blocked off for Perewitz/Hamsters.
If you need a motorcycle, rentals are available on a limited basis from the local Cape Cod Harley Davidson Dealership. Please call Ryan at Cape Cod Harley 508-237-9881 or ryangalligan@rocketmail.com. Tell him you are with Perewitz FFR.
Please pass this letter/info on to any other Hamsters who might be interested in coming out to beautiful Cape Cod.
Please fill out the attached reservation form and return with check to:
Jody Perewitz, 910 Plymouth Street, Bridgewater, MA 02324.
Hope to see ya there!
Dave & Jody508-697-3595 (office) 508-697-0275 (fax)
e-mail:jody@perewitz.com
V-TWIN POWER MASTER REBUILD KIT FOR S&S CARBS FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–Complete carburetor repair kit includes all parts needed to rebuild an S&S carburetor. Fits S&S Super B carbs.
Part Number: 49-3352MSRP: $39.95
For information on Twin Power visit www.twinpower-usa.com
RED LINE SPORTSTER 80W Primary Case Oil with Shockproof FROM ZIPPER’S–
Red Line engine and transmission lubricants have long been the choice of racers and knowledgeable engine builders.
The thermal stability, film strength and reduced parasitic drag found in Red Line engine oil all contribute to lower operating temperatures, increased engine life and more power.
This defines Red Line motor oil as a superior product for air-cooled engines, the heart of all American motorcycles. Red Line’s transmission lubricants enhance smooth shifting, lower operating temperatures and reduce transmission noise.
Red Lines’ racing heritage is reflected in all of their products…you’ll see more Red Line products at the track than any other lubricant manufacturer for all of these reasons.
About Red Line Motorcycle, ATV and Powersport Oils
•Motor oils and gear oils are specifically engineered for the latest high-revving four-stroke motocross bikes and ATVs, Sportbikes, and V-Twins
•Each gear oil product reduces the thinning effect from high temperatures
•Motor oils are packed with higher levels of anti-wear chemistry like zinc and phosphorus
•Special friction modifiers in our motor oils better wet-clutch operation
•A variety of Two-Stroke oils to meet the NMMA TC-W3 regulations where required
BONNEVILLE SPEED WEEK OPEN VIDEOS–Last Sunday night on Dave Stall’s, Ride-on Racing Round Up. I was on 3 of the 4 part show, about Bonneville SpeedWeek. Kat & Kubo set two records with our GoldWing SideCar bike.
–Kenny Lyon
P.O. Box 643
Torrance, Ca. 90508-0643
(310) 631 3460
kenylyon@hotmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/keny.lyon
www.goldwingracingproject.info
BIKERNET TECH OF THE WEEK–Two Little “Set Screws” Can Drive a Man to Drink!
I have been chasing a top end noise on the Sturgis Shovel for three days now.
I just installed the JIMS Top End oiling kit. It comes with new Rocker Arms, lifter blocks, JIMS hydraulic lifters and pushrods. This should have been easy, and it was.
The JIMS Lifters were replacing a set of solids. They had been in the bike for years, and they were as quiet as could be expected. So, why the hell were my hydraulics making a harsh tapping noise. It sounded like the top end was beating itself to death?
I was positive I had previously set everything correctly, so I proceeded to re-adjust the pushrods. I re-checked the end play on the rocker arms, I checked and re-checked everything at least a dozen times, but still the noise persisted.
I finally put my pride aside, and called Eric Bennett at Bennett’s Performance. He asked me if I had checked to see if someone had blocked off the oil passages to the lifter blocks. I checked this, so I was positive this wasn’t the issue but decided what the heck, I would take it all apart one last time.
After disassembling it, for what seemed like the 30th time, I poked around in the oil passages for the lifter blocks and what did I find buried 3/4-inch deep in the passage? Yep sure shit, a set screw was blocking the oil passage.
After removing said set screws, I reassembled the lifter and the pushrod assembly, which by the way, I can now accomplish in less then 15 minutes. I fired her back up and what do I hear? Nothing at all but the wonderful sound of straight piped fishtails!
Thanks to all who assisted me through this, and yes I admit two little screws almost got the better of me. It’s running like a dream now, and I would be happy to ride it down to Headquarters anytime!
–Richard Kranzler
Official Certified Bikernet Tech Writer
THERE YOU HAVE IT—Tomorrow night the cruisers come out in San Pedro. We have Rivera-Primo tech to put together, and MetalSport techs. I’m working on a twisted frame Shovelhead feature. I believe the frame is old VL single loop style.
I visited the MetalSport manufacturing facility this week. MetalSport is catching some major momentum with new-improved 26-inch tubeless tires from Vee-Rubber. They have an exclusive on 16-inch composite brakes for big wheel bikes, which we will cover.
On top of that, they are now selling blank 26-inch and 30-inch wheels. Buy a precision blank then cut your favorite pattern in it.
Shit’s piling up on my desk all around me, like so many folks in the industry. So, what should we do? Go for a ride, goddammit.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
