Hey,
I sense the weather changing in South Dakota. The first day of Fall was yesterday. Brothers all over are heading south to Arizona. Some of us will hang out in the Black hills for the winter and the Almanac says it’s going to be a tough one.
I’m looking forward to the snow, learning to operate our recently serviced snow blower and getting creative, when we can’t go outside. I just had a wild creative thought, but I can’t explain it. I need to investigate the possibilities first. Then I’ll share it.
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We are going to shoot the ’48 UL for a feature in Choppers Mag in the snow this winter. The master Buck Lovell will handle the chilled camera work.
I’m looking forward to the holidays. The snow and the cold make Thanksgiving altogether different and in many respects, more meaningful.
And of course, there’s our winter Knucklehead build. I’m getting close to clearing a lift.
Let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
That is correct! Kyle Wyman / HD won the actual race held in New Jersey, but, with a second place finish (ahead of Kyle’s brother, Travis, who was on top of the points leader board), Tyler O’Hara was able to take home the King of the Baggers crown for the 2022 season, with the Indian team.
Tyler O’Hara, Indian and S&S took home the season championship, having won the most points on the year?
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
$50.00
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FEATURE BIKE OF THE WEEK—Hang on for this Harley-Davidson Softail.
–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com
Only two months of the 2022 season are left, but we aren’t slowing down yet. The rest of the season will be a blast as we continue to fire up and showcase some of America’s rarest and most storied machines, and we’re going to end it with a bang on November 19th when we give away the 1937 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. Make your plans now to be a part of the excitement, and join us on Raffle Day!
The Museum will close for the winter season on November 21st, 2022, and reopen for the 2023 operation season on April 6th.
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION Meeting of the Minds 2022 – Demand reaches room capacity! – Hotel booked up!
Just as the MRF brought Bikers Inside the Beltway to capacity for hotel room requests, demand by attendees has brought the 2022 Meeting of the Minds conference hotel to the same level.
Not to worry… the MRF has a back-up hotel two minutes away. Plus, you can still register for the conference. Use this link to register for the conference Meeting of the Minds 2022. Or register when you arrive.
Use website to book your rooms at the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel or call the hotel direct at 515-244-2151; Book your group rate for Motorcycle Riders Foundation Last Day to Book: Monday, September 19, 2022
The 38th Annual Meeting of the Minds, scheduled for September 22-25 in Des Moines Iowa, will do everything to reinforce the MRF’s commitment to motorcyclists’ rights and staying eternal vigilant.
Charlie “Chopper” Gilmore – U.S. Army veteran, motorcycle restorer, and freedom fighter is on deck as just one of the presenters at the 2022 Meeting of the Minds. His presentation – The Price of Freedom – is taken from life experiences and will certainly motivate and inspire attendees.
The Meeting of the Minds – renewing old friendships and making new ones. The Meeting of the Minds – three days of nuts-and-bolts workshops to augment the tools needed to promote and protect the rights of all motorcyclists. The Meeting of the Minds – more than a dozen presentations and workshops to build and strengthen individual’s and state motorcyclists’ rights organization’s commitment to protecting the freedoms motorcycling brings us all.
Workshops and presentations include but are not limited to:
- Up-to-the-minute Legislative Updates.
- The necessity of Political Action Committees.
- Riding skill enhancement.
- What aging demographics means to motorcycling.
Protecting the rights of motorcyclists is not just a collection of words in a press release any more than leaving your motorcycle parked in your garage is about riding.
Profiling, E-15 (ethanol fuel), autonomous vehicles, all part of the present and future of motorcycling. The MRF’s legislative agenda is a result of input from motorcyclists with the directions to take care of business on Capitol Hill.
The MRF understands motorcycling, motorcyclists’ rights, and what it takes to keep the siege against your rights, your freedom, your lifestyle, and yes, your motorcycle at bay. However, participatory democracy works best with participants.
–Fred Harrell
MRF
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!—
Lou Kimzey: America’s 20th Century Founding Father
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Lou_Kimzey_Americas_20th_Century_Founding_Father_.aspx
Great memories, I miss the old days !
— William Britt Hilyer
Pickens SC, SC
Effective immediately any Hamster that wishes to purchase a Saddlemen seat and/or accessories will receive a 50% off retail discount on their purchase.
When calling Saddlemen to place your order, please ask for Brandon in sales, he is our point of contact for the group.
Saddlemen’s number is +1 (310) 638-1222.
If you have any questions please call me at (619) 972 7073
She says, Excuse me, sir. Can you tell me anything about this rod and reel?
He replies, Yes, Ma’am, I am completely blind, but if you’ll drop it on the counter, I can tell you everything from the sound it makes.
She doesn’t believe him but drops it on the counter anyway.
He says, That’s a six-foot Shakespeare graphite rod with a Zebco 404 reel and 10-pound test line. It’s a good all-around combination and it’s on sale this week for only $20.
She says, That’s amazing! You can tell all that just by the sound of it dropping on the counter? I’ll take it!
As she opens her purse, her credit card drops on the floor. Oh, that sounds like a MasterCard, the clerk says.
She bends down to pick it up and accidentally farts. At first, she is really embarrassed, but then she realizes there is no way the blind clerk can tell it was she who farted. Being blind, he wouldn’t know that she is the only person around.
The man rings up the sale and says, That’ll be $34.50 please.
The woman is totally confused by this and asks, Didn’t you tell me the rod and reel was on sale for $20? How did you get $34.50?
The clerk replies, Yes, Ma’am. The rod and reel is $20, but the Duck Call is $11 and the Bear Repellent is $3.50.
She paid the bill.
–EL Waggs
BEWARE RURAL ROADS—Highway Deaths in Rural America
The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) released a study called America’s Rural Roads: Beautiful and Deadly earlier this month. Researchers found that between 2016 and 2020, 40 percent of US traffic deaths occurred on rural roads. A total of 85,002 people died in rural areas during the five-year study period—nearly half of all traffic deaths across the country. This is significant because only 19 percent of the country’s population lives in rural America.
The question is, why?
The issues on rural roads are the same as in urban cores—distractions, impaired driving, speeding, and not wearing seat belts. The study cites these different reasons for drivers to exhibit risky behavior:
- Fewer public transit options
- Less law enforcement
- Limited emergency response due to distance
- Longer trips for necessities
- Open roads
Other study statistics compared the differences between rural and urban deaths:
- 61.4 percent of rural traffic fatalities involved pick-up trucks.
- More drivers and passengers in vehicles died in rural areas (68,709 to 56,990), whereas urban areas led to deaths involving motorcyclists (15,309 to 9,310), pedestrians (25,551 to 5,766), and bicyclists (3,375 to 952).
- Rural drivers 20 to 24 years old accounted for 10.4 percent of deaths compared to 5 percent in cities.
- Rural motorists driving alone and going off the roadway were higher than urban drivers (34,743 to 25,536).
- Head-on crashes were higher in rural areas (12,339 to 7,275).
- Road conditions don’t factor much in most deadly rural fatalities.
As a result of the research, the GHSA is pushing states to use a ‘safe systems’ approach for rural America. The method is the newest buzzword—perhaps it’s easier to swallow than the term Vision Zero.
These programs blame the driver and the street design for traffic accidents. Road safety, though, is the fundamental responsibility of those who design the roads and every user of the streets. Are expensive programs that don’t improve traffic safety worth the widespread bureaucratic support they are given when the touted results are questionable at best?
Pennsylvania DOT spokeswoman Jennifer Kuntch responded to the study with the following statement:
“Rural road safety is addressed through both engineering and education. These countermeasures include rumble strips, high-friction surface treatments, high-tension cable median barriers, shoulder widening, and the installation of special curve warning signs and pavement markings.”
But she said nothing about real driver education, which is a primary component of traffic safety.
Driver education is sorely lacking in this country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, only 23 states currently require driver education for drivers under 18. In 35 states, a teen can obtain an unrestricted license before turning 18 whether or not they have taken a driver’s education course.
Driving is a responsibility no matter where you drive, and motorists should always continue learning more about this life skill no matter how long they have been on the road. The National Motorists Association is a major proponent of continuous driver education, as illustrated by the current Driver Courtesy Month campaign and the production of these video tips for drivers. More programs, with your ongoing support, are in the works.
ACE REPORTS IN FROM THE HAL ROBINSON ARCHIVES–Ace here, hope you’re doing well and have enjoyed the summer.
I’ve attached a digital mock up for the Righteous Biker stickers we’d like to throw in with orders as gifts, including Hal’s signature at the bottom of the graphic. They’d be about 2.5 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide.
Please take a look and let us know if you are good with him.
Cheers,
–ACE
Marketing Director
Hal Robinson Archives
THE LATEST FROM CHOPPERS MAG— Backroad BBQ Run III
During a normal summer, there is nothing that would convince me to ride to the coast of North Carolina for a campout. Between the unbearably high humidity and the swarms of bloodthirsty mosquitoes, it can be downright miserable just stepping outside to get the mail.
Of course, after being quarantined for a few months, the idea of riding anywhere sounded damn good, so that’s how I found myself riding down the highway on my ’ol Panhead beside Greg DeHoot on his Shovelhead chopper (see issue 3).
SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xInventoryDetail&id=12654991
Stock # 13525 is a 2018 Black Harley-Davidson LOW RIDER FXLR with only 11922.00 miles!
This bike is a Super clean Dyna Low Rider some of the features/Add-ons on this bike are
* 107c.i. Motor 6-Speed trans.
* Vance & Hince exhaust
* Screaming Eagle Hi-Flo air cleaner
* Locking detachable saddle bags
* Detachable backrest and luggage rack
* LED Turn signals
* Day maker headlamp
* Chrome engine guard
* Detachable windshield
This bike is only $16,995.00
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.
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING and EXTENDED WARRANTIES available!
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We carry 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 visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
AB-2496, by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris, has been passed and sent to the governor for his signature. We need to convince the governor NOT TO SIGN before he does signs.
WHAT?
AB-2496 creates a system in which, if you are cited for noise, you must provide certification to the court within 90 days of citation that your exhaust has been corrected to acceptable standards. However, there is no system to test and certify, thus you cannot get it. Further, IF you do not get it, your vehicle will NEVER be able to be registered in the State of California again. They want to remove us from the road.
WHEN?
Now! Contact the governor NOW… before you walk away…
How?
Mailing address: Governor Gavin Newsom, 1021 O Street, Suite 9000, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-2841
Fax: (916) 558-3160
Online Form: https://govapps.gov.ca.gov/gov40mail/
This new law would not only apply to us as we ride, but it would affect our four-wheel friends too. So be sure to share this CALL TO ACTION with those you know with hot rods, customs, etc. Together we must stop this!
As an additional note: Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris has clearly shown through this legislation that she is NOT “Dedicated to Freedom of the Road”. As such, she needs to be replaced. As an incumbent in District 74, she is up for re-election against another incumbent… due to redistricting… in the new District 73. The race is currently a toss-up, and we need to swing that vote. Steven “Steve” Choi supports “Freedom of the Road” and is the candidate we need to push… and we need your help with that too…
Thank you on behalf of those at the ABATE Of California State Office, on the State Board and Our Lobbying Team.
[page break]
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WEEKLY VOCABULARY LESSON–corsair
[ kawr-sair ]
noun
A pirate, especially formerly of the southern Mediterranean coast.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF CORSAIR?
Corsair “a pirate” is the product of a long chain of borrowings from one Romance language to the next on its way to English. The term comes via Middle French corsaire from Provençal corsar, and before that, the word traveled by way of Italian corsaro from Medieval Latin cursarius “plunderer,” equivalent to Latin cursus “a running, course” plus -arius, an agent noun-forming suffix. Cursus comes from the verb currere “to run,” which has four common descendant forms in English: corr- via Italian and Spanish (as in corral and corridor), cour- via French (as in courier and discourse), cur(r)- (as in current and occur), and curs- (as in cursor and excursion). Corsair was first recorded in English in the 1540s.
HOW IS CORSAIR USED?
Act One begins on the Greek island controlled by the corsairs, or pirates. There’s a raucous, offstage chorus introducing Corrado, the chief corsair, who is in exile.
“GIUSEPPE VERDI’S ‘IL CORSARO’”, NPR, APRIL 21, 2007
London dismantled markets for trading pirate booty; pirate-friendly cities like Port Royal, Jamaica, were brought under heel, and blockades were launched on the potentates that harbored the corsairs of the southern Mediterranean and Southeast Asia.
BRUCE STERLING, “IT’S NOT CYBARMAGEDDON, IT’S THE NEW HEYDAY OF PIRACY,” WIRED, SEPTEMBER 3, 2011
(top picture) This NEW harness is in high demand right about now! Like all of our harnesses, this American Made replacement speedometer wiring harness is designed to fit 2018 Softail models. It is intended to allow the use of a Harley HUD or Koso HUD gauge (with proper mount on riser) without any cutting or splicing! There is no easier way to replace the large OEM gauge than to install taller risers and use the sleek new HUD style gauges.
Our harness is 100% Plug-n-Play, 36″ long and designed to allow a perfect fit for any height handlebar, riser combination.
(bottom picture) Indian customers will be loving this NEW harness! The NAMZ NHCX-IC22 harness is designed to fit 2022-Up INDIAN® Chief, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, Super Chief, Super Chief Limited models when swapping handlebars or risers. Like all of our wiring harness, this replacement switch housing harness is proudly made right here in the USA, in our Pennsylvania building by our dedicated employees! Don’t ever settle for the cheap knock offs, still with the best.
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CHOPPERS MAGAZINE #10 IS ON THE STREETS–The wait is over!
Issue 10 just dropped, and all subscriptions and preorders have shipped. If you didn’t order yet, jump in now!
Issue #10 features Choppers from:
Micah McCloskey
Kyle Sonneborn
Clinton Cullen
Jojo Mialki
Jason Ochoa
Available in black, polished or chrome finishes. These are complete kits with all components included for a straight forward, hassle free install.
The 2-piece motor plate kits are good for stock and slightly modified engines while the 1-piece should be used for high horsepower models with over 120 horses and ft. lbs. of torque. Similar kits are also available for SFT machines.
MSRP for the 1-piece kits is $3180 and the 2-piece goes for $3029.50. For additional details go to www.beltdrives.com
TIPS FROM THE TIGERS— Motorcycle Salvage Title – What You Need to Know
You’ve probably heard the term “salvage title” before, but what exactly does it mean, and can you buy a bike with a salvage title?
In this brief article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about motorcycle salvage titles.
What Does Salvage Title Mean for a Motorcycle?
An insurance company will total out a motorcycle and consider it a “total loss” when the cost to repair a damaged motorcycle will eat up a significant portion of its fair market value. Typically, the threshold is 75% to 90% of the value.
So, if a bike is worth $5,000, it might have sustained $3,750 or more in damages. The damage can be caused by a crash, flood, fire, vandalism, or something else. The cause of the damage is not relevant, only the resulting damage and the cost to fix it. Once the insurance company decides the repair costs are impractical, it will issue a salvage title.
How Insurance Companies Determine Repair Costs
The insurance company makes this determination based on the information it has available, and it determines the cost of repairs based on a database of national averages.
Are your spidey senses tingling yet? Note a couple of variables here:
1. The insurance company decides whether a bike is damaged beyond practical repair.
2. The insurance company evaluates the cost based on a model dependent on third-party data.
What this means is that there are a lot of variables that might not tell the full picture of whether a bike with a salvage title is worth the cost or risk. Making that decision requires a more careful look at the bike and then weighing the pros and cons of a salvage title.
Top 5 Things to Know About Motorcycle Salvage Title
From a practical standpoint, bikes with salvage titles become available on the open market when the insurance company gives the owner some money. Then they liquidate the bike to try to recoup some cost, usually via an auction.
You may end up at an auction looking at bikes with salvage titles, or you could be scrolling through Craigslist looking for a great deal on a bike from a private party. Regardless of where you’re shopping, here’s what you should know before pulling the trigger on a purchase.
1. You will get a great price on the bike. The market value of a motorcycle with a salvage title tends to be 20-40% lower than a vehicle with a clean title, though you could easily scoop up a bike at a 75% discount or more. Before making an offer, make sure you know what the value of the motorcycle would be with a clean title and negotiate from there.
2. Find out why the motorcycle has a salvage title. Get the VIN and enter it into a free or paid database. Knowing how the bike is damaged can help you decide whether it’s fixable or worth owning.
3. Even if you buy a bike with a “clean” title, there are no guarantees that the bike is in good condition. There are countless stories about people buying a “gently used” bike that the previous owner claimed was in perfect condition only to discover that the frame is bent.
4. You might have to jump through hoops to get it on the road. Before you can ride the bike legally on public roads, it has to undergo some testing, usually by the DMV or the local police department.
The tests vary but typically include ensuring that the bike can brake properly, has functioning turn signals, and the lights are operational. There could also be an inspection of the frame and emission requirements to ensure the bike doesn’t have higher emissions levels than what is acceptable by state law.
5. The salvage title might not be permanent. A salvage title is only permanent in some states, which is unfortunate because the title will follow the bike even it’s repaired to perfect condition. However, several states will allow you to get a clean or “rebuilt” title, so it’s worth checking your local laws to see if this option is available to you.
Ready to Hit the Open Road?
At Law Tigers, we’re passionate riders, and we love supporting other riders in the community. Consider us a resource for all things motorcycle-related, from choosing the right bike to getting legal help.
We also invite you to join our community and sign up for a free riders’ benefit package today. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Law Tigers at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation.
Nigeria — the sixth most populous nation in world — is set to ban the use and sale of all motorcycles in an effort to hamper the actions of terrorist ‘bandits.’
The federal government of Nigeria is strongly considering a ban on the sale and use of motorcycles across the country as an unusual new tactic to stop terror attacks.
Nigeria’s Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, recently told reporters that by banning the predominant mode of transport as used by terrorist groups across the country, it would severely hamper their logistical efforts.
“Placing a ban on the use of motorcycles and mining activities will cut the supply of logistics to the terrorists,” reports Nigeria’s Times newspaper. “This will be done in the national interest. We are Nigerians because Nigeria as a country exists and any issue that will translate into a threat to national security or the corporate existence of the country requires certain sacrifices.”
The plans come as Nigerian authorities attempt to curtail the efforts of various jihadist terrorist groups — such as Boko Haram and Islamic State — responsible for numerous attacks across the country, with offenses ranging from killings, kidnappings and sexual violence committed by members known as ‘bandits’ who mostly use motorcycles to launch attacks quickly and without warning to devastating effect, as well as move around the area without detection.
The actions of the federal government come after Governor Bello Mattawale of Zamfara State introduced a curfew for the use of motorcycles in the town of Gusau, and directed his security personnel to shoot on sight anyone caught riding a motorcycle between 8pm and 6am.
With a population of more than 200 million people, Nigeria is the world’s sixth most populous nation with an annual motorcycle sales figure of more than 500,000.
–Bill Bish
Read Bill’s full monthly report right here on Bikernet.
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/NCOM_Biker_Newsbytes_for_September_2022.aspx
YAMAHA Pledges $500K— Urges All to Get Outdoors on September 24
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Celebrates National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors on Saturday, September 24, 2022, in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day). In recognition of these events, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) is renewing its annual pledge to commit $500,000 to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation and encouraging applications for grants before the next quarterly deadline on September 30.
National Public Lands Day invites volunteers nationwide to help restore and preserve public lands – from national parks to local urban green spaces – directly aligning with Yamaha OAI’s goal of protecting public lands for outdoor recreation. To date, the Yamaha OAI program has contributed over $5 million in funding and equipment across more than 425 projects in the last 14 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate everyone on safe, sustainable recreational use.
Yamaha OAI has proven to be the industry’s most reliable partner and a significant resource for those who depend on access to public land for work and play.
Additionally, on September 24, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. NHF Day events are organized each year by Wonders of Wildlife to spread awareness of the conservation and economic benefits, as well as traditions and values of hunting and fishing.
Yamaha OAI is a founding partner of Wonders of Wildlife’s Live It! program and a supporter of its efforts to expand NHF Day events across the country. These events play a significant role in expanding awareness of the issues facing public access and outdoor recreation, and the Live It! program supports local conservation groups wanting to host or enhance NHF Day events, but are limited in their resources.
Since access to public land is best protected by visitors’ responsible and sustainable practices, Yamaha OAI partners with Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC) on a variety of activities, including signage for land managers to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use of trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for the signs can simply complete a form at the following link: Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.
The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of the 2022 funding cycle is September 30, 2022. Submission guidelines and an application for a Yamaha OAI grant are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA
Updated guidelines, an application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@Yamaha-Motor.com,
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND JACK DANIEL’S BENEFIT THE ARMED SERVICES YMCA THROUGH ANNUAL LIVE AUCTION OF LIMITED-EDITION MOTORCYCLE
2022 Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse #001 Raises $55,000;
Grand Total of Six-Year Auction Series Eclipses $400,000
Total Funds Raised Have Contributed to Reuniting More Than 10,000 Active Military Families via Operation Ride Home Program
In 2016, Indian Motorcycle and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey forged the ultimate partnership in celebration of American craftsmanship. Each year, the two American originals auction serial #001 from that year’s collection to support the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) and its Operation Ride Home program, which assists active-duty United States military personnel in traveling home to visit their families.
This year, the 2022 Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse raised $55,000 at Mecum Auctions in Dallas, Texas. In total, the annual auction has raised over $400,000, which has helped connect more than 10,000 enlisted service members with their families during the holidays and in times of need.
America’s First Motorcycle company and America’s First Registered Distillery united to annually produce a limited-edition motorcycle collection that embodies innovation and world-class mastery.
The partnership was created to bring together two of America’s most iconic brands who share a mutual commitment to independence, originality and American craftsmanship that dates back more than a century. With a shared respect for the U.S. military, Indian Motorcycle and Jack Daniel’s save motorcycle #001 from each collection and auction it off with all proceeds benefitting the ASYMCA’s Operation Ride Home program.
“Partnering with Jack Daniel’s has been nothing short of amazing,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “As two of America’s most iconic and storied brands, we naturally share several core values, including our passion and respect for the U.S. military.
We’re proud of the platform our partnership with Jack Daniel’s has provided, as we directly support the service men and women who serve our country and help connect them with their families during the holidays.”
Designed in conjunction with Klock Werks Kustom Cycles, each exclusive model celebrates a piece of Jack Daniel’s fine craftsmanship and attention to detail in its distilling process. In 2022, the Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse drew inspiration from Jack Daniel’s renowned Tennessee Rye whiskey. With a custom Rye Metallic paint scheme, the bike’s green and gold accents gave a nod to the high-touch crafting process of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye whiskey.
“Since establishing Operation Ride Home with the ASYMCA in 2011, it has been our mission to support junior-enlisted service members who do not have the financial means to connect with their families during important moments of the year,” said Greg Luehrs, Director of Sponsorships and Partnerships for Jack Daniel’s. “Our partnership with Indian Motorcycle has greatly expanded the reach of the program, as our annual auction of bike number 001 has been one of the leading contributors in total monies raised for Operation Ride Home.”
“Jack Daniel’s has been a long-time sponsor of the ASYMCA and we are truly humbled by their continued support,” said Bill French, Chief Executive Officer of the ASYMCA. “Through Operation Ride Home and the contributions received from this year’s auction, we anticipate that we will be able to connect nearly 2,000 service members with their families for the holidays. Many thanks to Jack Daniel’s and Indian Motorcycle for continuing to support our mission.”
For more information about Operation Ride Home, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit OperationRideHome.com. Jack Daniel’s press information can be found at the Jack Daniel’s press room located at www.jdpressroom.com. Learn more about Indian Motorcycle by visiting IndianMotorcycle.com and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media channels.
NHTSA reports ‘crisis’ despite small decline in traffic deaths
The latest crash statistics mark a slight decline in traffic deaths, but the U.S. Department of Transportation is in no way claiming a victory.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s early estimates, 20,175 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the first half of 2022. NHTSA projects that the second quarter of 2022, from April to June, represents the first decline since the third quarter of 2020.
“Traffic deaths appear to be declining for the first time since 2020, but they are still at high levels that call for urgent and sustained action,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news release. “These deaths are preventable, not inevitable, and we should act accordingly. Safety is our guiding mission at the Department of Transportation, and we will redouble our efforts to reduce the tragic number of deaths on our nation’s roads.”
The latest crash statistics include all motor vehicles and do not provide numbers regarding the number of fatalities involving commercial motor vehicle crashes.
‘A crisis’
NHTSA’s stats show that 10,590 people died in crashes in the second quarter of 2022 compared to 11,135 in the second quarter of 2021. It represents a 4.9% decline. In addition, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled dropped from 1.34 in the second quarter of 2021 to 1.27 during the same span in 2022.
However, the total number of traffic deaths in the first half of the year still increased from 20,070 in 2021 to 20,175 in 2022. The numbers represent a significant surge in recent years. From 2011 to 2020, the first half of a year yielded no more than 17,717 fatalities.
Even worse, traffic deaths are on pace to exceed 40,000 for the second consecutive year. The numbers have generally climbed since being as low as 32,479 in 2011.
“Although it is heartening to see a projected decline in roadway deaths in recent months, the number of people dying on roads in this country remains a crisis,” NHTSA acting Administrator Ann Carlson said.
In January, the Department of Transportation unveiled its National Roadway Safety Strategy. The plan uses a five-pronged approach, including safer people, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer speeds and post-crash care.
“Now is the time for all stakeholders, including states, local transportation entities, industry, nonprofits and others, to leverage the significant funding and tools provided under the president’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and join with USDOT in implementing the National Roadway Safety Strategy’s safe system approach, so we can turn the tide on years of increasing deaths,” Carlson said.
Truck crashes
While the latest numbers do not include a breakdown of crashes involving large trucks, recent statistics have indicated that commercial motor vehicles aren’t the main culprit.
Traffic deaths have been on the rise since the pandemic started in March 2020. Fatalities have climbed from 36,355 in 2019 to 38,824 in 2020 and 42,915 in 2021. Even though trucks remained on the road throughout 2020 – and many were operating under an emergency declaration – fatalities involving large trucks decreased by 2%.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration noted in 2021 that more than 90% of the truck drivers involved in fatality crashes did not receive a moving violation.
At a safety summit in June, an FMCSA representative said the pandemic sparked an “aggressive” driving culture among passenger vehicles.
“Overall traffic went down in the beginning, but the aggressiveness of drivers in general, especially among passenger vehicle drivers, went up dramatically,” said Darrell Ruban, associate administrator for FMCSA’s Office of Safety. “I’ve heard that from every state. With that behavior, the culture shifted a little bit, because people had more open road.
“Then over time, traffic starts coming back. But guess what? The culture and behavior did not change. That’s what I’ve heard around the country. That’s what I’ve seen on accident reports. So, when I use the term ‘culture,’ we’ve got a daunting task ahead of us in changing the culture, especially among passenger vehicles.”
Still, truckers contend that much of the DOT’s focus remains on commercial motor vehicles. Full enforcement of FMCSA’s ELD mandate took effect in 2018, but overall fatality crashes have increased from 37,473 in 2017 to 42,915 in 2021. And despite FMCSA acknowledging that passenger vehicles were the main source of the aggressive driving, the agency is considering requiring speed limiters on most commercial motor vehicles.
OOIDA’s take
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association opposes speed limiters, noting that lowering the speed of trucks alone will create speed differentials of 25 mph or more in some instances.
OOIDA also opposes the possibility of FMCSA ending its ELD mandate exemption for trucks with pre-2000 engines. The Association opposed the ELD mandate altogether and now says the statistics show that it wasn’t the safety solution many claimed it would be.
“As we approach five years since the original implementation date, it’s clear the ELD mandate has not been the silver bullet solution for improving highway safety that federal regulators and other supporters claimed it would be,” said Jay Grimes, OOIDA’s director of federal affairs.
Mark Schremmer
–from Land Line and NMA
[page break]
The teller told her, “For withdrawals less than $100, please use the ATM.”
The old lady wanted to know why. The teller returned her bank card and irritably told her, “These are the rules, please leave if there is no further matter. There is a line of customers behind you.”
The old lady remained silent for a few seconds and handed her card back to the teller and said, “Please help me withdraw all the money I have.”
The teller was astonished when she checked the account balance. She nodded her head, leaned down, and respectfully told her, “You have $300,000 in your account, but the bank doesn’t have that much cash currently. Could you make an appointment and come back again tomorrow?”
The old lady then asked how much she could withdraw immediately. The teller told her any amount up to $3000.
“Well, please let me have $3000 now.” The teller, very kindly and with a smile, handed $3000 to her.
The old lady put $10 in her purse and asked the teller to deposit $2990 back into her account.
The moral of this story is…
Don’t be difficult with old people, they spent a lifetime learning the skill.
–Sam Burns
TUCKER AND ARAI HELMETS PART WAYS
On Friday afternoon a joint statement from Arai and Tucker announced the helmet manufacturer and the distribution company were heading in different directions:
Arai Helmet and Tucker Powersports have decided to end our business relationship as of September 16, 2022. This decision was based on the business plans of both companies. Tucker and Arai appreciate the long relationship they have enjoyed and wish each other the best in their future endeavors.
–Dealer News
DIRECT FROM MAMA TRIED–FREE TICKETS FOR CEDAR LAKE!!!
Yes, you read that right, we have 50 FREE tickets for the Cedar Lake race!
Our friends at American Flat Track have graciously offered our team 50 tickets, we are not using all of them so we are sharing the love with our newsletter subscribers!
When: September 24th, 2022
Where: Cedar Lake Short Track
First come first serve!
You will need to enter you email so we can send you a PDF/digital ticket.
*One per user Please
*Ticket will be emailed to you in a PDF format.
Grab your free ticket. Go to the Mama Tried Website
–from Mama Tried
QUOTE OF THE WEEK—
“Life is strange constantly. Ya gotta ask yourself every time something happens how you should take it, leave it, look at it for the best outcome for your today and into the future.
It’s your decision. It’s your life.”
–Ming Ball
Supreme Guru
Bikernet Emerald Temple
Black Hills, South Dakota
Oral Statement to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management—
Thank you for the opportunity to speak in favor of allowing drilling for oil and natural gas in the Gulf of Mexico.
I have worked in or written about energy for more than 40 years. My father worked 42 years at a coal-fired power plant, and I had friends mine coal. I’ve driven coal trucks and spoken before international groups on nuclear energy. In short, I’ve been aware of the importance of energy for a long time.
With the irrational demonization of fossil fuels and the absurd promotion of wind and solar as a replacement for them, I’ve come to view coal, oil and natural gas as vital to the well-being of people. Undermining the development of these plentiful and affordable sources of energy threatens lives. These fuels have made possible unprecedented prosperity and are necessary to maintain modern society as well as to raise billions in the Third World from poverty and deprivation.
As a senior advisor for the CO2 Coalition, I must point out that there is no scientific basis for the so-called climate emergency feeding the current hostility toward fossil fuels. Climate hysteria is based on flawed computer models that consistently make erroneous predictions and on an exaggeration of carbon dioxide’s potency as a greenhouse gas.
The modest warming of recent decades is neither unprecedented nor unusual. In fact, most of the last 10,000 years has been warmer than today. Today’s temperatures and moderately elevated CO2 levels have been beneficial to crop production and to humanity in general.
As for the question at hand, modern oil and gas production is a technological marvel that should be permitted wherever possible. We ask that you permit it in the Gulf.
Gordon Tomb is a senior advisor with the CO2 Coalition and a senior fellow with the Commonwealth Foundation, a Pennsylvania-based free-market think tank.
–Gordon Tomb, Senior Advisor
CO2 Coalition
The first modern Motorcycle Cannonball run, the brainchild of the late Lonnie Isam Jr., from Sturgis, South Dakota, took place in 2010. Lonnie’s idea was to ride coast to coast on an antique motorcycle on a planned route in about 16 days, but as part of a group, with chase vehicles.
The first ride was limited to pre-1916 machines. Entries came in from 45 riders feeling ready for the nearly 4,000-mile ride.
Brad Wilmarth won in 2010 riding a single-speed 1913 Henderson. Another aspect was to pay respect to Erwin “Cannonball” Baker, the famous multi-time endurance rider and dirt track racer from the early 20th Century, but mainly to get old iron out on the road, running strong.
Matt Olsen
In 2012 for the second Cannonball, John Parham decided to field a Motorcycle Cannonball entry with Matt Olsen riding a specially prepped 1928 Harley-Davidson JD model, and that’s the bike you see here with its special number plates. You can imagine what it would take in the way of rider and motorcycle endurance. Preparation included several of John’s friends building spare wheels and a spare engine, gathering a variety of typical spares.
On the ride the old Harley suffered a few technical problems, mechanical and electrical, en route from Motorcyclepedia, Newburgh, New York to Dud Perkins Harley-Davidson in San Francisco, California. Matt was able to make repairs and continue west.
In order to stay on the designated path west, the Harley was equipped with a map holder, but otherwise was pretty much stock. As time went on a small gas can was added, and it became necessary to mount a garden tractor battery on the old JD’s luggage rack to make up for a failing electrical system.
Many of the Cannonball riders, though, shared Baker’s experiences: mechanical breakdowns, bad roads, rainstorms and many miles between gas stops. Official chase vehicles got everyone to the overnight stops where repairs could be made and most everyone made it to California one way or another.
Here’s a little background on Harley’s wonderful J model. The Model J Harley-Davidson was originally produced for military service around 1915. After World War I Harley-Davidson converted their production to serve dealers who had typical civilian customers. The Model J became Harley’s top of the line model. Originally produced in Olive Drab for the military, Harley-Davidson reworked the machine through 1929 mainly by changing the paint color, offering a shiny olive-green color they also used on other machines until 1932.
As big engineering steps were made, driven somewhat by war time technology advancements, with battery ignition becoming the norm, and electric lights standard along with a 3-speed transmission, the Model J came into being.
It was offered in various 61 and 74 cubic inch versions, served riders well until the arrival of the “flathead” Model D around 1929. The J was notable in that in about 15 years of manufacture it had been proven on streets, race tracks and had even served couriers in World War I.
But response to military needs had caused extreme ups and downs in production: Harley-Davidson production is noted at a record 27,000 machines in 1920, but with military surplus available it dropped to 11,460 for 1921!
With annual engineering improvements the J was an even better bet than its predecessors for sidecar use. The frame and fork were stronger and more pulling power was available from the J engine, which was eventually up in horsepower, up over 50% from its early versions.
Left largely as it finished the ride ten years ago, this Cannonball Endurance Run machine is one of several Model J’s and Model JD’s in the Museum and it’s part of the Jill and John Parham Collection. When you visit check it out as well as several J engines are on the “Motor Wall” for you to study.
Specifications:
Engine: F Head 45 Degree V-Twin
Bore & Stroke: 3.40 x 4.00 Inches
Displacement: 74 Cubic Inches (1200 cc’s)
Carburetion: Schebler
Ignition: 6V Battery / Coil / Points
Horsepower: 22HP
Primary: Chain Driven
Clutch: Hand Operated
Transmission: Three-Speed
Final Drive: Chain
Frame: Steel, Single Loop
Suspension: Linked Sprung Fork / Rigid, Sprung Seat
Wheels / Tires: 3.85 x 18 / 3.85 x 18 Inches
Brakes: Drum, Front & Rear
Lighting: Electric
Wheelbase: 59.5 Inches
NEW FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE–Thanks for your help. I’ve been wanting something fresh for the Dimebag Leather time-covers. I am going to start finding some good exotic leathers for the wallets and time covers. Buffalo, gator, Stingray leathers or even fine leather may work great.
I’m heading to Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest for a hike and then to Metropolis IL. General George Rogers Clark landed there at Fort Massac in 1775. His son was the other half to the Lewis and Clark Expeditions out west.
Great American Energy there just floating around in the atmosphere and the campgrounds are great at Fort Massac. They got a Harrahs Casino that rocks. I read where the owner of the Superman museum has the largest collection.
There is also a WAY OUT!! American Hollywood Museum that’s been shut down that has the makings of a goldmine with the right developers and planners. I’m heading out to go camp today.
After this seat, I’m scaling back to get a better look at everything. Life is very precious and seems every father should be well equipped with the right tools to protect and guide his children, especially with the strong American spirit within and their very own future in a positive direction.
–Adam Croft
Founder and President
Dime Bag Leather Products
NHRA Champion Antron Brown Warns Congress That Motorsports Is at Risk—
Just days after winning the prestigious NHRA U.S Nationals in Indianapolis, Antron Brown made his way to Washington, D.C., to urge Congress to pass the SEMA-supported Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act. On Wednesday, September 7, the three-time Top Fuel world champion, who began his racing career nearly 40 years ago, appeared before Congress to share personal stories about the need for federal law to protect grassroots racing and tens of thousands of jobs in the motorsports parts industry.
With his wife, Billie Jo, and two sons, Anson and Adler, at his side, Brown shared how motorsports taught him to set goals, work hard to achieve them and other important life lessons. Representing a four-generation family of racing professionals, Brown talked about how he began racing motorcycles at the age of 4, has enjoyed a successful career with 70 NHRA wins and became a team owner earlier this year.
–SEMA
BOSCH CAUTIONS AUTOMAKERS About Going All-In On EV Tech
Germany-based engineering giant Bosch has issued a warning to automakers about throwing all their efforts behind electric cars.
The global car market is undergoing a rapid shift towards a zero-emissions future made possible by EVs, many of which will feature technical solutions provided by Bosch. But the multinational auto parts supplier highlights the shortage of natural gas in Europe as an example of the danger of relying too heavily on one fuel source.
Natural gas prices have rocketed in Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the situation has become even more grave in recent weeks as Russia, which supplies most of Europe with its gas, closed off the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. Russia’s Gazprom energy company had been due to resume gas delivery to Germany after a short halt due to a claimed “malfunction” with the line.
But the firm later announced it was closing the pipeline indefinitely while repairs are carried out, a move many believe is a retaliation to the G7 countries’ announcement of a price cap on Russian oil.
“We’re currently seeing the consequences of the gas shortage for Germany and Europe because we prepared too few alternatives,” Markus Heyn, Bosch’s head of mobility told the Monday edition of the Stuttgarter Zeitung, Bloomberg reports. “In the automotive industry, we should use this occasion to ask ourselves what we can do if there should ever be too few battery cells.”
China is currently the world’s biggest supplier of batteries and the minerals used in the construction of battery packs fitted to electric cars, though carmakers are working hard to find other supplies.
From January 2023, the U.S. government’s revised tax credit system for EVs only offers aid for vehicles which are made in North America and whose batteries are also made in the region. At the same time, Snow Lake Lithium announced that its new mine in Manitoba, Canada would be able to supply enough minerals to power 500,000 new electric cars every year for 10 years once production starts in 2025.
Heyn said that the car industry and governments need to consider other clean alternatives to gasoline engines, including hydrogen fuel cells, claiming that the hydrogen infrastructure currently being developed for long-distance trucks could also work for passenger vehicles.
This isn’t the first time Bosch has spoken out against electric vehicles. Last year the company’s CEO, Volkmar Denner criticized governments’ focus on killing off the combustion engine, calling them short-sighted. Another Bosch board member said the company would continue to invest in internal combustion tech for 20-30 years.
–BY CHRIS CHILTON
www.carscoops.com
FEDERAL COURT UPHOLDS Texas Law Prohibiting Social Media “Viewpoint Censorship”
Social media censorship: U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a Texas law that forbids viewpoint discrimination by platforms.
The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals preserved a Texas state law Friday that would stop large social media platforms from restricting particular opinions.
Texas’ HB 20 was signed last year and generally prohibits platforms with over 50 million monthly U.S. users from censoring them based on their viewpoints. The Computer Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and the NetChoice organization, representing social media companies, argued that aspects of the law were unconstitutional but failed to convince the court.
“In urging such sweeping relief, the platforms offer a rather odd inversion of the First Amendment,” the court’s majority decision said. “That Amendment, of course, protects every person’s right to ‘the freedom of speech.’ But the platforms argue that buried somewhere in the person’s enumerated right to free speech lies a corporation’s unenumerated right to muzzle speech.”
The appeals court must give the district court that previously decided the case written instructions for the law to become effective, according to Politico. A 5-4 May U.S. Supreme Court ruling had halted the law from going into force after an emergency request by the CCIA and NetChoice.
Appealing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton celebrated the circuit court’s decision Friday, tweeting, “#BigTech CANNOT censor the political voices of ANY Texan! The 5th Circuit ‘reject[s] the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say.”
BREAKING: I just secured a MASSIVE VICTORY for the Constitution & Free Speech in fed court: #BigTech CANNOT censor the political voices of ANY Texan! The 5th Circuit “reject[s] the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say. pic.twitter.com/UijlzYcv7r
— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) September 16, 2022
CCIA President Matt Schruers decried the ruling, stating, “Forcing private companies to give equal treatment to all viewpoints on their platforms places foreign propaganda and extremism on equal footing with decent Internet users, and places Americans at risk,” according to The Hill.
The Supreme Court could still be asked to directly consider the law’s validity, the outlet reported.
In May, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a block on enforcing parts of Florida Senate Bill 7072, which would require social media platforms to explain the reasons for individual acts of supposed censorship, deplatforming and shadow banning and stop them from censoring a “journalistic enterprise based on the content of its publication or broadcast,” according to The National Law Review.
“We are disappointed that the Fifth Circuit’s split decision undermines First Amendment protections and creates a circuit split with the unanimous decision of the Eleventh Circuit,” NetChoice Vice President and General Counsel Carl Szabo said in a Friday press release. “We remain convinced that when the U.S. Supreme Court hears one of our cases, it will uphold the First Amendment rights of websites, platforms, and apps.”
NetChoice declined the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment. The CCIA did not immediately respond to the DCNF’s request for comment.
–Heartland Author
With a flat surface, contours on the sides and a flip at the top, these screens are designed to look over the top of and work 3 to 4 inches taller than what they are. Your passenger will be more protected too.
Whether you have 1″, 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ T-bars, we have the hardware to fit. It comes in either chrome or powder coat black. The screen is available in clear, light smoke or gun smoke (dark).
If you have question please let us know by email or phone
sales@windvest.com
408-762-7180 local
877-370-7326 toll free
www.windvest.com
PLANNING IS UNDERWAY FOR THE SEASON AHEAD—I dug out some wheels so we can mock up the VL, XA, FL Knucklehead in the near future. I’m in good shape parts wise, but I need to decide on a transmission. Irish rich offered to take out the 4-speed trans plate and install a 5-speed plate. I have a bunch of 5-speed trans parts and cases. I could build one.
I will reach out to Rich and see what the deal is.
Check out the Tech on the UL. I fired it up once I figured out the switches again. I got my 94-year-old father-in-Law to sit on a running ’48 chop for the first time. The next day he started to grow a beard. Everything with my mods seemed fine except my oil filter bracket started to leak oil. At least I know the oil is circulating.
I still need a final clutch adjustment on the Pandemic, then it will roll off the lift. We are insulating and drywalling the upstairs garage for more home insulating, and we bought a spare fridge and slipped it into the garage.
Shifting to content, I just received a Girl of Bikernet Submission from Barry Green. Hang on for this one. Just beautiful photos and no story. But on the story front we have another Why We Chop story from Bill May and another Jack story. We also received another Lucky Devil shop feature. It’s an amazing shop story. I will then start on the first VL, XA, FL Knucklehead build tech.
I’m also working on a gas tank design article with a pile of very cool photographs from Markus Cuff, who shot custom and restored bikes for 30 years. There’s a bunch more coming to keep us going through the blistering cold South Dakota Winter. Can’t wait.
In the meantime, ride fast and free forever. The truth will win. It always does.
–Bandit
