Hey,
I have a dream when it comes to our country and our future. This is one of those thoughts that runs rampant when you focus on it. First, I’ll just jot it down and then we can analyze it from there. My dream is that kids can grow up enjoying life, having a blast, falling in love, building and racing motorcycles and thinking of family, instead of political attacks against everything. Okay, there I said it.
Mentally, when I break it down my mind hauls ass in a myriad of directions, but it’s a dream and dreams are ultimately good.
Let’s hit the news and see if there’s hope for love in the future.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
EPA finalizes heavy duty vehicle emissions limits
WASHINGTON – The U.S. government said on Friday it was finalizing tighter tailpipe emissions standards for heavy duty vehicles like semi-trucks and buses, but the new rules would not be as strict as initially proposed in 2023.
The Environmental Protection Agency said the new rules setting standards for the 2027 through 2032 model years will avoid 1 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions through 2055 and provide $13 billion in annualized net benefits to society.
In contrast, the EPA had said its tougher proposed rules last year would have prevented 1.8 billion tons of emissions.
The new standards apply to delivery trucks, garbage trucks, public utility trucks, transit, shuttle, and school buses and tractor-trailer trucks.
The final standards tighten requirements at a slower pace and delay the start of new rules for day cab tractors and some heavy-duty vocational vehicles, the EPA said.
Heavy duty vehicles account for 25% of all greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, which accounts for 29% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
The EPA said the standards “are technology-neutral and performance based, allowing each manufacturer to choose what set of emissions control technologies is best suited for them and the needs of their customers.”
The final rule includes lower electric vehicle projected sales rates for model years 2027-2029 than the original proposed rule would have required.
The Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association, which represents Daimler Truck; Volvo Trucks, Cummins and others, said it was concerned “the final rule will end up being the most challenging, costly and potentially disruptive heavy-duty emissions rule in history.”
The association added the new rules set a percentage of zero-emissions vehicles such as fuel cell-powered or electric vehicles that a company must sell, “which is beyond their own ability to control.”
Some Democrats and environmental groups had urged the EPA to adopt even tougher rules.
Abigail Dillen, president of the Earthjustice environmental group, said Friday “the EPA did not go far enough to protect communities from dangerous health impacts linked to heavy-duty truck pollution” and added “truck manufacturers have pushed EPA to slowwalk this change.”
The American Trucking Associations said targets beyond 2030 “remain entirely unachievable given the current state of zero-emission technology, the lack of charging infrastructure and restrictions on the power grid.”
Current tailpipe emissions limits for heavy duty trucks and engines were set in 2016 covering the 2021 through 2027 model years.
The Sierra Club’s Katherine García praised the new EPA rules adding “it’s crucial that truck manufacturers get into the fast lane with zero-emission trucks to deliver the climate, health, and economic benefits we deserve.”
Last week, the EPA finalized emissions rules for light and medium duty vehicles through 2032, cutting its target for U.S. electric vehicle adoption from 67% by 2032 to as little as 35%
–David Shepardson
REUTERS
–from Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™
2024 STURGIS MUSIC ON MAIN STREET—Kicks off May 29th
Join the bros and broettes as Music on Main heats up in May with an aclectic lineup with music and tasty vendors.
The sounds with me accompanied by vendors such as Pooter Q BBQ, Eddie’s Tacos, Kona Ice, Chill your Roll, Good Stuffed, Mimi’s Prairie Lunchbox, creative Bean, The Pizza Trailer, Ugli Graffiti.
Bands will include:
Brett Hendrix Trio May 29th
David Graham & the Eskimo Brothers June 5
Talbot Brothers June 12
Camp Comfort June 19th
Jessie G. June 26th
Jonny Hastings and the Stillhouse July 3
Stereo Trip July 10
Jessica Loobey Band July 17th
If you hit one of these events, don’t miss a chance to visit the Historic Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, originally built as a Post Office in 1937.
–photos from the Sheriff
THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION ROADSHOW HITS THREE STATES IN MARCH–Out Like A Lion
Three MRF Roadshow Stops To End March
Oklahoma | Louisiana | Minnesota
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) proudly attended ABATE of Oklahoma’s S.M.I.L.E Conference in mid-March. MRF Board member Deb Craig, MRF Oklahoma State Rep Art Ryan and MRF President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard represented the MRF at the event. The MRF team appreciated the invitation to participate in their Board Meeting as well.
During their Legislative updates, the MRF heard progress reports on their Handlebar Height Bill, the Oklahoma Anti-Profiling and Enhanced Penalties for distracted driving efforts. It is worth noting their activity following Right of Way crashes in the court system has proven very effective and something we all should be paying attention to.
ABATE of Illinois State Coordinator Bob “Mouse” Ellinger conducted an excellent workshop on the roles and responsibilities of Chapter Leadership.
Kirk “Hardtail” Willard had the privilege to be the keynote speaker, making certain to thank ABATE of Oklahoma for having one of the highest percentages in the country of ABATE members also being members of the MRF during his “The Future of Motorcycling” speech.
Louisiana CoC&I President, Swamp, welcomed ABATE of Louisiana President and MRF SSMRO Representative, Brick Lindsey, ABATE of Louisiana Treasurer, Jacque Lindsey and MRF Director of Conferences & Events, Fred Harrell to their March Meeting. A presentation was made by Fred Harrell on recent MRF accomplishments and the Legislative Agenda for 2024. The MRF is proud to participate in gathering concerned motorcyclists from all organizations together to share information and our common goals.
On a Wednesday in mid-March, MRF Director of the State Reps Program, Gary Goracke, attended Bikerday at the Capitol in St. Paul Minnesota. In attendance were members from ABATE of MN, Young Riders, MRF, COC, MMCC, AIR, SCVR and many more independents.
Speakers that morning were from ABATE of MN, MRF, plus State Legislators and State Senators that support motorcycle rights. The talking points for the day presented to the elected officials were, Curtailing Profiling of Motorcyclists in Minnesota, Reducing the Sales Tax Imposed on Older Motorcycles, No Change to the Motorcycle Helmet Law, Protecting Internal Combustion Engines, Ground effect Lighting and Autonomous Vehicles.
–MRF
NEWS FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE—
New Time Covers are in the works featuring the Von Dutch flying eyeball.
He’s also working on a couple of custom seats, one for Johnny Mac’s Choppers.
Chopper Show Facebook page is going to carry his stuff.
–Bandit
BIKERNET STAFFER COMMENT—Good Friday BIKERNET NEWS Post
(Quote from the news) NEVER GIVE UP—I shoot the shit with friends who don’t want to have anything to do with politics, but it’s our country. I know guys who are afraid to get involved. It’s concerning. People are being arrested for stepping up and voicing their opinions, but we can’t give in, ever. I know motorcycle rights groups who don’t want to upset folks who are deliberately trying to destroy the country. Tough call.
But hang on. I have pals who don’t vote. What the fuck? No wonder the government is crumbling.
I’m riding free forever or die trying, goddammit.
–Bandit
Well I don’t have to tell you about politics and getting involved. I hear all the time from people who say they want to Ride Free and I then ask them if they are voting and or in a Motorcycle Rights Organization. If they say No, I tell them they are an asshole and to stop sniveling. Yeah, a lot of the time these are friends or people I know.
I have been arrested more times than I can count over the years and do not regret it. I for one, I will continue to do what I have to in my own way to promote the Motorcycle Lifestyle I choose to live.
I will continue to support legislators and others who want the same things I do no matter what their other affiliations are. If that upsets others they can bring it on any way they want to.
Start off by Voting – Pick who you want and for what reason you want. Stop Sniveling If The Wrong Person Wins.
If you like what your Motorcycle Rights Group is doing, support them. If you don’t contact your elected official and let them know how you feel.
Over the years a lot of people put a lot on the line for motorcycle rights and have passed the torch on to others to keep doing that.
Sometimes the old timers even continue to help, even realizing that times have changed they seem to be getting things done.
If you are one of the people that do not belong to a rights organization, Get Involved How Ever You Want.
I am Happy to say My Congressman Bill Posey has supported every bill that the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has sent to me and I forwarded to him.
OH Yea He Is Strong On Helping Veterans Too!
–Rogue
BONNEVILLE RACING UPDATE—
From the queen of Save the Salt, Louise. She has been an avid supporter of Bonneville Racing for the last couple of decades.
I recently asked her how the fight for saving the salt was going. Here’s her response:
God only knows…
We racers and Save The Salt are mired down in federal BS from the BLM.
The only avenue left is to sue the federal government for mismanagement of federal lands and funds.
sigh,
–Louise
A REPORT DIRECTLY FROM THE S&S FACTORY–New Stuff Alert! Tuned Induction Intake for the Honda Grom!
The Honda Grom holds a special place for us at S&S. So we couldn’t let them go without a few Proven Performance Upgrades
Tuned Induction Intake Kit for ’22-’24 Honda Grom Models
It’s hard for us at S&S not to love the Honda Grom, as they are a fan favorite of both new and seasoned riders, and naturally, we couldn’t help but mod a few of them. We started with our flat track race-inspired Grand National slip-on and have now added a tuned induction intake kit to our lineup for the Grom.
HARLEY PLANS TO MERGE ELECTRIC WITH SPAC–
Harley-Davidson stock (NYSE:HOG) soared over 12% in Monday’s premarket as the company said it will merge LiveWire, its electric motorcycle-making unit, with AEA-Bridges Impact Corp (NYSE:IMPX), a special purpose acquisition company.
The deal gives LiveWire an enterprise value of $1.77 billion. The move comes at a time when world over startups are taking market share away from established players dependent on vehicles running on fossil fuels.
Harley expects the deal’s $545 million proceeds to accelerate the rollout of LiveWire’s products and enhance its global manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
The transaction will be financed by ABIC’s $400 million cash held in trust, a $100 million investment from Harley-Davidson, and a $100 million investment from KYMCO, through a PIPE.
Harley will retain a stake of around 74% in the merged entity, ABIC’s shareholders will own nearly 17%, and ABIC’s founders and KYMCO will have an around 4% share each.
The transaction is expected to close by end of June.
— By Dhirendra Tripathi
Yahoo.com
As I stood in line with the other condemned souls at this Hell on Earth they Call the Motor Vehicle Administration, a hand lightly tapped me on the shoulder.
“I noticed your ABATE patch on your jacket” said the dainty soccer mom. “ Are they still around? My husband and I used to be members in the ‘90s.”
The question was one that I’ve heard numerous times in the any years I have been active in our state MRO, and my response was automatic. “Yes, we have been around since 1973 and the fight for our rights never stopped. Come on by the chapter meeting and rejoin us.”
Maybe another lost soul will rejoin the ranks on the freedom fighter.
–Steven Sanner
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–The Short Happy Life of Easyriders Magazine
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_Short_Happy_Life_of_Easyriders_Magazine.aspx
Hey Bandit,
Good to see things are still in motion in the publication world of cycling. I’d just like to thank you for allowing my cousin (Big Daddy Drew) to introduce me to you back in ‘94 at your office. It was one of my highlights of my visit to California. And I really liked your desk it inspired my imagination but I never imitated it, kind of a guys thing of honor. I did put together a lamp due to that visit and inspiration.
Live long and ride hard.
–Keith Nation
keithusace@gmail.com
Hodgenville, KY
A FLASH FROM THE HUPY AND ABRAHAM CREW—
“And support for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.”
–Bandit
BANDIT WRITES TO THE SUPREME COURT—
What is life in America without Honesty and Integrity? What will we tell our kids?
You are the last bastion of Honesty and Integrity in this country. I hope you’re up to the task and save the country.
Happy Easter goddammit!
–Bandit
NEWS FROM CHOPPERS MAG–
More than 10,000 bikers gathered at Federal buildings across the nation June 25, to protest mandatory helmet laws.
Despite media-suggested fears of trouble, none of the rallies reported even the slightest amount of trouble.
A lot of organizations stood together and set the rallies up. They ranged from super-straight-arrow groups like the Texas Road Riders Association, the closet-weirdos at Road Rider Magazine, elements of the American Motorcycle Association, through groups like the Modified Motorcycle Association and the assorted ABATEs, to full-scale outlaw clubs like the Angels and the Connecticut-based Huns.
An enormous amount of work was handled by Bob Bitchin’ and Biker News. Somehow, they even allowed the odd sorts at this magazine to get involved – even though someone commented that this was, indeed, a couple of feet below the bottom of the barrel.
–Cary
Choppers Magazine
THE STRANGE TEXAS WEATHER REPORT—
Still have to go to New Weverly out by the redheads, to get one with No Parking Jesus too. I also use to get one in front of the Hot Rod sign in Magnolia. I even have the Little Red Rigid in front of it, but he moved.
Can you guess what the Easter Bunny brought the RP? So I don’t suppose to have 2 of these light sockets just laying around or know someone?
–RFR
“Did that make any sense? Hey RFR, check Amazon. They have everything.”
–Bandit
[page break]
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS MOURN THE LOSS OF NORAH LEE ALLEN, WIFE OF LEAD SINGER DUANE ALLEN—
The Oak Ridge Boys mourn the loss of Norah Lee Allen, wife of lead singer Duane Allen, who passed at 7:28 am CT Sunday morning, March 31st, after battling an extended illness. Norah Lee was 76 years old.
Duane shared this message with his close friends during the day on Sunday:
“This morning, my wife of 54 years and 8 months took her last breath of air on planet Earth.
Norah Lee went to be with Jesus at 7:28 am, Easter morning. She had not been feeling well for some time. Her family all spent the night with her last night at Vanderbilt Hospital. We took time singing with and to her, telling her stories, and loving her every second that God let us share her here on Earth.
Jamie, Dee, and I would like to thank you all for your love and prayers. We have been at her bedside for over nine weeks.
We would like to thank Donna, Ashley, Ginger, GiGi, and Mindy for helping stay some nights with her.
We would like to thank the doctors, nurses, medical workers, and specialty staff who did everything they could to help Norah Lee.
Check my Facebook page later for details on the arrangements.
We hope to have visitation and service at First Baptist Church on Tuesday, April 2, in Hendersonville, Tennessee.”
Norah Lee graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry with her majestic voice, class, and professionalism for over 40 years. As a background vocalist on country music’s biggest stage, Norah Lee was an essential part of a core group of talented singers who accompanied some of the music industry’s most outstanding performers.
Norah Lee grew up in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and began singing with her sisters in The Stuart Sisters Trio, formed by their father when she was only three. For nearly 17 years, the family gospel singers traveled, toured, and performed at revivals, concerts, conventions, and churches throughout the southeast. In 1966, Norah Lee graduated from Warren County High School.
In 1968, Norah Lee was hired by the Legendary Chuck Wagon Gang. The acclaimed country gospel music group was known for its perfect pitch harmonies and family-friendly, faith-based songs. It proved to be a fantastic introduction to the music industry for Norah Lee.
On September 22nd, 1969, Norah Lee married Duane Allen, lead singer of The Oak Ridge Boys.
In the early 1970s, Norah Lee worked in Nashville with Benson Publishing Group. She adopted multiple roles there, from secretarial work to providing background vocals during studio recordings. In Nashville, word spread of Norah Lee’s exceptional vocal ability. Her incredible versatility led to recommendations for background session work with country, bluegrass, and gospel bands for many artists, including Grand Ole Opry bass legend Jerome Hines and Conway Twitty.
In 1975, Norah Lee moved into the role defining her professional musical career. At first, she became a part-time fill-in, yet in 1980, Norah Lee became a full-time member of the Grand Ole Opry band as a background vocalist. Over the years, Norah Lee and the Carol Lee Singers, then Opry Staff Singers, mastered dozens of songs each night, then superbly performed the new renditions in front of thousands of country music fans live at the Opry and on television and radio worldwide.
One of Norah Lee’s most meaningful lifetime achievements was her ability to care for and maintain a faith-based family life as a professional at the Grand Ole Opry. Her close-knit family, including her husband Duane, two children, Jamie Allen (Paul) Martin and Dee Allen, and her four grandchildren, March, Kell, Texas, and Tallant Martin, remained the center of her attention.
For over 50 years, Norah Lee performed regularly with the greatest stars in country music history. She worked with Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Garth Brooks, Oliva Newton-John, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Minnie Pearl, Trisha Yearwood, Charlie Daniels, Martina McBride, and Loretta Lynn, only to mention a few.
In 2022, Norah Lee Allen was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
BIKE FEATURE OF THE WEEK—From Swoop.
–Sam Burns
Feature Biker Editor
Bikernet.com™
AMA National and Regional News–
Washington, D.C. — The House Motorcycle Caucus recently announced Rep. Michael Burgess of Texas, who announced his retirement at the end of this term, will step down from leadership. Taking over caucus responsibilities is current co-chair and AMA Life Member, Rep. Tim Walberg of Michigan.
Joining the leadership team on the House Motorcycle Caucus are co-chairs Rep. Troy Balderson of Ohio and Rep. Donald Norcross of New Jersey. Walberg also announced Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin will join the leadership team as vice-chair.
This bipartisan leadership team signals great things for the motorcycling community. Issues impacting motorcyclists go beyond traditional political party differences and require commonsense cooperation from our legislators. The AMA continues to support the bipartisan structure and mission of the House Motorcycle Caucus.
Washington, D.C. — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced new automobile emissions standards that officials called the most ambitious plan ever to cut emissions from passenger vehicles. The new rules relax initial tailpipe limits proposed last year but eventually get close to the same strict standards. The rules come as sales of electric vehicles, which are needed to meet the standards, have begun to slow. The auto industry cited lower sales growth in objecting to the EPA’s preferred standards unveiled last April.
The EPA said that under its final rule, the industry could meet the limits if 56 percent of new vehicle sales are electric by 2032, along with at least 13 percent plug-in hybrids or other partially electric cars, as well as more efficient gasoline-powered cars that get more miles to the gallon. This would be a vast increase over current EV sales, which rose to 7.6 percent of new vehicle sales last year, up from 5.8 percent in 2022.
The standards are designed to be technology-neutral and performance-based, giving car and truck manufacturers the flexibility to choose pollution-control technologies that are best suited for their customers while meeting environmental and public health goals. The new EPA standards allow for more sales of plug-in hybrids and regular gas-electric hybrids to meet emissions limits.
State News
Monticello, Utah — Notice of Availability of the Draft Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service (USDA Forest Service), have prepared a Draft Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Bears Ears National Monument, and are providing information announcing the opening of the comment period on the Draft RMP/EIS and the comment period on proposed areas of critical environmental concern (ACECs) on lands managed by the BLM and proposed recreational shooting closures.
The BLM is leading the NEPA process in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, which will sign a decision for the USDA Forest Service-managed lands based on the analysis in the EIS. The Agencies have and will continue to meaningfully engage the Bears Ears Commission in the development of the RMP and EIS, as required by Proclamation 10285.
This notice announces the opening of a 90-day comment period for the Draft RMP/EIS beginning with the date following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) publication of its Notice of Availability (NOA) of the Draft RMP/EIS in the Federal Register. The Agencies will hold a total of seven public meetings. Two meetings will be held virtually, and five meetings will be conducted in-person. The specific times and locations of the public meetings will be announced at least 15 days in advance through local media, social media, newspapers, and the ePlanning website.
For additional information, contact Jill Stephenson, project manager, BLM Canyon Country District, (435) 587–1529, or BLM_UT_Monticello_Monuments@blm.gov.
International News
Bucharest, Romania — In a few weeks, a new law will come into effect that will allow holders of driving licenses category B to operate motorcycles with automatic transmission with a maximum displacement of 125 cm3, with a maximum power of 11 kW and a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 0.1 kW/kg, category A1. License holders must be at least 24 years old, have a category B license for at least 2 years and provide proof of having completed 10 hours of practical training at an authorized vehicle driver training facility.
Previously, under existing law, any holder of a category B license could operate a motorcycle with a maximum of 50cc displacement. According to the Association for the National Development of Motorcycling (motoADN) many drivers have not taken advantage of this option due to a lack of top speed and vehicle choices in that category. At the European level, 15 countries have similar laws, and the European Parliament has shown a willingness to standardize this to avoid confusion.
Leicester, U.K. — The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has strongly welcomed a new discussion with the Department for Transport (DfT) regarding making motorcycle access to bus lanes the default position in regulations throughout England. The consultation follows through on ministerial commitments made directly to the NMC last year and builds on a recent DfT update to its traffic advice leaflet on motorcycles and bus lanes, which now says: “Wherever it is appropriate, local councils should allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes.” Although the update is welcomed, the NMC feels it still contains far too many caveats in relation to access, which extensive and long-standing practical experience of bus lane access reveals are unnecessarily precautionary.
The DfT has been historically neutral on the matter, leaving it to local authorities to decide if this is something they wish to adopt, as set out in their original advice published in 2007. In 2011, they facilitated decision-making at local authority level by changes to traffic sign regulations to allow local authorities to permit motorcycles to use their bus lanes without the need for the DfT to authorize the signs. Although these decisions were welcomed, they have led to a patchwork of access around the country, with some local authority areas allowing access, but others not. A confusing situation exists in London, where TfL controlled roads allow access, but many boroughs do not, leaving riders unsure about where they can and cannot use bus lanes.
The NMC will shortly be issuing an advice note on responding to the consultation.
Industry News
Monterey, Calif. – As reported by roadracingworld.com/, the County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks and Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) recently announced a comprehensive settlement that ends the Laguna Seca Raceway lawsuit.
In 2023, the County entered into a long-term agreement with local non-profit Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) for the operation of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, which includes WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. But in December 2023, the Highway 68 Coalition sued the County of Monterey and FLS claiming the County was wrong to approve the new Concession Agreement because, among other things, a state-mandated environmental study to consider the impact of noise produced by increasing activity at the racetrack had not been carried out.
The Coalition asked the court to vacate the new Concession Agreement and order the County of Monterey and FLS to “cease and desist” from allowing activity at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca that produce noise levels “in excess of the level of use and noise that existed at the time…when the applicable zoning was established” in 1985.
A hearing on the case was scheduled to be held June 20, 2024, but both parties to the litigation have agreed to a settlement that will end the lawsuit and allow operations to continue at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
–AMA
5-BALL LEATHER UPDATE—
Frankie is hot after finishing his little Panhead project. Here’s a shot of the tank.
Nate told me that Frankie is rapidly becoming one of the finest tattoo artists in the country.
I’m proud of all the grandkids.
–Bandit
THE ALEX EPSTEIN REPORT– What should the government do about carbon capture?
A: Government should eliminate all special preferences and all special punishments for carbon capture. This will allow innovators to explore the field’s potential for profitability and scalability—at no taxpayer expense.
Carbon capture involves capturing fossil fuels’ CO2 emissions directly (from exhaust) or indirectly (from the air).
It has garnered interest as a way of utilizing low-cost, reliable, versatile fossil fuel energy without the climate impacts.
Carbon capture has been extremely divisive for fossil fuel advocates.
Carbon capture supporters say they’re ensuring that much-needed fossil fuels can exist in today’s anti-CO2 political climate.
Opponents say supporting carbon capture is conceding climate catastrophism and making fossil fuels a subsidized industry.
Opponents of carbon capture are right that much support for carbon capture ends up conceding climate catastrophism—and that this is a mistake.
Fossil fuels supporters need to refute catastrophism, above all by arguing that fossil fuels make us safer than ever from climate via climate mastery.
Not only should we reject climate catastrophism when considering carbon capture, we should also reject the idea that reducing CO2 emissions should be our energy focus. Our focus should be on rapidly expanding the availability of affordable energy to an energy-starved world.
Pro-fossil-fuel opponents of carbon capture are right that many fossil fuel industry supporters of carbon capture are starting to turn the fossil fuel industry into a subsidized industry. And subsidized industries often mislead us, as some companies do when they portray carbon capture as a panacea.
–Alex Epstein
F1 Owner to Acquire MotoGP and WSBK–
Liberty Media Corporation, which owns the rights to Formula One, is acquiring Dorna Sports and the commercial rights to the MotoGP World Championship, as well as the World Superbike Championship and their respective support series.
The deal is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, pending regular approval in multiple jurisdictions. Once completed, Liberty Media will own an 86% stake in Dorna Sports, with MotoGP’s management team retaining a 14% stake.
The deal will see Liberty Media acquiring approximately 86% of Dorna, with Dorna management retaining around 14% of its equity. The transaction reflects an enterprise value of 4.2 billion euros for Dorna/MotoGP and an equity value of 3.5 billion euros, the statement said. Minus the 14% retained by MotoGP management, the rest of the deal will consist of approximately 65% cash and 21% in shares of Series C Liberty Formula One common stock.
Liberty Media is an American mass media company founded in 1991 by John C. Malone, who remains chairman of the company. Liberty owns several properties, with Formula One being the most notable in terms of the acquisition of Dorna Sports.
Reuters and Various Reports
https://www.reuters.com/sports/formula1/us-based-f1-owner-liberty-media-announces-motogp-takeover-2024-04-01/
–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com™
This issue may be perfect bound and 132 pages of info about the rally, Sturgis events and perhaps ATF races. The public is voting on the 9th of April to approve or disapprove the AMA race series in downtown Sturgis.
If you’re a resident of Sturgis, don’t miss this chance to bring another hot motorcycle event to Sturgis. A brother reminded me of all the in-town racing events from the Long Beach Grand Prix to the Isle of Mann. Of course there were growing pains in each case, but they’ve all succeeded.
Don’t forget to vote.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame website is being refurbished and updated. We added a News department and we are currently working on a Donation area. We’re going to need serious funds, if we plan to expand.
Speaking of funds. Heidi came up with the notion for a cool marque sign out front. She approached Tim from Flat Earth Art and he came up with this sketch and design. We just need to raise a little over $3,000 to make it happen. Let me know if you can help.
Here’s Tim’s report:
This frame is built to withstand moderate winds as the panel is mounted on two springs in a weighted base.
The base would be filled with sand for ballast and there would be a handle to roll the sign back into the Museum when the day is done.
Project specs:
- One double sided injection molded plastic and painted aluminum sign app. 66″h w 33″w (overall)
- Frame and base of injection molded plastic/base filled with sand
- Base on wheels
- Sign panels of aluminum composite panels painted as per artwork
- Tank and ribbon cut out of separate pieces and mounted on stand-offs
- All aluminum components cleared with automotive clear
- Bumper/handles on top through tank graphic
Retail Price: $4850.00
Discounted Museum price: $3195.00 plus tax
Price does not include tax, or additional artwork
Terms: 50% deposit/balance due on completion
Production time: app. 7 weeks
Quote good for 90 days
Here’s the third museum expansion concept drawing. Next, a feasibility and cost analysis. Hang on!
Working on a special metal art sculpture to raise funds. Hang on for this.
Don’t miss the Museum report next week.
–Bandit
QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!– You had to ask: Harley-Davidson X440
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/You_had_to_ask_HarleyDavidson_X440.aspx
Just returned from a nice trip to Italy. I could not help but see that for in-city travel this x440 would be perfect. Light & small enough to throw into tight corners and lane splitting which is the norm. But also possessing the power when needed to skip around slower traffic and tour buses.
–Rhys
FL
The all-new Hot Bike Magazine Vol. 1 2024 is coming soon!
Subscribe now until April 5, 2024 and you’ll be among the first recipients to receive the first issue of 2024!
In Vol.1 2024, you’ll find one of the coolest new Nightsters from Bad Boys Garage to ever hit the streets, which was also our pick from Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy this past January.
You’ll also find the feature documenting the day we spent with San Diego Customs, where we invited a few hundred friends to take over the San Diego streets to commemorate the cover we shot 10 years ago. This time, we had a lot more people and some killer bikes.
For V-Twin race fans, we also break down what you can expect from MotoAmerica’s King Of the Baggers 2024 season. What’s changed with the teams? Any new tracks? All is unfolded in the pages of Hot Bike Vol. 1 2024. Plus, some of the coolest custom bikes on the planet.
TEXAS FIGHTS BACK—Biden’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Rule for Vehicles Struck Down by Texas Judge
Judge James Hendrix said the Biden administration lacked authority under law to impose the gas emissions rule.
A judge in Texas struck down a Biden administration rule on March 28 that required states to measure and report the greenhouse gas emissions from any vehicles using the national highway system.
The rule was issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in 2023 as part of President Biden’s efforts to slash carbon emissions in half by 2030.
Specifically, it required state transportation departments and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) to both measure their transportation-related emissions on the U.S. highway system and set their own emission reduction targets.
Additionally, the measure required state DOTs and MPOs to report biennially on their progress in meeting the declining targets. FHWA would also assess the state’s progress toward achieving those targets, according to the rule.
Texas sued the DOT in December, arguing the agency lacked legal authority from Congress to enact the rule, and that it violates the Administrative Procedure Act.
In his ruling, Judge James Hendrix of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas agreed, stating that the Biden administration lacked authority under law to impose the greenhouse gas emissions performance measure.
–Epoch Times
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LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK— 2005 Harley Davidson XL883L Sportster Low with only 2,303 miles!
Stock# 14181
We guarantee that you will want another bike after purchasing this 2005 Sportster Low from Lifestyle Cycles, this bike is ready to ride!
* Dual Chrome Shotgun Exhaust
* Stock Intake
* Harley CV Carburetor
* Passenger Mounted Foot Pegs
* Willie & Max Leather Saddlebags
* Saddlemen Step-Up Seat with Lattice Stitch
* Factory 47 14-Inch Tbars
* LED Front Headlight
* The tires aren’t even broken in yet, get here and get them on the road once more!
* 19-Inch Front and 17-Inch Rear Mags
* Biltwell Old School Black Grips
This bike is only $5,995.00
Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees.
This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.
This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92806. Open 7 days a week.
NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.
Huge selection of Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!
We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory,
Please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE BUILDS UPON A TIMELESS AMERICAN ICON,
INTRODUCES THE NEXT EVOLUTION OF INDIAN SCOUT–
All-New 2025 Indian Scout Lineup Delivers Unique Combination of Iconic American Design, Legendary Balance of Power & Control, and New Rider-Centric Technology
* Five Models, Including Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Scout Classic, Super Scout, and 101 Scout, and Three Diverse Trim Levels Offer a Robust Lineup with Varying Price Points
*2025 Indian Scout Lineup Introduces All-New SpeedPlus Engine – A 1250cc Liquid-Cooled, V-Twin Delivering up to 111 Horsepower
*New Steel Tube Frame Delivers Timeless Style and Makes for Easier Customization
*Lightweight, Nimble Handling, and Low Seat Height Delivers Balanced Ride and Inspires Confidence
*Full Line of Over 100 Scout Family Accessories Offer Convenient Personalization Across Entire Lineup
Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today introduced the next evolution of the iconic Indian Scout. Leveraging authentic Scout DNA, the all-new 2025 Indian Scout lineup builds upon its unparalleled history with five models, three trim levels, and more than 100 Scout family accessories for endless personalization.
With roots celebrating Indian Motorcycle’s rich history, the new Scout family delivers a unique combination of iconic American design, a legendary balance of power and control, and new rider-centric technology.
At the heart of the all-new Indian Scout is a completely redesigned 1250cc liquid-cooled, V-Twin engine – the SpeedPlus 1250. Delivering up to 111 horsepower and north of 82 ft-lbs of torque, each Indian Scout offers crisp acceleration and superior passing power. Electronic fuel injection provides consistent fueling for smooth throttle response, while a responsive six-speed transmission keeps all the power easily within reach for sporty riding.
To evolve an American icon like Indian Scout, Indian Motorcycle focused its efforts in three areas. First and foremost, the new Scout must uphold its legendary design DNA.
TECH HELP—
CV Performance sold a high-flow petcock that could use a 3/8 or 5/16 hose that matched their max inlet elbow.
–Sam Burns
Tech Editor
Bikernet.com™
NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–
Happy April to all!
We are headed to the Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, NC for their opening on Thursday. On Saturday, we’ll head to Lakeland, FL for the Sun n Fun fly in. Should be a great time!?
Occasionally, I send out an email trying to find new homes for client-owned pieces. Today’s offerings include some sold-out and rare pieces that rarely come up for sale. All pieces are already framed, unless otherwise noted.
Please let me know if any of these are of interest and I’ll forward additional information. Some of these will go quickly!
Also, please reach out if you’re looking for a piece that isn’t listed today.
Thanks for your time and have a great weekend!
–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
15801 W. Colfax Ave
Golden, CO 80401
303-913-4840
New Bikernet Reader Comment!
Rock Em And Sock Em
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Rock_Em_And_Sock_Em.aspx
I was hoping to find out what torque specifications I need for the rear wheel axel for a 2006 Softail Revtech Knockout that was custom made by Rock Em and Sock ‘em, and I am having a hard time getting in touch with them. If you know the answer or could point me in the right direction, I would be very grateful!
Thank you
— Todd Weiss
Weisstodd77@gmail.com
Phoenix , AZ
“I spoke to John Reed, who worked for Custom Chrome for 20 years. He said, “How the fuck would I know?” There’s more, but look in your Softail manual and check the specs. I’m not a fan of torque wrenches, but that’s another story. Rear axles often allow you to safety wire or run a cotter key. That always does the trick.
Here’s another comment from John, who is a nut himself. “Tighten it and if you go down the street and it drags and turns red hot, it’s too tight. If you go down the street and the wheel falls off, it’s too loose.” There you have it from the master.
–Bandit
SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGIES ON THE ROAD—
Making plans to be in Leesburg, FL at the end of April? Well, Mike, Steve and the crew will be in the Front Main Parking Lot doing FREE Installations of the best Rear Shocks and Front Fork Cartridges your Harley has ever seen!
Purchase your Rear Shocks and/or Front Fork Cartridges and you not only get Free Installation but have the chance to earn a $50 Gift Certificate. Ask Mike when you see him and tell him Bikernet sent you.
CALL today to schedule your FREE INSTALL Appointment at the Gator Spring Rally:
727.233.3610
NEBRASKA MODIFIES HELMET LAW–
Lawmakers in Nebraska last week updated their new helmet law to make life easier for both Nebraska bikers and those traveling through the Cornhusker State.
As you may remember, after decades of fighting to let those who ride decide whether to wear a helmet, Nebraska repealed the state helmet mandate, effective January 1, 2024. However, as happens with new legislation, unforeseen loopholes and implementation issues need addressing. The Nebraska State Legislature, at the urging of ABATE of Nebraska, passed a corrective bill that clarifies some of the requirements in the original bill.
There are three fundamental changes to the law in Nebraska. First, the bill eliminates requiring out-of-state riders to take a safety course to ride without a helmet. Out-of-state riders need only be over 21 and wear eye protection.
Second, Nebraska riders who received their M endorsement before May 1, 2024, can take a three-hour online course to qualify for helmet choice. This online course replaces the skills test requirement for all riders stated in the original bill. Again, to ride without a helmet, Nebraska bikers must be over 21 and wearing eye protection.
Finally, the new bill eliminates the rider education course requirement for motorcycle passengers to qualify for helmet choice. A passenger need only be over 21 to ride without a helmet, assuming the rider meets the above safety course requirements, is over 21 and wears eye protection.
When Nebraska’s new helmet law rolled out earlier this year, experienced riders were flooding safety training courses to comply with the law to ride without a helmet. Allowing experienced riders to take an online course frees up safety instruction for new riders, ensuring they have the needed skills to operate a bike in the state.
The final vote of 39 yes, 4 no and 3 not voting demonstrates the broad support for these commonsense fixes. Signed by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen on April 2nd, this corrective bill takes effect immediately.
Congratulations to the bikers in Nebraska on their victory! Cornhusker bikers prove that persistence and hard work become legislative victories. Well done!
–MRF
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES PUSH THE LIMIT: HARLEY-DAVIDSON RACING SEASON 2 DEBUT ON YOUTUBE
Dramatic Six-Episode Docuseries Provides Behind-the-Scenes Perspective of the 2023 MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Race Season
Harley-Davidson has today released a preview of Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2, a dramatic new docuseries on YouTube that follows the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team and other racers during the 2023 season of the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series.
The adrenaline-fueled docuseries puts fans behind the scenes and right in the middle of the wheel-to-wheel action, showcasing the excitement of King of the Baggers racing and providing a behind-the-scenes perspective of the immense effort these racers and teams make to achieve victory.
The six-episode docuseries will be released episodically, with a new episode debuting each week, beginning Friday, April 5 at 10am CT on the Harley-Davidson App for members, followed by a YouTube release on Monday, April 8 at 7pm CT.
Push the Limit: Harley-Davidson Racing Season 2 follows select King of the Baggers racers throughout the 2023 season, including the most successful racer in MotoAmerica King of the Baggers history, Factory Harley-Davidson pilot Kyle Wyman. Wyman won seven races during the 2023 King of the Baggers season and finished third in the season championship.
Wyman has won 14 of 26 events since the start of the series in 2021 and earned the 2021 championship. King of the Baggers 2023 and defending champion Hayden Gillim, and racers James Rispoli, Travis Wyman, Cory West, Jake Lewis, Patricia Fernandez-West, Frankie Garcia, and others also appear in the docuseries.
The MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2024 season was expanded to 18 races over nine double-header weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike Series. The season’s first races were held in Daytona the first weekend of March.
2024 MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Remaining Schedule
(Two races each weekend)
April 12-13: Circuit of The Americas – Austin, Texas (Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas)
April 19-21: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Ga.
May 31-June 2: Road America – Elkhart Lake, Wis.
June 14-16: Brainerd International Raceway – Brainerd, Minn.
July 12-14: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – Monterey, Calif.
August 16-18: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course – Lexington, Ohio
September 13-15: Circuit of the Americas – Austin, Texas
September 27-29: New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, N.J.
IMA ALERT, PAY ATTENTION– The “Right to Repair” Must Be Protected
The Right to Repair affects all of us whether or not we work on our own bikes.
The information and tools necessary to make repairs has to be available to Independent Dealers as well as individuals. Not everyone that owns a newer motorcycle under 10 years old wants to go back to a franchise dealer (be it Harley Davidson, Honda or any other major brand) to get their bike serviced or repaired.
We should not be penalized with a threat of losing our warranty for taking our bikes to our favorite Independent Dealer we have trusted and supported for years.
Furthermore, if you own a bike over ten years old most franchise dealers won’t even work on your bike.
Most bikers I know enjoy working on their bikes as much as riding them. It is part of our culture to hangout with your buddies and help each other out. Most franchise dealers would prefer to eliminate independent dealers so they can charge us outrageous prices for parts and labor.
Franchise dealers and manufacturers work hard to restrict parts and updated information from the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket.
Even worse than the high prices are the ridiculous amount of time they want to tie
your bike up for service in the middle of riding season. The existence of Independent Dealers is critical for the survival of our culture and riding lifestyle.
Harley stopped the production of carbureted bikes in 2007 and will not work on your carbureted bike because it is over 10 years old and they probably don’t have a tech on staff that knows how.
If you own a 2007 – 2013 Harley, where do you go for an electronic fuel injection tune? Harley no longer supplies programable ECUs for these bikes, the EPA has restricted the Aftermarket from selling the current generation of modules to street bike owners and there is a campaign to penalize any dealer willing to tune your fuel injected bike.
All this is supposedly to help create a clean climate but they won’t even publish emission standards/limits that are acceptable for the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket to manufacture the components that will be environmentally compliant.
It seems like motorcycle manufacturers would like to sell you a new bike, service it twice a year and sell you another new bike in 5 years but End of Life Directives for motorcycles is another issue for discussion at another time.
The MRF has been fighting for our Right to Repair and has pledged full support of the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket to continue this battle.
NEVER THE END—
I picked up the criminal’s guns at the police station. The cops seemed like human beings, until a brother got jacked in his driveway the other evening. Fortunately, his attorney took care of it. But the number was close to 127 DUIs in a week. Sorta heavy handed.
So, Panhead John had a problem or two with his tin inner primary. I went to work on it. I told him I had some parts and pieces.
The more I worked on it the worse it got. I even thought about grafting it to the chunk I had left over after building my VLXAFL primary chain guard. Unfortunately, the front was also full of cracks.
I went digging and found a bare Paughco new inner primary.
The chain guard for the Knuck started to work out, and then I noticed the kickstand smacked the clutch basket. I created a stop just off the inner primary piece.
Damn, if the Chevy is almost ready for the road with a completely refurbished carb. And we replaced the wrong tires on the back, but we understand the issue. No whitewalls available. So now, we sport the tough blackwall look.
It snowed the other day, all day long and into the night. The next morning the sunrise amazed me as usual. As you can see, we moved things around. The ’58 Triumph blocked too much of the view. Randall my young neighbor popped over wearing shorts. The warmer weather makes super-short snow conditions. It’s gone in warm flash.
My old friend Ross from Port Hueneme, CA built this Chevy and entered it in the Grand National Roadster Show. It came in second in the Radical Class. He has it for sale with Rick Abate, a Hamster sales guy.
Hang on. Every week is packed with action and motorcycles. Need to run oil lines and wire my project—close.
In the meantime, fight back and ride free.
–Bandit
