I love it around here. I’ve scrambled on the Shovel until all the local restaurants were closed last night, then hit the road on the Road King for Fajitas and a giant Margarita by the harbor.
There’s something about being alone in the shop, then hitting the road in the middle of the night for a drink. There was only one missing element. After that chow and Margarita a big busted redhead would have set off the night. Except, I would’ve needed a shower and shave. I was grubby as hell sitting outside Acapulcos, gazing out at the massive car ship as it passed.
Let’s hit the news before I bury myself:
Belt Drive Installation Recommendation
First, the BDL installation guide is GREAT! There is, however, one VERY important part missing and I hope you can add a notation to the web. After successfully installing my BDL, I notice a few drip of oil after every ride. Nothing major at all, but annoying. After pulling the drive train several time, I finally called S&S and learned that the Sprocket Shaft Seal need to be installed the opposite direct as with wet primaries. The Harley Part number is 12026B. It’s an easy install, but a real pain to pull the entire primary, so this would be a very good tip to include EARLY in the guide.?
Hope this will help anyone else installing an Open Primary… Here’s the link: http://www.bikernet.com/garage/PageViewer.asp?PageID=215
–Phil Spear
U.S. BANK PRESENTS S&S CYCLE WITH FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS AWARD
La CROSSE, WI., March 23, 2005 – S&S Cycle Inc., the number one supplier of engine assemblies for American V-Twin motorcycles based in Viola, 40 miles southeast of La Crosse, was selected as a finalist for U.S. Bank’s “Family Business Award.”
Scott Nandory, U.S. Bank Business Banker, said, “Three generations of character, dedication and commitment to customers, family and the community is the key to the S&S Cycle’s prosperity and the growth of their company. We wanted to identify and honor the Smith family because they exemplify what it takes to run a flourishing family owned business. In an industry where performance is everything, few can outperform their legacy of speed. We also wanted to recognize their great contributions to their employees and community and are proud to be associated with them,” said Nandory.
Lucky Devil Report Easter Report
here is a shot of the old Shovel chopper I was telling you about. I did this about 6 years ago. Sad deal, shortly after it was painted it burned down in a garage fire and I never got photos. Such is life.
–The Devil Himself
Barroom Etiquette
A blonde, a brunette, and a redhead are sitting at a bar having some drinks. The bartender comes over and tells the girls that they have a magic mirror in the bathroom. “If you gaze deeply into the mirror and make a true statement, your wildest wish will come true. BUT, if you make a false statement you’ll be sucked into the mirror and never be heard from again.”
The girls were talking about the amazing mirror when the redhead decided to give it a try. She walked into the restroom, stared deeply into the mirror, and said, “I think I’m the most beautiful woman in the bar.” There was a flash of white light, a loud bang, and a briefcase full of $100 bills appeared in front of her. She ran out of the bathroom, showed the other girls, and went on a shopping spree.
The brunette decided that if the redhead could do it so could she. So she walked into the restroom, stared deeply into the mirror, and said, “I think I’m the smartest woman in this bar.” Suddenly there was a flash of white light and a loud bang and there in front of her appeared the keys to a brand new Ferrari. The brunette ran out of the bathroom and showed the blonde her new car.
The blonde decided this was too good to miss and so she walked into the bathroom, stared deeply into the mirror and said, “I think…..” suddenly there was a loud sucking noise and she was never heard from again.
–from Scooter
Bikers seek to be heard above the noise ABATE wants to meet with homeowners, other groups
By KATE SPINNER, Staff Writer
Naples Daily News To whoever will welcome them, area motorcycle riders are ready to prove they’re not a bunch of greasy cretins.
With the assistance of Sheriff’s Deputy William Dunaske, ABATE (American Bikers Aiming Toward Education) will teach any homeowners association or civic group in the Bonita Springs area about bikers ? why they drive the way they do, why they wear what they wear, and how to look out for them on the road.
“We need to get past the loud-pipe issue. It’s getting way out of hand and it’s doing nothing but winding everybody up,” said Tammy Brickley, safety director of Estero River ABATE, who will teach the classes.
About a month ago, residents of Bonita Beach and Tennis Club condominiums sent a letter to the city, signed by about 100 residents, complaining about the noise motorcycles made as they rounded the curve to Bonita Beach Road from Hickory Boulevard. News of the complaints sparked a flurry of letters to the editor, some of which characterized motorcyclists as slovenly low-lifes who just want to make noise.
Nothing could be further from the truth, said Brickley, who works at Doc’s Beach House Restaurant and lives in San Carlos Park. She said she will educate the public, bikers and non-bikers alike, about courtesy and safety on the road. Dunaske said he will be a mediator between the bikers and the homeowners by helping Brickley spread the safety message and by enforcing the law.
Some bikers aren’t courteous, admitted Brickley, but part of ABATE’s mission is to teach other bikers the law and how to be good neighbors.
–from Rogue
http://www.bikerrogue.com
–from Skooter
Better take your pedal off the metal — that biker’s got a badge
Anchorage Daily News
FAIRBANKS — When the snow melts, some Fairbanks police officers will trade in four-door sedans for something with a little more style: Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
The department showed off the police edition of the 2005 Road King on Wednesday.
The Harley is one of two on loan for the summer from the Harley-Davidson Farthest North Outpost under a program that began in 2002.
The Police Department gets free use of Harleys annually.
“I’ve been able to drive them every year,” said Lt. Dusty Johnson. “It’s been magnificent.”
The decked-out touring bikes are white with Police Department insignia, two-way radios, lights and sirens. The motorcycles are valued at $22,000 apiece.
–from Rogue
http://www.bikerrogue.com
Rucker Performance Begins Production of the Predator
The Predator Motorcycle Is a 130 HP American Muscle Bike Manufactured By Rucker Performance.
Fort Worth, Texas (March 25, 2005) ? Rucker Performance, a leading custom manufacturer of high performance, highly styled, custom motorcycles has begun production of their newest American Muscle Bike called the Predator.
The Predator is built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline of drag racing. This motorcycle comes with monster torque, fit and finish of a one-off custom bike, and exceptional drag-race inspired looks and performance.
The American Muscle Bike category is defined by a fat rear tire, 6-speed, low center of gravity and high horsepower design. The Predator sports a 300-rear tire, 130HP S&S 124 cubic inch fully show polished engine naturally aspirated engine, right-side 6-speed transmission, custom zoomie headers and drop seat riding position.
The Predator is designed with 4.5? ground clearance, 49 degree of rake, 19-inch seat height, custom handlebars and Ness Controls.
?The Predator is a bike for people who want to stand out in the crowd, for someone who wants to be head and shoulders above the rest of the custom motorcycle pack,? said Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance, ?and with only 52 bikes built a year, we expect the demand to outstrip supply.
Predator buyers can customize the motorcycle to their taste with a choice of custom wheels, exotic saddle hides and high-tech custom paint. Each bike is outfitted to the personal taste of the owner.
In addition, enthusiasts can be custom fitted for the motorcycle at the factory. Owners will be measured for riding position, foot controls, and handle bar height and pull back. This ensures that each owner has the best riding position and comfort level on the bike.
Committee Rejects Motorcycle Helmet Bill
WMTW.com March 25, 2005
AUGUSTA, Maine — A strong majority of a legislative committee has voted to kill a bill to make motorcycle helmets mandatory in Maine, decreasing its chances of passage after it reaches the House and Senate.
Nine members of the Transportation Committee voted Thursday to reject the bill, while three voted to recommend its passage. One member went with a third alternative, to make helmets mandatory until a motorcyclist turns 21.
Organized motorcyclists have helped to keep Maine a no-helmet state for years. The current bill is the first of its kind in the state since 1989.
State law does require helmets for passengers under 15 and motorcyclists with only a learner’s permit or operators who have had their motorcycle license for less than a year.
–Rogue
http://www.bikerrogue.com
Old debts still affect Bike Week Cost of permits expected to keep motorcycle rally on private land
By Suzanne Risley
Republican-American
TORRINGTON — Unless an outstanding bill of about $15,000 is paid, traffic permits will not be issued for Connecticut Bike Week for the second consecutive year, police said.
Organizer Ed Buley is planning to conduct the August event in Torrington anyway. He hasn’t applied for any permits because he knows the unpaid money is an issue, but already has designated the Yankee Pedlar on Main Street as the event’s headquarters in promotional literature.
Connecticut Bike Week is in its ninth year. Buley estimates it has drawn about 8,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from throughout the state. Past locations include the old drive-in at Winsted and Burr Mountain roads, a factory building on Winsted Road and Main Street downtown.
The event was staged on property owned by RJB Contracting last year and Buley is exploring that option again this year. Other private property owners also have expressed interest in hosting the event, which has been set for Aug. 3-9, he said.
“We want to come back. I’m never going to give up on Torrington — ever,” he said. He said he wants to work out a payment plan with the city, but has not made any arrangements yet to start that.
–from Rogue
http://www.bikerrogue.com
Sunday Deal Of The Week
Free delivery up to 500 miles. A must see. 610-636-5848 ask for Jack. Many additional pictures in the customs picture folder of bikerpics.org. $27K or best offer.
“Jack McIntyre” HAMSTER DOWN LAST SATURDAY DAVE {SLAVE} SMITH, AND PAUL {LIZZARD} SILVA WERE TAKING DAVE’S PANHEAD ENGINE TO THE ENGINE REBUILDERS IN OAKLAND IN DAVES EXPLORER, IT WAS IN A HEAVY RAIN WHEN A LADY IN THE FAST LANE LOST CONTROL AND CROSSED 3 LANES AND HIT THE EXPLORER ROLLING THEIR CAR 3 TIMES. DAVE NEEDED TO BE EXTRACKED USING THE JAWS OF LIFE, PAUL WAS BRUSED BUT NOT SERIOUSLY HURT. THE ENGINE FLEW OUT THE REAR WINDOW. DAVE HAS AN INJURED SHOLDER, KNEE AND A LARGE GASH ON HIS HEAD. IT WILL TAKE SOME TIME FOR THE HEAD TO HEAL. DAVE IS HOME FROM THE HOSPITAL WHERE KATHY IS HIS NURSE. Need Sportster Answer I have a problem with my 1971 Sportster that I hope you can help me with. It’s the clutch. Problem is… the thing won’t engage fully, so I get slippage. second problem…. It won’t release fully so the bike wants to walk away with the clutch pulled in. Believe me when I tell you that I have tried everything. what in GODS name am I missing???? Most of the parts are new… you gotta help me…. I’m ready to put the bike out for the trash. Thanks man, –Al Tyson Bandit Missing Livia, Livia Missing Bandit I never did get to see you in Daytona. Are your guys from Hot Bike shooting anything in Laughlin? I’ll be there if you need a model to shoot with the bikes. hint hint 🙂 — Livia The Baas High School Report Card As the 2005 class project chopper is almost finished I finally found a little time to reflect…this new class project has had such a great impact on me, the kids, our school, and the industry. It all started with an idea to make class a bit more exciting and incorporate something that would get kids fired up to learn. From the first year rebuilding my old Ironhead, I knew right away, I had a hook. Kids started talking about the metal shop and that there was a chopper being built. Well that old Sporty is far from a chopper but what the heck the kids thought it was cool. Then last year buying that old ’57 Panhead basket and giving the old girl new life in class really convinced a lot of people that this was a great way to get kids involed with something cool, but it also helped to build a little credibility that we actually could cut, weld, fabricate and assemble bikes without having to rely on outside sources to do all the work and then give us the credit..WE BUILD THE BIKES! After getting some print in a few mags and Bikernet last year, on the Panhead build and with the growing interested by the students to enroll in my course, I knew it was time to take it to the next level..The fund raiser class chop. I must say this project took off like a wildfire and the sponsors stepped up immediately to help us out. How cool is that for kids to see legends and giants in the industry as well as the new superstars supporting what they do. The kids really appreciate the fact that so many people believed in them and supported what they were doing. Bikernet, TBear, The Horse, Paul Cox, Midwest QuickThrottle magazine, Sucker Punch Sallys, Donnie Smith, Neil Ryan (American Thunder Promotions) and chopper underground all helped to get the word out on what we were doing and helped us greatly to get sponsors on board..thank you!! This has been honestly one of the most exciting, stressful, fun, tough, incredible years I have ever seen in my almost 10 years of teaching here at Kennedy. The community is supporting us, as well as the administration and parents. At least twice a week someone comes down to the shop to give a tour or just peek in to say hi and get an up-close look at what the kids are doing..it is soo cool! We were invited to tour the S&S plant on April 5th and will be meeting with the S&S family, that is going to be an amazing experience for all of us. To get the S&S motor donated was an honor and we hope to promote their great company as much as we can this summer with the bike on display at as many events as we can get it to. I will keep updating the pics and progress and once again just want to say THANKS to everyone who believed in us..this is dream come true and will only get better every year. –Kevin Baas Michigan House poised to act on helmet law Granholm may reject effort to repeal rule requiring headgear By GEORGE J. TANBER A bill that would repeal Michigan’s 36-year-old motorcycle helmet law has passed the Senate and is expected to pass the House. But the state’s governor is opposed to the bill and could veto it. The Senate bill, which passed on March 17, was sponsored by Sen. Alan Cropsey (R., DeWitt). It seeks to repeal the helmet law for bikers who are at least 21 years old, have had a motorcycle license for two years, and have taken a motorcycle safety course. “It has been shown that helmets are of absolutely of no use if a person is going [even] 15 mph. If you’re going much faster, it’s useless,” Mr. Cropsey said. “[Also], when you have [one] on, you are in your own environment. When you have it off, you realize how vulnerable you are.” Opponents of the repeal say serious injuries and deaths will increase and the use of helmets will decreases dramatically if the law is repealed. “It is the single piece of safety equipment available to motorcyclists,” said Jim Rink, spokesman for AAA Michigan. Vehicles have a wide variety of safety features, from safety belts, to air bags, and child restraints, so it just makes sense to protect yourself when riding a motorcycle.” Michigan’s border states do not have a helmet law. Since 1997, six states – Arkansas, Texas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Florida, and Pennsylvania – have repealed helmet laws. Vince Consiglio, president of the Michigan chapter of American Bikers Aiming Toward Education, has been lobbying against the law since 1976. He feels confident the bill will pass the House, where it was introduced on March 16 and has 46 co-sponsors, but is nervous about what Gov. Jennifer Granholm will do. The governor’s spokesman, Liz Boyd, said yesterday that “the governor is opposed to repealing the helmet law for safety and health reasons.” –from Rogue Aussie Report–Caloundra Car and Bike Show Last year before I knew it, the Caloundra Car & Bike Show, hosted by the Banditos M.C. came and went and I’d missed it. Made a note in the diary and was pleased to have made it there this year. It was well attended and the crowd were definitely not disappointed. There were bike stunts, burnouts, a tattoo competition and good ol’ rock ‘n roll by an AC/DC tribute band. Hope you enjoy the photos – we have some amazing talent here on the Sunshine Coast and thankfully they don’t miss an opportunity to bring out their bikes. –Glenn Priddle The New Pet A woman goes into a pet shop looking for a parrot. The assistant shows her a beautiful African Grey parrot. “What about this one, Madam? A beautiful bird, and it’s an absolute steal at only $20.” “Why is it that cheap?” the woman asks. “Well”, replies the assistant, “it used to live in a brothel and as a result its language is a touch fruity”. “Oh, I don’t mind that”, said the woman, making her mind up, “I’m broad minded and it’ll be a laugh having a profane parrot”. So saying, she buys the parrot and takes him home. Once safely in his new home, the parrot looks around and squawks at the woman. “F==k me, a new brothel and a new madam”. “I’m not a madam and this is not a brothel” scolds the woman trying not to laugh. A little later the woman?s two teenage daughters arrive home. “Un f==king-believable. A new brothel, a new madam, and now two new prostitutes” says the parrot when he sees the daughters. “Mum, tell your parrot to shut up, we’re not prostitutes” complain the girls, but they all see the funny side and have a laugh at their new pet. A short while later, the woman?s husband Dave comes home. “In f==kinig-credible, a new brothel, a new madam, new prostitutes, but the same old clients ….. How ya doin’, Dave?” –from Scooter More Easter Houston News Check out the custom top motormount on the Road King project. I know you prefer using studs, but I just think this looks cool and there will hopefully be no need to pull the bolts in and out a bunch. –Kent
AlTyson60@aol.com 
My portfolio: http://onemodelplace.com/liviamodel>http://onemodelplace.com/liviamodel 
BAAS METAL CRAFT
Custom made steel signs, art, furniture and fabricated parts. www.baasmetalcraft.com
952-215-1252
“When in doubt, burn out!” 
BLADE STAFF WRITER
http://www.bikerrogue.com 
Aussie Connection 
Lucky Devil Metal Works
New Steed Machine Hits The Streets
Those darn webmasters. And then they think they deserve a vacation too…What’s up with that?
Are you going to the Heritage Rally in SC in a couple of weeks?
Do you know what Street Chopper issue (release date) the Black Bobber is going to be in?
We just finished another one of our Quarterhorse 300-PM Performance bikes, very cool, (our sport bike model, 2-up seating too) would you like it for Hot Bike? I think I’ve got a really awesome looking model, friend of Bree’s and one of her bikini team/ Bud girl associates), that I’m shooting it with on Monday. She’ll be a sexy injun. I’ll attach a crappy shot out in the driveway for you to see this bike. If you’d like it for HB, it’s yours.
Enough of the questions…
–John
No, I’m not going to Charolette, but sending Eric Ellis. Your bike and babe will be featured in the July issue of Street Choppers. And rumor has it that the Digital Monster will post your calendar girl contest today. Can’t wait for that one.–Bandit
Muller Clutches Anyone?
Also, do you have any articles on the Muller Power Clutch? I ask for a somewhat common reason. I know many riders who for one reason or another, have lost a finger or two. I’m in that crowd, as I managed to blow a few off when I was young. To make matters worse, it’s on my left hand and makes it tough to pull the clutch in on busy rides.
I looked everywhere for a clean solution and found this Muller thing. I installed it last week and let me tell you, the clutch pull is like butter. They essentially changed the geometry of the Ball-and-Ramp, that’s all.
Thirty minutes, maybe a few more, for a complete install. After the install, I tested it out and thought the clutch was slipping. Not. I was doing burn-outs all over. There’s absolutely no impact to performance. This would be a very hot tip on your site.
–Phil
We’ll get on it.–Bandit
Lookin’ For A Ride?
Got a cash-in-hand buyer looking for a used Fatboy or other HD in decent shape. Can pay around $17-$20. Know of anything?
–Jim Houck
Platinum Air Offers Fully Adjustable Air Suspension, Even While Riding
MC Advantages is proud to announce exclusive distribution of the revolutionary new Platinum Air Suspension System. Platinum Air utilizes a patent-pending Bleed/Feed Technology that controls uncomfortable suspension rebound at a surprisingly competitive price over the leading air shocks on the market.
Due to innovative engineering and formidable construction, Platinum Air Suspension can be ride height and ride dampening adjusted while riding the bike, even with a passenger. Designed for simple plug & play installation, Bleed/Feed Platinum Air Suspension kits have fully adjustable ride height and fully adjustable ride dampening. Deluxe and Simple Platinum Air Suspension kits feature full ride height adjustment only.
Bleed/Feed models are available for ?84-?05 Softails?, FLH? Dressers, V-Rods? and customs. Deluxe and Simple models are available for ?84-?05 Softails?, Dynas?, Road Glides?, Road Kings?, Sportsters? and customs.
–MC Advantages We are looking to sponsor two lady riders for Bonneville Land Speed Racing. Please check out our web site. http://www.goldwingracingproject.info. –Kenny Lyon THAT’S IT FOR EASTER–Can I catch a break, have a beer, look for an Easter Egg? I’d rather touch her… well you know what I mean. It’s tough duty to be stuck in the headquarters when all the women slip out to Palm Springs and over to Pedro. Suddenly this joint lost it’s glint, the bubbly nature of boobs bouncing from task to task. I suppose that’s why they cut a dusty trail away from this stucco giant. They knew I’d be home all weekend and there was a lesbian convention in Palm Springs. What a delicious excuse. No, all the Bikernet women aren’t boob lovers like the rest of us. Just enough of the girls to keep it interesting. Have a helluva Easter. May all your egg shell dreams come true. Let’s Ride, –Bandit
1-800-726-9620
(310) 637 6094
kenylyon@hotmail.com 
