Who the fuck came up with the notion for a Sunday Post? I’m hungover, it’s my 82-year-old mom’s Birthday, I’ve got deadlines, projects and places to ride. Besides, goddamnit, It’s Sunday!
Ah, but last night was a dream, an example of how every night should be for a man till the day he croaks. I’ll touch on that later. Let’s hit the news:
Should there be a law? –Ken Miller
Governor Davis Signs Law that Removes “Custom” from Earplug Requirement
California SB 315 has been signed into law. Included in this bill was a provision to allow for use of “foam” style non-custom earplugs by street motorcycle riders.
Thanks are due to State Senator Debra Bowen (Democrat, District 28, Redondo Beach) who worked closely with the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) to make this change in the law. The AMA is asking riders to let Senator Bowen know they appreciate her assistance by sending her an e-mail. The new law takes effect January 1, 2004.
“Requiring motorcyclists who want to drown out road noise by using ear plugs to buy custom-made plugs is an outdated law that makes absolutely no sense,” said Senator Bowen. “The test ought to be whether a rider using ear plugs can still hear a car’s horn or a siren from an emergency vehicle. If a set of ear plugs can meet that test, then a rider ought to be able to use them, regardless of who makes them or how they’re made. The only people the custom-made requirement helps are, surprise, the people who make custom ear plugs. It doesn’t help riders and it doesn’t help the police, emergency vehicle operators, or other drivers who count on a motorcyclist to be able to hear their horns or sirens. As long as over-the-counter plugs do the job, there’s no reason why ear plugs should have to be custom-made, so junking that requirement is a common sense change that’s long overdue.”
The bill was signed on 9/28/03, chaptered on 9/29/03, and will take effect on 1/1/04.
–from MH
Why men die before women.–Chris T.
Assination Bust
On March 19, 2002 Patrick Henault a member of the Bandidos motorcycle club walked up to a retaurant window occupied by Steven Bertrand, a member of the Hells Angels and fired 6 rounds hitting him in the head and back.
What most did not know is that the police were watching the incident from close by. With the aid of an informant inside the Bandidos, police knew of the planned hit well in advance.
Through a video camera hidden where two gunmen and the informant planned the shooting, a police surveillance team had watched them work out the details, disguise themselves, arm themselves and leave.
Police files, including audio and video tapes, obtained and reported by the Ottawa Citizen, also show that a police stakeout team was told to be on standby some two hours before the shooting. The informant advised the police to start paying attention at 11:15 a.m. Police dispatched an undercover agent to “shadow” the gunmen 10 minutes before the shooting.
Patrick Hnault, signed an agreement with prosecutors yesterday that has him pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and testifying against fellow club members in an unrelated trial.
The guilty pleas lift a publication ban on the case. According to police documents reported by Canaidan press, the informant’s work began well before the time of the shooting. He reportedly telephoned police as early as 8:30 a.m. on the day of the shooting. A day earlier, he’d been equipped with an audio wire to record a Bandidos meeting attended by the Sushi Bar gunmen. He called his police again as soon as he learned the gunmen were about to pay him a visit.
At 1:19 p.m. in a gesture not remarked on in police documents obtained by the Citizen the informant approaches the place where he knows a police camera is concealed and gestures with his cellphone trying to get them to call him. 10 minutes before the shooting the police, still watching, decided to send a police shadow to 214 Bernard.
Even though police documents written after the shooting indicate the surveillance video “clearly demonstrates the premeditation” of the gunmen authorities did not stop the shooting.
At 1:25 p.m., Mr. Henault walks out the back door and descends a wrought-iron spiral staircase into a tree-lined alley behind the apartment. The two other men take the front door and head east on toward the Tokyo Sushi Bar.
Taking his position on the corner of Parc and Bernard Streets, the informant searches for police but sees none. With the coast clear, he signals the gunmen by flipping his cap. At that point Henault starts shooting through the window.
Minutes later, police video footage shows the gunman returning alone to the apartment, located less than a block away from the sushi bar. He is seen changing clothes and destroying his disguise and then making a phone call.
He is arrested 2 hours later leaving the apartment with the informant.
Montreal police declined to comment to the Citizen’s on it’s story
–Rogue
Could this have something to do with it?
Cops Gone Bad Again
New York – The agency that investigates complaints against city police officers said it has received 26.4 percent more complaints this year than it did during the same period last year, according to a published report.
The Civilian Complaint Review Board said 4,193 complaints were made in the first nine months of this year, compared with 3,364 during the first nine months of last year, The New York Times reported Thursday.
The Police Department’s Deputy Commissioner for Public Information, Michael O’Looney, said there did not appear to be a pattern in the increase, the Times said.
“We take all complaints seriously and spend a great deal of time and resources training our officers to present themselves in a professional and courteous manner,” O’Looney said in a statement.
The executive director of the CCRB, Florence Finkle, said the board’s 128 investigators will be asked to work 50 hours of overtime by the end of next month to handle the cases.
“We want to be able to investigate cases in a timely and thorough manner, so overtime is essential,” Finkle told the Times.
The associate legal director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, Christopher Dunn, told the Times that it was possible that the increase reflected that fewer complaints were filed last year, when perceptions of police officers were influenced by the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack.
Bad Cop… No Doughnut!
–Rogue
Custom Chrome Expands their RevTech Engine Family
Morgan Hill, California: The new RevTech 110 V-Twin engine has arrived! Over five years in development, this all-new 110 cubic-inch engine features big-bore technology to develop maximum horsepower across a wide RPM spectrum. The RevTech 110 joins the proven 88-inch and 100-inch engines in the popular RevTech line. The RevTech 110 produces a tremendous amount of power, over 115 horsepower and 125 ft. lbs. of torque, at the rear wheel; this is double the average output of an 80-inch V-Twin engine. The broad power band makes for an outstanding all around ride, both in traffic and on the open road. Considered by many to be the ideal displacement, the RevTech 110 engine features a large 4-inch bore and a 4-3/8-inch stroke. This configuration keeps piston weight within reasonable limits and at 6,250 RPM the piston speed averages less than 4,550 fps. These factors have added benefits in that the motor can be balanced with standard weight flywheels and the piston skirt is long enough to maintain effective ring contact with the cylinder walls.
For ease of installation in stock frames, the RevTech 110 engine’s mounting points and rocker box height are the same as an OEM style engine. Along with the larger displacement, the new RevTech 110 engine features a larger crankpin/rod bearing design and a unique crankcase and cylinder manufacturing method. The engine is fully assembled and includes a digital ignition system and a Mikuni HSR45 carburetor.
For further information on the RevTech 110 engine or other RevTech products, contact your Custom Chrome dealer, or call 800-729-3332. Tell ’em Bikenet sent ya.
IDIOTS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
I live in a semi-rural area. We recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: too many deer were being hit by cars and she didn’t want them to cross there anymore. I could swear I’ve recently been with some of these people…
FINALISTS OF BUELL SLAY THE DRAGON II SWEEPSTAKES CARVE UP DEAL?S GAP
Knoxville, Tenn. — (October 8, 2003) Finalists in the 2003 Buell Slay the Dragon II Sweepstakes carved up Deal?s Gap aboard Buell motorcycles on September 25. Each of them won a free trip to the ultimate sportbike riding location to experience the handling of Buell motorcycles, but only one would be chosen as the grand prize winner of either a 2003 XB9R Firebolt or XB9S Lightning. At a stop along the ride, veteran Buell racer Tripp Nobles pulled the name of Maurice “Moe” O Connor, of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the handling and performance of the Buell motorcycles we rode at Deal’s Gap,” O Connor said. “I pushed them hard and they were very responsive. The location was amazing.” He praised the cornering ability of both the Firebolt and Lightning, but chose the Firebolt because he preferred its riding position. As a rider for more than three decades, O Connor has owned several motorcycles, including some race machines. His last motorcycle was a Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King.
Deal’s Gap is a unique stretch of road that follows U.S. 129 through North Carolina along the Tennessee State line. It is infamous among motorcycle riders as one of the most exciting roads in the United States, boasting 318 turns in just 11 miles. Nicknamed ?The Dragon? because of its challenging twists and turns, thousands flock to the area each year to experience the thrill of the road and the area?s scenic Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Slay the Dragon II group included four of the five customers whose entries were chosen from the sweepstakes drawing earlier this spring. In addition to O Connor, Steven Fling of Arnold, Mo., Jay Fedorenko of Mandan, N.D. and Gerald Tilley of Shelby, N.C. attended the Deal’s Gap event. Dennis Munchel of Berkley Hts., N.J. was one of the finalists, but was not able to make the trip.
IDIOTS AT WORK
I was signing the receipt for my credit card purchase when the clerk noticed I had never signed my name on the back of the credit card. She informed me that she could not complete the transaction unless the card was signed. When I asked why, she explained that it was necessary to compare the signature I had just signed on the receipt. So I signed the credit card in front of her. She carefully compared the signature to the one I had just signed on the receipt. As luck would have it, they matched.
IDIOT SIGHTING #1: I was at the airport, checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked, “Has anyone put anything in your baggage without your knowledge?” To which I replied, “If it was without my knowledge, how would I know?” She smiled knowingly and nodded, “That’s why we ask.”
IDIOT SIGHTING #2: The stoplight on the corner buzzes when it’s safe to cross the street. I was crossing with a co-worker of mine when she asked if I knew what the buzzer was for. I explained that it signals blind people when the light is red. Appalled, she responded, “What on earth are blind people doing driving?”
IDIOT SIGHTING #3: At a good-bye luncheon for an old and dear co-worker who is leaving the company due to “downsizing,” our manager commented cheerfully, “This is fun. We should do this more often.” Not a word was spoken. We all just looked at each other with that deer- in-the-headlights stare.
IDIOT SIGHTING #4: I work with an individual who plugged her power strip back into itself and for the life of her couldn’t understand why her system would not turn on.
IDIOT SIGHTING #5: When my husband and I arrived at an automobile dealership to pick up our car, we were told the keys had been locked in it. We went to the service department and found a mechanic working feverishly to unlock the driver’s side door. As I watched from the passenger side, I instinctively tried the door handle and discovered that it was unlocked. “Hey,” I announced to the technician, “it’s open!” To which he replied, “I know – I already got that side.”
–from Chris T.
HOLIDAYS HEAT UP WITH HARLEY-DAVIDSON? MOTORCLOTHES? APPAREL LEATHERS
MILWAUKEE (Oct. 6, 2003) – As enthusiasts prepare for winter festivities, they’ll find that the holiday collection from Harley-Davidson MotorClothes Apparel will add an extra sparkle to the season.
Male riders can heat up their wardrobe with the S/S Flame Shirt (Part: 96126-04 VM, MSRP $60). This grey 100 percent cotton twill shirt features a snap-down collar, left chest pocket with black screen printed flames and a red embroidered Harley-Davidson graphic for attitude. Black overlay flames with red satin stitching spilling across the back and red embroidered Harley-Davidson lettering make this shirt a hot item.
A nod to cowboys of yesteryear, the simple lines and straightforward design of the Rustler Leather Biker Jacket (Part: 97053-04VM, MSRP $435) will appeal to the urban cowboys of today. The midweight, lightly distressed, pebble-grained leather is a great cool weather companion. Featuring zippered sleeves, an action back and a snap-down biker collar, this jacket combines function and style. Five front-zippered pockets offer plenty of storage and the adjustable snap-tab waistband offers riders maximum comfort. Epaulets and a custom H-D embroidered back graphic give this jacket unique Harley-Davidson style.
Female enthusiasts will be sure to turn heads sporting pieces from the red-hot Cheyenne Collection. The Cheyenne Leather Biker Jacket (Part: 97040-04VW, MSRP $450), offered in red or black midweight, smooth-grained leather, is a must have for the holidays and year-round. Featuring an action back with embossed leather trim, zippered sleeves and a snap-down biker collar, this jacket is packed with attitude. Three front-zippered pockets provide room for storage while princess seams offer a flattering fit. Metal studs and onyx detailing lines the collar and cuffs of the jacket. Double buckle details found at the waist and wrists add unique flair while discreet H-D embossing lets ladies show their H-D pride.
Coordinate the Cheyenne Leather Halter Top (Part: 97041-04VW, MSRP $165) with the jacket for a distinctive look. Made of midweight, smooth-grained leather, the top’s back zip and adjustable front-lacing allows for easy dressing. Buckle details on the strap, along with decorative stud and onyx detailing and custom Harley-Davidson embossing above the left waistband, will warm up any enthusiast’s cool night. The halter is available in red or black.
To complete the look, ladies can slip into the traditional fit Cheyenne Leather Pants (Part: 97046-04VW, MSRP $280). The midweight, smooth-grained leather slacks feature embossed leather and studs running down the side of each leg. Available in red or black, double buckle details at the waist and custom H-D embossing below the left waistband make these pants sizzle. A cuttable hem lets ladies customize the length.
Enthusiasts can check out Harley-Davidson MotorClothes Merchandise Holiday 2003 riding gear at authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships nationwide starting in October 2003. Call 1.800.LUV.2RIDE, or visit www.harley-davidson.com to find the closest dealership.
IDIOTS IN FOOD SERVICE
My daughter went to a local Taco Bell and ordered a taco. She asked the person behind the counter for “minimal lettuce.” He said he was sorry, but they only had iceberg.
MILWAUKEE, WIS (Oct. 5, 2003) – The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines drag racing team put both its riders into the Pro Stock Bike elimination rounds of the 19th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway near Reading, Pa. Rider Andrew Hines posted the fastest speed of the event when his Harley-Davidson V-Rod roared to 193.05 mph in the first round of eliminations.
“It was cool to set the top speed of the event,” said Hines. “But we’re here to win, and we won’t be happy until we do.”
This stop on the National Hot Rod Association POWERade Drag Racing Series was rained out after just one round of qualifying on Sept. 11, and bad weather again dogged the track on Friday and Saturday, limiting qualifying to just one more round. Hines qualified seventh with a run of 7.182 seconds at 189.52 mph, the fastest top speed in qualifying. Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines rider GT Tonglet put his V-Rod in the show with a run of 7.225/184.37, good for 11th position on the 16-rider elimination round grid. Fred Collis was the top qualifier with a run of 7.117/186.79.
The weather Sunday was clear but cool, with a temperature of 57 degrees as the event started. Hines (7.148/193.05) beat Mike Berry (7.152/187.11) to win his first round race. Tonglet (7.120/190.46) was defeated in his first round run by series points leader Geno Scali (7.075/185.69).
In the second round, Hines drew defending Pro Stock Bike champion Angele Savoie. Both riders jumped the start, but Hines (- 0.021) jumped before Savoie (- 0.012) and so she was allowed to advance to the third round and Hines was eliminated.
Michael Phillips (7.133/189.07), making his first appearance in a Pro Stock Bike final since winning at Houston in 1995, defeated Savoie (7.165/188.07) to win the event.
The National Hot Rod Association POWERade Drag Racing Series next heads to Las Vegas, Nev. for the third annual AC Delco Las Vegas Nationals, Oct. 23-26 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
“The Harley Mystique” by Mark Wall, Assist-Director, HP HOG October 2003 Issue of Carolina Biker Magazine
If I have to explain, you wouldn’t understand. I used to hear this phrase thrown around before I became a Harley Owner and I must admit, I thought it was biker trash talk. How could owning a piece of machinery make anyone feel like a different person? I’ve learned, that is the mystique of Harley. It’s true, you can’t explain it, it has to be experienced.
I’ve owned a Honda cruiser and a Kawasaki crotch rocket and they didn’t come close to matching the feeling I had the day I rode off the lot on my Harley. I was on top of the world. I had reached the pinnacle that all motorcycle riders, whethere they will admit it or not, are longing for . . . Harley Ownership.
It’s a brotherhood unmatched by any standard. Man, woman, black, white, red, yellow, none of it matters. We’re Harley Owners and that sets us apart from the rest and bonds us together. A Harley rider is welcome anywhere there is another Harley rider. We all have some unknown code buried deep in our souls that binds us together, a special bond that is brought to the surface by these chrome and steel machines with the HD logo. We’re free spirits that want only the best two-wheeled experience available to us and we won’t settle for a cheap imitation. Imitation is the highest form of flattery, and we are very flattered by most every motorcycle builder on the planet.
When you own a Harley, even a short ride to the store becomes an event. You get a bunch of Harleys together and it’s not a ride, it’s a parade. People will stop, stare, and wave as the pack rumbles by. You won’t get that reacion in a group of Hondas. So next time you are out chasing the wind and you see a fellow biker who isn’t as fortunate as we Harley Owners are, give them a low wave and a smile. Deep down, they know.
This is to notify all concerned parties that I have sold my complete 4-Valve inventory to John Mansell of Precision Motorcycles, 9592 RT. 219, West Valley, NY. 14171. Phone 716-942-6799.
John has complete assemblies ready for installation, as well as parts available for rebuilding heads and components to new specifications that improve their performance and reliability.
I have worked with John over the years and though other people were interested in my inventory, I felt that he is a person that has the knowledge and experience to take over for me. He is dedicated and his attention to detail has produced results.
I had been involved in the 4-Valve technology since 1990 and worked with and for numerous companies to refine them. I have always felt they were a very good product and produced great performance gains. There were some noise and other problems associated with them that many people were not satisfied with. I believe that those problems have been solved by myself and John.
If you have a set of 4-Valve Heads and other components made by Fueling, American Motor Works or American Quantum that need work or wish to purchase parts for I recommend you contact John Mansell.
I will continue to work with John and I am sure that the motorcycling community will benefit by his knowledge and experience.
–ROGUE
Another quick lesson from Chris T.
Special events split Daytona Voters
DAYTONA BEACH — Like many voters in the city’s primary election, Dennis Gurrie had special events tourism on his mind at his beachside precinct.
He had those thoughts with good reason. Just down the road on Main Street, preparations were under way for the Biketoberfest motorcycle festival that was about a week away.
Wooden fencing, bars and food kiosks began appearing in the parking lot of a Main Street saloon that sits vacant most of the year but is expected to be bustling with bikers for Biketoberfest, which officially begins Thursday and runs through next Sunday.
Business signs appeared on top of a block of shops that stay shuttered all year except during the influx of about 100,000 bikers during Biketoberfest and the even larger Bike Week crowds in March.
“The only special events that bother me are the biker events, with the bikes screaming through the neighborhood at night,” said Gurrie, an airline ticket agent.
Voters interviewed at the polls in Tuesday’s primary, which narrowed the field for mayor and three City Commission seats, listed special events — not only the biker events but also Spring Break, Black College Reunion and Speed Weeks — as the No. 1 issue in the city election.
–By JOHN BOZZO
Staff Writer
mailto:john.bozzo@news-jrnl.com
–from Rogue
Ah, last night… Shots from Jay H.
LET’S PARTY–The cake smells wonderful. The galley is strewn with pots and pans. My project list continues to grow. Ah but sex into the wee hour last night rang all my bells. I’ll take another handful of aspirin and hit the bricks.
Dear old mom won’t hear a word of last night as we cut the cake and dig into a magnificent barbecue. All will be calm and thankful that, at 82, she still parties daily. Think of me during your ride today.
–Bandit
