Internet auctions offer everything from Janet Jackson’s silhouette on a slice of Gouda cheese to a Russian MiG-17. But there’s nothing like a living, breathing in-your-face auction, the real thing, up close and personal… machines you can touch and real people fighting for ownership of the items bid upon, in this case precious metal, more specifically some 20 ultra-rare historic American motorcycles going up on the auction block on June 14 in Tustin, CA (just outside L.A.) at a place called Joe's Garage which is just that, a place where a guy named Joe MacPherson parked his cars and bikes and then opened it up as a museum for public viewing.

Joe built a very large and very cool building to house his two-and-four-wheeled vehicles and Joe knew how to build a garage. He’s the entrepreneur that created the auto mega mall concept and established several highly successful automobile dealerships in Southern Californian. The museum closed this past January 2008 after Joe’s passing. Now his bikes and cars and memorabilia are looking for new homes.

The 1930 Sampson Miller U-16 is a radical Henry Miller design featuring two 100.5 cu. in Miller straight 8-cylinder engines melded together. It would qualify for seven Indianapolis 500 races, later running a different engine. This car has been restored to its 16 cylinder state of tune. Estimate sale price $500,000-700,000. As for the 1935 Miller/Ford V8, it too was resurrected and restored to its original fire-breathing state of 450 supercharged horsepower. Estimated action price: $250,000-350,000.

As for some background on Joe and his collection, we refer to a couple of Joe’s longtime buddies Jim and Tom Ferruzzo who put together a photo book and printed up copies to give to Joe and the museum. Their heartfelt words best sums up Joe and his legacy, so we’ll quote it as follows:

Joe, the man, before he left us.

“If there was a man with a true passion for cars, it is Joe MacPherson. From his youth and throughout his lifetime, Joe has pursued his passion in every way imaginable. From the Mighty Midget Races at the Huntington Beach Speedway to the Jalopy Derby at the Culver City Stadium, Joes has seen and done it all. But nowhere is this passion more evident that in Joe’s greatest creation, Joe’s Garage in Tustin, California. Joe’s Garage is not just a collection of automobiles (and motorcycles) it is a stroll through automotive history, as seen through the eyes ofJoe MacPherson.”

That history even covers the wall of the museum in the form of exceptional hand-painted murals chronicling a century of automotive evolution, artist Bill Hueg spent a year on the project called “The California Scene,” which spans some 270 feet of wall space. Standing within the walls are some 50 cars including everything from custom hotrods to vintage Corvettes to Dale Earnhart Sr.’s seventh Winston Cup Series championship to Bonneville Slat Flat racers to classic Chevy pick-ups with big block motors.

In addition a whole bunch of hi-tech diagnostic equipment from Sun, Snap-on and GE will be auctioned off as well as automotive artifacts, tons of vintage shop signs, vintage and racing helmets, posters, artwork, model cars and trucks, complete high performance Ford and Chevy engines, car parts, and display cases.

And as for the collection of bikes, here’s the list with a few spotlighted to give you an idea of the treasure trove involved. And remember there’s no reserveon any of these bikes or cars, high bid wins. And yes, while it’s the most fun being there in person, there will be Internet access to the action as well. Check that out via www.rmauctions.com.

The Bikes (in chronological order):

1908 Indian “Camelback” Belt-drive Single

1911 Flying Merkel Single
1911 Pierce-Arrow Belt-drive Single
1911 Wagner Belt-drive Single
1912 Flanders Belt-drive Single
1912 Yale “4P” Belt-drive Single

1913 H-D board track racer.

1913 Harley-Davidson racer
1915 Indian Big Twin
1916 H-D 8 Valve Boardtrack racer
1921 H-D racer
1931 H-D OHV “Peashooter” Hillclimber
1937 H-D Knucklehead (red)
1937 H-D Knucklehead (black)

1937 Indian Sport Scout
1939 Big Tank Crocker (Jack Lilly bike)
1940 Indian 10E Four Cylinder
1941 Indian Dispatch Tow
1948 H-D WR Daytona racer

Very rare and successful Indian flat track racer featured in the Cantina.
1948 Indian 648 Big Base
1953 Indian Roadmaster Chief
1999 H-D Springer Softail (as new)

1911 Pierce Arrow Belt-Drive Single .
Bicycles, cars, motorcycles…George N. Pierce had all the wheels rolling as the founder of both the Great Arrow Motor Car Company and the Pierce Cycle Company, both enterprises located in Buffalo, New York.

Of the many “prestige” American cars built over the years, few enjoyed more favor for a longer period than the Pierce-Arrow automobiles circa 1901-38. A succession of designs led in 1909 to the appearance of the Pierce Arrow at which point, despite their expensive price, there were never enough cars to quench public demand such was the quality, fitment and performance of these machines.

George’s son Percy was given charge of the company’s bicycle activities in 1908 at which point the younger Pierce ventured into building motorcycles, all the rage at the time. It seems that Percy had a been bitten by the bike bug after a trip overseas to Belgium where he encountered the now famous FN four-cylinder machine designed by Paul Kelecom. So impressed in fact, he purchased one and brought it home to Buffalo and went develop the Pierce line of fine motorcycles in keeping with the reputation of their fine motor cars.

On first look, one might ask, where’s the gas tank? And oil tank for that matter. The sophisticated lines of the elegantly designed machine can be attributed to the 3.5 inch diameter, 18 gauge steel frame tubes that were internally copper plated. The upper and rear frame tubes could hold seven quarts of fuel while the front downtube carried five pints of oil all of which served to feed and nourish the 592cc single cylinder capable of propelling its rider to the then dizzying speed of 55 mph all with the “efficiency of a twin with the simplicity of single-cylinder construction.”

The Pierce was described as “The Vibrationless Motorcycle” and appeared in both single and four-cylinder models, successes both with sales to 14 different countries.

A company ad summed it up when it stated, “Pierce motorcycles are not made to compete in price but to surpass in quality. It is a deluxe motorcycle for discriminating riders.” And so will be the new owner of this superb example beautifully restored from an original machine.

Specifications:

Engine: 592cc/5 HP
Wheelbase: 57 inches
Weight: 235 lb.
Top speed: 55 mph

1931 Harley-Davidson OHV “Peashooter”Serial No. 31AA542
Hill Climbing like jazz is an American invention. The idea is to get to the top of a very steep hill faster than the next rider. And you and the bike must arrive together.

It seems a fellow named Jack Fletcher got himself remembered when he rode his 1919 Harley-Davidson W Sport to the top of Mt. Baldy clearing some 10,000ft.That’s a hill.

So how did a 21 cubic inch single cylinder motorcycle become a mountain climber? Initially designed as a “cuddly” 350cc single for the street, the versatile “Peashooter” could take on the personality of a Howitzer when formulated for Hill Climb competitions. While they were introduced in the hopes of bringing down speeds on board and dirt tracks to a “safer” level, that concept disappeared in a cloud of dust as tuners got to work. Capable of scorching 85mph on a flat track, these bikes were more inclined to a near vertical attitude as their chain clad rear tires chewed its way up 200-600 ft. hillsides preferably with their riders still on board. “Fast and furious” was the name of the game and Harley played it to win. So popular was the sport that movie theater newsreels often included hillclimb action especially the spectacular falls of bike and rider back down the hill in question.

One of the greats of Hill Climb was Joe Petrali who rode to many victories aboard his Harley “Peashooter” including National Hill Climb Championships for 1932-39.

Introduced in 1926 the 350’s were Milwaukee’s response to Indian’s Prince of the same displacement. They came in two flavors, an economical sidevalve or flathead, the former for general lightweight transportation and the more ferocious race-oriented OHV version being the Motor Co.’s first OHV engine since the Sport Twin and the first OHV offered for sale to the public. A popular machine, exported Peashooters showed up in European speedway events and as well as daily riders for lightweight sportbike enthusiasts.

The standard Peashooter’s 350cc engine, with choice of magneto or battery ignition, was rated at 8 HP while the ohv version produced 12 and came equipped with magneto. This new single gained its performance advantage thanks special combustion chambers designed by British engineer Harry Ricardo. A design feature called a “squish band” created turbulence in the fuel charge resulting in a fuller burn and thereby greater horsepower. In addition the competition Peashooter engine featured pressure oil feed to all bearings except the wristpin and had a sodium-cooled exhaust valve.

As to the derivation of its nickname “Peashooter” that seems to have been inspired by the distinctive sharp crackling sound issuing from the exhaust, name tagged when the OHV ran its first race in 1925. The following year the Peashooter had won six of 14 national championship 350cc races. The lightweight sportbike was also seen as the right candidate for Hill Climb competitions and this example, built in homage to the heyday of the sport, is outfitted appropriately right down to the chains.

Specifications:

Engine: 350cc (21 cu.in.) OHV Single
Weight: approx. 215 lb.
Top Speed: 85+ MPH

1939 Big Tank Crocker V-twinSerial # 39 61 103
The Crocker V-twins were built in varying displacements and accessories as dictated by customer preference, and were in effect the first custom bike you could order from a manufacturer. The last batch of Crockers was produced in 1942 as WWII sucked up precious materials and as Crocker priced himself out of the running, losing some $2500 per bike he built from 1936-41. Al Crocker passed away in 1961.

The Crocker motorcycle fans the passions on many levels. As Crocker collector and historian Randy Wiggins sums it up, “Al Crocker set out to produce in limited quantity of the most opulent, fastest, best handling motorcycles in the world, the premier roadster. It was a hotrod cruiser, the first power cruiser. You got to remember it was 15 mph faster than its Harley and Indian competition and even outperformed the Brough-Superior SS100 and Vincent Series A. They are absolutely the Holy Grail of motorcycles. They were built to an ideal, rather than a standard. A Crocker is a Crocker. Nothing comes close.”

The leather saddle of this particular Crocker “Big Tank” bears the signature of Jack Lilly, one of the founders of the legendary “Booze Fighters” motorcycle club rendered notorious by the indelible photos from Hollister, CA appearing in LIFE magazine. Purchased by “Crocker Jack” from Al Crocker’s shop, this machine thus carries the patina of several milestones in motorcycling history.

Once again it can be said that Crockers are “disappearing,” such is the demand and so limited is the availability. This example of proven pedigree as well as still stunning performance provides a rare opportunity to share in a remarkable vision of excellence unmatched, an investment in the past and the future as well.

Specifications:

Engine: 1000cc (61 cu. in.) 45 degree ohv V-twin; Linkert carburetor
Transmission: three-speed handshift
Frame: rigid with springer front end
Brakes: drum front and rear
Wheelbase: 62.5 inches
Weight: 475 lb.
Top Speed: 115 mph

This is a Peashooter Harley-Davidson from the '20s and '30s. The Bikernet 5-Ball Racing Team is building a Bonneville bike out of one of these for 2009.

1911 Pierce Arrow Belt-Drive Single .
Bicycles, cars, motorcycles…George N. Pierce had all the wheels rolling as the founder of both the Great Arrow Motor Car Company and the Pierce Cycle Company, both enterprises located in Buffalo, New York.

Of the many “prestige” American cars built over the years, few enjoyed more favor for a longer period than the Pierce-Arrow automobiles circa 1901-38. A succession of designs led in 1909 to the appearance of the Pierce Arrow at which point, despite their expensive price, there were never enough cars to quench public demand such was the quality, fitment and performance of these machines.

George’s son Percy was given charge of the company’s bicycle activities in 1908 at which point the younger Pierce ventured into building motorcycles, all the rage at the time. It seems that Percy had a been bitten by the bike bug after a trip overseas to Belgium where he encountered the now famous FN four-cylinder machine designed by Paul Kelecom. So impressed in fact, he purchased one and brought it home to Buffalo and went develop the Pierce line of fine motorcycles in keeping with the reputation of their fine motor cars.

On first look, one might ask, where’s the gas tank? And oil tank for that matter. The sophisticated lines of the elegantly designed machine can be attributed to the 3.5 inch diameter, 18 gauge steel frame tubes that were internally copper plated. The upper and rear frame tubes could hold seven quarts of fuel while the front downtube carried five pints of oil all of which served to feed and nourish the 592cc single cylinder capable of propelling its rider to the then dizzying speed of 55 mph all with the “efficiency of a twin with the simplicity of single-cylinder construction.”

The Pierce was described as “The Vibrationless Motorcycle” and appeared in both single and four-cylinder models, successes both with sales to 14 different countries.

A company ad summed it up when it stated, “Pierce motorcycles are not made to compete in price but to surpass in quality. It is a deluxe motorcycle for discriminating riders.” And so will be the new owner of this superb example beautifully restored from an original machine.

Specifications:

Engine: 592cc/5 HP
Wheelbase: 57 inches
Weight: 235 lb.
Top speed: 55 mph

1931 Harley-Davidson OHV “Peashooter”Serial No. 31AA542
Hill Climbing like jazz is an American invention. The idea is to get to the top of a very steep hill faster than the next rider. And you and the bike must arrive together.

It seems a fellow named Jack Fletcher got himself remembered when he rode his 1919 Harley-Davidson W Sport to the top of Mt. Baldy clearing some 10,000ft.That’s a hill.

So how did a 21 cubic inch single cylinder motorcycle become a mountain climber? Initially designed as a “cuddly” 350cc single for the street, the versatile “Peashooter” could take on the personality of a Howitzer when formulated for Hill Climb competitions. While they were introduced in the hopes of bringing down speeds on board and dirt tracks to a “safer” level, that concept disappeared in a cloud of dust as tuners got to work. Capable of scorching 85mph on a flat track, these bikes were more inclined to a near vertical attitude as their chain clad rear tires chewed its way up 200-600 ft. hillsides preferably with their riders still on board. “Fast and furious” was the name of the game and Harley played it to win. So popular was the sport that movie theater newsreels often included hillclimb action especially the spectacular falls of bike and rider back down the hill in question.

One of the greats of Hill Climb was Joe Petrali who rode to many victories aboard his Harley “Peashooter” including National Hill Climb Championships for 1932-39.

Introduced in 1926 the 350’s were Milwaukee’s response to Indian’s Prince of the same displacement. They came in two flavors, an economical sidevalve or flathead, the former for general lightweight transportation and the more ferocious race-oriented OHV version being the Motor Co.’s first OHV engine since the Sport Twin and the first OHV offered for sale to the public. A popular machine, exported Peashooters showed up in European speedway events and as well as daily riders for lightweight sportbike enthusiasts.

The standard Peashooter’s 350cc engine, with choice of magneto or battery ignition, was rated at 8 HP while the ohv version produced 12 and came equipped with magneto. This new single gained its performance advantage thanks special combustion chambers designed by British engineer Harry Ricardo. A design feature called a “squish band” created turbulence in the fuel charge resulting in a fuller burn and thereby greater horsepower. In addition the competition Peashooter engine featured pressure oil feed to all bearings except the wristpin and had a sodium-cooled exhaust valve.

As to the derivation of its nickname “Peashooter” that seems to have been inspired by the distinctive sharp crackling sound issuing from the exhaust, name tagged when the OHV ran its first race in 1925. The following year the Peashooter had won six of 14 national championship 350cc races. The lightweight sportbike was also seen as the right candidate for Hill Climb competitions and this example, built in homage to the heyday of the sport, is outfitted appropriately right down to the chains.

Specifications:

Engine: 350cc (21 cu.in.) OHV Single
Weight: approx. 215 lb.
Top Speed: 85+ MPH

1939 Big Tank Crocker V-twinSerial # 39 61 103
The Crocker V-twins were built in varying displacements and accessories as dictated by customer preference, and were in effect the first custom bike you could order from a manufacturer. The last batch of Crockers was produced in 1942 as WWII sucked up precious materials and as Crocker priced himself out of the running, losing some $2500 per bike he built from 1936-41. Al Crocker passed away in 1961.

The Crocker motorcycle fans the passions on many levels. As Crocker collector and historian Randy Wiggins sums it up, “Al Crocker set out to produce in limited quantity of the most opulent, fastest, best handling motorcycles in the world, the premier roadster. It was a hotrod cruiser, the first power cruiser. You got to remember it was 15 mph faster than its Harley and Indian competition and even outperformed the Brough-Superior SS100 and Vincent Series A. They are absolutely the Holy Grail of motorcycles. They were built to an ideal, rather than a standard. A Crocker is a Crocker. Nothing comes close.”

The leather saddle of this particular Crocker “Big Tank” bears the signature of Jack Lilly, one of the founders of the legendary “Booze Fighters” motorcycle club rendered notorious by the indelible photos from Hollister, CA appearing in LIFE magazine. Purchased by “Crocker Jack” from Al Crocker’s shop, this machine thus carries the patina of several milestones in motorcycling history.

Once again it can be said that Crockers are “disappearing,” such is the demand and so limited is the availability. This example of proven pedigree as well as still stunning performance provides a rare opportunity to share in a remarkable vision of excellence unmatched, an investment in the past and the future as well.

Specifications:

Engine: 1000cc (61 cu. in.) 45 degree ohv V-twin; Linkert carburetor
Transmission: three-speed handshift
Frame: rigid with springer front end
Brakes: drum front and rear
Wheelbase: 62.5 inches
Weight: 475 lb.
Top Speed: 115 mph

This is a Peashooter Harley-Davidson from the '20s and '30s. The Bikernet 5-Ball Racing Team is building a Bonneville bike out of one of these for 2009.

The Author, Scott Holton, working on the J&P liner.

Editor’s Note: We’re pleased to bring you another story of Salt Flats Speed Trials glory. This will be a three part series from J&P Cycles and follow their streamliner through two years of racing. Hang On!–Wrench

I have been fortunate to be selected as part of the crew for the J&P Cycles Express Harley-Davidson powered Streamliner. What is a Streamliner? It is a vehicle designed for all out acceleration in a straight line. Unlike a drag racer, this type vehicle is designed to run on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover, Utah. Sustained high-speed runs are possible due to the smooth salt surface. A revival in interest in the Flats has to be attributed to Sir Anthony Hopkins portrayal of Burt Munroe in “The Worlds Fastest Indian.” A fine movie that chronicles a New Zealanders quest to set a record. Plus Bikernet.com’s land speed record attempts and coverage, over the last two years.

The leaders of the Bikernet 5-Ball Racing Team for 2007, Barry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering, Jeremiah Soto, President Eyeball Engineering and Bandit, the Bikernet Janitor.

John Parham bought the Streamliner in the spring of ‘06 at the Las Vegas motorcycle auction. Kent Riches (owner of Airtech motorcycle bodywork) was the previous owner

When John asked me to be a part of this effort I was thrilled. Jeff Wiley, Harry Bunker and myself all made prior trips to Bonneville with our own individual projects. Paul Gomez was brought aboard for his industry contacts to assist in obtaining sponsorship. Under John’s guidance we had a team.

One of the first things decided was what event we wanted to attend. Bonneville contains a variety of land speed record events during the late summer sponsored by a couple of different racing associations. After some discussion we chose the International Speed Trials sponsored by Bub Exhaust, now Bubs Motorcycle Speed Trials. Boy, am I glad this was our choice! This meet was designed for motorcycles only and the fastest bikes on the planet were going to be there.

Photo from the Bob T. collection, of Don Vesco.

What an unprecedented, exciting Meet! Until this meet, the worlds motorcycle land speed record had changed hands 2 times in 28 years. On August 25th 1978 Don Vesco set the motorcycle record at 318.598 Miles per hour in a Kawasaki powered streamliner. On July 14, 1990 Dave Campos of Easyriders, upped this mark to 322.150 MPH in a twin engine Harley streamliner. Bandit, Bikernet.com boss, was a member of his team.

The author writing this story or checking data acquisition findings.

While at the Bub Speed trials at the Bonneville Salt Flats Sept 3rd to the 7th, 2006, the record changed hands twice! First to the twin-engine turbo-charged Hayabusa Suzuki of Mike Akatiff, dubbed the Ack-Attack. It unloaded off the trailer and laid a blistering pass of 344.673. Wow!! 20 mph over the existing record!!!!

In order to be recognized as an actual world record, a return run (in the opposite direction) must be completed within two hours. Their return run was not quite as quick, 340.922 mph. However, this established a world record of 342.797. Talk about throwing down the gauntlet! Dennis Manning, owner of Bub, has been chasing this record for a very long time.

Dennis’ ‘liner piloted by AMA flat tracker, Chris Carr, was brought to the line a few days later. A stout 354 mph pass rocked the motorcycle world, backed by a 347 set the new record at 350.998. A third streamliner, Sam Wheeler’s EZ-Hook Kawasaki was up next. This bike was the fastest of them all with a run of 355………unfortunately during this run the bike blew a tire and crashed. While no one was hurt and the bike not horribly damaged, it was enough to put him on the trailer. I was damn glad to be there for this historic event.

I told you the story of the “Big Dogs”, now let’s fill you in on what we did. After choosing the Bub meet, we decided to run a 79 Cu. in. Sportster Motor in our new liner. This put us in a 1350 CC engine class. Having not run in a few years, there were lots of details to update and attend to in order to be legal to run. After an entire summer of effort, we left for Wendover on August 31st.

Will it fit into the Dyno room?

The trip from Anamosa took 26 hrs. On the salt on Saturday the 2nd, we established our pits and prepared for inspection. Sunday turned up bright and sunny, a wonderful day to race! During the late afternoon, the inspectors from the AMA came to look us over. Having never had this bike through an inspection we were on pins and needles. Our fears were for naught as the bike passed with flying colors, but the wind picked up ,and we decided Monday would be the day.

Dyno run madness. Watch for the next chapter.

Clear and still on Monday, we got in line. Our turn. Having never attempted to ride this bike, we thought our rider Jeff would be able to drive it off the line from a dead stop. Boy, were we wrong!!!! When Jeff tried this he immediately went off course. In addition we had accidental deployment of one parachute. Tough to accelerate with a chute open, catching air.

We faced issues with the skids, so Harry and I dug into the dash wiring. We found a crossed wire making life more complicated. After regrouping, we took the liner off to the side and practiced dead engine, “tow & release.” We would tow the bike up to 60 mph and release the towline (with the engine off). Each time we tried, the run became more stable. Talk about a learning curve.

John decided to try another rider who had experience riding this particular bike; So Leo Hess, of Sioux Falls, was asked to try it out, back to tow & release. We worked with Leo to improve the handling. Suddenly it was Wednesday afternoon, one day left. We got in line, and when it was our turn, we towed up to speed and released.

This time, she shot right down the alley…………… we listen intently to the radio, and we heard he turned out before reaching the timing trap. We were disappointed but hurried down to collect our pilot and access damages.

We didn’t realize, the track was gusting a sidewind of over 6 mph. With a body length of 22 feet, the wind pushed him off course. Too late to try again, we had just one day left.

Thursday dawn was still as can be, and I could barely contain my excitement. We jammed to the track and into line we went. We are third in line. Finally we were up. Tow strap hooked up, rider strapped in, canopy down, time to Go! Accelerating, the liner stood up on its wheels early! RELEASE! Gosh, she looked and sounded beautiful as she flew by…Ear glued to the Radio… the announcer came on and Sez, “a very nice first pass for the J&P Cycles Streamliner Kilo 181.384, Mile 181.092.”

At that moment, all the work, the missed nights with my family, the work learning on the salt and all the other scrambling to reach that point become validated. What a stupendous feeling! We rushed down to collect the liner and head for impound. In order for this to become a record, we had to make a return run.

When in impound, we were allowed to service the bike but make no mechanical changes. Service went quickly, and we pull her down for the return run. Waiting was tough, and the wind seemed to pick up… we watched a 50 CC streamliner on the course go by, engine in a shriek. He posted a time of 133 mph out of a tiny 3 cu. inch., 50 cc engine (How cool is that?).

Our turn again, hooked up, waiting… Go! We pull up faster, released. I got chills as I saw the bike sing past, bellowing. You could tell he was really on it. The radio crackled, “J&P Cycles return run Kilo 179.609, Mile 176.805. “

Time to go back to impound. This time we are all smiles because we need to tear down the engine. We didn’t mind this, because the only reason is to confirm displacement, when you set a record. We set up a canopy and stripped the top end off the engine. The official measured our motor, and it was legal for our class. Whew!

That established a J&P Streamliner record in the S/PG-1350 class of Kilo 180.4965 and Mile 178.9485. Later we just received word the AMA recognized this speed as the current national records in our class. What a great feeling! Till next time.

Check The Water-Pump Dyno Tech: Click Here.

Does she represent this liner or…

BIKERNET THURSDAY NEWS ON WEDNESDAY – SALT, HERE WE COME!

Continued From Page 2

Here are pics of Jeffs 650 Yamaha– He did all of it himself. He fabricated the frame section, made the pipes, tigged the gas tank, as well as the other obvious shit. He is talented; I am trying to turn him into a hd builder. He says he doesn’t have the bread. I’m going to just give him a basket case and turn him loose to see what happens. I turn him onto junk and he turns it into treasure.

To refresh your memory this is the kid who chopped the 550 Honda four your put in the metric news. This is his latest, I told him to try a twin, as it was more desirable.

–FB

Councillor Cadman brings scooter and motorcycle parking motion–At this weeks city council meeting, COPE Councillor Cadman will be bringing forward a motion on increased free scooter and motorcycle parking.

It asks that parking and engineering staff initiate a revenue-neutral by-law change to free-up street parking by designating free parking for motorized scooters and motorcycles. It further elaborates that this parking would be for 6 meter spaces between pedestrian crosswalks and auto parking after intersections.

According to Councillor Cadman, this initiative is consistent with the Greenest City Initiative which has a mandate to reduce carbon output. As motorized scooters use up to 90 percent less gasoline than automobiles and motorcycles are much better on fuel-use than cars, it makes sense for us to encourage residents to switch to more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

According to Ian Tootill, a motorcyclist who suggested the motion,there is very little on-street parking available on Vancouver roadways, forcing motorized cycle operators to find innovative solutions which are often illegal and sometimes dangerous. Scooters and motorcycles regularly encounter problems when currently parking because other vehicle operators often do not see them which results in increased auto insurance rates.

Best practices in neighboring cities with similar transportation challenges to Vancouver (including San Francisco, Portland and Toronto) all have established free and abundant parking to encourage and accommodate scooter and motorcycle use.

Information: Rachel Marcuse, COPE 604-312-9057 604-312-9057, rachel@cope.bc.ca

We are hoping this goes through, it was more than I could get out of any of Vancouver City Council after 6 years! Unfortunately there are only two Cope members on council.

–Adele Tompkins
BCCOM

2010 MEMBERSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE

It’s that time of year again! 2010 memberships are now available at the office. They are also available on-line or by phone with MasterCard or Visa. You can follow this link: http://www.bccom-bc.com/bccom_store/bccom_store.html to join on-line or you can print off a form to mail in with a cheque.

OCTOBER 2009 EVENTS
October 18 – Fraser Valley Toy Run – 1 (604) 814-3503 or ma1@uniserve.com
October 28 – Ladies Clinic at Barnes Harley Davidson-Buell Langley – Call and reserve your spot (604) 534-6044 or www.barneshd.com
October 31 – Halloween Event @ Trev Deeley Motorcycles (604) 291-2453 or www.trevdeeley.com
JANUARY 2010
January 21-24 – Vancouver Motorcycle Show – www.sportshows.ca/VanCycle

B.C. Coalition of Motorcyclists
Email: office@bccom-bc.com
Website: www.bccom-bc.com
Phone: (604) 580-0111 or 1-877-580-0111
“Working for Your Freedom to Ride!”

Zen and the Art of Bikernet–One day, a young man on his journey home came to the banks of a wide river. Staring hopelessly at the great obstacle in front of him, he pondered for hours on just how to cross such a wide barrier. Just as he was about to give up his pursuit to continue his journey, he saw a great teacher, Bandit, on the other side of the river.

The young man yelled over to Bandit, “Oh wise one, can you tell me how to get to the other side of this river?’

Bandit ponders for a moment, looks up and down the river, scratches his ass, and hollers back, “My son, you are on the other side.”

–Sam Burns

Click on the image to enter the ER annual raffle or subscribe to any Paisano Publication.

V-TWIN DEALER NEWS ON-LINE–The new issue of V-Twin News is now on-line. Go to http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/6a42e12d to view it. If you have not signed p to receive it monthly (it’s free) please visit http://www.paisanopub.com/vtnd/ to continue your subscription.

–Kit Maira
Editor V-Twin News
Associate Editor
Easyriders, VTwin, Biker
KMaira@easyriders.net
818-889-8740 ext. 1223

Sucker Punch Sally’s Continues Partnership with Progressive Insurance– SPS to build two new giveaway bikes.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – October 06, 2009 Sucker Punch Sally’s, the premier old school motorcycle builder known for producing the best stripped-down bobbers and choppers, is continuing its partnership with Progressive Insurance, the countrys number-one motorcycle insurer.

Highlights of last year’s partnership included building two Progressive Insurance bikes; designing a co-branded giveaway t-shirt; designing a 28-foot trailer featuring both Progressive and SPS; and appearing together at all 11 IMS Cycle World Motorcycle Shows. Sucker Punch Sally’s owner Christian Clayton also appeared in a print ad with Flo from the Progressive commercials.

Next year will feature an even bigger, 50-foot trailer showcasing the Sucker Punch style and Progressive. The trailer, along with two new giveaway bikes, will be the centerpiece of the Progressive Insurance booth at the 11 IMS shows across the country. While the booth will be twice as big as last years, it will still have a lounge atmosphere where bikers can relax, enjoy the bikes, and learn about SPS and Progressive.

Flo’s Flyer, one of the Progressive custom bikes built by Sucker Punch Sally’s, will be featured wherever Sucker Punch Sally’s is set up. A one-off boardtrack style motorcycle that’s completely hand made at SPS Arizona headquarters, Flo’s Flyer will be SPS submission to Artistry in Iron.

“We have a great partnership with Progressive Insurance and are excited about continuing and expanding our role with the #1 motorcycle insurer in the U.S.A..” said Christian Clayton, owner of Sucker Punch Sally’s.

You can find out more about Sucker Punch Sally’s at www.suckerpunchsallys.com or
http://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolChoppers or
http://www.myspace.com/suckerpunchsallyschoppers

OPERATION GRATITUDE WELCOMES TRAVELING TRIBUTE–Vietnam Memorial Wall Exhibit Inaugurates 7th Annual Holiday Drive.

Van Nuys, CA – September 14, 2009 In a memorable and fitting prelude to its annual Holiday Drive, Operation Gratitude is partnering with The American Veterans Traveling Tribute (www.avtt.org ) to honor all those who have served, and particularly all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The Exhibit will be on display October 14-18 in Van Nuys.

The AVTT Exhibit includes a 9-11 tribute, a Cost of Freedom display of Gold Dog Tags (identifying each service member killed since Vietnam), and the centerpiece of the exhibit: An exact replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall (80% scale), displaying all 58,253 names of the men and women killed in the Vietnam War.

Located on the large lot adjacent to the Van Nuys National Guard Armory at the corner of Victory and Louise, the entire event will be free to the public. All ages are invited and encouraged to attend this first-ever display of The AVTT Exhibit in Southern Calif.

After viewing The Tribute, AVTT Exhibit attendees (ages 12 and older) are invited to participate in Operation Gratitude Care Package Prep activities that will be taking place in the Armory on all days of the Exhibit.

Operation Gratitude will provide letter writing materials allowing children and adults to express their personal thoughts and appreciation to Service Members deployed overseas during the Holidays. Snacks, information and even scarf-making lessons will be offered at the Operation Gratitude tables at The Exhibit site. Donations for the Holiday Drive Care Packages are encouraged.

Suggested items to donate: Beanie Babies, Bags of Candy, Beef Jerky (single-serve packages)

Please join us for this unique opportunity to pay respect to our fallen heroes and express appreciation to those currently serving.

For more information about the American Veterans Traveling Tribute: www.avtt.org For more information about Operation Gratitude: www.OperationGratitude.com For more information about the Operation Gratitude-AVTT Event: OpGrat@gmail.com or ptmarty@aol.com

NEW FROM BRASS BALLS–Check out this Brass Balls Classic Bobber we just finished. I polished and Chromed the tins… then scotch brited them to give the bike a vintage feel. It turned out awesome.

–Dar

ROLLIN SIXES THIRD ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE TROOPS EFFORT SPONSORED BY BIKERNET.COM– Thanks to everyone’s kindness we have sent out over 5 thousand gifts to the troops overseas. Rollin Sixes Choppers n Rods with the Tamiami Veterans were covering all cost for shipping. Every year it gets just a little bigger and because of Our NONPROFIT Corporation “Rollin Sixes No Apologies kindness” we can accept help with the shipping.

The soldiers have also brought to our attention that they would also like to have t-shirts or school supplies to hand out to the kids. I don’t know if you know this, but they can and have been seriously harmed for going to school. I don’t know about you, but anybody that brave deserves our help.

We didn’t know if we could accomplish this effort this year because times are tough and shops are struggling to keep their doors open, but a lot of people were asking and wanted us to do it again, so here we go.

I can’t believe how grateful these guys and gals were to get just a t-shirt. Everybody listen up, Thanks to all who sent in stuff for the last two years. You really made the day for the guys and gals over there and it showed what standup folks you really are.

Times are tough for us, but it is a lot tougher for them. Nobody is shooting AK-47s at us everyday or trying to kill us with IEDs. So if you can help out again this year that would be great and if you can’t, that’s cool too. Everyone at Rolling Sixes would like to say thanks and may God bless you with a better year in 2010. Rollin Sixes Choppers n Rods along with Bikernet.com and the HRI Girls have joined together to gather t-shirts, cd’s, flyers, posters, and stickers to show our support for our troops serving our country overseas and who cannot make it home for the holidays.

We encourage everyone to make a donation. We are accepting t-shirts from any bike shop, hot rod shop, tattoo shop, car club, music groups, etc.. from all over who wish to participate. Cash is also accepted and will go toward the printing cost as well as the shipping costs. Let’s come together this holiday season and make a difference.

Send Donations to: T-shirts for Troops 311 aviation parkway Cape Coral, FL 33904

All donations need to be received no later than November 28 this allows us to utilize the first week of December to get everything wrapped and shipped out! This time frame will ensure most packages arrive to the Troops by Christmas! Please feel free to pass this along to anyone that may be interested. Please make all donations payable to: Rollin Sixes No Apologies Kindness.

SAXON SNEAK PEAK–Just back from Saxon down in Casa Grande, shooting a Warlord they just finished with a pretty crazy paint job. Bike is being crated first thing tomorrow and going to a customer in Europe.

–Carsten
Bikernet Desert Correspondent

LATEST SEAT FROM LAST RIDE CUSTOMS– Just finished a seat for a 75 Sporty. Been getting alot of orders for black seats, I can see why though, black is a damn good color. Also wanted to share with you what the seat looks like on the bike. I do not believe in alot of padding, style and shape is more important in my eyes.

–Adam
www.lastridecustoms.com

No Nativity Scene this Year at White House this year–There will be no Nativity Scene in Washington this year!

The Supreme Court has ruled that there cannot be a Nativity Scene in theUnited States Capital this Christmas season.This isn’t for any religious reason.

They simply have not been able to find Three Wise Men in the Nation’s Capitol.

The search for a Virgin continues.

–from Sam Burns

MOTORCYCLE CRASH CAUSATION STUDY UPDATE– As promised, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is closely following the progress of the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) ongoing motorcycle crash causation study. Vehicle fatalities fell last year, while motorcycle fatalities rose. We all know that a large factor in the increase was the record motorcycle registrations and motorcycle sales, but no one is certain why a lot of motorcycle accidents occur. The last crash study done for motorcycles was in the 1970s, and so much has changed since then that the motorcycle safety community has aggressively pushed for a more up-to-date, relevant study.

“Having a better understanding of what causes these crashes will help us improve roadway safety for everyone,” said FHWA Administrator Mendez. “Keeping people safe on America’s roads is Secretary LaHood’s top priority at the Department of Transportation.”

The motorcycle crash causation study will be the federal government’s first major in-depth analysis of motorcycle safety in nearly three decades. A provision in the “Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users” (SAFETEA-LU) requires the study, which will be conducted by the FHWA in partnership with Oklahoma State University (OSU).

OSU houses one of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 10 National University Transportation Centers, and it receives federal grants to conduct transportation research. One of the holdups of the study was that OSU was required to secure funds to match the $3 million provided by the Feds. OSU did not have an extra $3 million, so a waiver was granted allowing the study to move forward with a smaller budget. The study won’t be as large as the original concept, but the MRF has been assured it will be rigorous and scientific.

Researchers will evaluate data from hundreds of motorcycle crashes to help identify common factors – including road configurations, environmental conditions and rider experience. The study’s focus is to look at how these factors may be affected by countermeasures that, if effectively implemented, will prevent motorcycle crashes or lessen the harm when they occur.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted a pilot study to develop the protocols for the full-scale causation research. NHTSA also was responsible for the earlier motorcycle causation study, which was completed in 1981.

Between 1997 and 2008, motorcycle rider fatalities increased from 2,116 to 5,290 – a 150 percent jump, according to U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System. In 2008 alone, deaths due to motorcycle crashes rose by an estimated 2.2 percent while all other vehicle classes saw reductions in fatalities.

Results of the current study are still 3-4 years away.

Helmet Laws suck

HOLLISTER DEBACLE AND SHASTA SALUTE RULES–Your August 2009 issue, Thunder Press, contained two well written articles that I like to comment on. “Rambler” Steve Austin did great reporting on Hollister and its non-sanctioned Rally that wasn’t. Rogue Hawg also did a great job reporting on the Shasta Salute to America in Tulelake, Ca.

I have emotional ties to both events. We live in Hollister and I was the Rally secretary in 2007 when we local bikers and volunteers brought it back “from the dead” following the 2006 cancellation. The city councils decision to again cancel in 2009 was a bitter pill to swallow. We local bikers and community volunteers know what now has to be done and we know what very well may never be again. Our two “top cops” need to be replaced with professional law officers who do NOT harbor a personal hatred of ALL bikers.

Our town decided to kick 100,000+ bikers to the curb twice in less than five years. That much disdain and disrespect will take years, possibly decades to recover from, if ever. Sadly, this biker bashing, Rally cancelling is spreading across the USA. It has now become a Biker’s Rights issue, another topic I am passionate about.

As for Shasta Salute to America; let me assure you that it was a GREAT event and it should only get better each summer. South Bay Biker Productions asked me nicely if I might help market their event. After my experiences in Hollister and dealing with our towns politics and policies; I was in NO rush to get involved with another MC Rally. I did some research and met with Jeff Kraus (EzJ) and Debbie Johnson (Wings2Fly) in person. I researched them and their past projects such as their DVD Showdown in Durango. I watched their DVD of the first SS2AM held in July of 2008 and I was surprised to realize what a great event this was.

Operation Gratitude, the military support service that SS2AM supports is one of the very best. The town of Tulelake not only supports SS2AM but they INVITED it to be held in their town!! This was the one fact that I could barely believe after my experiences in Hollister. The fairground location was by far the BEST camping experience we’ve ever had. The lush grass, beautiful rural location, clean restrooms and HOT showers were only some of the high-lights. The area has an assortment of gorgeous, well maintained ride roads.

There is a rich history to be learned as well as great natural points of interest to be seen. It is close to Klamath Falls, OR and its airport and amenities. Oregon and California politicians, city governments and law enforcement worked together and they treated us bikers with dignity and respect. They actually welcomed our presence.

Bike Pic #1 couple pans & a 32 Ford @ Rustic Canyon Store, Malibu last Saturday

Most of our biker friends and family are VETS. SS2AM honors VETS and truly honors the service men and women currently deployed. We bikers do not get much respect lately. Our rights to gather together at Rallies and to ride freely are being challenged all across America. I am proud to have helped out such a great Rally. SS2AM is ALL about patriotism, patriots AND our biker life-style. It was so refreshing to be free to ride. wear colors, camp by our bikes, party like rock stars and JUST enjoy being a biker in America.

It is sad that we no longer feel that free in our hometown. We need to make a lot of changes. Hollisters heritage as Birthplace of the American Biker is being ignored. We local bikers are still trying to implement change but it won’t happen any time soon. It is a sad reality.

Bike Pic #2 was parked in front of the Green Flash, Pacific Beach, San Diego on Monday morning

Respects;
–Hollister” Christy Howe
Former HMRC Secretary,
Biker Rights Activist and
Community Volunteer

–Reprinted from Thunder Press

Honda Develops New Personal Mobility Device With the Goal of Co-existing in Harmony with People — World’s first drive system that enables movement in all directions —TOKYO, Japan, September 24, 2009 – Pursuing the concept of “harmony with people” Honda has developed a new personal mobility technology and unveiled U3-X, a compact experimental device that fits comfortably between the rider’s legs, to provide free movement in all directions just as in human walking – forward, backward, side-to-side, and diagonally. Honda will continue research and development of the device including experiments in a real-world environment to verify the practicality of the device.

This new personal mobility device makes it possible to adjust speed and move, turn and stop in all directions when the rider leans the upper body to shift body weight. This was achieved through application of advanced technologies including Honda’s balance control technology, which was developed through the robotics research of ASIMO, Honda’s bipedal humanoid robot, and the world’s first* omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System, or HOT Drive System), which enables movement in all directions, including not only forward and backward, but also directly to the right and left and diagonally. In addition, this compact size and one-wheel-drive personal mobility device was designed to be friendly to the user and people around it by making it easier for the rider to reach the ground from the footrest and placing the rider on roughly the same eye level as other people or pedestrians.

Honda is planning to showcase the U3-X at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009 (sponsored by JAMA) which will begin on October 24, 2009 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

Striving to propose the next-generation mobility which expands the joy and fun of mobility, Honda has been conducting robotics research since 1986, including ASIMO, walking assist devices and U3-X, at the Honda R&D Co., Ltd. Fundamental Technology Research Center in Wako, Saitama, Japan.

Key features of U3-X

1.Device control featuring application of balance control technology cultivated through ASIMO research: The incline sensor detects the incline of the device based on the weight shift of the rider and determines the rider’s intention in terms of the direction and speed. Based on the data, precise control is applied to return the device to an upright position, which achieves smooth and agile movements and simple operation by weight shift only.

2.HOT Drive System (Omni-directional driving wheel system):

Honda developed the world’s first wheel structure which enables movement in all directions including forward, backward, side-to-side and diagonally. Multiple small-diameter motor-controlled wheels were connected in-line to form one large-diameter wheel. By moving the large-diameter wheel, the device moves forward and backward, and by moving small-diameter wheels, the device moves side-to-side. By combining these movements the device moves diagonally.

–from Art Friedman

PRAY FOR FLAT HIGH-TRACTION SALT AND GOOD WEATHER–I’ll be back for the Sunday Post. The 5-Ball Racer is running and every day we make adjustments. It’s currently featured on Rick Krost’s U.S. Choppers web site. He can’t wait for it to hit the pages of a Magazoon. We’re still working on my next book cover. Trying to get to press this month.

Have you seen the Crank Movies? Crazy fuckers, and they were all shot within blocks of the Bikernet Headquarters. I’m beginning to reach out to them. Did I tell you that an episode of the Sons of Anarchy was shot just a block away from our Interplanetary Headquarters? We’re dug-in, within a very popular ghetto. It’s probably the only area of LA that doesn’t charge an arm and a leg to use their streets. Hell, we’ll bring ’em cheese, hand cracked Walnuts, by Sgt. Bobby Keeting (a 5-Ball Racing 2007 Tech from Fairbanks), and Bulleit Whiskey for the crew, thanks to a reader.

Cinderella.

So hang on for next week, the techs, the girls, a new Cantina Soap. It’s written and off to our official Bikernet Copy Editor. More features are coming and don’t forget the Love Ride is a Charity Event. Funds go to Muscular Dystrophy Foundation, Autism Charity and several others. So support the cause.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

CYCLE SOURCE YEAR IN REVIEW ISSUE, REPORTS FROM THE MRF, BIG BEAR CHOPPERS EVERYWHERE, CYCLE SOUNDS FROM BIKERS CHOICE AND BLACK METAL FROM HEADWINDS

Continued From Page 1

BLACK METAL FROM HEADWINDS–Headwinds, the leader in custom headlights, introduces their new Black Metal Flames Concours Rocket Headlights. Anodized with milled-in flames that jump right off the housing, this finish looks great with a chrome beauty ring!

We have added this to our line of finishes that include polished aluminum, chrome plating, brass plating and black nickel. Same top of the line Headwinds quality, with a new look!

You can order this finish on any size Headwinds headlight, spotlight or turn signal housing. Made in the USA. Contact Headwinds at 626-359-8044, email headwinds@headwinds.com, online www.headwinds.com

BIKERNET MUSIC CENTER NOMINATES BEST BLUES SONG OF THE CENTURY, BY THE FOUR TOPS–

Ask The Lonely lyrics

(Written by William Stevenson, Ivy Jo Hunter)

Just ask the lonely
When you feel
That you can make it all alone
Remember no one is big enough
To go it all alone

Just ask the lonely
They know the hurting pain
Of losing the love
You can never regain
Just ask the lonely
The young and foolish
Who laugh at love and slowly run away
Confident and sure that fate
Will bring another love their way

But ask the lonely
How vainly a heart can yearn
For losing a love
That will never return

Just ask the lonely
Just ask the lonely
Just ask the lonely

They’ll tell you a story of sadness
A story too hard to believe
They’ll tell you
The lonliest one is me

Just ask the lonely
Just ask the lonely
Just ask the lonely
Ask me, I’m the lonliest one of all

BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER FLU SEASON ALERT–Flu season is here – help protect your health and improve your immune system with simple steps, including:

Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and disposing of it properly.

Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing; alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth to minimize the spread of germs.

Trying to avoid close contact with sick people.

Limiting contact with others if you do get the flu, to keep from infecting them.

Getting adequate sleep and eating a healthy diet.

You may also want to take a daily antioxidant, multivitamin-mineral supplement, as well as astragalus, a well-known immune-boosting herb that can help ward off colds and flu. Weil Immune Support Formula contains both astragalus and immune-supportive polypore mushrooms. Buy it now and help protect yourself against the flu this year.

–DrWeil.com

H-D Offers Free 2009 Holiday Gift with $300 Purchase–From November 7 through December 24, 2009, Harley-Davidson customers who make a $300 qualifying purchase will receive a free 2009 Holiday Heritage Collection limited-edition gift set valued at $75.

The set includes five pewter finish collectible Legendary Harley-Davidson Racing Machines, each one identified by an engraved plate. The satin black frame has brushed metal corner accents featuring the Bar & Shield Logo.

The 2009 Harley Holiday Heritage Collection is free with a qualifying $300 purchase of Genuine Harley-Davidson Motor Parts or Motor Accessories, MotorClothes Merchandise, Screamin’ Eagle Performance Parts, Official Licensed Products or BuellMerchandise, between November 7 and December 24, 2009. Not valid on previous or multiple purchases.

One great way take advantage of this offer is through Harley-Davidson.com’s online Wish List, which allows you to create a list of the Genuine Motor Accessories and MotorClothes Merchandise items you’ve been wishing for to save and share with your family and friends. For more details, log onto www.harley-davidson.com/wishlist .

Idaho Tourism and H-D Host Female Motorcycle Journalists on Scenic Byway Tour–National and international female motorcycle journalists grabbed the handlebars of new 2010 Harley-Davidson models and head out for a four-day tour one of the “Top 10 Scenic Drives” in the Northern Rockies September 18-21.

Organized by the Idaho Division of Tourism, the women’s ride featured The International Selkirk Loop, one of only 27 All American Roads named in the National Scenic Byways Program. The four-day, 705-mile excursion along the picturesque Selkirk Loop, which meanders through northern Idaho, then heads north into British Columbia, and finally crisscrosses back along the eastern edge of Washington.

According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, one of the biggest shifts taking place in motorcycle riding today is the growth and impact of female riders. Since 1998, the number of women riding motorcycles has grown 36 percent, with the majority holding technical/professional jobs or college degrees.

In organizing this event, Idaho Division of Tourism partnered with Harley-Davidson Motor Company; Spokane, Washington Convention and Visitors Bureau; and hotel/restaurant partners along the International Selkirk Loop to assist in facilitating and accommodating the media ride.

?We love combining niche markets such as scenic byways, motorcycling, fall foliage and girlfriend getaways in one creative promotional effort,” said Karen Ballard, Idaho Division of Tourism Administrator. ?It is so rewarding to expand the reach of our great tourism product and once again illustrate our brand, Adventures in Living with our collaborative partners, Top 10 Scenic Drives in the Northern Rockies and Harley Davidson.”

Editor’s Note: Some previously released H-D materials may have incorrectly specified the rear suspension travel on 2010 Road Glide Custom models. The correct specification for rear suspension travel is 2 inches.

NORTON TO LAUNCH ALL NEW COMMANDO–British Manufacturer Norton will return to its 1898 birthplace this November, to launch their new range of models at The Carole Nash International Motorcycle & Scooter Show 2009, in Birmingham, UK.

Norton will unveil two new machines to the world at the Birmingham show, the 961 SE Commando and the Cafe Racer Commando.

British entrepreneur and bike enthusiast, Stuart Garner, bought the rights to the iconic marque in 2008 and his work to resurrect the Norton brand since then has included the development of a rotary-engined race bike, the NRV588, and a return to the Isle of Man TT this past June, where a twin-cylinder Norton won its class in the first ever TT back in 1907. Garner also recently rode the NRV at Bonneville Salt Flats, logging over 289 kph for a 278 kph average run. The Norton race bike will also be on display at the show.

?We are very excited to be back!”, Garner said.

No info yet on the Cafe Racer, but the specs on the 961 SE say it’s powered by a 961cc air cooled, parallel twin, putting out 79 hp at 6500rpm and 66 lb/ft of torque at 5200 rpm. Wheels are 17″ carbon fibre and the gearbox is a constant mesh 5 speed. Norton claims that their modern roadster reflects the soul of the original machine and continues the Norton legacy of defined style and performance.

Pricing has yet to be announced and for now the bike will only be available directly from the UK manufacturer, but their website does indicate that they’re looking for North American dealers, so we may well see the modern Commando in Canada sometime soon.

By Cycle Canada
http://www.passionperformance.ca/motorcycle/articles/5602/

BIKERNET CONTINUES INVESTIGATION OF THE LAWS OF REALITY–Law of the Result :When you try to prove to someone that a machine won’t work, it will.

Law of Biomechanics: The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.

Law of the Theater :At any event, the people whose seats are furthest from the aisle arrive last.

The Coffee Law: As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.

Murphy’s Law of Lockers: If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers.

Law of Physical Surfaces: The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness and cost of the carpet/rug.

Law of Logical Argument :Anything is possible if you don’t know what you are talking about.

CYCLE SOUNDS SOUNDS FOR YOUR BIKE FROM BIKERS CHOICE! NEW 2.5 SERIES 2 ULTRA SPEAKER SYSTEMS for H-Ds– Cycle Sounds offers new 2-speaker systems for your H-D. With 75 watts per speaker, and a remarkable extended bass in a micro driver, these are twice as loud as the previous 2-speaker systems and have a richer and fuller sound. Included in the kit are 1 p-clamps, mirror Z-bracket mounts, amp and a pair of chrome bullet speakers with black speaker grills. The unique bullet design blends well with any bike and allows the rider to mount the speakers under the handlebars.

Biker’s Choice # 21-8250 H-D models (exc FLHR & Sportster)
Biker’s Choice # 21-8251 H-D FLHR and Sportster models

For more information or to just check out all the Cycle Sounds products, visit www.Bikerschoice.com or visit your local Biker’s Choice Dealer.

Happy and Safe Riding!!
–Carmen
Biker’s Choice

Big Bear Choppers worldwide has just taken another large bite of market share in Europe.– After a highly successful showing at the largest and most prestigious motorcycle show and event in Europe – European Bike Week held Sept. 8th -13th 2009 – Big Bear Choppers showcased their line of Vtwin custom choppers to the appreciation of both fans and judges by taking a 3rd place out of 250+ entries.. BBC’s entry was the new ?Bear Bones” $20K bike that leaves no doubt, beauty, performance and value can ride side by side when left to the Big Bear Choppers build teams ingenuity. From all indications this bike is just the answer for an economical professionally built ride. Look for more details about this new model online at www.bigbearchoppers.com .

Big Bear Choppers owners Kevin and Mona Alsop announced that under the Midland Choppers European umbrella they are signing four new additional dealers in Germany, to be located in Hannover, Stuttgart, Berlin and Hamburg. Bringing the total number of European dealers to fourteen..

Big Bear Choppers boasts dealers in Italy, Milano -Good Vibrations, France, Paris – Absolut Cycles, Switzerland, Gretzenbach-Midland Choppers & Good Drive also in Obstalden -Glarona Choppers, Sweden, Malm- Bike Line Sweden also Varberg-Valen Custom Shop, Germany- Mnchen- Bobo’s American Motorcycles and Wietze- All American Motors, and England- Leeds, West Yorkshire – Thunder City Motorcycles.

With all 14 models in the BBC line approved and receiving Euro-III compliance this opens up tremendous opportunity for the European consumer and posts another accomplishment for the companies international marketing and brand development. As Germany is technically out of recession and the overall European market is seeing signs of recovery Big Bear Choppers is poised to fill the growing demand for their All-American product line.

Already firmly planted in these other countries – Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, India, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand all under licensed dealers, the newly unveiled “Bear Bones” beauty will undoubtedly have a similar welcome reception and create more needed trophy space at the Big Bear Choppers corporate showroom.

NUTTSACK ROLLER FOR SALE– Some of you may remember the bike we built for one of our local radio stations – 95.7 THEROCK – in 2006, known as DOUGZ – Nuttsack ‘Reform School Brand’. Well, at the time of that build my employee – Mr. Brendan Habberstad informed me “I’d like a Nuttsack of my own!”. The only difference was that he wanted exposed shocks (early FX style) rather than a hidden shock model like the one just completed, and what kind of cold person would I be to deny him a Nuttsack?

Well, plans changed for Brendan which stalled the build and we’ve had the chassis sitting around collecting dust for a while. Last time Brendan dropped in he informed me that if someone came along looking for a slick project he’d be willing to sell it. We’ve turned it into a roller with a Deuce rear wheel/pulley/rotor and a stock 21″ front wheel/rotor. This leaves us with a great starting point for someone looking for a diversion to keep them out of the watering holes over the next few months!

The chassis is a Kraft Tech (we’ve built a couple of simplistic style bikes using these chassis and they go together very nicely). It features 1 3/8 inch tubing, chrome swingarm (takes a 180 tire), chrome ‘blind hole’ fender struts, neck cups with built in fork stops and a RoadMax 5 Speed tranny. The frame has a 30 degree neck rake and no stretch in the down tubes or backbone, so it’ll handle great, NOT like dogshit is under the tires all the time.

Everything you see in the images (with the exception of the mock-up engine & the badass dog – Louis) is included for $3845.00. I’ve also attached a couple of shots of the Nuttsack we did for 95.7 to refresh your memory, or to let those of you who never caught a glimpse of the completed scooter.

PS – Whoever purchases the bike automatically qualifies for my “No Nonsense – No Sweat Nuttsack pricing” on any other components they’ll need to complete the build.

–Doug Wozney
DOUGZ Custom Paint & Fabrication LLC
2323 Palace St. La Crosse, Wi. 54603
(608) 783-3684
doug@dougz.com / www.dougz.com

CRISS ANGELS 6TH BIKE–He is a wonderful customer.We have a couple of exciting bikes that we are releasing, The Mayhem and theRage. The Rage just picked up Best Chopper award in Faak Austria which Kevinattended.

I will attach a couple of photos of the Rage!

–Mona Alsop
Vice President,Big Bear Choppers
41922 Fox Farm Road
Big Bear Lake, Calif.
92315
Phone (909)878-4340
Fax (909)878-4341
Email Mona@Bigbearchoppers.com

DISTRACTED DRIVING SUMMIT– Distraction: The performance degradation of a primary task upon introduction of a secondary act.

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood convened an important two-day meeting in Washington DC last week to shine a light on the increasing incidents and opportunities to be distracted while operating a car or public transportation vehicle. Naturally, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) was represented at that meeting.

With the amount of distraction from increased use of cell phones (some with full keyboards), GPS systems, DVD players and the vast array of other complex video displays at an all-time high, it should not come as a surprise that the opportunity for an operator of any vehicle to become distracted has risen significantly in just the past few years.

Distracted driving is certainly not a new issue. One could argue that the minute someone in Detroit came up with the idea to put lighters and ashtrays in cars, or when a little company called Motorola produced the first in-car audio entertainment device, or when Ray Kroc sold his first burger out of the window of his restaurant, distracted driving was born.

What’s truly startling is the dramatic rise in the amount of ?texting” people are doing behind the wheel. Some stats say sending and receiving text messages while driving is up 500 percent in just the past two years. Because of the complexities involved with typing on a handheld keyboard, some experts refer to texting while driving as the perfect storm for disaster.

The two-day meeting brought together experts of all types including auto manufacturers, cell phone providers, government officials, state legislators, behavioral experts and even a rocket scientist from NASA who specializes in the distraction of pilots under heavy cognitive load. Cognitive load is the amount of brain power you use to complete a task, relative to the complexity of the task, or as we learned, thinking about or talking about anything overly emotional. The other forms of distraction are visual (eyes off the road) or manual (hands off the wheel).

We know that distraction is a problem for all road users, and particulary motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users, but what can we do about it? Ray LaHood said it best when he opened the meeting with the statement, ?You cannot legislate behavior.” Eighteen states and DC have enacted texting-while-driving bans. While this is a good start, it’s sort of missing the mark. Banning texting may remove one part of the equation, but that means it’s still ok to eat a burrito, watch a movie, paint your nails, pick something up off the passenger side floor, or talk on a hands-free cell phone, all while checking out your hair in the flip-down vanity mirror. Any ban at the state level should be against all forms of distracted driving, not just a few specific forms.

THERE OUGHTA BE A LAW

Senator Chuck Schumer from NY and Amy Klobuchar from MN both made an appearance at the event to plug some legislation they both support. Their bill, inappropriately called the Alert Drivers Act, would force states to pass texting bans or forfeit a whopping 25% of their road money. The feds have a long history of using this sort of ?carrot and stick approach to forcing states to enact legislation, and it’s problematic for a variety of reasons.

The MRF simply cannot support the bills (S. 1536 and HR 3535) to force states to pass texting bans for the simple reason that this is the same method that is used to force states to pass helmet laws, and blackmailing the states to enact legislation that they may or may not want should be strongly discouraged.

The two-day meeting is certainly a good start to the conversation about distracted driving, but far too much focus was given to texting instead of keeping all distractions on the table. We at the MRF hope that discussion continues, and we look forward to working with the powers that be to put distracted driving on the decline.

CYCLE SOURCE YEAR IN REVIEW ISSUE– It’s Year In Review Issue time again and I wanted to invite your readers to be a part of our annual issue looking back over 2009. Cast your vote for Nominations For 2009 Cycle Source Magazine Year In Review issue on line today at: http://www.cyclesource.com.

Once all of the nominations are cast the voting polls will open. Your opinion matters so take a moment and fill it out. Some of last years winners were Sugar Bear http://www.sugarbearchoppers.com who won Man of the Year and the lovely Laura Klock http://www.lauraklock.com who took home the Woman of the Year award. Roger Goldammer http://www.goldammercycle.com/ was voted as the Builder of the year and Sucker Punch Sally http://www.suckerpunchsallys.com/ won the best Production Custom. Over the year we have introduced you to many people that could win this year. They can’t win if you don’t cast their name.

Continued On Page 3

THURSDAY EARLY BIRD BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL–K&G EXPANDS PRODUCT LINE, PIANO SHIPPER SHIPS MOTORCYCLES CAREFULLY, STORZ PERFORMANCE SPORTY LINE, VIPER MOTORCYCLES SIGNS LETTER AND A COUPLE OF JOKES

Another crazy day in Paradise,

Yep, the news is early. We hit it on Wednesday ’cause we have flights for Salt Lake lined-up to experience the World Finals in Bonneville. There’s actually three major events in Bonneville annually. The old classic Speed Week hits the salt about the same time as Sturgis each year. Then there’s Bubs Motorcycle Speed Trials a month later in September, and finally the World Finals in October. The World Finals are coupled to Speed Week, and El Mirage speed events sanctioned by the SCTA (Southern California Timing Association). We’ve heard good things about the World Finals and decided to check it out, since we are headed back to the Salt next year with three motorcycles. I know, we’re nuts, but a man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.

We want to be able to make as many passes as possible, so we need to find an accommodating event. I’ll report in on Sunday in the Post.

BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER DISCOVERY, Ed Zachary Disease–A woman was very distraught at the fact that she had not had a date or any sex in quite some time. She was afraid she might have something wrong with her, so she decided to seek the medical expertise of a sex therapist. Her doctor recommended that she see the well known Chinese sex therapist Dr. Chang.

So she went to see him. Upon entering the examination room Dr. Chang said ‘OK take off all your crose. ‘ The woman did a s she was told. ‘Now get down and craw reery, reery fass to odderside of room.’

Again the woman did as she was instructed. Dr. Chang then said ‘OK, now craw reery, reery fass back to me.’ So she did.

Dr.Chang shook his head slowly and said ‘Your probrem vewy bad. You haf Ed Zachary diease.Worse case I ever see. Dat why you not haf sex or dates.’

Worried the woman asked anxiously ‘Oh my God Dr.Chang what is Ed Zachary Disease ?’

Dr. Chang sighed deeply and replied ‘Ed Zachary Disease is when your face look Ed Zachary like your ass.’

–from Geno

K and G Cycles Partners with Tucker Rocker Distributing Revolutionizing Online Motorcycle Parts Merchandising–Lawrence, KS (October 06, 2009) K and G Cycles, your virtual motorcycle parts and accessories one-stop-shop, is partnering with Tucker Rocker Distributing, and in so doing, is revolutionizing motorcycle industry e-commerce. Launched in April 2009, www.kandgcycles.com burst onto the online motorcycle parts retail scene by offering competitive prices on over 100,000 V-Twin parts from various manufacturers. K and G Cycles’ web store currently offers the widest variety of V-Twin parts and accessories available online. With 1,200 categories of parts from over 250 manufacturers and 6 major motorcycle parts distributors, motorcyclists can find everything they need, all on one easy-to-maneuver website.

Since its beginning, K and G Cycles has established a successful philosophical approach to online merchandising, which includes low overhead and great service. In order to reduce it’s costs, K and G warehouses every one of its products with its vendors until the product is sold. K and G is then able to pass its savings on to customers and keep prices low. This strategic business model allows K and G to bring the widest variety of parts from a number of one-of-a-kind unique vendors at great prices. This is what makes K and G Cycles unique from its competitors, valuable to its customers, and why it caught the eye of Tucker Rocky Distributing.

Headquartered outside of Fort Worth, Texas, Tucker Rocky Distributing is a worldwide leader in the wholesale distribution of aftermarket parts, accessories and apparel for the power sports industry. They stock and sell over 75,000 items for street bikes, off-road motorcycles and ATV’s in addition to accessories and apparel to a network of thousands of retail dealers throughout the world.

“This partnership represents a major paradigm shift in the motorcycle industry in which a wholesaler is supporting the operations of a predominately internet-based dealership. We are proud to be a part of this advancement,� explains owner of K and G Cycles, George M. Marakas. “K and G Cycles is thrilled about the collaboration with Tucker Rocky Distributing because they understanding what we are trying to do and want to be a part of it. Both K and G Cycles and Tucker Rocky realize that online retailing is no longer a trend of the future, it is now and we’re pleased to be able to offer services of this caliber to our friends within the motorcycle industry.�

Statistics from last year’s holiday shopping trends prove that online sales and patronage has increased exponentially within the last five years. Despite the overall economic downturn in 2008, online holiday season sales reached $32 billion in 2008. This is up over 10% from 2007 online holiday shopping sales, which were registered at about $29.1 billion dollars. The motorcycle parts industry is no exception.

A rough estimate suggests that Tucker Rocky will add between 75,000 and 80,000 parts to the K and G catalog, bringing the overall inventory to over 200,000 products available, a move that will truly make K and G Cycles a veritable “Amazon.com” of motorcycle parts. The parts and accessories infusion resulting from K and G Cycles’ partnership with Tucker Rocky Distributing should be available on www.kandgcycles.com by mid-November in time for all of your holiday parts shopping.

K and G Cycles is proudly owned and operated by George and Kyle Marakas, motorcyclists who are committed to bringing bikers the largest selection of quality parts at the best prices available. If customers cannot find the parts they are looking for, the staff at K and G Cycles is always happy to help via phone or e-mail. For more information about K and G Cycles, please call (785) 542-9227 or visit them on the Web at www.kandgcycles.com.

NEW BIKERNET SPONSOR, Keyboard Motorcycle ShippingYour key to fine tune transportation– Our custom shipping platform is the pride and joy of Keyboard Motorcycle Shipping. It has taken away the need for using a forklift on every unit coming and going. With this device we can handle your bike much more carefully, move them around manually, and store more bikes on each shipment. Our platform also keeps bikes from leaning into each other in the warehouse and during transport.

Check out their website for more information, and tell them Bikernet sent you!

Keyboard Motorcycle Shipping
P.O. Box 625
Elizabethtown, Ky. 42702-0625
Call Us
Phone: (270) 737-5797
Fax: (270) 737-6640
http://keyboardmotorcycleshipping.com

The XR1200 gets racy with Storz Performance–Storz Performance has been hard at work, developing a whole array of new accessories to give Harley-Davidson’s XR1200 an even racier look. These include, Storz billet foot controls, Storz/Ceriani steering damper kit, YSS Racing Shocks, fiberglass solo seat section, Saddlemen seat pad, Brake Tech front disc kit and the 2-into-2, dirt track-style exhaust by Bub.

We’ll start by focusing today on the 2-into-2 Bub exhaust. It’s just what the XR1200 has been missing: a true dirt track-style high pipe exhaust! This is a racing exhaust with provision for oxygen sensors, says Steve Storz. It’s available with your choice of chrome or black ceramic-coated finish and features individual head pipes with stepped diameters for a serious increase in performance. The beautifully tapered megaphones featuring billet end caps have fixed steel baffles that deliver a consistent throaty exhaust note and never require repacking. The head pipes have wraparound heat shields that run from the cylinder heads to the start of the megaphones to maintain a great look with low maintenance. As an added bonus, mounting this system will ditch no less than 14.5 pound off of the bikes curb weight.

Intended only for H-D XR1200 2008-09 models, the Storz/Bub 2-into-2 exhaust will no longer work with passenger footpegs or saddle bags; deal with it! Installation of the Bub exhaust for H-D XR1200 requires relocation of the rear master cylinder and brake fluid reservoir. Storz Performance offers a choice of footpeg kits and a master cylinder relocation kit.

$965 will get you the chrome exhaust (P/N: KSB-1200), while the system with a black finish (P/N: KSB-1200B) retails for $1045.

Storz Performance, Inc.
239 South Olive Street – Ventura, CA 93001
Phone 805-641-9540
www.storzperf.com

VIPER Motorcycle Company signs Letter of Intent for Joint Venture with Ilmor Engineering, Inc.–HOPKINS, MN — (Marketwire)10/06/09 — Viper Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Viper Powersports Inc. (OTCBB: VPWI) and Ilmor Engineering, Inc. announced today that they have executed a letter of intent to partner on the manufacture of an Ilmor developed Viper Motorcycle 152 cubic inch V-Twin engine. The Ilmor version of the Viper polished billet engine, created during the past six-months, will be manufactured and assembled in Plymouth, MI, by the famed race engine design and development company and will be co-branded with the famous Ilmor name. Viper Motorcycles and Ilmor will also provide cross-marketing support to promote the relationship.

Ilmor Engineering is one of the most successful race-engine design and manufacturing firms in the world, best known for its expertise and success in the highest levels of automobile racing. The company has over 200 Indy Car wins to its credit including winning the prestigious Indy 500 no less than 15 times. Created as a race engineering company in the UK more 25 years ago, Ilmor has more than 150 personnel worldwide with facilities in Michigan, USA and Northampton, England.

John R. Silseth II, Viper Powersports CEO, said, “We anticipate a public launch of this exciting product in early 2010. Ilmor is the ideal partner as Viper prepares to increase production and take its rightful place as a premiere American OEM of high performance cruiser motorcycles.”

Paul Ray, Ilmor Engineering, Inc.’s President, said, “Reaching this next stage in our growing relationship is a testament to how well our companies work together. We continue to share a strong passion for excellence that will help us forge a very long and successful relationship with Viper Motorcycle Company.â€?

Viper Powersports designs, manufactures and markets a line of premium American V-Twin Super Cruiser motorcycles, V-Twin aftermarket engines and other related aftermarket products through an independent dealer network. Viper Powersports and Viper Motorcycle Company’s websites are www.viperpowersports.com and www.vipermotorcycle.com.

Ilmor Engineering is a world-class company that specializes in design, development, testing and manufacturing of high-performance and racing engines including automotive, marine and motorcycle. Ilmor Engineering’s website is www.ilmor.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Terry Nesbitt
President
Viper Motorcycle CompanyTel: 612-328-1558
E: tnesbitt@vipermotorcycle.com

A Car Show for a Kustom World!–September 24-25-26, 2010Long Beach Arena & Marina Green Park-Rainbow Lagoon.

Showcase of Kustoms & Motorama is a modern indoor/outdoor car show steeped in tradition! The first to be back in the Long Beach Arena in 30 yrs. it pays tribute to the importance of the Renegade Knights Long Beach Car Club formed in 1941 in Long Beach as well as local?Kustom Painter Extraordinaire Larry Watson; without him, kustoms wouldn’t have looked the same. Across the Arena floor, the ALL Kustoms indoor portion will be spatially laid out for 360 degree viewing.

THE WEB SITES:
www.showcaseofkustoms.com
www.sokshows.com
THE TIMES: Fri. 4pm-11pm, Sat. 9am-7pm Sun. 9am-7pm

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month– South Side Kustoms has a LIMITED EDITION Untouchable Bobber (only 20 available) called Real Divas Ride. $1,500 from each of these Breast Cancer Tribute bikes goes to Breast Cancer Research! http://www.south-side-kustoms.com/DivasForACure.html

ALSO for the month of October 2009 – FREE SHIPPING ON ANY MOTORCYCLE PURCHASED FROM SOUTH SIDE KUSTOMS – whether you are in Cali or in Maine – shipping is FREE. (Good for ONLY lower 48 states – can’t be combined with other discounts)

00Jason McCudden
South Side Kustoms
146 Barnard St.
Buffalo, Ny 14206
716-823-6279
1-800-675-3191
email- southsidekustoms@verizon.net
website – http://www.south-side-kustoms.com

KRAWIEC HOLDS SECOND IN POINTS WITH FINALS RUN IN MEMPHIS–Defending NHRA Champion Trails by 28 Points with Two Events Left in Countdown.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Oct. 5, 2009) – Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines rider Eddie Krawiec retained second place in the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Countdown to the Championship, advancing to the final round of eliminations at the NHRA Mid-South Nationals at Memphis Motorsports Park. Krawiec, making his 10th final-round appearance of the season aboard a Harley-Davidson V-Rod, lost to Michael Phillips on the MPR & DAM Sports Suzuki. The event was postponed until Monday due to rain on Sunday.

With two events left in the Countdown playoffs, Krawiec is now 28 points behind Buell rider and points leader Hector Arana. Arana, who led Krawiec by 27 points coming into Memphis, was eliminated in the semi-final round when he fouled at the starting line, but he also backed up the 6.851-second pass he made to lead qualifying in Memphis, and earned a 20-point bonus for setting a new national ET record for the class. The previous record of 6.860 seconds was set by Andrew Hines on the Screamin’ Eagle V-Rod at Madison, Ill., in May. Krawiec marched to the finals with a win over Rum Bum Buell rider Bailey Whitaker in round one, over Doug Horne on the Horne Racing Buell (who fouled) in round two, and over Smith in a close semi-finals race. After posting ETs of 6.97, 6.95 and 6.92 in the first three rounds, Krawiec fell back a bit to 6.948 and could not match the 6.935 run of Phillips in the final.

After three of five events in the 2009 Pro Stock Motorcycle Countdown to the Championship, Arana leads with 2420 points. Krawiec is second with 2392 points. Phillips moves up to third with 2255, followed by Smith with 2253 and Hines with 2249 points.

The next Pro Stock Motorcycle event on the 2009 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series schedule is the Las Vegas NHRA Nationals, Oct. 29-Nov.1, at the Strips at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, Nev.

The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Pro Stock Motorcycle team is sponsored by Matco Tools, Dunlop and S100.

The ThunderMax crew from Zipper’s Performance Products will be at Destination Daytona Harley-Davidson during Biketoberfest, October 15th-18th 2009 in Ormond Beach, Florida–While you are in Florida, be sure to stop by Destination Daytona and talk to the ThunderMax technical staff. Learn more about how you can easily achieve a superior running motorcycle in all riding conditions without a dyno. ThunderMax is the cost effective solution for keeping your engine properly tuned, no matter where or how you ride.

Our team will be on-hand to answer all your questions about the latest gear for your fuel injected H-D.If you already own a ThunderMax, we want to hear about your experience. Stop by let us know how it’s changed your Harley’s performance!

See You at Daytona Beach!

BIKERNET ENGLISH DEPARTMENT, Word of the Day–burgeon BUR-juhn, intransitive verb:

1. To grow or develop quickly; flourish.
2. To begin to grow or blossom.

transitive verb:
1. To put forth, as buds.

noun:
1. A bud; sprout.

They fought aggressively to bring their burgeoning industry under their control; in so doing, they also worked to elevate Cleveland over Pittsburg as a refining center (which they accomplished in 1869).

— T.J. Stiles, The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt, April 2, 2009

Mr. Sprock often brought Novalee seeds and young plants for her garden, which was beginning to burgeon with color.

— Billie Letts, Where the Heart Is

Burgeon is from Middle English burgeonen, from Old French borjoner, from burjon, a bud.

BAD BETSY COMES TO BIKERNET–We are still working on a title for the traveling leather queen. Some staff jealous staff members want her to be the new cub reporter, while the girls want to fire my ass and make Betsy the CEO of Bikernet. We’re still in top level discussions:

“I am very excited,” Betsy said of her approval as an Official Bikernet Correspondent, “Weeeeeeeeee! Examples of my past work are still at:www.BetsyHuelskamp.com under “Backroads With Betsy” current, and the past three years of archives.

” I write my columns with a #2 pencil and paper while I’m traveling. So the ones I’ve written that I just need to type into my computer are:

1. My annual summer travels and Sturgis trek – lots of cool event photos in Sturgis, and quieter journey photos with family en route.
2. My Grizzly Kodiak Alaskan Adventure – got to visit the new Grizzly Man while he was filming for Animal Planet with a dozen Grizzlys at the rivers edge. One of the most exciting days of my life!

” And I started a couple of human interest stories. One on Grace, the lady in her 70’s that rides her old Indians around the country by herself. I’ve spent some time with her at rides and when she was recently honored for her lifetime in motorcycling. I am going to spend a day alone with her riding near her home in Big Bear to complete the interview.

” Another with a cancer survivor who was inspired by my past writings and shows. So I have visited her through her treatment and have been riding with her through her journey back to healthy. She’s a middle aged Asian woman, and she’s been thru hell, and still has a strong will and zest for life. She had hoped to ride to Sturgis with me this year, but wasn’t quite ready. But it’s in our future.”

VINTAGE KLASS SEMINARS AT FOLLOWING LOCATIONS–If you attend an event and get burned out on all the same funky booths, watch for Vintage Klass. It’s like a motorcycle antique store in a booth. Here’s their most recent schedule:

10/10 SLO Classic Motorcycle Show – San Luis Obispo,CAwww.centralcoastclassicmc.com

10/16-18 Hot Rod Reunion – Bakersfield, CAwww.nhra.com

10/25 Long Beach Cycle Swap – Long Beach, CAwww.toppingevents.com

Thanks for all the support!
Joel and Mary, Vintage Klass
Vintage Helmets and Leathers
949 355 8098
www.myspace.com/vintageklass

Continued On Page 2

BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL REPORTS–WEATHER FROM LOWER ALABAMA, MOTORCYCLE STUDIES, STREET VIBRATIONS REPORTS, AND TOY RUNS ARE COMING

Continued From Page 2

OFFICIAL BIKERNET LOWER ALABAMA WEATHER REPORT–Oh what a beautiful morning, o what a beautiful day! oops! Sorry about that. I did not mean to break out in song, but thank the good Lord for Canadian cold fronts! We have finally got the rain to depart for a few days. After almost three entire weeks of overcast, wet weather with the humidity so high you could wring water out of the air, it has finally cooled off and is drying out. Temperatures are down in the upper seventies to the low eighties in the daytime and mid to upper fifties (maybe even lower) at night, good sleeping weather and excellent riding weather.

Rode the Super Fly to work yesterday. It was almost too hot to enjoy the ride home. Yesterday’s temps were 94 and 72 for highs and lows.

It will be hard to go to work. With cooler weather all I want to do is ride, making that final turn into the office parking lot an almost impossible mission. But alas, all good things must come to an end, at least for a while.

Fall is coming. The leaves will be changing soon. Hope to get in some good riding to see all the color. Maybe Richard and I can make a return trip to Talladega and Mt. Cheaha. That is a beautiful ride with the leaves changing. We last rode up there in November of 2006 and got out just hours before the snow started falling. I believe the temp. was 35 degrees when we started home that time, but it warmed up the farther south we rode. It is time to “leather up” and I am ready and willing to do just that.

Ride Safe,
–Camy

ROLLIN SIXES SAYS GOODBYE–Thought you guys might want to see it before it goes to it’s new owner. Later Jerry.

AEROMACH COFFIN MIRRORS WITH CROSS– This mirror has a large viewing area, approximately 4.5? W x 2? H at the tallest part.

40% Reduced Vibration – Billet aluminum is stronger and more dense than factory mirrors and this is the reason why you are able to see better with Aeromach mirrors. They reduce the vibration that comes through the mirror. Now you can actually see who and what is behind you.

SPECIAL NOTE: The cross is not attached to the mirror but machined out of the top surface. For an industrial look… we have included the machine marks in the recesses of the cross. Details at Aeromach USA.

BRASS BALLS MODEL 1 – RUNAWAY SALES LEADER–

The Model 1 concept came from BossMan Dar Holdsworth understanding that in these uncertain financial times consumers would be looking for hi-value products. And in two months the concept came to life to great acclaim in Cincinnati, OH at the industry V-Twin show in February, 2009.

A short seven months later the Model 1 has become the firm’s all time sales leader and most popular Digger Bobber.

The Brass Balls motorcycle is a value-priced Bobber that comes in black and has zero options. It’s built around Henry Ford’s Model T idea, which came in one color and was built for mass appeal.

What it does have is a selection of the who’s who in custom v-twin manufacturing. American suppliers include an EVO 80 inch engine, a S&S carburetor, a Tauer Machine Warlord primary, a D&D dyno-tuned 2 into 1 performance pipe and a Baker 5 speed transmission. And at just $15,995 the success of the concept has created the largest backlog of the firm’s history.

In addition, the Brass Balls has wrapped the Digger Bobber in a 300,000 mile, 1 year warranty. There isn’t another custom-production manufacturer that provides so much for so little… Just what the nation needs!

More details at Brass Balls HQ.

40 YEARS AFTER THE ORIGINALEASY RIDER: THEY RIDE BACK–The long awaited prequel to one of the highest grossing independent films of all time. “Easy Rider” defined the thoughts and values of a generation. The Prequel “Easy Rider: The Ride Back” shows through flashbacks how these much loved characters became the classic icons of a generation.

Millions of fans around the world know the throb of the Captain America Harley Davidson, the roar of that great 60s music, the thrill of the open road. Now a whole new generation can experience the same sense of freedom through these modern day road rebels in “Easy Rider: The Ride Back”.

http://www.easyridertherideback.com

At the Love Ride and California Bike Week they are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the movie Easy Rider. Don’t miss it.

Idle adjuster for S&S carburetors Super E and Super B–These adjusters are just enough to adjust idle with touch of thumb.Brass construction blends in with aluminium/brass look of the carburetor.and super easy installation.$15 each.

available immediately

–Keino
www.keinocycles.com
www.keinocycles.blogspot.com
Keino cycles LLC
97 Union st
Brooklyn NY 11231
P 718-858-5767
F 718-858-5742

Former Senior Management Team of Dealer World and AMD Magazines Launch New Agency Chris McGee and Brian Marion start Revolution Communications Inc–Winston-Salem, NC- Chris McGee and Brian Marion, formerly of UK based trade publisher Dealer World, announce the creation of Revolution Communications Inc.

“RevComm will serve the complete marketing needs of companies within the motorsports industry with progressive and innovative strategies.” says Chris McGee. “RevComm is positioned to be an all inclusive and full service advertising and marketing agency, with a focus on brand development and superior service.”

A former professional motorcycle racer with international experience, Chris is also a second generation motorcycle industry executive. In addition to serving as the most recent President of AMD and Dealer World magazines, McGee also has a background that includes consumer publishing and event management.

“Our mission is to deliver focused, engaging and energetic marketing programs that maximize exposure, brand equity and ROI.” states Brian Marion. “Between us, we have over 40 years of motorcycle industry and marketing experience, it’s time we help develop the next generation of brands and companies within the motorsports market.”

With a career that began in publishing and has progressed through handling the marketing needs of Fortune 500 companies, top sports brands, distributor marketing and trade publishing; Marion brings extensive marketing, PR and advertising skills to RevComm. Marion continues, “The motorsports industry is undergoing rapid change and it is companies that are willing to invest in themselves and their brands that will step into the forefront of the industry.”

In announcing their new venture, McGee and Marion are also announcing their departure from Dealer World, effective immediately. “We wish Robin Bradley and the Dealer World team well. We have enjoyed our time at Dealer World but know that it’s time to take the next step and begin building the next, great motorsports brands.”

–Revolution Communications
800-263-9565
www.revcomm.com
chris@revcomm.com
brian@revcomm.com

NEW FUEL GAUGE KIT FOR HARLEY-DAVIDSON SPORTSTER MODELS–Bright LED Display Unit Mounts on Front Brake Master Cylinder.

MILWAUKEE (September 30, 2009) – The new Sportster® Fuel Gauge Kit (P/N 75031-09 black, 75338-09 chrome; $249.95) from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories includes an in-tank sending unit with accurate capacitive-sensing technology and a handlebar-mounted LED indicator. The segmented LED display is set into a housing that replaces the brake master cylinder cover on the right-hand control.

The individual LED segments glow when the tank is full, and count down one-by-one as the fuel level drops. Available in black or chrome finish to match original equipment controls, the kit includes the sending unit, LED master cylinder cover, wiring harness, and all necessary installation hardware. It fits 2007-later XL and 2008-later XR models.

For additional information on Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories, see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. or Canada.

31ST ANNUAL VANCOUVER TOY RUN – OCTOBER 4th–Event: 31st Annual Vancouver Motorcycle Toy RunDate: Sunday, October 4, 2009Time: Leaves Coquitlam Centre Mall parking lot at 10:00 am

This event raises much needed toys and funds to provide underprivileged families assistance at Christmas time. It is one of the most important toy raising events in the Lower Mainland and it directly supports 10 local Christmas Bureaus. Please come out and show your support. It is a really fun opportunity to give back to your community!

The entry fee is a new child’s toy wrapped in plastic or a monetary donation.

The toy run will leave Coquitlam Centre at 10:00 am and proceed to the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) grounds in full parade style.

Limited commemorative pins are available.

The Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau kindly requests more sport and educational gifts. They also ask that there would be please be no stuffed toys, as they already have a very large supply. There is always a great need of items for teens and preteens some suggested items are music gift certificates, cd walkmans, blow dryers, curling irons, make up kits, and store gift certificates.

This event goes rain or shine!

Poster available here.

For more information: (604) 580-0111 or 1-877-580-0111

Winning AMCA Essay Contest Winner

That Ryan Mackey kid..Shit yeah! Good pick.He sounds like the kind of guy I wouldn’t mind my daughter bringing home.

She’s 21, 5’9″ – 120 pounds, blonde hair, blue eyes and mean as a snake when you piss her off. Think he’s interested?The lucky little sob…

Ole in MN

If you haven’t already read the story, here it is: http://www.bikernet.com/fiction/PageViewer.asp?PageID=2823

LIFESTYLES DEALS OF THE WEEK–2005 HARLEY DAVIDSON FAT BOY! ONLY $13,995.00–

Wow! A custom 2005 Fat Boy for only $13,995.00? You can not pass this Harley up! Features chrome 16-inch ape hangers, stainless steel braided cables, powerful 88 cubic inch factory motor with Vance & Hines Big Radius chrome pipes, 5-speed transmission, Chrome Fat Boy front end, lowering kit and too many extras to list. Yoiu really need to see this one in person! The Metallic Gray factory paint shines like new. Super clean and ready to ride! Like all of LifeStyle Cycles pre-owned Harleys, this bike has been inspected, tested and approved by a certified LifeStyle Cycles technician.

2005 Harley Davidson Fat Boy! ONLY $9,995.00!

A 2005 HARLEY FAT BOY FOR UNDER $10,000.000??? It’s true! This clean, low mileage 2000 Fat Boy is the bike for you! This bike features a powerful factory 88 cubic inch motor and 5-speed transmission with a custom Samson exhaust. Also comes with front and back axle covers, lay down license plate, floorboards with heel/toe shifter, chrome pulley cover, chrome upper and lower belt guards, tachometer and chrome head bolt covers. Like all of LifeStyle Cycles pre-owned Harleys, this bike has been inspected, tested and approved by a certified LifeStyle Cycles technician.

Study: World Demand for Motorcycles to Grow–According to a brochure promoting a new study, the global demand for motorcycles, which was 79.2 million units in 2008, will increase 7.6 percent per year through 2013.

World Motorcycles (Including Electric Bicycles & Mopeds) is a 396-page study produced by The Freedonia Group, a Cleveland-based research firm that sells the full report for $5,700.

The increase in demand reportedly will be spurred by rising standards of living in developing parts of the world, which are making motorcycles a more affordable alternative to walking, bicycling or using mass transit. According to the study’s summary, 82 percent of the world’s demand in 2008 was in the Asia/Pacific region, 6 percent was in Africa and the Mideast, 6 percent was in Latin America and 6 percent was in other regions like North America. (No other statistics pertaining to the U.S. was mentioned in the brochure.)

The study predicts that compared to the growth in demand, the total value of sales will expand at a slightly slower pace. Why? A future decline in sales-weighted prices due to fast market growth in low-priced electric motorcycles and smaller internal-combustion-engine (ICE) motorcycles.

According to the study’s summary, electric motorcycles, which are “extremely popular” in China but account for a minimal share of demand in most other parts of the world, will register the strongest market advances. Sales of battery-powered bicycles, scooters and other two-wheelers will be driven by their generally lower retail prices, low cost of operation and lack of harmful emissions. But ICE motorcycles will continue to account for more than 95 percent of all demand outside of China in 2013.

Light motorcycles, the summary says, will outperform other ICE product types and maintain their position as the largest single segment of the motorcycle market.

The strongest sales advances through 2013, the summary states, will be registered in the Africa/Mideast region. This will be due to several factors, including the fastest population growth of any region, the lowest median age and the lowest (but climbing) per-capita GDP.

The summary continues: “Population increases and higher standards of living will also help stimulate demand in the Asia/Pacific region, which will post the second-strongest gains, followed by Eastern Europe (rising from a very small current market base) and Latin America. China alone will account for 55 percent of all additional sales through 2013, spurred by very strong electric motorcycle demand and solidifying its position as the biggest national motorcycle market.”

–DealerNews

Ah, so we’ve been contacted by the gods of high powered electric motors to build the world’s fastest electric bike. We will let you know if we decide to move forward with this project.–Wrench

NOVEMBER PETERSON MUSEUM VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE AUCTION–Consignments Now Invited Classic CaliforniaA Sale of Important Motorcars, Motorcycles and Related Memorabilia November 14, 2009The Petersen Automotive MuseumLos Angeles.

1975 Ducati 750SSEstimate: $40,000 – 60,000 Contact a Specialist

Unique motorcycles and motorcars to be offered at annual Petersen Museum sale.

Each November the 216-year old international auction house Bonhams hosts its famous auction at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles – a veritable temple for all automotive enthusiasts – and the call for consignments is now being announced for this year’s sale.

Past Bonhams sales at the Petersen Museum have included collections from such legendary figures as Steve McQueen, Von Dutch and Bruce Willis, and have achieved numerous world record prices.

Consignments for this year’s auction already include the following, to name just a few:
* The 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz formerly owned by Frank Sinatra
* A 1956 Maserati T160 single motorcycle
* Heuer mounted stopwatch set, used in the film Le Mans, starring Steve McQueen
* From the zenith of American boardtrack racing, a 1914 Indian single racer
* The original English-assembled 1898 MMC Werner – quite possibly the earliest production motorbike in Britain
* 1919 Indian Daytona twin with FLXI sidecar, formerly the property of Steve McQueen
* A sublime 1960 BMW 60/2 motorcycle with Steib sidecar with every conceivable option

Bonhams’ auction at L.A.’s Petersen Auto Museum on Wilshire Boulevard will take place on November 14th. Owners interested in consigning motorcycles or cars to this world-renowned auction should contact Bonhams’ North American Motoring Department. E-mails can be sent to usacars@bonhams.com. Calls can be made to:

Mark Osborne, VP & Head of
Department, San Francisco: 415-391-4000
Rupert Banner, VP Business Development,
New York: 212-461-6515
Nick Smith, Motoring Department Specialist,
Los Angeles: 323-436-5470

WIN A COPY OF THE NEW S&S BOOK FROM MOTORBOOKS–Or any number of other surprises from the Bikenet bag of tricks. It’s easy. Just sign into our free contest area and you’re good to go.

BIKERNET WEEKLY ART INSTITUTE PHOTO EXHIBIT– She left me standin’ there wishin’ she liked rats. I got laid off from my real job – nice huh? Know anyone that needs help in Daytona for Biketoberfest? Lemme know.

Live it up,
Whiplash Biker Photog
soffordphotos@comcast.net

Rick’s Day / Open House 200915th Anniversary Rick’s Motorcycles– 5th Anniversary House of Custom Baden-Baden03. + 04. Oktober 2009.

OPEN HOUSE bei Rick’s Motorcycles am 03 + 04.10.09Anlässlich des 15. Geburtstag von Rick’s Motorcycles und dem 5. Geburtstag des House of Custom Baden-Baden öffnet Rick’s Motorcycles und die im House of Custom ansässigen Firmen in diesem Jahr für 2 Tage die Türen und präsentiert alles rund um die Rick’s Teile und Bikes.

Der Samstag dient hauptsächlich zur Beratung und Präsentation der Rick’s Produkte, während am Sonntag einige Showeinlagen geplant sind. Neben der Stunt Show von Rainer Schwarz ist bei passendem Wetter auch eine Dragster Vorführung vorgesehen.

Als besonderes Highlight wird das 15 Jahre Rick’s Motorrad im Rohbau vorgestellt, die endgültige Präsentation ist für die Custombike in Bad Salzuflen geplant!

Egal ob im Verkauf, Blechnerei, Werkstatt oder Radmontage, das komplette Rick’s Team steht in jeder Abteilung für Fragen bereit und informiert über die Arbeiten.

Für das kulinarische Wohl wird ebenfalls gesorgt, so dass einem kompletten Tag im House of Custom nichts im Wege steht.

DAS KOMMEN LOHNT SICH AUF JEDEN FALL !!!!

New Helmet Law for Young Horseback Riders —A grieving mother pushing for safety guidelines for young horseback riders is making strides. Nicole’s Law has finally been signed.

Fifteen year old Danielle Herb has accomplished a lot for a teenager, including teaching children with ADHD how to ride horses in Suwannee County.But, like a typical teen, she was worried about her hair.”I didn’t want to wear a helmet and I thought it was stupid.” Said, Danielle.But last year, that changed.

She said, “I had a thoroughbred horse and I was jumping. Thank goodness I had a helmet on because I got thrown about 50 miles an hour into a steel railing and actually crushed my entire helmet. It was the only reason I’m still alive right now.”

Whether young people want to wear a helmet, it is now the law in Florida to wear one.Governor Charlie Crist signed Nicole’s Law, which requires horseback riders aged 16 and younger to wear a helmet while taking lessons, and while riding on public roads and rights of way.

Danielle’s six year old sister, Leila Smith, also credits a helmet for protecting her.Leila said, “When I had my first concussion, it really hurt bad. But this helmet, I didn’t want to wear it. I thought I would look ugly in it.”

The law is named for a 12-year old girl of Loxahatchee, Florida who died when she was thrown from a horse onto pavement in 2006.Danielle and Leila’s mother, Marianne St. Clair, said, “It only takes a second and it could be the loss of your loved one. So helmet safety is a very positive thing.”

St. Clair says she can’t keep her girls from loving horses, but she can try to keep them safe.Nicole’s Law goes into effect October 1st.

There is a $500 fine for anyone who allows a child to go without a helmet in the aforementioned circumstances.

–from Rogue

SEX AND STREET VIBRATIONS IN RENO–In my search for “sexy”, I tried the usual haunts in downtown Reno that included my fav bar, Shooters, only to discover that due to some stupid-ass city ordinance, they took out the fun pole at the end of the bar. The place used to be packed with adult fun from scantily clad bar wenches who spontaneously jumped on the bar to do a little Demi Moore action on the stripper’s pole, to the drinking gals who would try to prove themselves equally talented. The place was a hot spot for both wild and sexy. Big bummer to find it reduced to just a watering hole. The never disappointing fun run of the whole five-day affair is the Cat House Poker Run that includes, yep, you guessed it, local brothels. Guess we’ll talk about that another time.

Of course, if men in uniform were more to ones liking, there were plenty of those to ogle, too. For some folks, the hot action was downtown and with more than one partner, or tasty treat. Whatever ones preference, the Reno area was the place to be for sexy, non-stop action during the 2009 Street Vibrations pulsating party.

OK, given my instructions to provide “sexy” fotos of Street Vibes, I took great liberty with the word, I’ll grant you, but I figure you can just ignore what you don’t think falls under that category. Jason Pullen is always sexy, as far as I’m concerned, since the amazing San Francisco stunt rider performs the most amazing ballet ever (sans tights, of course) on a Harley and if you factor in the sparks flying off the titanium plate he scrapes on the back of his bike and, my personal fav, FIRE..well gee, my heart just goes “pitter pat” at an accelerated pace only rivaled by hot sex.

Toss in a man on a Harley with an American flag fluttering behind him and what red-blooded biker chick could possibly pass that up? Top all that off with some smoking hot fireworks provided by the folks from Pyro Guys who lit up the parking lot out at the Carson City Harley Dealership and I gotta tell ya, this is ALL about sexy, dontcha think?

–Bikernet Correspondent, Felicia Morgan

SCOTT JACOBS TO EXHIBIT AT LAS VEGAS BIKE FEST THIS WEEKEND–We will be showing the artworks of Scott Jacobs including all of the latest releases at BIKEFEST in Las Vegas October 1-4. Our location is the main venue Convention Center in downtown Las Vegas so if you are going to be in the area we would love to see you and show you Scott’s latest creations. Hope to see you there. Here’s the link…

http://www.lasvegasbikefest.com/

— Ron Copple
Scott Jacobs Studio
303-431-4453 www.scottjacobsstudio.com

RALPHY ON MATH FROM THE BIKERNET REFORM SCHOOL– A teacher asks her class, ‘If there are 5 birds sitting on a fence and you shoot one of them, how many will be left?’ She calls on little Ralphy.

He replies, ‘None, they will all fly away with the first gunshot.’

The teacher replies, ‘The correct answer is 4, but I like your thinking..’

Then little RALPHY says, ‘I have a question for YOU.

There are 3 women sitting on a bench having ice cream:

One is delicately licking the sides of the triple scoop of ice cream. The second is gobbling down the top and sucking the cone.

The third is biting off the top of the ice cream. Which one is married?’

The teacher, blushing a great deal, replied, ‘Well, I suppose the one that’s gobbled down the top and sucked the cone.’

To which Little RALPHY replied, ‘The correct answer is ‘the one with the wedding ring on,’ but I like your thinking.’

–from Bob Clark

Please join us THIS SUNDAYfor the 22nd annualHIGH COUNTRY TOY RUN!–

Another Street Vibrations shot from Felicia Morgan.

WAS THAT A GAUCHERIE NEWS?–There’s another word from Dictionary.com. We signed up and now receive a new delightful words daily. Gaucherie means a socially awkward or tactless act. You can’t tell your pals you never learn anything from the Bikernet Thursday News.

As you know, we bust our butts every week to bring you the finest Biker News on the planet, and you can help. Share the news and Bikernet in general with your friends, by sending them a link.

There’s one more way you can be involved. We are open to news from any oblique corner of bikerdom. We don’t just hang out with the chrome elite, if anyone is truly elite around this grease and rusty fasteners. So, if you have something to report, don’t hesitate to drop me a line. If you have a bike to share, a tech question in need of a contact or answer, don’t hesitate. Drop me a line: Bandit@bikernet.com.

This damn thing will be strong enough to park cars on, jesus.

Were about to drop in the El Camino Vintage Meet report from Paul Garson. I’m working on building a shower room for the Bikernet Barracks. I received my 5-Ball factory Racer seat from Duane Ballard and discovered a leak in one of my gas tanks. A brother recommended Casewell tank sealer. Be careful with lacquer thinner, if your tank was painted. Nasty stuff. George, the wild brush is due over here to rescue my pinstriping. I’m a tad pissed off at myself, but I should be riding it this weekend for the first time.

The brothers are after me for more fiction and a new Cantina Drama segment. It’s going to be riddled with sex. Hang on. Chris Callen just submitted his report on the Indian Larry, New York City Block Party. I’ll post it and another boardtrack feature from U.S. Choppers real soon. In the meantime let’s ride.

Ride forever,

–Bandit

That’s Oliver, the founder of the Love Ride on the left with Steve, a biker lawyer, hanging out in Reno.