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Get all news on two-wheels to get you moving or when you are on the move. Click to view Free Weekly Newsletter subscription.

I pray for a world that harbors no hate,

Where hunger, poverty, homelessness has been eradicated and greed, fraud, likes and deceit have been replaced with kindness, sharing, giving, trust and love,

Where animals all have enough space and the school playground is a safe place and All can live and work together as one and enjoy nature’s simple beauty that’s around everyone,

Where all disease is under control and health care is available for all,

Where zealots, tyrants, war bullies, thugs no longer thrive,

Where all are free, healthy, happy to be alive,

So give thanks for that in which you love and believe,

For us it’s God, family and friends,

We all need love, friendship and a home,

Peace be with you,

May your holidays be truly blessed,

— Love, Lana and Wayne Cobb

December 23, 2022 House Passes Motorcyclist Profiling Resolution!

In one of the final actions before the 117th Congress dissolved the House of Representatives passed, H. Res 366, the motorcyclist profiling resolution.

The resolution, which was first introduced in 2016, failed to receive a vote on the House floor until today. In the six years since it was introduced motorcyclists have spent countless hours educating lawmakers and raising awareness on the issue of motorcyclist profiling.

The 2016 version of the resolution had just 18 cosponsors, but that number grew to 103 this month. These 103 cosponsors represented a diverse set of political beliefs and geographic interests, but all were committed to supporting bikers.

It has been a long journey to this point and many parties are responsible for this victory. Former Representative Reid Ribble of Wisconsin originally introduced the resolution and after his departure from Congress Representative Tim Walberg of Michigan picked up the baton. The Motorcycle Profiling Project provided important data that helped inform lawmakers about the extent of motorcyclist profiling. Motorcycle clubs and independent riders all invested time and resources in the battle on Capitol Hill. State motorcyclist rights organizations leveraged their relationships with home state lawmakers and increased cosponsor numbers dramatically. Most importantly all these groups remained committed and focused despite setbacks and disappointments.

With this action, the House joins the Senate, which passed a similar resolution in 2018 standing against motorcyclist profiling and asking for collaboration between law enforcement and bikers to prevent profiling. Additionally, five states, Washington, Maryland, Louisiana, Idaho, and New Hampshire all have state laws against the profiling of bikers.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation hopes that this demonstration of support from the United States Congress will provide other states a foundation to enact legislation.

To see a full version of H. Res 366 click here.

Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. Website: http://mrf.org

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NEVER RIDE UNAWARE ! Simply Subscribe to Bikernet’s Weekly Newsletter. Its the motorcycling news you can use. Click Here to know!

by Dustin Wheelen from https://www.rideapart.com

• On January 18, we get to see the 2023 motorcycles from the iconic Milwaukee Motorcycle Company

• The Motor Company will also detail its 120-year anniversary Homecoming event.

Harley-Davidson does things differently; Always has, (probably) always will. For example, while most motorcycle manufacturers scrambled to showcase their latest lineups and brand-new models at EICMA 2022, the Motor Company remained aloof. With all the hubbub settling down from Milan, it looks like Harley’s finally stepping into the spotlight.

The Bar and Shield will reveal its 2023 motorcycle lineup on January 18, 2023. The announcement will stream live at 10 a.m. CST on Harley-Davidson’s website. Presenters won’t just unveil the first wave of 2023 Hogs but also highlight the brand’s new accessories and gear.

During the event, the firm will also divulge details about the first annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming to be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 13-16, 2023. While we can confidently forecast music, food, and entertainment at the 120th-anniversary celebration, Harley will expand on the event’s schedule, venues, ticket packages, and lodging.

“2023 marks the 120th Anniversary of Harley-Davidson during which we’ll honor our rich heritage, celebrate with our fans and riding community, and reveal our newest motorcycles and product offerings,” revealed Harley-Davidson President and CEO Jochen Zeitz. “Please join us as we kick off our 120th Anniversary with exciting new model introductions and a peek at what we have in store for the landmark year ahead.”

The news comes during a time of transition for H-D. The American OEM recently discontinued the long-running Evo-powered Sportster lineup but rumors of a Pan America 975 variant keep hopes high for 2023. The company also continues to move toward a remote/work-from-home model as top brass considers options for reconfiguring Harley’s Milwaukee headquarters.

It’s safe to say that the brand is juggling several initiatives as 2022 draws to a close. That’s even more reason to tune in on January 18, 2023, and see what Harley-Davidson has up its sleeve. After all, they always seem to do things differently.

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STAY UPDATED With All Motorcycling Events, News, Updates, Products, Reviews and More. Grab the Bikernet Blog FREE Weekly Newsletter. CLICK HERE To Sign-up. Free, No Spam Ever, Never any non-motorcycling stuff. Unsubscribe Anytime.

Hey,

I share info from the NRA, the Gun industry, SEMA and the Hot Rod and car industry, because like us, they exist on Freedom. I don’t always agree with them, but I always celebrate their efforts for Freedom.

SEMA is constantly fighting for the right to repair and modify (see report below in the news). That’s right up our ally, so I cover it. Just as I cover and support all motorcycle rights groups and hope for the best.

Here’s the perfect Christmas Quote from a longtime friend from Australia: If we can be kind and thoughtful around Christmas time, why can’t we continue this throughout the year? Let me suggest we all make a New Year’s Resolution and that is to continue this goodwill in 2023.

–Ray Russell

Let’s hit the news:

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

MY FAVORITE GLOVES ARE NOW LINED— On Sale: Winter Lined Gauntlet: Made to Order

This is our traditional Gauntlet glove but lined with a winter poly blend for extra warmth. These are great for cooler weather rides. The top is distressed brown bison, with a deerskin palm. These are made to order in the USA, and take about a week to ship.

$ 75

—Griftercompany.com

A LOOK AT THE ROAD CONDITIONS IN INDIA—

Hopefully with all the EV blasts on two-wheelers and elections coming and terrorism threat, there will be slower pace to push self-driving vehicles in India.

Already Tesla went away because their cars would be at the price of a Ferrari or Aston Martin due to import duty (similar to why Harley-Davidson is a luxury vehicle in India. ) Haven’t heard of electric car explosions. Contracts have been awarded for electric buses. Bus and Trains are the lifeline of the working masses here. A blast for any reason would jolt the economy.

Seat belts are mandatory here and government forced new ICE and EV cars to have mandatory 6 air bags for cars.

Also, since 2019, all new cars have factory fitted warning — continuous beep if car goes above 80 KMPH and beep cannot be stopped even by unauthorized mechanics if the car surpasses speed of 120 KMPH. Such a high speed of 120 would mandate action and report to government agencies about the driver and the vehicle. Only the authorized service center would be able to shut out the beep caused by 120 KM per hour speed.

These are not jokes or fiction nor is it proposed laws. These are actual laws here.

Comparatively, the wild ones on two-wheels here definitely deserve a helmet to slow down their insane riding. Any bloke can get a two-wheeler license here but not so easy with a car driving license.

My 200cc bike has a very fast pickup and goes from 40 to 100 kmph in seconds — unlike Enfield motorcycles. Actually, I felt safer on the slow and heavy Enfield, since even if I get carried away by thrill-mood, I could not possibly go too fast on that white elephant called Enfield “Bullet” model motorcycle.

Source: Airbags rule
https://www.businesstoday.in/auto/story/breaking-centre-to-make-6-airbag-safety-norm-mandatory-from-october-2023-says-nitin-gadkari-348530-2022-09-29

Source: Speed Warning rule
https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/speed-warning-system-irritating-but-effective-ministry-of-road-transport-and-highways-409842

–Ming Ball
 International News Desk correspondent
Bikernet.com™

NATIONAL MOTORIST ASSOCIATION REPORT–Red-Light Cameras Turned Off in Greenville, NC—At Least for Now!

 

A little background.

In March 2022 the North Carolina State Court of Appeals ruled that Greenville’s red-light camera program was unconstitutional but not because of the cameras themselves. Under the state’s RLC citation scheme, expenses from fines cannot exceed 10 percent of the income, and the rest of the fine money funnels to the school district where the cameras reside.

The problem with Greenville cameras, the expenses topped out at 28 percent. The court ruled that Greenville’s funding framework violated the state’s constitutional directive that the ‘clear proceeds’ of all collected fines must be used exclusively to maintain free public schools.

Two motorists who received $100 RLC tickets sued the city and the Pitt County Board of Education and have won this round at the appeals court level.

Due to the ruling from seven months ago, the Greenville City Council finally decided not to renew the American Traffic Solutions (ATS) camera contract in early November, and the cams went dark on November 15th. The cams had been up since 2017.

In a scathing rebuke over the cameras, local columnist Bobby Burns said that when he wrote a column in May 2016, before the RLC installation, he suggested that the Pitt County Board of Education mind its own business. He claimed his reasoning was simple—the school board had no business involved in Greenville’s policing efforts.

Even though the cams are off, the city has already appealed to the North Carolina Supreme Court, which has yet to indicate if it will hear the case.

But, as we already know, the lure can be too great regarding RLC camera revenue.

Immediately following the city council vote to cancel the RLC contract, the Pitt County Board of Education adopted a resolution that supported the city’s efforts to go to the state legislature. The city and the Board want the cameras back on, and they are okay with the costs of the cameras to be paid from the proceeds of fines assessed against violators.

The city of Fayetteville already did so—a legislative bill allowed the city and the school system to manage a joint contract, which helped get around the constitutional quandary somehow.

Columnist Bobby Burns asked a straightforward question about this kind of legislative action—why should laws be made to subvert the meaning of the state Constitution? He stated that this kind of behavior doesn’t seem appropriate and it’s not fair to the other 20 NC cities and towns that also are allowed to operate RLCs.

The issue now is whether voters should decide on making a change to the state’s Constitution.

What do you think?

–NMA

THE 101 RUN FROM DICE MAGAZINE–The 101 RUN is back once again in Margate, England next July.

If you love motorcycles and having a laugh this is definitely the show for you!

–DICE Magazine

“We will publish a report on the state of the Chopper Magazine World next week. Dice Magazine is part of the chromed mix.”
–Bandit

CHRISTMAS AT HARDTAIL CHOPPERS–Happy Holidays Bandit

See you guys got plenty of snow . Get a bigger shovel. I attached a few pics of a New, Finned Cast Stainless Steel kicker pedal I just started making . January price is $225 and $10 shipping in USA, $200 until the first of new year . These are not imports! I make them and use Fab Kevin’s pivot shafts with stainless shoulder bolts .

They are not on my website yet. I can be reached at john@hardtailchoppers.com or shop phone 360-750- 6780 or hardtailchoppers on instagram

I’ve only got 15, just sold 20 in 3-4 days .

–John
Hardtail Choppers

TOYOTA BOSS SPEAKS OUT–Toyota’s president is questioning whether the push for the auto industry to phase out gas-powered vehicles and go exclusively electric is the right decision.

Akio Toyoda made the comments to reporters in Thailand after the auto manufacturer said around this time last year that it would produce 3.5 million electric vehicles annually by 2030, according to The Wall Street Journal.

“People involved in the auto industry are largely a silent majority,” Toyoda said. “That silent majority is wondering whether EVs are really OK to have as a single option. But they think it’s the trend so they can’t speak out loudly.”

Toyoda reportedly has been trying to express that point to governments and industry stakeholders.

“Because the right answer is still unclear, we shouldn’t limit ourselves to just one option,” he added.

Toyota’s rivals, including General Motors and Honda Motor Company, have set dates for when their lineups will be all-electric. However, Toyota has invested in a collection of models that includes hydrogen-powered cars and gas/electric hybrids, The Wall Street Journal reports.

General Motors is set to rapidly ramp up its electric car production in North America from about 50,000 this year to one million in 2025, but it is not parking its internal combustion engine cars and trucks just yet.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM WINDVEST–May your days be filled with peace, hope, and joy this holiday season.

As always, thank you for your business, loyalty, and support.

All of us at WindVest
Motorcycle Windshields

PRODUCT ALERT FROM SAWICKI SPEED—

Carbon fiber heat shields are now available for your Sawicki Speed exhaust system!!!!

For the right combo of straight & curved components for you go to the pipe that fits your bike on our site. The info is right in there.

Get ‘em while you can and keep your eyes open for more coming soon!

SCIENCE QUOTE OF THE WEEK–We have no problem with additional man-made CO2 being added to the atmosphere. After all, it is the Miracle Molecule!

–CO2 COALITION

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–MARVELOUS MOLLY

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/MARVELOUS_MOLLY.aspx

Molly was a true reflection of her family and friends. And Rouge very well said.

–Harold Armstrong
Lake Wales, FL

Purchase your 2023 Buffalo Motorama pre-sale tickets online and get a FREE Limited Edition Buffalo Motorama event poster with each ticket purchase. (Actual poster art to be released at later date)

Purchase Buffalo Motorama Tickets Today

HANG ON FOR THIS–Ken Paxton was on TV this am. He said, “The Mexican cartels are making $300,000,000 a week on illegals. Mexican politicians are all getting a cut. I wonder if any of our politicians who are allowing this for 24 months are getting paid, too.”

• We don’t let athletes bet on games they have the ability to influence. Why do we allow Congress to invest in companies they regulate?

• Why is it that when archeologists find human remains, they always determine that they are either male or female and none of the other hundreds of genders?

• Why is it that so many are more outraged that Brittney Griner is stuck in Russia than they were about Americans being stranded in Afghanistan?

• How is it that the government can’t control gasoline prices…but the weather is something they can fix?

• We’re churning out a generation of poorly educated people with no skill, no ambition, no guidance, and no realistic expectations of what it means to go to work.—Mike Rowe

• If kids knew what they wanted to be at age eight, the world would be filled with cowboys and princesses. I wanted to be a pirate. Thank goodness nobody took me seriously and scheduled me for eye removal and peg leg surgery—Bill Mahe

• Why were we told to lower our AC usage on hot days to prevent overwhelming the electric grid while simultaneously being told to trade in our gas cars for electric vehicles?

• Why is canceling student debt a good idea? Does it make sense to reward people who do not honor their financial commitment by taxing the people who do?

• Does it make sense to cut off oil from an ally and buy it from an enemy who calls for your death?

• Are we living in a time where intelligent people are silenced so that stupid people won’t be offended?

• Is this a great description of America: Andy has left town and Barney is in charge?

• Why is talking sexually in the workplace considered sexual harassment to adults…but talking about sexuality to children K-3 at school considered education?

• Who else had a ‘ministry of truth”…Hitler…Goebbels…Stalin

• Eliminating the production of 500,000 American barrels of oil a day to buy 500,000 barrels a day from Russia is simply…well…stupid

• I saw a movie where only the police and military had guns; it was called Schindler’s List.

• If your electric car runs out of power on the interstate, do you walk to a charging station to get a bucket of electricity?

• Why are we running out of money for Social Security and Medicare and not for welfare, illegals and free college?

• I just got a full tank of gas for $22. Granted, it was for my lawn mower, but I’m trying to stay positive.

• There is a coin shortage. America is officially out of common sense.

• If an 18 year old isn’t mature enough to own a firearm, then maybe five year olds aren’t mature enough to change their gender

• Sign in Texas: DON’T VOTE FOR WHAT YOU FLED

• Nobody called it “Toxic Masculinity when we were saving the world.

• Mice die in mouse traps because they do not understand why the cheese is free. Just like socialism

• The most powerful governments on earth can’t stop a virus from spreading…but they say they can change the earth’s temperature if you pay more taxes.

• Want to stop drunk drivers from killing sober drivers? Ban sober drivers from driving. That’s how gun control and COVID lockdowns work

• If you don’t want to stand for the national anthem, perhaps you should give your legs to a veteran who lost his. That way a real man can stand in your place.

• If socialism is so good and capitalism is so bad…then why aren’t the caravans heading to Venezuela?

History is not there for us to like or dislike. It is there for us to learn from it. And if it offends you, even better…because then you are less likely to repeat it. It is not anyone’s to erase…it belongs to all of us.

–Sam Burns
Official Correspondent
Bikernet.com™

YAMAHA CELEBRATES 2022 Champions —
Yamaha honors champions at the 2022 Wall of Champions induction ceremony

MARIETTA, Ga. – December 16, 2022 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, honored its 2022 Yamaha bLU cRU champions last week at the annual Yamaha Wall of Champions induction ceremony. Held this year at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, nine racers were recognized for their crowning achievements in their respective professional championships.

Eli Tomac was recognized for his landmark season aboard the YZ450F, winning premier class titles in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross Championships, as well as being a Motocross of Nations Champion with Team USA. Also honored for his achievements in supercross was 2022 250SX West Champion Christian Craig, who carried on the YZ250F’s title-winning tradition.

In road racing, Jake Gagne was inducted for his second-consecutive MotoAmerica Superbike Championship aboard the YZF-R1. The young Blake Davis earned his first Wall of Champions plaque for winning the MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship with the YZF-R7.

Yamaha racers also reaped success off-road on both two- and four-wheels. Rachael Archer earned her first title in the Grand National Cross Country Series (GNCC), winning the 2022 GNCC WXC Motorcycle Championship aboard the YZ250FX. Taking top honors on the YFZ450R was Brycen Neal in the GNCC XC1 Pro ATV Championship and Joel Hetrick in the AMA Pro ATV Motocross Championship. Yamaha racers also swept the Championship Off-Road Tour Side-by-Side (SxS) classes in the pure sport YXZ1000R, with Brock Heger winning the Pro Stock SxS title and Hamish Kelsey winning the Pro Turbo SxS title.

The inductees received copies of their honorary plaques that will be added to the Wall of Champions at Yamaha Motorsports headquarters in Marietta, Georgia. Established to honor Yamaha bLU cRU champions with a lasting memory of their accomplishments, the first induction ceremony for the Wall of Champions was held on November 16, 2012. Since then, over 100 racers have been inducted for their achievements.

SONG OF THE WEEK–This Tom Petty song reminded me of Bandit’s efforts for fair trade and right to choose between EV and ICE engines.

SONG FOR BANDIT’s CANTINA JUKEBOX

Song: “I Won’t Back Down”
Artist: Tom Petty
Album: Full Moon Fever (1989)
Lyrics: Tom Petty & Jeff Lynne

Well, I won’t back down
No I won’t back down
You could stand me up at the gates of Hell
But I won’t back down

No I’ll stand my ground
Won’t be turned around
And I’ll keep this world from draggin’ me down
Gonna stand my ground
And I won’t back down

Hey baby
There ain’t no easy way out (I won’t back down)
Hey I will stand my ground
And I won’t back down

Well, I know what’s right
I got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushin’ me around
But I’ll stand my ground
And I won’t back down

Hey baby
There ain’t no easy way out (I won’t back down)
Hey I will stand my ground (I won’t back down)
And I won’t back down

Hey baby
There ain’t no easy way out (I won’t back down)
Hey I won’t back down

Hey baby
There ain’t no easy way out (I won’t back down)
Hey I will stand my ground (I won’t back down)
And I won’t back down (I won’t back down)
No I won’t back down

–Wayfarer
Certified DJ
Bikernet.com™

BIKERNET BIKE FEATURE OF THE WEEK—

ONE WAY MACHINE by Julian von Oheimb
Lollarer Str. 48
D-35460 Staufenberg

Phone: +49 (0)177-3264316
Fax: +49 (0)6406-9232776
E-Mail: we@onewaymachine.com

Three-time world champion.

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT–Governor Ron DeSantis Suggests That Florida’s Legislators Will Approve Constitutional Carry of Guns in 2023: “I’m Ready”

On December 15, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis gave the clearest indication yet, that he intends to approve constitutional carry of handguns during the state’s forthcoming legislative season. While speaking at a press event to announce relief on toll charges, DeSantis was pressed on the topic of constitutional carry and whether he’d finally be ready to approve it.

–Toby Hazlewood

THE GOOD DOCTOR CONFIRMS SCIENCE—We read about a carbon capture effort and asked the Dr. Ed Berry, Montana to confirm something. Why would anyone want to capture CO2 and bury it underground? Don’t we need more CO2?

We all like to eat and plants are the source of all our food. Plants need CO2 to grow. In fact, plants capture CO2.

To artificially capture CO2 and bury it underground removes plant food, which removes human food. Pretty stupid.

–Ed Berry

“So much of this issue is education and understanding. CO2 is not a pollutant, but so many folks don’t know the basics.” –Bandit

[page break]

BRING A TRAILER AUCTION OF THE WEEK– No Reserve: 1968 Bonanza BC-1300

This 1968 Bonanza BC-1300 was acquired by the seller as a non-running project in 2013, and it subsequently underwent an approximately six-year refurbishment that was completed in 2020.

Work included repainting the bike in metallic blue, polishing the wheels, chrome-plating the fork lowers and fenders, replacing the black vinyl seat, fuel tank, and tires, and overhauling the replacement 156cc Tecumseh four-stroke single with a .010?-oversized piston and a replacement camshaft, connecting rod, exhaust system, and pull-starter.

Equipment includes a centrifugal clutch, a jackshaft, a rear drum brake, chrome shocks, a side stand, folding foot pegs. This Bonanza BC-1300 is offered at no reserve in Oregon with refurbishment receipts and a bill of sale.

Current Bid: $2,900

—Bringatrailer.com

BIKERNET CHRISTMAS TEMPLE REPORT–

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”  ~ Arthur Ashe

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” ~ Lou Holtz

“Never regret anything that made you smile.” ~ Mark Twain

“Leaders can let you fail and yet not let you be a failure.” ~ Stanley McChrystal

“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” ~ Thomas Edison

“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” ~ Vincent Van Gogh

“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” ~ Michael Jordan

–Wayfarer
Editor
Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

SEMA ALERT–California State Parks Says No New Dust Mitigation Measures Needed at Oceano Dunes

California State Parks issued a draft report that finds no new dust reduction measures are needed at Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). State Parks is required under a court order to reduce dust emissions at Oceano Dunes at a rate of 50% compared to 2013 levels.

However, the scientific advisory group (SAG) that guides the dust mitigation work released a report in February that 50% is too high given that the current configuration of sensors tracking dust is flawed in favor of a higher number. The SAG recommended 40.7% instead.

The collected data for the 2022 annual report measured a 40.8% dust emissions reduction and State Parks is recommending that the current mitigation plan has worked, and no additional measures are needed.

–SEMA

LIFESTYLE CYCLES HOLIDAY DEAL OF THE WEEK— 2012 Harley-Davidson FXDWG – Dyna Wide Glide for $12,995.00

SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=13139403

2012 Orange Harley-Davidson WIDE GLIDE FXDWG with only 40933.00 miles!

This bike is a Super clean custom Orange paint and some of the features/Add-ons on this bike are

* 103c.i. Motor with a 6-Speed trans.
* Chrome wheels 18 inch rear and 21 front
* Chrome lower legs and axle caps
* Chrome pull back T-bars with braided cables
* Chrome Vance & Hines exhaust
* Chrome K&N air cleaner system
* H.D. skull tear drop mirrors
* Chrome swing arm
* Solo seat

This bike is only $12,995.00 plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees.

This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.

This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!

Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING

Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92806. Open 7 days a week.

NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.

We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory CLICK BELOW.

December 22, 2022: SEMA and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) must share that despite strong Congressional backing and extraordinary support from the racing community, the 2021-2022 Congressional session is ending without passage of the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act.

Key negotiators in Congress could not reach an agreement on bill language that balanced the need for federal law to protect racers and motorsports parts businesses from EPA enforcement with reasonable measures to ensure that race parts are not used on vehicles driven on roads and public highways.

The RPM Act made incredible progress in the 2021-2022 session of Congress. In addition to more than 1.5 million letters advocating for the RPM Act from the grassroots motorsports community to Congress, SEMA and PRI worked with Richard Petty to meet personally with key lawmakers in Washington, DC, and with NHRA Top Fuel driver Antron Brown to testify before the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.

SEMA and PRI thank the RPM Act’s lead sponsors, the Senate Environment & Public Works (EPW) Committee, and the House Energy & Commerce Committee for their efforts to advance the RPM Act over the course of this year. Their leadership was integral throughout this process, despite the outcome.

“We wouldn’t have made it this far without this incredible effort by so many of our members,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “The RPM Act was one of the most bipartisan bills in the 117th Congress with over 165 lawmakers cosponsoring the legislation. SEMA and PRI will leverage the momentum we built during this congressional session, assess the current challenges the industry faces, and chart a new path forward for the industry’s advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels.

SEMA/PRI will continue its advocacy work to bring needed certainty to the racing community to protect a great American pastime and hundreds of thousands of jobs in communities throughout the country. For updates and information, visit www.saveourracecars.com.

“You know SEMA got taken in this deal. It was never going to happen as long as we are doomed. But there’s hope. The Greens in Puerto Rico sued the oil companies behind the RICO act. This could be the lawsuit we’ve been waiting for and they initiated it. The truth behind climate doom needs to surface so we can once again celebrate the blessings of CO2 and quit trying to capture it.

Hang on, there’s hope for the truth and scientific transparency.” –Bandit

FROM THE ROYAL ENFIELD CLOSET–

It looks very much like the Royal Enfield Interceptor which was launched with the twin engine, two exhaust pipes, 650cc

They stopped producing Enfield Bullet 500cc so as to boost sales of 650cc twin engines.

https://www.royalenfield.com/in/en/motorcycles/interceptor/

For the launch they advertised this new Enfield Interceptor as “California Cool”. I mean half of America already did not consider California as anything to be branded cool.

The above URL link even shows a surf-board attached to the Interceptor to resemble the famous Deus Ex Machina custom design.

Chief Enfield Investigator
Bikernet.com™

THIS JUST IN FROM CHOPPERS MAGAZINE–

Josh builds bikes out of his home garage in Minden, Nevada. This particular Panhead was built over the last two years and put together for the Born Free Show.

“I really tried to put my all into this one,” Josh tells us. “There are so many cool details on it.”

We’d have to agree.

–Choppers Magazine Staff

HYDRAULIC SPRINGER FRONT BRAKE—Here’s a wild one from Lowbrow.

You can have even more stopping power than with the Duplex brake with this hydraulic version of the factory Springer fork brake.

Behind the stock looking backing plate hides a master cylinder which activates the brake shoes and significantly improves the brake’s performance to a level unknown to date.

This hydraulic drum brake kit by Cannonball fits Harley Davidson Big Twins 1936-1948, WLC, Servi-car 1941-1958, or any motorcycle with a Cannonball I-Beam Inline Springer Front Fork installed. Made in Europe.

Features:

12 mm master cylinders
Banjo bolt thread: M10 x 1.00
Black powder-coated finish
Chrome-plated small parts
Includes a complete, pre-installed backing plate, new brake drum, and brake shoes

NOTE: Handlebar brake controls, brake line and fittings are not included and must be ordered separately.

REPLICA OF PETER FONDA BIKE AT MECUM—

Replica of Peter Fonda’s Dragon Bike from ‘Wild Angels’ Offered at Las Vegas 2023.

1956 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FLE PANHEAD
74 CI, Dragon Bike Replica

–Mecum auctions

BUELL Motorcycles Aligns with FreedomRoad Financial—
Names Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations

Buell Motorcycles, a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles, has forged a new alliance with FreedomRoad Financial, a division of Evergreen Bank Group, Member FDIC. By announcing this relationship, Buell is pleased to answer fans’ calls for consumer financing options.

“We couldn’t be more excited to offer enthusiasts this resource. Bottom line, it means we can put more Buell bikes under more riders,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycles. “We’re already known for offering a unique motorcycling experience – helping customers get their dream bike. Now they can also get a great financing option.”

FreedomRoad Financial is one of the largest U.S. powersports lending companies, taking great pride in maintaining the highest customer service and dealer satisfaction. But above all, they understand the rider lifestyle and work hard to help customers optimize it.

These are qualities Buell takes very seriously, and that is why Buell is equally pleased to introduce and welcome Chris Pobanz, the company’s first Director of Consumer and Service Center Relations. With decades of experience in powersports, Pobanz is perfect for this new consumer relations position. He walks clients step-by-step through ordering their new, custom-made Buell, helping them navigate the numerous design decision along the way. These include appearance preferences, accessories, and more.

In the production phase, Pobanz works closely with buyers to monitor the manufacturing schedule, keeping them informed of their place in the queue and tracking their bike’s delivery via specialized carriers when it’s ready to ship.

As important as building the perfect motorcycle for every client, Pobanz specializes in two areas. One is setting up each buyer’s Buell service center – as the purchase of every made-to-order Buell comes with its own client-located Approved Service Center. The other is acting as the point person for clients who wish to finance through FreedomRoad Financial.

Buell is back and delivering performance and excitement at every turn.

Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com Email for Information: Info@BuellMotorcycle.com

Come visit us January 28-29 at the Colorado Motorcycle Expo while you’re checking out its enormous swap meet, bike show, and all the fun live entertainment that goes along with it.

Get your tickets now!

–Buffalo Chip

QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA HOLIDAY BAD JOKE FILES—

Four old-timers were playing their weekly game of golf, and one remarked how nice it would be to wake up on Christmas morning, roll out of bed and without an argument, go directly to the golf course, meet your buddies, and play a round.

His buddies all chimed in and said, “Let’s do it! We’ll make it a priority, figure out a way, and meet here early Christmas morning.

A week later, Christmas morning arrived, and they were all on the golf course. The first guy says, “Boy, this game cost me a fortune! I bought my wife such a big diamond ring that she can’t take her eyes off it.”

Number 2 guy says, “My wife is at home planning the cruise I gave her. She was up to her eyeballs in brochures.

Number 3 guy says, “Well, my wife is at home admiring her new car, reading the manual.”

They all turned to the last guy in the group who was staring at them like they all had lost their minds.

“I can’t believe you all went to such an expense for this golf game. I woke up, slapped my wife on the butt and said, “Babe, Merry Christmas! It’s a great morning for either sex or golf, and she said, ‘”Take a sweater.'”

–From Nancy C., Gary Stibal and Micah McCloskey

DIRECT FOR THE ENFIELD LIBRARY—

Got hold of three Enfield books from Royal Enfield online store season sales.

 Enfield motorcycles were the basis for largest OHV Twin Engines sold in America under the Indian Motorcycle Co brand name back in 1956.

Yes, your current (Polaris) Indian was once upon a time, previously, based on Enfield motorcycles. Not just one model, but a whole range of Indian Motorcycle models were issued using Enfield technology and instrumentation. This technology included not just the engine, yet the badge clearly mentioned “Indian.”

You can see the full color advertisement for the 1956 Indian Trailblazer here which was a “powerhouse” indeed in that era. The other models using Enfield base were Indian Woodsman, Indian Tomahawk, Indian Fire Arrow.

I guess such names can’t be revived as they would be “politically incorrect” and “discriminatory”. Little do these “correct” people know what’s right because the image seen on the logo is of a real Indian Chieftain who gave permission to use his likeness for the first motorcycle production company in USA. The Chieftain considered it an honor and not an insult.

Honor is what it is to name a vehicle that traverses the ancient American land with the sights, smell and sounds coming alive, an experience only a motorcycle can give to a modern human.

Remembering them and their legacy by continuing to use the brand name and various associated model names is also therefore honoring their many concepts. It even invokes curiosity to learn about their culture and their ancient civilization spread across diverse tribes and traditions.

So apart from this Enfield book titled
“Royal Enfield: By Miles the Best by Gordon G May”

https://store.royalenfield.com/royal-enfield-by-miles-the-best-multi-color

….. if you are interested about ancient American tribes, I would suggest two books:

1. “Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask” by Anton Treuer
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0873518616

2. Atlas of Indian Nations by Anton Treuer
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1426211600/

–Ujjwal Dey
Indian but from India (LOL)
Research Specialist
Bikernet.com™

HOLIDAYS FROM DAMON MOTORCYCLE KINGDOM—

While the team has been hard at work putting the prototypes to the test, we’ve also managed to fit in some fun times on one wheel.

Because many of you have requested to see the HyperSport wheelie, enjoy a little gift from Santa Kurt, Director of Vehicle Integration & Testing!

It was an honor to showcase HyperFighter with hlins at EICMA last month.

Widely regarded as the best motorcycle suspension producer on the market, their commitment to excellence made this Swedish company the obvious choice as partners for our premium motorcycles.

A special thanks to all of our European fans – and even a few from North America – who travelled to Milan just to see us.

For those who weren’t able to make it, we’d like to introduce you to Noemi, HyperFighter’s designer.

Want to learn more about Noemi and meet the rest of the team at EICMA? Head to the Damon Lab!

ONGOING INVESTIGATION–This photo was sent to me with a message that Harley is trying to ‘Buy All These Motorcycles’.

I am trying to confirm if it is true or not.

Appears someone and / or group thinks the Confederate Flag is Racial.

–Rogue
Senior Editor Bikernet
Bikernet.com
PO Box 184

Built by Takashi Matsuura out of Quartermile Wheelshop it is a fluffy pink dream of an alternator Shovel and it will be coming to the pages of DicE very soon.

–Dice magazine editor

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE BIKERNET CLAN—

I want to wish everyone the best of Holidays. I know times are tough and challenging, but I have serious hopes for 2023. Just a few years ago we were living in the best of times. That notion will return next year, I swear and I’ll take you along for the ride of a lifetime.

–Bandit

LAWMAKERS LOVE FORMULA DRIFT COMPETITIONS—

When the average person thinks of racing, they usually picture an oval speedway, road course circuit or a dragstrip. While it’s true that these types of racetracks dominate the hobby, motorsports today encompasses so much more.

From off-road racing to land speed racing, rock crawling, drifting, and even donk racing (big wheel vehicles), it’s clear that motorsports today is a big tent with something for everyone.

SEMA and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) are committed to shining a light on all the exciting things taking place on four wheels, recently hosting two key members of Congress, U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone (D-NJ), the Chairman of the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee (E&C), and Darren Soto (D-FL), an E&C Committee member and RPM Act cosponsor, at Formula Drift events in New Jersey and Florida.

–SEMA

EPOCH QUOTE OF THE DAY—

“I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong.”
— Frederick Douglass

NEWS FROM WORLD RIDING TRAVELERS—

Spring 2020. Borders are closed. The whole team is stuck at home, all over the world. François and Sophie in Cape Town, Ravi in his village in Bihar, Josh between Egypt and the United States, Johann in Delhi, Reshad in Lyon, Thomas in Marseille…

Like everyone else, we are faced with uncertainty. We tell ourselves that it will not last and we imagine that long trips will resume in the summer of 2020. As it turns out, we will all have our patience tested and there is a long wait until the spring of 2022 for a complete restart of our activity.

During this period, we are on the lookout. As soon as a break in the restrictions opens, we seize our chance. Despite the covid tests, despite the uncertainties, the call of the road is stronger. Many of you have joined us in Rwanda, Sardinia, then in Morocco & Peru.

This forced interlude gave us the opportunity to reflect on the meaning of our job.

Why organize motorcycle trips? What drives us when we get on our bikes? Why do we prefer to take the trails less travelled, drink chai by the side of the road, tackle high altitude river crossings?

We think of Marius, a cardiologist from Orléans, who leaves everything behind after riding with us in Mongolia to head off around the world on a motorcycle. We think of David who is blind, he experienced our trip to Sri Lanka from Johann’s pillion seat. An intriguing dialogue takes place between one who describes what he sees, and one who describes what he feels.

It is your stories and your adventures that give meaning every day to our profession and keeps us going.

We are driven by adventure.

It pushes us past our comfort zone, to reach out to others and to question our prejudices. At Vintage Rides, we believe that every adventure makes us a little better. So, we’ve made it our mission: to make everyone an adventurer.

Our friend James Hagger, producer from the TroubleMakers agency, fell in love with the Vintage Rides concept.

You, the Vintage Riders, inspired him to make this film….. Let’s Ride.

Thank you, James, and thank you all.

–Vintage Rides
53 Rue président Kruger
69008 LYON
teamvr@vintagerides.com
04 87 91 31 96

WOW—Never a dull moment, even at Xmas. Life is moving fast and folks are taking advantage of it.

We needed License plate frames for the Redhead’s Suburu. What a strange story, but here’s what we came up with.

Since it’s 21 Below and warnings flash on phones, “Don’t travel,” I’m working in the shop and hanging more art.

I need to take a shot of the shop sink. With the help of Wolf’s Plumbing it’s cool and operational. Maybe next week.

Saw Charlie last week and scored another front springer brake. Black Bike has shipped my wheels. They will be here next week. Can’t wait.

I found this HA leather shirt I had custom painted with out 5-Ball Racing Logo. It was stashed in a box with artwork.

Cabana Dan came over to test some vintage brake parts I had. He’s still looking for a ’13 race engine for his speedway project. Let us know if you have a single or twin laying around.

Have a merry Xmas and let’s have a better New Year. I’ll be back next week for a final year-end report.

In the meantime, keep riding free!

–Bandit

by Bandit, Wayfarer, Bob T., Berry Green, Rogue, Sam Burns, the Redhead, Jim Waggaman, Laura, RFR and the rest of the gang.

Click Here to read the latest weekly news only on Bikernet.com

I want to wish everyone the best of Holidays. I know times are tough and challenging, but I have serious hopes for 2023. Just a few years ago we were living in the best of times. That notion will return next year, I swear and I’ll take you along for the ride of a lifetime.

Have a merry Xmas and let’s have a better New Year. I’ll be back next week for a final year-end report.

In the meantime, keep riding free!

–Bandit

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Celebrate your New Year from within Bandit’s Cantina; click here to see Membership Options

Want some goodies to gift to your friends and family? Visit 5-Ball Racing Garage Shop at:
https://5-ballgarage.com/

 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that roadway deaths in the U.S. are at crisis levels, on pace to exceed the 42,915 fatalities in 2021, the greatest number in 16 years, as Americans returned to the road following pandemic stay-at-home orders.

With alcohol-related crashes being a leading cause of highway deaths in the U.S., the National Transportation Safety Board is now recommending that all new vehicles in the U.S. be required to have blood alcohol monitoring systems that can stop an intoxicated person from driving.

The NTSB’s recommendation also calls for systems to monitor a driver’s behavior, making sure they’re alert.

Under President Biden’s infrastructure law, Congress required NHTSA to make automakers install alcohol monitoring systems within three years.  The legislation doesn’t specify the technology, only that it must “passively monitor” a driver to determine if they are impaired.

NHTSA and a group of 16 automakers have been jointly funding research on alcohol monitoring since 2008, and has hired a Swedish company to research technology that would automatically test a driver’s breath for alcohol and stop a vehicle from moving if the driver is impaired.  Another company is working on light technology that could test for blood alcohol in a person’s finger by touch.  Many cars now have cameras pointed at the driver, which have the potential to limit impaired driving.

In 2020, the most recent figures available, 11,654 people died in alcohol-related crashes, according to NHTSA data.  That’s about 30% of all U.S. traffic deaths, and a 14% increase over 2019 figures, the last full year before the coronavirus pandemic, the NTSB said.

BEST/WORST DRIVERS IN THE U.S.
Everyone seems to think their state has the best (or worst) drivers in America, but quotewizard.com dove into the data to determine, based on their criteria, which states actually do have the Best and the Worst Drivers traveling their roadways.

Drivers were evaluated on four factors to determine overall driving quality: accidents, speeding tickets, DUIs, and citations.  States that are considered the worst had the highest numbers of driving incidents, while states with the lowest numbers of incidents are considered the best.

After analyzing over 10 million insurance quotes to find out where the best and worst drivers reside, it was determined that the Five Best States were 1) Connecticut, 2) Michigan, 3) West Virginia, 4) Delaware and 5) Arkansas, while the Five Worst States were 50) Utah, 49) California, 48) Iowa, 47) Wisconsin and 46) Ohio.

Among those in the top five, Connecticut ranks best in citations and DUIs, while among the bottom five, Utah ranked worst in speeding, second worst in citations, fifth in accidents and 8th in DUIs.  For more rankings in each category, visit www.quotewizard.com.

UNVACCINATED AT HIGHER RISK OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS
If you passed on getting the COVID vaccine, you might be more likely to get into a car crash. Or at least those are the findings of a new study published in The American Journal of Medicine.  During the summer of 2021, Canadian researchers examined the encrypted government-held records of more than 11 million adults, 16% of whom hadn’t received the COVID vaccine.

They found that the unvaccinated people were 72% more likely to be involved in a severe traffic crash — in which at least one person was transported to the hospital — than those who were vaccinated.  That’s similar to the increased risk of car crashes for people with sleep apnea, though only about half that of people who abuse alcohol, researchers found.

Of course, skipping a COVID vaccine does not mean that someone will get into a car crash.  Instead, the authors theorize that people who resist public health recommendations might also “neglect basic road safety guidelines.”

The findings are significant enough that primary care doctors should consider counseling unvaccinated patients on traffic safety — and insurance companies might base changes to insurance policies on vaccination data — the authors suggest.

THE ROAD TO DECARBONIZATION
Decarbonization Is The Goal, But What’s The Best Way To Get There?  The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) wants to take multiple approaches.

On December 6, 2022, the ACEM hosted a panel discussion about its vision for decarbonization.  Although the discussion’s stated intention was to talk about how the industry plans to address a multitude of sustainability issues as we all progress toward the year 2030, what it evolved into was a spirited debate about the comparative merits of the evolution of combustion engines (such as with so-called e-fuels and hydrogen) and electrification.

While all panelists of course had their own points of view, the general consensus seemed to be that lowering emissions is a goal we must all work toward, but that putting all the industry’s technological eggs into one metaphorical basket isn’t a good idea, for a number of reasons.

From a technological perspective, electric motorbikes currently work best for low-voltage urban mobility, not high-speed, long-distance leisure pursuits.  That’s where the debate about e-fuels (or synthetic fuels) and hydrogen come into play, because both those means of fueling mobility can potentially offer the benefits of long-distance, high-speed travel on motorbikes.  

Infrastructure is also a major concern — fast-charging and swappable batteries require additional infrastructure investments that are both extensive and expensive, while e-fuels can theoretically make use of existing traditional fuel infrastructure.

When discussing decarbonization, the tendency is to think about emissions in terms of tailpipes, but considerations about how the raw materials to build either combustion or electric vehicles are sourced, assembled, and delivered to customers should also be part of the conversation.

Additionally, concerns about diversifying the industry’s approach to decarbonization were strongly expressed, with the global pandemic shining a bright light on the pitfalls of overly concentrating parts of supply chains in a given geographical area.  The current European energy crisis and ongoing Russian war make calls to diversify energy sources (and resources) all too clear.

EUROPEAN MOTORCYCLE GROUP CALLS TO MAKE MOTORCYCLING AFFORDABLE
With inflation worries and cost of living increases, the Federation of European Motorcycle Associations (FEMA) sees bikes as valuable transport tools and has issued an impassioned plea for motorcycle affordability.  In particular, FEMA spelled out their position on keeping motorcycle taxes reasonable, as well as taking other measures to encourage motorbike ridership as a viable form of everyday transport.

FEMA believes that motorcycles can be a strong tool in the fight against transport poverty.  As the name suggests, that’s when the cost of transportation to simply live your life (get to and from work and/or school) is prohibitively expensive.

Moto commuting is a way of life for all kinds of everyday people in many countries, and is highly valued for its practicality, and that’s why FEMA encourages governmental and legislative bodies to do what they can to encourage ridership.  For example, taxes on motorbikes should be lower than those found on cars, because they’re smaller and lighter in weight, and they cause less wear and tear on public roadways.

Similarly, FEMA also discourages restrictions on motorbikes in urban city centers when they’re ideal vehicles for getting around congested city streets, and can help reduce traffic if more people are encouraged to choose bikes over cars.

FIRST HONDA ‘ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE’ ON PARADE
Art imitates life, and sometimes, life imitates art, which may be the case with Honda’s latest parade float, which they designed to lead the 134th annual Rose Parade in 2023, featuring electric vehicles including “a Honda electric motorcycle.”

The overall float design, which Honda has titled “Forever Determined,” represents Honda’s current (pun intended) emissions-lowering initiative, across all of its many and various vehicular segments; Honda’s first all-electric SUV, the electrified Acura ARX-06 race machine, a HondaJet Elite II aircraft, the Honda eVTOL concept vehicle, and an unspecified ‘motorcycle’.

Remember, Honda aims to achieve total carbon neutrality across the company by 2050, as well as get 100 percent of its new vehicle sales in North America to be all electric by 2040.

YAMAHA GOES ‘GREEN’ WITH PLANT-BASED MATERIALS FOR FUTURE BIKE DESIGNS
On November 17, 2022, Yamaha Marine announced that it will begin using certain parts in some 2024 personal watercraft and sport boat engines that are made from a new material.  It’s a plant-derived, cellulose nanofiber-reinforced resin product, and in Yamaha’s own words; “Yamaha Motor is examining the utilization of CNF reinforced resin not only in marine products but also in motorcycles and a wide range of other products in the future.”

Cellulose nanofiber “is made from wood-derived fiber (pulp) that has been micro-refined to the nano level of several hundredths of a micron and smaller, cellulose nanofiber is the world’s most advanced biomass material.”

ROMANIAN MOTORCYCLISTS OBLIGATED TO CARRY FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
And here’s why we need Motorcyclists Rights Organizations (MROs) at every level, from local to international; In the European country of Romania the highway code does not distinguish between cars and motorcycles, so as a result, a motorcycle must carry a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and two reflective triangles, just like a car.

Romanian motorcyclists’ organization MotoADN played a significant role in the political process to end this obligation by launching a petition requesting the Romanian Parliament, the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of the Interior to exclude motorcycles and mopeds.

QUOTABLE QUOTE:

Merry Christmas from Bikernet.com and 5-Ball Family

Get Riding with the Exclusive Bandit’s Cantina Membership. The 5-Ball Racing Patch is in the official Store.

VISIT https://www.bikernet.com/pages/custom/subscription.aspx

Merry Merry to one and all….now go stuff your riding boots one leg at a time and ride free forever !!!

 She is known as Marvelous Molly to the world of motorcycling, but to some of us just Molly, Honey, Sweetie and other forms of endearment. If you ever had the chance to meet her you would know why. Then there are the others who knew of her because of all the publications she was in. I do believe that all of us who do photography for motorcycle publications have taken her photo.

 Molly lived with Berry Wardlaw and Vivian Charros in Dothan, Alabama. If you wanted to see her all you had to do was stop by Accurate Engineering or catch her at one of the numerous motorcycle events she attended around the country.

Molly rode on the gas tank of whatever motorcycle Berry was riding at the time. She has ridden on her motorcycle a 1939 Indian Chief in the Cross Country Chase with Berry operating it for her. (Berry stated more than once it was her motorcycle)

 

 This past July (2022) she rode from Dothan, Alabama to Santa Monica Pier, California to meet Vivian and the other women who did the Route 66 Ride.

That ride with some of her friends was named Puppies Off The Leash.

Molly was 17 years old at that time which is 99 years in dog time. She was doing okay for her age but having some issues that came with it.

When we got to Abilene, Texas she was having some health issues and Berry took her to Big Country Veterinary. They said she was in congestive heart failure. Dr Ueckert cleared her lungs, did x-rays, gave her some meds and gave her a day to rest up. It worked, suddenly she was like her younger self.

 We continued on the ride, continuing giving Molly her medication. When we got back to Dothan, she saw her regular Veterinarian Dr Garett.

 I kissed my friend good-by and asked her to do the best she could.

 I continued to stay up on how she was doing, and then I received the dreaded phone call from Berry that she had passed away.

As I and many others morn the passing of Molly I am grateful that I was able to spend time, ride and be a part of her life. I know she was greeted in Heaven by 2 and 4-legged friends who also loved her.

by Enrico Punsalang from https://www.rideapart.com

This cruiser was clearly inspired by one of Milwaukee’s finest cruisers.
Motofino Streetboy V-Maxter 300 From China Looks Eerily Familiar

The Chinese domestic market is littered with motorcycles that will have you looking twice. Why? Because you’ll be wondering why the bike you’re looking at looks like some weird caricature of some other more popular bike from an actual reputable manufacturer. Don’t get me wrong, not all made-in-China bikes are blatant copycats—I mean, look at the likes of Benelli and CFMOTO, brands which are rapidly expanding their foothold in the global market.

That said, we’re not here to talk about reputable Chinese motorcycles today, as we’ve been doing that quite a bit following EICMA 2022. Instead, let’s take a look at the newest kid to copy someone else’s homework, the Motofino Streetboy V-Maxter 300. While I was chuckling under my breath typing that name, I couldn’t help but realize that the flavor of the month, if you will, of Chinese motorcycle makers is cruisers. We previously talked about copycat Chinese sportbikes like the Moxiao Funny-Gale, and the Finja, a ZX-10R clone. This time around, Chinese manufacturer Motofino thought it’d be a good idea to get in on the sporty cruiser segment.

What better “sporty cruiser” to imitate than the Harley-Davidson Sportster S? The newest member of the Sportster family has received global acclaim owing to its unique styling and killer performance. As such, it’s not surprising that the Steetboy V-Maxter 300 used the Sportster S as…let’s just call it inspiration.

Up front, the Streetboy has a wide oval headlight like that of the Sportster. It even copies the lines of the Milwaukee roadster with its fuel tank and seat and tail section. Heck, even the “Streetboy Motofino” font emblazoned on the fuel tank is a direct copy of Harley’s typeface.

Granted, the Streetboy misses out on some of the Sportster S’ defining features. For instance, it doesn’t get the humongous and wide 150-cross section front tire. Neither does it get the raised exhaust system reminiscent of vintage flat trackers. It also doesn’t get the low-slung stance of the Sportster S, instead opting for a more generic, somewhat dorky stance.

From a performance perspective, the Streetboy doesn’t even begin to compare to the Harley Sportster S. However, it’s interesting to see that the bike makes use of some familiar underpinnings. For a few years now, fellow Chinese manufacturer QJ Motor has been working with Harley-Davidson for a smaller V-twin powered model specific to the Asian market. As it would turn out, other manufacturers have been getting their hands on this engine, including the Streetboy, which packs the same 300cc V-twin engine. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, it sends power to the rear wheel via a belt-driven six-speed manual transmission.

At the end of the day, the Motofino Streetboy is just one of hundreds, if not thousands, of motorcycles that imitate the styling of popular models in China. As such, the likelihood of this bike making its way to the international market is pretty slim. Having said that, small-displacement models from Harley-Davidson are set to make their way to the Asian, and maybe even European markets, soon.

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