Come see the best of the best exclusive, expensive, custom bike makers in the world! by Jean-Luc Maire from https://www.topspeed.com/ The idea of a motorcycle is a customization of the previous generation’s pedal bikes, allowing riders to have the latest innovations on their chosen platform. Custom bike makers and modders have allowed riders to customize the bike to their liking. These are the most popular options for custom motorcycles on the market today. NYC Norton This body shop specializes in the hipster trend, like the Norton Commando Cafe Racer. Each bike is built to order, including engine work, reliability modifications, and high-performance tuning. Deus Ex Machina Deus Ex Machina Customs approaches the custom bike owner differently, focusing mainly on gearheads and hobbyists interested in mirroring their custom designs. Diamond Atelier As you can see on the shop’s landing page, Diamond Atelier Motorcycles exudes quality and refined style; These designs are reminiscent of James Bond in their style and taste for high-dollar add-ons. LC Fabrications Long gone are the days of custom metal fabrication courses in the local high school and blacksmiths in the auto shops of America. LC Fabrication fights against this grain in its business model. With modern CNC operating procedures, classic metal fabrication, and their specialty in steelworking, the company forms hair-brained designs according to the designer’s imagination. Down and Out Cafe Racers The cafe racer is a beautiful excuse to buy that broken-down CB750 sitting in your neighbor’s garage. Although most cafe racer builds end in a Sold As Is purchase and a sale at a loss, this shop seeks to revive the category and maintain its momentum in pop culture. Lowbrow Customs Why don’t we, as motorcyclists have the same options for customization as our other 2-wheeled friends, the bicyclists? Wouldn’t it be great to have a one-stop shop where you could get anything you needed for a bike rebuild, including Frame, Engine, and Tanks? Look no further; Lowbrow has you covered. Well known for its part selection and customization guides, Lowbrow is a playground for the engineer-minded rider seeking elevated styling.

Death Machines of London As a surprise to most of us, this team does not craft custom Guillotines in its assembly shop. Although just as dangerous to some, their motorcycles seem much more impressive. The owner of Death Machines of London was introduced to motorcycling at a young age and always had an affinity for customizing stock products to fit his specifications. Rough Crafts When you walked into the salesroom of your local motorcycle dealer and picked out your current bike, I’m sure some features stood out to you and sold you on purchasing the bike. Over time the design becomes boring and needs a quick refresher for the rider to feel special once more. Rough Crafts is here to assist you in the process. Their ideology is elevating the stock bike with high-quality custom parts, namely in the cruiser segment of the industry. Classified Moto Classified Moto is a clear favorite for the team here at TopSpeed. We have mentioned their build for the Walking Dead and Daryl Dixon’s bike on various occasions. With their minimalist styling and unique approach to upgrading the various stock bikes they work with (everything from the Triumph Daytona to the FZ09 (and usually a melding of multiple cycles), they stand out in the various showings of their projects. Arch Motorcycles We saved the best for last, and Arch is no stranger to praise and acknowledgment. It all started when Keanu Reeves approached his friend and custom bike maker, Gard Hollinger, on a custom Harley-Davidson design to bring his cruiser into a more high-performance bike. With some onlookers’ praise for the project, they decided to take their plans to market. Their most famous motorcycle, the KRGT-1, opened up a new segment to the cyberpunk performance V Twin Engine Category. The 1S bike pushes the company toward the sport bike genre with a more aggressive lean angle and sleeker design. Our favorite is Method 143, seemingly an art piece on wheels and ferocious. It has the most attractive rear fairing on any bike we have seen. The team custom fabricates most of the parts in their shop according to the customer’s design ideas and material specifications. Manufactured in the LA facility, this bike is intended to be a premium option for the KRGT-1 Customer.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Get leathers and more for your sweet ride & in style, have a peek at 5-Ball Racing Shop….click here.

Hey,

Hang on, the news is full of surprises. I’ve talked to industry leaders and plenty of voices from the past this week. We mentioned the Mystery Sled published in ER in the ‘70s. It was photographed for the feature by Jake. Jake also built the bike. Dave Perewitz, reminded me of his real name Sandy Roca, yesterday. Dave painted the bike, Urethane clear.

Sandy is still building strange bikes and we might be able to bring you some shots in the near future. Sandy lives just an hour from Cycle Fab, which is in Brockton, Mass.

Dave, who has been painting custom bikes since ’69 still has his record books dating back to the early ‘70s. If you walked into his shop in 1973 and asked him to rake your frame, mold it and paint the tank, frame and two fenders the charge would have been, $175. The chisler…

I spoke to the factory this week about the history and design of gas tanks. Hang on for that story and it’s almost Halloween, so 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.

— Mahatma Gandhi

Nash Motorcycle X Jason Momoa’s On the Roam Knucklehead inspired Collection!

A few years back we came together with Jason Momoa and his On the Roam brand to develop some one-of-a-kind HD Knucklehead motor inspired products! Here are a few of our favorites. Shown above, our good friend Terry Madden putting the 24-inch Knuckle Axe to work.

The Knuckle Buckle and Knucklehead Leather Belt

The Knuckle Buckle, that one of a kind buckle folks will be asking you about every time you wear it. This piece, like the others, is inspired by our mutual love of Harley Davidson’s first OHV motor, the iconic Knucklehead. Available in stainless steel or bronze, and optionally paired with our Knucklehead leather belts!

The Knuckle Hammer

The Knuckle Hammer was our original piece developed with Jason for his On The Roam brand. Choose from : Polished Nuts – bronze or stainless or the original bronze version with out polished nuts. They come hand antiqued and mounted on a Tennese hickory wood handle. Striped by fire, all U.S. made and crafted.

The Knuckle Chopper hand axe with leather accessories

This unique hand axe Golden or Stainless is the ideal axe for throwing and chopping!!! Axe purchase comes with a full grain hand crafted, leather sheath! Add one of our hangers and or holsters for mounting or carrying! All U.S. made in our shop by our hands! Choose from black, brown, or natural leather. Golden Choppers leather accessories come with old brass hardware. The Knuckle Chopper leather accessories come with old nickel hardware.

Shop these products and the entire collection!

CLIMATE ALERT–Wind Farm in Germany is Being Dismantled to Expand Coal Mine

By Paul Homewood

h/t Ben Vorlich

You could not make it up!

A wind farm in Germany is being dismantled to expand the Garzweiler lignite mine. One of eight turbines installed at the location in 2001 has already been removed. Nevertheless, the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia said it would phase out coal by 2030, as did RWE, the company that owns the mine.

Wind turbines near the Garzweiler open pit mine in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, run by German energy giant RWE, is being removed to make way for more lignite exploitation.

The turbines were in operation since 2001, and government subsidies have expired. Energiekontor and wpd, which is also active in the Balkans, operate the wind farm.

On a more serious level though, the story reports that the development of the lignite reserves has led to the forced relocation of a portion of a nearby village:

Am I the only one to feel insulted by the BBC, Committee on Climate Change , Ambrose Evans-Pritchard and the rest of the green mafia, who constantly tell us that Britain is lagging behind the rest of the world in fighting climate change?

DAV RECRUITMENT DRIVE—

I spent ten years working on my disabilities and fortunately was guided to the DAV. I know brothers and sisters have mixed feelings about their experiences with the military.

But if you have any concerns, questions, or problems, feel free to use my info below and reach out to the DAV for anything. They are the best, when it comes to veteran support.

–Bandit

There are just five weeks left in the Recruit a Warrior Challenge — and that means time is running out for you to earn multiple entries to win $1,000. Have you shared your personalized referral link with all the veterans in your life?

RECRUIT A WARRIOR STATUS:
Member Name: Keith Ball
Deadline: November 30, 2022
Suggested Action: Recruit Now!

Your Recruitment Link: https://www.mydav.org/dav-membership?a=000176c0-a037-4099-a091-7b0ce638d8e6&r=

It’s so easy to participate. Simply share your personalized link on Facebook or send it in a quick text or email to the veterans you know. Tell them what you love about being a member of DAV and ask them to join our ranks.

As a community of veterans helping veterans, YOU are our most powerful tool to keep DAV strong for the veterans of today and tomorrow. Thank you for being a member of DAV — and for helping grow this incredible community of veterans.

–Douglas K. Wells Jr.
DAV National Membership Director

BAKER Drivetrain Dealer Since 2018

Established in 2011, Speed-Kings Cycle Supply was founded when Steve Edgar had the idea to start a company to help fund his love for building choppers. Steve didn’t grow up around motorcycles, but he developed a love for them when the custom chopper scene was booming. Around 2000-2001, he built and modified choppers in his garage at night and worked at Daytec, building 300 style frames, during the day.

In the early days of Speed-Kings Cycle Supply, Steve sold headlights, taillights, and small parts that he designed and fabricated for choppers.

Steve’s intention for Speed-Kings Cycle Supply was for it to be a one-stop shop for all chopper parts. In 2014, he sold his 1981 Shovelhead and bought a 2007 Dyna. He wanted to find out what the hype was all about with these newer models; this single purchase changed his entire perception of newer model bikes.

Since 2014, the shop has been specializing in customized parts for performance Dynas, FXRs, and Sportsters. Their most popular products include the Speed-Kings line of risers and handlebars.

The primary reason behind Speed-Kings’ success is their genuine connection to the industry and to their customers. Everyone who works at his shop are “real riders who genuinely want to help” the community from learning how to wrench to purchasing the right product for their bike. “We aren’t trying to sell people things they don’t need. We are also customers of our own community”.

LAW TIGERS ALERT–Getting Your Texas Motorcycle License

Motorcycle safety course, training with road cones for Motorcycle License

Do you live in Texas and want to get your motorcycle license? Getting your Texas motorcycle license requires a motorcycle safety course, vision exam, knowledge test, road test, and more. Review the procedures below to see how you can get a motorcycle endorsement in the Lone Star State.

Motorcycle Endorsement for Riders Aged 15-17
Motorcycle riders can apply for a motorcycle learner’s permit at age 15 and a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s licenses beginning at age 16. To apply for a permit, you must:

 * Apply at a Texas Driver’s License office in person

* Provide certification for an approved motorcycle safety course (MSB-8 or MSB-8R)

* Provide appropriate identification, including a Class C provisional license and proof of a 32-hour driver’s education course with form DE-964 or PTDE-964 for students taught by parents

* Present a Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) form from your high school, signed by appropriate authority from your school

 * Bring a parent or guardian to sign for authorization

 * Pass the written knowledge exam

If applying for a learner’s permit, you do not need to take the road test until you apply for your motorcycle endorsement. If under the age of 16, your permit will have an I Restriction, and you may not ride a motorcycle over 250-cc engine size. The restriction lifts automatically on your 16th birthday.

With a permit or J Restriction, you must always have a licensed motorcyclist supervisor over 21 years old riding with you.

When you apply for your motorcycle license endorsement and qualify for your Class M endorsement, you can ride without restrictions.

Getting Your Texas Motorcycle License as an Adult Over 18
For riders pursuing their Class M driver’s license, the requirements differ from applying for a learner’s permit. When getting your Texas motorcycle license, you must submit:

* A completed application for a Texas Driver’s License or State ID

* Proof of lawful presence or citizenship

* Proof of identity and residency

* Your social security number (SSN) or documentation that you never had an SSN in a sworn affidavit

* Registration and insurance for all vehicles you own or a signed affidavit that you do not own any vehicles

* A certificate for Texas Driver Education (DE-964 or DE-964E) (if you do not have a Texas Driver’s License)

All motorcyclists must complete a knowledge test, vision exam, and road test. Taking the approved motorcycle safety course could waive the knowledge test requirement. If you are transferring your motorcycle endorsement from another state or a Canadian province, you may not have to take the road skills test.

Motorcycle Safety Courses

Texas requires that new riders and endorsement applicants take a state-approved motorcycle safety course. Additionally, any rider under 18, including riders who already have a motorcycle endorsement in another state, must take an approved driver’s education course and complete the Impact Texas Driver’s (ITD) program.

Safety courses for beginners cover basic skills in handling a motorcycle, sharing the road with other motor vehicle drivers, and how to react in an emergency.

Call Us at Law Tigers for Motorcycle Law in Texas
We hope you found this overview to be helpful. Contact your local Texas DMV office for additional information about what you might need to get your Class M endorsement at your particular age and skill level.

At Law Tigers, we’re attorneys who ride, representing bikers and their families in personal injury and accident claims. Call us today at 1-888-863-7216 to find a motorcycle lawyer near you.

Back in July we stumbled into the Born Free show in California. I saw people there I hadn’t seen in thirty-five years. Killer bikes, music, food and folks. One of the chance meetings I had was with Frank Ball Jr.

I couldn’t believe it, my brother Keith Ball’s grandson. We hit it right off, all good.

Three months later, this past weekend, Born Free Texas, who do I run into? Frank’s sister, the beautiful Maxine Ball and both times I was with that ever loveable, always entertaining Dana Peters.

To top all of that, I met the Leader of the Pack, that’s right, that Knucklehead riding beauty Mari Estrada, their mom. There were so many great moments this weekend but this was at the top.

Oh, Mari won the Knucklehead class and Ms. Vivian Gypsy Charros ‘54 Panhead won the AMCA class. What a weekend. A Blessed week to all y’all.

–Berry Wardlaw

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Dave’s ‘Bad Dad-Rad’ Custom Road Glide

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

I own this 2007 Road glide. As part of his 90 now I really need some touch up paint. There is now a couple good sized chips on the Tangerine color frame.

Would you be kind enough to help me get in touch with the painter on this project. I would also like to get a tour pack painted to match. Your help will be much appreciated.

Thank you.

–Michael Wood
Gm@imagemotorsltd
Goshen, IN

Hey Michael,

Baddad is still going strong. Reach out to them and let us know if you need anything else:
www.baddad.com

–Bandit

–Sam Burns

INSPIRATIONAL SONG OF THE WEEK—

I listen to all genres of music. I have a Spotify Playlist (“mixed-tape”, but floating on a cloud). I titled it “Motivation”, blunt and brings immediate focus to its purpose. It’s not a ‘hit the gym’ playlist, rather it would get you out of bed in the mornings when you have lost hope.

Here is a wonderful one from the “list”, inspiring and encouraging. And the music video was damn entertaining. But don’t get distracted by the wild video. Do pay attention to the lyrics, hence Spotify instead of YouTube for me!

Official Music Video: to scare your kids
https://youtu.be/1VQ_3sBZEm0

Song: Learn To Fly
Rock group: Foo Fighters
Album: There Is Nothing Left to Lose (1999)
Songwriters: Taylor Hawkins / Nate Mendel / David Eric Grohl

Run and tell all of the angels
This could take all night
Think I need a devil to help me get things right
Hook me up a new revolution
Cause this one is a lie
We sat around laughin’ and watched the last one die

Now, I’m lookin’ to the sky to save me
Lookin’ for a sign of life
Lookin’ for somethin’ to help me burn out bright
And I’m lookin’ for a complication
Lookin’ cause I’m tired of lyin’
Make my way back home when I learn to fly high

I think I’m dyin’ nursing patience
It can wait one night
I’d give it all away if you give me one last try
We’ll live happily ever trapped if you just save my life
Run and tell the angels that everything’s alright

Now I’m lookin’ to the sky to save me
Lookin’ for a sign of life
Lookin’ for somethin’ to help me burn out bright
I’m lookin’ for a complication
Lookin’ cause I’m tired of tryin’
Make my way back home when I learn to fly high
Make my way back home when I learn to

Fly along with me, I can’t quite make it alone
Try to make this life my own
Fly along with me, I can’t quite make it alone
Try to make this life my own

I’m lookin’ to the sky to save me
Lookin’ for a sign of life
Lookin’ for somethin’ to help me burn out bright
And I’m lookin’ for a complication
Lookin’ cause I’m tired of tryin’
Make my way back home when I learn to

I’m lookin’ to the sky to save me
Lookin’ for a sign of life
Lookin’ for somethin’ to help me burn out bright
And I’m lookin’ for a complication
Lookin’ cause I’m tired of tryin’
Make my way back home when I learn to fly high
Make my way back home when I learn to fly
Make my way back home when I learn to

–Wayfarer,
Editor
https://blog.bikernet.com
https://www.facebook.com/bikernetbiker

This is the one they are going to give away next year. It is a ‘37 also. He said a ‘37 brought 120K at a Mecum auction in Monterey.

–Bill May

Feeling Hot While Wearing Your Regular Helmet Bikerlid Helmets Offers Quality Air Vents & You Will Never Feel Hot While Driving

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ARCH calls its motorcycles “bespoke production”: machines that are not custom built but rather tailored to each owner. Founded in 2011 by designer Gard Hollinger and American actor Keanu Reeves, the company has a high-end take on V-twin-powered cruisers and sport-cruisers.

Now the Arch 1s, the company’s latest model, has arrived. What’s it like to ride a 124ci S&S-powered 1s? Cycle World Senior Editor Morgan Gales got an invite to find out.

You could spend an entire day just pouring over the billet aluminum, carbon fiber, and titanium parts that make up the 1s. But what good is all of that $128,000 trickness if it doesn’t perform? Gales spent the day carving the canyons above Arch’s Malibu headquarters with Hollinger and Reeves and found that the Arch 1s is much more than just a showpiece to be displayed in a ultra-tidy garage next to other collector items. It belongs out on the road—enjoyed, not pampered. Read Gales’ full review here.

www.cycleworld.com

Ride on,
Justin Dawes
Executive Editor

Mid-term elections on November 8th draw near. Here is a list of ballot initiatives that directly affect motorists around the country.

No matter your political stance, the National Motorist Association encourages all motorists to vote in every local election. Remember–all traffic is local and your vote can make a difference in how streets and roads are funded plus other motorist issues that might matter to you.

Colorado
Boulder County—Sales Tax Renewal

Voters are asked to renew a 0.1% sales tax that would raise $121 million over 15 years to fund multimodal transportation, roads, trails, bikeways, and transit.

Eagle County—Sales Tax Increase

Voters are asked to approve a half-cent percent to generate $11.5 million annually. Funds would establish a regional transportation partnership to enhance area transit systems.

Florida
Orange County (Orlando Area) Sales Tax Increase

A Yes or No vote will decide on a 0.1% sales tax increase for 20 years to raise an estimated $11.9 billion. Funds would be used for transit (45%), county roadways (45%), and city roadways (10%).

Maine
Augusta Question 1

Voters will decide whether to issue $2.055 million in bonds for street and sidewalk improvements, civic center repairs, and a boat landing.

Massachusetts
Statewide Question 1

Voters are asked to raise a 4% tax (estimated $1.3 billion) on earners over $1 million to support education and transportation. Vote is subject to appropriation by the state legislature.

Statewide Question 4

In June, the Massachusetts legislature passed a law that would allow immigrants without legal status to obtain certain driver’s licenses. Question 4 is a repeal against the law. A vote yes would preserve the law and allow undocumented immigrants to apply for a standard driver’s license but not a REAL ID license. A vote NO would repeal the law signed this year.

Michigan
Huron County Property Tax Levy

Voters are asked to vote on funding for the Huron Transit Corporation. The six-year property tax would levy $0.20 per $1,000 of home taxable value.

Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties Property Tax Hike

Votes are asked in the three counties to approve a 10-year property tax hike of $0.95 cents per $1,000 in taxable value. The extra taxes would fund the regional transit authority that serves suburban Detroit. Estimated first year tax revenue is projected to be $20 million.

Montana
Statewide C-48

Voters are asked to decide whether a search warrant would be required to access a person’s electronic data (including connected vehicles and smartphones).

Nebraska
Statewide Amendment 1

Voters will decide whether a valid photographic identification (usually a driver’s license or state ID) to vote.

Nevada
Carson City Question 1

A Yes or No vote will decide on whether to continue the city’s five-cent per gallon tax on diesel fuel with the additional revenue going towards highways, roads, streets, and alleys.

New Mexico
Bernalillo County Transportation Bond Measure

Voters will decide whether to issue $10.225 million in bonds for roads and other street and trail improvements.

Santa Fe County Question 1

Voters will make a decision on whether to issue $13.0 million in general obligation bonds for road improvements within Santa Fe County.

North Carolina
New Hanover County (Wilmington area) Sales Tax Increase

The 0.25% sales tax would raise $144 million over 10 years to support the public transportation authority and fund bike and pedestrian paths.

Charlotte Transportation Bond Measure

Voters will decide whether to issue $146.2 million in bonds to various transportation projects including streets and roads.

Ohio
Akron Issue 10

City voters will decide whether the city should establish a police oversight board and a police auditor office.

Texas
Harris County (Houston Area) Proposition B

Voters will determine whether to authorize the county to issue $900 million in bonds to fund transportation projects including road maintenance, bridges, and bike lanes.

Corpus Christi Proposition A

A Yes or NO vote will decide whether the city of Corpus Christi can issue $92.5 million in bonds for street infrastructure projects.

El Paso Proposition A

A decision by local voters will determine whether the city can issue $246.48 million in bonds for street improvements such as sidewalks, streetscapes, and traffic controls.

Washington State
Statewide Advisory Vote 40

A vote of Yes or No will advise the legislature to either maintain or repeal a tax on transportation network companies passed in House Bill 2076.

West Virginia
Statewide Amendment 2

If approved, the measure would allow the legislature the authority to eliminate tangible personal property taxes on personal vehicles, business machinery, equipment, and inventory. Currently, taxes on tangible personal property is enshrined in the state’s constitution, which means the collection is mandatory and not adjustable by elected officials.

–NMA

Take a hard look at infrastructure tax bills. See where the money is really going. –Bandit

[page break]

Organizers there Will be an Old Swede representing Bikernet as observer.

It was 25 years since I met the Mann in Agoura
He was there autographing a lot of posters
Took him to Weazel Wednesday in my rented conv.
Wasn’t it you on that Jammer cover, which included the poster?!

Got mine

–Sheriff
Sheriff Media Empire
Sweden

Yes, I was on the cover. Regarding the poster, I don’t know. I was stoned at the time.

–Bandit

SCARY SHIT FROM THE LOWBROW EMPIRE–When it comes to motorcycles, there is a lot of tacky stuff out there.

We wanted to create some motorcycle-related Halloween photos that weren’t hokey and share them with you all.

Several of us donned some classic movie monster costumes and enjoyed some time in a local graveyard, and riding around Cleveland… which has plenty of spooky looking spots.

A slight loss of power, a cough through the carbs, then a puff of smoke and total engine shutdown. I had the clutch covered in less than a moment and smoothly braked into a convenient driveway to face what could only be bad news. No oil on the ground or new holes in the cases—in fact, no fluids spilled at all. Smoke was still tracing from under the seat in long whispers. Had the air filter caught fire? I didn’t know.

This was not when I wanted to learn how to open a Z1 seat latch. Where was the seat latch? That’s a concerning amount of smoke. I had installed the battery in the bike under the seat and closed it, but it was open when I started working on it, so now I didn’t know exactly where the latch was or if I needed the key to operate it.

Sheer panic.

When I finally got the seat flipped up, I was met with a cloud of fumes that probably took three years off my life. That brand-new battery was so hot it had melted off its stickers and was cooking the plastic case. Everything near it was hot.

After an unsuccessful attempt to undo the battery connection with my pocket knife, I discovered this bike still had its original toolkit. Lucky me. The factory-packed slip-joint pliers made quick work of disconnecting the terminals, allowing me to reach in a gloved hand and yank out the battery so both it and I could cool for a minute.

I took a deep breath, for clean air reasons and clear head reasons.

After some mental regrouping, and after failing to get the bike’s owner on the phone, I took a chance. I’d try to bump-start the Z1 so I could get the three or so miles back to the garage. Not all electrical systems will function without a battery installed, but I was not about to put that overcooked chunk back in the bike. Luckily, the Z1 fired right off in second gear, idling happily while I put on my helmet and balanced the battery on my right leg. I wasn’t about to abandon a potential fire hazard in some stranger’s driveway.

Back at my friend’s garage, the diagnostics began nearly instantly after I told my story: “Oh, that means the regulator failed. It’s a common issue on these.” It took me a second to understand the timeline of events that lead to that battery popping. Essentially, it looks like this:

The engine’s high-rpm run led to the charging system producing a little extra current. The regulator would typically dump this to ground, but the excess current came fast enough that the regulator either was overwhelmed or failed independently, in a way that it stopped bleeding that excess to ground and instead overcharged the battery. (This is where it gets a little nerdy, so fair warning.)

Now the situation became a chemical problem rather than an electrical one. When a traditional, lead-acid battery receives extra current, it will boil off the acid and display sulfation, in which part of the acid is deposited on the plates of the battery, thus diminishing the battery’s ability to accept a charge. Lithium-ion batteries are much less forgiving. They simple cannot absorb overcharge that way. Once plating of the metallic lithium occurs, it compromises the safety of the battery. Thermal runaway is far more likely in a li-ion battery than in a lead-acid one.

Thermal runaway. Awful scary term for something that happened about two inches underneath my precious parts while traveling at highway speeds. Luckily, the Kawasaki is not damaged and its charging system can be easily repaired. More importantly, I am unscathed—and more wary than ever of mixing old and new technologies.

–Kyle Smith
Hagerty Media

‘NOISE’ UNDER ATTACK IN CALIFORNIA
California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) has signed AB-2496 into law, to now require a certificate of compliance for a violation of noise limit requirements and certain modified exhausts, and putting a “Hold” on vehicle registrations if proof is not adequately provided in a timely manner.

“AB-2496 creates a system in which, if you are cited for noise, you must provide certification to the court within 90 days of citation that your exhaust has been corrected to acceptable standards,” wrote ABATE of California in a ‘Call to Action’ opposing the measure; going on to explain that; “However, there is no system to test and certify, thus you can not get it. Further, IF you do not get it, your vehicle will NEVER be able to be registered in the State of California again. They want to remove us from the road.”

The new law requires the court to inform the Department of Motor Vehicles if a certificate of compliance is not provided within 3 months of the violation date, treating this failure as noncompliance, and requiring the DMV, before renewing the registration of any vehicle, to check whether the court has issued a hold on the vehicle registration for a violation of the noise requirements and to refuse to renew the registration until it has received a notification from the court that a certificate of compliance has been issued.

These requirements would become operative on January 1, 2027.

–Bill Bish
NCOM

According to the bill’s language, certain Inspection Stations will be licensed to certify to the courts that exhausts meet standards, but apparently ABATE folks don’t think that’ll be do-able. –Bill

“See Bill’s entire Monthly NCOM Legislative report on the home page now.” –Bandit

Adam Croft
Founder
Dime Bag leather tooling

ALL New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Why We Chop: Chapter 4

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Why_We_Chop_Chapter_4.aspx

— John Hoffman
Riverton, WY

THE POWER OF THOUGHT—

“God is a metaphor for that which transcends all levels of intellectual thought. It’s as simple as that.” — Joseph Campbell

The Universe responds to our most dominant thoughts, conversations, and beliefs. As I am learning to pause more and more, I am amazed at how often my thoughts are dominated by lack, limitation, and negativity.

It seems so easy to participate in a negative conversation. Lately, we have been bombarded with political commercials that are riddled with negativity, name-calling, and downright crap. We are told how bad things are and how bad we should feel. Most of the time I change the channel because I really don’t want to get into that mindset.

I know that this is not my Truth or even the Truth. As I write this, I think about the commercials that I allow to play in my own mind. Ironically some are similar to the ones on TV. Well, I am beginning to delete those commercials in my mind some of which have been playing for many years.

Today Know: I am now raising up my negative filter. I will no longer participate in negative opportunities. When one comes up in conversation I change it, when one is on TV I change the channel, one comes up in my Mind I delete it. From now on I hold positive, abundant, loving, and peaceful thoughts. Healthy, joyful thoughts and I Love the manifestation.

I am now part of the solution not part of the problem. I am so grateful for the right to change my Mind and I Love the outcome.

Right now, I pause and think about all the good in my Life and am so thankful. I am grateful that I have won the birth lottery by being born in this wonderful country of unlimited opportunity. Life is a Gift and I accept All that is coming to me with.

And so it is…
Namaste’

“It takes but one positive thought when given a chance to survive and thrive to overpower an entire army of negative thoughts.”  –Robert H. Schuller

–Yale Gelfant

Dennis Kirk has the perfect lighting enhancements for your Harley. Shop DennisKirk.com now for a great selection of lighting options from top brands. Orders placed by 8PM Central Time ship the same day, with FREE SHIPPING on orders over $89.

RIDE MORE. WAIT LESS.

–Bill May

US Has Only 25 Days of Diesel Supply; Shortage Could Cripple Economy—

The United States is down to 25 days of diesel supply as a top White House official declared the stockpile levels to be “unacceptably low.”

Data provided by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) show that diesel stockpiles are at their lowest level for October in records that date back to 1993, according to a Bloomberg News analysis. EIA data show that the United States, as of Oct. 14, has 25.4 days of supply—down from 34.2 days of supply four weeks prior.

National Economic Council Director Brian Deese, a top adviser to President Joe Biden, told Bloomberg News last week that current diesel levels are “unacceptably” low and that “all options are on the table” to increase supplies.

The diesel crunch comes just over two weeks before the November 2022 midterm elections and will likely drive-up prices even more. Diesel is the fuel used by freight trains and commonly used by long-haul truckers to transport goods and food.

“Most of the products we use are transported by trucks and trains with diesel engines, and most construction, farming, and military vehicles and equipment also have diesel engines,” the EIA’s website states. “As a transportation fuel, diesel fuel offers a wide range of performance, efficiency, and safety features. Diesel fuel also has a greater energy density than other liquid fuels, so it provides more useful energy per unit of volume.”

Prices, meanwhile, remain relatively elevated, according to AAA data. The average price for a gallon of diesel stands at around $5.33 nationwide, or up nearly $2 since the same time in 2021, the data shows.

Wholesale diesel prices at the New York spot market spiked last week to more than $200 per barrel.

— By Jack Phillips
Watts Up With That

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK—
2013 Harley-Davidson FLS – Softail Slim for $12,995.00

SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=12931980

2013 Denim Black Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL SLIM with only 10777.00 miles!

This bike is a super clean Blackline Softail Slim and some of the features/Add-ons on this bike are

* 103c.i. Motor with a 6-Speed trans.
* Vance & Hince exhaust
* High-Flo air cleaner
* Ape hangers
* Detachable sissy bar
* Forward controls
* Rear detachable passenger seat
* Matching ball milled Grips,front and rear pegs,brake pedal, and levers

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.

Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING and EXTENDED WARRANTIES available!

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,

PIRELLI Congratulates Army of Darkness Race Team on Capturing Fifth Consecutive N2/WERA National Endurance Championship

AOD Prevails at Barber Motorsports Park with DIABLO Superbike Slicks to Take 18th and 19th National Endurance Championships

ATLANTA (October 24, 2022) – Pirelli Tire North America congratulates the Army of Darkness (AoD) racing team on capturing their fifth consecutive N2/WERA National Endurance Championship with a second-place finish at Barber Motorsports Park.

The AoD team consisting of Chris Peris, Ben Walters, Cody Wyman, Geoff May, and Robertino Pietri prevailed against a star-studded field for the team’s 18th and 19th National Endurance Championships. The AoD Yamaha YZF-R1 relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike range throughout the season

The Pirelli-equipped Army of Darkness team took a fifth consecutive N2/WERA National Endurance Championship. | Photo: Apex Productions LLC

“Another incredible season for the entire Army of Darkness team,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “There are so many variables in endurance racing, but together, we’ve been able to be as prepared as possible and it’s really shown with the results that they have delivered each season. The DIABLO Superbike range has had a lot of success this season and the performance and durability in these endurance races speak for itself.”

The AoD race team displayed consistency throughout the year, collecting four-second place finishes and the victory at Road Atlanta. With a 15-point advantage heading into the Barber finale, AoD needed to finish third place or better to secure the championship. At the checkered flag, a conservative second-place ride would be more than enough to complete the mission aboard their Pirelli-equipped Yamaha.

“These championships never come easy, and today, we were in a position of needing to ride fast enough to finish inside of the top three, but conservatively enough to not make any errors,” said Team Captain, Sam Fleming. “I had to make sure the riders didn’t push it too hard in order to achieve our end goal, which was the championship. Pirelli has been a partner of ours for the past two seasons and tires are such an important factor when it comes to these races. A huge thanks to Pirelli for giving us the tools needed!”

In addition to the N2/WERA National Endurance Championship, Pirelli continues its successful 2022 racing season with the DIABLO Superbike slicks, which includes a podium sweep of the Daytona 200, Bagger Racing League Series title, and track record after track record across the nation. Pirelli remains the go-to option for racers competing at event that do not require the use of a spec tire.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

Other book covers were too “politically-incorrect” — but well, still sold on Amazon as classic literature. LOL.

THIS IN FROM SAM’S TOOL BOX—
somewhat different than previous satire on tools SB

DRILL PRESS : A tall upright machine useful for suddenly snatching flat metal bar stock out of your hands so that it smacks you in the chest and flings your beer across the room, denting the freshly-painted project which you had carefully set in the corner where nothing could get to it.

WIRE WHEEL : Cleans paint off bolts and then throws them somewhere under the workbench with the speed of light. Also removes fingerprints and hard-earned calluses from fingers in about the time it takes you to say, ‘Oh sh–!’

SKIL SAW : A portable cutting tool used to make studs too short.

PLIERS : Used to round off bolt heads. Sometimes used in the creation of blood-blisters.

BELT SANDER : An electric sanding tool commonly used to convert minor touch-up jobs into major refinishing jobs.

HACKSAW :One of a family of cutting tools built on the Ouija board principle… It transforms human energy into a crooked, unpredictable motion, and the more you attempt to influence its course, the more dismal your future becomes.

VISE-GRIPS :Generally used after pliers to completely round off bolt heads. If nothing else is available, they can also be used to transfer intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.

OXYACETYLENE TORCH : Used almost entirely for lighting various flammable objects in your shop on fire Also handy for igniting the grease inside the wheel hub out of which you want to remove a bearing race.

TABLE SAW : A large stationary power tool commonly used to launch wood projectiles for testing wall integrity.

HYDRAULIC FLOOR JACK : Used for lowering an automobile to the ground after you have installed your new brake shoes, trapping the jack handle firmly under the bumper.

BAND SAW : A large stationary power saw primarily used by most shops to cut good aluminum sheet into smaller pieces that more easily fit into the trash can after you cut on the inside of the line instead of the outside edge.

TWO-TON ENGINE HOIST : A tool for testing the maximum tensile strength of everything you forgot to disconnect.

PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER : Normally used to stab the vacuum seals under lids or for opening old-style paper-and-tin oil cans and splashing oil on your shirt; but can also be used, as the name implies, to strip out Phillips screw heads.

STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER : A tool for opening paint cans. Sometimes used to convert common slotted screws into non-removable screws and butchering your palms.

PRY BAR : A tool used to crumple the metal surrounding that clip or bracket you needed to remove in order to replace a 50 cent part.

HOSE CUTTER : A tool used to make hoses too short.

HAMMER : Originally employed as a weapon of war, the hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to locate the most expensive parts adjacent the object we are trying to hit.

UTILITY KNIFE : Used to open and slice through the contents of cardboard cartons delivered to your front door; works particularly well on contents such as seats, vinyl records, liquids in plastic bottles, collector magazines, refund checks, and rubber or plastic parts. Especially useful for slicing work clothes, but only while in use.

SON-OF-A-B…!TOOL : (A personal favorite!) Any handy tool that you grab and throw across the garage while yelling ‘Son of a B…! ‘at the top of your lungs. It is also, most often, the next tool that you will need.

Hope you found this informative.

[page break]

Bengan, Custom builder, who just started his own Macke make anything you want in aluminium at his factory in Sweden.

Here’s a shot of Bandit’s Dicey Knucklehead, built by Milwaukee Iron, with Willie G. in Daytona about 1990.

–The Sheriff
Sheriff Media Group
Sweden

JIMS Milwaukee Eight Low Profile Billet Tappet Covers & Pushrod Cover Kits—

The tappet covers on the Milwaukee Eight® engine have grown substantially in height compared to Twin Cam engines. This additional height not only makes it challenging to adjust pushrods, but the covers have lost a bit of styling in their redesign.

Make way for the new JIMS® billet “low profile” Milwaukee Eight tappet covers. Not only do the JIMS tappet covers have a sleek new look, but they are approximately 1/2” lower then stock – making pushrod adjustment easy to do. Made from 6061 billet aluminum, these covers have JIMS “DNA” embedded in their design & work with stock and aftermarket alignment guides.

To achieve this height difference, the covers were designed to be installed with Twin Cam pushrod covers, they will NOT work with standard Milwaukee Eight pushrod covers. JIMS also offers these tappet covers with JIMS billet pushrod covers for the ultimate valve train cover upgrade for your Milwaukee Eight engine.

MSRP for the tappet cover kits, available in black and chrome range from $251.00 to $321.00. MSRP for the tappet cover AND pushrod cover kits, also available in black and chrome, range from $656.00 to $795.00.

For more information, please contact us at (805) 482-6913, email us at sales@jimsusa.com, or visit www.jimsusa.com.

If you have any questions, please call me directly at (805) 482-6913. You have been Bcc’d to protect email privacy. If you would prefer to be left out of future releases, please respond with the word “opt out”. Your time in reviewing this press release is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your continued support,

Paul Platts
Director of Product & Business Development

Motivational Wisdom Quotes:

“A goal that is not planned is a wish; a dream that is not chased is a fantasy.”

“Push today for what you want tomorrow!” ? Lorii Myers

“Don’t be pushed by your problems. Be led by your dreams.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.” ~ Napoleon Hill

“Do something everyday to move toward your goal. Get going and keep going.”

“It’s meaning in your life that causes you to have ideas that will help people.” ~ Jal Tucher

“Look back and be grateful. Look ahead and be hopeful. Look around and be helpful.”

–Wayfarer,
Editor
https://blog.bikernet.com
https://www.facebook.com/bikernetbiker

This Stainless Steel Wrench Ring is made of Surgical Stainless Steel, hand crafted with the Finest Detail giving it a very Masculine and Dark look.

Add this manly piece to your collection and see just what kind of attention you will get. Don’t be fooled by our low price. This ring is top quality and retails for much, much, more in stores!

By importing directly from the source we are able to offer this magnificent ring at a tremendous discount.

After the Kentucky Congressional Delegation requested an extension to the FEMA assistance application deadline for the Eastern Kentucky floods, FEMA granted our request and extended the deadline to this Friday, October 28, 2022.

If you need assistance with either of these, you can reach my Bowling Green office at (270) 782-8303, and one of my staff members will be happy to assist.

You can find my latest update below!

Mobile Office Hours for Kentuckians

If you are a Kentucky resident in need of assistance with a federal agency, or with navigating needs related to the flooding in Eastern Kentucky, below you can find information on mobile office hours for Tuesday, October 25th, from 12:30PM – 3:00PM ET at:

Letcher County
Whitesburg Rec Center
1505 Jenkins Rd
Whitesburg, KY 41858

If you are in need of assistance but are unable to travel to this location, please feel free to contact our Bowling Green office at 270-782-8303. A staff member from my team will be more than happy to assist you.

–Dr Rand Paul

Here’s a few:

Name of the seminar / event: ABATE of Illinois Seminar
Dates (firm): January 20-22, 2023
Location (city): Springfield, IL
Contact Person: Pauli Ward
Contact Email: office@abate-il.org

ABATE of Wisconsin Officers Training Feb 10,11,12 2023 held in Marshfield WI. More information contact Marie at abatewis@abatewis.org. I have heard Rocky is planning to attend this session. Hardtail and Dave Dwyer should be in attendance also.

John Reblin
Executive Director
ABATE of Wisconsin

Abate of Pa Leadership and Legislative seminar
January 27 and 28 2023
Harrisburg Pa
Sonja Mauk
Prforabatepa@gmail.com

Ride Safe – Ride Free,
J. Ryan Hubbard
MRF Assistant Executive Director
(309) 267-0606

MAMA TRIED BUILDERS SPOTLIGHT—Kevin Baas

We thought it would be fun to ask our builders to answer some questions so we can get to know them a bit better. Below you will find their un-edited responses & some photos that represent them and their work/life.. Show these folks some love!! Say hello when you see them in the crowd at the Show!

So, I finally got to catch a young lady I’ve been wanting to cover for a while now, Nikki Lane! I became aware of her through social media of course, the variety of images of Ms Nikki intrigued me, yet I chose to not listen to any of her music prior to finally getting the opportunity to see her.

Or as it is with me point glass at them, I’ve never asked, but I assume they reflect back as artist can always find them. Eye contact yes, although a couple times, as if she wasn’t sure about it? Any music photographer, if allowed will shoot the entire show given the opportunity you can get some interesting images. Some you dig out of the lights of wrong color and they become B&Ws, which I like anyway. And sometimes you get a stellar lighting opportunity and get a shot, even if by pure chance that you keep looking at.

I like to wait and hear the artist without the refinement of a studio sound, how are they live? Nikki Lane was a party, I did think I was in line once? My understanding is there was actual crowd surfing the following night, unfortunately only talk of it this night. Do yourselves a favor, go purchase Denim & Diamonds her current tour, then work your way backwards!

So y’all know I’m not an actual music reviewer, I don’t even play one on TV, I believe I’d like to make Nikki Lane a habit!

–RFR

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE ‘HONORING HEROES’ APPAREL COLLECTION
PROVIDES DYNAMIC FUND-RAISING PLATFORM TO CONNECT UNITED STATES MILITARY PERSONNEL WITH FAMILY

100 Percent of Profits from Military-Inspired Collection Will Benefit the Armed Services YMCA and its Operation Ride Home Program

The ‘Honoring Heroes’ Collection was Originally Designed by Indian Motorcycle to Give Back to Those Who Give So Much

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Oct. 26, 2022 – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today unveiled its 2022 ‘Honoring Heroes’ apparel collection – a military-inspired line that allows riders and fans to proudly display their support for U.S. military service, while also directly supporting active-duty military with their purchases. From now until November 30, 2022, Indian Motorcycle will donate 100% of the collection’s profits to benefit the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) and its Operation Ride Home program, which assists active-duty United States military personnel in traveling home to visit their families.

With 13 new styles, the 2022 Indian Motorcycle Honoring Heroes collection includes a mix of military-inspired khaki, black and camo casualwear pieces for men and women. The men’s line features a zip-up hoodie, crewneck sweatshirt, and various shirt styles, including a button-up short-sleeve, standard t-shirt, sleeveless and long-sleeve options. The women’s line features a zip-up hoodie, and three shirt options: V-neck t-shirt, tank top, and three-quarter sleeve. To complete the collection, Indian Motorcycle has also introduced a new Camo Icon Trucker Hat and Black Icon Cap. To check out the full collection, visit the Indian Motorcycle Outpost.

“Support for the United States military and the men and women who serve our country has long been a cornerstone of the Indian Motorcycle brand, and we’re always exploring meaningful ways to make a difference for our active and retired military,” said Michael Dougherty, President of Indian Motorcycle. “Last year’s collection garnered positive feedback across the board, and that success motivated us to not only bring it back for 2022, but to turn it into a significant fund-raising engine for our friends at the Armed Services YMCA.”

The ASYMCA is an independent, national non-profit and Association of the YMCA of the USA, specifically dedicated to serving active-duty military service members and their families. The oldest military support organization in the U.S., the ASYMCA was established in 1861 and has long provided care and comfort for military troops through unique and specialized programs for service members, military spouses and military children.

As a gesture of appreciation for their service, Indian Motorcycle employees who are veterans themselves were featured in the official product photography for the Honoring Heroes collection.

The Indian Motorcycle Honoring Heroes collection is available now at select Indian Motorcycle dealers around the country. Until November 30, 2022, all profits from purchases made will be donated, up to a total of $100,000, by Indian Motorcycle to benefit the ASYMCA and its Operation Ride Home program.

To learn more about the collection visit the Indian Motorcycle Outpost. For more information about Operation Ride Home, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit OperationRideHome.com.

PIRELLI SCORPION Trail II Tires Selected as Original Equipment on New Zero DSR/X Electric Motorcycle—

Zero’s Full Range of High-Performance Electric Motorcycles
Come Equipped with Pirelli Tires

ATLANTA (October 26, 2022) – Pirelli Tire North America is pleased to announce that Zero Motorcycles has chosen Pirelli tires as original equipment for 2022 and beyond. Zero Motorcycles produces high-performance electric motorcycles that are lightweight, efficient, fast off the line, and fun, making Pirelli’s premium, high-performance tires the ultimate choice in helping put the power to the ground.

“This is an exciting opportunity for the Pirelli brand,” said Josh Whitmire, Pirelli Director of Sales, North America. “We live in a constantly changing world, and Zero is a brand that has taken the next step in motorcycle evolution with a direct focus on high-performance electric motorcycles. At the same time, our development is ongoing each and every day at Pirelli, and together, we see this being an extremely successful partnership that benefits and trickles down to the everyday consumer.”

The new Zero DSR/X electric adventure bike is the brand’s latest model to be introduced and comes equipped with Pirelli’s SCORPION™ Trail II 120/70R19 and 170/60R17 tires, which combine the best features of sport-touring and dirt-road motorcycling tires. Pirelli SCORPION™ Rally STR tires are also available as a performance accessory on the DSR/X for those riders looking for a knobby tire but require demanding grip on-road and added traction off-road.

“Zero Motorcycles is excited to continue our long-standing relationship with Pirelli as equipment on the all-new DSR/X,” said Brian Wismann, VP of Product Development, Zero Motorcycles. “Whether we’re developing on-road or off-road motorcycles, Pirelli has always provided our engineers with amazing options that balance traction, efficiency, and durability for our customers.”

Pirelli’s wide range of on- and off-road motorcycle tires come standard across the full Zero Motorcycle lineup. Pirelli tire models selected include the DIABLO ROSSO™ II on the Zero FXE and S; DIABLO ROSSO™ III on the Zero SR, SR/F, SR/S; MT 60™ on the Zero DS and DSR; and SCORPION™ MT90 A/T on the Zero FX.

Pirelli’s wide-rage motorcycle tire lineup offers a tire for everyone, whether on-road or off-road.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

ANOTHER SPORTSTER DEAL OF THE WEEK–I got acquainted with Phil by email after watching the movie. I wanted to build him another Flathead but he was too old and couldn’t afford it. I came to Nashville and got to know him. Now we are good friends. We are selling his last Sportster. He is 87.

Anyone interested can just contact me. He want $4,500. We have the front fender off and Stars are signing it. Emmylou is the only one who has signed so far but he will be getting more soon.

Chuck Mead from BR549 will be signing and Steve Earle if he can catch him. It is a stock ‘04 883 with 23,000 miles. Runs strong. Carb has been worked over. It needs a slightly smaller slow jet. It is a little fat when warm.

Be cool to own Phil Kaufman’s last bike. He has a great book about his life called Road Mangler Deluxe. I’ll get you an autographed copy in a few days. You will love it. He even did a little time in Terminal Island.

–Bill May

RESERVE YOUR DIRT BIKE TOUR TODAY– Costa Rica Unlimited

Costa Rica Unlimited, is excited to announce the delivery of Brand New Bikes. Our additions to the fleet will include a 2023 Husqvarna FE350 as well as brand new GasGas EC350 and EC300.

GasGas and Husqvarna revolutionized the industry in enduro bikes creating reliable powerhouses capable of handling everything Costa Rica has to offer. These new bikes provide our tour guests with the latest and greatest allowing you to experience our tours without having to worry about an old bike holding you back from adventure. Ride and test up to six (6) models from the factory upgraded with all of our aftermarket sponsors products.

Come ride unlimited miles of jungle single track, mountains, beaches and see parts of Costa Rica most would never experience. Ride all day, hit the beach after, relax at our pool/deck or enjoy the active nightlife up the road in Jaco.

CRU: Our Bikes, Our Homes, Our Guides, Your Adventure.

Costa Rica Unlimited | 18832 Silver Maple Way, Santa Ana, CA 92705

Today, we built a custom Travelers Time-cover for one of our buds @59_pan_man Ray at Copper Top Garage in Ormond Beach FL.

Thanks for the support Ray.

–Adam Croft

THE BIGGEST SHOW AT THE LONE STAR RALLY

Saturday, Nov. 5th
CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE’S
Ride In Custom Bike Show
Located at Beach Central Seawall
Free to sign up – 10 am-3 pm
Awards at 4:30 pm
Free GorillaPro T-Shirt to anyone who registers!
$500 CASH & FULL FEATURE FOR THE BEST-OF-SHOW WINNER

Inspired by the classic custom look, beautifully executed by Triumph’s world-class design and manufacturing teams.

This simply stunning collection of ten iconic Chrome Edition Triumph motorcycles is a celebration of hand-crafted style and tradition.

Renowned for exceptional finish and detailing, the exciting Modern Classic and Rocket 3 Chrome Edition lineup reinforces Triumph’s position as the true leader in authentic character and style.

Available for one year only, each Chrome Edition motorcycle perfectly showcases the craft and capability of the dedicated teams that perfected the skill of chrome detailing over many years.

Beautifully and sensitively incorporated into each of these ten iconic motorcycles, Chrome Edition riders can enjoy the thrilling performance, neutral handling and modern capability of the latest generation lineup, amplified by a truly exclusive, custom-inspired look.

  ~ Peter Drucker

TRIKE REPORT OF THE WEEK–This is what Harley should offer.

Shark nose instead of batwing so forks turn in fairing.
Swooping rear fenders
Chiseled 14-inch bars
Raked front end

–Mike Stevenson

“Little progress can be made by merely attempting to repress what is evil. Our great hope lies in developing what is good.”

From Epoch Bright

John Hoffman here. Just received my books you sent by Gregory Wrightstone and K. Randall Ball aka Bandit. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!I am enclosing a donation to help spread the truth!

I recently moved from Southern Nevada to Riverton, Wyoming which is 22 miles from my hometown of Shoshoni. As you know the luck 5 lounge is there and reminds me very much of your 5-Ball logo.

The majority of my career I worked as a driller in the open pit Gold Mines of Northern Nevada mainly in the Elko area. Mining is a boring job, with 12.5 hour shifts filled with long commutes and shifting schedules. Your articles/stories in Bikernet along with your books provided many hours of entertainment and escape, which helped me and many others cope with the rigors of mining.

As I retire your articles on Bikernet and Cycle Source fill the gap. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

–JOHN

LIFE-SAVER FROM BAKER DRIVELINE— Comp Sprocket Kit

Do you often hear a loud ‘clunk’ in your primary when starting up or turning off your bike? A common issue with the stock Twin Cam and M8 bikes is a failed compensator sprocket. We, at BAKER, wanted to make a stronger, more reliable comp sprocket to fix the factory’s issues.

The main benefits of the BAKER Drivetrain Compensator Sprocket Kit are quieter operation, extended durability over stock, and refined function to smooth out the inherent power pulsations of the Twin Cam and M8 motors. This kit features enhanced cam lobe geometry, increased ramp angles, and a circular oil skirt that channels primary lubricant into the cam lobe region. The BAKER Comp Sprocket kit fits 2006-2017 Dyna models and 2007-Later Touring & Softail models.

No, not really. USPS will deliver it. Just a desk-calendar with 12 photos of Emperor Ming Ball.

Here is a photo of WWE Superstar John Cena announcing your arrival at the stadium to fight “The Undertaker” at Summerslam 2023.

Ride his Ass !!!

–Ujjwal Dey
Chief Reporter
Bikernet International News Desk

HAPPY HALLOWEEN—Make sure you vote. We are living is super scary times, so Halloween action is perfect right now.

I am working with Chopper Dave on some point cover/coasters for Xmas. He makes custom castings, so if you need something google Chopper Dave.

Still working outside on projects. The weather has been amazing.

George Christie has been writing again. He’s back in Ventura. He meet with Taco, the boss of the Outlaws during the 50th Sturgis Anniversary. I also met Taco that year. In the center was Billy Tinney, the editor of Tattoo Magazine, who put the meeting together.

Getting ready to kick off my next build with those cast iron levers as the controls and pegs. The antique foot warmer for an oil bag and Irish Rich already set up the old Peanut tank on the VL frame. Hang on for the first report.

In the meantime Ride Fast and Free Forever.

–Bandit

Could there be a Connection?
by Bandit and crew, including the National Motorcycle Museum

“Recently, I spotted this BSA V-Twin and was inspired first by the fact that BSA manufactured a V-Twin but then by the styling that called out Brough Superior. Two motorcycles dominated the upscale V-Twin market in the UK during the early 1900s.

Vincent and Brough Superior, so I was astounded to discover this BSA from the National Motorcycle Museum.

I’ll let you kick around what I found and let me know your thoughts. Hell, someone surely knows something that may connect these bikes.”
— Bandit

Get inside the Cantina, Catch-up to speed with this V-Twin….Click Start Now

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Know benefits and free swag you get from Cantina Membership, Click Here!

Two UK Bank holidays should help IOMTT attendees enjoy more racing.

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

The Isle of Man TT (IOMTT) returned to the Snaefell Mountain Course in 2022 after a two-year hiatus. As expected, drama unfolded over the two-week period, but officials are always searching for ways to make the Tourist Trophy even better. With the aim of enhancing the event’s long-term sustainability by increasing overall visitor numbers, the new 10-race schedule addresses issues identified by IOMTT organizers.

“This research revealed that the existing TT schedule, the Island’s travel capacity, the Island’s accommodation infrastructure, costs factored against the current economic climate, and customers’ changing habits are no longer compatible and do not meet the needs of the event’s customers,” stated MHK Minister for Enterprise Lawrie Hooper.

To optimize the TT’s crowd-welcoming ability, organizers scheduled the opening-day qualifying on May 29, 2023, the U.K.’s Spring Bank Holiday. Authorities also deemed Friday, June 9, 2022, the “TT Bank Holiday”, bookending the racing event with two three-day weekends.

The 2023 Isle of Man TT schedule follows:

Qualifying Week

• Monday, May 29, 2023 – Morning & Afternoon Qualifying
• Tuesday, May 30, 2023 – Evening Qualifying
• Wednesday, May 31, 2023 – Evening Qualifying
• Thursday, June 1, 2023 – Evening Qualifying
• Friday, June 2, 2023 – Afternoon Qualifying

Race Week

• Saturday, June 3, 2023 – Supersport (Race 1) and Sidecar (Race 1)
• Sunday, June 4, 2023 – Superbike TT
• Tuesday, June 6, 2023 – Superstock (Race 1) and Supertwin (Race 1)
• Wednesday, June 7, 2023 – Supersport (Race 2) and Sidecar (Race 2)
• Friday, June 9, 2023 – Superstock (Race 2) and Supertwin (Race 2)
• Saturday, June 10, 2023 – Senior TT

Of course, many IOMTT attendees predicate travel plans based on their work schedules. By recognizing two Bank Holidays over the course of the 2023 IOMTT, organizers hope to increase the economic benefits to local businesses. From hotels to restaurants to pubs, the extended schedule should help Isle of Man commerce to better accommodate visiting sportbike fans.

‘The Island’s current TT capacity is limited to around 28,000 visitors at any one time, with the current visitor curve highlighting infrastructure pressures in the middle weekend,” added Hooper. “In its simplest form, the new schedule aims to sustain current visitor numbers while promoting growth. We expect this new schedule to encourage new visitor patterns and capitalize on capacity, driving an additional 50,000 bed nights over time, representing an additional spend on the Island of £6 million (~$7M USD).”

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Gear up to ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events – Click to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop

Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish

In the news this month:

• Arizona Lane Filtering Law
• Attack on Noise in California
• Federal Answer on Anti-Biker Profiling
• Cost of charging e-bike as much as refueling an ICE engine bike
• Linking Russian Attacks to Potholes in UK
• Plant-based Asphalt from France
• Now Watch Videos while you ‘Drive’ a Self-driving Car
• Gamers to explore Poke-universe on Motorcycles

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THE AIM / NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. If you’ve been involved in any kind of accident, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.

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by Rogue
Sound, Looks & Power

“I have decided to change only the mufflers, but there are so many to choose from.

I think the 4.5-inch mufflers is a real good choice for sound, looks and power.

When I was doing my research, I looked at mufflers that had sound with the advertisement. I ended up choosing the Firebrand Monarch.”

Click Here to Read this photo-feature Tech & Review on Bikernet.com

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Faulty welds on these Harley-Davidson motorcycles could cause the bars to break.

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

Harley-Davidson Nightster made a triumphant return to the Sportster lineup in 2022. We last saw the blacked-out bobber in 2012 as the Evolution-powered Nightster 1200 (XL1200N). Ten years later, the revived model benefits from the Motor Company’s new 975cc Revolution Max V-twin and an innovative under-the-seat fuel tank. Those technological advancements don’t eliminate all teething problems, unfortunately.

On August 4, 2022, Harley-Davidson received a complaint from a 2022 Nightster (RH975) owner that the left portion of their handlebar broke off while riding. After performing warranty analysis and investigating the matter, the brand potentially received one additional claim related to this issue between August 5, 2022, and September 8, 2022.

Harley then informed the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the Nightster recall on October 6, 2022. According to the documents, a “weld quality issue” with the Nightster’s handlebar (Part No. 55801154) “could lead to separation between the inner and outer sections.” The consequences of such a failure need little explanation, but the recall lists that “a broken handlebar can cause a sudden loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.”

The Milwaukee manufacturer narrowed down the recall scope to Nightsters produced between December 6, 2021 and September 9, 2022—accounting for 1,074 units. However, Nightster models produced after September 9, 2022, don’t apply to this recall, as Harley employed “enhanced manufacturing controls” on those units.

After informing the NHTSA, the firm notified its dealers of the impending recall on October 11, 2022. One week later, on October 18, 2022, the brand sent notification letters to impacted owners. Once eligible customers transport their Nightster to their local dealership, Harley will replace the faulty handlebars free of charge.

While the notification period ends on October 25, 2022, Nightster owners can also contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464 (Recall No. 0179). Owners can also reach the NHTSA Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit the organization’s website for more details.

We’re happy to see the Nightster to usher in a new era for the Sportster line, but we’re happier to see the MoCo addressing mission-critical issues.

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Like most people I know, I wanted to change the exhaust on my new motorcycle.

For now, I have decided that would only be the mufflers, but there are so many to choose from.

 

When I was doing my research, I looked at mufflers that had sound with the advertisement.

I ended up choosing the Firebrand Monarch. To hear what it sounds like go to.

https://firebrandmotorcycle.com/collections/mufflers/products/muffler-kit-slip-on-monarch-tip-4-5-black-shell-17-21m8-touring

 

The Asphalt Black finish works well with the rest of the factory exhaust.

Firebrand is claiming an increase in power in their advertisement, and though I did not dyno the motorcycle I do feel some.

 

 One of the things that finalized my decision was the baffles. I have run many different exhaust systems over the years with and without or modified baffles. The size and angle of louvers as well as other factors make a difference. As it turns out the Firebrand Monarch produced what I was looking for.

Oh, and they are made in the Heartland of the United States of what I think is good quality material which I observed before installing them.

 

The install is easy and I feel that people who do work on their motorcycle would not have a problem installing a set.

 

Basic hand tools are needed

5/16” socket (I prefer 1/4” drive or screwdriver to remove heat shields

1/2” drive ratchet

3/8” drive ratchet

 9/16” Deep socket to remove left side muffler clamp

15 MM Deep socket to remove the right-side muffler clamp

 1/2 “socket to remove 2 bolts on muffler

Square or other measuring device for setting muffler depth on pipe

 

3/8” and 1/2” Torque wrench recommended.

 

 

Start of by removing the saddlebags

 

Loosen and or remove the heat shield to get at the muffler clamps.

Loosen muffler clamps, different sockets needed for each side

Remove the two bolts holding the muffler to the rear bracket.

 

Remove the muffler from the exhaust pipe. This may take some wiggling and maybe even some penetrating oil if they have been on the motorcycle for some time. In some cases, it helps to have someone hold the pipe while the muffler is being removed so as not to have pressure on pipe at the exhaust port.

It is always a good idea to clean the exhaust pipe before installing the new mufflers.

You will notice with this system there is a right and left muffler, different size pipe and axle nut dimples.

Install the clamp on the muffler paying attention to the position of the tightening nut in the down position

For this particular installation I recommend installing the RIGHT-SIDE MUFFLER FIRST The reason for this is that this muffler will only go on so far while the other has much more adjustment.

Slide the muffler on to the pipe to the length you want (At least the width of the clamp or more)

Align the muffler so that the two back bolts can be installed. It is recommended these bolts be torqued to 15-18 Foot Pounds.

When front clamp is lined up tighten to 40-45 Foot Pounds.

Reinstall heat shields

Repeat on other side of motorcycle.

When done wipe off any fingerprints and start motorcycle

 

For more information on other mufflers, exhaust systems and products go to

https://firebrandmotorcycle.com/

It’s All Hot and Steamy

“The World is in turmoil and we need a solid code of the West, or Dharma. Let’s see how the news pans out and what might pop today. Hang on! Let’s hit it….”

— Bandit

Weekly News by Bandit, Wayfarer, Sam Burns, J.J. Solari, Bob T., Laura, Barry Green, the Redhead, Joe Smith, Steve Bauman, Steve Phiel and the rest of the gang.

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Thoughts to ponder for one and all:

“We are always more afraid than we wish to be, but we can always be braver than we expect”
~ Robert Jordan

“The best way out is always through.”
– Robert Frost

“We can only feel sorry for ourselves when our misfortunes are still supportable. Once this limit is crossed, the only way to bear the unbearable is to laugh at it.”
~ Marjane Satrapi

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A smaller, more affordable Pan America makes a lot of sense if Harley-Davidson wants to expand its share of the ADV market.
by Dennis Chung from https://www.motorcycle.com

Earlier this year, signs of a Pan America 975 were mistakenly mentioned in an official Harley-Davidson web page for an accessory locking fuel cap. Up until shortly after our article went live, the page listed the fuel cap as being compatible with the RA1250 (Pan America 1250) and RA1250S (Pan America 1250 Special) as well as two unannounced models: the RA975 and RA965S, which we assumed to be Pan America models powered by the 975cc version of the Revolution Max engine, like the one equipped on the Nightster.

Motorcycle.com has now obtained further evidence of the existence of middleweight versions of Harley-Davidson’s adventure-tourer, once again from Harley itself, as well as the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The proof comes via official installation instructions for a pair of accessory mirrors designed for Revolution Max models. The ’66 Collection Round Mirrors and Empire Mirrors (available in black anodized or anodized with machine-milled highlights) are designed to fit all RevMax models, including the Pan America 1250, Pan America 1250 Special, Sportster S, and Nightster. For most markets, including the U.S., the installation instructions specify additional steps for “for all models except RA1250S”, which is the model code for the Pan America 1250 Special. These added steps are necessary because the non-Pan America models (i.e. the Sportster S and Nightster) come with bar-end mirrors and require installing handlebar mounts for the accessory mirrors.

The instructions for a few other markets, however, provide the same additional steps “for all models except RA1250S and RA975S”. Both model codes are listed in the instructions for Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Slovenia, and Ukraine. We’ve gone through the mirror kit instructions for all other markets and languages, and none of them mention the RA975 (or the previously leaked RA965S which now appears to have been a typo.)

It’s probably not a coincidence that the nine markets above do not have their own dedicated sections on www.harley-davidson.com (i.e. they do not appear in the country and language dropdown in the top right corner of every page of the Harley-Davidson consumer website.) What this suggests is that someone on Harley-Davidson’s web team went through every language on their site and scrubbed mentions of the RA975S, but because these nine countries aren’t on the site, they somehow got overlooked.

Further proof comes to us from NHTSA’s Safety Issues and Recalls page. This page lets people look up any recalls, safety investigations, consumer complaints and manufacturer communications in NHTSA’s system. As of this writing, if you click on the Vehicle tab and search for “RA975” or “RA975S,” you will find three service bulletins for a 2022 Harley-Davidson RA975 and RA975S.

Two of the bulletins, M1559 and M1560, are for all Harley-Davidson Revolution Max models, including the 2021-2022 RA1250 and RA1250S, the 2021-2022 RH1250S (Sportster S), the 2022 RH975 (Nightster) and the 2022 RA975 and RA975S. The third service bulletin, M1558, is for all 2021-2022 Pan America models regarding the proper routing of the lower radiator hose, and it affects the 2021-2022 Pan America 1250 and 1250 Special, as well as the two 2022 RA975 models. The wording of service bulletin M1558 suggests the smaller models will also go by the “Pan America” name.

Looking at all this evidence, it seems pretty clear the RA975 and RA975S exist, and are unlikely to be the result of a simple typo, alhough the previous leak listing a RA965S now appears to be an error. There is no logical reason to exclude the RA975S from additional installation steps if it doesn’t exist. Likewise, the NHTSA information suggests it’s highly unlikely someone mistook the RA975 and RA975S for the Sportster S or Nightster.

What’s particularly interesting is that NHTSA lists the RA975 and RA975S as 2022 models. That, plus the fact the smaller Pan America was mentioned in instructions for accessories currently on sale suggests that Harley-Davidson likely planned to include the mid-sized ADVs this year but decided against launching them, perhaps due to supply chain constraints. The installation instructions and all three service bulletins are dated between Aug. 8 and Aug. 16, which gives us an indication on when a decision may have been made.

Still, we expect the RA975 and RA975S will come out at some point, likely for 2023. Harley-Davidson is expected to announce the bulk of its 2023 models in January. An appearance at EICMA might be possible, but at this point, the only Harley presence confirmed for the show is a booth about the brand’s 120th anniversary events.

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