Barry said these shots don’t need a story. He’s right! On your darkest day, these shots will bring back warm memories, longing, a broad smile, tender thoughts, beauty, touch, Nirvana and pure heaven right here on earth. — Bandit * * * *

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Beautiful Racing Weather at Norwalk

event: NHDRO’s Midwest Fall Nationals presented by Liguori Drag Racing
when: September 16-18, 2022
where: Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio, USA
NHDRO’s Midwest Fall Nationals presented by Liguori Drag Racing finished off the Midwest’s largest motorcycle drag racing series’ season in true NHDRO style—family, festive, high stakes fun at unquestionably one of the top-tier tracks in the world: Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.

Norwalk was the final event of a 2022 NHDRO season that saw three race days at each and every event, maximizing racer paybacks for their travel dollar in a time of high expenses for all travellers. Champions were determined in all classes following two full points races on Saturday and Sunday, plus the usual NHDRO Friday night shootouts.

Schnitz Racing Top Gas and Shootout
There are no bigger advocates for Summit Motorsports Park than Cleveland’s Adams family, so it is only fitting that Craig and Kevin Adams had so much success at the NHDRO race—including sweeping both Schnitz Racing Top Gas points races.

Craig and his wheelie bar dragbike faced tough competition in Saturday’s final against no-bar racer David Beshara—winner on both days of the recent Edgewater event.

But Craig’s .018 light vs. Beshara’s .047 laid a table that Beshara couldn’t clear, despite running dead-on 8.20 with a 9, and Adams was able to win with an 8.22 at 28 miles per hour less than Beshara.

“Faced some really tough racers, lucky to come out with the win,” said Craig. “Had to race my brother second round in a really tight race.

“Thanks to Dad, Gary Godwin, Kevin, Gavin, Niki and Brian Welch, the Short family, Ligouri Racing, my wife Jill, and Eatmyink for the great coverage as always.”

Mike Puglia was Saturday’s number one qualifier.

The roles were reversed in Sunday’s final, with Craig’s brother Kevin riding a no-bar Suzuki Hayabusa against dragbike racer Bradley Shellhaas—also a member of a racing family.

This time around, both racers had awesome lights, with Shellhaas’ .019 only .001 behind Adams. Bradley broke out by .002 while Kevin ran 8.203 on the 8.20 index—what a race!

“What an awesome weekend with family and friends!” said Kevin. “To be able to race at the best track in the country and what I consider the best motorcycle sanction out there, NHDRO!

“Friday started out slow, losing a tight race in Top Gas Shootout, but got to test our brand new bike on motor and was very successful.

“Saturday, again lost a tight race to my brother in Top Gas, but the good news was he went on and won and I ended up runner-up in Super Comp.

“And for Sunday, wow, what a day to be able to get to the finals of Super Comp and Top Gas and end up winning both against very tough competitors, and made it to the semifinals in Street ET and lost another close race.

“I want to thank Greg and Maria Kubach for being great friends and giving me such awesome bikes to race, Joe Marasco, my dad, my wife Brianna Adams, and my sons Connor and Gavin for all their help and support.”

Friday’s Schnitz Racing Top Gas Shootout winner was Doug Fisher, who bypassed a race at his home track 131 Motorsports Park in Michigan to come race with NHDRO at Norwalk.

Wheelie bar racer Fisher beat no-bar racer Michael D’Addio in the Shootout final. “The bike went 8.202 out of the trailer,” said Fisher, who also went to two semifinals.

“Thanks Richard Gadson for the tuning and pit help. David Beshara said ‘You hired a tuner.’ I replied ‘He’s fam.’

“Thanks also to Donna Fisher for going and Alexis Baker for the great food and support.

“The long rollout got us Saturday and Sunday.”

Defending and once again Schnitz Racing Top Gas champ Jeremy Teasley came up winless in the class on this particular weekend, but retains his championship regardless.

“My plan was to do better in Top Gas, but I ended up with the Super Comp win—just as good but not as many points as I wanted,” said Teasley. “I knew Jeremy England was right behind me in Top Gas, but still squeezed out the championship at the end.

“Want to thank Brian and Niki Welch for the awesome event, can’t wait till next year.”

Sunday Top Gas number one qualifier Ceslie Shellhaas ended up feeling fortunate that her progress through the field was stopped midday.

“I made my Top Gas bye run and lost the right wheelie bar panel,” said Ceslie. “Ran second round of Pro ET and won. Then came up for third round of Pro ET and the bike died twice after my burnout, so I backed out and went back.

“We made some adjustments and the bike started just fine. I went ahead and took the left panel off before heading up for Top Gas second round. I got a rag and started to wipe the bars down and when I got to the side I had just removed, the bottom bar was completely broken. And then after checking the other side again it was starting to crack along the same spot.”

So in retrospect, it was a good thing that the panel fell off, that her bike died in Pro ET, and that she took the other panel off and discovered the crack. Hitting those broken bars in Top Gas might have proven disastrous.

MTC Super Comp 8.90 index
As Kevin Adams has already mentioned, he won Sunday’s MTC Super Comp 8.90 index, beating Greg “Magnet” Mallett in the final. Kevin (also the number one qualifier) nailed a perfect .000 light that left Mallett dazed to an .084. Kevin ran .040 slower than Greg and still won.

Adams runner-upped on Saturday to Jeremy Teasley. Jeremy’s .010 light put .032 on Kevin at the get-go, and Teasley was able to take the win with an 8.96 at only 150 mph to Adams’ 8.95 at 155.

The Super Comp and Pro ET championships were won by Joe Klemme, who also won Saturday’s MPS Pro ET race. “This late in the season and in my career, I was still trying some new things at the starting line and on the track,” said Klemme. “Some of those things helped and some didn’t, but if you don’t try new things you will be just like everyone else.

“My win in Pro ET on Saturday and semifinal finishes in Super Comp on both days was, as always, a total team KPM Racing effort. I would like to thank my teammates Tom Klemme (also Joe’s brother), Tim Genung, and John Mealy for all their help at the shop and on the track. Also thanks to KPM and Ed and Bradley Grothus at Grothus Dragbikes for their continued support.

“Our team’s success this weekend secured the championships in Pro ET and Super Comp. I would like to dedicate these two championships to my late sister Judy Grothus and uncle Roger Klemme, who we lost recently.”

MPS Racing Pro ET
As mentioned above, Joe Klemme won the MPS Pro ET championship and Saturday’s race. Pete Chongris runner-upped, his .035 light no match for Klemme’s .009. Chongris ran closer to his 8.95 his dial-in, but Klemme was close enough to his own 9.28.

Kyle Dolamore won an “all-Dolomite” final on Sunday against his cousin Steven Dolamore. Kyle put .033 on Steven at the tree to pretty well settle this one, as Steven broke out by more in the double breakout race.

“Me and my cousin both actually lost first round and didn’t wanna buy back ’cause we were both frustrated about us messing up the race, and my father talked us into buying back,” reported Kyle. “As I’m putting the body on the bike to head to the lanes, I remember looking at my brother and going ‘I’m about to wear some people and everybody is in trouble and better stay outta my way cause I’m winning this damn race now.’”

And true enough, he did. “This win was special to me because exactly six years ago I won my first race, and that was the Division 3 bracket finals, so winning again on that same day six years later and it being my second win ever was just something special! Along with it being my first ever win at my home track on a dragbike!

“One of the coolest things was finally winning with my grandparents Terry and Hedi Dolamore at the track. My grandfather is the one who got all of us into racing, so finally getting him in my winner circle photo has been a goal of mine since I started racing. And doing it in the fashion of it being an all-family final and the first time we ever did that just put the cherry on top!

“Just want to thank my family for everything they have done and always supporting me, especially my dad Tony for always making sure I have the best equipment possible and always wanting the best for me even if it means he gives up his bike for me to ride that weekend, and my mom Traci. Also like to thank my brother (Michael Maday) and my sister (Morgan Dolamore, recently married so Morgan Moore) and my cousin Steven for always reminding me that I’m a ‘Bad Dude,’ as they say.

“Also wanna give a shoutout to the Bader family for always giving us an amazing track to race at and just the best in the business facility-wise! Also thanks to the Adams family for always being there to lend a helping hand or advice or even a motorcycle at times!”

M2.Shocks 8.70 Quick Street
We’ve read about brothers and cousins winning races at Norwalk, but Marty White is a one-man wrecking ball. Already the defending M2.Shocks 8.70 Quick Street champion, White repeated that title along with the Kevin Dennis Insurance Street ET championship.

White won Sunday’s Quick Street final at the expense of Eric Yost in a double breakout. White’s .031 advantage at the tree laid the table for his 8.696 to beat Yost’s 8.692.

“I couldn’t be more appreciative for my family and friends for supporting me and the whole AWR Cycles team,” said White. “Brian, Niki and the whole Welch family for giving us the opportunity to have so much dang fun, and Tim Hailey for capturing every precious moment! The racing action photos are awesome and the candids with family and friends melt my heart.

“The season was amazing for the whole team. Too many milestones to even mention. To win six races and back-to-back championships in two classes in a two season span is surreal to say the least!

“The old Katana rides like a Cadillac. I’m honored to be associated with AWR Cycles, NHDRO, Page Racing, JTR, the best photographer around, and many others. Keep safe, keep chasing your dreams, and make sure Eatmyink captures it all!”

Saturday winner Jaden Hall put .022 on runner-up Rashad Rowe at the tree, taking the win despite being nearly a hundredth slower on track.

Phil Tinsley and Tom Cooper were number one qualifiers.

Kevin Dennis Insurance Street ET
As already mentioned, double championship winner Marty White also won the Kevin Dennis Insurance Street ET title, sealing the deal with Saturday’s race win over Owen Burdick. Marty’s .029 starting line advantage proved impossible for Burdick to overcome on this particular day.

Burdick runner-upped again on Sunday, this time against Sean Neizmik. Sean didn’t post an impressive number at the starting line—a .127 to Burdick’s much better .038. But his ZX14 ran dead on his 8.97 with a 9, while Burdick’s 9.27 fell way short of his 9.11 dial-in.

“I really appreciate all the hard work Brian and his family put in to making the NHDRO venues a pleasure to race at,” said Neizmik. “I want to thank the Lord, thank my family, and really enjoy having the opportunity to compete against such a talented group of racers.”

Advanced Sleeve Dirty 30 9.30 and Friday’s Delay Box Shootout

Despite Tom Klemme’s two Advanced Sleeve Dirty 30 9.30 finals at Norwalk—winning one—it was Drew Nearhoof that won the championship.

“I’d like to thank a few people,” said Nearhoof. “My papa and uncle Fran looking down from above and keeping me safe. My uncle Dick and father who have let me store my dragbike, pitbikes, & streetbikes at the family automotive repair shop throughout the years. My uncle Kevin (Nasca) who always keeps things light at our pit spot.

“Blood runs thicker than water in our family and this championship would not have been possible without these men blazing the path for me.”

Klemme won on Saturday despite giving up the tree to runner-up Marshall Hutchinson .041 to 018. It was a double breakout, with Hutchinson’s 9.27 more offensive than Klemme’s 9.28.

“I can’t have success without a dedicated team and great pit help,” said Klemme, also Saturday’s number one qualifier. His brother Joe qualified number one on Sunday. “Zero mistakes made by my pit man John Mealy, but I made a few.”

Like going -.004 red against his brother Joe—who was trying to lose on purpose—in Street ET. Tom was trying for the bye the next round but lost the bye he already had.

“I’m still recovering from a sprained wrist and I don’t feel like I’m racing at 100%. I’m happy and fortunate to do as well as I did.”

Which included a win in Friday’s Delay Box Shootout. Tom beat David Beshara in the final.

Tom also did his job at the starting line in Sunday’s Dirty 30 final, posting an .027 to Justin Blackford’s .053. But Klemme was .005 quicker than Blackford when he didn’t want to be—at the finish of the double breakout race.

“This past weekend was an absolute blast at Summit Motorsports Park!” said Blackford. “This is my second year coming out to NHDRO events and it’s always something I look forward to.

“This season, my number one goal was to bring home a Big Check and get my first ever event win. Being able to make it happen on the last day of the last event in front of friends and family, and a lot of the people that helped me get to this point, was an awesome experience and something I’ll never forget!”

Friday Night Shootouts
Friday night is Shootout time at NHDRO, and Norwalk’s weather couldn’t have been more perfect—for all three days and nights, actually.

Buffalo, New York’s Owen Burdick may have come up short Saturday and Sunday in Street ET, but Friday was his as he won the No-Box Shootout, taking the final over Rylan Rowe.

“It was my first time at an NHDRO race and first time racing at Norwalk,” said Burdick. “This is my first full year on my new bike (‘08 Suzuki GSXR1000), so a lot of firsts. I had a great experience all weekend at the races. Great people and the event was run very well. Hats off to Brian and his family.

“As for the racing part, I felt great and the bike was deadly. Decent lights helped, and a little luck as well. The bike was very consistent for me, which made picking my dial-in time not hard at all. And a smooth, fast, and sticky track helped too. I was asked to split the money before the final round, but that won’t ever happen. Go big and fast or go home.”

The old man still has it. Crow Teasley won the Road Course Shootout, beating Chris Tucker in the final. “I just want to thank Joe Marasco for letting me ride the bike, and Brian and Niki for a great event. Had a blast.”

There was also a special Shop Wars Shootout, with speed shops competing against each other in various classes. Jeremy Teasley Racing (JTR) won Road Course and Top Gas Shootouts, while Joe Marasco’s Maximum Street Performance (MSP) won Heavyweight and Grudge. The tiebreaker was two runner-up finishes for JTR and only one for MSP, as the Testa Engines team runner-upped in Top Gas.

“It was a perfect weekend,” said Teasley. “Came in the race not knowing who to put where in the Shop Shootout, but we came together and figured it out to win by one point. MSP put up a great fight.”

VooDoo Grudge
Kevin Dennis isn’t just the Midwest’s greatest insurance agent, nor is he just the sponsor of Street ET. Kevin is also a hardcore racer, and made a big leap at Norwalk. Long time bracket racer Dennis showed up with a new VooDoo Grudge build and promptly won two big races against the most hallowed family in the Grudge biz—the Teasley’s.

Dennis and his “Full Coverage” shot out of the hole like a cannonball for the first race win against Crow Teasley on “Valhalla.” From there it was a race to get the bikes back around to run them again before the track went dark at midnight. But make it back they did, with Dennis sweating profusely from the hustle. It was all worth it, as he took the second one also.

“Really came to the race just to test it out and work on the tune-up, as the bike only had three passes in it prior,” said Dennis. “Once it ran a good number, I decided to let Brian find us a race. It’s always a little nerve racking when you see that you are racing anyone with the name Teasley on their leathers.

“First race was really close, actually. Had to ask Crow who won. When they wanted to rerun, I was pretty surprised since it was so late at night.

“The second race I knew he was going to try to put a light on me hard, but luckily he redlit and on that pass I made my fastest pass ever on any bike.

“It was a ton of fun and I’m sure Crow already has plans for his revenge! Was a great night of racing and the staff at Norwalk prepped the entire track for us at the end of the night. Overall great experience and a great payday.”

There were lots of great grudge races and bikes, including Jeremy Teasley stinging the nighttime air on “Bad Draw.” NHDRO’s Brian Welch picked up a win on “Big Greasy”

Shutdown Area
Friday’s Gamblers’ Race was won by Austin Poole with Rob Neizmik the final round runner-up.

Saturday’s Gamblers’ Race was won by Jeremy Himes over final round runner-up Tony “Toni! Toné!” Roberson.

Richard Gadson got some testing in on his James Johnson-owned, “Stop Soldier Suicide,” Monster 4 valve, George Babor motor, Suzuki Pro Stock Motorcycle.

The event was visited by the international meeting of the Gunfighters Motorcycle Club. Comprised entirely of law enforcement officers, members from all over the world were represented at the event and four of them took to the track on the bikes they rode in on.

Ashley Shellhaas beat Keith Joyce in Saturday’s scooter race, and Les Stimac’s HighRisk Motorsports along with Eric “Vansboy” Yost picked up the tab for every child on the property to get some of Norwalk’s famous pound of ice cream.

Brian and Niki Welch love taking their NHDRO family out for the most fun to be had at the best tracks in the Midwest. “Thanks to everyone for a great season,” said the Welch’s.

NHDRO thanks M2.Shocks , Kevin Dennis Insurance , MPS Racing , Liguori Drag Racing , Schnitz Racing , Voodoo Custom Motorcycle Components , Vanson Leathers , MTC Engineering , Advanced Sleeve , Rock Auto, High Risk Motorsports , Page Racing and APE .

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All the Players Step Forward
By Kent Weeks and Tom Young with photos by RFR and Sil

EDITOR’S NOTE: This gets more bizarre by the week, or year, maybe decade. We published Part 1 not long ago, but perhaps this is part 1. Although, if you read the first episode, you will encounter the long back story behind a brother, a veteran who had a chopper dream through many stages and years. Then there’s the story behind the builders, models and photographers involved in this process. It’s all good, fun, and Chopper Nirvana. Enjoy.
–Bandit

Click here to read this delightful Photo Feature on Custom Build Chopper

Are you curious to know more about this bike and the successful builders involved?
Well here is a start….
You gotta see the first story for some of the details Tom mentioned in this story….
Click Here for the Part 1

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

Want to see lot more on custom building your own Choppers and Bobbers ? Check out the BIKE FEATURES Page only on Bikernet.com

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

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EDITOR’S NOTE: This gets more bizarre by the week, or year, maybe decade. We published Part 1 not long ago, but perhaps this is part 1. Although, if you read the first episode, you will encounter the long back story behind a brother, a veteran who had a chopper dream through many stages and years. Then there’s the story behind the builders, models and photographers involved in this process. It’s all good, fun, sexy and Chopper Nirvana. Enjoy.

–Bandit

Harvey came to me by way of John Peek, who runs Full Throttle motorcycle shop in Houston, (one of the most successful, top-gas bike racers in Texas). Harvey recently moved back to this area and didn’t have anyone to help with the custom metal work he wanted to have done. John knew I was a certified Heli-Arc welder doing steering-neck and rake-and-trail modifications on choppers and had designed a custom steering neck which had internal steering stops. Harvey had several ideas for the bike he wanted built for himself: It was going to be a chopper, which was a vision from his early days. . . an iconic, California custom, rigid-frame Harley-Davidson chopper!

When Kent Weeks and I met Harvey he brought us a pair of fatbob gas tanks, a funky old hex oil tank and some other parts that didn’t seem to go together, including a rear fender which in no way resembled the style I had envisioned for the rest of the bike.

To get the look I wanted in the rear fender of Harvey’s little red chopper, we cut slices into the sides of a flat fender, re-radiused it to the tire and then welded the cuts in place. Next, Kent and I welded ¼ inch round bar-stock onto the outer edge to give it ‘the look,’ and used my usual bar-stock supports to hold the fender over the wheel.

Originally Kent and I mounted the twin tanks, installed flush mount gas caps and set them up with coil pockets. The pockets allowed us to hide the coils from sight. The coils would mount to the frame with cut outs in the gas tanks one on either side. A trick I had used and passed on to Kent and some of the other guys I’ve worked with over the years.

Harvey brought an engine, too, which we were forced to use for a short period of time. Unfortunately, it was an early version 100-inch RevTech Evo: not really what I’d pick for the heart of a classic American chopper! I told him “Harvey, it takes as much time and effort to hang an ugly part as it does a good-looking part, so why don’t you let me help you pick out the parts needed to make a chopper you’ll be really proud to own and ride.”

He said, “Well, I got these parts cheap, and I can’t sell them on the internet because nobody wants them. So, I thought I’d just use them for a funky chopper made from old, used parts.”

I told him, “That doesn’t sound like a good idea to me. If you’re going overseas to fight for our freedom, so we can keep on riding our bikes, drinking beer and shooting pool, I’ll build you a custom chopper you can be proud of . NO CHARGE!”

By the time that promise was made I was already getting away from bike building and focusing more on specialty welding in the oil-field industry. Harvey’s bike, however, was a great project very near-and-dear to my heart. It was a project that aroused a genuine passion in me, because it was being designed and built for a true and deserving friend!

I built several custom choppers in my day, including one for myself back in the mid-‘70s while living in Southern California. I developed an intense passion for bike building from being around jockey-shift, rigid-frame choppers. I was an accomplished TIG welder, and my experiences in California along with the first chopper I built for myself, strongly influenced the style I incorporated into Harvey’s bike, but I’ll tell you about MY bike another time.

For Harvey’s bike we found a’69 Pan/Shovel FLH running bike and sold everything but the motor and tranny (we later discovered the ’69 was built the same year Harvey graduated high school). We had the motor rebuilt by Hal Cort, who ran a mechanic shop, had a pro-fuel, nitro-burning drag bike and earned a #1 plate in AHDRA sanctioned races.

In order to give this bike the look of the original West Coast style choppers, with their engraved timing covers and rocker boxes, I enlisted the well-known talents of a pin-striper named John, aka ‘Lunch Box’, who was old school when it came to engraving and was the only one I knew of who did that type of work. On close inspection, you’ll notice that the raised effect of the floral design is actually achieved by removing the metal from around the design. This technique makes the design stand out and gives it a raised look. It is expensive and requires more work and planning than most people imagine, but it is so much more impressive and if you ask me, it is well worth the time, effort and expense it required!

Instead of having an inner primary, I fashioned a custom primary support out of a ¾-inch round bar-stock, the back side of which I shaved flat to go around the alternator side of the motor to the transmission. Man, that was a lot of work but worth the look!

For the front tire I wanted more of a narrow fender, so Kent and I found a bicycle fender that was the width needed to just cover the top of the front tire. We incorporated the usual bar-stock, fender supports to hold it in place.

It was time to fit the new gas tank to the frame of this bike. We cut new pockets in a Sporty tank and fitted the right side with a single coil and we used the left side for electronics. Rubber mounted on the bottom, we relocated the petcock, new flush mount gas cap and a little skirting on the sides trimmed with ¼ round stock to carry on the look.

(If you look closely, you can find Kent’s ‘devil tail’ worked into the metal above the motor mount when he went in to revise some things during the final build).

See the first story for some of the details Tom mentioned in this story: https://www.bikernet.com/pages/The_Little_Red_Story_Part_1.aspx

The gas tank was now in place, and my work on this chopper was nearing completion. All I had to do now was build a seat and design a custom tool box. I used an English wheel to get the shape I wanted out of a piece of aluminum with a ¼-inch piece of bar-stock welded around the edge to give it a nice rolled look. I had his seat pan chrome plated and then the edge finished with cross-stitched leather: it was real long on looks but short on comfort! (LOL) I had designed a custom toolbox that was hand-crafted out of 4-inch diameter aluminum tubing, cut in half. Both halves were hinged together, covered with leather inside-and-out, and mounted to the lower triple tree. It turned out great, and honestly looked more like a jewelry box than a tool box!

The original paint work was handled by an old friend Wayne and decorated with bare metal style flames and pin striping by another longtime friend of ours Joe Cartoolow.

The custom-made rotors on this bike were designed and built by James Hall of Deep Cut Rotors out of Colorado.

That’s my part of the story of this ‘Little Red Bike’ except for this final note: Some 15 years of my life, and lots of love, went into building this bike for Harvey, and developed into a true friendship with him and his wife, Maki, which has lasted 30 years!

–Tom Young

And now for the Girls and Kent Weeks’ Notions:

For me one of the best parts of this photo session was getting everyone together because I have known most of the people involved for several years. The First Time RFR and Sil got together for a photo shoot was shortly after I opened my own shop in the old location sometime in 2002 and involved the Black Beauty. Tom felt I was turning his fab shop into a bike shop, so I started Lucky Devil Metal Works down the street.

The mechanical restoration and first assembly for the shake down on black beauty was done by Jet at Full Throttle (one of my many mentors). I had done most of the metal work on this one while working with Tom at American Heli-arc. While she was out for paint, I moved so she ended up being the first final assembly in my new shop.

I made a point not to burn bridges, so every now and then I still keep up with Jet and Robert our former painter. We still collaborate on various projects.

With Little red I did not do all the metal work. Tom and the guys did a great job with the some, and it was nearly impossible to see where I stopped and they picked it up. I’ll let Tom fill ya in on some of the original build, I wasn’t involved with that part of the project. I did watch it come together and become quite a show stopper during a chop off event down in Galveston Tx. I ended up hosting the show and had to keep me and my clients from competing. Tom and the guys put together a trophy for me anyway–good times!

With this photo project we thought it would be fun to get RFR to take some photos of Sil operating the camera. She has a lot of talents and does everything from photo shop work to working on both sides of the camera so this was a great opportunity to show off some skills and work with RFR again.

https://www.facebook.com/SilKayPhotography

Finding models,

I still do a little metalwork for other shops every now and then and I recently worked with an old friend and Harley tech on a little odd ball Ironhead. Shane, the client in common happens to run a fright factory (purgatory scream park) so I reached out to see if he might know anyone who’d like to shoot with Sil.

Fortunately, he was able to help out with that, one of his fright guys Craven Sic (Fx artist, body painter, horror model and actor extraordinaire)

Well, he just so happened to be engaged to the wonderful “Leslie Van Lovelace” who just happened to be a well-seasoned accomplished model.

   Leslie introduced us to her fantastic friend “Adea Love” who is also a talented model and fun to work with ( Instagram@adea.love )

They are both members of the Houston Luscious Ladies, a philanthropy Pin up group where with their other members share the love of pinup, cool stuff, custom cars, motorcycles and helping others (I’m not sure it gets any better than that).

http://www.thelusciousladies.com/houston

The shoot went down fine, aside from the fact that true-to-form I was late hahaha. I was doing some break-in service and a couple adjustments on Little Red before the shoot and decided to just ride her down to Tom’s shop, a good ride both ways! Though, as with any full build or custom restoration, there are still some minor adjustments to be made and a bit more break-in to do, but she sure is doing well and with the 6-n-4 and the modern starting/charging systems there are no worries about getting where you want to go and getting back!

Tom knows quite a few people who are into custom bikes and classic cars from working metal and welding for a few decades (and having a true hot rod heart), so he also called up some friends to bring a few cars by for the models to climb on and we got some good shots of Tom’s ‘58 Chevy, while we were at it (and it helped keep everyone busy until I got there haha!)

Ty Thomas (a local car builder, grey car 333 ) and Tom Massimin owns the GTO and the ’32 ford ( Tom Young and the guys @ American Heli Arc did some work on the ’32 )

Tom’s oldest Son Alex has become quite a talented guitar player and was lucky enough to find a good group to work with “Zellous hearts.” They practice in the shop a bit, so he and his band mate Cheyenne stopped by to see how things were going so we got her to show off some of her fire breathing skills.

I rarely get out of the shop, almost all projects get bigger in some way and often times, I give away my free time to try and help someone or to keep things moving with short and long term projects. Needless to say, once again I was overdue for a field trip, and it was good to see everyone in one place. I had a great ride back up to magnolia and even a better time hangin’ out with Good Golly Mrs. Holly when I got home!!

Good golly, Mrs.Holly…

Sources:

Lucky Devil Custom Motorcycles

Lucious Ladies

Full Throttle Custom Motorcycles

Scream Park

By Edwin Berry, September 13, 2022
Seth Borenstein, AP Science Writer, produced his climate truth. He references a prediction in the 2012 special report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),

“A changing climate leads to changes in the frequency, intensity, spatial extent, duration, and timing of extreme weather and climate events, and can result in unprecedented extreme weather and climate events.”

Then, he presents the usual extensive list of weather-caused damages since 2012.
He says this IPCC report is the warning and forecast “by top United Nations climate scientists more than 10 years ago.”

He quotes Michael Oppenheimer of Princeton University.

— Edwin X Berry, PhD, Theoretical Physics

Read the original article by clicking here.

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Click here to Read this week’s Thursday News, only on Bikernet.com

Hey,

I sense the weather changing in South Dakota. The first day of Fall was yesterday. Brothers all over are heading south to Arizona. Some of us will hang out in the Black hills for the winter and the Almanac says it’s going to be a tough one.

I’m looking forward to the snow, learning to operate our recently serviced snow blower and getting creative, when we can’t go outside.

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever.
–Bandit

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Did you know Bikernet.com has an Official Facebook Page with over 10,000 followers?
Check out https://www.facebook.com/bikernetbiker
Click Like & Get the updates that interest you through automated Facebook Feeds right on your daily screen.

by Bandit with photos by Weed

This bike was built in classic form by Steve Hannah a 20-year Paughco employee and lifetime biker. The Redhead and I hauled ass to Carson City, Nevada with the briefcase, purchased, loaded and blasted back to the Black Hills of South Dakota.

I usually mess with any purchase unless it’s a restored antique. But this puppy was well built, classic and had chopper class.

Click to Read this Tech Article on a classic chopper only on Bikernet.com

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Gear up with cool leathers and unique ballistic nylon vest at 5-Ball Racing Shop. Click & Get Going!!!

Hey,

I sense the weather changing in South Dakota. The first day of Fall was yesterday. Brothers all over are heading south to Arizona. Some of us will hang out in the Black hills for the winter and the Almanac says it’s going to be a tough one.

I’m looking forward to the snow, learning to operate our recently serviced snow blower and getting creative, when we can’t go outside. I just had a wild creative thought, but I can’t explain it. I need to investigate the possibilities first. Then I’ll share it.

We are going to shoot the ’48 UL for a feature in Choppers Mag in the snow this winter. The master Buck Lovell will handle the chilled camera work.

I’m looking forward to the holidays. The snow and the cold make Thanksgiving altogether different and in many respects, more meaningful.

And of course, there’s our winter Knucklehead build. I’m getting close to clearing a lift.

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.

That is correct! Kyle Wyman / HD won the actual race held in New Jersey, but, with a second place finish (ahead of Kyle’s brother, Travis, who was on top of the points leader board), Tyler O’Hara was able to take home the King of the Baggers crown for the 2022 season, with the Indian team.

Tyler O’Hara, Indian and S&S took home the season championship, having won the most points on the year?

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

$50.00

NEWS FROM LEGEND’S SUSPENSION IN STURGIS SD— Legend’s touring specific spring rates produce superior ride quality and performance

REVO’s extended coil length has larger “sweet spot” without increasing overall shock length.

REVO’s unique spring rate offers the ability to soften pre-load, reducing ride height and maintaining a smooth ride.

• Allows minimal pre-load adjustments when changing between riders’ weights or loads.
• Adjusts by hand, no tools needed
• Available in 13? heavy-duty applications
• Easy installation and alignment, provided by spherical bearings on both top and bottom
• Backed by Lifetime Warranty
• Made by hand in Sturgis, South Dakota, USA

www.legendsuspension.com

FEATURE BIKE OF THE WEEK—Hang on for this Harley-Davidson Softail.

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com

Only two months of the 2022 season are left, but we aren’t slowing down yet. The rest of the season will be a blast as we continue to fire up and showcase some of America’s rarest and most storied machines, and we’re going to end it with a bang on November 19th when we give away the 1937 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. Make your plans now to be a part of the excitement, and join us on Raffle Day!

The Museum will close for the winter season on November 21st, 2022, and reopen for the 2023 operation season on April 6th.

MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION Meeting of the Minds 2022 – Demand reaches room capacity! – Hotel booked up!

Just as the MRF brought Bikers Inside the Beltway to capacity for hotel room requests, demand by attendees has brought the 2022 Meeting of the Minds conference hotel to the same level.

Not to worry… the MRF has a back-up hotel two minutes away. Plus, you can still register for the conference. Use this link to register for the conference Meeting of the Minds 2022. Or register when you arrive.

Use website to book your rooms at the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel or call the hotel direct at 515-244-2151; Book your group rate for Motorcycle Riders Foundation Last Day to Book: Monday, September 19, 2022

The 38th Annual Meeting of the Minds, scheduled for September 22-25 in Des Moines Iowa, will do everything to reinforce the MRF’s commitment to motorcyclists’ rights and staying eternal vigilant.

Charlie “Chopper” Gilmore – U.S. Army veteran, motorcycle restorer, and freedom fighter is on deck as just one of the presenters at the 2022 Meeting of the Minds. His presentation – The Price of Freedom – is taken from life experiences and will certainly motivate and inspire attendees.

The Meeting of the Minds – renewing old friendships and making new ones. The Meeting of the Minds – three days of nuts-and-bolts workshops to augment the tools needed to promote and protect the rights of all motorcyclists. The Meeting of the Minds – more than a dozen presentations and workshops to build and strengthen individual’s and state motorcyclists’ rights organization’s commitment to protecting the freedoms motorcycling brings us all.

Workshops and presentations include but are not limited to:

• Up-to-the-minute Legislative Updates.
• The necessity of Political Action Committees.
• Riding skill enhancement.
• What aging demographics means to motorcycling.

Protecting the rights of motorcyclists is not just a collection of words in a press release any more than leaving your motorcycle parked in your garage is about riding.

Profiling, E-15 (ethanol fuel), autonomous vehicles, all part of the present and future of motorcycling. The MRF’s legislative agenda is a result of input from motorcyclists with the directions to take care of business on Capitol Hill.

The MRF understands motorcycling, motorcyclists’ rights, and what it takes to keep the siege against your rights, your freedom, your lifestyle, and yes, your motorcycle at bay. However, participatory democracy works best with participants.

–Fred Harrell
MRF

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!—

Lou Kimzey: America’s 20th Century Founding Father

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Lou_Kimzey_Americas_20th_Century_Founding_Father_.aspx

Great memories, I miss the old days !

— William Britt Hilyer
Pickens SC, SC

Effective immediately any Hamster that wishes to purchase a Saddlemen seat and/or accessories will receive a 50% off retail discount on their purchase.

When calling Saddlemen to place your order, please ask for Brandon in sales, he is our point of contact for the group.

Saddlemen’s number is +1 (310) 638-1222.
If you have any questions please call me at (619) 972 7073

She says, Excuse me, sir. Can you tell me anything about this rod and reel?

He replies, Yes, Ma’am, I am completely blind, but if you’ll drop it on the counter, I can tell you everything from the sound it makes.

She doesn’t believe him but drops it on the counter anyway.

He says, That’s a six-foot Shakespeare graphite rod with a Zebco 404 reel and 10-pound test line. It’s a good all-around combination and it’s on sale this week for only $20.

She says, That’s amazing! You can tell all that just by the sound of it dropping on the counter? I’ll take it!

As she opens her purse, her credit card drops on the floor. Oh, that sounds like a MasterCard, the clerk says.

She bends down to pick it up and accidentally farts. At first, she is really embarrassed, but then she realizes there is no way the blind clerk can tell it was she who farted. Being blind, he wouldn’t know that she is the only person around.

The man rings up the sale and says, That’ll be $34.50 please.

The woman is totally confused by this and asks, Didn’t you tell me the rod and reel was on sale for $20? How did you get $34.50?

The clerk replies, Yes, Ma’am. The rod and reel is $20, but the Duck Call is $11 and the Bear Repellent is $3.50.

She paid the bill.

–EL Waggs

BEWARE RURAL ROADS—Highway Deaths in Rural America

The Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA) released a study called America’s Rural Roads: Beautiful and Deadly earlier this month. Researchers found that between 2016 and 2020, 40 percent of US traffic deaths occurred on rural roads. A total of 85,002 people died in rural areas during the five-year study period—nearly half of all traffic deaths across the country. This is significant because only 19 percent of the country’s population lives in rural America.

The question is, why?

The issues on rural roads are the same as in urban cores—distractions, impaired driving, speeding, and not wearing seat belts. The study cites these different reasons for drivers to exhibit risky behavior:

• Fewer public transit options
• Less law enforcement
• Limited emergency response due to distance
• Longer trips for necessities
• Open roads

Other study statistics compared the differences between rural and urban deaths:

• 61.4 percent of rural traffic fatalities involved pick-up trucks.
• More drivers and passengers in vehicles died in rural areas (68,709 to 56,990), whereas urban areas led to deaths involving motorcyclists (15,309 to 9,310), pedestrians (25,551 to 5,766), and bicyclists (3,375 to 952).
• Rural drivers 20 to 24 years old accounted for 10.4 percent of deaths compared to 5 percent in cities.
• Rural motorists driving alone and going off the roadway were higher than urban drivers (34,743 to 25,536).
• Head-on crashes were higher in rural areas (12,339 to 7,275).
• Road conditions don’t factor much in most deadly rural fatalities.

As a result of the research, the GHSA is pushing states to use a ‘safe systems’ approach for rural America. The method is the newest buzzword—perhaps it’s easier to swallow than the term Vision Zero.

These programs blame the driver and the street design for traffic accidents. Road safety, though, is the fundamental responsibility of those who design the roads and every user of the streets. Are expensive programs that don’t improve traffic safety worth the widespread bureaucratic support they are given when the touted results are questionable at best?

Pennsylvania DOT spokeswoman Jennifer Kuntch responded to the study with the following statement:

“Rural road safety is addressed through both engineering and education. These countermeasures include rumble strips, high-friction surface treatments, high-tension cable median barriers, shoulder widening, and the installation of special curve warning signs and pavement markings.”

But she said nothing about real driver education, which is a primary component of traffic safety.

Driver education is sorely lacking in this country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, only 23 states currently require driver education for drivers under 18. In 35 states, a teen can obtain an unrestricted license before turning 18 whether or not they have taken a driver’s education course.

Driving is a responsibility no matter where you drive, and motorists should always continue learning more about this life skill no matter how long they have been on the road. The National Motorists Association is a major proponent of continuous driver education, as illustrated by the current Driver Courtesy Month campaign and the production of these video tips for drivers. More programs, with your ongoing support, are in the works.

ACE REPORTS IN FROM THE HAL ROBINSON ARCHIVES–Ace here, hope you’re doing well and have enjoyed the summer.

I’ve attached a digital mock up for the Righteous Biker stickers we’d like to throw in with orders as gifts, including Hal’s signature at the bottom of the graphic. They’d be about 2.5 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide.

Please take a look and let us know if you are good with him.

Cheers,

–ACE
Marketing Director
Hal Robinson Archives

THE LATEST FROM CHOPPERS MAG— Backroad BBQ Run III

During a normal summer, there is nothing that would convince me to ride to the coast of North Carolina for a campout. Between the unbearably high humidity and the swarms of bloodthirsty mosquitoes, it can be downright miserable just stepping outside to get the mail.

Of course, after being quarantined for a few months, the idea of riding anywhere sounded damn good, so that’s how I found myself riding down the highway on my ’ol Panhead beside Greg DeHoot on his Shovelhead chopper (see issue 3).

SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xInventoryDetail&id=12654991

Stock # 13525 is a 2018 Black Harley-Davidson LOW RIDER FXLR with only 11922.00 miles!

This bike is a Super clean Dyna Low Rider some of the features/Add-ons on this bike are

* 107c.i. Motor 6-Speed trans.
* Vance & Hince exhaust
* Screaming Eagle Hi-Flo air cleaner
* Locking detachable saddle bags
* Detachable backrest and luggage rack
* LED Turn signals
* Day maker headlamp
* Chrome engine guard
* Detachable windshield

This bike is only $16,995.00

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 carry Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!

We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/

AB-2496, by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris, has been passed and sent to the governor for his signature. We need to convince the governor NOT TO SIGN before he does signs.

WHAT?
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. However, there is no system to test and certify, thus you cannot 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.

WHEN?
Now! Contact the governor NOW… before you walk away…

How?
Mailing address: Governor Gavin Newsom, 1021 O Street, Suite 9000, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-2841
Fax: (916) 558-3160
Online Form: https://govapps.gov.ca.gov/gov40mail/

This new law would not only apply to us as we ride, but it would affect our four-wheel friends too. So be sure to share this CALL TO ACTION with those you know with hot rods, customs, etc. Together we must stop this!

As an additional note: Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie Norris has clearly shown through this legislation that she is NOT “Dedicated to Freedom of the Road”. As such, she needs to be replaced. As an incumbent in District 74, she is up for re-election against another incumbent… due to redistricting… in the new District 73. The race is currently a toss-up, and we need to swing that vote. Steven “Steve” Choi supports “Freedom of the Road” and is the candidate we need to push… and we need your help with that too…

Thank you on behalf of those at the ABATE Of California State Office, on the State Board and Our Lobbying Team.

[page break]

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WEEKLY VOCABULARY LESSON–corsair
[ kawr-sair ]
noun

A pirate, especially formerly of the southern Mediterranean coast.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF CORSAIR?
Corsair “a pirate” is the product of a long chain of borrowings from one Romance language to the next on its way to English. The term comes via Middle French corsaire from Provençal corsar, and before that, the word traveled by way of Italian corsaro from Medieval Latin cursarius “plunderer,” equivalent to Latin cursus “a running, course” plus -arius, an agent noun-forming suffix. Cursus comes from the verb currere “to run,” which has four common descendant forms in English: corr- via Italian and Spanish (as in corral and corridor), cour- via French (as in courier and discourse), cur(r)- (as in current and occur), and curs- (as in cursor and excursion). Corsair was first recorded in English in the 1540s.

HOW IS CORSAIR USED?
Act One begins on the Greek island controlled by the corsairs, or pirates. There’s a raucous, offstage chorus introducing Corrado, the chief corsair, who is in exile.

“GIUSEPPE VERDI’S ‘IL CORSARO’”, NPR, APRIL 21, 2007

London dismantled markets for trading pirate booty; pirate-friendly cities like Port Royal, Jamaica, were brought under heel, and blockades were launched on the potentates that harbored the corsairs of the southern Mediterranean and Southeast Asia.

BRUCE STERLING, “IT’S NOT CYBARMAGEDDON, IT’S THE NEW HEYDAY OF PIRACY,” WIRED, SEPTEMBER 3, 2011

(top picture) This NEW harness is in high demand right about now! Like all of our harnesses, this American Made replacement speedometer wiring harness is designed to fit 2018 Softail models. It is intended to allow the use of a Harley HUD or Koso HUD gauge (with proper mount on riser) without any cutting or splicing! There is no easier way to replace the large OEM gauge than to install taller risers and use the sleek new HUD style gauges.

Our harness is 100% Plug-n-Play, 36″ long and designed to allow a perfect fit for any height handlebar, riser combination.

(bottom picture) Indian customers will be loving this NEW harness! The NAMZ NHCX-IC22 harness is designed to fit 2022-Up INDIAN® Chief, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, Super Chief, Super Chief Limited models when swapping handlebars or risers. Like all of our wiring harness, this replacement switch housing harness is proudly made right here in the USA, in our Pennsylvania building by our dedicated employees! Don’t ever settle for the cheap knock offs, still with the best.

“We make it easy for you to do it Right!”

CHOPPERS MAGAZINE #10 IS ON THE STREETS–The wait is over!

Issue 10 just dropped, and all subscriptions and preorders have shipped. If you didn’t order yet, jump in now!

Issue #10 features Choppers from:
Micah McCloskey
Kyle Sonneborn
Clinton Cullen
Jojo Mialki
Jason Ochoa

Available in black, polished or chrome finishes. These are complete kits with all components included for a straight forward, hassle free install.

The 2-piece motor plate kits are good for stock and slightly modified engines while the 1-piece should be used for high horsepower models with over 120 horses and ft. lbs. of torque. Similar kits are also available for SFT machines.

MSRP for the 1-piece kits is $3180 and the 2-piece goes for $3029.50. For additional details go to www.beltdrives.com

TIPS FROM THE TIGERS— Motorcycle Salvage Title – What You Need to Know

You’ve probably heard the term “salvage title” before, but what exactly does it mean, and can you buy a bike with a salvage title?

In this brief article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about motorcycle salvage titles.

What Does Salvage Title Mean for a Motorcycle?
An insurance company will total out a motorcycle and consider it a “total loss” when the cost to repair a damaged motorcycle will eat up a significant portion of its fair market value. Typically, the threshold is 75% to 90% of the value.

So, if a bike is worth $5,000, it might have sustained $3,750 or more in damages. The damage can be caused by a crash, flood, fire, vandalism, or something else. The cause of the damage is not relevant, only the resulting damage and the cost to fix it. Once the insurance company decides the repair costs are impractical, it will issue a salvage title.

How Insurance Companies Determine Repair Costs
The insurance company makes this determination based on the information it has available, and it determines the cost of repairs based on a database of national averages.

Are your spidey senses tingling yet? Note a couple of variables here:
1. The insurance company decides whether a bike is damaged beyond practical repair.
2. The insurance company evaluates the cost based on a model dependent on third-party data.

What this means is that there are a lot of variables that might not tell the full picture of whether a bike with a salvage title is worth the cost or risk. Making that decision requires a more careful look at the bike and then weighing the pros and cons of a salvage title.

Top 5 Things to Know About Motorcycle Salvage Title
From a practical standpoint, bikes with salvage titles become available on the open market when the insurance company gives the owner some money. Then they liquidate the bike to try to recoup some cost, usually via an auction.

You may end up at an auction looking at bikes with salvage titles, or you could be scrolling through Craigslist looking for a great deal on a bike from a private party. Regardless of where you’re shopping, here’s what you should know before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

1. You will get a great price on the bike. The market value of a motorcycle with a salvage title tends to be 20-40% lower than a vehicle with a clean title, though you could easily scoop up a bike at a 75% discount or more. Before making an offer, make sure you know what the value of the motorcycle would be with a clean title and negotiate from there.

2. Find out why the motorcycle has a salvage title. Get the VIN and enter it into a free or paid database. Knowing how the bike is damaged can help you decide whether it’s fixable or worth owning.

3. Even if you buy a bike with a “clean” title, there are no guarantees that the bike is in good condition. There are countless stories about people buying a “gently used” bike that the previous owner claimed was in perfect condition only to discover that the frame is bent.

4. You might have to jump through hoops to get it on the road. Before you can ride the bike legally on public roads, it has to undergo some testing, usually by the DMV or the local police department.

The tests vary but typically include ensuring that the bike can brake properly, has functioning turn signals, and the lights are operational. There could also be an inspection of the frame and emission requirements to ensure the bike doesn’t have higher emissions levels than what is acceptable by state law.

5. The salvage title might not be permanent. A salvage title is only permanent in some states, which is unfortunate because the title will follow the bike even it’s repaired to perfect condition. However, several states will allow you to get a clean or “rebuilt” title, so it’s worth checking your local laws to see if this option is available to you.

Ready to Hit the Open Road?
At Law Tigers, we’re passionate riders, and we love supporting other riders in the community. Consider us a resource for all things motorcycle-related, from choosing the right bike to getting legal help.

We also invite you to join our community and sign up for a free riders’ benefit package today. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Law Tigers at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation.

Nigeria — the sixth most populous nation in world — is set to ban the use and sale of all motorcycles in an effort to hamper the actions of terrorist ‘bandits.’

The federal government of Nigeria is strongly considering a ban on the sale and use of motorcycles across the country as an unusual new tactic to stop terror attacks.

Nigeria’s Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, recently told reporters that by banning the predominant mode of transport as used by terrorist groups across the country, it would severely hamper their logistical efforts.

“Placing a ban on the use of motorcycles and mining activities will cut the supply of logistics to the terrorists,” reports Nigeria’s Times newspaper. “This will be done in the national interest. We are Nigerians because Nigeria as a country exists and any issue that will translate into a threat to national security or the corporate existence of the country requires certain sacrifices.”

The plans come as Nigerian authorities attempt to curtail the efforts of various jihadist terrorist groups — such as Boko Haram and Islamic State — responsible for numerous attacks across the country, with offenses ranging from killings, kidnappings and sexual violence committed by members known as ‘bandits’ who mostly use motorcycles to launch attacks quickly and without warning to devastating effect, as well as move around the area without detection.

The actions of the federal government come after Governor Bello Mattawale of Zamfara State introduced a curfew for the use of motorcycles in the town of Gusau, and directed his security personnel to shoot on sight anyone caught riding a motorcycle between 8pm and 6am.

With a population of more than 200 million people, Nigeria is the world’s sixth most populous nation with an annual motorcycle sales figure of more than 500,000.

–Bill Bish

Read Bill’s full monthly report right here on Bikernet.

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/NCOM_Biker_Newsbytes_for_September_2022.aspx

YAMAHA Pledges $500K— Urges All to Get Outdoors on September 24

Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Celebrates National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors on Saturday, September 24, 2022, in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day). In recognition of these events, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) is renewing its annual pledge to commit $500,000 to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation and encouraging applications for grants before the next quarterly deadline on September 30.

National Public Lands Day invites volunteers nationwide to help restore and preserve public lands – from national parks to local urban green spaces – directly aligning with Yamaha OAI’s goal of protecting public lands for outdoor recreation. To date, the Yamaha OAI program has contributed over $5 million in funding and equipment across more than 425 projects in the last 14 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate everyone on safe, sustainable recreational use.

Yamaha OAI has proven to be the industry’s most reliable partner and a significant resource for those who depend on access to public land for work and play.

Additionally, on September 24, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. NHF Day events are organized each year by Wonders of Wildlife to spread awareness of the conservation and economic benefits, as well as traditions and values of hunting and fishing.

Yamaha OAI is a founding partner of Wonders of Wildlife’s Live It! program and a supporter of its efforts to expand NHF Day events across the country. These events play a significant role in expanding awareness of the issues facing public access and outdoor recreation, and the Live It! program supports local conservation groups wanting to host or enhance NHF Day events, but are limited in their resources.

Since access to public land is best protected by visitors’ responsible and sustainable practices, Yamaha OAI partners with Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC) on a variety of activities, including signage for land managers to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use of trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for the signs can simply complete a form at the following link: Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.

The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of the 2022 funding cycle is September 30, 2022. Submission guidelines and an application for a Yamaha OAI grant are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA

Updated guidelines, an application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@Yamaha-Motor.com,

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND JACK DANIEL’S BENEFIT THE ARMED SERVICES YMCA THROUGH ANNUAL LIVE AUCTION OF LIMITED-EDITION MOTORCYCLE

2022 Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse #001 Raises $55,000;
Grand Total of Six-Year Auction Series Eclipses $400,000

Total Funds Raised Have Contributed to Reuniting More Than 10,000 Active Military Families via Operation Ride Home Program

In 2016, Indian Motorcycle and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey forged the ultimate partnership in celebration of American craftsmanship. Each year, the two American originals auction serial #001 from that year’s collection to support 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.

This year, the 2022 Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse raised $55,000 at Mecum Auctions in Dallas, Texas. In total, the annual auction has raised over $400,000, which has helped connect more than 10,000 enlisted service members with their families during the holidays and in times of need.

America’s First Motorcycle company and America’s First Registered Distillery united to annually produce a limited-edition motorcycle collection that embodies innovation and world-class mastery.

The partnership was created to bring together two of America’s most iconic brands who share a mutual commitment to independence, originality and American craftsmanship that dates back more than a century. With a shared respect for the U.S. military, Indian Motorcycle and Jack Daniel’s save motorcycle #001 from each collection and auction it off with all proceeds benefitting the ASYMCA’s Operation Ride Home program.

“Partnering with Jack Daniel’s has been nothing short of amazing,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “As two of America’s most iconic and storied brands, we naturally share several core values, including our passion and respect for the U.S. military.

We’re proud of the platform our partnership with Jack Daniel’s has provided, as we directly support the service men and women who serve our country and help connect them with their families during the holidays.”

Designed in conjunction with Klock Werks Kustom Cycles, each exclusive model celebrates a piece of Jack Daniel’s fine craftsmanship and attention to detail in its distilling process. In 2022, the Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Challenger Dark Horse drew inspiration from Jack Daniel’s renowned Tennessee Rye whiskey. With a custom Rye Metallic paint scheme, the bike’s green and gold accents gave a nod to the high-touch crafting process of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye whiskey.

“Since establishing Operation Ride Home with the ASYMCA in 2011, it has been our mission to support junior-enlisted service members who do not have the financial means to connect with their families during important moments of the year,” said Greg Luehrs, Director of Sponsorships and Partnerships for Jack Daniel’s. “Our partnership with Indian Motorcycle has greatly expanded the reach of the program, as our annual auction of bike number 001 has been one of the leading contributors in total monies raised for Operation Ride Home.”

“Jack Daniel’s has been a long-time sponsor of the ASYMCA and we are truly humbled by their continued support,” said Bill French, Chief Executive Officer of the ASYMCA. “Through Operation Ride Home and the contributions received from this year’s auction, we anticipate that we will be able to connect nearly 2,000 service members with their families for the holidays. Many thanks to Jack Daniel’s and Indian Motorcycle for continuing to support our mission.”

For more information about Operation Ride Home, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit OperationRideHome.com. Jack Daniel’s press information can be found at the Jack Daniel’s press room located at www.jdpressroom.com. Learn more about Indian Motorcycle by visiting IndianMotorcycle.com and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media channels.

NHTSA reports ‘crisis’ despite small decline in traffic deaths

The latest crash statistics mark a slight decline in traffic deaths, but the U.S. Department of Transportation is in no way claiming a victory.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s early estimates, 20,175 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the first half of 2022. NHTSA projects that the second quarter of 2022, from April to June, represents the first decline since the third quarter of 2020.

“Traffic deaths appear to be declining for the first time since 2020, but they are still at high levels that call for urgent and sustained action,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news release. “These deaths are preventable, not inevitable, and we should act accordingly. Safety is our guiding mission at the Department of Transportation, and we will redouble our efforts to reduce the tragic number of deaths on our nation’s roads.”

The latest crash statistics include all motor vehicles and do not provide numbers regarding the number of fatalities involving commercial motor vehicle crashes.

‘A crisis’
NHTSA’s stats show that 10,590 people died in crashes in the second quarter of 2022 compared to 11,135 in the second quarter of 2021. It represents a 4.9% decline. In addition, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled dropped from 1.34 in the second quarter of 2021 to 1.27 during the same span in 2022.

However, the total number of traffic deaths in the first half of the year still increased from 20,070 in 2021 to 20,175 in 2022. The numbers represent a significant surge in recent years. From 2011 to 2020, the first half of a year yielded no more than 17,717 fatalities.

Even worse, traffic deaths are on pace to exceed 40,000 for the second consecutive year. The numbers have generally climbed since being as low as 32,479 in 2011.

“Although it is heartening to see a projected decline in roadway deaths in recent months, the number of people dying on roads in this country remains a crisis,” NHTSA acting Administrator Ann Carlson said.

In January, the Department of Transportation unveiled its National Roadway Safety Strategy. The plan uses a five-pronged approach, including safer people, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer speeds and post-crash care.

“Now is the time for all stakeholders, including states, local transportation entities, industry, nonprofits and others, to leverage the significant funding and tools provided under the president’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and join with USDOT in implementing the National Roadway Safety Strategy’s safe system approach, so we can turn the tide on years of increasing deaths,” Carlson said.

Truck crashes
While the latest numbers do not include a breakdown of crashes involving large trucks, recent statistics have indicated that commercial motor vehicles aren’t the main culprit.

Traffic deaths have been on the rise since the pandemic started in March 2020. Fatalities have climbed from 36,355 in 2019 to 38,824 in 2020 and 42,915 in 2021. Even though trucks remained on the road throughout 2020 – and many were operating under an emergency declaration – fatalities involving large trucks decreased by 2%.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration noted in 2021 that more than 90% of the truck drivers involved in fatality crashes did not receive a moving violation.

At a safety summit in June, an FMCSA representative said the pandemic sparked an “aggressive” driving culture among passenger vehicles.

“Overall traffic went down in the beginning, but the aggressiveness of drivers in general, especially among passenger vehicle drivers, went up dramatically,” said Darrell Ruban, associate administrator for FMCSA’s Office of Safety. “I’ve heard that from every state. With that behavior, the culture shifted a little bit, because people had more open road.

“Then over time, traffic starts coming back. But guess what? The culture and behavior did not change. That’s what I’ve heard around the country. That’s what I’ve seen on accident reports. So, when I use the term ‘culture,’ we’ve got a daunting task ahead of us in changing the culture, especially among passenger vehicles.”

Still, truckers contend that much of the DOT’s focus remains on commercial motor vehicles. Full enforcement of FMCSA’s ELD mandate took effect in 2018, but overall fatality crashes have increased from 37,473 in 2017 to 42,915 in 2021. And despite FMCSA acknowledging that passenger vehicles were the main source of the aggressive driving, the agency is considering requiring speed limiters on most commercial motor vehicles.

OOIDA’s take
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association opposes speed limiters, noting that lowering the speed of trucks alone will create speed differentials of 25 mph or more in some instances.

OOIDA also opposes the possibility of FMCSA ending its ELD mandate exemption for trucks with pre-2000 engines. The Association opposed the ELD mandate altogether and now says the statistics show that it wasn’t the safety solution many claimed it would be.

“As we approach five years since the original implementation date, it’s clear the ELD mandate has not been the silver bullet solution for improving highway safety that federal regulators and other supporters claimed it would be,” said Jay Grimes, OOIDA’s director of federal affairs.

Mark Schremmer
–from Land Line and NMA

[page break]

The teller told her, “For withdrawals less than $100, please use the ATM.”

The old lady wanted to know why. The teller returned her bank card and irritably told her, “These are the rules, please leave if there is no further matter. There is a line of customers behind you.”

The old lady remained silent for a few seconds and handed her card back to the teller and said, “Please help me withdraw all the money I have.”

The teller was astonished when she checked the account balance. She nodded her head, leaned down, and respectfully told her, “You have $300,000 in your account, but the bank doesn’t have that much cash currently. Could you make an appointment and come back again tomorrow?”

The old lady then asked how much she could withdraw immediately. The teller told her any amount up to $3000.

“Well, please let me have $3000 now.” The teller, very kindly and with a smile, handed $3000 to her.

The old lady put $10 in her purse and asked the teller to deposit $2990 back into her account.

The moral of this story is…
Don’t be difficult with old people, they spent a lifetime learning the skill.

–Sam Burns

TUCKER AND ARAI HELMETS PART WAYS
On Friday afternoon a joint statement from Arai and Tucker announced the helmet manufacturer and the distribution company were heading in different directions:

Arai Helmet and Tucker Powersports have decided to end our business relationship as of September 16, 2022. This decision was based on the business plans of both companies. Tucker and Arai appreciate the long relationship they have enjoyed and wish each other the best in their future endeavors.

–Dealer News

DIRECT FROM MAMA TRIED–FREE TICKETS FOR CEDAR LAKE!!!

Yes, you read that right, we have 50 FREE tickets for the Cedar Lake race!

Our friends at American Flat Track have graciously offered our team 50 tickets, we are not using all of them so we are sharing the love with our newsletter subscribers!

When: September 24th, 2022
Where: Cedar Lake Short Track

First come first serve!
You will need to enter you email so we can send you a PDF/digital ticket.

*One per user Please
*Ticket will be emailed to you in a PDF format.

Grab your free ticket. Go to the Mama Tried Website

–from Mama Tried

QUOTE OF THE WEEK—
“Life is strange constantly. Ya gotta ask yourself every time something happens how you should take it, leave it, look at it for the best outcome for your today and into the future.

It’s your decision. It’s your life.”

–Ming Ball
Supreme Guru
Bikernet Emerald Temple
Black Hills, South Dakota

Oral Statement to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management—

Thank you for the opportunity to speak in favor of allowing drilling for oil and natural gas in the Gulf of Mexico.

I have worked in or written about energy for more than 40 years. My father worked 42 years at a coal-fired power plant, and I had friends mine coal. I’ve driven coal trucks and spoken before international groups on nuclear energy. In short, I’ve been aware of the importance of energy for a long time.

With the irrational demonization of fossil fuels and the absurd promotion of wind and solar as a replacement for them, I’ve come to view coal, oil and natural gas as vital to the well-being of people. Undermining the development of these plentiful and affordable sources of energy threatens lives. These fuels have made possible unprecedented prosperity and are necessary to maintain modern society as well as to raise billions in the Third World from poverty and deprivation.

As a senior advisor for the CO2 Coalition, I must point out that there is no scientific basis for the so-called climate emergency feeding the current hostility toward fossil fuels. Climate hysteria is based on flawed computer models that consistently make erroneous predictions and on an exaggeration of carbon dioxide’s potency as a greenhouse gas.

The modest warming of recent decades is neither unprecedented nor unusual. In fact, most of the last 10,000 years has been warmer than today. Today’s temperatures and moderately elevated CO2 levels have been beneficial to crop production and to humanity in general.

As for the question at hand, modern oil and gas production is a technological marvel that should be permitted wherever possible. We ask that you permit it in the Gulf.

Gordon Tomb is a senior advisor with the CO2 Coalition and a senior fellow with the Commonwealth Foundation, a Pennsylvania-based free-market think tank.

–Gordon Tomb, Senior Advisor
CO2 Coalition

The first modern Motorcycle Cannonball run, the brainchild of the late Lonnie Isam Jr., from Sturgis, South Dakota, took place in 2010. Lonnie’s idea was to ride coast to coast on an antique motorcycle on a planned route in about 16 days, but as part of a group, with chase vehicles.

The first ride was limited to pre-1916 machines. Entries came in from 45 riders feeling ready for the nearly 4,000-mile ride.

Brad Wilmarth won in 2010 riding a single-speed 1913 Henderson. Another aspect was to pay respect to Erwin “Cannonball” Baker, the famous multi-time endurance rider and dirt track racer from the early 20th Century, but mainly to get old iron out on the road, running strong.

Matt Olsen
In 2012 for the second Cannonball, John Parham decided to field a Motorcycle Cannonball entry with Matt Olsen riding a specially prepped 1928 Harley-Davidson JD model, and that’s the bike you see here with its special number plates. You can imagine what it would take in the way of rider and motorcycle endurance. Preparation included several of John’s friends building spare wheels and a spare engine, gathering a variety of typical spares.

On the ride the old Harley suffered a few technical problems, mechanical and electrical, en route from Motorcyclepedia, Newburgh, New York to Dud Perkins Harley-Davidson in San Francisco, California. Matt was able to make repairs and continue west.

In order to stay on the designated path west, the Harley was equipped with a map holder, but otherwise was pretty much stock. As time went on a small gas can was added, and it became necessary to mount a garden tractor battery on the old JD’s luggage rack to make up for a failing electrical system.

Many of the Cannonball riders, though, shared Baker’s experiences: mechanical breakdowns, bad roads, rainstorms and many miles between gas stops. Official chase vehicles got everyone to the overnight stops where repairs could be made and most everyone made it to California one way or another.

Here’s a little background on Harley’s wonderful J model. The Model J Harley-Davidson was originally produced for military service around 1915. After World War I Harley-Davidson converted their production to serve dealers who had typical civilian customers. The Model J became Harley’s top of the line model. Originally produced in Olive Drab for the military, Harley-Davidson reworked the machine through 1929 mainly by changing the paint color, offering a shiny olive-green color they also used on other machines until 1932.

As big engineering steps were made, driven somewhat by war time technology advancements, with battery ignition becoming the norm, and electric lights standard along with a 3-speed transmission, the Model J came into being.

It was offered in various 61 and 74 cubic inch versions, served riders well until the arrival of the “flathead” Model D around 1929. The J was notable in that in about 15 years of manufacture it had been proven on streets, race tracks and had even served couriers in World War I.

But response to military needs had caused extreme ups and downs in production: Harley-Davidson production is noted at a record 27,000 machines in 1920, but with military surplus available it dropped to 11,460 for 1921!

With annual engineering improvements the J was an even better bet than its predecessors for sidecar use. The frame and fork were stronger and more pulling power was available from the J engine, which was eventually up in horsepower, up over 50% from its early versions.

Left largely as it finished the ride ten years ago, this Cannonball Endurance Run machine is one of several Model J’s and Model JD’s in the Museum and it’s part of the Jill and John Parham Collection. When you visit check it out as well as several J engines are on the “Motor Wall” for you to study.

Specifications:

Engine: F Head 45 Degree V-Twin
Bore & Stroke: 3.40 x 4.00 Inches
Displacement: 74 Cubic Inches (1200 cc’s)
Carburetion: Schebler
Ignition: 6V Battery / Coil / Points
Horsepower: 22HP
Primary: Chain Driven
Clutch: Hand Operated
Transmission: Three-Speed
Final Drive: Chain
Frame: Steel, Single Loop
Suspension: Linked Sprung Fork / Rigid, Sprung Seat
Wheels / Tires: 3.85 x 18 / 3.85 x 18 Inches
Brakes: Drum, Front & Rear
Lighting: Electric
Wheelbase: 59.5 Inches

NEW FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE–Thanks for your help. I’ve been wanting something fresh for the Dimebag Leather time-covers. I am going to start finding some good exotic leathers for the wallets and time covers. Buffalo, gator, Stingray leathers or even fine leather may work great.

I’m heading to Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest for a hike and then to Metropolis IL. General George Rogers Clark landed there at Fort Massac in 1775. His son was the other half to the Lewis and Clark Expeditions out west.

Great American Energy there just floating around in the atmosphere and the campgrounds are great at Fort Massac. They got a Harrahs Casino that rocks. I read where the owner of the Superman museum has the largest collection.

There is also a WAY OUT!! American Hollywood Museum that’s been shut down that has the makings of a goldmine with the right developers and planners. I’m heading out to go camp today.

After this seat, I’m scaling back to get a better look at everything. Life is very precious and seems every father should be well equipped with the right tools to protect and guide his children, especially with the strong American spirit within and their very own future in a positive direction.

–Adam Croft
Founder and President
Dime Bag Leather Products

NHRA Champion Antron Brown Warns Congress That Motorsports Is at Risk—

Just days after winning the prestigious NHRA U.S Nationals in Indianapolis, Antron Brown made his way to Washington, D.C., to urge Congress to pass the SEMA-supported Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act. On Wednesday, September 7, the three-time Top Fuel world champion, who began his racing career nearly 40 years ago, appeared before Congress to share personal stories about the need for federal law to protect grassroots racing and tens of thousands of jobs in the motorsports parts industry.

With his wife, Billie Jo, and two sons, Anson and Adler, at his side, Brown shared how motorsports taught him to set goals, work hard to achieve them and other important life lessons. Representing a four-generation family of racing professionals, Brown talked about how he began racing motorcycles at the age of 4, has enjoyed a successful career with 70 NHRA wins and became a team owner earlier this year.

–SEMA

BOSCH CAUTIONS AUTOMAKERS About Going All-In On EV Tech

Germany-based engineering giant Bosch has issued a warning to automakers about throwing all their efforts behind electric cars.

The global car market is undergoing a rapid shift towards a zero-emissions future made possible by EVs, many of which will feature technical solutions provided by Bosch. But the multinational auto parts supplier highlights the shortage of natural gas in Europe as an example of the danger of relying too heavily on one fuel source.

Natural gas prices have rocketed in Europe since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the situation has become even more grave in recent weeks as Russia, which supplies most of Europe with its gas, closed off the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. Russia’s Gazprom energy company had been due to resume gas delivery to Germany after a short halt due to a claimed “malfunction” with the line.

But the firm later announced it was closing the pipeline indefinitely while repairs are carried out, a move many believe is a retaliation to the G7 countries’ announcement of a price cap on Russian oil.

“We’re currently seeing the consequences of the gas shortage for Germany and Europe because we prepared too few alternatives,” Markus Heyn, Bosch’s head of mobility told the Monday edition of the Stuttgarter Zeitung, Bloomberg reports. “In the automotive industry, we should use this occasion to ask ourselves what we can do if there should ever be too few battery cells.”

China is currently the world’s biggest supplier of batteries and the minerals used in the construction of battery packs fitted to electric cars, though carmakers are working hard to find other supplies.

From January 2023, the U.S. government’s revised tax credit system for EVs only offers aid for vehicles which are made in North America and whose batteries are also made in the region. At the same time, Snow Lake Lithium announced that its new mine in Manitoba, Canada would be able to supply enough minerals to power 500,000 new electric cars every year for 10 years once production starts in 2025.

Heyn said that the car industry and governments need to consider other clean alternatives to gasoline engines, including hydrogen fuel cells, claiming that the hydrogen infrastructure currently being developed for long-distance trucks could also work for passenger vehicles.

This isn’t the first time Bosch has spoken out against electric vehicles. Last year the company’s CEO, Volkmar Denner criticized governments’ focus on killing off the combustion engine, calling them short-sighted. Another Bosch board member said the company would continue to invest in internal combustion tech for 20-30 years.

–BY CHRIS CHILTON
www.carscoops.com

FEDERAL COURT UPHOLDS Texas Law Prohibiting Social Media “Viewpoint Censorship”

Social media censorship: U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a Texas law that forbids viewpoint discrimination by platforms.

The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals preserved a Texas state law Friday that would stop large social media platforms from restricting particular opinions.

Texas’ HB 20 was signed last year and generally prohibits platforms with over 50 million monthly U.S. users from censoring them based on their viewpoints. The Computer Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and the NetChoice organization, representing social media companies, argued that aspects of the law were unconstitutional but failed to convince the court.

“In urging such sweeping relief, the platforms offer a rather odd inversion of the First Amendment,” the court’s majority decision said. “That Amendment, of course, protects every person’s right to ‘the freedom of speech.’ But the platforms argue that buried somewhere in the person’s enumerated right to free speech lies a corporation’s unenumerated right to muzzle speech.”

The appeals court must give the district court that previously decided the case written instructions for the law to become effective, according to Politico. A 5-4 May U.S. Supreme Court ruling had halted the law from going into force after an emergency request by the CCIA and NetChoice.

Appealing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton celebrated the circuit court’s decision Friday, tweeting, “#BigTech CANNOT censor the political voices of ANY Texan! The 5th Circuit ‘reject[s] the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say.”

BREAKING: I just secured a MASSIVE VICTORY for the Constitution & Free Speech in fed court: #BigTech CANNOT censor the political voices of ANY Texan! The 5th Circuit “reject[s] the idea that corporations have a freewheeling First Amendment right to censor what people say. pic.twitter.com/UijlzYcv7r

— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) September 16, 2022

CCIA President Matt Schruers decried the ruling, stating, “Forcing private companies to give equal treatment to all viewpoints on their platforms places foreign propaganda and extremism on equal footing with decent Internet users, and places Americans at risk,” according to The Hill.

The Supreme Court could still be asked to directly consider the law’s validity, the outlet reported.

In May, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a block on enforcing parts of Florida Senate Bill 7072, which would require social media platforms to explain the reasons for individual acts of supposed censorship, deplatforming and shadow banning and stop them from censoring a “journalistic enterprise based on the content of its publication or broadcast,” according to The National Law Review.

“We are disappointed that the Fifth Circuit’s split decision undermines First Amendment protections and creates a circuit split with the unanimous decision of the Eleventh Circuit,” NetChoice Vice President and General Counsel Carl Szabo said in a Friday press release. “We remain convinced that when the U.S. Supreme Court hears one of our cases, it will uphold the First Amendment rights of websites, platforms, and apps.”

NetChoice declined the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment. The CCIA did not immediately respond to the DCNF’s request for comment.

–Heartland Author

With a flat surface, contours on the sides and a flip at the top, these screens are designed to look over the top of and work 3 to 4 inches taller than what they are. Your passenger will be more protected too.

Whether you have 1″, 1 1/4″ or 1 1/2″ T-bars, we have the hardware to fit. It comes in either chrome or powder coat black. The screen is available in clear, light smoke or gun smoke (dark).

If you have question please let us know by email or phone
sales@windvest.com
408-762-7180 local
877-370-7326 toll free
www.windvest.com

PLANNING IS UNDERWAY FOR THE SEASON AHEAD—I dug out some wheels so we can mock up the VL, XA, FL Knucklehead in the near future. I’m in good shape parts wise, but I need to decide on a transmission. Irish rich offered to take out the 4-speed trans plate and install a 5-speed plate. I have a bunch of 5-speed trans parts and cases. I could build one.

I will reach out to Rich and see what the deal is.

Check out the Tech on the UL. I fired it up once I figured out the switches again. I got my 94-year-old father-in-Law to sit on a running ’48 chop for the first time. The next day he started to grow a beard. Everything with my mods seemed fine except my oil filter bracket started to leak oil. At least I know the oil is circulating.

I still need a final clutch adjustment on the Pandemic, then it will roll off the lift. We are insulating and drywalling the upstairs garage for more home insulating, and we bought a spare fridge and slipped it into the garage.

Shifting to content, I just received a Girl of Bikernet Submission from Barry Green. Hang on for this one. Just beautiful photos and no story. But on the story front we have another Why We Chop story from Bill May and another Jack story. We also received another Lucky Devil shop feature. It’s an amazing shop story. I will then start on the first VL, XA, FL Knucklehead build tech.

I’m also working on a gas tank design article with a pile of very cool photographs from Markus Cuff, who shot custom and restored bikes for 30 years. There’s a bunch more coming to keep us going through the blistering cold South Dakota Winter. Can’t wait.

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever. The truth will win. It always does.

–Bandit

QEII RIP
Heartfelt condolences have poured out from around the World with the death of HRH Queen Elizabeth II, the longest serving monarch in British history (1952-2022), and a fellow gearhead.

Before she became Queen, in 1945 then-Princess Elizabeth was the first female member of the Royal Family to serve in the armed forces, joining the women’s Auxiliary Territory Services (ATS) during WWII at the age of 19 as a driver and mechanic. Her wartime training also involved gaining experience on two wheels, and she has been pictured riding motorcycles on numerous occasions.

Her majesty’s mechanical aptitude evidently passed to her grandchildren, as both Prince William and Prince Henry are well-known motorcycle fans, and the Royal pair once shared together a 1,000-mile charity ride on Honda enduro bikes across Africa.

May her memory reign eternal; and Long Live The King!

NEW STUDY REVEALS SELF-DRIVING CARS ARE NOT SAFE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS
A white paper analyzing the ability of self-driving cars to detect motorcycles has been released by the Connected Motorcycle Consortium (CMC), revealing several shortfalls in the autonomous technology.

Concerns remain that autonomous vehicles do not yet have sufficient detection capabilities to make them safe around powered two-wheelers (PTWs), and as the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) said, “reliable detection of PTWs by passenger car ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistance Systems) is absolutely essential to avoid car-PTW collisions and to decrease the number of motorcycle accidents. Passenger cars must be able to appropriately recognize motorcycle maneuvers in ordinary traffic, such as weaving in, leaning while cornering or splitting lanes.”

The conclusion of the CMC paper is that it will be necessary going forwards for ADAS vehicles to have a “special focus on PTW detection” in their testing. “Under certain circumstances,” the CMC paper reads, “the detection of PTWs is challenging for ADAS due to the different way of motion, the slim shape and as a result the smaller radar reflectivity of PTWs compared to cars.”

The CMC considers that, currently, “one of the most effective ways [to improve PTW safety) is to improve conspicuity of PTWs by automotive systems.”

SELF-DRIVING CARS ARE COMING, SOONER THAN LATER
The U.K. government has announced that it is planning to introduce self-driving vehicles on the country’s roads starting next year, with full implementation planned for 2025.

As well as the 2025 goal for fully-self-driving vehicles, the government says that “Some vehicles, including cars, coaches and lorries, with self-driving features could be operating on motorways in the next year.”

“The benefits of self-driving vehicles have the potential to be huge,” said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. “We want the UK to be at the forefront of developing and using this fantastic technology, and that is why we are investing millions in vital research into safety and setting the legislation to ensure we gain the full benefits that this technology promises.”

The news of the UK government’s latest self-driving plans come after the United Nations (UN) announced in July that self-driving cars would be allowed to drive faster, but would also have to undergo more stringent tests to make sure they can detect motorcycles.

Ultimately, autonomous vehicles are very much a part of the future of transportation, and boils down to responsible legislators passing reasonable legislation, especially in the initial crossover phase when they mix with human-driven vehicles.

CALIFORNIA VOTES TO BAN NEW GAS CAR SALES BY 2035
California air regulators voted in August to approve stringent new rules to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035, and set interim targets to phase those cars out. The measure is a historic one in the US, and would constitute one of the first such bans worldwide.

These new California Air Resources Board (CARB) rules would also set interim quotas for zero-emission vehicles, focusing on new models. Starting with 2026 models, 35% of new cars, SUVs and small pickups sold in California would be required to be zero-emission vehicles. That quota would increase each year and is expected to reach 51% of all new car sales in 2028, 68% in 2030 and 100% in 2035.

California has laid out an audacious goal: In 13 years, it should no longer be possible to buy a new car that runs purely on gasoline anywhere in the state. Failure to meet those targets carries the threat of stiff penalties.

The rules would not impact used vehicles, allowing them to stay on the roads. The rules won’t be immediate, and will go into effect in 2026.

Multiple states are expected to follow suit, including Colorado and Minnesota, as well as states on the Northeast and West Coast that followed California’s previous zero-emission vehicle regulations. New Jersey and Maryland officials said they were reviewing California’s decision, while public comment has opened in Washington state on a similar plan.

NOTEWORTHY: OUT OF CHARGE — Immediately following the announced ICE (internal combustion engine) ban, in favor of electric mobility, a heat wave’s strain on the electrical grid led California’s Independent System Operator, which runs the state’s power grid, to issue multiple bulletins alerting residents to voluntarily reduce their power consumption by avoiding using “large appliances and charging electric vehicles” during peak usage hours.

NOTEWORTHY TOO: MAJOR HEATWAVE IN CHINA DISRUPTS SUPPLY CHAIN
“Supply chain issues” is now a commonly understood concept, ranging from the ongoing semiconductor shortage to shipping woes, but now a new supply chain disruption is rearing its head as China experiences the worst heat wave in recorded history, reaching triple digits for over two months and leading to industrial shutdowns to conserve energy.

Drought anywhere is bad news — but it’s even worse news in Sichuan, a major international manufacturing hub in central China which derives approximately 80% of its electricity from hydropower. As temperatures climb, the local government has instructed factories in various industries to shut down so that the available power can be used by the people living in the affected areas.

From EV batteries to steel and aluminum, a host of industries are being affected.

TEN ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES DUE FROM HONDA BY 2025
Honda has announced its intention to add 10 electric motorcycles to its global lineup by 2025. Most models will be scooters destined for the Asian and European markets as commuter vehicles. For the United States, Europe, and Japan, four models are expected to debut in 2024 and are described as Fun EV Models.

Expect to see three street-legal plug-in models in the United States.

ICE-powered motorcycles are not done yet, though gasoline will have a lower priority as a fuel in Honda motorcycles. There are already E100 flex-fuel motorcycles in Brazil, and they’re coming soon to India. Honda plans on introducing E20 flex-fuel models in India next year, and E100-fueled powerplants in 2025.

In June, 2022, the state of Illinois announced the first round of its Electric Vehicle Rebate Program in 2022. That first rebate application period started on July 1, 2022, and will continue through September 30, 2022.

Unlike some other EV rebate programs (both past and present), the Illinois program includes used vehicles. It also includes on-road motorcycles — not just cars or other four-wheeled passenger EVs.

As for motorcycles, only on-road electric bikes qualify — off-road bikes and mopeds are not eligible. For all vehicles, only full electrics qualify — no hybrids. Rented and leased vehicles do not qualify.

On August 29, 2022, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency director John J. Kim announced the dates for the second round of Illinois EV Rebate Program applications. Round Two will officially open on November 1, 2022, and run through January 31, 2023. If you’re an Illinois resident and you won’t be able to make the deadline first round, that means you’ll have another chance for this rebate as the second-round caps off 2022 and charges into 2023.

“Here in Illinois, we are leading the electric vehicle revolution,” Illinois governor JB Pritzker said; “And thanks to our EV Rebate Program, we are making electric vehicle adoption accessible and cost-effective — putting us on the path to getting 1 million EVs on the road by 2030.”

BIG BROTHER MAY PUT AN END TO SPEEDING IN NEW YORK
Legislators in New York are mulling a bill that would mandate speed limiters in new vehicles that would be set to the local maximum allowable limit. The system, called “Active Intelligent Speed Assistance” (ISA) would use GPS and traffic sign recognition technology to determine the speed limit. New York City is already running a six-month trial with 50 vehicles from the city’s fleet fitted with an ISA system.

Introduced by Manhattan State Senator Brad Hoylman on Aug 12, if passed, would require any vehicle manufactured or registered in the state of New York to be fitted with the ISA system, starting from Jan. 1, 2024. It cites the results of a study that show such a system could reduce traffic fatalities by 20%.

The bill also calls for existing active safety systems like automatic emergency braking, active lane control, blind-spot monitors with pedestrian detection, driver drowsiness detection, and even a data event recorder to be mandated from the same date.

ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST POPULATED NATIONS SET TO BAN ALL MOTORCYCLES
Nigeria — the sixth most populous nation in world — is set to ban the use and sale of all motorcycles in an effort to hamper the actions of terrorist ‘bandits.’ The federal government of Nigeria is strongly considering a ban on the sale and use of motorcycles across the country as an unusual new tactic to stop terror attacks.

Nigeria’s Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, recently told reporters that by banning the predominant mode of transport as used by terrorist groups across the country, it would severely hamper their logistical efforts. “Placing a ban on the use of motorcycles and mining activities will cut the supply of logistics to the terrorists,” reports Nigeria’s Times newspaper. “This will be done in the national interest. We are Nigerians because Nigeria as a country exists and any issue that will translate into a threat to national security or the corporate existence of the country requires certain sacrifices.”

The plans come as Nigerian authorities attempt to curtail the efforts of various jihadist terrorist groups — such as Boko Haram and Islamic State — responsible for numerous attacks across the country, with offenses ranging from killings, kidnappings and sexual violence committed by members known as ‘bandits’ who mostly use motorcycles to launch attacks quickly and without warning to devastating effect, as well as move around the area without detection.

The actions of the federal government come after Governor Bello Mattawale of Zamfara State introduced a curfew for the use of motorcycles in the town of Gusau, and directed his security personnel to shoot on sight anyone caught riding a motorcycle between 8pm and 6am.

With a population of more than 200 million people, Nigeria is the world’s sixth most populous nation with an annual motorcycle sales figure of more than 500,000.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “It takes a great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but even more to stand up to your friends.” ~ J.K. Rowling (b.1965), British author and philanthropist

Industry & Legislative Motorcycle News from USA and the world
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish

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).

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