BIKERNET QUICKIE NEWS – EASY RIDER ITALIAN STYLE, DOUGZ FAMOUS PAINT, BUB CHECKS IN, BATTISTINI FOOT PEGS, STEVE SEEMAN JOINS RIVERA, SAVE SOLDIERS JOBS, REAPER WHEELS FROM H-D, LONE STAR TAKES BEST OF SHOW, TOMMY THOMPSON FOR PRESIDENT, PETER FONDA HARLEY-DAVIDSON TO AUCTION, VISCOUS CYCLES BOARDTRACK TAKES METZLER BEST OF SHOW, JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK, RIVERA PART OF THE WEEK AND MORE…

Sturgis Winding Down, Reports are in from all over the Badlands as we scramble for Bonneville. I want to personally thank all or our Sponsors who have stepped up to make 5-Ball Racing a success on the salt. Everyday is an adventure. David Florence called and signed up as a Platinum Sponsor today. That made the entire effort come together for us. The next e-mail sported bad news. A part we needed wouldn’t arrive until 9/4. We’ll be on the salt September 2 makin’ passes. Holy shit, Murphy’s Law strikes. I can’t thank all our supporters enough. We couldn’t do a goddamn thing without you.

Every builder will tell you the code, Murphy’s Law, or the metal mantra. It’s just the way life goes, if you’re out there, pushing the envelope, creating something unique or reaching for the stars, shit happens. With severe endurance, resilience and determination, obstacles are overcome and goals reached. Let’s rock:

BIKERNET GIRLS ON-SITE AT STURGIS– Get your picture taken with a Bikernet Chickie at the Brass Balls Bobbers’ booth in Sturgis. You can see all the pictures of the Bikernet Babes and righteous bobbers right here at the Brass Balls Bobbers transporter located in Sturgis at 955 Lazelle street, down from the Broken Spoke. All Sturgis pictures are posted at the Brass Balls Bobbers website here.

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! Win a D&D Performance Exhaust for your HOG by just stopping by.

BILLY LANE BUILDERS’ BREAKFAST SPONSORED BY BIKERNET.COM SCORES AGAIN–It was great! We were sold out and sold all auction items. Bikernet banners flew, and I used all remainingstickers in 100 raffle bags. You were covered and mentioned by Nicholsduring introduction. THANK YOU!

–Darcy Betlach
Chrome Marketing Inc
Polishing and Building Bran

BIKERNET WEEKLY PRODUCT RELEASE FROM RIVERA PRIMO,STAINLESS STEEL MECHANICAL ADVANCE MECHANISM–Older Harleys require a mechanical advance timing unit for their points-style ignition systems.Some electronic triggering devices also use a mechanical advance set-up.

Rivera Primo’s competition mechanical advance assembly is the finest one available today. It’ssmoother, more accurate & more reliable than any OEM unit & offers features not available onother advance mechanisms such as:

Stainless steel shaft & plate
Advance weights are heat treated, then coated with high tech, low friction polymers
Hardened steel pins hold the weights in place
The weights are spring-loaded, using the highest quality phosphate-coated spring wire
Stainless washers under the spring attachment points allow the weights to move freely & prevent premature wear
The springs are wound to exacting specs & then cad-plated to resist corrosion

Part Number:1104-0001, Complete High Performance Advance Unit Kit

For these & other fine products contact:
Rivera Primo
12450 Whittier Blvd. Whittier, CA 90602
Tel: 800-872-1515
Tel: 562-907-2600 Fax: 562-907-2606
www.riveraengineering.com

A REPORT FROM BIKERNET’S 5-BALL RACING VTRACE GIRL–Well, it’s on to Bristol, TN for Valerie Thompson and the VTR Team. Just in time to leave with the monsoon weather full in swing. Will take aim at the Bristol Motor Speedway. With additional time off racing I had a chance to get caught up and get organized at home. After the rain out in Seattle the team is looking forward to continue the upward trend in Bristol and move up a few spots in the standings. We are currently fourth, but just 37 points from second.

Cheer loudly for the VTR team this week, whether you are at the track or at home watching on vtracegirl.com, click on AHDRA.com live results.

A must see video on the Bonneville Salt Flats…So cheer VTR into the 200mph club in September 2-6-, 2007http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/video/index.html?bcpid=192889067&bclid=164942296&bctid=849866781

–Valerie Thompson
Team Owner
Valerie Thompson Racing
Phone: (253) 225-2626
e-mail: Valerie@vtracegirl.com
www.ValerieThompsonRacing.com

2007 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF CUSTOM BIKE BUILDING RESULTS–The international flavor of this event was further reinforced by the number of countries represented in the top 20 places; 10 different nationalities were included.

Top honors in the 2007 World Championship was taken by Stellan Egeland, of SE Service, out of Skog?s, Sweden. Stellan, who last year placed third with only the second bike he’d ever built, this year wowed the crowds with a speedway inspired board tracker, featuring hand made cylinders and heads on a Knucklehead bottom end.

His bike – Hulster 8-valve – takes engineering excellence to a new level. The one-off, three-valve cylinder heads had the cooling fins filed by hand and the ports manually cut, drilled and then filed to shape.With the intricate engine work completed Stellan then reworked a Norton gearbox to handle transmission duties, before adding a generator to the frame which is driven by a second chain, driven off the rear wheel.

In one of the closest results in the event’s history, returning World Champion Chicara Nagata of Japan’s Chicara Motorcycles, polled enough votes to take second place with Chicara Art Two.Building on the design cues of his winning bike of last year, Chicara rose to the challenge of the World Championship once again by building a bike around a Flathead motor.The brazing showing through a fine layer of chrome, and the unique front suspension remaining from last year, but this time the frame was suspended with a single shock on the rear.

As with Stellan, Chicara looked to British motorcycles for his choice of transmission; his solution was a four-speed box from a Triumph. Continuing the Old School feel of the bike is a set of 28in spoked wheels.

Chicara’s countryman Keiji Kawakita, of Hot-Dock Custom Cycles, Tokyo, lifted the third place trophy thanks to his Red Gladiator bike. It takes elements of traditional Bobber and mixes in European Streetfighter styling for a truly unique machine.At the heart of the bike is a Hot-Dock engineered HR4V engine, which takes a H-D motor and adds four-valve heads and custom fuel injection.

Dave Cook of Cook Customs, out of Milwaukee, flies the flag for the USA in fourth place with his softail bike with hidden suspension and perimeter brakes. With the exception of the motor and trans, the entire bike was fabricated by Dave in his workshop.

Sapka Muvek, the Hungarian shop who took first place in the 2007 European Championship of Custom Bike Building, claimed fifth place with Time Machine, a build based on HG Wells’ story of the same name. The bike redefines the term Old School with features such as handmade wooden wheels.

Furthering the international flavor of the event, in sixth place is Paul Stewart of Dynamic Choppers, an Englishman based in Las Vegas. The stainless steel framed Epic gathered a crowd as soon as it rolled into the show hall on its 34.5in wheels.

Taking inspiration from racing bikes, Frenchman Cyril Gautier uses a Sportster engine as a stressed member in the frame of his seventh placed bike – Rock ‘n’ Bike.The ultra low, completely rigid bike mixes in hot rod styling, even using a complete set of Panhard PL17 hubcaps as wheel covers.

Bucking the trend for traditional styling is Jolly Roger Customs with the Jolly Roger. Built by Mario Audia and Darrion Tefft, the futuristically and organically styled machine runs a 196in Hawaya billet motor.

The top ten is rounded out by former two times World Champion of Custom Bike Building Roger Goldammer. His build Nortorious takes the idea of British caf? racers and in particular bikes like Norton’s Manx and gives it his unique touch. Known for ignoring conventions, Roger once again took a v-twin motor and removed the rear cylinder, putting a super charger in its place. He then reworked the redundant rear head to fit the front cylinder before adding fuel injection.

Visit AMDChampionship.com for more news and information on this year’s Championships.

–Robbie Patterson
AMD ‘e-Club’ Supervisor
mailto:robbie@dealer-world.com>robbie@dealer-world.com

THE BIKERNET BLONDE FILES–A blonde’s car gets a flat tire on the Interstate one day, so she eases it over onto the shoulder of the road. She carefully steps out of the car and opens the trunk. Takes out two cardboard men, unfolds them and stands them at the rear of the vehicle facing oncoming traffic. The lifelike cardboard men are in trench coats exposing their nude bodies to approaching drivers… Not surprisingly, the traffic became snarled and backed up. It wasn’t very long before a police car arrives. The Officer, clearly enraged, approaches the blond of thedisabled vehicle yelling,”What is going on here?”

“My car broke down Officer” says the woman, calmly.

“Well, what the hell are these obscene cardboard pictures doing here by the road?!” asks the Officer…

“Helllllooooo, those are my emergency flashers!” she replied.

–from Bob Clark

JIMS BIKERNET TOOL OF THE WEEK–Big Twin Engine Rotator from the Flywheel Sprocket ShaftUse this tool to rotate the flywheel / piston assembly, with the enginestill in frame or on a bench. This tool is used to rotate the flywheelassembly when doing pushrod adjustments, or when building big inch engines,checking operating clearances such as piston to piston, or valve to valve.

Also can be used to hold the flywheel assembly from rotating when torquingthe cam drive sprockets retention bolts on Twin Cams or pinion shaft nut onsingle cam models.

This tool has been designed with a long socket designmaking it easer to use without the use of a 1/2″ drive extension, on your1/2″ driver.

For engine bench work we recommend that the engine be bolted ina JIMS engine stand. Use No. 1006T for Panhead, Shovelhead and Evo’s. UseJIMS No.1022 for 1999 to 2006 Twin Cams FL’s and 1999 to 2005 FXD’s. UseJIMS No. 1668 for 2000 to 2006 FXST’s.

Caution: Not for use with an air or electric impact, this tool is onlyguaranteed for use with hand drivers, “not impacts”.Use on Big Twins 1955 to 2006 except 2006 FXD’s. Use on 1999 to 2005 FXD’s.

No. 976 & No. 975
Suggested Retail $ 99.85

–JT Lepien
www.jimsusa.com

MARK-HAS RICHER JOINS HARLEY-DAVIDSON AS PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER (CMO)–I am pleased to announce that Mark-Hans Richer has accepted the position of Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Harley-Davidson Motor Company. In this newly created role, Mark-Hans will be a member of the Sales and Marketing Circle and Functional Leadership Group (FLG) and also a member of the Leadership and Strategy Council (LSC). He will report directly to me and will be responsible for overseeing all marketing activities in North America. Hopefully we can get some ads on Bikernet.com.

Mark-Hans most recently served as Director of Marketing for Pontiac at General Motors, where he led development of the marketing strategy and execution of plans for all Pontiac brands, representing sales of $9 billion and the highest revenue-generating GM brands. In this role he was recognized as one of Advertising Age?s ?Marketing 50 for 2004? for his high-impact, non-traditional marketing approach which led the Pontiac brand through a period of renewed growth. A few examples of his award-winning tactics include the Pontiac G6 promotion on the Oprah show in 2004, and Pontiac?s successful alliance with the NCAA.

Prior to working at Pontiac, Mark-Hans held various positions in the auto industry, including Director of Advertising and Sales Promotions for GMC Trucks and Advertising Manager for Chevy Trucks. He was also Director, Latin America for the McDonald’s account at DDB Needham Advertising and served in different roles with such consumer goods companies as SC Johnson Wax and General Mills.

Mark-Hans was born in Milwaukee and has lived much of his life in the Midwest. He holds a bachelor?s degree in history from Northwestern University and a master?s of business administration (MBA) from the University of Michigan. Mark-Hans?s official start date will be July 30, and he will be relocating to the Milwaukee area in the near future with his wife, Amy, and his two daughters, Jacqueline and Alexa. Mark-Hans is a huge Green Bay Packer football fan, as well as motorcycle enthusiast and proud owner of a Night Rod Special.

I am eager for Mark-Hans to apply his skills and experience to our marketing efforts. Please join me in welcoming him to Harley-Davidson.

–Jim Ziemer
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO),
Harley-Davidson, Inc.

BACK TO SUCKY GIRL PICS IN THE CANTINA I see (sigh).I would think, by now, that your natural animal magnetism would have attracted enough photo’s of nubile nymphomaniacal nymphets to fill volumes…….so you wouldn’t have to fall back on such weak substitutes for real girls………..maybe your lifestyle is crowding your livlihood ? P.S. good luck on the flats.

–Dan
Dan B.

Never any slack,I’m three weeks from heading toBonneville and the bike isn’t running and I’ve got to look for girls? There ain?t a damn thing wrong with our Girls Of Bikernet.–Bandit

VICIOUS CYCLES U.S. CHOPPERS BOARDTRACKER TAKES METZLER BEST OF SHOW IN STURGIS– Hot news from the Badlands. Greg from Vicious Cycles took top honors at the Metzler Show in Rapid City. His U.S. Choppers roller based classic will be featured on the cover of American Iron and the Metzler Calendar.

The Boardtrack styled U.S. Chopper frame is built by Paughco and currently available.

Photo by Sam Dixon.

PETER FONDA HARLEY-DAVIDSON TO BE AUCTIONED–LotFinder is Christie’s online search engine that allows you to browse sale catalogues with images from Christie’s auctions around the world and submit absentee bids online.To view the recommended lot, click on the link below.http://www.christies.com/LotFinder/lfsearch_coa/LotDescription.aspx?intObjectID=4950168

Rumor has it, this particular lot contains a motorcycle owned by Peter Fonda.

SIX CHARGED IN BEATING OF BANDIDOS–EUREKA SPRINGS — Three Texas men remained hospitalized Monday, one in critical condition, after a fight Sunday between rival motorcycle clubs in Eureka Springs, where the Hells Angels met last week, police said.

One man injured in the fight was released from the hospital Monday, but three others are still being treated, said Eureka Springs Police Chief Earl Hyatt.

Police arrested six men, including five who are Hells Angels, Hyatt said. All were being held Monday in the Carroll County Jail awaiting bond hearings, each on a charge of first-degree battery.

Police said an off-duty Eureka Springs police officer, Shelley Summers, reported seeing several Hells Angels beating people with baseball bats as she drove past the Gingerbread Antique building on U.S. 62 about 2:25 p.m. Sunday. The Hells Angels fled east on U.S. 62, at least three riding motorcycles, a news release said.

Summers found four injured men, some with stab wounds, wearing Bandidos motorcycle club insignia in the parking lot near their motorcycles, the release said.

The injured men were Isidro Savala Zerrata Jr., 49, of Lubbock, Texas; David Thomas Wood, 38, of Amarillo, Texas; Keith Allen Miller, 60, of Lubbock and Thomas Goodnight, age unknown, of Lubbock.

Six people were arrested on charges of felony first-degree battery: Jason David Gallo, 36, of Peabody, Mass.; Eric Claudio Franco, 32, of Lynn, Mass.; Christopher Michael Sweeney, 37, of Lynn, Mass.; Robert Thomas Reynolds, 37, of Sandown, N.H.; Manny R. Monteiro, 33, of Danvers, Mass.; and Derek Jeffery Roy, 21, of Lisbon Falls, Maine.

About 300 to 400 Hells Angels were in Eureka Springs last week for their 2007 USA run, said Bill Sadler, a spokesman for the Arkansas State Police, which stationed 60 officers in Eureka Springs last week.

Agents from several federal agencies, including the FBI, were also monitoring the Hells Angels, Hyatt said.

— By James BowieTHE MORNING NEWS

–from Grumpy

TOMMY THOMPSON THE BIKER CANTIDATE FOR PRESIDENT–8/9/2007 – Tommy Thompson’s Reunion Ride goes to Iowa to support Tommy’s bid for President. Former Governor of Wisconsin and Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson will host his 13th annual charitable motorcycle ride August 9-11, 2007. The ride benefits Accident Scene Management, Inc., a 501(c)3 organization that focuses on reducing injuries and fatalities to motorcyclists.

The ride will start in Madison from Capital City Harley-Davidson, departing at 9:30 am. In the tradition of past years the group will stop to enjoy some of the sites along the way to Ames, IA for the Straw Poll vote. Stops will include Galena, IL, the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, IA where Governor Thompson has been inducted and J&P Cycles.

The group will settle in Ames, IA on Friday, August 10th where they will join Governor Thompson downtown Ames at the “Power to the People” rally held at Olde Main Brewery in his honor. Saturday morning the groups will reconvene just north of Des Moines for a parade to Ames to open the straw poll.

The motorcycle parade will be led by Governor Thompson and several motorcycling celebrities such as the President of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation and former Senator and 4 time motorcycle hall of fame recipient, Dave Zien.

For more information visit: www.teamtommy.org or call the “One of Our Own” campaign chairperson, Vicki Sanfelipo at 262-364-7440

–Vicki Sanfelipo
TeamTommy@aol.com
(262) 364-7440

HARLEY-DAVIDSON WEBSITE COVERS STURGIS LIVE– RAPID CITY, SD (Aug. 8, 2007) – Harley-davidson.com/sturgis is the place to check out the action from the Rally, with daily updates from all over the area thanks to a staff of more than a dozen biker-writers, professional photographers, videographers and editors.

WHITTMANHART Interactive, a leading provider of digital communications and online marketing, has created the unique online platform for Harley-Davidson’s Sturgis coverage.

“Harley-Davidson gave us the opportunity to produce a site that captures the full emotion and excitement of the Sturgis experience,” said Rebecca Coleman, general manager of WHITTMANHART’s Los Angeles office. “There’s something here for everyone. It’s a chance for the Harley-Davidson community, even those who haven’t made the trek to Sturgis, to be part of the action.”

The event coverage includes daily updates of blogs, photos and videos including:

? The Journey There – Experience the journey to the Mecca of motorcycling through the eyes of rider Peter Reitzfeld, a New York-based photographer who’s been riding motorcycles since he was nine years old. His journey to Sturgis comes to life via his blog on H-D.com and through photos while he’s on the ground at the Rally.

? Inside Sturgis – Harley-Davidson’s own Jessica Craker, a rider and writer, will report from Sturgis on all the action. She’ll cover activities at the Rushmore Plaza in Rapid City, employees’ perspective on the Rally and more!

? Endless Roads – A daily blog with Steve Natt. Steve combines more than 25 years of experience as a car and motorcycle mechanic, 17 years as a motor journalist, 15 years as a TV writer-producer, and experience as host of the series, Life in the Fast Lane with Steve Natt. Get his take on the Rally.

? Kickin’ It – Punk rock band The Bouncing Souls released their sixth album in 2006 prior to hitting the road with the Warped Tour touring music festival. Band members Bryan Kienlen and Pete Steinkopf will showcase the “must see” venues and experience the “you haven’t done Sturgis, unless” events.

? Rumblings – Includes community features such as an interactive map, as well as enthusiast-submitted photos and comments detailing their experiences at the Rally.

? Photo Gallery – Professional photographers, including award-winning photographer Peter Turnley, covers the Rally. Peter’s work has been featured in prominent publications such as Newsweek. He has covered the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary and past Daytona and Sturgis rallies. Photos are uploaded daily to provide an online glimpse of Sturgis.

? Downloads – Reminders of the 2007 edition of the Sturgis Rally will be available for download. Screensavers and wallpapers will keep the memory alive on enthusiasts’ computers throughout the year.

BRASS BALLS MODEL NAME NOTIONS CONTINUE TO POUR IN–Hey,Bandit, I was thinking about the names for brass balls bike. Since you bring a lot of successto their advertising campaign, here’s a few I thought were cool.

1)The Bandit
2)the Time Bandit since it’s old and new style.
3)the brass balls bandit bobber sounds cool to me!! or the brass balls bobber time bandit

You get the picture. Thanks again for the kickass site!!

–Eric Fertig
ericscfl@sbcglobal.net

10 DOWNING STREET RUNS BAD PETITION– The offical web-site for the Prime Minister, allows for citizens to start petitions on the government web-site. This is an honest to goodness petition started by some guy…and the people of GB have found ways to sign their names so they can leave a message rather than a name.

Quirky people those Brits…this is an honest website, not a prank…and it WAS an honest petition…with names that indicate how the signer feels regarding the petition. Crafty?

We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to ban the sale and use of motorcycles.Submitted by Peter A Jordan – Deadline to sign up by: 01 October 2007 – Signatures: 271

Sir. You are a twat.
Sir, you are completely mad
You, my dear, are utterly bonkers
you are a total loon – this petition is abysmal
You are a clueless idiot
You gormless mong, please kill yourself now
This is a wind-up, right?
You are anencephalic
Desmond Coughlan
Hahahahahahahahaha
Osama bin Muhammad bin ‘Awad bin Laden
Ban banning things I say
your a flippin muppet, grow some plums
We know where you live !!! hahahaha
Facist!!
your Mum bummed you with a cactus

OPEN LETTER TO BIKERNET PUBLISHER– You underdog-loving sumbiscuit, Diesel finally got his drunken ass sober and look what happened. Actually, I don’t think he drinks, but he does smoke the dried and ground hymen of Cuban hookers.

He was thinking of premiering this motherfucker in Hot Bike (why does that sound so much like a gay men’s chopper mag now?), but I figured he might want to go where the real bikers go and try Bikernet instead.

–Zebra

SCOOTER HAVEN FOR THE SPIRITUAL BIKER–Here are the pics.Had a great time and can’t wait to meet up again!

–Kimber
Tim Salisbury

A TOUCH OF LOW LIFE FOR THURSDAY–Here are the latest pics of project “low Life.” I knew one day she would pick up a name, and that day was today during a shock swap. Let me know what you all think! It’s always good to have feedback

–Pan
panheadjosh74@hotmail.com>

CARLOS ORTA HAS BEEN COMMISSIONED TO CREATE HIS NEXT BUILD TO BE TITLED “GABRIEL”, A WORK OF MOTORCYCLE ART INSPIRED BY THE ARCHANGEL GABRIEL.–That’s it. That’s all we received in an e-mail. We’re forced to hang on for further developments.

www.ortamotorcycle.com
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=18 1873294

BIKERNET STUDY OF FAMILY RELATIONS–A married couple was in a terrible accident where the man’s face wasseverely burned. The doctor told the husband that they couldn’t graftany skin from his body because he was too skinny. So the wife offered to donate some of her own skin. However, the only skin on her body that the doctor felt was suitable would have to come from her buttocks.

The husband and wife agreed that they would tell no one about where the skin came from, and they requested that the doctor also honor their secret. After all, this was a very delicate matter.

After the surgery was completed, everyone was astounded at the man’sNew face. He looked more handsome than he ever had before! All his friends and relatives just went on and on about his youthful beauty! One day he was alone with his wife, and he was overcome with emotion at her sacrifice.

He said, “Dear, I just want to thank you for everything you did for me.How can possibly repay you?”

“My darling,” she replied, “I get all the thanks I need every time Isee your mother kiss you on the cheek.

–from Chris T.

BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Sturgis Blues.Here’s to all of us who can’t be where we really want to be.

Live it up anyway,
Whiplash Biker Photog
whiplash@photo.net

BIKERNET ASTROLOGY DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCEMENT–Two moons.Two moons on 27 August.Planet Mars will be the brightest in the night sky starting August.

It will look as large as the full moon to the naked eye. This will culminate on Aug. 27 when Marscomes within 34.65M miles of earth. Be sure to watch the sky on Aug. 27 12:30 am. It will looklike the earthhas 2 moons.

The next time Mars may come this close is in 2287.Share this with your friends as NO ONE ALIVE TODAY will ever see it again.

–from Mothergoose

LONE STAR TAKES BEST OF SHOW–Hey Man, Iwent to the Harley Ride-In show in Rapid City during the Black Hills Rally. The guys from Harley liked it; Best of Show Pro Class

–Larry

HARLEY-DAVIDSON SEEKING NEW FACES FOR CATALOGUE– RAPID CITY — A Harley-Davidson catalogue is calling all skulls.A casting crew for MotorClothes Collection, featuring Harley-Davidson attire, is seeking new faces at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center this week, said marketing director Donna Parker,

“When we shoot MotorClothes catalogues, we need real riders,” she said.

The casting crew has been all over the United States and plans on holding their next photo shoot in October. If selected, the company pays for expenses, including travel, and Parker said they work with people’s schedules.

“We use real folks for our advertising. We came to Sturgis to reach more people, to reach more riders,” Parker said. “We’re looking for everybody — short, tall, big, thin, old, young and everything in between.”

They even signed their first dog, a Jack Russell Terrier named Haley, on Sunday.

“We want the whole family,” Parker said.

Contact information, clothing size, a little information about oneself and getting a photograph taken are all that is needed to apply.

The casting crew will be at the Harley-Davidson parking lot from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. this week until Friday.

— By Neda Spotted Wolf, Journal staff

–from Rogue

MASSEY GRABS THE HARLEY BY THE HORNS–STURGIS — Pepper Massey didn’t flinch when she was thrust into the Sturgis rally director’s job six weeks before the start of the huge event.

“It feels like I’ve been training for this my whole life,” Massey said during a brief break from her duties overseeing the rally.

For almost 25 years, Massey has ridden motorcycles, attended the Sturgis rally and worked for several motorcycle organizations. She even has a nickname, although the “Pepper” moniker has no motorcycle connection.

But she admitted some of her friends questioned her sanity in taking on the job of pleasing several hundred thousand bikers and the city of Sturgis.

“It has been challenging,” Massey said. “But one of the reasons I was happy to participate was because I was looking forward to the challenge.”

Massey became interim director on June 25 after former director Lisa Weyer resigned to take a job in private business.

Massey said she has had a lot of help from her three-person staff, Mayor Maury LaRue and other city departments.

And she has a long background in motorcycling and motorcycle organizations.

Massey became director of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists, a motorcycle-rights advocacy group, in the mid 1980s, about the same time she began riding motorcycles.

As director of the coalition for 11 years, she traveled extensively, attended motorcycle events and met a lot of people in the motorcycle industry.

She worked briefly as an office manager for a Harley-Davidson dealership in California before moving to Sturgis in 1997 to head the National Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. That museum later moved out of state.

Massey later worked briefly for the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce and as publisher of the Meade County Times.

In 2001, she joined the board of directors of the new Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame and became its director in 2003.

She became known there for bringing in exhibits showcasing motorcycling pioneers, including women.

Born in Rhode Island, Massey grew up in Ontario, Canada, before moving back to the states to attend high school.

She first started riding in California in 1985, back when some people looked askance at women riding their own bikes.

She started on a 450 Honda. She admits she didn’t know how to take care of that bike, but it kept running, anyway.

“The only thing that killed it was a Cadillac on Ventura Boulevard,” she said, laughing. The Cadillac made a left turn in front of her, and she crashed into it. “After I healed and had knee surgery, I took the motorcycle-safety course,” Massey said.

Now, she owns a 2000 Harley-Davidson Dyna Super Glide. “I ride when I can,” Massey said. “I’d do it a lot more if I had the time.”

Massey was named interim rally director to get the city through this year’s rally as it goes through the formal selection process for the permanent position appointed by the mayor. But she plans to apply for the permanent job.

“It feels pretty good to me,” she said. Massey credited her staff, and the rest of the city government, for making the transition work. “I get a lot of face time on this, but all of the departments, the whole city, really steps up to the plate. It’s a pretty well-oiled machine. Everybody works real hard. We have a good team during the rally.”

Massey has attended every Sturgis rally since 1985. At that first rally, she said, “It was all I could do to keep my jaw from dropping open.”

— By Steve Miller, Journal staff

–from Rogue

BRITISH COLUMBIA COALITION OF MOTORCYCLISTS NEEDS VOLUNTEERS–We are still in need of some volunteers to help out with various duties atthe Gastown Motorcycle Show n’ Shine on Sunday, August 19th. Positionsinclude security, parking and much more. Please contact the office if youare able to donate some of your time at (604) 580-0111 or 1-877-580-0111 orby replying to this email.

Thank you! More details can be found here:www.bccom-bc.com just click on the Gastown section on the home page.

Shannon McNeney, Executive Assistant
B.C. Coalition of Motorcyclists
1-877-580-0111
#37 – 13320 116th Ave.
Surrey, B.C. V3R 0R8

“Working for your Freedom to Ride”

TUCK-A-BUCK RUN RESCHEDULEDFor AUGUST 11th

TUCK A BUCK RUN – AUG 11- Sponsored by Full Throttle Magazine and Nightmoves Magazine. Run Starts at Foxy’s Show bar 13415 N. Nebraska Ave. Tampa. Sign up at 4pm with the last bike out by 8pm. There will be food, vendors, a bikini bike wash, 50/50 and great give-a-ways. Stops also include 2001 Odyssey, Deja Vu and Scarlett’s. There is a guaranteed prize fund of $1,600.00. 1st place $750.00, 2nd place $500.00, third place wins $250.00 and last place wins $100.00. Entry fee is $20 per hand and includes 1 poker hand, event t-shirt and arm band for free entry to the clubs. Extra poker hands can be purchased for $5 each. % of the money collected will be donated to Peewee of Full Throttle for his “New Leg” Fund. Vendors wanted call 813-814-1424 for more information.

AUGUST 11 – TO BROKE FOR STURGIS – August 11th (Saturday) -“TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS” Motorcycle Rally at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds. $10 at the gate, $8 advance. Live music with great regional bands, food, beer, full liquor bar, vendors, and contests. Gates open at noon. Your price of admission includes a chance to win a new 2007 Harley-Davidson motorcycle with the drawing at 8PM. No charge for parking, no coolers please. Visit www.fullthrottleusa.com for full details, and advance ticket sales locations in your area. This promises to be the areas biggest and best bike event you will not want to miss.

–Tony Cianci
Editor – Florida Full Throttle Magazine
www.fullthrottleusa.com

NEW REAPER CUSTOM WHEEL FROM HARLEY-DAVIDSON–MILWAUKEE (July 30, 2007) – Designed to fit the 2008 FLSTF Fat Boy and other Harley-Davidson Softail and Dyna models, the new Reaper Custom Wheel from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories features a forward-slashing scythe design that radiates from the compact center hub. Cast of premium quality aluminum, the hub, spokes and rim are polished to a mirror finish and then plated with brilliant chrome.

The Reaper Custom Wheel is available in a 17-inch rear (P/N 40802-08, $830.00), a 17-inch front (P/N 40779-08, $830.00) and a 21-inch front (P/N 40778-08, $830.00). See dealer for fitment details.

The new Reaper Billet Sprocket (P/N 40445-08, $ 359.00) complements the styling of the Reaper rear wheel. Manufactured from 6061-T6 forged billet aircraft aluminum, Harley-Davidson custom sprockets are finished with a proprietary process that combines decorative chrome with a wear-resistant surface applied to the teeth. The sprockets feature a five year tooth wear warranty.

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

FINALLY, THE BLONDE JOKE TO END ALL BLONDE JOKES!– A girl was visiting her blonde friend, who had acquired two new dogs, and asked her what their names were. The blonde responded by saying that one was namedRolex and one was named Timex. Her friend said, “Whoever heard of someone naming dogs like that?””HELLLOOOOOO……,” answered the blond. “They’re watch dogs!”

–from Katmandu

SAVE SOLDIERS’ JOB GODDAMNIT– By For tens of thousands of members of the National Guard and reserves who are called up to serve in Iraq, returning home safely may be the beginning – not the end – of their worst nightmare. Reservists lucky enough to make it home often find their civilian jobs gone and face unsympathetic employers and a government that has restricted access to civilian job-loss reports rather than prosecuting offending employers.

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects members of the guard and reserves from job loss, demotion, loss of seniority and loss of benefits when they are called to active duty.

The act is supposed to protect reservists’ civilian jobs for up to five years of military service. But the government has made it difficult for veterans to enforce their legal rights. Service members who return to find their civilian jobs gone also find that the burden is on them to prove that their jobs were taken away as a result of their military service and that there is no other reason that they could have been fired.

This onerous burden of proof discourages many from filing formal complaints.

Despite such bureaucratic hurdles, more than 16,000 reservist complaints were filed between 2004 and 2006, the Government Accountability Office said this year. But fewer than 30 percent of the reservists who experience USERRA violations file complaints, the GAO estimated.

Those who do file complaints with the Veterans Employment and Training Service Department (VETS) find that resolving their complaints, by the military’s own admission, can take “months, if not years.” A declassified Defense Department memo compiled for military lawyers stated: “Many VETS field investigators simply accept whatever the employer tells them in a response and close their files” rather than continue an investigation, meaning the reservists never receive assistance. A 2005 GAO report found that the average time service members have to wait for USERRA complaints to be resolved is 619 days – nearly two years.

Complaints that cannot be closed are referred to the Justice Department for prosecution, but few cases make it that far. In 2005, of the 5,302 complaints filed by reservists, 111 cases were referred to the Justice Department. Only 16 resulted in benefits going to reservists.

The Justice Department special counsel in charge of prosecuting veterans’ job cases, Scott Bloch, declared before Congress in May 2005 that he had “zero tolerance for violations of USERRA” and would “enforce the law vigorously.” He promised lawmakers that the Justice Department would do better.

It did – barely. In 2006, the Justice Department received 168 cases and found in favor of the service members 48 times. Resolving 48 cases is better than 16, but tens of thousands of veterans are still without jobs and without recourse.

If the Justice Department has failed to prosecute employers who act illegally, the Defense Department has taken unprecedented steps to keep reservists’ reemployment problems secret. According to the GAO, the Pentagon’s annual Status of Forces Surveys provide the only accurate account of the number of reservists experiencing reemployment difficulties. These surveys ask reservists about their service, job loss and whether they are receiving the legal protections – occupational and otherwise – guaranteed to them under federal law.

Status of Forces Surveys used to be available to the public. But the 2005 and 2006 surveys of returning reservists and guardsmen were designated “for official use only,” putting them off-limits to civilians, journalists or anyone else outside government curious about enforcement of USERRA.

The Defense Department has effectively made oversight of this issue impossible.

America deserves a full accounting of the sacrifices our soldiers have made on and off the battlefield. Most reservists are not wealthy; when the government fails to redress their grievances, the majority cannot afford to hire lawyers to prosecute their cases, particularly if they have lost their civilian jobs. Thousands of the brave men and women lucky enough to return safely from Iraq are being left without jobs, without hope and without recourse. The government has failed to protect these reservists and has covered up the evidence. It is time for Americans to protect those who protect us by demanding thorough oversight of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.

–Amy R. Gershkoff
The Washington Post

STEVE SEEMAN NEW RIVERA PRIMO QUELITY CONTROLL MANAGER–Rivera Primo?, high performance specialists for American V-Twin motorcycles, locatedin Whittier, California is pleased to announce the appointment of Steven Seeman asits new Quality Control Manager.

With thirty years of riding & wrenching, including eighteen years as a machinist and research &development specialist, the last three with Compu-Fire working in their R&D & Tech Supportdepartments, Steven brings with him a wealth of valuable knowledge and hands-on experience.

Rivera Primo? can be reached at 562-907-2600 (phone) or 562-907-2606 (fax) andwww.riveraengineering.com (web).

BONNEVILLE REPORTS– was reading your new Bonneville reports, and saw you were undecided on the namespelling. Got me thinking. Love the salt shaker name so staying true to that, maybe just thisway ” A -SALT- WEAPON,” which it definitely is a weapon for the salt right? So thought I would try and help. Sounds pretty cool to me. With the salt weapon girl holding a gun like yourpictures and shooting the competitors or something of that nature. Well I have enjoyed reading your articles on Bonneville. I wish you and your 5-Ball racing team best of luck.Be safe, have a ball and kick the shit out of the salt for me,

–Eric Fertig

Click here to check our Bonneville progress reports.

THE SWEETNESS OF MARRIED LIFE– A couple had only been married for two weeks and the husband, although very much in love, couldn’t wait to go out on the town and party with his old buddies. So, he said to his new wife, ‘Honey, I’ll be right back.’

‘Where are you going, Coochy Coo?’ asked the wife.

‘I’m going to the bar, Pretty Face,’ he answered.

I’m going to have a beer.’ The wife said,

‘You want a beer, my love?’ She opened the door to the refrigerator and showed him 25 different kinds of beer, brands from 12 different countries: Germany, Holland, Japan, India, etc.

The husband didn’t know what to do, and the only thing that he could think of saying was, ‘Yes, Lollipop… but at the bar… You know… they have frozen glasses.. ‘

He didn’t get to finish the sentence, because the wife interrupted him by saying, ‘You want a frozen glass, Puppy Face?’ She took a huge beer mug out of the freezer, so frozen that she was getting chills just holding it.

The husband, looking a bit pale, said, ‘Yes, Tootsie Roll, but at the bar they have those ho rs d’oeuvres that are really delicious… I won’t be long. I’ll be right back. I promise. OK?’

‘You want hors d’oeuvres, Poochie Pooh?’ She opened the oven and took out 5 dishes of different hors d’oeuvres: chicken wings, pigs in blankets, mushroom caps, and little quiches.

‘But my sweet honey… at the bar…. you know there’s swearing, dirty words and all that…’You want dirty words, Cutie Pie?

LISTEN THE FUCK UP CHICKEN SHIT! SIT YOUR FAT ASS DOWN, SHUT THE FUCK UP, DRINK YOUR BEER IN YOUR FROZEN MUG AND EAT YOUR FUCKING HORS D’OEUVRES BECAUSE YOUR MARRIED ASS ISN’T GOING TO ANY DAMNED BAR! THAT SHIT IS OVER, GOT IT, FUCK FACE ?’

And…they lived happily ever after. Isn’t that a sweet story? —

–from Joe Lankau

FAMOUS FOOTPEGS FROM BATTISTINIS–Style comes full circle yet again. Designed to compliment the innovative styling of Battistinis grips, these footpegs and matching shifter peg are available in chrome finish, or the unique black anodizing which is applied before final machining to offer a bold, two-tone look.

Machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum for strength and drilled for lightness and style. Will fit all H-D models accepting male mount fitment.

For more information please contact

–Rikki Battistini
Battistinis Custom Cycles LLC
San Ramon CA 94582
925.270.4211
Rikki@battistinisUSA.com
WWW.battistinisUSA.com

THE 5 STAGES OF BEING DRUNK– Stage 1 – SMART

This is when you suddenly become an expert on every subject in the known Universe. You know you know everything and want to pass on your knowledge to anyone who will listen. At this stage you are always RIGHT. And of course the person you are talking to is very WRONG. This makes for an interesting argument when both parties are SMART.

Stage 2 – GOOD LOOKING This is when you realize that you are the BEST-LOOKING person in the entire bar and that people fancy you. You can go up to a perfect stranger knowing they fancy you and really want to talk to you. Bear in mind that you are still SMART, so you can talk to this person about any subject under the sun. Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan would fight over you!

Stage 3 – RICH This is when you suddenly become the richest person in the world. You can buy drinks for the entire bar because you have an armored truck full of money parked behind the bar. You can also make bets at this stage, because of course, you are still SMART, so naturally you will win all your bets. It doesn’t matter how much you bet ‘cos you are RICH. You will also buy drinks for everyone that you fancy, because now you are the BEST LOOKING person in the world. The bartender is pleased with how well you tip him. Of course you tip him well — you are RICH!

Stage 4 – BULLET PROOF You are now ready to pick fights with anyone and everyone especially those with whom you have been betting or arguing. This is because nothing can hurt you. At this point you can also go up to the partners of the people who you fancy and challenge them to a battle of wits or money. You have no fear of losing this battle because you are SMART, you are RICH and hell, you’re BETTER LOOKING than they are, anyway!

Stage 5 – INVISIBLE This is the final stage of Drunkenness. At this point you can do anything because NO ONE CAN SEE YOU. You dance on a table to impress the people who you fancy because the rest of the people in the room cannot see you. You are also invisible to the person who wants to fight you. You can walk through the street singing at the top of your lungs because no one can see or hear you and because you’re still SMART you know all the words.

–from Joe Lankau

BUBS MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIALS AT BONNEVILLE COMING QUICK–It is time again for the BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials at Bonneville. Last year we saw an exciting battle for the absolute Motorcycle land speed record, and this year, with all three streamliners signed up again- we are set to see if Manning will hold the record, or it will fall to one of his competitors. We have over 160 motorcycle ready to go, ranging from 50cc to 3000cc so this year is set to be another exciting year for the BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials.

If you have any question regarding the BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials please do not hesitate to contact me.

–Delvene Manning
Event Manager
www.bubspeedtrials.com
PH: 530 272 4310
FAX: 530 477 7489
Email: salt-info@bubspeedtrials.com

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS-Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, BUB Enterprises, Bikernet.com, Pingel Enterprises, Potter Lumber, HDT USA, NRHS V-Twin Performance, Buell Bros Racing, Bennett’s Performance, Bakker Motorsports, Dealer-World.com

DOUG’S CUSTOM PAINT CHECKS IN–Back in February Brett Smith – President of S&S Cycle – called me asking if I was interested in painting a bike for a well known TV celebrity. I yawned and said “I suppose” Yea right! I jumped at the opportunity!! We couldn’t discuss who it was at the time, but it didn’t matter to me, after all – DOUGZ paints for people from all walks of life. Whether they are someone famous, the local guy who hauls our trash, a restaurant owner, a CEO, it doesn’t matter. EVERYONE is important to us and we treat every one of our clients the same regardless of their income or social standing. But I have to admit, it felt pretty special being asked to paint a bike for Jay Leno!

Here is a link to learn more about the bike we painted for Jay.

Thanks Brett for asking DOUGZ to take part in this, Thanks Mobil 1 for coordinating this project by linking S&S Cycle with Jay and finally Thanks Jay for taking part in this. Hope you enjoy the new scoot! Also we’re painting a second helmet for Valerie Thompson who races in the AHDRA Destroyer class and is sponsored by Hacienda Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale, AZ. and Legend Air Suspension. We’re feverishly trying to get this one done for Valerie in time for her next race for Bikernet.com in Bonneville. Check out Valerie’s website at www.vtracegirl.com

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

Photo from Bob T. Collection.

BIGGER PIECE OF RALLY PIE SOUGHT–STURGIS – For years, South Dakota’s motorcycle mecca has tried to find a way to fully benefit from the thousands of dollars spent by the bikers.

Now, Sturgis residents hope a new city manager can help them use profits from the rally to lower property taxes for those who live in the community year-round.

Other Black Hills towns also are trying to benefit by closing down their main streets to motorcycle-only traffic and parking during a 10-day period each August.As Sturgis Mayor Maury LaRue sees it, towns such as Hill City and Custer are embarking on a journey that his town of 6,500 has been on for almost six decades. The street closures and temporary vendors follow the bikers, and the headaches seem to stick around all year.

“I’ve been through this event when it was only 3,000 bikers and we fed them in the city park,” LaRue said.With the Sturgis motorcycle rally crowds easily 100 – and maybe 200 – times that size for the past decade, the dynamics have changed.

For the city of Sturgis, the growing throngs translate directly into more garbage to haul away and the need for more law enforcement officers.

In June, Sturgis voters approved the hiring of a city manager, a move many see as the latest effort by Sturgis officialdom to find a comfortable coexistence with what has become the state’s largest tourism event.More specifically, locals are frustrated that the huge influx of bikers hasn’t translated into lower property taxes, and they hope a city manager will change that.

“That’s why it won. That’s why people voted for it, that right there – lower property taxes,” said Ryan Meyer, owner of Grocery Mart and a member of the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors.”Why are we not making more money off the rally as a city? That’s the question nobody has the answer to,” Meyer said. “We’re hoping a city manager can help us with those issues.”

LaRue tried to articulate why the property tax dragon will be difficult to slay, but he doesn’t want to dash hopes.

“Two words: expectations, reality,” he wrote in an e-mail, indicating that the latter probably won’t match the former.Sturgis’ situation is more complicated than a single event, no matter how large. Like most towns in South Dakota, it has watched its retail businesses close as larger cities nearby added big box stores and better roads made for faster trips.RogueSturgis Freedom FightersMotorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005www.bikerrogue.com

EASY RIDER Italian Style Festival & Bike Meetfeaturing Racing Aces to be held Sept. 9at Stamford Museum & Nature CenterAll motorcycle brands welcome!–(Stamford, Connecticut-August 9, 2007) ? EASY RIDER Italian Style Festival and Bike Meet featuring Racing Aces will be held at Stamford Museum & Nature Center Sunday, Sept. 9, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All makes and models of motorcycles are welcome! The festival also celebrates the opening of the museum’s new exhibition, The Motorcycle, Italian Style: Riding the Curves with MV Agusta, featuring the Gary & Connie Kohs Collection. The exhibition is being sponsored by Cliff’s Cycle Revolution, and made possible with support from the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism.

The museum’s first open air bike show, open to all makes, models and years of motorcycles, is sponsored by Stamford-based American Iron Magazine and RoadBike, and has been organized by the magazines’ publisher and AMA Hall of Famer Buzz Kanter along with staff from Stamford Museum & Nature Center and Cliff’s Cycle Revolution.

Trophies will be awarded at this open air show at 3:30 p.m. by the staff of American Iron Magazine and RoadBike. The festival will include Italian food provided by Enzo’s Italian Fine Food of Stamford, music by Odissea, and authentic Italian dancing. A live auction including ca. 1954 MV Agusta 125 TR (Turismo Rapido) will be held at 2 p.m. From noon to 2 p.m. visitors can get t-shirts and postcards autographed by 2006 Bonneville 1000cc land speed record holder Roosevelt “Rosey” Lackey, 11-year-old motocross champ Wilson Fleming of New Canaan, winner of the 88 cc junior division at the 2006 New England Regional Championships, and other Racing Aces.

Bring your cameras as there will be photo opps with bikes and leather jackets. Kids of all ages can stop by the EASY RIDER tattoo parlor for “lick and stick” tattoos and join in free family-friendly activities and crafts. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation will give safety demonstrations throughout the day.

Visitors won’t want to miss a visit to the Bendel Mansion Museum Galleries to see the vintage motorcycle exhibition featuring more than 30 vintage MV Agusta motorcycles.

The museum is also seeking volunteers to help out during this festival. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Kathy Ritch at 203.322.1646 ext. 6530 or e-mail kritch@stamfordmuseum.org.

Admission fees: Bike riders: $5 per person (includes entry in the trophied motorcycle shows), park in designated display area; Members: Family Plus & above, FREE; Adults $5; Children $2; Italian Center Members: Adults $5; Children $2; Non-Members: Adults $10; Children $5; All children 3 & Under, FREE. For more information, e-mail info@stamfordmuseum.org, visit www.stamfordmuseum.org or call 203.322.1646 ext.6521. Stamford Museum & Nature Center is located at 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford, CT (3/4 mile North of Merritt Parkway Exit 35.)

CHOP N GRIND RACE TEAM PLAN TO STORM BIKERNET HEADQUARTERS–They’re riding in from 3 Palms, California with a camera crew in tow. We’re on full alert. General-quarters was sounded. Hide all the good shit, the secret shit, the new shit and the women.

I told them directly, eyeball to eyeball, no cameras and we’d search ’em for tape recorders and note taking devices. Snake is a nervous wreck. He immediately went to the liquor store for a six-pack. Renegade broke into the weapons stash and loaded the Outlaw .45. The girls are running around the offices naked, squealing at the top of their lungs, “We’re not ready.”

Jeremiah ran to the House of Stainless to pick up our custom-bent bars and investigate our fork-wing fairing, but that’s secret shit. Can’t tell you much now. This weekend we’ll develop a front fender and fairing, install the Outlaw 120-Panhead engine, and this puppy will begin to come alive. Palm Springs Harley-Davidson is scrambling to help us with the missing component. Larry, their service manager, studied the SoCal dealer network and began to piece together our missing left leg assembly.

I’m peeling my ass away from the computer and back into the shop. Let’s hit it.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Thursday, November 8th: Cal Bike Week Pre Race “Nitro” Party: Earlier in the week, I had enjoyed an informative and cordial phone conversation with Pattie Hurt, the Marketing Director for Laidlaw Harley-Davidson on Puente Ave. near the intersection of the 10 and the 605 freeways in Baldwin Park, LA County CA. Consequently, it came as no surprise that she had the Cal Bike Week Pre-Race Nitro Party running in high gear right through the proverbial run out. Whether she was rocking the mike in her capacity as Mistress-of-Ceremonies or rounding up the principal personalities at the event for photo ops, her charm and enthusiastic demeanor had everyone in attendance in a festive mood.

Pattie introduced me to the owners, Brent, Bob and Jerry Laidlaw, who could quite possibly be the tallest dealership owners in the galaxy. Bob and Jerry both top out at around 6”6” and Brent is closer to 6’9.” The thing is, the hospitality at Laidlaw’s is as gracious as the owners are towering.

A bit later I got to meet Top Fuel competitor Phil Schmidt. He had obligingly agreed to set up and display his bike, at the event, so that attendees could get a close look at a prime example of a Top Fuel Dragster. When he fired it up in order to demonstrate the awesome sound generated by the 186” mechanically fuel injected V-Twin engine, the sonic shock wave must have rattled windows for several blocks in all directions.

Yeah Phil!

Friday, November 9th: The following day I cruised on over to he Fairgrounds in Pomona and caught up with Phil and his crew. Their mission was simple; post a respectable time during one of their three qualifying runs so they could focus on the elimination rounds on Saturday. I got a chance to meet Phil’s wife, Jeanie, who sings the National Anthem at many of the events, his lovely daughter Brooke Lynn who was “Miss AHDRA, Las Vegas, 2006” and his son Brian, who attends Cal State U Northridge, and also serves as a member of the pit crew. This story just keeps getting better and better.

When I asked him, “What in the name of all that’s normally aspirated possessed you to put a successful medical sales business on a back burner to go racing; on your own dime?” Phil admitted that he’d had some success at ET Motorcycle Racing, a handicap format, as a youth and that he’d always dreamt of owning and riding a real drag bike. At the tender age of 49 he determined that his financially situation was secure enough to support the pursuit of his passion. Rather than starting out in a somewhat less demanding sportsman class, he jumped right in, both feet first, with a Pro Dragster, one of three nitro burning classes in the AHDRA. That was in ’04. In ‘05 he won the National Championship, dominating the Pro Dragster class by winning 6 of 10 races.

Hmm, could it be that our boy is something of an over-achiever?

Saturday, November 10th, 11:40 A.M: Great news! In eliminating his opponent in the first round Phil ran 6.41 seconds at 225 mph setting a new National speed record for Top Fuel Harley-Davidsons. Elation! …Then disaster! Back in the pits the crew discovered a leak in the engine. The symptom was diagnosed as a scorched cylinder. When a Nitro motor is pushed to it’s limit the cylinder wall and piston can scorch, causing the engine to lose compression. Phil and the crew immediately began the process of tearing the motor down, when Race officials informed them that they had thirty minutes until they would be expected to stage for the next round.

The feeling of despair was almost palpable as the news worked its devastation on the spirits of the little group. They knew there was no way they’d be able to change out the rod/piston/cylinder assembly in such a short time. After the briefest of discussions there was really no argument. The men nodded to each other in unanimous accord. The engine would get bolted back together and if it started up they would wheel the record setting two-wheeled projectile up to the staging area. They had qualified, damn it! They had already vanquished one foe that day. They were gonna’ run and to hell with the consequences.

No sooner had crew chief, Ken Wilson, pulled the torque wrench off the last head bolt and lowered the lift than crewmember, Dan Rusk, engaged the starter motor. Low and behold the engine turned over and maintained an idle. Phil and the crew stepped back in disbelief. How could this be? Was it possible that the compression loss had been the result of a rare phenomenon? Apparently, the gaps in the piston rings had, randomly, lined up so accurately that the condition exactly duplicated the symptoms manifested by a scorched cylinder. The engine was Okay. In fact it was running great! High fives, hugs and s#$% -eatin’ grins all around. It was like getting a death row reprieve from the governor. As I hearken back to the scene, I can feel the chill blands creep over every square centimeter of my epidermis even as I put digits to keyboard.

Unbridled joy quickly turned into apprehension, however, when it was discovered that, in the next round, Phil would be going up against the current leader in the points chase, Doug Vancil, who enjoys the generous sponsorship of Vance & Hines as well as Parts Unlimited. What can you say? That’s the luck of the draw. Or more appropriate, in this case, “That’s racing.” As long as I’m parroting clichés let me throw in, “If you want to be the best…..” Anyway, while Vancil presented a formidable challenge he was no stranger to the Schmidt Racing Team, and as well as his bike was running Phil had every reason to be optimistic.

Both riders executed effective burnouts and staged without incident. The Christmas tree lit down and they roared off in apparent unison. Phil logged a quicker reaction time, of 0.055 seconds beating out Doug by 0.005 seconds. Phil went on to run, a very respectable 6.46 seconds, at 218 mph. Of course the Hollywood ending to this story would have him defeating the points leader and continuing on to win Top Fuel Eliminator. Yeah, that would have been the icing on the cake. However, Pomona, though it may be less than two score miles away from Sunset Boulevard, would possess no Hollywood magic on this day. No, it took a dominating 6.38 second performance by the king of the hill to do it, but when the smoke cleared, literally, Phil had been eliminated in the second round by 0.08 seconds. Eight one hundreds of a second, an inconceivably miniscule amount of time turned out to be the difference between advancing and calling it a day.

Back in the pits there was no weeping or gnashing of teeth. Experienced racers, their crew and their families are accustomed to the agony of defeat. Besides, Phil and the gang had set a new world speed record earlier that day. Then, they had gone on to back up the performance by giving the eventual winning Top Fuel Eliminator all he could handle. Such lofty accomplishments, punctuated by the emotional rollercoaster ride, that had accompanied them, would provide more than sufficient justification for a celebration. Then, once they’d managed to, mentally, put the events of the day in their rear-views, the Schmidt crew would sleep well that night.

Tomorrow they packed up and headed on out to Las Vegas, for the season finale, before finally wending their way back to the homestead in Sacramento. It’s been a long season and though the team may be a bit battered they’re not broken, not by a long shot. The experience they’ve gained during this year’s campaign will only serve to make them more competitive next year.

Mean while Phil Schmidt, his crew and their families are racing, “living the dream.”

One more thing; if you want to give odds against the inevitability that Phil will crack the top five in Top Fuel and one day, go on to be champion, you’re talkin’ to the right guy. I’ll take some of that action in a heartbeat!

Update: Sunday November 18th AHDRA Finals in Las Vegas NV: I thought you’d like to know that although he was ultimately eliminated in a later round, Phil blasted through the quarter mile in 6.323 seconds in the third round, a new personal best. That made him the #1 qualifier for the first time. No mean feat considering that the 25 contestants at this event made it the strongest field of the year in the highly competitive Top Fuel division.

Yeah Phil!

BIKERNET NEWS EDITS–GLOSS BLACK SISSY BAR FROM H-D, FRESH WHEELS DAILY FROM PICKARD, WELCOME TO ARIZON NACHO AND THE LIVIN END.

Continued From Page 4

BIKERNET CLICK-THROUGHS FOR BRASS BALLS–This is sorta a business bit, but it may interest everyone. This shows the number of folks who clicked over to Brass Balls from various locations. As you will see, almost half of the folks who visited Brass Balls last month came from Bikernet. That’s incredible.

When you’re a Bikernet reader and you find something on the site that interests you, we always try to post a banner for the company involved, so you have instant access to their web site. If the company does a good web job, you’ll find the info you’re after quick, goddamnit. We’re not messing around, right?

WELCOME TO ARIZONA NACHO– Saturday, September 8, at 6:00 pm at the Roadrunner Saloon on New River Road at the I-17 exit. The American Freedom Riders are holding a benefit for the family of maliciously imprisoned Border Patrol Agent Nacho Ramos. Band, food, raffle, and fun. J.D. Hayworth will emcee the event and speakers will be announced soon. Admission is $20 per person and proceeds will go to help Monica Ramos keep their house and make the trip from El Paso to Phoenix to visit her husband.

Agent Ramos was transferred to Phoenix on July 20th after spending six months at Yazoo City, Mississippi where he was severely beaten by illegal aliens. Nacho has lost 40 pounds and is in poor emotional condition as he remains in solitary confinement. We are working hard for his release but in the meantime this struggling family needs our help and they will be at the event to thank you.

For more information email: info@americanfreedomriders.com

FRESH WHEELS DAILY FROM PICKARD’S MARKET–Our goal at Pickard USA is to bring a fresh new approach to the custom motorcycle wheel industry. An extensive design and thought process has been applied to each wheel design, allowing the custom motorcycle builder a number of styling options, which range from sleek pro street, to that mean chopper look. And yes, the “Old School” look as well. Making that special build look like no other.

Call Bryan for Sales and Support 817-205-1776

Don’t take your eyes off of us because the competition will not be able too. One glance at the Black Jack wheel and you will become a fan for life of our cutting edge creations. Separate yourself, get some attitude, and use products from Pickard USA on you next serious build.

NEW GLOSS BLACK SISSY BAR AND RACK FROM HARLEY-DAVIDSON–MILWAUKEE (June 29, 2007) – New gloss-black sissy bar and luggage rack components from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories complement the black-out looks of the new Harley-Davidson Nightster and other Sportster models, and make adding a sissy bar and rack a simple “slide-and-click” proposition. The Detachable Sissy Bar Sideplates (P/N 52710-07, $139.95) and Short Rail Sissy Bar Upright (P/N 52706-07, $68.95) combination is lower than traditional low uprights, and the hidden backrest pad mounting system provides a sleek look when the pad is removed. The Tapered Luggage Rack (P/N 53510-07, $105.95) provides a solution for toting lunch across town or luggage across country. All fit most 2004-later XL models. See dealer for fitment details.

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

FLT/FXR SWING ARM RETROFIT KIT–Custom Cycle Engineering has developed a swingarm conversion kit that replaces the stock Cleve Bloc style swing arm bushings with spherical bearings. The conversion covers all the FLT and FXR models from 1980 to 2001. The swingarm conversion kit coincides with Harley-Davidson?s change from the Cleve Bloc bushing to a spherical bearing in all the 2002 and up FLT models.

The conversion over to spherical bearings in the early models dramatically changes the handling and tracking of all the FLT?s and FXR?s. The sticksion at the swing arm pivot is greatly reduced with the new spherical bearings. This allows for the swingarm to react quicker to any harsh road conditions keeping the wheel in contact with the road. The use of spherical bearings also helps negate any lateral and torsional movement in the swingarm by the shear dynamics of a spherical bearing.

The swingarm bearing conversion kit is a positive answer to the inherent ill handling problems of the popular Dresser models.

Note:Along with the installation of the Swing Arm Conversion Kit, Custom Cycle Engineering recommends the replacement of the old Rubber Mount Isolators with new replacements (P/N 47564-86 B).

Custom Cycle Engineering
1970 Peacock Boulevard
? Oceanside, CA 92056
Phone: 800-472-9253
? Fax: 760-941-6489

Damn–Almost spaced on the final chapter. I?m sitting here, twiddling my thumbs, waiting for the girls to wrap up the news. Then it dawned on me, the ending wasn?t polished to a luxurious finish.

I believe I?ll post another Bonneville Report tomorrow or Saturday, along with a report about Accurate Engineering, the only engine builder on the planet who currently builds state of the art Panheads. He?s the only builder who builds handbuilt performance engines to your specifications and they come so complete, you basically plug it in, hook up the gas line and go for a very fast ride. We hope to put one of his engines in the 200 mph club this year in Bonneville.

We had the wheels shaved by Nate?s on Signal Hill for more running patch and traction. Then they filled them with a special gas that makes the bike go much faster. It?s all secret.

Hang on for more features, techs, girls and well, you know. I?ve got to scramble back into the shop and you?ll see it all start to come together this weekend. Unless you?re in Sturgis. Bastards.

Billy from Spyke, an avid Bonneville racer, sponsored the Bikernet, 5-Ball effort with the charging and starting system. Watch for a report on their new programmable ignition system in the near future. It?s amazing.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

BIKERNET NEWS TOP STORIES–BATTISTINIS BRAKE ARM, SUPPORT INJURED BIKERS, WELCOME TO RIDLEY MOTORCYCLE CO., 2WHEELERS PRODUCT OF THE WEEK, KUSTOM BIKE COVERS FOR SALE, BULLDOG BASH, PANELS FOR RHINOS, BOOK SIGNING SCHEDULE AT STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM, EASYRIDER MOTORCYCLE RODEO TOUR, NEW BIKE FROM KIWI, AMERICAN PERFORMANCE CYCLE IN STURGIS, AND MORE STURGIS NEWS.

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BADLANDS RALLY CRY–When are we leaving for Sturgis? This seems to be the rally cry at the end of July each year. No matter what is happening there are always bikes that are being finished the night before we leave. This year is no different as we are jamming to finish two VXC bikes to take and show in Sturgis. Did I say Show? Yes, show not sell.

Back in the day (read 1999-2000) manufacturers went to Sturgis and sold 100 motorcycles during the week. But that has all changed. Last year we took 8 and sold 4 (two to rock stars Chad Kroger and Keith Urban). So unless the rock stars shine on us again, we are being realistic. Why the change? Now you can buy a “custom” bike in every mid-sized city in America. So everybody goes to Sturgis to ride and have fun and shop, but most buy at home from their local dealer.

Oh wait, maybe there is a reason to buy a motorcycle in Sturgis this year. Desperation. Yep, there will be dozens of manufacturers and dealers who show up with their 2005 & 2006 unsold inventory hoping to sell a few bikes and many of them will be offering incredible discounts, financing and incentives to unload their old inventory. Surely there will be bargains to be found. But for us this year we are bringing 6 new bikes to “show”. We’ll have our four new models:

DeLuxe & DeLuxe VXC
Drifter
Spyder
SuperSport & SuperSport VXC

We’re leaving the Nemesis at home and we are going to be working out of a booth with our dealer Pirate Motorsports. Come by and say hi, we’ll be at the Custom Corners lot at 1700 Lazelle. Maybe I’ll be glad we are going low budget this year or maybe I’ll look across the aisle and see Big Bear, Arlen Ness & Swift writing deals left and right. We’ll see.

On a non-motorcycle note:Please join me and Quick Throttle magazine and sign “Free the Texas Three and Secure our Borders” a citizen petition calling on President Bush to commute the sentences of both former Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean, and their colleague, former Sheriff’s Deputy Guillermo Hernandez; asking Congress to insist that the DEA prosecute Mexican national Osvaldo Aldrete-Davila on felony drug distribution charges; and demanding that Congress and the Bush administration secure our borders. I urge you to sign this petition today — right now! We are at 58,000 and need 100,000 signatures.

To sign this petition online, go to — http://PatriotPetitions.US/borders ?Stephen ? 2007 American Hotrod Manufacturing, LLC dba Vengeance Motorcycles ? All Rights Reserved

DON’T FORGET TO VISIT THE AMERICAN PERFORMANCE CYCLES BOOTH–Sturgis is right around the corner and American Performance Cycles/APC would like to invite you to drop by our booth to see our ’07 product line. Our booth is located at 4th and Lezelle Street, right across from the Dodge booth.

Many dealers have experienced a drop in sales of other brands of bikes due to a multitude of reasons including increased suggested MSRP’s, older designs, poor quality, warranty issues, the introduction of new ’08 Harley models with larger engines and tires?and the list goes on. APC dealers have recently experienced an increase in sales due to our dedication to quality, service, special financing and the ability to deliver bikes in 3-6 weeks from the date of order. We have many new and exciting programs specifically designed to help all of our dealers sell more bikes this year including 12 months free flooring through GE Capital for qualified dealers.

APC has recently been seen in almost every motorcycle magazine in the past year due to our public relations and marketing efforts and the desire of every major editor in the industry wanting to test ride an APC. Watch for bike features in Hot Bike, American Iron Magazine, IronWorks, Chopper Build, Easyriders, The Rider Group and many others.

Quality, performance, service and technology are all yours with APC and we look forward to seeing and working with each and every one of you this year in Sturgis!

–Mike Sample Jr.
702-290-9133/Cell

NEW BIKE FROM KIWI–Watch for this Indian styled bike at shows in Sturgis.

–Mike (Kiwi) Tomas
Kiwi Indian MotoCycles
www.KiwiIndian.com
ph 951 788 0048

Easyriders Motorcycle Rodeo Grand Nationals Return to Chillicothe, Ohio–2007 Tour Makes Final Stop at the Ross County Fairgrounds.(Newbury Park, CA) – June 2007 – Easyriders Events announces their 2007 Motorcycle Rodeo Tour Grand Nationals proudly presented by Lucas Motorcycle Oil Products. The tour makes its final stop in Chillicothe, Ohio at the Ross County Fairgrounds from August 30-September 3, where more than 20,000 motorcycle enthusiasts are expected to converge for three days of on-site camping, rodeo competition, live entertainment, and a myriad of other activities.

Two custom motorcycles will be given away to Rodeo attendees this summer: One, a 300 drop seat chopper built by Dorian Swanner of Carolina Custom Products, Inc.; and the other, a candy-apple red old-school-inspired bobber, built by Ralph Randolph Designs. Every attendee at the Rodeo will have a chance to enter to win one of these two beautiful machines, built from the ground up, specifically for Easyriders Events.

In addition to the motorcycle giveaways, Rodeo attendees will be able to camp on-site for the entire duration of the event, with “Gold Rush” earlybird camping beginning on Tuesday, August 28th. A limited number of Gold Rush packages are available for advance purchase at www.easyridersevents.com. Additional earlybird camping is available on Wednesday, August 29th. The unique aspect of the Easyriders Tour is that every location offers all of the amenities attendees need right on-site; which means there’s no need to leave the fairgrounds.

The Ross County Fairgrounds is busily readying their facilities in preparation of the arrival of thousands of bikers and lovers of the motorcycle lifestyle. Between Rodeo competitions, live performances by bands including Slow Ride, Jimmy Van Zant, Blackberry Smoke, Jasmine Cain, Geneva, Toyz, Full Throttle, Ray Street and American Dog, a multitude of vendors showcasing the latest in motorcycle industry wares, ride-in bike shows, trophy girl contests, food and beer on sale and on-site camping, the August 30-September 3 Rodeo in Chillicothe, OH is a veritable city offering something for every participant without the need to go anywhere outside of the event gates.

“Easyriders Rodeos are strictly 18 and over events that offer unparalleled opportunity for participants to transcend their normal everyday lives and really let their hair down. For many, these rodeos are an annual getaway from work, the kids and the stresses of everyday life,” said John Green, president of Easyriders Events.

For additional show schedule information, call toll-free (800) 962-9857 or visit www.easyridersevents.com. High resolution images and sponsor information are available exclusively at easyridersevents.com/pressroom. Photo Credit to: Photography by Billy Tinney.

BOOK SIGNINGS SCHEDULED AT STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM– August 2006 – – Two book signings are scheduled at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame during the 67th Annual Sturgis Rally.Monday, August 6th, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm CrumbGobbler Press authors Jeff and Miriam Aranson will be signing copies of their books “Little Mike and Maddie’s First Motorcycle Ride” and the hot-off-the-press “Little Mike and Maddie’s Black Hills Adventure”. CrumbGobbler Press is currently on site at the museum selling books from their vendor space on Junction Avenue (www.crumbgobblerpress.com). Both books will be available for purchase.

Thursday, August 9th, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm, Sturgis’ own Marian Hersrud will be on hand to sign her books, Sweet Thunder and Spirits and Black Leather, the sequel to Sweet Thunder, about a rally and a town not too unlike Sturgis. Both books will be available for purchase.Museum admission is $5.00 per person, $4.00 for persons 65 and older, children 12 and under are admitted free of charge (must be accompanied by a paying adult).The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame will be open with special Rally hours from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm beginning Thursday, August 2nd continuing through Sunday, August 12th..

For further information on the Museum or the Rally visit our web site at www.sturgismuseum.com or call 605/347-2001.

–Marcia F. Dunsmore
Interim Executive Director, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
605.347.2001
999 Main Street, Sturgis, SD 57785
fax 605.720.0632
www.sturgismuseum.com

WIDE BODY PANELS FOR HOT RHINOS–Pro-One recently launched a complete line of custom accessories and replacement parts for the Yamaha Rhino. Their 6 piece replacement body panel kits are a direct bolt on install and perfect match when installing oversize rims and tires and lift kits; not to mention very cool looking. Available in 5 colors, red, blue, black, yellow and white they are made of hand laid fiberglass.

Each kit provides a new hood, wider front and rear fenders with flares, lower quarter panels and dash. For complete details contact Pro-One at 909-445-0900 for the dealer nearest you.

Make sure you visit www.pro-one.com and check out the extensive collection of suspension, body parts, chassis components and accessories coming out of Pro-One exclusively for your Rhino.

BONNEVILLE FASTEST AMERICAN BIKE CONTINGENCY PRICE FROM NICK–Nick’s Performance Accessories is once again offering a $500.00 Contingency Prize for Fastest American V-Twin using Amsoil Synthetic Motorcycle Engine Oil this year at the 4th Annual BUBS Motorcycle Speed Trials.

Last year the prize went to N.R.H.S. Racing for their 217 mph Buell. Who’s gonna take the prize this year? Looks like N.R.H.S. is the team to beat but at Bonneville anything can happen.

See You on the Salt,

–Nick Roberts
For All Your High Performance Lubrication Supplies.
Nick’s Performance Accessories
Phone: 502-548-3023
Fax: 509-691-4313
amsoildealer@mac.com

BULLDOG BASH CELEBRATES 21ST ANNIVERSARY– The Bulldog Bash 2007 is expected to be a sell-out as the event celebrates its 21st birthday. This years head-line band Status Quo are adding to festivities on Friday 10th August, celebrating forty-two years on-the-road, the only UK festival appearance of the quartet. The awesome “Dammed” will be wowing revellers on Saturday night.

Taking place in the heart of England at the Shakespeare County Raceway, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Europe’s leading biker festival is set to break all records with an expected attendance in excess of thirty thousand bikers with visitors travelling from all over the World.

Serious petrol-heads will ride their bikes straight to the drag-strip and compete in the famous Bulldog Bash Run-What-You-Brung. For the uninitiated; this is an open form of DIY drag racing, where you pit your skills against a peer and ride as fast as you dare over a quarter mile drag-strip. Avon Park proudly boasts one of the best racing surfaces in Europe.

Those less inclined to participate in the action watch open-mouthed as top stunt professionals amaze onlookers with formation wheelies and doughnuts; top fuel dragsters scream down the strip, funny cars, Nitrous Harleys, a hydrogen peroxide-fuelled rocket bike and Sikorsky powered Jet Cars ensure that visitors reach for their earplugs. “This is one spectacle not to miss” say the organisers.

Another visitor attraction is the custom show, where the best bike builders in Europe display some of the most unique machinery you’re likely to see in the UK. The organising team approach the annual Custom Show with the same knowledge and passion that has been typified in organising the drag-strip. There was keen competition for the top prizes in 2006, as wild and wacky bikes, trikes and custom Hot-Rods from all over Europe descended on Shakespeare County Raceway, there is no doubt that it will continue to grow in 2007, pushing the boundaries of style and excellence. To see last years show winners go to the website www.bulldogbash.com

Visitors can also expect to see a fantastic line-up of un-signed bands, get entertained in the adult zone, or dance till they drop in the all-night dance tent. All-comers wrestling bouts will take place all weekend alongside a massive village of trade stalls selling all kinds of biking and alternative lifestyle kit, let alone a host of tattoo and piercing parlours. Among many other highlights promised are the ‘Wall of Death’, the ‘Topless Bike Wash’ and a fairground full of ludicrous white knuckle rides.

“We really are expecting 2007 to be the best ever, it’s got everything for everyone, families included, but most of all, it’s a spectacle that is unique to the UK and the biker community”. says Bilbo, from the organising team

Admission includes all camping fees and facilities for the long weekend. Tickets priced ?50 are now available online www.bulldogbash.com or on a first come, first served basis at the gate.

BIKE COVERS FOR SALE–Here are two pic’s of our Blue and white Kustom Bike Cover.They are water resistant, have an elasticized hem, breathable, and non scratch. Come complete with Storage bag and in store hanger bag.

Other colors available – Orange and black, red and black.

–Jody
jodyckd@gmail.com>

2WHEELER STURGIS PRODUCT OF THE WEEKThe 2Wheeler gang is set up at the 20-year location on main in Sturgis. Hot this week is Rocky Mountain Bikerwear custom leather for ladies found at 2 Wheelers.

Stand out in a crowd we do!

WELCOME TO RIDLEY MOTORCYCLE COMPANY–Ridley has built a great reputation with dealers and consumers alike since 1997. First entering the motorcycle scene with the now infamous ? scale Speedster model which has now been out of production since 2005. Since then thousands of customers have been thrilled with the company’s full size, low seat height, 44 cubic inch Auto-Glide. With its low center of gravity, light weight and CVT automatic transmission, the Auto-Glide has become the ideal motorcycle for any one looking to enjoy two wheel riding. For beginner riders as well as those returning riders every one finds a smile from the first twist of the throttle. Ridley Motorcycles give the rider a sense of confidence and safety beyond compare. The company has become known as the fun motorcycle for everyone regardless of age, gender or experience. I invite you to join us at the Top 50 Rally Park during Sturgis Bike Week for a demo ride and experience the Automatic Fun that only comes from riding a Ridley.

With the recent paradigm shift in the motorcycle industry, Ridley Motorcycle has found that “timing is everything”. The company’s focus in creating a motorcycle that’s fun to ride is now paying off. High customer satisfaction and owner loyalty are just a few of the measurable ways Ridley finds its success in the market. “Riders today want fun, and we’ve got more than anyone else in the business” commented Jay Ridley about Ridley’s rise in popularity over the past six months. According to industry research, new riders and women are the fastest growing segment of the motorcycle market.

WE LOVE IT! I just wanted to write and thank you all for building these motorcycles. We just purchased a Classic one week ago and already have a little over 700 miles on it.

I first test drove it and after returning I told my wife she HAD to ride it. After she rode it there was nothing else to do but buy it. And that’s what we did.

Thanks again for offering these unique and wonderful motorcycles. -Mitch S. (Loveland, Co)

–Bob Kay
Director, North American Sales & Dealer Services
Ridley Motorcycle Company
(405) 525-5400

SUPPORT YOUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS–Please mark your calendars and consider attending and supporting these injured bikers. This is what brotherhood is supposed to be about. Jack and Patti were victims of a pickup truck driver who violated their right of way. Jack is a member of the CC Riders MC and a former regional representative of ABATE of Wisconsin from the Madison area. Our firm represents Jack and Patti Taaffe, and we also assisted ABATE of Wisconsin in drafting legislation that increased the penalties against right of way violators.

Hupy and Abraham, S.C. is proud to sponsor the Charlie Brechtel Band, coming directly from the Buffalo Chip campgrounds in Sturgis, South Dakota, where they are considered the house band and open for many of the top national acts.

BATTISTINIS BIKERNET WEEKLY PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT, THE BATTISTINIS BRAKE ARM–Style comes full circle yet again. Adding to the impressive lineup of quality components from Battistinis Custom Cycles, their new brake lever for FLT/touring models sets a higher standard. Machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum for strength and drilled for lightness and style, Battistinis new brake lever stands apart from the rest. Available in chrome or the now trademark black anodize/machined finish, this brake lever matches perfectly with the products in the Battistinis line. Stay ahead of the pack and get your Battstinis on today?

For more information please contact

–Rikki Battistini
Battistinis Custom Cycles LLC
San Ramon CA 94582
925.270.4211
Rikki@battistinisUSA.com
WWW.battistinisUSA.com

Continued On Page 5

BIKERNET STURGIS NEWS AND SPECIAL REPORTS– CONFERDERATE AT MOTO EXPO, DAR BOBBER LUNCH IN STURGIS, LETTER ABOUT HELMETS LAWS THAT DONT WORK, STEALTH REPORT ON RUN FOR BREATH, EURO HOG RALLY AND THUNDER ROAD LINE UP.

Continued From Page 2

STURGIS THUNDER ROAD LINE-UP–I thought your readers would be interested in hearing about some of the top events at Thunder Road for Sturgis Bike Week. I’ve attached information regarding Thunder Road’s bike shows, bands and entertainment. I’ve also attached information about Michael Lichter’s 7th Annual One World Choppers Show, an influential art show featuring 24 foreign-born builder-artists from around the world. Below you will find a convenient list of events at Thunder Road as well.

2007 EVENTS AT THUNDER ROAD

Weekly Events:Michael Lichter’s Motorcycle-As-Art Exhibit “One World Choppers”, August 3-10.

STROKERS STURGIS: A little slice of Dallas in the heart of the Thunderdome. The baddest bikes, hottest chicks and coldest beer? Rick Fairless’ Strokers Sturgis is open daily, 9 am to 7 pm, August 3-10.

Seminole Hard Rock Caf? Celebrity Bike Tour

Miss Sturgis Autograph Sessions from 11 am to 4 pm, August 3-10.

Boss Hoss Demo Rides- August 3-11, 8 am-6 pm.

Las Vegas Trikes Demo Rides – August 3-11, by appointment only.

Daily Events:
Friday, August 3rd
Thunder Road and the Thunderdome open at 9am

Saturday, August 4th

Sunday, August 5th
Feel The Thunder Race Bike show ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free).

Monday, August 6thTHE HORSE, Backstreet Chopper Sturgis Invasion Bike Show. ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free)

Tuesday, August 7th
9 am -6pm – 5th Annual Metzeler Sturgis V-Twin Custom Bike Contest. ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free)
4-6 pm – Public Reception for Michael Lichter’s Exhibit “One World.” Meet the featured builders and artists.

Wednesday, August 8th
9 am -6 pm – Sculptures In Steel Bike Show. Awards at 5 pm. ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free)
6-10 pm – Charity auction and private party hosted by Phoenix Airbrush and Planet Color (Sherwin-Williams) and IronWorks magazine.

Thursday, August 9th
9 am -6 pm – Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show. Awards at 5 pm. ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free)

Friday, August 10th
Trike Wars – The Power of Three Trike Show. Awards at 5 pm . ($5 admission to Thunderdome, free parking & Glencoe campers get in free)
Thunder Road and the Thunderdome close at 7 pm

For updates, be sure to sign up for our newsletter at www.sturgisbikeweek.com

Click the banner for Bikernet Advertising Rates and services.

TUCK A BUCK RUN – AUG 11– Sponsored by Full Throttle Magazine and Nightmoves Magazine. Run Starts at Foxy’s Show bar 13415 N. Nebraska Ave. Tampa. Sign up at 4pm with the last bike out by 8pm. There will be food, vendors, a bikini bike wash, 50/50 and great give-a-ways. Stops also include 2001 Odyssey, Deja Vu and Scarlett’s.

There is a guaranteed prize fun of $1,600.00. 1st place $750.00, 2nd place $500.00, third place wins $250.00 and last place wins $100.00. Entry fee is $20 per hand and includes 1 poker hand, event t-shirt and arm band for free entry to the clubs. Extra poker hands can be purchased for $5 each. % of the money collected will be donated to Peewee of Full Throttle for his “New Leg” Fund. Vendors wanted call 813-814-1424 for more information.

Full Throttle will also be at the Too Broke for Sturgis event the same day in Charlotte County.

AUGUST 11 – TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS —August 11th (Saturday)- “TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS” Motorcycle Rally at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds. $10 tickets at the gate, $8 advance. Live music with great regional bands, food, beer, full liquor bar, vendors, and contests. Gates open at noon. Your price of admission includes a chance to win a new 2007 Harley-Davidson motorcycle with the drawing at 8PM. No charge for parking, no coolers please.

Have a great weekend and be safe.
–Tony Cianci
Editor – Florida Full Throttle Magazine
www.fullthrottleusa.comtonyc@fullthrottle.com
850 Dunbar Ave.
Oldsmar, FL 34677
800-889-8180 – Toll Free
813-814-1424 – Local Office

5-BALL RACING TEAM QUESTIONED BY J&P–Been to the dyno yet? One month from tomorrow! Better get that nitrous dialed in…..

–Scott A. Holton
Senior Technician

You’re right. Won’t have the engine from Accurate Engineering until the end of next week. Still need to build the front fender. We’re scrambling. The painted frame is on the lift, and I’m missing one part of the front end. We’ll make it.

By the end of next week the front fender will be at paint and we’ll make the pipes. By the first of the following week, we should be running. Hang on.–Bandit

EUROPEAN HOG RALLY ROCK THE WORLD–Ela came out of hiding to cover the recent massive European HOG rally. Watch for more coverage coming soon to Bikernet.

EXERPT FROM BIKERNET DATING BOOK–A guy walks into a bookstore, not looking for anything in particular. On his way to the back of the store, he spots something of interest. A book by Bikernet staffer, Snake, with a very interesting title, “Dating for the New Millennium. What Women Want.” So, he picks it up and opens it to a random page.

“Chapter 1: The First Date.”

He glances the chapter over for a few minutes and then rushes out of the bookstore to call a girl he’s wanted to ask out for quite awhile.

When he gets home, he picks up the phone and calls her.

She answers, “Hello?”

He says, “Hi, Jessica. Listen, I was wondering if you would want to go see a movie with me tonight?”

She says, “Sure, I don’t see anything wrong with that.”

He gets excited. He thought she’d say no way, but she didn’t. So, he decided to take it one step further.

He asks, “Great, well how about dinner before the movie?”

She replies, “Sure, that would be great too!”

“Fine, I’ll pick you up about nine. You should be finished eating by then.”

–from CarlR

RUN FOR BREATH SUCCESS FOR 8TH YEAR–Sunday July 22nd the 8th Annual Run For breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin” took place. We were blessed with a beautiful day, 85 degrees, sunny, no humidity and a slight breeze, PERFECT!

The crew at STEALTH BIKE WORKS arrived at 8:30 Sunday morning to set up registration. The poker run started at 10am. The riders came in packs of 5 or 6 at a time so everyone was taken care of with little delay. The poker run hands were one for $10 and three for $25, most of the riders went for the three for $25. At the end of the day this really added up. There were also run t-shirts for sale for $15. Chris Kallas did a GREAT job designing the shirt and compliments were passed along all day on the shirts. Thanks Chris for your efforts on the run t-shirt! We have a few left if anyone would like one. The money will go to the American Lung Association. If you are interested in a shirt give me a call at STEALTH BIKE WORKS, 704-882-0889.

Winner of the Justin Award.

The day moved on and we headed for Lone Star Steak House in Monroe NC. It was a short trip for the SBW crew. It was only a 10 mile ride for us as we closed down and headed for the bike show.

The numbers were not as big in the bike show this year but the bikes were big on quality! This year we had one class for all bikes and gave awards for the top 10 bikes. In addition we gave a “Best of Show” award made by Bandit and we also give an award we call the “Justin” award. This award is kinda like an editor?s choice award. I pick a bike that doesn’t win in the bike show but for one reason or another stands out. The awards for the bike show are all hand made from used bike parts. The awards were some of the best we have ever had.

All day people seemed to have a GREAT time and the people at Lone Star did an outstanding job. All day people would come up say how much they appreciated the Run For Breath making a comeback.Plans are already being made for next year!

At the end of the day the Run For breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin” had raised $4300! That is enough to pay for the American Lung Associations Camp Air Care next summer, a week long camp for kids with asthma.

Best Of Show winner. Trophy made by Bandit.

So the 8th Annual Run For Breath goes down in the books as not the biggest but in my opinion the best so far. I would like to thank Lone Star for all they did, all the volunteers who gave their time to help, and to my wife Sandy(a.k.a. “THE MEANEST,” she is the one who makes the RFB happen on the day of the run. Last but not least, Thanks to all who participated in the 8th Annual Run For Breath. you make the RFB what it is, a GREAT event! We will see you all next July!

—STEALTHMAN

THE BONNEVILLE SALT REPORT– July 30, 2007Larry Volk called Mike Waters this afternoon (7-30-07) about 2:30, he had been out on the salt.Conditions are as follows:There is standing water, about 6″ deep at the end of the road,There is about 2″ at the starting lines and it’s about 1″ deep at the 2 mile.The courses are in need of further work (Dragging) due to the flooding.

The salt is mostly dry around the side of Saldero Dike.

Illustration by Dick Allen

A LETTER ABOUT HELMET LAWS THAT DON’T WORK–I read your article and feel you did a good job researching the data. Except, as usual, it misses the point that motorists in the US (Cars &Trucks) drive like inattentive morons.

Yes, I wear a helmet, boots and an armored jacket, but that won’t prevent some distracted motorist from turning into me, turning in front of me or running into the back of me. When will the issue become, “teaching, testing and enforcing safe driving practices?”

My company belongs to the Motorcycle Industry Council and at our annual meeting in February the guest speaker was Mary Peters, now Secretary of Transportation. The good news is that she and her husband both ride their own motorcycle. The bad news is that her big plan to reduce deaths is to encourage motorcycle dealers to give away helmets on every motorcycle purchase. You know what? Most dealers I know would do that, if motorcyclists would get equal rights and protection under Federal and State law. But damage control with increased helmet use is only one part of the answer. How about preventing the collision from happening in the first place?

Here in Arizona if a motorist runs into or over you, but they’re not alcohol or drug impaired they will go free almost 100% of the time; they won’t even get a traffic ticket. In just the last two years in our little community of Prescott, Arizona a female rider was killed when an auto-driving woman turned left in front of her. The woman admitted seeing the motorcyclist, but thought “she had more time”. No ticket issued, even though a mother of three was killed.

Just this June four motorcyclists were riding near Prescott when an oncoming truck illegally crossed the double yellow to pass a slow moving vehicle and hit the motorcyclists head-on. Two died at the scene. The other two were air evacuated in critical condition. No ticket issued, even though the trucker made an illegal maneuver and killed two people.

Two years ago a good friend and one of the best motorcycle restorers I knew, Lynn Snodgress was riding with his wife and was hit head-on by a vehicle that crossed the centerline into his path. He and his wife died at the scene. No ticket issued.

The first week of July a friend of mine, Wayne Pierce, owner of Pierce Harley-Davidson of Dekalb, IL was killed when a Jeep turned left in front of him. No ticket issued. Wayne was 56, an experienced rider and a strong advocate for safe riding. He always wore a helmet, but that didn’t save him when he T-boned the 2-ton vehicle that turned into his path.

And last. I want to point out how car commercials have changed in the US in the last couple years. For example, a Subaru ad running recently for their Impreza shows a young woman checking her makeup, adjusting her boyfriend’s hair and then pulling a U-Turn from the curb to be on her merry way. All the while the voice-over is pitching the attributes of the Impreza enjoying a 5-star crash rating. So, it seems that car manufacturers have figured out that Americans drive like idiots, so they can sell cars based on protecting them from the many crashes they’re sure to have in their lifetime. And, I might add, that car manufacturers continue to add electronic gadgets to their cars, only to draw more critical attention away from the road.

My opinion is that the motorcycle industry is headed for a major crash. That before too long, if left unattended motorists will make it just too dangerous to ride. The result? Mass exodus from an industry that does in the neighborhood of $20-billion in sales per year. Putting hundreds of thousands of people out of work. Putting millions of motorcycle riders into cars and trucks to clog the roads even more. When that happens we all lose the benefits of more motorcycles on the road more often. Motorcycles produce less road wear, use fewer natural resources, can park 2-3 to one car space and reduce gridlock.

It would be nice if a prestigious paper like yours would address these concerns before it’s too late. To date the only major entity doing this is the American Motorcycle Association that sponsors a program called “Justice for All”. They have lobbied to get 11-States to enact some sort of legislation that encourages better driving by enforcing severe penalties for injuring or killing motorcyclists by inattentive or illegal driving.

Thank you,

–David G. Koshollek
DAKO Management Company, LLC
Prescott, AZ 86305
Tel: 928-445-8286
Fax: 928-443

DARWIN MOTORCYCLES WILL HAVE LUNCH READY IN STURGIS–Darwin Motorcycles, the manufacturers of Brass Balls Bobbers and Choppers, is providing a lunch for the media on Thursday, August 9, 2007 at 12:30PM at the Brass Balls Transporter located at 955 Lazelle, down the street from the Broke Spoke Saloon.

Master Designer Dar Holdsworth and Master Builder Sam Wills will be on hand to showcase their cutting edge old skool kool Bobbers and Choppers. Each Brass Balls motorcycle comes with an Indian Power Plus option that really make these bikes standout.

The introductory Bobber from Darwin Motorcycles is value priced at $16,995 that rivals motorcycles over $20,000. That?s why we say that Darwin Motorcycles is Building Above Average Bikes for the Average Joe!

These bikes are locked, cocked and ready to rock. Motorcycles will be available to the media for test rides. Spend your lunch hour on us and meet Dar and Sam at 955 Lazelle. Dar?s call is 405-388-8883.

BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Have one on me at Sturgis ’07.

Live it up!
–Whiplash Biker Photog
mailto:whiplash@photo.net>whiplash@photo.net

MYSTERIOUS FLAKE DISCOVERED– I was told the flake was found and shipped out to you today. Wait till you open the jar and see it in the sun. Your going to love it. Let me know when you get it. The manufacturer said he doesn’t know if it was us or not but since we have been showing our bike, it has been moving off the shelves steady.

Things always look better when you see them in person.

— Jerry
Rollin Sixes.

BIKERNET GARDENING CIRCLE– A man and his wife were working in their garden one day and the manlooked over at his wife and said: “Your butt is getting really big, I meanreally big. I bet your butt is bigger than the barbecue.”

With that, he proceeded to get a measuring tape and measured thegrill and then went over to where his wife was working and measured hiswife’s bottom.

“Yes, I was right; your butt is two inches wider than thebarbecue!!!”

The woman chose to ignore her husband.

Later that night in bed, the husband was feeling a little frisky. Hemade some advances towards his wife who completely brushed him off. “What’swrong?” he asked.

She answered: “Do you really think I’m going to fire upthis big-ass grill for one little weenie

–from Chris T.

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CONFEDERATE MOTOR COMPANY TO EXHIBITAT MOTOEXPO SAN DIEGO–Del Mar, CA, August 1, 2007 —- Confederate Motor Company – the legendary, 16-year-old motorcycle company that has achieved reverential respect and near-instant celebrity cult status – will exhibit its revolutionary radial twin B120 Wraith at MOTOEXPO SAN DIEGO, October 6 and 7 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

David Arnold, show director, made the announcement this week. The first annual event will bring together a remarkable assemblage of one-of-a kind, handcrafted motorcycles, along with a juried show of customized sports and street cruisers.

“We believe this will be the first appearance of the B120 Wraith in San Diego, ” says Arnold. “It is a totally awesome bike and its debut here it is expected to generate a lot of buzz among collectors and aficionados because it follows on the heels of the company’s extraordinary Hellcat motorcycle, the bike associated with Tom Cruise and Brad Pitts. We’re fortunate because both the Hellcat and the B-120 Wraith will be on display.”

The B-120 Wraith, according to Confederate officials, was inspired by the pre-1916 era of motoring and “the courageous free spirited nature of the board track racer.” The company’s Website says that the 1911 Pierce “illuminates what the Wraith would be – the world’s most luxurious, sporting two-wheeled device.” Only 250 B-series – starting at $55,000 – will be created, according to the company.

“It’s a thrill for us to be invited to showcase our new B120 Wraith at MOTOEXPO San Diego,” says Matt Chamber, Confederate president, in a written statement to MOTOEXPO San Diego. “We eager to share her with San Diego and be able to tell her story with motoring enthusiasts in attendance. “

“Having both the B-120 Wraith and Hellcat at the MOTOEXPO SAN DIEGO is quite an honor, ” says Arnold. “The B-120 Wraith design and engineering is evocative of individuality so much associated with riders and collectors.”

First-in-the-world features of the B-120 Wraith, according to the company’s news release, include the first triple load path carbon fiber Monocoque chassis design and the first-ever carbon fiber, multi-link double wishbone front suspension. Other features unique to the B-120 Wraith include:

? Lightweight, single-sided aluminum rear suspension
? Multi-adjustable Penske titanium coil over shock dampeners
? Patented Confederate close ratio, vertically-stacked, five-speed transmission with output shaft bearing support at the swing arm pivot
? Counter-balanced 120 cubic inch 45-degree radial twin power

“This is totally cool to have both bikes – the Hellcat the B-120 Wraith at MOTOEXPO,” says Arnold. “Typically, when people gawk at these bikes they seldom notice that a celebrity is in the saddle – that’s how amazing they are in terms of design and aesthetics.”

Trekking from Alabama, the Confederate Motor Company will be part of the expansive line-up that will include Jason Britton and his team of extreme motorcycle stunt riders and the personal appearance of wrestling superstar GOLDBERG, star of Spike TV’s “Bullrun,” and an avid motorcycle enthusiast and collector.

The two-day event will also feature a dazzling array of vintage motorcycles and MOTOMASTERS – an invitation only, beyond-the-jury collection of priceless, one-of-a-kind handcrafted motorcycles that epitomize the highest achievement in aesthetics and engineering. Among the first entrants is Christian Dotson’s award-winning bike that won the coveted “America’s Most Beautiful Motorcycle award” at this year’s Los Angeles Roadster Show in Pomona. Tickets will be available online and at the gate. For additional information go to www.motoexposandiego.com

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