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Read More June 21, 2007 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
ANOTHER BIKERNET ART MUSEUM EXHIBIT–This bike is made from scrap, trash and garbage. Including swing set parts, lawn mower parts and things you would not believe. It was made with little to no money, with equipment and a welder that are old and don’t work properly. It was made by a disabled man on disability who has arthritis so bad in his hands that his fingers are deformed and mangled, with several other health problems that would make this impossible for anyone else to do.
It was just brought out of hiding for the first time at the Field of Steel motorcycle show in Troutman, NC. on June 9 2007. This bike won best in show and was the most looked at and the most pictures taken of out of hundreds of custom Harley’s and many other bikes by 50 to 1.
What little of this machine that was actually made from a motorcycle was from an old beat up 650 Yamaha. And yes it runs, is ridden and sounds great! There are over 150 pcs. in just the head, not including the handle bars and over 150 pcs. in just the tail.
Pictures do not do this bike justice. It must be seen to fully appreciate this work of art. It also has LED lights hidden in the eyes and other locations. It took over 600 hours to get to this point and the fine tuning still goes on. I personally see all kinds of potential in this bike, in this man and in his future projects.
If you feel the same way as I do, please contact me at –Gary THUNDER ON THE AVENUE&RIDE FOR THE BRAIN INJURY ASSOC. of NJ POKER RUN–Proudly Presented ByThe Vineland Downtown Improvement District /Vineland Main Street Organization ~ Sunday June 24, 2007 / Rain Date July 1st ~ The Poker Run will benefit the Brain Injury Assoc. of New Jersey The 80+ mile Poker Run will end on Landis Ave in Downtown Vineland * Winning poker hand receives $200 * Event highlights include food vendors, covered food court, beer & wine garden, three live bands on two stages, WVLT-92.1 Radio live-remote, motorcycle dealer displays, motorcycle clothing & accessory vendors, portable “dyno” runs from 2:00pm-8:00pm * Tattoo & Loud Pipes Contests with Cash Prizes * * Ride-In Bike Show with Trophies to Class Winners & 4′ Best of Show * * Frozen T-Shirt Contest * ** The HOOTER GIRLS will be posing for pictures with you and your bike ** Poker Run Registration from 10:00am-12noon in Giampietro Park The $15.00 (rider) and $10.00 (passenger) registration fee includes an event T-Shirt. Pre-registered participants will receive an event t-shirt, pin & mug. Additional information, vendor applications, pre-registration forms and directions are available at: www.thunderontheavenue.com or call 856-794-9368 BIKERNET STAFFER WINS THE LOTTERY–A woman came home, screeching her car into the driveway, and ran into the house. She slammed the door and shouted at the top of her lungs, “Honey, pack your bags. I won the lottery!” The husband said, “Oh my God! What should I pack, beach stuff or mountain stuff?” “Doesn’t matter,” she said. “Just get out.” –from Mothergoose ALL OF DEWEY’S PRODUCTS ARE MADE IN_NEW MEXICO U.S.A.–Custom Machined Aluminum Billet Footpegs, Billet Handgrips, “Heel Hammer” Shift Levers and Billet Aluminum “Rammer” Air Cleaner Covers for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles “Heel Hammer” Shift Levers (patent pending)No more scuffing of your shoes. Simply push down with your heel to upshift or push down with your toe to downshift! I have a 95 Inch 2002 TC88 FXD and with my big feet and long legs I needed a better solution for my daily driving. I ride a lot and with this new set up it’s like having a speed shifting automatic transmission. I machine the “Heel Hammer” out of billet 6061 T-6 and offer them in a triple plate show chrome or polished finish. I’m making these for forward control Dynas. They also will fit some Softail applications. We just recently performed a wonderful tech using Dewey’s Heel-Toe Shifter. Check it out, on the homepage now.–Bandit AUSTRALIAN BIKE MAG COMES TO BIKERNET– Attached is the cover for our latest issue, will get a copy to you in the post. All Killer, No Filler: that’s what you get with Australia’s own Kustom Kulture magazine TCB. This glossy colour quarterly is crammed cover-to-cover with some of the most impressive retro, rocker, rodded material you’ll see on the underbelly of the earth. Brimming with awesome photography, this home-grown gem is greased to the nines in old skool bikes and kustom cars, with a good nip of lowbrow art and artists thrown in, including offerings from some of the country’s top tattoo artist’s. Gracing the pages of every issue, TCB’s true-blue pin-up gal’s command attention – (keep an eye out for one at your local rod or tattoo show). TCB is published four times a year on premium quality A5 stock so you can really appreciate what you’re looking at. For individual copies, back issues and subscriptions, or to find your nearest stockists, visit www.tcbmagazine.com.au. Issue 4 OUT NOW Cheers THE PETER MCMANUS MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION TO BE AUCTIONED– Sunday 1 July,Location:Newton Solney,Derbyshire.Viewings: Saturday 30 June 9am to 5pm,An on the morning of the sale from 9am. Peter started motorcycling in 1939 aged 16. He served an engineering apprenticeship with Fletcher & Co in Derby during WW2 and towards the war’s end moved to neighbouring Rolls-Royce to work on aero engine development. Forsaking a career with Rolls, Peter set up a motorcycle dealership in Derby – Macton Motors – in 1947, ably assisted from 1949 by his wife, Edna. Macton Motors held a Norton agency and latterly one for Kawasaki, and continued in business until Peter sold up in the 1990s. A long-time member of the VMCC, Peter is retained by the Club’s ‘cherished number’ department as consultant engineer. He is also a keen amateur motorcycle historian and author of One Man’s Motorcycles: 1939-1949, a one-time best-selling title at the National Motorcycle Museum and shortly to be reprinted (signed copies will be available on viewing and sale days). Currently numbering some 150-or-so machines, the collection began back in the early 1960s and includes models dating from the 1920s to the 1950s, with a few more recent examples. All the big names of Britain’s post-war motorcycle industry are represented, while some of the rarer treasures include models from Connaught, Campion, New Imperial, Nimbus, Omega, Douglas and Bradshaw. The collection also encompasses a wide variety of scooters, including a rare Maico Mobil, surely one of the largest ever made, and a vast assortment of mainly British motorcycle spares. A further 15 privately entered machines are included in the sale. Among them are a 1912 Royal Enfield 6hp, 1914 Triumph 3?hp Model D TT Replica, 1920 Harley-Davidson 584cc Model W Sport, c.1921 Rex-Acme Motorcycle Combination, 1921 ABC 398cc, 1955 Vincent 998cc Rapide Series D and a 1965 Triumph 649cc T120 Bonneville. For more info check: http://www.bonhams.com, Lot 3831938 Nimbus 750cc Four & Bender Sports SidecarEstimate: ?3,000 – 4,000 CHILDREN’S CHARITY EFFORT–The Children’s Museum of LaCrosse will be accepting a $5.00 charitable donation at the gate.Saturday, July 7, 2007,Tri State Raceway,2217 270th Ave.,Earlville, IA 52041,563-923-3724.10:00 am – 5:30 pmGates open 8:00 am. BIKERNET’S BONNEVILLE RIDER VALERIE THOMPSON TO BE FEATURED AT STONE MOUNTAIN RACEWAY– The Stone Mountain Harley-Davidson Southern Nationals means another weekend of exciting AHDRA competition and a weeks worth of special appearances for me and my GoDaddy.com/Hacienda Harley-Davidson V-Rod Destroyer. When it was all said and done the team’s effort earned a move-up to 4th place in the National points chase and 2nd place in the Western Division. The big event before the races was at the Atlanta Motor Speedway where Rick, my teammate Bailey Whitaker and I made an appearance in front of 4-5000 race loving fans. It was the Castrol GTX Friday night drags and an amazing experience for me. The minute I unloaded my trailer I was signing posters until it was time to make a pass down the famous track. For the event, I was matched up with another team and we took the overall win along with a big trophy. Fridays test & tune session offered track conditions of 130 degrees and lots of shake down sessions. Temperatures that high make it tough for everyone but it didn’t stop the real racers from getting seat time before Saturdays qualifying. At the end of Saturdays qualifying the team finished in a disappointing 9th place but, took top speed honors at 140.40mph. Parts were breaking for every team and thanks to Rex Harris and his Race Pack connection; we had them the next day and got VTR into Sunday’s elimination rounds. All the while and back home in Arizona, map tuner Matt Gross from MMG was making map adjustments to each run via remote. The AHDRA fans got a real treat when driver Bob Vandergrift and his UPS Top Fuel dragster made a few exhibition pass’s at 300+ mph Sunday’s eliminations once again had VT and the National point’s leader LE Tonglet matched up in the quarter finals. It was a great race but LE took the win light and later advanced to another overall event win. In other news, the new official fuel for the AHDRA is a cleaner burning fuel and comes from Outlaw Racing Fuel. I’m proud to say Outlaw Racing Fuel is also a new team sponsor for VTR Team 2007 for the remainder of the season. Beginning May 29 Real Racin’ USA will feature a half hour of news and interviews from the All Harley Drag Racing Association. Real Racin USA features the top drivers in motor sports every Tuesday night 7-9 Eastern Time zone. Steve LeTempt, well know voice of the IHRA & AHDRA joins with the team to bring the latest news, results and interviews to the World-Wide Web. Real Racin’ USA is produced by Short Track America and KARNAC.com I would like to thank my sponsors for supporting VTR! GoDaddy.com –VT RACEGIRL BIKERNET BONNEVILLE UPDATE–Just finished reading the latest Boneville installment and you may regret not using Zeus fittings on the side panels. We used them on our race car and they are a life saver when you have to take body panels on and off. The fittings provide a positive lock with a 1/4 turn that do not need loctite or to be safety wired to insure security. Could I suggest that when you have the final mock up done then just drill out the 1/4 inch holes install the fittings on the panels and the wires on the tabs. Just my 2 cents –Boz Thanks Boz. We’re looking into it.–Bandit HONOR AND GRATITUDE AT 29 PALMS FROM SUCKER PUNCH SALLY’S– SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ – June 19, 2007 – On a hot day in late May, over 12,000 Marines and their families came out to the 29 Palms Marine Base to check out a trailer-load of custom bikes and old school choppers built by Sucker Punch Sally’s. Many Marines traveled long distances to come see the Sucker Punch bikes and hear some country music. It was a chance for Sucker Punch Sally’s to go out and support the troops in a way that allowed them to show their appreciation. “Sucker Punch has always supported the troops and when this opportunity came up we knew we couldn’t pass it up. We feel honored to be able to be considered and be a part of such a great event,” said General Manager Christian Clayton. Christian Clayton and SPS Co-Founder Jeff Cochran, were asked to come meet the troops at the “We Salute You” event on the 29 Palms Marine Base in California. They decided to do more than that and brought an entire trailer full of bikes and one of their lovely spokes models, Spring. A total of six bikes were lined up on the fairgrounds as well as the SPS Model A Hotrod. It gave the Marines and their families an opportunity to see some of Sucker Punch’s most popular bikes and talk with the guys who built them. Some of the conversations that were overheard were very poignant, such as when one unidentified Marine officer commented on looking at the SPS website while on assignment in Iraq. “Sometimes we would surf the net when we had some downtime and we would eventually end up on your site. It provided an escape and a common bond for me and my soldiers. We talked about bikes we would build when we got back stateside.” Comments like that made the whole trip worth it to the SPS crew. SPS has always openly supported the troops in whatever way they can. Beverly Cochran, Jeff’s wife, was in the Army and is a huge supporter of the troops and a huge reason why SPS has been so successful. Even when SPS first started, they have always given military discounts and have continued to do so for any persons serving in the military. Jeff said, “It was truly an honor to get a glimpse into the lives of some of the men and women who serve our country.” Big & Rich performed for the troops after many received posters and autographs from SPS. Sucker Punch Sally’s is a custom motorcycle manufacturer specializing in old school, stripped-down motorcycles. Co-Founders Donny Loos and Jeff Cochran, have a combined 25 years in the motorcycle industry and established SPS in 2002. In 2007 they moved their manufacturing facility to Arizona to better service their customers and now have 10 dealer across the United States. Their bikes have been featured in The Backstreet Choppers, BIKERNET.COM, Easyriders, Street Chopper, V-Twin, Barnett’s, Sync Magazine, Ironworks, Cyclesource and ,Hot Bike. Sucker Punch Sally’s is the place to go if you’re looking for a totally custom, old school chopper, or just a reasonably priced production bike. You can visit Sucker Punch Sally’s on the Web at For dealer inquiries contact Christian Clayton CANADIAN BURNOUT COMES TO BIKERNET– Got this photo from “The Canadian”. Might be a good shot for Thurs/Sun News! –Highway CRUISERCAST ANNOUNCES SERIES OF ONLINE PODCASTS FOR MOTORCYCLE CRUISER ENTHUSIASTS–Santa Cruz, Calif. June 18th, 2007 – CruiserCast today announced its free educational podcasts focusing on the cruiser motorcycle market. CruiserCasts’ podcast episodes are filmed in High Definition and are designed to introduce new products, technologies and experts within the industry to cruiser motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether it’s a new type of motor oil, new high performance product or the next up and coming manufacturer or motorcycle celebrity, CruiserCast will provide the best in nonbiased coverage. The use of High Definition allows CruiserCast to delve deeper and in a clearer manner than before. Unlike with photos, which present one point of view or with TV, which is available only at predefined times, Podcasts use the full power of video in HD clarity and are available on demand and all the time. Designed to educate instead of entertain, CruiserCast episodes stay on topic and are made by bikers for bikers. “Riders will benefit from CruiserCast if they are new to motorcycling or if they are advanced,” said Paolo Ciccone, producer and director of CruiserCast. “With Podcasts it’s easy to choose what you want to watch, and when you want to watch it.” Podcasts are digital media files distributed over the Internet and are available for free. They can be played back on portable media players or on personal computers. Viewers can subscribe to the free podcast feeds from iTunes so that new episodes download automatically to the viewer’s computer. They can also visit CruiserCast directly (www.cruisercast.com) and click on the podcast episode that interests them. CruiserCast plays on both PCs and Macintosh computers. “With the growing number of cruiser motorcycles on the market there has been a surge in manufacturers and products. CruiserCast will look at all the latest, cutting-edge news and report from a nonbiased point of view.” continues Mr. Ciccone. S&S SPONSORS DYNO SHOOT-OUT AT LA CALENDAR SHOW–S&S Cycle is the world’s leading manufacturer of high performance American V-Twin engines and performance parts used by many of the top custom bike manufacturers and builders in attendance every year at the annual Los Angles Calendar Motorcycle Show Weekend, July 14-15th at the Queen Mary Event Park in Long Beach, CA. One of the Calendar Motorcycle Show’s newest partners is S&S Cycle which is taking over sponsorship of the Calendar Motorcycle Show’s exclusive World Championship Horsepower Dyno Shoot Out in a perfect partnership to showcase the S&S Cycle product line’s proven performance image. Along with sponsoring the S&S Cycle World Championship Horsepower Dyno Shoot Out, S&S Cycle president Brett Smith , Marketing Director Timm Fields and Event Manager James Simonelli will be in attendance with a company product display. They will also be conducting an S&S Cycle Performance Seminar each day as part of the Show’s popular Calendar Bike Builder Seminars ( other Builder Seminars are hosted by top builders Jesse Rooke, Russell Mitchell, Joe Takai and Roland Sands) to answer attendee’s engine, performance questions.For complete details on the coming annual Los Angles Calendar Motorcycle Show Weekend on July 14-15th 2007 go to FastDates.com Continued On Page 3
–Matt Black
Enquiries
–Ben Walker
+44 (0) 8700 273 616
+44 (0) 8700 273 625 fax
ben.walker@bonhams.com
Hacienda Harley-Davidson
MAC Tools
Bikernet.com
Independent Cycles Inc.
Screamin Eagle Designs
Red Line Oil
MTC Engineering
The Real Security
Outlaw Fuel
Phoenix Bikers.com
June 21, 2007 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
Ah, the news is smoking today. There’s rumblings in the industry. Some biz is smokin’ and others are struggling. Santee was in business for almost 30 years. Their equipment is rolling onto the auction block today. They shut down a couple of months ago as the former exclusive frame builder for CCI. On the other hand Sucker Punch, Saxon and Big Dog will have their biggest years ever, this year.
Where some shops were struggling a month ago, everybody is damn busy now. It’s riding season, the holiday season for Bikers. Hollister is around the corner, then Sturgis. We are working with Gard of LA Chop rods on the Bonneville Bike, the Assalt Weapan, and we’ll bring you all the new LA Chop Rods parts soon. We’re meeting with our illustrious 5-Ball racing artist tomorrow. The bike is flying together, but I’m also running out of time. Let’s hit the news, then I’ll fill you in on the content scrambling toward the pages of Bikernet.com:
LEATHER ROAD TEST COMING–We have a wild new selection of leather on hand and a ride to San Francisco coming up to road test it. Little Joe’s Legendary Leather has developed leather pants that zip up over your denims. They’re amazing and we’ll share them with you next week.
S&S? ANNOUNCES MORE MAXTON MILE RECORDS–LA CROSSE, WI (June 08, 2007) S&S Cycle announces new world speed records set in the East Coast Timing Association Maxton Mile competition.
S&S employees Michael Scaletta and Jeff Bailey each hold land speed records. So when this spring’s Maxton, North Carolina event went up on the calendar, they set their sights on establishing more S&S Proven Performance? records. Past records set by both are available to view at www.sscycle.com .
Scaletta, Director of Business Development, took his 2004 Harley-Davidson? FXDI, equipped with a 121.61 cubicinch (2000cc) S&S T-Series engine, to set two new records. In the M/PG category he went 179.083 mph and in the M/PF class he went 179.899 mph. Both records are impressive, but even more so when you consider that it is an open bike-it has no fairing to block the wind! Scaletta is the grandson of S&S Cycle founder George Smith.
Engineering Manager, Jeff Bailey, competes with a 1999 Buell? X1, equipped with an S&S X100 that produces 137 rear-wheel horsepower. In the M/PF class he went 164.533 mph, then 160.407 mph in M/PBF and 161.847 mph in M/PBG. The following day, Bailey installed a small fairing and entered the partially streamlined category. He set three more records at 167 mph in MPS/PF, MPS/PBF and MPS/PBG.
“I want to thank Tim Culver and Grant Hillegass for their help,” said Jeff Bailey of S&S Cycle. “Grant was eager to learn, get involved, and lend a hand. Tim, again, did a great job as ‘crew chief’ for both bikes. He helped out with some tuning calls and was always there on the starting line to help us focus on the run,” continued Bailey. “All in all, I can’t be disappointed with 6 records in 11 runs, but I had really hoped to go over 170 and I spent the whole drive back to Viola, Wisconsin thinking about what changes I will need to make to crack the 170 mph mark.”
The ECTA (East Coast Timing Association) holds sanctioned land speed record events five times throughout the year. These events take place on a 1.9-mile concrete runway at the Maxton Airport in Laurinburg, North Carolina. The events are open to both cars and motorcycles.S&S Cycle has a rich heritage of setting speed records since the company’s inception in 1958. Today, S&S produces a variety of Proven Performance engines including their flagship T-124 used by Scaletta for his records, the X100 used by Bailey, and the 160″ Prostock motorcycle engine being used by several teams in the NHRA, including Chip Ellis on the S&S/Drag Specities/G2 Buell. For more information about S&S engines visit www.sscycle.com. For more information about the ECTA visit http://www.ecta-lsr.com/
MARYLAND LAWMAKER WANTS TO BAN BIKES–One Maryland lawmaker, speaking about sportbikes, claims they are “wreaking a tremendous amount of havoc on our roadways,” and says the state should consider banning the motorcycles from street use.
“They are potential death machines in the wrong hands,” says Delegate Bill Bronrott of Montgomery County. “I think we should look at the possibility of saying, ‘these are only intended for recreational use and should be used on race courses rather than on public highways.”
Delegate Bronrott says Maryland State Police are contacting jurisdictions around the country to see how they handle the motorcycles. He says Maryland needs to investigate whether higher penalties would reduce problems associated with the motorcycles and/or whether laws need to be changed.
–from Custer
JIMS MACHINE TOOLS OF THE WEEK, THE CAM INSTALLATION LINE-UP–
Cam Assembly Tool No. 990:Use to hold both cams in an upright position while lowering the cam supportplate over both guides and cam journal guides. This tool has beenmanufactured from a non-marring material, that will not damage any of thecams’ surfaces.
Use on T/C, 88″ & 96″ 2006 to present Dyna and 2007 FLHT & FXST SuggestedRetail $145.70
Inner Cam Bearing Installer Tool No. 991:Use this tool to press in the two inner cam bearings, JIMS No. 8991K new cambearings. This tool has been designed to press from letter side of the innercam bearings, by putting all the pushing pressure to the very outer wall ofbearing shell. Eliminating any damage to the bearings, cam and cases. Thistool will stop at the case and set the bearing depth to .023″ to .028″ belowthe case surface. A must use for the longest bearing and cam life.
Use withJIMS Tool No.993.Use on T/C, 88″ & 96″ 2006 to present Dyna and 2007 FLHT & FXST. SuggestedRetail $182.35
Inner Cam Bearing Remover Tool No. 993:Use this tool to easily remove the inner cam bearing. Works the same as JIMSEVO Cam Tool No.95760-TB. Insert puller collet into the cam bearing I.D.Insert dowel pin, place remover body over collet, lube threads and with handtools the bearing is pulled from case. This precision tool will also keepall pin bearings from falling into the engine case.
Install JIMS new cambearings with JIMS Tool No.991 and bearing installer No.991-1.Use on T/C, 88″ & 96″ 2006 to present Dyna and 2007 FLHT & FXST SuggestedRetail $224.35
Cam Locking Tool No. 994: This precision tool allows the technician to lock the camshaft andcrankshaft sprockets to properly remove, replace, and torque the sprocketbolts. This tool is made from non-marring Delrin.Use on T/C, 88″ & 96″ 2006 to present Dyna and 2007 FLHT & FXST. SuggestedRetail $62.70
Visit JIMS on the web at, www.jimsusa.com for more information, or call805-482-6913.
BIKERNET WEEKLY PRODUCT RELEASE from RIVERA PRIMO,HYDRAULIC CLUTCH TRANSMISSION END COVERS– FITS 1990-2006 BIG TWINS (EXCEPT 2006 DYNA MODELS).These hydraulic clutch transmission end covers for 5 or 6-speeds look as good as they work. Precision machined from 356-T billet aluminum and hand-fitted with piston & seal, this is the hydraulic clutch unit favored by most riders.
Impressive but subtle styling gives the hydraulic clutch cover the ability to blend perfectly with any style or paint scheme, while providing smooth, effortless hand control.
These covers require the purchase of a 3/8-24 (10mm) banjo bolt, hydraulic clutch line and a 9/16″ bore handlebar master cylinder.
These covers fit 1990-2006 Big Twins (except 2006 Dyna models) and aftermarket 5 & 6-speed transmissions.
1215-0001 Hydraulic Clutch End Cover – 5/6-Speed / Polished Finish $ 253.97
1215-0004 Hydraulic Clutch End Cover – 5/6-Speed / Chrome Finish $ 286.67
For further info on these & other fine products contact:
RIVERA PRIMO INC.
12450 Whittier Blvd. Whittier, California 90602
Tel: 800-872-1515
Tel: 562-907-2600 Fax: 562-907-2606
www.riveraengineering.com
D&D AND BIKERNET’S SHARPEST SOFTAIL–That’s right, you get to pick the best looking Softail from the Bikernet Community. Just vote for the one that you like the best. The motorcycle that gets the most votes receives a new set of Fat Cat pipes from
The 2 into 1 Fat Cat Pipes makes the best horsepower and torque. The stylish upswept design provides the performance rider with extra ground clearance. Each pipe is hand fitted and installed with heat shields. Experience up to 12 additional ponys.
SOUTH DAKOTA, BEER LICENSE NOT RENEWED AT BEAR BUTTE–STURGIS, S.D. – Meade County commissioners have rejected a malt beverage license for the Broken Spoke campground, a popular biker hangout near Bear Butte during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August.
Jay Allen, owner of the campground, was delinquent on several bills that amounted to thousands of dollars, which led the three-member commission to decide that his character did not make him eligible for the beer license.
Contractors who worked on Sturgis County Line, the new biker entertainment/campground venue near Bear Butte, said they had not been paid for almost a year. Sutton Electric told the commissioners he had a lien against the property for $15,000. Allen sent a check for $15,000 prior to the meeting, but the check had not cleared the bank and the lien remained in place.
Another contractor said Allen owed him $42,000. Allen is allegedly selling two other biker venues in other states.Allen owns a liquor license, which is separate, but only allows beer or beverages by the drink. It does not permit off-sale, which was allowed with a malt beverage license.
Opponents of any biker enterprise near Bear Butte were pleased with the decision; however, the bar will not close.All other liquor and malt beverage licenses for businesses located near Bear Butte were approved.
On the positive side Bikernet has discovered that John Green of Easyriders events has recently purchased the Broken Spoke bar in Sturgis, which will relieve Jay of his financial woes. So hopefully all of this will be remedied shortly and Jay will be back on track. Jay will retain some ownership in the famous Broken Spoke and work with John and his team during the rally.–Bandit
DUI EFFORT TO FOCUS ON MOTORCYCLISTS–State police said Friday that they will work with PennDOT starting Monday to crack down on DUIs with a focus on motorcycles.
Through June 24, law enforcement will conduct checkpoints and patrols, encouraging motorcyclists to drive sober and providing tips for motorcyclists to avoid other impaired drivers, PennDOT reported.
Alcohol-related crashes killed 544 in Pennsylvania in 2006, according to a PennDOT press release.PennDOT said 349 motorcycle operators died in accidents in 2006, and 10 percent of those crashes were alcohol-related.
–from Jeff Shomo
AS THE OLD SAYING GOES, “WHEN GUNS ARE OUTLAWED, ONLY OUTLAWS WILL HAVE GUNS.”–Justice Minister David Johnston said Australian firearms laws already were very tight and that it was likely the gun used in Monday’s shooting was obtained illegally. “It is very, very, difficult for a law-abiding citizen to obtain a handgun,” Johnston said, adding: “If someone wants to purchase a concealable weapon on the black market they will probably be successful.”
–
— Source: CNN
UPDATE ON KING OIL COOLER INSTALL REMINDER–A few years ago we installed an oil cooler on the 2003 Road King. A year later the factory noticed a problem and corrected it. A reader recently asked about the installation and we reached out to our resident expert, Pablo, to revive the factory improvement:”I found that older kit setup,” Pablo said. “Older ones had issues with hoses rubbing. I like the new one better P/N 62895-03A.The 26082-05B P/N is latest kit updated 07/2006.” The big opening of the new gasket goes to flange sticking out of the backside of the oil adapter assembly.This is note 2 & 3 from sheet 1 of 4 Instruction sheet # -J03249
2. “See figure 2. Using the oil adapter gasket (1) and oil adapter assembly (2) (from the kit); align flange (3) so it is installed into oil adapter cutout (4) as shown.”
3. “See figure 6. with oil adapter gasket (8) and oil adapter assembly (1) in place, thread the oil adapter fitting (7) (from kit) through the oil adapter assembly with coated threads facing inward and external hex facing outward. Torque to 12-16 ft-lbs.
The flange in figure 2. sheet 1 of 4 is shown using hidden lines (dashed) to represent the backside of the Oil adapter assembly.
The hidden lines in figure 2 might be confusing to some people. The instructions are assuming that everybody has some drafting knowledge!! A pic is worth, a you know every fucken thing!!
Figure 6 is on sheet 4 of 4. Figure 6 shows the assembly view of all the parts
“From the article I saw at work this should help you out,”Pablo told us.
Continued On Page 2
Custom Seat Maker Duane Ballard
By Bandit |
Have you ever wondered who makes some of the seats you see on those fantastic high dollar bikes on the Discovery Channels Biker Build Off series? It must be some factory in Southern California, you're thinking. A huge conglomerate with dozens of employees in an assembly line set-up perhaps with a vast show room? No way, Jose.
Welcome to the wonderful world of Duane Ballard Custom Leather, Seat Maker to the Stars. We recently took a ride to the wilds of New Ipswich, New Hampshire to see just where and how these beautiful one-off seats were created. Duane is building a seat for a Triumph Bobber project that we're putting together to sell for a charity benefit and he graciously invited us up to his shop to see it in progress.
We arrived expecting to see a glitzy shop and show room, but we were pleasantly surprised to find Duane hard at work tooling the seat for our “Von Zipper” in a converted upstairs bedroom in the home he shares with his wife and two kids. More like a Parisian artist's garret, the room is small but cozy. Headroom is at a premium due to being at the top of an A-framed part of the house. Blaring Punk Rock music rocks the rafters as Duane pounded away at the leather with hand tools and a rawhide mallet. Real Old Skool hand-work. No fancy machines or assembly line work here. Every seat is a labor of love to Duane and he devotes around 20 intense hours of work embossing the design by hand onto each seat. Time will vary depending on the complexity of the design.
A native of Miami, Florida, Duane and his family moved to Arizona when he was five years old and then to New Hampshire about seven years ago.
Duane’s mom taught him and his two brothers the art of working with leather when they were just kids to keep them occupied. Being a crafter herself, she supplemented the family income with her leather work. It became a life long hobby for Duane, along with his passion for building model cars and anything Ed Roth, especially the Rat Fink that he has tattooed in a few places.
Along the way, he designed and built seats for friends but never entertained the notion of this turning into a fulltime career. Fate took a hand when Duane came home one night from a boring day job and found a message on his answering machine from bike and hot rod builder Hank Young. Hank had seen one of the seats Duane crafted for a friend on the HORSE Mag's Back Talk board and wanted Duane to do one for the Easy Money bike he was doing.
Well, after that, Paul Yaffee saw Hanks seat and commissioned Duane to do one for his B.B.O. bike as well, after having Duane make seats for four of his customer's bikes. That led to more work from Hank Young (4 seats to date). Dave Perewitz also had to have one, Warren Lane needed one for his Fist Full of Dollars bike and The Detroit Brothers needed Duane's talent for their Goat Bike.
Duane decided to chuck his day job and concentrate on making seats full time. “It's sweet when you can finally make a living doing something you love,” Duane said. When we were at his shop, he had just completed a seat for Greg Westbury in California that will be on the bike that will go up against Fuller Hot Rods of Georgia in a Biker Build off episode culminating at Hartford Conn. in January. He’s also going to be the man behind the seat for the Assalt Weapan for Bikernet’s Bonneville 2007 Effort.
With all the TV fame, Duane remains grounded. He still does seats for us little guys at damned reasonable prices. For just a little more than you'd pay for a factory made Le Pera seat, Duane Ballard Custom Leather can make you a one-off seat that you'll want to hang onto forever.
We thought so!
Call or write to Duane and see what he can do for you.
Duane Ballard Custom Leather
603-781-7505
36 Goen Rd.
New Ipswich, NH 03071
You can see more of Duane's work at his web site:
–TB
June 14, 2007 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BIKERNET ARTISTIC MOMENT–Here is another example of Harley image. I did this a a promotional piece . It celebrates 100 years of Harley.
–Bob Cleere
bobcps@mac.com>
BIKERNET WHERE YOU CAN POST YOUR OWN BIKE FEATURE–Thanks for the site. I’ve attached a pic of mySporty…which I just finished building. Hope you likeit enough to post to your site.
–Michael
michaelramalho@yahoo.com>
On Bikernet you don’t have to wait for me to write the story or crop the photos. You don’t have to wait for Renegade to choose the girl. You can go directly to the Bikernet Reader’s Showcase Area and post your own feature. A world renowned custom bike painter Crazy Horse will work with you and feature your bike. Check it out.–Bandithttp://www.bikernet.com/cybercycles/
JOHN REED’S RETIREMENT ROCK RIDERS–I, like you I suspect, was saddened to learn of John Reed’s ‘retirement’recently. However we both know he’s an obstinate, bull-headed little fucker,and I just can’t see him rolling over and fading away.
I’ve known John foryears and he just won’t leave motorcycles alone, even if they’re not broken,so I’ve drawn the attached cartoon to better express my thoughts on thematter.
If you’re unsure who I am (and let’s face it, you’ve every right to be) I’veworked for the UK custom bike press since 1985 under titles such as BackStreet Heroes, AWoL, Heavy Duty and SuperTwins and am currently employed asFeatures Editor for American-V. I can also draw a bit and will be exhibitingalongside some real talent at Michael Lichter’s One World Choppersexhibition in Sturgis this August.Cheers for now, hope you can use the cartoon
Rich King
Features Editor
American-V Magazine
www.american-v.co.uk
BRASS BALLS FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND DEALS. DON’T FORGET DAD–Order him some cool Brass Balls Bobbers gear!
We will do our best to get it there in time. But if it does not make it, point dad to the site and tell him it’s on the way.A cool shop shirt.
We also have another version in gray.
Only $30.00
This feature bike was a gift Dar gave to his Dad. Perhaps you’d like to get something more like this for dear old dad. If not, I’m sure a BBB shirt would do just fine. You know he’d like it more than a tie.
PUDGY GIMPS BARS FROM THE NASH–Get the Pudge! It’s sad to say but to many nights with cookies and milk and the Gimp has gained some weight. Nash Motorcycle Co. is now featuring their 1 _” Gimp Hangers.
With a 1″ necked down base and grips. These bars will fit any 1″ application. Created from the original Gimp Hanger design these bars will give your bike that different look you’re going for and still keep that fat image you want on your bars.
These work great with squaring up your front end and offer a comfortable ride. Available in sizes 16″, 18″, or 20″. 11″ base, 35″ grip to grip, and 5″ pullback. The bars come predrilled/dimpled in black, chrome, brass, or copper plating.
Shipped to your door for $375.00 total. www.nashmotorcycle.com (360)693-4225
RIVERA PRIMO SHOVELHEAD LIFESAVER TECH COMING TO BIKERNET NEXT WEEK–Swingarm Shovelhead owners can’t miss this one. This $2,900 system completely upgrades any swingarm Shovel driveline from ’71 to ’84. It includes a 6-speed transmission, U.S. made high powered late model starting system and a full on Primo/Rivera 3-inch belt drive system. It’s not only inexpensive, but makes any swingarm Shovel rideable with the big dogs.
We performed an installation at Settle Motorcycles in Harbor City yesterday and will bring you a complete tech next week. Hold on.
–Wrench
P&P GIRDER TECH QUESTION ANSWER DISCOVERED–Just wanted to let you know, stubborness sometimes pays off. I went over that girder with a fine tooth comb, couldn’t find ANY reason it shouldn’t ride right, so I remounted it with a 14 spoke H-D narrow mag with a 3.00 19 Pirelli Route 66 tire. I reset the rake to the 10 degree rake holes on the legs, and took it out for a ride. YEEHAWWWWW!!! WE HAVE ACHIEVED GIRDER!!!!. Figured out, after all this, the reason it was squirrelly and tracked all over. The 0-degree rake holes created negative trail.
Also, just wanted to let ya know how much I appreciate your time in trying to help me figure it out. I was telling someone about e-mailing you, and actually getting a reply, and they couldn’t believe one of the “big names” in Bikerdom would take time with “just a regular guy.”…I told him, “Bandit did.”
God bless,
–Preacher…a.k.a. Rev. Charlie Morgan
VAGABOND CHICKIE NOT AT ROT-LIFE HAPPENS FAST–Vagabond Chopper Company and Myself, “The Chickie” express our sincerest apologies to the promoters, judges, builders and attendees of the ROT Rally for not appearing in the Big Texas Chop Off.
With an extreme amount of support from all of the Vagabonds ( you know who you are! ) The ROT Rally Chopper was coming along nicely. Although the “Chopper” was a challenge with my extensive fabrication, crazy ideas, and no budget available, the build was only slightly behind schedule.
Near completion on Tuesday evening I closed the shop and called a time-out. Myself and Don had been at the shop going for the hard push for more than 72 hours straight, with a few naps in the front store. The plan was to get some real food, love on my honey and the kids a little, shower, pack and get more than an hour of sleep on something other than the tile floor. Wednesday morning we planned to wake up early, finish the chopper and get on the road for a 20-hour trip to Austin and make the ride for the competition.
Everything went according to the plan, up until Wednesday morning. The phone rings at the shop 9 a.m. The eight-year old “Gray” broke his arm, that’s when we ran out of the door-life’s priorities changed.
A day at the hospital with orthopedic doctors and the kid has a patch on his broken little wing. Everyone back to the plan…. Call the promoter and see if Vagabond can still compete… Luis Rodriguez the Chop Off coordinator was very kind and understanding. We worked through the night to complete the chopper, Eddie Trotta even opened up shop to get a Thunder Jet Kit and some cables needed amidst the chaos( Thank You Eddie ). Thursday morning, the brand new GMC dually is loaded up with a New/Used trailer outfitted for the trip, on the road and ready to show- 4 hours into the trip, there is this wretched smell and smoke coming from the wheel of the trailer, and then thud, crunch and a few other noises. Yeah, not only did the trailer smoke the bearing, but it got so hot that some of the parts actually welded themselves together. The trailer company recommended a local shop that was fantastic, but they did not have the parts in stock- the trailer would be fixed Friday at around 2 p.m..
I felt we had to be in Texas, even if I could not compete, to at least let everyone see the beast that was created for the competition. The Vagabond crew got hotel rooms and awaited the trailer repair. The trailer was finished at 4 p.m. on Friday and reloaded to continue on to Texas. The crew actually had me psyched to ride up to the cordoned off area for the competition on Saturday just to say the Vagabonds had arrived.
The Vagabonds were ready to hit the road again, when the my phone rang. I was panic pacing in circles, hung up and told everyone that we had to head home immediately, and I did not want to discuss it, period! It was a long quiet ride back to the shop with tears rolling down my face for most of the drive. No one knew what had happened but everyone felt for me as they watched us work so hard and went through so much madness to get to the Chop Off and I was headed the wrong way . . . We got back late Friday, and I had no patience or kindness to explain what had just happened.
The call on Friday was from my 14-year-old daughter and 16-year-old son who were in a panic because the sheriff had posted a 72-hour eviction notice on the door. Not because the rent was not paid, at least by me . . .
Most who are familiar with Vagabond history know that October 2005 hurricane Wilma hit Broward County hard and Vagabond Chopper Company had almost been lost due to a negligent roofer. I would not sacrifice my livelihood, did my best and reopened Vagabond Chopper Co. at a new and better location months later. Still in litigation and with no working capital due to the move, I felt it necessary to put my home on the market and invest the equity into the business.
The house sold in February 2007, and we went back to renting a home. We went through a real estate agent who owned a number of properties in South Florida to rent – paid first, last and security and moved in- unfortunately as it turns out, the property owner/agent was already in foreclosure on all of her properties and had rented them anyway and collected rent until the last possible moment. When I got the call on Friday, I knew that the situation could not be handled over the phone so we had to return home and forego the Big Texas Chop Off.
As it turns out, this resourceful team ( Myself, Don & Dad ) managed to handle the situations with great patience and set an example that our kids can be proud of. Everything happens for a reason, and I am glad I was only a few hours away instead of 20. Finding a house to live in and then moving a house in two days is extreme physically and financially draining. Mentally you have to stay focused so you do not bring unnecessary stress on the kids- this is something they should never experience. I cannot control life situations, just handle them the best I can.
The chopper turned out fantastic, and I know we would have given the boys a run for the money.
On behalf of everyone at Vagabond Chopper Company we hope that you will forgive our not being at the ROT Rally- Big Texas Chop Off. Everything happens for a reason that is for sure and my life is what reality television is made of!! The cameras missed out on some real life drama not being with us… SMILE!!!!!
–Athena ” Chickie” Ransom
Vagabond Chopper Company
STEALTH CHECKS IN ONE WEEK BEFORE SMOKE OUT–Hey, It has been a couple of weeks since I checked in. We have been busy getting ready for the Smoke-Out. No matter how much you plan ahead on a project with a deadline, something happens to throw a wrench in the plan.
Sometimes I have been known to get too fine with things. Like not being able to leave good enough alone. We got all of our sheet metal back last week and it was beautiful. There was one little spot that I thought needed touching up so I touched it up. While putting the touch up brush back in the bottle, I accidentally dripped paint on the freshly painted tank. If I would have seen this I could have wiped it off but I didn’t see it and by the time I did it was too late. It ate the clear coat off and the pinstripe. I was sick to say the least. I took the tank back to Rusty, our painter and he said he would take care of it. We should have the tank back today or tomorrow. I get the “BONEHEAD” award on the project!
Out side of that everything is cool. Chopper John is setting up a new website for us. It should be up in a couple of weeks. So far it looks real good.
That is about it for this week. Oh by the way the guys at the shop locked all the touch- up paint away?
Until next week, RIDE!
–STEALTHMAN
LAS VEGAS BIKEFEST OFFERS SCORCHING REWARDS IN THE BLAZE TO BIKEFESTT SWEEPSTAKES–LAS VEGAS (June 14, 2007) – Las Vegas BikeFest, an annual motorcycle rally and expo in Las Vegas, announced it will provide a portion of the grand prize for the Blaze to BikeFest Sweepstakes sponsored by Hilltop New Media, Inc. and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE). This sweepstakes is a promotional tie-in designed in conjunction with the DVD release of the box-office hit Ghost Rider, starring Nicolas Cage and Eva Mendes, on June 12. The DVD will be released in two versions: a one-disc theatrical version and two-disc extended cut with never-before-seen footage and over two hours of special features. It became available on Blu-Ray Disc, DVD and PSP June 12, 2007.
As part of the sweepstakes, one lucky individual will win a motorcycle provided by WWE. The winner will also receive airfare and accommodations to Las Vegas BikeFest and two free Ultimate Passes for the four-day event taking place in Las Vegas September 27-30. The grand prize winner also will be the personal guest of Gard Hollinger, custom builder and star of Speed TV’s “Build or Bust,” at the exclusive invitation-only Artistry In Iron Master Builder’s Championship VIP Reception at Las Vegas BikeFest, and will receive a Ghost Rider prize pack.
“Ghost Rider is an action-packed hit featuring gorgeous custom motorcycles, making it a perfect tie-in with the unique custom bikes and renowned builders at Las Vegas BikeFest,” said Harry Schwartz, president of Full Throttle Events, one of Las Vegas BikeFest’s partners. “We are especially excited to invite the winner behind the scenes of this year’s Artistry In Iron Master Builder’s Championship, an exclusive event previously only attended by participating builders.”
Las Vegas BikeFest 2007 will host some of the world’s most skilled custom motorcycle builders as well as almost 300 leading manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, parts, accessories and apparel. In its fourth year, Artistry In Iron Master Builder’s Championship will feature 25 of the world’s most artfully built custom bikes in a peer judged competition bringing together famed master builders including Gard Hollinger, Brian Klock, Jesse Rooke and Jim Nasi. Attendees also will enjoy entertainment in true biker style, including live music, the crowning of Miss Las Vegas BikeFest, the world’s strongest biker competition, and much more.
In addition to the grand prize, five first prize winners in the Blaze to BikeFest Sweepstakes will receive Ghost Rider prize packs containing a branded wallet, hat and temporary tattoo. Motorcycle fans can enter for a chance to win by visiting ghostrider.wwe.com and filling out the entry form. No purchase is necessary to enter or win. Full sweepstakes details and rules can be found on ghostrider.wwe.com. The sweepstakes runs from May 30, 2007 to July 10, 2007 and is open to residents of the 50 United States and D.C., excluding RI, who are at least 18 years old and hold a motorcycle operator’s license as the time of entry. The sweepstakes is void where prohibited.
For more information about Gard Hollinger, visit www.lachoprods.com.
For more information about Las Vegas BikeFest visit www.LasVegasBikeFest.com, call toll-free 866-BIKEFEST (245-3337), or email info@lasvegasbikefest.com.
BLONDE LOGIC–Two blondes living in Oklahoma were sitting on a bench talking, and one blonde says to the other, “Which do you think is farther away… Florida or the moon?”
The other blonde turns and says “Helloooooooooo, can you see Florida.”
–from Katmandu
FREE RALLY POWER TO THE PEOPLE MOTORCYCLE RALLY– Cultural District – AMES, IA 6:00-10:00 PM AUGUST 10, 2007Join us for a Street Dance in the cultural district of Downtown Ames!Main Street will be blocked off for Motorcycle Only traffic.
With an anticipated 60,000 people in town, we will rock the downtown and celebrate Tommy’s popularity among motorcyclists. Watch for future updates at www.TeamTommy.org. Recognized motorcyclists will be joining us and activities are being planned which include a parade from Des Moines to Ames on August 11th for the Straw Poll Vote.
For more information contact teamtommy@aol.comOr call: 262-364-7440
–from Rogue
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 2007-2008 SCHEDULE RELEASED!–The schedule for the 2007-2008 Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows Presented by Toyota has been announced!
The world’s largest powersports event is coming to a city near you! Mark your calendars now for the show you just can’t miss!
The 2007-2008 Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® Presented by Toyota:
*Oct. 26-28, 2007 – Phoenix
Nov. 2-4, 2007 – Houston
Nov. 9-11, 2007 – Ft. Worth
Nov. 16-18, 2007 – San Mateo
Nov. 30-Dec. 2, 2007 – Seattle
Dec. 7-9, 2007 – Long Beach
Dec. 28-30, 2007 – New York
Jan. 4-6, 2008 – Novi
Jan. 11-13, 2008 – Washington DC
Jan. 18-20, 2008 – Atlanta
Jan. 25-27, 2008 – Cleveland
Feb. 1-3, 2008 – Minneapolis
Feb. 8-10, 2008 – Chicago
*held in conjunction with Big Twin West
Now headlining at the Phoenix stop of the Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows® presented by Toyota, Big Twin West 2007 is a trade event that will be held on Thursday and Friday leading into the consumer event.
For more information on Big Twin West KTM RETURNS FOR 2007-2008! KTM will once again have a presence on the show series floor as they return this year as a tourwide manufacturer. “The International Motorcycle Shows provide us a great opportunity to debut our new lineup of off-road motorcycles, sport ATVs and our exciting street machines like the 990 Super Duke,” said Jeff Salamon, Director of Marketing for KTM North America. Riding on the heels of KTM’s deep off-road successes and following their expansion of into the sport-street market, guests will be able to see the entire lineup from the Austrian maker beginning in Phoenix and continuing throughout all 13 stops on the tour. You may even have a chance to see something of a four-wheeled variety as well, so stay tuned! BIG TWIN CUSTOMS/SPORTBIKE CUSTOMS BEST OF SHOW VOTING CONCLUDES: The online voting for the 2006-2007 International Motorcycle Shows ‘Best of Show’ competition has closed with two builders left standing. At each of the 13 International Motorcycle Shows guests voted for their favorite custom cruiser and sportbike in two distinct and seperate showcases. Those 27 winners were listed online with images and you got to decide who deserved the overall online People’s Choice Award. For the Big Twin Customs Presented by Newmar, Joe Cree gathered the most votes in a very heavily contested battle amongst some of the best builders in the country. In the Sportbike Customs competition, Lawrence Somma takes home top honors with his street fighter. Scott Kolb helped build the bike that not only led the voting in New York City but also held on to the top spot for the Best of Show. THE SEARCH IS NOW ON! Metric Revolution Looking for Season 2 Sportbike and Cruiser Builders at the International Motorcycle Shows! Think you have what it takes? The producers of Metric Revolution, the hottest new custom build show airing on ESPN2, are looking for sportbike and cruiser builders across the country and they are looking at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows to find the next top custom builders. “We are looking for all types of motorcycle builders, American, Metric, V-Twin, and Sportbike builders,” states Douglas Spandau, Executive Producer of the ESPN 2 Metric Revolution Motorcycle Build-Off. “All are welcome to enter the IMS Customs Casting Call for Metric Revolution.” If your bike qualifies, it will be showcased in front of tens-of-thousands of people at the IMS Shows and potentially millions of people on the “Metric Revolution?? television series. Ten sportbike builders will be chosen and 10 custom builders will be chosen over the length of the tour. The ‘Casting Call’ will begin in Phoenix and conclude in Chicago. If you would like to register or if you would like to receive additional information http://www.motorcycleshows.com/motorcycleshows. Continued On Page 3
June 14, 2007 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey – Good News,
There was a lull in the news over the last couple of months, like a gypsy woman vibe. I wasn’t receiving fresh new jokes. The press releases lacked passion and verve. I knew some factions of the industry were down, but there was something more. Maybe the depressing media became a cloak of negativity. Then suddenly this week the girls smiled when they took their clothes off. The bikes sparkled more, because the sun shinned bright. I don’t know. Even the jokes are new, vibrant and damn funny. I swear the chrome is even more brilliant. Let’s hit the news.
Don’t forget to sign-up to receive free gifts and news about Bikernet. I won’t bug you very often. Go to the free contest department and become one of the gang:
JAMMER FINNED COVERS FROM ROBBAN’S SPEED SHOP–If you want retro, if you really want to set your ride apart from the rest, you’ve got to check out these beauties! Crafted in Sweden by Robert & crew at Robban’s Speed Shop, these covers are cast from 356-T6 aluminum and sold with a cast finish or polished. They can also be polished, chromed or powder coated if desired. To finish off your ride, match these covers up with a Jammer #632740 Finned Dishpan Rocker Cover set for Panheads.
The product line includes three finned outer primary covers and a derby cover to fit many models from 1936 thru 2006, a finned Linkert-style universal air cleaner with a polished outer cover, and a finned point cover with a polished finish for models from 1970 thru 1999.
Jammer #632580 Finned Outer Primary Cover with Finned Derby Cover for Big Twins from 1936 thru 1964 _ $559.95 Retail
Jammer #632582 Finned Derby Cover for Big Twins from 1936 thru 1964 _ $99.95 Retail
Jammer #632581 Finned Outer Primary Cover for Big Twins (except rubber mounted) from 1965 thru 1988 _ $789.95 Retail
Jammer #632585 Finned Outer Primary Cover for Softail and Dyna Glide models from 1989 thru 2006 _ $839.99 Retail
Jammer #632583 Finned Linkert-Style Universal Air Cleaner Assembly _ $204.95 Retail
Jammer #632584 Finned Point Cover for Models from 1970 thru 1999 _ $92.95 Retail
BIKERNET.COM INTERSTATE TRUCKING REPORT– A trucker came into a Bandit’s Cantina and placed his order. He said, “I want three flat tires, a pair of headlights and a pair of running boards.”
The brand new blonde waitress, not wanting to appear stupid, went to the kitchen and said to the cook, “This guy out there just ordered three flat Tires, a pair of headlights and a pair of running boards. What does he think this place is … an auto parts store?”
“No,” the cook said. “Three flat tires mean three pancakes, a pair of Headlights is two eggs sunny side up, and running boards are 2 slices of Crisp bacon.”
“Oh, OK!” said the blonde. She thought about it for a moment and then spooned up a bowl of beans and gave it to the customer.
The trucker asked, “What are the beans for Blondie?”
She replied, “I thought while you were waiting for the flat tires, headlights and running boards, you might as well gas up!”
FOR ONCE THE BLONDE GETS EVEN!
–from Vern
BIKERNET TESTIMONIAL– See, this is what I preach to our youth about”brotherhood.” I write Bandit with my question, hereplies (right away) like I’ve been his brother for years& steers me straight. “AND” I get an email from Ronat True-Track saying they have a True Track for my’04 bagger and to call one of the “ladies” there toorder one. Two guys “giving” of themselves so thata brother won’t mix his A$$ with a road crews midnightasphalt work.
Man, I hope and pray that when all of us old skoots die,our kids will pick up the brotherhood and carry on withthe code … so many are after the dollar and will think nothingof grinding out a friend to get it. Ok, ok, maybe all the’04 rear wobbling has got my boxers in a bunch … just tryin’to share with you how much effect your brotherhood means toothers …
Bikernet is this common glue … keep up thegreat work!
Mahalo nui loa (“Many” Thanks from the heart!)
–Kolohe
HINES EARNS FIRST CAREER VICTORY AT ROUTE 66 RACEWAY; NINTH WIN OVERALL ON SCREAMIN’ EAGLE V-ROD–JOLIET, Ill. (June 10, 2007) – Andrew Hines recorded his ninth career win on his Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson V-Rod Sunday at Route 66 Raceway.
It was the first for Hines at the track in two final round appearances just outside of Chicago. Route 66 Raceway plays host to the national event nearest the Harley-Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee.
“The bike ran so well this weekend and to be able to do that in front of all the Harley-Davidson employees who came out to the race and H-D President Jim McCaslin just makes the win even better,” Hines said. “My team gave me a motorcycle that can win rounds and we went out and had a great day.”
Hines beat Matt Smith and the Torco Racing Buell in the final round of the Torco Racing Fuels Route 66 NHRA Nationals. Hines turned in a 6.959-second pass at 192.11 mph on the V-Rod to earn the win over Smith’s 7.014 at 187.18.
Hines lost on a holeshot in the final round of this event in 2004 – something he hasn’t forgotten.
“This is my favorite track by far and it was awful losing it the way I did a few years ago,” Hines said. “My team made it possible because they gave me such a great bike and I was calm and confident about riding it.” The team had struggled slightly prior to this weekend, leaving Hines in ninth place of the standings. Hines’ best performance of the season had previously been a second round appearance at Atlanta and St. Louis. The Screamin’ Eagle squad practically camped at O’Reilly Raceway Park in Indianapolis and made more than 40 test passes in hopes of making improvements.
“The team really railed,” Hines said. “We’ve all been really disappointed about our performances all year so it was nice to see the hard work and testing pay off, especially here. Moving up to fourth place in the standings is a tribute to how hard we’ve all worked.”
Hines, 24, qualified in the No. 1 position with a track record E.T. of 6.921 at 193.65. It was the first top qualifying award of the season and 20th of his career. It’s the third No. 1 qualifier for Hines at Route 66 Raceway (2004-’05).
“The team made some great calls at all the right times this weekend and they definitely deserved the win,” Harley-Davidson Racing Manager Anne Paluso said. “This is the closest thing we have to a home track for our Harley headquarters and it couldn’t have been a better time to break out and grab our first win of the season in front of all the employees who support the racing program.”
Teammate Eddie Krawiec qualified in the No. 13 position with a 7.037 at 190.46. Krawiec lost in the first round after he fouled at the starting line against Angelle Sampey and the U.S. Army Suzuki team.
“It was still a good weekend because the team made some great changes to the V-Rod and it’s becoming more consistent,” Krawiec said. “It’s going to be more predictable and I just have to get into a better rhythm and do my job at being more consistent on the starting line.”
This weekend was Krawiec’s first appearance at drag racing’s only stadium-style venue.
“This is a great event because there are so many motorcycle enthusiasts in the stands,” Krawiec said. “We’re so close to the Milwaukee Harley-Davidson headquarters and there are a lot of Screamin’ Eagle fans all over the place. It’s a great facility and it lived up to all of my expectations.”
Hines beat Michael Phillips in the first round of Sunday’s eliminations. Hines ran a 6.953 pass at 192.38 to top Phillips’ 7.082 at 191.02 on his Sharp Contracting Suzuki. Hines beat Geno Scali in the second round. Hines went 6.978 at 191.10 to take the win light over Scali’s 7.088 at 189.20 on his Performance Machine Suzuki.
Hines beat Sampey in the semifinal round for just the second time in 14 career meetings between the two riders. Hines clocked a .027-second reaction time and a 7.005 run at 190.67. Sampey had a .088 reaction time and a 6.983 at 190.94.
“The testing was crucial because we were struggling getting off the line quickly before now,” Hines said. “We’ve made some good improvements on that and we’re going to keep working on these V-Rods and make sure we’re just as competitive at the next race.”
Once the NHRA race is over, the Screamin’ Eagle team will travel to Milwaukee to visit Harley-Davidson headquarters. Hines and Krawiec will first be joined by their Screamin’ Eagle AMA Flat Track teammates, Kenny Coolbeth, Jared Mees, Bryan Smith and Joe Kopp to help launch a summer meals program for kids. Fueling Young Minds provides meals for kids during the summer months when school is not in session. The Screamin’ Eagle racers will be at one local school – Bethune Academy – to help kick off the program.
Shortly after that the racers will be at Milwaukee Children’s hospital to pass out gift bags for the admitted child patients.
“It’s all about the kids and I can’t wait to be able to bring the race trophy to the kids, hang out and just have some fun,” Hines said. “I think it’s great that we can work so hard and leave here with such good positive momentum and bring that to the kids.”
OLD SCHOOL DEAL OF THE WEEK– Cal title as 1968, less than 1000 miles. $15,000.00 or best offer. King queen seat that goes up sissy bar included. Six-bends also available
–Tim
Negotiableparts@aol.com
LACONIA BIKE WEEK OFFICIAL RALLY WEBSITE–http://www.laconiamcweek.comIt’s Bike Week in N.H.- use extra caution on roads. June 08, 2007 6:00 AM Laconia Bike Week begins today and runs through next Sunday. The expected good weather and warm temperatures are sure to bring motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to Weirs Beach here in New Hampshire to celebrate their sport and the mystique that surrounds it.
WCAX, VT – MEREDITH, N.H. (AP) – Bikers from across the country already are gathering at Weirs Beach for the 84th Bike Week in Laconia (New Hampshire).Charlie St. Claire, the executive director of Bike Week, says with gas prices so high, there’s no way to set an attendance record this year. St. Claire says attendance has dropped by about one-third from 425,000 in 2004.
St. Claire says Bike Week brings in about $140 million a year. He notes bike week is changing — bikers are staying farther from the event epicenter in Laconia and moving into neighboring towns and even to the North Country.Bike Week vendors say they notice many Bike Week participants are baby boomers whose habits and tastes are changing. They say organizers have to figure out how to attract younger participants if they want the event to sustain itself.
–from Rogue
BIKERNET WEEKLY RELEASE from RIVERA PRIMO–48mm & 45mm “TOP GUN” MIKUNI CARBURETOR KITS Fits Evo & Twin Cam models 1984 to PresentThe Ideal Package for Big Inch Motors !Big-time fuel delivery that’s tuneable . . . our “Top Gun” kits feature a new, proprietary super-flowintake manifold designed and matched to the large venturi Mikuni carburetor. Now your big incherwill get a chance to show its stuff. Neck-snapping acceleration puts you out in front & pulls yousmoothly all the way up through the power band.
Available for 1984 to present Evo & Twin Cam Big Twins, each kit includes a 48mm or 45mmcarb featuring a throttle slide rolling on stainless steel roller bearings, accelerator pump, high flowmanifold, free-flowing air cleaner with chromed Rivera cover, head breather kit as well as acomprehensive installation booklet. Note that these kits accept 1990 & up stock-stylethrottle cables.
PART NO.
1041-0025 45mm “Top Gun” Mikuni Carb Kit / Polished Carb & Manifold 893.16
1041-0020 48mm “Top Gun” Mikuni Carb Kit / Polished Carb & Manifold 939.98
1041-0021 48mm “Top Gun” Mikuni Carb Kit / Unpolished Carb & Manifold 839.63
1041-0022 48mm “Top Gun” Mikuni Carb Kit w/o Manifold / Polished Carb 876.51
1043-0002 48mm Mikuni Carb Only / Cast Finish 731.81
1043-0011 45mm Mikuni Carb Only / Cast Finish 565.32
For further info on these & other fine products contact:
Rivera Primo Inc.
12450 Whittier Blvd.
Whittier, CA 90602
Tel: 800-872-1515
o 562-907-2600
o Fax: 562-907-2606
Web: www.riveraengineering.com
A LETTER TO TIME MAGAZINE–AS THE WIFE OF A FORMER MILITARY OFFICER, IT SADDENS ME THAT PEOPLE FORGET WE DO NOT FORCE ANYONE IN THIS COUNTRY TO JOIN THE MILITARY. THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE MILITARY DON’T NEED THE AMERICAN PEOPLE TO PROTECT THEM. THEY NEED AMERICA TO SUPPORT THEM. THAT MEANS SUPPORTING THEM BOTH IN TIME OF WAR AND IN THEIR DECISION TO ENLIST.
–MICHELE POSEHN, WATCHUNG, N.J.
3.25 QUART BEEHIVE OIL TANK–7Metalwest has just come out with a 3.25 quart horizontal mounted beehive oil tank designed for Big twins. The tank measures 11 1/2-inches long and 5-inches in diameter. The true old style ribbing makes this tank a real stand out. This is the same tank that one of our staff runs on his bike in a vertical mount. He swears that it holds up well and looks great.
Check it out at :www.7metalwest.com or email Dan at: djk@7metalwest.com for more info.
–TB
STEEL DREAMS TELEVISION SOLD–One reason I’ve been busy is that it appears “SteelDreams” has been bought by a production company out inSherman Oaks, so I’ve been trying to contact variouspeople to try and find out what direction they’reheaded. I’d love to find a way for all of us tobenefit from a positive new direction for that show.I’ll keep you apprised.
–Michael
former Steel Dreams Producer
EXPERTS QUESTION PRIMEDIA DEAL– There has been much discussion surrounding the recent sales of all Primedia consumer magazines (including Hot Bike, Hot Rod’s BikeWorks, Street Chopper, Motorcyclist, Motorcycle Cruiser and others) to Source Interlink Companies for $1.2 billion.
We have heard from good sources that the $1.2 billion cash payment was all borrowed funds. This will cost Source Interlink in excess of $100 million a year just in interest payments, adding significantly to the financial strain these magazines already operate under.
The following is taken from FOLIO: June 2007 issues’ M&A Scorecard, which lists and explains some of the recent magazine M&A deals:
May 14
Buyer: Source Interlink Companies
Seller: Primedia
Sale Price: $1.2 billion
Revenue Multiple: 12x
The deal behind the deal: Source Interlink Companies, a magazine distributor, acquired Primedia Enthusiast Media for $1.2 billion in cash – beating out remaining top bidders Wasserstein and Elevation Partners. Sources indicate the 12-times EBITDA multiple is higher than anticipated, but the price effectively wipes out former Primedia owner KKR’s debt and closes out a two-year-long divestment process.
A public company based in Bonita Springs, Florida, Source Interlink also distributes DVDs, music CDs, and books. Source Interlink in controlled by Yucaipa Cos., a supermarket-holding company owned by Ron Burkle.
Our panel says: “{Ron Burkle} obviously paid too much for it. I see no synergy possible between his company and Primedia. Most of these vertical integrations have not been that successful. If somebody paid $750 million I think they would have gotten a fair deal. Not a good deal, but a fair deal.”
MOTORCYCLIST MAGAZINE COVERS OCC–Quite a few people were interested in the article in Motorcyclist magazine about the Teutul’s but did not want to spend the money for a whole magazine.I can understand that, so I scanned the word portion:
Motorcyclist Magazine July 2007 – page 138
Tipping Teutul’s WORDS: Jeff Karr
Other than that cool time in the 1970s when the guys with the ice chest ran across the track at the Carlsbad motocross Grand Prix and got T-boned by a hapless racer, the popular media hasn’t much cared about motorcycling. In hindsight, maybe that was a good thing.
Today, anybody with a blowtorch and some attitude can have themselves a cable TV series. Maybe America is catching up on lost time, gorging on motorcycle junk food to compensate for the bike diet we’ve endured for so many generations. This would explain the emergence of “American Chopper”-two generations of Teutuls bitching, posturing and occasionally building custom motorcycles on our 16:9 wide-screens for six long hours per week. We keep naively wanting it to be a show about bikes, when in fact it’s just angry intra-family rants, Alpha-male stare-downs and rampant window breaking with bikes as backdrops.
So it was with some bemusement that we came across this characteristically graceless image of a red- faced Paul Senior getting seriously out of shape while nearly motionless on yet another glistening jewel fresh from the Over-the-Counter Choppers iron works. If we’re reading our Teutul Spotting Guide correctly, that looks like Paul JL lunging in to assist Pop.
Rideability is not a high priority at 0CC, and with the sum total of testing typically occurring during a quick celebratory blast for the cameras, mayhem is sure to ensue.
These days, Paul Senior could fart in an OCC-logoed bag and it would be eagerly foisted on the public by the remorseless, atomic-powered marketing machine that drives pop culture. The Discovery Channel-sorry, The Learning Channel; we forgot they got demoted-would certainly tape the bag-filling process, and you just know the episode would be a ratings bonanza. We always wished for more motorcycles on TV. But somehow, this wasn’t quite what we imagined.
–from Rogue
In another report we find OCC launching a new line of production choppers. We’ll bring you more reports soon.–Bandit
Continued On Page 2
june 14, 2007 Part 5
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 4
THE ULTIMATE PETCOCK–Wondering what you’re looking at? Simply put it’s nothing short of the coolest thing in carb and petcock fittings since braided steel line were introduced. The engineers over at KT Components recently developed a collection of super high tech custom petcock and carburetor fittings that provide aircraft quality, strictly business appearance and unique, dependable, seamless operation.
Each petcock fitting is designed to open and close with a simple push-pull movement to control fuel flow. These highly specialized valves are joined with high-flow, -5AN stainless, clear coated, wire braided lines and fully polished stainless fittings.
Currently available for Mikuni and S&S applications and fit with a variety of custom hose lengths. If you’re looking for the sleekest, most sophisticated fuel delivery hardware for your custom of upgraded stocker, give KT Components a call at 714-630-7144 or visit them on the Web at
NEW SMALL IRONSIDE BRAKE PEDAL PAD FROM HARLEY-DAVIDSON–MILWAUKEE (May 30, 2007) – The new Ironside Collection Small Brake Pedal Pad (P/N 42287-07, $39.95) from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories features rich black rubber tread offset with scalloped accents and faux rivets in brilliant chrome that resembles riveted metal plates.
It complements Ironside Footpegs and completes the industrial style of the Ironside Collection that also includes a Large Brake Pedal Pad, Shifter Peg, Hand Grips and Heated Hand Grips. The Small Brake Pedal Pad fits 1984-later FX Softail (except FXSTDSE) and 1993-later FXDWG models.
For additional information on Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories, see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. or Canada.
EUROPEAN GIRLS OF BIKERNET COMING FROM THE VIKING– Now the Marlboro-Bike first. So if you want more material on the Krugger-thing, let me know.Also attached some samples from yesterday’s work in my parallel-universe. If you like them you may have features on them.
–Viking
DAKOTA CLASSIC CARS AND CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE AUCTION AT TOP 50 RALLY PARK DURING BLACK HILLS RALLY–Tuesday August 7, 2007 – During the Sturgis Rally,turn that extra Motorcycle or Hot Rod car back into Cash.All cars must be 20 years old or registered in South Dakota. Motorcycles can be Custom Built or Harley Customs. Motor cycles are age exempt for this Auction. All vehicles must have a clean title.
Entries should be in by July 15, 2007 to insure a spot in the auction.Off I-90 – Exit 46 – in Piedmont between Rapid City and SturgisCall 605-642-2484 or 605-642-5300 for info and Entry FormOr visit www.terrycomp.com
WEEKLY BIKERNET HISTORIC QUOTE–“Man who run in front of motorcycle get tired… Man who run behind motorcycle, get exhausted.” Ancient Wise-man Proverb
NOW AVAILABLE! HIGH STRENGTH BILLET INTAKE FLANGES FOR ’06-UP 50MM THROTTLE BODIES– These replacement flanges are made from high strength, durable 6061-T6 aluminum to increase strength and resist problematic cracking at the mounting holes. Direct replacement for the flanges included with Screamin’ Eagle 50mm throttles body made for 2006-up applications.
Upgrade to the Zipper’s Performance replacement flanges to eliminate fatigue cracks and the resultant air leaks in the intake tract. Kit includes manifold seals.
Part No: 117-059 MSRP $24.95
ZIPPER’S PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6655-A Amberton Drive Elkridge, MD 21075
Phone 410.579.2828 Fax 410.579.2833
www.zippersperformance.com
HOW ABOUT A LITTLE SYMPATHY?–We need to show more sympathy for these people. They travel miles in the heat, they risk their lives crossing a border, they don’t get paid enough wages, they do jobs that others won’t do or are afraid to do. They live in crowded conditions among a people who speak adifferent language. They rarely see their families, and they face adversity all day every day.
I’m not talking about illegal Mexicans, I’m talking about our troops. Doesn’t it seem strange that the government is willing to lavish all kinds of social benefits on illegal’s, but don’t support our troops and are now threatening to defund them?
–from Rik Savenko
U.S. CHOPPERS BOARDTRACK FRAMES BUILT BY PAUGHCO–He?re the first one off the line from Paughco?s Carson City, Nevada facility. We tore the driveline out of the Assalt Weapan to check alignment, since it was the first test chassis. It was golden. Bikernet plans to build a U.S. Chopper Mudflap Girl Boardtracker next year. We are working with 2Wheelers, Choppers Inc., NYC Chopper and U.S. Choppers to bring you a classic custom with lots of mudflap girl style.
These wild sought-after frame will be available in the next couple of weeks for shipment.
NEW IS STOCK,NEW S textile riding jackets! Check out both styles, the FREON NITROUS– FREON: Abrasion-resistant shell, with removeable CE approved armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back for impact resistance> Main body of jacket is polyester mesh for maximum venting and includes a zip-out liner> secure cell phone pocket> high-quality YKK zippers> 3M reflective piping for improved night visibility> Retail price $119.95> Sizes: M-XXL NITROUS. Abrasion-resistant shell, with removeable CE approved armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back for impact resistance.
Use for warm and cold weather riding — has zip-out quilted liner and zipper vents for cooling> Secure cell phone pocket> 3M reflective piping for improved night visibility> Retail price $159.95> Sizes: M-XXL Nitrous back
Note: Due to last minute production improvements, the back images shown above are slightly different. We’ve added embroidery on the collar that says “since 1958” (on both jackets) and the location of the S logo on the back of the Nitrous has been enlarged and moved to the lower back area. See the photos at www.ssbodyparts.com.
IT?S MOJITO TIME–Have you ever had one of these Caribbean Rum drinks. On a smoldering day, they?re killer. There you have it, the news for all it?s worth. We have Isle of Man coverage coming, still stuff from SPS and 29 Palms, a Chica super vintage bike feature, tech, and two Girls of Bikernet are on their way.
We have articles coming from Australia, Europe and San Francisco. More is coming regarding Bonneville, racing everywhere and a special feature from Doherty Machine. Hang on, it’s all non-stop action.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
June 14, 2007 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
BUELL STATS–We are considering a long distance Buell test run. As part of the process we are looking at the stats, so we decided to share them:
Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX
Rake (at Steering Head) 21.0?
Fork Angle 21.0?
Lean Angle: Soft Contact, Right 42?
Soft Contact, Left 42?
Hard Contact, Right 50?
Hard Contact, Left 48?
Trail 3.3 in. 83 mm
Wheelbase 52.0 in. 1320 mm
Buell Blast
Rake (at Steering Head) 25.0?
Trail 3.4 in. 86 mm
Wheelbase 55.0 in. 1397 mm
I have not ridden the Lightning yet, but I have the Blast. It was almost too small for me, but really easy ’cause it was so small.
–Nyla
RUCKER PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTES ICENGINE WORKS PRECISION HEADER MODELING SYSTEMS– FORT WORTH – June 12, 2007 – Rucker Performance, a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American muscle, chopper and pro-mod motorcycles, has teamed up with IcengineworksTM, a manufacturing and engineering firm, to distribute their patented new line of exhaust header modeling block systems that provide manufacturers and builders in the motorsports and automotive industries with the freedom to design and mock up exhausts.
Icengineworks has created a manually operated, 3-dimensional modeling system based on sets of interlocking plastic blocks that are molded in shapes and represent actual tubing, straight and bent after assembly. The blocks, always 1-inch in length at the centerline, show information on the metal sections, bend radii and length in inches. Fabricators can attach, disconnect and rearrange the blocks as many times as needed. Different sizes or series of the blocks can be combined to mock-up stepped systems.
Due to the versatility of the blocks, builders and manufacturers can quickly and inexpensively develop and test limitless designs without committing expensive materials and other resources until they are satisfied with a final product.
“The main objective is creating the simplicity and speed to manually assemble, break apart, modify and rearrange precise sections of blocks representing tubular designs,” said Victor Franco, founder and President of Icengineworks. “The designer becomes more efficient, reaches the optimum design in less time and can explore layout possibilities limited only by the imagination.”
Icengineworks has designed the model block system for performance driven individuals in the marketplace. “This system has the potential to save labor hours and cost while increasing the profitability of the company,” said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance. “We have incorporated this system at Rucker Performance and believe this product will make a strong impact in the motorsports industry.”
Rucker Performance now distributes the Icengineworks exhaust modeling system. To learn more about the precision exhaust header modeling systems from IcengineworksTM, contact Bill Rucker at 817.838.3200 or log onto
AMA CONCERNED OVER DENVER NOISE LAW–A new law passed by the Denver City Council essentially requires all riders in the city to use only stock exhaust systems on their motorcycles. It’s a law that addresses sound issues by unfairly targeting only motorcyclists, and the AMA is seeking a dialogue with Denver city officials to try to find a solution.
On June 4, Denver officials approved changes to the city’s vehicle noise ordinance that allow police to issue tickets to riders if their bikes don’t have a federal Environmental Protection Agency sound-certification label on the exhaust systems. The new ordinance, which takes effect July 1, would apply to all motorcycles made since 1982, which was the first year that federal law required motorcycles sold in the U.S. to comply with EPA sound regulations.
In practical terms, that means the bike would have to have the original exhaust system installed by the manufacturer. Violators would have two weeks to prove to a judge that they have fixed the problem or would be forced to pay a $500 fine.
Previously, the Denver ordinance required all motor vehicles to pass a sound test that set a limit of 80 decibels at 25 feet. That type of performance standard remains in effect for cars and trucks, except that the allowable limits have been raised. Under the new ordinance, vehicles with a gross weight rating under 10,000 pounds couldn’t exceed 82 db(A) at 25 feet, and trucks over 10,000 pounds couldn’t exceed 90 db(A) at 50 feet. Only motorcycles would be subject to the EPA sound certification labeling requirement.
“We understand the motivation for cities to pass laws controlling sound levels from traffic,” said Ed Moreland, AMA Vice President for Government Relations. “But the approach being taken in Denver creates a special class of enforcement that unfairly targets motorcyclists. Loud trucks and cars are every bit as annoying as loud motorcycles, but only motorcyclists would be subject to this new provision of the labeling law.”
To understand the restrictions being imposed on motorcyclists, Moreland asked car drivers to consider the impact if Denver city officials had instead required stock mufflers on cars, making it illegal for Denver drivers to buy replacement exhaust systems from companies like Midas or Meineke.
“That would force everyone who drives a Ford to return to the Ford dealer and get the exact replacement muffler every time their exhaust system wore out,” he noted.
The AMA’s position on the new Denver ordinance got support June 7 in an editorial in the Rocky Mountain News which stated: “As more than one critic of the ordinance?noted, it just doesn’t appear ready for prime time.”
Several years ago, the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed a similar certification ordinance affecting motorcyclists there. Motorcyclist groups, included the AMA, worked with city officials for two years before that provision was rescinded and the city went back to a performance-based sound standard.
–from RogueSturgis Freedom FightersMotorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
Bikernet.com established a Independent Noise Study to reach out and create a better understanding with communities. It’s always available to print out and use in your community. Copies were recently sent to community leaders in Denver and this weekend Bandit will be interviewed on Biker Nation Radio in Colorado.Click here for a direct link to the study: Bikernet Independent Noise Study-Sin Wu
FATHER’S DAY SALE– Come into LifeStyle Cycles all this week (June 11-16th) and get 10% off on your purchase of any Men’s apparel, leathers, boots, helmets and more in our apparel department! Don’t delay, as this sale is only lasting for the rest of this week, and will end on Saturday the 16th. So come in and buy your Dad (or yourself, for that matter) something really special from your friends at LifeStyle Cycles.
OR IF YOU STILL CAN’T DECIDE You want to give Dad a new motorcycle? You can buy them a pre-paid Gift Card! Want to buy your pop a year’s worth of oil changes? Buy them a pre-paid Gift Card! All you need to do is come in, tell us how much you want on the card, pay for it, and then give it to your favorite dad.You can even re-charge the card with more value later on. Come in to LifeStyle Cycles today and get the gift card that keeps on giving!
CALL LIFESTYLE CYCLES
(714) 490-0155
IMMIGRATION LAWS–HARSH YOU SAY?? There will be no special bilingual programs in the schools.
No special ballots for elections.
All government business will be conducted in our language.
Foreigners will NOT have the right to vote no matter how long they are here.
Foreigners will NEVER be able to hold political office.
Foreigners will not be a burden to the taxpayers.
No welfare, no food stamps, no health care, or other government assistance programs.
Foreigners can invest in this country, but it must be an amount equal to 40,000 times the daily minimum wage.
If foreigners do come and want to buy land that will be okay.
BUT options will be restricted.
You are not allowed waterfront property. That is reserved for citizens naturally born into this country.
Foreigners may not protest; no demonstrations, no waving a foreign flag, no political organizing, no bad-mouthing our president or his policies.
If you do you will be sent home.
If you do come to this country illegally, you will be hunted down and sent straight to jail.
Harsh, you say?……..
The above laws happen to be the immigration laws of ” MEXICO”
–from Dave Johnson
SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE SPONSORED BY BIKERNET.COM FEATURED AT THUNDER ROAD STURGIS BIKE WEEK,AUGUST 3RD – AUGUST 10TH–Matthew McConaughey, James Caan, Green Day’s Billy Joe, and Metallica’s James Hetfield Bikes on Display
STURGIS, SD (June 4, 2007) – The 2007 Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse sponsored by Bikernet.com will be featured at Thunder Road during Sturgis Bike Week, from August 3rd to August 10th.More celebrities are riding motorcycles than ever before. In a similar fashion with which the Hard Rock is known for showcasing Rock’N’Roll memorabilia worldwide, the Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse is showcasing motorcycles owned or ridden by celebrities.
“Celebrities are attracted to motorcycles for the same reasons the rest of us are, but with the additional allure of privacy and freedom they may not have in their daily lives. So many celebrities ride and we’re excited to showcase their bikes and feature the builders who built them,” said Carrie Repp of R&R Promotions. “In the custom bike world, the builders are celebrities in their own right, so each bike is encased by a wonderful Hard Rock Photo Exhibit featuring top builders as photographed by world renowned motorcycle photographer, Michael Lichter.”
The Sturgis Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse display will feature Russell Mitchell’s Exile Bull-Fighter built for rock’n’roller, Billy Joe, lead singer of Green Day; the Texas Longhorn Bobber built by Ralph Randolph from Ralph Randolph for actor Matthew McConaughey; Eddie Trotta from Eddie Trotta’s Custom Designs and his signature bike built for actor James Caan, and Kirk Taylor from Custom Design Studios bike for rock star, James Hetfield lead singer of Metallica.
Beginning Friday, August 3rd, the bikes will be displayed at Thunder Road’s 40,000 square foot Thunderdome, The Custom Capital of Sturgis, located three miles east of downtown Sturgis on Highway 34. With a variety of exciting events, Thunder Road will kick off Bike Week with the “Feel the Thunder? Race Bike Show,” featuring drag racers, short trackers, motocrossers and hillclimbers on Sunday, August 5th. Tuesday, August 7th the fun continues with the Fifth Annual Metzeler Sturgis V-Twin Custom Bike Contest.
The stage is also set for the legendary Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show on Thursday, August 9th and for Trike Wars, a trike only show, to conclude bike week on Friday August 10th. Thunder Road and the Thunderdome will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., August 3rd -10th.
For more information and an updated list of Thunder Road and Bike Week activities, visit
BIKERNET.COM ALABAMA NEWS DESK HUNTING INVESTIGATION–Last week, an eleven-year-old boy in Alabama, on a hunting trip with his father, killed a wild boar hog weighing 1151 pounds. The pig is reportedly larger than the famous Hogzilla of the state and is the largest reported boar kill ever. The family announced that they plan to mount the head and make sausage from the meat.
In a possibly unrelated story, Rosie O’Donnell has been reported missing in the state of Alabama one day after resigning from The View. The activist, comedian, lesbian, and talk show hostess quit because of conflicts with just about every member of the cast and crew on the show. At last report, she was going to an Alabama lesbian nudist colony to enjoy “communing with nature.”
Theories that the two stories could be related could not be confirmed because it is believed that Rosie weighed more than the pig and was not as attractive.
HELEN GEORGIA HOSTS U.S. RIDERS NEWS– The Alpine Village of Helen Georgia complete with cobblestones and old world style buildings is approximately 100 miles North-East of Atlanta nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and a place that motorcycle riders visit on a regular basis through out the year. The beginning of June for the last 7 years US Rider News has hosted a party there complete with a Bike Show, Vendors and Games and invites everyone one no matter what they ride.
In the evenings there are Bands and VIP Parties as well as entertainment in the local businesses.Scott and Sylvia Cochran who put on the event even work out special lodging rates at some of the hotels.This year the Victory Motorcycle Rides held their event at the same time and increased the attendance even more.
My wife Doris got to ride to it with me this year and said it was one of the more relaxing and fun events that we get to attend.Do yourself a favor and check it out and plan to attend next year. Check
–ROGUE
US HOUSE INTRODUCES MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MONTH RESOLUTION–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has learned that the US Houseintroduced a non-binding “sense of Congress” measure supporting the goalsof a “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” Motorcycle Champion MichaelBurgess (R-TX) introduced HRES 339, with a strong second from GabrielleGiffords (D-AZ).
You should recognize HRES 339’s main sponsor, Mr.Burgess, as the same member of Congress who is leading the charge onreforming the HIPAA law that allows for insurance discrimination ofmotorcycle-related injuries.
The bill’s second sponsor, Ms. Giffords,hails from Arizona where she has a terrific relationship with ABATE of AZand all of the other rider organizations in Arizona (and yes, she ridestoo).
The US House of Representatives now operates under a rule that prohibitsmarking periods on the calendar for any specific purpose or cause. Theyhad to preclude themselves from officially appointing special weeks,months and days because of the huge push from every advocacy group in thecountry during the mid 1990s trying to secure an official designation fortheir cause.
When it became apparent that the calendar is very limitedand the demand for recognition is very unlimited, the House changed therules and banned any legislation that officially recognizes a specificperiod of time.
So what does this mean for a nationwide motorcycle safety awarenessperiod? Well basically since the House cannot pass legislation for aspecial time period that will read identical to the Senate counterpart, asit must before the President can sign it into law, no law can ever againbe passed setting aside a special week or month for any cause. Therefore,HRES 339 merely “supports the goals of a motorcycle safety awarenessmonth” but does not and cannot officially designate such a month.
Instead, HRES 339 lists a multitude of positive aspects of motorcyclingsuch as fuel efficiency, decreasing congestion, and how being aware ofmotorcycles benefits all road users. And then there’s what I think is thebest line of legislation, “Whereas the motorcycling community is dedicatedto decreasing motorcycle crashes through training, education, licensing,enforcement, personal responsibility and increased public awareness.”
Similar pieces of legislation that many Motorcyclists’ RightsOrganizations have passed into state law officially set specific dates forincreased motorcycle awareness, but those pieces of legislation onlyaffect riding community in their particular state.
HRES 339 provides the perfect opportunity for you to make contact withyour federal representative regarding a non-controversial motorcyclingresolution. And co-sponsoring ceremonial resolutions like HRES 339 is agreat way for your federal representative to show his or her support formotorcycling, and it is an easy ask. The MRF encourages you to contactyour federal elected officials on this issue.
–Jeff Hennie
MRF
Continued On Page 5
June 14, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
INDUSTRY’S HIGHEST TECH CARBURETOR IS NOW AN MC ADVANTAGES’ EXCLUSIVE–MC Advantages is proud to announce their agreement to be the exclusivedistributor of PSI Big Air Carburetors. “MC Advantages has chosen PSI carbsfor their ease of use and their demonstrated ability to generate up to 15more horsepower versus stock carbs,” said MC Advantages’ General ManagerKent Reed. “We’re really excited about this as our latest product lineaddition.
To have a hot new high-tech carb when there hasn’t been anysignificant carb advancements in years, a guy’s gotta be pumped,” he noted.
The Big Air Carburetor features a simplified tuning design with only threefuel adjustments that can easily be made with the bike running and withoutdismantling the entire carb and air cleaner setup.
The pilot, needle andmain adjustment knobs all have easy access and can be adjusted with thefingertips. In addition, the revolutionary ribbed venturi intake helpsatomize and homogenize the fuel and air mixture for tremendous throttleresponse and a more complete, cleaner burn.
Big Air Carburetors come in Polished, Chrome or Black and are available for74″-‘100″, 103″-117″ and 124″-155″ engines with an S&S® Super G intakemanifold. The MSRP is set at $1,099.99-$1,199.99.
MC Advantages
1-800-726-9620
www.MCAdvantages.com
WEEKEND RIDE FOR KIDS EVENTSRAISE $138,000 TO FIGHT CHILDHOOD BRAIN TUMORS–Motorcyclists delivered saddlebags full of hope to childhood brain tumor survivors on June 10, raising $138,670 at three
The Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows is a proud supporter of the PBTF Ride For Kids program and offers show discounts to Ride For Kids participants. Be sure to pick up your discount coupon at the Ride nearest you!
BIKERNET’S SOUTH OF THE BORDER CULTURAL LESSON OF THE DAY–Alice and Frank are Bungee-jumping one day. Alice saysto Frank,”You know, we could make a lot of money running ourown Bungee-jumpingservice in Mexico.”
Frank thinks this is a great idea. So they pool theirmoney and buyeverything they’ll need: a tower, an elastic cord,insurance, etc.
They travel to Mexico and begin to set up on a squarein a small town.
As they are constructing the tower, a crowd begins toassemble. Slowly,more and more people gather to watch them at work.
When they had finished, there was such a crowd theythought it would bea good idea to give a demonstration.
So, Alice jumps. She bounces at the end of the cord,but when she comesback up, Frank notices that she has a few cuts andscratches.
Unfortunately, Frank isn’t able to catch her and shefalls again,bounces and comes back up again. This time, she isbruised and bleeding.
Again, Frank misses her. Alice falls again and bouncesback up. Thistime she comes back pretty messed up — she’s got acouple of brokenbones and is almost unconscious.
Luckily, Frank finally catches her this time and says,”What happened?Was the cord too long?”
Barely able to speak, Alice gasps, “No, the Bungeecord was fine…Itwas the crowd. What the hell is a pinata?
–from Chris T.
BIKERNET NEW ORLEANS PROGRESS REPORT–This happened on a flight getting ready to depart for New Orleans.
Jack was sitting on the plane when a guy took the seat beside him.The guy was an emotional wreck, pale, hands shaking, moaning in fear. ,”What’s the matter?” Jack asked.
“I’ve been transferred to New Orleans, there’s crazy people there.They’ve got lots of shootings, gangs, race riots, drugs, poor public schools, and the highest crime rate.”
Jack replied, “I’ve lived in New Orleans all my life. It’s not as bad as the media says. Find a nice home, go to work, mind your own business, enroll your kids in a nice private school.It’s as safe a place as anywhere in the world.”
The guy relaxed and stopped shaking and said, “Oh, thank you. I’ve been worried to death. But if you live there and say it’s OK, I’ll take your word for it. What do you do for a living?”
“Me?” said Jack. “I’m a tail gunner on a Budweiser truck.”
–from Rogue
BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Two of man’s passions
Ride Hard,
–Whiplash Biker Photog
whiplash@photo.net
FUNKENSTEIN LIVES!!!!– Master seat maker, Duane Ballard, has created a cool vintage-look 1970’s Chopper for his personal rider. Duane is also building the seat for the Bikernet Bonneville Assalt Weapan.
“FUNKENSTEIN”, painted by Robert Pradke, is a 750cc Honda monster guaranteed to bring life back to the dead. We’ll have a full creature-feature on this thriller soon.
–TBear
GUILTY CUSTOMS’ NEW “SPHERE OIL BAG” A NEW SPIN ON AN OLD PART–Every motorcycle needs an oil bag, so why not make it worth looking at as well as extremely functional? Guilty Customs announces their newest product for builders (professionals and otherwise) that will get your build the attention it deserves and is American-made, unique and functional.
Guilty announces the availability of the “Sphere Oil Bag” which is an 8 inch spun aluminum sphere made from Aerospace Quality Aluminum (.125_ T-6/6061 to be specific) with oil capacity of 3.5 quarts.
The “Sphere Oil Bag” is within tolerances of +/-.015 and is ultrasonically tested. The sphere can be polished, powder-coated, engraved, anodized or left raw and will ultimately be available in Copper, Brass or Stainless Steel (304L, 316L & 321). Retail cost for Aluminum Sphere Oil Bag (with filler neck installed) is $475.00.
Recently Guilty Customs announced their single and dual powder coated shocks, which retail from $75.00 to 140.00 respectively. Show quality dual shock systems in Stainless Steel, Chrome and Brushed Copper are available for $190.00. Additional products such as “Leather Do-it-yourself builders kits”, seat pans and bolt-on seat brackets are available. The newest addition to the family is the “Air Shox” which retails for $130.00.
Available at www.guiltycustoms.com or call 407.453.0844.
Dealer inquiries welcome.
Guilty Customs, LLC
Orlando, FL 32835
BCCOM ON THE MOVE–THANK YOU’S!Special thanks to the wonderful volunteers who came and helped us move mostof our office to higher ground to avoid this flood they have been warningabout. Ernie Dau, Mike Baynes, Mark Zambrycki, Reila Hamnes & Jarred werean enormous help to us and we appreciate it so much!
We would also like to thank Trev Deeley Motorcycles and their wonderfulstaff for staying open late on June 6th to accommodate our BCCOM Meeting andMovie Night. A great time was had by all!
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FUN TO DO THIS WEEKEND?–Trev Deeley Motorcycles is having a show n’ shine on Saturday, June 16th attheir new location at 1875 Boundary Road in Vancouver.Sign up is from 9:30am-12:00pm.There will be a live band from Noon- 4pmTrophy presentation at 3:30pmThe special guest at this event will be Jean Davidson, Granddaugher offounder Walter Davidson and author of “Growing up Harley-Davidson.” You canmeet Jean during and after her free audio-visual presentation at 1:00pm intheir conference centre.For more information please check them out on-line athttp://trevdeeley.com/custom/Showandshine07.html or contact Sherri Werstiukat (604) 909-6227 or swerstiuk@trevdeeley.com
MCC-WOMEN RIDERS COUNCIL LAUNCHES SECOND SURVEY — More than 800 responded tofirst surveyToronto, Ontario, Canada June 6, 2007 – The Women Riders Council of MCC haslaunched its second online survey, inviting female riders to express theirthoughts and opinions regarding training resources and website resources.
In the first survey (the results of which can be seen on the MCC website),women identified certain training and education needs, beyond basic ridertraining, such as maintenance.
The survey will look at what kind of training would be the most desired, andwhat website resources would be helpful.The survey can be accessed at www.motorc ycling.ca/women and will remainopen indefinitely. Results will be analyzed on an ongoing basis withprograms and actions developed by the WRC. All responses will remainconfidential and no contact information will be shared.
About the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada
MCC is Canada’s largest association representing motorcyclist’s interests.It is a not-for-profit national advocacy organization that championsmotorcycling interests throughout Canada. Its membership comprises more than200 clubs and represents over 70,000 riders from across Canada.
Website: http://www.motorcycling.ca
About the Women Riders CouncilThe Women Riders Council (WRC) of MCC is led by a steering committee ofactive female riders. The WRC’s purpose is to Promote and Celebrate WomenMotorcycle Riders (of Canada).
Website: http://www.motorcycling.ca/women/index.html
PAUGHCO’S REVOLUTIONARYTAPERED LEG SPRINGERS– The world’s oldest, largest and most popular line of custom and OEM style Springer front ends just doubled in size! Paughco has completely reengineered their original designs in developing a new line fit with OVAL TAPERED REAR LEGS! Stronger and more closely resembling original OEM springers, the new Paughco front ends are available in a mind boggling collection of styles and sizes.
Tapered leg models can be ordered in traditional “Wide” springer styles fit with or without the factory style shock. Or, you can order Paughco’s popular Narrow Springer, once again with the new tapered rear legs.
All models are offered in lengths ranging from stock up to 21″ over in increments of 3″. Finished in Paughco’s legendary in-house chrome, the new TAPERED LEG SPRINGERS can be found at
DID BUTTS PLAY A ROLL IN TOILET PAPER THEFT? WOMAN CHARGED IN IOWA COURTHOUSE TISSUE HEIST–MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa – Police blame a woman named Butts for stealing toilet paper from a central Iowa courthouse, and while they’re chuckling, the theft charge could put her in prison.
“She’s facing potentially three years of incarceration for three rolls of toilet paper,” Chief Lon Walker said, stifling a laugh as he talked to KCCI-TV about Suzanne Marie Butts.
“See, I can’t say it with a straight face.”Workers had noticed the rolls disappearing from the Marshall County Courthouse much faster than usual, Walker said.
Butts, 38, was caught last week after an employee saw her taking three rolls of two-ply tissue from a storage closet, Walker said.
Butts insisted it was the first time she’d pilfered toilet paper, but she declined to answer further questions on her attorney’s advice.
The fifth-degree theft charge, a misdemeanor, normally carries a sentence of less than a year in jail. But Butts could face more time if convicted under the state’s habitual offender law because she has prior theft convictions.Walker did not know why Butts was at the courthouse, but said that she did not work there.
–from Rogue
Maybe she deserves amnesty?
CINDY AND PEACEFUL ART JEWELRY FEATURED IN EASYRIDERS MAGAZINE– Jeweler/Design/Artist Cindy Thorrington Haggerty and her Peaceful Art Jewelry/Design is being featured in a very interesting editorial in the Men’s Famous Motorcycle Magazine “EASYRDERS”. This is a 50-year-old magazine and publication that is the Grand Daddy of Publications to Motorcycle People all over the world. Cindy is in this magazine in an editorial by a staff writer for Easyriders Magazine.
This story features Cindy’s Jewelry, Art, Design and Life. The magazine is already creating a stir for Cindy with calls, emails, web site contacts and orders. The JULY issue #409 is on sale NOW at participating news stand stores in Logansport, South Bend and other cities, states and countries…
So get your copy and preserve a part of Logansport/South Bend History in the making. Cindy is a Native born in Logansport and studied in St. Petersburg Florida, Martinsville, IN, Gem City College Quincy, IL and thru Vocational Rehabilitation Services in South Bend, IN.
EGO TRIP CUSTOM BIKE SHOW IN HOLLISTER JULY 8TH–Hollister 60th Anniversary – Sunday July 8th
Bike Show Move in 8am to 10 am
Bike Show Displays on the Lawn at Corbin’s Corner (San Benito & 4th St)
Awards @ 3:00 Sunday at the Main Stage.
CLASS DESCRIPTION
Radical Custom, Rubber Mount Geometrically altered frame, Dyna Glide, FXR
Radical Custom,Solid Mount: Geometrically altered frame Softail style
Radical Custom, Chopper Geometrically altered frame with an extendedFront-end .All Hardtails
Street Custom After Market Frame – All Bolt-On Accessories
Sport Touring Road Kings, Ultra’s, All Baggers
Sportster: XL’s, 883 & 1200’s
Antiques,Trikes & Sidecars: 1903 – 1974 & All 3-Wheel BikesAmerican Mfg(non-Harley) BMC, Titan, Big Dog, American Eagle, etc.
Radical Custom
Old School Bobbers and Choppers
Metric Stock –
Metric Mild Custom
Metric Full Custom –
Buell –
V-Rod Mild Custom –
V-Rod Full Custom –
– Special Interest To be judged in the above categories, there must be twoor more bikes in the class or you will be judged in special interest.
For those with bike trailers, a parking lot on 4th street between Monterey &San Benito will be available. This is accross the street from the bike show.Spaces are on a first come basis.
–Spike
Continued On Page 4
Australian Shop Profile
By Bandit |
Gold Coast Choppers latest creation “Alien” has landed an array of trophies at Gold Coast Bike Week. Alien’s first public viewing was on Saturday. However lucky riders on the S&S Chopper Shop Ride got a sneak preview on Friday as Twin Tech Motorcycles was the first Bike Shop on the list for the ride to visit. Last year Geoff did a great job of unveiling “Flame”. Continuing in this tradition this year he had the job of unveiling Alien an astonishing piece of machinery that Rick and the guys had built over the last 10 months. The old saying a picture tells a thousand words does not cut it with this chopper. There is a host of details a picture can not tell with this bike until you start looking very carefully at the actual bike.
With no sub-frame that is visible, it has an amazing visual effect of the engine and transmission sitting by themselves midway in the beautifully hand made frame of the Chopper. The whole package from the flowing front end, the long sweeping fuel tanks, the mid mounted down draft carby, the in shop made swing arm, gives the bike an overall aggressive stance. Plus the most detailed paint work that you could imagine moulds into the best Chopper arguably ever seen. This was proven by Alien winning the People’s Choice trophy on Saturday. Along with Best Engineered, Best Pro-Built and Coolest Pipes. Sunday saw 3 more trophies for Alien with Bike of Show, Radical Custom and Best Paint.
Over all it was a good result for Twin Tech Motorcycles and Gold Coast Choppers.
The latest Ozbike Magazine (issue 301) has Rick with the ALIEN chopper as its main feature. There are some great pics of the bike along with the rundown of the build of Alien written by Rick (Rick has the article in the Gold Coast Choppers website as well). There is also a centre page lift out of ALIEN, which is a bonus.
Rick and Twin Tech Motorcycles aren’t strangers to articles in bike mags. The numerous custom Harleys the boys have built have shown up in different custom bike mags over many years. Since Rick has developed Gold Coast Choppers and has showcased Alien, Flame and Chopr at different shows over the last couple of years he is getting the exposure he deserves. The local industry is standing up and taking notice of these world class choppers that Rick continues to build.
Personally, I can’t wait to see the next machine Rick creates. “How do you build something better than Alien?” I asked myself. But then I asked the same question about Flame??
Alien and Flame took out the 2 major trophies at the Australian Motorcycle Expo at Brisbane. Alien won Best Chopper of the Show and Flame won Best Engineered.
I was speaking to a number of people in the industry after the event and they say and I must agree that Alien is rightly placed as Australia’s Number 1 chopper after winning first prize at the show.
While Rick is happy with the recent results he was very disappointed in the decision of the major sponsor and promoter of the Chopper Show (Live to Ride Magazine) to pull out when they did. You would have thought it would have been good advertising and promotion for their magazine and the industry in general. “They handled the whole thing very badly right from the start,” said Rick. “With minimal promotion for the event advertised and deadlines for entries that didn't apply or were abandoned, perhaps due to a lack of entries. Incorrect dates on their entry and conditions forms gave a general impression that no one knew what was going on. I believe they did attend the Melbourne or Sydney show but obviously Brisbane isn't considered as important as the southern capitals.”
Otherwise the show was a huge event, massive crowds and displays by most of the major manufactures of bikes and products. Except for Harley Davidson!? What's going on there?
A big well done to the boys again at Gold Coast Choppers / Twin Tech Motorcycles for another outstanding result.
We’re a small, hands-on kind of custom bike shop. There’s me doing any and everything, Geoff handling the day-to-day running of the place as well as parts and accessories. There’s Ross on the spanners and the key force behind our drag race team, apart from being a top mechanic and experienced racer, he holds the NZ Top Fuel Nitro Harley record of 180 mph at 7.6 seconds. That’s damn quick! And then there’s Jim, my can’t-do-without kind of guy who does everything around the place as well as being our No 1 fabricator and a good mate.
I got my first Harley in 1981, a FXFB, and being a farm boy who was used to pulling things apart and fixing them, I just couldn’t help myself from tearing it down and changing it around. I’ve got a very questioning mind, the type that says, “Yeah, it’s broken, but how did it happen, how can I fix it and how can I prevent it from happening again?”
I started TwinTech in 1989 basically part-time doing stuff for my mates but it soon got out-of-control and I went full-time in early 1991. In 1995 we bought the two units next door and we’ve been growing ever since.
Weve always taken pride in our workmanship and experience is something you can’t beat. We place a great degree of importance on the day-to-day stuff through the workshop. I’m not happy unless it’s done right; fix it right the first time so there’s no come-backs.
We do quite a bit of performance work which we try to match to the customer’s requirements. We know what works and what doesn’t. Putting it together is one thing; getting it to stay together takes knowledge and experience. And importantly, performance doesn’t stop with the engine. The whole package has to include the brakes and suspension.
TwinTech Motorcycles is also involved in drag racing. We’ve got a XB12R Buell that Ross has started to run. It’s doing 11.8’s at the moment in fairly standard form. We’ve got plans to turn it into a full-on drag bike including a special frame we’re building ourselves.
Billy also rides for us on his 1991 FXST. It runs an S&S 124 ci engine that we’ve worked over and is pushing our 150 hp at the rear wheel. Not bad for a registered street bike. Billy’s running around 10.5 and gaining more consistently so this year is going to be fun.
We’ve always done a lot of custom work. We were sticking 180 tyres (as large as you could get at the time) into stock bikes back in early 1990. We used to make it all ourselves because it was before you could get the wide rear end kits. Generally, what we find with our customers is a guy who’ll come in with some ideas or maybe just a picture. We’ll work it through their wants, needs, applications, and deliver something far in excess of what they imagined–give them something that blows them away. Obviously we’ve got to work within a budget which can be difficult as the customer’s views often change as the project develops.
We don’t aim to be a volume builder–low quantity, high quality. That’s us.
TwinTech Motorcycles is in Southport, on the Gold Coast, Queensland. The Flame Chopper is for sale; if you’d like to know more, give me a call on 07-5532-3033.
–Rick
Smoke Out Run 2007
By Bikernet Contributor TBear |
Amidst threats of the event being shut down by Bible Thumping members of the local town board, plus beer being outlawed, not to mention the ominous heavy presence of John Law and his minions, The Smoke Out 8, Sponsored by Bikernet.com, went off without a hitch. For months before, legal battles raged with the “Good Christian” politicos regarding the event being closed down because, “Jesus doesn't like nipples and wild biker trash.”
Well, for what it's worth, I was always thought that Jesus loves sinners and the love was evident as thousands of the faithful on their “Devilish Machines” flocked to the Holy Land at the Rowan County Fairgrounds to bid a fond farewell to the Smoke Out, at least as far as Salisbury is concerned. No mention of next year's venue, but rest assured that it WILL happen.
Riders from as far away as California and Western Canada to Nueva York and the rock bound coast of Maine handled the pilgrimage to see what their compadres were building and riding. The mood seemed lighter as the weekend rolled on and the flock realized that the good shepherd, John Law, was indeed there to look out for their safety and not lead them to slaughter.
Beer was indeed served like Holy Water and ladies rode nekkid on the mechanical golden calf, voraciously offering up their virtue to the assembled multitudes. Burning tires served as ceremonial incense and High Mass was celebrated with the purification rite of burning a trailer in effigy.
The choir consisted of Devil Doll and the Super-Soakers who led the faithful in song during evening vespers. St. Columbanus, patron saint of Bikers, surely would have bestowed his blessings on the services.
High Priests of Chopper Building, Hank Young, Jay Hart, Paul Cox and Keino of Indian Larry Legacy were on hand to display their icons to the novitiates.
Over 250 bikes were entered into the bike show with awards given out to the top ten winners. Steve “Deuce” Broyles II, of Stevenson’s Cycles, in Michigan, walked away with the trophy for his entry in the Horse Builders Chop Off.
The evening partying at local Holiday Inns parking lot looked like anything but a service at the Crystal Cathedral, America's foremost drive-in place of worship. Despite heavy police presence, tires burned, music blared and nubile young hard-bellies gyrated until dawn, on both Friday and Saturday nights. In the spirit of Christian Charity, the local hotels raised their usual $69 per night to $200 with a 3-night minimum and attempted to charge a tide of $5.00 per head to enter the golden gates of their parking lots. That’s just one aspect of Salisbury that we won't be missing at the new venue.
We don't yet know where or when, but we assure you that next years Gathering of the Faithful will be the most righteous jamboree yet to be seen.
Can I get you to testify???
Amen!
–TBear
That’s not all. A ride to the Smoke Out Report is due to hit the site next week from Art Parry. Check back.–Wrench
