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Read More May 24, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
2 into 2 JUG HUGGERS– Jug Huggers are performance pipes with a twist and have the right mix of air flow and back pressure to make for increased performance and incredible sound. The oversized removable heat shield gives the Jug Huggers a 2 1/2″ fat look. Max-Flow performance baffles and chrome billet aluminum end caps are standard.
Optional stealth baffles or torque chambers give you the option of getting the right performance from your motorcycle.
For: Bub Jug Huggers for ’01-’05 DynaGlide
From: Metric Thunder
Who: Thunder Bob
Details: Click Here for 2 into 2 Jug Huggers
Pricing: Thunder Bob is dealing! Taking $80 off retail.
THE PRIMEDIA MAGAZINE SHAKE-UP BEGINS– Here is an interesting item about how the new owners of the Primedia Enthusiast Group (Motorcyclist, Hot Bike, BikeWorks, Street Chopper, Motorcycle Cruiser and others) is cutting expenses. Now that they are burdened with all the problems they did have, they now need to make over $110 million in annual interest payments to make for the loan needed to buy these magazines.
According to this news item, they had decided to lay off their entire LA-based circulation department. Not a good idea, especially as their circulation has been on a steady decline for almost two years.
More problems, short and long term, for the ex-Primedia empire? Sure looks like it.
Buzz Kantor
American Iron Magazine
The former Primedia Enthusiast Media, acquired last week by magazine distributor Source Interlink, is shutting down its circulation department in Los Angeles and laying off the 30 employees who work there, The Circulator has learned.
The move comes because the company is consolidating circulation efforts in New York City, according to Steve Aster, SVP, consumer marketing, at the company, now renamed Enthusiast Media.
The move is effective July 27, and was planned prior to the acquisition, Aster said. “We had this new organization idea in place for a while with the goal of consolidating what were two subscription departments into one group to better execute new-program development,” says Aster. “That’s it, plain and simple.”
It is unclear whether other consolidations may be under consideration by Source Interlink. “During its investor call last week, company management noted that it would be premature to speculate about or discuss integration of the companies at this early juncture,” according to a company spokesperson.
Source Interlink announced last week that it had acquired Enthusiast Media, which includes 70 special interest magazines and 90 associated Web sites, for $1.2 billion in cash, sparking concern among circulators about the company owning magazines and controlling the newsstand supply chain simultaneously.
Source also announced an agreement earlier this month to be the exclusive distributor to the Borders Book store chain.
CHOPPERS INC SIX GUN LINE-UP GOES SOFT– Melbourne, FL – Billy Lane of Choppers Inc continues to reinvent his Six Gun line of parts and accessories by introducing the all new Six Gun Rubber Grips.
As always, Billy makes everything here in the USA by hand, using the best materials available. The Six Gun Rubber Grips are one of many new products launched since the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati. Rounding out the list of new products from Choppers Inc Six Gun Rubber Grips are yet another example of what Choppers Inc has created to meet the demand of new product requests for stock Harley models, especially Twin Cam powered models. Joining the Six Gun Rubber Grips, Choppers Inc recently released the following all new parts line up designed to fit stock HD models:
Six Gun Heel/Toe Shifter set
Six Gun Shifter Peg
Six Gun Fold-Up Passenger Foot Peg
Six Gun Gas Cap
Ball Milled Dash Bezels for Baggers
Ball Milled Antenna Base Cover for short, whip antenna’s
.50 Caliber Touring Gas Cap Cover
Knurled Series including; Shifter Peg, Kickstand grip plate, brake pedal and caliper inserts
Torpedo Finned Lights
Twin Cam Derby Cover
Shift Linkage Bar
More scheduled to release at Sturgis
SIX GUN RUBBER GRIPS– Six Gun Grips with a new, softer twist- Rubber. Rubber grips relieve hand fatigue on the long rides and offer a cool look when finished off with Choppers Inc signature Six Gun end cap. In stock and ready to ship.
Part Number: CH176
Retail Price: $225 set
www.choppersinc.com
To learn more about the all new parts line now available from Choppers Inc visit:
MONSTER SEMA SHOW COMING–Hop aboard for an –siebenthalercreative.com HOLLYWOOD POLICE CHIEF BLASTS OFFICER ACCUSED IN SCANDAL–South Florida Sun-SentinelMarch 24, 2007HOLLYWOOD Police Officer Kevin Companion discussed a string of crimes with an undercover FBI agent and bragged that he had friends high up in the department who would help him quietly retire if caught, Chief James Scarberry said.Companion, accused with three other officers of running heroin, protecting gambling operations and smuggling stolen diamonds, named Major Louis Granteed and Capt. Tony Rode as the officers who would persuade Scarberry to let him resign without further investigation, the chief said.In a lengthy, wide-ranging interview last week, Scarberry called the comments, captured by FBI surveillance tape, ‘unbelievably stupid,” adding that both men were disgusted by Companion’s alleged crimes. ‘Those comments just show the mentality of Kevin Companion. It doesn’t reflect at all on Louie or Tony, because they would never have tolerated this if they knew what was going on. I trust both of them completely,” Scarberry said. — By John Holland Flotida Sun Sentinal –from Rogue BIKERNET HISTORY DEPARTMENT,SECRET SERVICE HISTORY–150 years ago, President Lincoln found it necessary to hire a privateinvestigator — Alan Pinkerton for protection. That was the beginningof the Secret Service. Since that time, the federal government has produced a large number ofmulti-letter agencies such as: FBI, CIA, INS, IRS, DEA, BATF, etc. Now we have the ” Federal Air Transportation Airport Security Service”.Can’t you see them now, these ‘highly trained’ men and women in theirblack outfits with jackets saying across their backs: F.A.T.A.S.S. The FATASS’s are of course supervised by a special section of the HomeLand Security Section known as: Airport Security Service Home OfficeLogistics Enhancement Section or the A.S.S.H.O.L.E.S. I feel safer already. –from Rogue NEW GIRL OF BIKERNET COMING–This is my new model I am shooting with Tom Fosters bike for you on Thursday.. –Peter Linney O.C. FREEWAY FATALITY AN INTERNATIONAL CASE, HYUNDAI EXECUTIVE LEFT FOR KOREA AFTER A MOTORCYCLIST WHO HIT HIS DISABLED SUV WAS KILLED–Motorcyclist Ryan Dallas Cook was taking the 55 Freeway home after practicing with his band, but he didn’t know a disabled SUV loomed ahead of him in the carpool lane. Within moments, he was dead. About 24 hours later, the Hyundai executive who was driving the SUV had left for his native South Korea, according to investigators. Now, 1 1/2 years later, an arrest warrant has been issued for Youn Bum Lee, and the victim’s family told prosecutors that they want other Hyundai executives held liable, believing they helped him leave the country before police could track him down. Orange County prosecutors last month charged Lee in absentia with three felonies in the death of 23-year-old Cook: gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated; driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs with injury; and hit-and-run with injury or death. Officials at the California Highway Patrol, who are leading the investigation, said Tuesday that the FBI, the U.S. Department of Justice and the Orange County district attorney’s office were working to find Lee. His wife, who moved out of the couple’s Irvine home with their son days after the accident, is believed to be with him. Cook’s relatives, on the other hand, say they are convinced there was a cover-up at Hyundai. They said they plan to file a wrongful-death lawsuit today against the corporation and several employees, including Lee, alleging they helped thwart the investigation. MOONLIGHT DIVE CHARITY RUN AND KLOCK PARTY–You are invited to attendEl GrandeMargarita MadnessPre Moonlight Fiesta !! It’s Friday, May 25, 2007At Klock Werks Kustom Cycles, 5:00-10:00 pm.Enjoy especial Margaritas by Barry Arenson, all the way from Kansas City, MO!Build your own taco bar, nachos, and more! 10:30 on = Moonlight poste partido (head downtown to the Moonlight!) BYOB (bring your own beverages, baggers and babes) _JBYOS (bring your own sombraros)_J Veale alli!(I think)(See you there!) And remember the Moonlight Dive Bar Charity Run (to raise $$ for Cystic Fibrosis) is Saturday, May 26, 2007Registration 11:30-12:30. Visit Laura STEALTH SHOP REPORT FROM CHARLOTTE–We have been busy at STEALTH BIKE WORKS. Our bike we are entering in the Smoke-Out Bike Show is coming together. We got our parts back from the chromer and our painted parts should be back by the end of the week. We have four weeks to finish the bike, so we should be in good shape? You know when you are working on a deadline at the shop, sometimes things get lost in shuffle and you become so focused on the work at hand, you may lose sight of what is really important. What I am talking about is the crew I have at SBW. I really could not ask for more. These guys make SBW go, without each one of them I would be lost. I am going to use this space to introduce you to each one of them. They deserve the space this week. First there is Mr. Max Brown. Max and I are there everyday. We work real well together. Max has 30+ years turning wrenches. He knows engines and trannys inside and out. I am always amazed at how fast Max can tear an engine or trans down. I have learned a lot from Max and I am very grateful to have him at SBW. Max is a real down to earth kinda guy. He will tell you how it is and won’t beat around the bush. I like that. Max, Thanks for all you do and for putting up with me. You see I am a detail freak when it comes to bikes and I know sometimes I get on Max’s nerves. Max I am proud to call you my friend. Next we have Chopper John Norris. Chopper John is like a son or brother to me. There is nothing I would not do to help him, and I know he has my back. Chopper John handles all of our fab work and welding. He is always there to help at events we attend. Chopper John and I work well together because he likes to try new things and I give him free reign to do this. I trust him. He always get my opinion and more times than not he gets the “thumbs up!” Chopper John has been there from day one, really before day one, he helped set the shop up. You know I can always count on Chopper John to help us with whatever needs to be done. Chopper John, I am proud to call you my friend. Next we have Bob Engels. He is the newest guy at SBW. Bob is kind of a utility infielder in baseball. He can play more than one position. Bob has been helping out on our Smoke-Out project. Bob can turn a good wrench, he can weld and he can paint. Bob has been a regular customer at SBW since we opened and we are glad to have him around the shop. Thanks Bob, for all your help and friendship! Next we have Rusty Nash. We met Rusty when we opened STEALTH BIKE WORKS. Our relationship has grown. Rusty is our painter. He lays down some really cool paint at affordable prices. He is bringing some samples of his work to the Smoke-Out and will have them on display at the SBW booth. Rusty and I are on the same page most of the time on color selection. Rusty and myself came up with the paint scheme for our Smoke-Out project. This paint job is really going to POP! Thanks Rusty, for all your help and frienship. Next, last but not least, “THE MEANEST.” You see she has to put up with all of us, and that is a BIG job. She keeps the books in tip-top shape. She gives me a kick in the ass when I need it, as I do need it from time to time. She is my wife and my best friend. She keeps things at the shop in order. Without her we would all be in BIG trouble with the law, the IRS, the state of North Carolina and probably a lot more people I can’t think of? Thanks Meanest, for all you do and for putting up with all of us, especially me. I almost forgot one member of the SBW team. Our pit bull J.C. J.C. is the chief of security at SBW. He may lick you to death if you are not careful. He is my buddy and he is a GREAT dog! I know the Meanest would agree with that? But each shop has a problem child. That’s Bandit. In the last year he showed up to work once. Once, and he didn’t do anything but stand around and critique our welds. He had meanest eating out of his hands, running errands and doing his paperwork. He tried to pick up on her daughter and borrowed my truck. He still hasn’t returned it. The reason I wanted to mention most all of these people is that you never know when your last chance to do this will be. I learned this lesson the hard way when my son Justin passed away. So now I have told you all how I feel about you. I know I will catch it this week. We are closing down Saturday. We are heading to Washington D.C. for the Run To The Wall. The Meanest and I are going to enjoy the ride and relax a little because when we get back, we have only three weeks until the Smoke-out! So there you have it, a small look at the SBW crew. They are almost all stand up people and I appreciate what most of them do and bring to STEALTH BIKE WORKS. Hey Hiway, I am leaving the watch at home, you know what I mean? Until next week, RIDE REMEMBER MULLER MOTORCYCLE AG FROM GERMANY–We had a rough time here, but we are almost thru it. First there was an awfuldelay for our catalog. It will take another 3-4 weeks. Then our millingmachine broke and we had to invest some $300,000 dollars and a productiondelay of minimum 4 weeks. Therefore, we are late with ourbrake comparison. The milling machine now works. We start producing the brakes in 10 days.The final version of our brake comparison will be out in two weeks and you are thefirst to get it. Thanks, Continued On Page 4
Klock Werks
915 S Kimball, Mitchell, SD 57301
605.996.3700 shop
605.996.9900 fax
www.kustomcycles.com
www.kustombaggers.com
laura@kustomcycles.com 
–STEALTHMAN
–Pete
M?ller Motorcycle AG
pete@m-motorcycle.de>
May 24, 2007 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
Custom Chrome Reorganizes With Regional Market Development & Sales Leadership Team– Morgan Hill, CA May 23, 2007- Global Motorsport Group, Inc. has announced a number of organizational changes to reformat its operations within current market conditions while positioning the business for sustainable growth. Among the initiatives announced today, Custom Chrome has created a Regional Market Development and Sales Leadership Team intended to increase sales penetration, identify and capitalize on new product trends and expand market share.
As part of this strategy, Global Motorsport Group, Inc. has named industry veteran Frank Esposito as Vice President World-Wide Sales for its Custom Chrome Division reporting directly to Holger Mohr, President, Custom Chrome. ?I am excited about my new role within the organization and the talent the Regional Market Development Team will leverage to grow the business during a period of broad challenges for the entire industry,? said Esposito.
Prior to this assignment, Esposito held numerous leadership positions within the Global Motorsport Organization. Before joining GMG, Esposito was the President and COO of Tucker Rocky Distributing for over 5 years. Collectively he has over 30 years of industry experience. Frank has served many roles in the industry one most notably as the Chairman of Motorcycle Industry Council Aftermarket Committee. In addition, he is a 9-time veteran of the Colorado 500 Charity Invitational Ride of Champions. ?He is a natural with respect to building and sustaining a nationally prominent sales team. He?s a proven business leader and a salesman at heart?, said Dan Cook, GMG?s CEO.
Additional organizational changes include the integration of Product Line Management with the Purchasing Department and Customer Service with Sales Support. Some reductions in non-customer facing positions and the elimination of some of the road rep sales force have also occurred.
Completing the Sales and Marketing Development team and reporting directly to Frank Esposito, Vice President Sales will be; Norm Hasenpflug, Manager Inside Sales; Jeremy Yearton, Manager Inside Sales; Mike Score, Regional Sales & Market Development Director? Pacific Region; Heath Rehmeyer, Regional Sales & Market Development Director ? South Central Region; Gerald Bruce, Regional Sales & Market Development Director ? Mid West Region; Brian Banks, Regional Sales & Market Development Director ? Atlantic Coast Region;Mike Helms, Manager? Business Development; Joey Jelf, Manager? Customer Service.
PAGAN MEMBER KILLED, COP CLEARED–Police cleared in slaying of Pagan memberEx-Marine implied he had gun, attorney general’s report saysWilmington Police Lt. William Browne was justified when he shot and killed Derek Hale, a member of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, and will not be subject to criminal prosecution, Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden concluded in a report issued Friday.
The report said the 25-year-old Marine veteran of the Iraq war was shot three times Nov. 6 as he stood up and “continued to keep a hand in his pocket as if holding a weapon and was turning in a threatening manner toward an officer armed with an empty Taser.”
The purpose of the attorney general’s investigation was to determine whether Browne committed a criminal act when he shot and killed Hale on the steps of a Wilmington home.
It is up to the Wilmington Police Department, the report states, to determine whether Browne broke department policy, rules or regulations, or “with the benefit of hindsight, the officer could have proceeded differently.”
Browne did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.The report reached similar conclusions as one issued earlier this month by the deputy attorney general defending the state police in a civil suit brought by Hale’s widow. Both reports differ from the accounts of some eyewitnesses who told The News Journal that Hale was seated, had just vomited and was shaking violently from several Taser blasts when killed on the steps outside 1403 W. Sixth St. They also said he did not appear to pose a threat to the officer who shot him outside the Wilmington home of a fellow Pagan.
Biden was not available for questions about the report on the investigation, which was supervised by Deputy Attorney General Eugene Hall.
–from Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
DELL COMPUTER AND BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT TAP RUCKER PERFORMANCE DESIGNER FOR CROSS PROMOTION–FORT WORTH – May 23, 2007 – Rucker Performance announces the latest collaboration with technology industry giants Dell Computers, Inc and Blizzard Entertainment®. Motorcycle industry airbrush artist and designer Carl Tyndell, Director of Design of Rucker Performance, has been tapped to airbrush conceptual prototypes for Dell Inc. with original artwork from Blizzard Entertainment’s World of Warcraft: Burning Crusade.
Carl Tyndell originally airbrushed the first prototype XPS 1710 / WoW Burning Crusade gaming notebook for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES show) held in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 8-11, 2007. The scene recreated Blizzard’s depiction of a battle between a Blood Elf of the Horde and a Draenei of the Alliance, both new character races introduced in the Burning Crusade expansion. The gaming notebook was used as a conceptual prototype at the show.
Blizzard Entertainment plans to use the hand-painted prototype in promotions for the World of Warcraft throughout the next year. Photos of the finished computers can be viewed at www.ruckerperformance.com.
Additional information is available at www.ruckerperformance.com.
BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Scenes from Myrtle Beach.
–Ride Hard,
Whiplash Biker Photog
whiplash@photo.net
NHTSA QUARTERLY MOTORCYCLE SAFETY NETWORK MEETING–The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently heldits quarterly motorcycle safety network meeting. These meetings are anupdate session held by the Feds to brief the motorcycle community at largeon what they are doing with regard to motorcycle safety.
Of particularnote is the NHTSA “Share the Road with Motorcycles” planner and guidelocated on their website (go to www.nhtsa.gov, then click on the “TrafficSafety” tab at the top, then click on “Motorcycles” along the left side).The planner provides a sample letter to the editor, posters andpromotional materials.
Also noteworthy was the update from Honda on theairbag-equipped Goldwing. Honda reported selling 700 units in the statesand recently had the first deployment in action. Turns out some guy insunny Florida t-boned a minivan and the bag inflated and kept him fromgoing over the bars. He walked away from the event unharmed. According tothe representative from Honda, this gentleman was exercising his right tochoose when the wreck occurred.
SAE Government and Industry Conference
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) held a multi-day conference inDC this week that included two technical presentations with motorcyclinginterests. The first was a presentation by NHTSA of the FARS data fromlast year. I have seen this presentation by NHTSA dozens of times, butwhat interested me about this presentation is that it seems NHTSA may nowactually trying to collect some of the data that has eluded them in thepast, while not entirely preventing the collection of half-baked numbers.
You see, right now although it’s mandatory for states to report crash datafor automobiles, it’s optional for states to report motorcycle crash data.That hasn’t changed, but NHTSA is now urging the states to collect andpresent real world numbers instead of using mathematical equations as theycan (and many of them do) right now. To oversimplify, some statescurrently use a formula to determine vehicle miles traveled formotorcycles such as taking the number of registered bikes, and suggestingthat since bikes are “X” percent of all vehicles and cars traveled thismany miles then we can assume motorcycles traveled “X” amount of miles aswell. Of course, we know that’s not how it works. I am sure very littlewill change when it comes to motorcycle VMT and it’s likely that onceagain, as it has for many years now according to NHTSA numbers, nomotorcycles will travel in the state of South Dakota this year. Yeahright!
The second SAE session relevant to motorcyclists dealt with noveltyhelmets. Call them what you want – skid lid, half helmet, beanie – but youknow what I am talking about and you probably also know that should youneed head protection, you probably won’t find it in a novelty helmet.
Wellthe good folks at NHTSA couldn’t just accept that assumption, so theyapparently did a study on novelty helmets. This study has not yet beenreleased to the public, but NHTSA did hint at it in the session. NHTSAspent who knows how many millions of taxpayer dollars to determine thatnon-DOT-compliant helmets don’t perform as well as DOT-compliant helmets.
Seems like a waste of money to me, especially when we can fully fund acrash causation study that is nearly 20 years overdue. Stay tuned for theresults of this groundbreaking study.
MRF WASHINGTON OFFICE OPEN HOUSE–The MRF DC headquarters will be open this Saturday, May 26 from 11am-2pm.Coming to Rolling Thunder this year? Stop by Saturday for some lightrefreshments and see the world-famous MRF office, located at 236Massachusetts Ave NE, Suite 510, Washington DC 20002.
Use the UnionStation Metro stop if you leave the bike in the ‘burbs. You can contact mewith any questions at 202-725-5471 or jeff@mrf.org
Once again the MRF is holding a competition for all of our youngeractivists out there. The Meeting of the Minds, the MRF’s annual multi-day,multi-national motorcyclists’ rights conference will be held this yearwill be hosted by ABATE of Iowa in Cedar Rapids, Iowa from September20-23. Are you or do you know someone between 18 and 30ish who is involvedwith your SMRO? Get them to apply! The winners get a free trip to Meetingof the Minds! What are you waiting for?
Ride Free and Ride Often
–Jeff Hennie
SPEEDFREAKS MEMORIAL DAY PREVIEW– Hollywood, CA (May 23, 2007) – SpeedFreaks kick off the summer holiday season with a heated roundhouse of Freak’dom this Thursday at 6PM EST (yes, note the time change) with the biggest names in mo’sports from the Mazda Pits. But what’s surely to get the Freak Nation riled up is the when the quartet of Lugg Nuttz, Statt Mann, Crash Gladys and Kenny Sargent debate the real unanswered Q & A… Is an honest to goodness, meat and potatoes, American pie eating Open Wheel driver a real champion if he or she does not run, or WIN in the Indy 500? Want to ask Champ Car’s Sebastian Bourdais or Alex Tagliani?
Plus, like they did with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his secret desire to go to art school, SpeedFreaks expose yet another big name in NASCAR and his…
Freakin’ TV guests includeNASCAR Pilot and Record Label Owner Carl EdwardsThree Time Champ Car Champion Sebastian Bourdais andChamp Car Rival Alex TaglianiFreestyle Snowmobiler and X Gamer Jimmy BlazeAmerican LeMans Series Driver & Former Formula One Pilot Mika SaloAnd a bit of fun with some Mazda Atlantic Drivers
TOPIC: The Freaks dive right in this Indy 500 Weekend with:Are you a true American Open Wheel Champion if you do not run, or WIN, the Indy 500?
HOLLISTER H-D NO MORE, NOW HOUSE OF THUNDER H-D IN MORGAN HILL, 20 MILES AWAY–New name is House of Thunder H-D in Morgan Hill just 20 minutes from downtown Hollister.I’m probably a year away from completing a coffee table that will be faster than the Bandit Panhead desk. It is a double engine Triumph with a lot of race goodies on it. I had a stack of leftover Triumph parts that I didn’t know what to do with. Including the original front engine case from my bosses double engine race bike. So I was inspired by this loon that built desks out of old bike parts. It’s mocked up in a frame but lots of details yet to do. It’s therapy.
Just completed my Road Glide engine (110). This bike won the SF Rod & Custom Show and now I’m hitting the road tomorrow for break-in and final tune before the Redwood Run. I’ll send you some photos.
Now that that one is done, I can get back to my sidecar project that Tim Condor had drawn. It runs and has no metal on it, and I drove it around. John Reed helped me with the geometry and it handles pretty well even without a body on it. I gave a couple of guys that work for me a few beers, strapped a board on the sidecar frame, gave them a tiedown to hold onto and away we went!
Finally (after two years) got the wheels from Halibrand and need to fit those and remove the Ness wheels I thought I was going to have to use. Then off to Munroe’s for the body skeleton. My personal goal is Daytona but not sure.
Shop is doing really well. H-D tells me we are the fastest growing dealership in the West. Still small, but growing like hell. All departments are doing well, causing me to work six days a week, so my stuff keeps taking a low priority.
Gearing up for Hollister. We are sponsoring and have a booth downtown. Problem is Sunday night after the Rally Shirley and I are on a redeye to Nashville for the H-D tradeshow. Immediately following that we are picking up an ’08 and heading for the Blue Ridge Parkway and a little R&R.
But first, the Redwood Run, my favorite!!
Ride with at least one hand on the bars, Okay?
–Dan
AMERICAN IRON RETAILER WANTS RESPONSE–I’m glad the interview with you got a big response. You do mean GOOD responses,don’t you? hahaha
I wish folks would send me more e-mails or call me about articles they like (ordon’t like). Often I hear nothing from my readers about articles, but theysometimes contact the writer/subject directly. If I never hear about anarticle, I never know whether folks liked it!
If you’ve got any comments from readers, you can forward them to me if you’dlike and I’ll print them in the Mailbox column in the next issue.
–Marjorie
marjoriek@americanironmag.com
Marjorie is another hardworking editor for a dealer mag in our industry. Editors are damn hardworking folks. If you think about, while all sorts of workers dick-off and don’t accomplish shit, editors can never do that. They must meet their deadlines or die trying. We have a good group of magazine editors in our field right now-no rabid egos. So let them know if you’d like to see them cover something different.–Bandit
BASSANI DO-IT-YOURSELF RSD HEADER KIT– RSD custom builders can now realize the proven benefits of Bassani Xhaust engineering in a set of Pro Street pipes custom assembled to fit their specific project. Each RSD machine presents it’s own fitment requirements making it nearly impossible to produce a system that will fit all Right Side Drive applications. Recognizing this Bassanipipes is now offering a complete DO-IT-YOURSELF RSD PRO STREET HEADER KIT.
All of the hard work like bending and collar installation has been done. All you need to do is slip pipes together at the joints, twist them to conform to your needs and tack the supplied bracket right where you want it. Once you are satisfied with the look and fit, weld or have them welded and finished to your liking.
DIY RSD Pro Street kits complete with pipes, brackets and baffles retail for $399.00. Call 866-439-4287 or catch them on the Web at www.bassanipipes.com
Continued On Page 3
May 24, 2007 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
Another crazy week. A brother sold a bike for a lousy ten grand and the buyer stiffed him for a grand. I’ve heard enough strange stories this week to make your head spin. I swear the stars fall out of alignment and we all go nuts.
Then there’s new love or break-ups. It’s no wonder people get shot over this stuff. I tell guys to be strong and do the right thing, even when your guts are spilling out of your ears. It will pass, I swear.
I thought this was going to be a news light, but no way. I’ll scramble the pot, pray for a cold beer, look to the weekend for relief and time to work on the Bonneville bike and maybe barbeque. That’s right, I’m on a diet. Fuck!
RIVERA/PRIMO AND BIKERNET LOOKING FOR SWINGARM SHOVEL OWNER–We have a deal for you. Rivera has developed a killer system for early Shovels. It gives the rider a solid 6-speed transmission, that will fit in his stock Shovel, but there’s more. It comes with Rivera’s brand new proven clutch pack, a new starter system and primary belt system. It eliminates all the old, bad shit.
We need a bike to put it on and produce a filmed Bikernet tech feature. Contact me if you have a bike and want this system. The retail cost for the system is $2,500 which is very reasonable, Rivera will kick it to you for only $1,200 and we’ll get someone to handle the installation, but you’ll need to get your bike to Larry Settles shop in Los Angeles. Drop me a note, if you’re up for it: Bandit@Bikernet.com.
BANDIT’S BED ROLL JOURNEY– I thought about the Old West and the bedrolls the cowboys used to carry their shit, and it came to me. Something over the headlight, as long as it wasn’t too heavy, could do the trick. The bike would maintain its nasty profile, I could still pack someone on the back, and carry my shit.
As I wound through the canyon, my mind went to work on the bedroll concept. Could it carry all I wanted to pack? Another question smacked me as I rounded another corner and caught a glimpse of the Pacific lapping the Malibu shores in the distance. What about a tool bag? The short answer is yes, the perfect bag for the job.
Bandit’s Bed Roll is the perfect combo of tool bag and weekender engineered by the man that delivers form and function and keeps your ride looking clean. So pull out your wallet and click here to get your official Bandit Bed Roll Today. Bikernet Stickers included and I pay for shipping.
–Bandit
EASYRIDERS MOTORCYCLE RODEO SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED–We hope this letter finds you well. The Easyriders Events department is currently preparing for our summer Easyriders Motorcycle Rodeo Tour 2007. We would like to thank all those exhibitors that participated in the Easyriders V-Twin Bike Show Tour 2007!
ALL NEW FOR 2007!
***USED PARTS CORRAL***
Have a Shop or Garage Full of Used Parts???
Call us today to ask about special vendor pricing in the Used Parts Corral!
We have four shows on the Rodeo Tour schedule this year:
Wilson, North Carolina ~ July 13-15
Prospect, Pennsylvania ~ July 20-22
Fowlerville, Michigan ~ August 17-19
Chillicothe, Ohio ~ Grand Nationals ~ August 30-September 3
If you are interested in passing out fliers at other events that you attend, please call us at 1-800-962-9857. It’s a great way to help us get the word out about the shows!
Please note: Last year we experienced a sold-out situation for all shows well in advance of the show dates. We recommend that you make your decision as soon as possible. Also, remember that this is the 4th year we have enforced the
NO ONE UNDER 18 ALLOWED rule. Please keep the precious little tikes at home with grandma.
We hope to see you this summer LET’S RODEO!!!
Ride Safe,
–Easyriders Events Staff
LAST WEEK TO ENTER BIKERNET’S SHARPEST SOFTAIL CONTEST–WIN a new set of high-performance Fat Cat or Boarzilla performance exhaust pipes for your Harley-Davidson Softail. It’s easy? send us:
Name
Email
Picture of your bike
Telephone
Details on your bike
Why you need a performance pipe
Send entries to softail@horsepowermarketing.com and we will post them on bikernet.com, DandDexhaust.com and have the community at bikernet.com vote for the ‘Sharpest Softail’ of Bikernet.
About Fat Cat & Boarzilla Details
The 2 into 1 Fat Cat & Boarzilla Performance Pipes make up to 12 additional horses depending upon your configuration. The stylish upswept design provides the performance rider with extra ground clearance. Each pipe is hand fitted and installed with heat shields.
Each pipe is tuned for performance and sound. Not only do D&D pipes look good, you can feel the deep rumble that only a D&D equipped V-Twin can make.
To get a performance pipe for your Harley or custom V-Twin logon to
IMT AND BIKERNET.COM CAN MAKE THIS FATHER’S DAY A DAY TO REMEMBER–Call now for details on obtaining one for your display, as well as brochures and presentation CD’sRodney Adkins 877-679-2217 or Rodneya@touchlesscover.com
THE HERRIN ELKS CHARITY RIDE —will be holding their annual Crippled Children’s Poker run on September 9th Sunday. There will be a New Harley giveaway raffle that day also. Best hand wins $1000 cash. Silent auctions and regular auction. Breakfast will be served that morning and BBQ’s when you return. First bike out at 11am. Biker Games also. For more info call 618-942-5653. The address is 221 East Monroe Stree in Herrin, Illinois call if you need more directions.
DEATH AT MYRTLE BEACH BIKE WEEK–I was reading the article about Myrtle Beach bike week. It realy pisses me off thatthese cagers get no tickets or JAIL!! for friggin killing someone. I was there this year, and letme tell you that cops were easily handing tickets to bikers. I was on my way to the Sugar Shack at the convention center 10:30 a.m. and the traffic was nutz, so I was in a line of about30 or 40 cars and bikes so instead of going in the parking lot I decided to go straight and go by later on. Well, I didn’t really see that the cops decided to make it a turn only lane. Whichthere was no way of telling since the cop standing there was too busy talking on his cell phone. The lane was made to turn or go straight you know arrows. Anyhow I was about1/8 of mile down the road, and what do you know, myrtle beaches finest following me for at least a mile. Then the light goes on, so I pulled over and pulled out my license, registration and insurance papers. He walks up and says, “Are you legal?
I hand him my stuff and he says, “I will be right back.” He comes back 15 min later, out of his air cond car, with a ticket for a $120.
I said, “What for?” Improper starting. What the fuck is that any way?
He said, “Well you were supposed to turn.”
I was getting pissed off. I said, “The lane was two ways buddy.”
He replied, “Not this week.”
I was raging and he told me to shut up boy or he would give you a bigger fine with 4 points against my license.
I shut up, but he stillfollowed me for 2 friggin miles right on my tail waiting for me to speed or something. I find it realfunny that bikers are always wrong. But no fines or jail for the bike killers. Mrytle Beachpolice are dickheads.
Thanks Bandit for letting me share my story,
–Eric Fertig
Cops won’t keep me from riding!!!!!
BRUTE III EXTREME ENCLOSED BELT DRIVES– The BRUTE III EXTREME is specially designed for high horsepower (150+ HP capability) street or competitionapplications requiring above average strength & ability.
Designed to live with the extreme shockloads generated by large displacement, highly-modified American V-Twinswithout whimpering, the BRUTE IIII EXTREME represents the latest technological advances in primary drive andprimary belt design.
Featuring a 1-3/4″ wide, 11mm “dense pack” Kevlar polychain belt which is virtually indestructible, this drive isdesigned to run in a closed environment, between the inner & outer primary covers. The 34-tooth front & 49-toothrear pulleys provide great gearing for even the strongest of motors.
Included with these kits is our new & improved complete PRO-CLUTCH assembly with its seven Kevlar onaluminum core friction plates for better engagement. In addition, these kits include our one-piece sealed bearingfor the inner primary, replacing the stock two-piece bearing. It’s I.D. is made to fit directly on the mainshaftwithout a bearing race.
The BRUTE III EXTREME is available in several models, with & without offsets as well as with differentstarter ring gears. See the listing below for your application:
1-3/4″ WIDE 11mm BELT CLOSED PRIMARY ELECTRIC STARTFITS 1990-2007 EVO & TWIN CAM SOFTAILS & 1990-2007 DYNA MODELS
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
CELTIC MANUFACTURING INTRODUCES NEW CELTIC FINISHER LINE–Augusta, Georgia, 1 May 2007— Celtic Manufacturing, Inc. has added another product to its line of Vibratory Deburring machines and finishers. The Celtic Finisher VB03 is a large capacity, 16 cubic foot tumbler designed to service the growing ceramic coating industry. This particular unit was designed and built with a 54″ long tub to accommodate most automobile and motorcycle exhaust headers. The headers are coated and then placed in The Celtic Finisher for 20-60 minutes to achieve a high luster finish similar to polished aluminum.
Company founder Mark Runnels was asked if this was a departure in thinking from previous models? “I don’t think so. We’re in the business of building finishing machines and while the end user of the finished products has changed, we’re still servicing the metal finishing industry with solid and affordable machinery that just isn’t available anywhere else.”
WILBERS SHOCKS FROM HOLLAND–Sent us a DVD, which I’ve been kicking around for months. I dropped it in my computer and watched individual shock being assembled in super clean facilities. I watched sportbikes zip around Grand Prix tacks and the boss explain how well their products work.
If you’re interested in their amazing product line go to www.wilbers.de or drop a line to info@wilbers.de.
CLUB H.O.G DOWN HOME ANNOUNCES ENTERTAINMENT FOR 2007–MILWAUKEE, Wis. (May 22, 2007) -Headline acts Montgomery Gentry, Big Head Todd & the Monsters, and Cowboy Mouth will fill two stages of live entertainment with the sound of stomping boots and thunderous applause at the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G) Club H.O.G. DOWN HOME: 24th Annual Rally, August 24-25, 2007, at Chilhowee Park in Knoxville, Tenn.
Harley-riding duo Montgomery Gentry has rocked the country music world since 1999 with their blue-collar anthems and tales of life, love and patriotism. Winners of numerous national awards, they were recently nominated for the 2007 Academy of Country Music Award for Top Vocal Duo. Montgomery Gentry will rock Club H.O.G. DOWN HOME on Friday, August 24, at the Harley stage.
New this year, Colorado-based band Big Head Todd & the Monsters brings its laid-back, slightly jazzy, blues-based rock to the Harley stage Saturday afternoon. A favorite on the national recording and concert scene since the release of its breakthrough album, “Sister Sweetly,” in 1992, the band just released “From the Archives – Vol. 1,” a collection of their greatest hits.
Crowd favorite Cowboy Mouth returns to CLUB H.O.G. DOWN HOME with its New Orleans style of rock ‘n roll and legendary live shows sure bring down the house Saturday at the Miller Tennessee Tap stage. Perhaps Cake magazine said it best when it wrote “? on a bad night they’ll tear the roof off the joint and on a good night they’ll save your soul.”
Other performers include genre-bending master guitarist DB Bryant Band, high-energy Blues, Rock and Boggie band Dixie Werewolves, steel horse-riding traditional Country artist Sundance & the Roughriders, Blues/Rock power trio Sonny Moorman Group and the “Road-tested Country” group the Drew Davis Band.
Take a break from the live music and enjoy the other activities offered at CLUB H.O.G. DOWN HOME. Take the opportunity to meet and talk with Harley-Davidson executives at the Town Hall Meetings as they take questions from H.O.G. members or talk tech with Harley-Davidson technicians at three different Service Seminars – all at the H.O.G. Amphitheater. Take advantage of the miles of extraordinary scenic riding around the Knoxville area with rides organized by those who know the area best: chapter members from the two area Harley-Davidson dealerships.
Performances at the Stunt Zone include Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Motorcycle Drill Team, Seattle Cossacks Stunt Team, Bubba Blackwell: The Buell American Daredevil, ILLConduct, and Bruce Rossmeyer’s Ft. Lauderdale Harley-Davidson Drill Team,
While most activities are limited to registered H.O.G. member event attendees, the Knoxville community is encouraged to participate in various rally activities such as free demo rides on 2008 Harley-Davidson 105th anniversary models and Buell motorcycles, viewing the newly re-designed Harley-Davidson Traveling Museum and cheering on the motorcycles during the Knoxville Parade of Harleys on Saturday morning.
The public is also invited to attend the Smoky Mountain Shindig: Where the HOG Meets the Dragon on Thursday, August 23, at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson and Buell in Maryville, the Knox Rocks Down Home HOG Fest hosted by Knoxville Harley-Davidson and Buell on Saturday, August 25 at both local dealerships and Down Home at the Shed at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson and Buell on Saturday.
H.O.G. members can pre-register for CLUB H.O.G. DOWN HOME by visiting
For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Web site at
PAUGHCO/BAKER TRANSMISSION TECH COMING OUR WAY–Through a couple of builds we’ve run into a dilemma choosing the proper transmission plate to run with the tranny, frame, engine and wheel combination. Scout from Baker sent us the following:
There are three plates. There’s’64 and older. They have slots in them for the bosses on the bottom of the tranny, “for primary chain adjustment.” They share the same bolt patterns as the ’65-84 tranny plate. You can put an older tranny plate ’36-’64 on a ’65-’84 but typically not the other way around. The ’85 and newer plate is for Softail application. The bolt pattern left to right is wider then that of a 4-speed, but all share the common 5th bolt location on the frame. There are subtle differences in the bolt holes from the tranny plate to the frame ’36 up, most dominately a width difference. The hole width was changed when they built the Softail chassis with the under-slung shocks.
Are you confused? Can you help. I’ve asked the Paughco team to take pictures of all the plate they build. I know of three Softail Plates, the old 4-speed job and another one that is dished and has spacers welded to it. We’ll get to the bottom of this.
For transmission tech questions drop Nate an e-mail. He’s the Baker tech guy.natez@bakerdrivetrain.com
–//Scout
TEASER OF WHAT’S AHEAD–BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL REPORTS–BASSANI HEADER KIT, UPDATE ON BILL RUCKER, AMERICAN IRON WANTS RESPONSE, HOLLISTER H-D NOW HOUSE OF THUNDER, SPEEDFREAKS MEMORIAL DAY PREVIEW, MRF WASHINGTON OPEN HOUSE, NHTSA MEETING, DELL COMPUTERS AND MORE RUCKER PERFORMANCE.
Continued On Page 2
Legacy Of Talent
By Bandit |
•Latisha with the DAvid Mann Bike- This is an image of myself with the David Mann bike. Many people who have watched the show remember me as the only female painter featured and the only artist to incorporate metal etching.
Latisha Wood was born the baby of a large family with four brothers and two sisters. She has been drawn to motorcycles since she understood her own father was killed on one. Her father best known to her family as “Daddy Jerry” was killed by a drunk driver when she was only a few months old. But she doesn’t dwell on his death instead, Latisha says, “Painting bikes is her way of connecting to the father she never got to know.” Her father was also a self taught artist and his talent definitely lives on in Latisha, in fact Latisha feels him guiding her every day.
•American Legend- This is 2.5 gallon HD sportster tank I painted and etched an American eagle into the tank. It is what I call “The American Legend” and it was created as a tribute to Harley Davidson.
Her amazing ability began when she was old enough to hold a crayon and has continued to grow right along with her. No one who knew her then, even her family would have ever have guessed her ability would have brought her where she is today. Latisha got her first break and began working on bikes on the Discovery channel show American Choppers.
•Hand painted Liberty portrait. The bike was built to raise money to restore the nation’s monument.
The first bike she painted was the Liberty Bike but it was the David Mann bike that demonstrated some of her finest work and her true potential to contribute to the world of art.
•The David Mann Bike- Built as a tribute to David Mann by Orange Country Choppers. The bike was featured on Discovery Channel. This is the bike where I first featured my metal etching technique known as “Flames Of Steel”.
Since then Latisha has acquired many painting techniques including; metal etching, air brushing, detailed hand painted artwork, gold leafing, and she works with a vast amount of amazing new age paints.
•Artist At Large- Entirely metal etched artwork designed to captivate the flavor of several artistic forms such as tattoo, music, and fine art.
Her clients seek her out from all over the country with 95% of her work being shipped to her through the mail. She takes on 8-10 bikes a year and spends two to six months custom painting them. Latisha also spends a lot of her time doing projects for charities such as the Cancer Association, Livestrong Foundation, Breast Cancer Awareness, American Diabetes Association Ride to Live, Georgia Sheriffs Association Youth Homes, Juvenile Diabetes Association and the March of Dimes.
Southwestern Victory Kingpin- This is an example of the featured artwork I can do. This is completely airbrushed and hand painted over the original Victory factory paint.
Her talent is astounding and each project she takes on displays her unique abilities and personal creativity. Some of her abilities as an artist include but are not limited to; portraits, pinups, etchings, illustrations, and anything custom designed, she incorporates her work onto anything from bikes, guitars, cars, fine art and even homes. Her talent has not yet reached its brink and Latisha hopes to continue to be a success.
•Les Paul Portrait- This is a Gibson Guitar Les Paul that was designed and painted for Gibson Guitars. The Guitar features a painting I did of Les Paul with his first home built acoustic guitar. The guitar is displayed at Gibson’s Museum.
Latisha was inspired by her last job when her client Joe Leroy an Olympic runner hired her to paint the Tattoo Bike which displays several etchings, hand painted artowrk, airbrushing, custom stripping and gold leafing. The Tattoo Bike features several of Joes amazing tattoos one being a metal etched Olympic torch. As a result of the inspiring project Latisha has decided to learn the art of tattooing.
Joe’s Tattoo Bike. Images of the gas tank and front fender for the tattoo bike. The bike is yet to be completed so look out for more to come in the future. On the gas tank the dragon and tiger are tattoos of joes they are also etched into the metal of the tank. On the front fender I have etched the Olympic torch, the torch is also one of Joe’s tattoos.
It’s easy to see that Latisha will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the art industry as she continues to reach for the stars, reinventing herself and setting no limits. So, if you think you might want a unique piece of art on your bike, family home or even your body you know right where to look. If you would like more information on Latisha Wood go to www.LatishasArt.com . I can’t wait to see what she will create next.
Photos are property of Latisha Wood and should not be copied and taken without her consent. Thanks…
May 17, 2007 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
RIVERA PRIMO OFFSET INNER PRIMARIES FOR 5&6 SPEED SOFTAIL MODELS–Manufactured to Rivera Primo’s discriminating specifications, these Softail?-style covers are perfectfor any application requiring an enclosed belt drive with a _”, 1″ or 1-1/2″ offset since they alreadyhave the offset built into the primary cover..
These inner primary covers are fully chromed, reinforced and bolt-on just like stock. Each offsetcover is sold without the transmission shaft bearing, starter shaft bushing & seal. However, weoffer these items separately, each kit includes primary bearing, retaining ring, transmission seal,primary lock tabs & starter shaft bushing.
Order part # 1162-0100 for the 1990-1993 cover,part # 1162-0101 for the 1994-2006 cover.
Offset Inner Primary Covers
1162-0004 . . . _” Offset Inner Primary Cover / Fits 1994-2006 Softail? models
1162-0006 . . . 1-1/2″ Offset Inner Primary Cover / Fits 1994-2006 Softail? models
1162-0005 . . . 1″ Offset Inner Primary Cover / Fits 1990-1993 Softail? models
1162-0003 . . . 1-1/2″ Offset Inner Primary Cover / Fits 1990-1993 Softail? models
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
HELP A DREAM COME TRUE– Because all we really have in life are dreams and goals….. Seven year old Shane Bernier of Lancaster, Ontario is a patient receiving treatment for Leukemia at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
On May 30th, Shane will be turning 8 years old.
HE HAS A DREAM…. to receive the largest amount of birthday cards so that he can be entered into the Guinness Book of Records.
Let’s help make his dream come true!!!
http://www.shaneswish.com
Shane Bernier is a courageous seven-year-old boy from Lancaster, Ontario who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia when he was only five. On June 6th, 2006 Shane and his family received some unfortunate news: Shane experienced a relapse after completing 108 of 130 weeks of treatment.
However, despite the bad news, Shane has managed to keep a positive outlook on his situation and has made a heart-warming wish… He hasn’t asked for money or toys or anything of the sort. Instead, his birthday is on May 30th and he would like to break the world record for the most birthday cards ever received. His goal is 350 million cards. With every card, Shane’s courage grows. Something as simple as sending a birthday card could be enough to help Shane find peace and joy in his current circumstances.
Please take the time to send a card to Shane and make his dream become a reality. Share his story with your friends, family and co-workers. If at all possible, get your youth groups, church congregations, employees, neighbours or communities to set aside a few minutes to write a thoughtful note to Shane.
With every card, Shane’s smile grows…
SEND SHANE A BIRTHDAY CARD TO:
SHANE BERNIER
P.O. BOX 484
LANCASTER, ONTARIO
K0C 1N0
SDMF
Sara Liberte
www.saraliberte.com
www.northhillscycle.com
www.myspace.com/saraliberte
A SAD BIKERNET FUNERAL PROCESSION–A Man was leaving a convenience store with his morning coffeewhen he noticed a most unusual funeral procession approaching the nearbycemetery.
A long black hearse was followed by a second long black hearseabout 50 feet behind the first one. Behind the second hearse was a solitary man walking a pit bull on a leash. Behind him, a short distance back,were about 200 men walking single file.
The man couldn’t stand his curiosity. he respectfullyapproached the man walking the dog and said, “I am so sorry for your loss, and I know now is a bad time to disturb you, but I’ve never seen a funeral like this.
Whose funeral is it?”
“My Wife’s “What happened to her?”
The man replied, “My dog attacked and killed her.”
He inquired further, “Well, who is in the second hearse?”
The man answered, “My mother-in-law. She was trying to help my wife when the dog turned on her.”
A poignant and thoughtful moment of silence passed between the two men.
“Can I borrow the dog?”
“Get in line.”
–from Chris T.
PAUGHCO’S NEW 280 6-SPEED RSD–This latest addition to the largest and oldest line of custom and replacement H-D frames in the world is even better for 2007.
Paughco engineers developed their newest frame to meet the needs of builders using the massive 280 rubber and popular Baker 6-speed with right hand drive. According to Paughco, the frame’s geometry provides for better balance without the need to offset the engine. Additionally the new frame provides extremely clean lines thanks to its rigid, single down tube layout.
As with all Paughco frames the number of options offered is extensive. You can order yours with extensions in the front tube up to 10″, stretched backbone from 2-5″ and with rake angles from 30-45 degrees.
The latest version is also available with hidden axle components. All Paughco frames are fabricated to order from the highest quality DOM steel.
For complete details call 775-246-5738 or go to www.paughco.com.
EXPANDED DIAMONDBACK CLUTCH AND THROTTLE CABLE CHOICES–MILWAUKEE (April 30, 2007) – Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories has expanded its selection of Diamondback braided cables to include 13 new Diamondback Clutch Cable Kit lengths and five new Diamondback Throttle/Idle Cable Kit lengths. Designed to complement chrome hand controls, premium Diamondback cables and matching Diamondback brake lines feature a micro-fine wire braiding and a tight weave pattern. Diamondback cable kits offer smooth, precise action with internal anti-friction inserts and cable pre-lubrication to ensure long life and consistent performance.
Diamondback Multi-Length Modular Brake Lines are a two-piece design that uses common lower brake lines and multiple length upper brake lines in 1-to-2-inch increments up to 34 inches. The completely assembled upper lines come in three different banjo angles allowing for automatic banjo clocking. With only one hidden JIC connection, these brake lines are visually streamlined at the sight points and match all other Diamondback cables. Available to fit a wide variety of Harley-Davidson models and custom installations, Diamondback kits include all necessary mounting hardware. See dealer for fitment details.
For additional information on Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories, see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. or Canada.
RIDER’S EDGE COURSES AVAILABLE–Three educational courses are offered: the Rider’s Edge New Rider Course, the Rider’s Edge Skilled Rider Course and the Rider’s Edge/MSF Guide to Group Riding video. The New Rider Course is a great way to learn to ride and experience the fun and excitement of riding a motorcycle.
The interactive course includes both classroom instruction and training on a controlled range. Participants learn on the Buell Blast motorcycle, starting slowly to become familiar with the bike and then shifting into higher gears with learning to brake, turn and maneuver.
Upon completion of the New Rider Course, which uses the proven curriculum of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) Basic RiderCourse, students receive an MSF Completion Card. The card may help with getting their motorcycle license in most states, as well as possible discounts on insurance.
Though I believe Ride Education Courses are a Good Thing. In Many Cases Riders Completing The course Are NOT REQUIRED TO TAKE A STATE TEST! That is Not Good and amounts to Riders being able to Buy A License. In many cases those completing the course could not pass state tests.
In the interest of Motorcycle Safety over profits I would like to suggest that All States Require Testing by The State Motor Vehicle Department. I realize that this may not be a popular statement, but has to be made.
States like Florida are making Rider Education Mandatory and this is being pushed by people profiting off the courses. If those teaching the courses have done their job, Then the Graduates Should Be Able To Pass A Test From Another Agency. Namely the State Motor Vehicle Department which actually issues the license.
–Rogue
Sturgis Freedom Fighters
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
WITNESS MIND-BLOWING INTERVIEW REGARDING BONNEVILLE RACING AND BROTHERHOOD–You can see a great interview with Banditall this week at
BAKER DRIVETRAIN COMES TO BREAKFAST– Melbourne, FL- Billy Lane is proud to announce the addition of Baker Drivetrain as a new partner with the Builders Breakfast event in Sturgis. Baker Drivetrain will assist the Breakfast in their goal of raising funds for Make A Wish, South Dakota at the 2nd Annual Builders Breakfast. The event will be held Tuesday, August 7th at the legendary Broken Spoke Saloon on Lazelle Street in the heart of Sturgis, South Dakota.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished so far with the Builders Breakfast events. With Baker Drivetrain on board we can do even more. Baker has joined with us to help raise money. Baker Drivetrain will be donating a premium American made transmission for the auction. We hope to raise enough money from that one item to send one child on their dream trip with Make A Wish, South Dakota” explained Builder Breakfast founder Billy Lane.
As the drivetrain authority, Baker Drivetrain based out of Michigan, is best known for manufacturing the best in premium American made innovations for your motorcycle. “I attended the last Breakfast in Daytona just to be there and then it hit, me, Baker Drivetrain needs to get involved with this event. Each time I see all of those builders in one place, I think, how amazing this industry is,” said Bert Baker, owner, Baker Drivetrain.
A limited number of tickets are available now for the event online at:
The Builders Breakfast also receives invaluable support from Bikernet.com, Paisano Publications, Choppers Inc, Custom Chrome, Bikers InCite Maps, White Water Mfg., All of the amazingly talented Builders, Chrome Marketing and Marilyn Stemp.
For more information please visit
CITGO CHANGING NAME–Chavez NOW has IRANIANS operating his oil refineries in Venezuela for him. It is likely only a matter of time, if not already, before Chavez has Iranian built LONG RANGE missiles, with a variety of warhead types aimed at: Guess Who?
CITGO is NOW in the process of Changing Its Name to PETRO EXPRESS due to the loss of gasoline sales in the USA due to the recent publicity of ownership by Hugo Chavez of Venezuela .
Every dollar you spend with CITGO or PETRO EXPRESS gasoline will be used against you, your basic human rights, and your freedoms. He will start wars here in the Americas that will probably be the death of millions of free people.
–from Chris T.
THE END GODDAMNIT–Wow, politics, the world, bullshit, immigration, Iraq, and global warming, it’s enough to bring a sane man down. I watched some of the Republican debate that ran in the middle of the night. Just as well, nobody made any sense. They dance around issues like a 3-year old with a hot potato. I still don’t understand why the race kicked off over a year-and-a half before the election. We’ll be beat to death with this crap before it’s over.
Can I add something? I get tired of the notion that we failed in Iraq touted in every Time Magazine and in news interviews. I consider it a police action that will be resolved over the next year. We’ve lost 3000 over four years. We lose 150,000 folks a year in this country of infections caused by hospitals-then your relatives have to pay the medical bill. I don’t see reporters jumping up and down daily about our failed hospital system. Some 44,000 folks die every year in car accidents on our “failed highway system.” Did you know that over 3000 people die every year in this country from fire? So I suppose all the fire departments failed. Hell, 3000 die a year choking. Who can we blame that on? Over the last four years 6,352 folks died falling down stairs. So I suppose the construction industry failed.
Hell, I just noticed that there were over 17,000 homicides in this country in 2003. Think we better pull out of here. The cops failed. Keep in mind that 2.3 million die a year of diseases, cancer, heart attacks, etc. How the hell does a news producer convince the anchor every day to spout only about Iraq, when we’ve failed miserably at so much more?
Give it up. Let the military do their job in Iraq. Some of the areas are coming together at a rapid pace, while we focus only on violence in Baghdad. I’m tired of being hammered. We need to smile, support one another and the troops, get involved with saving the planet, build bitchin’ motorcycles and look forward to the future. Turn off the television, throw away Time Magazine and party.
Let’s Ride
–Bandit
May 17, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
NEW IMPROVED BIKERNET GULCH OFFERS BANDIT’S BEDROLLS–I thought about the Old West and the bedrolls the cowboys used to carry their shit, and it came to me. Something over the headlight, as long as it wasn’t too heavy, could do the trick. The bike would maintain its nasty profile; I could still pack someone on the back, and carry my shit.
As I wound through the canyon, my mind went to work on the bedroll concept. Could it carry all I wanted to pack? Another question smacked me as I rounded another corner and caught a glimpse of the Pacific lapping the Malibu shores in the distance. What about a tool bag?
Bandit’s Bedroll is the perfect combo of tool bag and weekender engineered by the man that delivers form and function and keeps your ride looking clean. So pull out your wallet and click here to get your official Bandit Bed Roll Today.
RUDE DRIVERS STUDY– Residents in the following 25 cities were surveyed and are listed in order from those reporting the most incidents of road rage to the fewest:
1. Miami
2. New York
3. Boston
4. Los Angeles
5. Washington, D.C.
6. Phoenix
7. Chicago
8. Sacramento
9. Philadelphia
10. San Francisco
11. Houston
12. Atlanta
13. Detroit
14. Minneapolis-St. Paul
15. Baltimore
16. Tampa
17. San Diego
18. Cincinnati
19. Cleveland
20. Denver
21. Dallas-Ft. Worth
22. St. Louis
23. Seattle-Tacoma
24. Pittsburgh
25. Portland, Ore.
Source: AutoVantage’s “In the Driver’s Seat Road Rage Survey”
MIAMI (AP) – For the second consecutive year, rude Miami drivers have earned the city the title of worst road rage in a survey released Tuesday.Miami motorists said they saw other drivers slam on their brakes, run red lights and talk on cellphones, according to AutoVantage, a Connecticut-based automobile membership club offering travel services and roadside assistance.
Other cities near the top of the rude drivers list were New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.South Miami resident Erik Pinto told The Associated Press that he has probably seen every bad driving habit on Miami’s roads.
“You don’t want to know what I’ve seen,” Pinto said. “I’ve seen everything. I’m from L.A., and we don’t see the crazy drivers that you see here.”
–Rogue
Sturgis Freedom Fighters
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
RICK FAIRLESS FROM STROKERS DALLAS HAS SOMETHING TO SAY–Hey Ya’ll! I just wanted to take a minute to remind you of a few things coming up here at Strokers. This weekend we have the ABC Poker Run stopping by to benefit the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. We do a lot of events and fundraisers here for the TSRHC because they are great people doing a great job to help crippled children. We extend our support to any other group raising money for the same cause.
Here’s the deal: Even though every weekend is a party around here, we are celebrating the long weekend with even more BIKES, BABES, and BEER than usual. Come hang out and enjoy a cold one while you listen to live music, visit vendors, and check out hot babes all weekend long.
PLUS, I just expanded my show floor and parts room and I’m ready to fill them up with all new stuff. But that means I have to get rid of a bunch of what I have first. So I’m having a sale.
Expect major discounts on parts, accessories, apparel and gift items. I’m cutting deals on everything from t-shirts to exhaust, so empty your saddle bags, or bring the car,because you don’t want to leave this sale empty-handed!
Also, several items will be sold to raise money for the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children.
RUN TO MEXICO TIPS–Just got in. Bob and I were headed for Puerta Vallarta but when we got to Nogalas they wouldn’t let me in! If you are driving in, you weren’t suppose to need a passport just a drivers license until the first of the year. The Mexican government decided to pass the law a couple of weeks ago and AAA and the travel bureau didn’t get the message. Bob and I checked with a half dozed agencies including AAA and immigrations and they all said we only needed the license.
Bob had his passport and I had mine but it expired last week.Unbelievable, 6 million illegals can live here and sponge off us, but I can’t go south and spend my dinero.
Fuck, fuck, fuck, over.
–Bob Clark
BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–10 Hrs till we leave for Myrtle Beach…see ya at Suck Bang Blow!
Ride Hard,
Whiplash Biker Photog
NEW CYCLE WEB SITE KICKED OFF–At 7:18 PM mountain time a new web site lifted off the pad in Denver. The new and exciting web site launched without a snag. 2wheelersmc.com will bring parts for your chopper, custom leather items, and photo’s from all the biker events.
Along with a garage sale area with one of a kind parts for your Harley from the Pans to the Shovels to old cars to custom bikes. Have a look .
— the crew at 2wheelers
URGENT – EAGLES NEEDED AT TIMES SQUARE– Saturday, May 19, 2007 Noon to 4pm or whatever it takes. The forces of the Left wing have decided to make a mockery of everyAmerican serviceman or woman this Saturday at Times Square.
TheyHave decided to perform street theater decrying the supposed tortureOf inmates at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility at a time whenThree brave American servicemen are in the hands of IslamicTerrorists in Iraq.
They have decided to put on this travesty atThe recruiting station where we will be holding a Support the TroopsRally that day. They have effectively declared war on the UnitedStates, our Military, and the Gathering of Eagles organization.
They have no concern for OUR soldiers who are likely being tortured,Mutilated and beheaded even as I write this. This is an OUTRAGE,This is TREASON, this has got to be smothered by a display ofPatriotism so great that even the news media cannot reasonablyAssert that they are the majority in this country.
We need every one of you to contact your friends, family andNeighbors and turn out at Times Square to ridicule these leftistMorons. Spread the word and forward this alert to everyone you know.
If, however, you know that we need to support our troops who dailyPlace their lives on the line to protect our freedom. If you knowThat their many sacrifices should be honored and praised. If youKnow that the enemy is both foreign and domestic. If you know thatAll it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.Then turn out with your flags and pro-troop signs and banners. ThisIs NOT a drill. We need you NOW!
Where: Times Square Recruiting Center, traffic island at 43rdStreet between Broadway and 7th Ave.
When: Saturday, May 19, 2007, Noon to 4pm or whatever it takes to
Rout the opposition.
Directions: N. Q, R, S, 1, 2, 3, or 7 subways to Times SquareA, C, or E subways to 42nd St. (Port Authority Bus Terminal)From Penn Station take 1, 2 or 3 subway 1 stop to TimesSquare.From Grand Central Station take the S shuttle to TimesSquare.From Port Authority Terminal walk two blocks to E 43rd StAnd one block to Broadway.
Eagles Up!
–Dan Maloney
New York Coordinator
PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE MAY ATTEND LACONIA RALLY–Harley riding presidential candidate Tommy Thompson’s Team Tommy is working on plans to have him attend Laconia Motorcycle Week.The most likely dates at this time are Thursday or Friday June 14-15.
If you know any one or group in the area that would be interested in having him appear at their event or business please let me know and I will put them in contact with those handling this.
–Rogue
Sturgis Freedom Fighters
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
BIKE ABOUT TO BE FEATURED ON BIKERNET.COM–I have been a long time reader of your website and am always looking forward to the Thursday news to find out what is going on in the motorcycle world. Just thought that I would e-mail you some pics of a bike that I just finished. I built the handlebars, gas tank, exhaust pipes and various other bracket items from scratch.
This is the first of several hand-built motorcycles that we will be turning out in the next few months at “The Shop” a new custom motorcycle shop located in Minneapolis, MN. We are also a Sucker Punch Sally’s dealer and full service garage that can perform virtually any motorcycle maintenance, upgrades and customizing in house.
Check out our website for more information and an upcoming Open House.
–Jon Fox
Fabricator
HIPAA LOOPHOLE FIX UPDATE–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation reports that legislation to close theloophole thatallows insurance providers to discriminate against motorcyclists when itcomes to fullyfunding all benefits is beginning to gain some momentum. The House bill(HR 1076) has 45co-sponsors, while the Senate bill (S 616) has 3 co-sponsors. As a rule,Senators don’tco-sponsor legislation as frequently as their House counterparts. However,that certainlydoes not mean we should not ask them at every opportunity.”The impressive part of the list of House co-sponsors is that over half ofthem areRepresentatives from states that sent SMRO grassroots lobbyists to DC thisyear,”said Jeff Hennie, Vice President of Government Relations for theMotorcycle RidersFoundation (MRF). “I would like to give a huge thanks all of our SMROpartners thathave lobbied this important legislation.” Hennie added.
Over the past few months MI, WA, WI, NM, NY, NJ, OH, PA, CO, IA, AK, MN,and IL have allsent representatives from their respective State Motorcyclists? RightsOrganizations toWashington DC to lobby for the advancement of this issue. Those visitsresulted in over200 individual, sit-down office meetings with Senators, House Members andstaff.
US Representative Michael Burgess (R-TX), the bill sponsor, had this tosay, “No oneshould be denied health insurance benefits because they prefer to drive amotorcycle. Itis essential to provide health care benefits to those who have slippedthrough theloophole by protecting their access to substantive health care.”
–mrfnews mailing list
mrfnews@mrf.org
http://mrf.org/mailman/listinfo/mrfnews_mrf.org
MOTORCYCLE RIDE AND BENEFIT LUNCHEON–Presented by The Red, White and Blue Freedom Riders.”Give Kids the World” Village is a non-profit organization located in Kissimmee, Florida, helping to fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. http://www.gktw.org/
Register 10-11 am, May 20, at the Vietnam Veteran’s Hall, 596 Seashore Rd., Erma
$15 rider/ $10 passenger
A great motorcycle ride will be followed (at approximate. 2 PM) by good food, beverages, and our own DJ, Ed Avery. Door prizes, games, and lots of fun, all included in your donation.
No motorcycle?? NO PROBLEM! Come for the food and fun, starting at about PM. $10 donation at the door. In case of rain, the ride may be canceled but the fun will not!
For info, call Linda 609-425-6557 Check our Web site: www.rwbfr.com
GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS SHORTEST SEMINAR–Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, and Quasimodo were all talking one day.
Sleeping Beauty said, “I believe myself to be the most beautiful girl inthe world.”
Tom Thumb said, “I must be the smallest person in the world.”Quasimodo said, “I absolutely have to be the most disgusting person inthe world.”
So they all decided to go to the Guinness Book of World Records to havetheir claims verified.
Sleeping Beauty went in first and came out looking deliriously happy.”It’s official, I AM the most beautiful girl in the world.”
Tom Thumb went next and emerged triumphant, “I am now officially thesmallest person in the world.”
Sometime later, Quasimodo comes out looking utterly confused andsays.”Who the hell is Rosie O’Donnell?”
–from Chris T.
RALPH RANDOLPH TEAMS WITH COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE TO BUILD AIRCRAFT-INSPIRED TRIBUTE BIKE–MESA, AZ, May 14, 2007- Ralph Randolph Designs today announced its commission by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) to build the organization’s 50th Anniversary Tribute Bike. The design of the one-off custom motorcycle will be inspired by vintage aircraft and unveiled to the media and public at the CAF’s 50th Anniversary Gala Event to be held July 9, 2007 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“This may be the most significant commission of my career”, states Ralph Randolph, himself a United States Marine and a captain with US Airways.
According to CAF spokesperson, John Lage, “We considered many builders for the commission including Orange County Choppers, but in the end it was my face to face meeting with Ralph that sealed the deal. Not only is he a premier motorcycle builder but he is also an accomplished pilot and we felt he could exemplify the convergence of aviation and motorcycles into the quintessential piece”.
Ralph Randolph continues, “It’s an honor and privilege to combine my true loves of aviation and custom motorcycle fabrication into one project and I guarantee the end result will reflect my passion for both.”
Ralph Randolph Designs is an Arizona-based custom motorcycle manufacturer whose clients have included Snap-On Tools and Ed Hardy Designs.
The Commemorative Air Force is a living museum whose Ghost Squadron consists of the largest collection of operational vintage aircraft in the world. With more than 150 aircraft in its fleet, the Commemorative Air Force is dedicated to preserving history and teaching history though its airshows, membership, educational programs and events.
–Ralph Randolph Designs
638 W. Broadway Road
Suite 314
Mesa, AZ 85210
480-279-1734
Commemorative Air Force
P.O. Box 62000
Midland, TC 79711-2000
432-563-1000
Continued On Page 4
May 17, 2007 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BIKER’S RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES, THE MANUAL AVAILABLE– Last week I attended a convention of Biker’s rights and legislation effecting our sport and lifestyle. The offices of Richard M. Lester and Mike Mandelman produced a manual on our Rights and Civil Liberties. If you want to check it out go to aimncom@aimncom.com or call (800) 662-2453.
STEALTH BIKEWORKS BECOMES ASSALT WEAPAN SPONSOR FOR BONNEVILLE 2007-This just in from Charlotte. Seems Bandit robbed a bike shop, Stealth Bike Works. At gunpoint he ordered Mike Pullin’s wife Meanest to make out a check for $100 to the 5-Ball Racing Team Bonneville effort. He left them a Bikernet sticker and ran out the door.
THE 6TH EDITION OF FEMMOTO ADDA A TRADITIONAL TRACK DAY, ANOTHER BRAND AND ADDS STREET DEMOS TO THE MIX AT LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY–Femmoto, the track day and motorcycle demo event that celebrates female riders is growing in both schedule and features for 2007. Event sponsors include Aprilia, Buell, Ducati, Joe Rocket, Harley-Davidson, Hein Geircke?s G-Line, Icon, Kawasaki , KYMCO, Michelin Two Wheel, Parts Unlimited, Red Bull, Repsol and Scorpion. With a full schedule of demos on track, a dirtbike school, street demos, vendors and a party Saturday night, Las Vegas will be the industry hot spot on October 5-7th, 2007.
Continuing the tradition hosting female motorcycle enthusiasts in a nurturing and safe environment, Femmoto 2007 welcomes industry leader Harley-Davidson in joining returning manufacturers Aprilia, Buell, Ducati, Kawasaki , and KYMCO to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway now for three days of action. “We are so excited about this year,” says Bonnie Strawser, Femmoto Director. “We have so much going on that we expanded to three days of on-track, off-road and street demos, and brought the traditional Saturday night reception to the fabulous Neon Garage located right at the speedway as well as adding hospitality tents at the demo site. This year is going to be awesome, and I am really looking forward to meeting all our new and returning attendees.”
Harley-Davidson is the newest brand to participate at Femmoto. Offering street demos on a variety of Big-Twin and Sportster motorcycles, the Motor Company will also host demos on the track for the performance-oriented VRSC models. Buell Motorcycles will likewise offer street and track demos to expand riding opportunities on their Ulysses, Lightning, Firebolt and Blast models.
With Italian Brands Aprilia and Ducati returning for 2007 the variety of factory-sponsored machines is awe-inspiring. Femmoto is a great opportunity for female riders to experience a glimpse into the world of Ducati.
For the first time at Femmoto men will have a chance to take to the track as well. Friday features a traditional track day designated as the
Every year Femmoto has sold out early. Interested parties are encouraged to log on to
Event information:
Where: Las Vegas Motor Speedway
(
When: October 5-7 2007
Costs: Dependant on activities chosen (please check website for details)
Demos offered by: Aprilia, Buell, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, KYMCO.
Website: www.femmoto.com
P.B. CHOPPERS CONCEALS AND COVERS COILS IN CHROME–New at MC Advantages are P.B. Choppers’ line of premier coil covers withmotor mounts. These show chrome or black nickel-plated covers fit any S&S?or H-D? Evolution? Engine. The flat teardrop coil cover includes anautomotive style ignition switch and receives a 2 1/16″ Speedo Gauge likethe Dakota Digital? 3015 which is sold separately. The cast teardrop cover,which closely matches the popular S&S teardrop air cleaner, is pre-drilledfor stock H-D? ignition switches.
These precision cast or fabricated covers will fit Spyke? and Dynatek?Single- or Dual-Fire Coils, excluding the diamond covers that will notreceive Spyke? Single-Fire coils due to reduced space.
–Adam Roorda
MC Advantages
1-800-726-9620
www.MCAdvantages.com http://www.MCAdvantages.com
ARKANSAS QUARTER RECALL–Hang on to any of the new Arkansas Quarters. If you have them, they maybe worth much more than 25 cents. The US Mint announced today that itis recalling all of the Arkansas quarters that are part of its programfeaturing quarters from each state. This action is being taken afternumerous reports that the new quarters will not work in parking meters,toll booths, vending machines, pay phones or any other coin operateddevices.
The problem lies in the unique design of the Arkansas quarter, which wasdesigned by a team of Ozark specialists. Apparently the duct tapeholding the two dimes and the nickel together keeps jamming up themachines.
AUSTRALIAN ANTI-BIKE CLUB LAW– from the pages of the Sydney Morning Herald earlier this week…
WEARING the insignia of outlaw motorcycle gangs would be made illegal in NSW under police measures to break up organized crime groups.
The Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney, said yesterday that he would recommend legislation banning gang colours, similar to anti-Mafia racketeering laws in the US.
Violence between rival clubs has escalated in the past two months, with a series of tit-for-tat shootings, assaults and firebombings of bikie club houses in Sydney and Newcastle.”We are fed up with bikie gangs launching acts of retribution on the streets of Sydney endangering the lives of innocent people,” Mr Moroney said.
He singled out the Nomad, Bandido, Comanchero and Rebel gangs as the protagonists in what the Police Gang Squad commander, Detective-Superintendent Scott Whyte, said was a turf war for control of the Sydney nightclub drug scene and protection rackets.
Mr Whyte said that in the past year the Gangs Squad had arrested 22 gang members or associates, laid 145 charges and seized more than 50 firearms from gang members or clubhouses.”I think at the end of the day they will be sick of the sight of us,” he said.The Police Minister, David Campbell, said that he would consider any recommendations made by Mr Moroney with regard to banning the wearing of gang colours, but would not make any “knee-jerk” announcements.
Jaqhama says: It’s just the Government and the cops talking crap as normal. I don’t see it as anything more than hot air on the cops part.They will probably suggest banning black leather vests and black helmets next.Wankers.
ANNOUNCEMENT! WE CAN STILL FIND BREAKFAST IN STURGIS–This just in from Myrtle Beach. Our 2nd Annual Builders breakfast sponsored by Bikernet.com, is scheduled for TUESDAY, AUGUST 7TH at the BROKEN SPOKE on Lazelle Street in Sturgis.
Please let me know if you can make it. Our beneficiary is MAKE A WISH, South Dakota. Thank you for helping raise money for this great cause.
–Darcy Betlach
Chrome Marketing Inc
Phone 952-470-4297
Fax 952-470-4597
NEW OFFICIAL 5-BALL RACING HELMET IMPORTED FROM AUSTRALIA– Little Mick, the Ed Roth of Australia, just finished the first official 5-Ball racing helmet and I will wear it with pride. This weekend you’ll be able to read Mick’s story, a 27-year member of the Rebels MC, in the Badlands corner of the Cantina. Thanks Mick!
BIKE CLUBS SUE FOR THEIR RIGHTS–More and more we are seeing police using illegal tactics to gain entry into motorcycle club properties. This is a national problem putting all clubs in jeopardy of these types of searches. This can only be resolved by the various clubs involved taking immediate and decisive action by suing the authorities engaged in this activity. It appears the only way to make city and town government’s reign in their police is to cost them money.
Tax payers should be appalled that their money is being used to defend civil rights and property rights violations by police in an orchestrated effort to harass these clubs. Hupy and Abraham, S.C. who filed this suit against the City of Milwaukee, won a suit against the Summerfest music festival several years ago when police and Summerfest officials refused to let club members remain on the grounds of the event in Milwaukee, even though they paid admission and were not causing any disturbance.
Three members of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club have sued the City of Milwaukee for what they call an unlawful police search of their clubhouse on the south side. Jack Rozga, David Zabel and Steven Kaczmarek said 19 police officers burst in with guns but no warrant, according to a federal lawsuit filed this week. The city attorney’s office did not return a call for comment on the lawsuit. The lawsuit says the three men were on the roof of the clubhouse, in the 1800 block of S. 2nd St., at 7 p.m. Sept. 25, checking for leaks with a broom and a flashlight, and then returned inside the club to socialize.At 7:40 p.m., an officer knocked on the door, pointed a gun at Rozga and ordered him and the others out while officers – at least 10 with shotguns – searched the clubhouse without a warrant, the suit says. Several took photos with cell phones to show they were inside the Outlaws’ headquarters, “like trophies,” said Todd Korb, attorney for the plaintiffs.Police told the men they came in because an officer saw someone on the roof with what looked like a gun, Korb said, but no guns or other contraband was found and no charges were ever filed.The lawsuit called the search part of an ongoing pattern of harassment. “Whether you like the Outlaws or don’t, we are in America and everyone has rights,” Korb said. “They had no right to go in and do a warrant less search at gunpoint. I don’t care who you are.” –from Tony Sanfelipo NEW BAGGER FROM BATTISTINIS CUSTOM CYCLES–Rikki Battistini, who worked for Arlen Ness for over a decade, developing products, is now on his own. Next week we will feature this dresser and all the parts he developed. –Rikki Battistini WYOMING LEGISLATIVE CALL TO ACTION–ABATE of Wyoming’s State President Graydon Wheeler has asked me to forwardyou the nationwide call-to-action drafted by Russ Reddick below. Pleasehelp preserve FREEDOM OF CHOICE in the beautiful riding country of theCowboy State by responding as requested. And in so doing, please avoidconfusing the UTILITY OF HELMETS with the FUTILITY OF HELMET LAWS. Mandatorymotorcycle helmet laws are discriminatorily unconstitutional in that–bymandating helmets for motorcyclists as opposed to ALL motorists–theyviolate the “equal protection” guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to theUnited States Constitution. HELMETS CANNOT PREVENT CRASHES, and allmandatory motorcycle helmet laws do is make negligent, care-less, distractedand impaired motorists feel less guilty about maiming and killing motorcycleriders. LIDS YES … LID LAWS NO! –Bruce Arnold The editorsof the Casper Star Tribune have taken it upon themselves to try and decidewhat is best for the motorcyclist of Wyoming and anyone rideing throughWyoming. I do not agree with their views! Please, let’s overwhelm themwith the views of those that acually ride a motorcycle. You can comment ontheir article on the internet at:http://www.trib.com/articles/2007/05/15/editorial/editorial/272c9b20c393fc2a872572db007b64aa.txt[orhttp://tinyurl.com/ypqwpf If you have problems posting your comments, email them to their editorialstaff: or you can call or write them at GUILTY CUSTOMS DID IT AGAIN–“Ridin’ on Air with no Guilt!” Those experiencing the newest product offered from Guilty Customs of Orlando Florida shouted these words after riding one of Guilty Customs rigid choppers equipped with their new air seat shock system. Guilty Customs and Chopper Shox have again, brought to the industry yet another unique product specifically for rigid chopper riders. “These shocks are 4_ eye to eye with aluminum bodies and have the same mounting dimensions as the coil-over and can be used with existing ChopperShox mounts. The rubber cushion is 1_ tall and is made from industrial rubber (Elastomeric). The shrader valve can be filled with air to adjust the ride, if desire. We specialize in patented seat shock systems for rigid framed choppers and bobbers, and we started Chopper Shox’s with one goal in mind, to make rigid framed bikes ride like a Cadillac” stated David Breckon, President of Chopper Shox of Las Vegas, NV. Guilty Customs and Chopper Shox already have a reputation for creating dependable, unique and affordable motorcycle parts with their prior products such as the single and dual coil over shock systems; the “Leather Do-it-yourself” builders seat kit; seat pans and bolt-on seat brackets. “This air-shock seat systems simple styling, quality craftsmanship, and superb riding characteristics make this product one of the “must have” products of 2007 for rigid framed builder and owners. We’re using the shocks on almost all our builds”, says CJ Hanlon, owner of Guilty Customs. “With our most recent build, we opted for the two shock system and the feedback from people has been very enthusiastic once they use it”. Guilty Customs, LLC (www.guiltycustoms.com) is a custom motorcycle company that is quickly establishing itself in the custom chopper industry by bringing to the general public innovative custom motorcycles and American made parts, at a price point that is affordable. Chopper Shox (www.choppershox.com) is a Las Vegas based manufacturer of custom seat shock systems and has gained national and international acclaim for their innovative and dependable seat shock systems for custom motorcycles. In Hanlon’s words, “at Guilty Customs, we are guilty! of wanting to give the motorcycle enthusiast quality American made products. And now, we have yet another product that will make the consumer even more comfortable and safe”. For more information about this shock system or dealer inquiries, contact Guilty Customs at info@guiltycustoms.com or 407.453.0844.
1109 Langton drive
San Ramon
CA 94582
Telephone: 925.270.4211
Fax: 925.905.4664
Email:
WWW.BattistinisUSA.com
http://www.ldrlongdistancerider.com/
nathan.bekke@casperstartribune.net
clark.walworth@casperstartribune.net
ron.gullberg@casperstartribune.net]
Casper Star Tribune,
170 star lane, p.o.box 80,
Casper Wy. 82602
(307)266-0500 or (800)559-0583
Continued On Page 3
May 17, 2007 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
When you stand in your garage and look at your motorcycle, what do you see? Do you see freedom, escape, style, grace, speed, sex, a weapon, creativity or rebellion? You may see a nasty blend of all these elements. I see sex in every curve. Why not?
This Bonneville effort has me staring at a bare stretched Paughco frame constantly. I’m spending hours building brackets and mounts then throwing them away. I’m reading shit that never interested me before. I wake up at night coming to conclusions or more questions. Check chapter 5 on the home page and watch for more reports next week.
Last weekend I attended the National Coalition of Motorcyclists annual Legislative Convention and gave a presentation on the Bikernet Independent Noise Study. Check it out:http://www.bikernet.com/news/PageViewer.asp?PageID=902
The brothers and sisters got a big kick out of it, and felt that it will be very helpful from the standpoint of community understanding in the future. You are welcome to print it out and share it with your law enforcement agencies, community or legislators. It’s there for you.
Let’s hit the news. If you’re in Myrtle Beach have a blast, I’ll be in the shop tearing it up for our Bonneville run:
ENTER BIKERNET’S SHARPEST SOFTAIL CONTEST– WIN a new set of high-performance Fat Cat or Boarzilla performance exhaust pipes for your Harley-Davidson Softail. It’s easy? send us:
Name
Email
Picture of your bike
Telephone
Details on your bike
Why you need a performance pipe
Send entries to softail@horsepowermarketing.com and we will post them on bikernet.com, DandDexhaust.com and have the community at bikernet.com vote for the ‘Sharpest Softail’ of Bikernet.
About Fat Cat & Boarzilla Details
The 2 into 1 Fat Cat & Boarzilla Performance Pipes make up to 12 additional horses depending upon your configuration. The stylish upswept design provides the performance rider with extra ground clearance. Each pipe is hand fitted and installed with heat shields.
Each pipe is tuned for performance and sound. Not only do D&D pipes look good, you can feel the deep rumble that only a D&D equipped V-Twin can make.
To get a performance pipe for your Harley or custom V-Twin logon to
THE KING KONG KLUTCH: A MONSTER IN CLUTCHING– Baker Drivetrain is always ready to take on those larger motors, and the release Spring 2007 of our King Kong Klutch is nodifferent. This Function Formed clutch features 20 single sided friction plates made from incredibly strong K2 material and threedifferent spring load options – depending on your application, and a 66 tooth configuration… oh and those twenty plates, are amassive 7 inch diameter.
All this is meant to bring you less clutch slippage due to a larger motor. Designed to fit most Harley-Davidsons – call for yourspecific application. (1990-06 Big Twin, excluding 06 Dyna).
The best part? This monster clutch is perfect for the new Baker FF Wet Primary. See www.bakerdrivetrain.com or ask our supportstaff for more information.
Key features of the Baker FF King Kong Klutch:
o Twenty, seven inch, single sided K2 friction plates
o Three spring load options
o 66 tooth configuration
o 1 piece basket design
o Larger torque capacity
o Positive pressure plate alignment with Perma-Glide bearings
o Option of a 9 tooth starter pinion for newer models that have a 102 tooth configuration
o Outer bearing support option works with FF Primary only
o Works with Baker’s new FF Primary
o Comes in Black and Red anodized
For additional information, call BAKER Drivetrain at the number above and ask the sales department anything! Or click on the banner above.
AVON TYRE QUESTION OF THE WEEK–We had a reader ask about mounting a rear tire on the front. They wanted to know if they needed to reverse the arrow. I pointed out that the tread pattern is designed to push water away from the tire patch, for improved rain traction, so mount the tire with the arrow going the correct direction. Suk from Avon had the following to add:
Also the way the tread is laid. When I tire is mounted on the rear the tread is laid one way to work with acceleration forces and the opposite way when mounted on the front to work with braking forces and prevent a tread splice.
Customer should also consider, with that wide in front, it will slow down steering. And I would suggest the Venom 160/80-16 AM42 as the Elan is over 5 years old and the compound gets harder every year so less grip and more prone to cracking.
–Sukoshi Fahey (Ms.)
Sales Manager, North America
Hoppe & Assoc. (Avon Tyres)
800 624-7470 toll free
425-771-2115 phone
425-771-4246 fax
www.avonmotorcycle.com
www.avonmoto.com/ (check this site for promotions)
NEW T-SHIRT DESIGN FROM 2WHEELERS–Flame long sleeves, JUST $21.99. Our new web site is going to be launched in a few days hopefully it will make the Thursday news. Check it out.
–Donna
ADVANSTAR COMMUNICATIONS ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR THE 2007-2008CYCLE WORLD INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOWS? PRESENTED BY TOYOTA–Santa Ana, Calif. (May 16, 2007) Advanstar Communications, a leading provider of integrated media solutions to the automotive aftermarket, off-road, and powersports industries today announced the schedule for the 27th annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows? presented by Toyota. The series will begin its 13-city nationwide tour on October 26, 2007 in Phoenix, Ariz. at the University of Phoenix Stadium and will conclude February 10, 2008 in Chicago at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
The International Motorcycle Shows provide enthusiasts an up close look at more than 800 new model street bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, ATVs and watercraft from major manufacturers, as well as new concept bikes, vintage bikes, OEM sponsored demo rides and more.
The 2007-2008 Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows ? Presented by Toyota schedule is as follows:
*October 26-28, 2007 University of Phoenix Stadium Phoenix, AZ
November 2-4 Reliant Center Houston, TX
November 9-11 Fort Worth Convention Center Fort Worth, TX
November 16-18 San Mateo County Expo Center San Mateo, CA
November 30-December 2 Qwest Field & Event Center Seattle, WA
December 7-9 Long Beach Convention Center Long Beach, CA
December 28-30 Jacob K. Javitz Convention Center New York, NY
January 4-6, 2008 Rock Financial Showplace Novi, MI
January 11-13 Washington Convention Center Washington D.C.
January 18-20 Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta, GA
January 25-27 IX Center Cleveland, OH
February 1-3 Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis, MN
February 8-10 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Chicago, IL
The 4th Annual Big Twin West custom bike trade show will be held in conjunction with the opening round of the International Motorcycle Shows providing a unique opportunity for the two shows to come together for the first time.
For the 15th consecutive year, Cycle World, the world’s most popular motorcycle magazine, is the title sponsor for the series and leading manufacturer Toyota will return for the tenth year as presenting sponsor. The Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows presented by Toyota is the world’s largest motorcycle show series. For more information, call 800/331-5706 or visit motorcycleshows.com
* held in conjunction with Big Twin West
STRIP-CLUB COMPROMISE WOULD RESTRICT TOUCHING AND FULL NUDITY– COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Rules forbidding touching of strippers and requiring them to keep on some clothes when dancing past midnight will be offered today as a compromise on a controversial statewide crackdown on adult businesses, a lawmaker said.
The no-touching rule for customers and the seminude dancing provision will be part of a new version of legislation that was brought to lawmakers through petitions circulated by Citizens for Community Values, a Cincinnati-based Christian group, House Judiciary Chairman Lou Blessing told The Plain Dealer of Cleveland.
Blessing, a Cincinnati Republican, isn’t certain even the revised version of the bill – which has raised constitutional questions and garnered hours of sharp opposition testimony – will get through his committee, he said.”I’ll just add it up and see how many votes we got,” he said. “If we don’t have the votes for the sub-bill, I think I’m going to just adjourn and be done with it.”
David Miller, Citizens for Community Values vice president, said the group approves of the compromise, which would replace a proposed 6-foot clearance between dancers and patrons. The group also originally had sought to stop all stripping at midnight.
Adult club owners intend to challenge Blessing’s proposed restrictions in court if they pass, said Sandy Theis, a spokeswoman for the Buckeye Association of Club Executives.”They are just trying to mess with adult businesses because that’s what the CCV does,” she said. “They want to make it as difficult as possible for them to exist.”
SUCKER PUNCH SALLY INVITED TO ENTERTAIN THE TROOPS–Sucker Punch Sally’s has been asked to participate inthe 2007 We salute You events at 29 Palms Marine Base.They will have their bikes on display including “TheAngry Chair” “Barn Fresh Pan” and “The Flamed Shovel”as BIg and Rich and Cowboy Troy salute our military.It is only open to all eligible patrons.
–Ken
RIVERA/PRIMO REAR BASKET & CLUTCH KITS, VARIABLE PRESSURE CLUTCH ASSIST– . . Rear Basket & Clutch Kit / Fits 1990-2006 Big Twins (except 2006 Dyna) Includes PC-1200-Ca Pro-Clutch w/TPP Variable Pressure Plate, Aluminum Basket & a 36-Tooth Sprocket / Does Not Include Starter Ring Gear
1053-0021 . . . Rear Basket & Clutch Kit / Fits 1990-2006 Big Twins (except 2006 Dyna) Includes PC-1200-Ca Pro-Clutch w/TPP Variable Pressure Plate, Aluminum Basket & a 37-Tooth Sprocket / Does Not Include Starter Ring Gear
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
KNOCKOUT MOTORCYCLE COMPANY RESPONDS TO BIKERNET BONNEVILLE REPORTS–I was checking out the golf ball theory you were going over with Rick and it even goes a step further. I am apart time golfer, not a hacker, but no pro either. I do it to relax and get away from the phone. Its also easy when I live on an upscale golf coarse here in AZ. Anyways, Nike & Callaway have taken dimple technology and modernized it. Hexagonal dimples flow better than round moon shapes. You need to see the their respective websites for all the techno jargon ? but I guess it works. I play Callaway balls and get some better distance ?. Anyways, just thought I’d throw that in!!!
We here at Knock Out are big fans of building customs the “rite way” when it comes to front ends. We build em to ride em and for that to take place, trail must be understood first and foremost. We go so far as to do ruff cals with the customer while discussing his / her build. We calculate as closely as possible using a great tech sheet from the rb racing web site (http://www.rbracing-rsr.com/advchoppercalc.html) ..This is also helpful as a tool so that our customers understand what we are doing ? some don’t care ? but most are grateful that we will build a bike that is as “rite” as possible. We need to be better than the next guy and pay attention to all aspects of the build. We sometimes tell guys “no” what you want will not work and we will not build it. +5″ up with +6″ out having a +12″ front end is gonna flop over like a mother f-er ?. So let’s try doing it this way?. Etc. blah. Blah, blah.
Our new address as of 5/15/07 will be :
638 W. Broadway Rd.
Ste 314
Mesa AZ 85210
Phone and fax will stay the same.
Website is being renovated as well we are adding e-commerce and more content.
–Matt
CHAMPIONS PARK TO HOST HAMSTERS RIDE-IN BIKE SHOW AND MAYOR’S CHOICE AWARD IN STURGIS–AMD and the Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building have agreed with The Hamsters that Champions Hall at Champions Park will be the destination venue for the 2007 Hamsters Ride-In Bike Show and ‘Mayor’s Choice’ Award.
The Run will arrive at Champions Park on the afternoon of Thursday August 9th, the day after the Official World Championship Of Custom Bike Building has closed to the public.
Commenting on the decision, Hamsters spokesperson Bob Illingworth said, “We are delighted to have this opportunity. The Champions Hall space will provide a great venue on Lazelle for this unique, once a year chance for the public to see some of the greatest custom bikes, by some of the greatest builders.”
This will be the 4th annual Hamsters Ride-In show, and some 150 plus bikes will assemble in Champions Hall following a police-escorted parade through Sturgis.
For the World Championship Robin Bradley said that, “The Hamsters are a 29 year old organization with a fabulous reputation of working for the community, especially in the Black Hills area. I am very proud that our facility will be able to provide such a great venue for them and their bike show. Not only are they great people to host, but their event is a perfect fit with everything the Official World Championship and Champions Park is about.”
Other vendors already committed to Champions Park include Custom Chrome, S&S Cycle, Pingel Enterprise, Engenuity, Cruizin’ Machine, DNA Specialty and Weld Wheel.
For current availability contact Mary Beth Crowe at:
For space availability and costs contact Mary Beth Crowe: Tel 605 716 6486;
KURYAKYN ISO FLAME GRIPS FOR HARLEYS–Thunder Bob here and do I have something that will make an impact on your Harley. It’s the Flame ISO Grips from Kuryakyn. Not only do these flame grips come with a soft and cushy raised rubber pads, they are finished off with a Maltese Cross emblazoned end cap.
The grips come with option like the very popular ISO-Throttle Boss, which greatly aids your hand on those long rides to the next rally. They certainly helped mine on my last ride from LA to Vegas.
Get your ISO Grips and all of your Kuryakyn accessories at Metric Thunder. Fits: All Harley-Davidson models with dual cable throttle controls.
–Thunder Bob Out
HARLEY-DAVIDSON MDA FUNDRAISING EVENTS NET RECORD RESULTS–MILWAUKEE — (May 14, 2007) Harley-Davidson’s 2007 fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) received a huge boost recently with the contribution of more than $1.9 million through recently held motorcycle fundraising events. These fundraising events which were organized through Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Harley-Davidson dealers, HOG chapters, MDA staff and their volunteers netted record dollars for research and MDA summer camps.
Harley-Davidson and MDA’s top fundraising event the 20th annual Eastern Harley-Davidson Dealers Association Ride for Life was held in early May and raised a record $1 million. The ride, through eastern Pennsylvania had over 2,400 enthusiasts representing thirty-eight dealer members from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, New York and Virginia. Since 1988, the Eastern Harley-Davidson Dealers Association has raised over $12 million dollars for MDA.
Another top fundraising event, the 14th annual Milwaukee MDA Black-n-Blue Ball raised more than $570,000 for MDA. The Milwaukee Black-n-Blue Ball is the largest motorcycle themed ball in the country. Thirteen hundred people representing Harley-Davidson employees, dealers, suppliers, enthusiasts and MDA families attended the event.
Two other top fundraising Harley-Davidson Black-n-Blue Ball events were the Wild Boar Harley-Davidson of Grand Rapids (MI) dinner which raised $165,000 and the Motor City Harley-Davidson of Farmington Hills (MI) ball which raised $87,000.
Harley-Davidson executives attended and participated in all four of these top MDA fundraising events.
In addition, MDA fundraising rides were hosted by Harley-Davidson of Charlotte, NC; Open Roads Harley-Davidson of Fond du Lac, WI; Kents Harley-Davidson of Abilene, TX and Harley-Davidson of The Woodlands in Texas.
Harley-Davidson dealers, customers, suppliers and employees conduct fundraising activities for the Muscular Dystrophy Association throughout the year. Activities include pledge rides, fundraising events, motorcycle raffles and pin sales.
Harley-Davidson has been a national sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and has raised more than $60 million since 1980. The funds raised support life-saving research, comprehensive medical care for children and adults with neuromuscular disease, and MDA summer camps.
That’s not all. There three more heated chapters of today’s news including the following. Don’t miss it.
BIKERNET NEWS ALERT–GUILTY CUSTOMS SHOX, WYOMING LEGISLATIVE CALL TO ACTION, NEW BAGGER FROM BATTISINIS, BIKE CLUBS SUE FOR THEIR RIGHTS, 5-BALL RACING HELMET, PB CHOPPERS COIL COVERS FROM MC ADVANTAGES AND THE 6TH EDITION OF FEMMOTO.
Continued On Page 2
May 14, 2007
By Bandit |
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at http://www.ON-A-BIKE.com.
COAST TO COAST BIKER NEWS
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish
National Coalition of Motorcyclists
BIKER?S RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES, THE MANUAL AVAILABLE– Last week I attended a convention of Biker?s rights and legislation effecting our sport and lifestyle. The offices of Richard M. Lester and Mike Mandelman produced a manual on our Rights and Civil Liberties. If you want to check it out go to aimncom@aimncom.com or call (800) 662-2453.
MOTORCYCLE FATALITY SURGE RENEWS NATIONAL HELMET DEBATE The debate over whether the nation’s nearly 6 million motorcycle riders should by law be required to wear helmets is nothing new, but a decade long rise in both registrations and fatalities has rekindled interest in helmet laws, according to reports by two major news outlets: ABC News and USA Today.
In 1995, Congress repealed a second attempt at a national helmet law, and in the ensuing decade motorcycle fatalities more than doubled, from 2,227 in 1995 to 4,553 in 2005. And while it’s true there are significantly more bikes on the road, also nearly doubling from 3,727,738 in 1995 to 6,183,596 in 2005, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the fatality rate has also increased by nearly 13 percent.
The problem, according to advocates of helmet laws, is that one-sided, well-organized lobbying at the state level ? where for now, this issue is primarily legislated ? have largely hampered the creation of new helmet laws or the strengthening of existing ones. Of the 50 states, only 20 maintain helmet laws for all riders, while 27 require helmets for select rider groups ? typically those under 18 years old. Colorado, Illinois and Iowa currently have no helmet laws.
“It’s pretty much a single-issue lobby,” Barbara Harsha, executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association, told ABC News. “They’re very well-organized and they’ve become very adept at working state legislatures.”
In many ways, the helmet debate has been taken off the table at the federal level, Harsha said, describing $25 million distributed by Congress to states in 2005 for motorcycle training and education that cannot be spent on promoting helmet use.
And to groups that advocate against mandatory helmet laws ? such as state ABATE organizations ? that’s exactly the way it should be: The government should stay out of a motorcycle rider’s personal decision-making.
But sparked by rising fatality statistics and last year’s crash of NFL star Ben Roethlisberger, lawmakers in eight states are pushing for new motorcycle helmet laws, and helmet-law proponents told USA Today that it’s been a tough fight ? bills have already been defeated in six of those states: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, and Oklahoma. After he introduced Delaware’s first mandatory-helmet bill in more than 20 years on March 14, state Rep. Gary Simpson got e-mails from people vowing to campaign against his re-election. “It’s a very strong lobby,” Simpson said.
In Oklahoma, according to Tiger Mike Revere, State Coordinator for ABATE of Oklahoma and member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) board of directors, the helmet law was not only defeated, but the bill?s author, Rep. Skye McNiel, attended the Confederation of Clubs meeting and apologized for submitting such a bill, affirming that she will never again propose a helmet law and pledged to work together with the riding community on issues to improve motorcycling.
Meanwhile, some bikers? rights advocates are working on legislation to repeal or modify their state?s helmet laws. SB 1511 has passed the Tennessee Senate and would roll back the mandatory motorcycle helmet law for adults 21 and older. Likewise, SB 255 in Missouri would allow Freedom of Choice for riders 21 and older, citing the fact that 6 of the 8 states surrounding Missouri do not require adult helmet usage.
FLORIDA ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDY Released April 5, 2007, the following is an economic impact study done for the first six years ten months of Florida?s amended helmet law. The motorcycle registration figures are compiled from the statistics of the Florida department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The fees come from the license registration bureau. From 1999 to April 2007 motorcycle registrations in Florida increased from 198,601 to 509,036. That is an increase of approximately 157%, and it is rising. The following is the estimated revenue generated from the registration and bike purchases.
310,435 motorcycles at an average of $10,000 each equals $3,104,350,000.00
Sales Tax at 6% = $186,626,100.00
Registration fee for motorcycles at $26.40 = $8,226,527.50
Change of title at $29.75 = $9,235,441.25
Buy Tag at $10.00 = $3,104.350.00
TOTAL = $3,311,343,418.75
?This is a low estimate as it doesn?t include antique motorcycles or mopeds,? said James ?Doc? Reichenbach II, State Director of ABATE of Florida, Inc., and Chairman of the Board for the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). ?This is over three billion dollars in almost seven years that has been brought into Florida?s economy. Over two hundred million in taxes alone went into the Florida State Treasury.?
Doc also points out that this does not include the almost 4 billion dollars put into the economy from Bike Week and Biketoberfest over the same period.
Registration are annual so they would increase with each year and there are also over 800,000 people with motorcycle endorsements in Florida and that is $5 every time they renew it.
?I hope these figures will help anyone who has heard that Florida motorcyclists don?t pay their fair share,? concluded Doc.
MICHIGAN MUNICIPALITY RESCINDS MOTORCYCLE BAN The Oak Park City Council has unanimously repealed an anti-motorcycle ordinance that prohibited motorcyclists from riding on residential streets between 10pm and 6am.
ABATE of Michigan became aware of this ordinance when one of its members, Oak Park resident David Dolinski, contacted the organization and complained about signs being posted advising of the ordinance. ABATE authorized its attorney, Lawrence S. Katkowsky of Bingham Farms, to look into the matter. Katkowsky, who also serves as the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) Attorney for Michigan and is legal adviser to the Confederation of Clubs of Michigan, notified the City that the ordinance was illegal under Michigan law and asked that it be repealed before the 2007 riding season.
Apparently neither the council, the City Manager, nor the City Attorney were even aware that the ordinance was on the books and were not aware that it was being enforced.
Following the council vote ABATE thanked the Mayor of Oak Park, Gerald E Naftaly and the other members of the City Council for their prompt action to remove this ordinance from their books.
SACRAMENTO BIKE PARKING Sometimes all you have to do is ask — just ask Deacon, founder of ABATE of California? ?As many of you know there is now parking for MOTORCYCLES ONLY in Old Town Sacramento, located in the cul-de-sac at the Pony Express Rider statue. A couple of years ago ABATE asked the Mayor for some parking there and lo and behold we now have it FREE,? said Deacon. ?When I went to City Hall for a permit, right in front of the building is MOTORCYCLE PARKING ONLY!!! 10 hours for FREE!!! Like I said?sometimes all you have to do is ask!?
BIKERNET NOISE STUDY AVAILABLE–If you’re having problems with noise issues in your area, you might want to print up the Bikernet Independent Noise Study and share it with law enforcement and the community. It’s designed to point out the Biker’s side of the noise issue in a way anyone can understand and relate to. Just click here: Bikernet Independent Noise Study
MULTINATIONAL FIRM BANS MOTORCYCLES The Multinational firm Johnson Controls Ltd has banned the use of motorcycles ?on company business,? barring thousands of employees across Europe from riding motorcycles under threat of disciplinary action.
A company spokeswoman said: “Motorcycles must not be used by employees on company business,” adding that “The policy covers just under 5,000 Johnson Controls UK-based employees either working in the UK or Europe, in the building efficiency business.”
She said employees were free to ride bikes in their own time, including to and from work, but claimed the policy was ?for the protection of our people?. Johnson Controls employs 136,000 people worldwide.
An anonymous employee who made the policy public said; ?If all the blue chip companies start to do this then motorcycling is no longer an alternative form of transport.?
ROAD PRICING HEATS UP IN ENGLAND Opposition to the Government road charging plans is growing throughout England, with an online petition against the pricing scheme has made national news after collecting over a half million signatures.
Road pricing would involve a huge infrastructure of a combination of beacons and gantries, or satellites, possibly even all three, to monitor where your vehicle travels and charge you accordingly. The current fear is that road users will have to pay to have on-board ?black box? sensors installed that are necessary for vehicles to be recognized and their owners charged.
Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) of the United Kingdom is totally opposed to the level of surveillance and control which the road charging plans represent, and questions the motives of the government in proposing it.
MAG-UK points out that it may be no coincidence that the technology necessary to achieve the level of surveillance necessary to implement road charging, could also be used to achieve vehicle speed control to automate the enforcement of speed limits with a zero tolerance policy.
WIERD NEWS: ?DEAD? BIKER RETURNS HOME AFTER TWO YEARS An Australian man mistakenly certified as dead following a horrific motorcycle accident two years ago was reunited with his family last week after a social worker helped to identify him.
Samy Pillai, 50, was believed to have been killed in a hit-and-run accident in June 2005, after his wrecked motorcycle was found along the same stretch of road as a body mangled beyond recognition, the Star newspaper says.
But he was found to be alive, although speechless and partially paralyzed by the accident, after a social worker encountered him hobbling around on crutches almost 200 miles from his home and took him to authorities, who identified him from his thumbprints. Mr Pillai’s wife confirmed the man was her husband, but how he spent his years away from home remains a mystery. The couple have nine children, the newspaper reported.
“I am glad Samy Pillai has been reunited with his family who had all this while thought the unidentified body had been his,” the newspaper quoted Andrew Raju, the social worker, as saying.
NCOM HONORS FALLEN RIDERS, INVITES NAMES TO BE SUBMITTED The NCOM Convention hit last weekend, the National Coalition of Motorcyclists requested that MRO’s, motorcycle clubs, and riding associations submitted the names of those members and supporters who died since May 2006. They honored their memories during the traditional ?Ringing of the Bell? tribute to fallen riders during the opening ceremonies. Dedications can be e-mailed to NCOMBish@aol.com.
The 22nd annual NCOM Convention was held Mother?s Day weekend, May 10-13, 2007, at the Hilton Charlotte University Place, located at 8629 JM Keynes Drive in Charlotte, North Carolina. Reserve your room now for the special NCOM rate by calling (704) 547-7444 or 1-(800) HILTONS.
Hosted by ABATE/Concerned Bikers Association of North Carolina and the Confederation of Clubs North Carolina, this annual gathering drew over a thousand motorcyclists rights leaders from across the country to discuss topics of concern to all riders. Meetings, seminars and group discussions focus on safety issues, legal rights, legislative efforts and litigation techniques to benefit our right to ride.
To pre-register for next year?s convention in Texas, call the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: ?The United States is a nation of laws; badly written and randomly enforced.?
–Frank Zappa, American musician & songwriter (1940-1993)
May 10, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
THE SPORTSMAN?S DOUBLE–I pulled up to an older woman at a club last night. She was an absolute stunner but then she told me she was 57 years old, despite looking much younger. We drank a bit, had a bit of a snack & she asked if I’d ever had the “sportsman’s double,” …a mother and daughter threesome?
I said no.
We drank a bit more, then she says that tonight was my lucky night.
I went back to her place.
She put the hall light on & and shouted upstairs:
“Mum you still awake?”
–from HS Hamster
WHATS NEW AT TODD?S CYCLE–Bandit…How’s life? Hope all is well. Wanted to send a quick note on what is goingon around Todd’s Cycle lately
Here is a picture of the new Hole Shot Grips. We had a great responsefrom these in Laughlin. Check them out… image attached.Also, we just setup a Blog on the Todd’s Cycle site called Todd’s Thoughts(www.toddscycle.com/blog) with RSS feed too. That way visitors can keep upon what is happening around the shop as it happens. We will be postingparts deals here as well.
We are off to Santa Maria for Motorcycle Mania next weekend and plan onbringing up some new parts as well as showing the 120ci (150hp / 300 lbs)sportster called PickPocket, see image above.
See you in Santa Maria
Ride hard, ride fast!
Eric
Todd’s Cycle
15665 Commerce Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
714-901-4516
www.toddscycle.com
Here?s the shoot today. Model all lined up, but was a no show, what?s new in LA LA land?
Models are 98% of the time a drag.. Peter
Peter S Linney
323 463 4584
New Email Add:
HINES LEAVES GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY WITH ONE CRUCIAL ROUND VICTORY–Krawiec Suffers First Round Loss MADISON, Ill. (May 6, 2007) ? Andrew Hines knows the new point system could really help the team right now. The three-time defending NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle champion is coming off a round victory Sunday at Gateway International Raceway.
Hines, however, has won just two rounds in the first four races of the season on his Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson V-Rod. But his hopes of competing for another championship haven’t evaporated because of the new point system instituted by NHRA officials during the off-season.
The top eight riders after the first 11 events of the season will be eligible to race for the title. After the 11th event, the points will be readjusted, closing the gap between the eight riders ? with just 10 points separating each position. That means the No. 8 racer will be just 80 points away from first place. Each round is worth 20 points, making it possible for the eighth place rider to realistically compete for the championship.
Hines was in 11th place coming into the O’Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals. The good news is that he beat Steve Johnson in the first round. Johnson was No. 7 in the standings. That helped Hines move into ninth place, tied with Antron Brown.
“That round win was just another step toward getting back into the top eight of the point standings,” Hines said. “It was very important considering Steve is ahead of us in points. This year is going to be all about taking out the right people at the right time. We just have to figure out a way to get back into the top eight before Indy (U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis in August).”
Hines turned in a 7.031-second pass at 189.71 mph to beat Johnson’s 7.125 at 187.31 on his Snap-on Tools Suzuki in Round One. Hines then posted a second round loss to Angelle Sampey and the U.S. Army Suzuki team. Hines’ 7.079 at 180.14 on his V-Rod came up short of Sampey’s 6.947 at 192.99.
Hines had qualified in the No. 6 position with a 7.052 at 190.65. Teammate Eddie Krawiec was 12th in points coming into the weekend. Krawiec qualified in the No. 12 spot with a 7.080 at 188.15 before posting a first round loss for the second time this season.
Krawiec’s 7.081 at 188.17 was not quick enough to beat Craig Treble’s 7.027 at 191.46 on his Team Tigue Suzuki.
“We need to do some serious research and development before the next race,” Hines said. “We’re a little behind everyone now and we need to improve our qualifying position in order to bring lane choice into each round. We just need to regroup, focus more on the task at hand and figure it all out. ”
Krawiec may have just four races under his belt with the Screamin’ Eagle team, but he knows the group is capable of turning things around before they take on the next race ? the NHRA Nationals at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Ill., on June 7-10.
“We have to remain upbeat and be confident that we can work this out,” Krawiec said. “It’s clear that we’re making improvements. We took the data we had from last week’s DNQ in Atlanta, improved on it and got qualified for the show. We had consistent numbers this weekend and that’s a step in the right direction. We just didn’t have quick enough numbers to get past the first round.”
Harley-Davidson Racing Manager Anne Paluso agreed that the Screamin’ Eagle team knows exactly what needs to happen to be ready for the next race.
“We know this was a disappointing weekend for the team but Andrew did earn some valuable points and now the team has some time to work on the V-Rods,” Paluso said. “There are issues that need to be addressed but we’re confident that the entire team, led by Byron and Matt Hines, will get everything figured out for Chicago.”
Matt Smith earned the event victory, riding his Torco Racing Fuels Buell to his first win of the season.
ANDREW HINES AT GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
Q1: rained out
Q2: 7.089 seconds at 187.57
Q3: Broke
Q4: 7.052 at 190.65
E1: 7.031 at 189.71 beat Steve Johnson’s 7.125 at 187.31
E2: 7.079 at 180.14 lost to Angelle Sampey’s 6.947 at 192.99
EDDIE KRAWIEC AT GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
Q1: rained out
Q2: 7.132 at 187.89
Q3: 7.080 at 186.28
Q4: 7.175 at 188.15
E1: 7.081 at 188.17 lost to Craig Treble’s 7.027 at 191.46
Screamin? Eagle Performance Parts are inspired by and built in the spirit of the raw adrenaline and power of motorcycle racing. Screamin? Eagle Pro parts are specifically designed for race-use applications, while Screamin? Eagle parts offer street-use performance options for the Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner. Visit www.harley-davidson.com for more information.
The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Pro Stock Motorcycle team is sponsored by Ford Truck, Dunlop, Matco Tools and S100.
SENATOR BRUEGGEMAN?S BILL PASSES INTO LAW–A law that will allow replica motorcycles to be registered without EPA influence was passed into law in Montana. Sen. John Brueggeman, a biker, from Montana and a member of SEMA worked to create the wording and pass the law. If you build a replica Knucklehead, Panhead or Shovelhead, it will be registered as such and you won?t be faced with EPA restrictions. Interesting.
Here is the legal wording soon, so riders can introduce bills in their respective states. Congrats John.
Bandit – here’s the pertinent section of my motor vehicle bill. I was signedby the governor on 4/27
Section 1. Certificate of title — custom-built motorcycle. (1) When aperson applies for a certificate of title for a custom-built motorcycle anda certificate of title or an electronic record of title is created pursuantto this chapter, the certificate of title or electronic record of title mustinclude:
(a) the make, style, year of manufacture, serial number oridentification number of the motorcycle’s engine, and year of manufacturefor the motorcycle, which is the year that the engine was manufactured orthe year that the engine was manufactured to resemble; and
(b) the make and vehicle identification number for the frame of themotorcycle.
(2) If the application for a certificate of title is not accompanied bya previously issued certificate of title that includes the requiredinformation or a certificate from the manufacturer of the motorcycle’sengine or frame, the department may require a vehicle inspection to confirmthe make, year of manufacture, and serial or identification number of themotorcycle’s engine, the frame, or both, and, if applicable, to assign aspecial identification number under 61-3-107.
Section 2. Registration of custom-built motorcycle — exemptions. (1)Upon original registration of a custom-built motorcycle, the owner of thecustom-built motorcycle shall:
(a) pay the fees required in 61-3-321, plus an additional $10 fee, tobe deposited in the state general fund;
(b) certify, in writing, that the motorcycle is:
(i) not used for general transportation purposes; and
(ii) is equipped as required by the state law in effect in the year ofmanufacture of the motorcycle, as determined under [section 1].
(2) A custom-built motorcycle registered under this section is exemptfrom vehicle equipment requirements under chapter 9 of this title unless theequipment was required under state law in the year of manufacture of themotorcycle, as listed on the registration receipt for the motorcycle anddetermined under [section 1].
Chapter Number Assigned 04/30/2007 (H) Signed by Governor 04/27/2007
Senator John Brueggeman
BUB?s SPEED TRIALS 2007 UPDATES–. Dear All,We have updates aplenty as we have been working away to get some information to you for 2007. Topics covered in this emails are:
1) Hotels
2) Motorcycle Numbers
3) Changes to Forms & Entry Types
4) Pre-Entry Forms
5) Volunteering
6) National Geographic Channel
HOTEL INFORMATION:~Once again our host hotel will be the Wendover Nugget Hotel and Casino. Unfortunately we were not able to block a large number of rooms for the public as we have in previous years. The reason for this is that the hotel will not block the entire hotel for our group, due to the holiday weekend (labor day). We were hoping to secure discounted rooms at the other hotels in town, however this did not occur (but we am still working on it for ’08).
This being said- please call your chosen hotel now to make reservations. A full list of all accommodations in Wendover & West Wendover is available for you on our website : http://www.speedtrialsbybub.com/hotel.html.
There is a printable version at the bottom of the webpage for your convenience. There are a range of accommodations to suit your budget.
MOTORCYCLE NUMBERS:~Motorcycle Numbers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please check number availability prior to entering. If the number requested is taken, you will be required to choose another or have a number assigned. Numbers can be up to 4 digits long (e.g. 1234). It is the entrant’s responsibility to ensure that they have the available means to change or mark numbers on the motorcycle if required. Alpha-numeric numbers can not be used (e.g. 45A). Numbers can not be proceeded by a 0 (e.g. 04, 026).If you have competed previously- your number is automatically reserved for 2007. We will confirm this number when we receive your entry form, but of course at any time you are welcome to give us a quick call to confirm the number.
CHANGES TO FORMS & ENTRY TYPES:~This year we have made some changes to the entry forms. In an effort for you to have even less to complete at registration (just sign and go!), we have added a few fields so they can be completed now while you have time to fill them out- and when you get to registration at the event you just have to sign, pick up your tech sheet, goodies and go racing! Please review the entry forms and ensure that you have filled it out completely.Once again the form is fill able and mail able by just opening, typing and clicking the email button embedded in the form. New for this year are drop-down menus for your class (select from the options available).
We have made an amendment to the requirements for entering multiple riders for the same bike. We have also provided a pre-entry form for changes in class to save you more time in registration at the event. Please read the entry information on our website carefully to ensure that you are entering correctly.
PRE-ENTRY FORMS:~All forms are now available online at: http://www.speedtrialsbybub.com/2007_event/entry-07.htmlYou will need Adobe reader to view these forms, and Adobe 7.0 or later to email them directly to BUB Racing. All forms are fill able (just click and type). Please print a copy for your records also.
VOLUNTEERING:~We are always looking for volunteers to assist us with various aspects of the event. The assistance of volunteers help us to make this event a success. The more we grow- the more help we need for course workers, tech, registration and so on. If you or anyone you know would be interested in volunteering to work- for just a day or the whole week we would be interested to hear from you (or them). For those that work all week, we will subsidize your accommodation cost, and provide you with meals. Have an extra pit crew person you can spare for the day? That helps too! If you have any question about requirements for working please contact Delvene on 530-272-4310.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL:~National Geographic will be airing ‘Salt Flats Speedway’ tomorrow night (9et/pt- check your local guide). This program was filmed during SCTA/BNI Speedweek and covers Andy Green’s world record diesel car. The National Geographic documentary that was filmed during our event last year (‘Need for speed: Bikes’) has yet to get an air date- but as soon as we know we will pass the details on. Don’t forget- you MUST be an AMA member to participate in this event. If you are not a member- please contact the AMA for membership (see website for contact info). If you have any questions regarding any information contained in this email please contact us! BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials Information A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS-Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, BUB Enterprises, Bikernet.com, Pingel Enterprises, Potter Lumber, HDT USA, NRHS V-Twin Performance, Buell Bros Racing, Bennett’s Performance, Bakker Motorsports, Dealer-World.com Continued On Page 4
www.bubspeedtrials.com
PH: 530 272 4310
FAX: 530 477 7489
Email: salt-info@bubspeedtrials.com