Canadian Chopper School For Kids
By Bikernet Contributor TBear |
As you saw, if you're a regular reader of BIKERNET, I just returned from the Canadian Championship of Bike Building in Wembley Alberta. While I was there I had the pleasure of meeting a group of youngsters from the Bernice MacNaughton High School in Moncton, New Brunswick and their teacher Marc “MAZZ” Mazerolle.
Mazz, as the kids call him, runs a program to help “at risk”, misfits, and kids that have nowhere else to go teaching them various skills such as welding and metal fabrication that they currently put to use building custom bicycles.
The kids themselves raised funds for their trip to the AMD Canadian Championship of Custom Bike Building in Wembley Alberta, Canada. The kids sold tickets on various prizes throughout the summer and attended two custom vehicle shows displaying “Wendy” and the Indian Larry Tribute Bicycle.
We took the kids up to The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Fairview so they could get a first hand look at how the school there trains Harley Mechanics in Canada's only approved facility.
They were treated to a personal tour of the facility by Wally Besler, the assistant head of the Harley-Davidson Program and got to meet with Dr. Ben A. Silverberg, the V.P. of student services for NAIT.
Chica from Chica's Custom Cycles took time from his busy show schedule, as did many of the Canadian Builders, to take the kids under their wings and go over their bikes to show the kids the details that go into making a winning bike.
The kids in the program are ready to turn their skills into going from bicycles to building a chopper as their next project.
All the parts for a bobber, wheels, tires, front-end, seat, tins, engine, tranny, everything!!!! If they can get this first bike built, they are counting on selling it, once completed to finance the next bike and so on. All funds raised will go 100% directly back into the program to help “at risk”, misfits, and kids that have nowhere else to go.
Mid-USA's Canadian Division stepped right up and donated a custom Bobber frame to get the kids started and has challenged all the other parts manufacturers to do the same with whatever parts they can.
Thanks Chuck!!!
These parts do not have to be new, they don't have to be shiny, they are ready to refinish any parts they get and they will take anything you could send to them. This is an incredible opportunity for these kids and for you too.
If you can help out in any way, please contact:
Marc ” MAZZ” Mazerolle
Teacher/Bike Club Manager
Bernice MacNaughton High School
999 St George Blvd. Moncton, New Brunswick
Canada E1E 2C9
Phone: 506-856-3469 (school)
Phone: 506-856-9903 (home)
Marc.Mazerolle@NBED.NB.CA
May 03, 2007 Part 6
By Bandit |
NYC CHOPPERS AND INDEPENDENT CYCLE JOINS ONE-OFF RAFFLE BIKE FOR KIDS AND CHROME– May 2007 – – Kids & Chrome, a benefit for Children’s Home Society and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, is proud to announce that Nick Genender of New York City Choppers
The new school meets old school custom is built with ICI’s Hardlife drop neck mid control frame, rear fender kit, mount and drive line. “With an 80 inch S&S shovelhead motor; Contour Gasser wheels, pullies, rotors, hand controls and mirrors from Performance Machine; six-speed right side drive Baker Transmission; Kiwi front end; Slither tank from Independent Cycle; license plate and exhaust flanges from Fab Kevin, Gimp Hangers by Nash Motorcycle Company; primary drive from Tech Cycle Products; and Colony Machine chrome hardware kit, this bike stays true to the New York City Choppers old school style,” says Genender.
Valued at over $50,000 this one-of-a-kind motorcycle is sure to draw attention as it rolls down the road and it could be yours! There are just 999 raffle tickets available on the NYC Chopper custom, selling for $100.00 each, or six for $500.00.
Kids & Chrome raffle tickets for the NYC Chopper old school custom can be purchased at Black Hills Harley-Davidson in Rapid City daily, August 4th through August 11th, during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The motorcycle will also be displayed at Jesse Jurren’s Top 50 Rally Park on August 9th and nightly at the legendary Buffalo Chip. Tickets can be purchased at all three locations and will be available for purchase on the Kids & Chrome website beginning June 1st.
Tickets for the 3rd Annual Kids & Chrome event, held Wednesday, August 8th, at 5:30 pm at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish, South Dakota, are available by invitation only. Guest seating is limited to 425. If you are interested in attending call 605.347.2001 or email If you are interested in donating an item for the auctions there is still time. It is the perfect opportunity to showcase your product and in doing so, you’ll also benefit two worthy non-profit 501 (c) 3 organizations: Children’s Home Society in Rapid City and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. Contact Darla Crown to get involved 605.391.5555, Further information and updates on 2007 Kids & Chrome will also be available after June 1st at NASH MOTORCYCLES GIVING AWAY HANDLEBARS–Were doing a contest every month now where we give away a free pair of our gimp hanger handlebars and a subscription to cyclesource magazine/free t-shirt. I was wondering if you could maybe get something up on your website about it for me. Check it out it should be pretty cool, people are already getting stoked on it, its only been up since last night and 30 people have already entered. –Marlin BIKERNET STAFFER BUILDS BIKE FOR IRAQ VETERAN WITH SUCKER PUNCH SALLY, BIKERNET AND HOT BIKE AT HIS SIDE–Today, May 3, 2007, starts my quest to build a bike for my brother. I reached out for assistance with the build a year ago and now my efforts are finally coming to fruition due with the help of some awesome individuals and several companies. While I do not have all the components yet, I have received a large contribution from Sucker Punch Sally?s towards my brother?s bike build. Today, I received a pallet of some of the parts for my brother?s build. While I won?t bore you with all the details, I did receive some of the larger components such as the frame, wheels, tires, oil tank, headlight, and forward controls. Scared to death and calling everyone I have ever known for help (two people), I dug in and mounted the engine, oil tank, and forward controls to the frame. While it did require a trip to Ace hardware for a few bolts, the progress thus far has been straightforward.
NMC
Check it out here:
It looks as if I may cut a few tabs from the frame and drill the holes to mount the gas tank, but I will wait for the paperwork to arrive from Sucker Punch before I get too far into it to ensure I don?t get too far ahead of myself.
I am extremely stoked about the process and have included a couple of pics for your pleasure. I want to remind everyone that a series of in-depth articles will be featured in Hot Bike and Bikernet.com in the coming months. We are going to chronicle the build from mock-up to final assembly, the shakedown run, and finally the presentation to my brother, SGT. Joe White, USA. Once everything is completed and my fame has spread worldwide, there will be an extremely in depth, incredibly detailed series of the whole account right here on Bikernet. So stay tuned and keep your fingers crossed for me?I?m gonna need it.
DID THAT NEWS KICK ASS OR WHAT?– I?m even going to keep this deft conclusion to dull roar. This week I?m pouring over the Assalt Weapan again, but I still have our Laughlin report to deliver and a handful of other articles.
Next week we?ll hit you with a Bonneville update, I promise. You?ll be dazzled or I?ll be shot. I also have a wild story from Knockout Motorcycle Company. Ralph, the owner, was sick and tired of hearing stories about builders who don?t ride. He built a full blown custom in Phoenix and rode it to the Smoke Out on the East Coast. We have the whole story.
So have a helluva weekend. Go for a ride and take your girl. She deserves a break.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
May 03, 2007 Part 5
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 4
RUCKER PERFORMANCE INTRODUCES NEWPARTS AND ACCESSORIES —FORT WORTH – May 1, 2007 – Rucker Performance, a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American muscle, chopper and pro-mod motorcycles, introduces the latest new parts and accessories for pro mod and big twin motorcycles, including a new Devil Head Coil Cover, Derby Cover and Shift Link.
Rucker Performance now offers a Devil Head Coil Cover designed to fit most big twin applications and Rucker Performance models with correct coil and motor mount combinations. The billet aluminum coil cover displays 3-dimensional bas relief billet machining and comes standard with a high luster polish. The product retails at $295 and can be ordered with a chrome option at an additional cost.
Originally designed for Rucker Performance’s customized Pro-Mod Road King line, the Devil Head Derby Cover is now available for riders and fits late model big twin primaries with a 5-hole pattern. The billet aluminum derby cover sells for $165 and is ideal for a Harley-Davidson Road King.
“Rucker Performance leads the way in performance, design and technology,” said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance. “Our new custom designed parts and accessories are in line with the quality motorcycles that we build.”
Rucker Performance has also designed the Devil Head Shift Link for Harley-Davidson Road Kings. The shift link is billet aluminum, features milled grooves with a devil head logo and retails at $75. It is 11 _ in. long and bolts directly on to the motorcycle.
All Rucker Performance products can be purchased through the store at www.ruckerperformance.com or by contacting Rucker Performance directly at 817.838.3200.
BIKERNET INVESTIGATES GOVERNMENT SPENDING– Three contractors are bidding to fix a broken fence at the White House in D.C. One from California, another from Tennessee and the third, Florida. They go with a White House official to examine the fence.
The Florida contractor takes out a tape measure and does some Measuring, then works some figures with a pencil. “Well,” he says, “I figure the job will run about $900: $400 for materials, $400 for my crew and $100 profit for me.”
The Tennessee contractor also does some measuring and figuring, then says, I can do this job for $700: $300 for materials, $300 for my crew and $100 profit for me.”
The California contractor doesn’t measure or figure, but leans over to the White House official and whispers, “$2,700.”
The official, incredulous, says, “You didn’t even measure like the other guys! How did you come up with such a high figure?”
The California contractor whispers back, “$1,000 for me, $1,000 for you,and we hire the guy from Tennessee to fix the fence.”
“Done!” replies the government official.
–from Joe Lankau
RETROVISIONS BIKE AND ROD ART– RetroVisions Bike/Hot Rod Art by Larry Grossman “ain’t like no Bike or Hot Rod Art you’ve ever seen before!” One look at these amazingly detailed, vibrantly colored works of art and it is very apparent the creator is much more than a casual observer of the street rod and custom motorcycle lifestyles. Sold at galleries and museums worldwide, including the NHRA Museum, and the famed Petersen Automotive Museum, Larry’s masterpieces capture the very sole of their subject.
Larry creates authentic scenes of “old school” rods, kustoms, bikes, babes and bad-ass dudes, all in the glow of his amazing blazing skies! Larry got his start in the hot rod world airbrushing T-shirts at car shows in the 60’s for the legendary George Barris and recently created a picture for his old pal Barris featuring his most famous Kustoms.
In early 2006 he was commissioned by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth’s widow to produce a picture depicting Ed with his wildest cars.
But that’s not the best of it. Now you to can have your own personalized Grossman print featuring yourself, your girl and friends in any of his wild scenes. Heck he can even grease back your hair and give you some tattoos! Need a one-of-a-kind logo? No problem. On his cool website you’ll find that in addition to cars and bikes, he’s created pictures of everything from vintage Movie Theatres and Diners, to scenes depicting Airplanes, Trains, and …well, go see for yourself.
There is an awesome collection of standard prints available immediately or as mentioned you can contact Larry for a quote on a personalized creation which start at $450.00.
Catch an exciting look into Grossman’s world at
CHICAGO JOE GOES DOWN AT PHOENIX FIREBIRD–
Chicago Joe has been a fixture on the All Harley Drag Racing circuit for years. He runs both Pro Fuel and Top Fuel. Over 200 miles an hour covering the quarter mile in less than 7 seconds on both bikes.
In Phoenix, last month, Joe had as tough a weekend as a drag racer could have. On Saturday he blew up his Pro Fuel bike at the line. On Sunday Joe ran his Top Fuel bike on a complete pass but had a problem at the end of the quarter mile, the bike got squirrelly and Joe “jumped” off. The only witness happened to be Laura Ellifson of Klock Werks Kustoms who was watching the races from the finish line bleachers. Laura told me that Joe just went off and rolled across the asphalt.
The short version is that Joe was Helicoptered ($12,000) 25 miles to a local Phoenix hospital where they determined that he had several broken bones (no shit !!!, going off a bike at 200+ mph will do that to you). They splinted him up and sent him on his was. When he got home he decided to get a second opinion. The second opinion included surgery and 12 pins in his wrist among other things. Joe is going to be down for awhile.
The images of Joe’s Pro Fuel bike blowing up is one of those once in a life time captures for a shooter like me. The nitro explosion flash lasts less than 1/10th of a second and it is so bright that it blew the light sensors out of my camera. It is a shot you get when you are luckier than you are good.
This is a great print to hang in your shop or you living room. Mine is framed and hanging in my office. You can buy this print at a reduced price in sizes all the way up to 20X30 or on a coffee mug if you want at www.ScooterShoots.com and all the proceeds are going to Chicago Joe to help defray some of his expenses like a $12,000 helicopter ride. Help a brother out and get a great print to boot. (when you go by the site also check out the images from the Bikernet/5-Ball Racing’s record setting adventure on the Bonneville Salt Flat.
–Scooter
www.ScooterShoots.com
S&S X-WEDGE CUSTOMS TO HEADLINE CHAMPIONS PARK PRESENTATION IN STURGIS–Guaranteed to be a big crowd-puller, S&S prepared the ground by inviting five selected customers to build what are bound to be the first of thousands of great custom bikes to use the new 56 degree three-cam engine as a platform of choice in the years ahead.
The bikes were built by Bill Rucker, Roger Bourget, Tim Edmondson, Big Dog Motorcycles and Cory Ness, and each one is as different in its interpretation of what the X-Wedge will come to mean for the market as the builders themselves are.
Other vendors already committed to Champions Park include Custom Chrome, Pingel Enterprise, Engenuity, Cruizin’ Machine, DNA Specialty and Weld Wheel.
For current availability contact Mary Beth Crowe …E-mail:
–Tel: 605 716 6486
BIKERNET COLLEGE STUDENT STUDIES MOUSEKETEER FOR DOCTORATE THESIS–Hey, ming, ya know i never talk about my mouseketeerdays. But I came across some site that the guy thatruns it seemed pretty ok. not a fuckhead. he seemed toknow a lot about me and wasn?t an asshole. So Iclarified a few things he had wrong. then we got tocommunicating and then i started to kind of like gointo therapy with the guy and he included a lot of myshit into the jay jay section. so if you’ve everwanted to ask mouseketeer questions, this guy’s siteis the place to go. originalmmc.com. go to “cast”then go to “one year wonders” and then go to me. or goON me if you prefer. i know I would. mmmmmmmmm. jcat
DALLAS EASYRIDERS BIKE SHOW WINNERS 2007–
SPECTATOR CLASS
BEST OF SHOW
1. RICHARD UPTON WEATHERFORD, TX 1950 HARLEY FLATHEAD
2. JOEY CROCKER SEAGONVILLE, TX 1979 H.D. SHOVELHEAD
3. LANNY COOK SAN ANGELO, TX 05 CUSTOM SOFTAIL
Antique/Old School
1. C & C CYCLES HUMSOLDT, IA 06 V-TWIN CUSTOM
2. DUSTIN WALKER CHANDLER, TX OLD H.D. SHOVEL
3. WHITEROCK CUSTOMS DALLAS, TX 57 SPORTSTER 900
Specialty
1. CARL CRAWFORD TYLER, TX 99 CAPTIAN AMERICA
2. JOHN SIEFFERT GREENVILLE, TX 05 SELF BUILT TRIKE
3. BRUCE WATERS BELLMEAD, TX 06 SPECIAL CONST.
Modified Stock1. BRIAN SINGER COPPER CANYON, TX 07 H.D. STREET GLIDE2. MARK MONROE WICHITA, KS 01 CUSTOM SPRINGER PAN3. WHITEROCK CUSTOM DALLAS, TX 2000 INDIAN CHIEF
Street Custom
1. ROCKY FIVECOAT SEAGONVILLE, TX 2006 V-TWIN PRO STREET
2. CARL & REBECCA CRAWFORD TYLER, TX 2006 TCX CUSTOM
3. RONNIE ESPINOSA SAN ANTONIO, TX 2006 H.D. RIGID CHOPPER
Radical
1. TROPITANA BOGALUSA, LA 2007 CUSTOM
2. T-TOWN CHOPZ / STEVE TULSA, OK 2007 WSD-T-TOWN NIGHTMARE
3. ROBERT WILCOCK LYMAN, WY 2006 AAC ROCKZILLA
JUDGED CLASS
BEST OF SHOW
1. DARRELL WYWIAS ARLINGTON, TX 2006 CUSTOM DCC
2. RAFIK KAISSI AUSTIN, TX 2007 CUSTOM BACK BONE
3. T-FAB CUSTOM METAL BETHANY, OK 2006 CUSTOM RADICAL
Editor’s Choice
THE OLD BIKE SHOP DALLAS, TX 1941 H.D. FL
Best Display
BRIAN SINGER COPPER CANYON, TX 2007 RAIL ROAD CROSSING
Radical
1. JAMIE VANGEL JOPLIN, MO 2007 CUSTOM VANGEL LOW CHOPPER
2. GREG DOWELL GAINESVILLE, TX 2006 CUSTOM CHOPPER
3. JOEY CROCKER SEAGONVILLE, TX 2006 CUSTOM RIGID
Street Custom
1. RICHARD KING/T-FAB YUKON, OK 2006 CUSTOM BOBBER
2. JACK McCURDY YUKON, OK 2007 CUSTOM CHOPPER
3. BILL COOKSEY MOORE, OK 2006 CUSTOM SOFT TAIL
Specialty
1. SCOT’S ALL AMERICAN CYCLES BOSSIER, LA 2006 RIGID SPORTER
2. JUSTIN SHIELDS SPRING BRANCH, TX 2007 DEVIANT CHOPPER
3. JOHN HAZLE SPRING, TX 2006 CUSTOM BUELL REDNECK
Antique/Old School
1. THE OLD BIKE SHOP DALLAS, TX 1946 H.D. FL CUSTOM
2. TIM O’KEEFE FRISCO, TX 1949 H.D. PANHEAD FLH
3. GARY BURNETT DeBERRY, TX 1956 H.D. FLE
Modified Stock
1. JEREMIAH PASADENA, TX 2005 HARLEY DEUCE
2. FRANK CLARK LONGVIEW, TX 2006 H.D. VRSCD (V-ROD)
3. DARRELL WYWIAS ARLINGTON, TX 2002 BOURGET PYTHON
PRO CLASS FINALISTS:
(All Pro Class Winners take a home trophy, and are invited to compete with their winning bike in Kansas City, MO at the Invitational Bike Show on May 5, 2007. Top 6 bikes from the Kansas City Pro Class Finals, will be invited to be a 2008 Easyriders Centerfold Tour Master Builder.)
JOHNNY’S CUSTOM SHOP McALLEN, TX 1974 SHOVELHEAD
FRANK MARKENVICH HOUSTON, TX 2005 LUCKY DEVIL
SKUNKWORX CUSTOM CYCLES COLUMBUS, OH SPECIAL CONST. SPRINGER
2WHEELERS PRODUCT OF THE WEEK–Wall Art for your garage . The #1 Design for Sturgis hold on to your nuts FLYING HOG on Bike. $14.99
Continued On Page 6
May 03, 2007 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
COLUMBUS EASYRIDERS SHOW WINNER–Here are some pix of my Shovelhead Bobber. Let me know if it’s good enough for your site. Took 3rd place in Specialty Class at Easy Riders 2007 Columbus Show in February. I built this in my garage from the ground up.
–Rick Montani
Greenfield, IN
Monte3280@insightbb.comWe’re going to work with Rick to bring you a complete feature from the ground up.–Bandit
THE LAST BIKER–The old ones stand out now, their numbers dwindling down. They’re a sad loss to the American scene, these individualists with the worn down clothes and faces. You can still see them sometimes, the real ones, some in packs, not as large as a while ago, sometimes alone.The alone one is the best.
One who’s been there a long time, staying in the life he loves, never giving into a system that sucks you up like a vortex if you slip just one foot into it. He’s got his connections – a few like him, that care for and protect each other. Hanging onto the only unique lifestyle left, like old dinosaurs, their faces are leathered and rough by forty, but their eyes still sharp and knowing.
Some are gray in the beards and braids, some are limp in the step and some pain in the kidneys. Still they know that no other life is life, but merely a dreary journey into everyone else’s monotony. He looks at the new ones, then turns away, knowing they will never know of life on the road and of the women who can take it. Wild, loving, women who’ll hang in with them, because they love it too. A woman with a wild heart and a loyal soul, that’s what’s needed here.
The new ones are shiny and young and a bit too clean. They’re born into a system that has an iron grip now. The new one’s will never know and couldn’t take “the life.”
I think it’s a mystery, even to the old ones, why this life is theirs, but it is, and it’s the only one.When the last biker falls, like the dinosaurs, the sun will go down on a breed of heart-of-gold, tough as nails, free spirited men, who even at their worst, love what’s theirs and protect it. In a world wide system that is making all people as alike as manufactured dolls, the earth will be a duller place….
When the last biker falls.
I didn’t write this……But I’ve lived it.
And wish I had written it.
–B.
CRAZY HORSE LIFE AND TIMES COMING TO THE CANTINA–Here’s a rough sketch of an illustration by Chris Kallas for Crazy Horse words about Life and Times of Bikers in the early ’80s. It’s destined to be published in the Cantina shortly. Hang on.
ROT RALLY HONORS MILITARY–ROT is proud to salute the men and women who serve our country by bringing you the Military Bike Giveaway again this year. Last year we recognized a true American Hero when the winner of our online nomination process was presented a one-of-a-kind custom bike at Saturday night’s wild concert event. Thanks to master builder Troy Nicholson and sponsor Lightning Cycle Works, the build is on yet again! This year cameras will catch Troy Nicholson all 3 days as he handcrafts this amazing bike from the ground up for one lucky winner. All current and former military personnel are eligible for the big drawing this year, but you must be present at ROT to enter and win. So get your ROT tickets today and register for the drawing onsite in the Texas Thunderdome! ROT officials will draw 3 lucky names at the rally, and each will be issued a key. But only one key will make that beauty purr, so don’t miss out!
Guidelines for Entries:
– Must have served in the military
– All services and branches of the military eligible
– All entries accepted on-site only and must be present to WIN
– Must present an active duty military ID, retired military card, or s/n number
– Can also enter by presenting membership card to VFW or American Legion
– Deadline for entries on-site will be Noon, Saturday, June 2, 2007
Disclaimer: ONLY military veterans are eligible to participate. Title cannot be transferred until soldier identification has been verified. Second place and third place rules shall be announced during presentation on Saturday during bike giveaway. Expected time of giveaway is 7:00 p.m.
NEW LAYBACK LICENSE PLATE KITS FROM HARLEY-DAVIDSON–MILWAUKEE (February 26, 2007) – The new Layback License Plate Mounting Kits (P/N 60280-07, $37.95; P/N 60277-07, $39.95) from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories replace the original-equipment, stand-up license-plate mount with a chrome-plated, die-cast mount that tips the license plate back for low-profile style. The mirror-smooth backplate hides the unfinished back of the license plate, and chrome hardware secures the license plate to the mount.
Also available are the Framed Layback License Plate Mounting Kits (P/N 60193-07 and P/N 60210-07; $59.95) that wrap the license plate in chrome with a front frame that conceals the license plate mounting hardware, while the backplate hides the unfinished rear of the plate.
Each kit includes installation hardware and a rear reflector, and accepts a license plate up to 7 _ x 4 _ inches. See dealer for fitment details for specific Harley-Davidson models.
For additional information on Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories, see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. or Canada.
3rd WEDNESDAY IN JULY WOULD BECOME ANNUAL MICHIGAN EVENT, RIDE TO WORK DAY–How will you get to work on July 18?Motorcycle maybe?
That’s what state Rep. Richard LeBlanc – the proud new owner of a Harley-Davidson Peace Officer Ultra Classic – hopes.
The Westland Democrat and 13 fellow Democratic lawmakers – most of whom don’t own motorcycles – want the state to designate the third Wednesday of every July as “Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Day.”
“I’ve always loved motorcycles,” said LeBlanc, who got his first one as a gift from his grandfather at age 9. He’s owned roughly 130 over his lifetime, including five now-counting the new Harley-and gave his sons their first ones at ages 2 and 4.
But he confesses that he hasn’t ridden any of them yet on his 170-mile daily round-trip commute between Westland and Lansing since taking office in January.
Not all his co-sponsors share his fascination for motorcycles. Nor do they all share his support for repealing Michigan’s 1969 mandatory helmet law.
Another attempt to repeal the law is expected this year.
In 2006, Gov. Jennifer Granholm vetoed a bill that would have exempted operators who are over 21 and with at least two years’ experience from the helmet requirement if they pass a safety course and have at least $10,000 in medical insurance.
Granholm labeled the $10,000 amount “woefully inadequate” in light of the full costs of treating head injuries.
Motorcycle fatalities dropped 7 percent in 2006, contrasted with a 35.6 percent jump from 2004 to 2005, according to the state Office of Highway Safety Planning.
Repeal of the law – a longtime lobbying goal of motorcyclist rights advocates and their American Bikers Aiming Toward Education organization – faces strong opposition from AAA of Michigan, the Brain Injury Association of Michigan and the Michigan State Medical Society, among other safety and health groups.
State Rep. Barb Byrum of Onondaga, another cosponsor of LeBlanc’s motorcycle-to-work bill doesn’t have a motorcycle – although her husband used to – and favors repeal.
“We’re the only state in the region with a helmet law,” Byrum said, calling for a balance between “the interests of safety” and the condition of the economy.
Eliminating compulsory helmet use “will encourage more motorcyclists to come to Michigan and spend tourist dollars,” she said.
ALUMINUM PRIMARY BY RMD FOR BIG DOG MOTORCYCLES–RMD Billet offers this aircraft-strength aluminum primary for Big Dog motorcycles. Now available for 2005 and newer Big Dog models, this primary is a fully radiused, billet machined, right-side drive, inner primary with a unique geometry for a super-clean, smooth look. It also features a Barnett Scorpion clutch, hidden jackshaft, and ring gear system, and also includes billet pulley covers, center plate, inner primary spacer, as well as a full-pulley/clutch assembly.
Available in polish or chrome. www.rmdbillet.com.
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.
BENDS NEW BMC ONLY STORE M.O.B– Check out the new Big Mike Choppers store in Bend, Oregon run by the Mob.
BETSY IS CLIMBING MT. EVEREST–Hang on for future reports.
POWER TO THE PEOPLE MOTORCYCLE RALLY–We would like to invite you, as well as your friends and family, to the Power To The People Motorcycle Rally in Ames, Iowa on August 10, 2007. We will be there in support of Tommy Thompson, former Governor of Wisconsin, former Secretary Of Health And Human Services, avid long-time motorcyclist, and Presidential hopeful.
The rally coincides with the Iowa Republican straw poll. Only Iowa residents may vote in the straw poll, but a large showing of support may help persuade some of the undecided Iowa residents to vote for Tommy. This is one of the few times in our lives that we can make a difference. Historically, the winner of the straw poll becomes the favorite to garner the nomination; and it only takes 4,000 votes to win it! Motorcyclists can have a voice! Show the world that the big money machine doesn’t always have to win and that once in a great while, a small town boy with good common sense and moral values can rise to the top as One of Our Own.
Enclosed you will find fliers for the Ames Rally & Tommy Thompson’s 13th Annual Reunion Ride, a brief history of Tommy’s accomplishments, a little bit about Team Tommy 2008, and the ever dreaded donation form. Tommy’s campaign really could use some financial support from those of you that are so inclined. Tommy Thompson isn’t a “business as usual” politician with a mega-dollar war chest. He’s a common sense kind of guy that has a proven track record of getting things done. Every dollar will help.
–Team Tommy 2008
www.teamtommy.org
email: teamtommy@aol.com
BILANSKY RIDES BUELL TO ASRA THUNDERBIKE WIN AT TOPEKA–TOPEKA, Kan. (April 29, 2006) – Hal’s H-D/Buell Hal’s Speed Shop rider Dan Bilansky rode a Buell XB12R Firebolt to win the second round of the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) Pro Thunderbike series at Heartland Park Topeka.
“Our Buell ran really well today and this was a nice win after finishing off the podium at Daytona,” said Bilansky. “We’ve got the Hal’s team back in position to defend the Thunderbike title.”
Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing rider David Estok earned the pole on a Buell XB12R Firebolt in Saturday qualifying for the 12-lap Pro Thunderbike national on the 2.5-mile Heartland Park road course.
Estok jumped into the lead at the start, with his Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing teammate Darren James in hot pursuit. Bilansky, the 2006 ASRA Pro Thunderbike champion, got a poor start but worked his way up to the leaders by the third lap. A crash on lap five ended the day for Estok. James assumed the lead but soon fell off the pace with a mechanical problem. Bilansky made a pass for the lead and opened a gap of about 15 seconds that he maintained to the finish to score his first win of the season. James held on for second place, followed by Buell riders Joe Rozynski (Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop), Sam Rozynski (Waves/Hal’s Speed Shop), and Greg Avello (Hal’s Speed Shop/Badger Motorsports).
After two of eight ASRA Thunderbike rounds, Bilansky has 58 points to lead the series, followed by James with 56 points and Estok with 47 points.
In Championship Cup Series (CCS) racing on Saturday, Estok rode his Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing Buell to victory in the Thunderbike Expert class, a five-lap sprint race. On Sunday, James rode a Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing Buell to win the CCS Thunderbike Expert class, while Steve Crevier won the SuperTwins Expert class on a Deeley H-D/Buell Canada/Ruthless Racing Buell XBRR.
The next event on the eight-race 2007 ASRA Pro Thunderbike series schedule is the Summit Point Festival of Speed, May 27-28 at Summit Point Motorsports Park, Summit Point, W.V.
LET’S TAKE A MOMENT OUT FOR RELIGIOUS REFLECTION–The real reason that we can’t have the Ten Commandments posted in acourthouse is this: You cannot post “Thou Shalt Not Steal,” “Thou ShaltNot Commit Adultery”, and “Thou Shall Not Lie” in a building full oflawyers, judges and politicians.
It creates a hostile work environment
–from Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
Continued On Page 5
May 03, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
HIGH SPEED PURSUITS GO TO COURT–WASHINGTON (CNN) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday gave police officers significant protection from lawsuits by suspects who lead them on car chases.
The justices ruled 8-1 against Georgia teenager Victor Harris, who was left a quadriplegic after a police vehicle rammed his car off the road in 2001.
A police officer used “reasonable force” when ramming the teen’s speeding car, the high court ruled. A videotape of the pursuit played a key role in the decision.
BIKERNET DISCOVERS HANGOVER CODE–One Star Hangover (*):No pain. No real feeling of illness. You”re able to function relativelywell. However, youare parched. You can drink 5 sodas and still feel this way. For some reason,you are craving a steak and fries.
Two Star Hangover (**):No pain, but something is definitely amiss. You may look okay, but you havethe mental capacity of astaple gun. The coffee you are chugging is only increasing your rumblinggut, which is still tossingaround the fruity pancake from the 3:00 a.m. Waffle House excursion. Thereis some definite havoc beingwreaked upon your bowels.
Three Star Hangover (***):Slight headache. Stomach feels crappy. You are definitely not productive.Anytime a girl walks by you gag becauseher perfume reminds you of the flavored schnapps shots your alcoholicfriends dared you to drink. Life wouldbe better right now if you were home in your bed watching Lucy reruns.You’ve had 4 cups of coffee, agallon of water, 3 iced teas and a diet Coke — yet you haven’t peed once.
Four Star Hangover (****)Life sucks. Your head is throbbing. You can’t speak too quickly or youmight puke. Your boss has alreadylambasted you for being late and has given you a lecture for reeking ofbooze. You wore nice clothes,but that can’t hide the fact that you only shaved one side of your face(for the ladies, it looks like youput your make-up on while riding bumper cars). Your eyes look like one bigred vein, and even your hairhurts. Your sphincter is in perpetual spasm, and the first of about fivedumps you take during the daybrings water to the eyes of everyone who enters the bathroom.
Five Star Hangover (*****):You have a second heartbeat in your head, which is actually annoying theemployee who sits in the nextcube. Vodka vapor is seeping out of every pore and making you dizzy. Youstill have toothpaste crust inthe corners of your mouth from brushing your teeth in an attempt to get theremnants of the poop fairy out.Your body has lost the ability to generate saliva so your tongue issuffocating you. Any attempt todefecate results in a fire-hose-like discharge of alcohol-scented fluid witha rare ”floater” thrown in.The sole purpose of this ”floater” seems to be to splash the toilet waterall over your ass. You arethinking that Death might be better that this…
THINGS THAT ARE DIFFICULT TO SAY WHEN YOU’RE DRUNK:
1. Indubitably
2. Innovative
3. Preliminary
4. Proliferation
5. CinnamonTHINGS THAT ARE VERY DIFFICULT TO SAY WHEN YOU’RE DRUNK:
1. Specificity
2. British Constitution
3. Passive-aggressive disorder
4. Loquacious Transubstantiate
THINGS THAT ARE DOWNRIGHT IMPOSSIBLE TO SAY WHEN YOU”RE DRUNK:
1. Thanks, but I don’t want to have sex.
2. Nope, no more booze for me.
3. Sorry, but you’re not really my type.
4. Good evening officer, isn’t it lovely out tonight.
5. Oh no, I just couldn’t. No one wants to hear me sing
–from RFR
BONHAMS TO SELL BROUGH SUPERIORNAME, TRADEMARK & LOGO RIGHTS– San Francisco, 23 April 2007 – The rights to the name, trademark, logos, and domainname of one of the greatest motorcycle marques the world has even known will beauctioned by Bonhams & Butterfields at the forthcoming Legend of the MotorcycleConcours d’Elegance.
Brough Superior, known as “the Rolls-Royce of motorcycles”, was a hand-mademotorbike renown for its performance as well as its price. As the first true luxurymotorcycle, the English-made Brough Superior gained international fame in the 1920sand ’30s. Its most famous patron was T.E. Lawrence “of Arabia” who owned seven ofthe bespoke machines, and ultimately met his death upon one.
Also included in the sale is the minute book of the Board of Directors and the registeredoffice’s brass nameplate bearing the title “Brough Superior Engineering Limited, Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles”. The rights from the sale include UK, European Community andJapanese trademarks.
As a featured marque of last year’s inaugural Legend of the Motorcycle Concoursd’Elegance, history was made when the largest number of Brough Superior motorcyclesever to assemble in North America occurred; a proud occasion for a marque stillvenerated half a century after its end.
The second annual Legend of the Motorcycle takes place Saturday May 5th at theocean-side Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, California, just south of San Francisco.Tickets for this landmark international event are $50 in advance ($65 on Concours day)and may be purchased through the website at www.LegendoftheMotorcycle.com.
The Bonhams & Butterfields auction will take place at 4:30 pm on Concours day atthe venue. For more information on this premier auction, visit www.Bonhams.com/us.Parties interested in bidding, remotely or in person, may register by contactingjo.barber@bonhams.com or 415-391-4000.
AUTHORITIES CHARGE MAN WITH RARE MURDER BY DUEL–WELCH, West Virginia (AP) — The annoying buzz of an all-terrain vehicle may have triggered a deadly shootout that led police to file a rare charge of “murder by duel,” authorities said.
The count, based on a dueling law that predates West Virginia’s statehood, was filed Monday against Steven Bryant Simpson, 47, said State Trooper J.S. McCarty.
Simpson is accused of killing Dana Martin, 39, in an April 20 shootout a few hundred yards (or meters) from Simpson’s home.
“We’ve had shootout-type cases, but I can’t recall one quite like this where there was an argument, then the people separated and came back to the very same location, each knowing the other had a gun,” said prosecutor Sid Bell.
The law, written in 1849, reads: “If any person fight a duel in this state and in so doing inflict a mortal wound, he shall be deemed guilty of murder.” West Virginia became a state in 1863.
The felony carries the same penalty as first-degree murder, up to a life sentence, McCarty said.
Witnesses saw the men argue in the road, part ways to retrieve handguns and return with weapons, Bell said. Testing determined that both weapons were fired. Martin was fatally shot in the torso.
Witnesses told police that Simpson was disturbed by the roaring sound of an ATV that Martin repeatedly drove past Simpson’s house while helping a woman move.
A call to Simpson’s attorney, Lacy Wright Jr., was not immediately returned.
–from Robin H.
LAST STOP FOR THE EASYRIDERS CENTERFOLD TOUR 2007–(Newbury Park, CA) – May 2, 2007 – Easyriders Events sponsored by Bikernet.com proudly announces the 2007 Easyriders Invitational V-Twin Bike Show Tour at Kansas City’s Bartle Hall on May 5th. Show hours are Saturday from 10:00a.m. until 10:00p.m. All ages are welcome to this family-friendly event showcasing the best custom motorcycles in the world. If you love custom motorcycles, this is the show to see. Kansas City boasts more than 200 chrome creations from all over the country.
Bike Show attendees can expect to see the best of the best custom-built motorcycles in the world combined with hundreds of motorcycle-related merchandise and service exhibitors. Thousands of custom designs have competed throughout the 2007 Easyriders V-Twin Bike Show Tour, and all “Best of Show” winners from the tour have been invited to compete for top honors in Kansas City on May 5th. The 1st Place Best of Show winner this weekend in Kansas City will have their winning bike featured in Easyriders magazine as well as all 2008 Easyriders V-Twin Bike Show Tour promotional posters and fliers; not to mention loads of cash and prizes from tour sponsors.
Bike Show finalists in the all-new Pro Class are vying for more than just top honors, cash or prizes; they’re competing for one of six places on the 2008 Easyriders Centerfold Tour, which affords the opportunity for any bike builder to reach an unprecedented level of national exposure. More than 25 Pro Class finalists are scheduled to compete in Kansas City for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be featured as a “Master Builder” on the 2008 Centerfold Tour. The competition will be fierce, and the editors and judges from Easyriders certainly have their work cut out for them. Winner’s lists from all 2007 Regional Bike Shows can be found online at www.easyridersbikeshow.com.
Dorian Swanner, owner of Carolina Custom Products, Inc., has built a ground-up custom motorcycle to be given away to one lucky attendee at the end of the 2007 Bike Show Tour. This custom motorcycle is a Carolina Custom drop seat chopper with a polished S&S motor, Baker 6-speed transmission, 300 rear tire and features exotic sheet metal with custom paint. Swanner has also designed and created custom trophies for the 2007 tour, which are sure to beautify any winner’s trophy case. Additionally, Ralph Randolph of Rockem and Sockem Motorcycle Co. has completed a one-of-a-kind motorcycle to be given away at the 2007 Easyriders Rodeo Tour Grand Nationals in Chillicothe, Ohio. Both giveaway bikes will be on display for the public at Bartle Hall on May 5th.
Additionally, world-class creations from Paul Yaffe of Paul Yaffe Originals, Kendall Johnson of Kendall Johnson Customs, James and Dave Kaye of The Detroit Bros., Ralph Randolph of Rockem and Sockem Motorcycle Co., Bill Rucker of Rucker Performance and Austin Weiss of Streamline Designs will be displayed for up-close viewing at each of the Easyriders V-Twin Bike Shows. “Each of this year’s builders has been selected and personally invited to join the ranks of ‘Centerfold Tour’ predecessors like Billy Lane, Rick Fairless and Ron Finch. The excitement is in the diversity of these phenomenal motorcycle builders,” explained Easyriders Events president, John Green.
As featured on Country Music Television’s new hit show, Foxworthy’s Big Night Out, the Purrfect Angelz (a.k.a. The Home Wreckers) will perform live at each Bike Show location and are available for photo shoots with bikes entered in the competition. In addition to the top-notch choreography and fashion shows put on by the Purrfect Angelz, there will be live music by Jasmine Cain throughout the day.
GUILTY CUSTOMS WINS AT RAT’S HOLE SHOW–For those of you following this build, Guilty Customs “Errant” bobberfinished 2nd in the recent Rat’s Hole Show in Florida. We’ve attacheda picture taken prior to the show and a spec sheet. Additionalinformation is available upon request.
–Carl (Cj) Hanlon
Guilty Customs, LLC
407.453.0844
www.GuiltyCustoms.com
http://guiltycustoms.com/blog/
BRAND NEW PISTON RISERS FROM CARLINI–Here are the latest risers from Carlini. They are for 1.50-inch bars and feature a contrast of chrome and matte finishes. The part # is Piston1.
Available direct from Carlini Design by phone 714 432-9000. The price is 200.00.
–TJ
MOTHERS DAY IN FOUR DAYS-That’s bullshit. It’s actually the 13th. Relax
MYRTLE BEACH REMINDERS– BE THERE OR BE TALKED ABOUT!!!!– Join us for the 2nd Annual Curt Brown Scholarship Ride with fellow Hamsters and friends. Meet at 9706 North Kings Highway at Thoroughbreds Restaurant in Myrtle Beach the morning of Wednesday May 16th. The 90 minute ride will leave at 10:00 am taking participants across the border into North Carolina (BE SURE TO BRING A HELMET) on a back roads journey to my hometown of Elizabethtown, NC.
The group will have a police escort into town, a brief presentation ceremony, and a free lunch of world famous burgers and hotdogs. We will make one stop in-route for gas. Last year we had over 60 riders and everyone had a blast. This year should be even bigger and better. Your donations help fund scholarships for graduating high school students pursuing studies in science and engineering.
A minimum $50.00 donation per bike to the scholarship fund will be required to participate. Advance registration is preferred. To register in advance, your check or money order made out to “Bladen County Schools” should be received no later than May 5, 2007. If you can’t make the ride, donations are still welcome. Send it along with your name and address to:
Curt Brown
If you have any questions, Please call….or email….H 715-377-9873 C 651-295-5834
CHARLES LOMBARDO OF NY TAKES HOME THE THUNDER SADDLE CUSTOM LEATHER SEAT– Charles Lombardo wins April’s Thunder Saddle contest for his flying motorcycle guy tattoo. BANDIT picked the best looking tattoo this month and Charles will be receiving a custom Thunder Saddle with his Tattoo embossed in the saddle. “Lombardo’s tattoo caught my attention,” said Bandit. “Although it’s not a Harley, it was the most unique Tat I’ve run across in a long time and motorcycle related. Besides it’s cool.”
How to Enter the Thunder Saddle Contest
Entering is easy. Just send an email to: tat@horsepowermarketing.com with your:
? Name
? Telephone number
? Picture of you and your tattoo
? Year and model of motorcycle
It’s just that easy. Send a picture of yourself sporting your favorite tattoo and you could be riding around with it on your motorcycle. It is your exclusive seat that is a show stopper and conversation piece wherever you stop.
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH A BIKERNET STAFF MEMBER–I had decided to do something I haven’t done since my youth and ride a horse. Although I am a huge man with a bad hip I also love horses and the chance to ride one again just seemed irresistible.
At first, everything seemed OK. The horse’s movements were steady and rythmic. Then I started to slide off. I was panic stricken. I grabbed for a handful of main but came up empty..I had slid too far off by then. Knowing that hitting the ground would be painful enough and not wanting to get my foot stuck in the stirrup, I decided to try and kick myself away from the horse as I fell so I could fall cleanly and not be trampled under hoof.
At the critical moment the horse pulled up on his own to a complete stop. It was then that I turned and saw the Wal-Mart greeter with the plug in his hand. Boy, was I lucky!
–Dave
BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–A dreamlike ride down the loop ~ you can almost feel the spirits of the old Florida land as you pass under the canopy of oaks.
Ride Hard,
Whiplash Biker Photog
Continued On Page 4
May 03, 2007 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
CUSTOM CHROME DECIDES TO SET UP A CHAMPIONS PARK IN STURGIS–One of the best known names in the industry, Custom Chrome has been a Lazelle Street fixture during the Rally for decades. In assessing their options for 2007 and beyond company president Holger Mohr said: “As everybody knows, we have been heavily involved with AMD and the Official European and World Championship programs for years.
“We think AMD has done a wonderful job, and are convinced that this latest venture, the new exhibitor facility alongside the Official World Championship, will be a major destination of choice for Rally visitors. I am convinced that the facility that they and their local collaborators are creating will be ideally suited to the specific needs of a business such as ours.”
Other vendors already committed to Champions Park include S&S Cycle, Pingel Enterprise, Engenuity, Cruizin’ Machine, DNA Specialty and Weld Wheel.
For current availability contact Mary Beth Crowe …
E-mail:
Tel: 605 716 6486
LEESBURG PHOTOGRAPHIC BREAK– Take a breather from the Bikernet News.Here’s a some of amateur shots of the locals at Leesburg.
–Larry
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY CLASSES AVAILABLE IN PA–The state Motorcycle Safety Program will hold free motorcycle safety classes in the area. Class schedules are available online at
Courses fill quickly, so early registration is necessary. Students who successfully complete both the knowledge and the skills test with the Motorcycle Safety Program will receive a motorcycle license from the state Department of Transportation.
A motorcycle permit is needed in order to register for a class.
Participants will need to go to a driver licensing center and obtain a permit before registering for a class.
The BasicRider Course is designed for novice riders who want to learn basic skills to operate a motorcycle safely. Training motorcycles are provided.
–from Rogue
THE BLACK LIST TOUR BRINGS A HIGH-OCTANE MIX OF CUSTOMS, EXTREME SPORTS, ART AND MUSIC TO THE FULL THROTTLE FOR STURGIS 2007–Sturgis, SD, April 20, 2007, An all-star roster ofthe nation’s top custom builders and athletes arechanging the face of motorcycling events, by producinga ground-breaking entertainment platform called TheBlack List Tour. The Black List Tour is a hard-corefusion of skateboarding, Moto X, hot rods, custombikes, music and art, designed to redefine andrevolutionize rally entertainment, and provide theultimate platform for cross generational expression.
The Black List Tour 2007 Sturgis participants are:
-Twisted Choppers, defined by their metalworkingmastery, were winners on Discovery Channel?s BikerBuild-Off, featured in Michael Lichter’s coffee tablebook, Choppers-Heavy Metal Art, and have had over 30national and international magazine features.
-Sucker Punch Sally’s, leaders in the charge to bringthe bobber back into style and bringing custom to theaverage guy, while still making head-spinning, one-offprojects, with over 20 international magazine featuresand a growing manufacturing operation.
-Leroy-Thompson Choppers, winners on the last episodeof the new season of The Learning Channel?s BikerBuild-Off and featured in the book, The Art Of TheBobber, as well as in every major motorcyclepublication. Each of their projects has a uniqueappearance, while they still retain their expertcraftsmanship.
-Led Sled Customs, a rising star in the industry,creating one-off masterpieces out of Sportsters andother unlikely sources, most likely stirring things upwith flaming burnouts.
These talented builders will collaborate and build acomplete bike on stage during Sturgis Bike Week thatwill be given away. That’s right, no $20, $50 or $100ticket, given away at the Black List Area in front ofthe Full Throttle Saloon to one lucky individual onAugust 10th.
The black List Tour entertainment will be laden withmodern metal and punk rock music, high-flyingskateboard and motocross athletes, hot rods, tattoocompetitions, all taking place in front of the FullThrottle Saloon during Sturgis Bike Week, August4th-11th, 2007. More information and specifics will beavailable soon.
The Blacklist Tour hopes to revolutionize the customculture experience, by combining custom bike building,music, art and extreme sports, redefining thecross-generational custom lifestyle, and will make theFull Throttle Saloon the place to be for everymotorcycle enthusiast in Sturgis 2007. For moreinformation, visit www.BlackListTour.com
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME TO INDUCT ILLINGWORTH–April 2007 – – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame has announced it will induct Bob Illingworth into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2007.
Bob Illingworth began his career in motorcycling as a Triumph dealer in Minnesota in the 1970’s, however it was his success as a grassroots lobbyist for the Minnesota Motorcycle Riders Association that would make his name legendary in the motorcyclists rights community. Serving as their lobbyist for 30 plus years, Illingworth fought to keep anti-motorcycle legislation off the books, and educated riders and activists in his state. He would go on to help rights groups throughout the United States and Canada, sharing his expertise at countless conferences and conventions, and traveling to states during legislative sessions to help rights groups battle bills that would have a far-reaching, negative impact on the future of motorcycling.
In 2001 Illingworth was instrumental in founding the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame and participated in the creation and success of Kids & Chrome, a fundraising event for children and the museum, in 2005.Illingworth will be inducted into the Hall of Fame with a special Founders Award.
The annual Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast is scheduled on Wednesday, August 8 at 9:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish, SD.
Breakfast tickets are available for a $25.00 donation, reserved tables of eight for $250.00. Tickets can be purchased through the Museum 605.347.2001 or on line
–Pepper S. Massey
Executive Director, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame
605.347.2001
999 Main Street, Sturgis, SD 57785
fax 605.720.0632
www.sturgismuseum.com
THE OFFICIAL FED NOISE TEST, BIKERNET PREPARES TO TEST INDEPENDENT STUDY–With the bike going 35 mph at 3500 rpm, in a straight line, on a level paved road, with no sound reflecting objects within 200 feet, and no more than a 12mph wind. Locate your calibrated sound meter 50 feet perpendicular to the line traveled by the bike. The reading can be no more than 80db A scale.
Next week we are giving a presentation at the National Coalition of Motorcyclists annual legislative convention, regarding our Bikernet Independent noise study-a way to broaden community understanding of motorcyclists and noise.
BIKERNET CLASSIC DEAL OF THE WEEK, FOR SALE – 1979 FLH–This motorcycle will appear inthe 2008 Harley-Davidson calendar.This beautiful blue bagger is all originalwith only 18,000 miles on it.The 80-inch shovelhead engine has never been apart.The bike was bought new from Ventura H-D.it has never been layed downand has always been garaged.
$12,000 or best offer
–Dean Shawler
Cell: 805-795-1012
Work 818-889-8740 ext. 1259
cleandean@mac.com
ENVY CYCLES AND STREETWALKER CHECKS IN–Thanks for the consideration, it’s genuinely appreciated. We’renot duckin our duties, honestly we’ve been so hammered this winter andspring, we don’t know what end is up. We’ve been working 15 and 16 hour daysseven days a week since the Cincinnati show trying to keep up with ordersand any time I can steal a half hour or so I’ve been trying to finish a newbike. The bike had a lot of new parts that I’d hopedto get into production this spring so it was important to me to get it done,but Dana hasn’t given me any slack on filling the Streetwalker pipe orders.
Good problem to have, but beating on exhaust pipes sucks when a new scooteris sitting in the corner waiting to be finished.We just got back from the Laughlin show where we showed the new bike in ourbooth along with several brand new pipes we developed including a neatlittle pipe for stock Harley’s. I think we’re going to call it Full MetalJack-it, not sure yet. The pipe will be available with ‘O2 bungs and a baffleif a person is so inclined.
Despite the long bikes slide in popularity both the pipes and the new bikegot a lot of attention in Laughlin and we got a bunch of orders to fill onthe new pipes as a result of the show.The new pipes are going on an ’06Fatboy and will be put through the paces on Nick Trask’s dyno thisWednesday. I’ll get some good pics of the pipe then and hopefully a goodreport card on the pipe’s performance. I’ll get something from that off toyou right away
–Terry
NO MORE BIKE WORKS MAGAZINE–This report came from a VP at Primedia. Bike Works magazine is being shut down, while all the magazines in the Primedia Enthusiasts Group are being auctioned to other publishers (see last week’s news).
LESSONS FROM A BIKER-FOUR WHEELS MOVE THE GROCERIES, TWO WHEELS MOVE THE SOUL–Life may begin at 30, but it doesn’t get real interesting until about 60 mph!
If you wait, all that happens is that you get older.Midnight bugs taste just as bad as Noon time bugs.Saddlebags can never hold everything you want, but they CAN hold everything you need.
It takes more love to share the saddle than it does to share the bed.
The only good view of a thunderstorm is in your rearview mirror.
Never be afraid to slow down.
Don’t ride so late into the night that you sleep through the sunrise.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
Riding faster than everyone else only guarantees you’ll ride alone.
Never hesitate to ride past the last street light at the edge of town.
Never do less than forty miles before breakfast.
If you don’t ride in the rain, you don’t ride.
A bike on the road is worth two in the shed.
Respect the person who has seen the dark side of motorcycling and lived.
Young riders pick a destination and go… Old riders pick a direction and go.
Okay, enough of the code of the west. Let’s get back to the news.
–Renegade
DOCTOR DONNA CALLS OUT ROSIE–Born To Ride Inc. celebrates 3 years of publishing Born To Ride Magazine with the May issue #36. The magazine was created from the Born To Ride TV show, who’s creator and producer Ron Galletti started in 1995. On April 15th 2007 Ron Galletti had produced the 600th episode of Born To Ride TV!
This months Born To Ride Magazine writer Dr. Donna calls out Rosie in her column. You don’t want to miss what she has to say, please view the following attachment.
For more info go to
–Ron Galletti
CEO Born To Ride Inc.
Born To Ride Inc.
(813) 661-9402
(813) 689-2996 Fax
NEW EXPERIENCED RIDER COURSE AVAILABLE IN LOS ANGELES– My name is Mark Paz, and I live in Los Angeles, California. I have been riding motorcycles since 1977. I am a graduate of the LAPD Police Motorcycle Training Unit, and rode enforcment for 10 years. I am writing to let you know that a motorcycle riding program called Ride Like A Pro, is now available in Southern California .
If you are unfamiliar with it, the course was started many years ago by Jerry “Motorman” Palladino, a retired motor officer living in Florida . Here is a link to his Florida website:
This program is different from other motorcycle courses in that it is based on the fundamental riding techniques used by police motor officers. The program is targeted for the experienced, and mature rider looking to improve their safety and skill. The riders use their own motorcycles. In early January I went to Florida met with Jerry, and helped him teach the course.
I am now offering this same course here in Los Angeles . The cost is $125.00. The exercises are a civillian version of what I was taught by the LAPD. Classes are held on weekends, and last about four hours. I teach by myself and keep a low student to instructor ratio. There is a limit of six riders per class. This also allows the students more riding time.
–Mark Paz
310.617.0825
RICHIE MORRIS RACING BUELL TAKES MOTO-ST CLASS WIN–ALTON, Va. (April 29, 2007) – The Richie Morris Racing/Daytona Harley-Davidson/Buell team used steady racing and a reliable Buell XB12R Firebolt to win the Grand Sport Touring (GST) class by five laps at the VIR 500K, the third round of the SunTrust MOTO-ST Series, held at Virginia International Raceway.
While other GST competitors succumbed to mechanical problems or crashes, Richie Morris Racing riders Shawn Higbee and Clint Brotz kept up a fast and steady pace and rolled to a five-lap advantage by the end of the three-hour endurance race, covering 82 laps to finish in 11th place overall. Second place in GST went to the Touring Sport Ducati team of Peter Friedland, Brad Phillips and Frank Shockley, who covered 77 laps and finished 22nd overall. Third place in GST went to the RightsForBikers.com Ducati of John Linder, Chris Boy and Jason Edmonds, with 57 laps for 25th overall.
The Touring Sport Ducati was fighting for the lead before a split oil cooler put it behind, while the RightsForBikers.com Ducati came back from a crash by Edmonds at half distance. Fourth place in GST went to the James Gang Racing/Hoban Brothers Buell XB12R sponsored by Hal’s Speed Shop and Buell of Appleton and ridden by Paul James and Jeff Johnson, who quit the race after 42 laps with an engine problem. The fifth place Drummer Racing Buell XB-9R ridden by Tracy Church, Marty Beshears and Casey Church retired after 39 laps with an electrical problem.
“The other guys had some bad luck but we kept our head down and kept a steady pace,” Higbee said. “Our pit stops were a lot better this weekend and that helped us on the track.”
With the victory Richie Morris Racing Buell extended its lead in the GST team standings to four points over Touring Sport Ducati, 100-96, after three of six MOTO-ST events.
The overall win and first place in the Buell Motorcycle Company SuperSport Twins (SST) class went to the San Jose BMW team of Brian Parriott and Nate Kern, who covered 86 laps to score its first SunTrust MOTO-ST Series victory of the season. With a second-place finish at VIR the Aprilia USA team moved into first place in the Buell Motorcycle Company SST team point standings with 99 points.
Speed Werks.com riders Brian Kcraget and Melissa Berkoff captured the Sport Twins (ST) class win on a Suzuki SV650.
The next race on the 2007 SunTrust MOTO-ST schedule is the Road America 500K, July 7-8 at Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wis.
TBEAR’S PROJECT TRUMP UPDATE– Project Trump is moving right along. Got most of my one off parts and just waiting on my motor to be done. Soon as it comes back, It’s rock & Roll time welding up the frame tabs, polishing, powdercoating and paint.
Here’s a pic of where it is at presently with a bad photoshop job showing the paint scheme… Red Baron Von Zipper is waiting for flight clearance
–TBear
Continued On Page 3
May 03, 2007 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
As you know Wil Phillips, who designed and manufactured True Tracks passed away of cancer. Wil also designed several other suspension-saving products. His longtime friend, Ronnie, has power of attorney and is moving forward to organize the company and fill orders. Be patient. He’s getting the biz back on track.
On another front Ronnie is working with a company Bikernet recommended to help him build on the True Track name for the future, for Wil’s mom. This is a highly respected company in our industry for over 30 years. We’ll bring you more information in the near future.
Let’s hit the news. It’s a biggin’ as Rick Fairless would say:
LE PERA’S STUNNING TRIBAL EMBOSSED SEATS–LePera is now offering virtually any of their unique seat designs covered with Italian Embossed Premium grade Leather. The embossed leather is available in several patterns. Shown here is their TRIBAL EMBOSSED pattern featured on the BARE BONES seat with distressed leather sides.
As shown the seat retails for just $ 420.00. For complete pricing, style, design and application details call 818-767-5110 or catch a closer look on line at www.lepera.com
TOP 50 RALLY PARK SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 2007– Conveniently located between Sturgis and Rapid City just off I-90 at exit 46, this 12 acre destination is open Sunday August 5th through Sunday August 12th from 10:00am to 7:00pm. The Top 50 Rally Park sponsored by Bikernet.com will be hosting The Legend Top 50 Custom Bike Show, Red Bull TNT Freestyle Motocross and the SuicideGirls.
The Top 50 Rally Park is a must-seedestination for any Sturgis Rally enthusiast. For a continually updated list of events, vendors, featured builders andguests log onto www.Top50RallyPark.com, or click on the banner above.
CUSTOM BIKE DEAL OF THE WEEK–Rivera Primo, Inc. is pleased to offer for sale our one of a kind custom motorcycle.This baby was built in 2003 to showcase some of our new products then. The bike was never operated on the road although it is titled and registered to Rivera Engineering, Inc.
There are no gauges, but the mileage is estimated to be around 100. The frame is Left side drive and supports a 250 rear tire with final belt drive.
Wheels are Hallcraft 80 spoke with Avon Venom tires, and a Spyke inverted front end.
The motor is a limited addition 40th anniversary S & S 110 inch motor fully show polished and built to our exacting specifications with all supporting documentation.
Carburetion is accomplished with a set of Rivera’s DRM, dual 45mm Mikuni’s on a dual runner manifold. Primary drive is a Primo Brute V, 3 _-inch, 14mm open belt with outboard bearing supports front & rear, coupled to a Baker 6 speed overdrive polished transmission. Exhaust flows quickly through Supertrapp ‘Crack Pipes’ designed by Paul Yaffe. Stopping power is done by a GMA chrome caliper in front and a GMA chrome caliper in the rear attached to a GMA pulley/brake rotor combo on the left side. The braking is operated by Jaybrake chrome forward controls.
The price is $19,500.00 USD. Helluva deal.
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@horspowermarketing.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
To see how your bike will look and perform log on to the D&D Web site.
BRUTE IV EXTREME? BELT DRIVES3-inch WIDE . . . 8mm BELT . . . OPEN . . . ELECTRIC STARTFITS 1990-2006 EVO & TWIN CAM SOFTAIL–HERES ONE OF OUR LATEST ADDITIONS TO THE LINE-UP OF OPEN BELT DRIVES . . .THE BRUTE IV EXTREME ?.DESIGNED WITH THE SAME UNCOMPROMISING ATTITUDE TOWARDS FORM & FUNCTION ASALL OF OUR BELT DRIVES, THE BRUTE IV EXTREME? TAKES VALUE TO ANOTHER DEGREE.
THIS ECONOMY-PRICED UNIT WILL GET YOUR ATTENTION. IT?S 3-inch WIDE, 8mm &FEATURES A FULLY POLISHED ONE-PIECE MOTOR PLATE, ENTIRELY DESIGNED FORBOLT-ON COMPONENT PIECES.THE FRONT AND REAR PULLEYS HAVE BOLT-ON POLISHED STAINLESS FLANGES. THEVERY TASTEFUL OUTER GUARD IS BILLET ALUMINUM, 3/8-inch THICK !
THE BRUTE IV EXTREME? WAS DEVELOPED WITH TWO OTHER GREAT FEATURES . . .OPTIONAL MOUNTS FOR A CENTER-MOUNT OIL FILTER & OPTIONAL MID-CONTROLSHIFTING (ORDER #2084-0500 FOR SHIFT SIDE ONLY, #2084-0502 FOR BRAKE SIDEONLY or #2084-0504 FOR THE COMPLETE BRAKE & SHIFTER KIT. IN ADDITION, ANALL-NEW STARTER NOSE ASSEMBLY CONCEALS THE JACKSHAFT COMPONENTS.
FINALLY, THE BRUTE IV EXTREME? INCLUDES A REDESIGNED PRO CLUTCH? ASSEMBLYFOR MAXIMUM TORQUE TRANSFERENCE.
STANDARD KITS, WITHOUT OFFSET INSERTS, ARE PRICED BELOW $ 1300.00 MSRP !
BRUTE IV EXTREME? SHOWN AS DELIVERED– BRUTE IV EXTREME? SHOWN w/OPTIONAL MID-CONTROL SHIFTING EQUIPMENT (#2084-0500)
RIVERA PRIMO INC.
12450 Whittier Blvd.
Whittier, California 90602
Tel:62-907-2600
Fax: 562-907-2606
www.riveraengineering.com
THE STURGIS RALLY JUST BECAME MORE FUN–I’m excited to announce that I’ve become a co owner of the Dakota Classic Car & Custom Motorcycle Auction scheduled to d?but its first annual event on August 7th at the “Top 50 Rally Park” located between Sturgis and Rapid City at the Elk Creek exit 46.
If you have a bike or two or a 1987 or older Hot Rod car you just don’t need anymore and want to turn back into cash, then this is a perfect venue for it to find a new home.
This year we are going to limit the number of motorcycle entries at seventy. The car’s at sixty. The response from several qualified buyers has been better then expected already. Please let me know as soon as possible so we don’t over book.
All motorcycles and cars must have clean titles to ensure easy transition to the new owner.
We anticipate a great turn out. Again, if you are interested please contact me by June 15th so that we can get you a packet and lot number.
Even if you don’t have something to sell, then maybe there will be something to buy! Please join us in kicking off this special event.
–Keith Terry
EXCLUSIVE TO BIKERNET.COM THE NEW CONCEPT CROCKER–Our truck just pulled out of the shop and is now on it’s way to Half Moon Bay California where we will display our 2007 Big Tank Crocker and unveil the New Crocker C4 Concept bike. If all goes well, we will have Al Crocker Jr. at the show to do us the honor of pulling the cover off of our new concept bikes.
I have attached a few photo’s of both bikes. These photo’s and announcement are exclusive to you as we have never emailed a photo of the C4 to anyone.
The specs are as follows:
Engine: 45 degree V Twin Crocker (We currently have a proposal from Mclaren in Michigan)
Transmission: 6 speed
Horse Power: 135
Swing Arm: single sided
Fork: single sided
Brakes: Brembo
Rear Suspension: Penske
Wheels: 18 billet made by Crocker
Air Box: carbon fiber
Sub Frame: 356 aluminum casting T6
Frame Tube: 3″ aircraft aluminium
Weight: 395 lbs
Call me on my cell 416 857-3191 if you need additional info.
–Michael
JIMS? TRANSMISSIONS “THE BEST JUST GOT BETTER”!6 Year / 60,000 Mile Limited Warranty–The best transmissions in the American V-Twin Industry are now backed by the best warranty (6 Year / 60,000 Mile). Whether you’re building a race bike, a one of a kind custom, restoring a classic, or upgrading to the latest and greatest, there’s only one answer “JIMS”. JIMS is the only transmission manufacturer that does it all under one roof. Made in the USA.
Check out our full line of transmissions, including the:6 in a 4 Overdrive, Fat5? Overdrive, 5-Speed, 6-Speed, and Right-Side Drives. Contact your local JIMS? dealer, or contact JIMS? directly! Touch on the banner above.
JIMS? 555 Dawson Drive, Camarillo, CA 93012 Phone
805-482-6913 Fax 805-482-9224 www.jimsusa.com
SCREAMIN’ EAGLE TEAM WILL TRY TO TAKE ATLANTA DATA AND TURN IT INTO A WIN AT NEXT HOT TRACK– COMMERCE, Ga. (April 29, 2007) – Eddie Krawiec has already learned how to beat the pressure of being in the hot seat. The newest member of the two-bike Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson V-Rod team has already seen the drastic roller coaster ride that is drag racing.
After all, he beat out all the competition to get the ride in the first place when the team was searching for a teammate for three-time NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Andrew Hines earlier this year. And while he had not previously qualified for an NHRA national event, he not only qualified in his first race with the Screamin’ Eagle, but he made it all the way to the semifinals, too.
But now Krawiec can say he has seen the lows of the sport too. He failed to qualify for this weekend’s event at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway.
And still, he remains a positive force in the pits. Even the heat from the track and the DNQ can’t bring the New Jersey native down.
“Besides not qualifying, I still think it was a successful weekend,” Krawiec said. “We have not been in the situation of being on a really hot track with me on the bike yet like we were this weekend and it takes time to make all the correct adjustments. I think we really hit upon some great stuff for the fourth qualifying pass and we learned a lot from it.
“We just have to apply what we learned here and take it to St. Louis for next weekend’s race. We can’t let one bad day get us down and I think we’re going to be in great shape for the next hot track we see.”
Krawiec’s best pass of the weekend was a 7.120-second run at 187.23 mph recorded during the second qualifying session. Still, it was only good enough for the No. 17 position – just outside the 16-bike field.
Hines was 25th after one day of qualifying before turning in 7.018 and 7.016 passes on Saturday, propelling Hines into the No. 5 position going into Sunday’s eliminations.
Hines and the team took the improved data from qualifying and turned that into a first round win on Sunday. Hines beat Matt Guidera and the Rocklin Motorsports Buell team with a 7.082 run at 186.18 over Guidera’s 7.152 at 183.59.
“That was great because it was my first round win of the season,” Hines said. “Not only that, but it’s the first time that I’ve won a round since Las Vegas (October 2006) so it was nice to get that monkey off my back. I kind of forgot what it felt like to see a win light in my lane.”
Hines lost his second round matchup to Karen Stoffer and the Geico Suzuki team. Hines’ bike suffered mechanical problems long before he reached the finish line.
“We really have to fix whatever has been going wrong this weekend,” Hines said. “I think it’s going to end up being a really small issue that has been plaguing us. The simplest of things can end up being the most complicated to fix because there are so many things that can go wrong with these high performance motorcycles.
“There are a lot of things we are still learning with me on the bike,” Krawiec said. “This was just our third event together and we are still collecting data. We may be going through a few growing pains, but that won’t last. This team has so much talent and experience, it won’t take long to put it all together and create an even more competitive package.”
Stoffer collected her second win of the year, beating Matt Smith and the Torco Race Fuels Buell in the event final.
The next NHRA POWERade event featuring the Pro Stock Motorcycle category is the O’Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Ill., on May 4-6.
ANDREW HINES’ ATLANTA DRAGWAY RESULTS
Q1: 7.426 seconds at 144.13 mph
Q2: Broke
Q3: 7.018 at 191.73
Q4: 7.061 at 188.46
E1: 7.082 at 186.18 beat Guidera’s 7.152 at 183.59
E2: 41.235 at 48.61 lost to Stoffer’s 7.079 at 187.99
EDDIE KRAWIEC’S ATLANTA DRAGWAY RESULTS
Q1: 7.194 seconds at 187.65 mph
Q2: 7.120 at 187.23
Q3: 7.159 at 187.57
Q4: 7.121 at 186.02
BIKER MAGAZINE TEASER–I am happy to inform you that the June 2007 issue number 246 of BIKER magazine is published.On page 15 is the piece on Dave Zien, one of the world’s leaders in long distance riding.On page 29 is the piece on Team Tommy, a motorcyclist who is running for President.
Enjoy!
–Rogue
THE NEXT CHAPTER IN THE BIKERNET NEWS THIS WEEK CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING STORIES–BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL REPORTS–TBEARS PROJECT TRUMP UPDATE, RICHIE MORRIS RACING BUELL NEWS, NEW EXPERIENCED RIDERS COURSE AVAILABLE IN LOS ANGELES, DR. DONNA CALLS OUT ROSIE, ENVY CYCLE & STREETWALKER EXH. CHECKS IN, CLASSIC DEAL OF THE WEEK- CHECK THIS OUT!, FED NOISE TEST & INDEPENDENT STUDY, NEWS ON THE BLACK LIST TOUR AND CCI AT CHAMPIONS PARK IN STURGIS.
Don’t miss it…
Continued On Page 2
Marjorie Smith: A Pioneering Motorcycle Businesswoman
By Bandit |
Reprinted Courtesy of WomenRidersNow.com
One of the biggest and most respected engine manufacturers in the motorcycle industry, S&S Cycle, may not have existed if it wasn't for Marjorie Smith. “If it wasn't for her willingness to continue the business in 1959 and take over the office responsibilities and financial burden, there probably wouldn't be an S&S,” reflects Ken Smith, one of Marjorie's two sons who started working with the company in the 1970s.
Marjorie was married to George Smith, co-founder of S&S Cycle. Not only was she a businesswoman, she was a motorcycle enthusiast before she met and married George.
Early Days
George founded S&S Cycle in 1958 with Stanley Stankos in Blue Island, Illinois. Within a year of starting the company, Stankos sold his share to Smith so he could pursue his upholstery business.
It wasn't long afterwards that Marjorie (whose maiden name was also Smith), jumped in to help keep the business going. At 37, after raising two daughters and two sons and running a household, she was up for the task. Soon thereafter, the company went from being known as Smith & Stankos to Smith & Smith (S&S).
Marjorie didn't know it at the time, but the skills she learned in college served as a foundation for her later success with S&S. After growing up in a rural farm environment in central Illinois, Marjorie, her parents and two brothers moved to the south suburbs of Chicago in 1936. It was there she attended Thornton Township High School and graduated in 1940. With the aid of a scholarship and a part-time job, she completed two years of bookkeeping and general office training at Thornton Junior College.
Her interest in two-wheels blossomed as a teenager when one of her girlfriend's brothers bought a motorcycle. She knew some of the riders in the group, and through them met George Smith. Motorcycles only added to their attraction to one another. Marjorie, tall at 5-foot 10-inches, rode her own motorcycle when it wasn't popular for women to do so.
Building A Business
It is said that Marjorie — affectionately known as “Ma,” had more responsibilities for the long-term success of the business than her husband George. Ken says his father was the creative genius of the two. George's passion was for designing and making motorcycle parts, and he enjoyed going fast on motorcycles, however, he was a cattle farmer at heart and really wanted to be a cowboy.
In 1969, S&S moved from Blue Island to Viola, Wisconsin. In 2004 the company expanded to include a second location in La Crosse, Wisconsin. With a lot of hard work and determination, S&S has become a leading manufacturer of performance V-Twin motorcycle components and engines for more than 45 years.
Marjorie played an integral role in the business, from talking to customers, taking the orders, keeping the books, and answering technical calls. Those customers, who in the beginning scoffed about having a woman help them with technical questions, began asking for Marjorie by name. She developed quite a knowledge base over the years and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty, even doing some minor machine work.
“She was the classiest, most eloquent woman I ever met,” remembers Brett Smith, son of George Jr., who now runs S&S Cycle as president. “She was rough and tumble, but always a lady and was extremely intelligent.”
Ken remembers, “She always enjoyed talking to customers and other industry related people. Had it not been for health reasons, she would have continued working until the day she died.”
Marjorie passed away at 68 after succumbing to emphysema in 1990, but her legacy lives on through the business she and George worked so hard to make a success. More than 400 people are now employed at two facilities in Wisconsin producing components and engines for several well-known V-twin custom motorcycle manufacturers as well as for the public.
Well Deserved Recognition
In 1997, Marjorie and George were inducted into the Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In April 2003, S&S saluted its founders with the 145 Tribute, a motorcycle project that also marked S&S's 45th anniversary. The tribute recognized Marjorie and George as pioneers who played an integral part in the evolution of the V-twin motorcycle market.
And the tributes haven't stopped there. The company holds commemorative rides every year on the birthdays of Marjorie and George to keep their memory alive. To read more about the couple visit www.sscycle.com.
Teri Conrad is a freelance writer and motorcycle enthusiast, who lives in Southern California. She has been published in IronHorse, Adventure Sports Outdoors, Accelerate, and Ride Texas magazines. She can be reached celebritywriter@cox.net or you can visit her Web site www.celebritywriter.com
April 26, 2007 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
JAMES’ ELASTOMERICLEAK FREE INSPECTION COVER SEAL–With the introduction of this revolutionary INSPECTION COVER OIL SEAL James Gaskets has once again set the standard for cutting edge engine and transmission sealing technology. Forget the paper gaskets of old; this is a true “Oil Seal”. Each James Seal features a precision cut, steel gasket molded in Elastomeric rubber with raised sealing beads around the entire inner and outer perimeter as well as each screw hole.
This configuration insures an oil tight, leak free seal while requiring less torque than paper style gaskets.
Designed specifically for stamped, billet, cast and custom clutch inspection covers on 1985-2004 FLT and FXR models each kit includes 1 Cover Seal and 4 Screw Seals. For the JAMES GASKETS dealer nearest you call 775-246-2220.
BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Remember what it was like on your first road trip to a rally? The bikes, the partners, the wind, the sounds and the smells changed your soul forever. In your mind you couldn’t go back to reality.
Ride Hard
–Whiplash Biker Photog
RICK FAIRLESS AND THUNDER ROAD TEAM UP AGAIN FOR STURGIS 2007–Dallas, TX (April 13, 2007)- Rick Fairless will once again take over Thunder Road with his annual Strokers Sturgis set-up during the 2007 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Mimicking his dealership/bar & grill combination in Dallas, Strokers Sturgis will have plenty of Fairless’ famous “Bikes, Babes, and Beer” to last through the week.
The permanent fixture located inside the Thunderdome includes a stage with live music, a full bar, the Strokers Sturgis store, lots of picnic tables and chairs, beer tubs, and plenty of custom motorcycles to keep the crowds entertained all week.
Strokers Sturgis has called Thunder Road home for the past two years and it has been a great match for both parties. As the “Custom Capitol of Sturgis,” there is no better place for Rick Fairless to stake his claim than inside the Thunderdome. “We’ve been really happy with the set-up out there at Thunder Road and we’re glad to be back for another year. The bike shows they host always bring in a great crowd and the location is perfect for us.”
This year the Thunderdome will host several bike shows throughout the week. Sunday will kick off the week with the “Feel the Thunder” race bike show. Monday will continue with “The Horse, Backstreet Chopper Sturgis Invasion Bike Show” followed on Tuesday by the “5th Annual Metzeler Sturgis V-Twin Custom Bike Contest.” Wednesday will host the “Sculptures in Steel Bike Show” with the “Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show” on Thursday. Friday will close out the week with “Trike Wars- the Power of Three Trike Show.” The Thunderdome has free parking and Glencoe campers enjoy free admission to all events. All non-campers will have to pay the $5 entry fee.
Rick Fairless also shares the Thunderdome with other Sturgis Bike Week favorites. Motorcycle photography legend, Michael Lichter, will set-up his Motorcycles-as-Art Exhibit “One World,” and Miss Sturgis will be on hand signing autographs and taking pictures all week. This year will also include appearances from the Seminole Hard Rock Caf? Celebrity Bike Tour.
For more information on Strokers Sturgis, please visit www.strokersdallas.com or www.thunderroadsturgis.com.
THE BIKER BLUES GOD PITCHES THE CHOPPER KING FOR HOLLISTER– I remember when you said Hugh KING was coming by for some ideas for the motorcycle mania show. Maybe he would be interested in filming Hollister at motorcycle show that I will be putting on for two days from 4-8pm. I will have a variety of guests blues musicians, builders etc. including you.
Which brings me to ask you if you would bring the Salt Shaker we could put it up on the stage and do a pretty cool thing when you come up during your song, and talking about the land speed record. Anyway I could really put on a cool show. And it is in the birth place of the American Biker where a lot of our history comes from. Let me know what you think?
— Charlie
NEW FROM TJ CARLINI–I loved your Salt Shaker!!!!!!!!! We need to hook up soon! Anyway, Here are the new risers patent pending(taiwan ted sux). Part # Piston150. Price is $200 and available direct at 714 432-9000.
–TJ
MDA LAUNCHES WEB SITEFOR HARLEY-DAVIDSON EVENTS– MILWAUKEE – April 25, 2007- The Muscular Dystrophy Association recently launched
Designed to be a valuable resource for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts the site contains information riders need to take part in the dozens of dealer-sponsored events to support MDA.
Complete with photos, videos and news, the site also showcases how Harley Owners Group (HOG) volunteer efforts add to the magic of MDA summer camps for children with neuromuscular diseases. The site is also designed to recognize Harley-Davidson dealers and individual riders for special MDA support, such as the top fund-raisers and exceptional volunteers.
The site also explains where money raised for MDA goes, and will include photos and reports from some of the larger rides and events from across the country.
“MDA is very lucky to have the support of thousands of motorcyclists who are as passionate about helping my kids as they are about their Harleys,” said MDA National Chairman Jerry Lewis. “We hope they enjoy this web site that is just for them.”
Harley-Davidson, a leading producer of motorcycles worldwide, is celebrating its 27th year as an MDA national sponsor. The Harley-Davidson family of customers, dealers, suppliers and employees raise money for MDA year-round with fundraising rides and other motorcycle themed events like various Black-n-Blue Ball dinners.
The company began its partnership with MDA in 1980 with a program called Bikers Fight MD. Since 1980, Harley-Davidson’s family of dealers, customers, employees, suppliers and HOG chapters have raised more than $60 million for “Jerry’s kids.”
MDA is a voluntary health organization working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education. The Association’s programs are funded almost entirely by individual contributors.
That does is. Harley-Davidson won’t spend a dime Bikernet Advertising, but sends us press releases constantly. Now they’re involved with a charity web site that might just compete with Bikernet. What’s up with that? We took a vote and decided that our tip jar donation to the MDA will be withheld and poured into our Jack Daniels fund. I’m pissed.–Bandit
BIKERNET LINK REQUEST–Would you please accept this custom motorcycle builder specializing in Harleys, Trikes, and V Twin motorcycle parts. If so, I thank you in advance and please forward future correspondence to Rick Strand at info@freebirdcustommotorcycles.com
–http://www.freebirdcustommotorcycles.com/
BCCOM WEEKLY FORUM–After some technical difficulties, the forum on the BCCOM website is back upand running again. Special thanks to our webmaster Dale Neufeld!! Pleasecheck it out by going to http://www.bccom-bc.com/bccom.htm and clicking onthe “Forum” button.
UPDATED EVENT LISTINGS
If you or your club is putting on a motorcycle related event that you wouldlike to advertise you can post it on our website yourself by going towww.bccom-bc.com and clicking on “events”. Please note that there are toomany events to list them all in these email updates so check out our websitefor more detailed information and more event listings.
APRIL 2007
April 28-29 – Motorcycle Extravaganza, Nelson, BC – (250) 399-4573 orrmcrh@shaw.ca
April 29 – Campbell River Swap Meet – (250) 337 2077 or (250) 286 3120
MAY 2007
May 3 – 18th Annual MLA Ride – (604) 580-0111 or 1-877-580-0111
May 5 – Sun FM / Oldies Spring Run Off Ride – Kelowna – 250-868-4750 orwww.thesun.net
May 6 – Trev Deeley Motorcycles 90th Anniversary Party/Deeley MotorcycleExhibition Grand Opening – (604) 291-2453 or www.trevdeeley.com
May 6 – Hog’s for Dog’s Poker Run – SPCA Charity Ride – Kelowna – (250)808-4766 or (250) 765-6666
May 11-13 – Slack Alice’s Show n’ Shine – Penticton, BC – (250) 492- 0188 orwww.slackalices.comMay 12 – WMRCPractice #2 – www.wmrc.ca
May 13 -WMRC Race Round #2 – www.wmrc.ca
May 19-20, 2007 – CMDRA All Bike Drags – Nl’akapxm Eagle Motorplex,Ashcroft, BC – www.eaglemotorplex.com
May 20 – JD Custom Cycle Show n’ Shine – Kelowna – (250)-762-5311 orhttp://jdcustomcycle.com
May 27 – 15th Annual Gord Heppler Memorial Run – www.gvmc.ca or (604)888-8152
VIETNAM VETERANS WALL COMES TO WHICHAM PARK–The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall was escorted to Wickham Park in Melbourne Florida by an estimated 1400 motorcycles this past Sunday. The 288 foot replica will be on display through out the week at the largest grassroots veteran’s reunion in the country. It is about three-fifths the size of the wall in Washington D.C. and has 140 panels.
A full week of activities are scheduled including massing of the colors, “The Last Patrol”, Helicopter landings and a large group of entertainers including Confederate Railroad at 9:30 PM Saturday April 27th The entertainment will continue on Sunday April 28th with closing Ceremony’s at 7:00 PM
I hope to see you there
— Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
RMD BILLET WILD GRIPS– has aligned forces with Doug Keim, of Doug Keim Creative Cycles, for a new twist on grips. RMD teamed up to build multi-combination grip sets that give builders and owners several options and combinations of color and end cap styles. RMD sinks ’em in red, blue or black bright-dipped anodize and lets your individual style choose from 5 different ends to cap ’em off. And to match, the Doug Keim Edition foot and shift pegs will be coming soon.
Check out RMD Billet online at www.RmdBillet.com or Creative Cycles at www.creativecycles.com.
THE SMITHS COME TO BIKERNET PHOTOG FOR HELP–The Smiths were unable to conceive children and decided to use asurrogate father to start their family. On the day the proxy fatherwas to arrive, Mr. Smith kissed his wife goodbye and said, “Well,I’m off now the man should be here soon.”
Half an hour later, just by chance, a door-to-door babyphotographer happened to ring the doorbell, hoping to make a sale.
Good morning, Ma’am”, he said, “I’ve come to…”
” Oh, no need to explain,” Mrs. Smith cut in, embarrassed, “I’vebeen expecting you.”
“Have you really?” said the photographer. “Well, that’s good. Didyou know babies are my specialty?”
“Well that’s what my husband and I had hoped. Please come in andhave a seat.” After a moment she asked, blushing, “Well, where do westart?”
“Leave everything to me. I usually try two in the bathtub, one onthe couch, and perhaps a couple on the bed. And sometimes the livingroom floor is fun. You can really spread out there.”
“Bathtub, living room floor? No wonder it didn’t work out for Harryand me!”
“Well, Ma’am, none of us can guarantee a good one every time. Butif we try several different positions and I shoot from six or sevenangles, I’m sure you’ll be pleased with the results.”
“My, that’s a lot!” gasped Mrs. Smith.
“Ma’am, in my line of work a man has to take his time. I’d love tobe in and out in five minutes, but I’m sure you’d be disappointed withthat.”
“Don’t I know it,” said Mrs. Smith quietly.
The photographer opened his briefcase and pulled out a portfolio ofhis baby pictures. “This was done on the top of a bus,” he said.
“Oh my God!” Mrs. Smith exclaimed, grasping at her throat.
“And these twins turned out exceptionally well – when you considertheir mother was so difficult to work with.”
“She was difficult?” asked Mrs. Smith.
“Yes, I’m afraid so I finally had to take her to the park to getthe job done right. People were crowding around four and five deep toget a good look”
“Four and five deep?” said Mrs. Smith, her eyes wide withamazement.
“Yes”, the photographer replied. “And for more than three hours,too.The mother was constantly squealing and yelling – I could hardlyconcentrate, and when darkness approached I had to rush my shots.Finally, when the squirrels began nibbling on my equipment, I justhad to pack it all in.”
Mrs. Smith leaned forward. “Do you mean they actually chewed onyour, uh…equipment?”
“It’s true, Ma’am, yes.. Well, if you’re ready, I’ll set-up mytripod and we can get to work right away.”
“Tripod?”
“Oh yes, Ma’am I need to use a tripod to rest my Canon on. It’smuch too big to be held in the hand very long.”
Mrs. Smith fainted.
–from Big Dave Hansen
ASK FOR HB155 IN MISSOURI TO BE HEARD ON THESENATE FLOOR–Missouri HB155: Requires only operators or riders of motorcycles andmotortricycles who are younger than 21 years of age to wear protectiveheadgearhttp://www.house.mo.gov/bills071/bills/hb155.htm
Main people on this are [Senate President Pro Tem] Senator Gibbons (friendlybut a probable NO vote) 573-751-2853.http://www.senate.mo.gov/07info/members/mem15.htm
And get hold of Senator Shields (he was a problem last year) 573-751-9476.http://www.senate.mo.gov/07info/members/mem34.htmcharlie_shields@senate.mo.gov
Remember to be POLITE and get your point across but let’s not piss them off.
The Senate is adjourned until 2:00pm Monday so you’ll probably get an aide.These folks plan the Senators schedule and do lots of the work. Be nice andask what YOU can do for them to push the bills.
CALL your Senators and check to be sure they will vote your way. Let meknow what you find out!!!
Lets get all the people we know involved in Missouri and all those aroundus.
–Tony Shepherd [tshep@centurytel.net]
Chairman
ABATE for Missouri
636-226-5800
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SWEEPSTAKES WINNERS RECEIVE PLASMA TELEVISIONS–During the winter regional promotion hosted by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, potential customers in certain regions were given incentives to visit their local H-D dealerships and check out new products. Incentives, which varied in different markets, included: a Wilson football with Harley-Davidson logo offered in January in conjunction with the Super Bowl; a $20 H-D gift certificate during the Valentine’s Day holiday; or two “Wild Hogs” movie tickets during the time of the movie’s premiere.
All potential customers who visited a participating dealership during the time of the promotion not only received the free gift offered, but were also given the chance to enter a drawing for a 42 inch Plasma Television. Three winners were chosen: Bruce Marenke who entered at McGuire Harley-Davidson in Walnut Creek, Calif.; Helena Gatto-Supino who visited TSI Harley-Davidson in Ellington, Conn., and Roger J. Guth who entered at Zylstra Harley-Davidson in Carpentersville, Ill.
JOSH PLACA DISCOVERED IN JUNK YARD–Yes, the former editor of Cruising Rider magazine was discovered with his Lucky Devil customized Victory Vegas, in a Sedona, Arizona junk yard. We are following him to Laughlin to find out what the hell is going on?
IT’S HAPPY HOUR HERE AT BIKERNET–The news is wrapped and we can kick back for a couple of minutes. This weekend the Hamsters are running for Paso Robles and the rest of Southern California is on a run to Laughlin on the Colorado River.
Just so you don’t think we’re slacking, here’s what’s on my plate for this weekend. For the Assalt Weapan, my plans include installing the neck bearings and measuring the neck height for Leo. I need to cut and manufacture the quarter inch steel belly pan, design and make a removable kickstand, mount the rear fender, create the sheet metal for the rear fender, the fake oil bag, mount the gas tank and start to work on the modifications and start to work on the seat pan.
So you don’t feel left out, here’s the content list for the Cantina and Bikernet: I need to launch RFR’s new GOB, Ranell. She’s sweet. We have a tech on the new X-Wedge engine. Marylin Bragg sent in a bike feature with shots of just one side of the bike. We have another life and times from Crazy Horse and of course the Sunday Post will sizzle with skin and action. Hell, we might see a couple of shots from Laughlin. Next week you can judge whether I accomplished all I set out to do. I’ll post the next Bonneville report. Have a helluva weekend.
Wait, there’s more. Here’s a couple of shots inside the Paughco Headquarters. This is just a taste of Ron’s collection of bikes including an 8-valve racer, a silent Gray fellow and the first Knuckle ever made, number 0001.
In the near future we’ll bring you some helpful techs from the minds of Ron Paugh (right), his son Bob on the left, and not shown, Steve Massicotte and Jason Rickman. Hang On.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
April 26, 2007 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
BOB ILLINGWORTH TO BE GIVEN SPECIAL AWARD–On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame I am pleased to inform you that you will be inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2007 with a special Founders Award.
Many exceptional candidates were nominated for the Hall of Fame this year. After carefully reviewing all of the credentials it was determined that you had earned this prestigious recognition due to your many years of dedication and service in motorcyclist’s rights, as one of the most vital and effective people involved in founding the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame and as an important participant and fundraiser for Kids & Chrome.
We would be honored if you, and a guest of your choice, would join us on Wednesday, August 8th for the induction ceremony. The Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn in Spearfish, South Dakota.
Again, congratulations on being inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame. We are extremely proud to add your name to the list of talented and deserving people who have impacted motorcycling in such a significant and positive manner.
–PEPPER MASSEY
Executive Director
AVON TYRES DEMONSTRATES TIRE RAIN EFFECTS– Here’s a cool shot of our Storm tire with the water droplet running down the groove. The Storm fits Buells and the rear of the Deuce 160/70-17.
There’s a demonstration of rain on Avon Tyres on the Avon web site. We hope to bring you a full video demonstration to Bikernet TV in the near future.
–Sukoshi Fahey (Ms.)
Sales Manager, North America
800 624-7470 toll free
425-771-2115 phone
425-771-4246 fax
BIKERNET READER TESTIMONIAL FROM W8LESS ROTORS– Thanks a million for your patience , guidance , fantastic web site , etc . The motorcycle industry has a true ally. You enable those of us that allow ourselves the pleasure of dreaming, the ability to achieve our dreams in a timely manner (this life time). The ability to reach the multitudes in a blink of the eye is truly amazing. My hat is off to you and yours.
TIME TO ROCK N ROLL .
Even with w8less rotors there may be no stopping you, you and yours are headed to unchartered waters . Keep on keepin on .
See you in Laughlin
–Ray c wheeler
BIKERNET BONNEVILLE RACE RIDER REPORT–Its time to go racing and VTR is dialed in for the third round of the 2007 AHDRA season. The racing weekend begins April 27th through the 29th at Gateway International Raceway in St. Louis, MO and is one of the most well attended events all year at this first class facility and home for arguably the best fans in our sport.
Thursday the 19th, I was in town to hang with the gang from “Doc’s Harley-Davidson” where we shared some laughs. Doc’s H-D Owner Patty Bush put together a very nice event last year where I made some good friends, I am glad to be back, I love this town.
Saturday the 21st at GIR featured the NHRA Sportsman Drag Racing North Central Division race where I made the quarterfinals before I broke out with my personal best ET 9.25 at 142.36 mph and a Perfect-Reaction-Time- .000″! That is a “Triple Zero” and should bolster my team’s confidence. I’m getting a little faster with every pass and my timing couldn’t be better, sorry no pun intended, both as St. Louis is my second home for racing and where I expect to make-up some points. The 2007 V-Rod Destroyer point’s race is heating up early and the VTR, Go Daddy.com/Hacienda Harley-Davidson team is right in the thick of things currently holding down the 8th spot.
Were coming off a solid performance in Phoenix where our team got its First win of the year. I’m confident going into Friday’s qualifying and want the boys to remember last year I was runner-up in St. Louis, this year I’m going to win at the light and race all night”.
Be sure to visit my website at VTRacegirl.com for updated photos from phoenix! Also, send me your shirt size and be the first to get some of our new apparel!
See you at the track!
–VT#20
19th ANNUAL”MAYFIT” RALLYPAWHUSKA, OKLAHOMAMAY 18,19 & 20, 2007–Located approximately 50 miles north of Tulsa, Oklahoma is home to one of the best bike rallies in the country. Anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 bikers will ride through the Osage Indian Reservation and the scenic Tall Grass Prairie Reserve to the tiny northeastern Oklahoma community known as PAWHUSKA!
Twice a year the Osage County Independent Bikers (OCIB) hold two annual bike parties at Biker Park, USA in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. First in May is “Mayfit”, with a repeat performance in September as “Biker Days in the Great Osage.” Both rallies are for adults only and are not for the meek and fainthearted. If nudity and vulgarity offend you, then you need to stay the fuck home. Pawhuska is not a motorcycle rally, it’s a Biker Rally and known at times to be wilder than a two-bit whore on nickel nite.
Known as “Neutral Ground”, Pawhuska is more than just a gathering of friends. It’s a rite of passage for the new rider and a tradition for the clubs. As a matter of fact, Nelson and Pam Carter and the OCIB have been organizing bike rallies for more years than most have been riding.
With a schedule of events that include Bike Shows, Burn Outs, to the most down and dirty Skin to Win contest you’ve ever seen, there is no way you couldn’t have fun unless you were either deaf or dumb. Sprinkle all of this with a bunch of ‘neked” girls and cold cheap beer, and you’ve got the ‘makins’ of what an old-school rally is all about!
For 2007, MAYFIT proudly features the legendary CURTIS MOORE BAND, for some of the hottest Southern Fried Blues Rock to be heard. Moore, who is commonly known as the “Rowdy Redneck Rocker”, has shared the stage with famous groups like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, The Marshall Tucker Band, David Allan Coe and Willie Nelson, to name just a few. You can even sample some of Moore’s menu at myspace.comcurtismooreband.
The MAYFIT rally may not be one of the biggest, but it is dam sure one of the best in the mid-west! Admission is $15, with a $15 admission for cars and $50 admission for Motorhomes. No one under 18 admitted. For additional information, call: 918-287-3244.
–DynaMike
SCOTT JACOBS HITS THE TUBE ONCE MORE–In case you missed it the first time or want to see it again, Speed Channel will be airing the mini-documentary on the career of Harley artist Scott Jacobs beginning on May 8. It is very entertaining and informative taking you through both the painting technique of a master artist as well as a step by step on how giclee prints are made. Click on link below to view schedule.
Cheers,
–Ron Copple
Scott Jacobs Studio
303-431-4453
www.scottjacobsstudio.com
THE JOE PETRALI STORY–See all the shots in the Digital Discovery Area of the Cantina. It’s bitchin and talk about aerodynamics. Incredible, but they ended up running the bike without the rear part of the fairing for their top speed.
LOOKING FOR THREE-WHEELED CONVERSION–Hi—I have a 2 wheel gas scooter 250ccs that I would like to convert to a 3 wheeled scooter, like on a motorcycle that’s been converted into a trike. I was hoping that something might be available. I’ve been searching a long time. It sounded like you might be the right person to ask. If not, I am sorry to have bothered you.
—Janet
jan1m@comcast.net
FIRE FIGHTERS NEED BIKERNET BANNER–Bandit, I was wanting to know how to get one of your banners to hang upduring our m/c club beach party June 16th. Our m/c club is made up of OKC metro area firefighters who ride Harleys. Our mission is we ride toprovide for those affected by smoke and fire. Basically we raise moneyto give families who have been burned out of their house, an have noinsurance. Our beech party is one of our biggest fund raisers of theyear, so I thought it would be really cool if we hung up 1 of yourbanners, I check your site 3-4 times a day and want to spread the wordabout it..
–TODD(vice grip)
VICSEK..SGT.WILL
ROGERS FIREDEPT. L-3694
BIKERNET PHOTOG FEATURED ON MOTOTV– I’ll send soon the story about our channel only for the motorcycles world, MOTOTV, the text it will be write from Giuseppe Roncen, the boss of Freeway Magazine Italy, includes with all this I’ll send some pics about one of our episode.
–Ela
LONE STAR RALLY MERGES WITH ACTION PROMOTIONS–(Ormond Beach, FL) – April 26, 2007 – Today Action Promotions, Inc. announced a new partnership with the Lone Star Rally slated for November 1-4, 2007 in Galveston, Texas. Action Promotions is the leading producer of motorcycle events in the country; promoting more than 20 events across the United States every year.
The Lone Star Rally, which boasts an annual attendance of well over 500,000, has expanded opportunities for sponsorship, vending, camping, entertainment and more for this year’s event. “Merging our talents with the staff of Action Promotions gives us International credibility and a team of experienced producers to assist in the management of this huge event. We now have offices in Daytona, Houston and Los Angeles; which is exciting for all of us,” stated Ron Limbock of the Lone Star Rally.
Rally attendees can expect to be wowed by the multitude of activities slated for the four-day event in Texas’ Gulf. The 2007 Lone Star Rally has been awarded the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) National Pro-Championship Super-Moto Race Finals as well as the National Pro-Championship ATV Races. The November races will be attended by more than 300 top riders and their teams. Racing activities are to be held throughout the week at the Blimp Base at the new Grand Sport Speedway in Hitchcock; produced in conjunction with the AMA by Skip Jones. The first-class track is not only part of a new driving school; but moreover, it features camping, RV hookups and plenty of parking for Rally goers. Additionally, the races will be taped for live, world-wide broadcast on SpeedVision.
The Lone Star Rally Lady Riders Conference, sponsored by Woman Now magazine, is proud to present six top female panelists who will share their motorcycling experiences from a female rider’s point of view. These panelists will include Genevieve Schmitt, the first female ever inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and five other comparable professionals.
Rally attractions are scheduled to include the “Lone Star Rally Exotic and Erotic Auto Show,” a swim wear fashion show, the Miss Lone Star Rally 2007 Model Search, a Riders fashion show, free concerts and more.
Watch the Lone Star Rally website as more information is being added daily: www.lonestarrally.com.
Action Promotions, Inc. holds exclusive trademark rights to Easyriders, V-Twin, Biker and In the Wind magazines in respect to event production.
Contact: Lone Star Rally
Phone: 281-855-4494
Fax: 281-855-5836
Web: www.lonestarrally.com
RUCKER PERFORMANCE SHOWCASES THE GAUNTLET CHOPPER’S NEW CUSTOM LOOK–FORT WORTH – April 23, 2007 – Rucker Performance, a leading designer and manufacturer of custom American muscle, chopper and pro mod motorcycles, has just announced mid year model changes and a new custom look on the Gauntlet chopper.
Rucker Performance has incorporated new design queues on the Gauntlet to emphasize its long, lean lines and a more hand formed, custom fabricated look. The Gauntlet features ahand-fabricated drop seat design, providing a low center of gravity and better handling, stability, comfort and ergonomics for the Rucker Performance customer.
“The Gauntlet has the powerful performance, excellent maneuvering capabilities and sleek design that customers are looking for in a custom chopper,” said Bill Rucker, founder and CEO of Rucker Performance.
Maintaining the strong performance and technology that Rucker Performance represents, the company has converted the final drive to a 133 tooth belt drive. Boasting a 300 series tire, the Gauntlet has 54 mm inverted forks, right side drive, fully polished 124 cubic inch S&S engine and six-speed transmission.
Rucker Performance customers can also add an extreme paint package, selecting from more than 40 colors and the ultimate in unique graphics. “The Gauntlet’s smooth lines flow throughout the motorcycle because of our design queues such as the new sheet metal styling and extreme paint package,” said Carl Tyndell, Director of Design at Rucker Performance.
Additionally, customers can choose from a variety of custom wheels, controls and exotic seat skins. Buyers can be custom fitted and measured for riding position, foot controls, handlebar height and pull back at the Rucker Performance factory.
To inquire about the Rucker Performance Gauntlet, log on to www.ruckerperformance.com.
BIKERNET GUN NUT RELEASE FROM PRISON–Howdy Mr. Ball, I was the guy that did the short-lived “Gun Nut” series aswell as a road trip report in 2005.Divorced, moved, heart ripped out, etc. etc., blah blah blah. Still got twoof my bikes and all of my pop guns.
Anyhow I’m back in action checked out yer site it’s cool and would like toperhaps submit more articles (with images) for consideration. Waddya think?
–Chris E.
THE AMERICAN FREEDOM RIDERS– have been invited, and will be riding, to a cookout with Congressman Tom Tancredo on Friday, May 4th at the ranch of Glenn Spencer (
STEALTH REPORT–Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we have been busy. Last Sunday Chopper John, Dennis(aka F___ Face), myself and my son Blair knocked out the header pipes for our bike that we are entering in the bike show at The Horse Smoke-Out in June. I think they came out pretty cool! There are just a few more little things to do before we tear the bike down for paint and very little chrome. Speaking of paint I have changed my mind 3 times so far but I think I am set now. “THE MEANEST” is not convinced on the paint scheme I have in mind. She is just going to have to trust me on this one? Oh yeah , she is already pressuring us to sell it, women and money!
This is our first SBW shop project for ourselves and I am really excited about it. The bike features in house parts. The oil tank, exhaust, battery box, tag mount, fender struts, just to name a few.
Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we are fast approaching our 2 year anniversary. May 10th marks 2years since we opened. 2 years may not sound like a long time but I am very proud of what we have done in that time. It has been scary and fun all at the same time!Last night STEALTH BIKE WORKS was the host shop for bike night at Kristophers . The parking lot was packed and it was a good time. This Sunday SBW is a stop on the 14th Annual Independent Benefit Poker Run. The run is sponsored by the independent bike shops in the Charlotte area. For more info give us a call at SBW, 704-882-0889.This Sunday Chopper John and I plan on finishing the exhaust system for the SBW project bike, so right now we are putting in some extra hours but they are fun hours. That about wraps things up for this week!Until next week, RIDE!STEALTHMAN
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