The Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary Open Road Tour Is A Tread For Every Sense, Sight, Sound, And The Sense-Sational!
By Bandit |
It was a hundred years in the making and we’ll never see anything like it in our lifetime again. It’s huge (more than 25 acres), it’s truly an entertainment extravaganza (more than 12 bands on two stages) and it has something for everyone.
On the weekend of July 20-21, at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Harley-Davidson Motor Company will officially kick-start its 100th Anniversary with the Open Road Tour: a series of gigantic weekend festivals roaring into 10 cities worldwide celebrating motorcycles, music, history and more. Once the Open Road Tour rolls to a stop in the Summer of 2003, enthusiasts can join the Ride Home, organized rides throughout North America heading to Milwaukee, for three days of celebrations and special events. The official birthday party will take place in Milwaukee on August 31, 2003 and launch Harley-Davidson into the next 100 years.
But because the world has never seen an event the size or scope of the Open Road Tour it may be easier to look at it this way S
It’s bigger than a concert – Every Open Road Tour stop will feature at least 12 incredible musical acts over three days. Tim McGraw, Hootie and the Blowfish and Bob Dylan are just some the big names already on board.It’s cooler than the Guggenheim “Art of the Motorcycle” – Elvis and Jon Bon Jovi’s Harleys are just a few of the amazing motorcycles on display. Everywhere spectators walk they’ll find multi-media displays revealing the colorful history of the Motor Company, never before seen machines and artifacts from the Harley-Davidson Archives, and even vintage motorcycle toys!It’s no county fair – Motorcycle drill teams and stunt riders will put on daily shows. Need an adrenaline break? How about a 2,000-seat cinema showcasing Harley-Davidson’s portrayal in the movies over time, or the children’s pavilion that has kids games and other entertainment for children like demo-rides on Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson ride-on motorcycle toys.And it’s got entertainment you can’t see anywhere else — There are also theatre-style shows including a high energy tap and rhythm spectacular and a biker fashion show you can only find at a Harley-Davidson event.
“It’s hard to put into words,” said Joanne Bischmann, vice president of marketing for Harley-Davidson. “We knew that kicking-off Harley-Davidson’s next 100 years was going to call for something huge, something that couldn’t easily be described in words, but would be an unforgettable Harley-Davidson experience for anyone who participated. We think the Open Road Tour fits the bill.”
SO YOU WANT TO LISTEN TO SOME GREAT MUSIC
The Open Road Tour will feature different bands each day, in every city – and the music will continue all day long on two different stages. In July, Atlanta will be grooving with Steel Pulse, banging their heads with Ted Nugent, rocking with Journey and stomping their feet to Tim McGraw.
When the Open Road Tour rolls across the globe, the musical entertainment will include other top-name artists including the Neville Brothers, Alison Krauss, Billy Idol, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hootie and the Blowfish, Indigenous and Bob Dylan.
HOW ABOUT SOME HISTORY THAT WILL MOVE YOU
The history of Harley-Davidson is rich in drama, passion and tradition. Open Road Tour visitors are invited to take in 100 years of Harley-Davidson history through multi-media and historic displays, which include: original artifacts, historical engines and an extraordinary collection of materials from company marketingcampaigns. Inside The Journey tent, visitors will also be encouraged to step into a story booth and share their favorite Harley-Davidson experiences.
Starting with a re-creation of the historic shed where the company was born, visitors can trace the history of Harley-Davidson in all aspects, even an archive collection of motorcycle toys. A special pavilion at the Open Road Tour called The Machine will feature a stunning exhibition of select motorcycles from the Harley-Davidson archives. Many of the unique motorcycles featured inside The Machine have never been seen in public before.
The Open Road Tour also features another special exhibit called The Culture which features Harley-Davidson’s distinctive style that has inspired people and popular culture around the world. Moving around The Culture, visitors will quickly become part of the world of Harley-Davidson, as they take in a look at Harley-Davidson in the movies, as well as a special exhibit from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Visitors will also be encouraged to try on the latest, as well as vintage Harley-Davidson MotorClothes.
SIT BACK AND GET READY FOR AN ADRENALINE RUSH
To get your motor running, the Open Road Tour will also feature motorcycle demo rides at all Open Road Tour locations. Visitors who are 18 years of age or older, and have a valid motorcycle license, will be able to ride any 2003 Harley-Davidson or Buell motorcycle of their choice, including the hot Harley-Davidson VRSCA V-Rod. For non-riders and riders alike, Harley-Davidson has also put together an extensive line-up of motorcycle action. From the skill and artistry of motorcycle drill teams, to the raw nerve of stunt riders, Open Road Tour motorcycle action is sure to rev the adrenaline of any on-looker. Visitors can also get a taste of the look that makes-up Harley-Davidson by attending special fashion shows throughout the weekends.
SOMETHING FOR THE LITTLEST HARLEY FANS
No one is either too young or too old to be part of the Harley-Davidson family and experience, especially at the Open Road Tour. Working in conjunction with Toys “R” Us, Harley-Davidson has developed a special children’s pavilion to satisfy all of the younger members of the family. Kids will even have the chance to demo-ride some of the Fisher Price Harley-Davidson ride-on toys.
AND IT’S ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE
The Harley-Davidson Open Road Tour and other 100th Anniversary events will raise funds to help find a cure for muscular dystrophy and aid research and program services for children and adults with neuromuscular diseases. Since 1980, the Harley-Davidson family of customers, dealers and employees has raised nearly $40 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
“The Open Road Tour festival is going to give people around the world a chance to get a feel for what we mean by the Harley-Davidson experience,” said Bischmann. “During the Open Road Tour and other 100th Anniversary events, we hope to raise $5 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.”
Tickets for U.S. and Canadian Open Road Tour stops are on sale now. To purchase tickets for the Open Road Tour, visit www.harley-davidson.com , www.ticketmaster.com or contact your local Ticket Master office. Tickets for Open Road Tour event stops are $55.00 per day in the U.S. and $75.00 Canadian per day in Canada. For additional information on the Open Road Tour or the 100th Anniversary, visit www.harley-davidson.com
November 22, 2006 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
NEW TEACHER BEING HIRED BY BIKERNET COLLEGE OF DESIGN–After being interviewed by the school administration, the teaching prospectsaid, “Let me see if I’ve got this right: You want me to go into that roomwith all those kids, correct their disruptive behavior, observe them forsigns of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their T-shirt messages,and instill in them a love for learning.
“You want me to check their backpacks for weapons, wage war on drugs andsexually transmitted diseases, and raise their sense of self esteem andpersonal pride. You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship,sportsmanship and fair play, and how to register to vote, balance acheckbook, and apply for a job.
“You want me to check their heads for lice, recognize signs of anti-socialbehavior, and make sure that they all pass the state exams.
“You want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of theirhandicaps, and communicate regularly with their parents by letter,telephone, newsletter, and report card.You want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletinboard, a few books, a big smile, and a starting salary that qualifies meforfood stamps. You want me to do all this and then you tell me…”I CAN’T PRAY?”
–Rogue
ARLEN NESS BIKE SHOW, SAN JOSE CALIFORNIA, JANUARY 27-28, 2006–Riding high on the growth and success of the American ThunderPromotions Donnie Smith Invitational Bike Show throughout the Midwest,American Thunder Promotions is going to California. Starting 2007 offright, American Thunder Promotions is taking over the famous San JoseConvention and Cultural Center in San Jose, California to bring thefirst ever Arlen Ness Bike Show to life, sponsored by Bikernet.com!
This show will be like no other you have ever attended. Arlen and CoryNess invite you to be part of history as 42 different bikeclasses–including a Pro Class–are assembled under one roof for theultimate California bike show. American Thunder Promotions has beenpacking stadiums in the Midwest with their blend of incredible bikes,great vendors, displays and focus on fun, but now they have a chanceto get really wild with the show-stopping California machines.
This weekend in January will be like no other and nothing else youcould be doing will top meeting some of the biggest names in custombike building and seeing what wild creations they unveil at the show.Remember, the Arlen Ness Bike Show takes place just a few days beforethe biggest v-twin industry trade show, so new builds should be allover the show floor. With over 100,000 square feet of bikes and parts,how can you go wrong?
www.arlennessbikeshow.com
For tickets and information call (866) 746-7790
MYSTFREE FROM DOHERTY MACHINE–Finally a no nonsense cure for the dreaded Twin Cam oil mist dilemma. Tim Doherty, CEO of Doherty Machine, has just announced the release of what is certainly one of the most significant new products developed for the TwinCam 88 since its introduction in 1999. According to Doherty the single largest complaint of TC owners is the oil mist released through the engine breather system that ultimately ends up coating the side of the bike, rider and passenger. Until now, there have been a number of what amount to “band aid” patches for the problem but none have produced notable permanent results. In stark contrast to these temporary patch techniques, Doherty’s new MYSTFREE air/oil separation module eliminates the oil mist problem permanently! Both in house and independent tests have shown that the MYSTFREE unit eliminated 99% of the oil residue emitted from TwimCam machines in good mechanical condition.
Tested in engines ranging from the stock 88 up to 154 ci, Doherty’s unique device controlled virtually all misting normally associated with a build up in crank case pressure and inadequate oil pump scavenging. A direct bolt in replacement for the factory module, MYSTFREE can be installed in about an hour with no additional modifications.
There are currently a number of patents pending on MYSTFREE which retails for $229.95. For complete details call 928-541-7744 or visit www.dohertymachine.com
MERCHANTS WANT OUTSIDE SALES POLICY OKAY’D BEFORE EVENTS IN FLORIDA–DAYTONA BEACH — Partying during biker events might get started earlier here.Main Street merchants want the city to ease up on a rule passed four years ago to clamp down on special events.The City Commission on Wednesday will consider allowing year-round businesses to conduct outside sales during the seven days before biker events.
“They’re (bikers) here anyway,” said Kevin Kilian, vice president of events at The Chamber, Daytona Beach/Halifax Area. “We’re just saying we’re not allowed to capture that business.”
Since 2002, city commissioners have prohibited outside sales for seven days before and seven days after any special event, not just biker events. They hoped to limit the impact of noise and crowds on residents by preventing events from getting longer.
In recent years, bikers who arrived at Main Street before the official dates of Bike Week and Biketoberfest found themselves walking past closed outside party and vending areas.
Kilian said times have changed since 2002. The opening of Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach and activities at Daytona International Speedway have spread the crowd and eased the impact on residents. Main Street merchants want to compete for business with surrounding communities where activities start before the official event dates.
Wednesday’s proposal would continue to prohibit amplified outside music seven days before events. Outside activities would remain prohibited seven days after events.”Our thought was never to increase the days of the event,” Kilian said. “We would never advertise the event as being before the official event days.”He would like change effective for Bike Week 2007, March 2 to 11.
Frank Heckman, chairman of the Beachside Neighborhood Watch, supports easing the rules for the businesses.”Each year, it (biker events) become less of an impact, and there are less complaints coming from the community into the Police Department,” Heckman said.
Police spokeswoman Sonja Wiles said only one resident complained about bike noise. “The response was 99 percent positive,” she said.
By JOHN BOZZO
–from Rogue
WESTBURY?S DISCOVERY CHANNEL BIKER BUILD-OFF MOTORCYCLE WILL DEBUT AT SAN FRANSICSO EVENT– Concord California motorcycle builder Greg Westbury, who is fresh off his big win at the Artistry in Iron Build Off in Las Vegas has been paired off against Brian Fuller for an upcoming Discovery Channel “Biker Build Off? show.
Westbury is planning a one-off Vintage Flavor creation to compete against Atlanta, GA motorcycle builder Brian Fuller. The classic style motorcycle will feature a S&S 92 cu. in. round cylinder motor with Baker Torque box six-speed transmission and a Westbury custom frame and front suspension. The one-off wheels are from Metal Monster, with the primary from Performance Machine, with Dwayne Ballard stitching up the seat. Spyke Inc. is providing the miscellaneous electrical, charging parts and a custom designed paint scheme from Eric Reyes and Kirk Kapferstien using PPG Automotive Finishes.
The last filming date for the show will be January 6th in Connecticut and then will be loaded up and head for it?s public unveiling at the San Francisco Rod, Custom and Motorcycle Show which opens January 12th at he Cow Place in San Francisco. Westbury stated, ?I?m not taking this Discovery Build Off Invitation lightly and this bike is guaranteed not to disappoint.?
Come see Westbury’s creation long before the show airs on Discovery channel at the San Francisco Rod, Custom and Motorcycle Show which runs January 12- 13-14, 2007 at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, California. For event information contact Rp Productions at 209-744-8090 or visit their web site at www.sfcustomshow.com
JUDGE BARRED FROM PRACTICING LAW– ORLANDO – An Orange County judge who already was removed from the bench has been suspended from practicing law for three years.
Judge James Ellis Henson, 58, of Orlando, was suspended by the Florida Supreme Court for violating ethics rules on honesty, deceit and professional conduct, the Florida Bar Association said. He consented to the charges and has been ordered to pay $1,521 in investigative and administrative costs.
The charges stem from Henson’s position as an Orange County judge in 2000, when he lost a bid for re-election, and his private practice the next year. He was elected in 2002 as a circuit judge.
The high court ruled that Henson improperly practiced law while still a county judge when he signed a $40,000 contract to represent Diana Jimenez and received an initial payment of $15,000 on Dec. 20, 2000, after meeting with her at the county jail. That was after he was defeated but before his term expired in January 2001.
Jimenez, a native of Columbia, was charged with drunken driving manslaughter and other charges related to an automobile crash that killed two people on Dec. 16, 2000, in Osceola County. She eventually pleaded no contest and is serving a 16-year prison term.
Although Henson asked another lawyer, Robert Nesmith, to handle her bond hearing, he sat in the audience and afterward obtained bond papers from the judge, the high court wrote.
Jimenez testified that Henson implied several times that fleeing was an option upon learning she had a valid Colombian passport, although he did not specifically tell her to go.
WEST COAST CHOPPERS COOKS FOR THE HOMELESS–“We want to thank our customers for the support,” said Simo the WCC general manager. “We are having a holiday sale. Check out our website for details.” Jesse James is cooking a Thanksgiving meal for a homeless shelter near the WCC shop. It houses approx 69 homeless folks.
SEND A THANKYOU CARD TO A SERVICEMAN OR WOMAN–Regardless of how I/we feel about war, I know what it’s like to be away from a loved one/spouse for a week or two at a time and I can’t imagine the guys or gals that are away for months and years, and we are carrying on our usual lives because of them. It really does only take a second to bring them a smile – hats off to Xerox!
If you go to this web site, www.letssaythanks.com you can pick out a thank you card (no charge) and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq. You can’t pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services.
Please send a card.It is FREE and it only takes a second.
–from Vagabond Choppers
Vagabondchopper@aol.com
Custom Chrome and D&D Performance Release New Exhaust for 2007 Harley-Davidson? Models–Now available and in stock D&D exhaust for 2007 models– Morgan Hill, CA- In collaboration with the recent release and delivery of new 2007 Harley-Davidson models, Custom Chrome as the exclusive distributor for D&D Performance Exhaust releases exhaust designed specifically for 2007 HD models powered by the new TC96.
“We have been working hard getting this product ready to ship to dealers so new 2007 bike owners can add exhaust to their bike to increase both horse power and torque, not to mention what the new exhaust can do for the sound of the bike and its looks” said Dave Rash, owner, D&D Exhaust. Several styles of exhaust are readily available including;
2:1 Fat Cat for Softail 2:1 Boarzilla for Softail
Power Pipe for Softail 2:2 XHP Slash Cut
2:2 XHP Straight Cut 07 Softail Longrider
07 Touring Boarzilla 07 Touring Fat Cat
Any many others?
Hand crafted in America, D&D Performance has built its reputation on designing true performance products. Every single pipe is designed, developed and dyno tested to optimize a smooth and consistent horsepower/torque delivery. For over thirty years D&D has built and raced their performance exhaust systems to deliver performance, great looks and value. These commitments lead them to a land speed record on the Bonneville Salt Flats. All D&D products come complete with heat shields and exhaust flanges and deliver horsepower gains up to 25%.
Custom Chrome is committed to partnering with designers and manufactures like D&D Exhaust. It is because of business partners like D&D and others that Custom Chrome is able to refresh their extensive product line for their dealer gathering during the V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati this coming February. If you can’t wait that long, please visit www.customchrome.com to check out the all new product every week.
GIVE THANKS GODDAMNIT–The news is done and we’re kickin’ back, sorta. I want to run something past you, and for some reason, this might be a good time to think about it. I went Salmon fishing last year in Alaska, a wild experience. Talk about magnificent views. When we flew into Fairbanks we went looking for gear, supplies, you name it, so we went to WalMart. They had everything from fishing equipment to food, booze, knives and apparel, you name it. Later that bothered me-a lot.
I’m sure there were local Sporting Goods Stores, Markets, and Liquor stores. We cut out all the locals for the one-stop joint. Imagine if they start carrying bike parts. They already carry Jesse James bling and OCC Chinese toys. What if they ate this section of the market also? Just think about it, the next time you head to Walmart. Could you roll down the street and support a local auto-parts or grocery store?
So there you have it. Have a helluva holiday. I can’t remember when we’ve faced a more busy December. There’s the Big Twin West Dealer Extravaganza in Vegas, The Cycle World Show in Long Beach, the new Victory Touring Bike introduction, David Mann show in Ventura and Christmas goddamnit. Hang on.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
November 22, 2006 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE 2006 TOUR”REVS” UP FOR THE TOUR FINALE AT THE 18TH ANNUAL “TOYS IN THE SUN RUN” – DECEMBER 10TH —FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (November 9, 2006) – The Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse 2006 Tour, sponsored by Bikernet.com, will be making its final stop as part of the 18th Annual Toys in the Sun Run on Sunday, December 10th in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse is a touring attraction visiting motorcycle rallies across the country that features custom bike builders, their Seminole Hard Rock bikes, the Roadhouse stage and great entertainment including live shows and giveaways through out the day. To top it off this will also conclude a year-long free national sweepstakes to enter to win a trip to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the grand prize of one of the four 2006 Seminole Hard Rock custom motorcycles.
This year the Roadhouse Tour features motorcycle builders Paul Cox and Keino of Indian Larry Legacy in Brooklyn, NY; Eric Gorges from Voodoo Choppers in Detroit, MI; Gard Hollinger of L.A. County Choprods from Marina Del Rey, CA; and Aaron Greene of Paramount Custom Cycles from Reno, NV.
Taking place on the Main Stage at 2 pm at Markham Park, one of the five semi-finalists will be announced by Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse host, Max Osceola. The pinnacle moment of the year, the winner will actually get to choose his/her favorite of the four Seminole Hard Rock bikes to take home. Also, on the main stage the Purrfect Angelz, a nationally acclaimed dance troop, will be taking the stage at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm.
Max Osceola shared, “The Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse has been featured at many rallies across the country and we are very excited to have the Roadhouse at Markum Park for the Christmas Toys in the Sun Run. The Seminole Tribe of Florida is a great supporter of this amazing, world-class motorcycle parade and event and having it here in our own backyard makes such a difference for Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. We hope the Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse will bring an additional element of fun and excitement for everyone to enjoy.”
Title sponsor of the Roadhouse, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a destination for rock n’ rollers from across the nation to discover their rock n’ roll dreams. The 86-acre resort in Hollywood, Florida, located between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale is pure paradise, featuring a colossal 130,000 sq. ft. casino, a lush 4-acre lagoon tropical pool area, a legendary Hard Rock Caf?, sensational European-style spa and fitness center, and the famous Hard Rock Live concert hall. Seminole Paradise, South Florida’s newest entertainment destination for savvy shopping, delicious dining and explosive entertainment offers a little something for everyone, both day and night.
Other sponsors include Budweiser, Hawaiian Tropic, S&S Cycle, Performance Machine, Baker Transmission, Bikernet.com, HOT BIKE and Keyboard Carriage. For more information, please visit www.hrroadhouse.com.
TOYS FOR TOTS RAFFLE–There are only 300 tickets being sold for this raffle. That means a 1 in 300 chance to win this custom Harley (Dukes of Hazzard / Gen. Lee) go to If you are in the Lawrenceville area stop in Two Brothers Tires to see the bike. — Terry CARB WANTS TO TEST MOTORCYCLES– The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has submitted a proposal to expand the state’s vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) program in part by subjecting high-mileage vehicles to annual inspections and including motorcycles for the first time. The CARB proposal was included in a draft state plan to achieve federal pollution standards. CARB also intends to tighten new motorcycle exhaust and evaporative emissions standards by an additional 50 percent beginning with the 2013 model year. The Federal EPA used the current CARB standards as a basis for establishing stricter new emissions regulations that went into effect with the 2006 model year motorcycles with further reductions taking effect in 2010. MICHEAL PRUGH MISSING?– What’s going on? Did you hear anything on Michael Prugh leaving Jesse at ICI? What is he doing? Let us know if you hear anything?–Bandit HORSE LOSES BUSINESS MANAGER AND PARTNER–It is with sad hearts that we inform you that our partner and friend Hank McQueeney passed away this past Saturday morning, November 18, 2006. Hank had been ill for a couple of weeks and was awaiting transfer from his local hospital to Columbia Medical Center to undergo tests. While we are all saddened by Hank’s passing, we are comforted in the fact that he died painlessly in his sleep. Funeral arrangements are as follows: Friday November 24: The wake will be from 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm Saturday November 25: There will be a mass at 11:00 In lieu of flowers memorial gifts can be sent to: The Respite Center serves children with severe disabilities. It was founded by Hank’s daughter and was a passion of Hank’s. Please keep Hank’s family and associates in your thoughts and prayers.Thank you very much. –Betty McQueeney NEW BODY PARTS APPAREL FROM S&S–NEW Apparel Items available at www.sscycle.com/shop. We’ve added some really cool S&S branded apparel to our web site – check out the new high-tech moisture wicking items for men and women. These items are made in the USA and feature incredible graphics, great fit, and superior performance. This technology has been used in the athletic industry for years and we now have it available in a variety of items for both men and women – you’re sure to find a style that matches your taste. These items use a process called dye sublimation that actually dyes the imagery into the fabric, there’s nothing the peel or come off over time. The result is a very durable, attractive, performance garment.We’ve also added a new option for the ladies Shop-style apparel. You’ll notice a very attractive jeweled S&S logo available for shirts and jackets. The traditional embroidered patch is still available – you choose from the patch or the new jeweled logo. We also have better sizing options for the ladies – misses and juniors sizing is available for the shop shirts and we have a couple of new T-shirts designed for a ladies fit. New T-shirts include the S&S Repeat Ringer and the new BodyParts logo featuring the famous S&S teardrop air cleaner on the back. The S&S Repeat is also available in pink or light blue for the ladies with a touch of glitter in the design. TEES FOR OUR TROOPS–Some of our wounded troops are flown to our state-side military hospitals with nothing more than a hospital gown to wear. It is our goal to see that they at least have a BIKER shirt and a card or note waiting for them to say thanks and we love you and will be praying for you. The best way to contribute is to gather what shirts you wish to donate and box them up and deliver or send them to: Tees for our Troops We ask that you help us by sending only new or like new shirts, place them in a gallon zip-lock type bag, put a card or personal note inside and mark on the outside with a permanent marker the size. On the card or note you are welcome to put correspondence information and info about you and your club and maybe a photo of you and your ride. Donations to help offset shipping would be greatly appreciated. Maybe $1 or $2 per shirt. You may want to include a current biker magazine as well. (We can’t afford to ship all your old mags, thanks, though.) This effort was born in a conversation with a person with the USO. We are just sharing the vision and the blessing.We hope it doesnt offend anyone but our plans are to put a gospel track with each shirt and a New Testament Bible. Steve stormrider Betsill R-MAX USA BY ROADMAX SUPPORTS ST. FRANCIS H.S. CHOPPER BUILD–November 21, 2006, Ontario, CA – R-Max USA by Roadmax is assisting St. Francis High School in competing in the 2007 Donnie Smith Chopper Class Challenge by donating time, expertise, a transmission, chrome starter, 3-INCH open primary belt and a number of R-Max USA by Roadmax work shirts. The Donnie Smith Chopper Class Challenge culminates at the 2007 Donnie Smith Invitational Bike Show on March 25 and 26th in the Saint Paul’s RiverCentre. The budding Chopper builders from St. Francis High School design and build a v-twin chopper motorcycle from the ground up. Brent Stavig, St. Francis High School Metals Instructor, spearheads the program and has been overwhelmed by the response by the St. Francis community and the motorcycle industry. “It all started when we began welding up 50cc mini choppers,” explained Stavig. “Greg Stewart of the local Fat Boys Bar and Grill asked us if we wanted to build a real chopper and then donated money and assisted us in finding firms to partner with the kids. The result of this was an enormous amount of cooperation from the industry. Many companies donated parts, supplies, equipment, tools, knowledge and time to the project.” Last year’s chopper was called the Iron Saint and won the People’s Choice award at the 2006 Donnie Smith Invitational Bike Show. The 2007 Chopper is already in the works and will depart from the old school look of the Iron Saint with a more contemporary look of a high-tech chopper. “I have to hand it to Brent Stavig and the administration of St. Francis High School,” said Jaz Zbiegien, Sales and Marketing Director, R-Max USA by Roadmax. “They found the switch to turn the students on ‘I can see it in their eyes on each visit’ and create a real world environment where the students can perform, compete and succeed. Last year?s Iron Saint is an outstanding custom motorcycle and I am enthusiastically looking forward to the 2007 chopper.” Some of the companies and individuals that have assisted in the project include Donnie Smith, Brian Klock, Billy Lane, Jaz from R-MAX USA by Roadmax, Kokesh Motorcycles, S&S, Denvers Chopper, Crane Cams, BAD Creations, Hardtails, Isanti Performance Cycle, Mutha Country Choppers, Olson Radiator, House of Color, Precision Line Motorsports, Extreme Paint, Stacks Creative Customs, Wreck Bros Auto Body & Paint and Zylstra Harley Davidson.
M.A. Connell Funeral Home
934 New York Ave. (Route 110)
Huntington Station, NY
631 427 1123
Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church
Centerport, NY 11721
631 757 8184
The Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center
112 Main St
Hopkinton, MA 01748
508 435 1222
Columbia Baptist Association
1308 Ross Clark Circle
Dothan, AL 36301
THREE BIKERNET HILLBILLIES– Three Hillbillies are shootin’ the breeze.
1st Hillbilly: “My wife sure is stupid!…She bought an air conditioner..”
2nd Hillbilly: “Why is that stupid?”
1st Hillbilly: “We ain’t got no ‘lectricity!”
2nd Hillbilly: “That’s nothin’! My wife is sostupid, she bought one of themnew fangled warshin’ machines!”
1st Hillbilly: “why is that so stupid?” 2nd Hillbilly: “cause we ain’t got no plummin’!”
3rd Hillbilly: “that ain’t nuthin’! My wife isdumber than both yer wifes put together!I was going through her purse the otherday lookin’ fer some change,and I found 6 condoms in thar.”
1st and 2nd Hillbillies:”well what’s so dumb about that?”
3rd Hillbilly: “She ain’t got no pecker.
–from Art Friedman
FANTASY IN IRON AIRCLEANERS-The original, the best and finest. I’ve known and run Dennis Goodsen aircleaners on custom bikes for decades. Then at the LA Calendar show an industry acquaintance approached me with a flier. He had copied Dennis’ product and was attempting to market it. I questioned him. I don’t get it. Why not design your own air cleaner? Watch out for this knock-off product under the name Magna something.
Makes me sick to hear these stories and we’re looking into publishing a line of stories like this to keep honor amoung the ranks. There’s just a few companies in our market choosing to steal projects from small manufacturers rather than to design their own. We’ll be investigating soon.
In the meantime you can purchase the original Goodsen Air Cleaners from Irish Rich at Shamrock Fabrication and Lick’s Cycle.
Continued On Page 3
November 22, 2006 Part 1
By Bandit |
Happy Thanksgiving,
I hope we can all kick back and think for a minute, about our lives and how lucky we are to be who we are and where we are. There’s some crazy shit out there and we need to be thankful, respectful and strong.
I want to thank everyone, writers, photographers, readers, industry folks and staff who helped us with Bikernet daily. We have a blast doing what we’re doing and response has been overwhelmingly positive.
So, try to take a moment away from computers, e-mail and cell phones to take a ride with someone special. Go someplace where you can watch a sunset, a river, the ocean or a skyline. Kick back and reflect on all we have.
In the meantime enjoy the news:
NEW SPONSORS ON BIKERNET–We’d like to welcome Envy Cycle Creations/Streetwalker Exhaust systems and Doherty Machine for stepping up to join the Bikernet team. We’ll bring you info, techs and features on their products soon.
CALIFORNIA HELMET LAW ABOUT TO FALL–Just a little catch up on some helmet citations. While I was at the MRF Meeting of the Minds, a comment was made that there was still a helmet law in California. Well, yes and no. Some departments are honoring the injunction issued in the Easyriders case, and some are honoring the enforcement bulletin advising of the injunction. This is the most recent evidence, a letter from the city of San Diego dismissing helmet citations. Thought you might be interested in this. Red Barron organized the July 4th helmet protest rally in San Diego, which resulted in a number of helmet citations that are being contested.
MILWAUKEE IRON STAYS IN MILWAUKEE– Long-time Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders call their machines “Milwaukee Iron.” At a time when manufacturing workers are losing their jobs to offshore factories or nonunion shops, members of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 2-209 know that Milwaukee Iron is going to stay in Milwaukee after they approved a memorandum of agreement to their contract with Harley-Davidson.
Both sides went back to the drawing board last month after the workers rejected an earlier tentative agreement. The company was looking for a way to cut costs and wanted to cut by as much as one-third wages of workers hired after the first of the year. The new agreement, approved on Nov. 14, includes a two-tier wage system for newly hired employees, but with much smaller gaps than in the earlier agreement.
The deal also means the 1,600 union members will keep their jobs and it requires the company to invest more than $120 million to expand production of the power train capacity in Milwaukee, creating more than 100 new jobs.
Harley-Davidson’s commitment to keeping jobs in America is linked to its partnership with its workers’ unions. Committees composed of managers and union representatives team up to make many of the company’s important decisions. This unique approach helped propel the company back to success after being on the brink of bankruptcy in 1994. That’s when the company and its unions agreed to collaborate and establish a High Performance Work Organization partnership. As part of the partnership, employees and management make consensus decisions that keep the company competitive and find efficient methods to produce high-quality products without compromising production levels, job security or working conditions.
Local 2-209 President Jim Wheiland says the union is looking forward toexpanding here, rather than worry about a rival plant that would produce the same product with newer, state of the art equipment.
All Harley-Davidson Big Twin and XL power trains are now produced in Milwaukee. If workers had rejected the deal, the company had said it would expand production outside of Wisconsin. The new agreement specifies that the company will remain in Milwaukee.
Wheiland says:The upside is that “Milwaukee Iron” will continue to be made right here in Milwaukee where it belongs.
–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
IRON PIGS FIGHTIN’ WORDS FOR BIKER CLUB–Pennsylvania: Organization says baseball team owners infringing trademark.What’s the difference between Iron Pigs and IronPigs?A lot, if you’re Lehigh Valley’s baseball team. Not so much if you’re an international motorcycle club based in Texas.
The Iron Pigs Motorcycle Club, based in Bedford, informed the team earlier this week that it holds a trademark on the name and plans to take action to force the baseball team to change it.
The motorcycle club, made up of current or former law enforcement officers and firemen, registered its patch design and name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office when the club was founded in 2000 in Oroville, Calif.
Since then, a club spokesman said, the motorcycle club has defended its trademark ”several times,” including earlier this year against a Harley-Davidson motorcycle dealership in Rogers, Ark.
”Why should this baseball club profit off our name?” said Bob Nowlin, the club’s national secretary/treasurer. ”We spent a lot of time and quite a bit of money getting this trademark.”
The motorcycle club’s Iron Pigs trademark is listed on the U.S. Trademark and Patent Office Web site.
”We’re not concerned about this,” Lehigh Valley co-owner Joe Finley said. ”We were well aware the motorcycle club existed, but there are a lot of examples of companies and groups and services that have the same name.”
–from Rogue
RAY PRICE NITRO HARLEY RUNNER UP AT VEGAS NHRA MEET– Raleigh, NC: The Samson/Ray Price Nitro Harley team was runner up by .014 seconds in the final round of the JIMS LAS VEGAS NATIONALS PRESENTED BY BARNETT CLUTCHESqualifying 15th with a 6.775 ET in the Strips’ quickest Nitro Harley field ever.
On Saturday the temperature dropped and the wind picked up during the qualifying session and Tommy Grimes managed to get the Samson/Ray Price Nitro Harley in the field despite the team finding serious motor problems after the fact. After working most of the night changing motors and working with the computer, the Samson/Ray Price team went through the field winning all but the last round. That last round was the closest round of the weekend in the Nitro Top Fuel class with Grimes only .014 (that’s 14/1000’s of a second) off the winning pace with the top mph of the weekend at 216.62 mph at 6.530ET.
At the AHDRA Awards Banquet, Grimes and Price were frequently called to the podium, 1st to receive the team’s #1 trophy for the Screamin’ Eagle NHRA Nitro Harley Exhibition Series. The second call was to receive the AHDRA’s Best Appearing Top Fuel Team Award. The team was also awarded 4th place in AHDRA National Points series after moving up from a 3 way close race .
With over 20 years of experience in the powersports industry, Hanson is charged with advancing the company’s customer service and dealer training initiatives
WICHITA, Kansas (November 15, 2006) – Big Dog Motorcycles, the world’s largest manufacturer of custom motorcycles, recently appointed Wayne Hanson as its Customer Support Manager. Prior to joining Big Dog Motorcycles, Hanson was employed for over twenty years at Minnesota-based Arctic Cat, a leading manufacturer of ATVs and snowmobiles.
Nick Messer, President, Big Dog Motorcycles, made the announcement.
“Wayne brings over twenty years experience in customer service, management, and dealer relations to Big Dog Motorcycles,” Messer explained. “With his proven leadership – in both the manufacturing and dealership environments – his appointment strengthens our customer support and dealer service training programs and will establish even stronger relationships with our entire dealer network.”
In addition to managing a customer service team of 12, Hanson will focus on improving dealer service operations through primarily training, education, and certifications, and ensuring that all service issues are resolved in a timely and effective manner.
While at Arctic Cat, Hanson served in increasingly responsible positions. Beginning as Inventory Manager, Hanson was moved to Business Support Analyst, and, most recently as Call Center Manager. Prior to Arctic Cat, Hanson worked in two powersports dealerships.
“His unique background and strong skill set will be a great asset to Big Dog Motorcycles and our management team,” Messer continued. “We are already hearing positive feedback from our dealers; we’re glad to have in him on board.”
U.S. CHOPPERS ACCLAIMED BIKE NUMBER 1, TO BE AUCTION OFF IN BIG TWIN SHOW–U.S. Choppers acclaimed bike “No. 1” is to be auctioned at next weeks Big Twin West Show at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas (Sunday Dec 3rd, 1pm)
“No. 1” is the culmination of 17 years of bike building experience by U.S. Choppers owner Rick Krost. The inspiration for the name “No. 1” was two-fold. First, it is the first bike U.S. Choppers has introduced in a public forum. Secondly, it is the only working prototype and first model of a successful chassis line introduced by U.S. Choppers. It is truly 1 of 1 and will never be re-created.
“No.1” along with other boardtrack bikes built by Roger Goldammer and Krugger have brought about a new movement in the style of American V-twins and is thought to be the next industry trend.
Now is your chance to bid on one of the first modern interpretations of an old classic- the boardtrack racer.
“No.1” has been featured on network TV’s “Steel Dreams” with great riding sequences with legendary Keith Ball, and Speed Channels coverage of the World Championships of 2005.
It has also been featured in many magazines including but not limited to: (Cover) Iron Works (USA), (Cover) Wild Magazine (France), Hardcore Chopper (Japan), Hot Bike Japan, Freeway (France/Spain), AMD (Internationally), Barnett’s (USA), and Long Beach Magazine.
“No 1” can be viewed over the internet in several places- most importantly a several page archived feature by Keith Ball of Bikernet.com.
“No 1” can also be seen in the introduction page of the book “Art of the Chopper 2” by world acclaimed photographer Tom Zimberoff and is slated to be one of the bikes in a full chapter on U.S. Choppers in book number 3.
“No. 1” also finished 10th in the World at the 2005 AMD Championships right here at Mandalay Bay.
Copies of any print or film media will be provided to the buyer for affirmation of the pedigree.
U.S. Choppers
2039 S. Lyon St
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714-546-4699
Appointments Only Please
www.uschopper.com
STEALTH NORTH CAROLINA TURKEY INVESTIGATION–To all of you out there and to the staff at BIKERNET, Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at STEALTH BIKE WORKS!
We have just finished up our rigid Evo project. I am really proud of how the bike turned out. It is badass with the Apes and 3-inch open BDL belt drive. It is a bare bones no nonsense bike. The bare essentials and that’s it, nothing extra. So far it is one of the simpliest bikes we have done and to me that makes it one of the best. The bike is kickstart only. It runs a Rev-Tech four speed tranny. The engine is a box stock Evo from H-D. The frame is Paughco straight leg, no rake. It is old school right down to the squeeze horn.
Next up we will being finishing a Shovelhead rigid that is being reconstructed after a wreck. After that we will be starting on our shop project bike. It looks like, for now, we will have some winter projects.
Hey, it is Toy Run Season, get out and go to a Toy Run. You will be helping out people who are down on their luck for whatever reason, it really doesn’t matter. For a lot them, their Christmas depends on what we do at Toy Runs. The next few weeks in the Charlotte area, there are Toy Runs every weekend. If for no other reason, it is a good reason to ride.
Remember to take time today to reflect on what you have to be thankful for. We all lose sight of this from time to time in everyday life, myself included. Spend time with nthe ones closest to you and maybe go for a ride!
Until next week, RIDE!
–STEALTHMAN
CLASSIC SPARTO TAILLIGHT FROM 2-WHEELERS–This is one of those taillights that never goes out of style. It’s small and perfect for a bobber or any classic with a flat fender. It’s powdercoated gloss black in the true biker tradition. It’s only 55.95 from 2-Wheelers.
THE HOT DIVE BARS FROM TODD’S CYCLE– We at Todd’s Cycle have modified one of our hottest selling bars “The dive bar”and came up with the new and improved “knuckle bar.” These babies come in two sizes 17″ and 12″ tall.
They come in four exciting finishes , flat or gloss black, chrome, and raw. 1″ O.D. and you can run all wires internally. These babies come stock with 5″ of pullback to give your wrist a break for those long rides.
These bad boys are in stock and ready to ship. Call us for more info and price or check out our awesome website at www.toddscycle.com Phone: 714-901-4516
JUST PUBLISHED-ROADSHOW BY WHITEHORSE PRESS–For thirty years, Rush drummer, author, and songwriter, Neil Peart has wanted to write a book about the life of a touring musician, and now he has – but with a two-wheel twist. He chose to do his between-show traveling by motorcycle.
Continued On Page 2
November 19, 2006
By Bandit |
HELMET LAW THE FOCUS OF LAWSUIT IN CALIFORNIA:A local motorcyclist and four others filed a civil lawsuit against the California Highway Patrol on Thursday alleging that the state’s helmetlaw is unconstitutional.
The seven-page suit, filed on behalf of the motorcyclists by attorney Wendy Lascher of Ventura, argues that the 14 year-old law is vague andviolates the plaintiffs’ Fourteenth Amendment rights because it doesn’t adequatelydescribe a correct helmet.
“I have spent thousands of dollars fighting this and I’ve committedthousands more,” said Don Blanscet of Penn Valley.
The suit cites an August 16, 2006, ruling by a Santa Cruz judgedismissing a plaintiff’s traffic citations for not wearing a helmet on the groundsthat the law is unconstitutional. An appeal of the decision is still pending in the 6th District Court of Appeals.
The plaintiff in the August ruling, Richard Quigley of Aptos, was one ofthe five who filed the lawsuit on Thursday. Quigley said one of the reasonsbehind the lawsuit was to force the issue of the constitutionality of the helmet law. His perception is that the courts are slow to respond to the Augustruling.
“After the judge told the CHP what they were doing was unconstitutional,and they said that they didn’t care, I was sort of compelled to make themcare,” Quigley said. “They didn’t leave me much choice.”
Lascher said that she thought the case had “an excellent chance” of winning.
“The issue here is limited,” Lascher said. “It’s whether the helmet law we have creates a clear enough standard that anyone who looks at it cansay, ‘this helmet qualifies. This helmet doesn’t qualify.'”
— By Jill Bauerle
LAUTENBERG TO CHAIR TRANSPORTATION SUBCOMMITTEE: (Published: November 16, 2006) WASHINGTON (AP) – New Jersey Democratic Sen. Frank Lautenberg will be chairman of a transportation subcommittee when the new Congressconvenes in January, his office said Thursday.
Lautenberg will head the Transportation Safety, Infrastructure Securityand Water Quality Subcommittee. Among the issues Lautenberg said his panelwill deal with are drunken driving, MOTORCYCLE SAFETY, chemical plantsecurity and oil spills.
“This chairmanship will allow me to provide greater safety and securityfor New Jersey’s transportation systems,” Lautenberg said. “This panel willalso lead the way in protecting the quality of water on our shore and in our rivers, lakes and wetlands.”
Besides his seat on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Lautenberg will also serve on the Appropriations Committee and theEnvironmental and Public Works Committee.
–The Associated Press
OPEN LETTER TO BRIAN BENECZKOWSKI:ALERT FROM JEWS FOR THE PRESERVATION OF FIREARMS OWNERSHIP: America’sAggressive Civil Rights Organization,November 13, 2006.
Dear Mr. Benczkowski,
We’d like to congratulate you on your new position as Chief of Staff for theBureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. As you know, the BATFEhas experienced several embarrassments recently, such as the discovery thatagents were improperly talking to the neighbors and relatives of people whowere buying firearms at Virginia gun shows. This incident, as well asseveral related ones, prompted the recent BATFE hearings in Congress.
There are also problems with your Firearms Technology Branch, whicharbitrarily designates certain firearms or accessories as “legal” or”illegal”. We say arbitrarily because we have seen multiple instances ofitems that are categorized as “legal” suddenly recategorized as “illegal” months and even years later. Worse, owners of these items are seldomnotified that their once-legal property is suddenly illegal. Theselaw-abiding citizens become “criminals” overnight, and are completelyunaware of it!
The Firearms Technology Branch has also been known to incompetently “test”firearms. In at least one case, the testing agent declared a rifle to be anillegally modified machine gun because he was able to force it torapid-fire.
It was only after a third party disassembled the rifle that it was found tohave a malfunctioning part. To think that a man’s life, freedom, andlivelihood rested on the findings of the Firearms Technology Branch … andthe BATFE didn’t even bother to inspect the rifle. It’s not entirelysurprising, of course, considering that the BATFE has no written,standardized procedures for performing these tests.
We know such improprieties will not knowingly be permitted to take place onyour watch. Additionally, we hope that you will seriously examine the casesof the hundreds or more firearms owners who may have been falsely imprisonedas a result of these poorly-executed tests.
We would like to offer you a complimentary copy of our book _”Gun Control”:Gateway to Tyranny_, which illustrates the connections between the 1968 GunControl Act and the 1938 Nazi gun control laws. The two are eerily similar.
Gateway also reproduces a letter from Louis Coffin at the Library ofCongress to Senator Thomas Dodd, who had a copy of the original Nazi lawsand wished for a translation.
Senator Dodd, it should be noted, was a primary author of the 1968 GCA.Would you or the Justice Department be willing to open an investigation intothe use of Nazi laws as a model for American gun laws that infringe on therights of Americans?
As evidenced above, the BATFE has been riddled with greed, arrogance,dishonesty, and incompetence from its inception.
Despite numerous attempts at “reform”, these problems still exist, and as aresult, we’ve come to believe that the best “reform” would be totalabolishment of this agency.
Sincerely,
Aaron Zelman
Executive Director
Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership www.jpfo.org
SCORECARD ON HIGHWAY SAFETY LAWS:D.C. and Washington State Receive Top Rankings in National Scorecard on Highway Safety Laws; Arizona, Ranked Lowest Emergency Nurses Association Study Comes as Americans Prepare to Take tothe Roads for Thanksgiving Holiday CHICAGO, Nov. 16 /U.S. Newswire/ — Washington, D.C., and the state of Washington were the only locations to receive perfect scores in anEmergency Nurses Association (ENA) study released today that ranked states on ascale of one to 10 for having highway laws that promote safety and injury prevention.
The “2006 ENA National Scorecard on State Highway Laws: A Roadmap forInjury Prevention” ranked Arizona at the bottom of the survey, with a score of two out of a possible 10. The scorecard is designed to educate legislatorsand the general public about their state’s strengths, weaknesses and level of risk at a time of increased travel during the holiday season.
The scorecard rankings were based on ENA criteria derived from five policy areas that come under the jurisdiction of the states, four of whichfocused on the presence of highway safety laws including primary seatbelt laws, child passenger safety laws, graduated driver licensing (GDL) and universal motorcycle helmet laws. The fifth measure evaluated each state’scapacity to respond to severe emergencies by determining the existence of initiatives thatwould allow a state to establish a statewide trauma system.
“We’ve released the scorecard at a time of increased emphasis on disaster preparedness, which can overshadow the fact that more than 40,000fatalities occur on our roadways every year,” said Nancy Bonalumi, RN, MS, CEN, ENA president. “The scorecard is designed to educate ENA members and thegeneral public about each state’s strengths and weaknesses so that they are empowered to advocate for change. While we can not be free of risk, it is necessaryto take all possible steps toward preventing injury.”
The ENA’s Injury Prevention Institute, which compiled the scorecard, emphasizes that safe driving is a public health issue. In 2004, 42,836people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. In 2005, there was a 1.4 percent increase over the 2004 data, raising the total to 43,443 people killed. Thislevel is the greatest number of fatalities from traffic crashes since 1990. Thescorecard aims to enhance collaborative efforts at the local, state and nationallevels to encourage implementation of effective injury prevention programs and policies to help save lives.
Key information from the report: — Locations with the most highway safety and injury prevention laws inplace according to ENA criteria include Washington, D.C., Washington,California, Georgia, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon and Tennessee
— States with the fewest highway safety and injury prevention laws inplace include Idaho, North Dakota, Ohio, Arkansas, Minnesota, South Dakota and Arizona
— Six states currently do not have established statewide trauma systemand have no plan in place for establishing a trauma system to respond tomedical emergencies
“Every year emergency nurses treat thousands of patients who are thevictims of traffic accidents that might have been prevented,” Bonalumi said. “We recognize the importance of laws in promoting safe driving and preventing injury, particularly around Thanksgiving and other busy holiday seasons.We hope that his scorecard will serve as a wake up call on all levels.”
For more information on the scorecard and to learn more about the survey’s ranking system/criteria, visit _http://www.ena.org_
DWI MANUALS AVAILABLE NOW!The Updated Version of the NHSTA DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Manuals are Now Available!
The “Bible” of DUI Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), the manual describes how SFSTs are to be administered under ideal conditions and is used nationwide to teach police officers how to properly do their jobs. A powerful tool when cross-examining the administering officers; in a bound book format for easy referencing.
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Available on CD-ROM for $50 each. CD ROM is Adobe Acrobat word searchable format. You’ll receive the Power Point Presentation, the Cover Art work, and the printing and collating guides at one low price!
Available in Hard Copy Format for $165.00 for the Student Manual, $265.00 for the Instructor’s Manual
Mail Your Order Form to:
Publication Services
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
1150 18th Street, NW Ste. 950
Washington DC 20036
NEW CITIZENSHIP TEST TO GET TRYOUTS SOON: Monday, November 13, 2006BOSTON – Boston and nine other cities will be trying out a new citizenshipexam that tests applicants’ grasp of the American democracy.
The current test is heavy on historical facts, and includes questions aboutthe colors of the U.S. flag and the name of the form used to apply forcitizenship. The new exam will ask about the Bill of Rights and the meaningof democracy.
“The intent is to create a test, and a testing process, that is fair andmeaningful,” said Shawn Saucier, spokesman for the Office of Citizenship andImmigration Services.” It is not to make it harder … The new test isdesigned to encourage immigrants to really look at our history andgovernment, and what we value as a society.”
Starting this winter, the test will be offered on a voluntary basis inBoston and nine other cities. Officials have not announced the other citiesthat will offer the test, Saucier said.
In 2008, the exam will be given to all applicants for naturalization.During the pilot project, officials hope to work out any problems with thetest and refine the exam by administering it to 5,000 people. To pass thetest, immigrants must correctly answer six of 10 questions.
Some immigrant advocates say a more sophisticated set of questions couldmake the exam more difficult to pass and raise the bar for citizenship toohigh.
“We are highly suspicious of their motives for (redesigning the test),”saidJoshua Hoyt, executive director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant andRefugee Rights, which drafted a letter to federal official. “We think thatit may be designed to make it difficult for less-educated immigrants tobecome citizens.”
NEW MONROE PROGRAM URGES MOTORCYCLE SAFETY: Through comraderie, mentorship and occasional excursions on the openroad, a new programhere plans to build biker safety for years to come.
The Fort Monroe Motorcycle Association began meeting earlier this month.Group leaders arelooking for members who are interested in improving their riding skills,as well asseasoned riders willing to mentor those who are just getting the feelfor their bikes andthe road.
Due to a summertime string of fatal accidents involving Soldiers, theemphasis ofmotorcycle safety has become a top priority across the Army. In recentmonths, twoinstallation motorcycle safety rides drew sizeable crowds from not onlythe Monroecommunity, but also other service branches and military installationsthroughout HamptonRoads.
?We want to keep that momentum going,? said David Speigner, who isspearheading the group.?Our purpose is to support the Fort Monroe community by establishing andmaintaining aspirit of comraderie among riders. We?re going to stress rider educationand skillsdevelopment to reduce the potential of motorcycle accidents.?
The FMMA is open to all military, civilian and contract employees on theinstallation, aswell as Department of Defense retirees and other service membersresiding in the area.
Though their meeting schedule is considered tentative at the moment,the FMMA plans tohold monthly meetings once they get settled into a regular routine. Fornow, theirmeetings will be held in the classroom adjacent to the Fitside Perk atthe Fort MonroeFitness Center during the lunch hour, Speigner noted.
Along with their regular meetings, the group is planning social eventsand rides ofvarying distances. Speigner would like the group to take a trip to theBlue RidgeMountains if they can work out the logistics. He will also push forbarbeque socials.
?We want to make it fun as well as educational,? he said. ?We want tobuild friendshipsand community relations.?
For those who currently ride motorcycles, or are interested in owningone, these meetingswill provide the necessary information and feedback that could possiblyprevent a futureincident resulting in damage, injury or death.
Speigner said some of the topics the group will focus on during theirmeetings include:accident avoidance measures, proper motorcycle maintenance andrecommended safetyequipment.
Occasionally, they will invite outside motorcycle safety experts totheir meetings toshare insights and answer any questions the members may have.
For more information about the association or future events, current andpotential memberscan contact Speigner at 788-4886.
BY E DAVID VIDACASEMATE STAFF WRITER
HOA RULE FORBIDS COUPLE FROM SOMOKING IN THEIR OWN HOME: GOLDEN, Colo. — A judge has upheld a homeowners association’s orderbarring a couple fromsmoking in the town house they own.
Colleen and Rodger Sauve, both smokers, filed a lawsuit in March aftertheir condominiumassociation amended its bylaws last December to prohibit smoking.
“We argued that the HOA was not being reasonable in restricting smokingin our own unit,nowhere on the premises, not in the parking lot or on our patio,”Colleen Sauve said.
The Heritage Hills #1 Condominium Owners Association was responding tocomplaints from theSauves’ neighbors who said cigarette smoke was seeping into their units,representing anuisance to others in the building.
In a Nov. 7 ruling, Jefferson County District Judge Lily Oeffler ruledthe association cankeep the couple from smoking in their own home.
Oeffler stated “smoke and/or smoke smell” is not contained to one areaand that smokesmell “constitutes a nuisance.” She noted that under condo declarations,nuisances are notallowed.
The couple now has to light up on the street in front of theircondominium building.”I think it’s ridiculous. If there’s another blizzard, I’m going to behaving to stand outon the street, smoking a cigarette,” said Colleen Suave.
For five years the couple has smoked in their living room and that hadneighbors fuming.
“At times, it smells like someone is sitting in the room with you,smoking. So yes, it’svery heavy,” said condo owner Christine Shedron.
The Sauves said they have tried to seal their unit. One tenant spentthousands of dollarstrying to minimize the odor.
“We got complaints and we felt like it was necessary to protect ourtenants and ourinvestment,” said Shedron.
The Suaves said they would like to appeal the judge’s ruling but areunsure if they havethe money to continue fighting. They said what goes on behind theirclosed doors shouldn’tbe other people’s business.
“I don’t understand. If I was here and I was doing a lawful act in myhome when they gothere, why can they say, ‘OK, now you have to change,'” said ColleenSuave. “We’re notarguing the right to smoke as much as we’re arguing the right to privacyin our home.”
Other homeowners believe, as with loud music, that the rights of acommunity trump therights of individual residents. The HOA is also concerned that tenantswill sue thosehomeowners for exposure to second-hand smoke and this could be aliability issue.
The couple said that they would like to unload their condo and get outof the HOAentirely, but they are not sure if the real estate market is right.
ARIZONA RANKED LAST IN HIGHWAY SAFETY ACCORDING TO BUSINESS JOURNAL OF PHOENIX: A group has ranked Arizona last in the country when it comes to highwaylaws and rules that promote safety and injury prevention.
The Emergency Nurses Association issued the ranking as part of a new study that examines state laws mandating use of motorcycle helmets and auto seat belts, child passenger safety rules and driver’s license requirements.
Arizona ranked 51st — dead last — just ahead of South Dakota,Minnesota and Arkansas. The District of Columbia and the state of Washington tied forfirst and California tied for third with five other states.
Arizona does not require motorcycle riders to wear helmets and has highrates of drunk driving and uninsured drivers.
The study also looked at states’ emergency services and trauma centers and their ability to respond to highway accidents.
The poor ranking is the latest in a number of quality of life indicators in which Arizona ranks poorly. A Kansas research group ranked Arizona as the “dumbest” state in the union. Arizona also has high crime rates, thenation’s highest per-capita identity theft rate and the worst high school dropoutrate when compared to other states.
— Mike SunnucksThe Business Journal
STUDENT AT CALIFA COLLEGE BAN PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Student leaders at a California college have touched off a furor bybanning the Pledge of Allegiance at their meetings, saying they see no reason to publicly swear loyalty to God and the U.S. government.
The move by Orange Coast College student trustees, the latest clash over patriotism and religion in American schools, has infuriated some of their classmates — prompting one young woman to loudly recite the pledge infront of the board on Wednesday night in defiance of the rule.
“America is the one thing I’m passionate about and I can’t let them takethat away from me,” 18-year-old political science major Christine Zoldos told Reuters.
“The fact that they have enough power to ban one of the most valued traditions in America is just horrible,” Zoldos said, adding she wouldattend every board meeting to salute the flag.
The move was led by three recently elected student trustees, who ran for office wearing revolutionary-style berets and said they do not believe in publicly swearing an oath to the American flag and government at theirschool. One student trustee voted against the measure, which does not apply to other student groups or campus meetings.
The ban follows a 2002 ruling by a federal appeals court in San Francisco that said forcing school children to recite the pledge wasunconstitutional because of the phrase “under God.” The U.S. Supreme Court struck downthe ruling on procedural grounds but left the door open for another challenge.
“That (‘under God’) part is sort of offensive to me,” student trusteeJason Ball, who proposed the ban, told Reuters. “I am an atheist and a socialist, and if you know your history, you know that ‘under God’ was insertedduring the McCarthy era and was directly designed to destroy my ideology.”
Ball said the ban largely came about because the trustees didn’t want to publicly vow loyalty to the American government before their meetings.”Loyalty ought to be something the government earns through performance, notthrough reciting a pledge,” he said.
Martha Parham, a spokeswoman for the Coast Community College District,said her office had no standing on the student board and took no position on the flag salute ban.
“If their personal belief is that they don’t want to say the Pledge of Allegiance, the district certainly isn’t going to dictate what they do,”she said. More than 28,000 students attend the community college, located in conservative Orange County, California, south of Los Angeles.
— By Dan WhitcombFri Nov 10, 1:53 PM ET
AMA REJECTS PROPOSAL TO TAX SOFT DRINKS: LAS VEGAS (AP) – The American Medical Association on Tuesday decidedagainst a proposal tocall for taxes on soft drinks as a way to curb consumption of thesugar-laden beveragesblamed for contributing to obesity.
“We don’t want sugared soft drinks in schools. But a federal tax made alot of peopleuncomfortable,” said Dr. William Hamilton, a Salt Lake Cityanesthesiologist who attendedthe group’s meeting at a Las Vegas Strip hotel.
The AMA instead approved a proposal for a broader effort to fight obesity.
The American Beverage Association fought the tax proposal but issued astatement creditingthe AMA with adopting “a comprehensive approach to addressing thecomplex problem ofobesity.”
Dr. Ron Davis, president-elect of the nation’s most influentialphysicians lobbying group,insisted the idea of taxing soda was not dead. He said soft drinks nowaccount for 7percent of calories in the American diet _ the No. 1 source of calories.
“The epidemic of obesity in the U.S. has been developing and growing for30 years, andit’s going to take decades to turn it around,” he said.
— By KEN RITTER Associated Press Writer
JURY FINDS MASON CITY NOT NEGLIGENT IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH: MASON CITY, Iowa A jury has sided with Mason City in a lawsuit filed bya man who claimed an open fire hydrant caused his motorcycle accident.
James Kleven of Mason City was injured in June 2003. He sued the city for negligence, claiming an open fire hydrant being used to water flowerscaused the accident.
He claimed there was two to three inches of water in the street, causinghim to lose control of his motorcycle.
The city claims that Kleven had been drinking before the crash. He was not charged with drunken driving.
A Cerro Gordo County jury ruled yesterday that the city was not negligent. (Brian Fancher, KGLO in Mason City)
THE POLITICIAN: While walking down the street one day, a senator is tragically hit by atruck and killed. His soul arrives inHeaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
“Welcome to Heaven,” says St. Peter. “Before you settle in, it seems thereis a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, sowe’re not sure what to do with you.”
“No problem, just let me in,” says the senator.
“Well, I’d like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we’ll do is haveyou spend one day in Hell and one in Heaven. Then you can choose where tospend eternity.”
“There’s no need! I want to be in Heaven,” says the senator.
“I’m sorry, but we have our rules.” And with that, St. Peter escorts him tothe elevator, the doors open, and he rides the elevator down, down, down.When the doors open again, the senator finds himself in the middle of abeautiful green golf course. In the distance is a club, and standing infront of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked withhim.
Everyone is very happy and in formal dress. They run to greet him, and theyreminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense ofthe people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster andcaviar.
Also present is the Devil, who is a very friendly guy who has a good timedancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that, before thesenator realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a big hug andwaves while the elevator rises. The elevator goes up, up, up, and the doorreopens in Heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him.
So 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls movingfrom cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good timeand, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by, and St. Peterreturns.
“Well, you’ve spent a day in Hell and another in Heaven. Now, you mustchoose where you want to spend eternity.”
He reflects for a minute and then answers, “Well, I would never would havethought it, I mean Heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be bettersatisfied in Hell.”
So Saint Peter escorts him to the elevator, and down, down, down he goesinto Hell. Now, the doors of the elevator open, and he is in the middle of abarren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends dressedin rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags. And it’s hot,hot, hot, and the odor is just horrible.
Sweltering hot. Hot and miserable. The Devil comes over to him and smoothlylays his arm around his shoulder.
“I don’t understand,” stammers the senator. “The day before I was here, andthere was a golf course and club, and we ate lobster and caviar and dancedand had a great time. Now all there is is a wasteland full of garbage, andmy friends look miserable.”
The Devil looks at the senator, smiles, and says, “Yesterday we werecampaigning. Today you voted for us.”
Author – Unknown
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM: If you need more info on this or any other subject just go to the Sons ofLiberty Riders Info Zonehttp://solriders.com/ or http://bikers4row.org
Later
–Hawk
ICQ 34668186
AOL SoLRHawk
Anything can be accomplished, if it’s planned right and you have thedesire and creativity to execute it.
–Jesse “The Governor” Ventura
November 16, 2006 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
KENDON INDUSTRIES NEW STAND-UP AIR-OVER-HYDRAULIC MOTORCYCLE MAINTENANCE LIFTS–Kendon Industries has made the finest full-size, professional, portable maintenance lift even better! The Kendon Stand-Up? lift now comes standard with air-over-hydraulic operation. Use it in the shop with a compressor or on the driveway with the hand pump. Either way the Kendon Stand-Up? lift is a tool you won’t want to be without.
Three models available – Sport, Cruiser and Chopper. Also available – a variety of fantastic accessories, including a frame jack for unfettered access to front and rear wheels.
From Kendon Industries the manufacturer of the renowned Kendon Stand-Up? motorcycle and ATV trailers – http://www.kendonusa.com – you won’t find a better, more functional lift anywhere!
AWESOME TANK PANELS– Recently introduced for both Softail and Dyna machines these eye catching billet TANK PANELS manufactured by PRO-ONE are certain to make your scooter the center of attention in any crowd. Each TANK PANEL IS precision CNC machined from the finest billet aluminum for a perfect replacement fit and unparalleled quality.
Pro-One TANK PANELS feature a one-piece design and can be ordered with a sanitary plain surface style or with any of the unique patterns shown here.
Each TANK PANEL is 100% Made in the USA and offered in black anodize or triple chrome plated. Check them out at www.pro-one.com or call direct to 800-884-4173.
STEALTH REPORT FROM A SHOP IN NORTH CAROLINA–Last weekend STEALTH BIKE WORKS was set up at the 31st CBA Fall Swap meet and Bike Show. The weather was perfect for the event, 78 and sunny Saturday and 63 and sunny Sunday! People were riding in all day long both days.
As I said it was warm for this time of year. The funniest thing I saw all weekend was this guy get out of his car with chaps on??? I guess he wanted to look like he rode in???
I picked up a few parts we needed at SBW and we sold a good amount of parts ourselves, so for us the Swap Meet was a success. We had quite a few visits from our customers at our booth and it was good to see all of them.
The Swap Meet has always been one of my favorite events. For me it is the unknown factor, by that I mean you never know what you might find. The Swap Meet is a great biker tradition. I talked to a lot of vendors and most were concerned that the swap meets are shrinking in size each year and most gave the same reason, E-BAY! That is right good old E-Bay. As you can probably tell I am not a big E-Bay fan. It under cuts every small independent bike shop and also hurts the swap meets.
I guess it is really up to all of you out there as to whether or not Swap Meets survive. Think about it, E-Bay doesn’t have the good times that swap meets have and if your value system isn’t screwed up, that should mean something.
Here at SBW we are getting ready to start our first shop project bike. It is going to be a bare bones old school hot-rod. It is based on a Santee rigid frame, Evo engine, Rev-Tech kick start 5 speed tranny, and it will also feature an electric starter, dished fatbob tanks, 4″ under wide glide front end. That is enough on the details for now. I have had this bike floating around in my head for quite some time now. I know this may sound stupid to some but every time we start a new project it is like being a wide eyed 18 year old kid again, that feeling never leaves you I guess!
Well that about wraps it up for this week!
Until next week, RIDE!
–Stealthman
BIKERNET QUOTE OF THE WEEK–You can have anything you want — if you want it badly enough. You can be anything you want to be, do anything you set out to accomplish if you hold to that desire with singleness of purpose. : Abraham Lincoln
–from Nick Roberts
ANOTHER CUSTOM BIKE EPA SOLUTION SURFACES–There continues to be a lot of discussion about the future of our industry as bikers, shop owners, and manufacturers struggle to deal with the new emissions restrictions from the EPA. We have the opportunity to continue our way of life by starting a new effort pulling together the grassroots networks of ABATE, MRF and others in defense of the industry.
My primary concern remains finding a solution that will keep all the aftermarket engine manufacturers like Flathead Power, R&R, Enginuity, etc in business and hopefully thriving.
SEMA in its effort to grandfather Kit cars and other customs crafted a bill that creates two new classes of car to be titled and registered: Street Rods and Custom Vehicles. The law states that vehicles will be titled and registered by the year the body most closely resembles. This helps the county treasurers/titling and reg officials determine how to title and register the vehicle while offering flexibility to the owner. The bill includes kit cars or newly manufactured customs as even a newly produced ’65 cobra replica resembles an actual ’65 cobra and is therefore titled and registered as a ’65 cobra custom vehicle.
Also the same regulations i.e. exhaust, safety equipment apply to the kit car as apply to an original ’65. The concession offered for this privilege is that the vehicles must be temporary use vehicles, or basically cannot be used for “general daily transportation”. This really doesn’t affect the way most people use these vehicles.
Applying this idea to the motorcycle industry the one distinguishing feature of any bike is to attach a style to is its engine/drivetrain. I’m currently drafting language to state that custom motorcycles will be titled by the year that their engine most closely resembles. This would allow a range of years for people choosing to use legacy designs (or reproductions) like flatheads, Knuckles, Pans, Shovels, Evos, etc.
All of these engines were in use prior to 2006 and as legacy designs are not meant to meet the new EPA tier 1 or 2 emissions regimes. As with SEMA’s bill the concession in my new bill would again state that these customs: “Will be maintained for occasional transportation, rallies, club activities, parades, tours, exhibitions, and other similar uses and will not be used for general daily transportation.” This probably wouldn’t change the way many custom owners use their bikes and for those who are daily riders they still have the option to get an EPA certified engine.
That’s a quick rundown on my current plan for the next legislative session in MT which convenes in January. Again my goal is to create a solution that is easy to implement and follows the logic of SEMA’s street rod bill which has met with great success in a growing number of states. I’m still working through the details and would be grateful to get the thoughts of bikers, shop owners, manufacturers and anyone with a stake in our industry. My goal is to create a model that will serve the needs of our way of life for years to come.
FYI I currently serve as chairman of SEMA’s legislative caucus that organizes state legislators across the US and remain very involved in their titling and registration efforts. I am also a SEMA member.
Senator John Brueggeman
321 Lakeview Dr
Polson, MT 59860
PH: 406.883.2395
FAX: 406.883.2390
senatorjohn@bresnan.net
BIKERNET HISTORY SHOT OF THE WEEK–Talk about not worrying about cam timing..(from a 1959 Benelli 250cc 35hp GP bike).
–John Leach – Sales / Racing Support
Avon Tyres North America
ROCKEM V-BIKE FOR SALE–Sorry, forgot to mention that we are only looking to get $11,500 out of the bike.
–“Racer” Rob Martin
Operations Manager,
Rockem and Sockem MotorcycleCo.
Rob@rockemandsockem.com
Office: 480.279.1734
Fax: 480.279.1743
Cell: 480.862.3825
www.RockemandSockem.com
BUELL LIGHTNING SUPER TT XB12STT UNVEILED AT MILAN SHOW– MILAN (Nov. 14, 2006) – It’s time to take to the street with attitude and style as Buell brings on the new Lightning Super TT XB12STT packed with tenacious performance and distinctive urban character. The Lightning Super TT, launched today at the EICMA 64th Annual International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan, Italy, is built for battle with characteristic Buell Streetfighter innovation and excitement.
“Buell motorcycles let riders own the corners and have fun, whether it’s the corners on a back highway or corners of a city street,” said Erik Buell, Chairman and Chief Technical Officer, Buell Motorcycle Company. “The Lightning Super TT XB12STT continues that concept by blending street and track performance with plenty of torque and power into a bigger, versatile Supermoto-inspired design.”
As the latest addition to the Buell Lightning family, the Lightning Super TT combines hard core Streetfighter attitude with the style of Supermoto bikes. The Supermoto (aka SuperMotard or US TT) category refers to an all-around style of motorcycle combining characteristics of road racing, dirt track and motocross bikes. The Lightning Super TT captures a rebellious and aggressive racing spirit. Other models in the Buell Lightning family are the Lightning XB12S, Lightning XB12Scg, Lightning Long XB12Ss and Lightning CityX XB9SX.
NEWS FROM THE BIKERNET PET SHOP–A man buys a parrot, but after several weeks of trying, is unableto get it to speak a single word. In desperation he takes thebird to a vet for advice.
The vet tells him that the parrot’s beak is too long which ispreventing him from speaking. He says that he can file it downfor $100.
The parrot’s owner thought that was rather expensive and wonderedaloud if he could just file it down himself.
The vet tells him that it is a very delicate procedure and mustbe done by a trained professional. If he does not file enough,the bird still wont be able to talk, but if he files too much,the bird will drown while drinking his water.
The man decides to think it over and leaves with the parrot.
Several weeks later, the vet happens to meet the parrot owner whois looking rather down. He inquires about the parrot and the manreplies that his parrot is dead.
“Did you try to file his beak down yourself?” asked the vet.
The man nods his head.
“And he drowned while trying to drink his water, right?”
“No,” replied the parrot’s owner, “he was dead when I took hishead out of the vise.”
–from Nick Roberts
NEW FROM THE DUMBASSBIKER BOYS THE KIL KEYLESS IGNITION SWITCH. CONTAIN A SPECIAL CODE THAT ONLY YOU KNOW, THROW THE KEY AND THE UGLY SWITCH HOUSING AWAY, AND GET A NEW MOTOR MOUNT TO BOOT– Keep your bike safe and secure without the need of keys with the keyless KIL switch. This innovative new locking system uses a push button code with ultra secure 4-digit pin code that does away with the keys. It is a clean and simple install that takes about an hour for the dash units, or motor mount/coil bracket mount style set up. Clean and shouts true CUSTOM.
We also offer builders kits that can be installed most anywhere you like. Excellent for bike builders. All units come with a code card for safe keeping, there is also a serial number on the back of the unit in case you forget or misplace your code, we keep it on file for you, and you can retrieve it by phone or e-mail. Switches are military grade and rated at over 1 million plus pushes. They are heat and weather proof, resistant to dirt and dust. Comes with full instruction manual and wiring diagram. E-mail and telephone support. Patent pending
MOTOR MOUNT AND SWITCH ASSEMBLY
P/N KIL4MMP POLISHED BILLET ALUM. FEATURES SIDE MOUNT SWITCH AND MOTOR MOUNT IN ONE UNIT LISTING RETAIL $500 DAB $450
P/N KIL4MMC SAME AS KIL4MMP BUT CHROME RETAIL $600, DAB $500
P/N KIL4GBPC SAME AS ABOVE ONLY POWDER COATED GLOSS BLACK $500
P/N KIL4WBPC SAME AS ABOVE BUT BLACK WRINKLE POWDER COATED $500
DUMBASSBIKER.COM/EASTSIDE H&D CUSTOMS
ROBERT (SQUIGGY) YEZEK
E-MAIL: ORIGSQUIG@AOL.COM OR
PARTS@DUMBASSBIKER.COM
HARLEY-DAVIDSON UNION NEGOTIATIONS–Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, WI – Several hundred Harley-Davidson union workers on Sunday applauded or jeered their labor officials who explained why the rank and file should consider sacrificing wages and benefits to ensure that 100 new motorcycle manufacturing jobs remain in Milwaukee.
Harley Contract DealBy the Numbers
$27+Per hour under current system
$20+Per hour under two-tier system
Many questioned union leaders as to why a contract that apparently was good until 2008 should be opened by the membership for negotiation. Others left the membership meeting feeling confused, angry and helpless, knowing they have only until Tuesday to make up their minds.
“I thought I had a contract that was good until 2008,” a longtime Harley worker said after the meeting. “This is a decision that really affects our future.”
The 1,600 members of United Steelworkers of America Local 2-209 are wrestling with a Harley promise to expand a production line here instead of in another state, provided the union agrees to the concessions from its current contract. Union members will cast their votes at the plants in which they work.
The $120 million production expansion would reportedly create 100 new jobs.”The gun’s at our head and the bullet is in the gun,” another worker said. “What can we do? Once those jobs are gone, they’re gone.”
Although many union members wanted to express their feelings publicly about the predicament, none wanted his or her name used for fear of retaliation at this volatile time among a tight-knit group of workers who assemble engines and transmissions.
Harley officials under the current contract can consider opening another production line either here or in another state when Milwaukee production lines are at capacity, union president Jim Wheiland said. An out-of-state site with a less expensive work force is an attractive alternative for many manufacturers, including Harley, experts say.
Last month, the union rejected by a wide margin Harley’s initial request for wage and benefits concessions to help finance a new production line for motorcycle power trains here. The company asked that new employees hired after the first of next year be compensated through a lower wage scale. The request did not affect job security or the pay of current employees.
A second proposal now contains a company promise to expand here if the concessions are reached.Many Harley factory workers earn more than $27 an hour. Under the proposed two-tier system, most of the new workers would earn an hourly wage of more than $20.
Some workers Sunday blamed the company and the union for turning against the rank and file. Following the membership veto of the initial proposal, labor and plant officials continued to search for a workable agreement, Wheiland said.
Some members interpreted that to be a betrayal of the overwhelming vote against the concessions. Current workers were being asked to contribute more toward health care, lose their cost of living wage adjustments and take reductions in pension benefits.
What makes the concessions difficult to accept is the $1 billion in profits that Harley is expected to bring in this year.
“The company lies. The bargaining unit lies. They should all have gone to church instead this morning,” an angry employee shouted while walking quickly from the Wauwatosa meeting hall to his truck.Wheiland responded that after the first vote, the membership clearly told him to continue talking with management.
A retiree at the meeting and friends said they supported the work of union leaders and that the membership should approve the measure in order to protect family-supporting jobs.
“I don’t really think there’s much of a choice here,” he said.
“I have plenty to say, but not until after the vote,” another worker said.
Continued On Page 4
November 16, 2006 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BIKERNET BONNEVILLE RIDER, VALERIE THOMPSON, SCORES IN THE DESTROYER CLASS-“Last weekend went well in Vegas. Just finished up a great season…I went to the quarterfinals and took 6th place in the National points standings…It’s officialnow,” Said Valerie. “And I think I took 11th out of 87 in the V-Rod Destroyer.
We are working with Valerie on her dimensions, so we can build the World’s Fastest Panhead to fit her like a glove. You’ll read all about it in our first Bonneville 2007 chapter.
BIG TROUBLE PHILADELPHIA WHEELIE–Philadelphia citypaper.net, PA Last Friday night, a city Department of Licenses and Inspections van and a police cruiser pulled up in front of Whiskey Dix Saloon in Northern Liberties and, after L&I inspectors interviewed the bar manager, investigators closed the bar for allegedly operating without a current liquor license and for being a public nuisance.
An L&I source says they tried to get in and out as fast as possible so they wouldn’t have a run-in with members of the Pagans motorcycle gang who they expected to soon show up for their weekly meeting.Law-enforcement sources and bar insiders claim local leaders of the Pagan Nation held meetings on Thursday or Friday evenings for more than a year and that many Pagans and associates had taken to using the North Seventh Street watering hole as their unofficial clubhouse.
Despite those claims, bar owner Bill McKeever maintains they were a problem a year and a half ago but no longer come to the bar in droves. “You might see one or two,” says McKeever, adding that he’s since fired a manager who allowed them to set up shop inside.Still, according to one eyewitness, the meetings are ongoing, and seem to be organized and carried out with military precision. “First, a Pagan called Chewy would show up on his bike,” the source says. “He was the scout. He’d come into Whiskey Dix and check it out. Then, three other Pagans would show up, all wearing their colors. They would be on cell phones. One would talk to the bouncer, a guy called Machine who the Pagans are trying to recruit, to see if anything unusual was going on.”
Then, Chewy would make his “all clear” telephone call and within minutes, 10 to 15 Pagans would arrive. The president of the local chapter would arrive in his Cadillac Escalade with a very large bodyguard in tow, and head upstairs to the mezzanine to meet with Pagans including a club enforcer who always carried a cane with a sword concealed inside it. Pagan business allegedly included conversations about a possible war against the rival Outlaw biker gang, meth trafficking and illegal gambling operations.They closed the Whiskey Dix for allegedly being a public nuisance. Over time, some Pagans noticed suspicious vans outside and saw men taking video and photographs of patrons, particularly the bikers and their hangers-on. They quickly realized that local organized-crime investigators and the Pennsylvania State Police had the bar under occasional surveillance, but that didn’t stop them from allegedly misbehaving inside. (McKeever says he never saw cops taking photos.)Sources say one Pagan broke a bar manager’s nose several years ago, and last summer two Pagans, one wielding a hammer, savagely beat a patron known as “the Ice Cream Man,” because he mistakenly wore a Hells Angels T-shirt.
Just two weeks ago, on Toys For Tots Sunday – the day bikers collect toys for local children’s hospitals – more than 100 bikers and bar patrons crowded the sidewalk and street outside the bar, drinking, brawling and stopping traffic to race motorcycles, sometimes pulling wheelies or burning so much rubber the block was covered in smoke. Among the celebrants: Pagans wearing their colors and members of the Northeast Riders, a reputed Pagan “feeder club.” (McKeever says the fight had nothing to do with the Pagans and points out that he only gets a crowd like that once a year after the run.)
According to witnesses, Whiskey Dix served booze to the crowd the entire afternoon even though, according to State Liquor Control Board records, the bar’s liquor license had expired on Halloween, five days earlier.
–from Rogue
STOLEN BIKES IN THE KNOXVILLE NEWS– Check out the front page of the Knoxville News Sentinal [Knoxville, TN] online or go to WBIR.com for the local news story of our State Sentaor catching a bunch of teen-agers who had already ripped him off for three bikes.
Sen. Burchett is well known and respected by the biker community here in East Tennessee and is very “patch friendly,” as well. He’s sponsored a lot of the biker bills in our state.
Thought you might enjoy the story.
–Weasel
HMC
Some information has surfaced about the Vet Charity Bike recently stolen. We’ll report on it soon–
WIN A CUSTOM THUNDER SADDLE OF YOUR TATTOO!– This is what you have been waiting for. For the next 8 months Metric Thunder will be giving away a custom Thunder Saddle each month. These saddles are the most exclusive saddles and most comfortable saddles every made. They are very cool because each saddle represents your tattoo.
The Tattoo Contest
BANDIT of Bikernet will pick the best looking tattoo of the month and we will make a custom Thunder Saddle with the Tattoo embossed on the saddle. Each saddle comes equipped with Saddlemen’s Saddle Gel. Saddle Gel makes an incredibly comfortable seat and allows you to stay on your motorcycle for longer periods of enjoyable riding.
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.
For more details and rules click here.
BIKERNET ART EXHIBIT OF THE WEEK FROM WHIPLASH–
–Bob Sofford Photos
soffordphotos@comcast.net
KNUCKLEHEAD DEAL OF THE WEEK–This is a classic, completely rebuilt original for only $25,000. Departure Bike Works is currently working on Biker Build-off that’s switching from Discovery to the Learning Channel next year. Jump on this one quick. If I had the coin I would.
Lee Clemens, the owner, just had knee surgery and he’s hurting. Get him while he’s weak.
–Departure Bike Works
EBAY Sales
EBAY@departure.com>EBAY@departure.com
(804) 339-8682
THE CODE OF THE WEST DEFINITIONS–We’ve all heard about people having guts or balls. But do you really know the difference between them? In an effort to keep you informed, the definition for each is listed below…GUTS – is arriving home late after a night out with the guys, being met by your wife with a broom, and having the guts to ask: “Are you still cleaning, Or are you flying somewhere?”BALLS – is coming home late after a night out with the guys, smelling of perfume and beer, lipstick on your collar, slapping your wife on the butt and having the balls to say: “You’re next.”
I hope this clears up any confusion on the definitions. Medically speaking, there is no difference in the outcome since both ultimately result in death.
–from RFR
STEVE TATE WINS A SET OF FAT CAT PERFORMANCE PIPES FROM D&D–Steve Tate sent the picture into the D&D Bikini Contest and won a free set of Fat Cat exhaust pipes from D&D Performance Enterprises. Steve’s picture won 55% of the voting. We think that a show-chrome D&D performance pipe will really make his bikini clad passenger stand out!
“I enjoyed looking at all the bikes that needed a pipe at the D&D Bikini Contest. Steve, thanks for participating and having some fun with us.” – Dave Rash, Mr. D&D
To see the other contestants in the D&D Bikini Contest, click here.
D&D Performance Enterprises uses the state of the art Super Flow Eddy Current Ram Air Dyno, Super Flow Flow Bench, and the first in the industry multi cylinder Lambda Fuel Air Ratio Sensors interfaced with the Dyno for real time meter and graph analysis.
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.
DEALERS WANTED FOR NEW WHEEL COMPANY–Oxnard, CA- Advanced Metalforming Technologies, Inc. (AMT), an industry-leading manufacturer of high-end aluminum wheels and blanks supplier to many of the industry’s leading wheel manufacturers has recently started manufacturing motorcycle wheels under their own brand name Forge-Tec Motorcycle Wheels and Accessories.
“We will be announcing new programs in Cincinnati, totally unique to this industry and am currently working on some production processes that will enable us to turn product around faster than any of our competition” stated Mark Finnie, VP/GM for the motorcycle division. Finnie stated that they should have no more than a 2 week lead time within the next 6 months and will have stock on hand for one of their new programs.
All processes are completed in-house, utilizing only state-of-the-art equipment and highly sophisticated process technologies. All Forge-Tec wheels are rotary forged utilizing one of their proprietary forge presses using only “virgin” aircraft grade 6061 aluminum, there’s no recycled aluminum in their products. Currently, Forge-Tec Motorcycle is already making complete wheels for Swift, Hellbound Steel Motorcycles and American Performance Cycles/APC. They also sell blanks to every major wheel player in the bike industry.
13 new styles will be introduced in Cincinnati, all in a wide variety of popular sizes and applications, with matching rotors, pulleys and sprockets. All wheels go out shipped with the rotors and pulley attached and torqued to OEM specs which eliminates a lot of guess work at the dealer level and ensures that wheels arrive to their customers in perfect condition.
For further information on complete wheels and accessories or blanks, please contact Forge-Tec Motorcycle directly at 805-982-9820 or email them at mfinnie@amtcorporate.com. Check out Forge-Tec’s ’07 product line at the Cincinnati Expo, Booth #270 or write to them at Forge-Tec Motorcycle Wheels and Accessories, 950 Richmond Ave., Oxnard, CA 93030. Dealer inquiries invited!
BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE–Duane Ballard Custom Leather has made seats for Discovery Biker Build Off master builders like Hank Young, Dave Perewitz, Cole Foster and Paul Yafee. Now you can have Duane build a seat for you as well.
Each seat is hand tooled on top grain cow hide, or a range of exotic leathers, and put together using the finest materials avaliable. For padding 135# compression foam or neoprene is used depending on the seat.
Duane will talk directly with you about the seat design desired since all of Duane Ballard Custom Leather seats are 100% done by Duanes own hands. All the sewing, lacing, dyeing, tooling, etc. No factory work here.
You provide a seat pan and to talk to Duane personally about the design and how you would like the seat shaped. Any kind of pan is fine. Aluminum, steel, fiberglass, plastic, carbon fiber, or a poly-pan will work. Duane will draw a design up based on your conversation and email the pics to you. Once you have found a design you like Duane will start the seat.
See for yourself why the Top Builders choose Duane Ballard Custom Leather Seats for their bikes. YOU deserve the same comfort and style that the Big Boys demand.
For more information, contact Duane Ballard Custom Leather at (603)781-7505, or visit http://www.dbcustomleather.com
Duane@dbcustomleather.com
NEW STAR CUSTOM WINDSHIELDS AVAILABLE FOR V STAR 1300– Cypress, CA (November 15, 2006) – Star Motorcycles is pleased to announce a variety of new windshield assemblies now available for the just introduced V Star 1300.
New windshield assemblies are available in three heights: Tall (23-1/4″ – the same height as the stock windshield on the V Star 1300 Tourer model), Medium (19″) and Short (15″). Replacement windshields are also available in the Tall, Medium and Short heights, making it easy to change your windshield to match changes in weather or attitude. All windshield assemblies will bolt directly onto the Tourer model or, with windshield mounts, onto the standard V Star 1300 model.”Our windshields not only offer the superior fit and finish everyone has come to expect from Star Custom Accessories; we went a step further by using a hard-coated polycarbonate windscreen material,” said Paul Gammerino, Accessory Division Product Planning Manager. “This makes these windshields three times more scratch-resistant than typical acrylic products.”
Windshield Assembly
Windshield assemblies are available in three heights: Tall (23-1/4″ – the same height as the standard Tourer), Medium (19″) and Short (15″). Replacement windshields are also available in Tall, Medium and Short height, making it easy to change your windshield to match changes in weather or attitude. All windshield assemblies will bolt directly onto the Tourer model or, with Windshield Mounts, onto the standard V Star 1300.Fits ’07 V Star 1300 & V Star 1300 Tourer
Tall Windshield Assembly
Part Number: STR-3D803-10-00
MSRP: $344.95
Medium Windshield Assembly
Part Number: STR-3D807-10-00
MSRP: $344.95
Short Windshield Assembly
Part Number: STR-3D806-10-00
MSRP: $344.95
Continued On Page 3
November 16, 2006 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
Whatta week. The holidays put extra pressure on folks and people go bananas. This last week contained a sprinkling of holiday upheaval. But even within this week the controversy simmered, folks spoke and solutions are being presented. I’m speaking of the Kids And Chrome Charity effort. I jumped on board three years ago because of the two distinct goals: Something for motorcycling the Sturgis Museum (Chrome) and something for kids, who will hopefully enjoy the Museum for years to come. I’ll deliver more reports on the effort and new opportunities over the next couple of weeks.
Then, just as folks snivel about a possible market downturn I sense the industry is exploding. Three manufacturers, including Harley-Davidson, Victory and Saxon are launching complete and distinctively new models in the middle of the model year. You’ll see the new Victory Touring model on Bikernet in a couple of weeks. In a couple of months Saxon will release their new Mad Jack bobber designed and built by Gard Hollinger of LA Choprods, and finally rumor has it that H-D is releasing a Custom Deuce replacement in June of next year. I know that John Buttera has been bleeding over his CNC machine designing something for H-D for a couple of years. Maybe this will be the fruit of his efforts.
Let’s hit the news and I will give you an update on our Bonneville effort. The first chapter is written and many of the players are in place. Waiting on our distinguished web master to launch the new Bonneville 2007 Effort Department in the Free section of Bikernet. You’ll see every step, every blunder and all the action.
BIKERNET SEAT OF THE WEEK–That seat is going on a bike being put together in someone’s home garage. The Board Track frame was designed by Rick Krost of U.S. Choppers. The seat top is all one piece of leather handtooled by me. The woodgrain was put in one line-at-a-time with a small sculpting tool. It took forever but it was worth it. The customer loves it. I’m also going to be covering his grips, pegs, etc. on the bike to match it. http://www.dbcustomleather.com
Duane Ballard Custom Leather
603-781-7505
36 Goen Rd.
New Ipswich, NH 03071
www.dbcustomleather.com
HINES EARNS THIRD CONSECUTIVE NHRA POWERADE CHAMPIONSHIP AT NHRA SEASON FINALE–POMONA, Calif. (Nov. 12, 2006) – When Matt Hines earned three consecutive NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle championships between 1997-’99, his little brother was 14 years old, just wandering around the Vance & Hines pit area.
Andrew Hines has grown up since then.
Now 23 years old, he spent Sunday celebrating his own threesome of NHRA championships. Hines successfully defended his 2004-’05 titles by earning the third consecutive Pro Stock Motorcycle title at the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals.
Hines said watching his older brother race helped him prepare for the championship seasons.
“Watching Matt race was a great way to spend my childhood,” Hines said. “I was just some punk younger brother stressing everyone out in the pits at the race track. I never wrenched on his bike the way he does mine. But being able to follow in his footsteps means a lot to me. I have great people who have encouraged me throughout my young career and I’m really lucky that way.
“To be only the third rider in NHRA history to win three consecutive championships (along with Matt Hines and Angelle Sampey) is just incredible.”
Matt Hines started tuning the V-Rod entries when Andrew Hines joined GT Tonglet as a two-bike program in 2003.
“My team took a punk rider without any experience and they made me a three-time champion,” Hines said. “I have no doubt that I have the best team in the business. We had some challenges this season but we didn’t buckle under the pressure. We just worked harder and got better as the season progressed.”
Hines said the only thing that would make earning a third championship any better would be to win the season finale race.
Hines was a runner-up in 2005, but didn’t get past the first round this time. Hines fouled at the starting line, giving the first round win to Tom Bradford (Buell).
“Matt is always helping me become a better rider and he always tells me to be a robot on the starting line,” Hines said. “I wasn’t today. My hand said it was time to go and I went early. It’s the kind of thing you have to take with a grain of salt. Having to sit around and wait to find out if you’re the champion again, knowing you don’t have any control over the situation anymore, wasn’t fun.”
Second-place Suzuki rider Antron Brown was down 43 points going into Sunday’s final eliminations. He closed the gap to 23 by winning his first round match up against Ryan Schnitz (Buell) before he faced off with Craig Treble (Suzuki) in Round Two.
Hines was forced to sit on the sidelines and watch. A win by Brown would have put him just three points down. A loss by Brown would ensure the title went to the Screamin’ Eagle team.
Treble beat Brown and Hines celebrated instantly. Treble went on to win the race on his Harry Lartigue-tuned bike.
“That was the worst time of my life, just sitting there, waiting for the race to unfold,” Hines said. “My knees were weak. I couldn’t even stand up until I saw the win light come on in Treble’s lane. I wanted the race to be won at the finish line. I kept hoping they wouldn’t red light. I wanted it to play out by performance and Treble pulled it off.”
Harley-Davidson Racing Manager Anne Paluso said the third championship is a tribute to the way the team continues to improve.
“When we started this program our goal was to first qualify for a race, then win a race and then start aiming for a championship,” Paluso said. “The plan was really to keep moving in that direction. The second championship was icing on the cake for the team but the third title is a real tribute to how they can continually improve and find ways to be competitive in a very tough Pro Stock Motorcycle field.”
And what does the father of the two championship winning sons think? Team owner and tuner Byron Hines never thought he would see six NHRA championship rings sitting in his trophy case.
“Never in a thousand years did I think this would happen,” Byron Hines said. “But Matt is a big reason why Andrew is the champion again. He brings so much knowledge and experience to the team and that has helped in some key situations that come up every once in a while. He has helped Andrew become a better rider and he was a big motivation to me this year too. He was probably one of the biggest reasons why we spent so much time testing and working on the dyno.
“We’re surrounded by people who help out in key situations. Terry Vance, Harley-Davidson and all the people back at the shop give us all the tools to get the job done and put together a third championship.”
Teammate GT Tonglet won his first round match up against Chip Ellis. Tonglet rode his V-Rod to a 7.104-second pass at 186.92 mph to top Ellis’ 7.144 at 185.31. Tonglet lost to Matt Smith in the second round. Smith recorded a 7.111 at 184.98, slipping past Tonglet’s 7.137 at 188.10. In qualifying, Tonglet turned in a 7.107 pass at 186.54, which was good enough for the No. 11 position. Tonglet earned one runner-up appearance this season en route to a 12th-place finish for the season.
Hines started the elimination round from the top this weekend. Hines was the No. 1 qualifier for the 19th time of his career and second time this season. Hines rode his Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson V-Rod to a 7.020 pass at 191.00 for the top position. He finished the season with three wins in five final round appearances.
At the end of the day and the season, Hines walked away with his third trophy – something he wasn’t sure would happen at the beginning of the season. “We came from behind to win this championship,” Hines said. “We tested in the offseason and we thought we were in good shape. Then we came out to the first race and we were behind the ball. We came back from that and other challenges throughout the season to earn this. We fought back all year and it paid off. It’s amazing to believe what this group accomplished this season. I’m so proud to be part of the team.”
2006 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle point standings following 15 of 15 events(Victories in parenthesis)
1. Andrew Hines, Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson V-Rod (3) 1,099
2. Antron Brown, Suzuki (2) 1,076
3. Angelle Sampey, Suzuki (3) 999
4. Chip Ellis, Buell (2) 892
5. Matt Smith, Buell (2) 857
6. Karen Stoffer, Suzuki (1) 814
7. Ryan Schnitz, Buell (1) 771
8. Tom Bradford, Buell 721
9. Geno Scali, Suzuki 705
10. Craig Treble, Team Tigue Suzuki (1) 675
BIKERNET TO MAKE NOISE PRESENTATION AT NATIONAL COALITION OF MOTORCYCLISTS CONVENTION IN MAY– We held our Convention planning during the NCOM Board Meeting this past weekend, and would like for you to come and give your Noise Study presentation. You’ll have approx 1-hour time slot on Friday. It was also decided to have you as our Silver Spoke Awards Banquet dinner speaker on Saturday night, to talk about the early history of the motorcycle rights movement and the founding of ABATE.
Hope this is all okay by you.
–BILL
Send a big bottle of Jack–Bandit
TODD’S CYCLE PROJECTS REPORT– We at Todd’s Cycle have been working hard on new projects that werereally excited to give your readers a sneak peak at what’s coming out. Wehave just completed a Sportster kit that transforms your bike from go toshow. This kit is our second such kit. Our first kit was designed for softtails.
All parts in this kit can be purchased individually. The kit includes ourStrip Bars, custom seat pan and gas tank. Strip bars are available in 13 or17-inch. They come black powder-coat, chrome, or raw. The seat pan comes withmounting hardware, raw or we can custom wrap it in leather.
The tank ishandcrafted and bolts right onto your stock’ 04 and up frame. The tank comesvented so its EPA legal. It holds approximately three gallons. We’re workingon the fuel injection versions and hope to have it out in a month orso. So check out our website for new and exciting updates and projects at WWW.Toddscycle.com
TODD’S CYCLE
15665 Commerce Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
714-901-4516 shop
714-901-4526 fax
WWW.Toddscycle.com
WORLD’S FASTEST BAGGER BONNEVILLE COMPETITION HEATS UP–Brian Klock of KlockWerks came to Bonneville last year to grab the World’s Fastest Bagger record. Another company has stepped up to enter the competition, California Customs.
“I wanted to give you an update on our Bonneville effort to build the world’s fastest bagger,” Joe Cree, the boss of California Customs. “We’re currently talking to several sponsors and looking for anyone interested in helping this effort. So far Daytec has been the first to step up and will be our frame supplier. We use their frames exclusively on all of our builds, so we’re very happy to have them on board for this venture. We also plan to team up with Duncan Keller at Yankee Engenuity, a world record holder in his own right. Duncan will be lending his talents to our power plant.”
We’re working with Joe and his crew, and you might see their entire effort unfold on Bikernet.
Joe Cree- California Customs
California Customs
bikes@calcustom.com>
DAVE ZIEN SUPPORT GROUP–“I’m still working on Zien to get a story out of him for Bikernet,” Said Tony Sanfelipo of Michael Hupy’s office. “Right now, he’s broke, will need a job after Jan.3rd, and has a campaign debt of about 7-$8,000. He’s hurting. I’m asking ABATE to hold an appreciation reception for his service and dedication to bikers, and to invite some of our legislative friends. Maybe help him with his debt. Have not heard back from them yet, but I will be with the State Director tonight at a road hazard meeting I organized with some DOT supervisors.”
Dave was a motorcycle rights supporter and a Wisconsin Senator for 20 years. We need to step up.
AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE 1902 AND ROXX TECH TRAILERS ANNOUNCE A LINE OF AMC2 CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE TRAILERS–American Motorcycle Co. 1902 is proud to announce its latest partnership and licensing/distribution agreement with Roxx Tec of Cresco, Iowa . Roxx Tec and AMC1902 are in the final stages of development of a first of its kind custom motorcycle trailer program designed from the ground up to meet the demands and needs of today’s motorcycle rider.
Branded the AMC2 line of Custom Motorcycle Trailers the two designs, & partnership, will be introduced at the Cincinnati V-Twin Expo. The “AMC2 Traveler” has more of a classic design and feel that will reflect any brand, or motorcycle enthusiast look and feel, while the “AMC2 Alpha Star” reflects the AMC1902 Motorcycle Mafia Creed and is designed with that edgier look and feel of today’s “custom” motorcycle rider.
Key design elements focused on today’s motorcycle designs, ride heights, lengths and size. The AMC2 Trailer program is a revolutionary aluminum custom motorcycle trailer design constructed for lightness, security, strength & durability. The trailer from the very beginning was developed for ease of loading today’s customs. Focus was given to trailer and motorcycle security, safety and protection to protect your big dollar motorcycle investments. Then we looked for that custom look and feel that we see in the motorcycles and the trucks that haul them to create styling that set’s us apart in the market.
These trailers will protect that big motorcycle investment, handle the longest choppers, lowest customs, and biggest baggers. The wider body design & its unique loading ramp design that will allow for safe loading for the lowest fat tire customs. Designs reflect that custom look and feel seen in today’s motorcycles and the trucks that haul them. Unique access door design allows easy access to adjustable newly designed tie downs and wheel chocks as well as two anodized cabinets, electric control panel, Roxx Tec is a newly formed custom trailer company formed by a team of the finest trailer engineers, designers, builders, and fabricators in the market today.
HAWAIIAN CHOPPER MAGAZINE LAUNCHES WEB SITE–After nearly three years in print, Hawaiian Chopper Magazine is finally on the web with our new website (www.hawaiianchops.com). That’s right! Now everyone can experience Hawaii’s motorcycle culture first hand. Designed and managed by Albert Ochosa of Rising Sun Media (web designer for Count’s Kustoms and Vince Neil Ink), Hawaiianchops.com is set up to bring you some aloha, and hopefully make you feel as if you are in the islands yourself. Sign up for the Hawaiian Chopper Blog, send a picture of your bike, or tell me about your latest riding experience… I hope you enjoy it as much as we did planning it.
On other news, the Hawaiian Chopper Winterfest & Bike Build-Off is just two weeks away (give or take a day or two), and as I expected, it’s growing bigger and better… Joining Chica, Cole Foster, Mondo, Todd Silicato, Big Mike and Count’s Kustoms, Vegas City Choppers own El Pitts has signed on for the December 3rd event. Yesterday we shipped over 20 custom choppers from San Diego, and I wouldn’t be surprised if more people get in on the party.
Watch Bikernet.com for more updates in the next two weeks, and if you’re in town, don’t miss the show.
–Aloha.
Steve Kalnasy
Editor-in-Chief
Hawaiian Chopper
RECOVERY RIDE IN VENTURA, CALIFORNIA–That website is www.recoverymonth.gov/2006. The new ride is Nov. 18th. in Ventura. Contact Candy@ (310) 679-9126, candy@bhs-inc.org
OUR CONDOLENCES–FYI, my friend Panhead Phil of Music City Motorcycles told me thatMike and Angela Brown of Amen Motorcycles unexpectedly lost their19-year old daughter, Ciera, due to health related issues on November11th.
On behalf of Phil, I’m sending this because he wanted to letthe motorcycle industry know about this sad passing so thatcondolences could be extended to the Brown family.
–Sasha
Continued On Page 2
November 16, 2006 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
CHOPPER CHICKS INTERNET TV–Finally after two months of shooting we hit the air. Got 11 episodes in the can now and more to come. This is the first of 11 Chopper Chicks shows throughout the U.S.
We will be looking for bike shops and chopper chicks in Seattle, L A, Dallas, Chicago, NY, South Beach, Daytona, Mid West, etc. At the end of the year it will be a 33 girl build off some place. Internet today TV tomorrow.
The show is airing NOW. Each week there will be new episodes posted and they just get better.The show aired Monday and there should be 4 episodes up today. As I mentioned this is the first of 11 planned shows throughout the U.S.
We are building fan base via the internet then plan to move to TV 2007, if all goes successfully…but we think we have a winner.
–Oschoolchoppers.com
Sin City, Nevada
http://www.chopperchicks.tv
OFFICIAL NEWS FROM THE HERITAGE MOTORCYCLE RALLY– It is with excitement that we announce the launchingof the official Heritage Million Dollar Bike Build-Off website!
www.heritagemilliondollarbikebuildoff.com
This site introduces you to the fifteen distinguished builders whoare right now in their shops, putting their heart and soul into whatthey hope will be named:”The Heritage One Million Dollar Grand Prize Winner”.
The builders with their bikes will arrive in Charleston, South Carolinaon April 13, 2007 to unveil to the public for the first time everthese creations. The builders will place them on display for eightdays and there these entries will remain for spectator voting andprofessional judging. Their final task of the competition will be a100-mile, non-stop, judged ride to test their handling androadworthiness.
If you can’t be in Charleston for the big show, or just simplydon’t want to wait to see these two-wheeled masterpieces on theESPN2 Series that Premieres April 9th for 13 weeks then check outthe First Look Fan Club on the site. Here, with membership, youwill be rewarded with sneak-peaks of the ESPN2 Series, the unveilingof the bikes along with many more cool “members-only” perks!
–from Rogue
2-WHEELER PRODUCT OF THE WEEK– Kat Eye Tail Light $21.00.
HELLS ANGELS, STATE FACE-OFF IN BIDDING WAR FOR CLUBHOUSE– Arizona Republic, AZ – It was Abe Lincoln who said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”Now, the Arizona Attorney General’s Office and the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club are testing that theory in a bidding war for the bikers’ clubhouse in Phoenix.State prosecutors, who obtained a half interest in the property under forfeiture laws, are competing with the outlaw club’s Cave Creek Charter to buy the house through a court-ordered auction.
Sonny Barger, a co-founder of the Hells Angels and member of the Cave Creek outfit (which is really in Phoenix), said the whole thing seems crazy: “Somebody in the state wants to say they threw us out of the clubhouse, even if they’ve got to buy it to prove it. Where do they get the money to do that?”
Andrea Esquer, a spokeswoman for Attorney General Terry Goddard, said state lawyers would not comment on why they are trying to acquire the house, where the purchase money would come from or what the plans are for the building.
The tale begins in 1996, with the purchase of vacant land at 1121 W. Ironwood Drive in the city’s Sunnyslope area. The buyers were Daniel “Hoover” Seybert, then club president, and Bob Eberhardt, who was vice president. Using money and manpower from their biker brothers, the men built an 1,800-square-foot structure that they completed in 1999. It has been used since then for twice-weekly Hells Angels gatherings, known as “church meetings.”
Eberhardt said the clubhouse includes some special features: reinforced-steel door and window frames, surveillance cameras and a 40-foot-long bar.In March 2003, Seybert was gunned down outside a Phoenix tavern by an unknown assailant, leaving his heirs as co-owners of the clubhouse with Eberhardt, owner of a concrete company. He ascended to the Hells Angels presidency.
Two years ago, law enforcement agents raided Hells Angels clubs statewide, including the house on Ironwood, as part of a huge federal sting known as Operation Black Biscuit.
The prosecution’s case, once touted as a landmark success, collapsed this year. Most defendants went free or pleaded guilty to minor charges. Racketeering allegations were dropped. No one from the Cave Creek Charter was convicted. An associate who was guarding the house during the raid and got shot by police sued the government. The case is pending.Meanwhile, state attorneys filed seizure papers alleging that the clubhouse was acquired with criminal racketeering funds. Eberhardt contested that claim in Maricopa County Superior Court and beat the government.
“They accused us of a lot of things they couldn’t prove,” he said.
However, because Hoover’s heirs did not fight the confiscation, the state became half-owner of the property.
“I don’t know how they could do that to Hoover. He was dead,” Barger said.
The result: a house divided. Eberhardt said the Hells Angels never stopped using the place or paid attention to a state notice banning guns and alcohol from the premises.
To resolve the situation, a special commissioner was assigned to determine the building’s fair-market value, which turned out to be $150,000. The house was put up for auction, with plans for Eberhardt and Arizona to split the proceeds. Two bids were submitted, each for $150,000. One came from Eberhardt, the other from Goddard’s office.
In court on Wednesday, Judge Kristin Hoffman gave the contestants seven days before a new round of bidding.
It is unclear whether the state will make a new offer and, if so, why. If the state were to prevail, the attorney general most likely would then auction off the house, a standard practice with homes obtained by forfeiture.Eberhardt has upped his bid to $160,000.
If the government wins, Eberhardt said, Arizona will be paying money to the Hells Angels. If that happens and the group loses its house? Eberhardt said he has a couple of options: He owns a house across the street suitable to become the new headquarters. Or he could take his proceeds and buy another place elsewhere in Phoenix: “I’d like to get in an even nicer area with even more expensive homes,” Eberhardt said.
–from Rogue
ROCKEM SOCKEM EASYRIDERS CENTERFOLD TOUR CONCEPT BIKE–Ralph Randolph was selected to be one of six builders chosen for the Easyriders Centerfold Tour. His bike will be shipped countrywide to over 12 Easyriders Bikes Shows in 2007. Here’s a concept illustration. Very cool.
S&S INTRODUCES OIL FILTERS–After years of engineering and developing the best engines in the v-twin aftermarket, S&S took a step back to look at what is most important to the life of their engines. Lubrication. Clean oil flowing through an air/oil-cooled engine is the surest way to prolong the life of the engine. The cleaner the oil flowing through the engine, the more effective it is at lubricating vital components and helping cool the engine down by moving the oil as quickly as the oil pump dictates.
For most, an oil filter is an oil filter. For S&S it represents another opportunity to ensure the life of a Proven Performance engine. So S&S Cycle designed and engineered an oil filter specifically for the entire line of S&S engines. The filters-available in black and chrome finishes-utilize a filtering media that traps the smallest particles possible without interrupting the velocity of oil flow from the pump. By eliminating the back-up that some filters can create, S&S has helped eliminate a significant amount of oil-carryover that can cause blow-by or sumping.The S&S oil filter was engineered to have a smaller outside case diameter than other filters on the market, making it easier to remove when mounted in close proximity to Crank Position Sensors and other engine components.S&S oil filters are available for all models of S&S engines and will work on other engines that are similar in engine family to the line of S&S Proven Performance engines.
For more information see your local S&S dealer or visit www.sscycle.comAdditional information available at (608) 627-1497
TBEAR CHARITY RAFFLE BUILD–Finally got the paper work straightened out with the N.Y. DMV on the bike that had not been registered since 1984.A minor hassel but worth the effort.
I got the entire bike stripped down and mounted the hard tail on today to check the fit.Here are a few photos of the roller before we tore it apart again today.
Gonna run the stock front end with a few modifications.Trying to keep the original 18″ rear wheel and the 19″ front if I can get the rim and hub all cleaned up. I love the look of the original front drum brake set up.Probably going to have the hub and rim powder coated black with a red pinstripe and twisted stainless spokes and going to polish the aluminum front brake unit.
Definitely going to run a remote oil filter and mount the CycleBoyz tail/stop light on the right rear. Gonna have to figure out the license plate bracket to work with them to avoid more wires on the other side of the frame for the light.Can’t wait to see what Hank is going to do with the tank and Duane with the seat.
What ever they do, I’m sure it’s gonna look killer.Kevin, the seat/spring mount studs on the rear of the seat pan should be 6″ apart ( 3″ each side of center) for the best fit on the rear cross member.
The unit construction 650cc motor is ready to ship down to Buck at Goblin Millworx in South Carolina for a complete re-build and the addition of a magneto.I’ve deceided to name the bike “The Von Zipper” after the Harvey Lembeck biker character in those old Frankie and Anette Beach Party movies from the mid ’60’s. Eric Von Zipper.
I was about 12 yrs old when I first went to the movies and got a chubbywatching those beach bunny babes in bikinis twisting in the sand.All my buddies wanted to be surfers, but I was into the Ratz MC and theirchopped Trumps.
Still need to come across something smoking for the oil tank. I’ll be hitting all the local farm and swap meets till I come across something suitable to make it from.I want to thank you Gents again for your contributions to this build.
I’ll keep you all posted as to its progress.
–TBear
CUSTOM BRAKE FITTINGS FROM STREAMLINE DESIGNS INC.– Introducing the Cleanest and easiest brake fittings on the market. Thread the 3/8-24 fitting into the brake or clutch and run your 3/16 kevlar reinforced tubing inside your frame or outside. Cut to length and push the hose in. that’s it no ferrules, no wrenching, no Nothing. and if you ever need to service it you just hold to collets down and pull the line out. No replacing the ferrules ever because there isn’t any.Attached is the fittings and hose pictures.
3/8-24 to 3/16 tubing Streamline fittings
Available now in
Chrome straight
Chrome 90 degree
3/16 hose by the foot.
Retail
$18.50 for the straight
$20.12 for the 90
$2.00 a foot for the tubing
Dealer Pricing available.
–Austin Weiss
Streamline Designs Inc
954 557 0977
http://www.streamlinedesignsinc.com
2007 Easyriders Centerfold Master Builder
ARLEN NESS BIKE SHOW SPONSORED BY BIKERNET.COM–Riding high on the growth and success of the American ThunderPromotions Donnie Smith Invitational Bike Show throughout the Midwest,American Thunder Promotions is going to California. Starting 2007 offright, American Thunder Promotions is taking over the famous San JoseConvention and Cultural Center in San Jose, California to bring thefirst ever Arlen Ness Bike Show to life!
This show will be like no other you have ever attended. Arlen and CoryNess invite you to be part of history as 42 different bikeclasses–including a Pro Class–are assembled under one roof for theultimate California bike show. American Thunder Promotions has beenpacking stadiums in the Midwest with their blend of incredible bikes,great vendors, displays and focus on fun, but now they have a chanceto get really wild with the show-stopping California machines.
This weekend in January will be like no other and nothing else youcould be doing will top meeting some of the biggest names in custombike building and seeing what wild creations they unveil at the show.Remember, the Arlen Ness Bike Show takes place just a few days beforethe biggest v-twin industry trade show, so new builds should be allover the show floor. With over 100,000 square feet of bikes and parts,how can you go wrong?
For tickets and information call (866) 746-7790
Arlen Ness Bike Show, San Jose California January 27-28, 2006.
KIWI MIKE WINS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD–I talked w/ Kiwi Mike this morning. He just won a entrepreneur award for the “innovator” category at a black tie event in Riverside last night. This was not tied to the industry at all, and I think it’s a cool personal achievement as well.
I must issue a word of caution: Beware of your stapler: I am bleeding all over my keyboard this morning; I was re-loading and clamped her shut…… all seemed well until I looked at my thumb and realized that there was a staple going through the bottom of my thumb and protruding through the top of my thumbnail !! Yes, I said through my thumbnail! I guess those staple things are made sharp at the factory…. didn’t feel a thing nor did it bleed; until I pulled it out. Apparently there are nerves in your thumb as well…..
I will be extra careful upon next reload- I suggest you do the same. HA!
–Rick
U.S. Choppers
2039 S. Lyon St
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714-546-4699
Appointments Only Please
www.uschopper.com
IT’S JACK DANIELS THURSDAY–Sometimes we think the Thursday News will kill us for sure. We start with a cup of coffee at the crack of dawn and don’t stop until it’s finished and launched. Sometimes it feels like producing an entire magazine in a day.
Yesterday I worked on our 2007 Bonneville Department and the first chapter explaining our World’s Fastest Panhead concept. I haven’t been in this speed game as long as Bob George, Dave Campos, Wink Eller, Carl Morrow or any number of guys who have ground cams in their sleep for decades, so don’t be surprised if I’m completely off base or out-to-lunch about my theories. What the hell, we only go around once, but I have a helluva team with me. In the next couple of days we’ll launch the new department in our Free Section and everyone can get involved through our sponsorship program.
Scooter, our Official Bikernet Bonneville Photographer for 2006, produced his own book on Bubs Bonneville and our 5-Ball Racing Team. It’s available on LuLu, and we’re working with Wolfgang Publishing on a book for 2007, so this bike better do something-fast.
Next week Scooter’s sending a Girl of Bikernet feature for the Cantina. We have another Digital Discovery. I need to write Keino’s bike feature and we have a Roland Sands feature waiting for the words from David Zelma at Performance Machine. Techs are coming from Frank Kaisler and Johnny Humble. Let us know if you need anything. We even have Christmas Fiction in the wings. Hang on, there’s never a dull moment at Bikernet.com.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
November 9, 2006 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
BIKERNET QUOTE OF THE WEEK–Good communication is as stimulating as black coffee and just as hard to sleep after.
–Anne Morrow Lindbergh,
aviation pioneer, writer
A CLASSROOM QUOTE FROM THE BIKERNET COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING–
A professor at the UCLA was giving a lecture on thesupernatural. To get a feel for his audience, he asked, “How many people here believe inghosts?” About 90 students raised their hand.
“Well, that’s a good start. Out of those of you who believe in ghosts, doany of you think you have seen a ghost?”About 40 students raised their hand.
“That’s really good. I’m really glad you take this seriously. Has anyonehere ever talked to a ghost?”About 15 students raised their hand.
“Has anyone here ever touched a ghost?”3 students raised their hand.
“That’s fantastic. Now let me ask you one question further…Have any of youever made love to a ghost?”
Way in the back, Bob T raised his hand. The professor took off his glasses,and said “Son, all the years I’ve been giving this lecture, no one has everclaimed to have made love to a ghost. You’ve got to come up here and tell usabout your experience.”
Bob T. replied with a nod and a grin, and began to make hisway up to the podium.
When he reached the front of the room, the professorasks, “So, Bob, tell us what it’s like to have sex with a ghost?”
Bob T. replied, “Oh,… from way back there, I thought you said Goats.”
from Nick Roberts
THE FIFTH WHEEL DRUG DEALER DIDN’T MAKE IT–A drug dealer in Jacob Lake, Arizona, found himself stranded on the side of the highway after his car broke down. He flagged down a passing truck driver, who was kind enough to pull his rig off the road and offer the stranded motorist a ride. The man said he didn’t want to leave all of his personal items in the car for fear they would be stolen and asked if he could take some stuff with him.
The driver said he understood completely – you can’t trust anyone these days. The motorist was thankful and in a few minutes he was back with his arms filled with stuff: some clothes, a shaving kit, some of this and some of that and, of course, a spare tire. The man insisted he needed to bring along the spare tire and asked the truck driver just to drop him off at a local motel.
The driver pulled into the motel parking lot and watched as the man walked toward his room, rolling the spare tire in front of him. People have taken strange things into their motel rooms before, but a spare tire got the driver’s attention and he thought he would bring it to the attention of the police.
The police, upon inspecting the tire, found eleven pounds of marijuana hidden inside it. Now the drug dealer had better hope he’s got another kind of spare – spare time, that is and lots of it.
–from Rogue
PAUGHCO DOG BONES– With the growing interest in traditional style Choppers; builders are going to appreciate the vast assortment of Chopper related accessories from PAUGHCO. Originally developed during the height of Chopper activity in the 60s and 70s, custom components such as these 8″ RISERS and DOGBONE TOP CLAMP retain the originals styling while benefiting from the latest in materials and manufacturing techniques. The TOP CLAMP is designed for use with stock, or Paughco Springer front ends and DOGBONE style risers. These flawless clamps are supplied with pinch bolts and measure 4 3?4″ center to center. PAUGHCO RISERS are the perfect match to any Glide front end or Paughco Springer.
RISERS are available with 3″, 4″, 6″ and 8″ rise and are machined for use with 1″ bars. As with all PAUGHCO products, RISERS and TOP CLAMPS are 100% made at the PAUGHCO factory and feature the company’s magnificent in-house chrome plating. These are the same products from the same manufacturer that set the custom H-D market in motion.
For complete details call 7752465738 or go to www.paughco.com.
NIGHT BLIND?–Headwinds introduces their new billet aluminum light bar for your FLST. It will help you see and be seen at night. Installation is easy. Attach a pair of 2-inch spots and the wires will be concealed in grooves held by clips. The bar matches the tree profile and mounts under your lower tree, bolted to the headlight mount. Available in polished aluminum or chrome plated.
IT’S LOVE RIDE WEEKEND IN LOS ANGELES–And folks are flying in from all over the country. Oliver, the boss of Glendale Harley-Davidson is a member of the notorious Uglys MC and his brothers are rolling in from far and wide, including Willie G. Speaking of old farts we had the privilege of shooting some of the rarest motorcycles in the country for magazine and future Bikernet features. The Minneapolis Tri-car is a one-of-a kind 1911 rarity. The 1907 Greyhound is also a super rare original paint model. Original paint bikes often pull more interest and dollars than completely restored examples.
Then we shot two Excelsiors, both 1911 models. One was restored like a fine antique watch and the other is a sympathetic restoration. That’s a new term for a lousy restoration that still looks cool or was given its ancient patina not by time, but by hand. Here’s what we have on the platter for next week: Several bike features including Keino’s recent feature bike. I hope to post a cop bike looking custom tomorrow from Ssinister Choppers in Phoenix. Another feature is rolling in from Rockem Sockem, also in Phoenix. We’re working on a feature on 2 Wheelers from Denver, a story from CapN Bill, a Virgin rider non-fiction story and several techs including one I’ll launch this evening from Sun Valley Motorcycle Products, a rear belt guard license plate and taillight bracket. Tomorrow, if the stars are in alignment I’ll post a tech on an Easy Clutch from Cycle Source. Man, what else. We have the new ChopperTown DVD about the Sinners that needs a review and we’ll review Charlie’s new show. I need to post Rebels final Buell Chopper installment.
I swear I’ll launch the new Bonneville 2007 tech department so you can follow the build of our World’s Fastest Panhead attempt. More Girls of Bikernet are headed toward the Cantina. More chapters of the Chance 2 book are ready to be edited, plus we have another rare find from the Bob T. collection for our Digital Discovery area.
Now, where’s a bottle of Jack Daniels when I need one. Keep in mind that your Cantina subscription supports our efforts to build Bikernet content for everyone to enjoy. Also sign-up in our Free Contest area for free shit and to receive alerts about new material on Bikernet.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit