David Uhl’s characteristic vintage paintings have become icons in the Harley-Davidson world. Admirers have witnessed his uncanny ability in images such as “Ruby” and “A Change in the Weather”. Collectors have come to expect the “bordering on perfection” techniques so prevalent in David’s style of art. Along with the accolades comes a deep sense of responsibility and respect that Mr. Uhl feels toward the subject matter. “Depicting Harley-Davidson motorcycles and staying true to the archival research is something I am very passionate about”, states Mr. Uhl, “It amazes me to consider the rich history and impact that Harley-Davidson has had on virtually every American citizen for the last century.  I am very honored to be a small part of this legacy.”

In being selected to paint an official 100th Anniversary work it was obvious that David would be depicting a very early event. This photo-research was fetched from the Rosencrans collection. Mr. Rosencrans was the company’s photographer in its infancy. A striking analogy is apparent in the scene as each individual is wearing a unique style of hat. This correlates with the modern notion that enthusiasts are “separate from the pack.” Lighting is an interesting aspect of the work. David explains the characteristics of painting an indoor scene vs. an outdoor scene: “The difference is huge; outdoor lighting always comes from one source, the sun, and heads in a single direction. Indoors, light refracts through the windows and bounces off every object in the room. Figuring gradations of shadows and the proper light hitting the subject’s faces requires playing up detail in some areas and suppressing detail in other areas. It is quite complicated; like comparing arithmetic to calculus.”

“A Model Champion”, David Uhl’s 100h Anniversary painting, depicts a simpler yet not less enthusiastic era in Harley-Davidson’s history. The expressions on their faces portray a sense of joy and a feeling that great things are in store for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Truly spectacular art raises more questions than it answers and leads us to the depths of our imaginations. David Uhl is dedicated to the purpose of educating and fascinating enthusiasts and art collectors alike. We look forward with great anticipation to the next 100 years.

See More From Segal Fine Motorcycle Art

BILL BISH REPORTS–JANKLOW GETS HIS LAW LICENSE BACK, HELMET LAW UNCONSTITUTIONAL, CALIFA GOVERNOR IN MC ACCIDENT, MISSISSIPP MOTORCYCLE TAX, COLORS DESCRIMINATION AND STOLEN BIKES ON THE RISE

THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at

COAST TO COAST BIKER NEWS
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish,
National Coalition of Motorcyclists

VIRGINIA HELMET LAW DECLARED UNCONSTITUTIONALLY VAGUE Portions of Virginia’s motorcycle helmet law were declared unconstitutional on Friday, December 9, 2005 by a judge of the Newport News Circuit Court. In a ten page memorandum order, Hon. H. Vincent Conway, Jr. held that the portions of Va. Code subsection 46.2-910 which defined the standards that a protective helmet must meet or exceed were unconstitutionally vague, denied due process and were unenforceable. The decision marked another victory in the battle by the Law Offices of Tom McGrath to challenge Virginia’s helmet law.

McGrath, who is the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) Attorney for Virginia, and his Newport News associate Matt Danielson concentrate their practice on representing injured motorcyclists. In addition, they provide legislative lobbying services and traffic citation defense for the motorcycling community.

In the past five years they have successfully defended over fifty bikers charged with violation of Virginia’s helmet statute. Although the constitutional arguments have been raised many times before, the courts have previously ruled that the Commonwealth could not prove a violation of the statute and thereby avoided a ruling on the constitutional issues. Judge Conway did not follow this course and instead found at least some of McGrath’s arguments to be persuasive.

“The impact of Judge Conway’s decision is that any helmet selected by a motorcyclist in Newport News now complies with the statute since the standards previously used have been invalidated,” explained McGrath.

BIKERS PROTEST DISCRIMINATION AGAINST “COLORS” Almost all Southern California motorcycle clubs put their differences aside to band together to fight outright discrimination on Sunday, December 4, 2005 at the Veterans Stadium during a monthly motorcycle swap meet that bars patcholders from attending.

Popeye, a board member of the Confederation of Clubs of Southern California and member of the Vietnam Vets MC, attended to help organize the rally with Gill Mellen, ABATE of California public relations officer.

Everyone took turns at the entrance with picket signs that said, “Stop Discrimination Against Patcholders,” “Together We Stand,” and other such slogans.

“As people and vendors rolled up they were told not to go in if they wanted to stand up for equal rights and that the same people they were banning were the ones who made the swap meet great,” wrote Karyn Chassman in Quick Throttle magazine. “A few vendors and lots of patrons turned around and left, which we applauded and cheered as they did.”

The protesters hoped to resolve the problems between the patcholders and the swap meet and to make bikers aware of the injustice and prejudice going on around them that they may one day face.

All in all, the protest accomplished it’s goals, as all parties involved, from the swap meet management to the Confederation of Clubs, are in communication and hope the resolve this matter positively and for the good of the entire motorcycling community.

POKER RUNS RULED ILLEGAL IN TEXAS While some nonprofit organizations raise money by hosting games of bingo and selling raffle tickets, motorcycle riders have had their own strategy to make giving fun – the poker run.

Although they can be organized differently, poker runs typically involve motorcycle riders paying a fee to participate and then they draw their cards at stops along a designated route. When they reach their destination, cash prizes are awarded for the best hands and sometimes the worst hand.

It’s a traditional way among bikers to have fun while raising money for a good cause, according to Sputnik, the state chairman of the Texas Motorcycle Rights Association, but Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott recently ruled that poker runs are illegal when participants must make a charitable donation to ride and have a chance to win cash prizes at the end.

“It’s just a way of life for us,” said Sputnik, who also serves on the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) Legislative Task Force. “It’s a way to get together, have fun and compete against each other. It’s not so much about the money.”

Abbott, however, has frustrated the bikers by recently declaring that poker runs constitute illegal gambling. “Even if the contribution goes to a charitable cause and the nonprofit organization will pay prizes from other money, a participant pays money for the chance to win a prize,” Abbott said in the opinion. “Thus we conclude … the nonprofit organization would become a custodian of a bet in violation of Texas law.”

Such a violation is a Class A misdemeanor and punishable by either fine of up to $4,000, up to a year in jail, or both.

The motorcycle community will appeal to legislators for a statute to allow poker runs and challenge the attorney general’s opinion in court, if necessary, Sputnik said. In the meantime, the motorcycle rights association will consult its attorneys to find ways around the ruling, he said.

“We’re going to look at getting around it on the basis of not being a game of chance, but a game of skill,” Sputnik said. “If that doesn’t work, we’ll look at doing something legislatively in the next session. It is really going to affect who we support in the election this time.”

GOVERNATOR INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and his 12 year old son, Patrick, received minor injuries in a recent motorcycle accident near their Brentwood home when a neighbor backed into the street in front of the governor’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle equipped with sidecar.

Schwarzenegger received 15 stitches to repair a cut lip, but may have skidded into more trouble when it was discovered that the big screen action hero has been riding motorcycles for years without a proper license endorsement.

The governor has the Class C license, which technically covers the operation of a sidecar under state motor vehicle law; but Schwarzenegger said he “never thought about” getting his motorcycle license. He said that he had a motorcycle license when he lived in Europe, but never considered obtaining another one after he immigrated to the United States in 1968.

But now after all the brouhaha over his most recent accident, he has promised to get his license and vowed to continue to ride. In December 2001, Schwarzenegger broke six ribs and was hospitalized for four days after a motorcycle crash in Los Angeles when a car stopped in front of him and he was unable to change lanes to avoid the vehicle.

JANKLOW GETS LAW LICENSE BACK The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled on January 5th to reinstate the law license of former Congressman Bill Janklow, who was convicted of felony manslaughter in the traffic death of a motorcyclist in 2003.

The former four-term governor was forced to resign from Congress and lost his license and right to practice law when he was convicted of second-degree manslaughter, reckless driving, speeding and failure to stop at a stop sign in the death of motorcyclist Randy Scott, 55. who was killed in August 2003 when Janklow blew through a stop sign and into the path of Scott’s motorcycle.

After a jury found him guilty, Janklow was sentenced to only 100 days in jail, was placed on probation until January 2007 and cannot drive for three years.

BIKE THEFTS SURGE It’s no secret that in the last five years, the motorcycle market has experienced phenomenal growth. Sales have doubled since 1999 and reached their highest levels in three decades. Unfortunately, going hand in hand with that has been an alarming increase in the instances of bike theft.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that motorcycle theft increased more than 55% from 2002 to 2003 in the U.S. and Canada. That’s one bike stolen every 9.5 minutes. Of these stolen bikes, only 25-30% were recovered.

What are the most effective means of protecting your ride? A survey conducted last spring by Opinion Research Corporation indicated what bike owners are currently doing: 88% always keep their bikes concealed in a garage or storage area when parked at home; 80% remove their keys from their parked bikes; 76% use locks; 62% park in a well-lit area and 47% use kill stitches in an attempt to prevent theft.

Only 16% use alarms.

MISSISSIPPI MOTORCYCLE OWNERS UNFAIRLY TAXED The Mississippi State Tax Commission recently decided to double and in some cases triple the ad valorem tax on motorcycles, directing the collection of more tax on new motorcycles than on cars and trucks that cost twice as much, making motorcyclists shoulder an unfair share of the tax burden.

Previously, the state taxed motorcycles from value schedules based on the displacement of the engine. On Sept. 1, the Tax Commission began using a computer program purchased from R.L. Polk & Co. to calculate the assessed value of each motorcycle.

There are four problems with what is now going on:

* The sales tax on new motorcycles is 7 percent. Purchasers of new cars and trucks are charged only 5 percent.

* Under the current system for collecting ad valorem taxes on cars and trucks, the tax is based on a figure which is 90 percent of Manufacturers’ Suggested Retail Price. The calculation of the tax on motorcycles uses MSRP as “true value.”

* Owners of cars and trucks receive a “legislative tax credit” which significantly reduces the ad valorem tax they pay when they purchase and renew their tags, whereas motorcycles were specifically exempted.

* The taxation of motorcycles is done in secret, out of public view, and Public Records Act requests for access to the program have been denied.

To address this inequity, Mississippi State Representatives Beckett and Bounds have introduced House Bill 55; “AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 27-51-101, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO INCLUDE MOTORCYCLES IN THE DEFINITION OF “PRIVATE CARRIER OF PASSENGERS” FOR THE PURPOSES OF BEING ELIGIBLE FOR A TAX CREDIT AGAINST MOTOR VEHICLE AD VALOREM TAXES; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.”

According to ABATE of Mississippi, the motorcycle community is not looking for any special treatment, we are just asking for equality.

S.C. BILL WOULD MAKE STOP LIGHTS OPTIONAL FOR BIKERS With 44 years of motorcycle riding experience, Billy Richardson knows what he likes – “You’re out in the open a lot more, it’s more relaxing” – and what he doesn’t. “I get upset sitting at the traffic lights and waiting all the time,” he says.

It’s a problem that not only irritated him, but it prompted him to write a bill. A piece of legislation that – if passed – would turn sensored stop lights into stop signs for motorcycle riders.

Richardson proposed the legislation because he says most bikes aren’t heavy enough to set off sensors, so unless a car pulled up, the light wouldn’t change.

“We want the freedom to go if the road is clear. We’re not going to pull out. Trust me, ain’t no motorcycle gonna pull out in front of nobody,” he says.

They would, though, get to go straight, go left, whatever, when drivers of cars couldn’t.

He says he has a lot of support and hopes to soon get the green light to go on red.

“We’ve got good positive feedback about it and I feel good. I won’t lie about it, I feel good,” he says with a grin.

Richardson says Minnesota, Tennessee and Arkansas already have similar laws in effect.

MALAYSIAN CITIES MAY BAN MOTORCYCLES The Government of Malaysia has been urged to ban motorcycle use in city centers to reduce accidents. Malaysian Association for Community Development Volunteers (MACOM) president, Norizan Sharif said current actions against errant motorcyclists had not been effective.

Norizan added that such a ban would help reduce the number of vehicles going into city centers, accidents, illegal racing and related problems. The ban could also help reduce crimes such as snatch thefts and also air and noise pollution, she added.

“There is sufficient cheap public transport in Malaysian cities which can be used by motorcyclists,” she said, adding that motorcycles should continue to be allowed in rural areas because public transportation there is still lacking.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: ?Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, I will try again tomorrow.?

Mary Anne Radmacher-Hershey, American Poet & Inspirational Writer

BIKERNET NEWS SPECIAL REPORTS – SAMSON ON PERFORMANCE EXHAUST, JAQ ON RIDING 200 MPH, CARRIE ON ROADHOUSE TOUR, OPRAH ON BIKERNET, JUDGE ON MOONING, MISS ON MC TAX, ND ON SURVIVOR, S&S ON CLOCKS, FLA MUSEUM ON MC ART, BIKERNET ON BONNEVILLE AND HARLEY ON STOCK GROWTH

Continued From Page 3

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE TOUR FOR 2006–The candidates are ready to reveal from Carrie Rep, the boss bombshell behind the RoadHouse tour sponsored by Bikernet.com. The tent series will be featured at all major events and give four builders a terrific party location to display their wares and show off their custom creation created specifically for the Roadhouse tour. Each bike will be featured on Bikernet and in national magazines.

“Yes, we’re ready to announce!,” Carrie said. Keino & Paul Cox, Aaron Greene, Gard Hollinger, EricGorges are the builders for 2006. Watch for news on these bikes and the tour throughout the year, but for sure they will be featured in Sturgis, Daytona, Biketoberfest and more including Bikernet.com.

If you go to any of these events you’ll have the opportunity to sign up for the chance to win a one-off world class custom of your choosing. Watch for more info soon.

JOES GARAGE COMES TO BIKERNET–Joe’s garage is owned by Joe, a gentleman, who made a fortune in southern California through real estate and car dealerships. Throughout his life he collected race cars and motorcycles and now shares them with the public through a banquet facility he built. We recently roamed the halls and took a couple of bike features of classic motorcycles including this historic flat tracking Indian Scout.

Watch for the features to pop up on Bikernet and in a national motorcycle magazine.

OPRAH WINFREY COMES TO BIKERNET–Oprah Winfrey roundly endorsed James Frey’s “A Million Little Pieces,” which topped best-seller lists since the TV star picked the “nonfiction” memoir for her book club. Winfrey called Frey’s book “so real.”

It turns out that the blockbuster is filled with fabrications, falsehoods, and other fakery, as an investigation by The Smoking Gun has shown:

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/0104061jamesfrey1.html

–from Art Friedman

MOONING DEEMED DISQUISTING BUT LEGAL IN MARYLAND– WASHINGTON – Acquitting a Germantown man who exposed his buttocks during an argument with a neighbor, a Montgomery County Circuit Court judge ruled yesterday that mooning, while distasteful, is not illegal in Maryland.

“If exposure of half of the buttock constituted indecent exposure, any woman wearing a thong at the beach at Ocean City would be guilty,” Judge John W. Debelius III said after the bench trial, reversing the ruling of a District Court judge.

Debelius made clear his disdain for the defendant, calling the alleged act “disgusting” and “demeaning.” The outcome could have been different, he suggested, if the man had been on trial for “being a jerk.”

The case arose from a June 7 argument between the defendant, Raymond Hugh McNealy, 44, and a neighbor, Nanette Vonfeldt. Vonfeldt pressed charges against McNealy after he allegedly yelled and, according to Vonfeldt, threatened to “blow up my building” as she and her 8-year-old daughter walked out of their apartment, in the 20200 block of Shipley Terrace in Germantown.

“Then, for whatever reason, in full view of my daughter, he mooned us,” Vonfeldt wrote in a court document. The two had a long-standing feud over issues before their homeowners association, which held a heated meeting the night before, McNealy’s attorneys said. McNealy wanted Vonfeldt off the association’s board, his attorneys said.

–from Rogue

MISSISSIPPI MOTORCYCLE TAX ADMENDMENT– HOUSE BILL NO. 55 AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 27-51-101, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TOINCLUDE MOTORCYCLES IN THE DEFINITION OF ” PRIVATE CARRIER OFPASSENGERS ” FOR THE PURPOSE OF BEING ELIGIBLE FOR A TAX CREDITAGAINST MOTOR VEHICLE AD VALOREM TAXES; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

Now here’s what ABATE wants from the motorcyclists in the State ofMississippi, If you agree with the above statements please copy andpaste this e-mail to a new one sign it with your name and addressand forward it on. We would like to have this petition returned tome in 7 to 10 days. Please help us fight for your freedoms andrights in Mississippi.

This from ABATE State DirectorPlease copy, paste “sign” and return to PaulHis email address is Ripvanrut@aol.com

–Paul Rutledge, State Director
ABATE of Mississippi

SURVIVOR SHOW COMES TO NORTH DAKOTA–Due to the popularity of the Survivor’s shows, North Dakota is planning to do its own, titled “Survivor – Dakota Style.” The contestants will start in Fargo, travel south to Wahpeton, then west to Edgely, Linton, and on to Mott. Then they will head north to Dickinson, Watford City, and Williston.

From there they will proceed east on to Stanley and Minot. Then they will go southeast to Carrington, back up to Devils Lake and on to Grand Forks before heading back to Fargo.

Each will be driving a pink Volvo with California license plates and a large bumper sticker that reads: “I’m gay. I’m a Vegetarian. Beer is harmful to Your health. Republicans suck. Hillary in 2008. Deer hunting is murder, and I’m here to confiscate your guns.”

The first one that makes it back to Fargo alive wins. Good luck to all contestants.

–Rick S.

NEW S&S NEON CLOCK SALE– The S&S Cycle neon clock was made famous by countless appearances on motorcycle television programs throughout 2005. It seemed that every time a builder looked up to see what time it was in his project, the S&S clock was getting camera time. For 2006, the clock and its packaging have been updated to dress up the walls of your office, garage, shop or basement, so you can know what time it is, even if you are not on television. Normally the clock sells for $89.95 plush shipping and handling, but until January 31st, you can get a 10% discount on the purchase of the S&S Neon Clock by using Coupon Code SSC1316.

With the S&S Cycle Proven Performance logo in the center and a band of neon around the perimeter, the new clock is sure to help bike builders stay on track with every project they take on. It is the perfect addition to any garage or office, letting everyone that checks the time know you believe in Proven Performance.

FLORIDA MUSEUM TAKES AN ARTFUL MOTORCYCLE ANGLE– A exhibition of 70 motorcycles spanning 120 years makes the connection between transportion, art, design and popular culture.BY GARY McKECHNIE AND NANCY HOWELL Special to The Miami Herald What’s the subject of Florida’s hottest art exhibition? Manets? Monets? Mummies?Try motorcycles. A fleet of more than 70 streamlined, sensuous, and seductive motorcycles rolling into the Orlando Museum of Art Jan. 22 through July 23 in an exhibit that explores the motorcycle as both cultural icon and design achievement.

If the exhibition sounds familiar, think back to 1998 when Art of the Motorcycle was one of most popular presentations ever displayed at New York’s Guggenheim Museum. The exhibit later set attendance records in Las Vegas and Memphis.

Now, in its exclusive Florida showing, the most expertly designed motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds will challenge conventional assumptions about art and popular culture.And it’ll look darned cool while doing it.BUT IS IT ART?

Motorcycling is the rare pastime that combines transportation with a passion for life. Riding a motorcycle links serenity with discovery; it defines freedom, self-expression, and adventure. It satisfies a range of desires from adrenaline to Zen. And it accomplishes all of this by design. Artistic and functional design.

Even when propped on its center stand, a motorcycle looks fleet and fast. The pipes sweeping back from the compact engine, the curved fuel tank placed smartly between the rider and the handlebars, the saddlebags tapering off the tail end of the bike, the front wheel piercing the road ahead. Everything — with the possible exception of leather tassels dangling from the handgrips — is there for a reason. These elements combined, a motorcycle is, by design, a work of art.

With the Art of the Motorcycle, the Orlando Museum of Art has opened the throttle on what may become the most impressive exhibition in its 77-year history.

–from Rogue

This is what one Bikernet Racer will look like, sorta, but with a light glide (Sportster) front end and disc brakes.

BIKERNET BONNEVILLE EFFORT RESEARCH BEGINS– Seeing as how you plan to go 200 MPH, and seeing as how I am probably the only guy at Bikernet who rides fast bikes on a regualr basis, I thought I’d better chime in with some ideas for you mate.

Describe or send me a pic of what your speed demon is going to look like when you race it.Is it going to have one of those fully enclosed canopies, ala the Worlds Fastest Indian and the original Easyriders type salt flats bike or is it going to be just a normalish looking two wheeled machine?I am guessing the latter.

I am also guessing your going to have some kind of windshield or fairing at the front and sides of the bike?Ideas are changing in the sports bike world about weather an angular, sharp shield is more effective than a smooth curved shield.

I think sharp and angular is ok if there is no strong side wind. Flat panels get wind blasted.

Now you can save weight by not having any brakes…I kid you not.You can also save weight by having very small ones and a smaller disc than most on- road bikes use, like a lighter disc from a trailbike.Aluminium handlebars. Aluminium as much as you can actually!

I am going to take a look at some stuff I have from the UK 200 MPH club, I recall they had some useful info, just can’t remember it all.

Assuming you are riding a bike and not lying down inside a rocket canopy…what’s your thought on the gear your going to wear?Some of the new full face helmets, like Nitro, have wind deflection scallops on the back, great idea.When you’re doing real fast speed on a bike you need to cellotape (sticky tape) the visor shut. Have someone do it just before you take off. People say with modern visors you don’t have to… At 200 MPH I would not be taking any chances it might flip open myself.Make sure the helmet is a real tight fit also.

If it’s very sunny and the glare is a problem, apart from a tinted visor; grab a roll of black electrical tape, the half inch wide vinyl stuff. Lay one strip across the top edge of the visor. Then one below just overlapping the first piece a little. Keeps the sun out of your eyes.

Race skins, leathers; tight form fitting ones with as much body armour as you can stand. Or…get a body armour zip up jacket outfit, connected by mesh, and put your riding jacket over the top. Some street racers now put the armour mesh over the top of their jackets to save the leather, the armour mesh outfit takes the brunt of any impact.Most mesh armour now comes with a good back protector also.

Gloves…personal choice as to what you want of course, but make sure they come well over cuffs of jacket to stop any wind going down sleeves of jacket, it’s all wind resistance you don’t need. Collar needs to be round and a good fit, to stop wind blasting down the neck area. Can be padded out by a folded bandana.

Leather pants tucked into smooth leather race boots, wrap some of that silver plastic tape, the two inch wide stuff, around top of boot…stops wind deflecting around top of boot. Like a seal. If pants are a bit loose around the knee area, wrap more silver tape above and below knee after you get on bike.The end of all the tape needs to facing away from the direction you are travelling in. So the wind actually presses the tape tighter!

If you’re wearing a two piece jacket and pants outfit, more tape wrapped around waist to join suit together and not let any wind get up under jacket. It all slows you down.Some guys even polish their jackets before they do speed runs!

I am sure there is tons of stuff I have not thought of.Here is something new from the UK MC news desk…they say that studies have proven that synthectic oil DOES NOT cause any clutch slippage whatsoever, that it is a myth.They say if your clutch starts to slip after you use syn oil, clutch was probably on the way out and the better oil simply showed the problem up because the oil is so much “slipperier” I am still thinking on that suggestion.

— Jaq.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ECONOMIC LESSON TIME–When Harley-Davidson Inc.’s stock price fell 22 percent over three days in April, Mark Sellers became an aggressive buyer.”I like to buy shares when there’s a panic,” said Sellers, a former Morningstar editor who launched his Chicago-based Sellers Capital Management in 2003. “When people hate a company, that’s when I buy.”

At the time, many Harley investors were selling, spooked by the company’s announcement that flat sales for the first quarter would force a cut in the year’s earnings forecast.Like other value investors eyeing Harley-Davidson, Sellers saw a company that has produced earnings growth averaging 26 percent during the past 10 years, has a return on equity of more than 28.8 percent and has one of the most recognizable brands in the country, if not the world.Additionally, the Milwaukee-based motorcycle manufacturer has relatively little debt and held $437 million in cash at the end of September. In recent years, the company has used its cash to repurchase stock and increase its dividend, and it is expected to generate a cash-flow return on investment of about 20 percent on roughly $5.3 billion in revenue. That’s more typical of a high-powered consumer products company.

After shares dropped to the mid-$40s from near $60 in April, Sellers saw a classically undervalued, oversold stock.In contrast, when Harley’s stock made its way into the mid-$50s per share toward the end of last year, Sellers began to sell much of his position as concerns arose about Harley’s aging customer base, rising interest rates and high gasoline prices. Most alarming, Sellers saw increasing dealer inventories, a sign of overproduction.

Even with its dominant position in the U.S. heavyweight motorcycle market, with a 48 percent share, followed by Honda at 19 percent and Suzuki at 10 percent, Harley-Davidson investors are, to use a roadster pun, at a crossroads.

Can the company meet its ambitious production goal of a 5 percent to 9 percent increase in 2006 by appealing to younger riders and largely untapped markets in Europe and Asia? Or is Harley-Davidson headed for the same flat production levels that helped cause its stock to drop so rapidly in April?

Anthony Gikas, a senior research analyst at Piper Jaffray in Minneapolis, was one who looked at increased dealer inventories and lowered his 2006 production forecast for Harley to unchanged from a 6 percent increase. Gikas, who rates the stock a “market perform,” predicted that Harley shares will remain range-bound for the near to mid-term.

But Linda Bannister, a consumer analyst at Edward Jones & Co. in St. Louis, said Harley-Davidson’s new sporty bikes make it well-positioned to meet its production goals while growing earnings at a high-single-digit rate, even without share repurchases.

Bannister does not see the inventory build-up as a problem. She points out that Harley long has intended to increase revenue by giving dealers more bikes to sell. Large inventories, she added, make it unlikely that prospective buyers, who had to join a waiting list in the past, will instead buy a Honda.

“Harley’s whole goal has been to get inventory at the dealers,” Bannister said. “That makes sense for the company to grow.”

Harley’s push during the past five years to increase production is in marked contrast to previous years, when the company regularly kept a lid on output to keep prices high. That was never so true as during its 1960s heydays, when the big bike emerged as a cult phenomenon. Back then, Sellers said, Harley could afford to foster its artificial scarcity.But in the 1970s and much of the ’80s, Harley lost its footing when competition from Yamaha and Kawasaki imports, coupled with questions about product quality, nearly leveled the company.

Starting in the early ’80s, Harley undertook a 20-year resurgence in which a new management team successfully leveraged its iconic brand while improving its big machines. James Ziemer, who took over as chief executive last year, was an original member of that management group.

Although some investors may flinch at the company’s decelerating earnings growth, Bannister argues that its high free cash flow offers ample compensation. Earnings per share grew 20 percent in 2004, and she expects 13 percent growth in 2005 and 10 percent this year. But the company also generates $800 million a year in cash.

“It’s the law of large numbers; all companies slow down in terms of growth,” she said. “We think the stock price is overly discounting earnings deceleration. What’s important is what the company is worth.”

By Bannister’s calculations, Harley’s shares trade at roughly 14 times the company’s 2006 earnings. During the past four years, Harley has sported a price-to-earnings multiple just below 25. If history is any guide, Harley’s shares are cheap.

As for Sellers, whose fund manages $50 million, he’s waiting for the next panic.”I love the company, but not as much as I used to because of the fact that they have to grow,” he said. “Right now, there’s no panic priced into the shares, so I’m waiting.”

–from Rogue

BIKERNET BONNEVILLE TEAM SECRET FILES–Bonneville is the Holy Grail for many racers. It’s a far reaching, flat, moon scape of 65 square miles of salt. It’s a place for speed, real speed, top, all-out speed. We have three teams going so far, Chop and Grind from 13 Palms, California, Custom Performance from Phoenix and the Headquarters crew, or the 5-Ball Racing Team with Custom Chrome, Accurate Engineering, Baker Transmission and Departure Bike Works. We will share info, tips, connections, parts, you name it. Below is a performance exhaust lesson from Kenny Samson, the founder and head cleaning lady, at Samson Exhaust. Check it out:

The best thing to do is to start at the port diameter for flange fitment ofthe particular head. It is usually 1 3/4″ on most Harleys but the 45 may be1 5/8″. The rule of thumb as starters is to make each step about 8 inches long.The steps should be no more than 1/4″ increases but for fine tuning 1/8″increases would be better. The overall length is also important as well asthe step lengths.

I think you know Wink Eller, he ran our pipes on his RedOctober bike that were straight 1 3/4″ cut to the best performing length. Itdoes get involved and one set of pipes will not get you what you want. It’sexperimentations on section lengths, diameters, and overall length thatmatters.

Keep in mind that torque and horsepower are two different thingsand to get the best HP you need free flowing pipes but to get best torqueyou have to figure velocity into the equation.

My best advice is to buildyour engine the best performer you can with compression and cam lift,duration, timing, head flow, combustion squish and swirl, and blue printedto make sure the old cases are as square as possible.

Most Panheads tend towarp on the barrels base areas of the cases toward the cam side as well asthe lifter block surfaces. Don’t forget to square the barrel bases to thebore as well. You don’t want the piston going up and down cocked in thebarrel. This is a very common occurrence I think most people don’t have aclue about it, unless they have done some of this stuff before. I have squaredmy engines in the past and kicked ass on other people with the same cam,bore, stroke, compression, etc and it was just fun to know what I did andnot tell.

By the way, engine case distortion is almost a definite issue.It’s easily fixed by a skilled machinist who knows not to fuck it up.

Enoughranting…… geez I haven’t had to think this much in a long time and yougot my gray matter in a mush.

PS reversion cones only inhibit high flow and are mostly for low to mid range power by increasing velocity.

DONE DEAL—-Terrific news. Good info, jokes and I appreciate the timely contributions from all over the world. I get caught up with mixed feelings from time to time. It?s that artistic side, the Pisces in me. We struggled a long time to make Bikernet survive. Guys I promoted for years never stepped up to help. Guys like Dana Coates of Bros Club has consistently supported us. He was our insurance agent at Easyriders and took over the Bros Club.

Dana stuck with us as our numbers grew. Up against the HOG group and AAA Dana has built a helluva road service program for all riders. It?s a safety net for riders out on the road.

Okay, I jumped away from the computer for a half hour and adjusted the valves on the Sturgis Shovel. We just replaced the old stock, rebuilt heads with new S&S redesigned performance Shovelheads. It runs better already.

The plan was to eliminate my grandson?s mini-chop and the Shovelhead from the lifts and get rolling on the Bonneville/Sturgis efforts for 2006. We were successful. As of this weekend we will ship the 45 flathead engine and trans and start to work on the rolling chassis. Plus the CCI V Santee Frame will feel the cold steel on another lift as we begin to put the kit together and make our Bonneville based mods. Hang on for reports.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

New Bikernet T-Shirts

That’s right the new Bikernet T’s are here. This bold new design is printed on Hane’s beefy T’s.

This makes for comfort and durability rendering this the only shirt you’ll reach in your closet.Especial if are lovely Amanda was still in it.

So fuck it all, and fucking no regrets. Ride forever no matter who’s on your tail.

Check it out.

BIKERNET NEWS SPOTS -AMERICAN IRON HORSE LOSES BOSS, WHIPLASH PHOTO, STAMPEDE FRAMES, CRAZY HORSE TRIED TO PAINT, MIKE LEARN AIR BRUSHED, STEALTH BD BLUES, BIKE SHOW COMING AND A BIKERNET BOOK REVIEW

Continued From Page 2

TIM EDMONDSON SELLS STAKE IN AMERICAN IRONHORSE– FORT WORTH, Texas (Jan. 13, 2005) American IronHorse Motorcycle co-founder Tim Edmondson has resigned his board position with the company and sold all of his stake in American IronHorse to the company’s leading shareholder Xponential, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: XPOI).

“It’s been a great run the last 10 years with American IronHorse but it’s time for me to move on to my next adventure,” said Edmondson. “Since 2004, after resigning as chief designer from the company, I’ve remained a director of the company helping to guide American IronHorse at its highest level. During this time, I?m very pleased that the company has continued to excel in the industry. However, my responsibilities with IronHorse have limited my ability to pursue other ideas in the motorcycle arena. I’m really looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life in an industry that I’m very passionate about.”

Edmondson co-founded American IronHorse in 1995 with Bill Rucker. He served as president of the company until 2003 after which he assumed the role of chief designer. Then in spring of 2004, Edmondson resigned from his day-to-day role at American IronHorse. While at American IronHorse, he was responsible for designing and introducing the motorcycle world?s first production chopper model ? the Texas Chopper. The Texas Chopper has become an industry icon and remains American IronHorse’s best-selling model. It is also at the center of the company’s 10th anniversary campaign.

Edmondson plans to debut several new ECB products at 2006 Daytona Bike Week. He also will soon release the details of an exciting custom bike project with Duesenberg Motor Co. Visit Tim Edmondson online at http://www.timedmondson.com.

BIKERNET WEEKLY PHOTO ART EXHIBIT–Bugs eye view of some bikes at Sturgis 2004.

Ride Hard,
–Whiplash Biker Photog
soffordphotos@comcast.net

STAMPEDE FRAMES AND 240 WIDE TIRE KITS– STAMPEDE FRAMES are an exclusive line from MC Advantages. Customer requirements determine the specification, covering styles from chopper to Pro Street. The options include swingarms to fit tires from 200- up to 330-series and any combination of rake and stretches, curved downtube and left or right-side drive.

The mounts and side-plates are CNC-machined and the tubing is DOM steel. Tubes are 111/2in diameter for the frame rails, 13/4in for the backbone and 2in for the downtube. Components are held in a fixture for accurate assembly by TIG-welding. Frames include an internal fork-stop plate. Swingarms feature hidden axle adjusters, flushtmount side plates and axle housings. Further frame options include a curved downtube and a dropseat. A center-fill, top mount oil tank can also be supplied.

Stampede frames are also available as part of a roller package. This includes the frame fabricated to customer specification, a Spyke front end, Progressive Suspension zinc Softail shocks and a free set of Stampede forward controls.

If required, MC Advantages can also supply suitable standard powertrain options.

Also shown here is a new line of wide tire kits that include 240mm conversions for V-Rods. Made by Fat Baggers, this bolt-on kit is said to turn “average looking V-Rods into muscular monsters with road-hugging power”, according to the company.

Each kit comes with swingarm front pivot axle, rear axle and spacers, 18in by 8.5in rear wheel, a Metzeler 240 tire, front sprocket hub, inner fender, license plate mount and hardware.

MC ADVANTAGES
Grimes, Iowa, USA
Tel: 800 726 9620
Fax: 515 369 4320
E-mail:steve@mcadvantages.com
http://www.mcadvantages.com

THE CRAZY HORSE PAINT REPORT–Big Book Sale over at Crazy Horse Painting! Only $18.95 for 158 pages of bike painting information. 500 color photos in each book. Step by step chapters that take the reader through every step in the custom paint process. Save $6.00 off the retail price of each book. Buy both books and save on shipping. Buy two, pay for shipping one! If you’re painting a bike or thinking about painting a bike, then take a look at these books. Go on over and see what people are saying about them. I guarantee they will be the handiest painting tool in your shop. From bodywork, frame molding, sheetmetal prepping and priming from A to Z, from painting skulls and pinup girls to flames. I put 26 years of experience in bike painting hell into these books, so check them out, you won’t be disappointed. http://www.crazyhorsepainting.com/book.htm

I started writing this on Tuesday. Now I’m supposed to be a bike painter. http://www.crazyhorsepainting.com Monday I played computer expert but the problem is – I’m not. My so called expert friend let me down, as usual. So I had to become in expert on tablet monitors by 3pm. Which I sorta did, and now know more about tablet monitors than the average moron.

Tuesday – I was all set, ready to paint fire on these Panhead parts that are patiently sitting here waiting for me to perform magic on them. I go to bed early, did 7 miles on my mt bike, ate breakfast, ready set -PAINT! Well no. The husband had asked to check on why his prescriptions had not arrived in the mail as usual. Our health insurance had told us the week before everything was all set. No need to worry.. I make a quick phone call.

Three hours later, I found out that yes indeed in spite of being told over and over again that we had no insurance. I found out that yes, we do have insurance. And then proceed to jump through even more hoops. Go to dentist where my phone rings constantly. My editor needs to go over the final proof for my car painting book. I say “Sure it’s done, call me later when I don’t have sharp instruments shoved into my mouth.” Go home. Finally sit down and paint for an hour. It kicks ass!

Wednesday – Go over car book proof. All 190 pages. Takes from 9am to 7pm. Humm this book won’t be half bad after all!

Pictures of actual bike paint next week! And a big update from the Femme Fatales next week too. http://www.femmefatales06.blogspot.com.

Well anyhow it’s Panhead week over at Reader’s Showcase! Check it out and check out Nick Tyler’s ’63 Pan. Just gorgeous! Ok, Gotta go to painting. I think!

–Crazy Horse

Hey, the wonderful Crazy Horse, famous painter and now a professor or custom paint work, at MotorBooks Int. is also the editor of the Bikernet Readers Showcase area. Yep, Bikernet has a section for Readers Rides, but it’s different. This department gives any reader the chance to create his own bike feature. You can post as many photos as you want and tell the complete story behind the build from tech advice to how it caused your third divorce. Crazy Horse will take your ramblings and make it into a world class feature. Go for it.–Bandit

MIKE LEARN PRESENTS: TOTAL ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT TOOLS– SEMINARS: The first 2 dates for 2006 have been made! Classes will be held in Tempe, AZ Feb 23-26 and April 6-9. http://www.learnairbrush.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1005 Reserve your seat today!!

DVDs: The “Work Smarter Not Harder” series will teach you to embrace technology available to today’s artists to improve both your work and your efficiency. Compu-Sition Series gives an in-depth look into designing, lighting, shading and underpainting and shows you how to integrate the skills outlined in the first 2 DVDs and your computer into practical and dynamic composition. This film discusses the ideas of perspective, focus, color and the overall process of going from sketch to photo to paint. The techniques shown in these DVDs will take years off your learning curve and boost your confidence at the same time. BONUS: All Mike Learn DVDs come with Bonus Content and a full set of the masks used.

MASKS: Learn offers a complete line of pre-cut vinyl masks, or downloadable plot files. New designs are added all the time. Browse a complete library of Pin Up poses at http://www.bellyguns.com. Mask kits include the pre-cut masks, Hi Res reference images (if pin up) and instruction. Kits are downloadable as well.

SUPPORT: All Mike Learn DVDs are COMPLETELY SUPPORTED. Log on to http://www.learnairbrush.com to register your DVD and gain access to FAQs, Support Forums, Downloadables, Discussion, Contests and much much more.

STEALTH REPORT FROM NORTH CAROLINA, BIRTHDAY BLUES–Well my birthday is tomorrow and I turn 49! Man I remember being 20 and thinking that 40 was a long, long, long time away. Man, where have all those years gone? Oh well there is nothing any of us can do to stop time from marching along. I guess what really matters is what we do with our time. Hopefully I am another year wiser instead of just another year older!

The weather has been spring like here all week with temps between 60–67 degrees. Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we are closed on Mondays, and I got in a little riding time Monday. I usually use Mondays as my day to catch up on things at home. Running a shop is a full time job but you still have to make some time for yourself.

As you get older you start to realize that there probably is more time behind you than there is in front of you. That is why you should never take anything for granted and try to live each day to the brink! Make a little time for yourself once in awhile and take that ride you have been wanting to go on.

I was thinking the other day about my life and I am always thinking about something to do with bikes. I find myself thinking about SBW or a bike I have in mind or just a ride to go on. SBW and bikes consume me. When I say that, I mean it in a good way. It is an addiction that I seek no cure for. It is what I am about and I find myself looking at other people who are not into bikes and start thinking for me that would be very boring day to day but to each his own.

It is funny how after all these years being into bikes, I still get excited and I get a certain feeling when I see a bike I really get into. It is like being 16 all over again, so in away being into bikes keeps us young at heart even though the years continue to roll by.

When I go out to celebrate my birthday Friday night I am not going to think about that #49. I am going to look forward to whatever is waiting around the next corner. Who knows maybe I will see a bike that really lights me up and it will be like being a kid again for a few minutes?

I came across this at a biker bar–restaurant some time back and I found while I was working in my garage and I thought I would share with all of you.

It is titled “BROTHERHOOD” and it goes like this;
I do not believe that you can explain in words, what Brotherhood means in the Biker world.
It does not come when you buy a Harley-Davidson.
It is not part of the warranty nor the leathers you wear.
It does not come when your break-in mileage comes around nor when you get your first servciceappointment.
It does come with, Respect, Honor and Devotion to those who would stand by your side in good times and in the bad.
It comes when your Brothers accept that you have what it takes to be Respected, Trusted, and Faithful to the end.
If it never comes, you were not mea’t to be a part of the Brotherhood.
If it does, be Proud and don’t screw it up!

Until next week, RIDE!
–STEALTHMAN

BIKERNET VTRACEGIRL.COM WEEKEND UPDATE–What a great turn out at Pomona, CA. VTRaceGirl was proudly serving Monster Energy Drinks along with free stickers, T-Shirts, wristbands and “M” tattoo’s. Monster was quite the hit. The important things bikers do before they get on the road for a long trip is fill their bike with fuel and fill their mind and body with Monster Energy Drink.

This was my first event representing Monster Energy Drink and I must say It was a huge HIT! Many bikers had either a Monster drink-sticker or a VTRaceGirl.com sticker on them. I am very proud to be associated with Monster Energy Drink.

The bright green “M” glow gave me a big VT glow and my Monster drinks kept me sharp throughout the event. Everywhere I went people said, “That’s the Monster Drag Racer”.

Thanks to Vinnie (Big Daddy), he was taking pictures of me in action. I will have these pictures updated on my website very soon. There were a lot kids at this event and I was surprised how much they know about Monster! The wristbands were a big hit with the kids. As I flew home I was thinking Wow, I cannot wait to do that again!

Thank you for making me a Monster Energy Drink sponsored athlete. I look forward to working with you and other athletes in an effort to successfully promote your company’s products. Please let me know if I can assist you in any way in preparing for the upcoming season.

==Valerie Thompson
VTRaceGirl.com

ROSE BOWL BIKER WEEKEND COMING– The West Coast motorcycle world comes alive on June 24th and 25th 2006 for this annual show in Pasadena, CA. Ride out from the stress of the city to the scenic hills of Pasadena is why The Rose Bowl is the perfect venue for this event sponsored by Bikernet.com. This site will be able to handle the steady growth of this show.

Builders from the California area such as Scott Long of Central Coast Cycles, Gard Hollinger from LA County Chop Rods will mix with talents from far away like the Martin Bros just to name a few. The Panther Wheel Custom Bike Show will be showcasing all the hottest bikes around.

The Rose Bowl Motorcycle Marketplace will be filled with the industries top manufactures and vendors selling everything from custom motorcycles to the hottest apparel and more for the motorcycle enthusiast.

The summer heat should be just right for the Ultimate Bikini Contest and great live music playing all weekend on the Lifestyle Cycles stage. This all makes for a great ticket price of only $15.00 with free bike parking.

For more info visit www.horsepowerpromotions.com or call (805) 686-2007

BIKERNET LITERARY COMMITTEE WEEKLY BOOK REPORT– Students were assigned to read 2 books, “Titanic” & “My Life” by Bill Clinton. One smart-ass student turned in the following book report, with the proposition that they were nearly identical stories!His cool professor gave him an A+ for this report:

Titanic:….. $29.99
Clinton:….. $29.99

Titanic:….. Over 3 hours to read
Clinton:….. Over 3 hours to read

Titanic:….. The story of Jack and Rose, their forbidden love, and subsequent catastrophe.
Clinton:….. The story of Bill and Monica, their forbidden love, and subsequent catastrophe.

Titanic:….. Jack is a starving artist.
Clinton:….. Bill is a bullshit artist.

Titanic:….. In one scene, Jack enjoys a good cigar.
Clinton:….. Ditto for Bill.

Titanic:….. During ordeal, Rose’s dress gets ruined.
Clinton:….. Ditto for Monica.

Titanic:….. Jack teaches Rose to spit.
Clinton:….. Let’s not go there.

Titanic:….. Rose gets to keep her jewelry.
Clinton:….. Monica’s forced to return her gifts.

Titanic:….. Rose remembers Jack for the rest of her life.
Clinton:….. Clinton doesn’t remember Monica.

Titanic:….. Rose goes down on a vessel full of seamen.
Clinton:….. Monica…ooh, let’s not go there, either.

Titanic:….. Jack surrenders to an icy death.
Clinton:….. Bill goes home to Hilary…basically the same thing.

–from Mike Kieber

Continued On Page 4

BIKERNET NEWS ALERTS – BONNEVILLE BIKERNET VALERIE RIDES, BAD SHOP BLUES, HARLEY SHIPS, HEAD GASKETS BLOW, DAKAR RIDER DIES, PAG MANUFACTURERS, MOTORCYCLE FUTURE, AND INTERNATIONAL TOURS

Continued From Page 1

BIKERNET BONNEVILLE PILOT AND MONSTER DRINK GIRL–Valerie Thompson is off to a great start for 2006 AHDRA (All Harley Drag Racing Association). Monster Energy Drink (Hansen Beverage Company) has just signed as the top sponsor for VTRaceGirl for 2006.

Hacienda Harley Davidson of Scottsdale, AZ has also jumped on board for another season. Rick Hatch has put Valerie in seat of Hacienda’s new 2006 Harley Davidson Destroyer to ride this year.

This year the team of VTRaceGirl and Monster Energy Drink has set a lofty, but very attainable goal for our favorite racer. Valerie has set in motion the tools and people necessary to be the fastest female on two wheels at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Vini Bergeman (Big Daddy-The Kustomizer-Discovery Channel) is working with Charlie Mitchell (Custom Performance) to build the bike and we all know that VT is working her tail off to make sure her skills and confidence will pilot that bike that will go 200+ mph.

This year Avon Tires, Barnett, Custom Performance, Hacienda Harley Davidson, HJC Legend Air Ride Suspension, Monster Energy Drink, Phoenixbikers.com, and The Kustomizer are on board for 2006 VTRaceGirl sponsorship.

In December 2005, Valerie attended the Frank Hawley’s NHRA Drag Racing School. Strap on a Pro Stock Suzuki and drop the hammer at 9,000 rpm; 5 gears and 7 seconds later, you are at 170 mph. It is like being shot from cannon. This is Pro Stock racing. George Bryce, your personal instructor, has a reputation for developing champions. His teams and riders have won countless national championships in NHRA, AMA, ProStar and IDBA. This is the only professionally run pro stock motorcycle course in the world.

Last race of the season was in Las Vegas, NV, November 2005. Valerie was the #1 qualifier in her class (Super Sport). At the Sunday ceremony, Valerie was the only girl standing.

Valerie’s goals for next year are set high! Sky is the limit with no limits. The first goal is too get the first WIN out of the way with many more are to follow.

Some of Valerie’s highlights for 2005: BUB Bonneville Salt Flats, #1 Qualifier, NHRA Frank Hawley’s Drag School, Meeting incredible people through all the traveling— fans, competitors, and bike builders.

Special thanks to those who have stood and supported VT in 2005. First and foremost, my biggest fan and supporter–Charlie Mitchell, Custom Performance, Legend Air Suspension, BIKERNET.COM, Hacienda Harley Davidson, Kirk Johnson-Phoenixbikers.com, Militec-1, Avon Tyres, Barnett, Next Level Custom Signs, J. Gordon, Last Lake Resort, HJC, Keith Ball, Kenny Spievy, Matthew Kurtz, Jesse Lopez, Dave Little, and Jamie McNaughton from Harley Davidson Motor Company. Thank you Kirk Johnson of Phoenixbikers.com for keeping my website fresh and up-dated.

–from Rumble Magazine

COYOTE CUSTOMS ALERT–Listed on your bike shop page is a shop, Coyote Customs, which you need to be aware of. They have 17 complaints filed against them with the BBB. Jason Conley (owner) is not to be trusted and has cheated and lied to many customers. The BBB gives them an unsatisfactory rating. I think you need to be aware of this due to the fact you are giving free advertising to this guy. It sullies your business to have any association with this company.

Here is the link the BBB with his file. http://www.oklahomacity.bbb.org/commonreport.html?bid=13004786

–Mark

This gives me a lot of distress. Check out what the Better Business Bureau says and make your own decision regarding this shop. I dislike disgruntled customers who set out to hurt a business. On the other hand I Hate to publish news or information on any company that takes advantage of riders. If you have a different view, don’t hesitate to let us know.–Bandit

BIKERNET TRAVEL RECOMMENDATIONS–Sitting together on a train, traveling through the Swiss Alps, are aFrench guy an American guy, an old Greek lady and a young blondeSwiss girl.

The train goes into a dark tunnel and a few seconds later there isthe sound of a loud slap.

When the train emerges from the tunnel, the Frenchman has a brightred hand print on his cheek. No one speaks.

The old lady thinks: The Frenchman must have groped the blonde in thedark, and she slapped his cheek.

The blonde thinks: That Frenchman must have tried to grope me in thedark, but missed and fondled the old lady and she slapped his cheek.

The Frenchman thinks: The American must have groped the blonde in thedark. She tried to slap him but missed and got me instead.

The American thinks: I can’t wait for another tunnel, so I can smackthat Frenchman again.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON LAUNCHES NEW SHIPPING SERVICE–Harley-Davidson Shipping Expands Riding Opportunities for Motorcycle Owners.MILWAUKEE (January 6, 2005) – Harley-Davidson Motor Company announces a new motorcycle shipping service designed specifically with riders in mind. Harley-Davidson Shipping expands riding opportunities for motorcyclists who want to ride in locations throughout North America, but face the challenges of insufficient vacation time or inclement weather constraints.

“Harley-Davidson Shipping is a way for us to reach out to our customers with another high-quality service that enhances their riding experiences,” said Lara Lee, Vice President Enthusiast Services. “Through Harley-Davidson Shipping, we provide customers more opportunities to experience riding in new locations, while simplifying the transactions and offering flexible options.”

Owners of all brands can take advantage of the flexibility to ship motorcycles to various locations at a competitive price and with unparalleled customer service. Harley-Davidson Shipping offers convenient locations for shipping, including door-to-door pick-up and delivery from a business or personal residence. The new service goes beyond other shipping services by offering honored real-time quotes and multi-bike group discounts for all customers.

Harley-Davidson Shipping is open for any enthusiast to use, while offering additional discounts on shipments to all full Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) and Buell Riders Adventure Group (BRAG) members. The service is available throughout the United States and Canada, including Hawaii and Alaska, beginning January 2006.

For more information about Harley-Davidson Shipping rates, locations, transit schedules and other services available contact 1-888-575-BIKE. Shipping quotes and vehicle tracking can be done online at http://www.harley-davidson.com/shipping

BIKERNET RESTAURANT REVIEWS–A young cowboy walks into a seedy cafe in Prescott, AZ. He sits at the counter and notices an oldcowboy with his arms folded staring blankly at a full bowl of chili.

After fifteen minutes of just sitting there staring at it, the young cowboy bravely asks the oldcowpoke, “If you ain’t gonna eat that, mind if I do?”

The older cowboy slowly turns his head toward the young wrangler and in his best cowboy mannersays, “Nah, go ahead.”

Eagerly, the young cowboy reaches over and slides the bowl over to his place and starts spooningit in with delight. He gets nearly down to the bottom and notices a dead mouse in the chili. Thesight was shocking and he immediately pukes up the chili into the bowl.

The old cowboy quietly says, “Yep, that’s as far as I got, too.”

–from Jester

HEAD GASKET BLUES–

Sittin here looking at my gal,
Wondering if I should throw in the towel?
She’s up on the rack
Should I really try to bring her back?

How could she be so one way
As to leave me sitting here with her heart in a tray?
I heard her death rattle, it ruined my day
How could the bitch just die this way

Her blood all over my britches
Aint it just like those bitches

Ruin a man’s day make him pay
All because he wanted to play?

–Mistress Marilyn

DAKAR/PARIS RACE REPORT–The first time I report on the Dakar for a bike magazine and one of only two Aussie riders is killed. With everything else that has happened recently I’m starting to see a real pattern developing here. It’s lucky I don’t have a depressive personality huh?

I never met Andy personally, he lives in a small bush town, a long way from Sydney. But the Rally racing community is very small in Oz, so I know those that do know him. It’s all over our news here…sad that for Aussies to hear about the Dakar one of them has to die in it. A few days ago and no one here knew anything about the Rally, much like most in the USA I would guess.

I have copied the news from Yahoo Rally Report.When you read the report about broken necks, it’s a moot point to remember that guys race off road every weekend all over the world and are perfectly OK. I am beginning to suspect that a combination of too high a speed and fatigue is responsible. These guys have been doing 500 kilometer race stages thru the desert, getting a few hours sleep at night, then doing the same again next morning.

Add 300 transport stages to be covered and that’s almost a 1000 kay a day. That’s tough on a normal road, let alone thru the rough desert terrain.Andy said in an interview a last year that he had decided not to do another Dakar, but the lure of the Rally brought him and many others back again.

— Jaq.

CRUISERS FOR $3200–Got a call from Johnny Pag today. This hits home. He’s developed a factory in China and is building these 250 cc, entry level cruisers for $3,200 retail. He’s also manufacturing fenders for Paul Yaffe, frames for race cars and brackets for rain gutters. He can have anything built to your specs in China.

We’re having a debate about American made over overseas products in It’s Your Shot letters right now. It’s a strange world we live in, a global economy that still doesn’t understand one another. But that’s the deal and you can find out more about Johnny’s cruisers and his abilities to manufacture any product by going to the dealer show in Indy or clicking on his web site: JohnnyPag.com.

He’s a Hamster who has been build custom bikes and products for our industry for 30 years.

“I am doing a lot of work in china facility for American motorcycle production companys, like Big Dog, etc,” Johnny said. “We can manufacturer a chrome moly Softail style frame for 200 bucks, and it’s tight, not sloppy.”

BIKERNET EDITORIAL COMMITTEE REPORT ON THE FUTURE OF MOTORCYCLING–Hiway and I have discussed the future of motorcycling, both in the USA and around the world. Our conclusions are that the Harley company really needs to put some serious thought into future directions. Their bikes are getting more expensive, with the high cost of modern living many younger riders can only dream of owning a brand new one, and Harley makes little money from used ones except in their parts department.

In the UK particularly there is a real trend away from Harley’s and other exotica.It’s why so many build and run Street fighters now.How many guys and gals in their twenties do you reckon want or can afford a Harley in the USA?

Triumph in the UK managed to rise from the ashes, but they changed their bikes in a major way…you are probably aware that custom choppers are really only big in America, many countries motor transport offices just will not register them.

I’d like to say I have a solution for Harley at hand, but I don’t. Unless they are prepared to make a completely new (for them) design of bike and engine. I really see that as their only alternative to hanging up in say 20 years time.Guys our age won’t be riding forever (I know we’ll try)..what is Harley going to do then?

— Jaq.

International Biker Tours–We have the pleasure to inform that on the 21 of March starts an expedition that will be undertaken by two riders on travel motorcycles provided with one assistance vehicle. From the most western point (Madrid) to the most eastern (Tokyo) we will be visiting twenty seven countries. The return will cross the Gobi desert and the Russian steppes towards Europe.

The countries to be visited are:
Spain, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Belgium and Holland.

Estimated time of the journey is 157 days with a total of 126 stages. Departure is scheduled for 21st March 2006 and return 25th August the same year.

It will cover a distance of 48.500 Km, and fuel usage is estimated at 7160 litres for the motorcycles and 5000 litres for the 4×4.

We will cross nine time zones, eleven distinct climatologies and ten types of vegetation. The people speak 24 different official languages, not counting dialects, and practise nine different religions.

The expedition is formed by a team of four. Two riders, one professional cameraman and a professional photographer. We will distribute to the media written report and a 15 minute video resume every week from our main office in Madrid; this will be free of charges to all media who requested for it.

To contact us for this service or further information please submit an E-mail to: southernsunsetslimited@yahoo.es

Sincerely yours,
Arturo Rodr?guez & Nicol?s Sulcic

SOUTHERN SUNSETS LIMITED
Av. Juan Sebastian Elcano 19 Apt 1442
Benalm?dena Costa
29630 M?laga, Spain
southernsunsetslimited@yahoo.es
(34) 616 40 15 62 ? 657 20 18 64
UK COMPANY N? 5308660

Continued On Page 3

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH -BEST TATTOO, BEST SPIRIT BELL, BEST INTERNET MC RADIO, BEST FLA LAW, BEST ITALIAN HOG CHAPT., BEST STURGIS MUSEUM RAFFLE, BEST WARRIOR FOUNDATION, BEST WRENCH CODE, BEST FIREBALL, AND BEST RELIGIOUS MOMENT?

Hey,

I can tell the holidays are toast and the biker world is in full swing once more. Dealer show plans are flying. Daytona schedules are growing. We’re clearing the lifts for our Bonneville efforts and half the country is praying for good riding weather.

I’m going to jump right into the news. It’s packed and will take me beyond happy hour to complete. Then I need to adjust the valves on the Shovelhead, fire her to life and clear the lift. We’re going to Bonneville and the teams are growing. I need to mock up my CCI V-Bike chassis designed by John Reed for the 120-inch Panhead engine from Accurate Engineering and the 6-speed performance tranny from Baker. We’re rocking.

Let’s hit the news and I’ll show you what we screwed up this week and our first Bikernet Build-off bike:

TATTOO OF THE WEEK–Maybe the month. We don’t know. We haven’t even looked at the other entries. Quick send us something better. The winner gets a Bikernet T-shirt. Beat this one, sucka. Send your entry as a jpg image to Bandit@bikernet.com.

This one came from Russell Roberts.

SPIRIT BELLS FROM BIKERNET–I got the Spirit Bell. Looks very cool. Thanks, man! I hung it under the triple tree on my twinkie. I haven’t had any real problems yet with the bike, but it’s getting to the age where it’s gonna start giving me problems. Any good mojo will help!

I got laid the next night and the biker ran better than ever. That damn bell works..

Ride it like you’re on a test ride (Gotta figure out how to shorten that one up).

Peace, brother!

–Hiway

You can order a Bikernet Spirit Bell from the Bikernet Black Market below.

BIKER INTERNET RADIO–Get Ready Inner Circle Radio Show Saturday-February 11, 2006.Support Your Local BikersTAKE A LOOK AT THE SITE http://www.big7productions.com

Sponsored By ACCURATE ENGINEERING

FLORIDA DROPS HELMET PROPOSAL–TALLAHASSEE — Ride on.Florida highway-safety officials have dropped a proposal that would have made it harder for motorcyclists to thunder down the roads without wearing helmets.The proposal, which surfaced in September after a federal report showed increasing motorcycle deaths in Florida, would have required bikers to carry $50,000 in health insurance if they wanted to leave their lids at home. Current law requires only $10,000 in insurance coverage.

But after learning that the insurance policies could be hard to find and costly — and after getting a cool reception from Gov. Jeb Bush and the state Cabinet — the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles scrapped the idea.

“We checked around,” said Fred Dickinson, the department’s executive director. “There ain’t a whole lot of business (motorcycle health insurance policies) being written.”

The department’s decision became apparent Tuesday as a state House committee reviewed a proposed highway-safety bill for the upcoming legislative session.

— By JIM SAUNDERS,Tallahassee Bureau Chief

–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005

ITALIAN AMERICAN HOG CHAPTER–The Aviano HOG Chapter is a unique chapter located in the Friuli Region of Northern Italy. We’re the only all American HOG Chapter in Europe and comprised almost exclusively of U.S. military personnel. Additionally, we’re the only chapter in the world to operate under a sponsoring director and not under a sponsoring dealership as authorized by H-D and HOG. We will be conducting our annual “Blessing of the Bikes” in March 2006.

Historically, we’ve had approximately 150-200 people, both Italian and American present at this local event. We start off at a beautiful church nestled in the Italian Alps where we conduct a benediction in both Italian and English followed by a procession down to the small town of Aviano. When we arrive at the Western House Restaurant, the street is blocked off for motorcycles only and the festivities begin.

The Chapter provides free pizza and entertainment to all that attend. Our main event is a raffle which is normally odds and ends donated from the chapter membership. In the end a fun safe time is had by all.

Here in Italy, the Euro dollar is becoming stronger and prices are rising. The chapter membership utilizes mail order companies and stateside vendors such as you for all of its parts and accessory purchases. This is how you have been identified. We are requesting donations of prizes for the “Blessing of the Bikes” raffle. These donations would help to support this event and make it even betterAny items that you may choose donate will be greatly appreciated. Donations may only be shipped via US Postal Service to our Chapter Address:

Aviano H.O.G. Chapter 9239
c/o Wayne R. Parks
PSC 54 Box 994
APO, AE 09601

Any questions or concerns can be addressed to me at wayne.parks@aviano.af.mil

–WAYNE R. PARKS
Sponsor/Director

PENNSYLVANIA CHANGE MOTORCYCLE PERMIT PROCEDURES–HARRISBURG, Pa. – Under a policy that starts Monday, motorcycle riders will have to pass a knowledge test before they can receive their learner’s permit.The learner’s permit previously had been issued before the knowledge test was given.

“We want to make sure that anyone learning to drive a motorcycle has the essential knowledge and understanding before riding on the open road,” said Allen D. Biehler, state transportation secretary.

Applicants must complete a motorcycle learner’s permit application and pay required fees. But now they will take the knowledge test immediately after returning the application. PennDOT will issue a motorcycle learner’s permit if the applicant passes the test.Motorcycle learner’s permits issued before Monday will not be affected by the change

–from Rogue

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM 2006 RAFFLE ANNOUNCED– January 2006 – – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is excited to announce that tickets are now available for the 2006 raffle.

Since the Museum opened in 2001 we have been extremely fortunate to have the support of many notable industry leaders, and we’d like to add each of you to that list. Our annual raffle is our major push each year to gather substantial funding for the Museum. With the purchase of a raffle ticket you will be helping us to continue our mission, “to preserve the great history of motorcycling and to honor the men and women who have made a positive and significant impact on our sport and lifestyle”.

2006 Raffle Prizes are:

2006 Harley-Davidson FLHX Street GlideDonated by Sturgis Harley-Davidson & Black Hills Harley-Davidson

Henry 44-40 Rifle2006 Edition, One of a Kind Commemorative

Scott Jacobs “Pushing the Limit” framed Limited Edition printDonated by Scott Jacobs-Signed, Numbered and DedicatedSigned by Andrew Hines (racer depicted in the painting)

There are three chances to win on one ticket. The Museum begins by drawing for the incredible Scott Jacobs print, signed by both the artist and Andrew Hines, the racer depicted in the painting. The winning ticket stub will be thrown back in with the remaining stubs and we draw for the Henry rifle, a beautifully engraved replica and a favorite each year. The winning stub is once again put back in with the remaining stubs for the final spin and drawing of Harley’s exciting new FLHX Street Glide. One ticket, three chances to win! Plus you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve invested in motorcyclings past, and its future.

Each raffle ticket costs $10.00 and you do not need to be present to win. The drawing will be held on the final day of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Saturday 12 August 2006, at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum on the corner of legendary Main Street and Junction Avenue in downtown Sturgis.

Tickets can be purchased on line by visiting our web site http://www.sturgismuseum.com mailing a check or money order to the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, 999 Main Street, Sturgis SD 57785; or by telephone with a credit card 605.347.2001.

SPECIAL OPERATIONS WARRIOR FOUNDATION DISCOVERED– http://www.specialops.orgHelp the warriors help the children of fallen warriors. It’s simple. A place to go to help fallen soldiers.

THE WRENCH’S OPTIMIST CODE–
Law of Mechanical Repair: After your hands become coated with grease your nose will begin to itch or you’ll have to pee.

Law of the Workshop: Any tool, when dropped, will roll to the least accessible corner.

Law of probability: The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.

Law of the Telephone: When you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal.

Law of the Alibi: If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire.

Variation Law: If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will start to move faster than the one you are in now. (works every time)

Bath Theorem: When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings.

Law of Close Encounters: The probability of meeting someone you know increases when you are with someone you don’t want to be seen with.

Law of the Result: When you try to prove to someone that a machine won’t work, it will.

Law of Biomechanics: The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.

Theatre Rule: At any event, the people whose seats are furthest fromthe aisle arrive last.

Law of Coffee: As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.

Murphy’s Law of Lockers: If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers.

Law of Dirty Rugs/Carpets: The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich of landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness and cost of the carpet/rug.

Law of Location: No matter where you go, there you are.

Law of Logical Argument: Anything is possible if you don’t know what you are talking about.

Brown’s Law: If the shoe fits, it’s really ugly.

Oliver’s Law: A closed mouth gathers no feet.

Wilson’s Law:As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.

–from Buckshot

FIREBALL ALERT ON BIKERNET?–On Sunday morning, Jan. 15th, between approximately 1:56 and 1:59 a.m. PST (0956 – 0959 UT), a brilliant fireball will streak over northern California and Nevada. It’s NASA’s Stardust capsule, returning to Earth with samples of dust from Comet Wild 2. Observers along the flight path should have a marvelous view of this rare man-made meteor. Radio signals reflected from the capsule’s ionized tail may be heard from a much wider area–hundreds to thousands of miles away. Visit http://spaceweather.com for maps and observing tips.

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION: The International Space Station is flying over the United States in mid-January during evening hours when it is easy to see. Would you like a phone call to alert you when the station is about to appear over your home town? Sign up for SpaceWeather PHONE: http://spaceweatherphone.com

The true civilization is where every man gives to every other every right that he claims for himself.

–from Robert Ingersoll

BIKERNET RELIGIOUS MOMENT–A biker is riding down the road and breaks down near a monastery.He goes to the monastery, knocks on the door, and says, “My scooterbroke down. Do you think I could stay the night?” The monksgraciously accept him, feed him dinner, and even fix his bike.As the man tries to fall asleep, he hears a strange sound.

The next morning, he asks the monks what the sound was, but theysay, “We can’t tell you. You’re not a monk.”

The man is disappointed but thanks them anyway and goes abouthis merry way. Some years later, the same man breaks down infront of the same monastery. The monks again accept him, feedhim, and even fix his bike. That night, he hears the samestrange noise that he had heard years earlier.

The nextmorning, he asks what it is, but the monks reply, “We can’t tellyou. You’re not a monk.”

The man says, “All right, all right. I’m dying to know. If theonly way I can find out what that sound was is to become a monk,how do I become a monk?” The monks reply, “You must travel theearth and tell us how many blades of grass there are and theexact number of sand pebbles. When you find these numbers, youwill become a monk.”

The man sets about his task. Some forty-five years later, hereturns and knocks on the door of the monastery. He says, “Ihave traveled the earth and have found what you have asked for.There are 145,236,284,232 blades of grass and231,281,219,999,129,382 sand pebbles on the earth. “

The monksreply, “Congratulations. You are now a monk. We shall now showyou the way to the sound.”

The monks lead the man to a wooden door, where the head monksays, “The sound is right behind that door.” The man reachesfor the knob, but the door is locked. He says, “Real funny.May I have the key?”

The monks give him the key, and he opensthe door. Behind the wooden door is another door made of stone.

The man demands the key to the stone door. The monks give himthe key, and he opens it, only to find a door made of ruby.He demands another key from the monks, who provide it. Behindthat door is another door, this one made of sapphire. So itwent until the man had gone through doors of emerald, silver,topaz and amethyst.

Finally, the monks say, “This is the last key to the last door.”

The man is relieved to no end. He unlocks the door, turns theknob, and behind that door he is amazed to find the source ofthat strange sound.

But I can’t tell you what it is.

You’re not a monk.

–from CarlR

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