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Read More September 29, 2005 Part 5
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 4
VICTORY HAMMER NAMED “2005 CRUISER OF THE YEAR”–Motorcycle Cruiser Magazine Recognizes Victory for “Shaking Things Up”
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn., September 19, 2005 – Motorcycle Cruiser magazine recently awarded its highest honor to Victory Motorcycle’s entry into the Power Cruiser category by naming the 2005 Victory Hammer? “Cruiser of the Year.” Boasting an unsurpassed balance of power, style and handling and a first-of-its-kind massive rear tire from an OEM, the Hammer has made an undeniable impression on the motorcycling community.
“Sleek, flowing bodywork in dazzling colors, with a massive rear tire that’s out to here… You just have to stare,” the editors wrote in the October 2005 issue of Motorcycle Cruiser. “The eye-popping beauty of the Hammer shows how far Victory has come.”
“The Hammer’s distinctive styling and fat rear tire have caught a lot of attention since we began shipping units earlier this year,” said Mark Blackwell, general manager, Victory Motorcycles. “But it’s the bike’s distinctive styling, 100 cubic-inch engine with six-speed overdrive and all the power our riders demand that make the Hammer an exceptional motorcycle. Motorcycle Cruiser’s decision to honor the Hammer is very exciting, and it continues to build credibility for Victory as a rising player in the motorcycle industry.”
Victory, The New American Motorcycle, is the fastest growing motorcycle brand in the U.S. with year to date sales up over 50 percent. Since its debut in 1998, the brand has received multiple awards from leading industry sources. Additional achievements include:
2004: Kingpin is named “V-Twin Bike of the Year” by V-Twin Magazine.
2003: Victory Vegas is named “Best Cruiser” by Cycle World Magazine.
2003: Victory Vegas is named “2003 Cruiser of the Year” by Cruising Rider Magazine.
2003: Victory Vegas is named “Best Cruiser” by Motorcyclist Magazine.
2002: Victory Vegas is named “V-Twin Bike of the Year” by V-Twin Magazine.
2003: Victory Vegas receives the Chicago Athenaeum GOOD DESIGN Award for 2003.
2001: V92SC is named “Sport-Cruiser of the Year” at the Easyriders V-Twin Excellence Awards.
1999: V92C is named “Cruiser of the Year” by Motorcycle Cruiser Magazine.
1998: V92C is named “Best Cruiser” by Cycle World Magazine.
Additional information about Victory, The New American Motorcycle, is available online at
JIMS BIKERNET TRANNY OF THE WEEK – Fat 5 Overdrive–This new transmission nicknamed “Fat 5 Overdrive” is the ultimate for big engine & tire custom bikes. This transmission (Patent Pending) has all the added features of a six-speed transmission, but has been completely re-designed with oversize gears for today’s increased torque loads.
Basically, JIMS? designed an all new overdrive five speed transmission around the ratio’s of today’s six speed. In a nutshell, you don’t have to shift as much, but still end up with that comfortable cruising speed of an overdrive for highway riding. This added “space” was used to increase the surface area of all gears for added strength. The Fat 5 Overdrive also incorporates shift rings for a precise and accurate shift every time.
If your building a radical custom, or simply have a performance motor and want that added assurance that your transmission is ready to take a beating, then the new Fat 5 Overdrive is for you! Are you interested in a Fat 5? Overdrive for your motorcycle? Then contact your local JIMS? dealer, or contact JIMS? directly. JIMS? is the only place to find a Fat 5 Overdrive!
NEW BIKERNET SPONSOR-SUCKER PUNCH SALLY’S–Over the last year since SPS got their manufacturers license they have produced over 70 of their base model bikes for customers all over the world. The word is out that if you want a cool bike and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg go to SPS. The reality is that Jeff and Donny always have side project customs going on and are more then willing to provide all the parts and let someone put it together, which is the foundation of their working man’s kit. Look out for SPS over the next year to put out some more sick customs as they keep providing bikes for guys and gals who work for their paychecks.
Watch for SPS features and they are shipping a bobber to the Bikernet Headquarters for a road test. For more SPS info check www.suckerpunchsallys.com
BIKERNET ARTSY PHOTOGRAPHY CONTINUES–We’re fortunate to have the man, Whiplash, supplying us with eye candy. It takes us away from the biz for a few moments and reminds us of the premise behind the motorcycle, the ride. Enjoy. -Bandit
–Whiplash Bob Bikernet Photog
soffordphotos@comcast.net
QUICK BIKERNET PHILOSOPHY LESSON–Women and cats will do as they please. Men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.
–from Chris T.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATION–ABATE was originally started to fight unjust laws against those that ride motorcycles. There are many different situations and conditions in all of our lives that come into play when we decide to own and ride a motorcycle.
ABATE: LET THOSE WHO RIDE DECIDE slogan should still be honored and let each rider decide what is best for them. ABATES function is to work as a legislative organization and Not Run or Indorse Mandatory Motorcycle Rider Courses. At this time I do believe that ABATE of Florida is against making these courses mandatory and I do support that decision.
I am in favor of Motorcycle Safety Courses and became a certified instructor But I am still against making taking the course mandatory. Money for education is in each motorcycle operator’s license and registration fee and that money should be used by the State of Florida to Offer Free Rider Education.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation or M$F as we know it works off grant money and the loan of motorcycles from the manufactures. They have grown very powerful and made a lot of money off promoting motorcycle safety and now Harley Davidson is getting on the money band wagon with their Riders Edge Course. If Harley is really interested in promoting motorcycle safety more than making money they should offer the course for Free to people who buy their product. I should note that years ago some responsible dealerships did offer free training to people who bought their motorcycles. If all the motorcycle manufactures would offer rider education when they sold a motorcycle that would free up money to increase the courses now available and lower the costs of attending one.
If you really want to do some thing to help promote motorcycle safety Insist on Operators of Other Type Vehicles Take Responsibility For The Actions and Bad Driving Habits.
The State of Florida needs Tougher Penalties for Traffic Offenses and that should be a top priority for ABATE and other MROs. It will not be popular with non-motorcyclist or the easiest thing to accomplish But It Must get
Done!
–Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
ARMY LIFE INSURANCE–Private Jones was assigned to the Army induction center, where he was to advise new recruits about their government benefits, especially their Serviceman’s Group Life Insurance (SGLI). It wasn’t long before the center’s Lieutenant noticed that Private Jones had almost a 100% record for insurance sales, which had never happened before. Rather than ask about this, the Lt. stood in the back of the room and listened to Jones’s sales pitch.
Jones explained the basics of the SGLI to the new recruits, and then said. “If you have SGLI and go into battle and are killed, the government has to pay $200,000 to your beneficiaries. If you don’t have SGLI, and you go into battle and get killed, the government has to pay only a maximum of $6000.”
“Now,” he concluded, “which bunch do you think they are going to send into battle first?”
–from Nick Roberts
NEW YORK CITY CHOPPERS COMES TO BIKERNET–“I was told Nyla wrote something to the effect,” Nick, from NYC Choppers said, “that we had the best or coolest bike in Sturgis. Is that true?”
Actually, he’s right. She did report that fact in our Sturgis report. We hope to prove it to you with some features on NYC Choppers bikes and products in the near future.
–Bandit
2006 YAMAHA VMAX CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE FROM THE BIKERPOSTER.DE ONLINE SHOP–“Separate the Men from the Boys” – this is the motto of the exclusively designed 2006 Yamaha Vmax Calendar from bikeposter.de.
The wall planner shows the 140 hp V4 engine of the Japanese motorcycle legend that celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2005.
The calendar in 42 x 118.8 centimeter (about 16.6 x 47.1 inch) king size dimension features a full year calendar with lots of space for personal notes.
The 2006 Yamaha Vmax Calendar from bikeposter.de is offered for a retail price of 15 Euros from the online store at www.bikeposter.de.
E-MAIL: contact@tuecherer.com
Internet: www.bikeposter.de
HEY BANDIT FROM GOTH GIRL–It always makes me so happy to get your e-mail. I think of you so often and it is always good. Thank you for FWDing this e-mail to me. I will respond to her. That was a very nice e-mail that she sent to you. I am sending you something, something I think is very cool and you had better agree because it has been my fu^%$#gin’ life and obsession for the past months…
I never give up, you see. Hard work, honesty, consistency, and the truth always shines true in the end.
–GOTH
Baby, anything from you will warm my cast iron heart.–Bandit
BIKERNET READER PATCHED IN–A couple of weekends ago I took a trip outta town on some club business. Unknown to me there was surprise waiting for me there. I got patched out!I was handed my patch by our national president, which is a very big deal. I was truly honored that my chapter would work it out for me to go with them and after business was done have the big man handed me my colors.
As ya know I am pumped up to get my rags and fly them around town. Now the real work begins. No one is allowed to coast here in the club. Everyone does their share to make it better and keep it running smooth. I am proud to be a full patch member now.
In my chapter we aren’t allowed to carry roadnames when we are prospecting and probating until we earn it and are patched out. I earned mine from the first time I met my boss and his wife. He asked his wife what she thought of me, and she said something, to the effect of, “he’s a cornbread fed country boy.” Well it stuck.
When the big boss handed me my patch they told me my name is now “Cornbread”.
Respects,
–Cornbread
USMV M/C Savannah
Also known as Brian from Georgia
We wish Cornfed all the best. When he told me I thought of Corn Bread. God, I love that stuff with butter and Jalapeno-doused pinto beans. That’s road chow. When I’m not thinking of women, my mind slips to grub and whiskey.–Bandit
BIKERNET STEALTH BIKE WORKS NC REPORT–Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we continue to plan for next weekend poker run (OCT. 8TH) to benefit the Red Cross and their hurricane relief efforts. We are hoping for a great turn out for this great cause.
I have been noticing a lot of noise in the front end of my ’91 Springer, I could not find it no matter how hard I searched. I washed the bike and while washing the shock on the front-end, the bottom of the shock moved where it mounts. The bushing was completely gone and the top bushing was about to go. I called the dealer trying to buy the bushings and they told me I had to buy the whole shock! I could not believe, but evidently it is true. Two $5 bushings end up costing you $195! I was wondering if anyone else out there has run into this problem? There has to be a place out there, where you can buy these bushings. Oh well, I guess the factory has us by the balls again.
Lucky for me “THE MEANEST” has this gift certificate that has been lying around and with my saddest eyes and voice I persuaded her to use the gift certificate to help me out. She always comes through and I appreciate that very much.
Chopper John and I rode to a local bike night last night. It was good ride and we talked about shop projects or I should say shop dreams over dinner. We looked at the bikes in the parking lot and it seemed they pretty much looked alike. There were a couple that stood out which brings me to my next point. Over the next couple of weeks I’m going to spill the beans about our first Stealth Bike Project. Hell, make your bike stand out in a crowd, and I am not talking about throwing every piece of bling-bling on it you can find. Remember less is more! If we can help with any of your plans give us a call at SBW 704-882-0889, we will be glad to talk to you.
That about wraps it up for this week not much else going on for now.
Until next week, RIDE!
–Stealthman
NEW BIKERNET T-SHIRTS– We are very fortunate to have several top notch artists in our local midst. Chris Kallas is one of them. Above is his art, but we’re searching for radical slogans. George Fleming, another local artist will handle the lettering then I’ll haul the art to a local silk-screener and we’ll have new Bikernet T-Shirts. Let us know which T-shirt design is your favorite. Come up with a slogan for any of them and you’ll get a free T-Shirt. Send your responses to Bandit@bikernet.com.
IT’S HAPPY HOUR TIME–The news is complete, the heat wave is subsiding and there’s some Jack around here somewhere. I flashed an e-mail to S&S. My contact hadn’t heard of any “For Sale” rumor. As far as he’s concerned, “It’s not true.” So we’re forced to hold on for further word.
I just found out the Rick Raus, from V-Twin marketing, is back in the Hospital. He was scheduled to deliver a Hellbound bobber the Bikernet headquarters for a road test yesterday. He didn’t show. He recently had hip replacement surgery. He works with a bunch of companies in the industry–He’s a good guy.
Remember the Run For Breath Best of Show Trophy? It was so popular we’re building three of them with the master talents of James Murillo custom paint and Samson exhaust. He’s delivering three original British peanut tanks tomorrow. I need to fire up the welder. Oh, I’ve got a question for you tool wizards. See the press on the right. I picked that up at an industrial garage sale. What’s it for?
That’s it. I’m going to post a new engine line-up from Custom Chrome next and hopefully a Salinas Boys custom. Check the Oyster Run story and Chris’s run to Sedalia Flat Track Races. Over the weekend I’ll pour over my Saxon notes and cross out the mentions of the Hispanic girls. Several reports coming.
Ride Forever,
Bandit
September 29, 2005 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
INNOVATIVE MOTORCYCLE, SINCE ’95–has been producing some of the Hottest bikes around. Our latest Starts withA Custom 200 Series Wide Rear Tire Softail Style Frame with a 2-inch stretch in the backbone and a 36 degree rake.Front Forks are Billet Aluminum Triple Trees 41 MM Wide Glide Tubes with Smooth Billet Lower Sliders.
FLUSH MNT HANDLE BAR DAMPER BUSHINGS
60 Spoke Wire Wheels 18” R & 21”F
Thunderheart wiring harness controller
Chrome Jay Brake 4-Piston Billet Calipers Front & Rear
RUSSELL Full Floating Disk Brake Rotors Front & Rear
BDL’s new Billet Handlebar Controls
HIGH END FORWARD CONTROLS by EXCELL
Powered by an Innovative Signature Series Custom
Evolution 80” engine.
Lower End components include
Legendary TRUETT & OSBORN Torque Monster Flywheels
JIMS Main Shafts. RODS, JIMS FORGED HIGH PERFORMANCE H-BEAM CONSTRUCTION HEAT-TREATED, W/ 3-Hole ACA Crank Pin.
STD Engine Cases, the worlds toughest & strongest Rated at 45,000 lbs. Per square inch Tensile strength.
S&S OIL PUMP STD BILLET
BILLET CAM / GEAR CVR
CAM by DAVE MACKIE ENGINEERING .580” LIFT/ A LEGEND IN ITS OWN RIGHT EXCELLENT FOR MODIFIED 80 88 CI TO SMALL STROKERS SUPER STRONG LOW & MID
RANGE PULLS HARD TO 6500
Jim’s Billet lifter Blocks
Crane Hydraulic Lifters.
The top end is comprised ofSHUMAKER RACING Billet Cylinders, Keith Black pistons,
V-THUNDER MAXIMUM VELOCITY CYLINDER HEAD SET BILLET ALUMINUM cNC PORTED & FLOWED HEADS UNIQUE TUBBED COMBUSTION CHAMBER CUBIC CENTIMETERS VOLUME PROVIDE A 10:1 COMPRESSION RATIO WHEN USING STOCK 8.5:1 C.R. PISTONS
Billet Rocker Cover Assembly JIMS ROLLER ROCKER ARMS S&S Super ‘E’ Carb w/Thunder Jet installed.
Transmission is a Direct Drive 5-Speed from Baker Power Drives. GOOD FOR ANY APPLICATION UP TO 200 HP ENGINE
Primary Drive Kit from Zippers Performance include a reinforced chrome USA made Inner Primary Housing, chrome Outer Primary Cover, A BANDIT Sportsman Clutch & Chain Drive components 2.94 1ST ANDREWS GEARS W/24 T LONG LIFE PULLEY GATES POLYCHAIN 132T FINAL DRIVE BELT
The engine will produce approx. 93 Horse Power & 96 Ft. Lb. of torque very reliably. So tough, we’ll stand by it 100% for 50,000 mi.
An affordable, truly unique, ‘one of a kind’ custom designed for the long haul with real world power.
–Rex Holman
Innovative Performance Motorcycle Products & Services
6500 Platte Ave
Lincoln NE 68507
ph/fax 402-464-9598
RUCKER PERFORMANCE BEGINS WORK ON A CLASSIC ’32 FORD HOT ROD–Fort Worth, Texas (September 26, 2005) – Ron Cogburn, President of Meridian Consulting Group, has contracted Bill Rucker, President of Rucker Performance, to build a new 1932 Ford Convertible to market his firm’s consulting practice.
“We are creating an online ‘American Hot Rod’ show where we document the build process,” said Ron Cogburn. “We will post each online show on our website. After Bill (Rucker) completes the build it will become part of an industry promotion where our clients and prospects have an opportunity to drive home the Meridian Hot Rod at the National Bond Claims Association golf tourney in Pebble Beach later this year.”
Cogburn’s Hot Rod rolls with the top of the line Stage III chassis and the premium all steel 1932 Dearborn Deuce ConvertibleTM body from Hot Rods and Horsepower and is designed with a fully disappearing top.
“The Dearborn Deuce ConvertibleTM has the exact body dimensions of the original car with a number of modifications that make it easier for boomers to fit comfortably in,” says Jim Inglese, one of the principals of Hot Rods & Horsepower. “The doors are three inches longer and the cockpit is two inches deeper and this allows for easier egress and ingress.”
The Rucker Performance team will build the 1932 Ford convertible at the Fort Worth manufacturing plant – the same facility where Bill Rucker manufactures custom motorcycles.
“Once you go down the path of Hot Rodding you tend to Hot Rod everything,” said Bill Rucker. “We find tips and tricks in custom motorcycle manufacturing that we apply to Hot Rods and vice a versa. When the Meridian Hot Rod is complete, you will see truly unbelievable innovation.”
The 1932 Ford Convertible is Cogburn’s second project with Bill Rucker and the Rucker Performance team. In 2004, Ron Cogburn and Bill Rucker met to discuss and develop the Meridian Marvel, a long, lean, ground-pounding custom chopper. In addition to the chopper’s production, Cogburn set up an online television show – www.meridianmarvel.com – to track the stages of production of the bike from concept to completion.
INSIDE KATRINA REPORT–The mayor of New Orleans was asked about his position on Roe VsWade.
He said he didn’t really care how people got out of the city.
–from Fuzzy
TREVOR VINES TO HEADLINE FREESTYLE EXHIBITION AT ADVANSTAR’S ARENACROSS CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES– Don’t Miss Trevor’s Cliffhangers, Heart Attacks and his Trademark Sterilizerat the K&N Filters Presents BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series!
Santa Ana, CA – September 26, 2005 – Advanstar Communications, Inc. – a leading provider of print, event and online media for the powersports, off-road and automotive aftermarket industries – today announced that Trevor Vines has been signed with the K&N Filters Bookoo Arenacross Championship Series. Trevor will be performing the Freestyle motocross stunts on Friday and Saturday nights in between pro racing events at each stop of the 12 round series.
Trevor Vines will live up to his nickname, “Trevor from Wherever,” by performing at all 12 rounds of the BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series. His high-flying, action-packed stunts are sure to draw crowds and add to the in-your-face, wheel-to-wheel action that’s a trademark of Advanstar’s inaugural Arenacross series. Trevor Vines’ bag of tricks will include cliffhangers, heart attacks, one-handed seat grabs and the Sterilizer – his best trick.
Trevor Vines has 15 major Freestyle Motocross wins as well as Top 10 finishes in both the X-Games and Gravity Games. He is the first factory-backed combination Freestyle motocross and AMA motocross racer. Trevor has also jumped at the Indy 500, Laguna Seca, the US Open of Supercross, and many large concert festivals. His sponsors include Yamaha, Thor and Sobe.
The K&N Filters Bookoo Arenacross Championship Series kicks off November 4-6, 2005 in Fort Worth, TX with the Championship Round in Tulsa, OK February 10-12, 2006. BooKoo Arenacross promises to deliver bigger air…better tracks?more speed?. For more information please go to
MYRTLE BEACH RALLY CONTROVERSY– When a panel got together to discuss the two motorcycle rallies held in Myrtle Beach each spring, the only thing folks seemed to agree on is the need to talk more about it.
About 100 people gathered Monday to hear a group of 20 business and government leaders discuss the rallies.One suggestion was to move the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association Myrtle Beach Rally to April, instead of holding it in May.
Theater owners and golf promoters complained the rallies hurt their profits and should be moved or done away with but others said the area should welcome the bikers.Owners of bars and beer distributors said they generate as much as a third of their income during the rallies.
It was the first time in years that various interests gathered to discuss the rallies and, to some, not much has changed.
“Deja vu,” Atlantic Beach Mayor Irene Armstrong said. “Nine years ago, I sat in such a setting, a round table where there was an ad hoc committee formed. Guess what? We were discussing the same things we are discussing today.”
About 500,000 bikers flock to the Grand Strand each May for the two rallies. The Harley-Davidson rally is held in mid-May while the Atlantic Beach Bikefest is held during Memorial Day weekend.
As both events have grown in recent years, so have community complaints. The chamber recently surveyed its 2,300 members and found that 70 percent who responded wanted the events changed.
“The problem is there has gotten to be so many bikers, it is overwhelming everything else,” said David Brittain, who runs the Caribbean Resort and Sea Captain’s House restaurant.
Horry County Council Chairwoman Liz Gilland suggested moving the Harley-Davidson rally to April. But the dealers association didn’t like the idea either.”We want to try to work with everybody in Myrtle Beach, but this is our 66th year. It would be awful hard for us to move it,” said Gene Lummus, the association’s president.Bikers will come when they want to, added Brenda Spadoni of Better Brands beer distributor.
“May is what it is. We are not going to stop it,” she said. “Why we are trying to do away with a certain group of tourists is beyond me.”
–from Rogue
AUSTRALIAN BIKERNET REPORT–Been awhile since I have had time to sit and say hi – spent this week repairing the old BMW after that demon frisbee attack, I still cannot believe it happened at all. Truth is stranger than fiction and all that.
Did you hear about the two Harley guys killed at Sturgis when we were there? By a portable toilet?One rider was overtaking a truck with porta potty’s on board, a toilet fell off the truck, struck him, and knocked him over the centre line. He ran into another Harley guy coming the other way and they were both killed! Now if I told you to watch out for portable toilets when out riding you would have just laughed before huh?
I was chatting to my friends daughter last night on the computer, Caz is in the UK, she does the most fantastic illustrations, fantasy stuff, nudes, tattoo drawings. Like a lot of people she thinks she really has no worthwhile talent when in fact her stuff is on par with paid artists. You could do worse than let her send you some drawings, you won’t be disappointed.
It occurred to me when I was talking to Caz that perhaps another good thing on Bikernet could be a monthly drawing contest where reader’s send in their art work and you create a link where people can vote on the best one each month? Each winner gets a Bikernet gift. What do you think?
I must peel away before I have any more good ideas. I am still developing photos, took hundreds. I will send you the best ones with side stories as I go.
Laterz mate.
–Jaq.
BDL ISSUES–I spoke to the Folks at BDL yesterday since I had received two e-mails recently from readers who needed help. The guys at the BDL factory are busy helping customers constantly. Their advice: When you call, press the button for service help and leave a very detailed message. They’ll ship the part you need if you give them all the info.
If you’re in the midst of an installation and need help. Drop bikernet a line or check all the techs on Bikernet under the BDL area or in the garage. Just recently I installed a BDL system on my Sturgis Shovelhead. It’s covered in the garage/tech area.
RED AND WHITE OC BIKE NIGHT–If you live in OC and like to party don’t miss Red and White Bike Night at “The ROC” 1700 W Placentia in Costa Mesa. Cross streets, 17th and Placentia.
*21 and over only
*Drink specials
*$2.00 domestic
*$3.00 Coronas
*$3.00 well drinks till 10pm
*50/50 raffle and merchandise raffles
*Sunday Oct. 2nd
*Starts at 5pm
For info call The Roc at 714-317-9785 or Illusion Cycles at 714-667-8101
SEAT PAN STORY COMIN’–Here are a couple new ones; I am making for my new pans. What do you think?
–Rocky
SINGLE HEADLIGHT MEANS MOTORCYCLIST– CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 19 /U.S. Newswire/ — ABATE of South Carolina is asking radio, television, and newspaper outlets in South Carolina to report on the spike in motorcycle sales in South Carolina as a result of rising gasoline prices. Nationwide, motorcycle dealerships are reporting sales increases of 25 to 60 percent over this quarter last year. When asked why they are interested in purchasing a motorcycle at this time, more and more customers are indicating that rising fuel costs has lead to their decision to purchase a motorcycle.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, in 2002, South Carolina had 61,167 motorcycles registered in the state. In 2003, that number jumped to 68,539. Motorcycles have been steadily gaining popularity over the last 10 years, but with rising gasoline prices, motorists need to realize that even greater numbers of motorcycles will be sharing South Carolina roadways.Most motorcycle accidents that involve a collision occur when a car or truck pulls out in front of a motorcycle or fails to yield to a motorcycle. When interviewed by police officers at the scene of the crash, statistics show that most drivers claim that they did not see the motorcycle coming.
“When traveling on the public roadways in South Carolina, not seeing a motorcycle means that you are not looking for a motorcycle,” says Ed Haas, ABATE of South Carolina media coordinator. “What we are asking for today is that the media report on the fact that drivers should expect even more motorcycles on South Carolina roads and that they need to look around their blind spots before pulling out or changing lanes. If every driver would ask, ‘Where’s the motorcycle?’ before pulling out onto a road or changing lanes, lives will be saved.”
“ABATE of South Carolina is asking that people drive their vehicles with the constant thought that a motorcycle is nearby, whether the driver can see the motorcycle or not. We need drivers to remain vigilant because motorcycles are everywhere. We’re asking drivers to find the motorcycle, to see the motorcycle, and to save a life. But we cannot do this alone. That’s why we’re asking the media to help us get this message out,” concludes Haas.
–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
Continued On Page 5
September 29, 2005 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
THE BIKERNET VINTAGE CAR RACE EFFORT CONTINUES–’53 Lincoln Capri and Cosmopolitan.These great cars especially excelled in the Pan American Road races. A 4 speed “Hydramatic” transmission was made standard and it would not be until the 2000 Lincoln LS that a Lincoln would again be available with a manual transmission.
Two trim levels were available. The Cosmopolitan was now the less expensive and the Capri was the top of the line. Weight was about 4200 lbs and an average price was $3300.
A BIKERNET TEAM is racing this car from the bottom of Mexico to the Laredo, Texas next month and we need a couple more sponsors.
We’re running in the “La Carrera Panamericana”, the fabled Mexican Road Race, the very last of the great long-distance competitions to be contested on public highways.
The following sponsorship opportunities are available
Full Sponsor will receive placement on the car’s trunk and sidepanels: $10,000
Partial sponsor doors and hood: $5,000
Supporter: the rest $1000We are looking forward to have the artist put your company’s logo and artwork prominently onto this adventure!! We currently have three sponsors, but there’s more space on the car.
–Dr. Hamster
COLDIRON RUNS ROADMAX BELT DRIVE AND LEFT SIDE DRIVE TRANNY–Hank Young taught himself how to weld at his father’s shop (while no one was looking) at the age of 8. By age 10, he had surpassed his dad’s torch-welding skills and was consumed with the workings of metal.
His artistry skill level clearly speaks for himself after seeing his latest creation, Coldiron, which was completed in August 2005. It is a one-off custom built motorcycle that harkens back to the style of early Harleys but is built with current technology and aerospace grade metallurgy.
The Coldiron drive train features, High-Tech 3, Roadmax’s first belt drive system off the assembly line.
“I like the High-Tech 3 system because the kit is so easy to install. The pulleys are assembled and pre-drilled for an easy bolt-on application of the covers which are provided. Other systems require drilling and tapping,” said Young. “In addition, the diagram clutch action operates smoothly and works well.”
Coldiron sports a left side drive six speed transmission. The shift action is rhythmic and allows the rider to easily shift through the gears.
HIGH SCHOOL REPORT CARD FROM PROFESSOR BAAS–Here is the 2006 Kennedy High school Chopper ClassUpdate. This year the Kennedy Chopper class is off to a greatstart with three builds going on in class already. Thefirst is a ’66 ironhead that one of my students broughtin. His dad built this bike almost 20 years ago androde the old rigid Ironhead to Sturgis and back. Hisdad gave him this to rebuild and when he’s done, hegets to keep it! Pretty cool for a high school kid’sbike!
The second build is the ’57 Ironhead we puttogether the first year in the chopper class over 4years ago. This bike will be torn apartand the motor and a few other pieces will be used tobuild the new chopper utilizing a cool single downtubegooseneck frame from Red and Kate at cycleone inCanada.
The third bike is another fund raiser buildthat will be sold next year to keep the shop classesalive due to the budget cuts here. This bike willhave the foundation of the Sucker Punch Sally’sworking man special roller..no rake, no stretch 2-inchunder front end. It’s going to be a cool old skool bobber!Thanks to Jeff and Donny at SPS for the incredibledonation..you guys rock!! Now I need to find atranny, motor, open belt primary and electrical itemsto get this bike finished.
Anyone out there interested inhelping please let me know! Our class website can beseen at www.kennedychopperclass.comor you can contact me through my website atwww.baasmetalcraft.com
–Kevin “TEACH” Baas
BAAS METAL CRAFT
Custom made steel signs, art, furniture and fabricated parts.
www.baasmetalcraft.com
952-215-1252
“When in doubt, burn out!”
WALK TO CURE NEEDS YOUR HELP–Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. is the lead Walk Team for this year’s SouthOrange County Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) “Walk to CureDiabetes.” The walk (and carnival like festivities) will take place onSunday, October 23 at Hidden Valley Park, adjacent to the Verizon WirelessAmphitheater in Irvine, California.
While diabetes affects 18 million people in the U.S. and Kawasaki isworking to assemble a record breaking walk team! We hope to raise morethan $50,000 towards finding a cure for Type I Juvenile Diabetes.
You Can Join the Team Kawasaki Starting Grid Today!You can support our efforts in one of five ways!
Option One – Support a Kawasaki walker. Log onto JDRF.org to support oneof the many Kawasaki Team Walkers or you can make a donation to my personal”Walk Central” fund-raising page at:http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=86088318. All donations go directly toJDRF.com. It only takes about 4 minutes!
Option Two – Join our Walk Team. Sign up under a Kawasaki Team Captain atJDRF.org as a walker and invite your friends, family members, neighbors andcolleagues to support you. All Kawasaki Walk Team members receive a supercool walk t-shirt the morning of the walk.
Option Three – Support our silent auction. We will accept anything of valuein advance of our silent auction on October 13, 2005. The auction willtake place from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. here in our “Good Times Plaza.”Non-Kawasaki employees are invited to attend and participate. Please sendauction items to us by October 10th:
Attn: Ms. Agata Formato
JDRF Planning Committee
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
9950 Jeronimo Road
Irvine, CA, 92618
(949) 770-0400, ext. 2745
Option Four – Build your own company, family or personal walk team. Logonto www.jdrf.org to register.
Option Five – Of course, cash donations are always welcome. Checks may bemailed to Agata Formato at the address above.
Thank you for your support. I really is a great cause!
–Jan Plessner
Kawasaki Motors Corp, U.S.A.
9950 Jeronimo Road
Irvine, CA 92618
949-770-0400, ext. 2743
jan.plessner@kmc-usa.com
BIKERS OPEN WALLETS FOR KIDS–KOTA, SD – A little metal and a lot of biker generosity goes a long way in helping children in need.This morning the Children’s Care Foundation got a check for $266,000, half of what was raised in the first Kids and Chrome event sponsored in part by Bikernet.com.
During the Sturgis Rally, the who’s who of the biker industry as well as thousands of rally goers donated the money.The Children’s Care Foundation cut goes toward the cost of building a rehabilitation and development center. “This has been fabulous the way the motorcycle industry has stepped up to help kids,” Brian Bonde of Children’s Care Foundation said. “We plan for it to be an annual event and we think over time, it will really help us build a building. There’s still a lot to pay for.”
The other $226,000 goes to the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Two members of the Bikernet staff were inducted into the Hall of Fame this year, Rogue and Ball. It was quite a year.
Crime Scene Choppers Introduces the ?Bad Attitude? Finned Primary Cover —Make a statement, save your toes? Crime Scene Choppers has just released their newest product, a bitchin? finned primary cover to fit open belt primaries.
The ?Bad Attitude? primary is the latest collaboration between builder Joe McGlynn and CAD expert Mark van der Kwaak. The primary is designed to fit the 3? BDL softail-style open primaries, mounts for Primo and other popular open belt drives are in the works.
Radical Retro
?I?m totally stoked about this primary? said Joe McGlynn, owner of Crime Scene Choppers, ?When we were designing the deep-finned oil tank I wanted to do a primary cover to coordinate with it. I wanted to mimic the proportions of the fins on the tank, and leave the space between the fins open so you can see the sprockets turning. The options for customizing the primary are endless; polished highlights, chrome or powdercoat, builders will be able to coordinate the style of their bikes.?
Bad Attitude, Great Availability
The Bad Attitude primary cover is available for $335 through http://www.CrimeSceneChoppers.com immediately. The primary cover is supplied with a fine satin finish. The primary includes stainless mounting hardware. New products are being introduced every month, so check the website for the latest news.
OLD SCHOOL LEATHER WORK–Frisco, Tx- Old school, hand tooled leather work is almost too much to ask for in this day of mass produced, technology generated crap- but Jwalker doesn?t believe the old ways should be forgotten. Jwalker is a craftsman of custom-made leather products that have caught the eye of many customers looking for that special, unique touch. From checkbook covers and PDA cases to custom designed motorcycle seats and accessories, his work has the detail and artistry of a truly hand crafted piece. He has been hand tooling and carving custom leather items for over 10 years and is able to design one-of-a-kind items for his customers that cannot be found on any shelf. His website displays several of his creations and he will take almost any project with enthusiasm. The prices are reasonable, the turn around is fast, and he works closely with his customers to ensure they get an item that they are as proud to own as he is to craft.
To see more of Jwalker?s work visit him online at www.JwalkerLeather.comOr, email him at Jwalker@JwalkerLeather.com
Thanks,
Jwalker
U.S. CHOPPER PROJECT DONE–and it will be featured on Bikernet shortly.”Well- it’s finally done,” Rick, the owner/fabricator said. “I finished her for Vegas and shot pics w/ Zimberoff while out there for the second ‘Art of the Chopper’. Rubbed the paint out at 5:30am the morning we left for Vegas…..typical!”
–Rick Krost
U.S. Choppers
2039 S. Lyon St
Santa Ana, CA 92705
714-546-4699
www.uschopper.com
BILLY LANE BUILDS CUSTOM CHOPPER IN MEMORY OF FALLEN SOLDIER–Billy Lane and the Blood Sweat & Gears Crew Build a Bike LIVE, in Memory of Brandon Sapp.
DAYTONA, FL (October 20,21,22 2005) – Billy Lane, founder of Choppers Inc and Blood Sweat & Gears Tour, will build a bike LIVE in memory of fallen soldier- Brandon Sapp during “Biketoberfest,” Daytona Beach’s fall motorcycle rally.
The Blood Sweat & Gears Tour sponsored by Bikernet.com, is Billy’s way of giving back and thanking those protecting our freedom. At the first Tour stop and ever since Billy was joined by some well known bike builder friends, Kendall Johnson, Paul Cox, Aaron Greene and Mondo each participating in the live stage builds daily throughout the 6 total annual Blood Sweat & Gears Tour stops.
Additionally Billy has welcomed guest builders Arlen Ness, Cory Ness, Dave Perewitz, Jerry Covington and other industry legends on stage to assist in completing each events’ build. At the end of every Tour stop, Billy hands the bike over to a deserving service person. No smoke and mirrors, just passes the keys on and thanks each recipient for what he or she did during their service.
This BSG build will be even more special this time. The bike will be built in memory of a brave soldier. Brandon Sapp born 6-19-83 in Palm Beach, FL County, Brandon joined the Army in 2003. Based at Fort Hood, Texas Brandon served in the 2-7 Calvary. Serving as a gunner outside of Najaf, Iraq. While serving Brandon came upon an area that according to his Sergeant, Brandon said “just didn’t feel right”. Brandon stopped the Bradley and suggested a different route. After surveying the area with night vision equipment the Bradley moved forward cautiously. Brandon chose to immediately veer right just as a 500lb bomb exploded. Brandon was killed instantly but because of his “intuition” nine other soldiers’ lives were spared.
As a young man Brandon was always trying to get permission from his father John Sapp to ride his motorcycle. After his son joined the Army John felt Brandon was ready to also take his bike for a spin. Upon Brandon’s ride return he proudly told his dad “I am getting a bike and we are going to Daytona Bike Week.” Father and son decided to build a bike together for Brandon to ride. Soon after starting the bike project Brandon left for Iraq and never returned. The bike project still sits in John’s living room waiting to be finished. Graveside John promised Brandon that his bike would be finished someday. Someday just arrived.
Billy Lane was contacted by John and asked to provide some building advice. Lane took it one step further and offered to pick the bike up and complete it with his other builder friends during Biketoberfest to honor Brandon.
Join Billy and the Blood Sweat & Gears Tour crew Thursday, Friday and Saturday during Biketoberfest to watch Brandon’s memorial bike come to life. The bike will be completed Saturday and in typical Billy Lane style expect it to not only run, but for Lane to do one of his infamous burn out’s with it before he hands it over following completion, House of Kolor paint will be applied to the custom. Imagine Lane taking yet another step to honor Brandon Sapp. It will happen Saturday, be there to see it for yourself.
Lane’s Blood Sweat & Gears Tour will be set up 10/20, 21 and 22 from 3-6PM at Bruce Rossmeyer’s new world’s largest Harley-Davidson dealership located at the intersection of US-1 and I-95 in Ormond Beach, FL. Blood Sweat & Gears is powered by Dodge and sponsored by Activision and House of Kolor.
Continued On Page 4
September 29, 2005 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
JIMS BIKERNET TOOL OF THE WEEK– NEW FORK TOOLS–JIMS?, a manufacturer of performance parts and specialty tools for use on Harley-Davidson?, has just released some new and practical tools for 2005. The new fork tube compressor tool, a must have for anyone overhauling or doing a re-valve on their cartridge style forks.
This tool is manufactured from square tubing with a precision CNC machined spring perch and robust hardware. Another innovative tool is the fork tube holder, a padded aluminum vise fixture which frees up your hands while you work in a secure and easy fashion. JIMS? has also released a new fork spring retainer tool for removing pre-1973 fork spring retainers without damaging the retainer or housing.
BRITISH TELEVISION SHOW BASED IN THE UK AND CALIFORNIA–September 3rd sees the launch of a new reality television show that promises to do for motorcycles what Pimp My Ride did for cars..!
All The Gear, No Idea is a British-produced show that features 14 motorcyclists from the UK. Each episode, one of the riders is shipped out from England to Los Angeles with their motorcycle, where both they and their bikes undergo a total transformation.
While the rider is being made-over in the plastic-surgery capital of Beverly Hills and taken shopping for a whole new look on Rodeo Drive, their bike is shipped down to leading Los Angeles custom-bike builder LA County Choprods. There, master builder Gard Hollinger and the Choprods crew set about converting the bikes from well-used rusty nails into gleaming two-wheeled dreambikes. The make-over of the rider is impressive enough, but what the guys do with these old bikes is absolutely astounding.
After a week in Los Angeles, both the bike and rider are shipped back to the UK and revealed to their gob-smacked friends and families.
All The Gear, No Idea is spearheading a new generation of programming for the ITV4 Men & Motors channel, with sell-through into the primary English-speaking countries currently being negotiated. The show is produced by renegade television production company Hamma & Glamma, who specialize in fast-paced motorsports programs. All The Gear, No Idea is also the first reality show where both the participant and their machinery is completely changed during the show.
The All The Gear, No Idea production team would like to express their sincere thanks to all the support they have received from the big names in the motorcycle industry both in America and in Britain, including: Honda Europe and Honda America, Ducati UK and America, Suzuki UK, Yamaha Europe, Kawasaki Europe, FMF Exhausts, Arai Helmets and Alpinestars apparel.
For further information, call Johnny Cantlie at Hamma & Glamma Productions on (310) 528 9091
MILWAUKEE IRON STAFF MEMBER PASSES ON–It is with much sadness that on this day, Tuesday, September 27th 2005, at around 3:30 a.m. this morning, Milwaukee Iron lost one of their greatest, Gary Woodford. We lost our friend, co-worker & mentor in Gary. No words can express what we, his family and friends are feeling at this time.
Gary was truly a SUPER hero who will be missed by all. Gary was loved by all and will never be forgotten. Thank you for your prayers. We love you Gary! Randy & your “Crew” @ Milwaukee Iron.
Watch for a Gary Tribute event Halloween weekend. We’ll bring you more as it comes together.
KENTUCKY SUPER SHOW WRAP-UP–The Hot Bike Kentucky Super Show in Louisville presented by RC Components on September 10th and 11th turned out to be one Hot Bike Show.
The Buzz around the Kentucky International Convention Center was that the 75 plus show bikes were some of the most creative creations seen at any shows this year.
Bike builders and spectators split their time between admiring the show bikes in the RC lounge and shopping the aisles for a new custom bike from builders like PB Choppers(Iowa), Nothing But Customs(KY), Coast 2 Coast Choppers(FL) and Three Two Choppers out of Texas to name a few. If that wasn’t enough local dealership Rolling Thunder Cycles brought out dozens of Swift, APC and Ironhorse bikes for sale. Michelle Smith greeted bikers and shoppers in the Derby City Vengeance booth.
The RC lounge was rockin’ with live music, and surrounded with vendors like Dakota Digital, 3rd Day Bike Works and the latest creations of the talented artiest Latisha Wood. Baker Drivetrain one of the sponsors was on hand with their products on some trick display bikes. Porky’s Choppers was hard at work building a one off custom during the event with the help Baker components.
If all this wasn’t enough 4th street was blocked off for free front row bike parking and local Trials stud David Chaves used the downtown street to thrill the crowd as he performed some world class Trials stunts.
As the two day show came to a close and the custom billet awards from Dakota Digital, Baker, and Cycle Smith were handed out in 17 classes. It was plain to see that this annual show is here to stay.
For more info on the Hot Bike KY Super Show and other Hot Bike events check out www.horsepowerpromotions.com
BIKERNET’S ARTY PHOTOG–Please do what you can for our bro’s in MS, LA and TX by donating your time or money. They need our help.
–Whiplash
soffordphotos@comcast.net
AWESOME CHARITY CHOPPER–Conceived and sponsored by
Built by famed bike builder Dave Perewitz, the Charity Chopper is now the hottest auction item on eBay Motors. This is your chance to help Katrina victims and own a hot, one-of-a-kind, Perewitz V-twin motorcycle featuring a spectacular Liquid Crystal paint finish from the PPG Vibrance Collection and a signature Perewitz flame paint design.
All charity auction proceeds from the Charity Chopper will support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s efforts to help the many thousands of blood cancer patients in the Gulf Coast region who have been displaced by Hurricane Katrina and the many who are experiencing difficulty gaining access to their treatments. The Society is also providing support to overburdened cancer centers in Texas that are caring for patients displaced by the hurricane.
http://www.ebay.com/charitychopper Click here to learn more about the Charity Chopper and make your bid today!
ONE OF FHM MAGAZINES SEXIEST WOMEN TO PROMOTE ADVANSTAR’S INAUGURAL ARENACROSS SERIES–K&N Filters BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series Announces Erin Normoyle.
Santa Ana, CA – September 28, 2005 – Advanstar Communications, Inc. – a leading provider of print, event and online media for the powersports, off-road and automotive aftermarket industries – today announced that Erin Normoyle, one of FHM Magazine’s Sexiest Woman in the World, will be the national spokeswoman traveling with the inaugural K&N Filters Presents BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series.
The 21-year-old Australian has been a model since the age of 12 and racing motocross for the past seven years. After an extensive selection process, Erin emerged as the hands down favorite to be the spokesmodel for BooKoo Arenacross. “Erin’s passion for racing, combined with her outgoing personality, make her the perfect spokesperson for our new series,” said Mike Kidd, Arenacross Race Director for Advanstar. “Given her background in the sport, she can relate well to the fans, racers and sponsors and will be a strong part of the series with her local appearances and promotions.”
“I love racing motocross and look forward to being part of Arenacross here in the USA,” said Erin. “Advanstar is presenting me with a great opportunity to see the country and promote their new BooKoo Arenacross. I am thrilled to be a part of such an exciting sport.”
Erin has been racing motocross for seven years in Australia, most recently with the only fully backed girls motocross team that she helped develop with the support of Jim Beam, Fox Racing, and Yamaha Motor Corporation.
K&N Filters Presents BooKoo Arenacross Championship Series kicks off November 4-6, 2005 in Fort Worth, TX. Bookoo Arenacross promises to deliver bigger air…better tracks more speed.
For more information on Erin Normoyle visit http://www.erinnormoyle.com.
NEW ALL GAS SERIES–AMDRAGS, the new American Motorcycle Drag Racing All Gas Series, has its web site up and running at http://www.AMDRAGS.com and its forum is now live.
The AMDRAGS races will be in full operation in 2006.
The AMDRAGS on-line forum is a great place for high performance Harley riders and racers to share their thinking, technical questions and discuss the new AMDRAGS organization, classes and rules in an open forum.
In addition to the racing areas, AMDRAGS.com also has an area in the forum for the new AIMSA showbike association, which will be held in conjunction with the AMDRAGS races.
GAS PRICE NEWS–I went into the Citgo gas station this morning and asked for five dollars worth of gas.The clerk farted and gave me a receipt.
–from Jack Drew
GET OUT IF YOU WANT SHARIA LAW, AUSTRALIA TELLS MUSLIMS……… CANBERRA: Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out of Australia, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks. A day after a group of mainstream Muslim leaders pledged loyalty to Australia at a special meeting with Prime Minister John Howard, he and his ministers made it clear that extremists would face a crackdown.
Treasurer Peter Costello, seen as heir apparent to Howard, hinted that some radical clerics could be asked to leave the country if they did not accept that Australia was a secular state and its laws were made by parliament. “If those are not your values, if you want a country which has Sharia law or a theocratic state, then Australia is not for you,” he said on national television. “I’d be saying to clerics who are teaching that there are two laws governing people in Australia, one the Australian law and another the Islamic law, that that is false.
If you can’t agree with parliamentary law, independent courts, democracy, and would prefer Sharia law and have the opportunity to go to another country which practices it, perhaps, then, that’s a better option,” Costello said. Asked whether he meant radical clerics would be forced to leave, he said those with dual citizenship could possibly be asked move to the other country.
Education Minister Brendan Nelson later told reporters that Muslims who did not want to accept local values should “clear off”. “Basically, people who don’t want to be Australians, and they don’t want to live by Australian values and understand them, well then they can basically clear off,” he said. Separately, Howard angered some Australian Muslims on Wednesday by saying he supported spies monitoring the nation’s mosques.
AMERICANS…..ARE YOU LISTENING? and reading?
STURGIS LEADERS DISCUSS RALLY STRATEGY– KELOLAND TV, SD – Town leaders in Sturgis are brainstorming ways to draw bikers back to downtown, the home of the annual motorcycle rally. Rally committee members met to discuss the drop in visitors to downtown.Mike Bachand says Custer and Hill City have almost become bigger destinations than Sturgis.
Businessman Bob Davis says the focus has been “How can we make money on the rally?” and it should be “How can we make it better?” He says higher lodging costs, parking problems and traffic congestion all turn people away.
–Rogue
BIKERNET WEEKLY CONTEST WINNERS–This week I have a Saxon t-shirt, hat and cup cooler for one of the winners below.
JR. JEAN -BLUM, TEXAS 76627 – USA
Suggestion: ON THE NEW SITE OF THE GIRLS OF BIKERNET YA’LL NEED TO USE INDIVIDUALS BIKES INSTEAD OF BIG BUILDERS CUSTOMS FOR YOUR MODELS TO TAKE PHOTO SHOOTS ON.
Wanted: MY WISH IS TO HAVE MY DEVILS ADVOCATE PROSTREET USED IN A PHOTO SHOOT, WITH A BEAUTIFUL MODEL.
Hey Jr., we feature anyone who sends us the info. Look a little deeper, we just feature a guy who built a bike in his bedroom. Send us an email with some pics of your bike, we’ll work out a Bikernet feature for you. ~Layla
DAVE REINAAS – Negaunee, Mi. 49866 – U.S.A.
Wanted: just a free t-shirt.
You got it, Dave. You get the Saxon ensamble. Saxon motorcycles, Phoenix, AZ, contributed a ballcap, XL t-shirt and foam cup holder. Watch for reports on Saxon motorcycles in the near future.
Continued On Page 3
September 29, 2005 Part 1
By Bandit |
Hey,
It’s hot as hell in the Bikernet Headquarters and the news is smokin’. With the deadline looming over my head a call came in from the Midwest and a whispering voice said, “Sheldon Coleman, the owner of Big Dog, bought S&S.” The phone went immediately dead.
I sat back and scratched my sweating head and pondered the possibilities. What could it mean to Big Dog, the industry or the employees at S&S? Sheldon is one of the good guys in this industry. Sure, he has tons of money from the Coleman-Camping family, but he’s more than just a rich sap. He’s a guy with the heart to pour resources into Big Dog for the long run. He’s stood the test of time, hung by his employees, put up with Nick, “The Knife”, Messer until Big Dog was successful and on the top of the production custom heap.
I’ll check with my S&S connection and report at the end of the news. Let’s hit it:
THE V-ROD ENGINE CONTROVERSY–EPA documents show design basics and performance info a a 2450cc V-twin, but they also raise a few questions.
Any new mega-displacement liquid-cooled Harley-Davidson motorcycle engine would incorporate some of the technology from the VRSC Rod series V-twin engines.
Is Harley about to join the displacement race? That topic has been buzzing around the internet with the discovery of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) documents mentioning a 2450cc V-twin engine. With Harley now running at the bottom of the big-twin displacement class, it’s only a matter of time before Harley, which was once distinguished by having the largest motorcycle engines on the road, produces a bigger V-twin.
EPA emissions document in question shows testing results for liquid-cooled 2450cc and 2000cc Harley-Davidson V-twin engines. Power for the 2450cc version is listed as 98 kilowatts (131 horsepower) at 5000 rpm with 133 newton-meters (98 foot-pounds) of torque at 3500 rpm. The weight (presumably the GVWR) is listed at 1260 pounds. Since the fuel-tank material is listed as nylon, it would presumably be an under-seat style. The fuel-injected engine uses air injection and catalyst to reduce exhaust emissions.
–from Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
HELMETLESS FLORIDA RIDERS WIN-THE DEBATE CONTINUES–“Helmetless” Riders are Less Likely to Die in Motorcycle Crashes on Florida Roads. The 2004 Crash Statistics for Florida wipe away NHTSA’s prediction of a blood bath.
According to the recently released, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles annual Traffic Crash Statistics Report for 2004, motorcycle riders wearing helmets were more likely to sustain an injury or suffer a fatality than their non-helmeted counterparts. The huge increase in death and injury to non-helmeted motorcycle riders, predicted by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration) in a report released this summer, has not been substantiated. The numbers are going to disappoint the proponents of helmet laws while simultaneously confirming the facts presented to the public by ABATE of Florida, Inc. (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education). ABATE is a non-profit motorcycle rights organization in Florida and has spent years focusing on motorcycle related issues, including crash prevention and stiffer penalties for negligent vehicle operators who kill and injure motorcycle riders.
Of the 388 motorcycle riders killed in crashes on Florida roads during 2004, over 51% were wearing safety helmets. The crash facts also demonstrate that riders wearing safety helmets were more likely to sustain injuries than non-helmeted riders. In each of the statistical focus topics presented in the study, the percentage numbers were very close between helmeted and non-helmeted riders, except for non-injury crashes.
This disparity could be due to the visual and physical limitations imposed by a helmet. Wearing a motorcycle helmet cannot keep a crash from occurring, however, riding without a helmet could allow a rider to respond more quickly or to visually recognize potential hazards, decreasing the severity of the injury sustained or avoiding injury all together. There are no statistics available for crashes which riders were able to completely avoid due to training or equipment use. According to the crash statistics, the top three contributing causes of all motor vehicle crashes include careless driving, failure to yield the right-of-way and driving under the influence of alcohol. None of the three include equipment failure, environmental or weather related issues. Each of the top three causes for crashes are directly linked to driver error or negligent action by the motor vehicle operator. Therefore, in stands to reason that a significant number of crashes could be avoided if motor vehicle drivers took personal responsibility for operating a deadly weapon prior to engaging their engines. Statistical reports, no matter how reliable the source, will not stop the motorcycle helmet usage debate, however, the real issue is crash prevention. To get involved in motorcycle crash prevention or to find out more about the Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Programs being offered, contact ABATE of Florida, Inc. at P.O. Box 2520, DeLand, Florida, 32721 or visit www.abateflorida.com.
–from Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com
BIKERNET/PYRO TEC PAINT JOB GIVEAWAY CONTEST COMING–While I gather pics for examples of the paint job giveaway, I thought I’dsend a few shots of a part the guys also make. It’s a very discreet supportfor S & S carbs on Evo style engine cases. It’s pretty damn sweet as you’llsee. It comes in 2 styles, the “Hot Rod” (w/holes) or the “Speedway”.Polished or black wrinkle powder coated, they both sell for $98.00 and areavailable on their web site www.PyroKustoms.com
–John
“John and Melissa Beck”
TAMPA BIKEFEST 2006, BIGGEST YET, MARCH 25-26, 2006–Central Florida bikers will have a real biker treat with the best live entertainment, national celebrities, biker games, professional stunts, thousands in cash prizes, biker build-off, huge custom bike show, contests and lots of fun!
The Sundome – USF, in Tampa will receive over 25,000 bikers eager to buy biker products and services and find that special bike they have been looking for.
You cannot miss this event!
NATIONAL CELEBRITIES AND THEIR DREAM MACHINES–World Championship Website forum up and running. THE OFFICIAL World Championship of Custom Bike Building event website has been updated with a valuable new feature.
The site now has a moderated forum, where competitors and interested parties can communicate with each other, and through which event information and questions can be given and answered.
Just go to
Full information on the rules, classes, terms and conditions, judging, timings and related event information is also available at the website, with on-line or download-and-fax versions of the official entry form.
A competitor event booklet will be mailed to all potential competitors and related businesses later this week, and with space planning for the hall now underway, we are urging all builders who plan to enter the World Championship to complete the entry form and book their slot as soon as possible.
AMD’s 2nd annual Official World Championship Of Custom Bike Building will be held at the Big Twin West Dealer Expo, November 18 to 20, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel, Las Vegas Nevada. Custom Chrome is also holding their 19th annual Dealer Show at the same time and venue.
BIKERNET FRISCO PROJECT–Nyla Olsen, a five-year marketing director of Bikernet.com took the California Rider Course and passed it. She’s been riding a rubbermount 2004 Sportster ever since. We customized it and it?s on the pages of American Rider and Bikernet.
She’s now stepping up to the plate, and we’re going to build her a tight little Frisco style bobber. She’s 5’5″ and wants that light, low center of gravity scoot for roaming the southern coast of California. We’re working with a pure 80-inch Harley-Davidson, Evo drive line, BDL primary, and an original VL front end (2-inches longer than traditional springer), and Fab Kevin taillight.
We are working exclusively with Kent from Lucky Devil Metal Works in Houston for fabrication and Kraft Tech for their slim bobber frame (2-inch downtube stretch with 34 degrees in the neck), narrow (130) 18-inch rear wheel and cupping rear fender. A Dennis Goodson air cleaner will handle the CV carb.
I would like to mention a couple of shops adding pure inspiration to this project. First NYC Choppers while we were in Sturgis, then recently at the Mid-State show I ran into Cole Foster of the Salinas Boys (we’re about to feature one of their sleek customs) and finally our recent Pyro Tec custom from Alton, Illinois. Incredible bikes. Plus, Kent built a hot Triumph that was featured in Hot Bike.
You’ll witness this bike come together, every step of the way, on Bikernet.com. We’ll look forward to your comments.
VICE GRIPS FROM TODD SILICATO–Silicato (as Todd) of Todd’s Cycle continues to design and developthe unmatched, stylish products that you have seen for years onTodd’s custom bikes. Todd’s Cycle formerly Top Shelf recently expanded their operations and staff.
Products such as the original Vice Grips aremachined from 60610 aluminum and knurled for a good grip with aslight radius to add comfort and control. Vice Grips are available inpolish and black ano or wrap your knuckles around a pair of brassgrips.
Give Todd’s Cycle a shout at 714-901-4516 or visit us attodds-cycle.com to check out the full line of unique, functionalproducts and our shop.
AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE INSTITUTE BUILDS NEW CAMPUS– The Florida Motorcycle School LLC paid $3.2 million for 27.5 acres of vacant land at the Destination Daytona, Bruce Rossmeyer Harley-Davidson site that will be used as a new campus for Corinthian College’s American Motorcycle Institute.
AMI is one of only two motorcycle schools in the country. The campus is expected to cost in excess of $26 million and will allow AMI to triple in enrollment. It will be located at the north end of Destination Daytona, a $50 million, 150-acre biker-themed tourist attraction.
“The decision by Corinthian College to make this exceptional investment in our community is another indication of the pre-eminence of the Daytona area in the motorsports field and of our overall desirability,” says Mike Vollmar of Charles Wayne Properties Inc., one of the brokers for the transaction. “There is a tremendous synergy between the school and Destination Daytona.”
Strasser Development Parcel D LLC, represented by Chuck Strasser, sold the parcel. The buyer was represented by Charles S. Lichtigman and Vollmar of Charles Wayne Properties, and Cresa Partners Inc.Charles Wayne Properties is one of Central Florida’s largest commercial real estate brokers. It manages leases or owns in excess of 2 million square feet of retail and office properties, and has offices in Orlando, Melbourne, Ocala and Daytona Beach.
–Rogue
://www.bikerrogue.com
BIKER CORPORATE MANAGEMENT LESSON–An Indian walks into a cafe with a shotgun in one hand pulling amale buffalo with the other. He says to the waiter, “Want coffee.”
The waiter says, “Sure chief, coming right up.” He gets the Indiana tall mug of coffee. The Indian drinks the coffee down in onegulp, turns and blasts the buffalo with the shotgun, causing partsof the animal to splatter everywhere, then just walks out.
The next morning the Indian returns. He has his shotgun in one handpulling another male buffalo with the other. He walks up to thecounter and says to the waiter, “Want coffee.”
The waiter says, “Whoa, Tonto! We’re still cleaning up your messfrom yesterday. What was all that about, anyway?”
The Indian smiles and proudly says, “Training for upper managementposition: Come in, drink coffee, shoot the bull, leave mess forothers to clean up, disappear for rest of day.
–from Art Friedman
MOTOCROSS LEGEND GARY SEMICS TO RELEASE 2 NEW INSTRUCTIONAL DVDs AND a CD!–LISBON, OHIO – Sept/05 – The ever-expanding volumes of motocross instructional material is growing today with the release of three new titles from former Supercross Champion and renowned instructor Gary Semics.
Riding techniques are explained and demonstrated in both stationary and action practice drills, making it easy to learn from one of the racing world’s true kings. Semics, who runs the Gary Semics Moto-X Schools, offers “How To Win Starts,” the second DVD in the Volume II Series.
“Everyone knows that the start is the most important part of a race,” said Semics, who breaks down all-important starting techniques in an easy to understand format. State of the art editing equipment lets Semics show riders each action and how they all blend together to create a quick start.
Semics also tackles the racer’s mindset and reveals secrets on how to mentally win a start. “Just the few hours I spent with Gary made a huge improvement in my starting abilities,” said motocross star Brock Helper.
Semics is also releasing the “Two-day School” DVD, which duplicates the actual experience of attending a two-day class at Semics’ riding school. Viewers will learn the five different techniques to take jumps and three techniques to do whoops, among many other skills. “You will learn the quickest and most effective ways to practice in order to improve,” said Semics.
Finally, Semics announces the release of a new groundbreaking CD, “MX School CD Series One,” which will allow riders the convenience of learning what’s really important in order to improve at motocross while they relax at home or behind the wheel of a car. The four part CD teaches competitors: How to quickly move up to the next level; The three types of foods to avoid; Bike set up adjustments; and How to make your bike and body become one.
In addition to his multimedia ventures, Semics is offering his riding and fitness-training programs in Georgia this December, January and February at the Georgia Practice Facility (GPF). Those interested in learning more about the sessions can contact the Gary Semics MX School at 330-424-9295 or the GPF owner Ray Woods at 810-569-2606.
Continued On Page 2
September 22, 2005 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
MID STATE RALLY RE-CAP–The 5th Annual Hot Bike Mid State Rally presented by Santa Maria Harley-Davidson broke records in many areas but first and foremost in the weather department. Paso Robles home of the Labor Day rally is traditionally 100 plus heat all weekend. This particular weekend the temperature never passed the 97 degree mark and was the main reason for the largest crowd in rally history, bringing in just under 15,000 people.
Speaking of 15,000 the Street Chopper 15,000 dollar bike builders build-off, with 13 of the most talented twisters of steel on hand, helped draw the crowds as the visited with thousands of fans throughout the weekend.
The competition was tough between these cutting edge builders with Aaron Greene from Paramount Custom Cycles out of Reno, NV taking 1st place, Johnny Chop took 2nd place and Cole Foster of the Salinas Boys was just a few points behind in 3rd place.
The real difference to anyone that had ever been to the Mid State Rally before was the enlarged Coors Vending Field that covered close to 3 times as much space.
“Just having 13 builders of the quality of these guys, not to mention industry leaders like Performance Machine, Vengeance, Jim’s Machine, and the Victory road show is something you don’t see at most shows.” commented Scott Long of Central Coast Cycles.
Maxim Hottie Kerri Kasem created a line in the Vengeance booth as her fans filed in to pick up her signed posters.
Music, motorcycle racing, and margaritas were all to be had for the entrance price of $10. Of course there was a small fee for the margaritas but everything else including the Ink and Iron Tattoo Expo could all be had for one low price.
Plans are already underway for the 2006 Mid State Rally in anticipation of even more crowds and pulling together some great entertainment, bike builders, and event staff and design.
“This was the first year that Horse Power Promotions has been the promotional force behind the rally. We completely changed the flow of the show as far as the bike show and vending field. We have some more fine tuning to do with the camping fields to open up about 15 more acres of much needed camping for 2006”, stated Spike Fletcher, Vendor Manager for Horse Power Promotions.
Check out http://www.midstaterally.com for more info on the Mid State Rally September 1st, 2nd & 3rd, 2006.
SHRUNKEN FXR UPDATE–Bandit: Not to ‘self-stroke’ too much, but when I checked out the bike at the top of this weeks news, I didn’t recognize it. My first reaction was to tell you that that’s one bitchin’ goddamn bike. Classic to the max, built for the rider of discriminating taste. Okay, a bit of shine, but I meant it. Then I looked at the slick paint job and recognized it as ours. I haven’t ridden the bike, and I think only a couple people have, but that bike, at least from the photo, is the perfection of ‘bikeness.’ I tightened every nut, twisted every screw and hammered every pin, to put that banshee together. I am always surprised at what a fantastic hunk of steel that is. If I had the cash, I’d buy the bastard. If no one else comes up with the gold, I might.
Nuttboy
SO YOU WANNA BE ON TV?–Just thought you guys might want to know about the new TV series that Liquid Steel Productions is undertaking.
The “Next Top Builder” is a series dedicated to giving small time, un- or little published builders the chance to build a tribute bike(s) for the military. Applications are being accepted at the Liquid Steel II show in Wilmington, North Carolina in the end of October. More information on the show can be found at http://www.liquidsteelproductions.com and if any builder wants info. on the series, they can contact the promoter, Brenda Simpson, directly at, 843-446-9584.
Later,
JB
Dogg Bone Customs
http://www.doggbonecustoms.com
chopperdog@comcast.net
804-590-9492
THE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE 2005 TOUR ?REVS? UP FOR BIKETOBERFEST IN DAYTONA BEACH– Featuring Custom Bike builders, their Creations and More
Showcasing the hottest custom motorcycles on the road, four of the nation?s most exciting custom bike builders and the largest, most rockin? bike rallies, The Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse 2005 will pull into Daytona Beach, Florida for its third stop:Biketoberfest? from October 20 ? 23. The Roadhouse will set up shop at Destination Daytona, home to Bruce Rossmeyer?s brand new World?s Largest Harley-Davidson Dealership, located at the intersection of US-1 and I-95.
This stop in the Roadhouse Tour will follow visits to two of the nation?s hottest bike rallies — Daytona Bike Week and the 65th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse 2005 Tour, featuring live entertainment, beautiful Hard Rock models, Hawaiian Tropic pageants, the Roadhouse Bar, a showcase of some of the most amazing custom bikes in the country, and Celebrity Custom Builder Ride-ins will set the scene for the metal-carving ingenuity and raw talent of custom bike builders JESSE ROOKE of Rooke Customs in Phoenix, AZ; ROLAND SANDS from Roland Sands Design in LaPalma, CA; JOHNNY VASKO AKA JOHNNY CHOP from Southern California; and DOUG KEIM of New Jersey’s Creative Cycles.
With custom-designed and built bikes, featuring stellar paints, unique parts and assembly modes that makes the Roadhouse a modern museum of motorcycles as the platform, the Hard Rock Roadhouse is a one-stop location where fans can check out the 2005 custom built bikes, meet the builders and get their autographs, also features a Custom Bike Sweepstakes, offering a chance to win one of the four Hard Rock Custom Bikes built. Five semi-finalists will win a complimentary getaway including accommodation and roundtrip air to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, for the Grand Finale. Entries are taken at each of the Seminole Hard Rock Roadhouse tour stops, as well as online at http://www.hrroadhouse.com or at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, where the featured bikes are on display between Roadhouse trips.The next stop on the tour is the Grand Finale at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, which will be transformed into party central and the custom bike Mecca during the Ft. Lauderdale Bike Rally from December 1-4.
Two-year, 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 http://www.hrroadhouse.com.
STEALTH REPORT–We have been busy at STEALTH BIKE WORKS this week. It seems we are getting alot of the older bikes in and that is a good thing. A lot of shops it seemsdon’t want to work on the older bikes for different reasons. Personally, Ilove the old bikes.
Speaking of old bikes, last night I went to a local bike night and when Ipulled in the lot I noticed this real cool pan, The Horse style bike. I walkover to take a look at it and my buddy Ben the powdercoat king walks up andsays it belongs to him. I am blown away and happy for him at the same time.He tells me he got a sweet deal on the 48 Pan. I have been looking for yearsand it seems these deals never come my way but I am not giving up. Ben and I went in and had dinner together and talked about the old pan. One thing hesaid to me that stuck in my mind was “That you know there is something aboutthese old bikes that grabs you and sticks with you!” You know he is right,in a sea of bolt on chrome and over done paint jobs the old Pan stood headsabove all of them with it’s simple style and simple black paint job provingonce again that less is more. There ain’t no head, like a Panhead!
We continue with planning the Oct. 8th poker run for the hurricane relieffund. If you would like to make a donation you can call us at STEALTH BIKEWORKS 704-882-0889. We will see that the money gets to where it is needed.If you are in the area give us a call and we will direct you to SBW.
You know summer is over and where the time went I really don’t know. My timeflys by now running SBW, I am not complaining though, there is nothing Iwould rather do or nothing I would rather put more time into. There arestill some warm days and nights ahead so get out and enjoy them while theylast. It is not to early to start planning those winter projects. We aretrying to plan one at STEALTH BIKE WORKS. Right now it is just that, in theplanning stages, we will see.
One thing about running your own shop is that you always have ideas dancingaround in your head and I guess that is a good thing because when you stopdreaming you stop living a little bit. There has been a bike I want tobuild dancing in my head for about two months now and you all know how thatgoes. It is laid out on paper, but I really don’t need paper because as Isaid it is in my head.
I will leave it at that for now. I have to go, visions of that 48 Pan I sawlast night won’t leave me alone!
Until next week, RIDE!
STEALTHMAN
BIKERNET CONTEST WINNERS– Two weeks ago I offered a three-day and two-night stay at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fl. and only one guy entered requesting it. He?s gonna get one of the certificates but I have one more. If you live in the area or can get to it, enter the damn contest!
ROBYN YELTON – RUTHERFORDTON, NC 28139 – USA
Suggestion: I WOULD SHOW LADIES BIKES AND LADIES ON THERE BIKES
Wanted: NONE
Robyn didn?t want anything but hopefully she sees this and contacts me so I can send her a gift. She?s right though and Robyn, send us a pic of you and you?re bike. If there?s any other ladies that ride checking out Bikernet, send us a pic, we?ll put you up.
SCOTT ARMSTRONG – Forestville, Ca. 95436 – usa
Wanted: What happened to HA Leather ? I thought they were gonna stay in business after the death of the owner. Just wondering.
Scott, they did stay in business and the name is now Lil Joe?s Legendary Leathers. We have their logo right on the Home Page and here?s the link.
http://www.bikernet.com/liljoes/
Mike Kelly – Deltona, fl 32738 – usa
Wanted: I can make it to south Florida for the party you have tickets for.
You got it, Mike. Email me to confirm your address. sinwu@bikernet.com
DEPARTURE BIKE WORKS SPECIAL OF THE WEEK–THIS 2003 DYNA IS A BIKE THAT CAN BE FIXED AND BE BACK ON THE ROAD IN VERY LITTLE TIME AT ALL. IT COMES WITH A COMPLETE SET OF NEW SHEET METAL ( NOT PICTURED ) AND IS GENERALLY UNHURT IN ALL CRITICAL AREAS. THE 2003 IS AN ANNIVERSARY EDITION MOTORCYCLE ADDING TO ITS VALUE AND OVERALL UNIQUENESS. BUY IT TODAY FOR $8,350. CLICK ON THE BANNER ABOVE FOR MORE PHOTOS AND INFORMATION.
JUSTIN ? DEPARTURE BIKE WORKS
IS THERE A WAY–I was just wandering if there was anyway that you could get word out ASAP about a Bike Run in Monroe Ohio it is for Kelly Elizabeth Stumpf. Kelly passed away on July 2nd 2005 and she loved to ride. It is at 10am. For more information people can go to www.onebreathatatime.org
REALITY BITES FROM THE DEVIL–Here is some trippy shit, the following shots are taken of some of one of the busiest malls in Houston and as you can see it is empty. There are no places to get hot food, almost all the gas stations are out of fuel and most of them are boarded up, the stores that are open are all out of water and ice and the shelves are almost bare. It is strange to see this all going on. I still lived in San franfreakshow when they had the last big shaker and I have to tell you I think I prefer not to know when it is coming.
The outer edge of the storm will start to hit our area tomorrow sometime in the afternoon so I will cover the windows at Holly’s shop tomorrow morning ( and that is where we will tough it out ) it is the strongest building we have. The shop is as safe as it can be, we loaded all the bikes we could in the trailers and backed them in the paint shop, and the rest we strapped down too the lifts. We got as much as we could off the floor just in case we get flooded.
All the people by the way are sitting on the freeways heading out of town. It is so bad they are trying to open both sides of the freeways out bound and you will no longer be able to come in to Houston. All I can say is we’ll hope for the best and deal with the rest!
Welcome to Hell
The Devil
p.s. hey check out www.click2houston.com they have a cool storm tracker deal on line that follows and forecasts the storm.I will take more shots during this madness and send them when I can, Take care.
THAT?S IT FOR THE NEWS–For the next few days I will have nothing but positive hope for the people in Mother Natures way. I hope she will move across them gently.
Layla
September 22, 2005 Part 1
By Bandit |
RATS INVADE HEADQUARTERS– And Bandit has left us for a few days ? first headed to the Saxon plant in Phoenix and then to test ride the new models into Mexico. Tonight he?ll be surrounded by Bonita Senoritas and sipping Margaritas on a cruise ship, then home tomorrow in time for slop and the third degree.
Now about that rat? My friend found this little rat-in-a-dog-suit and asked if I could keep it or find it a good home. Bandit doesn?t seem to think he makes a good ?Bikernet shop dog? but everyday he?s here; I get a little more attached. So far he doesn?t have a name so I call it ?little dog?, but I really need to come up with something. Any suggestions aside from the obvious, ?Tiny?, ?Spike?, ?Bruiser?, etc?
The news is a little short this week but contains some good shit. Enjoy— Layla
BIGGEST SHOW IN FLORIDA–
OVER 80% OF SPACE ALREADY SOLD!
We are just 2 months away from the biggest indoor bike show in Florida!If you have not confirmed your spot yet, you still have a few good chances to sell your product at the most exciting bike show in Florida!
We have started to give more horsepower in the promotion and advertising:
September 16-18 – Flyers at Peterson’s Poker Run October 1st – Direct Mail – 1st batch – 5k pieces October 3rd – Discovery Channel Ad starts October 3rd – Start Email Blasting to 15k bikers October 20 – 23 – Promotion at Biketoberfest November 3-10 – Promo at Miami International Auto Show
When have you ever had 20,000 customers at your door in one weekend?______________________________________
One lucky biker will take home a brand New 2005 Chopper!
That’s right! 1,000 bikers will have a chance to roll the dices to win a 2005 Big Dog Motorcycles Chopper. All he or she has to do is to roll the dices and get the combination “BIGDOG” facing up.
This is one more effort of our show to attract new attendees to our show.
ALWAYS THE BEST CELEBRITIES
Our show has become famous for bringing only the biggest and best celebrity names to South Florida. Discovery Channel Biker Build-Off, Dave Perewitz, Eddie Trotta, Cyril Huze, Tony Cenzi, Russell Mitchell, Michele Smith and Jesse Rooke are some of the names who have been to our shows.PFor 2005 Fort Lauderdale Show we are bringing The Martin Brothers, showing some of their coolest bikes and the Indian Larry Legacy Tour, keeping alive the legacy of one of the biggest and most original bike builders.PSPECIAL EVENT: OLD SCHOOL CHOP-OFF
We still have spots open at the Old School Chop-Off, Sponsored by The Horse Back Street Choppers Magazine.
If you got what it takes, enter to win $4,000 in cash and full feature on The Horse Magazine – That means national exposure to your business.
The rules are simple: Old school, The Horse Style!
Deadline for Registration: October 5th
New Entertainment, More Fun!
As you know, our show is not just an expo. We work hard to make it a fun show, offering the best entertainment to bikers who attend our event and that’s what keeps attendance higher every year
This year we are adding a Mechanical Bull Ride, which we will explore to promote the businesses at the show and provide greater fun to our bikers.
This activity will be running during most of the show. Your company can be a sponsors of the bull ride, getting higher exposure at minimum cost.
There is only one sponsor spot! Call right now to get it.
PALM BEACH BIKE SHOW HAS
NEW DATE:
APRIL 8-9, 2006
Listening to feedback from vendors and bikers, the 3rd Annual Palm Beach Bike Show has new date: APRIL 8 & 9, 2006.
With the change, bikers will have a good time riding in a cooler weather and we will increase attendance to the show.
Sales have already started. Go online or call us to reserve your space!
HELLBOUND STEEL NEW MODELS–Rancho Cucamonga, CA- Hellbound Steel Motorcycles, one of the leading “custom” production bike manufacturers, has recently unveiled their 2006 line up. There are many new exciting additions and changes to their current line up. Mike Molloy, President and Co-Founder of HBS explained, “We have redesigned our entire product line and all of our 2006 models will be right side drive. We have also decided to go “bigger” with our rear tires and most models will be available with either a 250, 280 or 300 rear tire. Our new rigid Cremator will feature Avon’s new 17″ 330 rear tire”, Molloy concluded.
Mike Salyer, VP of Production, added “Due to the recent popularity of the “Bobber Style” bikes, we are proud to introduce a new 60’s style Bobber appropriately called The Stripper It’s the perfect blend of modern technology meets old school.” This new Stripper is available in a hardtail version, for those that really want to turn back the clocks as well as an FLH style version for those that plan on putting some miles on this ride.
HBS didn’t forget a thing when they developed this new model. It comes packed full of features including an S&S Shovelhead style motor, 5-speed “kicker” transmission (it actually works too!), 3″ open belt drive, Brembo brakes, wide glide front end, front and rear spoke rims complete with white walls (rear tire is a 150),old school style switches built with modern technology, upswept “fishtail” style exhausts, bicycle style handlebars, chrome front fender, metal flake paint with matching graphics (seat, grips and buddy pad match too), and much more. The Stripper’s frame has a 30 degree rake, is 0 up and 0 out and a total kick to ride, even on the most discriminating roads.There’s also an optional kit that can be bought and bolted right on to The Stripper which converts the bike from street to strip. The kit eliminates the need for a key and replaces it with a starter button and eliminates all of the handlebar switches so your bars will be totally clean. You can also take off the front and rear DOT turn signals that must come with all certified OEM bikes. Each kit comes complete with all of the appropriate hardware and “plug in” wiring harness. The addition of this kit will not void your original warranty. Go to your nearest dealer and ask to see the new Stripper from HBS, it’s ready to be ridden hard!
For dealers interested in adding Hellbound Steel Motorcycles or products to their product line up, please call 909-944-7633 and talk directly with Mike Molloy or email him at mike@hellboundsteel.com. To see the latest from Hellbound Steel Motorcycles, visit http://www.hellboundsteel.com .
STURGIS MM GETS READY FOR 2006–September 2005 – – The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is accepting at-large nominations for 2006 Hall of Fame inductees. Individuals, organizations and businesses considered for induction will have made a positive and significant impact on motorcycling.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame honors the men and women who have dedicated much of their lives to improving, promoting and advancing our great sport and lifestyle. We encourage you to help us recognize these exceptional and deserving people by sending in a nomination on their behalf.
Nomination forms must be accompanied by credentials which explain why this individual should be considered for induction. Please keep in mind that while their achievements may be outstanding, not everyone knows it. A comprehensive overview of their accomplishments is necessary to make an informed and educated decision. Biographical info, newspaper articles, historical documents, etc. may be submitted. Credentials should be two to five pages long, including nomination form. ?
You can request a nomination form by phoning the Museum 605.347.2001 or emailing Executive Director Pepper Massey-Swan at pepper@sturgismuseum.com
Nominations must be received by the Museum no later than January 9, 2006.
Individuals chosen for induction into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame will be honored at our annual induction breakfast ceremony on Wednesday, August 9, 2006.
HEY MR. RUSSELL–Ray, I hope your flight home was without problems and relaxing for you!!! Iwish we would have had more time to hang out together and get into trouble!Meeting you was one of the highlights of my trip. Too much business and notenough fun this trip for me. Next trip I hope you can make it to Vegas andwe can damage the town together!!
The World Custom Bike Show is November 18th – 20th at Mandalay Bay on thestrip. The link for the show is: http://www.bigtwinwest.com/bigtwin/v42/index.cvn. We will have the Prototype250cc bike in Las Vegas for this show. If you decide to meet with us, duringthis event, you can see and test the 250 model then. I attached a picturemate of the 100 cubic inch bike at the show for you.
Please stay in touch mate and let me know of your plans to attend theshow so I can book reservations as soon as possible. Keep the bottoms downMate!!!
Scott Villmow
–from Ray Russell
CHICKEN SANDWICHES–A little boy and a little girl attended the same school and became friends. Every day they would sit together to eat their lunch. They discovered that they both brought chicken sandwiches every day! This went on all through the fourth and fifth grades, until one day he noticed that her sandwich wasn’t a chicken sandwich.
He said, “Hey, how come you’re not eating chicken, don’t you like it anymore?”
She said “I love it but I have to stop eating it.”
“Why?” he asked.
She pointed to her lap and said “Cause I’m starting to grow little ! ;feathers down there!”
“Let me see” he said. “Okay” and she pulled up her skirt. He looked and said, “That’s right. You are! Better not eat any more chicken.”
He kept eating his chicken sandwiches until one day he brought peanut butter. He said to the little girl, “I have to stop eating chicken sandwiches, I’m starting to get feathers down there too!”
She asked if she could look, so he pulled down his pants for her.She said “Oh, my God, it’s too late for you! You’ve already got the neck and the gizzards!!!
–from Chris T.
Hooker Troublemakers now available through Drag Specialties– TROUBLEMAKER exhaust systems from Hooker Headers (the well-known Holley Performance brand name) are now available from Drag Specialties.
Hooker says these 2-1/2in diameter pipes really work due to the internal stepped design which also eliminates blueing. Hooker’s 38 years of exhaust design experience have enabled the company to design a system said to increase top-end horsepower without sacrificing bottom end torque, a common problem with other big bore systems. The pipes feature a metallic ceramic coating on the internal head pipes helping to retain heat and increase exhaust velocity. Systems are available for Softails, Dynas and 2005-model Sportsters, with straight-, slash- or scallop-cut ends.
Hooker Headers also offers a choice of baffle cartridges. The standard cartridge is described as a ‘deep rumble’, a popular option for enthusiasts. Alternative cartridges give a smooth, mellow sound or improved flow at the expense of a loud exhaust note.
Troublemaker systems are supplied complete with gaskets, C-clips, chromed flanges, machined brackets, hardware and detailed instructions.
HOLLEY PERFORMANCE
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
Tel: 270 782 2900
Fax: 270 745 9544
E-mail: jasonbruce@holley.com
http://www.holley.com
DRAG SPECIALTIES
Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
Tel: 608 758 1111
Fax: 608 758 4677
E-mail: drag@dragspecialties.com
http://www.dragspecialties.com
SIX S&S-POWERED PRO STOCK BIKES QUALIFY AT THE TOYO TIRES NATIONALS–All the way into the finals on Sunday, the NHRA Toyo Tires nationals saw a field dominated by S&S Pro Stock powered Buells. The Elimination Rounds on Sunday were filled with six Buells-with one going all the way to the final round.
S&S Pro Stock powered Buells posted some of the best numbers of the weekend at Maple Grove Raceway. Chip Ellis, riding the new G Squared/S&S Buell set low E.T at 7.071 and Matt Guidera on the Rocklin Motorsports Buell had the best reaction time with a 0.001. Also worthy of mention is Tom Bradford, on the Hal’s H-D Buell, made it to the 16 bike field-in only his second event racing this new bike.
“It seems as though each time I turn around, another S&S Pro Stock powered Buell is making news,” said S&S Cycle Senior Manager of Racing and Customer Service, Charlie Hadayia . “With Chip Ellis setting lowest E.T., Matt Guidera posting a .001 reaction time, six S&S engines in the eliminations, and Ryan Schnitz going to the finals-it’s a full-time job just keeping up with the stats for each team!” “This engine package-in its’ first full year for us has made it to six finals this year, and won three of them,” continued Hadayia. “I am very proud of the race department and all the teams, I know they have been working very hard this season and it is really starting to pay off.”
CHICA CUSTOM CYCLES ANNOUNCES A NEW ADJUSTABLE SPRINGER FRONT END AVAILABLE IN NARROW OR WIDE STYLES–Chica Custom Cycles announces the innovation of a new adjustable springer front end to meet the needs and wants of today s custom chopper bike builders and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Chica has been building customs here in the U.S. for 10 years now and using Springers on almost all of them. Chica truly understands what is needed in a springer for it to work on bikes of all styles.
This springer front end comes equipped with adjustable rockers to fit the rake on your motorcycle. The ability to correctly set up you rockers means the difference between your front end working right and absorbing the road as it should or working incorrectly and you taking it!
Chica Customs products are built and assembled right out of our Huntington Beach location delivering to you the quality and custom style that Chica has built his name on. In doing so we are able to deliver more of what the customer wants and has come to expect from a custom shop.
The buyer fills out our custom order sheet to give the needs and application of the springer being ordered. This will address questions such as how long, whether it will be finished in chrome, powder coat, or raw finish. Also any additional custom mods that may be required such as a brake tab bung on the right, left, both, or not at all. It will then be built and assembled on a custom jig.
Chica Custom Cycles is a custom build motorcycle shop located in Huntington Beach, California. Chica and his shop have earned a reputation as one of the top custom bike build companies in the world and this springer shows why.
WEST COAST CHOPPERS LIVES–We sent a crack team of Bikernet investigative correspondents to the WCC Long Beach headquarters. We spoke to the new GM, Simo, formerly of Carlini’s Customs. “At one time we received 40 frame orders a week,” Simo said. “With the sale it jumped to 3,500 frame orders. Every order will be filled, but it’s taking time.”
Simo confirmed that WCC has not been sold and that business is flying along as usual. “We’ve dialed in several production elements, and I’m beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.”
We checked on Chris T.?s specific order. He’s received both frames he ordered and Simo assured us that he would receive his fenders within three weeks. We went through the showroom that was brimming with WCC choppers and Diablos, then Simo took us into Jesse’s section where race cars are being built, automatic laser cutters dialed in and movie Bonneville car built.
It’s happening and we’ll stay on top of the action.
Continued On Page 2
September 18, 2005
By Bandit |
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to InjuredMotorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), andis sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, callus at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at <
NCOM NEWS BYTES
Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish,
National Coalition of Motorcyclists
BIKERS HELP HURRICANE VICTIMS Bikers have big hearts and a willingness to helpthe less fortunate, and this generosity is particularly evident in the aftermathof Hurricane Katrina, which ravaged the Gulf Coast on August 29th leavinghundreds dead and thousands homeless in the costliest natural disaster ever tostrike American soil.
ABATE of Louisiana and ABATE of Mississippi have set up disaster relief funds toaid bikers who are victims of the storm. ABATE of Oklahoma recently donated $500to each of those organizations to assist in their efforts, and many othermotorcycle clubs and organizations are also contributing. ABATE of Florida setup a 3-acre shelter in the panhandle for those forced from their homes by thefloodwaters and damage.
Rolling Thunder members from their Mississippi chapter went into flooded areasand helped direct distribution of donated necessities to disabled and displacedveterans.
The Christian Motorcycle Association rendered aid to Katrina refugees by servingcoffee and offering essential needs in their time of distress.
American Honda announced that the company would make Personal Watercraft, AllTerrain Vehicles and off-road motorcycles available to local agencies providingemergency relief efforts in the affected areas. To ensure the quickest possibleassistance preparations have been made to supply units through local Hondadealerships in the vicinity.
Harley-Davidson announced that it is making a $1 million donation to theAmerican Red Cross Hurricane 2005 Relief Fund for the victims of HurricaneKatrina and will also donate a 2006 touring motorcycle to be used as afund-raiser on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” Celebrity guests will autographthe motorcycle, which will then be placed up for bid on eBay. A similar “TonightShow” fund-raiser to benefit tsunami relief efforts raised $810,000 earlier thisyear.
Boston Harley-Davidson teamed up with defending World Series champion Boston RedSox players in hope of raising $1 million through the Rally for Fellow Americansin Need. Two Harleys, one bought by the team and the other donated by the Harleydealership, were auctioned off. Sox teammates Keith Foulke, John Damon, KevinMillar and Gabe Kapler all ride Harleys and participated in the fundraisingeffort. “This is our country and there’s a serious tragedy in New Orleans and ifeverybody contributes something, somehow, I think it can work,” said firstbaseman Millar.
GAS HIKES BOOST INTEREST IN TWO-WHEELERS Motorists tired of paying an arm and aleg for fuel are giving up their gas-guzzling SUVs and cars in favor of a moreeconomical, and more fun, mode of transportation: motorcycles and scooters.
NADAguides.com, a leading vehicle information website, today announced thatduring the past three months, more people researched scooter and motorcyclepricing and specifications at its website than at any other time during itsfive-year history. Experts for the company cite high gas prices as a leadingcause for the boost in its online motorcycle traffic, saying car, truck and SUVowners are realizing they can dramatically reduce their monthly gas budgets byowning a motorized two-wheel vehicle as an alternate means of travel.
“The motorcycle and scooter market is red hot right now,” said Lenny Sims,Managing Editor at NADAguides.com. “On average, it takes about $60 to fill anSUV with a tank of gas and about $15 to fill a motorcycle when you considertoday’s gas prices. With numbers like these, it’s easy to see why people aremaking the switch to a more economical approach to driving.” Sims goes on to saythat motorcycles and scooters offer a convenient mode of travel as well.”Economics aside, they’re convenient in traffic and easy to park. If you live ina crowded urban area — or a fast-growing suburb for that matter — they offer aquick and easy way to get around town.”
During the months of June, July and August 2005, traffic to the motorcyclesection of the NADAguides.com website reached 810,901 visitors, an increase of31% compared to the same timeframe a year ago.
So what were the most commonly researched motorcycles at NADA guides.com duringJune, July and August of this year? According to the website, five makes andmodels zoomed past the competition: 1. Harley-Davidson XL1200C 2. YamahaYZFR65/C YZF-R6 3. Honda VT750C4 Shadow 4. Honda CBR600F411 5. Honda CBR600RR3.Following are the top three most researched scooters: 1. Honda Silverwing 2.Suzuki Burgman 3. Vespa ET4.
Tokyo-based Honda said the airbags will reduce injuries in head-on collisions.
The airbag opens in front of the riders and reduces the speed at which they getthrown off the motorcycle, lessening injuries when they hit the road or anothervehicle, said Honda.
MASSACHUSETTS BIKERS HARASSED OVER HELMETS A group of about two dozenMassachusetts motorcyclists riding in the Yankee Homecoming parade on Sunday,August 7th were ordered by police to don their helmets. When one of them refusedto obey, citing a newly enacted law excluding motorcyclists participating inpublic parades from the state?s helmet law, he was pulled from the parade by police.
Motorcyclists are now accusing police of being ignorant of the law, and some ofthem are so angry about their confrontation with police that they are callingfor another boycott of the city of Newburyport, similar to one three years agowhen motorcyclists felt they were being unfairly targeted by police in acrackdown on loud pipes and told to stay out of town. Their participation in theparade, at the invitation of the city, was meant as an “olive branch” to showthat relations between the city and the riders had improved.
“There’s just this negativity toward motorcyclists,” said Paul Cote, legislativedirector for the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association. “The more things change,the more they stay the same.”
“I am the law,” the officer said, according to Cote, the biker who was kickedout of the parade for refusing to put on his helmet.
But the law was changed in February 2004, allowing an exception to therequirement that motorcyclists wear helmets for a “properly permitted publicparade.” Helmets are otherwise required at all times on roads in Massachusetts.Some of the riders challenged by police on Sunday were the very same ones whospent five years lobbying for that change in the helmet law, Cote said.
The reasoning was that most parades travel at very slow speeds, and the wholepoint of being in a parade is so spectators can see them, something that is hardto do when faces are covered by helmets, Cote said. Helmets can also be very hotduring a parade when the temperatures hit 90 degrees, as they did on thatSunday, he added.
Police later admitted they were wrong, acknowledging that the law now allowsmotorcyclists to take off their helmets during parades, but have refused toissue an apology.
PHILIPPINE CITY BANS HELMETS While most governments around the world push forlaws requiring motorcycle riders to wear helmets, Pagadian City in thePhilippines has barred motorcyclists from donning helmets. The reason? Toprevent crime.
Mayor Samuel Co implemented executive order number 72 for a three-month trialperiod, after which the city council will decide if they will pass a permanentordinance banning the wearing of helmets while driving along city roads.
Referring to a local study, Co pointed out that 95 percent of the crimesinvolving carjackings and shootings were committed by suspects aboardmotorcycles complete with either helmets or bonnets to conceal their identity.With the use of helmets now banned, it would be easy to identify suspects whopass along major routes in the city, Co said. Hidden cameras will be set up tocapture images of the motorcyclists for easy identification.
In neighboring Dipolog City, local officials are also contemplating a similarordinance following complaints from residents that most of the robberies andtraffic related crimes were committed by suspects wearing helmets and other headgear.
MOTORCYCLIST APPOINTED TO VIRGINIA TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD Long timemotorcycle rights lawyer and founder of the Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists,Tom McGrath, has been appointed by the Governor of Virginia to serve a four yearterm on the Commonwealth Transportation Safety Board. He is the firstmotorcyclist to be appointed to the Board.
Among his accomplishments, McGrath led the successful effort to allowmotorcyclists access to the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes and convinced theGeneral Assembly to pass legislation guaranteeing motorcyclists the right to usethese lanes.
He spearheaded efforts to increase funding for the Virginia Motorcycle RiderSafety Training Program and worked to enact legislation to preserve the funding.
McGrath was also instrumental in having legislation passed requiring theteaching of motorcycle awareness as part driver education in high schools.
McGrath is the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) Attorney for Virginia, and wasawarded the Silver Spoke Award for his legal and legislative accomplishments bythe National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM).
The Board of Transportation Safety seeks to identify the elements of acomprehensive safety program for all transport modes, the identification ofunique safety needs of each particular mode of transportation, theidentification of the common elements of accident situations and the allocationof grant funds made available to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
WIERD NEWS: GEMINIS WORST DRIVERS What’s your sign? Please don’t shoot themessenger, but Suncorp Metway, Ltd., a multi-faceted Australian FinancialService, ranked car accident claimants by their Sun sign in a study of 160,000accident claims over the previous three-year period. This is what they found out:
The number one worst drivers were Geminis; “typically described as restless,easily bored and frustrated by things moving slowly,” explained Warren Duke,Suncorp’s national manager of personal insurance. “They had more car accidentsthan any other sign.”
No astrologer would argue with that description of the sign of the Twins andprobably this isn’t very surprising news. But what about the other Zodiac signs?
Second and third place holders for this dubious honor are Taurus and Pisces.”Taureans were thought to be obstinate and inflexible, “said Duke,” whilePisceans could be risk-takers and daredevils.”
Capricorns, who came last on the list, are typically described as patient andcareful, and therefore the safest drivers with the fewest accidents. The great middle ground of this survey is held by Sun signs in this order, fromworst accident records to the best: 4-Virgo; 5-Cancer; 6-Aquarius; 7-Aries;8-Leo; 9-Libra; 10-Sagittarius; 11-Scorpio
Duke said the study was carried out as part of Suncorp’s annual review ofclaims. “We always look for trends in claims to see if there are ways to reduceour pricing, but there is no intention to introduce astrology as a rating factorfor motor insurance,” he said.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) Indian spiritual & political leader
September 15, 2005 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
LONER FATALLY SHOT OUTSIDE BAR– New York Newsday, NY – Hours before he was killed yesterday outside a Lake Ronkonkoma bar, Ronald Munze was talking with his friends about motorcycles and laughing with his girlfriend. But before the night was over, witnesses said, he was hanging out with rowdy members of the Tyrants bike gang and was later shot in the chest.
“Loud fighting, breaking bottles,” said John Maddox, the building manager of Morabito’s Tavern, where he saw Munze, of Lake Ronkonkoma, with the hostile bikers an hour before the shooting. “He probably lost his life over nonsense.”
Munze, 44, a biker not affiliated with the gang, was shot in the bar’s parking lot and lay lifeless as his friends looked on and a stream of about a dozen bikes drove off, Maddox said.
Police arrived at the scene after receiving a call about the fight at 2:20 a.m. and found Munze dead on arrival. Police said the brawl was not a confrontation between rival motorcycle gangs, and would not confirm if members of the Tyrants were involved in the shooting.
“It seems to be an altercation between individuals,” Suffolk police homicide Det. Lt. Jack Fitzpatrick said, declining to go into details. “It’s not as if he was picked out as being somebody from another group.”
Friends said Munze was in a jovial mood yesterday evening, smiling and twirling his girlfriend around.
“Everybody was having a good time,” said Anthony Miller, 24. “I don’t know what could have made the tides turn.”
Maddox said he saw Munze around 1 a.m. in the bar’s parking lot with members of the Tyrants, a bike gang with a violent reputation. Members of the group were cursing loudly and revving up their bikes.
He said he usually tells the bikers to break it up and go inside, but when he went outside he “saw how many of them there were and second-thought it.”
When the shot rang out more than an hour later, Maddox heard the sounds of cars and bikes speeding off. He found Munze lying on the pavement, friends crying and, in grief, rocking themselves back and forth.
Neighborhood violence had seemed to be simmering down after another club, Vibes Bar & Lounge, shut down three months before. When that club was open, Maddox and others said, shootings were much more commonplace.In 1999, the Tyrants were allied with the Pagans Outlaw Motorcycle Club, four of whose members were found guilty for conspiring to assault members of the rival Hell’s Angels in 1998. People at the bar said they live up to their name. “What’s the definition of tyrant?” Maddox said. “Nobody messes with them.”
Munze’s relatives could not be reached for comment.Police are asking anyone with information about the case to call the homicide squad at 631-852-6392 or Crime Stoppers at 800-220-TIPS.
–from Rogue
AMERICAN IRONHORSE CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY– American IronHorse has reached its 10th anniversary. To celebrate the occasion it has announced an upgraded 2006 model line-up and the introduction of a special edition anniversary Texas Chopper. The company will commence a year long celebration with a public concert at the new Destination Daytona entertainment complex during Biketoberfest on October 21.
The 2006 model line consists of three choppers and three cruisers. They feature technical and aesthetic changes, such as five new wheel designs and 15 new paint graphic schemes. Other changes include the addition of front and rear LED reflectors, a lighter hydraulic clutch, new electronic harness controllers and a redesigned shield to the neck bearing.
Standard features on all 2006 models are a polished S&S Super Sidewinder Plus 111ci motor, with a 6-speed, close-ratio, polished right-side drive transmission, 2 into 1 dyno-tuned exhaust with heat shields, AIH digital information center, chromed custom V-bars and a chromed hydraulic clutch.
The ‘Slammer’ is the flagship model, a super street soft-style design with a 280mm rear tire, chromed billet 4 degree raked triple trees, chromed lower legs and billet forward controls, adjustable air ride, deluxe solo seat and dual front disc with chromed 6-piston brake caliper.
The ‘Outlaw’ is a pro street soft-style design with a 240mm rear tire, A-frame swingarm, chromed billet headlight, single front disc and polished 4-piston brake caliper.
The ‘Tejas’ is a super street hardtail with a 280mm rear tire, 3in over forks, chromed billet headlight, single front disc and polished 4-piston brake caliper.
The ‘Texas Chopper’ is a shotgun soft-style design with a 280mm rear tire, A-frame swingarm, 12in over forks, chromed billet headlight, super-stretched chopper tank, AIH deluxe solo seat, AIH dual front disc and a polished 4-piston brake caliper.
The ‘Legend’ is a magnum soft-style design with a 240mm rear tire, A-frame swingarm, 10in over forks, chromed billet headlight, super-stretched chopper tank, single front disc and a polished 4-piston brake caliper.
The LSC is a shotgun hardtail with a 280mm rear tire, 12in over forks, chromed billet headlight, super-stretched chopper tank, dual front disc and a polished 4-piston brake caliper.
The company has also unveiled a commemorative 10th anniversary version of the Texas Chopper, featuring a distinctive red, platinum and black paint scheme representing the company’s colors. Much of the bike is chromed, including the frame, V-bars, billet headlight, hydraulic clutch and fork tubes.
Other features include a black ostrich solo seat, diamond-cut and powdercoated heads and cylinders, faceted triple trees and forward controls, and a billet front fender mount, alongside black powdercoated and polished wheels, pulleys and rotors. Only 125 of these bikes will be built and the MRSP will be around $50,000.
The American IronHorse luxury line of high performance, customized cruisers and choppers are sold through a dealer network of over 100 in the USA. In April, 2005, the company produced its 10,000th bike.
AMERICAN IRONHORSE
Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Tel: 817 665 2000
Fax: 817 536 2009
E-mail: mailto:info@americanironhorse.com
http://www.americanironhorse.com
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Hey guys, here again. Just got back from Las Vegas, we were there on a mission; one that I would never thought I would be part of. We were raising money for the Air Men and military families that live (or work) at the Nellis Air Force base in Vegas. The money goes towards a fund for returning soldiers, their families at home and kids. A few of us (bike builders) joined TV and Movie celebrities at the ride/ poker run/ concert. Our job there was to greet people, sign autographs and just hang out. It was very cool getting to talk to many of the attendees. We got to ride over the tarmac of the very long landing strip (with permission of course) and even let loose to see how fast our loaned bikes from Harley could go. Poor Springer I had, I got it with only three miles on it, I could not make it go faster than 95 mph (please don’t tell the MP’s)
All in all it was fun hanging out with friends in Las Vegas and getting to be there for a good cause. Of course the extracurricular entertainment is stuff best to keep secret. I need to thank Michelle Dell and her kick ass new Hogs and Heifers in downtown Vegas, the bar is really cool and is just the same deal as the New York one, only a bit bigger and still a few less bra’s hanging from whatever you can hang them from. I humbly must admit I did the first burnout of the brand spanking new joint, and on Michelle?s custom bike nonetheless. When you go visit, and you must visit, tell them Jose sent you. If they don’t recognize the name, just let them know it’s the dude that did the burnout, cleared the bar and caused all the mayhem. Speaking of burnouts, I let one rip while at the MP’s entrance to the base, just a way to say thanks, and bet your ass they enjoyed it. Sadly, when I was done I got a glimpse of two corporate guys from HD, checking my behavior out. Oh well…… It was all about the military that day (let?s see if I get invited again) and they enjoyed the antics, so that?s all that matters.
The only mega bitch I have is that I missed the annual Indian Larry block party, one place I certainly felt I had to be, but such is life. At least the reason not to be there was a very valid one. I’ve heard that it was a bitchin’ time in Brooklyn, I’m sure we will get to see some photos.
If any of you who read this, want to participate next year (celebrity or not) let me know and I will send the info to the proper person, they would love to have more celebrities. By the way, we collected over $33,000 the first day, then the concert and then the poker run so I guess it was a lot more than that at the end of the week end (and I only spent like 150 bucks worth of tire). Our friend Steve from Hawaiian Choppers was there to record it all for posterity, if you get a chance get your paws into one of the upcoming issues for photos and a story. To keep on the Hawaiian Chopper thought, yours truly made the cover of the latest issue, some cool photos from none other than T-Bear round up the article.
On the Puerto Rico front, we are working very hard on our local event you can get info and see what’s up at www.bikeweekpr.com I have 4 bob/chops to finish by December, so many of the US event dates have been cancelled (no shit Sherlock, I got to pay rent too !!!). Maybe I?ll show my face in California sometime in November, and of course Japan in October. We are also cleaning up the shop, I’m getting all the parts, new or takeoffs that have been hanging around for too long and getting rid of them, and very attractive prices, (e-bay is becoming a good friend) but if you might need parts, send me an e-mail letting me know which, I might have it around.
There’s more surprises coming around by the end of this year, and by the way things are looking it will be something to look forward too, more so the flight attendants keep getting prettier and prettier…..and the chicks nicer and nicer. Brighter future indeed.
See you guys later…..
Jose
BIKERNET POLITICAL CLASS–The reason congressmen try so hard to get re-elected is that they would hate to have to make a living under the laws they’ve passed.
–from Chris T.
ROCKY’S SEAT PAN ARTICLE COMING–I haven’t had time to clear it, yet. We can do that part on the last part ofthe article next week. I have been working like a mad dog. The seat pan that I amgoing to be using is one of my new “BAD A.S.S. PANS”. It will be the firstone finished. I just got them last Friday night. Four are at powdercoater. WhenI get them back I will do a press release on them.
Best Regards
Rocky
BIKERNET VINTAGE LA CARRERA PANAMERICA ’53 LINCOLN EFFORT ROLLING ALONG – RACE CAR PARTY AT SHAMROCK SEAFOOD–Legendary PanAmericana Race Cars to Meet at Shamrocks Seafood for Pre Race Meeting.
Come see the cars and talk to the drivers (Bandit & Dr. Hamster)
Listen to great music
Eat the best Mexican Seafood in Wilmington
1:00 to 4:00 Sunday, September 18th
Shamrock Seafood120 W. “G” StreetWilmington, Ca 90744310-835-6611
Come and hang out with us! Layla
STEALTH BIKE WORKS NC REPORT–This week the pace has picked up at STEALTH BIKE WORKS. It is the first time we have bikes waiting for service which is a very good sign. We also have another order for a gas tank; we also made our first tank panel this week, so it looks like we are moving in the right direction.
You know part of being a biker is helping your brothers out when they hit hard times. Here at STEALTH BIKE WORKS we are planning a poker run October 8th. All the proceeds will go to the Red Cross to help the people hit by the hurricane in New Orleans. The people there lost everything and maybe not the most important thing but they even lost their bikes, some of which were made up of a lot of dreams, hard work, desire, determination and yes, money. No matter what we raise, it is our way of helping and giving back. If you are in the Charlotte area October 8th, this is your invitation to join us at SBW for a great cause. If you can not attend you can make donations by calling us at SBW 704-882-0889. We will make sure your donation gets to the Red Cross.
You know the great thing about Bikernet is that it touches people in ways that you really never think about. Read about Art Parry’s bike and you will see what I mean. I have always said that in the bad times, the dark and lonely times, hold onto your bike, it gives you something to look forward to and something to hope for. As long as you have hope you will never lose everything. For me building a bike is one of the greatest therapy’s on earth. It will lead you out of the darkness. That is what it did for me when my son Justin passed away along with a lot of encouragement from my wife “THE MEANEST” and my faith.
The bike gave me back my spirit and drive. If you are going through a tough time, go out to the garage and pick up some wrenches. You will be surprised how much it helps!
Until next time, RIDE!
–STEALTHMAN
THAT’S IS FOR THIS SECOND– But shit is happening fast. I’m looking for 1929 H-D 30.50 parts for my first restoration effort. You know me; it won’t be a pure restoration. I’ve got to fuck with everything. So it will take on the H-D modified hillclimber look for that Peashooter experience.
Two of our tenants signed up for Katrina jobs this last week. Put all your complaints aside about the government and take some precious time to do something from a donation to the Red Cross or a box of old T-shirts to the Salvation Army.
I know I’m forgetting something. I’m headed out to see and test ride the new Saxon offerings for 2006 next week. I’ll post all the info about the new H-D line-up and I’ll road test the new bobber soon, or JohnnyTexas is handling it right now. I need to check with him. I’m waiting on an article on a new 330 Bourget. We have some plans to make our road tests more complete than you’ll find in mags. Hang on.
Okay, I know there’s more, but I give up. It’s strange times. I hate to see people fighting when we’re dealing with terrorists and facing disaster. We need to pull together and party on the flip side. Sex. That’s what everyone needs.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
September 15, 2005 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BIKERNET JOB RECOMMENDATION OF THE WEEK–Replace all female flight attendants with good lookin’ strippers. The attendants have gotten old and haggard looking. They don’t even serve food anymore, so what’s the loss?
The strippers would double, triple, perhaps quadruple the alcohol consumption and get a “party atmosphere” going in the cabin.
Muslims would be afraid to get on the planes for fear of seeing naked women. And, of course, every heterosexual businessman in this country would start flying again hoping to see naked women.
Hijackings would come to a screeching halt and the airline industry would see record revenue.
Why didn’t Bush think of this? Why do I still have to do everything myself?
Sincerely,
— Bill Clinton
–from Joe Lankau
SAMSON’S NEW 2006 SOFTAIL TRUE DUAL LONGTAIL PIPES–Samson Exhaust? is famous for Fishtails. Sixty three feet fishtails on the side of the Samson Show Semi let everyone know Samson is the King of Fishtails. It was 1992 when Kenny Samson pioneered the first True Dual System for Softails. New for 2006 is a redesigned Fishtail True Dual System that has a cutting edge look, and all the qualities needed for today’s motorcycles.
The entire head pipe is covered by a 220? Heat Shield that is designed to eliminate any visible discoloration. Full coverage Heat Shields are better than double wall pipes because they weigh less and sound better. This system has non-removable Intergraded Baffles that are friendly to fuel injection, which shows Samson’s commitment to EPS issues. Now consumers can get a complete system with an all in one package price, which makes it easier to choose the look you want.
The True Dual Longtail pipes come with a full one Year Warranty.
For more information visit our website by clicking on the banner below.
ABATE of LOUISIANA URGENT PRESS RELEASE–The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is issuing the following release at the request of ABATE of Louisiana, Inc. The MRF urges all riders and motorcycling organizations to support the ABATE of Louisiana Relief Fund in their time of need.
“After speaking with James “Poet” Sisco it is apparent that many ABATE members have lost everything,” said MRF President Karen Bolin. “I applaud James and ABATE of Louisiana for their efforts.”
From ABATE of Louisiana Inc. State Executive President James “Poet” Sisco
ABATE of Louisiana Inc. is taking the lead in assisting the motorcycling community here in Louisiana now that we are back up and running. We are asking for cash donations to assist motorcyclists who have been displaced or require other help. We will disburse these donations on a case-by-case basis according to the greatest need and what assistance is available to the individual at the time.
We will only take credit where credit is due, of course, and all donations from other State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations and individuals will be credited to them on our website on the supporters’ page. None of the donations will be kept by our organization. We will disburse every penny received to those that are deemed truly needy.
All donations should be mailed to our corporate mailing address so the State Treasurer can track the donations and facilitate the disbursements as directed by ABATE of Louisiana’s Executive State Board. The corporate address is: P.O. Box 541 St. Amant, LA 70774.
Any Louisiana motorcyclists affected by this disaster should contact Abate of Louisiana Inc. We are here for you in your time of need and we will assist in any way possible. You are our brothers and sisters and it is YOU we are here to serve as your state’s MRO!
Points of contacts for this relief effort are:
State Executive President – James “Poet” Sisco
1-800-393-5966
abatepoet@aol.com
State Executive Treasurer – Barb Sikes
1-800-268-5416
barb1106@yahoo.com
Bikernet just attempted to mail three care packages to Southern ABATE chapters. UPS told us that shipping had been suspended. –Bandit
MRF-REPS GHSA MEETING–As I told you a last month, I was invited to speak at the nationalgovernor’s highway safety association annual meeting. I was one of fourpanelists in a workshop entitled “whats it going to take to reducemotorcycle fatalities”. I was joined on the panel by Ken Kiphardt of SMSA,Ken Shock, the motorcycle program administrator for Delaware and MarilenaAmoni of NHTSA.
The 2 hour panel discussion went very well; in fact the only person toeven mention helmets was of course the woman from NHTSA. All otherpresenters named education as the number one way to reduce fatalities. Allof the others mentioned the grant program and advisory council as greatsteps in the right direction. It was great to be able to take credit forsomething that some in the motorcycle safety community see as a “silverbullet” that will begin to solve the problem. The audience was verypleased to hear of the legislation and wanted to know all about it.
Not many of the folks in the room had heard of the MRF, but I can assureyou they did when they left. Nothing substantive came out of the meeting,but it was refreshing to hear a program admin. sing the praises ofeducation; in fact Mr. Shock cited a number from Delaware that 58% of allfatalities in DE were riders wearing helmets. HE also quoted the hurtreport several times.
MSF was there, Sherry Williams to name a name. She was not on the panelbut was the second one to jump up with a “question” during the questionperiod, I use that term lightly because her question was more of a 5minute commercial for MSF. She referenced the MSF and told the audience,(with her back to the panel) that the MSF “is comprised of everymotorcycle manufacture you have ever heard of, except Triumph, but we areworking on them…” You could see the disgust on the moderators face asshe went on and on giving the audience something they did not come tohear. Frankly it was terribly rude.
Not everyone in the audience was new to the MRF in fact Virginia Coalitionof motorcyclists director Jim Cannon was there along with VFR-RACE founderBernie Adams and one of his members. It was great to have a few friendliesin the audience. But it was even better to be able to tell the audiencethat the grant program and advisory council were the fruits of the MRF’sefforts and no one else!
Have a great weekend everyone……I think I’ll go buy a Triumph before theyjoin the dark side too.
–Jeff Hennie
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
236 Massachusetts ave NE Ste. 510
Washington DC 20002
202-546-0983
mobile 202-725-5471
F 202-546-0986
It’s critical, right now, that everyone join a motorcycle rights group. With the EPA, noise, citizens and helmet legislation breathing all groups need support and numbers. –Bandit
S&S TO SPONSOR AUSTRALIA ‘S BIKER BUILD OFF COMPETITION–BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA (Sept. 6th, 2005) S&S Cycle is pleased to sponsor the Australian S&S 124 Challenge Biker Build Off. Five custom builders from Australia will be chosen to take part in this event – a first for the Australian market. All five bikes will be built around the S&S 124″ engine and will comply with the rules for the S&S 124 Challenge racing class. Negotiations are currently in place to cover this event with a major television network for Australia , with possible distribution world-wide.
The bikes will be debuted at Bikefest, a major Australian all motorcycle drag race meeting, at Western Sydney International Drag Strip on Saturday April 15, 2006. Part of the judging criteria, along with the physical appearance of these custom bikes, will include racing results. While these bikes will be stunning, creative, custom bikes, they will also be high performance machines capable of competing at very high levels. Following the competition phase, all five motorcycles will be seen at various locations, to be announced, along a specific tour covering the major metropolitan areas across Australia .
East Coast Custom, a major Australian distributor for Proven Performance S&S products, will be responsible for supplying the S&S engines and components for each of the builders. “ECC has been very pleased to host Brett Smith and Scott Sjovall as our guests for the 2005 Gold Coast Bike Week,” said Neal Bolam, National Marketing & Racing Manager for East Coast Custom. “We’re confident that their wealth of event knowledge will result in a very successful event with the S&S 124 Challenge Biker Build Off in 2006.”
“Australia is a very important and growing market for S&S and the V-Twin industry,” said S&S president, Brett Smith. “It is appropriate for us to sponsor this event and to do it with East Coast Custom. I am very much looking forward to the competition over the next several months. I wish all the builders the very best.”
BIKERNET SPONSORS FEMALE DRAG RACER–Attached is Valerie’s Bio and some pictures of her to put in your next news letter. Please add her Bio in your profile section also. If you look at the Salt Flats picture you can see your web site on her rear fender.
We will follow up with update as she does events.
We will be in Vegas at the Bike Fest later this week and Kansas City at the V-rod Forums meeting the next week.
–Charlie
CUSTOM PERFORMANCE
602.527.6261
CHAIN REACTION CRASH HURTS FIVE RIDERS–Five members of a family of motorcyclists taking part in Sunday’s annual Toy Run were injured in a chain-reaction crash about 12:30 p.m. on Route 202 in Monmouth.
Monmouth Police Chief Chuck Shaw said Sunday evening that he’s still investigating the accident. As a result, he said he couldn’t yet provide details on the drivers and riders.
Three were taken to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston by ambulance, Shaw said.
The most seriously injured was a woman suffering from fractures to a leg and arm.
Two others were treated at the crash scene by paramedics, Shaw said.
All are from the Sanford area. The family group included a grandfather, father, mother, daughter and at least one friend. They were traveling in a group of six bikes, Shaw said.
The chief said the crash happened near the crest of a hill beyond Highmoor Farm. By preplanning, Shaw along with an ambulance and its crew were stationed at that point, the chief said. As a result, response was immediate, although eventually ambulances from Winthrop and Lewiston also responded.
Shaw said the accident happened when the lead driver in the group slowed as he returned waves to spectators lining the road. A woman riding a bike behind him wasn’t able to brake quickly enough to avoid a collision, so instead she “laid her bike down,” Shaw said.
Three of the four bikes in the group that were following her ended up on their sides as well as drivers and riders attempted to avoid directly hitting the bikes and people in front of them.
“They weren’t going very fast,” Shaw said, and that helped to reduce the extent of injuries.
Ric Dodge, one of the organizers of the United Bikers of Maine Toy Run, said Sunday night that as a far as he knows, the Monmouth crash was the only one that happened Sunday.
Dodge estimated that 14,000 bikes carrying 20,000 people took part in the 24th annual Toy Run.
For the Toy Run, United Bikers’ members and supporters buy new toys and then take them to the Civic Center in Augusta for distribution by the Salvation Army. All of the toys go to Maine children.
From the Civic Center, bikers rode as a group to the Windsor Fairgrounds. There, the band Whiskey River provided entertainment.
This year, Dodge said Toy Run participants were also asked to make a donation to the Salvation Army’s Hurricane Katrina relief operations.
By Doug Fletcher, Staff Writer
–from Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
KENDON EXPANDING WITH INDUSTRY GIANT-BUCK LOVELL– Kendon Industries Inc. of Anaheim California has recently hired Former Hot Bike Magazine Editor Buck Lovell as their Sales and Marketing Manager. He will be responsible for all aspects of sales and promotional activities, and customer relations. Mr. Lovell’s extensive motorcycle industry experience and connections should prove to be an asset for Kendon’ burgeoning product line. Kendon manufactures a comprehesive line of Stand-Up?motorcycle trailers, and consumer oriented Stand-Up motorcycle lifts.
Kendon will also be introducing a line of proprietary, unique “snorkel” deep breathing top-end kits for the Evolution style Harley-Davidson Big-Twin motorcycles.
For more information about these and other exciting Kendon Products please call (714) 630-7144.
ABATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA PREPARES FOR ANNUAL HELMET RALLY–“Last year we had approximately 1000 bikers at our Freedom of Choice Helmet Law Rally,” says Fred Ruddock, ABATE of SC State Coordinator. “I’d like to see that number increase this year.”
“ABATE of South Carolina, A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments, has been fighting for the rights of South Carolina motorcyclists for over thirty years now,” explains Ruddock. “This year’s rally is of particular importance because ABATE supports South Carolina’s current motorcycle helmet law. After what unfolded in last year’s legislative session, it is obvious that our liberties are not secure with our current state senators and representatives.”
“Our Lobby Days and Helmet Rallies are calls to action to all bikers, motorcyclists, and basically every other person who is concerned with government taking away their freedoms and liberties. If we have learned anything about government in the last thirty years, whether at the local, state, or federal level, it is that powerful outside forces with lots of money to create a perception of a crisis to justify a new law, often can eliminate the voice of thousands of everyday people who just want to be left alone; to live peacefully without government interference,” continues Ruddock.
“This is an unfortunate reality in South Carolina that will only be countered by a larger public outcry than we had last year, alone with a new, determined voice that will outlast the lobbyists and Washington DC advocacy group’s money. With motorcycle registrations on the rise in South Carolina, I think ABATE of South Carolina is up to the challenge,” concluded Ruddock.
There will be a post-rally gathering at the Flying Saucer Restaurant from 2 to 6 p.m.. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
–from Rogue
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