Bikernet Blog - Online Biker Magazine

Jaqnuary 28, 2005 Part 3

By Bandit | January 28, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – LAS VEGAS WINTER RALLY, NEW PRO ONE LED PLATES, JOKES AND THE END

Continued From Page 2

FEELING BRAVE?

Ray R.

MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA– TO THOSE OF YOU NOT FAMILIAR WITH JOE ARPAIO – HE IS THE MARICOPACOUNTYSHERIFF AND HE KEEPS GETTING ELECTED OVER AND OVER.

THIS IS ONE OF THE REASONS WHY:

Sheriff Joe Arpaio (in Arizona) who created the “tent city jail”:

He has jail meals down to 40 cents a serving and charges the inmatesforthem.

He stopped smoking and porno magazines in the jails. Took away theirweights. Cut off all but “G” movies.

He started chain gangs so the inmates could do free work on county andcityprojects.

Then he started chain gangs for women so he wouldn’t get sued fordiscrimination.

He took away cable TV until he found out there was a federal courtorderthat required cable TV for jails. So he hooked up the cable TV againonlylet in the Disney channel and the weather channel.

When asked why the weather channel he replied, so they will know howhotit’s gonna be while they are working on my chain gangs.

He cut off coffee since it has zero nutritional value.

When the inmates complained, he told them, “This isn’t theRitz/Carlton.Ifyou don’t like it, don’t come back.”

He bought Newt Gingrich’ lecture series on videotape that he pipes intothejails.

When asked by a reporter if he had any lecture series by a Democrat, hereplied that a democratic lecture series might explain why a lot of theinmates were in his jails in the first place.

By Bandit | January 28, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – NEW H-D MODELS, RIDERS DEATHS RAISE, STEALTH & CARIBBEAN REPORT–

This past week has been filled with dust, workers putting up drywall, plasterers, and did I mention dust? But the walls of three rooms and a hallway are like new. Today Danny ?Lemon Shrimp? Gonzalez is painting the newly textured surfaces and will continue to work through the weekend till all the walls are painted. I chose a beautiful ?Cr?me Brule? for my office, and the evil blond chose Blood Red for her room. Once again, progess.

This really is an exciting time for us here at Bikernet. With Bandit heading off to Primedia everyday, submerged neck-deep in the magazine industry, it?s interesting to see the people come out of the woodworks in support of his efforts. I?m sure you?ve seen a cover or two of what he?s proposing a cover should look like. He?s been getting thumbs up from you upstanding biker trash, to two thumbs down from the corporate uglies. I?ll take the biker trash?s opinion any day. That man knows magazines and finally, in a meeting yesterday, the uglies dropped a ten-pound report on the table and confessed, ?Yes Mr. Bandit, you were right about what a biker magazine should contain. We, (choke) were wro—, well, you were right.? It only cost them $20,000 to figure out, leave the man to his job.

Cincinnati Dealer show is happening this weekend and Bandit will be there. If you see him, (he?ll be the tallest guy wearing a Hot Bike shirt), stop him and say hello. Unless you?d rather kick or kiss him, but preferably just say hey.

OK folks, here?s your news—

Ahui Hoi Layla– First I like to thank you for the Bikernet key tags, they come in handy for mytool boxes, and they also look stylish.

I was wondering if you would be able to post this picture of our new ShirtDesign. If people are Interested in purchasing T-Shirts, they come inseveral styles such as: Shop work shirt, Long sleeves, Short sleeve, TankTop ,and Women’s Tank Top. They come in all sizes and only available in Blackor White.

Thanks, Darren
KustomFab Choppers
80 Sand Island Access RD. #228
Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Ph-808-847-5322

BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT– This past weekend the Easyriders Bike Show Tour was here in Charlotte. The “Meanest” and I went Saturday evening. There were some top-notch bikes there from up and down the east coast as well as from points beyond. The weather was cold and rainy but it didn?t dampen the spirits at the show.

The big names at the show included Billy Lane, Chica, Kendall Johnson and Randy Simpson and his crew from Milwaukee Iron. If you have been watching the Discovery show, Southern Steel, then you know about Randy and his crew. I have known Randy for sometime and he is one of the really nice guys in the industry. The break with the Discovery show could not have happened to a more deserving person.

The line for pictures and autographs with Billy Lane went on forever. Billy obliged everyone who wanted a picture and autograph. It was good to see this as some these days forget that if it wasn’t for the people wanting autographs, the celebrities would not be household names.

My favorite two bikes at the show were both memorial bikes, one in honor of Dave Mann and the other in honor of Indian Larry. They were both panheads.

The show was a two-day event this year and in my opinion was a good idea. It gives more people a chance to attend. All things considered from what I saw the show was a success again.One thing I noticed at the show was a more bobber style bike. No car tires on the rear, just bare bones nothing extra bikes. These are my favorite style of bikes and I am glad to see them coming back although for some of us they never went anywhere.

Well that is it for this week. Check the “STEALTH” report in the upcoming weeks for updates on the 7th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory Of Justin Pullin.” We have some exciting additions to be announced soon. Oh by the way Mr. Bandit has agreed to make another Best of Show Award for the bike show this year. People have been asking for a couple of weeks about that!

Until next week!
STEALTHMAN

BOY ARRESTED FOR STICK FIGURE DRAWINGS– OCALA, Florida (AP) — Two boys were arrested for making pencil-and-crayon stick figure drawings depicting a 10-year-old classmate being stabbed and hung, police said. The children, charged with a felony, were taken from school in handcuffs.

The 9- and 10-year-old boys were arrested Monday and charged with making a written threat to kill or harm another person. They were also suspended from school.

One drawing showed the two boys standing on either side of the other boy and “holding knives pointed through” his body, according to a police report. The figures were identified by written names or initials.

Another drawing showed a stick figure hanging, tears falling from his eyes, with two other stick figures standing below him. Other pieces of scrap paper listed misspelled profanities and the initials of the boy who was allegedly threatened.

The boys’ parents said they thought the children should be punished by the school and families, not the legal system.

Rogue

COVER YOUR ORGAN–Lena, the church organist at Coon Ridge Lutheran Church, was in her eighties and had never been married. She was much admired for her sweetness and kindness to all.

The pastor came to call on Lena one afternoon early in the spring, and she welcomed him into her Victorian parlor. She invited him to have a seat while she prepared a little tea.

As he sat facing her old pump organ, the young minister noticed a cut glass bowl sitting on top of it, filled with water. In the water floated, of all things, a condom.

Imagine his shock and surprise. Imagine his curiosity! Surely Miss Lena had flipped or something…! When she returned with tea and cookies, they began to chat. The pastor tried to stifle his curiosity about the bowl of water and its strange floater, but soon it got the better of him, and he could resist no longer.

“Miss Lena,” he said, “I wonder if you would tell me about this?” (pointing to the bowl).

“Oh, yes,” Lena replied, “isn’t it wonderful? I was walking downtown last fall and I found this little package on the ground. The directions said to put it on the organ, keep it wet, and it would prevent disease. And you know… I haven’t had a cold all winter.”

For those of you who couldn’t get a FLU SHOT this year, you might want to give this a try!Stay healthy everyone!

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Ok, I know the last few weeks the news been kind of boring, or should I say that it?s lacked any kind of venom or controversy. If you are wondering, in reality not much has been going on. After Rincon bike weekend, it seems like everything got sucked into a vortex, the people, the shop, the builds. I really don’t know why but everything became like in total slow motion.

Now the shows start rolling in, Cinci, Indy, then Daytona and whatever else. As of now, I don’t have any plans of attending. I might miss Daytona for the first time in 16 years, the Bike Week that gives me so much writing wise, anyway, who knows, I might change my mind later on. I have a bunch of bikes that the magazines from Europe and Japan would shoot, but moving all that over the ocean to get them there becomes a pain in the ass and the pocket.

On the work front there’s a 71 Sportster that is about to be done, I will post it here as soon as it is. Also I have a couple tech articles, one installing an internal throttle and another of turning a 4 into5 speed tranny into a kicker.In the shameless plug department I’m selling my black chopper if any interest send me an e-mail at Jose@chopperfreak.com I also have a CFL for sale.

Hank Young of young choppers has just moved to a new space, as soon as I get the address and numbers I will post them here.

Now to finish this off, here’s a schedule of the Biker Build Off series.

Feb 1 Russell Mitchel vs Detroit Brothers
Feb 8 Indian Larry vs Mondo Porras
Feb 15 Chica vs Mike Pugliese
Feb 22 Cory Ness vs Eric Gorges
March 1 Hank Young vs Cole Foster
March 8 Billy Lane vs Mike Brown
March 15 Kendall Johnson vs Eddie Trotta
March 22 Matt Hotch vs Rick Fairless
March 29 Arlen Ness vs Roland Sands (in Puerto Rico)

See you guys next week…..
Jose ? Caribbean Reporter

MOTORCYCLE BOOMER DEATHS RAISE CONCERNS–
By DAVID SHARP
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) – Safety experts suspect older motorcycle riders with a lot of disposable income are buying more machines than their aging, out-of-practice bodies can handle.

Across the country, the annual number of motorcycle fatalities among 40-plus riders tripled over the past decade to 1,674 in 2003, while deaths among riders under 30 dropped slightly to 1,161, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

According to NHTSA, the average age of motorcyclists killed in accidents rose from 32 in 1994 to 38 in 2003.

“It’s really kind of astonishing. The ages of these fatalities are so high. You would think it would be all of the young kids on those fast bikes, but it’s not,” said Carl Hallman, highway safety coordinator with the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Mike Cullinan made a midlife course correction, breaking up with his girlfriend and buying himself a big Harley-Davidson motorcycle: a 620-pound Dyna Low Rider with a 1,450-cc, fuel-injected engine.

Lots of baby boomers and middle-aged Americans like the 38-year-old Cullinan are getting motorcycles, whether to recapture their lost youth or pull through some kind of midlife crisis.

And now, as a result, riders 40 and over are accounting for an alarming number of motorcycling deaths.

The surge in deaths among older riders helped to push motorcycle fatalities higher overall. They jumped by nearly half during the past five years, from 2,483 in 1999 to 3,661 in 2003.

In Maine, 22 people were killed on motorcycles in 2004, the highest level in a decade. In New Hampshire, 29 died, versus nine the year before. In Vermont, there were 11 fatal crashes, more than in the three previous years combined. In all three states, riders in their 30s and older accounted for the most crashes.

“From a career standpoint, they have a little extra time and a little extra disposable income. The kids have grown up, so they’re looking for hobbies,” said Rae Tyson, a NHTSA spokesman who specializes in motorcycle safety.

As for why so many riders in their 40s, 50s and beyond are dying, big, powerful bikes appear to be part of the explanation. NHTSA data show that both engine size and deaths among riders with the largest class of engines rose during the past decade.

NHTSA figures also show that riders in their 30s and 40s who died were more likely than their younger counterparts to have been drinking.

In addition, safety experts say many older riders are either returning to motorcycling after many years or are trying it for the first time.

“They haven’t ridden in 20 or 30 years, so their skills are rusty. Motorcycles have changed, and they’re getting bigger motorcycles. And they’re getting on without a refresher course,” said Cathy Rimm, program director for Motorcycle Rider Education of Maine, a nonprofit organization that offers safety training.

Finally, safety officials point out that older riders’ eyesight and reflexes are not what they once were.

“In our experienced-rider courses, we do take into account the way your body changes, that your reaction time will change and that your eyesight will change. There are changes older riders should make,” said Mike Mount, spokesman for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation in Irvine, Calif.

Cullinan, a repair shop manager from Standish, had not ridden for 15 years, and his life underwent a big change when he broke off a relationship. He spent more than $18,000 on his black low rider with chrome.

“I went for the largest bike I could handle, or that I hope I can handle,” he said.

Though Maine and many other states require classes for new riders to get motorcycle licenses, there are no such requirements for a license holder who decides to get on a bike for the first time in decades. No state requires continuing periodic education, said Kathy Van Kleeck of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Cullinan said his eyes were opened by the statistics. He has bought a helmet, which is not required in Maine, and is taking a refresher course this winter.

“I’m hoping I will learn something that’ll make me safer,” he said. “I’ll be riding this spring and summer with my eyes open.”

On the Net:
Motorcycle Safety Foundation: http://www.msf-usa.org
National Highway Transportation Safety Administration: www.nhtsa.dot.gov

VRSCA

H-D 2005 THREE NEW MODELS–
Newest VRSC Model Combines Muscular Style and Aggressive Performance
MILWAUKEE (January 24, 2005) ? In the court of public opinion, the all-new 2006 VRSCR Street Rod might appear guilty of using steroids. But the newest member of the liquid-cooled family of Harley-Davidson motorcycles gets its reputation honestly by combining an upright riding position; 40-degree lean angle and a retuned suspension to deliver a Harley-Davidson that marries custom looks with agile performance.

?Harley-Davidson?s racing genes flow throughout the new Street Rod,? said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson director of marketing, motorcycle product development. ?The spirit of our strong racing heritage and the recent success of our NHRA Pro Stock Championship season is evident in the feel and performance of this premium, hot rod roadster.?

Carrying on the VRSC family tradition, the Street Rod wields the explosive power of the liquid-cooled, 1130cc Revolution V-Twin engine. In addition, the engine is cradled in a hydroformed, tubular perimeter frame topped with stylized bodywork. A clipped rear fender and 180mm-wide rear tire carry the family looks as well. However, the fuel-injected, 60-degree V-Twin has been pumped up with a pair of chrome straight-shot dual exhaust pipes that help boost horsepower to 120 hp at 8,250 rpm while maintaining its 9,000-rpm redline.

The Street Rod?s distinct styling and upright riding position are the result of a new suspension combination, highlighted by massive 43mm inverted forks. Aero-cut polished, forged aluminum triple clamps are equally robust and deliver a steeper rake/fork angle (30/32 degrees) for more aggressive handling in the corners. The change in rake and fork angle shortens the bike?s wheelbase by 0.7 inches (to 66.8 inches). When matched with performance suspension calibration on the rear shocks, the set up delivers a sporty, performance-oriented ride.

VRSCB

Complementing the suspension changes is a generous 40-degree lean angle and Brembo four-piston caliper brakes with 300mm dual front rotors. The Street Rod?s handlebar and risers are shorter and less swept back. Combined with mid-mounted foot controls and a higher 30-in. seat height, this places the rider forward and into an aggressive position for attacking corners. Fuel capacity of the Street Rod is five gallons.

Adding to the Street Rod?s muscular looks are standard 10-spoke Staggered Cast Aluminum wheels, while radial, ZR-rated Dunlop tires deliver the performance message to the pavement with authority.

VRSCR

The VRSCR Street Rod is available in five stunning color options, including Vivid Black with a black frame, or Black Cherry, Rich Sunglo Blue, Mirage Orange and Yellow Pearl all with a silver-leaf frame. Highlighting each paint option is the silver and black engine with polished covers, plus selected, blacked-out components.

Ohio motorcyclists’ rights groups band together to push Justice for All legislation– About 16 representatives of the AMA, ABATE of Ohio, Concerned Motorcyclists of Ohio, the Ohio Motorcyclists Coalition and other groups met Monday to work on legislation to hold drivers more accountable for injuries caused to motorcyclists and other road users.

The meeting, held at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum at AMA headquarters in Pickerington, Ohio, was the second in a series that organizers hope will lead to a bill being introduced at the Ohio Legislature. Those involved are molding a bill to address right-of-way violations. Though specific details are yet to be worked out, the group members agree that penalties must be increased in Ohio for those who seriously injure or kill motorcyclists and other road users by turning into their paths or violating rights of way in other ways.

The meeting is an example of what the AMA wants to happen around the nation to get Justice for All-related legislation approved in every state. At the core of the Justice for All campaign are three measures that the AMA hopes to get approved in all 50 states. That legislation would: increase penalties, including jail time, for those who commit manslaughter with a motor vehicle; impose fines and drivers license suspensions on drivers who commit traffic offenses that injure or kill others; and get motorcyclist-awareness instruction included in each state’s driver-education program.

Rogue

Continued On Page 2

By Bandit | January 26, 2005

By Bandit | January 23, 2005

THE BILL BISH COAST TO COAST REPORT–GANG LAWS AND SALES IN CHINA?

Author, Bill Bish.

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

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

TSUNAMI RELIEF Tonight Show host Jay Leno will team up with Harley-Davidson Motor Company to auction off a motorcycle signed by celebrities to benefit victims of the December 26th Asian tsunami that killed over 168,000 around the Indian Ocean, reported ABC’s Entertainment Tonight on January 4, 2005.

HEALTH INSURANCE MEASURE INTRODUCED IN OREGON Although federal legislation to prohibit health care providers from discriminating against insureds who are injured while riding a motorcycle, ATV, or while participating in so-called “risky activities”, was the last bill passed by the U.S. Senate on November 21st, S.423 died just days later when the House adjourned for the session without taking action.

Not content to wait for Congress to act, BikePAC of Oregon has requested State Senator Frank Shields to introduce legislative concepts draft 1068. LC 1068 would close the loophole that allows health insurers to deny medical coverage to motorcycle accident victims.

ABATE of Colorado successfully amended state law in 1997 to make it illegal to deny medical benefits to employees based on their participation in such activities, effectively overriding federal HIPPA regulations.

GANG BILL FILED IN SOUTH CAROLINA State Senators Jake Knotts (R-West Columbia) and Dick Elliott (D-North Myrtle Beach) have pre-filed a bill that would make it illegal to intimidate someone into joining or leaving a gang. A similar bill has been filed in the House.

The legislation defines a criminal gang as five or more people who organize to commit criminal activity, which could include hate groups, motorcycle gangs and terrorist groups.

Steve Nawojczyk, a gang expert from Little Rock, Ark., said the measure is similar to what other states have enacted.

Richland County Assistant Prosecutor David Pascoe said the bill could help better prove a defendant is a gang member. Sometimes, such information is not presented to a jury because the information could be prejudicial, he said.

Knotts has tried unsuccessfully for several years to pass a bill making intimidation of prospective members illegal. Last year, a bill made it to the Senate floor but died without a vote.

NEW HAMPSHIRE BILL WOULD MUFFLE MOTORCYCLES The noise generated by motorcyclists touring the coastline has motivated a group of Seacoast-area lawmakers to file a bill request with the Legislature asking the state to revise the standards for testing motorcycle noise and limiting exhaust systems.

“The communities that have a lot of motorcycle (traffic) on Sunday afternoons are the ones who have an interest here,” said Portsmouth City Attorney Robert Sullivan, who helped draft the bill request after being approached by the police chiefs of Portsmouth and Rye.

It would ban “straight-pipe” exhaust systems, referring to those that don’t have mufflers with noise-reducing baffles. The proposal would prohibit motorcyclists from modifying a bike’s exhaust system to make it louder than the muffler originally installed on the vehicle.

The law also would prohibit motorcycles from generating a noise level measured at greater than 110 decibels. Riders found to be not in compliance with the new standards would be guilty of a traffic violation.

NEW MOTORCYCLES SALES COULD TOP ONE MILLION The motorcycle industry has experienced 12 years of consecutive growth, and 24 percent more units have been sold in the last four years than in the entire preceding decade (1990-1999).

According to Motorcycle Industry Council estimates, year-to-date sales are up 4.4 percent through Fall 2004, marking the 12th consecutive year of growth for the United States motorcycle market.

“Motorcycling today is more mainstream than ever — and the numbers prove it,” notes the MIC. “The new MIC Owner Survey shows that since 1998, there has been a 34 percent increase in the number of motorcycles in use in the United States. Motorcycles are everywhere — in advertising, editorial layouts, movies, television — they’re an iconic representation of freedom and individualism in our American culture.”

In 2003, strong demand generated new unit motorcycle sales of more than 996,000 units, up from 936,000 in 2002. If the current growth rate continues, MIC estimates that 2004 sales of new motorcycles could top 1 million units.

HONDA SALES INCREASE BY A THIRD Japan’s Honda Motor Co, the world’s largest motorcycle maker, reports both its motorcycle production and sales in China are on track to grow by one-third this year, up 38 percent to 1.15 million motorcycles.

Honda predicted its global motorcycle sales will grow by 23 per cent to 10.7 million units this year.

Other Japanese motorcycle groups, such as Yamaha and Suzuki, have also built a strong presence in China which ranks No 1 in both motorcycle production and demand.

Yamaha aims to produce 1 million motorcycles in China by 2005 and increase output to 4 million units by 2010 through collaborations with local partners.

The nation’s motorcycle output is expected to reach 17 million units this year, up from 14.7 million units last year, an official from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers told China Daily.

Motorcycle output and sales in China climbed by 18.06 percent to 15.54 million units, according to statistics from the association.

The nation exported about 3 million motorcycles during the period, up more than 30 percent from a year earlier.

However, analysts say China’s motorcycle industry remains fragmented and less competitive in development capabilities and technical innovation.

At present, there are more than 120 motorcycle manufacturers in China.

HIGH TECH LICENSE PLATES COME UNDER FIRE IN NEBRASKA One customer complained so much about Nebraska’s new computer-generated flat license plates that an office worker at the motor vehicles office scrounged up traditional steel plates for his motorcycle.

Some say the new plates look flimsy or cheap, other say they look like cardboard, but state officials are lauding the switch to lightweight aluminum plates.

A box of 50 new plates weighs 30 pounds less than a box of the old steel plates, said Beverly Neth, director of Nebraska’s Department of Motor Vehicles. The new plates also are easy to read — with clearer and more defined lines — and have earned approval from state police.

A year ago, Nebraska State Penitentiary inmates began making the flat plates with equipment leased from 3-M Corporation.

The change is a mixed blessing for the prison industry, which puts out all of Nebraska’s license plates. The old process was labor-intensive and kept 35 to 40 inmates busy. The new computer-run process uses about 20 inmates, said John McGovern, superintendent of Cornhusker Industries at the penitentiary.

“That’s the bad news for us, since it is our mission to employ inmates,” he said.

FORMER BASKETBALL STAR SPONSORS MOTORCYCLE RACER Retired NBA star Michael Jordon has turned his focus from hoops to the racetrack as his latest business venture is motorcycle racing, a pursuit that dates to his childhood in Wilmington, South Carolina, he recently told Speed Channel?s “Two Wheel Tuesday.”

Jordan is sponsoring Montez Stewart, a riding buddy in Chicago, and the color scheme for the bikes and leather are classic Carolina blue.

“I want to win,” said Jordon in an interview. “I really want to make a statement about my support of this sport.”

His father was a NASCAR fan and Jordan says he and his brother talked their parents into getting them a mini-bike. “I almost killed myself, but I had a good time. My brother and I shared it. I was primarily the driver because I was the more aggressive one and he rode on the back.”

“When I was 12, we were racing some of the guys in our neighborhood and we took a tumble and got scraped up. And my parents always said that if we got scraped up, we were going to get rid of it, so we got long-sleeve shirts and tried to cover everything up.”

“At dinner, blood started seeping through our shirts and they got rid of the bike a week later. So, that was the end of my motorcycle career until now.”

Jordan says he’s in the motorcycle racing business for the long run. “Every time I go to the race, I have a ball, so I look to be around for a while.”

‘FRISCO NAMED BIKERTOWN USA Motorcyclist magazine has crowned San Francisco and the Bay area as the best motorcycle town in America, and the San Francisco Herald trumpeted the news in a September news story.

The paper said that what makes this place Biker Central is a feeling in the local motorcycle world that the area is, as it is in other walks of life, tolerant of bikers, perhaps even friendly. Motorcycling in the Bay Area is supported by a number of factors, some of them tangible ? like the motorcycle only parking meters sprinkled around the city.

“There can be only one Best Motorcycling City,” wrote Motorcyclist magazine, “and among all the United States of America?s roughly 19,355 incorporated burgs, you can’t beat San Francisco.”

“Great roads, great weather, great shops and great hangouts make the Bay Area a no-brainer as the best place in the U.S. for two-wheeled citizens.”

The also-rans were San Diego, Atlanta, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Denver, Daytona Beach and Columbus, Ohio.

NCOM CONVENTION REMINDER Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the upcoming NCOM Convention, May 5-7 at the Sheraton Music City Hotel, located at 777 McGavock Pike in Nashville, Tennessee. Reserve your room by April 3rd for the special NCOM rate of $79 single/double by calling (615) 885-2200. Registration fees for the 20th annual Convention are $75 including the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet on Saturday night, or $40 for the Convention only. To pre-register, call the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at (800) 525-5355 or go to www.on-a-bike.com.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “I love riding my motorcycle along the Pacific Coast Highway – the freedom of the road and the smell of the sea. That is the California spirit.”

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s State of the State Address 01/05/2005

QUOTABLE QUOTE TOO: “They’re not going to make me give up my motorcycle, too?”

Newly Elected Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels when asked by the Indianapolis Star about riding his motorcycle now that he’s the new governor.

By Bandit | January 20, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – STEALTH REPORT, CARIBBEAN REPORT AND H-D FINANCIAL REPORT

Continued From Page 1

The Old Man, the Boy and the Donkey– An old man and a young boy were traveling through their village with their donkey. The boy rode on the donkey and the old man walked.

As they went along they passed some people who remarked it was a shame the old man was walking and the boy was riding.

The man and boy thought maybe the critics were right, so they changed positions.

Later, they passed some people that remarked, “What a shame, he makes that little boy walk.”

They then decided they both would walk!

Soon they passed some more people who thought they were stupid to walk when they had a decent donkey to ride. So, they both rode the donkey.

Now they passed some people that shamed them by saying “how awful to put such a load on a poor donkey”.

The boy and man said they were probably right, so they decided to carry the donkey. As they crossed the bridge, they lost their grip on the animal and he fell into the river and drowned.

The moral of the story?
If you try to please everyone, you might as well kiss your ass good-bye!

Rick S.

Here’s an aerial shot of the landslide that devastated the La Conchita community.

Chris T.

Harley breaks $5 billion revenue barrier and re-confirm 400,000 goal for 2007IN RELEASING details of the 2004 full-year financials, Harley-Davidson has revealed that its total sales revenue for the year has topped $5 billion for the first time. Total sales revenue from all sectors of the firm’s activities was $5.015 billion for the twelve months, compared to $4.624 billion for 2003 an 8.5 percent increase.

Net income for the year was $889.8 million, a 16.9 percent increase versus last year’s $760.9 million. Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the full year was $3.00, a 20.0 percent increase compared with the $2.50 earned per share in 2003.

Revenue for the final quarter of 2004 was $1.22 billion compared with $1.16 billion in the year-ago quarter (a 5.4 percent increase); net income for the quarter was $209.0 million compared to $182.4 million, an increase of 14.5 percent over 2003. Fourth quarter diluted EPS was 71 cents, an 18.3 percent increase compared with last year’s 60 cents.

“Once again Harley-Davidson achieved record revenue and earnings, making 2004 the nineteenth consecutive record year for the Company,” said Jeffrey L. Bleustein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We focused on exceeding the impressive results of our 100th Anniversary year by increasing motorcycle availability to improve customer satisfaction and by stimulating interest among prospective customers. U.S. retail sales for Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased more than 7 percent over last year, demonstrating that the dream of owning a Harley-Davidson remains extremely powerful,” said Bleustein.

BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT–There is a lot of excitement around Charlotte this week as the Easyrider Bike Show comes to town.The local shops are getting the last minute details done on their projects. This years show should prove to be a big one. The show has been extended to 2 days instead of just one. That’s right both Saturday and Sunday! The weather man says their is a chance for some slippery weather here this weekend but it should not dampen the spirits. I hope to have pictures of the show next week.

Onto another subject, The 7th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory Of Justin Pullin” will be held here in Charlotte on Sunday July 24th. Carolina BBQ has agreed to be the new spot where the bike show will be held this year. Anyone out there who would like to be a sponsor can contact me through the “your shot’ section of Bikernet. We are also looking for award builders. The awards are made from used motorcycle parts. The awards have turned into a show between the builders. We also give awards for long distance riders. We have already had calls where people have been asking to be stops on the poker run route. I think the route may change a little this year.

Have any of you been watching the bike build offs? That is a stupid question, of course you have. I always pick the bike that loses. There really are not any losers though, all the bikes are great! I guess it just depends where your taste lies. I guess I will close with that.

Until next time!
STEALTHMAN

From Bob T.

GREEKS VS. ITALIANS
A Greek and an Italian were sitting down one day debating who had thesuperior culture.
The Greek says: “We have the Parthenon.”
The Italian says: “We have the Colosseum.”
The Greek says: “We had great Mathematicians.”
The Italian says: “We had the Roman Empire.”
So the Greek not to be outdone, says: “Well, we invented sex!”
The Italian says: “That’s true, but it was the Italians who introduced it to women!”

Chris T.

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–I missed last weeks news, I have decided to take 2005 easy. I’m not going to bust just to do what I need to do, if it happens cool, if it does not, Oh well. My plate is always pretty full, and what is the use of doing so much if you can’t actually enjoy it? Sure I do enjoy writing the news week after week, but then again, we all need a rest. Besides I don’t even remember what the hell I was doing then, but to give you a lame ass excuse for some news I rather not do it at all.

I know many of you are expecting me to lash at something, for those, too bad, I really have nothing to lash about. Sure I could talk about TV and flame throwing skulls and shit like that, but why? Or maybe a very cool handmade bike from Zero vs a ridiculous over raked chop. I guess many of you have been glued to the TV and know what I’m talking about. I guessI have to live with this since not everyone has my taste and not everyone rewards labor vs mega bling, but anyway, let’s keep on.

It’s no secret that I’ve been spending every free minute in Rincon (yeap the same place that we had the Bike Weekend) besides being a really cool town and the best waves in the Atlantic, my cell has no signal, there’s no phone and no TV at my friends house. Yes getting away from it all. By the amount of hours I work I should be able to have a house there, no problem, but life is not all cotton candy. I noticed my gain is the same working 8 hours or working 16, so why do it. The decisions made this year will evolve in maximum exposure and gain from my time. Sure friends and my word always comes first, but that commitment should have a payback, (and not necessarily in monetary value) or at least should leave a sense of accomplishment. So for now I will keep enjoying myself and relaxing as much as I can. Speaking of exposure if you have a chance get the new issue of Street Chopper, the guys there gave me a chance to say what I had to in ?Busted Knuckles?. Also a few of us are heading over to Las Vegas in February, come by if you have the chance.

Project wise we are working on a 63, a 51 and on my Horse Chop Off project. Bikes that I enjoy doing and you will soon see in the pages of some of your favorite magazines. There are a few other projects for major companies in the making, but don’t hold your breath cause we need to sit down and make specific plans on how it will all evolve. Money for nothing and the chicks for free, don’t fucking cut it.

It’s really funny that all this is being written in the most relaxed of situations. Not a care in the world and I’m not trying to keep on stepping up. Some reggae, the super NW storm creating havoc on the sea and a cool rain……I’m really sorry for all the chaos that rain caused in California this past week, but I really enjoy when it rains here. Everything cools down and the city turns quiet. I don’t know why, and I really don’t care, but it’s cool. More so, all those mega snow storms in the US turn into fronts here that do nothing else than bring a bit of rain and very good waves…. Life is good….

For those of you that are freezing your ass off, and in no way to rub it in, here’s a couple photos from Rincon. One is the view from the house deck, the other our favorite spot; maybe they will warm you up a bit. Now all I need is a really hot California girl to share all this with….

See you guys next week, you know where I’m heading this week end……Leave a message at my cell, I might call back Monday.I want to thank Custom Chrome, Ed Martin at Jammer Cycles and Jireh cycles for hooking me up with a bunch of cool parts for my Chop Off build……Take it easy, and don’t take life too seriously…you won’t get out of it alive anyway.

Jose ? Caribbean Reporter

MARINE– As the crowded airliner is about to take off, the peace is shattered by a five-year-old boy who picks that moment to throw a wild temper tantrum.

No matter what his frustrated, embarrassed mother does to try to calm him down the boy continues to scream furiously and kick the seats around him.

Suddenly, from the rear of the plane, a man in a U.S. Marine Corps uniform is seen slowly walking forward up the aisle. Stopping the flustered mother with an upraised hand, the courtly, soft-spoken Marine leans down and, motioning toward his chest, whispers something into the boy’s ear. Instantly, the boy calms down, gently takes his mother’s hand, and quietly fastens his seat belt.

All the other passengers burst into spontaneous applause. As the Marine slowly makes his way back to his seat, one of the cabin attendants touches his sleeve. “Excuse me, sir,” she ask quietly, “but could I ask you what magic words you used on that little boy?”

The Marine smiles serenely and gently confides, “I showed him my pilot’s wings, service stars, and battle ribbons, and explained that they entitle me to throw one passenger out the plane door, on any flight I choose, and that I was just about to make my selection for this flight.”

Bob T.

THIS IS NOT A GOOD LAW!– I can see it Being Used Against Bikers just as some of the other laws recently passed have been. The Government is praying off the fears of its citizens do to terrorism.

It is already a proven fact that information in many people?s files are untrue or at least the government?s version of what happened. I for one know this to be true because there is an error in my Motor Vehicle File. The person typing it in made a clerical error and though I have to have it corrected they refuse to do so.

The Government already has files on everyone from the days they are born. Let them be truthful for once and just say we are issuing a National ID Card.

Driving is a completely different issue.
ROGUE

Driver s license at center of privacy debate
Question: How to balance security, individual rights

That plastic card, the one? with the lousy photo that?s jammed into your wallet or purse, isn?t just a license to drive.

It?s the green light to buy a drink, the ticket to federal benefits, the must-have document to get aboard airplanes.

Now it?s also the flash point for an argument about how best to balance America?s security needs with worries that personal privacy could be swept away.

The federal intelligence over haul that became law last month? while creating a new national intelligence director and beefing up border patrols ? also aims to close loopholes for identity fraud that some of the Sept. 11 terrorists used to get aboard the jets they hijacked

Privacy advocates warn that the new federal standards for driver?s licenses will effectively create a national ID card, centralizing information that can be misused ?by letting the government track the whereabouts of innocent people, for instance. Government officials say they?re just making the cards more secure, and that the worries are overblown.

Strong sense

?There is a strong sense of protection of privacy by all of the administrators of DMV records, be cause we know the value of the in formation we?ve been entrusted with,? said George Tatum, North Carolina?s Department of Motor Vehicle chief. ?We just want you to be who you say you are.?

The small provision in the massive intelligence overhaul doesn?t take effect immediately. It requires a year-and-a-half of deliberation by state and federal officials, and others.

States can opt out ? refuse to make changes to their driver?s licenses that will be required under the federal law ? but then the licenses would be useless for any federal purpose, from getting benefits to boarding an airplane guarded by federal screeners.

The intelligence law aims to standardize the documents drivers present to get a license, the ways DMV workers verify that those documents are authentic, the information included on a II cense and the steps authorities take to ensure licenses can?t be forged. The law also requires that licenses can be read by machines. In years past, the market forfake driver?s licenses was driven by teenagers hoping to get into a nightclub or repeat drunk drivers ho lost their licenses trying to get back on the road.

Bigger problem

Now, identity theft is a bigger problem, and terrorists a bigger fear.

Many of the law?s specifics have yet to be decided. Will licenses include biometric information like fingerprints or retinal scans?

Some state groups, including the National Conference of State Legislatures, opposed the proposals to have the federal government take control of what has traditionally been solely under states? control ? though states have already been moving ahead to tighten the licensing process.

Advocates in Congress were given a big boost by recommendations from the Sept. 11 com mission, which noted the ease with which terrorists got licenses. Still, language the House approved that would have barred driver?s licenses for illegal immigrants was struck from the mea sure that became law.

At least nine states now allow such licenses.

Civil libertarians warn the push to make the driver?s license the ?gold standard? will make it easier to steal someone?s identity.

?Let?s say someone steals your driver?s license and substitutes their biometrics on there, and basically puts their identity on that card. They then have an official document that says they are you,? said Maw Johnson at the American Civil Liberties Union. ?How do you prove you are you??

New standards

? The new card: New federal standards aim to com bat identity fraud ? and terrorism ? by beefing up requirements for driver?s li censes. The law standardizes the documents needed to obtain a license and demands that they can be read by machine.

? Privacy concerns: Critics warn the new regulations will violate people?s privacy by consolidating personal information in the government?s hands and possibly making it easier to steal someone?s identity.

? Takes effect? The standards require more than a year of deliberation by state and federal officials. States also can opt out.

Florida Today Newspaper 1/16/2005

That?s It For The News– The workers are gone for the day but the smell of plaster remains. They?ll be back bright and early tomorrow to continue and sometime early next week they?ll finish. Progess?

Here?s the panhead with the new highbars, whatcha think? I think it looks good and will fit Bandit?s 6? 4? frame better and he won?t look like a baby Huey riding it anymore. And, the finished Pope motor on the stand. Like I said before, the stand is an old base to a kitchen table that our tenants left. I hesitated throwing it away all these months and now it?s a work of art.

I hope you all have a nice weekend; Saturday is my birthday and I think I?m gonna get Bandit and my kids to cook for me instead of going to dinner. That?s if I?m feeling lucky. Or, maybe a quiet dinner at my favorite restaurant by the ocean with just Bandit, and me, then maybe I?ll get lucky?

Take care, Layla

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January 20, 2005 Part 1

By Bandit | January 20, 2005

BIKERNET NEW FLASH – VICTORY FOR THE VETERANS, GANGSTER CHOP UPDATE AND ROADSHOWS FOR 2005

Lot?s going on around here. The drywall hangers and plasterers have been working for three days straight getting the walls of the Headquarters? living space like new. This is an old building and some things like pipes on the outside of walls and creaky floors I can live with. But when every wall in this place has a different texture and is full of cracks, it?s time to call in the pros.

Last weekend Bandit worked on a few projects in the warehouse. He installed high-bars on his panhead and cleaned up an old table base. Any old scrap around this place will eventually become furniture or decorations. Where most gals get a nice piece of ceramic on a table, I get a Pope motor on an old table stand to fill with plants. I love it!

I posted a few new articles earlier this week, I hope they keep you busy for a little while at least, till I can post some more.
The news is a little short this week because of the activity and dust all around me. You can see for yourself the chaos. The good thing is, when they?re finished I?ll be able to move my temporary office out of the living room and in to it?s permanent location; the room with a fantastic view!

Here?s the news.

NOTE FROM BANDIT–Although we feel the changes being made to Hot Bike are for the good of all, not everyone shares our enthusiasm. So, girls and changes aside, there is a complete guide to fuel-injection in the March issue for anyone wanting to know it all. If you ride a fuel-injected bike, or even if you don’t but still have interest, you gotta get this issue.
Over and out… Bandit
GANGSTER CHOPPERS–Hey Bandit, thought I’d send you over a pic of one of our bikes, yes it does have a model on it. If you want to use it in the Cantina section or something help yourself. If you want more pics just email back, we have a large selection of models on our bikes. We’ll be at Cincy hope to see you there.
Thanks, John Dodson, aka Head Gangster.

Gangster Choppers
9720 Qualla Road
Chesterfield, Virginia 23832
phone: 1-866-640-CHOP
fax: 804-790-1716
web: http://www.gangsterchoppers.com
email: john.dodson@gangsterchoppers.com

US ANGELS 2005Hi! I’m sending a pic of myself, as well as the link to our website. Please take a minute to look it over. We’re doing lots of great things in support of our troops and military families. We’d love your support, and a mention on the website if possible. Thanks! P.S. You do a great job with your website!
http://www.usangels2005.com Click on events, and mug shots to see some of the pics from our events…(especially Myrtle Beach Fall Rally).
OBITUARY
Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend by the name ofCommon Sense who has been with us for many years.
No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were longago lost in bureaucratic red tape.
He will be remembered as having cultivated such value lessons asknowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets theworm and that life isn’t always fair.
Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don’t spendmore than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not kids,are in charge).
His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned butoverbearing regulations were set in place.
Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment forkissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwashafter lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student,only worsened his condition.
It declined even further when schools were required to get parentalconsent to administer aspirin to a student; but, could not inform theparents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandmentsbecame contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals receivedbetter treatment than their victims.
Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realizethat a steaming cup of coffee was hot, she spilled a bit in her lap, andwas awarded a huge settlement.
Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust,his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason.
He is survived by two stepbrothers; My Rights and Ima Whiner.
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.
Ifyou still know him pass this on, if not join the majority and donothing!!!
Ray Russell

USMC Trained Mouse
Chris T.

VICTORY FOR THE VETERANS–Governor Taft signed into law AM. SUB. H.B. 406; on December 22, 2004. This law will make Veteran License Plates available for motorcycles ninety days after the signing date. This is a result of ten-plus years of ABATE of Ohio, Inc. , and other activists working within the “system”. As frustrating as it has been; victory finally belongs the riding veterans of the Buckeye State!

HOLES–A working girl is standing at The Gates Of Heaven when she hears horrible screams of pain and torture coming from inside.
She says to St. Peter, “What’s going on?”
He says, “That’s the sound of new angels getting big holes drilled into their backs for their wings, and small holes drilled into their heads for their halos.”
She says, “Heaven sounds terrible. I think maybe I’d rather go to Hell.”
St. Peter says, “In Hell, you’ll be constantly raped and sodomized.”
She says, “That’s okay. I’ve already got holes for that.
Skooter
Roadshows, Inc. To Produce 10 Motorcycle Event in 2005–Reno, NV — Roadshows, Inc., of Reno, NV, producer of some of the largest motorcycle events in the nation, has expanded the number of events it will produce in 2005 to ten.
Roadshows combines great bands, thrilling entertainment, amusing bike games, incredible tours, poker runs, fabulous shopping – and the hottest bikes on the planet to ensure successful events. Roadshows motorcycle events scheduled in 2005 are:
May 16-21 Myrtle Beach Bike Week
Dates TBD Pearl River Run in Chocktaw
May 29-30 West Coast Thunder V
June 24-26 Mammoth Lakes Mean Mountain Run
July 8-10 Ride To the Rock, San Francisco.
Sept. 21-25 Street Vibrations Motorcycle Festival
Oct. 7-9 American Heat Palm Springs Motorcycle & Hot Rod Weekend
Oct. 14-16 Bridge City Bike Rally in Lake Havasu City, AZ
Oct. 28-29 Anaheim Harleyween Rally in Anaheim, CA
Download a registration form at www.road-shows.com. For more vendor, sponsor or event information or to have a registration form mailed to you, call 800-200-4557 or e-mail admin@road-shows.com.

BAD-ASS–Guess this is one of them Mid West Cowboy things……..
“These pics came from a guy in AZ. Yes, the mule killed the mountain lion.The lion had been stalking them for the better part of the morning, on theway out to a hunt. They were pretty sure it was after one of the dogs. Thecat ambushed them, and the mule pictured tossed its rider and went intoattack (defense) mode, the horses scattered and shots were fired but no onewas sure if they hit the cat or not. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until itwas almost over that one of the guys started snapping pics.
The mulefinally stomped the cougar to death after biting and throwing it aroundlike a rag doll. The dogs wouldn’t even come close until the mule settleddown.

Note the dog audience…. Gives new meaning to the term “BAD ASS”
Chris E.

Continued On Page 2

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January 13, 2005 Part 4

By Bandit | January 13, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – NEW FROM BAKER, STEALTH REPORT AND BIG BROTHER AT IT AGAIN

Continued From Page 3

Just Choppers– is an online auction website that?s made to save bikers and dealers money when trying to sell an item. It’s a place where you can buy and sell Harleys, custom bikes, street bikes, four wheelers, parts, clothing, tools, and accessories.
You can pay 35.00 to 50.00 just to list a bike with other companies and it still may not sell. http://www.justchoppers.com is a website that anyone can afford. At Just Choppers you can post items with pictures for free as many times as you want and you don?t pay unless it sells. You can also get great dealer discounts.
I would be honored to have my link or logo on your website.

NEW FROM BAKER DRIVETRAIN–DSSC stands for ?drop starter slam clutch? the latest offering from BAKER Drivetrain. This revolutionary design lowers the starter, which allows a lower center of gravity with a lowered oil tank and lowered seat height.

With DSSC the clutch is placed where the pulley would be on a typical LSD motorcycle and the clutch weight is closer to the center of the chassis, in turn you have a more agile better handling motorcycle. The DSSC consist of billet RSD set-up; inner & outer primary, case, top cover and shroud. All available in raw, show polished, spectacular chrome finishes.

BIKERNET STEALTH REPORT–Today is my birthday! I won’t tell you how old I am. I will just say I am old enogh and I hope a lot wiser in some ways. I guess in a lot of ways it is just another day and I am thankful for it.
Not much to report on. I picked up the new issue of Street Chopper and was impressed with the content. A big improvement! The new bike build off series has started and it is good to see new faces on the show.
The weather around here has been great! Temperatures at or above 70 degrees for the past couple of weeks. It is supposed to turn cold by the weekend but that is o.k., we are two weeks closer to spring.
There are a number of events coming up in the Charlotte area. Next weekend the Easyrider show comes to town. I will be there and try to get some pictures.
Well like I said it is my birthday and the weather is warm. Time to go for a ride! Enough said!
Until next time, RIDE!
STEATHMAN

BIKERNET LOST AND FOUND–There is a lost dog in the neighborhood that has strayed away from her owner. The dog is a dark brown Chihuahua with a white stomach. The owner is heartbroken and is willing to pay a generous reward for the dog’s safe return.
She is currently putting up posters in your area. Please be on the lookout for this little dog whose name is “LUCKY.”
A picture of the dog and owner is attached.

“First They Came for the Drunks…”–I mentioned in an earlier post (“Are Police Watching Your Home? “) that police agencies, urged on by the the President’s Commission Against Drunk Driving, have begun to assign officers to stakeout the homes of individuals on probation for DUI — sometimes for days — waiting for them to violate their probation by driving.
Aside from the obvious objections, of course, the larger concern is that if police can watch the homes of those with DUI records today, what legally is to stop them from watching your home tomorrow? Do we really want police staking out our homes, waiting for us to make a mistake?
Commenting upon this, Scott Henson has reported on his weblog the efforts of the federally-funded Center for Transportation Analysis to require cars to be equipped so they will not start without first inserting a valid driver’s license in an ignition interlock device. This is but one of many ideas proposed to deal with drunk drivers. What is of greater interest, however, is the CTA representative’s explanation of how Americans’ “historical” concerns about invasion of privacy and Big Brother can be overcome — by initially demonstrating the technology on unsympathetic targets who “have fewer privacy ‘rights’ “:
“American society historically resists excessive government intervention and Big Brother programs that threaten to invade privacy,” Hu says. “One of the biggest challenges to implementing electronic driver?s licenses will be to secure widespread public acceptance and community support.” Hu thinks that the U.S. public will be more likely to accept this technology if it is first demonstrated on high-risk drivers. “Targeting a demonstration project at drivers who might have fewer privacy ‘rights,’ such as convicted DUI offenders, might reduce public concern about invasion of privacy,” she says.”
[Note: the quotes around the word “rights” have not been added.]
As Mr. Henson paraphrased: “First they came for the drunks, but I was not a drunk so I did not speak up…..”
Posted by Los Angeles DUI lawyer Lawrence Taylor
Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com

BIKERNET PRODUCT OF THE WEEK–?eGrip? Hand Grip SetMany motorcycle riders experience hand and forearm discomfort resulting from tightly gripping the throttle over long periods of time. Using the ?eGrip?, the rider can control the throttle by pulling on the front rib of the grip and/or pushing on the rear rib. This allows the rider to open his or her fingers while still controlling throttle pressure. The shape of the ?eGrip? gives the rider?s hand a flatter top surface to rest against. This relieves Ulnar neuropathy (numbness of the fourth and fifth fingers). Sold in Pairs. ?eGrips? are a Custom Chrome exclusive.
666050 ?eGrip? Hand Grip Set???.$39.99
Dealer Locator 800-729-3332 or www.customchrome.com

HARLEY OWNERS GROUP? ANNOUNCES 2005 NATIONAL EVENTS–Avid Harley-Davidson riders look forward to Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) events around the country every year, from local chapter events to national rallies.
NAVY ANNOUNCES WINNER OF 2005 HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE
The Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department at the Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, Calif., announced AME1 (AW) Richard Winders has won the 2005 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy raffle sponsored by the Motor Company.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON CONTINUES SUPPORT FOR AMERCIAN SOLDIERS
Harley-Davidson recently announced its partnership with the U.S. Army in the Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) program to help appropriately qualified soldiers exiting the Army find possible employment opportunities at Harley-Davidson.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND BUELL PARTICIPATE IN THE 24th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOWS
Harley-Davidson and Buell are participating in all 12 tour stops of the 24th Annual International Motorcycle Show.

THAT’S A WRAP–Let me tell you about the new Street Chopper with Scott Long flipping the bird. Yeah, this book has attitude, the rigid frame philosophy and new and old school tips for only Choppers. That’s the creed. But there’s one more book in this family and it’s got guts. It’s Frank Kaisler’s old Hot Rod Bikes and we’re devoting it to tech articles. This will be Wrench’s favorite mag with touring bike techs, performance techs, fabrication techs, Sportster techs and how to bikini wash your bike. Even Wrench needs a break from time to time. And Franks back with informative techs that bring the basics back to the new guys and me and my faulty memory.

I’m hoping to publish two new oil line and oil pump techs by Frank here next week. They’re classics that we will all refer to every time we build another bike. Speaking of building Lucky Devil is working on my aluminum rear fender and he built my solo seat that’s being feature in the May issue of Hot Bike as it comes together in leather tooled style.
I’ll bring you reports from behind the scenes on all three mags as we move along. If you have any questions about the magazine world, drop me a note or a Your Shot.
Let’s Ride,
–Bandit

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January 13, 2005 Part 3

By Bandit | January 13, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – PARAMOUNT NEW WEBSITE, WILD FIRE BLOW-OUT SALE, NATIONWIDE AND INTERNATIONAL BIKE TOURS

Continued From Page 2

THUNDER IN AFRICA–The Harley-Davidson Owners Group Durban Chapter (HOG) and Harley-DavidsonDurban has been successful in achieving international recognition fromtheir peers as a result of the ‘Thunder in the Zulu Kingdom Rally’ in March2004. It is with this recognition that Harley-Davidson Europe and HOG haveexpressed a keen interest in hosting an International status Rally as apermanent annual event in Durban. The vision of creating a South AfricanDaytona, Sturgis style Bike Week in Durban has been embraced by bothnational and international Harley Chapters. This event has been sanctionedby Harley-Davidson, HOG Europe, the National South African HOG chapters, theSouth African Harley-Davidson dealerships and independent H-D bike clubs asan annual event, and agreed upon unanimously to remain on the South Africancalendar as an annual event.
The Harley-Davidson International representatives who attended the 2004Rally commented on what they stated as ?a rally event that truly met, if notexceeded international rally standards? and the location of the rally siteat Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World was said to be magnificent andawesome. They also committed to Harley-Davidson?s and HOG?s full support inmarketing the next rally overseas. Furthermore, it was at this stage that wein conjunction with the international representatives created the vision ofa South African Daytona equivalent in Durban. HD and Hog both expressed thesame desire to have an annual rally for the future that would be an exampleto the rest of the world.
Thundertown can be found at http://www.thundertown.co.za. The site is by no meanscomplete, but will be added to all the time. There also links to Durban andour country. Feel free to post stuff on the forum !
Regards and be safe !
Scoop (aka Kai Von Pannier)
Head Honcho
Scoop Dynamics
Website Rally : www.thundertown.co.za
ScoopDynamics : www.Scoopdynamics.co.za
“Get the Scoop !”

MOTORCYCLE TOURING WITH EAGLERIDER–EagleRider of Knoxville (Knoxville Tennessee) is part of a worldwidefranchise, that specializes in Harley, ATV, Jet Ski, & Dirt Bike rentals. Wealso offer self-guided and guided tours of the Smokey Mountains, Blue RidgeParkway, Cherohala Skyway, and Dragon’s Tail (318 curves in 11 miles). Wewould like to get info. about having a link on your website. We feel theservice we offer is unique and would cater to your customer base.
Our link info. is as follows:
http://www.eagleriderofknoxville.com
Thanks,
Randy and Melissa Carter
EagleRider of Knoxville
9918 Kingston Pike
Phone: 865-560-0088 toll free: 1-866-805-RIDE
Fax: 865-560-5654
Email: knoxeaglerider@comcast.net

WILD FIRE ONE-DAY BLOWOUT SALE–

This Saturday
One Day Only!
9am – 6pm
On January 15th Wild Fire will be cutting prices throughout the store.
Stop in to join us for some great savings during this One Day Only! Winter Blow Out Sale!Come in and say “Hi” to some old friends and take advantage of sales that you won’t want to miss out on.We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, January 15th from 9am – 6pm
One Day Only! New Vehicle Sale
Saturday, January 15th, 9am – 6pm

We’ll pay the sales tax when you purchasea new V-Rod
See our sales staff for availbilty and details.
*This offer is not valid with any other offer/discount.
“Double Denim Days”
Buy Two Pair of Genuine Harley-Davidson Jeans for Only $48!
That’s Only $24 Each!

If you buy two or more pairs of jeans from us we will take $10 off of each pair you buy.This special will only last as long as our jeans so come in today to take advantage of this very special offer before it’s too late!
*This offer is not valid with any other discount or sale
Free Seminar!!!
Maintenance 101
Wednesday, February 2, 2005
6:30-8:00pm

We Will be hosting a complimentary “Maintenance” seminar on Wednesday, February 2nd from 6:30-8:00pm.This seminar will cover important general maintenance checks, tips, and tricks to help keep you riding this upcoming season.Seats for this seminar are limited so please sign up now!call us at 630.834.6571 or send an email to: jamesw@wildfirehd.com.
January 2005
Month Long Leather Parts & Motorclothes Special

Blow out Limited Edition Leather Sale
This January is the month to gear up with leather for yourself…and your bike!Outfit yourself now and save big-time for the upcoming riding season!
Motorclothes: 25% off all Limited Edition Leather Jackets. Plus, if you buy a Limited Edition Vest or Chapsat the same time we’ll take 30% off of the additional piece.
Parts: 25% off all leather seats & saddlebags when installed by our service department.
*Limited Edition Leather is just what it sounds like. The Harley-Davidson Limited Edition pieces are made in small batches to ensure the highest levels of quality & craftsmanship. When you purchase a Limited Edition piece from Harley-Davidson you are not only buying a piece that is of the highest quality, you are also buying a one-of-a-kind. These pieces cannot be reordered, so buy now!Wild Fire has plenty of these Limited Edition pieces to choose from, come in before it’s too late!**This offer is not valid with any other discount or sale
A PLAN–
What’s the difference between Iraq and Vietnam?
George W. Bush had a plan to get out of Vietnam.
Nick R.

ROAD RAGE OFFERED WITHSPACE AGE THERMAL COATING BASSANI has just announced availability of their awesome 2 into 1 BAGGER ROAD RAGE system finished in satin black THERMAL COAT. This record setting system has proven itself to be one of, if not the most efficient, system of its kind currently on the market. And, with the new Space Age THERMAL COATING it takes on a whole new personality in both looks and performance. Awesome and intimidating to the eye, THERMAL COAT is applied to both the inside and outside of the complete system and helps retain heat inside the pipe for improved efficiency and horsepower while reducing surface temperatures.
Bassani?s revolutionary BAGGER ROAD RAGE for Twin Cam machines features aggressive lines formed by 1 3/4? ? 1 7/8? stepped head pipes merging into a True Reverse Cone Megaphone fit with a fluted billet aluminum end cap. Precision fabricated from high grade 16 gauge steel, the system was developed specifically to produce increases in horsepower and an extremely flat torque curve.
Available exclusively from NORTH COUNTY CUSTOMS the BAGGER ROAD RAGE offers enthusiasts the ultimate in performance and style. This unique system with the high tech coating retails for $659.00. For complete details call 866-439-4287 or go to http://www.bassanipipes.com. Dealer inquiries invited.

HEY SKOOTER–You say you been riding since 1968, I?ve been riding longer that you! Check me out on my trike. ? Jon Towle

Paramount Starts 2005 with New Website!Reno, Nevada – With the dawn of the New Year, Paramount Custom Cycles is notonly stepping up their game with their production motorcycles and a spot onthe Easyrider Centerfold Tour, but also by dramatically changing the face oftheir company website.
http://www.paramountcycles.com has always been a very state of the art, welldesigned web page, but for 2005, PCC really took the extra steps needed tomake their mark. With the help of WolfSmith Media and Gravity HookProductions (both in Truckee, California), the new site is an ever-changing,personally interactive stop on the internet for motorcycle enthusiasts andthe general public alike.
With the use of the latest web design technology, Paramount offers theability to inspect their products with a 360? viewer, take an inside look atthe PCC facility in Reno, Nevada, listen to build tips and techniquesstraight from Aaron Greene, and search their endless archive of photos.There is also a detailed timeline describing the life and times of AaronGreene and his Paramount Custom Cycles.
With too many aspects to describe, the new PCC website is definitely worthchecking out.
See Aaron Greene on the Easyrider Centerfold Tour in 2005, check outParamount’s production motorcycles at a PCC dealer near you, visit the newsite on the web and be sure to pick a little something up.

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January 13, 2005 Part 2

By Bandit | January 13, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – LEE PARKS TOTAL CONTROL, JOKES FROM ROGUE AND MORE

Continued From Page 1

How to Fix Your Bike– A blonde was trying to sell her old bike, and wasn’t having much luck because it had 250,000 miles on it. She was telling her problem to a friend at work one day, and the friend told her, “Well, there is something you could do to make the bike easier to sell, but it’s not legal.”
“I don’t care,” the blonde replied, “So long as I can sell it.”
“Okay, here’s what you do,” said the friend. “Here is the address of a friend of mine who owns a bike shop. Tell him I sent you and he will ?fix it.? Then it shouldn’t be so much of a problem to sell.”
The blonde went to the mechanic the next night and got the bike ?fixed.?
A couple weeks later, the friend asked the blonde, “So, did you sell your bike?”
“No,” the blonde replied, “Why should I? It only has 50,000 miles on it!”
Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com

Don’t ask Tom Warner about DUI checkpoints–So you think honesty is the best policy when stopped by the police? Convince Tom Warner.
Tom Warner, 59, of Waterford, was arrested at a DUI checkpoint on Albee Road Sept. 24 at 10:38 p.m. He had been fishing with four friends that afternoon and was on his way home.
“When I came through the checkpoint, they asked me if I had had anything to drink and I said yeah, three or four beers that afternoon,” he said. “I also had returned from California with a little jet lag and one of the things they keyed on was my eyes were bloodshot.”
Warner said he tried his best to convince the police he was not impaired.
“I told them I do not drive drunk,” he said.
Breath test: 0.00
Warner took a field sobriety test (there is no quantified pass or fail, only the officer’s judgment). The officers felt Warner was impaired and arrested him. It was Warner’s first arrest for anything, according to his attorney, Robert Harrison.
About 20 minutes later, still at the scene, police asked Warner to take a breathlyzer test.
“They always wait 20 minutes or so to make sure you keep everything down before they give you the test, even at the jail,” Harrison said.
Warner took the test and the results were 0.00. That means there was no evidence of alcohol in his system. A subsequent urine test revealed the same results for drugs, (Harrison said it takes several weeks for urine test results to come back.)
Off to the House of Many Doors
Warner said he does not have a warm, fuzzy feeling about DUI checkpoints.
“Even prior to this,” he said, “I thought they were an invasion of privacy.”
He doesn’t feel any love for the the arresting officers, either.
“Once I registered zero,” he said, “I should have been released.”
Instead, Warner was hustled off to the South County Jail at the Venice police station on Ridgewood Avenue.
He was booked and later transported to the North County Jail, where he languished until 3 p.m. the next day. That’s when a judge released him on his own recognizance.
It’s about time
It took the state attorney until Dec. 8 to make a decision on whether to prosecute.
“We were set for trial when they dismissed the charges,” Harrison said.
Warner still has his job working for the county’s information and technology department.
He said the arrest was humiliating for him and his family. He said his wife is a cancer patient (in remission) and the incident added stress to her life.
“Not only that, I was supposed to report to the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) for Hurricane Jeanne,” Warner said, “but I was in jail.”
Harrison said he is now working to have the Warner’s DUI arrest expunged.
“Expungment means they have to physically destroy the records,” he said. “You can legally deny it ever happened.”
You can e-mail Tommy McIntyre at:tmcintyre@venicegondolier.com.
By Tommy McIntyre
Staff Writer
Sent by Rogue

HOW TRUE IT IS–
Another year has passed
and we’re all a little older.
Last summer felt hotter
and winter seems much colder.
There was a time not long ago
when life was quite a blast.
Now I fully understand
about “Living in the Past”
We used to go to weddings,
football games and lunches.
Now we go to funeral homes,
and after-funeral brunches.
We used to have hangovers,
from parties that were gay.
Now we suffer body aches
and while the night away.
We used to go out dining,
and couldn’t get our fill.
Now we ask for doggie bags,
come home and take a pill.
We used to often travel
to places near and far.
Now we get sore asses
from riding in the car.
We used to go to nightclubs
and drink a little booze.
Now we stay home at night
and watch the evening news.
That, my friend is how life is,
and now my tale is told.
So, enjoy each day and live it up…
before you’re too damned old!
Bob t.

Lee Parks’ Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic comes to AZ January 29.– Gilbert Arizona — If you’re an experienced motorcyclist interested in improving your riding skills but are unwilling to take on the additional risks associated with the high-speed environment of a race track, you’re not alone. Based on his new book “Total Control” National Racing Champion Lee Parks’ first “Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic” (Total Control ARC) will be held on January 29th at T.E.A.M. Arizona’s rider training center in Gilbert, AZ.
The Total Control ARC fills the gap between the MSF’s Experienced RiderCourse (ERC) and a typical track day. Cornering technique is the primary focus of the clinic and the individual skills taught include; throttle control, throttle/brake transitions, corner entry, line selection, body position and corner exit. Depending on what type of bike you ride these techniques will vary slightly but all follow the same philosophical principals. The range portion of the training takes place in a large parking lot where each of the riding exercises are individually explained, demonstrated by an instructor, and practiced by each student. Working on only one skill at a time with constant instructor feedback creates the building blocks to consistent riding improvements. Each skill is built using small two-mph increments until the desired result is achieved. Typical corning speeds never exceed 30 mph and while this may seem slow, it feels very fast while cornering around a 40-foot circle. This learning technique allows for high rider confidence and is incredibly effective due to its ability to minimize fear as much as possible. Many sportbike riders learn how to drag their knees for the first time while cruiser and touring riders learn the secrets to maximizing ground clearance. All riders come away with specific measurable improvements in their riding skills and safety with a level of control previously unattainable.
All Total Control ARC skills are taught with their direct applications for street riding. In addition to the range portion of the class a practical classroom presentation on motorcycle suspension is included. Students learn how to analyze the effectiveness of their suspension and how to set it up for maximum control and comfort.
All students must provide their own bikes and have at least one year of riding experience. Protective gear is required for all students, which include a DOT-approved helmet (full-face recommended), motorcycle jacket and pants, gloves and boots that cover the ankles. Jeans and fingerless gloves are not allowed, but Kevlar jeans will be accepted. The cost for the eight-hour Total Control ARC is $295, which includes lunch and a workbook with explanations and examples of the techniques and concepts covered in the course. A $100 deposit guarantees your spot, with the balance payable two weeks before the start of the course. For questions or to secure a spot call Lee Parks at 760-220-5045. http://www.leeparksdesign.com

BAPTIST BRA–A man walked into the Women’s Department of Macy’sin New York City.
He told the saleslady “I would like a Baptist bra for my wife, size36B.”
With a quizzical look the saleslady asked? “What kind of bra?”
Herepeated “A Baptist Bra” – She said to tell you that she wanted aBaptist Bra, and that you would know what she wanted.”
“Ah, now I remember” said the saleslady. “We don’t get as manyrequests for them as we used to. Mostly ourcustomers lately want theCatholic bra, or the Salvation Army bra, or thePresbyterian type.”
Confused, and a little flustered, the man asked,”So, what are thedifferences?”
The lady responded. “It is allreally quite simple.
The Catholic type supports the masses. The Salvation Army lifts up thefallen, and the Presbyterian type keeps themstaunch and upright.”
He mused on that information for a minute, andasked, “So, what is theBaptist type for?”
They,” she replied, “make mountains out ofmolehills.”
Bra Sizes:Have you ever wondered why and how A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, G, and H arethe lettersused to define bra sizes? If you have wondered why, but couldn’tfigureout what the letters stood for, it is about timeyou became informed!
{A} Almost Boobs…
{B} Barely there…
{C} Can’t Complain!
{D} Dang!
{DD} Double dang!
{E} Enormous!
{F} Fake.
{G} Get a Reduction.
{H} Help me- I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!
Chris T.

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January 13, 2005 Part 1

By Bandit | January 13, 2005

BIKERNET NEWS FLASH – S&S SPONSORS RACING, LAS VEGAS WINTER RALLY INFO, LOOKING FOR A BRO

I snuck out of the office today to hang at the drying Bikernet headquarters and help with the news. The March issue of Hot Bike is on the streets. You can’t miss it. The cover is Kevin from Big Bear Choppers. That’s right, instead of just another polished motor on the cover, it’s a human being. It’s the man behind Big Bear’s exploding success story hugging his wild-ass Knucklehead.
You wouldn’t believe the heat I’m getting for changing the cover mold. There’s frothing at the mouth MBAs, consultants, computer test experts and the boss of bosses pushing me to spring back to the normal paint and chrome covers. They’ve run e-mail studies, asked consultants and threatened me.
Let me know what you think. That’s not all, someone in some distant production facility saw fit to fuck up the cover print job. Of course no one will own up to it, but I smell corporate conspiracy and promised flying baseball bats if the next one is messed with.
On the positive side there’s Bree in Hot Bike, the first girl in seven long dry years. There’s action. There’s a sharp, thorough, Fuel Injection guide and techs to back it up. There’s even how to Make a Biker Movie by agent Zebra. Check out this issue and gimme some feed back. We’ll continue to bring you all the behind the scenes action at these mags. Now, let’s get to the news then I’ll tell you about the other books.

LOOKING FOR A FRIEND–I was wondering if you know where I can contact an old friend of mine Marty Ruthman. I’m a very close friend of his and his family. I’ve known him since Hi School. My contact info is
Bob Moles
530 906 0906
mailto:rwmoles@cwnet.com

S&S RACING SPONSORSHIPS–VIOLA, WI (January 11, 2005) S&S is pleased to announce the following individual racing sponsorships during the 2005 racing season.
AHDRA Sanction:
Blake Holliday – Super Gas
Dave Ostrowski – Super Gas
David Hope – Super Sport
Allen Nusbaum – Super Sport
Wanda Poff – Super Sport
Rick Maney – Pro-Stock
Dale Raudenbush – Pro-Stock
Joe Sternotti – Street-Pro
Junior Pippin – Pro-Modified
Cliff Dwy – Pro-Modified
Shaun Reno – Pro-Modified
Phil Schmidt – Pro-Drag
Greg Byrnes – Pro-Drag
Brooke McCabe – Pro-Gas
Robert Markham – Pro-Gas
Dave Delullo – Pro-Gas
Ed Biaggi – Pro-Gas
Bill Bertoletti – Pro-Fuel
Sonny Michalowski – Top-Fuel
AMRA Sanction:
Jay Wagner – Street Eliminator
Greg Walls – Street Eliminator
Jerry Cameron – Street Eliminator
Russ Johnson – Pro Eliminator
Jim Bob Kern – Pro Eliminator
Bob Burris – Super-Gas
Dave Sollars – Super-Gas
Randal Andras – Hot Street
Russ Morgan – Hot Street
Mark Sidwell – Buell
Mike Nolan – Modified
Bryan Huffman – Pro-Modified
Rick Clutts Pro-Modified
Mike Nelson/Iron Eagle Racing Pro-Modified
Dennis Cunningham – Pro-Gas
Chris Richterburg – Pro-Fuel
“These racers are well-respected within their respective sanction and class,” said Charlie Hadayia, Manager of Dealer Development and Race Relations. “We’re pleased to provide sponsorship for these accomplished racers through the next season. Staying in touch with the racing community is critical for S&S to continue producing proven performance products,?*? continued Hadayia. “Congratulations on a successful racing season in 2004 and good luck going fast at the track in 2005.”
S&S will be the official title sponsor for three AHDRA races in 2005: Bakersfield, CA on May 13-15, Budds Creek, MD on July 15-17, and Bristol, TN on August 13-14. S&S is also sponsoring the following classes in the AHDRA during 2005: Pro Stock, Pro Gas, Super Sport, and the new S&S 124″ Challenge class.

NOTES TO EGO-BOY–I am thrilled that you are taking over the lead on the Hot Bike mag. I have refused to even look at the magazine at the newstand, unless I really want to be bored. I hope you have plans to change it! I realize my tastes are satisfied with American Iron and the Horse (Backstreet Choppers), and it would be nice to see another magazine similar. Easyriders is even boring to me since you left. I know that the magazines all have their own theme, but I am totally tired of seeing the same old bikes month after month. I guess Howard Kelly thought they were unique and different, but to me they were all just the same.
Jeff Morgan

Hey Bandit, Congrats on your new job at Hot Bike! Although we’ve never met I’ve enjoyed all your work at Bikernet, including your Road King report, since I also have a Road King.I have a couple of questions if you’ve got a minute, concerning your 95″ Big Bore. I’m assuming you still have your ‘King, if you don’t,maybe you can recall after you had the work done.
Did you feel like you gained allot (HP wise) from the Big Bore kit?
Do you think the all-day ride reliability was compromised?
Did you go with high-compression pistons?
Would you do it over again, or recommend someone else having the same work done?
I’m kind of struggling with the issue as you can tell, my ‘King is a great bike but I could sure use a little more “snap”, especiallywhen I’m riding “two up”.
If you get a chance let me know, I’d really appreciate it.If you’re ever in the Seattle area let me know, the beers are on me.
Thanks man.
Randall Ralph
I’ve never heard a complaint. Generally, the Twin Cam can handle it and you should rock. Watch the cam you run. Make sure it’s a good mid-range cam and not all top end. Also make sure you back it up with the Screamin’ Eagle air cleaners kit and performance exhaust. The wrong pipes will kill it.–Bandit

Las Vegas Winter Rally —On Sunday, February 20th 2005, Hawaiian Chopper Magazine, in association with The Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe, Count’s Kustoms, and Vegas City Choppers, are presenting the first ever “Las Vegas Winter Rally”.
Joining us for a poker run and party at the Hard Rock Cafe, are Johnny “Chop” Vasko of “Johnny Chop Industries”, (formerly of Chica Custom Cycles), Roland Sands of “Performance Machines”, Hank Young of “Young Choppers”, and Jose De Miguel of “Caribbean Custom Cycles”.
Coming along for the ride is nationally syndicated radio talk show host, and star of the Emmy Award winning “sci-fi” series, Babylon Five, Jerry Doyle. Others are sure to come for this one-day event.
Registration for the poker run will be held at Count’s Kustoms at 2714 Highland Drive in Las Vegas, Nevada, and begins at 8:30am on 20 February.
The ride will begin at 10:30. Led by the celebrity builders, riders will enjoy a poker run in the crisp winter air. Taking off to the World renowned “Denver’s Choppers” in Henderson, then on to Vegas City Choppers in Las Vegas, (and one other stop to be named later), and finally, ending up at the Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe, where riders will pick up their final card.
Enter the “Best Custom” contest sponsored by Count’s Kustoms and win a specially designed and built trophy by custom builder Shannon Aikau of Count’s Kustoms. There is no cost to enter, but all bikes MUST be Customs. “No off the rack bikes”. There will also be other great events to be announced along the way.
At the Hard Rock, check out nearly 40 vendors that will be showing their wares at from 12:00 to 6:00pm. Already signed up are Count’s Customs, Mitch Bergeron Customs, Vegas City Choppers,O School Choppers, Denver Choppers, Jim Nasi Customs, and others to be announced later.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase at all locations along the way, and a $10.00 ride fee will be charged with a portion of the proceeds going to a fund supporting the families of service members deployed in support of the War on Terror.
In addition to Sunday’s activities, a VIP party with the celebrity bike builders will be held at the Las Vegas Margaritaville on Friday, February 18th. Entry to this event will be limited to 150 people and a entry fee of 20.00 will get you in the door (ticket for entry to the VIP party will also get you on the ride).
Special room rates available at the St. Tropez Motel (located across from the Las Vegas Hard Rock Cafe). Just mention the rally at the Hard Rock Cafe for your special rate.
For more info call 808-780-2998 or email at alohasports@hawaii.rr.com

An American hero’s story that must be told —
By Rich Lowry
You probably don’t know Rafael Peralta’s name. If we lived in a country that more fully celebrated the heroics of its men in uniform, you would. He was a sergeant in Company A, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment for Operation Dawn, the November offensive to retake the Iraqi city of Fallujah, which had become a haven for terrorists. What he did on the day of Nov. 15 was an awe-inspiring act of selfless sacrifice and faithfulness to his fellow Marines.
The only way we can honor Sgt. Peralta’s heroism is to tell his story and remember his name. What follows is mostly drawn from the reporting of Marine combat correspondent Lance Cpl. T.J. Kaemmerer, who witnessed the events on that day.
Sgt. Peralta, 25, was a Mexican-American. He joined the Marines the day after he got his green card and earned his citizenship while in uniform. He was fiercely loyal to the ethos of the Corps. While in Kuwait, waiting to go into Iraq, he had his camouflage uniform sent out to be pressed. He constantly looked for opportunities to help his Marine brothers, which is why he ended up where he was on Nov. 15. A week into the battle for Fallujah, the Marines were still doing the deadly work of clearing the city, house by house. As a platoon scout, Peralta didn’t have to go out with the assault team that day. He volunteered to go.
According to Kaemmerer, the Marines entered a house and kicked in the doors of two rooms that proved empty. But there was another closed door to an adjoining room. It was unlocked, and Peralta, in the lead, opened it. He was immediately hit with AK-47 fire in his face and upper torso by three insurgents. He fell out of the way into one of the cleared rooms to give his fellow Marines a clear shot at the enemy. During the firefight, a yellow fragmentation grenade flew out of the room, landing near Peralta and several fellow Marines. The uninjured Marines tried to scatter out of the way, two of them trying to escape the room, but were blocked by a locked door. At that point, barely alive, Peralta grabbed the grenade and cradled it to his body.
His body took most of the blast. One Marine was seriously injured, but the rest sustained only minor shrapnel wounds. Cpl. Brannon Dyer told a reporter from the Army Times, “He saved half my fire team.”
Kaemmerer compares Peralta’s sacrifice to that of past Marine Medal of Honor winners Pfc. James LaBelle and Lance Cpl. Richard Anderson. LaBelle dove on a Japanese grenade to save two fellow Marines during the battle of Iwo Jima. Although he had just been wounded twice, Anderson rolled over an enemy grenade to save a fellow Marine during a 1969 battle in Vietnam.
Peralta’s sacrifice should be a legend in the making. But somehow heroism doesn’t get the same traction in our media environment as being a victim or villain, categories that encompass the truly famous Jessica Lynch and Lynndie England respectively. Peralta’s story has been covered in military publications, a smattering of papers including The Seattle Times and The San Diego Union-Tribune, ABC News and some military blogs. But The Washington Post and The New York Times only mentioned Peralta’s name in their lists of the dead.
Scandalously, the “heroism” of Spc. Thomas Wilson ? the national guardsman who asked a tough question of Secretary of Defense Don Rumsfeld that had been planted with him by a reporter ? has been more celebrated in the press than that of Peralta.
Kaemmerer recounts how later on the night of Nov. 15, a friend approached him and said: “You’re still here; don’t forget that. Tell your kids, your grandkids, what Sgt. Peralta did for you and the other Marines today.” Don’t forget. Good advice for all of us.
From Duc Drake

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