Life is nuts. I?m sitting in the Primedia headquarters, the phones are ringing, deadlines are screaming, the mail says ?No Girls In Hot BIKE?, the corporate types demand meetings daily? you get the picture. But there?s hope. I picked up my S&S 93-inch Shovel engine from Phil?s Speed Shop in Anahiem. He handled rebuilding the heads in his wild shop. Felt good to load it in the back of my pick-up truck.

Imagine a small shop in out of the way industrial area. He has a retail side that?s been boarded up for over a decade. It?s 2000 square feet and 30 years of experience, parts, rigids, Pans, fade parts sleaves and event posters from the ?80s. Right in the middle on one side was my Shovelhead engine on a partial crate poised on a parts counter. On the otherside beyond a wall of cinderblocks, surrounded by lifts hoisting partial project build, mostly Shovels and Pans is a new massive CNC machine. He must have cut a hole in the roof to get it in. Let?s hit the news. Then I have some Hot Bike Cover Stories.

BILL WOULD GIVE FREED FELONS IMMEDIATE VOTE– Maryland felons would have the right to vote immediately after being released from prison, under a bill that received a hearing yesterday in a House of Delegates committee. The measure would eliminate a three-year waiting period mandated by state law that Del. Salima Siler Marriott (D-Baltimore), the bill’s sponsor, said, ?undermines democratic principles.” Pennsylvania and Ohio recently enacted similar measures, proponents of the bill said. Advocates said that stiff drug sentences in the 1980’s and 1990’s vastly expanded the nation’s prison population. Allowing felons to vote when they return to their communities is one way to ensure that they become productive members of society, supporters argued.

Opponents of allowing felons greater access to voting say that felons have long been forced to surrender the right to vote and that disenfranchisement serves as a continuing reminder of the societal damage caused by crime. “The damage done to communities just by drug dealing is not undone” after a felon’s sentence is served, said Del Jean B. Cryor(R-Montgomery) in a hearing before the House Ways and Means Committee yesterday. “There has to be some recognition that the harm they have done to the community continues.” Maryland law mandates that felons must finish their prison terms and then complete parole or probation before beginning a three-year waiting period.

At the end of that period then they are allowed to register to vote. Thirty-five states prohibit felons from voting immediately after they are released, including seven that prohibit most felons from ever voting. In 13 states and the District, felons are eligible to vote after leaving prison. Two states–Maine and Vermont– allow incarcerated felons to vote. This is the article in full, it was written by David Snyder for the Washington Post under the Annapolis Notebook and the date was Jan 27 2005

Pitbull

SONS OF LIBERTY RIDERS E-NEWS– Hurry and get your Sons of Liberty T-shirts. I’m getting ready to place another t-shirt order…ANYONE wanting some,visit:http://region3.solriders.com/Get%20your%20shirts.htm

Let me know what you want via email, fill out the form and send to mewith the money.

-spotman

Latest on Virginia’s helmet billHere’s the message I sent out to VA today about our committee meeting:

First, a big thank you to those who made it today to the House Militia, Police and Public Safety Committee meeting – Wendy, Steve, Bob, and Doc. Bernie spent the week in Richmond working with Jim and we joined the two of them and Tom McGrath at the General Assembly Building for the meeting.

Unfortunately, HB1979 was not heard today, but I would not call it a waste of time for those of us in attendance. Our presence was noted and there was no question who and what we represent. We got to sit through some interesting legislation and watch the process of it being given thumbs up or thumbs down. Much of it was gun issues and if you are interested, check out the VFR website (www.vfr-race.com) this weekend. I’ll post some info about it there.

As I mentioned, Bernie spent the week with Jim working with the delegates/senators and Bob joined them for 2 of those days. These guys did a great job firming up votes and asking for support and we all owe them a big thank you!

Where do we go from here? Well, HB1979 should be heard next Friday, Jan. 28th at 9AM. If you can make this meeting PLEASE plan to be there. While your presence there is much needed and appreciated, when (let’s all think positive) we make it out of the House, your presence is REALLY needed for the Senate Transportation Committee meeting. We won’t know the date until we know we are out of the House, but we’ll let you know as soon as possible what that date is.

Keep up the good fight! We’re so close this year, let’s do what we need to do.

Penny Adams
Virginia Freedom Riders – Legislative Officer
MRF – Virginia State Representative
Member – Sons of Liberty Riders
540-636-2004 (home)
540-539-9300 (cell)
misspenny@vfr-race.com

Riders Want Right Not To Wear Helmets–Riders Want Right Not To Wear HelmetsOne motorcycle association is fighting for the rights of riders to decide.

As of right now, Texas has a helmet law where it is only mandatory forriders under the age of 21 to wear a helmet in any instance.

The Texas Motorcycle Rights Association II says they will meet at thecapitol in Austin Monday to talk to Texas Lawmakers about preserving theirright to decide whether or not to wear a helmet.

Critics of Texas’ helmet law suggests that states with universal helmetlaws have a lower percentage of deaths due to motorcycle accidents.

El Pasoans we spoke with say helmet says should apply to everyone.

Sanjay Gowda from West El Paso says, “Wearing a helmet has nothing to dowith the age. It’s got to do with protection. So what difference does itmake if you’re 21 and above or below? It’s about your safety.”

Texas didn’t always have a weak motorcycle helmet law.

From 1968-1977 and again in 1989 – the law was universal.

It required all motorcycle riders to wear helmets.

RED SKELTON’S -TIPS FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE

1. Two times a week, we go to a nice restaurant, have a little beverage, good food and companionship. She goes on Tuesdays, I go on Fridays.

2. We also sleep in separate beds. Hers is in Calif. and mine is in Texas.

3. I take my wife everywhere…..but she keeps finding her way back.

4. I asked my wife where she wanted to go for our anniversary. “Somewhere I haven’t been in a long time!” she said. So I suggested the kitchen.

5. We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops.

6. She has an electric blender, electric toaster and electric bread maker. She said “There are too many gadgets and no place to sit down!” So I bought her an electric chair.

7. My wife told me the car wasn’t running well because there was water in the carburetor. I asked where the car was; she told me “In the lake.”

8. She got a mud pack and looked great for two days. Then the mud fell off.

9. She ran after the garbage truck, yelling “Am I too late for the garbage?” The driver said “No, jump in!”

10. Remember: Marriage is the number one cause of divorce.

11. I married Miss Right. I just didn’t know her first name was Always.

12. I haven’t spoken to my wife in 18 months. I don’t like to interrupt her.

13. The last fight was my fault though. My wife asked “What’s on the TV?” I said “Dust!”

STEALTH REPORT–This week I am going to tell you about a new shop here in the Charlotte area. The shop is called Down South Customs.Russell Smith is the owner and his mom Karen works the front end of the shop. I have known Russell for a while and he is a cool guy. His shop reminds me of the shops I grew up seeing. Nothing fancy just all business. Two bike lifts in the back and all the tools he needs. Out in front of the shop there are always bikes parked and people hanging in the parking lot. It seems in the short time they have been opened it has become a meeting spot for rides and friends. That in part is due to how Russel makes everyone feel, WELCOMED! Although he is the only wrench at the shop he is never too busy to stop and talk to a customer. Down South Customs does engine performance work complete ground up builds and routine service work.

Russell is good friends with Kendall Johnson and Russell has learned a few tricks of the trade fromKendall. Russell and Kendall team up on the headwork. The shop is catching on around the Charlotte area as Russell says he already needs more space. This is one of the friendlier shops around. You don’t have to buy to stop in and say hello.Down South Customs is also the newest sponsor for the 7th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory Of Justin Pullin.”

Give Russell a call at Down South Customs 704-888-1434. You won’t be disappointed. Tell them you heard about them on Bikernet from the STEALTH report!

Until Next time!
STEALTHMAN

QUOTES FROM THE FUNNY FILE–

“It’s true, hard work never killed anybody, but I figure, why take the chance?”

“If Worms Had Guns, Birds Wouldn’t Fuck With Them”

Helen Wolfe

Another Red River Accident… I was just reading an article published, and was very sorry to hear that two men were tragically killed and their wives were injured in Red River on May 30th, 2004. My heart goes out to them because I too was hit by a pick-up truck on the same day while attending the Red River rally. Here’s what took place. My father was a retired Army Officer buried in the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. I go to Santa Fe on Memorial Day Weekend to honor him and to tend his grave. I was just returning to Red River from the cemetery when a pick-up truck driven by James Boswell turned left into the path in which I was riding my motorcycle. I was legally passing a slow moving vehicle on my 2000 Harley-Davidson Road king (I’ve been riding 27 years with no accidents). I was passing at 55 MPH, under the speed limit which was 60 MPH when a pickup truck made a left turn in front of me from the same lane I had been traveling in. Needless to say I struck his pick-up on the rear bumper. My Road King was of course totaled.

After being stabilized at Holy Cross Hospital Emergency Room in Taos I was air lifted to the University of New Mexico Trauma Unit in Albuquerque the afternoon of May 30th, 2004 I woke up three days later in the Intensive Care Unit. My injuries were numerous, in fact I had almost been killed. My left lung had collapsed (I had to have a chest tube placed to reinflate it), my left shoulder had been dislocated, L-1, L-2 and L-3 of my lumbar vertebrae were fractured. 5 ribs (4 on the left side and 1 on the right) were broken. My spleen was also ruptured. The meniscus in my left knee was badly torn and my right heel was crushed. I had a few other injuries that were considered minor. My surgeon said the heel bone was “dusted” but I had surgery last June and I have started putting weight on it since. I suppose I’ll be lucky to not have a bad limp in the coming years. The Orthopedic Surgeon inserted a bone graft and placed a titanium plate with 10 screws in the new heel bone. I just had another surgery two weeks ago to repair the left knee and will undergo another surgery in January on the right foot. I have a long way to go but I think I’ll be ok.

Like the 16 year old, Gerald Bailon, that killed Timothy Serles, Les Walker and injured Kathleen Pullara & Jennifer Serles, James Boswell, the man driving the pick up truck, was not charged with anything at all. As far as I know the Taos County Sheriff’s Deputy that responded to the accident (Jason Rael) did not even run a breathalyzer on him to check for alcohol. I did, however, get checked for alcohol at the hospital and was cleared for both drugs and alcohol. As a matter of fact, the Taos County Sheriff’s Deputy accused me of causing the accident by stating in the Police Report that I had been passing in a no passing zone. My insurance company hired an independent investigation firm to take pictures of the accident site. The truth is that I was traveling in a free passing zone (dotted yellow, not double yellow) as the attached pictures show. The Deputy also reported in the Police Report that I was speeding and careless driving. Both the witness’s listed in the accident report have made recorded statements in which they said that I was passing at a rate of speed under the speed limit. I was passing at 55 MPH in a 60 MPH zone and was not driving carelessly. When Deputy Rael was questioned by Army Investigators ( I am a 27 year veteran of the U.S. Army still on Active Duty) as to why he erroneously reported the traffic situation he stated that Mr. Boswell, the DRIVER of the pickup had told him what happened. An interesting point would be why did the Deputy allege that I was passing in a No Passing Zone on his police report? All he needed to do was to simply look down at the road and determine that the broken yellow line painted on the road indicates that it is a free passing zone. Further, there was absolutely no No Passing signs posted anywhere near the accident site. When asked about the witness’s statements (the witness’s the Deputy had listed on the Police Report) Deputy Rael said he never got statements from them because he was “too busy”. Too busy to ask unbiased witness’s whom he got contact information from but not too busy to ask the biased driver (Boswell) who obviously would be interested in protecting himself.

Deputy Rael now admits that it was a free passing zone but still has no plans to issue the driver of the pickup, James Boswell, a ticket. At this time my attorney tells me that Boswell’s insurance company is considering settling out of court but that remains to be seen. So, as the article in Southwest Scooter News asks, “What’s up in New Mexico”? I think a blatant disregard and very poor attitudes toward motorcycle riders rights is what’s up. As for the Red River Memorial Run, New Mexico can keep their motorcycle event if they are not willing to protect the rights of the guests (namely the motorcycle riding public) they invite into their state to generate revenue.

Sincerely yours, Paul Johnson

Sent by Rogue
www.bikerrogue.com

NEW FACE AT S&S–VIOLA, WI (January 14, 2005) Hired as the Logistics & Customer Systems Interface Specialist in June of 2004, Brian Conyers has now been promoted to Senior Manager of Communications & Marketing.

Brian came to the company with a variety of technical and customer service experience ranging from retail sales to telecommunication specialties. Prior to his employment at S&S, he worked in information technology, managing telecommunications systems for a regional Midwest bank.

Brian’s role at S&S initially had him working on customer interface technologies with the IS department. Systems that help deliver product to the customer such as bar coding and computer implementation at our new distribution facility were top on the list. He also took an active role in the startup of the new S&S web site and online purchasing project with S&S Web Designer Kevin Sather. This allowed him to make a natural transition to the Communications & Marketing Department in December of 2004.

“I have a great team to work with here at S&S,” said Conyers. “From web site development to catalog production, I’m looking forward to this new creative challenge. I’m very pleased with my transition to S&S Cycle and most recently joining the Communications & Marketing crew.”

“Brian has clearly demonstrated an ability to problem solve, mentor, and get the job done,” said S&S President, Brett Smith. “Having someone of his caliber, passion, and enthusiasm at S&S is a blessing. Here’s a guy that didn’t get his motorcycle license until July and rode over 2,500 miles the rest of the summer. Whatever he has lacked in industry knowledge, he very quickly obtains through close observation and communication with his peers.”

Minnesota Inhabitants– Ole is a farmer in Visconsin. He is in need of a new milk cow and hears about a nice one for sale over in Minnesota. He drives to Minnesota, looks at the cow, reaches under to see if she gives milk. When he grabs the teat and pulls, the cow farts.

Ole is very surprised, looks at the farmer who is selling the cow, then reaches under the cow to try again. He grabs another teat, pulls, and the cow farts again. Milk does come out, however, so after some discussion, Ole decides to buy the cow and take it home.

He calls over his neighbor, Sven, and says, “Hey Sven, come and look at dis here new cow I yust bought. Pull her teat, and see vat happens.” Sven reaches under, pulls the teat, and the cow farts.

Sven looks at Ole and says, “You bought dis cow in Minnesota, yah?” Ole is very surprised and says, “Yah, dats right. But how did you know?”

Sven says, “My wife is from Minnesota.”

Vern

Florida Assistant Attorney General & Hookers —ASSOCIATED PRESSTAMPA ? An assistant attorney general was hit with pepper spray and mugged after he called an escort service to a hotel, police said.

Assistant Attorney General John Rimes, who works in Tallahassee, was beaten and robbed of about $500 on Thursday while staying at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore, according to a city police report released Monday.

Rimes, 54, was treated at St. Joseph?s Hospital until Sunday, hospital officials said.

The police report states that two women arrived at Rimes? hotel room late Thursday after he called an escort service I female companionship.

Police said Rimes had $200, but the women told him he needed more. He went to an ATM and withdrew $300.

After Rimes returned, some one knocked on his hotel room door.

That?s when the man used pepper spray on Rimes, beat him and took the money, police said.

Attorney General Charlie Crist said he will ask the inspector general o office to 1ook into the incident.

I wonder if it will be about the assistant hiring hookers or the robbery. Rogue

Continued On Page 2

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.

More on the Arizona Sheriff:

With temperatures being even hotter than usual in Phoenix (116 degreesjustset a new record), the Associated Press reports: About 2,000 inmateslivingin a barbed-wire-surrounded tent encampment at the Maricopa County Jailhave been given permission to strip down to their government-issuedpinkboxer shorts.

On Wednesday, hundreds of men wearing boxers were either curled up ontheirbunk beds or chatted in the tents, which reached 138 degrees inside theweek before.

Many were also swathed in wet, pink towels as sweat collected on theirchests and dripped down to their pink socks.

“It feels like we are in a furnace,” said James Zanzot, an inmate whohaslived in the tents for 1 ? years. “It’s inhumane.”

Joe Arpaio, the tough-guy sheriff who created the tent city and longagostarted making his prisoners wear pink, and eat bologna sandwiches, isnotone bit sympathetic. He said Wednesday that he told all of the inmates:”It’s 120 degrees in Iraq and our soldiers are living in tents too, andthey have to wear full battle gear, but they didn’t commit any crimes,soshut your damned mouths!”

Way to go, Sheriff! Maybe if all prisons were like this one there wouldbea lot less crime and/or repeat offenders. Criminals should be punishedfortheir crimes – not live in luxury until it’s time for their parole,onlytogo out and commit another crime so they can get back in to live ontaxpayers money and enjoy things taxpayers can’t afford to have forthemselves.

If you agree, pass this on. If not, delete it

Rick S.

Win Products Gears Up For The Biker Pros’ Roadmax Transmissions– Southlake, Texas – January 24, 2005 – Starwest, Inc./Win Products has selected the Biker Pros’ Roadmax transmission product line to add to their 12,000 unit parts and accessories catalog for Harley-Davidson? Motorcycles.

Starwest, Inc./Win Products is a leading distributor of products, including transmissions, engines, chassis, jewelry and officially licensed Harley-Davidson products.

“We looked around at other products but the Roadmax line provided three class winning features: performance and quality, great looks and premium finish, and excellent pricing with very low failure rates, compared to other transmissions out there,” explained Domenic Romeo, Starwest, Inc./Win Products CEO.

“Since we ship to a worldwide market that is comprised primarily of independent shops, it is crucial that we serve our clients with quality components to ensure our profitability and reduce the cost of customer service issues such as returns and freight expense.”

“I’m pleased that our distributors are responding to the quality of the Roadmax product line, the pricing integrity and our promotional efforts,” said Bob Kay, President, Biker Pros. “It’s great to see firms like Starwest, Inc./Win Products responding to our program and becoming part of the Biker Pros family.”

Roadmax transmissions are designed for OEM replacement and kit bikes, as well as high-performance and wide-tire applications. Roadmax transmissions are thoroughly tested and have passed a rigourous pre-delivery inspection.

The Roadmax product line includes six speed conversion kits and OEM style replacement transmissions for Dyna, FXR and Softail models as well as transmissions for right side applications. On most models consumers have the option of selecting black wrinkle, polished, or chrome casings.

Biker Pros is serving the American motorcycle builder with a range of high-value products and services that assist builders in improving motorcycle performance by providing high quality parts, troubleshooting Powersports operations, and building and marketing exclusive products by builders for the v-twin marketplace.

ULTIMATE LED LICENSE PLATE ASSEMBLIES– PRO-ONE has established a reputation for producing custom accessories of unsurpassed quality, function and reliability not to mention cutting edge style. All you have to do is take a close look at any of these super cool billet LED LICENSE PLATE assemblies and the justification for that standing is apparent. The company offers custom builders what may be the largest selection of custom license plate mount and lighting products available.

Five styles shown here are just a sample of what you can choose from. From the sleek SLIMLINE, vented SHOW BIKE, VERTICAL CURVED IRON CROSS and sanitary CUSTOM to the crowd stopping DIAMOND DERBY COVER MOUNT these uniquely PRO-ONE LED LICENSE PLATE ASSEMBLIES are as functional as they are impressive to look at. Precision machined from billet aluminum and chrome plated to perfection each of the assembly?s feature a chrome billet frame and back plate with built in, super bright LED tail and license plate light.

Each of the assemblies are supplied complete with all necessary mounting hardware and can be ordered from PRO-ONE dealers or by calling 800-884-4173. Certain to give any scooter a high tech, show quality appearance, PRO-ONE LED LICENSE PLATE assemblies can be seen at http://www.pro-one.com .

CYRIL HUZE – The Art Of Chrome & Leather Cyril’s bikes will featured during The Art Of Chrome & Leather Exhibition at the Deland Museum Of Art(15 Miles West Of Daytona Beach)From February 4 to March 27, 05.

Opening Reception February 4, from 5 to 7 PM.600 North Woodland Blvd. Deland, FL 32730. Tel: 386-734-4371

The exhibition will continue during Daytona Bike Week.

Tim Allen, comedian, had this to say about Martha Stewart:–
“Boy, I feel safer now that she’s behind bars. O.J. & Kobe are walking around; Osama Bin Laden too, but they take the one woman in America willing to cook, clean, and work in the yard, and haul her butt to jail.”

Dave Jr.

Hi Bandit–Still scratching my head over what makes a biker.But as long as they don’t call me late for my Beer/Food or pay D.I.L.L.I.G.A.F

Here is a pic of me on my first bike a BSA Bantam in 1965, that’s my nephew sitting on the tank and he now lives in Germany and Drag races bikes.

Regards
Ferryman

ARTWORK MADE IN BELGIUM–
chopperman
r?dacteur
0032 474 400 857
chopperman@wild-motorcycles.com
http://www.wild-motorcycles.com

JUST JUNK– Please find attached a picture of a rigid I just completed. Currently working a Springer…same old school style. Hoping you could feature/promote my stuff.

Thank you and have a great day,
Tim
Junk! Old School Choppers

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

CONGRATS TO PANHEAD JOSH–This will be a mass email so don’t be offended for itsshortness. I have just found out that me and my girlfriendKathy will be expecting a new bundle of joy in the year to come. Sunday shetook a home pregancy test and it was positive and today she took an”offical” test at the Doctors office. This caught us both off gaurd and itsgonna be tough finacialy on both of us. However I think things will work outin the long run. I am also going to be reciting my poetry at at least 1rally in this year and may be doing some traveling that I really get paidfor!! Maybe this starving artist will eat a little bit better in the newyear?

I will keep you all up to date in the comming months. Why don’t youall drop me a line and let me know how you are doing. Look forward fromhearing from you all.

My Love & Respect To You All
Panhead Josh
panheadjosh74@hotmail.com

That is great news! Good luck to you and Kathy.

LEMON DROP MARTINI TIME–I made it! Finished the news before midnight on 1-28-05. What a gal!

So as I said before, Bandit will be in Cincinnati all weekend and I?m gonna partay- paint party that is. Next week the carpet will be installed and life as a functional person will begin for me. No more working in the livingroom. No more living out of boxes, at least for office stuff that is. Our bedroom is another story. Another dusty story.

I hope you all have a great weekend and thanks for being so patient with me while I stumble along trying to walk in Bandit?s shoes. No one could ever replace the old guy, but me and the gals are just grateful that you all still come back week after week showing your support.

Take care, Layla

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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