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BIKERNET HISTORY LESSON– The US standard railroad gauge (distance between the rails) is 4 feet, 8.5 inches. That’s an exceedingly odd number.

Why was that gauge used? Because that’s the way they built them in England, and English expatriates built the US Railroads.

Why did the English build them like that? Because the first rail lines were built by the same people who built the pre-railroad tramways, and that’s the gauge they used.

Why did “they” use that gauge then? Because the people who built the tramways used the same jigs and tools that they used for building wagons, which used that wheel spacing.

Okay! Why did the wagons have that particular odd wheel spacing? Well, if they tried to use any other spacing, the wagon wheels would break on some of the old, long distance roads in England, because that’s the spacing of the wheel ruts.

So who built those old rutted roads? Imperial Rome built the first long distance roads in Europe (and England) for their legions. The roads have been used ever since.

And the ruts in the roads? Roman war chariots formed the initial ruts,

which everyone else had to match for fear of destroying their wagon wheels. Since the chariots were made for Imperial Rome, they were all alike in the matter of wheel spacing.

The United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches is derived from the original specifications for an Imperial Roman war chariot. And bureaucracies live forever. So the next time you are handed a spec and told we have always done it that way and wonder what horse’s ass came up with that, you may be exactly right, because the Imperial Roman war chariots were made just wide enough to accommodate the back ends of two war horses.

Now the twist to the story…

When you see a Space Shuttle sitting on its launch pad, there are two big booster rockets attached to the sides of the main fuel tank. These are solid rocket boosters, or SRBs. The SRBs are made by Morton-Thiokol at their factory in Utah.

The engineers who designed the SRBs would have preferred to make them a bit fatter, but the SRBs had to be shipped by train from the factory to the launch site. The railroad line from the factory happens to run through a tunnel in the mountains. The SRBs had to fit through that tunnel. The tunnel is slightly wider than the railroad track and the railroad track, as you now know, is about as wide as two horses’ behinds.

So, a major Space Shuttle design feature of what is arguably the world’s most advanced transportation system was determined over two thousand years ago by the width of a horse’s butt.

BIKERNET RETIREMENT INTERVIEW– Reporters interviewing a 104 year-old woman: “And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?” the reporter asked.

She simply replied, “No peer pressure.”

–from Rev CarlR

BIKERNET TECH DEPARTMENT–We recently posted part 5 in the Goliath build. Check it out, but I ran these Harley Manual illustrations for anyone rushing to complete a bike for bike week. Might help run those oil lines. –Bandit

FLYIN’ HIGH A Harley-Davidson flag now flies above Mt. Everest in Nepal, over 29,000 feet high in the Himalayan mountains, as Hiroyuki Okouchi, an employee of the Tanashi Harley-Davidson dealership in Tokyo, Japan, carried the flag to the top of the peak to help commemorate the Motor Company?s 100th anniversary.

BIKERNET LIBRARY RULES–A man goes into a library and asks for a book on suicide.

The librarian says;”Fuck off, you won’t bring it back.”

–from Ray R.

BIKERNET TERRORIST ALERT–WARNING HIGH–Recently we have received credible intelligence that there have beenseven terrorists working in your office. Six of the seven have beenapprehended. Bin Sleepin, Bin Loafin, Bin Goofin, Bin Lunchin, BinDrinking and Bin Ass-Kissin, have all beentaken into custody.

At this time, no one fitting the description of the seventh cellmember, Bin Workin, has been found at your office. We are confident thatanyone who looks like he’s Bin Workin will bevery easy to spot.

You are OBVIOUSLY not a suspect at this time. So keep on doing what youBin Doing.

–from Rev CarlR

ROGUE BAD COP FILES– Cop among 4 arrested in parking lot brawl Massachusetts – Closing time at a local bar over the weekend erupted into a parking-lot melee, ending with the arrest of four people, including an off-duty Westwood cop who has been placed on administrative leave.

Police from six area towns responded when the fights erupted at the American Athletic Club early Saturday morning.

Detail officers working at the AAC called for outside help just before 2 a.m., after employees tried to break up a fist fight on the dance floor between Ricky Tomasello, 28, of Canton and another man, police said.

The parking lot outside the East Main Street bar was even worse, detail officers said.

“The parking lot crowd was out of control,” Sgt. David Sacco said in a police report. “I estimate, at one point, at least 25-30 people were involved in some kind of physical altercation.”

Inside, Tomasello and an unidentified man — for whom police are now seeking an arrest warrant — parted as the crowd moved toward the door, police said, only for the other man to fight with a man identified as Westwood Police Officer Ryan McCarthy.

Bad Cop… No Doughnut!

–from Rogue

CLUB TRIAL FALLING APART–A major Winnipeg trial involving members and associates of the Hells Angels could be in jeopardy.

This after a bombshell letter from the province’s top crown attorney questioning tactics and conduct of Winnipeg police officers when dealing with informants.

The prosecutor goes as far as to suggest the officers may have committed criminal acts.

Jay Prober is one of the defense lawyers in the case.”We want to know how long the crown has had this information. We want to know how many police officers are involved. We want to know who the police officers are,” says Prober. “We would like to know what is the misconduct that constitutes unethical conduct, breach of police internal policy, breach of the charter and may be criminal in nature.”

The five men accused in the case have been behind bars for almost two years.

They face a total of 36 charges, ranging from witness intimidation to conspiracy to commit murder. outlaw news:

–from Rogue

BUILD-OFF IN HAWAII A MAJOR SUCCESS– We’re back from Honolulu where Arlen and Corey Ness led 1000 bikers around Oahu to the Hard Rock Cafe for the contest. Led by a 450 pound Polynesian biker carrying the BBO trophy high, Lei bedecked Arlen and Corey astride their super choppers thundered to the podium. I opened the sealed envelope in which was the tally of the votes cast by the thousands who’d attended the event and presented the trophy to Corey Ness. It was a fantastically successful event…thanks to the work of your buds, Deacon and Chris.

–Hugh KingDirector/co-producerBiker-Build-off series

DAYTONA ALERT–3RD POLICE SHOOTING THIS YEAR–PALM BAY — Agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are investigating a Tuesday evening incident in which Palm Bay police shot and wounded a man.

It was the third police shooting in Brevard County this year: One each also took place in Melbourne and West Melbourne. One suspect has been killed.

BY LOURDES BRIZ,FLORIDA TODAY

–from Rogue

DAYTONA DEBATES BAR HOURS– DAYTONA BEACH — Members of the public can tell the City Commission tonight whether the city should allow the sale of alcohol at bars, nightclubs and restaurants after 2 a.m.In a preliminary 4-3 vote two weeks ago, commissioners agreed to stop alcohol sales one hour earlier than the current 3 a.m. limit, with some exceptions.Extended sales would be allowed for New Year’s Eve, July 4, Labor Day, Speed Weeks, Bike Week and Biketoberfest.

Alcohol sales are prohibited after 2 a.m. in other Volusia County cities, although the county has similar exceptions for sales until 3 a.m. on special events and holidays.

–from Rogue

STURGIS MAIN STREET 1984–A reader from S&C sent this shot of Sturgis just 20 years ago.

MEMBERS FOUND DEAD–Three members of the Hells Angels motorcycle club Nomads have been found dead in a stream in the southern Dutch town of Echt. The victims had reportedly suffered multiple gunshot wounds, but police on Monday dismissed concerns of a gang war.

The male victims have been identified as 54-year-old P. de V. from Geleen, 34-year-old S. W. from Nieuwstadt and the 33-year-old C. P. from Geldrop. The oldest victim was the president of the Oirsbeek-based Nomads.

Police said on Monday the deaths did not indicate a gang war had started, but admitted a motive for the murders was not yet known. No revenge actions were expected and police have not increased surveillance of the Hells Angels group.

Despite this, German police are monitoring two clubhouses in Viersen and Willich, news agency ANP reported over the weekend.

They were last seen at about 8.30pm on 11 February in front of the Nomads clubhouse. Family members reported two of the victims as missing last Friday morning. The first body was found at about 10am on Friday and the other two were discovered on Friday night.

The men are expected to be buried in the Nomads grave in the southern city of Sittard. The funeral will be held on Wednesday and Hells Angels members from across the globe are expected to attend.

–from Rogue

The real wet t-shirt–Rogue

BAD COP INVESTIGATION CONTINUES– Ex-Fed gets 12 years for molesting 6-yr-old girl Texas – A retired FBI agent with a history of molesting children was sentenced Thursday to 12 years in prison for repeatedly sexually abusing a 6-year-old girl in 2002 at his Southlake home.

John H. Conditt Jr., 53, pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual assault of a child in October. His punishment came after a four-month pre-sentencing investigation.

Under cross-examination Thursday morning, Conditt testified that he may have molested the girl, whom he knew, more than 10 times before she told her father and Child Protective Services about it. Her father and mother are also FBI agents.

TWO SAUDI’S MOVED TO AMERICA– Two Saudi’s moved to America with their families. One moved to New York, and the other moved to Level Plains, Alabama.

While they were beingprocessed at immigration, they made a pact that one year from their arrival date they would meet and see which one best assimilated into the American culture.

One year later, they met for breakfast in Atlanta. The first man said, “Well my friend, my son plays in the Little League, my wife is a Girl Scout leader, my daughter is a cheerleader at her high school, and I ate a Big Mac for lunch yesterday.”

The guy from Level Plains took a bite of his grits and responded, “Fuck You Rag Head.”

THE PABLO REPORT– My Compadre in Mesa sent me some pic of this bike in progress. Big S&S engine, Rowe rubber mount frame. It has a modified Buell front end/fork. Carbon fiber rear fender. The bike will featuring his cool Sportster stuff made at BlackMagic Motorsports.

Here are some pic of John’s belt drive. The S&S Sportster will also be sporting a EMC Super Charger. It mounts on the left side. Shifting linkage is internal and mounts to the forward controls. Very clean and very cool.

–Pablo
“J. Hopkins”
http://www.blackmagicmotorsports@hotmail.com

THAT’S ALL FOLKS–The snow’s barely melting and bikes, events, runs, parties and schedules are filling up. This will be a non-stop year. Hang on.

Enjoy the hell outta it, but relax. Make time for tinkering in the garage, chasing women and taking wild rides to nowhere and back.

I’ll be right there with ya, ordering a Jack and making sure you’ve got a parking spot right next to the front door.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Continued From Page 2

SHOVELHEAD MOTOR PLATES–qualizer motor plates are a requirement for open belt drives installed on pre-Evo cone motor bikes. The Equalizer bolts to both Primo’s alternator cover & bearing support to provide a strong structural link between the motor & transmission, allowing “open” belt drive installations. The Equalizer is adjustable for correct belt tension and is available with or without and idler.

PP-130 Includes polished alternator cover, polished Equalizer, idler kit & bearing support. Allows the ?open? use of any Primo belt drive system intended for enclosed Primary.

PP-140 Same as PP-130 less the idler bearing assembly.

PP-150 Primo Equalizer with idler bearing kit (no bearing support, no alternator cover).

PP-160 Primo Equalizer Plate only.

PP-170 Primo Equalizer Plate (polished) complete (no idler slot) with polished alternator cover & bearing support.

PP-180 Primo Equalizer Plate (polished)(no idler slot)

Call (562) 907-2600 for more information or to order

Rivera Engineering / Primo Belt Drives
12532 Lambert Road
Whittier, CA 90606

RIDERS TO LEARN TO WHEELIEDURING DAYTONA BIKE WEEK!–The world’s top motorcycle riding instructor, Keith Code, says “doingwheelies ranks high on the list of the most frivolous and decadent thingsin the history of Mankind!”

“I look at it from the perspective of skill and control,” says Code. “Itjust happens to be one of the skills every top rider I have ever workedwith has perfected.”

Riders have more confidence in themselves when they know they can handlethe motorcycle, especially in extreme circumstances and a wheelie is anextreme circumstance. “The Wheelie School, appropriately named On OneWheel (www.OnOneWheel.com) will reduce fear… which is the best part,”says Code.

The highlight of the school is Code’s newest invention, the Wheelie TrainingBike which has two ANTI FLIP-OVER mechanisms: one kills the power andthe other applies the rear brake. “Your eyes will pop out of your headwhen it goes up–but flipping it won’t be easy,” says Code.

The first Wheelie Schools began in Nov/02 at the Irwindale Raceway, Irwindale,California. Each school holds a maximum of 8 students per school-daysession. All students are guaranteed to wheelie and will have the opportunityfor dozens of runs.

The first Wheelie Schools were so in demand they were scheduled for2003 & 2004! And expanded out to more states.

Along with the rest of his motorcycle training devices —the Brake Rig,the Onboard Camera Bike, the No B.S. Bike, the Braking Trainer and theLean/Slide Machine –the Wheelie Bike will give students a whole new levelof control over their riding.

Keith Code is founder of the the legendary California SuperbikeSchool, a travelling motorcycle academy that teaches state-of-the-artriding and safety techniques to cyclists in all skill categories – fromnational champion racers to weekend pleasure riders.

Website: www.superbikeschool.com
The direct phone to the school is: 818-957-7104

Ken Miller isn’t only a joke contributor but a talented bike builder. Here’s one of his current projects.

BIKERNET PARTY WARNING– As the mailman approached a home on Monday he notices that both cars are in the driveway, his wonder is cut short by Bob the homeowner coming out with a load of empty beer and liquor bottles.

“Wow Bob, looks like you guys had a hell of a party last night.” The Mailman comments.

Bob, in obvious pain, replies, “Actually we had it Saturday night, this is the first I have felt like moving since 4 am Sunday morning. We had about fifteen couples from around the neighborhood over for the party and got a bit wild. Hell, we even got so drunk that around midnight we started playing WHO AM I.”

The Mailman thinks a moment and says, ” How do you play that?”

Bob continues between hung over gasps, “Well, all the guys go in the bedroom ! and we come out one at a time with a sheet covering us and only our “units” showing through a hole in the sheet. Then the women try to guess who it is.”

The Mailman laughs and says, “Damn, I’m sorry I missed that.”

“Probably a good thing you did,” Bob responds, “your name was guessed four or five times.”

–from Ken Miller

RIGHT-OF-WAY (ROW) LAWS IN DEMAND–I cannot believe what I have read. A man, Gary Lee Butler kills people, and permanently injures others by loosing control of his vehicle and he has to pay less that $200.00 in fines, and that is all!?! Either the attorney for the victims was asleep at the wheel, or the attorney for the accused was that good. Either way, can this be related to motorcycles?

The fact that the victims were on motorcycles, should have nothing to do with the outcome of this situation. I cannot realize how a person can take the life of another through negligence, and not have to do time. Not to mention the families of those who were killed. I tell you, that if someone killed my wife or son like this, and the justice system let then walk, they wouldn’t be walking on this earth for long!

I can’t believe this story isn’t bigger than it is! If I didn’t read bikernet, I’d never know about it. Do you really believe that this is related to the victims being on motorcycles?

WTF!
David Marathas (DJMarathas@msn.com)

THE STEALTH REPORT–This past Saturday, Valentine’s day (2-14-04), we held our annual Valentine’s Day event at the shop. There was food, music, a hot lips contest and a poker run, the usual event day happenings. As the day unfolded I watched from a distance at a mini view of our society. You see we had our local generic HOG club, two nationally known clubs, one of those being a one percenter club. There were newbies, rubs, and long time riders. At first each group stayed with their own, sort of feeling things out. As the day wore on and everyone got more comfortable with each other, everyone mingled together and if wasn’t for colors on their backs, you couldn’t tell who was who.

As I thought about this for a while, I tried to think what these people had in common, very little I suppose. There were people from all walks of life, with different incomes and different races. It seemed as though all of the differences had faded out of sight for a short time. The only thing these people had in common was riding motorcycles, in this case Harley-Davidson motorcycles. As to whether or not you are a H-D fan, you have to admit they are doing something right to have survived now for over 100 years. I don’t agree with everything they do, but there is nothing that draws people together like the motorcycles that roll out of Milwaukee.

On this day I saw people who would normally not associate with each other shake hands and wish each other well. On this day people didn’t see colors, color of skin, or income level, they saw each other as a fellow rider, even if some of them were as green as apples. The last event of the day was a 50/50 raffle and a one percenter won it and guess what! The HOG club congratulated him along with everyone else there.

I thought and wondered how it would be if the leaders of countries all rode bikes and attended an event like this once a year and forgot about boundaries and all the political crap they usually fight over and put it all aside, how the world as a whole would be a better place.

I am sure most of our readers remember a song by John Lennon called “Imagine.” If I’m not mistaken that is the title. The song pretty much summed up the day.

I know a day like this is not realistic every day, but it was nice to see for one day, no differences, no conflicts, just talking bikes and talking about the upcoming rides of the season to come, Daytona,Laconia, Sturgis, and the one I am personally proud of, the 6th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin.”

See you down the road!
Mike (THE STEALTH)

But what about the women?–Bandit

BUELL AND BRAG ANNOUNCE F-USA THUNDERBIKE SUPPORT PROGRAM–$70,500 Contingency Program Offered to Privateer Buell Roadracers.

MILWAUKEE (February 17, 2004) – Buell Motorcycle Company and Buell Riders Adventure Group (BRAG), the factory sponsored club for Buell owners, recently announced a new roadracing support program for 2004, with $70,500 in contingency paid to racers aboard Buell motorcycles in the eight-round national Formula USA Thunderbike class. Buell and BRAG will offer Buell racers $8,000 per race in contingency paid back to 15th place, in addition to Formula USA?s $2,000 Thunderbike purse, plus a $6,500 championship bonus for Buell racers paid back to 5th place, supplemented by Formula USA?s $5,500 championship bonus.?We?re proud to support the efforts of privateer Buell racers in Formula USA?s National Thunderbike class, and with BRAG?s help, we were able to increase the purse of our contingency program by 15 percent,? said Erik Buell, Chairman and Chief Technical Officer of Buell Motorcycle Company.

The Formula USA Thunderbike class will be a featured event at all eight Formula USA National Road Race Series rounds. The events will be held at Daytona International Speedway, February 26-29; Road America, April 23-25; Summit Point Raceway, May 29-31; New Hampshire International Speedway, June 18-20; Virginia International Raceway, June 25-27; Barber Motorsports Park, August 13-15; Las Vegas Classic Course, September 24-26; and the Daytona finale, October 22-24. Buell?s Henry Duga and the Buell Racing Support Van will be present at each F-USA National event to provide assistance to Buell racers.

Call 1-800-490-9635 for the Buell dealer nearest you. To learn more about BRAG go to www.buell.com.

DAYTONA TRAFFIC WARNINGS–Local traffic, from neighboring cities, should use roadways such as Nova Road, Ridgewood Avenue (US-1), and Atlantic Avenue for routine travel during peak event times when one-way patterns are in effect.

Local traffic wishing to go west on International Speedway Boulevard (US-92) or to the areas west of the Speedway, County and State facilities as well as the Daytona Flea Market and other businesses; from the south, use Tomoka Farms Road from Dunlawton Avenue; from the north, use I-95 to US-92, exit west to International Speedway Boulevard. Please check the peak event times and dates listed to plan your travel. Please take a moment to plan your travel and check your local newspaper for updated event traffic information.

–Rogue

ORLANDO TRAFFIC WARNING–Orlando has announced that it will crack down on aggressive drivers.The city is receiving $85,000 in state money to fund the program.The main target is going to be I-4.

This will be just in time for BIKE WEEK and with activities in both Orlando and Daytona Beach a lot of Bikers will be traveling this road.

Is it planed to get more of the Bikers money or just a coincidence?

I personally think that the State of Florida does not do any of these programs unless they make money on them.

Hey it is big business in Florida. The Brevard County Counterattack Program Instructor told me it costs the average person, arrested for DUI, $16,000.00. Hey that is arrested. Pretty much the same thing if you are found not guilty.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles say 69,551 people were arrested in 2002. The last year I could find records for. Just Do Your Math. Some One Is Making A lot of Bucks Here. That does not count how they have hurt people by refusing to let them drive and earn a living.

OKAY COME TO FLORIDA AND HAVE A GOOD TIME. Just Be Careful. Pay Attention!

Bikernet will continue to let you know ,as best we can, where some of these checks are going to be as well as announce road closures. Check Back Regularly.

–Rogue

ATKINS DIET APPROVED BIG FAT 280 MM SPOKED WHEEL AND STAINLESS SPORTSTER FRAME–Fat?s where it?s at! This all meat industry first features a massive 7-inchhub (3/4″ or 1″ axle) that securely anchors the 18? x 10 1/2? rim with 80cross?laced drop dead gorgeous spokes, finished in powdercoat or chrome or acombination of both.

Designed for Chopper Unlimited?s drive-side brake setup, there’s plenty ofstopping power to go with the great looks and proven reliability. Alsoavailable as conventional drive/brake setup (1″ axle version only). Pricingstarts at only $1,100.00, for genuine, made in the U.S.A. quality.

Also new is this fresh rigid Sporty frame, starting at only $995.00. Itaccepts wheels (3/4″ or 1″axle) up to 250mm, in carbon steel or polished (13/8″ thick wall 304) stainless. Any rake, any stretch, at no additionalcost.

Get in touch with Kjell Bjerke at Choppers Unlimited, 256 S. Marine Blvd. inJacksonville, NC 28540. Give ’em a ring at (910) 938-3375, or check theirweb site at www.choppersunlimited.com.

OCC CUSTOM FIREFIGHTER BIKE RAFFLE–Go to www.bvfdfair.com and follow the links for our Orange County Choppers Custom Firefighter Bike Raffle! Tickets are $25.00 each. It’s a beautiful bike for a great cause!

And while you’re there, don’t forget about our upcoming 2004 BVFD Interstate Fair, June 28th – July 4th 2004. Pictures from our previous fairs are on the site. The winning number for the OCC bike will be drawn on the last day of the fair and OCC will be there!

If you’re interested in the fair, or know someone who might be, please let us know! We’re looking for vendors and sponsors and entertainment!

Micky Martin
Bedington Volunteer Fire Department
Martinsburg WV
mailto:bvfdfairvendors@yahoo.com

CHOPPERS ONLY HAWAIIAN BIKE RENTAL CONNECTION–My name is Larry Valle I own and operate a small motorcycle rental shop here in Honolulu called Big Kahuna Motorcycle Rentals.You were referred by Chris Tronolone (Choppers Only Hawaii) & your aussie connection, Glen Priddle, who owns the no 1 hasting street penthouse rentals in Australia. He was here in Honolulu for the Discovery Channel Biker Build off, between Arlen Ness vs Cory Ness. He rented a bike from me.We will have lots of bikes available for the Choppers Only Show on the 4th of July Weekend.

Aloha,
Larry Valle
Big Kahuna Motorcycle Tours & Rentals
http://www.bigkahunarentals.com

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Yeap I’m as lost as bat in a baseball stadium. I have totally lost track of time, dates and all the regulated shit that divides our life. All I know is that it’s time to ship everything across the Atlantic to the Daytona shores. The builds have been headache after headache and just when we thought it was almost done, some wicked-evil shit lurks.

Which reminds me; I really fucking hate when other mechanics do a shit job, leave it there and when it’s time to work on a bike, you are surprised by their incompetence. I tend not to take work when someone else did it before, and I really hate doing it, but sometimes you get fooled. I always leave everything to do my new chops for Daytona, this time I left my stuff to work on customer?s chops that are going to the US. We have been trying, but it’s not easy. We are still trying to get the new place together, and the fucking clock is ticking in a crank stupor. I swear I’ve never seen that fucker turn around so fast. Well, what’s done is done and what not is not, there’s nothing we can do.

This week we even took two precious days out of our busy schedule to participate in the largest car show in the Caribbean, if not Latin America. We brought our bikes as a display for a local cleaning products company called Angel Guard. We were the only ones with custom bikes there, amid a sea of old cars and dealers trying to sell the latest four wheeled fantasies. I had a really good time walking down aisle after aisle of classic cars and we even managed to score a 63′ Impala for Wicho. I wish I had more moola to spend and more time; there were some sweet deals. The show claimed to have over 100 thousand in attendance during the two days, which is pretty impressive, if not almost unbelievable.

I tell you I can’t wait to get out of here and head to the Hawaiian shores. I want to see my friends over there and do nothing but surf & hang out, and I really don’t want to wait ’til July 4th to do so.

Speaking of Impalas, I’m doing a 64′ and Wichos 63′ and I was wondering if anyone here can hook me up with some info on airbag suspension for them. There?s no such place here and I have been surfing the web, but before forking out the $$$ I really want to know as much as possible. You can send me an e-mail at Jose@chopperfreak.com .

House Of Kolor hooked me up with some kick ass paint, and LA Wire wheels have a set of 100 spokes on the way (thanks George), so all I need are those damn bags……

Getting back to Daytona? in case you don’t know, we will be at the end of the Main street bridge accross from West Coast Choppers. Our little compound will be chock full of chopper stuff, like Choppers Inc, Indian Larry, Fabricator Kevin, Hank Young, BikerSpot magazine, us, and some others will be there as well. If you happen to be in Daytona come by and say hi. If you have any gripes or whatever, I will be the guy with the white hair in the flying pan.

The Horse Magazine will be stationed at the Last Resort, the chopper show will take place the last Saturday with Chopper Dave as a judge and we will be going back and forth with some free Horse magazines for those who buy shirts. They don’t know it yet but Bikernet is going to send some stickers to give away as well.We also have information on this years Puerto Rico Bike Week-end, so if you come by, there will be a lot of goodies to get. I’ll even give you a sneak preview; the cover on the new BikerSpot issue is my bike and a very hot (yeap big boobs) local chick.

I have been gun point appointed to be the Bike Week reporter, so I hope I’ll get some wicked shit to write about (I mean, there’s always stuff) but meeting people is always fun (more so if single good looking chicks with a sex -aholic problem who dig Caribbean chopper builders who enjoy Hawaii in the summer and have a fetish with sand and sun…..).

Speaking of breast, I have been away from TV lately but I certainly hope that all the stupid nonsense with Janet Jackson’s boob is over. Land of the Free my ass, I really can’t believe a single (human enhanced) boob covered by a piercing could cause so much raucous. The fucking puritans are long gone and dead. Every single place in the world welcomes partial nudity as a part of life, what’s up with that? I know most people did not see it, since we all turned away from the TV when Justin whatever showed up, but come on…..I really believe that topless and nude beaches are way overdue in the US. Also, swearing and boobs on TV. These days where being a part time lesbo is cool, and you can get dressed up by gay guys or be a metro sexual, what the fucks up with some cleavage, with some good ol’ usda saline enhanced mammary glands? Jeezzzz, what’s next? There will be a space law between the strippers and customers…..Oh fuck that already happened, what no more smoking in bars…..Oh, that too….Watch out World…. we are loosing our freedoms one by one.. Are we going to have to buy an island and rule it ourselves, like we please?

Oh well down from the soap box and back to the sweat shop…..That’s all for now, see ya next week, or in Daytona…

Jose “clueless” Caribbean Bikernet reporter…… (at least cruising in the fucking Impala, burning lots of gas and damaging the ozone)

MORE FROM LUCKY DEVIL–well it’s time to put the 95 bad boy conversion back together. We just got all the items back from paint & chrome. We?ll keep you posted, (she is nice)

Take care Lucky & the Devil

Continued On Page 4

Continued From Page 1

BIKERNET WEATHER BREAK–Yep, it actually snows in Texas once in a while. Here’s a couple of shots from Rigid Frame Richard outta Austin–this week.

THE JILL QUOTE–“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arrivingsafely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid inbroadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudlyproclaiming– WOW– What a Ride!”

–from Jill Z.

RIGHT OF WAY LAW EFFORTS IN SOUTH DAKOTA–I am the Legislative Officer for the South Dakota ABATE. Darrel Killion forwarded your idea to me to handle.

We agree that we must use this publicity to create some good. Our challenge is to find language that accomplishes our goal but does not ?shoot ourselves in the foot? by causing unintended consequences.

Do you have anything in mind for a motorcycle right of way bill for us to use as a starting point?

Since it is too late for bills to be introduced in our legislature this year, we have some time to perfect this and gain sponsors.

–Larry Nielson
Legislative Officer
SD ABATE
18476 385th ave.
Tulare, SD 57476
605.596.4339

BIKERNET PARENTAL ADVICE–A father watched his daughter playing in the garden. He smiled as hereflected on how sweet and innocent his little girl was. Suddenlyshe just stopped and stared at the ground. He went over to her andnoticed she was looking at two spiders mating.

“Daddy, what are thosetwo spiders doing?” she asked.

“They’re mating,” her fatherreplied.

“What do you call the spider on top, Daddy?” sheasked.

“That’s a Daddy Longlegs.” Her father answered.

“So, the otherone is Mommy Longlegs?” the little girl asked.

“No,” her father replied.”Both of them are Daddy Longlegs.”

The little girl thought for a moment,then took her foot and stomped them flat. “Well, that might be OK inCalifornia, Oregon, and Massachusetts, but we’re not having any ofthat shit in Texas

–from S &C

DAYTONA DUI WARNING–Florida is Aggresively pushing a new program, “You Drink You Drive You Loose”. Directives came out of Tallahassee to law enforcement to get on board with this.

It is a election year and the state wants to look like it is doing everything to protect its people and also at the same time make the Mothers Against Drunk Drivers happy.

I think it is more a Money Maker than any thing else. Look at the amount of people ticketed the multiply that by $16,000 per person (Average what it costs a person Charged with a DUI according to one of the courses Counterattack) I am putting some more together and also looking how motorcyclist fit into this picture.

WHY DO YOU THINK COPS AND LAWYERS REFUSE TO BLOW? OKAY, OKAY I know you are going to say because They Suck! But in all reality it may be because they know machines can be programmed, malfunction, misread etc. OF COURSE THE OPTION IS TO MAKE SURE THE COP TAKES YOU TO THE HOSPITAL FOR A BLOOD TEST. The hospital in most cases does not care one way or the other. They will do the test fairly and with out prejudice. After all they are not adding another notch to their belt for busting a drunk driver.

If the cop will Not Take You To The Hospital you can Bet Your Ass he knows you are really Not DUI and wants the bust any way. So It Will Look Good On His Record or for some other reason like they did not like your attitude or you are a BIKER!

The refusal is BullShit and a tool some times misused by arresting officers. There are numerous reports that people have requested Blood Tests in lieu of Breath Tests which is legal under the law. Yet the arresting officer will refuse to take the accused to a hospital and write on his report the accused refused the breath test and leave out the part about them requesting a Blood Test. This results in the accused loosing their license through a Motor Vehicle Administrative Hearing for failure to submit.

In many cases the accused wins their court case but still have lost their drivers license.

This is not justice in my eyes. It is the only offense where Double Jeopardy applies to my knowledge. You can kill some one and be found not guilty and even though you did it not be retried.

In the case of the Motor Vehicle Department who Claims That Driving or Riding is a Privilege, You can loose your Right To Drive because a Cop Said. BULLSHIT JUST IN CASE YOU DID NOT KNOW ? SOME ? COPS DO LIE AND EVEN PLANT EVIDENCE ON SUSPECTS. Granted This is Not Fair To All The Good Cops Out There BUT IT IS UP TO THEM TO CLEAN THEIR OWN DIRTY LAUNDRY. Just as it is for BIKERS TO DO THEIRS!.

–ROGUE

DAYTONA DUI STATS–For some, it’s easy: Just don’t blow it.

More people arrested for drunken driving in Florida are refusing to take the alcohol breath test, fearing it’s a piece of evidence that could clinch a DUI conviction.

Some attorneys say refusing to take a breathalyzer can give drunken drivers a slim advantage against a DUI charge, but it can also work against them.

In 2002, almost a third of the 69,551 people who were charged with DUI snubbed the alcohol breath test, according to the state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Refusals to take the alcohol breath test climbed statewide between 1998 and 2002, the latest year in which statistics are available from the state’s drivers license division.

“People want to provide as little evidence to the state as possible,” said Volusia County Judge Freddie J. Worthen, who hears DUI cases routinely in Daytona Beach.

“The breathalyzer is evidence.”

While some police officers said privately they would never submit to an alcohol breath test, others pointed to the penalties for refusing the test and say a defendant’s best bet is to take a deep breath and blow.

That advice seemed to be lost on Ponce Inlet Police Chief Steve Thomas and former Daytona Beach police Detective Minokah Lipps. Each was arrested on a DUI charge and both refused the breathalyzer. The charges against Thomas were dropped, and Lipps pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of reckless driving. However, as a result of her arrest last September, Lipps was fired Friday by Daytona Beach police.

“The bottom line? Take the test,” said well-known DUI defense attorney Flem Whited, who represented Thomas and Lipps. “I always tell my clients that if they have refused the breath test, I hope they have someone to drive them around.”

But the alcohol breath test is not mandatory, according to state law.

In 2002, 19,669 of the 69,551 people arrested for DUI in Florida rejected the test. In Volusia County, 922 of the 2,853 people charged with drunken driving refused it. Comparable figures for Flagler County were not available.

The first time a motorist refuses the alcohol breath test, his license is automatically suspended for one year; the second time, it’s lost for 18 months and the driver is charged with a misdemeanor.

Many motorists believe those sanctions are better than being convicted of a DUI, and they’re willing to gamble that a judge will reinstate their license after a review.

Whited said roughly 75 percent of the 400 people he defends on DUI charges annually have not taken the alcohol breath test.

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

One common misconception surrounding the alcohol breath test is if one submits to it and indicates an alcohol level over the limit, a DUI conviction is assured.

When Ponce Inlet Police Chief Thomas was stopped on Herbert Street in Port Orange in January 2002 by a patrol officer who suspected the chief was driving drunk, Thomas refused to take the alcohol breath test. In a report provided by Port Orange, Thomas was quoted as telling the arresting officer: “If I blow, I will be over the .08.” That’s the legal blood alcohol threshold for drivers in Florida.

The DUI charge against Thomas was dropped because a judge ruled that the stop made by Port Orange police was unlawful.

Statistically, refusing to take the test appears to give drivers a narrow advantage in the overall conviction rate.

Of the 35,619 DUI defendants who took the alcohol breath test in Florida in 2002, about 69 percent — 24,672 — were convicted; of the 19,669 motorists who refused, about 57 percent — 11,296 — were convicted.

The remaining 14,263 motorists who received citations for drunken driving in 2002 were charged based on other factors, said Robert Sanchez, a spokesman for Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

County Judge Worthen said he has seen several defendants who had submitted to alcohol breath testing cleared of DUI charges. That’s because their attorneys were armed with good video of the arrest scene.

“If a defendant does very well on the video, the jury tends to discount the breathalyzer test,” Worthen said.

First Assistant State Attorney David Smith agreed, saying jurors are easily convinced by visuals.

“The video overrides the breathalyzer,” Smith said. “If a person looks good on video, the fork is in us (the prosecution). When you’ve got walking and talking on video, it’s hard to sway jurors from that.”

Former Daytona Beach Detective Lipps was arrested and charged with DUI in Ormond Beach this past September. Lipps, who was once honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for making 23 DUI arrests in one month, refused to take the alcohol breath test — but like the others, her video proved persuasive.

Because of a blunder at the state agency that reviews the driving records of motorists who refuse the alcohol breath test, Lipps’ license was reinstated. Then prosecutors dropped DUI charges and agreed to a reduced charge after they viewed the video of her arrest.

“She did not look impaired in the video,” said Linda Pruitt, a spokeswoman for the State Attorney’s Office.

Attorneys like Whited are also adept at pointing out the weaknesses inherent in the alcohol breath test, such as poor servicing of a machine, inaccurate readings and inadequacy on the part of the machine’s operator.

“We can argue that any number is incorrect,” Whited said. “It doesn’t scare me. We can argue about a lot of things — the machine is old. It hasn’t been serviced.”

And drivers are not always as drunk as they think they are and taking the alcohol breath test could sometimes work in their favor, said Daytona Beach police spokesman Sgt. Al Tolley.”Some people may feel very drunk, but when they blow, the level of alcohol in their system could be lower than they think it is,” Tolley said. “How does anyone really know when they’re at the limit?

LEGISLATIVE MOVES

While examples such as Thomas and Lipps frustrate MADD officials, executive director Andy Hindmann said he’s counting on stiffer penalties instituted by the Legislature in 2002 to punish those who refuse to take the alcohol breath test.

The law states that anyone who refuses to take a breath test after being arrested for DUI a second time will automatically lose his or her license for 18 months and be charged with a misdemeanor.

The option of taking the alcohol breath test won’t exist for some motorists, though.

MADD officials are hailing a state law that took effect Feb. 1. The statute requires drivers convicted of DUI a second time to equip their vehicles with breath devices linked to the ignition. The device keeps the car engine from starting if the driver’s blood alcohol reading is higher than .05.

As far as MADD is concerned, Hindmann said, the organization frowns on anyone refusing to take the alcohol breath test.

“It doesn’t matter if the person is a cop, or a judge, or anything else,” Hindmann said. “A drunk driver is a drunk driver.”

–Linda Logan, News Journal

–from Rogue

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12532 Lambert Road
Whittier, CA 90606

ANOTHER DAYTONA WARNING– I’ve sure gotten old. I’ve had 2 By-pass surgeries. A hip replacement, new knees. Fought prostate cancer, and diabetes. I’m half blind, can’t hear anything quieter than a jet engine, take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation, hardly feel my hands and feet anymore. Can’t remember if I’m 85 or 92. Have lost all my friends. But….. Thank God, I still have my Florida driver’s license!

–from Rev CarlR

Continued On Page 3

Dawn approached like the highbeam on a stroker running hard from Arizona along I-10. The wind from the thundering exhaust pushed the wet front away from the coast, so now it’s clear as a brand new Road King windshield. Daytona approaches and I’m packin’. Let’s hit the news:

CONFLICTS CANCEL BIKE WEEK PARADE–DAYTONA BEACH — Bike Week officials released a plan Thursday to cancel the Harley-Davidson parade that has been a tradition on the last day of the event.

Historically, the parade would begin each year at the Bellair Plaza on Atlantic Avenue and travel to an area known as Harley Heaven near Daytona International Speedway.

The Daytona 200 by Aria has also been held in recent years on the last Sunday of Bike Week, but this year the motorcycle race is scheduled for the last Saturday of the event. Bike Week runs from Feb. 27 to March 7.

Daytona Beach Harley-Davidson pulled out as parade sponsor rather than continuing without a race on the same day. The business usually supplies about $5,000 to the city for police and traffic services during the parade.

Kevin Kilian, vice president for special events at The Chamber, Daytona Beach/Halifax Area, said organizers were unable to reschedule the parade for the last Saturday of Bike Week.

“The police can’t staff it (Saturday) because that’s the busiest day of the week,” he said. “Without the police, it can’t be done.”

Participation in the parade has fallen off in recent years as the final Sunday of Bike Week has become more of a travel day, Kilian said

The Bike Week Festival Task Force, a city advisory board in charge of staging the parade, plans to look at bringing the parade back next year.

–from Rogue

THE THREE KINGS OF CUSTOM MOTORCYCLES JOIN GIBSON FOR LAUNCH OF LIMITED EDITION GIBSON GUITARS–Arlen Ness, Dave Perewitz and Donnie Smith Host Exclusive Unveiling at Daytona’s Bike Week 2004.

Nashville, Tennessee-February 13, 2004,Gibson Custom, Art & Historic Division has joined forces with three of the most influential motorcycle designers our time. Arlen Ness, Dave Perewitz and Donnie Smith will bring the excitement and creativity they have brought to the motorcycle industry to guitars!. Each will put their special style and designs on a series of limited edition Gibson Custom guitars to be unveiled at a VIP press event in Daytona Beach on Friday, March 5th, 2004 from 5-7pm at The Plaza Club. All three cycle designers have been featured on numerous television shows and have become infamous in the world of custom cycle building. Accompanying the guitars will be a one-of-a-kind custom motorcycle with details to match the guitars. The custom motorcycles and the guitars are being guarded until they are presented at this year’s Bike Week in Daytona Beach, Florida

The VIP Press Reception will be held at The Plaza Club located at 600 N. Atlantic Avenue prior to the Lynyrd Skynyrd performance, another legendary Gibson endorsed musical group. In addition to the special announcements that night, all three designers will be available for interviews and will highlight the many aspects of designing both the bikes and the guitars together for the very first time. Each guitar design will be produced exclusively by Gibson Custom & Historic Division and be available to the consumer in May 2004.

ON THE TRAIL TO THE 2004 NHL ALL-STAR WEEK–THE STANLEY CUP HAULED ON A POLARIS SNOWMOBILE– As part of the 2004 NHL All-Star week of events, the Stanley Cup and Keeper of the Cup will travel across the State of Minnesota aboard a specially-designed Polaris “Indy Frontier Touring” snowmobile to celebrate the start of 2004 NHL All-Star Week in Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Following its arrival in St. Paul, the Stanley Cup will be on display for fans to see up-close and take pictures with at the NHL All-Star FANtasy, Feb. 3 – 7 at the Saint Paul River Centre.

The National Hockey League invites fans to greet the Stanley Cup along its tour as it travels through cities in Minnesota. A full list of cities, dates and schedule are included on the following page. Please keep in mind that

DAYTONA BIKE WEEK CONCERTS–Lynyrd Skynyrd and George Thorogood highlight the schedule of music performers and artists during 10 days of fun and excitement around Daytona. The following national entertainers are confirmed for the following locations:

Feb 29:Rick Derringer at the Wreck Bar on Main St at 8:00 p.m.

Mar 1:Georgia Satellites at the Wreck Bar at 8:00 p.m.

Mar 2:Foghat at the White Eagle Lounge in Bunnell at 8:00 p.m.

Mar 3:Night Ranger at Riverfront Park (across from Daytona Harley-Davidson) Time: TBD

Mar 3:Warrant at Riverfront Park Time: TBA

Mar 5:Lynyrd Skynyrd at the Plaza Resort (600 N. Atlantic Ave) Time: TBA

Mar 6:George Thorogood & the Destroyers at Riverfront Park Time: TBA

As a BikeWeek.com e-newsletter, you get the information first. Be sure to watch for more concert details to be posted on the BikeWeek.com site, early next week.

GREAT PACKAGES AT OCEANS RESORTS– Oceans Resorts offers 8 Biker Friendly oceanfront properties with over 1,800 rooms along with restaurants, night clubs, a comedy club, and a full service European spa. Covered bike parking and trailer parking is available. But be sure to ask when checking room availability. Oceans Resorts is the year round preferred choice of motorcycle enthusiasts. Click here for specials.

The Best Custom Bike Show Keeps Getting Better–The tradition of the annual Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show in Daytona continues this year as over 300 custom bikes are expected to compete in 17 different classes throughout the day on Saturday, March 6 at the Peabody Auditorium. The first 5,000 people through the doors will receive a goody bag valued at $25.00.

This year the Discovery Channel will be filming the fun & excitement, bringing even greater notoriety to this premier event. The best custom bike show just keeps getting better! Click here to Pre-register for the contest or here to get more info for the Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show.

Meet Your Match through Riders2Love.com One year ago Riders2love.com debuted on BikeWeek.com, and has since grown steadily to over 3,000 members across the United States, Canada and worldwide. Posting a profile is absolutely free, and all new Members get a 7-day free trial for full access. If you register now through the end of Daytona Bike Week and decide to subscribe at the end of your free trial, mention Bikeweek.com in the comment section when you fill out the billing information and Riders2love.com will give you a FREE month with your first paid month! Click here to possibly meet your match.

The Wreck Bar & Grill is the Hottest Place on Main St.–We don’t make those claims unless they’re true! This year you’ll be able to see the men of Orange County Choppers and West Coast Choppers Feb 27 through March 7 at the Wreck Bar, located at the foot of the Main St. bridge. Enjoy live entertainment daily with special appearances by Rick Derringer on Feb 29 and the Georgia Satellites on March 1. We’ll see you there!

Things are heating up in South Daytona–For years, thousands of people have flocked to South Daytona along U.S.1 to visit Miller’s Custom Parts and the festive atmosphere created by the vendors and local eateries. The Daytona Chili Station is the newest destination in South Daytona. The restaurant opened last Biketoberfest, and has already become a big hit with the locals. There will be bike parking, bike wash, and vendors, along with great food and music. For the very best chili in town, visit the Daytona Chili Station. Some vendor space is still available. Click here for more details on vendor space.

Make the Right Call– A lot of folks simply consider a policy’s annual costs when shopping for motorcycle insurance coverage. Unfortunately most don’t realize the true value of their insurance policy until they need it the most. This may be a good time for you to think about your coverage options. We encourage you to consider Foremost Insurance. Call 1-800-237-6136 for an agent near you or visit their web site at www.Foremost.com.

Special for Orlando Bound Bikers–Spend some time away from the beach, minutes from Disney. The Holiday Villas are perfect accommodations for groups or couples. Rates starting at $129 per night for 2 bedroom/2 bath villas that sleeps up to 6. Also available are 3 bedroom/ 2 bath units. Biker friendly….ample free, convenient parking….24 hours customer service…..AAA 3-diamond– beautiful low-rise villas with full kitchens, lots of amenities….located just 50 minutes from Daytona, 5 minutes from Walt Disney World resort and other Central Florida attractions. Take a free bus to Disney. Call 1-800-344-3959 or visit www.holidayvillas.com

Stay tuned for more upcoming announcements through the BikeWeek.com e-newsletter

–Ride Safe!
Your Friends at www.BikeWeek.com

–from Rogue

Just a shot from the ’80s of the original Jesse James, now he goes by James Bondo and makes custom Neon signs. He’s making one for Bikernet right now.

RIGHT-OF-WAY LAWS NEEDED IN FLORIDA– DAYTONA BEACH — A man was killed Friday night when his motorcycle ran into a sport utility vehicle that turned in front of him on South Nova Road, police said.

The motorcyclist, whose identity was being withheld until family members can be notified, was southbound on Nova Road at 8:59 p.m. when the accident occurred, said police Sgt. R.C. Rhoulhac.

As the motorcyclist approached the intersection of Forest Glen Boulevard, the SUV, which was northbound on Nova Road, turned into his path, Rhoulhac said.

“It appears the SUV made a left turn onto Forest Glen Boulevard and the motorcycle hit the tail end of the vehicle,” Rhoulhac said.

The impact from the racing-style motorcycle spun the SUV, driven by 19-year-old Amanda Frier of Lakeland.

The motorcyclist, who was wearing a helmet, died at the scene, Rhoulhac said. Charges, if any, are pending an investigation.

–from Rogue

CHATTING– The first guy says “I’m a YUPPIE. You know…”Young, Urban, Professional, Peaceful, Intelligent, Ecologist.”

The second guy says “I’m a DINK. You know …..”Double Income, No Kids.”

The third guy says, “I’m a RUB. You know…”Rich, Urban, Biker.”

They turn to one woman and ask her, “What are you?”She replies, “I’m a WIFE. You know…””Wash, Iron, Fuck, Etc ”

–from Rogue

DAYTONA BAD COPS CLEARED– A six-month state investigation has cleared several Daytona Beach police officers accused by fellow officers of extorting money from drug dealers, stealing cash from a convenience store murder scene and paying prostitutes for sex with crack cocaine.

Two Daytona Beach police officers and one defense attorney relayed most of the accusations to State Attorney John Tanner’s office last spring, and Tanner passed on the information to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in August. But FDLE agents were not able to find proof of the allegations that would hold up in court, said Dave Donaway, FDLE’s chief of investigations for the Orlando region.

“It’s easy to make allegations,” Donaway said. “It’s a different story to try to prove them.”

No Daytona Beach officers will be charged, the prosecutor who reviewed the case announced Feb. 2. Because of that, The News-Journal will not publish the names of the officers who were investigated.

By EILEEN ZAFFIROStaff Writer

–from Rogue

Continued On Page 2

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 <

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

SENATE APPROVES SAFE-TEA, AWAITS HOUSE ACTION Despite the threat of President Bush’s first veto since taking office, the U.S. Senate voted 76-21 on February 12, 2004, to pass S. 1072, a six-year $318 billion transportation bill to fund highway, mass transit and safety programs.??

The Senate rejected, by 56-42, an amendment to the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act (SAFE-TEA) that would have required states to enact primary enforcement seat belt laws or forfeit federal highway funds. The Senate measure also does not include motorcycle safety objectives proposed by Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, though similar pro-motorcycle language will hopefully be amended into a version of the bill now making its way through the House of Representatives.

Once passed by the House, both versions of the bill will go to a conference committee to iron out any discrepancies between the two, and a final bill will be submitted to President Bush for his signature or veto. Bush has indicated that he would veto the legislation if costs exceeded $300 billion, and the White House has proposed an alternative $256 billion reauthorization package.?

EX-CONGRESSMAN JANKLOW JAILED FOR KILLING BIKER As South Dakota’s Attorney General he prosecuted criminals, and during his four terms as governor he built prisons?now former Congressman Bill Janklow will be spending time behind bars for an auto accident that killed a biker and likely ended a political career that spanned three decades.

On January 22, Janklow, 64, was sentenced to 100 days in jail and ordered to pay $10,400 in total fines after being found guilty on December 8 of second-degree manslaughter, speeding, reckless driving and running a stop sign, causing the collision that took the life of 55-year-old Minnesota motorcyclist Randy Scott at a rural intersection near Trent, S.D. on August 16, 2003.

South Dakota does not require minimum sentences, so Circuit Court Judge Rodney Steele was free to impose anything from no jail time and no fines to a total of 10 years in prison, 14 months in jail and $11,400 in fines.

Janklow’s resignation from Congress took effect two days prior to his sentencing date, and he began serving his time in the Minnehaha County Jail in Sioux Falls on February 7. After 30 days of incarceration, Janklow will be allowed to leave jail on a work release program during the day for up to 10 hours to perform community service. After he completes his jail term, he will be on probation for three years, during which he will not be allowed to drive. Janklow also received a suspended imposition of sentence, which means if he completes his jail time and a term of probation the felony conviction will be removed from his record.

The former Republican congressman plans to read while in jail and will probably do some work preparing to defend himself against a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Scott’s family.

ROW, ROW, ROW Even before the tragic death of motorcyclist Randy Scott at the hands of lead-footed Congressman Bill Janklow, many states began pushing for stricter sentencing guidelines for drivers convicted of felonious acts resulting in the death or severe injury of a motorcyclist or pedestrian. Known as right-of-way laws (ROW), motorcyclists’ rights organizations are sponsoring such legislation across the country to put offenders behind bars and get the public to pay more attention to riders on the roadways.

A great idea recently surfaced in North Carolina, where Concerned Bikers Association (CBA) Legislative Director Sam Nobles is putting together a unique lobbying tool — a leather riding vest made solely of “In Memory Of” patches to help make a statement about their ROW bill when he testifies before the state legislature!

“This year when our Legislature takes up the Right of Way Bill, they will get to see for themselves what their failure to pass the bill has cost us,” said “Cotton” Tedder, CBA President and member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) board of directors.

“I want it covered with names as a tribute to all of the brothers and sisters we have lost,” explains Nobles. “I’ve still got a lot of leather left to cover, so if you have a memory patch that you would like included, please send it in. They don’t need to have died on their bike, and they do not even have to be from North Carolina. The vest is symbolic — the names are to show just how many of us have been lost. It will make a dramatic statement to all the legislators who see it.”

And the CBA is willing to share their memorial vest with those in other states who are lobbying for increased penalties against right-of-way violators.

“This is a way to have your lost brothers and sisters remembered one more time, in a setting where they can indirectly contribute to our cause,” said Nobles.

If you have a patch to donate, please drop it in an envelope and mail it to Sam Nobles at P.O. Box 411, Chadbourn, NC 28431. The patches cannot be returned, but will make a lasting impression on legislators nationwide and may help enact laws to make us all safer on the road.

RIDING ABREAST Only a handful of states prohibit motorcyclists from riding two abreast, but in Wyoming it’s even illegal for two motorcycles to stop side-by-side for a traffic light. That’s why State Representative Wayne H. Johnson of Cheyenne has introduced HB0024 at the request of ABATE of Wyoming to allow “no more than two (2) motorcycles to be operated abreast in a single lane by consent of each operator.”

In addition to removing statutory restrictions on lane sharing, HB0024 would also require a motorcyclist passing another motorcyclist in the same traffic lane to first match the speed of the motorcycle being overtaken.

FEELIN’ BLUE? South Dakota has joined a short list of states that allow motorcyclists to use “Blue Dot” taillights; so-called because a small blue plastic lens insert creates a purplish hue when the brake light is actuated. Riders argue that the after-market lighting device enhances safety through increased visibility.

The new law allows that “A motorcycle may display a blue light of up to one-inch diameter as part of the motorcycle’s rear brake light,” and it passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 69-1 on January 31, and the Senate 34-1 on February 9. Governor Michael Rounds signed HB 1151 into law on February 13, joining Minnesota, Nevada and Washington with similar laws on the books. Most states only allow blue lights on the rear of road maintenance and emergency vehicles.

Pennsylvania is currently pursuing such legislation through the introduction of HB 2133, by Representative Kerry A. Benninghoff of Bellefonte, which reads; “Auxiliary lighting may be added to a motorcycle to protect the driver, including blue dot illumination, standard bulb running lights and various colors of valve stem caps, light-emitting diode (LED) pods and strips, light wire, neon tubes and strobe lights.”

LET THERE BE LIGHTS Three new laws passed the Oregon legislature last year that will allow motorcyclists to become more visible to other highway users.

“Visibility is especially important for motorcyclists,” said Stan Porter, manager of Motorcycle Safety and Vehicle Safety Standards Programs for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).?

Effective January 1st, the three new changes are:

— Motorcyclists can now use three headlights on their motorcycles; whereas in the past, two was the maximum allowed.

— Motorcyclists will also be able to use auxiliary lights, either fog lights or driving lights, at all times if the auxiliary lights are no brighter than the headlight and the auxiliary lights are aimed correctly. All other vehicles in Oregon must turn off their auxiliary lights during times when the law requires drivers to dim their high beam headlights.

— Motorcyclists may use an intermittent pulsing or flashing brake light, as long as the flashing does not interfere with the rear turn signal function.

These new regulations were passed at the request of the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Motorcycle Safety, the Oregon State Police Motorcycle Unit, the TEAM OREGON Motorcycle Safety Program and by Oregon motorcyclists.

“All three of these new laws will allow the motorcyclist to be more easily seen by other highway users,” Porter said. “The addition of one more headlight and the use of auxiliary lights at all times will allow the motorcyclist to see better at night and during times of limited visibility. The flashing brake light will certainly gain the attention of those highway users behind motorcyclists.”

Porter added, “The Legislature was very supportive of enhancing the ability of motorcyclists to become more visible to other highway users. With the help of legislators that are motorcyclists themselves, these new options were passed and signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski.”

TEXAS COP FIRED FOR TACKLING MOTORCYCLIST A police officer who was videotaped tackling a motorcyclist off his bike after a high-speed chase has been sentenced to two years’ probation, fined $600 and ordered to undergo anger management counseling. A patrol car videotape of the Sept. 6 chase shows Garland police officer Glen Shaw running up to a seated Randall James Ling, then knocking him off his parked motorcycle before falling out of the camera’s view. Shaw, who along with two other officers was fired Jan. 14 after an investigation by the Texas Rangers, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge. Shaw also permanently gave up his Texas peace officer’s license as part of the plea deal, Pat Batchelor of the Dallas County district attorney’s office told The Dallas Morning News. Garland Police Chief Mitch Bates said he hoped the firings would protect his department’s integrity. The two other officers, William Mott and Demarcus Banda, were fired for making “untruthful” reports about the case, Bates said. The motorcyclist, Ling, was indicted on a felony for fleeing authorities.

WEIRD NEWS: SUSPICIOUS BIKER JACKET SPARKS ALARM As the United States raised its terrorism threat level to orange alert, the second-highest of five color-coded levels of alert, a female passenger was removed from a Paris-to-Cincinnati flight just before take off from France because of suspicious looking wires poking out of her leather motorcycle jacket.

As it turned out, the biker jacket was designed to heat up like an electric blanket to keep the wearer warm while riding, said security officials, who later determined the woman was not a security threat.

However, as a precaution, Delta Flight 43 was kept about a mile away from the terminal at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport after it landed in a secured cargo area used for Air Force One during presidential visits, and U.S. officials re-screened passengers and baggage.

FLYIN’ HIGH A Harley-Davidson flag now flies above Mt. Everest in Nepal, over 29,000 feet high in the Himalayan mountains, as Hiroyuki Okouchi, an employee of the Tanashi Harley-Davidson dealership in Tokyo, Japan, carried the flag to the top of the peak to help commemorate the Motor Company?s 100th anniversary.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “The greatest Glory of a free-born People, Is to transmit that Freedom to their Children.”

–William Havard (1710-1788), Irish actor and dramatist