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THE CAPTAIN AMERICA REPORT– When Captain America and Billy try to rent a room at the Pine Breeze Inn in the movie Easy Rider, the outlaw bikers are turned away.

A man cracks the door, sees the men on their motorcycles and then a glowing “NO” starts blinking in front of “VACANCY” on the sign.

Captain America and Billy — played by Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper — ride down Route 66 and sleep in the woods.

When the movie came out in 1969, bikers were not respected and feared. They represented trouble, rebellion and drugs. Not anymore. The tiny town west of Flagstaff even caters to bikers now.

The Pine Breeze Inn is boarded up, white paint peeling and grass creeping up its sides. A rusted gas tank stands in front. Just feet away, what’s left of this portion of Route 66 — the fabled Mother Road now largely bypassed by Interstate 40 — is cracked and overgrown with weeds.

Tribute to Harleys

Instead of sending bikers away, however, the inn now invites them to camp on the 2.5-acre property surrounding the fading building. Just down the road there is a Harley-Davidson shop and a Route 66 Roadhouse Bar and Grill, a tribute to everything Harley.

The table tops are glass-covered motorcycle wheels. There is a Harley-Davidson jukebox. A motorcycle from World War II stands in a museumlike room with a “Harley Parking Only” sign. The “No Vacancy” sign from “Easy Rider” hangs from the ceiling.

Bikers wearing leather chaps, skull bandanas, and Harley tank tops and jackets periodically saunter in for drinks.

About eight years ago, Felix Mansene and his wife, Lori, built the roadhouse. Now it’s frequently used for biker parties and charity events.

About 20,000 riders passed by the roadhouse in August while on the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary Ride Home, Mansene said. They partied in a circus tent filled with bands, American Indian dancers, and vendors selling corn on the cob and beer.

A Harley was raffled in December at the roadhouse to raise money for local charities. Some years, the roadhouse hosts the Arizona Hog Rally.

Mansene, who recently shaved off his waist-length ponytail and now has a bald head and dark-rimmed glasses, has been a biker for 40 years.

Changing perceptions

He said bikers are perceived much better now than they were in the 1960s and 1970s, the period when Captain America and Billy tried to stay in Bellemont while traveling from Los Angeles to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.

“Before, when you rode, you weren’t really looked at that nicely,” Mansene said.

When he owned a restaurant in Flagstaff, he parked his bike in the alley so customers wouldn’t be frightened away.

“Nobody else wanted to go in if there were bikers,” Mansene said.

John Whipp Jr. owns one of the few other establishments in Bellemont — a bar named Junior’s, where bikers still gather.

Whipp’s dad bought the bar in 1945. Whipp took over the establishment in 1956 and has been living in a back room of the bar ever since.

The decor hasn’t changed much over the years. The walls are plastered with posters of women posing by motorcycles. A motorcycle calendar hangs on the wall too, stuck on the year 1977. The countertop is lined with antique stools.

Whipp, who used to buy gas from the tank that still sits in front of the Pine Breeze Inn, said he hasn’t had many problems with bikers.

“The only bad bikers are gang members,” Whipp said referring to a melee in Laughlin, Nev., in April 2002. Two Hells Angels and one Mongols motorcycle club member were killed and at least 12 were hurt in a brawl inside a casino 170 miles due west of here.

Although certain clubs still have fairly grisly reputations, Joel Gabbard, who owns the Pine Breeze Inn, said bikers, in general, have lost some of their bad-boy image.

Captain America and Billy wanted to taste freedom too. But because of their biker stigma, they faced continuous opposition as they journeyed across America.

“Easy Rider” changed the pop culture landscape. In the movie, the motorcycles represented rebellion, independence and the popularity of psychedelic drugs. But it also was about resistance to hippie communes and living off the land.

At the end of “Easy Rider,” while riding along the Mississippi River, a shotgun-wielding bigot shoots Billy and Captain America.

Gabbard said some people still disapprove of his pastime, but not as much as years ago. Today, bikers can focus on the ride.

“You can just kind of kick back — you and the machine,” Mansene said. “It’s relaxing. It’s comforting. It’s uninterrupted.”

–from Rogue

Here’s a bad day from Bob T.

BIKERNET PHARMACY– A woman asks her husband if he’d like some breakfast. “Would you likebacon and eggs, perhaps? A slice of toast and maybe some grapefruit andcoffee?”

He declines. “It’s this Viagra,” he says. “It’s really taken the edge offmy appetite.”

At lunchtime, she asks if he would like something. “A bowl of homemadesoup, homemade muffins or a ham and cheese sandwich?” she inquires.

He declines. “Still not hungry,” he says, “the Viagra really trashes my desire for food.”

Come dinnertime, she asks him if he wants anything to eat. Would he like maybe a steak and apple pie? Maybe you’d like a micro-waved pizza or atasty stir-fry that would only take a couple of minutes?

He declines. “Naw, still not hungry.”

“Well,” she says, “would you mind letting me up? I’m starving.”

–from Rev CarlR

ROGUE’S BAD COP INVESTIGATION– Cops statement allowed at his rape trial Tennessee – A judge says he is going to allow as evidence a statement made by a former Gatlinburg policeman on trial for rape.

Officer Robert Walker, Jr. is charged with rape, sexual battery and official oppression. A Morristown woman says Walker raped her in his police cruiser while on duty in 2002.

Walker’s attorney was trying to suppress a statement Walker gave authorities who were investigating the case. James Gass says Walker was not notified of his constitutional Miranda rights before the interview.

But the court ruled the statement itself is not incriminating and says an experienced officer should already be aware of his Miranda rights.

–from Rogue

THE BAD COPS GET WORSE–Jail Cop suspended for using inmates for taser practice Colorado – A part-time jail officer was suspended and prosecutors are investigating after witnesses said the officer used an inmate to practice using a Taser gun, hitting him with a 50,000-volt electric charge.

Chaffee County detentions officer Scott Glenn was placed on administrative leave Tuesday and could be fired, Sheriff Tim Walker said.

“It was extremely poor judgment,” Walker said. “There’s no way a detention officer should ever use an inmate in that capacity.”

Thomas Montoya, serving an 18-month sentence for violating probation on a domestic violence conviction, said he was shocked with a Taser during a sheriff’s training class on Oct. 17.

Bad Cop… No Doughnut!

–from Rogue

HISTORIC ALIGNMENT TOOL– Since ’58, when I got my first real m/c, a ’47 Knuckle I was amazed at how a bike worked. I lined up the wheels just like everyone else did on bikes, string, boards and good eye-balling. In 1975-76 when I got involved in the Jammer Streamliner, the wheels had to be lined up precisely, because we wanted to go 300+. Paul Larquier and I spent days and nights getting it right. We tried many different things. We did it, because it went 294 mph.

Throughout the years I thought there must be a better, easier way. During this time I also observed that almost every bike I worked on was not aligned. So, after becoming familiar with lasers I said, “Wow, that’s it, but how?”

So I played with many different forms of the tool. Finally, one day I was at LePera Seats and Bob LePera said, why does my new Harley ride so badly? I looked at it, and rode it: It was bad. So Bob bent some sheet metal for me. I also got a laser. I lined up his wheels, and it worked quick and simple. So after a few different shapes (and a few years) I went to Ray at Tiger Welding and he made the shapes that we use now.

It is a simple tool that does a very complex job. It takes an engineer to understand single-track vehicle dynamics. This tool keeps you out of school and on the road much safer. Used as instructed, it will make your bike stop straight and do burnouts without charging sideways. Your belt will last much longer, so will chains and tires. Plus, when you’re wild in the corners the bike will slip right and left corners equally. Also, at high speed it’ll feel solid instead of like you’re on ice.

–Mil Blair
(818) 252 0929
HarleyMil@aol.com?
Tiger manufacturing Alignment dept.
11245 vinedale St. sun valley ca. 91352
$139.95 shipping paid by us

BADLANDS REPORT–South side, Edmonton hotels don’t quite know what to make of being highly recommended by one of the world’s most notorious outlaw motorcycle clubs. The Bandidos website is recommending seven hotels to out-of-towners attending the funeral of prospect Joey Campbell, who recently changed his last name from Morin.

Campbell, 34, and Bandido “hang-around” Robert Simpson, 34, were gunned down in a hail of bullets outside Saint Pete’s strip club Friday night.

Among the hotels the Bandidos recommend is the Argyll Plaza at 63 Avenue and 99 Street. “I don’t see a problem as long as they are good guests,” said hotel spokesman Danny Ratcliffe-Smith.

The Travelodge at 103 Street and 45 Avenue also has few worries about being on the bikers’ list of recommended hotels. “I think they just picked some of the hotels listed on the south side of the city,” said general manager Garry Jones.

It’s still unclear how many members of the Bandidos intend to travel to Edmonton for Campbell’s funeral. Cops are tight-lipped about what plans they have for policing the funeral and whether they expect whoever killed Campbell and Simpson to launch an attack on the mourners.

“If it is considered there is a security risk to the funeral we will take the necessary measures,” said cop spokesman Wes Bellmore. “We can’t discuss specific plans in public.”

Campbell was a former member of the Rebels motorcycle club but according to his family did not join the Hells Angels when they absorbed the Rebels. He had been working as an agent for Independent Artists, which supplies dancers to numerous Alberta strip clubs, including Saint Pete’s.

His funeral is scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday at Hainstocks, 9810 34 Ave.

–from Rogue

COMMERCIAL H-D HISTORY IN THE CANTINA–Bandit, I am in the process of building a web site for a bike shop (Osborn’s Cycles) here in Houston, “but” while reading your article “Harley – Davidson, commercial Vehicles, Sixty years of three wheelers by Albert Mroz” I noticed some thing that made me go hummmm !

The painting on the side of the building of Osborn’s bike shop was done in the 1930’s with minor touch ups over the years.I pasted the 29 Sidevan picture on to the photo of Osborns for comparison, this was one of his fathers bikes when he started the shop, if you notice the painting shows the van had windows and shades. well hell i thought it was interesting any way, heheh

–Terry G.
mailto:tgoode@earthlink.net

ROGUE’S RIDE IS FOR SALE–ROGUE’S Personal Fun Ride a Custom Hand Built 96 Cubic Inch 4 Valve Per Cylinder Rigid Frame Tire Smoking Wheeling Hot Rod is up for grabs.

The bike was originally built in 1990 starting with a special modified Paugho rigid frame, FXE dual disc brake front end, disc brake rear, Factory Mag Wheels 19-inch front & 16-inch rear. It has Custom Paugho gas tank and Mustang seat.

Through the years it has had different engines and transmissions and a lot of changes. It has been professionally maintained by Rogue.

The 96 cubic inch 4 Valve Per Cylinder engine was built by Berry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering in Dothan Alabama and was featured in Easyriders Magazine #337 July 2001 (article available on request) Berry Wardlaw is the engine builder for the famous builders of the Discovery channel

It has an enclosed primary with a chain drive hooking to a Rivera Pro Clutch and a 5 speed transmission in a Sputhe case, with a final rear chain.

The custom paint is by Sonny Keeton world famous Rat’s Hole Show Winner. It has saddle bags and a removable tour pack for trips that is adjustable for rider or carrying a passenger. It is truly a versatile motorcycle and gets attention where ever it is.

It has a heavy duty electric starter, 32-amp charging system, forward controls, oil cooler, filter and gauge, Tachometer & Speedometer are handle bar mounted with a bracket for a radar detector. More photos available at http://www.bikerrogue.com/For_Sale/Rigid_for_sale/Rogues_ride_for_sale.htm Only $10,000.00. Call 321-725-3816

–Rogue

PRO-KODLIN BILLET LIGHTING–If you’re after the latest in exotic lighting for your scooter check out these unique pieces now being offered by PRO-ONE. Imported directly from the source in Germany, these awesome headlight assemblies are designed and manufactured by legendary European designer Fred Kodlin. Available in both the ELIPSE and MINI SQUARE styles, KODLIN headlights are machined from solid billet aluminum and flawlessly finished in show quality chrome.

The ELIPSE elliptical headlight measures 7″ wide x 4″ tall x 3 ?” deep and the MINI SQUARE is 7″ wide x 2 ?” tall x 3 ?” deep. Available exclusively from PRO-ONE, KODLIN headlights retail for $499.00. For complete details see your local PRO-ONE dealer or call direct at 800-884-4173. On the Web at

http://www.pro-one.com

PEELING CHROME AND CHIPPED PAINT–Let’s wrap this up. I need a shot of Jack. Fuckin’ Real Estate assholes. One day, we’re on cloud nine, the next day we’re loading weapons. Ah, that’s the way of life, especially if you’re in the streets making a living, pushing your art, struggling against the odds.

When it get’s you down, there’s a formula. Haul out to the garage and change oil, tune that beast and have a Corona with a couple of buddies, like Jose said. Tomorrow’s another day.

Ride Forever,
–Bandit

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BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT– The first report in February, to many that means the Super Bowl is over, so enough Janet Jackson flashing the tit; nice nipple ring though. Those who have AOL are calling to cancel after all the commercials. For me it?s crunch time. Yeap, only a couple weeks before shipping off to Daytona, the whole rig, bikes, shirts and all the crap we end up taking over. I’m still short one bike; I will have no life from now on ’till the sucker is finished. This is a Daytona Bike Week that I wanted to skip because the never-ending work on the new shop takes priority, but we are obligated so we must show up. I’m down to the ceiling, a/c units and organizing. As always the tuff part is getting all the shit in place, and that’s just for the showroom. I still have to deal with the shop and tools……Before I start I would like to thank everyone that took the time to send an e-mail about last weeks report. I figure there are a lot of people with sort of the same thoughts and no real way to tell the world about them, but I’m also sure that e-mailing Bandit might be the cure for that.

I guess I’ve talked a hundred times about how difficult it is to attend one of this events for us, the logistics, cash and many other things, not that I’m bitching, but a few days ago we were talking about different places, some that I have been for extended periods of time, some very short. And like every time a bunch of guys get to bullshit after a long day, the mind started rolling. Sometimes it makes you wonder what would I be doing if I was not in Puerto Rico, sure there’s many places in the West Indies I really like, Antigua and St. Barts are top on my list, but they would not work for what I do. Then the obvious came to mind, Hawaii, then again, it would be kind of the same as living in Puerto Rico, limited by thousands of nautical miles.

So I guess California is the answer. Smack in the center of LA would be a cool place, even with the fakeness and distances it would be cool to be able to hop on the chopper after a day of work, hit Sunset and park the sucker right in front of the Viper Room, or the Roxxy. Maybe even shooting the shit and building a couple bikes for celebs. How about hopping in the truck and just picking up the frame when it’s ready, not waiting ’till it travels half a world. Same for most of the components to put the chops together, just go pick them up. Even simpler would be to go visit my friends. The Bikernet headquarters would be invaded at least once a week, West Coast Choppers and Chica would get used to my frequent visits, Hawaii only a skip and few bucks away. Needless to say the hottest big breasted babes at your disposal…..Cool car shows, swap meets and everything in between. And, just in case when they start doing the dreaded profiling, I would not give a fuck if I get a red dot since I could drive any place I feel like.

Sure there will be a tremor here and there, but what the hell, gas prices sky high and beaches that suck, there’s no way you can have it all. Fuck I would call Monster House and let them do a strip joint in my pad. Then again, maybe New York City would be the place, although the chopper thing there…I don’t know…. I guess I’ll leave that to Indian Larry and the guys….

Maybe the insanity of being at the shop, breathing fumes and dust has gotten to me, maybe is the road calling, or the much needed and desired escape from it all and rest (party too). Or maybe what I was reading the other night about Von Dutch and the way he saw things, he was a very simple man, and I guess in his maniacal way, happy. After all sometimes simpler things are much better, like choppers, the best times are spent in remote places with little to do, sometimes just lay in the sun, read a book and go party a bit at night. Sure it gets a lot more interesting when a female companion is added to the picture, but sometimes the hunt is part of the fun. I guess I’m talking about adventure, (and I might be jumping from one thing to another) but I guess that’s why people sail around the world, or go for long rides, or hide in far away islands. it’s a way to gather thoughts and be able to create and learn, it’s a way to be separated from all the bullshit that goes with everyday living in over populated places. Do like Che Guevara, known as a communist to many, but an adventurer and believer at heart, he would cross the Andes in South America on small motorcycles aiding lepers, and jumped on the boat to Cuba and it’s revolution for the hell of it. He believed in men and their causes (no matter which), and he was the first one to do the deed, (I?m not saying he was a “good” or “bad” person, just stating some facts). I guess the important thing here is that we do things because we believe in them, and to make us better people (our perception of “better” varies).

We are creatures of our surroundings, but when our world is wide and vast, filled with memories, books and learning?s, we are certainly much better people. I guess my point is, after all the ramblings, that we are living our industry time, we are all growing at such a gigantic pace that we are forgetting what this is all about. It takes a certain kind of individual to sit down and create a motorcycle, to weld, fabricate and put together ideas. It?s a rat race, mostly about making more money and being successful, getting recognition and lives the life that is represented. It becomes a burden when you “have to” do things instead of doing them because you love it. Let?s put it this way, I never thought I would say that I dreaded going to Daytona, but I do. I don’t go for the photo shoots, nor how many shirts I might sell. I go because I’m lucky to have friends that will be there and I know we will have a good time hanging out and shooting the shit. It?s a very high price to pay just for that, but I guess friends are worth every single red cent…..And after all the TV is gone, all the hoopla, cheers and media is out of the picture, what you have left is a bunch of boys doing what they love, shooting the shit, checking the chicks and beating their choppers up. Simple ain’t it?

If in the Kentucky area don’t forget to go check out the Louisville Easyrider show. Chica and Hank Young will be there with their latest creations for Discovery’s Biker Build off. Choose the one you like most and vote, they are both cool guys so give them a fair chance. This coming weekend!

Like I’ve said before, we are working on bikes all the time, so if there’s any tech article you might have in mind let us know, I will do my best to take the shots, and post it here.

We have new Chopper Freak ™ and Shop clothing available through our web site, check it out and call if interested. We got the new shop and need as much $$$ as possible.

Soon I will have signature cards, I know I’m not that famous, but if interested drop me an E, who knows, maybe in the future they might be worth something on E-bay..

The Puerto Rico bike weekend info is also available on my web site, if interested check it out www.ChopperFreak.com .

We’ve heard rumors that some builders are doing a “theme” bike on Janet Jackson’s boob….We?ll keep you informed…

And like always there’s a few bikes on the lift right now, I won’t have any new bikes for Daytona, so they will be at Sturgis. I will keep posting, or maybe even better; do the whole build here in Bikernet…

See ya next week, if I have not decided to take off and live on a cliff in Antigua for a few months.

Jose – Caribbean Bikernet Reporter

BIKERNET CONTEST WINNERS–Here are the two newest winners, and what they won.
From the free section:

JIM LIPPERT FROM OMAHA, NE
Suggestion: HOW ABOUT ANCHORING THE LINK TO THE THURSDAY NEWS TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE, RIGHT UNDER THE SITE DIRECTORY. AS IT IS NOW WE HAVE TO SEARCH DOWN THE COLUMN TO FIND IT.

Wanted: THAT NEW GAMBLER HAT LOOKS PRETTY COOL. I’D TAKE ONE OF THOSE. A BANDIT’s BEDROLL WOULD BE GOOD TO HAVE FOR WEEKEND TRIPS TOO. HOW ABOUT A MEANINGFUL ONE NIGHT STAND WITH SIN WU?

A Gambler Hat it is, girl not included. If Jim had asked for a meaningless relationship, I may have considered it.

In answer to his request, you can always reach the news from the links at the bottom of each page, Bikernet Thursday news, and also from the directory.

Click on the link below to purchase your very own Bikernet hat!http://www.bikernet.com/catalog/onlinecatalog.asp?Category=Bikernet+Originals

FOR THE CANTINA WINNER we have:

Taylor, George from San Antonio, TX

Wanted: A jug of Tennessee sipping whiskey.

Taylor gets a T-Shirt from Bikernet. Bandit wouldn’t be very happy, if I gave anyone, other than himself, Whiskey. Taylor, if you read this, please e-mail your shirt size.

ALL INDOORS -at the – Taylor County Expo Center – Taylor County Fairgrounds – ABILENE. ANTIQUE, CUSTOM & TOURING MOTORCYCLE SHOW– No Entry Fee – Trophies for 1st & 2nd in Each Class – Peoples Choice Award by Crowd Vote & More Check www.texasscooter.com for Show Classes and Entry Form

ANDWALL TO WALL – MOTORCYCLE RELATED VENDORS – SELLIN?

Discounted Leather – Used Harley & Other Make
Parts – New Parts – Knives – Jewelry – T Shirt
Vendors of All types – Sunglasses – Take Off
Motorcycle Parts – Folks Cleaning Out Their
Garages – Pinstripers – Traveling Parts Vendors &
More – Vendors Preview List On www.texasscooter.co

LIVE BAND – DOOR PRIZES – Parts & Party !! – Don?t Miss It !!!

Admission $8 for Adults – 5 thru 12 $5 – Under 5 Free – – Show Hours 11am – 5pm

DIRECTIONS: From I-20 in east Abilene – take exit 290 & go south & Fairgournds are on right

Continued On Page 4

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DEAL OF THE WEEK, CUSTOM BUILT PRO STREET WITH RUBBER MOUNTED PERFORMANCE ENGINE–This motorcycle was built by Rogue using top of the line parts. It has 500 Break In and Test Miles on it and is ready to ride.The motorcycle has Style and Class with Performance and Reliability Built In.

The Evolution Engine was Built by Berry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering and comes with a 12 Month/12,000 Mile Warranty. Berry Wardlaw is the engine builder for the famous builders on the Discovery Channel.

The engine has 10.1:1 compression, Andrews EV47 cam, Dyna 2000 Single fire ignition and is black wrinkle with polished fins, Chrome rocker boxes and nose cone.

The transmission is a black and chrome 5 speed from Custom Chrome and covered under their warranty.

The black powder coated Kraftech FXR rubber mounted Pro Street frame sports a stainless steel oil tank and lines, chrome swingarm and chrome adjustable shocks. Front end is American suspension Inverted with billet tripple trees, Halogen headlight, 16-inch 3 spoke mag wheel with Avon Venom X MT90B16 tire.

Rear wheel is 16-inch 3 spoke mag with Avon Venom X 160/80/16 tire. Stainless steel rotors front and rear with billet calipers and stainless steel brake lines.

More information and photos at http://www.bikerrogue.com/For_Sale/bike1_for_sale.htm

Price just reduced to $16,000, call 321 725-3816

ROGUE’S BAD COP FILES– Ex-Cop gets 5 years for planting pipe bombs on highway North Carolina – A former Winterville police officer convicted last year of planting pipe bombs along N.C. 11 has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Thomas Uzenski, 35, also must serve three years of supervised probation and pay a $5,000 fine as part of the federal sentence imposed Monday by Judge Malcolm Howard.A jury found him guilty in October of two counts each of possessing and manufacturing a destructive device and one count of obstruction of justice.

The sentence came almost two years after Uzenski was called a hero for finding a pipe bomb on the side of N.C. 11 near Forlines Road on March 25, 2002. Another bomb was found the next day in almost the same place.

A month later, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents arrested Uzenski for planting and pretending to find the bombs.

Bad cop, no doughnut.

–from Rogue

BIKERNET PRODUCT REPORT–Handlebar roll turned up today in Alligator Creek Australia. Thanks for thestickers as well. It’s the first time ever in my life I’ve used mymastercard numbers on the internet to buy anything. As you can imagine I’mvery grateful it arrived safe and sound. I’ve been shitting bricks it mightnot get here.

Thanks very much. It will be interesting to see what sort ofinterest it generates. Never seen one ever here or anything quite like it.The local dealer has sold over 500 harleys in this area and there’s only100,000 population. The Mackay region has the highest per capita Harleyownership, anywhere Down Under.

Regards Bob Kotmel

V-ROD REPORT– Here is a picture of thatV-rod I was telling you about. We just finished it. Let me know what youthink.

–Kyle Kucin
Donahue Harley-Davidson

BIG DOG MOTORCYCLES JUMPS TO 80 MILLION IN ANNUAL SALES–Company begins its tenth year with an 82 percent increase in sales over prior year.WICHITA, Kansas (February 4, 2004), Big Dog Motorcycles (the leading designer and manufacturer of high performance, highly-styled heavyweight cruisers, continued to break its own sales records in 2003, solidly placing the company in first place among custom motorcycle builders.

With over 3,600 bikes produced, nearly 400 in October alone, as well as stunning numbers in its line of apparel and BDM Performance Products, the company’s 2003 sales propelled to over $80 million. This is an 82% increase over its 2002 sales dollars of $42 million, and marks the company?s ninth consecutive record year in sales and units shipped.”Our sales volume has more than doubled in just the past two years, tripled in the past three, and this month, we will pass the ten thousand unit milestone,” explained Sheldon Coleman, company founder and CEO, “We feel our dedication to product style and innovation plus our valued partnerships with suppliers and dealers is what has led to such growth, putting us in our leading position. We are confident 2004 will be even better.”

Of the units produced, more Choppers were built than any other in Big Dog Motorcycle’s six-bike line-up and contributed most to the company’s new record-breaking numbers.

Big Dog Motorcycles currently has 90 dealers nationwide, seven of which are Big Dog Motorcycles branded, and employs 305. The company spans three acres and has over 155,000 square feet of office and production space.

BIKERNET DRUGS-D A M N I T O L–Take 2 and the rest of the world can go to hell for up to8 full hours.

–from Dr. Hamster

THE YEAR’S BEST [ACTUAL] HEADLINES OF 2003:

Crack found on Governor’s Daughter

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says

Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers

Iraqi Head Seeks Arms

Is There a Ring of Debris around Uranus?

Prostitutes Appeal to Pope

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over

Teacher Strikes Idle Kids

Miners Refuse to Work after Death

Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant

War Dims Hope for Peace

If Strike Isn’t Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures

Enfield (London) Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges

And the winner is….

Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead

–from Joan C.

COUNTDOWN TO FLORIDA BIKE WEEK– The NASCAR races are in Daytona Beach this weekend and to many that means the start of the parties. The area bars and hotels are gearing up for the increase of people coming to the area.

Bike Week is only a few weeks away and already there are things in the newspaper, radio, bike shops and bars about what is happening where and wanting you to come visit them.

Typically Bike Week in March which is actually 10 days and this year is February 27th to March 7th draws around 500,000 people. It has continued to spread through Volusia County and now includes Orange County (Orlando) to the West and Brevard County (Cocco Beach) to the South.

They are estimating that the numbers will increase to 600,000 this year by including other areas.

Orlando is having a BIG PUSH and many people are opting to go there and take the hours ride to Daytona Beach for what ever they want to see.

Cocco Beach just South of Daytona off I-95 is a big attraction that draws 20,000 nightly to the area year round. With Florida Today paper reporting 292 Hotels and Motels, 198 Restaurants, 5.4 Miles of Shoreline and numerous other facts it is a hot spot. They left out the part about it being a Biker Friendly area. And those that chose to go there during Bike Week will tell you it definitely is.

There are more and more people doing the trip to Key West. There is a lot to do in Florida and No Snow.

Within the 10 days of Bike Week it has been estimated that the Bikers spend $300 Million Dollars. No wonder the surrounding areas want a piece of the action.

90% of the motorcycles that come to Bike Week are said to be Harley-Davidsons but those numbers are changing as the import motorcycle are showing up more and more.

It does not matter who you are, doctor, lawyer, Indian chief, male, female, RUB (Rich Urban Biker) 1% or a momma?s boy or girl Daytona Beach and the surrounding area is PARTY TIME.

I will continue to do weekly reports on what is going on in the area and visiting some of the places that you may want to visit.

Of course I will definitely be doing the Last Resort Bar, 5812S. Ridgewood (US1) in Port Orange and the Highlander Caf? 1821 S. Ridgewood Ave., South Daytona.

I will be doing the Ole Skool Chopper Show and have been invited to visit Softails Saloon at 2365 International Speedway in Deland. Wet T-Shirts, Exotic Dancers and Full Liquor Bar.

I am open to invitations from places in the area that think they have something going on that would be of interest to the people that visit Bikernet .com Contact me at mailto:rogue@bikerrogue.com

GET READY BIKE WEEK IS ON THE WAY. Look For The Most Updated Reports Of What Is Happening Right Here On BIKERNET

–Rogue

Continued On Page 3

It’s nuts. I’ve lost my focus. Gimme a shot of whiskey and let’s see what I can do. I’m in real estate hell. I’ll blame my lost focus on dealing with psycho bitches and tenious deadlines. Don’t get me wrong the action at the headquarters is hot and heavy. The Le Pera Seat arrived today and I ran to the creaking garage to take a shot of it in place.

We’re detailing the Shovelhead for a photo shoot and needed matching rotors. I ordered the bastard from CCI and had it in less than a week.

Tomorrow I’ll finish up the shift linkage for the FXR, install the BDL clutch and start the wiring. The damn thing needs to run before the move. Let’s hit the news:

CLINTON MISSED– Just watched a show on Canadian TV There was a black comedian who said he misses Bill Clinton.

“Yep, that’s right – I miss Bill Clinton! He was the closest thing we ever got to having a black man as President.”

Number 1 – He played the sax.
Number 2 – He smoked weed.
Number 3 – He messes with ugly white women.” Even now – Look at him. His wife works and he don’t. And, he gets a check from the government every month.

–from Jay Hodge

JIM’S PAINT WEEKLY PAINT REPORT–The Califonia Chopper (red and silver)

Built and owned by the Slavedriver,This paint job was also a mix of PPG and HOK. I combined three differentpaint jobs for this one. The owner wanted the gothic look so we usedsilver/gray and black pinstriping. I also had to match the base color toa powdercoated frame. This design is a crowd favorite.

— Jim
Jims Cycle Painting
1351 W. 134th St.
Gardena, Ca. 90247
(310) 329-4707

DAYTONA BOYCOTT–I’m not going this year.Not me, I’m boycotting. They rape you on room rates. The Police hassle like they where 15 years ago. Any handlebars over 12 inches abovethe seat $96.00 fine, no sunglasses $47.00 fine, loud pipes $85.00fine. No thongs on main street anymore, that’s consideredindecent exposure. And be prepaired to sit in traffic for hours.

We went in October, and it took 2 hrs to get to the Iron Horse. They closeddown all the cheap t-shirt places on A1A and the small bars. Insteadthis year we’re going to Panama City, Gulfport Blowout, & LittleSturgis Kentucky

–GREG

1928 SHOVELHEAD PREPARES FOR FEATURE–Yep, we ordered a rotor to match the rear and it arrived in a week. Make sure you order a catalog and keep it handy.

BRAND NEW CUSTOM CHROME CATALOG RELEASED–

Custom Chrome’s new offering for 2004. The California based distributor brings you the most comprehensive product offering in the Harley-Davidson aftermarket! At over 1,200 pages and over 22,000 part numbers, their 2004 Catalog features the new RevTech 110 Motor, Hard Core II, Ares bikekits and noumious frames and forks–everything from nuts & bolts to performance products. It’s the Custom Bike Bible for the year.

ONLY $9.95 + 6.95 Shipping**

BIKERNET BLONDE JOKE–A blonde female police officer pulls over a blonde gal in a convertible sports car for speeding. She walks up to the car and asks the blond for her driver’s license. The blonde convertible driver searches through her purse in vain. Finally she asks, “What does it look like?”

The blonde police officer tells her, “It’s that thing with your picture on it.”

The blonde driver searches for a few more seconds, pulls out her compact, opens it and sure enough sees herself. She hands the compact to the blonde cop. After a few seconds looking at the compact, the blonde cop rolls her eyes, hands the compact back to the blonde convertible driver and says, “If you would have told me you were a police officer when I first pulled you over we could have avoided this whole thing.”

–from Rev CarlR

DEAL OF THE WEEK-MAYBE–Motorcycle Accessory Warehouse IncHi-Per Sports & American Motorcycle Accessory Warehouse!

5555 Glenwood Street Boise, ID 83714
SERVING YOU FOR OVER 25 YEARS!

Thursday February 5th,2004 ONLY!Applies To NEW Orders Only.You May Not Cancel & Re-Place An Existing Order.SORRY BUT WE ARE NOT ABLE TO PLACE ORDERS AT THESE PRICES UNTIL THE SALE DATE ABOVE!

PLACE YOUR ORDERS AT: http://www.mawonline.com

TO RECEIVE THESE SPECIAL PRICES YOU MUST TYPE THE FOLLOWING AD CODE UNDER “SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS” ON OUR INTERNET ORDER FORM!

USE AD CODE 10483, OR YOU MAY ORDER BY CALLING 800-241-2222 Option 3

HUGH KING ON BIKERNET–Ever wonder where the first Motorcycle Mania program came from? How about the Bike Build-Offs? We’ll you’re looking at the producer/director from Original Productions. I interviewed him yesterday at the Bikernet Headquarters for American Rider and Bikernet. Hang on for the whole story.

DAYTONA ATTEMPTS TO CLOSE BARS EARLY– DAYTONA BEACH — Forcing bars to close an hour earlier could hurt workers like Stephanie Bartlett who depend on the money they make in tips before closing time at 3 a.m.

“In that hour a good bartender can make a hundred bucks, maybe a couple hundred,” said the 12-year veteran at Razzles nightclub on Seabreeze Boulevard whose pay depends on tips. “That’s paying the bills, buying groceries.”

The City Commission is expected to consider a proposal to close bars at 2 a.m. instead of the current 3 a.m. They meet 7 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall, 301 S. Ridgewood Ave.

Other East Volusia County cities require bars to close at 2 a.m.

Commissioner Darlene Yordon, who got no support in August 2002 to roll back the bar-closing time, raised the issue again during a recent goal-setting workshop.

–By JOHN BOZZO

–from Rogue

THE STEALTH REPORT–Life has a way of hitting us in the head and waking us to what is important in life. The blow lets you know that the most important things are your family, your friends, your loved ones and your faith. Life lets you know that the most important things are not what your bank account says or your job or how new your bike is. As much as we want riding and building bikes to be on the list of life’s prioirities, they are not. I learned a lot of these lessons the hard way when my son Justin passed away at the age of sixteen. Every morning. on the way to work. I try to remember what is really important in life.

The story you are about to read is another example. It is a story of courage, attitude, spirit and a strong will. This tale is about our friend Laurie Pinkerman. In November of 03, Laurie found a lump in her right breast, during a self examination. A mamogram followed, and a biopsy was performed in December. A MRI discovered a suspicious area in her left breast. A second biopsy was performed. Laurie had a bilateral mastectomy (both breasts removed) on January 6th, 2004. On January 13th breast reconstruction began.

Laurie jokes about this saying “she can’t decide on how big to go!” Laurie goes on to say “she may be down but she is not giving up, I have too much left to do. It is times like these that really shows who your true friends are. A lot of people talk the talk but only a few walk the walk with you! Hold tight and thank your lucky stars everyday for thse who hold your hand and walk with you!” Laurie now faces five months of chemotherapy.

Laurie rides a ’93 softail and you can see by the photo, it is a long way from stock. It is one of the hottest bikes in the Charlotte area. She affectionately has named it the “PINK PIG”. She says, “since she is having all this front end work done, she decided THE PINK PIG needed some too.” Raked triple trees (5 degrees) armor coated cables, new headlight. Laurie has been riding the pig for ten years and is proud to say that after she purchased the Pig that she “loved taking a trailer queen show bike and turning it into a daily rider.”

Here at Bikernet we applaud that! The Pig is still quite a looker with it’s fluoresent pink and artic white paint job, Rev-Tech wheels, Arlen Ness air cleaner cover, Ness rear chain guard, yeah the bike is chain final drive. The engine sports a S.E. cam and S&S E carb. Laurie has been a long time supporter of the annual Run For Breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin” here in Charlotte and enters “THE PINK PIG” in the bike show every year. This year with all she has going on she has volunteered her services as committee member for the run.

Laurie wanted me to mention that the key to beating this disease is early detection. She says to tell all the guys to “help with the self examination.” I don’t think any of you will have a problem with that. She also wanted me to tell eveyone to” never, never give up. Attitude is everything and if you are diagnosed with cancer be open, tell everyone what is going on, it lightens the load. Cancer is nothing to be ashamed of.”

As I finished this interview Lauire told me, ” I will see you on the road this year because I am just too damn stubborn to lay down and die,” so if you see Laurie an “THE PINK PIG” on the road, remember she told you so!

Later!

–Mike (THE STEALTH)

–The Stealth

BIKERNET DOG FILES–Don’t accept your dog’s admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful.-Ann Landers

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.-Ben Williams

The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.-Andy Rooney

A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around threetimes before lying down.-Robert Benchley

Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.-Robert A. Heinlein

If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you; that is the principal difference between a dog and a man.-Mark Twain

You can say any foolish thing to a dog, and the dog will give you a look that says, ‘Wow, you’re right! I never would’ve thought of that!’- Dave Barry

If you think dogs can’t count, try putting three dog biscuits in yourpocket and then giving Fido only two of them.-Phil Pastoret

Continued On Page 2

Continued From Page 3

Classic T’s from Paul Davis.

ROGUE FLORIDA HARRASSMENT INVESTIGATION– Here is a message I just received in reference to my letter about the Police harassing a Palm bay Bar. He will come forward when necessary:

I WOULD LIKE IT TO BE KNOWN THAT AS A CERTIFIED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER THAT INDEED THE POLICE DID TARGET MOTORCYCLE (HARLEY DAVIDSON) RIDING PEOPLE. THERE WERE MEMOES AND INTER OFFICE FLYERS WITH NAMES OF BARS, HOUSES AND PEOPLE THAT WERE ON THE LISTS. WE WERE TO STOP FOR NO REASON AND IDENTIFY AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE. I HOPE THAT I CAN BE OF HELP WHEN YOU GO TO THE CITY MANAGER OR THE MAYOR SINCE I HAVE HAD DEALINGS WITH THEM BEFORE.

–Rogue

HEARING AID TECH–Morris, an 82 year-old man telling his neighbor, “I just bought a new hearing aid. It cost mefour thousand dollars, but it’s state of the art. It’s perfect.”

“Really,” answered the neighbor. “What kind is it?”

“Twelve-thirty.”

–from A. Friedman

ROGUE BAD COP FILES– Bad Cop: Meth Head Deputy turns himself in Ohio – A sheriff’s deputy accused of producing and smoking methamphetamine has been indicted by a grand jury on drug charges.

Michael Moore, 33, of Loveland, was indicted Monday on charges of tampering with evidence, theft of drugs, theft in office and illegal assembly or possession of chemicals for the manufacture of drugs.

He also was indicted on charges of aggravated possession of drugs, possession of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and illegal possession of dangerous drugs.

Moore turned himself in to police Tuesday evening, WLWT reported.

Moore was indicted after a search of a condominium complex where he lived and worked as a security officer. Warren County sheriff’s detectives said Moore produced and used methamphetamine in a spare garage and smoked the drugs in the complex office.

Moore was suspended from the Warren County sheriff’s office Jan. 15 pending the outcome of the investigation. Authorities were searching for the deputy on Monday.

–Rogue

CONFRONTATION ON FRONTIER AIRLINES FLIGHT 21 LEFT 21 BIKERS STUCK IN DENVER– Members of Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) were returning to Salt Lake City on Sunday evening from a national convention in Texas when one of them confronted a couple disciplining their child, prior to takeoff.

“There was . . . an escalating situation between a group of passengers [BACA], and it centered around a set of passengers disciplining their children and one set of passengers who didn’t like it,” said Joe Hodas, Frontier Airlines spokesman.

Hodas said appropriate action was taken by the pilot, who deemed it necessary for the safety of the passengers to return to the gate around 10 p.m.

According to BACA member Darrell Sparti, a 49-year-old father of two children, he was sitting behind the parents when they began to discipline the youngest child, a 2-year-old girl who was tired, crying and cranky. Sparti says the mother began spanking the child. Then he heard the words “bruises,” and “Daddy’s belt.”

When the mother handed the girl to her father, Sparti says, the father placed his hand over the mouth of the child to muffle her screaming. Sparti says he intervened when the father struck the child with his hand and raised his hand again. “That’s not appropriate,” Sparti says he told the father. “You cannot do that to any child. Would you like to get off the plane and discuss it?”

The father, Sparti says, responded that he would discipline his child however he wanted. Sparti said the situation was “over and done with in less than 30 seconds.”

Most passengers didn’t realize what had occurred and were bewildered and angry that the pilot taxied back to the gate. Once stopped in Denver, a flight attendant pointed out the 21 BACA members to police, who instructed them to leave the plane along with the couple and their two children — and a couple who by coincidence were wearing Harley-Davidson T-shirts but were not members of BACA.

–Rogue

JAMMER BACKREST FROM MR. LUCKY–A Maltese Cross padded back rest for a classic chopper look. Check the Mr. Lucky Story for ordering information.

SPICY SEX–A lady who had been married for several years was growing more and more frustrated at her husband’s lack of interest in sex. She wondered about ways to add some pizzazz to their sexual relationship, and finally decided to purchase some crotchless underwear she had seen in a lingerie shop.

One evening when she was feeling particularly horny, she took a shower, freshened up, and put on the crotchless undies along with very slinky negligee. She then strolled over to her husband who was watching TV and suggestively tossed one leg up on the arm of his easy chair.

“Want some of this?” she purred.

“Are you kidding?” he replied. “Look what it did to your underwear!!!”

–Rogue

BIKERNET CONTEST WINNERS!!!– Here are this weeks winners, and what they won. I?m gonna try something different with the contest so be patient with me whilst I work it out. Basically I?m gonna try to get different companies to donate products for the giveaway, and make them the sponsor of the week. Sound good? I?ll post over the weekend who the sponsor will be and what you could win from them. Then it?s up to you to enter. Now, for your grand prize winners: (drum roll?)

SCOTT HAZELTON FROM COTTRELLVILLE , MI
Suggestion: FINISH THE FUCKING STORYS.
Wanted: TO GO TO BIKE WEEK IN DAYTONA. OR A JOB THAT LETS ME GO & DO THAT FOR A LIVING.

Get in line, Scott. Everybody wants that job and we do finish our stories. Patience is a virtue? But from Bikernet you will be receiving a Bikernet hat.

Now for the Cantina winner:

Will McIntosh from Las Cruces , NM
Wanted: A JD on the rocks and a BJ! ..or a horse t-shirt would work too.

Will gets a JD off the rocks and a Horse T-shirt, and no BJ.Till next week?

PALM BAY FLORIDA POLICE HARASS BIKERS– I received a phone call from one of the employees of Ridge Road House Restaurant and The Stables Saloon 4381 South Dixie Highway (US1) telling me that the Palm Bay Police and a city employee came to the restaurant on Tuesday January 27, 2004 and notified them they would no longer be allowed to drink on the patio. They were also told that arrests would be made if it continued. This area is enclosed and has been used by those wishing to smoke Cigarettes since Florida had changed the law on smoking inside.

He and the owner feel that this action is in retaliation to an incident that happen at the restaurant the previous Sunday. Members of the Palm Bay Police Dept. were having a function at the restaurant and a group of motorcyclist arrived at the bar which is frequented by motorcyclist on a regular basis and also promoted by ABATE as a Bike Friendly Establishment. It appears that there was a confrontation between the two groups and this action is in response to that confrontation.

Palm Bay Police have a reputation of not getting along with biker groups and those who ride motorcycles and through the years numerous complaints have been made against them. Though in all fairness I must say that not all the officers agree with this policy and some have tried to better relations between the two groups.

I am interested in talking to any one that was there or has information on this situation and listen to their version of what happened.

Up dates to follow.

–Rogue

RECYCLED TANK SHIFTER TECH COMING–Just some images of my recycled tank shifter and how it came to be. Watch for published tech on Bikernet shortly.

–RFR

JESSE KILGORE FIRST GROUND UP–You’ll get a kick out of this feature on Bikernet. Jesse built this Redneck Engineering bike from the ground up. Yep, in a sense it’s a kit, but he did it in his garage, with his pals, check it out.

BIKERNET FASHION ADVICE FOR SENIORS– Despite what you may have seen on the streets, the following combinations DO NOT go together:

-A nose ring and bifocals
-Spiked hair and bald spots
-A pierced tongue and dentures
-Miniskirts and support hose
-Ankle bracelets and corn pads
-Speedos and cellulite
-A belly button ring and a gall bladder surgery scar
-Unbuttoned disco shirts and a heart monitor
-Midriff shirts and a midriff bulge
-Bikinis and liver spots
-Short shorts and varicose veins
-In-line skates and a walker

–from Nick Roberts

EVENT UPDATE–I am producing two events this year;One in NYC on July 24th- The 3rd Annual Ground Zero Independence Ride and a cross country ride that is being re-formed from last year. Name to be announced.

It was “America’s Ride” but the foundation turned out to be unscrupulous…and the attorney general of New York is all over them. We want to have a new name to disassociate from that event and foundation.

The cool thing is that the ride was fun, a real success! And a remarkable experience for so many people… they asked me to organize another one, and this time we will be able to raise real dollars to give away. Not deal with a crooked foundation who lines their own pockets and forgets their promises to people who are in need. We raised $55,000 in last years Ground Zero Independence Ride and it never got to anyone in need.

This time it is being done right. We have formed a board of directors and a ride committee. This is made up of riders who were on the ride last year, my Road Captains, Unions from all over the USA who are supporting us, and individuals who want to get involved. This way we can plan the highest and best use of each movement of the event.

It looks to be a very awesome time…so far the route looks like this…Leave 8.28 Paso Robles ( Or in wine country) head up to Tahoe, Utah, Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, either Cheyenne or Sturgis, Omaha – Rally 2 days, Danville IL, Ohio, New Castle PA, Shanksville PA, DC , outside Trenton NJ, up to Ground Zero on 9.11 and a culmination of the ride iin Central Park.

I will have press/marketing info after a meeting in NYC on Feb 7th and will keep you in the loop! I would love it if you were able to come along…it is an awesome ride through and awesome country…

–Jill

JANKLOW STURGIS PROTESTS PLANNED–Associated Press SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Some motorcycle groups plan to boycott the Sturgis motorcycle rally in response to what they consider lenient punishment given Bill Janklow.

The former South Dakota governor and congressman was sentenced Thursday to 100 days in jail for the August traffic death of motorcyclist Randy Scott of Hardwick, Minn.

Janklow must also pay $5,700 in fines, $5,000 in jail costs and be on probation and not drive for three years.

Some cyclists have petitioned organizations to back a rally freeze-out.

Internet message boards challenge Judge Rodney Steele’s position on the bench.

Others question why a state that collects more than $1 million a year in rally-related sales tax doesn’t protect riders with a stronger message to motorists.

–associated press

–from Rogue

CLASSIC WIRING DIAGRAM–We receive lots of wiring requests. I spotted this in Hard Core Choppers mag from Japan. We snagged it. It looks a lot like an old Hal Robinson wiring illustration. Hell, it’ll help me wire the Shrunken FXR.

BIKERNET PARENTAL DEPARTMENT– Two little kids are in a hospital, lying on stretchersnext to each other, outside the operating room.

The first kidleans over and asks,”What are you in here for?”

The second kidsays, “I’m in here to get my tonsils out and I’m a little nervous.”

The first kid says, “You’ve got nothing to worry about.

I had that done when I was four. They put you to sleep, and whenyou wake up, they give you lots of Jell-O and ice cream. It’s abreeze.”

The second kid then asks, “What are you here for?”

The first kid says, “A Circumcision.”

The second kid says, “Whoa, Good luck buddy, I hadthat done when I was born. Couldn’t walk for a year.”

–from Rev CarlR

IT’S HAPPY HOUR–I’m at a loss for words. I don’t have a goddamn thing to say, so I’ll take a break.

Have a helluva SuperBowl weekend. Hope your team wins. Promise me no DUIs.

Ride Forever,

–Bandit

Continued From Page 2

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT– Ok guys, what’s up with TV? I got to catch Southern Choppers, which is produced by the same guys that do American Chopper, and I’m sure most, if not all that watched the show noticed that. Let me state that Randy is a very talented and successful builder, and I have nothing whatsoever against him, ok so that cleared up…

It really makes me sick that the guys who are producing the shows are doing a stupid script for the guys to follow, and even editing that way, one of the things that I noticed right of the bat was Randy not smoking during the whole two hour show. Even the phrases and situation were very similar to the ones done in the OCC circus. The producers have taken the oldest scheme play, hero, anti hero, villain, etc and created a plot that is as old as dirt. The only difference is that now it’s about building choppers, if we can call them that. I would never dare call something from OCC a chopper. I know that is very difficult to actually express and pinpoint what a chopper actually is, but I know that long forks with every gadget in the book, overdone, over painted, over everything customs are not that.

It’s like the chick who is very beautiful with no makeup, but the producers of Miss America insist in having them all dressed up with ridiculous hairdos and faker than fake, which makes them plain ugly. I’ve got to give credit to the Southern Chopper crew, they built and created most of the parts from scratch, they showed how the talented and experienced do things, but then again the showmanship and scripts should be left to sitcoms and soaps. I can’t say since I have not been in that position yet, but it’s a tough call between getting the exposure and some guy calling the shots not letting you be yourself.

In these days of reality TV overload, there’s no such thing as reality because the script fucks it up and the same words are repeated over and over in each show. I really can’t say what I would do in their position; you have the possibility of showing your stuff to millions of people and raising your coffers at the same time, but would I loose who I am for a TV show? That is a thought call if not in that position, but I really doubt it.

It’s not a matter of me liking the bikes being built, I do have an opinion, but it’s my opinion, which is of no significance to any of them, it’s not a matter of caring about the sell out situation that we are living where you find chopper shirts in Wal-Mart and any major mega store, the times have made the chopper a hot commodity. Money is rolling and sadly most of the money is ending up in hands that have nothing to do with the industry at all, the mega corporations are devouring the fad.I certainly do prefer the Biker Build off’s, they seem to be a lot more real. Still it has a plot and is edited to evolve into a certain point, but builders do seem like they are themselves, which they are doing what they do day after day. We as chopper riders and builders are unique and unpredictable people, these shows are making us predictable and hence, boring.

I really don’t remember when was the last time I built something that wasn’t on a tight schedule; Daytona nor Sturgis wait for me to finish my bike. That is part of the whole thing. I don’t do a whole melodrama around the shop because the clock is ticking and Daytona is looming on the horizon. We just work our asses off and stay in the shop, working as long as it might be necessary even if it means three or four days with half hour cat naps. To many of us that is reality, not a made for mere Joe’s show.

I guess if I wasn’t so fucking busy all the time I would have a great time watching all the car and motorcycle shows you can find on cable right now. Seems like we can run a whole week schedule by these shows. Thanks to Jesse it’s cool to be able to work with your hands once more, to be a blue collar worker and the networks are having a feeding frenzy with that.Sure there is some very interesting stuff being done, and we are not experts in every aspect of building, but it’s so hard to sift the bullshit that it’s not worth the time to watch the whole show. A couple weeks ago I saw a guy TIG welding that had me drooling, those were the best welds I’ve ever seen, which led me to try improve myself. Or the long haired guy at Milwaukee Iron (Gary ?) who showed how to fabricate in the true sense, or the super cool tools that these guys have access to

It turns my stomach that our beloved lifestyle has gone public, every ass that walks over to us asks us about the OCC show and their bikes, they have no fucking idea what reality is. They stay away because they think all choppers are on the hundred grand mark and that is not positive for the industry. Sure we are known by millions of new people, but I guess not the right people, so what’s the use.

Just go cruise down Daytona streets, any punk ass wannabee with white tennis shoes and a Twinkie in the parking lot want’s a fucking 250 tired softail chopper with long forks and Easter egg paint jobs. What?s the use? They just traded their corny twinkies for corny, ugly ass choppers, yeah, softails since rigids are bad for my metro sexual back. Fuck ’em. Show me a jockey shift, kick only, rigid, homemade chopper and I will shove that fringe leather jacket, white tennis shoe, causeway posing, mother fucking grin up their collective asses.Show me those guys riding hard, and I mean hard, balls out, for a hundred miles rain or shine, and then blasting their precious rolling coffee tables all night long burning that 250 bubble yum and they might earn some of my limited respect.

Choppers are built to ride and beat the shit out of them. In some cases like Randy?s, he uses them as a platform for his latest products, magazines and such. I’m sure that after all the taping was done, he beat the shit out of that purple bike. After all, we are lucky enough that we can build another one, and the cycle starts once more. Choppers are not dick extensions, nor status symbols, they are machines to enjoy, use and abuse. They are part of us, of our frustration, sweat and bloody knuckles. When a TV show sees that, they will have my out most respect.

With this I will leave you guys until next week. It?s back to the shop to meet my deadlines, because Daytona does not wait for anyone and I don’t have a TV show to lay back on.

Jose Bikernet “as it used to be” Caribbean Report

GANGSTER CHOPPERS–Hey, this is JB…You might remember me from The Horse’s boards and mycalendar Customs and Cuties. Well, John Dodson, owner of Gangster Choppershas brought me on to take care of their Marketing Dept.

I was hoping that we could supply some pics from a recent photo shoot andwrite up on the bike used.

–JB
jb@gangsterchoppers.com
804-677-2809 (cell)

Whenever you’re ready Bikernet is standing by.–Bandit

PAINT REPORT FROM JIM’S–This barbed flame job paint, owned by Richard Slade, is a re-creation, with a lot more detail, of his lastpaint job. This is all HOK paint. His last paint job had no pinstriping,so this time I told him we were going to do it up. I used 2 colorsfor the striping to give it more contrast and to divide the 2 sets offlames. The base color is candy apple red.

As always, I work with the owner on the colors; makes for happycustomers.

— Jim
Jims Cycle Painting
1351 W. 134th St.
Gardena, Ca. 90247
(310) 329-4707

DAVID MANN BENEFIT RUN–Picked up a magazine at 7-11 I had not seen before and came across an ad for the First annual Benefit for David Mann at Kansas City International Raceway on July 17. Stated that there would be Bands, Food, Beverages, Vendors and more.

First I had heard of it or the rag called “Wide Open” and I think it’s a regional pub from MO, but sounded interesting.

Here’s David’s address for donations to his health fund: 9510 Parkwood St. in Kansas City, MO 64137. He can use all our support.

More good news. Dave’s art may be picked up by Segal Fine Art. That will mean that his historic art from the early years of Easyriders will be printed on the finest paper, framed, signed, numbered and available once again to the public. Look up Segalfineart.com and tell them your anxious to see and buy Dave’s classic biker art.

SOUTHERN CHOPPER SHOW–Just wanted to drop you guys a note about the Southern Chopper show I watched on the Discovery network the other night. You guys are the creme of the crop. Watching how you form flat sheet metal into tanks etc was simply awesome. These other bike builders (occ) buy almost all of their parts made by some other company then just put it together, very little of their stuff is made in house. Keep kicking their butts. Can’t wait till the next show.

–Larry L. Covington

WARNING SIGNS–The attached picture shows a sign in Japanese metro trains,”Priority seats for…………….” from left to right:

1. person with injured arm
2. person holding a child
3. pregnant woman
4. person with injured leg

Continued From Page 1

HANDMADE PIPES FROM SHAMROCK– I looked at the Shrunken FXR’s pipes. I thought you did a pretty good job on those!

In the same line, here’s a set of pipes I just pieced together for a client’s bike I’m building. He’s in Santa Fe, NM.

I had to clear his RHD 240 tire frame section. I assembled them similar to what you did. And, I’m out of the Holley pipe splices too, after this one!

–Irish Rich
http://www.shamrockfabrication.com

CHARLOTTE ER BIKE SHOW REPORT–This past Saturday (Jan. 24) the Easyriders bike show came to Charlotte. The weather was a great, 60 degrees and sunny. The next day we paid with an ice storm, but that’s another story. The show set records in attendance, 15,000. When “THE MEANEST” and I took a lunch break the entrance line was three blocks long and the wait to enter the show was said to be forty-five minutes to an hour. It was rumored that the fire marshall cut the line off until some had finished looking at all the bikes and left the show. There were 250 bikes entered in the show competition! Another record. There were bikes from all up and down the east coast. Take a look at the pictures and I think you will agree they were top quality. It was good to see all those people come out and support the show.

Paul Yaffe and Kendall Johnson were the big names at the show and both had bikes on display. There were top local builders in attendance as well. Mike Marquart and the crew from Redneck Ingeniuty were on hand with an impressive display of bikes as well as the coolest sofa (love seat). Randy Simpson and his crew from Milwaukee Iron were there with another impressive display of bikes. Gangster Choppers out of Virginia was another shop from Virginia. Billy and his crew from Eastside Choppers out of Myrtle Beach were there and he agreed to come up with a couple of awards for the 6th Annual Run For Breath “In Memory of Justin Pullin” to be held in July. Thanks Billy!

There were a lot of high dollar bikes in the show but there were a lot of old school affordable bikes there also. I am glad to see this style of bike coming back. It was a long day as “THE MEANEST” and I worked our booth (H-D of Charlotte) but it was fun to see everyone. At the end of the day, everyone had a blast.

Hey, only four more weeks until DAYTONA! Now if we can just get rid of this damned ICE! Oh one more thing, GO PANTHERS!

Later!
–Mike (THE STEALTH)

2004 LOS ANGELES CALENDAR BIKE SHOW EXIBITOR REGISTRATION OPEN– The Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show Weekend held at the Queen Mary Event Park in Long Beach, CA, and continues to grow each year as the most popular streetbike show in America. Catering to the custom, cruiser and sport streetbike markets, the Show is always the 3rd weekend of July.

The 2004 Show will again feature major spectator attendance with over 160 major manufacturers, exhibitors, venders and the leading custom bike builders from across North America. Performance Machine is the event’s title sponsor, with associate sponsors including Iron Works magazine, Jardine Performance with its West Coast Horsepower Dyno Shootout, Corona Extra beer, the FastDates.com Calendars, The Los Angeles Times / ReCycler / Cycle Buys, together with Trader Publications and SPEED TV’s American Thunder, The LA Calendar Motorcycle Show is the premier streetbike event weekend in America. Activities include our annual charity ride-in hosted by Iron Works magazine to benefit the Olive Crest Shelter for homeless and abused children and families.

For complete information on the 2004 LA Calendar Motorcycle Show go tohttp://www.FastDates.com/BIKESHOW.HTM

TIM CONDOR CUSTOM–

Walter asked me to send you a story on the “Economizer”. I told him to send you some more pics of him actually ridin’ it around too. Anyway, things are movin’ along and the shop should be up and running in another month. Here’s a few pics of my recent work, hope things are goin’ good man!

Check the Monster Garage Bike Feature in the Bike Barn (features) or on the homepage.

–Tim Conder
The Conderosa

BIKERNET LINE OF HATS–Light and airy Bikernet Gambler tweed hat for cool sun protection. Simple Soft black Bikernet Ballcaps. This one is top of the line bio-washed, six-panel twill, unstructured and set low. And there’s the Basic Black Bikernet Ballcap.

The Anti-Black Bikernet demin Ballcap, it’s six-panel, solid denim, unstructured, low-profile with a pre-curved visor and swen eyelets. Badassed black Bikernet Beanies. T

They’re all available in the Bikernet Gulch at the bottom of every page.

–Snake

Continued On Page 3

Life is bizarre. I’m not alone in my positive vibes regarding 2004, but it’s also not unanimous. There are troubled souls out there. On the other hand Layla is taking her first motorcycle training course tonight, heading toward a California MC license. We’re throwing her leg over a new rubbermounted Sportster in the near future. She’ll report, or get the wanderlust fever and run out on my ass. Let’s hit the news:

AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICELEGISLATIVE ALERT:ABATE OF VIRGINIA REQUESTS ASSISTANCE WITH HELMET REPEAL BILL–Dear NCOM — Our helmet reform bill HB374 has been assigned to the Transportation Committee. Our request to have it moved to the Militia, Police and Public Safety Committee (where we have many more friends) has been denied. We currently do not have the commitment of enough of the Transportation Committee members to get our bill out of there and heard on the floor of the House of Delegates. We are launching a massive email campaign to request support from across the nation in writing our delegates on that committee. If you could help in our efforts to spread the word to every biker in America, we would GREATLY appreciate it.

Here’s an excerpt of the info I recently sent out. It’s also on the Biker Net website at http://www.vabiker.net/html/modules.php?name=HelmetLaw2004

It is absolute vital that as many people as possible write the following Delegates of the Transportation Committee and request their support of HB374. The following is a list of Delegates who have not committed their support.

PLEASE – be respectful in your letters. REQUEST their support, don’t demand. I will post sample letters as quickly as I can.

I can not tell you how very urgent this is. Please take the time to write the following Delegates and urge their support of HB374:

Delegate G. Glenn Oder (R) – House District 94 – (804) 698-1094 email: Del_Oder@house.state.va.us
Delegate Thomas Davis Rust (R) – House District 86 – (804) 698-1086 email: Del_TRust@house.state.va.us
Delegate Timothy D. Hugo(R) – House District 40 – (804) 698-1040 email: Del_Hugo@house.state.va.us
Delegate Edward T. Scott (R) – House District 30 (804) 698-1030 email: Del_EScott@house.state.va.us
Delegate William H. Fralin, Jr. (R) – House District 17 (804) 698-1017 email: Del_Fralin@house.state.va.us
Delegate Brian J. Moran (D) – House District 46 – (804) 698-1046 email: Del_Moran@house.state.va.us
Delegate Jeion A. Ward (D) – House District 92 (804) 698-1092 email: Del_Ward@house.state.va.us
Delegate Adam P. Ebbin (D) – House District 49 (804) 698-1049 email:Del_Ebbin@house.state.va.us
Delegate Mamye E. BaCote (D) – House District 95 (804) 698-1095 email: Del_Bacote@house.state.va.us

We can not thank you enough for your help in this urgent matter.

Penny Adams ABATE of Virginia
usadams@adelphia.net

BIG DOG LANUCHES ENGAGING WEBSITE–Nation’s second largest V-Twin manufacturer gives on-line audiences a more comprehensive look at its bikes, history, and factory at www.bigdogmotorcycles.com.

WICHITA, Kansas (January 26, 2004), Big Dog Motorcycles (the leading designer and manufacturer of high performance, highly-styled heavyweight cruisers, has totally re-designed its website, making it the largest, most comprehensive interactive effort in the company?s history. Even on its first day, the visits doubled over the company’s former site, which was already considered heavily trafficked.

While the most viewed pages are those that describe the all-new Ridgeback, browsers can also take a ride through Big Dog Motorcycle’s past through a company timeline. This new feature contains thirteen vivid pages that celebrate the company’s rich ten-year history of cutting-edge design, company growth, and numerous successes.

All told, the new site contains nearly 400 images of motorcycles, components, accessories, and apparel; extensive product information; customer testimonies; upcoming events; an easy-to-use nationwide dealer locator, and, of course, the stunning monthly calendar girls and bikes. Regarding Big Dog Motorcycle’s new website, Nick Messer, president, said, “It’s the single most comprehensive collection of information on our company and bikes.”

With crisp colorful photographs of the overall bikes as well as numerous close-ups of components and design features, the site is true evidence of Big Dog Motorcycle’s core philosophy: Build cutting-edge cruisers for real-world riding.

INVESTMENT TIPS FOR 2004 In the wake of the Exxon/Mobile deal and the AOL/Time Warner implode, be aware of the next expected mergers so that you can get in onthe ground floor and make some BIG bucks. Watch for these consolidations in 2004:

1. Hale Business Systems, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Fuller Brush, and W. R. Grace Co. will merge and become: Hale, Mary, Fuller, Grace.

2. Polygram Records, Warner Bros., and Zesta Crackers join forces and become: Poly, Warner Cracker.

3. 3M will merge with Goodyear and issue forth as: MMMGood.

4. Zippo Manufacturing, Audi Motors, Dofasco, and Dakota Mining will merge and become: ZipAudiDoDa.

5. FedEx is expected to join its major competitor, UPS, and become: FedUP.

6. Fairchild Electronics and Honeywell Computers will become: Fairwell Honeychild.

7. Grey Poupon and Docker Pants are expected to become: Poupon Pants.

8. Knotts Berry Farm and the National Organization of Women will become: Knott NOW!

–from Chris T.

HUSBANDS STORE–A store that sells husbands has just opened in Ottawa where a woman may go to choose a husband from among many men. The store is comprised of 6 floors, and the men increase in positive attributes as the shopper ascends the flights. There is, however, a catch. As you open the door to any floor you may choose a man from that floor, but if you go up a floor, you cannot go back down except to exit the building.

So a woman goes to the shopping center to find a husband.

On the first floor the sign on the door reads: “Floor 1 – These men have jobs.”

The woman reads the sign and says to herself, “Well, that’s better than my last boyfriend, but I wonder what’s further up?” So up she goes.

The second floor sign reads: “Floor 2 – These men have jobs and love kids.”

The woman remarks to herself, “That’s great, but I wonder what’s further up?” And up she goes again.

The third floor sign reads: “Floor 3 – These men have jobs, love kids and are extremely good looking.”

“Hmmm, better” she says. “But I wonder what’s upstairs?”

The fourth floor sign reads: “Floor 4 – These men have jobs, love kids, are extremely good looking and help with the housework.”

“Wow!” exclaims the woman, “very tempting. BUT, there must be more further up!” And again she heads up another flight.

The fifth floor sign reads: “Floor 5 – These men have jobs, love kids, are extremely good looking, help with the housework and have a strong romantic streak.”

“Oh, mercy me! But just think… what must be awaiting me further on?” So up to the sixth floor she goes.

The sixth floor sign reads: “Floor 6 – You are visitor 3,456,789,012 to this floor. There are no men on this floor. This floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please. Thank you for shopping Husband Mart and have a nice day.”

–from Chris T.

JANKLOW CASE REPORT– The following statement is Bullshit. You, I and many others asked Darrel Killion and ABATE of South Dakota to get more actively involve in this case and he and ABATE of South Dakota chose to ride the fence.

As you know I have followed this closely and the articles that I have read from news sources in South Dakota indicate that Janklow?s sentence is Not Consistent with that of average citizens.

There is No Doubt that Abate of South Dakota was afraid of offending some one in the legislature should they come out against Janklow and his actions. The jury did its job and then the Judge and the Political Machine took over and ABATE just stood there and Watched.

Just to keep the record straight. I am a Life Time Member of Abate. I am one of the Original Members when it was started by Lou Kimzey. I have fought unjust laws all over the country and have even gone to jail for it. So Yes I Do Think I Have The Right To Speak On This Issue.

I feel that generally the ABATE Chapters around the country do a good job and I request you support them any way you can. I think that I do support them when ever I can, but I reserve the Right to Question things I do Not Agree With. This issue is one of them.

I think the Fact that the American Motorcycle Association, which is very conservative did more concerning this issue than ABATE speaks for itself.

I will address some of the other issues like what should be done to stop things like this happening in the future.

–ROGUE

The following is ABATE of South Dakota’s official response:

“While we feel that the sentence awarded to Bill Janklow should have included more than 100 days of jail time, the officers and Board of Directors of ABATE of South Dakota find the sentence generally consistent with the laws and resulting penalties of the justice system of the State of South Dakota.

“In as much as in many states similar accidents result in no penalty at all or at the most a small fine, and in as much as the penalty awarded to Bill Janklow was stiffer than in many similar cases in South Dakota, we believe that the South Dakota justice system has clearly demonstrated that a person’s political, social or economic stature has little bearing on the final outcome of such a case and that the final outcome was based on the circumstances and evidence surrounding this case.

“It is axiomatic that the jury system has fulfilled their duties with fairness and justice, as it is that the sentencing process is consistent with the laws of this state. Nevertheless, the Board of Directors of ABATE of South Dakota is currently deliberating on what the next step should be regarding the penalties in future cases.

“Many of the e-mails we have received clearly demonstrate that there are some that are very discontented with the sentence. Most of those emails are indicating that they intend to boycott South Dakota and the Sturgis Rally because of this. We find it quite unfair that these people would penalize the people of this state for something that they could not control, especially since many of the people that will be affected will be motorcyclists.

“The laws are what they are, and it is apparent that our laws and sentencing for similar cases are considerably more severe then they are in many other states. Granted, there is room for improvement, but boycotting South Dakota and the Sturgis Rally will not accomplish such changes but will only serve to hamper any progress we may hope to achieve.”

–Darrel Killion
State Coordinator
ABATE of South Dakota

HATE YOUR JOB? On your way home from work, stop at your pharmacy and go to the thermometer section and purchase a rectal thermometer made by Johnson and Johnson. Be very sure you get this brand.

When you get home, lock your doors,draw the curtains and disconnect the phone so you will not be disturbed. Change into very comfortable clothing and lie down on your bed. Open thepackage and remove the thermometer. Carefully place it on the bedside table so that it will not become chipped or broken.

Take out the literature and read it carefully. You will notice that in small print there is a statement, “Every rectal thermometer made by Johnson and Johnson is personally tested”.

Now, close your eyes and repeat out loud five times: “I am sooooooooooo glad I do not work for quality control at Johnson and Johnson.”

Have a nice day and remember, there is always someone with a worse job than yours!

–from Rev CarlR

BIKERNET STICKERS AVAILABLE–You can score Bikernet Sticker absolutely free. Just send us a stamped self-addressed envelope and we’ll stuff it with stickers. Send it to Bikernet, P.O. box 1168, San Pedro, CA 90733.

CLUB RAID A BUST–There was a lot of man power but no arrests made when about 100 local and federal law enforcement officers raided a Hells Angels compound.

“We’re looking for any illegal contraband,” Berkeley County Sheriff Wayne DeWitt said Friday afternoon. “The investigation may broaden.”

DeWitt said the raid stemmed from an arrest made earlier in the week of a man whose address was the Hells Angels compound.

Officers chopped through the lock and used explosives to open a steel door on Friday only to find an empty clubhouse and no illegal activity at the Sineath Estates mobile home park just off U.S. Highway 78.

Sheriff’s deputies from Charleston and Berkeley counties, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and the Goose Creek Police Department’s SWAT team participated in the raid.

DeWitt said the overwhelming show of force was meant to protect officers.

–from Rogue

HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE, MYRTLE BEACH– Guess what? Well you won’t be able to because this is too cool……I got a big sponsor and we are on the road kicking off at Myrtle Beach!

Soooo drum roll….R & R Promotions announces the Seminole HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE! This is a touring showcase of four of our top custom builders featuring their Hard Rock custom bikes and situated at the hottest spots at five rallies. Builders featured are Eddie Trotta, Chica, Corey Ness and Kendall Johnson. Rallies on the 2004 tour include Myrtle Beach, Laconia, Sturgis, BIketoberfest and Fort Lauderdale.

Anyone can enter to win one of the four custom Hard Rock bikes. Grand prize finalists will be drawn at each rally and win a trip to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in December at the Fort Lauderdale Sun Run. Already with 75,000 in attendance. There, one person will win his choice of one of the four Hard Rock bikes. Other prizes will be from sponsors.

The HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE will feature entertainment, the builders and their Hard Rock bikes, the Hard Rock gals, Hawaiin Tropic models, Gibson Guitars and more!

–Carrie

Continued On Page 2

Continued From Page 2

QUOTE OF THE DAY — “Life isn’t like a box of chocolates…it’s more like a jar of jalapenos. What you do today, might burn your ass tomorrow.”

–from Christ T

NAG, NAG, NAG– An attorney arrived home late one evening after a very taxing day trying to get a stay of execution for a client named William Wright who was due to be hanged for murder at midnight. His last minute plea for clemency to the state governor had failed and he was feeling tired and depressed.

As soon as he got through the door his wife started on about, “What time of night do you call this? Where the hell have you been?” and so on.

Too shattered to play his usual role in this familiar ritual, he poured himself a very large whisky and headed off to the bathroom for a long hot soak — pursued by the predictable sarcastic remarks.

While he was in the bath the phone rang, which the wife answered to be told that her husband’s client had been granted his stay of execution after all.

Realizing what a day he must have had, she relented a little and went upstairs to give him the good news. As she opened the bathroom door she was greeted by the sight of her husband’s rear view as he bent naked over the bath cleaning the tub.

“They’re not hanging Wright tonight,” she said, at which the attorney whirled round and screamed hysterically, “For crying out loud woman, don’t you ever stop?”

BE CAREFUL OF CELL PHONES–Identity Thief. Keep a watch out for people standing near you at retailstores, restaurants, grocery stores, etc., that have a cellphone in hand.

With the new camera cell phones, they can take a pictureof your credit card, which gives them your name, number,and expiration date. Identification theft is one of the fastest growingscams today, and this is just another example of the means that arebeing used.

THE STEALTH REPORT–The big news here in Charlotte is the Panthers are in the Super Bowl! Here at H.D. of Charlotte we are doing two Sportster gas tanks commemorating the victory in the NFC championship game. One is for #77 Kris Jenkins, all pro defensive tackle for the Panthers and the other is to keep here at the shop after it is autographed by all the Panthers. Kris rides a black 2002 Road King Classic and is a supporter of the Run For Breath. He always comes up big for us in the way of door prizes. Congratulations to Kris and all the Panthers! By the way, Mr. Bandit the home of the Panthers is Charlotte NORTH CAROLINA! NOT South Carolina!

The Meanest and I are trying to get a web site up and running for the Run For Breath. Well I should say mostly The Meanest is working on it. She is the “high tech” one of the two of us. It should be up soon with pictures from past runs and info on the upcoming run this year, so stay tuned.

This weekend, Saturday (Jan. 24th) the Easyriders bike show comes to Charlotte. The Charlotte show is #2 in attendance second only to the three day Invitational Easyriders show in Columbus Ohio! Charlotte is a hot bed for motorcycles and local builders. They all turn out for this show for local bragging rites. There is a lot of bike building talent in and around the Charlotte area as well as some top notch painters. So if you are in the Charlotte area stop by. The show will be held downtown at the Charlotte Convention Center, 501 South College St., 704-339-6000. I will have a full report with photos next week.

Hey it is only five weeks until Daytona Bike Wee and that means spring is right around the corner, so get those winter projects buttoned up, it will be riding season soon! Hang in there winter will be history soon!

Later!
–Mike(THE STEALTH)

BIKERNET DESERT ADVICE–A modern day cowboy had spent many days crossing the Californiadesert without water. His horse had already died of thirst. He wascrawling through the sand, certain that he had breathed his last,when all of a sudden, he saw an object sticking out of the sandseveral yards ahead of him.

He crawled up to the object, pulled it out of the sand, anddiscovered what looked to be an old briefcase. He opened it and outpopped a genie. But this was no ordinary genie. She was wearing anInternal Revenue Service, ID badge and a dull gray dress. There wasa calculator sticking out of her pocketbook, and she also had apencil tucked behind one ear.

“Well, cowboy”, said the genie. “You know how I work, you have three wishes.”

“I’m not falling for this,” says the cowboy. “I’m not going totrust an IRS auditor genie.”

“What do you have to lose, she says, You’ve got notransportation, and it looks like you’re a goner anyway.”

The cowboy thought about this for a minute, and decided that thegenie was right.

“OK,” he ventured, “I wish I were in a lush oasis with plenty of foodand drink.”

***POOF***

The cowboy found himself in the most beautiful oasis he had ever seen. And he was surrounded with jugs of wine and platters of delicacies.

“OK, cowpoke, what’s your second wish,” says the genie. “My second wish is that I become rich beyond my wildest dreams.”

***POOF***

The man finds himself surrounded by treasure chests filled with raregold coins and precious gems.

“OK, cowpuncher, says the genie, You have just one more wish. Bettermake it a good one!”

After thinking for a few minutes, the cowboy says, “I wish that nomatter where I go, beautiful women will want and need me.”

***POOF***

He is turned into a tampon.

THE MORAL OF THE STORY: If the government offers you anything,there’s going to be a string attached.

–Rogue

NEW FROM MR. LUCKY, DELTA 88– “Wanted to keep it retro/vintage looking, but using up to datebrakes etc………hope you like it!” said Ed Martin. We will feature this bike next week and commemorate the “Rebirth” of Jammer Cycle Parts.

“Mr Lucky’s”

Here’s a new product from Mr. Lucky’s story. Rigid saddlebags.

COLLIER DEPUTY THREW GIRLFRIENDS’S DRUG PIPES IN LAKE– NAPLES, Fla. – A sheriff’s deputy has been put on probation for throwing his girlfriend’s drug pipes in a lake and telling her to flush a bag of what he thought was marijuana down a toilet.

Collier County sheriff’s Cpl. Stan Cochran, 24, acknowledged taking the pipes from his live-in girlfriend and driving them to a lake in his marked patrol car.

Cochran told investigators he knew he should have notified his supervisors.

“I was going through a situation that I was trying to clear up and I was hoping to avoid any publicity and embarrassment at work,” he said. “I was hoping to resolve it without having to get other people involved.”

Cochran was put on six month’s probation, given a letter of counseling and will have to forgo a $400 raise for not following procedures, according to an internal affairs report.

Sheriff Don Hunter said Cochran, who joined the agency in 1999, could have been punished more severely had he been more experienced and if he had been on duty at the time.

“His behavior on duty is more strictly controlled,” he said. “Off-duty behavior is much harder.”

–from Rogue

MORE TECHS COMING TO BIKERNET–Watch for them. Here’s a close up shot of an early transmission breather screw from Frank Kaisler. Don’t forget it.

WEAPONS CHARGE– A member of the Hells Angels motorcycle club is being charged with illegal possession of deadly firearms and accused of stockpiling an arsenal of weapons inside his Douglaston, Queens home.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown says 39-year-old Gregory Heine is a past president of the club’s New York City Chapter. Brown says there were 41 weapons — including rifles, shot guns and handguns in the house.

Heine faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of the weapons possession charge.

Brown says the officers found four rifles, two shot guns, 16 revolvers and 19 semi-automatic and automatic pistols. Brown says Heine was returned to Queens last night for arraignment on the weapons charges. He’s being held on $100,000 bail.

BIKERNET WINNERS–I know we snooze some times, I know we could be a little more pro-active on picking winners. But sometimes we really are so busy; we don?t have time for sex. I mean if you had to choose, sex, pick winners, sex, I choose sex, but this week I’ll pick a couple of winners as well. Here they are:

RON VANDEGRIFT from HOUSTON, TX
Suggestion: MAIL DROP FOR US BIKERS THAT WANT TO LEAVE OUR BITCHY WIVES AND HIT THE OPEN ROAD. SOMETHING WHERE WE COULD COMMUNICATE WITH OUR FRIENDS THROUGH BIKERNET AND NOT BE TRACED AS TO OUR PRESENT LOCATION.
Wanted: THE NERVE TO LEAVE MY BITCHY WIFE AND NOT HAVE HER TAKE EVERYTHING THAT I OWN.

I hope this guys wife doesn?t read Bikernet! He?s gonna get a new Bikernet.com hat not even available in the Gulch yet. He?ll be the first.

And for the Cantina winner:

Ernest (BIG E) from Weldon, NC
Wanted: Bikernet t shirt 3x

VL TECH DISCUSSION– The article ( http://www.bikernet.com/garage/PageViewer.asp?PageID=102 ) is very nice, good pics and text. However, with your permission, a few comments?

The bike shown on Page 1 is not a VL, it’s a 1936 RL 45″ (year based on the tank decal). The right side chain is a dead give-away; also the front frame tube, motor top end, trans cover, brake linkage and front wheel also very different.There is also a mistake on how the conversion was done (which I also sent to Shamrock–see rebuttal below).

The VL motor’s front mount is at the same height (vs. rear mount) as the 1937-48 UL and 1936-47 OHV motors, but .375″ higher than the 1948-* OHV motors. The only factory install (1948 U) had a spacer (24795-48) under the front mount.This means that when a 1948-* motor is installed in a 1930-47 frame, the front mounts will make contact when there is still 3/8″ of space under the rear mount. The usual method of bolting down the rear mount first to determine alignment does not work here.

The reason they had a misalignment with the front mount in the project is that when they bolted the rear down first, it angled the motor down in the rear, so both mounts were off. A 3/8″ spacer under the rear mount would have cured the misalignment but also raised the motor a bit.

–Jeff Diamond

REBUTTAL FROM RICH–“I modify the VL frames the way Randy Smith showed me how to in his shop (Custom Cycle Engineering), on Canal St., in Long Beach, over 35 years ago.

With his method of fitting a Big Twin into a VL frame, I have never had an engine/drivetrain alignment problem, nor have I had any frame breakage problems. This is the way Randy put them in, and it works.

As far as raising the rear mount 3/8″ to “cure” the misalignment problem on the front motor mount – while this MIGHT work in the case of a UL or a Knuckle, because of the additional height of the Pan, and Shovel engines over the Flattie/Knuck, there is barely enough room to trim the casting as it is to fit them in. Raising them an additional 3/8″ would render the seatpost/backbone forging in that?area?DANGEROUSLY thin to accomplish this, and allow clearance for the engine. Also, the area would be too narrow to allow welder access, to weld the seam on the other side of the gusset plates. This 3/8″ spacer here is not an option For a Pan, or a Shovel.

Also, some VL front engine pad forgings?are so narrow and short,?that sometimes it is impossible to line the existing holes in the mount up with the front case ears of a Pan or a Shovel, and do not allow redrilling the forging with any material surrounding the holes left. Hence, the reason for adding the 1/8″ thick plate to the mount there, and bolting the rear of the engine up first, then redrilling the front mounting holes, using the ears for a pattern. Adding material to the end, or side of the existing forging alone, to allow you enough “meat” to drill your front mounting holes is also not an option here either. ”

You’ll have to take the heat for the bike picture, I didn’t include this in the article, you guys added it.

Regards, Rich
Visit our website:
http://www.shamrockfabrication.com

WOW! I’VE GOT TO BLAZE–Need to load and roll. Forgive me, if this news is out of wack. I’ll report on the show in the Sunday Post.

Ride Forever,
–Bandit

Continued From Page 1

OVERFLOW CROWD EXPECTED IN FLANDREAU COURTROOM FOR SENTENCING–Anyone hoping to witness former U.S. Rep. Bill Janklow’s sentencing today in Flandreau needs to arrive early and be ready to wait.

The hearing has generated national interest rivaling the congressman’s manslaughter trial in December, when several sessions drew capacity crowds and left wishful spectators standing outside of court.

Today, the Moody County Courthouse doors will open at 8 a.m. The third-floor courtroom will open at 10 a.m.The hearing begins at 1:30 p.m.

Most of the seating in the 91-seat courtroom will not be first-come, first-served, said court administrator Patricia Garcia Duggan. She is reserving 40 seats for the families of Janklow and motorcyclist Randy Scott. Another 30 seats will be for members of the news media, who are asked to meet at noon in the Farmers Room at the courthouse.

That will leave 25 seats for the general public, who will get priority based on when they arrive – if they are willing to wait.

–By Jon Walkerjwalker@argusleader.com

–from Rogue

NEW GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA LANGUAGE–The New California Governor has just announced an agreement whereby English will be the official language of the state, rather than German, which was the other possibility. As part of the negotiations, The Terminator’s Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a 5-year phase-in plan that would become known as “Austro-English” (or, perhaps even better, “Austrionics”.)

In the first year, “s” will replace the soft “c”. Sertainly, this will make the sivil servants jump with joy. The hard “c” will be dropped in favour of the “k”. This should klear up konfusion, and keyboards kan have one less letter.

There will be growing publik enthusiasm in the sekond year when the troublesome “ph” will be replaced with the “f”. This will make words like fotograf 20% shorter.

In the 3rd year, publik akseptanse of the new spelling kan be expekted to reach the stage where more komplikated changes are possible. Governments will enkourage the removal of double letters, which have always ben a deterent to akurate speling. Also, al wil agre that the horibl mes of the silent “e” in the languag is disgrasful and it should go away.

By the 4th yer peopl wil be reseptiv to steps such as replasing “th” with “z” and “w” with “v”.

During ze fifz yer, ze unesesary “o” kan be dropd from vords kontaining “ou” and after ziz fifz yer, ve vil hav reil sensibl riten styl. Zer vil be no mor trubl or difikultis and evrivun vil find it ezi tu understand ech oza. Ze drem of a united urop vil finali kum tru.

If zis mad yu smil, pleas pas it on to oza pepl.

–from Chris T.

Old shots from Bob T.

DON’T MISS THE NEW CANTINA BABES–Join today, get a signed copy of Sam “Chopper” Orwell and a chance to see some of the hottest babes on the planet.

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT– One more week and we are still knee deep in the new place. I’m saying this since more or less all my time is spent there, so I really don’t know what the fuck is going on in the outside world. So, if the news for the past weeks (and this one) sounds kind of weak, you know the reason. I guess to top that off we are franticly trying to finish the choppers for Daytona, so it’s a fuckin’ full plate.

Speaking of Daytona, we will be there. We have got together with a few friends and managed to secure a pretty cool spot. Indian Larry, Billy Lane, Chica, Hank Young, Fabricator Kevin, Bikerspot and us will be there. The spot is right across the street from the Wreck at the end of Main Street heading towards Beach street (the bridge) so if you feel like it, come meet us there. The Horse will have their headquarters located at the Last resort, and the chopper show will take place the last Saturday of Bike Week, the guest judge will be Chopper Dave.

We are planning on having a nice setup for those of you who are interested in coming to Puerto Rico next December for our event, we are trying to take some time to film a cool video here, wish us luck. Also, the international launch of BikerSpot magazine for the Spanish speaking bikers will happen. There will be plenty magazines to give away, so come on by; for sure it will be a good time.I guess I will be talking more about this as the time comes, also we will be surrounded by the Discovery participants and the two new competitors, yeap, Chica and Hank Young.

By the way, these guys are going to battle it out in Feb. at the Louisville Easyriders show, so get there and vote for what you think is the best.

Anyway, I’m out of here, got to get back and work some more…..

Jose Bikernet Caribbean report

SHOOTING SUSPECT–Baltimore County police are one step closer to finding the reported motorcycle club member who allegedly shot two men at an Edgemere night club on Jan. 2.

Last Thursday, police issued a warrant for Essex resident Michael James Moore, 42, charging him with two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree assault and one count of using a handgun in a crime of violence, according to a police press release.

Police connected Moore, whose last known address was in the 1000 block of N. Marlyn Avenue, with the shooting of Charles Zepp, 23, of Eldersburg and Timothy McDowell, 38, of Frederick after an argument at Club Tattle Tails in the 2100 block of Sparrows Point Road.

Moore is a Hells Angels member who police believe became angry with the two men in part because they belong to a rival club, police said.

Zepp, who was shot in the chest, and McDowell, who was shot in the right hip while chasing Moore and a second man, were identified by witnesses as wearing the colors of the Pagans motorcycle club, police said.

Both men were flown to the Maryland Shock Trauma Center, according to police spokesman Ofc. Shawn Vinson.

–from Rogue

SCOTT ATTRONEY NOTED FOR HIGH-PROFILE CASES–Scott attorney noted for high-profile casesMeshbesher’s fame goes beyond legal circles.Ronald Meshbesher is known in Minnesota for helping murder defendants stay out of prison and for helping the public understand difficult legal questions.Now he’s the lawyer suing Bill Janklow for money in a civil lawsuit filed by the family of motorcyclist Randy Scott.

“He’s one of the most well-prepared lawyers you would ever run across, a very smart person, extremely hard-working and respected by all of the judges he’s appeared before,” said Rob Leighton, a lawyer in St. Paul.

Meshbesher, 70, is the lead name in the Minneapolis firm Meshbesher & Spence, which is known for representing families such as the Scotts in cases involving personal injury and wrongful death. The top two items on the firm’s Web site tell of settlements of $11 million and $35 million.

–by Jon Walker,jwalker@argusleader.com

–from Rogue

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