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Read More May 29, 2003 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
Old shot from Bob T.
THE BIKERNET OZARK REPORT–I sent Ozark Ed an e-mail during the tornado outburst in Oklahoma, to see if he was still alive and had some beer–Bandit.
We’re ok but shit happened all around us. It’s normal stuff out here. Things have been kinda quiet. Skits is coming around again but he’s still up the girls ass most of the time. He still hasn’t got his bike on the road, so he’s missing all the riding. Bald head Pete and me have been doing the tit bar tour. Last Saturday we went to this bar on the river, and I saw one of the guys I rode to Sturgis with last year. He’s already working on me to go.
Tall Randy came over Friday. He bought a one-wheel trailer to pull behind his big old bagger. We are going on our 9th year-in-a-row mountain ride/campout, in two weeks, and he’s toting the beer in the new trailer. That’s always been a problem because the area where muster in is dry and you have to haul your own libations. It’s difficult to tote beer and ice on a bike, when you got all your camping gear tied on. We have been taking beer then stopping about 10 miles from first nights camp and buying a bunch of ice then making a beer pile on the ground. It’s never makes it till morning. The next days beer is hot and we just suffer. This trailer deal will be the shit. Paw Paw, Toothless Rick, Pete, Mark, KC, and Frank are all going for sure. Several others might go, but they aren’t sure yet. I’m really looking forward to this because most of the guys live in different places, and we rarely all get together at one time.
Five years in a row we have been jacked by the skinny little ranger, who thinks the whole damn national forest is his. So we’re a little loud. So it’s a little late. we’re out in the middle of nowhere, and the only person we bother is him. He lives about five miles from where we camp, but we’re in a deep valley and the sound carries for a long way. Paw Paw has a habit of “checking his battery” periodically through the night. That usually gets him out for the first warning. We know that on the third warning he’s getting a little cranky, so we crash and try to get a little rest for the next day’s ride. We usually cover 3 or 4 hundred miles of mountains before we get to the little party town where the clubs are. It’s a beautiful ride. We leave on Friday, come home Sunday. I’ll report on the trip on Monday, If I remember. I’ll take the digital camera and send some photos. Plan on coming next year.
–Ozark Ed
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COMMAND POSTS SET UP TO RESTRICT THUNDER IN THE CANYON–It was the Creek County Sheriff’s Office in Oklahoma (Near Tulsa), against a motorcycle rally in Mannford, OK called “The Thunder in theCanyon.” It started in the Tulsa World Newspaper when the Chief Deputy, MikeO’Keefe, called all the bikers that were planning on going to the rally”outlaw bikers” and vowed to establish a “command post” and “24 hoursurveillance” of the rally.
In the week before the rally he gathered up abunch of residents in Mannford and took them to a pheasant dinner and showedthem videos of car bombings, homicide scenes. rape victims, shootings,stabbings, horrible explosions of homes and buildings, etc., etc. He toldthe residents that they should expect what they were seeing in the videos ifthe rally were allowed to happen.
When the rally day came around he set up a roadblock and started stoppingall the bikes in the area. It was a mess. A nasty discombobulated mess. Now,my site makes fun of the whole sorted mess and a run on the County Seat,Sapulpa, is in the works.
–Johnny O
LA CALENDAR UPDATE–Things are kicking into high gear for the annual Los Angeles Calendar Motorcycle Show weekend scheduled for July 19-20th at the Queen Mary Event Park, Long Beach, CA, is held right on the edge of the beautiful Pacific Ocean overlooking Long Beach Harbor. Sponsored by Iron Works magazine, Performance Machine, Corona Beer, Bikernet.com, The Los Angeles Times/Recycler /Cycle Buys, AutoTrader.com Publications, the FastDates.com Calendars and Speed Channel’s American Thunder, The LA Calendar Motorcycle Show has continued to grow every year to become the biggest and most popular streetbike show in America catering to the custom, cruiser and sportbike markets. Always the 3rd weekend of July, the 12th Annual Show is scheduled for Saturday July 19th and Sunday July 20th, 2003, and is expected to draw some 20,000 motorcycle enthusiasts.
Spectators and Exhibitors can find out more about The LA Calendar Motorcycle Show and all the available weekend activities, hotels and improved parking online at www.FastDates.com/BIKESHOW.HTM.
HANDLING PROBLEMS?–A buddy of mine, Will Phillips, has created a product designed to prevent rear-end walking on dressers. TRUETRACK (TRUE-TRACK.com, June 2003), is a device to keep Dresser swingarm pivots (rubbermounts) anchored in the chassis. They stop REARSTEER and chassis flexing.
MYSTERY MOTORCYCLE–I heard a rumble about a new Harley model. Have you heard anything on the LOTR? I’m guessing it’s a Low Rider Touring Bike but I’m probably way off base.
Believe it or not, it’s a Lord of the Rings Harley Chopper.Guess my editor was testing me…the asshole! It only took me 10 minutes of research to find it. I’m getting old and slow I guess.
–TBear
NEW AMERICAN RIDER HITS THE STANDS–It’s the August 2003 issue and hosts all new S&S, 145-inch customs, the Blacked-out King and a Big Dog/Bull Dog road test featuring our own Brenda Fox. Whatta babe. Check it out. We’re trying to improve this mag. Send me your thoughts: Bandit@bikernet.com. Enjoy.
I’M LOST–It’s one of those days that all builders experience. There’s a fog hanging over the harbor. The sun is attempting to break through, so there’s heavy humidity hanging in the air. I have five projects in the works, but each one is waiting on chrome, powder, paint or some goddamn thing. Even that damn trophy (above), I’m building for the Run For Breath is waiting the plaque from the engraver.
There’s not much happening this weekend and I’m looking forward to the peace, but I’ll go crazy after sitting on my ass for five minutes.
I need some action. We have a vast array of Bikernet material in a holding pattern waiting for the Digital Gangster to surface. We received a cryptic note an hour ago indicating that he might return from the dead.
I have a lingering sense that I need to ride this weekend. I could find Sin’s new apartment and see if I can bust her with May Ling or Coral. That would spice up the weekend. Then I’ll snort bad air into the desert and leave the city behind. I need to post a couple of shots of the King. It’s looking sharp, and would look even cleaner with sand dunes and cactus off in the background. Let’s ride.
–Bandit
Check Out The New Fiction — Page 1
New Tech Article By TBear Page 1
May 29, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
Custom Chrome ? and Chrome Specialties ??have joined forces to bring you the most comprehensive product offering in the Harley-Davidson ? aftermarket! At over 1,400 pages and over 25,000 part numbers, our 2003 Catalog features everything from nuts & bolts to HR3 bike kits, and sets the NEW industry standard. ?
?ONLY $9.95 + 6.95 Shipping**
Once you find the part you need, go in to Chrome Specialties down below and order online! It’s that simple.?
BIKERNET SURVEY–CHROME SCRATCHES–A reader recently wrote in concerning feather scratches in his chrome. Let us know what your solutions are?Here’s his latest, “I called Maguiars this morning and bought their “#28 All Metal Polish”. They said I will be surprise after using their products”, and if I’m not satisfied, I will get full refund. They also agree with me not use the machine buffing (buffing will be the last resource) because it will reduce the coating on the metal or on the paint. Buffing by hand is the best way to go. So, stay tune.”
BIKERNET CODE OF THE WEEK– “A person’s true character is revealed by what he does when no one is watching.”
–from Chris T.
CONVERTING A 6-VOLT SYSTEM TO 12–We recently turned a ’62 Panhead from 6 to 12-volts. All the parts were ordered out of the new Custom Chrome catalog. Here’s a quote from the owner:
“I didn’t want to stop so I kept riding to the 105 frwy, and then turnedaround for home. The ride is the best since the first day I rode it.Thanks a million.”
Aloha, RSB
www.IMBACADEMY.com
We hope to feature this 30-year-old custom in American Rider or Horse soon. It’s not often that old school is original. This bike is a classic.
BUICK HAS GONE OVER THE EDGE–Taking a wee break from the golf circuit, Tiger Woods drove his new Buick Rendezvous into an Irish gas station.An attendant greeted him in typical Irish manner, unaware who the golf pro was……”Top of the mornin’ to ya”.
As Tiger got out of the car, two tees fell out of his pocket.
“So what are those son?” asked the attendant.
“They’re called tees” replied Tiger.
“And what would ya be usin’ ’em for, now?” inquired the Irishman.
“Well, they’re for resting my balls on when I drive.” replied Tiger.
“AW, Jaysus, Mary an’ Joseph!” exclaimed the Irish attendant. “Those fellas at Buick think of everything!”
–from Chris T.
MOTORCYCLE HISTORY FROM BUCK–I noticed the California motorbike piece, did you know the first person to cross the transcontinental United States using a self propelled vehicle was motorcycle rider on a California motorbike. He didn’t get credit for this feat until 1979 when Rider Magazine republished the original story first published in 1903 Motorcyclist Magazine. He rode on the railroad ties following rail road route all the way to NY. I have a copy of that August 1979 Rider Magazine story with the photos they used (shitty pics).
Originally, a Dentist driving a four wheeled vehicle was given credit for the first crossing of the US in a self propelled vehicle, that information has been corrected.
–Buck
Rivera Engineering
THE NINE IMPORTANT MEN IN A WOMAN’S LIFE–
1. THE DOCTOR: because he says, “Take your clothes off.”
2. THE DENTIST: because he says, “Open wide.”
3. THE HAIRDRESSER: because he says, “Do you want it teased or blown?”
4. THE MILKMAN: because he says, “Do you want it in the front or the back?”
5. THE INTERIOR DECORATOR: because he says, “Once it’s in, you’ll love it!”
6. THE STOCK BROKER: because he says, “It will rise right up, fluctuate for a while, and then slowly fall back again.”
7. THE BANKER: because he says, “If you take it out too soon, you’ll lose interest.
8. THE HUNTER: because he goes deep in the bush, shoots twice, and always eats what he shoots.
9. THE TELEPHONE GUY: because he says, “Would you like it on the table or up against the wall?
–from Chris T.
THE TOURING CHOPPER LIVES–I found this guy on the web. He also happens to be linked thru bikernet,www.stainlessmotorcycles.com Bill Shirtcliff. I worked with him off and onfor 9-10 months. I asked him to make a scale model, he said his work wasonly sculpture. This is his best work to date.
He sent pictures and Iwouldcomment and he made adjustments. There is no detail left out. It’sabout 7-8″ long. He had never made a spoke wheel before. the detail andsymmetry is unbelievable. If you look very closely at the neck the WCCbadgeis there.
It looks 10 times cooler in person. This is a truly one off deal.
I am getting kind of tired of people coming up to me and saying “I knowwho’s bike this is”. So I resigned to the fact that since I had nothing todo with its creation I am really just riding it for the time. >
–Garth
BIKERNET RELATIONSHIP ADVICE–A woman walks into a pharmacy and asks the pharmacist for some arsenic.
He asks “What for?”
She says “I want to kill my husband”.
He says “Sorry, I can’t do that.”
She then reaches into her handbag and pulls out a photo of her husband inbed with the pharmacist’s wife and hands it to him.
He looks at it and says, “You didn’t tell me you had a prescription!”
–from Chris T.
Continued On Page 4
May 29, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
ROLLA FATTY APPAREL– ROLLAFATTY apparel just released (ROLLAFATTY.COM, June 2003). Screen printed shirts, embroidered Flexfit hats and knit caps.
–Wil
(818) 445 6204
BIKERNET READER PRODUCT SUGGESTION–S&S “Intellegent ignition system” with a knock sensor and heat sensorsautomatically adjusts timing for Twin Cam and Evo.
–David Pascaralla
BIKERNET MEDICAL ADVICE–An 86-year-old man went to his doctor for his annual checkup. The doctor asks him how he’s feeling and the 86-year-old says, “I’ve never felt better. I now have a 20 year-old bride who is pregnant with my child. What do you think about that?”
The doctor considers his question for a minute and then begins. “I have an 85 year old friend, much like yourself, who is an avid trophy hunter and never misses a season. One day, when he was going out hunting, he was in a bit of a hurry and accidentally picked up his walking cane instead of his gun. When he got to the creek, he saw a prime beaver sitting beside the stream of water. He raised his cane and went ‘bang, bang’. Suddenly, two shots rang out and the beaver fell over dead. What do you think of that?”
The 86-year-old said, “I’d say somebody else pumped the bullets into that beaver.”
The doctor replied . . “My point exactly.”
–from Rev CarlR
SUPER MAX HAS BEEN IN THE BELT DRIVE BUSINESS FOR 30 YEARS. WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN OUR PRODUCTS AND THEIR DURABUILITY– OUR PARTS COST MORE BUT THEY ARE WORTH IT. OUR MOTTO; “BUY YOUR LAST BELT DRIVE FIRST.”
IF YOU WISH TO DISCUSS YOUR INSTALLATION, CALL ME PERSONALLY..PHIL ROSS. OWNER/FOUNDER 661-548-6000 10 TO 5 PACIFIC TIME.
My hotmail mail box is too small. Please change our email address to — Phil Ross, SMP DISCOVERY FINALLY RECOGNIZES HAMSTERS–Finally the long awaited Hamsters show! Turn on your sets and pop the popcorn! The Hamsters/Arlen TV special will air June 1st on Discovery at 8:00 or 9:00 pm, check your local listings. I’m told that if it pulls good ratings they will do another! Happy Viewing! –Patty NEW PRODUCT OF THE WEEK–Make a tool box out of yer fridge.http://www.toocoolkits.com/Front-Page.htm –from RFR BIKERNET RULES OF LIFE–Sometimes we need to remember WHAT the Rules of life really are. 1. Never give yourself a haircut after three alcoholic beverages of any kind. and it should, use WD-40. If it moves and shouldn’t, use the tape. 3. The five most essential words for a healthy, vital relationship are “I apologize” and “You are right.” 4. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them. 5. When you make a mistake, make amends immediately. It’s easier to eat crow while it’s still warm. 6. The only really good advice that your mother ever gave you was: “Go! You might meet somebody!” 7. If he/she says that you are too good for him/her – believe them. 8. Learn to pick your battles. Ask yourself, ‘Will this matter one year from now? How about one month? One week? One day?’ 9. Never pass up an opportunity to pee. 10. If you woke up breathing, congratulations! You have another chance! 11. Living well really is the best revenge. Being miserable because of a bad or former relationship just might mean that the other person was right about you. 12. Work is good, but it’s not that important. 13. And finally; Be really nice to your friends and family. You never know when you are going to need them to empty your bedpan. –from Bob T.
BEACH RIDE BIKE–The Beach Ride is Kickin’ for the Exceptional Children’s Foundation again this year for the 11 annual ride and concert at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California. Bikernet is a sponsor and we are building a Beach Ride Bike to help promote the September 7th, one-day blow-out. Don’t miss it.
Contact me if you want to enter a bike in the show. We plan to feature a major builder and hope to have some fine antique bikes from the Chris Bunch and Dave Hansen collection.This is just an image of the Custom Chrome Goliath bike-inna-box kit we are building with a Bandit touch. The bike will be for sale at the event. Watch it come together right here on Bikernet and in American Rider.
Continued On Page 3
May 29, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit |
I’m trying to get a handle on the day. We’ve just kicked off a project bike in the middle of finishing a ’62 Pan 6 to 12-Volt conversion, the Shrunken FXR, the King and a Run For Breath show trophy sculpture. Most of the above will be covered in the news.
We shipped some of the parts off to Custom Powder Coating in Dallas today and the sheet metal was hauled to Sandini’s for paint. We’re turnin’ into a bike shop. That’s cool but where’s the whiskey and women. I need a break. Let’s hit the news:
RUN FOR BREATH UPDATE–Just got back from the Run to the Wall in Washington D.C. I am still drying out! Last Thursday I had planned to ride to my brother Gary’s place in Virginia. Well, Thursday morning it was raining, like pouring piss out of a boot. I reluctantly loaded my bike in a downpour and headed to Va.
I arrived that afternoon and it was still raining, it continued until Saturday. We finally got to ride some Saturday afternoon with Gary and my old riding partner Mike J. Mike showed me the ropes way back when I first got into bikes. He is a stand up guy. We headed off to Waugh Harley-Davidson in Orange Va. They are good people. The first H-D I ever bought, a ’79 Sportster came from Waugh’s place.
A little info on how I got that bike: I filled out the credit application and it didn’t go through for one reason or another, age, no prior credit etc. I was really disappointed when they called and told me that I had been turned down. Later on I got a call from Mr. Waugh (Hoss as he is known) saying not to worry. He told me to come by the shop. When I arrived he said he trusted me and he would co-sign the loan. I was blown away. I never let him down and bought three other Harleys from him. Like I said they are good people!
Well back on track now, we left the shop and visited another of my old riding partners, Neal. Neal has always been too kool for school and he is one of the best horse traders I know, iron horses that is. We hung out and talked about old times, then headed back to Gary’s. We watched the weather channel every hour and it predicted 77 degrees and partly cloudy, yeah right!
That night Stacey and Marlon called and said they would meet us Sunday morning. I hadn’t seen Stacey in at least 15 years! Marlon and Stacey are long time riders and great guys to be around. Finally, 6 a.m. Sunday morning arrived and we walked out into a cloudy damp dark sky. Remember the forcast??? We met everyone for breakfast and on the way out the skies opened up, big time. There was some discussion as to whether or not to continue. Everyone looked at each other and without saying another word everyone knew the answer was “Hell no” we are going to ride. I think it had to do with all of us having a chance to ride together again and for a very special reason. There is a special bond between true friends and riding brothers that time and distance can never erase.
On the way, in the rain, I thought about how the people whose names are engraved on that black wall who didn’t have a choice to fight that war. They fought if it rained, if it was cold or through whatever they were asked to face. They hit the line in all conditions, so while I was riding, I thought about how being in the rain and cold (55 degrees-that forecast again) was the least we could do to pay our respects and to say thank you for preserving our freedom. To all whose names are engraved upon the Vietnam wall and to all veterans of all our wars, we salute you and honor you. Overall my trip was a good one. I saw my family and some of my best riding brothers. It was well worth being wet all weekend and as “THE MEANEST” would say “If you ride long enough, you are going to get wet!”
–Mike Pullin
Mike Pullin is the Founder of the Run For Breath out of Charlotte H-D in North Carolina.
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HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES ?OPERATION MISSION ACCOMPLISHED?–H-D and Buell Extend Warranty Coverage for Deployed Military Personnel in Middle East
MILWAUKEE, WI (May 26, 2003) – Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Buell Motorcycle Company recently announced the implementation of ?Operation Mission Accomplished,? a plan to extend warranty coverage to military personnel recently deployed in support of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
?Everyone at Harley-Davidson and Buell recognizes the sacrifice made by men and women from the many nations involved in recent military efforts in the Middle East region,? said Steve Phillips, Vice President of Quality, Reliability and Technical Service. ?This program will acknowledge that effort by extending the warranty on Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles owned by those who have served and been unable to ride while they were on duty.?
The program will apply to owners of Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycles who are coalition military personnel from any country deployed to an area controlled by CENTCOM, or deployed in support of coalition operations in the Middle East from November 1, 2001, until June 1, 2003. If their motorcycle is under warranty, Harley-Davidson and Buell will provide an extension of the 12-month factory warranty for the number of days they were deployed to account for the balance of the remaining warranty period. If the warranty on any of their Harley-Davidson or Buell motorcycles expired while they were deployed in the designated areas, Harley-Davidson will offer additional warranty coverage for a period of time equal to the length of their deployment, but not to exceed the original 12 month factory warranty period.
Harley-Davidson and Buell owners who believe they are eligible for Operation Mission Accomplished should see their local dealer upon return from deployment for details on applying for the program.
FIRST ISLAND ALL-CHOPPERS SHOW–is drawing builders from all over the world. Billy Lane will be there from Florida. Jose from Puerto Rico is surfing in. Hell, I’m a bike judge for the show, so I better be there.
–Bandit
Continued On Page 2
Justin’s Trophy
By Bandit |
There’s a party weekend in Charlotte each year that culminates ina Sunday gathering and a grand bike show. The humid weekend escapewas created five years ago by Mike Pullin a member of the CharlotteH-D team, after his son, Justin, died of asthma complications whileMike was on a run.Mike discovered, that the American Lung Association createdcamps for educating asthma inflicted kids, parents and friends on howto deal with lung associated complications. With the correctinformation, used promptly at the proper time, kids can surviveasthma attacks readily and live long healthy lives. This crucialknowledge is critical for kids, so Mike kicked off this party weekendto support the learning camps and make a hearty donation to theAmerican Lung Association program. For two years Bandit was the proudgrand marshal of this event, “Bikernet will support and sponsor thisweekend for as long as Mike’s involved,” Bandit said recently after athree-day drunk.This year Bandit couldn’t attend, but got a call from Mike’sbetter half, Meanest, who also works at the dealership. “Bandit,” Shesaid in distinctive southern slippery words that slid through thereceiver and lingered on his ear lobe, like butter running off astack of pancakes, “honey, since you can’t make it to the event, Iwould sure appreciate it if you would make us a special trophy forthe Best of Show Class.”
Could Bandit turn her down? There’s no way he could musterthe heartless nature to deny this woman and or the event that meansso much to this bikin’ community. Besides, he had recently purchaseda new Millermatic 175 MIG welder and needed the practice.
“Of course, baby,” he said into the phone to her glee. He pondereda variety of Rube Goldberg art objects, turned trophies at lastyear’s HORSE Smoke-Out. Hackasaw welded various motorcycle partstogether, then chromed the H-D part number trophies and presentedthem to Edge, the show promoter. The winners were dazzled by thecreative nature and the deft construction and welding abilities.
Bandit was challenged. Could he weld a myriad of ring gears,clutch hubs and connecting rods together to create a 50 pound tributeto the Best Of Show Bike? He was perplexed. He brought up his pappy,a big surly bastard who ran a machine shop for a nationwide oil welltesting company. The man welded oil derricks together, if needed,during his 40-years in the oil fields. His law of welding was, “Neverlose the bead,” he grumbled and reveled in vast deep burn wounds,”even if you catch fire. Just keep welding, someone will put youout.” Bandit watched him, as a kid, arc weld with bare hands, theslag sizzling on the back of his scarred paws. He wouldn’t flinchuntil the job was done. “Boot tough and rattlesnake mean,” DavidMann, the artist, said about Bandit’s dad.
The old man made some of the finest metal art sculpturesI’ve ever had the privilege of viewing. He handled iron like asculptor molds clay. With his artistic tradition in mind Bandit wentto work. He’s been welding for 30 years, off and on. Back in the 70she made towel racks with worn out chains. Door knobs were brazedtranny gears and cam shafts. There were motorcycle kitchen utensilsthat never wore out.
He scratched his thinning hair and faced the project athand. Bad Brad, who stops by the headquarters from time to time,delivered chunks of iron and steel. Bandit planned a new steel-basedfence for the headquarters made out of angle iron, solid steelspikes, corrugated steel sheets and old bike wheels . We’ll report onthat later. The ILWU Union man recently brought dropped off a 6-footlength of 6-inch diameter, scrap steel tubing. It was Bandit’sinspiration. He decided to form the leather jacketed arm of a manholding a wheel for the world to see.
We started the project by cutting the steel tubing with areciprocating saw then split it down the middle with a cutting torch.Bandit dug out his HA leather shirt and studied the cuff and cut ofthe forearm. He needed heat like a blacksmith. He cut a wedge out ofthe tubing with the torch then created a stand for his rose bud tip,which you can see in the back of some of these shots. With thatblasting away and a set of vice grips firmly clamped to the tubing hebegan pounding the red hot mild steel until he blacksmithed thedesired shape. Another portion of the rusty tubing was used for thebuttoned placket.
Here’s the beginning of the segment-built base and a mild-steelring Bandit decided to use for the wheel rim. He has a dozen of theserings, that he’s carried and moved from place to place for 20 years.It’s about time he found a use for them.
While hunting through a metal supply joint, Banditdiscovered pressed segments of steel scattered around the concretedeck under the hole-punch machine and hit up one of the workers. Thebiker/employee looked both ways and let Bandit bag a bunch of punchedout hole segments. You can order a sheet of steel with holespressed into it without drilling. Massive hole-punchers snap roundshapes out of the material with immense strength. Some were an inchthick. They’re like thick, mild steel, quarters, dimes and fifty-centpieces. He used them to form the trophy base, then welded themtogether with the Miller MIG welder. He also used various sizedsegments to form the initial shape of the hand. After the base forthe palm was welded together, he began to fill and shape the musclesof the hand with beads of weld. He made the wrist long enough toprotrude deep into the sleeve or be adjusted to fit.
The process continued from weekend to weekend. The Bikernetschedule is hectic and a stack of articles, to be written edited andprepared for posting, grew. If Bandit was missing from his desk, weimmediately checked to see if sparks were flying in the garage. Inthe old days he found time behind a doobie to lose himself in theflame of a cutting torch. “It was actually a good feeling todisappear in the quiet cubicle of steel and wail away,” Banditmumbled. One afternoon he snuck out of the headquarters and dugthrough drawers to find just the right hub-nut for the trophy wheel.He bought some 1/8-inch diameter brazing rod for spokes and went towork building the wheel. The rods are labeled bronze, yet to Banditthey’re brass. With the wheel set aside and the sleeve MIG welded tothe base, the hand was the difficult sculpture’s task ahead.
Bandit attempted to carve out an afternoon for Trophy progress. ASaturday afternoon availed itself and he hauled ass to the garage,but as he snapped on the Miller MIG his weld sputtered unnaturally.He double-checked the setting on the dinky 50-pound tank filled withArgon and Carbon Dioxide (75%-25%). It was next to empty. Two morebeads and welding was shut down for the rest of the day.
The headquarters went into red alert for an Argon refill. It wasafter noon on a Saturday–welding supply joints were closed… Therewas hell to pay until Monday.
With a new gas supply torqued into place, he went after thehand like Frankenstein forming the monster. He welded long flowingbeads, then yanked off his welding glove to inspect the lines andcurves of his right hand. Back and forth he poured long beads of mildsteel in patterns to mirror a fortune teller’s image of his palm.With a satisfactory underside region “in hand”, he turned the10-pound claw over and began to work the wrist area. Then it dawnedon the big bastard, “I better bend this sonuvabitch,” Bandit growled,”before I started forming the back of the hand and knuckles.”
The tough part was bending the hand. Some of the elementswere almost 1-inch thick. Bandit used vice-grips and chunks of pipeshoved over the massive fingers to pull the palm into shape, whilepouring on the flames for heat. He yanked, snarled, lurched and beatit with a ballpeen hammer. He broke digits off and had to re-weldthem, but with the garage fuming with steaming sweat and the heat ofred hot chunks of steel and torches ablaze, it began to take shape.
Finally, Bandit started to fill in the back of the handand build the knuckles. MIG welding is like working in a pitchblack tunnel. You can’t see shit until you strike an arc. Then youcan only view about a 1/4-inch radius circle from where the wire isfeeding. You can slow your progress, or weave in the same area, butwhile you’re trying to find your bearing or direction, you’rebuilding a puddle of molten, red-hot metal. Your mind must fixate onthe position of the wire and give guidance immediately to your hand,as the wire feed won’t stop and allow you to check out thesituation. The more he worked with the excellent MIG machine, themore he adjusted his sight to see ahead and understand the form orshape he was searching for.
The monster’s hand took form and he studied every element forneeded filling and shaping. The wheel actually slipped between thethumb and forefinger effortlessly and seemed to fit snugly, as if themonster had come to life and knew its mission was to clutch theultimate symbol of motorcycling forever more. The wrist fit neatly inthe sleeve and Bandit welded it into an everlasting position and thenwelded the wheel.
Bandit was fortunate to have several true, trained artist, who arelife long friends, and are only to happy to tell him when his designis shit. Nuttboy, who teaches art at several colleges and ChrisKallas, a biker artist who’s work is for sale in the Bikernet gulch,risked their lives to stick their heads in our garage from time totime. Nuttboy told Bandit to go wild with the buttons he planned forthe lapel of the sleeve. He pondered polished brass nuts, but whileworking on the King, discovered a couple of chromed license plateskulls with 1/4-20 studs on the back. He drilled and taped the holes.The skulls fit neatly into place. It was beginning to take shape.
Bandit contacted “Meanest” and requested the exact wording, sheneeded engraved into the trophy for the Best of Show recipient. Shedictated each word to him, in no uncertain terms. May Ling, the newgirl, feverishly hauled ass to the San Pedro trophy barn where sheordered a brushed brass plate engraved in black. It took the trophybastard longer to computer-engrave a 2-inch piece of brass than ittook Bandit to hand make the goddamn trophy.
Bandit asked his artist friends for finish input. He had chromecredit and considered show chrome. Chrome has strange effects onvarious objects. It reflects the world, which works for custom parts,but often not on sculptures. Nuttboy again stepped up to the plate,since Chris sensed an evil spirit in Bandit’s seaweed green eyes,each time he lit the torch. Nuttboy suggested Bandit leave thecorrosion-covered sleeve alone and bead-blast or wire brush the handand base to give those areas a variety of treatments. Bandit sortatook his Ph.D. advice. He polished the wheel and spokes, thenwire-brushed the hand and the base.
When it came to the sleeve, he learned something about MIGwelding. There are anti-splatter sprays to prevent slag from stickingto the welded surface and to the MIG tip. He hadn’t experienced thistreatment, so the trophy was scattered with small beads of weld. Hecouldn’t leave the steel leather sleeve alone. He wire brushed it,but only to remove the slag. The rusty hue and the varied corrodedpits remained.
Finally he dug through the garage box of spray cans for a heavyclear coat. He discovered Rust-oleum gloss, metal clear and dousedthe trophy. After it dried he peeled the skin off the double sidedtape, on the back of the engraved brass plaque, and stuck it againstthe welded billboard. Done deal.
Two more tasks await. Sin Wu will find a thick felt lining to beglued to the bottom to prevent the 40-pound trophy for cutting thesurface of furniture. The lovely one also suggested a light droppedin the depths of the sleeve, so he will drill a hole in the back foran extension cord. We’ll post another shot of it glowing. Hang on.
For information regarding the July 27th Run For Breath, contactMeanest or Mike Pullin at Harley-Davidson of Charlotte, (704)847-4647. Don’t forget to compete for this trophy by entering yourbike. Make sure you have a back-up truck to haul the trophy.
–Wrench
JW Design
By Bandit |
Jesse from JW Design contacted us here at Bikernet back in Octoberinquiring about a link. When I asked what he was all about, this is whatI received back. Anyone who’ll go through the trouble of giving us thelowdown on their business along with photos, deserves their fifteenminutes of Bikernet fame. Jesse doesn’t need to blow his own horn because I thinkhis style and integrity speaks for itself. All he had to do was give ushis info, we’ll blow the horn for him. Layla
I started JW Design about 10 years ago as a side line business in mygarage, In November 2000, I decided to go full time and haven’t lookedback. A friend of mine built and maintains my web site. WWW.TRICKPAINT.COM has anextensive gallery that in continuously updated and provides my clientsfrom all over the world a chance to see the superior quality work we do hereand see their bike on the web.
In order to insure the highest quality for my clients I do all thepaint and airbrush work myself. JW Design does custom metal work in house like rivetshaving, light recessing, fender stretching etc…
At www.trickpaint.com JW Design, customer service is #1. I work veryclosely with each client to insure I know exactly what they want in their custompaint, It doesn’t matter how nice I think the paint looks, if thecustomer’snot happy, the jobs not done.
The snake bike owned by Chad Eaton of the Seahawks, mentioned below,won best custom paint at the Seattle Roadster Show.
He wanted it to look like a snake was laying on topof the bike. I used 3 different House of Kolor “camelian” kolors to get avery unusual effect, of course the pics don’t really show that. I fullymolded the frame and one piece softail fender. I also did all the final finishshaping of both fenders. This entire job took only 21 days to complete andget back to Classic Iron works in Redmond Wa. for assembly.
“Flames” pretty much speaks for it self. I like to add specialeffectsto my flames to give them a unique look with lots of depth and life.especially in the sun light.
“Walkers tank” is all custom mixed candy colors. This is a hand-stretched tank.
Freedom Stands Tall
-Jess
JW Design
(509) 664-1051
Jesse@Trickpaint.com
You can see a LOT more of Jesse’s work here on his gallery page. It’s worth a look.
May 22, 2003 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–When you have a chance to see more of the World, not just only what goes on in the US, sure we have a pretty big American influence here in Puerto Rico. But we also have better contact with the rest of what goes on in the World. We happen to be pretty lucky and have friends in the industry all over. We receive magazines from Japan, Sweden, France and Finland, to name a few.
It’s interesting to see what is going on in those places bike wise, or chopper wise. For example Vibes from Japan, 316 high quality pages, pretty impressive. Since I don’t understand Japanese, I just look at the pictures, but like someone said a zillion years ago, a picture is worth a thousand words. I have the Daytona issue so there’s a lot of bikes I have seen before, but one thing, the magazine shows only choppers, old school choppers if possible. The craze in Japan is for older stuff. There’s many ads of simply ! built “old school” new bikes. I mean, if you have seen Zero’s stuff, the style is very similar. As well as the old parts, a lot of the ad pages are filled with older repro parts, grips, twisted springers, helmets and the such, very few if any ” billet” stuff. This very interesting to me, one nation that is known as the top producer of ultra high tech gadgetry lays back in the form of the old bikes, the Americana that keeps linging around after so many years. To be fair I don’t know if there’s other magazines in the land of the rising sun, Vibes is the only one I have seen, but the looks of it and the massive publication, Old School rules in Japan. (You missed Hard Core Choppers, Japan.–Bandit)
Let’s take Kopteri in Finland as another example. Those guys have to suffer thru inhumane winters. Most of the bikes there are choppers as well, old motors, old style, a lot of hand fabricated parts and tricks. Of course the riding season is very short, so they have time to work on those bikes, and perfect them. In this magazine you see anything from Hondas, to Beemers, Trumps and Harleys, since the actual Big Twins are pretty limited in such a country and the prices sky high. It normal to see choppers built from the ground up and most of the parts hand made by the owner.
Same as Sweden and Scan Bike, the Swedish style is a bit different and there’s such a big market there for Choppers that a few companies are totally dedicated to them, such as Tolle or Flathead Power. This Scandinavian countries are total nuts for long ass choppers. Most are on the verge or being barely legal, but that is what rocks their boat. They also have a keen eye for detail, since once again their winters are long and hard. I think I have talked about Freeway here before. I notice style changes as the climates get warmer. Those guys mix the greaser and Kustom Kulture style, with motards and street fighters. Some of the bikes in french magazines are more elaborate, some even fuckin weird, but I have seen a few of those bikes, including Belgium, that are totally insane and cool as shit !
They also are heavy into the Old School theme, the rock a billy look, pompadours and cuffed Levi’s, riding atop a pretty cool bobber with red rims and white walls. But you also see the high tech billetry bikes that we see rolling (or trailered) in the US. I see a lot of mix and match and precise bodywork in the French magazines, amongst the latest of the late in US building, Jesse James and Billy Lane are common faces in their pages.
Germany has several magazines, we have seen the spartan “farm tractor” preferences of German builders, kinda like the bikes Exile builds in California, but also a lot of overdone, carbon copies of American bikes. Germans are known for their craftsmanship, their eye for detail and machinery domination. The German choppers have an unusual flavor. Also on the lower echelons there’s a taste for the old stuff, and you can see really cool bikes like the smooth flowing Walz Hardcore that are really clean.
From Spain we have received Custom Machines, it’s loaded with similar bikes as it’s French counterpart, but also the Spaniards are big in the street fighter scene and really weird looking hybrids between let’s say a Ducati Monster and a Sportster. We have even received magazines from Brazil, but I was way too busy checking out the Carioca beauties in minimal bikinis to notice the bikes. I caught some Harley style bikes, but also a lot of Jap speed bikes and even dual purpose.
I know this is a world wide site, we reach everyone and their mothers , but most don’t have the chance to write here. I don’t know if it’s interesting to our readers to keep an eye on the chopper matters of the World, but it certainly is to me.One thing I note from all this magazine overload, is that the Old School bikes and the choppers are ruling the land. These people have a deep respect for the past, for the beginning of “chopperism” as we know it, and we shall not abandon it. We’ve got to keep close to our roots, since without past, there’s no present.
See, I can write a whole story without bashing anyone……..Let’s see next week….
And now to the News….
We have been told that the crew from Orange County Choppers had a space leased (kind of a Disco) in Myrtle Beach and were charging 2 bucks or so for access to their bikes and autographs… Maybe this is a landmark on what high visibility builders will do in the future. I hope not. Oh well.. maybe it’s to pay for all those TV shows…. Who knows ??
Jesse James was featured last Monday at the David Letterman show, he ” presented” New York City with the flavor of how to turn a Hot Dog cart into a 1200 hp dragster. He pulled it off even after all permits got cancelled for driving the beast down the street. Watch for the actual transformation….
Discovery Channel is at it again, the week end of May 31st will be loaded with pure motorcycle shows, and I mean, our kind of motorcycles…. Check you local listings for dates and time.
Speaking of Discovery and Jesse, keep your eyes peeled for an upcoming issue of The Horse, where the man get’s down and dirty, the no bull interview. Soon grasshopper…soon…
And speaking of The Horse, The 4th Smoke Out is coming pretty soon, for more info get the mag or check their site……
More on The Horse…. at last I have gotten my own bit in the magazine. In upcoming issues I will have a section to vent my thoughts… More or less what I do here week after week….So I’m going to save some bitterness and sarcasm for the mag pages…. You guys can’t get all the good stuff all the time…Right ? Keep your eyes peeled and my e-mail address handy…. Hell will be a cool place after I’m done.
As I have been promising for a few weeks now (yeap just like you were a hot chick I was trying to bang) here’s a couple shots of the build progress. I hope by next week we will have some more… We are putting a lot of overtime on this chop (yeap so what is fuckin’ new…) But there’s a lot more to come.
Well guys…I’m keeping this short and sweet, gotta go back and grease them paws a bit more, if I ever want to make it on time to the damn Smoke Out……
–Jose Bikernet Caribbean Report,,, (and a very mild one I might add)
SPECIAL HARLEY-DAVIDSON DISPLAY TO HONOR 100TH ANNIVERSARY AT RENO’S NATIONAL AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM– Reno, NV-This is the 100th anniversary of that remarkable American icon, the Harley-Davidson motorcycle and to mark the occasion the National Automobile Museum (The Harrah Collection) will feature an amazing collection of these marvelous machines, May 21 through Sept. 29.
The Museum exhibit, “Harley-Davidson Centennial,” is sponsored by Harley-Davidson of Reno.
The Harley motorcycles will be on display in the Museum’s changing exhibits gallery and all from the collection of Ronald Paugh, President of Paughco, Inc., in Carson City, Nev.
Along with the 16 Harleys that will be displayed there will be clothing, images, collectibles and the history of this now 100-year-old company.
The Harleys on exhibit will take visitors through the history of the company starting with a 1915 Model 11-J. The others include: a 1927 Peashooter race bike, 1938 Knuckle Head, 1941 Flat Head, 1942 WLA Military, 1946 Knuckle Head Bobber, 1948 125 Model S, 1957 Hydra Glide, 1961 Duo Glide, 1965 Electric Glide, 1972 Super Glide, 1978 Low Rider, 1980 XR750 racing bike and a present day custom chopper. There will also be the Captain America chopper from the 1969 movie classic “Easy Rider.”
A YOUNG WOMAN FROM BIKERNET– A young woman was so depressed that she decided to end her life by throwing herself into the ocean. She went down to the docks and was about to leap into the frigid water when a handsome young sailor saw her tottering on the edge of the pier crying.
He took pity on her and said, “Look, you’ve got a lot to live for. I’m off to Europe in the morning, and if you like, I can stow you away on my ship. I’ll take good care of you and bring you food every day.”
Moving closer he slipped his arm round her shoulder and added: “I’ll keep you happy, and you’ll keep me happy”. The girl nodded yes. After all, what did she have to lose?
That night, the sailor brought her aboard and hid her in a lifeboat. From then on every night he brought her three sandwiches and a piece of fruit and they made passionate love until dawn.
Three weeks later, during a routine inspection, she was discovered by the captain. “What are you doing here?” the Captain asked.
“I have an arrangement with one of the your sailors,” she explained. “I get food and a trip to Europe, and he’s screwing me.”
“He sure is, lady,” the Captain said. “This is the Staten Island Ferry.”
THAT’S ALL I CAN STAND–In an hour a Goliath bike-in-a-box kit is being delivered to our door. We’re going to build it at the headquarters and bring you reports on our progress. Brought to life, it will promote the Beach Ride, September 7, at the Queen Mary in Long Beach. Black Oak Arkansas will be one of the headliners.
We will flush out the Custom Chrome kit with a Bandit touch, surfer’s image on the tanks and Beach Ride logos. It will be for sale in September. You’ll see it sparkle here on Bikernet and in American Rider magazine.
It’s been a wild day, the sun is out, we turned the lights out at noon and hid out for an hour. I need to clear out the garage, then plan for a wild Tattoo Convention weekend. Have a helluva holiday.
–Bandit
May 22, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
BIKER GIRLS: BORN TO BE WILD–Blaze exciting new trails with America’s hottest, hippest, happiestfreewheeling duo! Bikers Sasha Mullins and Vicki Gray are two attractive,single, funny outgoing young women with a penchant for true adventure.Experience the U.S. of A. like you never have before as our daring youngtour guides stumble upon the quirkiest, most interesting and irresistiblesights, sounds, people, flavors, places and things while road trippingacross America.
World Premiere of the new series.
TLC – The Learning Channel
Wednesday, July 2
10 – 11 PM
Watch for it!!
–Sasha
A TRIBUTE TO NUTTBOY’S MENTOR–The wiry, young man in the photo is Gene Odenbreit- a cigar chomping, Red Man chewing, whiskey drinking, bicycle shop owner, WWII navy veteran, child of the 30’s Depression, history buff, conversational raconteur, consummate machinist, life-time motorcycle rider, husband, father and friend. He bought this 1935 flathead VL Harley-Davidson 74 in 1938 (he never bought ‘new’), then sold it in 1939 to pay for his son’s birth. He died on October 9, 2000. His death created an empty place for all who knew him.
–Nuttboy
SONS OF LIBERTY RIDERS E-NEWS–NCOM 2003 May 8-11, 2003Legislative Task Force Meeting. Bill Bish spoke first on EPA issues facing bikers. Bill informed usHarley Davidson contacted the EPA in favor of even tougher standards thanoriginally proposed by the EPA provided smaller manufactures would berequired to also abide by the rules. Seems H-D is willing to sell outAmerican Bikers as longs as it helps them corner the market with the help ofthe government. H-D can pass the regulations because of the averaging ofemissions of their various products including the cleaner burning V-Rod.Using the pollution credits from V-Rods sold Harley has an advantage overother Air-Cooled V-Twin manufactures. The new regulations will result inmuch quieter motorcycles; modified bikes will be easy to hear and will gainadded attention from the police. How long till anti tampering equipment willbe standard? EPA agents posing as citizens wishing to remove emissioncontrol equipment now target car shop owners; how long before biker shopswill be the target of EPA agents?
Sputnik of TMRA II spoke of the bill his organization is working oncurrently. Sput also mentioned many SMRO’s are working Right-of-Way Bills.He also spoke of how TMRA II has gained control of the Democratic Party inTexas; TMRA II is now eyeing the Republican Party too. TMRA II currentlyhas 6 TMRA II members serving in the State House and 2 in the State Senate.
Patriot Act Workshop
The hazards and lost of freedom due to the Patriot Act were discussed.Several rights guaranteed in the bill of rights have been compromised. The4th and 5th amendments have been greatly compromised with no counsel, rovingwiretaps, and sneak and peek searches. The rich elite will continue to takeaway our liberties unless we take a stand. The RICO Act narrowly survived a supreme court ruling this year.Legislators did not read the Patriot Act before voting to pass it into law.Caesar and Hitler both passed similar legislation in the past. Patriot ActII has not yet been passed into law and it desires our attention to stop itspassage. PA II will damage the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 10th amendments if itis passed. One very troubling aspect of the PA II is the ability to removecitizenship from native-born Americans.
White House Pokes Gun Owners in the Eye
Gun Owners of America
8001 Forbes Place, Suite 102
Springfield, VA 22151
(703)321-8585
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) introduced legislation yesterday toreauthorize the ban on scores of semi-automatic firearms.As a result, reporters asked White House spokesman Ari Fleischer for thePresident’s position. Fleischer said, “Often, the president will agree…with the National Rifle Association. On this issue, he does not.”The bottom line? The President supports the ban on many semi-automaticfirearms and on magazines holding 10 rounds or more.
The White House seems to think that the bill will never reach thePresident’s desk. At least that is what top officials are counting on. Inpursuing this strategy, they are trying to please both sides and are playinga very dangerous game, to be sure.
ACTION: Please use the pre-written text below to guide your response to theWhite House. It is preferred that you call. But if you can only e-mail,please be sure to do that.You can visit the Gun Owners Legislative Action Center athttp://www.gunowners.org/activism.htm to send a pre-written e-mail messageto President Bush. To call or snail mail the President regarding thesemi-auto ban, you can use the following contact info:
President George Bush
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20500
Fax: 202-456-2461 or 202-456-1907
Phone: 202-456-1414
–Hawk
>ICQ 34668186
AOL SoLRHawk
THE CYRIL HUZE REPORT–Even if it doesn’t look like it at first glance, almost every week our website at In page “Downloads” you can download for free a new screensaver and 3 desktop wallpapers featuring our most recent custom bikes “Exotika”, “Surreal Huze” and “Tattoo Chop”. These wallpapers can be downloaded in the resolution of your computer screen. In page “Projects” you can see the 1st pictures of a new built Chopper called “Stray Kat”( Check the exhaust & the trim body work all over the bike, and come back every week for more pictures of the work in progress). In section “Online Catalog”, go to see the new Goodson retro air cleaners (22 carburetor applications), and custom exhausts from Cyril Huze & Martin Bros. Myrtle Beach Bike Week It was sunny, it was rainy, it was sunny again. “Broadway At The Beach” is still one of the best places to set up during the national show tour. A lot of parking places, good restaurants & shops, a very relaxed atmosphere, and many, many friends, motorcycle dealers & retail clients visiting us to chat around our bikes. Myrtle Beach confirms over and over the 2 big customization trends: Choppers getting more retro, and Softail getting lower and lower at the neck with a more aggressive stance (See our bikes “Tattoo Chop”, “America”. “Exotika”, “Surreal Huze”). We ended up the week by a big scare. Leaving the city on Sunday morning by the US 17 Bypass, we found a way to wrapped up our trailer around an electric pole on the side of the highway. No scratches for us, but the trailer is dead, our displays exploded, but no bike were damaged….because they were no more in our trailer (thanks God, given back to their respective clients the evening before). So, we are in the market for a new rig. New Book We received confirmation that the new coffee table book written and photographed by Tom Zimberoff “Haute Moteur. The Art Of The Chopper” will be in bookstores in September. For the readers, in addition to a selection of the best customs in the world, the big surprise will probably be the unusual black & white pictures (for now we will not tell you more) of the following master builders (by order of apparition in the book): Arlen Ness, Billy Lane, Chica, Cyril Huze, Dave Perewitz, Donnie smith, Eddie Trotta, Mitchell Russell, Jerry Covington, Jim Nasi, Martin Bros, Matt Hotch, Mitch Bergeron, Pat Kennedy, Paul Yaffe, Pontarelli, Roger Bourget, Ron Simms and Teutul. A must gift for all those addicted to custom motorcycles. You can visit Tim Zimberoff website and see his celebrities pictures going to: Customs Forever! –Cyril Huze Custom JUST LIKE A WOMAN–Paul returned from a doctor’s visit one day and told his wife Alma thatthe doctor said he only had 24 hours to live. Wiping away her tears, he asked her to make love with him. Of course sheagreed and they made passionate love. Six hours later, Paul went to her again, and said: “Honey, now I onlyhave18 hours left to live. Maybe we could make love again?” Alma agrees andagain they make love. Later, Paul is getting into bed when he realized he now had only eighthours of life left. He touched Alma’s shoulder and said: “Honey? Please?Just one more time before I die.” She agreed, then afterwards she rolledover and fell asleep. Paul, however, heard the clock ticking in his head, and he tossed andturned until he was down to only four more hours. He tapped his wife onthe shoulder to wake her up. “Honey, I only have four hours left! Couldwe….?” His wife sat up abruptly, turned to him and said: “Listen Paul, I haveto get up in the morning! You don’t.” –from Ken M. Continued On Page 4
Motorcycles & Parts
Tel: 561-392-5557
Fax: 561-392-9923
May 22, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
CYRIL HUZE IN ACCIDENT–On May 18, Cyril Huze & team was returning from Myrtle Beach Bike Week to Florida when the shop trailer was fully destroyed in an accident. The accident happened on highway 17, in the city limits of Myrtle Beach. For this reason, many bikers had the opportunity to observe the accident ,and right away, rumors started to fly that Cyril was seriously injured.
As a matter of fact, nobody was injured. The only damage was to the trailer now a memory and to the parts displays (let’s do a fire sale). No bikes were damaged because they were none at this time inside the trailer: luckily, the evening before bikes were given back to their respective owners returning home to New York & New Jersey.
We are safe back in Florida, working on new projects…
–Cyril Huze Custom
Motorcycles & Parts
Tel: 561-392-5557
Fax: 561-392-9923
BIKERNET EAST COAST REPORT–Just finished the HOW TO MAKE A CUSTOM LEATHER SEAT feature with Paul Cox and the Choppers Inc seat photos. I sent it off to Paul to fact check. Soon as he sends his OK, I’ll forward it on to you.This is a little different from my past stuff. It’s a photo “how to” piece. 21 photos with captioning explaining the proceedure.
–TBear, Bikernet East
Nice work, the story will be posted in a couple of days.–Bandit
ROUTE SET FOR HARLEY-DAVIDSON 100TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE IN MILWAUKEE–MDA Heroes to lead motorcycle parade celebrating Harley-Davidson. With a group of Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) fundraisers leading the way, 10,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles will parade through the streets of Milwaukee on Saturday, August 30, 2003 to celebrate the Company?s 100th Anniversary.
The Parade will depart at 9 a.m. from the Milwaukee County Zoo (10001 W. Bluemound Road) and ride east on Bluemound, turning to Wisconsin Avenue at 45th Street. Riders will continue east on Wisconsin Avenue to Milwaukee Street, then turn south to Erie Street and into the Italian Community Center and Summerfest parking lots.
The Harley-Davidson Parade of MDA Heroes is made up of those riders who have raised at least $5,300 for MDA prior to July 15, 2003. The $5,300 is equivalent to the funding required for 100 minutes of MDA research. The Parade of MDA Heroes will lead the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary Parade, which will include representatives from Harley-Davidson dealerships around the world, Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) members in the H.O.G. Chapter Parade of Flags, Harley-Davidson employees, and thousands of Harley-Davidson customers. The lucky Harley riders will have been chosen at random from among those who purchased Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary Celebration tickets prior to May 1, 2003. Parade access is limited to a total of 10,000 motorcycles and riders must have proper credentials to participate.
“The 100th Anniversary Parade is a unique chance for Harley-Davidson to share the excitement of 100 years of great motorcycles and at the same time help support the Muscular Dystrophy Association,” said Harley-Davidson Vice President, Communications Kathleen A. Lawler. ?It?s a tribute to the Harley-Davidson family of riders, enthusiasts, employees, dealers and many others who have helped the Company make this milestone a reality.?
Harley-Davidson had motorcycle parades in Milwaukee for previous anniversary celebrations in 1998 and 1993. On both occasions, the community enthusiastically welcomed the riders making the parades both fun and memorable experiences.
Harley-Davidson is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2003 with the largest birthday party the world has ever seen. The Celebration takes place in Milwaukee from Thursday, August 28 through Saturday, August 30, followed by the Party, the event that launches Harley-Davidson into the next century on Sunday, August 31, 2003.
Additional information on the Parade and the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary is available at www.harley- davidson.com.
THE CRAZYHORSE PAINT JOB OF THE WEEK–This week’s paint job doesn’t have clear coat on it in these photographs,but the flames still rock. It belongs to a guy named Jerry who builtone mean, evil black hardtail. He was a sweetheart of a customer.
Theflames were pinstriped by Mike Monte, best pinstriper in theCharlotte, NC area. Nothing like a sweet set of flames. I can’tpicture anything else on a bike I would own. Now if it would quitraining here I might even be able to ride my very own flamed bike.
BIKERNET LEGAL FILE–A very successful lawyer parked his brand new Lexus in front of the office, ready to show it off to his colleagues. As he got out, a truck came along, too close to the curb, and completely tore off the driver’s door of the Lexus.
The counselor immediately grabbed his cell phone, dialed 911, and it wasn’t more than 5 minutes before a policeman pulled up.
Before the cop had a chance to ask any questions, the lawyer started screaming hysterically.
His Lexus, which he had just picked up the day before, was now completely ruined and would never be the same, no matter how the body shop tried to make it new again.
After the lawyer finally wound down from his rant, the cop shook his head in disgust and disbelief. “I can’t believe how materialistic you lawyers are,” he said. “You are so focused on your possessions that you neglect the most important things in life.”
How can you say such a thing?” asked the lawyer.
The cop replied, “My God, don’t you even realize that your left arm is missing? It got ripped off when the truck hit you!!!”
My God!” screamed the lawyer.”Where’s my Rolex?”
NEW FROM DAYCO/CARLISLE–The All New Panther Ultra-Cord rear belts are here.
The Ultra-Cord is a strong non-aramid tensile member that doesn?t stretch orshrink, eliminating the need for high initial installation tensions to compensatefor tension decay. This puts less strain on bearings, shafts and other drive components for longer system life. The cords higher tensile strength increaseshorsepower capacity by up to 20 percent.
Ultra-Cord doesn?t absorb moisture, so belts won?t shrink and don?t requirespecial handling or storage. The cord is more stable in use also and as aflexible tensile member, Ultra-Cord improves the overall flex life of any drive.
The parabolic tooth design of the Panther belts, reduces noise, resists jumpingand improves meshing with standard tooth profiles.
A graphite-loaded, self-lubricating, nylon fabric facing provides exceptional resistance to wear and low coefficient.
Available from all of the major distributors through BDL. www.beltdrives.com
Continued On Page 3
May 22, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit |
Laughlin Report is up and debate is heated. Bikernet had launched a formal investigation into the price of rooms. Reports are in that rooms were as low as $19 prior to the event and as high as $260 during the event. It stinks. That’s like going to the market for toilet paper, buying 100 rolls and paying 4 times the going rate.
There are also reports of more police presence than mentioned in Frank’s candid article. Undercover was strong in addition to SWAT teams and armored vehicles. Hang on as more information surfaces.
Last night I spent four hours with several biker Internet readers and major Jesse James fans. The conversation was high on message boards. We’ve considered launching a board several times. Whatta ya tink? Let’s get to the news, there’s a woman I want to…, and I rode the King last night. I need more time on the emperor.
LAUGHLIN REPORT FROM FRANK KAISLER–This is just a taste of the Laughlin Report, the bikes, the broads, the broads, the bikes and the cops.
BIKERNET ON PRIORITIES– An old lady was standing at the railing of the cruise ship holdingherhat on tightly so that it would not blow off in the wind.
A gentleman approached her and said: “Pardon me, madam. I do notintend to be forward, but did you know that your dress is blowing up inthis high wind?”
“Yes, I know,” said the lady, “I need both hands to holdonto this hat.”
“But, madam, you must know that your privates areexposed!”said the gentleman in earnest.
The woman looked down, then back up at theman and replied, “Sir, anything you see down there is 85 years old. Ijustbought this hat yesterday!”
–from Bob T.
DAVIE ALLAN ROCK REPORT– I just received the word on the new album: –Davie Allan STURGIS REPORT–Spring Fever has finally come to the Black Hills! Throughout the Black Hills, Bikes & Bikers are out in force! After a week of rain the Hills are putting on foliage at an incredible rate. Bring your cameras! We wanted to let all of you know that we have remodeled our on-line store front. All of your great favorites are still here and there are tons of new items too. The new cart has a much faster search engine too! We have the most complete on-line Sturgis Rally collection you will find anywhere. Use the search to help find the more unique items you’ve been watching for. One of the newest items is Buffalo Chip Kippered Buffalo Strips… simply delicious!ht.://www.Sturgis.com/mall As always, putting everything that is available on-line is a huge task, and we are always updating with new merchandise. If there is something in particular that you are looking for and cannot find please, let us know… We just might have the right connection to find those items. Also watch for our Random Discount, dozens of customers receive random discounts on their orders. The Lucky Shoppers will be notified by e-mail if their order is chosen. This Newsletter also starts our May Military Special. We are giving FREE SHIPPING to all orders sent to any APO Military address for orders placed from now until the end of May, 2003. This years Rally schedule is shaping up… it’s going to be a big rally! More bikers and more activities… The Buffalo Chip is bringing in Travis Tritt, 3 Doors Down, Tesla and more… Friday’s band is “hush-hush” so we’re expecting them to announce something BIG! We have events listed from many other places too. Check out the most complete on-line Schedule of Events at:http://www.Sturgis.com/schedule.html Lodging: There are still plenty of campsites. Hotels, motels, B&B’s, etc. are getting harder to find… there are a few openings yet. Check out the following to help arrange your accommodations… they go fast, so hurry!http://www.Sturgis.com/lodging.html – List of campgrounds, motels, etchttp://www.Sturgis.com/lodgingboard – Messageboard just for Private Housinghttp://www.BlackHillsReservations.com/sturgisdeals.html – One stop reservations for many different accommodation places. For those of you that are vendors, spots are still available. To find out how to rent a booth during the rally there’s information posted on our site at: http://www.sturgis.com/vendorsjobs.html including links to the various Vendors Manuals. We’re in the process of updating information about riding in the Black Hills…Check out: http://www.Sturgis.com/ridesmaps.htmlMore to come there yet too… THE CHEVROLET CORVETTE FIRST ON THE LIST OF TOP TEN STOLEN CLASSIC VEHICLES– The Chevrolet Corvette was named the number one stolen collector vehicle in a recent study conducted by the Hagerty Protection Network (HPN) between July 1999 and December 2002. The report issued by Hagerty Insurance, the nation’s largest insurer of collectible cars and motorcycles, indicates that vintage Chevrolets are the most stolen brand commanding close to 40 percent of collector cars stolen in the last three years. HPN named the following models to its Top 10 Stolen Collector Vehicles list: 1. Chevrolet Corvette (1966-1982) 13.3 percent Broken down by marque, Chevrolet tops the list by a wide margin at 39.3 percent of all Hagerty-insured stolen vehicles, followed by Ford (14.8 percent), Mercedes (4.7 percent), Cadillac (4.4 percent), Harley Davidson (4.4 percent), Pontiac (3.6 percent), J aguar (2.4 percent), Plymouth (2.4 percent), Porsche (2.4 percent), Dodge (2.1 percent) and Lincoln (2.1 percent). Old vintage Panhead photo from Bob T. BANDIT’S CANTINA ARCHIVES GROWS–We are constantly looking for unique and interesting motorcycle historical facts for our Cantina Readers. Stuff you just won’t find anywhere else. Stuff that Cantina members will have constant access to when restoring a piece of cycling history. We’ve scored recently. Bob Tronolone has supplied us with a vast array of antique motorcycle photography. Don Whalen, an antique motorcycle expert, is writing captions for each precious shot. These will become in integral part of out daily antique motorcycle collection. Bob has also supplied us with invaluable antique memorabilia that will become special features in the Cantina Antique section. In addition he recently found a series of Bobber photos from the ’40s and ’50s. I recently researched the history of the bobber and will share that with this line-up of photographs. It’s a trip. Finally, we have made a lovely Redheaded connection with the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. She recently supplied us with a shot and feature of a Museum ’49 Panhead. We hope to launch features of their bikes on a monthly basis. BUMPER STICKER OF THE WEEK–Who Lit The Fuse On Your Tampon? –from Bob T. SCREAMIN’ EAGLE DRAG TEAM RESETS NHRA RECORDS AT ENGLISHTOWN– The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines drag racing team continues to rewrite the NHRA record books at each Pro Stock Bike event. This time it was GT Tonglet who set a new NHRA record for V- Twin performance with a 7.113 second/187.55 mph run in qualifying for the K&N Filters SuperNationals in Englishtown, New Jersey. Tonglet?s V-Twin record run aboard the Screamin? Eagle V-Rod placed him fifth in the field. The time was just .013 second off Tonglet?s career best ET of 7.100 seconds. Teammate Andrew Hines struggled with the windy conditions in first round qualifying and a mechanical issue in the second round. Hines posted his best run of 7.216 seconds/185.66 mph with his V-Rod during the last round of qualifying, but missed the bump time by .009 second. The 7.209-second Englishtown bump time was the quickest in NHRA Pro Stock Bike history. Tonglet faced 12th-ranked Steve Johnson?s Suzuki in the first round, but had to shut down mid-track due to a mechanical failure. Shawn Gann won the event with a 7.100 second/188.49 mph pass over Craig Treble. Both riders were aboard Suzukis. ?We?re frustrated that we didn?t get both bikes in the field. GT ran great, but we had some bad luck in qualifying with Andrew. We?re learning all the time and we?ve two weeks to get ready for Joliet,? said crew chief Byron Hines. BIKERNET FRAT BROTHERS–Lee wasn’t the brightest guy in the world, and his frat brothers were continually ribbing him. One in particular, Grady, would greet him each morning and precipitate this exchange: “Say Lee, you seen Ben?” “Ben who?” “Ben’ down and kiss my a–!” Tired of falling for the same joke day after day, Lee confided in his friend Judd who said, “Listen, next time you see Grady, ask him if he’s seen Eileen. Grady will ask, ‘Eileen who?’, and you say, ‘Eileen over and YOU kiss MY a–.'” Memorizing his lines, Lee got up early to wait for Grady. As soon as he arrived, Lee ran over to him. “Hey Grady,” he said, “have you seen Eileen?” “No,” Grady answered, “she ran off with Ben.” Lee frowned, “Ben who?” –from A. Friedman Continued On Page 2
2. Ford Mustang (1964-1969) 6.5 percent
3. Chevrolet Impala (1958-1967) 5.6 percent
4. Chevrolet Camaro (1968, 1969) 4.7 percent
5. Harley-Davidson motorcycles (1941-1974) 4.4 percent
6. Chevrolet Nova (1963-1972) 3.6 percent
7. Chevrolet Chevelle (1966-1973) 2.7 percent
8. Chevrolet Monte Carlo (1970-1978) 2.4 percent
9. Cadillac DeVille (1955-1965) 2.1 percent
Chevrolet Pickups (1950-1971) 2.1 percent Mercedes 450 (1975-1979) 2.1 percent
10. Ford Thunderbird (1955-1963) 1.7 percent 
