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Read More February 13, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit |
Whatta week? I discovered that my recent report that motorcycle accidents and deaths had skyrocketed over the last five year was bullshit. You’ll see the facts below. The King is torn to shreds in the Bikernet garage and we shipped brackets, covers, trim, fork legs and the nacelle covers to Custom Powder Coating for the heavy black finish.
It was good to be in Cincy and see the guys and a few girls I use to hang with. I’ll be reporting on the scene in American Rider. Watch as we change this mag to be something all the bros can be proud of. Let’s get to the news. Sin is starting a fire in the fireplace and her cute little ass is pointed in my direction…
NEW FROM JOKER MACHINE—At last, the dash that everyone’s beenwaiting for! Fully CNC machined to perfection from a 1 1/2″ thick x 20″ longplank of solid billet aluminum, this piece gives your 2000-up model softaila unique “Road King” type look due to it’s one piece construction.Eliminates the plastic or leather lower dash that comes stock on your bike.Mounts easily and securely to the top of your standard console in minutes.These babies really clean up the look of your tank. They feature our topquality chrome plating throughout. (Shown above with our new JOKER-FLAMEengraving). Dashes are available in smooth and ball-mill also.
Introducing the “Low Brow” mirror. Features shapely CNC machiningfrom a solid block and truly represents itself as a sleek design statementfor those who want optimal mirror size (without sacrificing looks!) Thismirror gives you the image you’re looking for! They are Fully chrome platedand feature our famous 1 piece design.
MONDAY EVENING–Tired.
Antsy. Just enuf side effects to put me on edge.
Pace the kitchen. Stare out the windows.
The stars are out…….no moon.
Dark.
Cold………..but not too cold.
One of those mind-numbing weekly Hollywood shows is on the tube. “Extra”……….I think.
The other inhabitant of the residence stares at the tube…………..transfixed. There is the low sound of gray matter slowly being sucked away.
Into the tube.
I back away………….
What to do…………what to do.
8 pm and the program changes………
Oh, snit! Dr. Phil!
A husband and wife are screaming at each other while their small children watch. (And just who the hell is running the camera?) Dr. Phil is determined to help. These people had been on the show before. A small girl is yelling at the parents to stop………I think. All hell is breaking loose.
In the background, barely audible, ……………the low sucking sound continues.
Aaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Something breaks. Pushed over the edge, I have to leave.
(Time to put the electric clothing to the test.)
I announce………. “I am going for a ride”.
The other resident slowly turns and stares.
I get …………..”the look”. Disbelief………..I think. There is a distant look to the eyes. But not a word is uttered.
Downstairs. Boots, chaps, jacket liner, jacket.
Garage. The beast is waiting there……….silently.
I roll it out……….of the garage. It lights! And settles into a steady idle.
Hah! I think I will go blow by Scott’s place and show him what real men (fools) are made of!
Helmet. Gloves.
I mount the beast and plug in.
The electrical plug……….you fools!
I hit the switch and shortly feel the warmth radiating into my body.
Oooohhhhh! The beast and I are……….becoming one.
I’m off! Some fog……….Man, it is black out here!
I make my way down the hill. (Now where does the road turn?)
Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea.
But at least I am warm.
North on Hart. To the stop sign on 93rd. Across the road, there is Scott’s place……..he must have heard me coming.
I sit there for a moment.
What’s that?
Even over the sound of the beast…………There! That low sucking sound!
My God! Scott is in there with Dr. Phil!
“Scott! Make a break for it man!”
No response.
Just the low sucking sound. I am too late; there is no sign of life.
Right on 93rd. I wind out in first and second. Maybe it will shake him loose of the trance.
The windshield fogs up…..I can only see the road maybe 25 feet ahead of me.
Right on Old 99, past the barn. Left on Waldrick and on into the forest. Man……it is really black out here!
But the beast has a good headlight and we penetrate the black.
Together……………but alone.
Right on Offut Lake Road. Careful here, kinda twisty windy and the houses are well off the road.
Just think of all those people in their nice toasty houses…………
Past the lake, past Wolf Haven. That will give them something to howl about!
Back to Old 99…………Which way? Which way?
I feel the need!…………….the need for speed! (Not very original……….and I don’t even remotely look like Tom.)
So, north on 99 to McCorkle. Man………ink is brighter than this stretch of road! With the twisty windies too!
Halfway……….the turn onto the straight stretch is bathed in fog. Great!
Good thing I got forward controls on this thing! I can stretch out my toes and feel my way!
Up and over the hill to Tilley Road. For speed I gotta get to I-5. So left down Tilley toward Millersylvania State Park.
Right before the park the front tire wants to slide to the left. With the fogged windshield, I had seen nothing………
Just as my heart falls back into place………it does it again!
Holy snit! Something in the road back there.
Just trust the bike, Chuck!
I hang a right and head toward Maytown. I slow to 25 as I approach the Maytown Tavern.
Hey! Why not? After that little incident a minute ago……….
Nah! I pass the tavern. Two pickup trucks and a car and………………..is that a low sucking sound I hear?
Undoubtedly some kind of sucking going on!
I hit the circular on-ramp to I-5. A quik look confirms I don’t have to merge close to another vehicle.
Up thru the gears!………..50……….60…………70…………80………..the beast wants to run!
I hold a steady 80 …………until common sense kicks in and I slow to ……………70. Only a few miles to the 93rd exit.
Right on 93rd. Think I will blow by Scott’s again.
I pass Tilley and decelerate to the turn onto Hart……..shaking the few remaining leaves off the trees in the process.
I don’t even need to look. There it is again…………..that low sucking sound ………….coming from Scott’s place.
Sadly, I go on.
South on Hart and back up the hill to home.
The beast obediently shuts down for the night.
Upstairs. The tube is still blaring away. And there………. lying on the couch ………..is the other inhabitant of the household…………unmoving………sucked dry!
“I hate you, Dr. Phil!”
She’s in the center.
TARA WANTS TO POSE WITH HER MAN’S SCOOTER–Hi, Sorry I don’t mean to be a pest, whenever you have time! I don’t haveany pictures of his bike on the computer. He also does custom flamepainting, I’ll attach a picture of a truck he flamed.
–Tara
MEANINGS FROM THE BIKERNET DICTIONARY–Once upon a time, in a nice little forest, there lived an orphaned bunny and an orphaned snake. As a surprising coincidence, both were blind from birth.
One day, the bunny was hopping through the forest, and the snake was slithering through the forest, when the bunny tripped over the snake and fell down, also knocking the snake about quite a bit.
“Oh, my,” said the bunny. “I’m terribly sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. You see, I’ve been blind since birth, so I can’t see where I’m going, and, in fact, since I’m also an orphan, I don’t even know what I am.”
“Quite okay,” replied the snake. “Actually, my story is much the same as yours, as I am also blind since birth, and also never knew my mother. Tell you what, maybe I could kinda slither over you, and figure out what you are, so at least you’ll have that going for you.”
“Oh, that would be wonderful,” said the bunny.So the snake slithered allover the bunny, and said, “Well, you’re covered with soft fur, and you have really long ears, and your nose twitches, and you have a soft cottony tail. I’d say that you must be a bunny.”
“Oh, thank you! Thank you!” cried the bunny in obvious excitement. “Maybe I could feel you with my paw, and help you the same way you’ve helped me.”
So the bunny felt the snake all over, and said, “Well, you’re scaly and slimy, and you have a forked tongue and no balls. I’d say you must be a lawyer.”
–from Al Friedman
RARE BANDIT BELT BUCKLE–Revealed in the Digital Discovery area of Bandit’s Cantina. Join the Cantina and find out more about how he made these buckles by hand. Each one is different and only a few exist.
By supporting the Cantina, you support all the content of Bikernet. Keeps us on the run.
Continued On Page 2
February 11, 2003
By Bandit |
Title: THE SOUL OF A BUILDER
Photos by Al Conte
Gilroy, California, home of the Garlic festival and now Indian motorcycles rests on the edge of Silicon Valley. Up until 15 years ago, it was a dry agricultural community between San Francisco and nowhere. That’s where Al Conte lives, the owner/builder of this putt. It’s his first custom.
Al recently turned 50. Some 22 years ago Al married Debbie and proceeded to raise a family. His priorities changed. He set aside his wild days and went straight, like so many brothers do. He became an engineer in the semi-conductor industry and kept his clean snooze to the grindstone, as they raised three sons. Twenty years past, and their anniversary drifted onto the calendar. His wife nestled up to him one day and whispered, “The date’s just around the corner. Do we get diamond earrings or a Harley?”
His sons, Matt, Jeff and Doug, had no notion of what really flowed through their dad’s veins. To them he was another computer nerd, buried in an air-conditioned, cubicle industry.
Startled, Al turned and gazed deep in those knowing eyes and a smile crossed his lips, “A Harley,” he said without hesitation. That was 1998 and he is still riding that Fatboy. In touch with his feelings for riding, Debbie had no notion of his desire to build a custom. “I just wanted to build one,” Al said.
This project took him a year and a half. He spent two months just laying out the design, making plans and checking mags. “I built the bike 30 times mentally before I purchased a single part,” Al said. He kicked off the street sweeper with a ProOne chassis with leading link swingarm. “I encountered no problems fitting the unit together, but they hadn’t allowed chrome clearance in machining the threads, so the chrome chipped off as we attempted to assemble the unit.”
Al figured the project carefully and decided to spend the big candy on two areas of the bike to maintain a billet theme. “I spent $2,000 on the inner and outer primary from Pro One and $750 for the Yaffe taillight,” Al recanted, “I could have bought any number of taillights for half that amount.”
I asked him if he had any other problems with the wild swingarm. “I ordered a Jesse James rear fender and cut it in half, extended it and altered the radius to contour the 200 Avon and fit the swingarm.” He also used a Jesse James front fender, but only lowered it to hug the front tire.
Part of his engineering eye called for the bike to be balanced. No massive rear wheel and slim front. His design called for similarities not contrasts. He ordered 54 mm inverted forks from CCI figuring a length to set the bike level. The front end was fine except the pinch bolts wouldn’t hold the tubes. Every time he installed the unit, the tubes slipped through the trees and the bike dropped 4 inches. Four times he shipped the trees back until he received a set machined properly. “They were embarrassed, but very helpful,” Al commented.
The engineering legacy continued to resurface. “I like a bike to be geometrically even with tight symmetry,” Al said. So he made sure that levers and linkage were matched. Including the V-twin obsession bars.
“I’m 6’3″ and needed the machine to fit,” Al said, “These bars made all the difference.” He ran all the hydraulics and wiring through the bars. “I wanted to run an internal throttle also,” Al commented, “but there wasn’t enough room left.”
Al reviewed every component with an eye toward improvement or optimum construction. He chose twin Mikuni carburetors with a Rivera Engineering dual manifold. “If they would just reverse their linkage the throttle cables would virtually disappear.” He suggested it to the Rivera team, with little response.
He continued to add detailing touches including hard plumbing, hydraulic lines guided through the frame. The Gas tank chosen was a Fat Kat’s series 35 with a 3.5 inch stretch and a flush mount aircraft cap. With the tank and fender in place he ran to his nearby seat connection, Corbin. Mike Corbin’s team molded fiberglass to his frame so that the seat needs no fasteners. “It hugs the frame tubes and won’t slide,” Al said.
Every bike build has a team, and Al’s favorite team member was Rick Collier of Pro-Street Custom Cycles in Gilroy, (408) 842-2060. Rick reworked Al’s 120-inch Merch power plant. “We call him MacGiver,” Al said. “He can do anything and probably builds the strongest 80-inch motors in the state. I get 101 horsepower out of my Fatboy with Rick’s touch.” Rick was also the delicate touch behind the modified rear fender.
Al used a polished Baker 6-speed in this equation. “Nothing shifts like this baby,” Al said. “I’m going to install a 6-speed Baker gear set in my Fatboy.” Wheels, brakes and his hand controls came from Performance Machine, but he didn’t leave them alone. “We machined the clamps and the bars so each set would fit flush and evenly.”
He started out with a handmade set of pipes that didn’t fit well and the chrome peeled. “They were undersized and would effect the performance,” Al said. He bought a factory set of Wicked Brothers pipes from Arizona. He called them a week before the Pomona, ER show, and the pipes were in his hands in three days. “They bolted right up, fit great and worked well with the line of the bike,” Al said confidently.
Al has his own chrome saving tip for pipes. “I don’t go for that ceramic coating,” Al instructed. “We cleaned the pipes a couple of times with alcohol, then we sprayed them with VHT flatblack heat paint. We gave them a couple of coats and let them dry for 24 hours. The carbon attaches to the paint and the pipes don’t blue.”
For more detail he attached his Daytech oil bag with rubbermounted tabs under the seat. “It seemingly hangs there,” Al told me. “We took all the other tabs off the frame.” He installed a slightly smaller battery for fitment ease, but it required that he used compression releases on the cylinders to eliminate starting problems. As any engineer worth his salt, he installed the Merch oil filter and cooler for added oil capacity and longer engine life.
“Paint was a problem,” Al mentioned. “I didn’t want skulls or flames. Nothing traditional. Tribal had come and gone. I spoke to CrazyHorse, but she was far away, then I met Josh Stokes. I told him that I liked the Ripped Torn effect and he rolled his eyes, but decided to work with me.” Al was very pleased with the Santa Cruz, California painter. “He’s a master of real fire effects,” Al said.
When the bike was finally completed Al considered the show circuit. “It was a learning experience. I went to Pomona and didn’t place at all. So we hauled the bike to Sac for the Easyriders show there and took a first. We were getting the hang of it and having a good time.” He followed Sacramento with a show in Riverside, California and took best of show. “The highlight was when I took two classes in the Bikernet Show,” Al said and commented about the rare 5-Ball trophies. That year he took six first place trophies and a third place.
All of Al’s sons have relished in watching their dad come to life behind chromed handlebars. In particular Jeff assisted the ol’ man at shows, helping with the preparation and set-up. Jeff (19-years old) was killed in a car accident after Al’s second show win. “I almost gave up the competition,” Al said somberly. His two other sons, (Matt, 22 and Doug 15) encouraged Al to stick with it, and he’s glad they did.
Life is constantly changing and the once young retired rider was hit hard by the stock market and is now considering going back to work. This bike is still a virgin and is currently for sale, (thecontes@montereybay.com). After it’s gone he’ll begin another project, and we may witness another builder emerge from the garlic fields of Gilroy.
February 6, 2003 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Another week has gone by, so what’s new..I’m still checking my messages at 5:00 am every morning, yeap when I get home! The new chopper is a little on the scheduled side, but we’ll make it. No sleep for 3 or 4 days… By the way, while checking those late night/ early morning, I want to thank all those who always take the time to write and like or dislike what I do here every week and even about the stuff going on in the Bikernet letter to the editor department: It’s your shot!
Again I’m going to get a bit distracted from what I was saying to get something off my chest (don’t I always!!). I enjoy making harmless fun of stuff and people in general. I try not to downgrade or humiliate another person. I don’t think this is the proper forum for that, and I’m sure Bandit and the ladies don’t think so either, There’s always a bunch of outlets on the internet for this kind of things…just use the search engines and type the word HATE.
Anyway, enough of that…. Let’s get back to what I was trying to say.I was reading last weeks News (yeap I do read them and Your Shot as well) and was sort of interested in the sudden increase of motorcycle accidents and deaths….Guess why ??.. No not the Twinkies..well……. Let’s see….Rallies and events have multiplied their attendance in the past years, which means there’s a lot more riders on the roads, many of this riders are inexperienced, or they buy a bike because it’s cool and their friend has one, follow the Rubbie-bashing-road fellow readers.. And motorcyclists are getting older (perhaps I should use the word bikers….Naaahhh) It’s a very simple matter of quantity and quality.
Like in any other events I see a lot of brand new riders in Sturgis, fine, go have fun in Main Street, but once you mix the sweeping turns and inexperience that’s were trouble starts. Let’s add a few beers to the equation, and Voila ! Guess who is going to hit the pavement ? Or add a 1,500 pound bike with the wife atop, all the latest communication and gazoo helmetry, the bags loaded up with all the gee gaws and the latest wares and souvenirs, plus the mechanical ability of a Totem post….” Honey those tires look flat” Yeah wait for the check up at the ” Official” dealership to solve that…Kapow ! There goes Humpty…
Again getting a bit out of the line of thought. Why is it that people go to a motorcycle event and they become insta assholes ? What seems like normal people (to me which is really simple) have to outdo themselves in “trying” to be the badest of the bad asses…The more drinking, shouting, leather stuff, whacking the fucking pipes, the happier. I guess these people just try to bring attention unto themselves. I swear that the drag pipes scream ” look at meee.” Every time someone whacks the throttle on Main St anywhere. People don’t seem to try to be themselves, they play an acting role in a charade.
Now my junction to the previous blurb. Some people have limited abilities. Stuff has to be learned, no one gets on a bike and wins a Grand Prix in the first try. like I said, add a few too many alcoholic beverages, overconfidence and inexperience and just wait for the accident to happen, as simple as that. I also have to be fair, a lot of stuff happens on the road, but more experienced riders are aware of these hazards and ride on the offensive and have been lucky enough to learn from previous mistakes.
What is really sad about this is that these people are loosing their lives by acting foolishly or not. I bet all the families don’t give a rat’s ass if dad want’s to go play bad ass Captain America, as long as he comes back home. What if he ain’t coming back? Yep, just like in the movie, is it fair to them, or even to all the other motorcyclists who will live with the statistics and insurance hikes. Anyway, rather read the ” statistics” than being one. That’s for fuckin’ sure. Not only that, and to top it off. Many of these newbie riders cause accidents to other riders. I’ve seen people miss a turn and plow into the oncoming bike. It’s imperative that you think of other people. I tell you, if someone hits anyone I’m riding with because he was doing stupid shit, I can assure you he will get a beating, no matter his condition.
I might be wrong, but then again, it’s my opinion and it counts even if only to me.Okay, enough rant…Let’s get to then news:
As you might know Choppers Inc, The Horse and Caribbean Custom Cycles (yours truly) will have a booth in Daytona Bike Week, we will be at the Galaxy Buick dealership two blocks North of Daytona Harley in Beach Street. If you see the big ass Performance Machine trailer, we are close by. It promises to be a lot of fun, since all our chopper riding friends have promised to visit and help out.
I have received photos of Billy Lane’s, Choppers Inc., Camel chopper. The bike is insane and bad ass. I am saving the photos for a later date, although you can see a sneak peek at my web site
The report on my Daytona Chopper (which looks like a Twinkie after seeing Billy’s bike) I’m putting it together as you read this, but I’m going to share the photo with you, (right before I took it apart and moved it to the spray booth). I have moved into the Next Day and Red Ups zone. All my friends are working their asses off for the completion. And I’m going to mention each and everyone here, in a mega plug,(if the Bikernet Vixens permit) in a following report. No matter what people say, few builders can do the whole thing by themselves, I’m lucky to be able to call all this people and small shop friends who always assist me:Shamrock Fabrication, PDQ upholstery, Boar Batteries, Twisted Choppers, West Coast Choppers, Choppers Inc, Accutronix, Avon, Exile Cycles, Forking by Franks, Clayton Machine works, Custom Chrome, Rivera Primo,Spyke….and whomever I forget…Sorry. Thanks to all.
I heard that Cincy show was a blast, and heard about a lot of new stuff going on, but I will let Bandit get into that, since he was there. I took care of Bikernet headquarters and the Vixens.Next is the Indy show. Maybe I can make it there, doubt it very much, but I might…
Chica has an open house February 9th, be sure to go visit Chica San and the crew, it will be a fun time and they always have cool stuff under the sleeves to show. Even if it’s Chica’s magic hammer.
I have the latest in gas tanks, made by my friends at Twisted Choppers, (I’m pretty lucky to get all this exclusive stuff) if you like those or the gas tank on my bike give this guys a shout or try
–Jose Bikernet Caribbean report and super secret updates extraordinaire. — mailto:chopperfreak@earthlink.net, chopperfreak@earthlink.net
Visit our Web Site NEW MEXICO SENATOR BOWS TO PRESSURE FROM MOTORCYCLISTS, WITHDRAWS OUTRAGEOUS LEGISLATION– PICKERINGTON, OHIO — The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced that New Mexico state Sen. Allen Hurt (R-Waterflow) has informed the AMA that he will withdraw Senate Bill 239, which could have forced some motorcyclists to become organ donors. AMA leadership learned of Sen. Hurt?s intentions this afternoon in a message which read, in part: ?You win … I?m pulling New Mexico SB 239.? Late last Thursday, the AMA had expressed its outrage at SB 239, which, if it had passed, would have allowed the harvesting of organs from any motorcyclist who didn’t wear a helmet and was declared brain dead as a result of an accident. ?This victory demonstrates how powerful our voice can be when American motorcyclists speak together,? said Sean Maher, AMA Director of State Affairs. “When New Mexico state officials received more than 1,100 e-mails opposing SB 239, they got the message, and Sen. Hurt acted quickly to withdraw his proposal.” The AMA organized opposition to the bill, urging motorcyclists to use the AMA Rapid Response Center — part of the Association?s website, AMADirectlink.com — to send a message to Hurt and the New Mexico Legislature?s leadership. –from Helen Wolfe HORSE TRADING–A guy calls his buddy, a horse rancher, and says he’s sending a friend over to look at a horse. The buddy says, “How will I recognize him?” His friend answers, “That’s easy, he’s a midget with a speech impediment.” So, the midget shows up and the guy asks him if he’s looking for a male or a female horse. “A female horth.” So he shows him a prized filly. “Nith lookin horth. Can I thee her eyeth?” So the guy picks up the midget and he gives the horse’s eyes the once over. “Nith eyeth, can I thee her earzth?” the midget asks. So he picks the little fella up again and shows him the horse’s ears. “Nith earzth, can I see her mouf?” The rancher is getting pretty pissed off at this point but he picks him up again and shows him the horse’s mouth. “Nice mouf, can I see her twat?” Totally pissed at this point, the rancher grabs him under his arm and jams the midget’s head as far as he can up the horse’s you-know-what, pulls him out and slams him on the ground. The midget gets up, sputtering and coughing,”Perhaps I should rephrathe that. Can I thee her wun awound a widdle bit?” –from Al friedman 
FIRST VICTORY CHOPPER–Was built in the back woods of Iowa where Don Hotop lives in a cave. He didn’t actually build this clean ride, he harrassed the owner/builder during the process and loaned him tools. The bike was constructed from a 2000 Sport model and the frame was modified for a Harley tank. You’ll see more in the near future when we get it out of the owner’s garage and feature it.
RUN FOR BREATH 2003 FIRST MEETING–We had the first meeting last night and we set the date for July 27th. By unamious vote we decided that the bikers of Charlotte would prefer to have Randy Simpson of Milwaukee Iron attend our charity run for the American Lung Association, than have you come and drink all our Jack again. Besides Randy will bring a display of his cool bikes for the crowd to see and you just come out and try to steal my girl.
–Mike Pullin
Founder and Run For Breath President
For more information contact Harley-Davidson of Charlotte.
SCOTT JACOBS GOES TO THE RACES–This work of art by Scott Jacobs is the grand finale of the racing series. Jacobs captured the exhileration of the most thrilling finish in all of racing; the 1998 Springfield Mile. Only 99 plus 25 APs are produced on canvas @$750 per and 250 plus 25 APs on paper @ $375 per. All of the pieces are hand-signed by Parker, Springer and Carr. Call before these run out! (canvas 30×30, paper 21×26)Ron Copple 800-999-1297
CYRIL HUZE BUILDS NEW TEES– The tribal pattern used on these tees is the one designed by Cyril Huze for his Chopper called Tattoo Chop. Back of tee shirt is screen-printed with the slogan “Absolute Customs”. Front is printed with horizontal tribal logo. Men long sleeves or women baby doll. Black, white or red..
Cyril Huze Custom
Motorcycles & Parts
Tel: 561-392-5557
Fax: 561-392-9923
Website: http://www.cyrilhuze.com
Webstore: http://store.cyrilhuze.com
BIKERNET MEDICAL ADVICE–I’m so depressed… My Doctor refused to write me a prescription for Viagra. He said it would be like putting a new flagpole on a condemned building.
–from Kris J.
THAT’S ALL I CAN MUSTER–The week has been exciting, non-stop action, but I’m still pulled back to the slim redhead at the show and the way she whispered to me about my phone number. A blush crossed my face as I gawked at her glistening lips and wondered.
I was surrounded by my bros and had to maintain my business-like composure, when I would have rather followed her out the door to her room. It was damn good to see the bros, drink too much and trying to remember every new innovation and concept hungry to reach the market.
Buck Lovell sent me shots of the old school clean Pan above. I’ll try to have a feature prepared for next week. While at the show I was invited by the two competitors, Dave Perewitz and Billy Lane to ride with them to Dallas for the next Discovery Build-And-Ride adventure. What if I ride the Easyriders of Dallas 1926 Shovelhead rigid from Florida to the Easyriders show in Dallas? The sheet metal is currently at Harold Ponteralli’s H-D Performance for paint. I may make it. Ya just never know. Have a helluva week.
–Bandit
February 6, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
Two New Books from Wolfgang Publications–January 2003, Stillwater, MN Advanced Sheet Metal Fabrication Techniques, available in May, is a photo-intensive how-to book. See Rob Roehl create a motorcycle gas tank and Ron Covell form a Deuce grille shell. Methods and tools include English wheel, power hammer, shrinkers and stretchers, and of course the hammer and dolly. Both titles are over 50% color, 144 pages in length and sell for $24.95 each plus $5.50 S&H (per order). Order one or both by mail, phone or from the web: wolfgangpublications.com Wolfgang Publications MORE DARWIN AWARDS– A young Canadian man, searching for a way of getting drunk cheaply,because he had no money with which to buy alcohol, mixed gasoline with milk.Not surprisingly, this concoction made him ill, and he vomited into thefireplace in his house. This resulting explosion and fire burned his housedown, killing both him and his sister.from Redhorse MILITARY RULES forNON-MILITARY PERSONNEL–The current state of affairs in our great nation have many civilians upinarms and excited to join the military. For those of you who can’t join,youcan still lend a hand. The Military suggests these few areas in whichyourassistance will be helpful: 1. The next time you see an adult talking during the playing of theNationalAnthem … kick their ass. 2. When you witness firsthand someone burning the American Flag inprotest… kick their ass. 3. Regardless of the rank they held while they served, pay the highestamount of respect to all veterans. If you see anyone doing otherwise,quietly pull them aside and explain how these Veterans fought for theveryfreedom they bask in every second. Enlighten them on the many sacrificesthese Veterans made to make this Nation great. Then hold them down whileaDisabled Veteran kicks their ass. Thank God for our military and the sacrifices they make every day.Without them, our country would get ITS ass kicked. TMRA LEGISLATIVE DAY– This year there were many new state representatives due to the elections as well as redistricting. Sputnik, a Texas Motorcycle Riders Association (TMRA) leader, jumped right in getting people headed in the proper direction. After making my rounds I began trying to get shots of all the clubs that had sent their own representatives to speak on the behalf of the TMRA 2 and Texas bikers. I believe I have images of (23) different clubs and I estimate there were probably (30+) easy. It is such a rush to be wandering through the halls of our State Capital and see all of the black-leather clad folks going in & out of the offices of their elected officials. With all the club representation as well as the individual riders in attendance, the bikers once again seemed to outnumber the rest of the groups that had come to state capital that day. Each chapter sets aside funds so that two members can spend a week at the capital and interact with Sputnik as he makes his rounds and works the Bills through committees and onto the Floor. This year the TMRA top issues are: Equal Access, Failure to Yield and an Insurance Coverage Bill (HIPAA). I do not make every monthly meeting, but I have made sure I was able to attend the last two Legislative Days and am trying to learn more. –RFR Oh yeah, there are a bunch of cute girls working at the Capital! BIKERNET ON SHEEP FARMING–There was once a sheep farmer who needed help with the difficult task of castrating some of his inferior male sheep to keep them from breeding with the females.He hired a French guy who didn’t speak much English, but was a very good worker. After the first day, they had successfully castrated 14 sheep and his French worker was just about to throw away the “parts”. But the sheep farmer yelled,”No! Don’t throw those away! My wife fries them up and we eat them.They’re delicious and we call them’sheep fries’.” Later that day, the French hired hand came in for supper, and indeed the ‘sheep fries’ were tasty.The next day,they castrated 16 sheep, and the following evening they all settled down to another supper of ‘sheep fries’.The third day, however, when the sheep farmer came home,he asked his wife where the French hired hand was, and she said,”You know, it’s the weirdest thing! I told him since there weren’t very many ‘sheep fries’ this evening, we were also going to have French fries,and he ran like hell!!” –Jim W Williams, from Buckshot HAMSTER INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME–The following are being inducted: Max Bubeck, Jay Springsteen, Douglas Bingham, Dave Perewitz, Allen LaFortune, Branscombe Richmond, Cristine Sommer-Simmons. Also the dates for the Redwood Run have changed to July. Please click this link for further information –Patty STURGIS PLANS ARE AFOOT–The 2003 West Coast Hamster ride to Sturgis has a tentative route as follows, contingent upon rooms being available. Sat. July 26th meet in Barstow LOW, WIDE AND FAT–New Beach Bars From Harley-Davidson Offer the Latest In Custom Style Beach Bars are offered as a kit that also includes a chrome handlebar clamp, risers, a braided steel brakeline and all mounting hardware. For the 2002 and later FLSTC Heritage Softail Classic (P/N 56364-02) the kit has a U.S. MSRP of $429.00. For 2003 and later FLHR/C/I Road King models (P/N 56529-02) has a suggested U.S. retail price of $539.00 For additional information on Beach Bar Handlebars and other Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories see your local Harley-Davidson dealer or visit the Harley-Davidson Web site at www.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free 1-800-443-2153 in the USA or Canada. Continued On Page 4
1310 Sunny Slope Ln
Stillwater, MN 55082
651 275 9411 
Sun. to Williams, AZ
Mon. to Kayenta, AZ
Tues. to durango, CO
Wed. to Aspen, CO
Thurs. layover day Aspen
Fri. to Denver for Arlins Party
Sat. Aug. 2nd to Spearfish
February 6, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BIKERNET ROCK AND ROLL EVENTS–Davie Allan & The ArrowsWith “Slacktone” and “The Deoras”
Lava Lounge
1533 No. La Brea Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90028-7072
(323) 876-6612
New Interview (plus album pick of the month, “For A Few Guitars More”):http://www.lancerecords.com/news2.htm,
LOST CHILD NEEDS HELP–A small boy was lost at a large shopping mall. He approached a uniformed policeman and said, “I’ve lost my dad!”
The cop asked, “What’s he like?”
The little boy replied, “Beer and pussy!”
100TH ANNIVERSARY ART RELEASE–Mr. Uhl continues to amaze us with his ability to capture on canvas the essence of the Harley-Davidson experience. This captivating image has been selected as David’s second and final painting for the Century Collection for release around May. If you ordered Century you will get the matched number on this piece. Ron Copple 800-999-1297 http://www.segalfineart.com.
BIKERNET SEXUAL RESEARCH COLUMN–A couple from the United States took a vacation to Africa and, while there, heard about a tribe whose men all had penises 24 inches long. Well, the couple could not believe this, so they engaged a guide to take them to find this tribe in a remote part of Africa.
When the couple arrived at the tribe’s camp, they were permitted to inspect the male natives’ genitalia and, sure enough, each native had one 24 inches long!
The couple asked the chief how this all came about and they were told that, when each male child became a certain age, a string was tied around his penis and on the other end of the string was a weight. After a while, the weight had the effect of lengthening the penis to 24 inches.
After the couple returned home, the husband was getting out of the shower one day and his wife looked at him and said, “What would you think about your trying the African native string-and-weight procedure so that you can have one like those natives?”The husband agreed and he attached the string and weight.
A few weeks later, the wife asked the husband, “How is our tribal procedure coming?”
He replied, “Well, we’re half way there.”
She asked, “You mean it’s getting longer?”
He said, “No, but it’s turned black
–from Buckshot
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES NEW SYNTHETIC MOTORCYCLE LUBRICANT–Screamin? Eagle SYN3 Designed for Engine, Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubrication.MILWAUKEE, WIS. – (January 30, 2003) Harley-Davidson recently announced it has developed a new synthetic lubricant designed to meet the unique needs of Harley-Davidson and Buell engine, transmission and primary chaincase lubrication. Screamin? Eagle Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant (SYN3) can take the place of engine oil, transmission lubricant and primary chaincase oil, making SYN3 a multi-purpose synthetic lubricant in a category of its own.
Developed by Harley-Davidson engineers in conjunction with industry leaders in the lubricant business, SYN3 was created and extensively tested for maximum performance in Harley-Davidson and Buell engines, transmissions and primary chaincases. The versatile SAE 20W50 lubricant will be sold exclusively through Harley-Davidson and Buell dealerships starting in February (Part Number 99824-03/00QT, MSRP $8.25/quart bottle).
SYN3 is especially appealing to two groups of riders: Performance-minded riders whose motorcycles run hotter when pushed to the limit and those who ride in areas with warmer temperatures. Both types of riders know how crucial it is to ensure proper oil cooling to maintain performance and reliability.
CANADIAN AUTHORITIES TRY TO ASSIGN TERRORIST LABEL TO BIKERS– I just read the bit on the H.A. being considered terrorist. We all know that is just plain stupid.Anyway……..picture this……Would you rather be on a plane with a bunch of towel heads or a bunch of “Hells’ Angels”.
Picture this…..You’re on a plane and some towel head pulls out a blade or a gun, would you rather have a bunch of suits trying to disarm this asshole or a bunch of “Hells’ Angels” trying to disarm the asshole?
Maybe that’s something them dip-shits oughta think about up there in Canada.
–Jef
BAD WEATHER, BAD NEWS– One Saturday morning he gets up early, dresses quietly, gets his bike out of the garage to ride to meet his friends for their customary Saturday morning ride. Coming out of his garage rain is pouring down; torrential downpour. There is snow mixed in with the rain, and the wind is blowing 50 mph and it is only 35 F.
He returns to the garage. He comes back into the house and turns the TV to the weather channel. After a short time, he finds it’s going to be bad weather all day long, so he puts his bike back into the garage, quietly undresses and slips back into bed.
There he cuddles up to his wife’s back, now with a different anticipation, and whispers, “The weather out there is terrible.” To which she sleepily replies, “Can you believe my stupid husband is out riding in that shit?”
–Chuck
Sanford, NC.
–from Mary Ann Hart
BIKERNET MOVIE CRITIC PREVIEWS BIKER BOYS– Sadly, lots of reviewers and critics have slammed the movie and I say to the contrary, don’t listen to the reviewers and whiney critics who nitpick at every little thing and deem it WRONG while sipping a double decafe no foam no fat latte.
The movie should be supported by bikers no matter what you ride because after all it is a biker flick albeit in a different culture, and it’s based upon a true story in the lifestyle.”The story is about the world of underground motorcycle clubs, with the undefeated racer known as Smoke as the undisputed “King of Cali.” He’s challenged by a young motorcycle racing prodigy called Kid who is determined to win Smoke’s helmet and coveted title. Of course, all this means costly stunts and special effects — something the production didn’t have.” reports Teresa Contreras of the movie internet site, Zap2it. Apparently, studios were concerned about a movie featuring African American motorcyclists. So, Biker Boyz wasn’t an easy movie to get launched. It was a damn mountain to get made. And, no, it wasn’t some brilliantly engineered story line, but it didn’t need to be. And most likely there wasn’t any time or budget to really cultivate the original intentions of the flick. The movie is about the culture, it’s about the bikes, the racing and the stunts. A deep story line would take away from the bike’s screentime anyway. It’s more like a shut up and ride and trick flick. –Sasha PS: baby, the bikes from the movie are for sale. http://www.bikerboyz.com/forsale.html Continued On Page 3
February 6, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit |
Custom Victory at the V-Twin Expo.
I survived Cincy with a case of the Oregon Mung. I can easily report that our industry is in good shape and the aftermarket is smiling. From billet madness to old school relics the manufacturers and creators are grinning from ear to ear. Everybody is making a buck and enjoying the creative freedom. There was even a redhead wandering the crowded isles who had my senses on alert. Just the way her close cropped auburn hair glistened in the lights and her blue eyes batted at me made the concrete floor soften and I glided along the astro turf as if it was a king sized bed.
Check Pablo’s report on the Cincy V-Twin Expo. My congratulations to Jim Betlach who organized the event. Helluva job. Let’s hit the news:
BIKERNET SMART WOMAN AWARD–A couple went on vacation to a fishing resort in northern Wisconsin. The husband liked to fish at the crack of dawn. The wife liked to read.
One morning the husband returned after several hours of fishing and decided to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decided to take the boat out. She motored out a short distance, anchored, and continued to read her book.
Along came a game warden in his boat. He pulled up alongside the woman and said, “Good morning Ma’am. What are you doing?”
“Reading a book,” she replied, (thinking: “isn’t that obvious?”)
“You’re in a restricted fishing area,” he informed her.
“I’m sorry officer, but I’m not fishing, I’m reading.”
“Yes, but you have all the equipment. I’ll have to take you in and write you up.”
“If you do that, I’ll have to charge you with sexual assault,” said the woman.
“But I haven’t even touched you!” said the game warden.
“That’s true, but you have all the equipment.”
MORAL: NEVER ARGUE WITH A WOMAN WHO READS. IT’S LIKELY SHE CAN ALSO THINK!
–Bob T.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON DAYTONA REPORT–This is a special year for Harley-Davidson as we celebrate 100 years ofproducing great motorcycles and making dreams come true. Daytona officiallykicks off the riding season for hundreds of thousands of riders, and we’ll behosting an indoor show in downtown Daytona at the Ocean Center, as well asFactory Demo Rides at Daytona International Speedway all week.
The latest news onour 100th Anniversary activities will be available, and you will be able to preview the indoor showwhich features the recent product offerings from Harley-Davidson and Buell.
THIS SHOULD END ALL 3 BEARS STORIESBaby Bear goes downstairs and sits in his small chair at the table, helooks into his small bowl, andIt is empty. “Who’s been eating my porridge?”, he squeaks.
Papa Bear arrives at the big table and sits in his big chair. He looksinto his big bowl,and it is also empty. “Who’s been eating my porridge?!!,”he roars.
Momma Bear puts her head through the serving hatch from the kitchen andyells,”For Christ’s sake, how many times do we have to go through this withyou idiots? It was Momma Bear who got up first, it was Momma Bear who wokeeveryone in the house, it was Momma Bear who made the coffee, it was Momma Bear who unloaded the dishwasher from last night,andput everything away it was Momma Bear who went out in the cold early morning air tofetch the newspaper, it was Momma Bear who set the damn table, it was Momma Bear who put the friggin cat out, cleaned the litterbox, and filled the cat’s water and food dish,and, now that you’ve decided to drag your sorry bear-asses downstairs,and grace Momma Bear’s kitchen with your grumpy presence, listen good,cause I’m only going to say this one more time.
I HAVEN’T MADE THE FUCKING PORRIDGE YET.”
–from Cindy, at Century Motorcycles in San Pedro, cindy@centurymotorcycles.com
TIN SIGNS CONNECTION–Asheville carries lots of Harley items – everything from signs to scale models.http://www.ashevillediecast.com/dir/search.html?SEARCHSTRING=harley&lowlimit=20&highlimit=39.000000&sh=d
If that link doesn’t work – just do a search for Harley on the site
BIKERNET OLDEST PET JOKE– A guy is browsing in a pet shop and sees a parrot sitting on a little perch. It doesn’t have any feet or legs.
The guy says aloud;”Jeesh. I wonder what happened to this Parrot?”
The parrot says, “I was born this way. I’m a defectiveparrot.””Holy cow,” the guy replies. “You actually understood and answered me!”
“I got every word,”saysthe parrot. “I happen to be a highly intelligent, thoroughly educatedbird.”
“Oh yeah?”, the guy asks, “Then answer this how do you hang onto your perch without any feet?”
“Well,”the parrot says, “this is very embarrassing but since you asked, I wrap mywillie around this wooden bar like a little hook. You can’t see it because of my feathers.”
“Wow” says the guy, “y ou really can understand and speak English, can’t you?”
” Actually, Ispeakboth Spanish and English. You really ought to buy me. I’d be a greatcompanion.”
The guy looks at the $200 price tag. “Sorry, but I just can’tafford t hat.”
“Pssssssst” says the parrot, “I’m defective, so the truthis,nobody wants me because I don’t have any feet. You can probably get me for $20, just make the guy an offer!”
Theguy offers $20 and walks out with the parrot.
Weeks go by & one day the guy comes home from work and the Parrot goes “Psssssssssssst” and motions him over with one wing. “I don’t knowif I should tell you this or not, but it’s about your wife and the postman.”
“What are you talking about?” asksthe guy .
“When the postman delivered today, your wife greeted him at thedoorin a sheer black nightie and kissed him passionately.”
“WHAT???” the guy asks incredulously. “THEN what happened?
“Well, then the postman came into the house and lifted up her nightie and began petting her all over”, reported the parrot.
“My God!” he exclaims. “Then what?”
“Then he lifted up thenightie, got down on his knees and began to lick her all over, starting with herbreasts and slowly going down….”
“WELL???” demands the frantic guy, “THEN WHAT HAPPENED?”
“Damnedif I know. I got a hard-on and fell off my perch.”
–from Dan McNeil
CYRIL HUZE NEW SPIKEE MIRRORS– Original mirror design by Cyril Huze featuring a bezel with 3 spikes. Glass is enclosed with no risk of falling off because of vibrations. Back of the mirror is a 3-step design. Sold individually with a short stem in Chrome.
Cyril Huze Custom
Motorcycles & Parts
Tel: 561-392-5557
Fax: 561-392-9923
Website: //www.cyrilhuze.com
Webstore: http://store.cyrilhuze.com
ONLINE MOTORCYCLE STORE–MotorcycleUSA?s
We offer a huge selection of top brand gear, apparel, and accessories, and bike-specific products will soon be added to further broaden our appeal. Please contact us at mailto:affiliate@motorcycle-usa.com, affiliate@motorcycle-usa.com or visit http://www.linkshare.com/, www.linkshare.com for further details.
If not a LinkShare merchant, us this URL to join: HOW TO CALL THE POLICE–A True Story From the Meridian, Mississippi Star:George Phillips of Meridian Mississippi was going up to bed when his wifetold him that he’d left the light on in the garden shed, which shecould see from the bedroom window. George opened the back door to go turn off the light but saw that therewere people in the shed stealing things. He phoned the Police, whoasked “Is someone in your house?” and he said “no”. Then they said that all patrols were busy, and that no one was availableat this time, and that he should simply lock his door and an officerwould be along when one became available. George said “Okay,” hung up, counted to 30, and then phoned the Police again. “Hello. I just called you a few seconds ago because there were people in my shed. Well, you don’t have to worry about them now cause I’ve just shot them all.” Then he hung up. Within five minutes three police cars, 2 Armed Response units, a Helicopterand an ambulance showed up at the Phillips residence. The police caught the burglars red-handed. One of the policemen said to George: “I thought you said that you’d shot them!” George said, “I thought you said there was nobody available. –from Bob T. Just last week we received a call from our alarm company. They told us that the Los Angeles police department will no longer respond to alarms unless it’s an attack alarm (like mentioned above). The last time our alarm went off I returned to the headquarters a half hour before the police. On top of that it’s illegal to put your alarm horn on the outside of the facility to hopefully draw neighbors. BIKERNET TAKES DELTA TO CINNCINATI– “Thank you for flying Delta Business Express. We hope you enjoyedgiving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride.” –from RevCarlR BIKERNET DISASTER STUDY–A little political review, time to think &remember … From a Navy man:After the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, which killed 6 and injured1,000 — President Clinton promised that those responsible would be hunted downand punished. After the 1995 bombing in Saudi Arabia, which killed 5 U.S. militarypersonnel– Clinton promised that those responsible would be hunted down andpunished. After the 1996 Khobar Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia, which killed 19 andinjured 200 U.S. military personnel– Clinton promised that those responsible would be hunted down andpunished. After the 1998 bombing of U.S. embassies in Africa, which killed 224 andinjured 5,000– Clinton promised that those responsible would be hunted down andpunished. After the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole, which killed 17 and injured 39U.S. sailors– Clinton promised that those responsible would be hunted down andpunished. Maybe if Clinton had kept his promise, perhaps many of the 3,000+ peoplewho died in New York City, NY and Washington, DC on 9-11-2001 would bealive today. –Cmdr. Hamilton McWhorter USN(ret) –from Redhorse Continued On Page 2
January 29, 2003 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
CLASS ACTION SUIT AGAINST HARLEY-DAVIDSON–Everyone who owns a 1999 and early 2000 Twin Cam engine H-D; and isinterested in finding out more about cam bearing failure and what you can doabout it, should go to www.lchb.com and follow the links about the caseagainst H-D.
January 14, 2003, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — The Wisconsin Court of Appealsreversed the trial court’s dismissal of a consumer fraud lawsuit againstHarley-Davidson, finding that plaintiffs had properly alleged claims underthe Wisconsin Deceptive Trade Practices Act and for fraudulent concealment.The lawsuit was brought by Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners with 1999 orearly-2000 models equipped with Twin Cam 88 or Twin Cam 88B (together,TC-88) engines. Plaintiffs allege that the TC-88 engine was defectivelydesigned and potentially dangerous due to the propensity for premature camfailure, which causes sudden and total engine failure.Read more here:Harley Class Action Suit Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP, Announcesthat Wisconsin Court of Appeals Reinstates Consumer Fraud Class ActionAgainst Harley-Davidson
MILWAUKEE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jan. 14, 2003– An Estimated One HundredThousand 1999 and Early-2000 Model Harley Motorcycles Are Equipped withAllegedly Defective Engines Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP,plaintiff’s co-counsel in Tietsworth, et al. v. Harley-Davidson, Inc., andHarley-Davidson Motor Company, a consumer fraud class action lawsuit,announced that in a unanimous decision the Wisconsin Court of Appeals todayreversed the trial court’s dismissal of the lawsuit, finding that plaintiffshad properly alleged the necessary elements of claims under the WisconsinDeceptive Trade Practices Act and for common law fraudulent concealment.
“Weare gratified that the Court of Appeals recognized the merits of our case,and thrilled that our clients and all of the other consumers who bought andride these motorcycles will have their day in court, and a chance to showthatthey got something less than what they paid for,” commented Lieff Cabraserpartner Lisa J. Leebove.
–from Rogue
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES NEW SYNTHETIC MOTORCYCLE LUBRICANT–
Screamin? Eagle SYN3 Designed for Engine, Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubrication
MILWAUKEE, WIS. – (January 30, 2003) Harley-Davidson recently announced it has developed a new synthetic lubricant designed to meet the unique needs of Harley-Davidson and Buell engine, transmission and primary chaincase lubrication. Screamin? Eagle Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant (SYN3) can take the place of engine oil, transmission lubricant and primary chaincase oil, making SYN3 a multi-purpose synthetic lubricant in a category of its own.
Developed by Harley-Davidson engineers in conjunction with industry leaders in the lubricant business, SYN3 was created and extensively tested for maximum performance in Harley-Davidson and Buell engines, transmissions and primary chaincases. The versatile SAE 20W50 lubricant will be sold exclusively through Harley-Davidson and Buell dealerships starting in February (Part Number 99824-03/00QT, MSRP $8.25/quart bottle).
SYN3 is especially appealing to two groups of riders: Performance-minded riders whose motorcycles run hotter when pushed to the limit and those who ride in areas with warmer temperatures. Both types of riders know how crucial it is to ensure proper oil cooling to maintain performance and reliability.
More than three years of laboratory bench testing, dynamometer testing under accelerated conditions, open road and closed course durability testing, wear and deposit rating analysis and sophisticated used lubricant analysis went into producing the optimal combination of three synthetic basestocks and carefully chosen mixture of additives which offer superior lubrication and cooling, as well as protection against rust and oxidation. Screamin? Eagle?s more than half a million miles and 500-plus hours of dyno testing proved that in addition to reduced oil consumption, SYN3 also provides high temperature film strength, which means the lubricant maintains film thickness in high power output and high engine speed conditions, keeping the metal parts from rubbing against each other and resulting in less wear.
AIRPORT SECURITY– airport securityAlmost 150 years ago, President Lincoln found it necessary to hire aprivate investigator – Alan Pinkerton – for protection. That was the beginningof the Secret Service. Since that time, the federal government has produceda large number of multi-letter agencies such as: FBI, CIA, INS, IRS, DEA,BATF, etc.
Now we have the “Federal Air Transportation Airport Security Service”.
Can’t you see them now, these highly trained men and women in theirblack outfits with jackets saying across the backs: “F.A.T.A.S.S.”
I feel safer already.
–CARLR
TAHITI RUN IS ON FOR LATE MARCH– Just got this from Tahiti. todays exchange rate is appx 110 cfp = $1so I was able to get the price down for Jim and JoAnn and what ever other couple to about $350 per person taxes included with the $515 air fare thats $865 per person. Not bad down from $1425. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get meals or transfers included for this price. I’m working on getting a discount on transfers and the ferry trip from another source. They want $125 per person extra for 6 breakfasts. Or about $21 per person per day. Screw that!
I still have 3 seats and an extra room I’m holding on to in case Billy Lane or Jose change their minds or someone else pops up.
POLICE WANT BIKERS DECLARED TERRORISTS–The federal justice minister is considering declaring theHells Angels Motorcycle Club a terrorist organization,based on a secretive seizure by the RCMPat Montreal’s Dorval airport. Although Canadian authoritiesare saying little about the criminal investigation involving a member of theclub, and have refused to identify what was found, according to publishedreports a seizure of a club member’s colors and questions about anunexplained quantity of cash at the international airport has triggered acall for the club to be added to the federalgovernment’s list of terrorist organizations.
The seizure occurred after several members of the Hells Angels returned toCanada on December 2, 2002, from a meeting in Europe, and althoughauthorities remain tight-lipped, sources told the National Post newspaperthat a jacket and other items of clothing bearing theHells Angels logo were confiscated.$2,600 in cash was questioned, but not seized,and no charges have been filed.The colors were being carried in the member’s luggagewhile passing through Canada Customs. Authorities told the newspaper thatthe club has no known ties to well-known terrorist groups, but the way thegroup is run falls within parameters of the current anti-terrorism law.
Canada currently lists 16 groups as being involved in terrorism, includingal Qaida, Hezbollah and Hamas. The incident has prompted discussion aboutapplying the wide-ranging powers approved after the Sept. 11 terroristattackson the United States to fight criminal organizations.
Such a move would make it far easier to prosecute and seize the assets ofoutlaw motorcycle club members. “I’d love to see it get easier for us [toprosecute them].We are always open for that,”said Commander Mario Plante, head of the organized crime division ofMontreal police.
A member of the Hells Angels, who spoke on condition he notbe named, said linking the club to terrorist activity is offensive. “Itbelittles how important the fight against terrorism is,” he said.”Our parents fought in World War II,”he told the newspaper.”The Hells Angels’ original members were born out ofhaving fought the Nazis and every Hells Angelwould be the first to line upin defense of their country.”
–from Rogue
E-BAY TIP–Thought this might interest your readers. 2000 Ford : F-Series Pickup H-D F150,Harley F150,2000 FXST,Trailer Combo This rig draws stares and compliments wherever it is seen. The Harley-Davidson F-150 is lowered, flamed and just plain gorgeous. There were only 7500 of these trucks produced in 2000. This is the first year these trucks were offered and this is Unit #4852, built Aug. 17, 2000. The bike is a 2000 FXST that is also flamed and has a built 95″ Twin Cam Engine making over 100 hp. and over 100 ft,lbs. of torque. The trailer is a Lehman Hawg-Hauler that is painted to match the truck and bike. This is truly one of the finest custom packages around today. You won’t see another one anywhere with such a unified design package. BANDIT LOSES SUPERBOWL BET!–Blaaaaahaaahaaa……. sucker bet! Now you not only have to buy Tbeardrinks, you have to post your ass before the entire world! Jeeeeziskeyrist…..please tell me what page it’s on so I don’t have tohurt my eyes looking at it. I know I said I would do image work foryou….. I draw the line at air brushing your south side. Goooooooooo Bucs! Florida rocks! –FTW,Stroker This gruff lookin’ sonuvabitch is the gruff hardworking leader of the Texas motorcycle rights movement. He’s Sputnik, a rider dedicated to keeping motorcyclists free in the big state. Maybe he’ll be at the meet? DALLAS SWAP MEET FEBRUARY 2ND!Howdy, The Texas Scooter Times here reminding everyone about the Texas Scooter Times upcoming Swap Meet in Dallas-February 2nd at the Historic Longhorn Ballroom! Bikers will find motorcycle parts manufactures and distributors that travel the country, selling by the volume at deep discounts. There’ll be Motorcycle Shops that sell the good used parts that are taken off bikes in their shops when customers want to change up their rides. There’ll be Jewelry Vendors, T-Shirt Hawkers, Leather Sellers and people peddling oddities of all kinds. What ever it is you are looking for, IT’S HERE! – Live Band – Bargains – Parts & Party – Door prizes and other contests – TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS! – Don’t miss them!HOURS: Gates open at 11am – Limited Vendor Space Still Available- please call the Texas Scooter Times for reservations. NEW! – the Texas Scooter Times Paper is online now! Go to www.texasscooter.com and click on the TST ONLINE! Tab to read. For more info on a specific show and driving directions visit: www.texasscooter.com or call 254-687-9066 BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Let me start this week by excusing myself for missing last weeks news..Incase some people did not notice…But yeap my award winning report wasMIA…Just so you know, and I really don’t care if you care or not, I had areally hot date with a certain tall chick…Such a hot date that we havebeen spending weeks and weeks together, to put it mildly I have not gottenhome before 4:00 am since the time we have been seeing each other…Yeap,you might wonder when do I get my loonie pills..I’m comparing that fuckingchopper with a chick..that is sad very sad.Anyway, enough bullshit, I ain’t no politician trying to feed my ego andlooking like the Keebler elves..(I guess that’s my political viewpoint ofthe week) Remember that some time ago I promised a sneak peek at the Finnishmagazine, Kopteri, well here it is …Finally !Also speaking of the devil, the guys from Kopteri are coming to ourtropical shores in February for some fun in the sun and to check thechopper “culture” in our small island…I will certainly be reporting aboutthat in following weeks. I’ve spent several nights banging (metal that is) inserting nuts, grinding,and many other dual inuendo words on my new chopper, I have managed to dothe whole mock up tonight, so I hope that by the end of the week it will beon the paint booth, so, since you are such faithful readers and to keep asecret amongst us, (yeap all three million of us) here’s a photo of my newchopper… BTW, since there’s so many rats and copycats checking Bikernetevery week (you know who you are..Weasels !!) I have kept the photo in aspy proof mode…If you happen to go to Daytona you might see the real bikethere…If not I promise I will post it here the week before the bike getsthere. So let’s get to the very brief news (since I’ve been hiding in my fuckinggrease monkey palace for the last month and I don’t know jack of what’sgoing on)I’m very sorry to report that our good friend Georgie Jupin is riding hischopper in the sky…We will miss him, his antics and charisma. It’s sad toloose a friend, more so under those circumstances.. Hasta pronto bro..Cinci is taking place this week end, yeap I cancelled all my plans thanksto the chopper, as well as Indy. I guess Bandit is going, so he will takecare of getting to bed early and having his protein shake, hum maybe I’llgo to visit Sin and the girls, like the old saying..When the cat’s away… We have a few Bobbers on build right now, I’m going to chance it and see ifI can get another one done for Daytona, (yes I lost it big time…) Whoknow’s I might manage to , or maybe not…We also have secured the spot in Beach Street for The Horse, Choppers Incand Caribbean Custom Cycles…Come by and shoot the shit, there’s going tobe some cool bikes there, and even my choppers… I’ve been trying to make up some of the stuff you guys like so much (orhate) but I have not been able to, anyway, once more it’s 4:00 am here andI’m still writing this.. Also there’s so many friends out there that havebent over backwards to help me out on this new choppers, Thanks guys ! I’llpost a detailed list later on .Gotta hit the Sealy before I get a total brain meltdown. Later —Jose LAWSUIT OF THE WEEK–Jerry Williams of Little Rock, Arkansas, was awarded $14,500 and medical expenses after being bitten on the buttocks by his next door neighbor’s beagle. The beagle was on a chain in its owner’s fenced yard. The award was less than sought because the jury felt the dog might have been just a little provoked at the time by Mr. Williams who was shooting it repeatedly with a pellet gun. –from RFR ESCAPE HATCH–I don’t much like the news this week. I don’t like law suits, bikers being called terrorists, or the accident rates going through the roof. I say stiff penalities for anyone in a car or truck who hits a motorcyclists. I say we all move to the midwest were we can still ride free and escape the cities. I vote we legalize prostitution and improve morale.
January 29, 2003 Part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
CLUB LEADER TESTIFIES AGAINS NEPHEW IN LIVONIA SLAYINGS--By John Bebow and Craig Garrett / The Detroit News.LIVONIA — The leader of a Detroit biker gang snitched on his nephew for the Pesce killings in Livonia because of “the kids,” the biker testified Friday. Billy Smith, 36, who identified himself as the “west side boss” of the Devil’s Disciples biker gang, told a crowded Livonia court room that he turned in his nephew, John Wolfenbarger, for the Dec. 21 killings of jeweler Marco Pesce, his mother, and his three children in their upscale home.
“It was the nature of the crime,” Smith said. “The kids. The kids. You can’t step over that line.”
Wolfenbarger was bound over Friday for trial in Wayne County Circuit Court based on police evidence and the testimony of Smith and several other witnesses. The preliminary exam for Wolfenbarger’s alleged partner, Dennis Delmar Lincoln, is scheduled to continue next Friday. Both Wolfenbarger and Lincoln pleaded not guilty. Witnesses Friday described Wolfenbarger as a man who could mix murder with everyday convention in the days before Christmas. A 12-year-old witness testified Wolfenbarger drove his family to church the morning after the shootings and then took them to Sunday brunch at The Copa, a bar on Schoolcraft. But the star witness was Billy Smith, a bartender at The Copa, who broke the case wide open for detectives who had no inkling of a connection to Detroit’s rough Brightmoor neighborhood, where Wolfenbarger lived on and off since his parole from prison in August. “Before Billy, Brightmoor was not on our radar,” said Wayne County assistant prosecutor Mike King. Others testified Wolfenbarger sometimes stayed two doors down from Smith’s home in Brightmoor. Smith said Wolfenbarger woke him up in his house after 11 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, saying cryptically, “Five dead,” and told Smith to watch the news. Later, Wolfenbarger told him, “The (expletive) I did will be on CNN” and asked for help in disposing of gold taken in the robbery of Pesce’s home, Smith testified.
–from Rogue and Detroit News
FRANK KAISLER BREATHER LESSON–Shovels have two vents. The first is the fitting above the oil pump, justbehind the rear lifter block that returns oil and oil vapor to the tank..The second is the crankcase vent inboard of the oil pump on the cases. If this is a late model Shovel there are two tapped holes forfittings. One hole for oil returning from the primary chaincases, the secondis the crankcase vent to the atmosphere . Is one or both of these holesplugged?
What is the oil level in the oil tank? Over full oil levels in the tankdon’t allow enough room for oil return and oil vapor in the tank. Rememberoil return is driven pressure from the pump, oil feed to the pump isgravity, and then pressurized through the engine.
Oil filter? are the oil lines to and from the filter correct? Is thefilter plumbed correctly?
Oil is filtered by entering the center of the filter, and then through thefilter element returning to the tank through the outside holes around theperimeter of the filter.
On a Shovel the filter should be plumbed in the return line from the pump tothe tank. So, oil leaves pump, goes to middle fitting on filter housing,leaves filter housing and connects to oil tank. Fitting on oil tank shouldbe higher than oil level inside tank (back to over-full oil level). Ifthe oil return has to force itself into the oil in the tank it buildsadditional pressure back downstream all the way to the pump. You want theoil to flow freely back into the tank.
Is the correct oil filter installed? Oil filters come with a built–inrelief valve. When pressure inside the filter builds to a pressureexceeding the valve (like when the filler element becomes clogged withdebris) the valve will open allowing the oil to flow freely back to thetank. Different filters have different pressure relief valves, also, newerfilters used on the Twin Cam will filter smaller particles of dirt, meaningmore restrictive, meaning higher pressure. Most Shovels run straight 60weight oil, which is thick, trying to force 60 weight through a late modelfilter will build up undue pressure, even with the oil filter pressurerelief valve. These late model filters were designed to be used with multi-weight oils like the factories 20-50.
Larger displacement engines need tohave the opening enlarged in the crankcases where the breather gear spins to allow more air and oil vapor to pass through as the pistons come down the cylinders.
That’s all I can think of off the top of my pointed head.
BIKERNET REVEALS SECRETS TO STOCK CV CARB–Check the teck on the home page for mods to your common, stock, Harley-Davidson CV carb. Ron Trock of Cycle Specialities can set up a CV carb for any Harley.
THE QUANTUM SAGA CONTINUES–I have been notified by the Law Office of Peter Hill, attorney for George E. Mills the trustee in the Quantum bankruptcy case No 00-08472-OB7 that they want to approve another compromise with 3 more debtors.
Basically what they want to do is settle these actions for a lower fee. They are saying it is a better deal than going to court and paying legal fees to try and collect and they are probably right. So far I have seen reports and compromises and it appears the only one making any money has been the Trustee and his Attorney.
The 3 cases are Management Recruiters of Cheyenne Inc. sum of $17,500.00 reduced to $12,000.00, – GFS Investments Inc. sum of $20,000.00 reduced to $12,000.00, – American Express Company sum of $17,500.00 reduced to $10,000.00
Some of you may remember the last compromise the trustee requested that some Quantum employees objected to. The employees appeared at the Federal Bankruptcy Court in Orlando Florida on March 21,2002 and removed the objections after the attorney and trustee told the Court that the monies coming in from that settlement would be enough to pay all the employees their past wages. They also stated that payments should start 90 to 120 days after that. Of course all of you know that never happened.
Now they are coming forward again requesting another compromise. I personally do not see much sense in objecting, as it would be money coming in.
–ROGUE
HORSE BIKE WEEK NOTICE–Hey ya’all,Here’s the ad we are running in the next issue of Da Horse.It lets everyone know where we will be at Bike Week.Pass it on to whoever u think is deservin’
–geno
BIKERNET SPORTS REPORT–SUPERBOWL– Worst example of “Time Managment” and play calling I have ever seen!! I couldn’t believe they tried that 2 pt. B.S. all night long after scoring. Fucking unreal. That call by the Ref. on the 2 pt. conversion in the endzone clearly showed that he must have been paid off by the Buc’s owner. Old “Deep Pockets” Glazer!! Ya need to go for the high percentage pt’s, kick the fucker shit!!.
What was up with the Raider quarterback?? It looked like on every interception he had thrown that he looked straight at the defender and said here’s another one for you guy’s!!
The Buc’s it seemed to me were in better condition. That Dago heat must have ate up the Raiders or some damn thing. After the Buc’s got over the “Jitter’s” early on they really put the “Hammer” down on the Silver & Black.
Oh well. Anyway one of the best part’s of the night for me was hearing & watching those Dixie Chick’s do the national anthem proud!! Truly a great moment for American Sports. A well deserved “Atta Girl” for all three of those sweety’s.
–Pablo
P.S. The Daytona 500 is up next buddy.
DEATH OF MOTORCYCLISTS UP–Nation & World: Saturday, January 25, 2003,By Seth BorensteinKnight Ridder Newspapers.WASHINGTON – Fatal motorcycle crashes are up more than 50 percent since1997, and no one can figure out why.Graying riders, weakened helmet laws, drunken motorcyclists, souped-upengines and oblivious car drivers all may be factors, but safety expertsaren’t quite sure why the rate of fatal crashes are soaring as fatal car andtruck crash rates fall.
“We don’t know why it’s happening, so how can we do anything about it?” saidDavid Thom, program manager at the Head Protection Research Laboratory, anonprofit safety group. He is also co-author of a study of motorcycle riderand industry safety.
Other nations are seeing a similar rise in motorcycledeaths, Thom said.U.S. motorcyclist deaths dropped consistently from 1980 to 1997 but now arejumping each year by the hundreds. In 1997, 2,116 motorcyclists were killed;in 2001, the number was up to 3,181, according to the National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The rising death toll can be attributed in part to the rising number ofmotorcycles on the road, but crashes are up even taking that into account.The rate of fatal U.S. crashes per 100 million miles ridden increased by 59percent from 1997 to 2001, from 21.4 to 34.4.In 1997, one in 20 U.S. road fatalities was a motorcycle rider; it was onein 13 in 2001.Motorcycle crashes that injure, but not kill, have increased only 19 percentsince 1997.
With little protection around them, motorcyclists suffer more severeinjuries – often to the head – that turn fatal, experts say. Motorcyclistsare 26 times more likely to die in a crash than a passenger in a car.Bikers know this all too well.
“Things are more intense all around,” said Art Friedman, a senior editor atMotorcyclist magazine. He writes the “street survival” column and commutesaround Los Angeles daily on his motorcycle. “I’ve taken greater efforts tomake myself conspicuous. I wear an orange helmet. I wear a bright yellowjacket, and I ride with my high beams on.”f
NHTSA cites many possible causes for the increased motorcycle death rate,among them that riders tend to be older – the average age of motorcyclistskilled in crashes increased from 29.3 in 1990 to 36.3 in 2001.Bigger bikes are doubtlessly another contributing factor, as engine size hasincreased by 25 percent, on average, from 769 cubic centimeters in 1990 to959 cc in 2001.Another major factor, according to the agency, is that five states -Arkansas, Texas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Florida – have weakened lawsrequiring motorcycle helmets since 1997. NHTSA studies show dramaticincreases in fatalities in each of those states except Florida.But even those reasons together don’t provide a full explanation, expertssay.
“There are some question marks that can only be answered by doing acomprehensive (motorcycle accident) causation study,” NHTSA spokesman RaeTyson said.But NHTSA will not do such a study because it costs too much, between $2million and $3 million, Tyson said.As a point of comparison, the federal government spends $4.2 million a yearon shrimp aquaculture research and $5 million a year to run the BaldrigeNational Quality Program, which recognizes private companies’ “quest forexcellence.”Independent experts agree that such a study is needed. It was the No. 1recommendation from both riders and the motorcycle industry in a 98-pagesafety proposal in 2001, according to Friedman.No such a study has been conducted in the United States since 1981. Sincethen much has changed involving motorcycles, riders, safety equipment andbusier roadways full of high-riding sport-utility vehicles.Europe is in the midst of such a comprehensive study. Thailand recentlyfinished one and “is certainly more caught up than we are,” Friedman said.
Instead of studying the causes of crashes to figure out what needs to bechanged, NHTSA this month unveiled a 24-page motorcycle safety program. Itwould study how states differ in rider training, target drunken riding,improve helmets and their use, and educate drivers in two states on how toshare the road with motorcyclists.But experts say the NHTSA plan is weak because it does not aim to find outwhy fatal crashes are increasing.
Continued On Page 3
January 29, 2003 Part 1
By Bandit |
What a wacky week it’s been. Tomorrow the industry is heading to Cinncinati for a weekend party. Who knows what will be accomplished. I’ll be there for American Rider covering the show and passing out Bikernet stickers.
For the last week I’ve had the priviledge of riding the new Victory Vegas. Nice scoot. There’s more on that below. The Pan is running fine and we’ll start work on the King again next week. We better get to the news.
BIKER-FUGITIVE DISCOVERED–Investigators stand near the box that contained the body of Lawrence William Cook, 44. Cook, whose body was found in Bayou Cocodrie last week, was a wanted fugitive from Texas. A man whose dismembered body was found in a plastic storage box floating in Bayou Cocodrie was a fugitive from the law in Texas.
Lawrence William Cook, 44, had four outstanding warrants against him from Grayson County, Texas, including one for allegedly stealing a policeman’s motorcycle, according to Grayson County (Texas) Sheriff Keith Gary.
Cook, known in the Grayson County area as “Larry-Larry,” had a lengthy criminal record with at least 18 arrests.
Cook had a gunshot wound behind his ear when his body was found last Friday. His legs had been cut off, apparently to make his body fit into the box, Evangeline Parish sheriff’s detectives said. The legs have not been found.
Cook was a member of the North Texas chapter of the Banshee motorcycle club. It is unknown if his club involvement was a factor in his death, detectives said.
–Mandy M. Goodnight / The Town Talk
THE RIGHT AGE FOR CUSSING– A 6-year-old and a 4-year-old are upstairs in their bedroom.
“You know what?” says the 6-year-old. “I think it’s about time we start cussing.”
The 4-year-old nods his head in approval.
The 6-year-old continues. “When we go downstairs for breakfast I’m gonna say “hell,” and you say “ass.” “OK!”
The 4 year old agrees with enthusiasm. Their mother walks into the kitchen and asks the 6-year-old what he wants for breakfast.
“Aw hell, Mom, I guess I’ll have some Cheerios.”
WHACK! He flies out of his chair, tumbles across the kitchen floor, gets up, and runs upstairs crying his eyes out, with his mother in hot pursuit, slapping his rear every step. The mom locks him in his room & shouts, “You can just stay there till I let you out!”
She then comes back downstairs, looks at the 4-year-old, and asks with a stern voice, “And what do YOU want for breakfast young man?”
“I don’t know,” he blubbers, “But you can bet your fat ass it won’t be Cheerios.”
–from Rev. CarlR
VICTORY VEGAS ROAD TEST–Off and on for a week I’ve been riding a new 2003 Victory Vegas. If you’re looking for a new bike, give one a try. I was impressed. I equated it to a Sportster in some regards, although it’s 92 inches of overhead cams, 4-valve heads and plenty of torque was rubbermounted. It weighs 615 pound, whereas my King weighs 723 lbs. dry, and a Sportster weighs 489 to 503 lbs. dry, depending on model.
My report will be available in Cruising Rider magazine.
–Bandit
POLICE STIFLE TOY RUN–Each fall for the last four years, thousands of motorcycle riders have driven their bikes through eastern Delaware County in a festive event organized by the nonprofit Bikers Against Child Abuse Inc. to raise money and collect toys for abused and neglected children.
The group, which has its national office in Delaware County, has been honored for its efforts in the past and has attracted wide support. U.S. Rep. Curt Weldon (R., Pa.) was the grand marshal for yesterday’s ride.
Yesterday, however, bikers gathering in Darby Borough at 10 a.m. were greeted with heavy police presence. About 135 officers who had been called in from more than half a dozen municipalities inspected each motorcycle for motor-vehicle code violations before the ride could proceed – something they had not done before previous rides. Neither police nor the bikers would say how many citations had been issued.
–By Dan HardyInquirer Staff Writer
BIKERNET WEAPONS TEST–Question: You’re walking down a deserted street with your wife and two small children. Suddenly, a dangerous looking man with a huge knife comes around the corner and is running at you while screamingobscenities. In your hand is a Glock .40 and you are an expert shot.You have mere seconds before he reaches you and your family. What do you do?
Liberal Answer:Well, that’s not enough information to answer the question! Does the man look poor or oppressed? Have I ever done anything to him that isinspiring him to attack?Could we run away? What does my wife think?What about the kids?Could I possibly swing the gun like a club and knock the knife out ofhis hand?What does the law say about this situation?Is it possible he’d be happy with just killing me?Does he definitely want to kill me or would he just be content to wound me?If I were to grab his knees and hold on, could my family get away while he was stabbing me?This is all so confusing! I need to debate this with some friends for a few days to try to come to a conclusion.
Conservative Answer:BANG!
Texan’s Answer:BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BAN! G! BANG! click…(sounds of clip being ejected and fresh clip installed)
Wife: “Sweetheart, he looks like he’s still moving, what do you kidsthink?”
Son: “Mom’s right Dad, I saw it too…”
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
Daughter: “Nice grouping Daddy!”
–from Al Friedman
BANDIT IS NO PUBLIC BURDEN?–You spend the last TWO years paying off medical bills from an uninsuredmotorcycle accident? Man, you’re screwing up the works! Don’t youlisten to your government? All uninsured motorcycle accidents areautomatically a public burden. There must be a government agency thatpays for all medical bills of uninsured motorcycle accidents and youneed to contact them immediately to get a full refund.
As usual O’ great one your words have inspired new thought. I havealways stopped at the point of showing that NHTSA’s bloated accusationsof helmet-less motorcyclist costing the public millions of dollars asbeing a lie. They site their 1996 report showing unhelmeted ridershaving 5 percent higher medical costs then helmeted riders. Then theytake that 5 percent, multiply it by some estimated dollar figure formedical expenses and tell congress, judges, and the world thatunhelmeted riders are costing the public millions of dollars. Theyfail to mention that the data used for the 1996 report states it has a5 percent margin of error making the estimated numbers a meaninglesslie. There didn’t seem much reason to give it further consideration.
NHTSA making unsupported blanket statements that every motorcyclist injured without medical insurance is automatically a public burden isanother lie. You are a prime example. My brothers wife had to havesurgery without insurance and they spent 5 years paying off medicalbills. Doctors and Hospitals don’t just let people walk and not pay ifthey are uninsured. There is no government agency that pays for thesebills. People have to pay their debt, medical or other wise, or theymust file for bankruptcy, or go to jail. That’s how the system works. Exactly how do helmet-less motorcycle riders become a public burden?
Public burden is the only reason the government, both legislative andjudicial, have come up with to force us to wear a potentialy fatalpiece of “safety gear.” The public burden theory is unproven, it is alie.
–FTW,Stroker
BIKERNET REVEALS HOW TO BUILD A FLOW BENCH– This is the second Flowbench I have built. The first one was modeled after a commercial one but was under powered. I could barely get 8″ w.c. test pressure on intake testing.
I have been working on this thing for quite some time now. This second design is not of the Laminar Flow type benches like Jerry Branch or Don Tilley use. This design is more like the larger comercial Flowbenches most commonly used by alot of cylinder head porter’s nowdays.
–Pablo
Watch for the tech to be revealed in segments starting next week.
?SATAN’ BIKER BUSTED OVER DRUG LAB– By JOHN LEHMANN. January 15, 2003 — A 300-pound biker, who leads a gang known as “Satan’s Soldiers,” is facing a hellish future after being nabbed manufacturing drugs in a clandestine lab near a school in The Bronx, the feds charge.
Angelo “Red” Cruz surrounded himself with an arsenal of guns while directing his gang to produce crystal methamphetamine – also known as crank and ice – in a trailer near the gang’s clubhouse, according to court papers.
Cruz, wearing a tent-sized red and black jacket, was hauled into Manhattan federal court yesterday after a close pal ratted him out to cops.
–from Rogue and New York Post Online
NEW BUELL LIGHTNING LOW XB9S–STREETFIGHTER PERFORMANCE FOR SHORTER RIDERS–Milwaukee, Wis. – (Jan. 28, 2002) Buell Motorcycle Company recently revealed the 2003 Lightning Low XB9S, a new model with a 1.5-inch lower seat height than the standard Lightning XB9S. The Lightning Low delivers uncompromised street performance in a package that will be more comfortable for a shorter rider.
The Lightning Low XB9S has a seat height of just 28.6 inches, achieved by altering the front and rear suspension and reshaping the seat pad. According to Buell engineers, the Lightning Low retains the responsive handling and exhilarating performance of previous Buell models. The Lightning Low also offers the same lean styling and advanced design features found on the innovative Buell Lightning XB9S and Firebolt XB9R, including fuel-in-the-frame, oil-in-the-swingarm, and Zero Torsional Load front brake, with the muscular torque of a 92-horsepower, 984cc air-cooled, 45-degree V-Twin engine with Dynamic Digital Fuel Injection.
The new Lightning Low XB9S will be available in Buell dealerships in February with an MSRP of $9,995.
For photography and information on Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Buell American Motorcycles, visit www.h-dmedia.com.
Continued On Page 2
January 26, 2003
By Bandit |
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at NCOM COAST TO COAST BIKER NEWS EPA COMMENT DEADLINE PASSES?WHAT NEXT? With the passing of the January 7 deadline for public comment, the federal Environmental Protection Agency is expected to release their final emissions regulations for street motorcycles, but can bikers do more than just wait and see what the EPA has in store for our future? Contacting your Congressman and U.S. Senator to let them know your feelings about the stringent standards should be your first priority, if you value your right to ride. While you’re at it, send a copy of your letter or memo of your phone call to Christie Todd Whitman, EPA Administrator, at 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20460, so that the agency is well aware of motorcyclists’ concerns over their pending rules. The Barcia Bill, or “Motorcycle and Motorcycling Small Business Protection Act (HR 5433),” will not be carried over into the new legislative session, and Michigan Congressman James Barcia did not run for re-election. But that doesn’t mean Congress can’t exert political pressure to create protections for small volume manufacturers and the motorcycle aftermarket. “It’s not so much what the EPA standards do that concern us most as consumers,” lectured Bill Bish at a recent NCOM (National Coalition of Motorcyclists) Regional Meeting in Ohio, “It’s what they potentially open the door to that could sound a death knell for motorcycle enthusiasts.” In-use emissions testing, roadside inspections, stricter enforcement of anti-tampering regulations, bans on equipment modifications that alter emissions, end-of-life mandatory recycling, and decertification of aftermarket products could have a chilling effect on the motorcycle industry and effectively create a monopoly controlled by the marquee manufacturers. “You don’t see automobile dealers doing performance work on cars anymore because they know that the EPA can slap them with heavy fines for tampering with emissions systems, so how long before the feds start clamping down on performance modifications to our motorcycles, holding both the dealer and consumer responsible for altering emissions output?,” Bish asked the crowd in Columbus during a seminar hosted by NCOM and A.I.M. Attorney Ralph Buss. If we could no longer modify or customize our motorcycles, or have access to aftermarket performance parts, an entire market could come crashing down, and who in the motorcycle industry wouldn?t be affected by that? HELMET LAWS AGAIN Ever since bikers came together across the country to successfully repeal the national helmet law in 1995, there have been no real helmet law threats in any of the freedom of choice states, while five states have succeeded in repealing mandatory helmet laws beginning with Arkansas in 1997. Texas, Kentucky, Louisiana and, most recently, Florida have followed suit, making 30 free choice states and only 20 requiring helmets for all riders. However, for the first time in nearly 8 years, motorcycle rights organizations will be on the defensive and must gear up for helmet law battles in their state legislatures. Two of the five states that recently won their freedom of choice, Arkansas (HB1024) and Louisiana (HB41), will have helmet bills introduced this session and will have to fight to maintain their hard-earned rights. Louisiana legislators received a list of proposals from the state insurance commissioner aimed at stabilizing rising insurance costs, and “mandatory motorcycle helmet laws” was among the suggestions. “Here we go again,” said Dan “spotman” Spotten, an Assistant State Coordinator for ABATE of Iowa, where a local television station is prompting the state legislature to pass a helmet mandate. “We knew the good times wouldn’t last forever and it looks like the party’s over,” said Richard Paulkner, Legislative Director of the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association (CMRA), referring to an internal legislative proposal from the Connecticut Department of Health proposing a mandatory helmet law for all motorcycle riders. “It’s time to start composing those hand-written letters to your State Representative and State Senator,” instructs Paulkner. “Remember, be polite and do not try to be an expert unless you are one. Share your personal experiences and state your beliefs, but do not make claims you cannot prove if asked to do so.” Keep your ear to the ground, and your pencils sharpened! FROM THE “I TOLD YOU SO” DEPARTMENT Scott McCool of ABATE of California and an Easyriders magazine staffer writes that he was watching TV recently when “I heard an interesting item… ‘Are bicycle helmets unsafe?’ So, I thought I’d listen for a bit longer. It seems that two studies have been done by Universities that show that bicycle helmets do NOT prevent brain injury as they have been advertised! Well no sh!t. According to these academic studies, ‘More often, the wearing of a bicycle helmet causes risky riding behavior…in many cases, especially with children, the helmets reduce visibility and [I love this part] are UNCOMFORTABLE.’ I’m glad the taxpayers (us) are paying for a study to show what we’ve been claiming all along.” LAWSUITS FILED OVER PENNSYLVANIA POLICE HARASSMENT Law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania “have engaged in a practice of conduct designed to deprive Plaintiffs of their interests in life, liberty, and property without due process of law and to deny Plaintiffs’ equal protection of law” by actively discouraging patch holders from attending public functions and telling them that they are not allowed in Philadelphia and Darby, according to a recently filed lawsuit.Those same club members are now fighting back through the courts. Following several incidents of harassment, a total of four separate lawsuits have been filed against Philadelphia and Darby, PA municipalities and their law enforcement divisions, seeking monetary compensation, punitive damages and injunctions to prevent further violations of bikers’ rights. A pattern of harassment has developed, starting with Darby police officers writing tickets and gathering intelligence at an Eastern Pennsylvania Confederation of Clubs meeting in August, stopping and detaining attendees and literally telling some to “stay out of town.” Then, on November 3, 2002, members of the Warlocks MC, Pagans MC and other 1% clubs were prevented from attending the Philadelphia Toy Run, organized by the Delaware Valley Chapter of ABATE of Pennsylvania, which they had done without incident for many years. Club members were stopped, detained and searched without provocation, and were told that they would not be allowed to fly their colors in the city of Philadelphia or they would go to jail if they refused to remove their vests. The Warlocks immediately filed a lawsuit, which garnered national media attention, and the police agreed to a one day stipulation approved by the court to allow the club to attend a Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) Toy Run on November 10 in Darby. However, when patch holders arrived, they were once again met with a heavy police presence and were detained, ticketed for minor infractions, and ultimately members of the Warlocks and Pagans were prevented from participating in the BACA Toy Run. “Lots of kids went without toys this Christmas due to the actions of the police,” said Jesse Moore of the Pagans. Two lawsuits have been filed by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists attorney Boyd Spencer, AIM Attorney for Pennsylvania and New Jersey, one in association with the harassment of club members at the Darby Confederation of Clubs meeting in August, and the other in response to the heavy-handed actions of police during the Philadelphia Toy Run on November 3. “The police have engaged in a practice of conduct designed to interfere with my clients’ rights protected under the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, including their right to freedom of assembly and association, as well as their Fourth Amendment rights to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures,” said attorney Spencer, who serves as legal counsel to the Confederations of Clubs of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Stay tuned as further developments unfold. POLICE WANT BIKERS DECLARED TERRORISTS The federal justice minister is considering declaring the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club a terrorist organization, based on a secretive seizure by the RCMP at Montreal’s Dorval airport. Although Canadian authorities are saying little about the criminal investigation involving a member of the club, and have refused to identify what was found, according to published reports a seizure of a club member’s colors and questions about an unexplained quantity of cash at the international airport has triggered a call for the club to be added to the federal government’s list of terrorist organizations. The seizure occurred after several members of the Hells Angels returned to Canada on December 2, 2002, from a meeting in Europe, and although authorities remain tight-lipped, sources told the National Post newspaper that a jacket and other items of clothing bearing the Hells Angels logo were confiscated. $2,600 in cash was questioned, but not seized, and no charges have been filed. The colors were being carried in the member’s luggage while passing through Canada Customs. Authorities told the newspaper that the club has no known ties to well-known terrorist groups, but the way the group is run falls within parameters of the current anti-terrorism law. Canada currently lists 16 groups as being involved in terrorism, including al Qaida, Hezbollah and Hamas. The incident has prompted discussion about applying the wide-ranging powers approved after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States to fight criminal organizations. Such a move would make it far easier to prosecute and seize the assets of outlaw motorcycle club members. “I’d love to see it get easier for us [to prosecute them]. We are always open for that,” said Commander Mario Plante, head of the organized crime division of Montreal police. A member of the Hells Angels, who spoke on condition he not be named, said linking the club to terrorist activity is offensive. “It belittles how important the fight against terrorism is,” he said. “Our parents fought in World War II,” he told the newspaper. “The Hells Angels’ original members were born out of having fought the Nazis and every Hells Angel would be the first to line up in defense of their country.” WEIRD NEWS OF THE MONTH: A DODGE MOTORCYCLE? A new American cruiser may be on the horizon, and it may sport a Dodge emblem on its gas tank! The Dodge Tomahawk concept motorcycle turned heads at the recent NAIAS Auto Show in Detroit, a dual-tandem four-wheel motorcycle built around the Viper 8.5 liter V-10 engine capable of producing 500 horsepower and theoretically achieving a top speed of 400 mph. “This is for people who are passionate about engines,” said Chrysler CEO Wolfgang Bernhard, who rode the Tomahawk on stage during a media preview. “A motorcycle is the most beautiful way to showcase an engine.” At 590 pounds, the 505-cubic-inch motor could propel the Tomahawk from 0-60 mph in an inertia-defying 2.5 seconds. Chrysler executives volunteered that Dodge may build the bike in limited numbers, selling for approximately $250,000 each. RINGING IN A DECADE OF RECORD BIKE SALES The motorcycle market is apparently healthy, even during an uncertain economic climate, as figures released by the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) reflect a tenth straight year of increased sales. New motorcycle sales are expected to top 850,000 units, up more than 10% from last year, and representing four straight years of double-digit increases. The industry is also expected to surpass last year’s retail sales dollars, which was $6.4 billion in 2001. Street bikes comprised 62% of the motorcycle market in 2001, with off-road machines making up 31% of the sales, and scooters and dual sport bikes accounting for the rest. Cruiser sales dominate the on-highway segment of new bikes with well over 50% of the market, followed by sport bikes which comprise 20% of that category. Southern states lead the pack in sales by region, followed by the West, then the Midwest, and East. According to sales records, April and May remain the strongest months for bike purchases. RESERVE YOUR PLACE IN BIKER HISTORY! Mark your calendars now for the upcoming 18th Annual NCOM Convention, May 8-10, 2003 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Join with over a thousand bikers rights leaders from across the country and around the world as they develop agendas, plan strategies and plot the course for motorcycling freedoms for our future. For room reservations, call the Four Points Sheraton, Milwaukee Airport Hotel, at 4747 South Howell Ave, at 800-558-3862, and be sure to mention NCOM for our special group rate. Convention registration is $75.00 including the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet, or $40.00 without banquet. For more information, or to pre-register, call the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at 800-525-5355. QUOTABLE QUOTES: “Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.”PERICLES, Greek Statesman (430 B.C.)
Compiled and Edited by BILL BISH,
National Coalition of Motorcyclists
