November 20, 2002
By Bandit |
Antique flicks courtesy of Bob T.
THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), and is sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at (800) ON-A-BIKE, or visit us on the web at
NCOM COAST TO COAST BIKER NEWS
Compiled and Edited by BILL BISH,
National Coalition of Motorcyclists
BIKER WINS VOTING RIGHTS FOR PRISONERS The Supreme Court of Canada has ruled that prisoners have the right to vote in elections. The challenge to the law was launched by Richard Sauve, a one-time motorcycle club member from Ontario who was sentenced to life in prison for murder.
He has since won parole, earned a university degree and has continued to campaign for voting rights for those who remain in prison.
By a 5-4 margin, the high court concluded Thursday that the federal government had failed to demonstrate any overriding social objective that could justify such an infringement of the Charter of Rights.
At issue was a section of the Canada Elections Act, passed in 1993, that denied prisoners serving terms of two years or more the right to vote in federal elections.
The ruling doesn’t guarantee that federal prisoners will ever actually get to vote because Parliament could pass a new law before the next election — although it’s not clear how much room the government has to maneuver.
POLICE HARASS CONFEDERATION MEMBERS Although the Eastern Pennsylvania Confederation of Clubs has met at the VFW Post in Darby for two years without incident or any problems with the neighbors or the police, and no breach of the peace has occurred during that time, beginning with their June COC meeting the local police began a pattern of harassment by taking down the license tag numbers of all the bikes in the parking lot.
Then at the August 22, 2002 meeting, Darby police gave parking tickets for every conceivable violation while the meeting was in progress, including some parked on private property with the permission of the owner. After the meeting, they, with the help of law enforcement officers from about four other local townships and some federal agents, stopped every biker who left the meeting as soon as they started to ride away, held some for extended periods of time, and interrogated them as they were extensively photographed and unlawfully searched.
According to reports, the apparent architect of the police action was the Chief of Police of Darby Borough, Robert F. Smythe, who stated outside of the VFW that he did not want “bikers” in his town, and would enforce the rules so that they would no longer meet in Darby Borough.
Many of the bikers were told by officers that certain club’s members were not to return to Darby. This is a clear violation of First Amendment rights to assemble and of association. Two bikes were impounded for high handlebars and one pickup truck was held for a day for lack of proof of insurance.
Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Boyd Spencer has filed a Civil Rights Complaint in the U.S. Eastern District Court for the District of Pennsylvania, requesting declaratory and injunctive relief to prevent further actions by the defendants (Police Chief Smythe, the Darby Borough PD, and 25 other officers), and for monetary damages for their actions.
The suit (02-CV-7707), which will be heard by the Honorable Judge Marvin Katz, alleges unconstitutional actions by the law enforcement officers, and further describes violations of the bikers rights protected under the First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution.
“It has become evident that Defendants, and particularly Defendant, Robert F. Smythe, have developed and continued to engage in a pattern and practice of harassment, profiling, and selective enforcement intended to interfere with Plaintiff’s constitutionally protected rights to freedom of association, freedom of assembly, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, due process of law, and equal protection under the law,” states the lawsuit.
Stay tuned for further developments.
MASSACHUSETTS MOTORCYCLISTS QUESTION INSURANCE DISCREPANCIES A motorcyclists’ group has hailed new support from the auto-insurers industry as a major step toward ensuring motorcycle owners get fair access to coverage options, reported the Boston Herald in their October 22 Business News section.
The Massachusetts Motorcycle Association claims that insurance policies in the state have for years unfairly treated motorcyclists differently than car drivers, and sent advocates to participate in the insurance industry?s annual rate hearings to voice their concerns.
On August 22, 2002, Betsy Lister and Paul Cote appeared and testified at the rate hearings, and distributed written submissions prepared by the MMA requesting that the Insurance Commissioner investigate “unfair, discriminatory, excessive pricing, and violations of public policy involving motorcycle coverages and rates.”
Consequently, the auto insurers agreed recently with several key proposals that the motorcyclists’ group sought, though the final decision still rests with state Division of Insurance Commissioner Julie Bowler.
Paul Cote, a spokesman for the bikers’ group, said the insurers’ support bodes well for a favorable decision from Bowler. “It’s a major breakthrough,” he said. “We’re grateful that they see the inequities and are taking steps to address those inequities.”
In an October 17 letter to Bowler, a lawyer for the Automobile Insurers Bureau of Massachusetts wrote that the group supports the following reforms:
Giving discounts to motorcyclists who install certain kinds of anti-theft devices, namely vehicle-tracking equipment. Currently, they don’t receive any discount.
Allowing motorcycle riders to buy vehicle insurance with up to $25,000 in optional medical coverage. Currently, such policies can cover up to $5,000 in medical costs for bikers, while auto owners can buy coverage with a limit of $100,000.
Allowing motorcyclists to have their premiums based on appraised values of their bikes instead of book values. Car owners already have that option.
The motorcyclists also want to extend multi-vehicle discounts to bikes, similar to car owners, but the insurers didn’t offer support for that change.
Chris Goetcheus, a Division of Insurance spokesman, said Bowler was receptive to the motorcyclists’ concerns, and will likely issue a decision within the next few weeks.
BIKERS BOYCOTT MYRTLE BEACH During the early morning hours of May 18, 2002 a couple riding a motorcycle were killed at the Myrtle Beach Spring Bike Rally when Lance Cpl. James J. Costello proceeded through a yield sign and collided with them in his unmarked Horry County Police cruiser.
Just prior to the Fall Motorcycle Rally, Horry County Solicitor Greg Hebree decided not to charge the 15-year veteran in the deaths of the two motorcyclists, Victoria Lee Zickafoose of Georgia and Charles Eugene Heyde Sr. of Michigan.
“For many years the local government and police force have been far less than biker friendly,” according to a press release by the Sons of Liberty Riders, a motorcyclists rights organization that rides the information super-highway as an Internet discussion group. “However, the latest incident and failure to bring appropriate charges has motivated bikers to take action.”
SoLR has called for a boycott of Myrtle Beach, and bikers from across the country are now supporting the boycott action, including ABATE of South Carolina where the Myrtle Beach rallies are held. “The purpose of the boycott is to educate the general public on some of the injustices served on only some classes of citizens, while bringing economic woe on those that promote the injustices,” says the SoLR. “Horry County had the opportunity to prosecute the guilty and failed.”
Police investigators insist that there is not enough evidence to support charges or disciplinary action, and an article in The Sun News suggests that, “Grand Strand officials say they aren’t worried about motorcyclists’ plans to boycott the Myrtle Beach area,” and hope that their effort will fizzle as memories fade prior to the spring Harley-Davidson rally.
But bikers from as far away as Maryland, Pennsylvania and Iowa are upset about the way the two motorcyclists’ deaths were handled during this year’s May rally, the paper stated.
“Through the power of the Internet e-mail system, I was informed of this tragedy,” Mary Bowen-Brown of Mechanicsville, Maryland, told The Sun News. “Once the e-mails are forwarded and contacts are made through different bike organizations, you can believe there will be thousands of bikers making their decisions not to return to Myrtle Beach this spring.”
The Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association Myrtle Beach Rally is scheduled for May 9-18. 2003.
Stephanie Durham of Jacksonville, Florida, Zickafoose’s sister, doesn’t ride a motorcycle but is planning on coming to the May rally. “[I want to] basically express my discontent with the way things were handled,” she said. “I want it to be known that this happened and this is not going to be covered up or forgotten about.”
FLORIDA CONSIDERS MOTORCYCLE RESCUES Rescue workers are hoping a motorcycle fleet will help them save lives on Florida’s highways. Under a proposed program, Miami-Dade County firefighters would respond to emergencies on specially designed motorcycles, navigating through gridlock to accidents before other emergency vehicles arrive.
All county firefighters are trained as Emergency Medical Technicians and would have access to defibrillators, oxygen tanks and first aid kits.
“Here in (Miami) Dade County, traffic is a nightmare. There’s a lot of construction. Often when there’s an accident, it’s difficult for emergency vehicles to get to the people,” fire department spokeswoman Shari Holbert Lipner told the Associated Press (AP). “This is another way to get to citizens faster.”
The motorcycle officers would handle minor injuries when larger units must focus on more critical situations, Lipner said.
Such programs exist in Europe, but there are none of similar scale in the United States, Lipner said. The Daytona Beach fire department has a program with four motorcycles that’s used mainly on special events, such as Bike Week.
BMW has offered to donate 10 model 1100 RT-P emergency rescue motorcycles, which the firefighters would ride in pairs — reminiscent of the late 1970s TV show “Chips.”
The Miami-Dade County Commission will consider approval of the program in November, and the fire rescue bikes could be on the road by fall next year.
WEIRD NEWS OF THE MONTH: JUST YOUR AVERAGE JOE The average driver emits more than 912 pints of gas (farts) inside a car during his or her lifetime. This strange factoid, and others, was revealed by BBC Top Gear magazine in a list of statistics profiling the average driver.
The survey also found the average driver will have sex in a car six times in their lives. They will spend around two hours and 14 minutes kissing in their vehicles, researchers found. Mr. or Mrs. Average will swear or blaspheme 32,025 times behind the wheel. And peckish motorists each munch through about 21 lbs of chocolate as they trundle along. They will also nod off at the wheel 11 times and jump 181 red lights. The average driver will also honk the horn 15,250 times in a lifetime and be locked out of their car nine times.
Mr. or Ms. average driver believes their driving is better than 87% of other drivers and they pay attention to only 35% of road signs. In a lifetime of journeys, the average woman driver will throw two-thirds of her body weight out of the window as rubbish or other matter, while men will throw their entire body weight out.
No statistics were issued regarding motorcycle operators.
QUOTABLE QUOTES: “It is dangerous to be right when the government is wrong.”Francois Marie Arouet (aka: Voltaire), French Author and Philosopher (1694 – 1778)
November 14, 2002 Part 1
By Bandit |
We survived the Love Ride once again as we split lanes for 70 miles cutting a bloody swath through the notorious Los Angeles basin in an effort to support the 19th charity endeavor. The day was perfect, the traffic jammed as bikers scare motorists onto their brake pedals constantly after a couple of days of solid unheard of So Cal rain.
It was good to see some of the brothers, builders including Jesse Rooke (the new hot builder from Phoenix. His bike is on the cover of Hot Bike currently), some Hamsters and Jesse’s Discovery Channel creations at his No Love party.
The day before we braved the slick rain-soaked streets to hook up with Chica as he tried to build a modified shovel crammed into an old VL frame with a matching VL front end. He’s a craftsman and just hangin at his shop made me want to run back to the garage at the headquarters and spend the weekend working on the shrunken FXR. Damn he’s good. Let’s hit the news:
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SEEKS ALTERNATE LOCATION FOR MUSEUM–Milwaukee, WI. (November 1, 2002) — Citing escalating costs, Harley-Davidson officials today announced that the Company is seeking an alternate location for its planned museum project.
“Harley-Davidson, the Brewery Works and Grunau Project Development have been relentless in their efforts to adapt the historic Schlitz Brewhouse to the museum’s needs, but at this point we feel we have exhausted our options with that building,” said Matt Levatich, Director of the Museum. “Harley-Davidson remains committed to building a world-class museum destination and we would prefer to build it in Milwaukee. We will be considering other options at Schlitz Park as well as alternate locations in downtown Milwaukee and the surrounding area,” he said.
Work on the museum began in earnest in April of 1999 with an expected completion date of May, 2002. Detailed plans were developed to transform the Brewhouse and the surrounding land into a one-of-a-kind destination. However, the combined requirements of physically accommodating the expected 350,000 visitors annually, preserving the historical integrity of the building, and conforming to building code requirements proved to be too costly.
Late last year, the Company reported that the museum would not be ready – as originally planned – for its 100th Anniversary next year. Continuing efforts by Harley-Davidson, its architects, and Grunau Project Development have not been successful in finding a viable solution for this building.
I say we donate space in the Bikernet Ivory Tower for the H-D Museum. I’d be honored to have it here.
HIGHSCHOOL THEN AND NOW– One of our brothers sent the above sweet photograph of High School beauties “Then” and another of one them “Now”. The “Now” shot was too tough to post. Believe me the women in that shot were, how do you say, bad news. Let me know , if I have to post it?
BIKERNET INTRODUCES SEVERAL NEW SPONSORS—Including Performance Machine. Were proud to have the best of the best on Bikernet. We’ve known Perry and Ted Sands for decades and actually, my redheaded adopted daughter, Faith, has worked for Performance Machine since she was a kid. They’re good people and make the best wheels and brakes in the business.
Another new sponsor is Surgical Steeds by John Covington in Phoenix, the builder of the only line of Muscle Bikes in the country. Check his site for more informantion. We’ll be posting articles on both companies on a regular basis. That’s our job, goddamnit, bringing the lasted products and parts to you quick.
ENGINE DEALS OF THE WEEK– Here is the latest list of deals I have available:
Several TP Engineering 124″ Polished complete assembled motors. These happen to have the new billet rocker box design as well, very cool. They retail for near $10,000, selling them for $7000.
Tell Jose I can put some shit on a boat and send some his way too, no sweat!
Also great deals on 88″-121″ motors as well. Would like to maybe get a banner up on this kick ass site sometime soon, we’ll see how things shape up here at the shop…
Anyone, feel free to call me anytime, 812-569-4876. Thanks for your time…and space…
FOUR CYLINDER MOTORCYCLE HISTORY–We’re about to publish the history of the four cylinder motorcycle and info on the Richard Bunch Motorcycle Museum. But it wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the following four cylinder effort in Europe:Indians are our tradition. We are dedicated to producing a new Indian to truly fulfil the public’s naturally high expectations. We combine respect for the historical perspective, whilst applying a detailed understanding of the essence of the older Indian machines, so pivotal to the introduction of a new Indian.
Our new machines are made to order and available ex-works. There is a waiting list. By concentrating on quality, not quantity, our production is a modest quantity of motorcycles, with increasing figures as the years progress.
By carefully attending to our product and customers, we intend to be around for the long run, increasing production as prudent. The UK indian company, has been deeply involved in such activities as making parts, organising ‘Indian gatherings’, recreating and restoring older Indians, supplying enthusiasts around the globe since the 1970’s. we are proud to say our company is able to service ANY Indian from 1901-53 in addition to our new Indian Dakota 4.
BIKERS PARADE THROUGH CITY FOR VETS–By CINDY SWIRKOSun staff writer.
Billy Powell of Orange Springs attaches an American flag and a POW MIA flag to his motorcycle before the start of Bikers on Parade at Santa Fe Community College Sunday. The parade benefitted the Red Cross and was a part of the Veterans Day celebration.
All money raised from the entry fee benefits the Red Cross. Executive Director George Mazzeo said the event earns up to 15 percent of the agency’s budget.”All this money – $10 per rider – will be spent locally, primarily to alleviate the victims of family disasters such as house fires,” Mazzeo said. “We had 80 of those cases last year and we are running above that this year. This is the key event for us.”
SAMSON’S BIG GUNS 2 “SLASHERS” ARE SLASHING THE COMPETITION–You want pipes that will deliver High Performance and Sound that will clear those roads for you? These Bad and Beautiful pipes are the ones. SAMSON EXHAUST has done it again with the new Big Guns 2 “Slashers” with the tightest fitting 220? full coverage heat shields anywhere. The Big Guns 2 “Slashers” are just one of the new, exciting and great series of pipes from the Big Guns 2 family that only SAMSON can guarantee with Awesome Style, Sound and Performance. All ?Big Guns 2? come complete with mounting brackets and hardware.
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HANG UP AND HAVE A DRINK–Tests by Britain’s Transport Research Laboratory found that talking on acellphone while driving is “more dangerous than being drunk behind the wheel.”Driver reaction times for users of hand-held phones averaged 30 percentslowerthan for those driving just above the legal acohol limit.
*HANG UP, DUTCH BOY!In Cujik, Holland, a driver was so engrossed in his cell phone call hedidn’t see apolice car trying to pull him over until he crashed into it.
*HANG UP, SOCCER BOY!A Romanian soccer player was tossed from a national game, when, about tocross the ball, he stopped to answer his cell phone and then continued totalkfor the next five minutes.
*HANG UP, DOOFUS!Autoweek reports hearing a woman on a ferry arriving at Anacortes, Wash., asshe answered her cell phone: “Could you please call me back at this numberinabout 15 minutes? I’ll be on the road by then, and I’ll be able to give youmyfull attention.”
*HANG UP, SPARKY!News headline: “Man Talking on Cell Phone Struck by Lightning”
*HANG UP OR DIE!At an accident scene in Bloomington, Ill., paramedics had to ask a victimpinnedin her vehicle to please quit talking on her cell phone for a moment as itwasimpeding their efforts to free her.
*GOD HERE: HANG UP, STUPID!A Spanish priest fed up with mobile phones ringing during Mass has installedan elec-tronic jammer in church.
POLICE PUT A DAMPER ON BIKERS’ TOY RIDE, AN OFFICIAL SAID THAT PUBLIC SAFETY WAS A KEY ISSUE–By Dan HardyInquirer Staff Writer.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 yesterday.
As a result, the ride’s organizers said, the turnout was much smaller, with many bikers turning around and going home before the parade even began. “We definitely lost money today,” said Mike Gambale, the president of Bikers Against Child Abuse.
Gambale, an Upper Darby resident and former Delaware County park policeman and East Lansdowne Borough police officer, said the event usually drew about 7,000 bikers, raised about $7,500, and collected thousands of toys. There was no estimate for yesterday’s results.
On Thursday, the Warlocks motorcycle club won an agreement with Philadelphia police in federal court that gave members the right to ride through the city to yesterday’s parade.
The Warlocks had said that club members participating in a Toys for Tots run to Children’s Hospital on Nov. 3 were surrounded by Philadelphia police and prohibited from participating in the ride. The agreement said that police “shall not impede plaintiff’s procession unless they have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to believe that one or more plaintiffs are in violation of the law.”
Darby Borough Police Chief Robert Smythe, standing across the street from the Knights of Columbus hall yesterday, said that the police presence in Delaware County had nothing to do with the Philadelphia injunction. The officers were there, he said, because “we had intelligence that there very well might be a problem between some of the outlaw biker gangs” that were planning to ride in the parade. When asked whether he was referring to the Warlocks or the Pagans, another group often labeled an “outlaw gang,” Smythe did not answer.
Continued On Page 2
November 14, 2002 Part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
FASTDATES.COM NEW CALENDARS RELEASED–
FastDates.com Calendars, Models and Bikes featured atCycle World International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach Dec 6-8thJoin Us Dec 6-8th, 2002 At the Long Beach ShowThe exiting FastDates.com Calendars, the Bikes and Models will be amajor feature attraction at the Cycle World International MotorcycleShow in Long Beach the December 6-8th weekend. Meet photographer andproducer Jim Gianatsis, beautiful calendar models Chandi Mason, JanellePerzina and Joanna Krupa. See top calendar bikes from premier custombuilder Paul Yaffe, LA Calendar Bike Show winner Jesse Rooke,Performance Machine, AMA National roadracing Champions Graves YamahaMotorsports and EBSCO Corona Extra Suzuki in our showcase display at theCycle World International Motorcycle Show at the Long Beach ConventionCenter. Pick up the new 2004 FastDates.com Calendars and have thempersonally autographed! Details athttp://www.FastDates.com/PitLaneNews.HTM
Miss World Norway shoots with FastDates.comIn our never ending quest to travel the world to bring you, our loyalFastDates.com Calendar fans, the most beautiful models for ourcalendars, we were excited to shoot this week with Miss World Norway,Antoinette Haukaas for our 2004 calendars. We photographed her with somehot new custom bikes from premier custom builder Harold Pontarelli.Anette (as she likes all her close friends to call her) first came toAmerica as a 16-year old exchange student, then returned home after ayear to Denmark to finish her education while winning both the MissWorld Norway title and the Elite Model Search pageant for Norway. Fromthere Anette was off on a world model career that took her to thefashion runways of Milan, Monte Carlo, Cannes and Paris. But Anette knewher career would still be incomplete unless she appeared in the worldrevered FastDates.com Motorcycle Racing and Pinup Calendars, and ofcourse, we were happy to make her dreams complete. Anette joins MissWorld Great Britain Nicki Lane, our SBK FastDates/Ducati Corse umbrellagirl as just some of the World Class talent featured in theFastDates.com Calendars.For a sexy shot of Anette go to http://www.FastDates.com/PitLaneNews.HTM
Joanna Krupa shots with Best of LA Calendar Bike Showwinner Jesse Rooke for the 2004 iron & Lace CalendarOne of our hottest, sexiest and most beautiful calendar girl finds everis Joanna Krupa, recently highlighted with a 4-page feature interviewand pictorial in the October issue of Gear magazine. Born in Warsaw,Poland and emigrated to Chicago as a child with her parents, Joanna isnow persuing her career in Hollywood as a television and movie starlet.You can find her regularly in the Venus Swimwear and Frederick’s ofHollywood Catalogs, and as “Juggy Joanna” on The Man Show. You’ll seemore of Joanna in our future 2004 FastDates.com Calendars including ashoot for the Iron & Lace Calendar sponsored by Mikuni American andPerformance Machine that we just completed with builder Jesse Rooke’sradical LA Calendar Bike Show winning mono fork chopper. You can meetJoanna and Jesse in person in our FastDates.com Calendar showcaseexhibit at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show at the LongBeach Convention Center Long Beach, CA, Dec 6-8th. Foe more informationand pictures of Joanne with Jesse’s awesome custom go tohttp://www.FastDates.com/IRONLACE02.HTM
Iron Works magazine, Bikernet.com, Performance Machine,Corona, Cycle Trader, Cycle Buyer/LA Times, FastDates.comconfirm multi-year associate sponsorship of the 2003and future Los Angeles Calender Motorcycle ShowsWe are happy to announce that the good folks at Iron Works magazinespearheaded by editorial director Marilyn Stemp have joining us as multiyear associate sponsors of our LA Calendar Motorcycle Show beginning in2003, joining our many other loyal associate sponsors includingPerformance Machine, BikerNet.com, Corona beer, Cycle Trader and CycleBuys//The Los Angeles Times. No other bike show in America offers somuch media and promotional support, and of course value, for itsExhibitors and Venders. In turn we would like to ask our Show Exhibitorsto please consider Iron Works Magazine, as well as and our otherssponsors in your future advertising plans. You can visit the Iron Workswebsite athttp://www.ironworksmag.com
We’ve got all kinds of new activities scheduled for the 2003 LA CalendarMotorcycle Showincluding a possible Charity Ride In, a Supermotard Race and increasedVender space in the Queen Mary parking lot. Our previous parking spaceproblems will be reduced by the all new Queen Mary Parking Structure nowbeing completed at the facility, and the relocation of the CatalinaIsland Ferry car parking to another location. Still, we alwaysanticipate selling out of exhibitor space so we suggestVenders/Exhibitors sign up early with the new 2003 ExhibitorRegistration Form available now on our website athttp://www.FastDates.com./BIKESHOW.HTM
Best wishes!
Jim Gianatsis, Director
FastDates.com
THE BIKERNET SEARCH FOR OLD MEMORBILIA AND BIKES CONTINUES–Our growing archive of rare memorbilia continues to grow in Bandit’s Cantina due predominately to the efforts of a biker Bandit rode with in the early ’70s who live in a rusting ’59 Cadillac deep in the California desert. He spends all his time and money searching garage sales, estate sales and swap meets hunting for old motorcycle memorabilia and Peashooter parts for our latest restoration project.
Bob rides a Softail and makes a meager living herding tarantulas away from tourist RV parks. Not much coin in that gig. Here’s what he said about the above piece, “It had Signal Corps – U. S. ARMY – No. 35 – printed on the Motorcycle’s Cover Plate. Send me a fifty pound bag of Pinto beans and a bag or red onions, will ya?”
OZARK ED REPORT–just like i said, I didn’t go to Memphis. However, I did give in to the juvee girl and agreed to go out with her Saturday night. She called me and talked me into skipping the party, So I told the ones going to the party that I wasn’t coming, and I told the ones who were not going that I was.
It got real hairy for a while just before I left the house because my girl was still pissed at me about the whole ditching her thing. She was asking me all this shit about who I was going with and all. I told her I was going with skitzo, but just before I left he called and wanted me to go to another party with him. I had to talk low and make up some shit about going out with my boss man. Right after I hung the phone up with him, bald headed Patrick came over with his fluffy chick and wanted me and my girl to go riding.
I took him outside and told him some shit about my bike battery being dead, and I couldn’t run a headlight because it wasn’t charging. Then after they left, my girl saw me tie two jackets on the bike and she threw a fit about who the second jacket was for. I made up some shit about wearing the small one under my big one. She didn’t believe it, but she let it go after she confiscated the second jacket.
I finally made it out and me and juvee girl went to the lake and got unbelievably drunk. I took her on a tour of all my little burn locations. Most are up in the hills looking down on the city and river. It was a clear cold night so I would drink a little then get that cold night air in my face to sober up for the next spot. I finally went home at 2 or 3.
Sunday my girl was cold to me so I worked on my Shovel in the shop while the race was on and just stayed clear of her. Later she asked how was the party, and I told her I didn’t make it to the one where she knew people, but instead I went to another party with people she’s only heard of. She called me on the story, and after a few hours I told her that no matter if she believed me or not I was sticking to this story. She knows it ain’t true, but she’s stopped asking. If I could just get the two of them to “like each other”.
–Ozark Ed
Ain’t that always the problem.
NEW 100TH ANNIVERSARY V-ROD HAT–Hello Mr. Bandit,I’m sending you a picture of Mike taken this weekend at the CBA swap meet in Charlotte. Who said the V-Rod wouldn’t come in handy some day!!!
Love and kisses,
Meanest
BIKE THEIVES SELECT WRONG SCOOTER– Harleys aren’t the only bikes to get ripped off. The irony here is a couple ona world bike tour for charity had their “Beemer” snatched just a few miles fromcompletion of their journey around the world. They stopped for a breather in Wales, justshort of London. They hadda finish the trip by train. I guess the thief or thievesneeded the scoot more than they did. It’s a bloody shame we have some kinds of peoplerunnin’ loose.
–Gunny Sack
For more on Bikers Rights check the Rights News on Bikernet.
WARLOCKS MC SUE PHILLY POLICE–By MARYCLAIRE DALE The Associated Press.PHILADELPHIA (AP) – Members of the Warlocks Motorcycle Club are suing the police for allegedly barring the club at a benefit rally in which bikers delivered toys to a children’s hospital.
According to the lawsuit, SWAT team members toting M-16 rifles and canisters of Mace surrounded the Warlock riders Nov. 3, demanding they take off their jackets, which sport their club’s colors.
The suit, filed by members of the Philadelphia chapter of the motorcycle club, also charges that police commissioner Sylvester Johnson arrived at the rally and told his men to have the Warlocks removed.
The agreement was forged during a brief conference before U.S. District Judge Stewart Dalzell on Thursday, when the Warlocks asked for a temporary restraining order. The city agreed not to interfere with any law-abiding Warlocks participating in the event.
The Warlocks, in their suit, say they have taken part in such benefit rides for the past 15 years.
–from Rogue
NEW BIKER NOVEL AVAILABLE–Hey ya’ll Roy Yelverton here, checkin’ up on my novel; “Shovelhead Red; TheDrifter’s Way”. Christmas is coming, and I NEED help sellin’ thesebooks while the time is at hand. Get back to me soon as ya can, let’s make some ofthese books disappear. Thanks a biker bundle…..
–Uncle Roy
WINO JOE REPORT, IFFIN YOU CAN FIGURE IT OUT–Hey Wiz, I ain’t got tha graphics on this one clear in my head, but at 3AM there ain’t much in my f…in’head that is clear any way:) So, let me just shoot from tha hip, while I wait for my clothes ta dry. Biker”HOURS”: 12AM. Time ta get off tha street & find’a place ta crash; before you do. And cop’a cup. Find’a backyard for your sleepin’bag, or if it’s rainin’, a garage. 2AM. ’bout now, a fat girl’s bed looks just right. 3AM. Tha wood-pile in’a vacant-lot, but don’t get caught. 6AM. That’sa ’nuff sleep; plus tha cops are out. I told ya tha fat gal was tha best bet; they cook good, tambien. Hit coffee time. Bars are open. My ol’fave for breakfast, vodak fizz; a “double”, 2 shoots/2 eggs. Shit, you’re goin’a die anyway. A hi-class Okie might go for’a Jack/seltzer/Angostura bitters and just’a splash of coke, if he was on’a diet. What’s his name would’a just smoked one, before rollin’up his sleepin’bag & headed ta IHOPs. 9AM. If ya got lucky, pick tha hairs out’a your teeth & tell her you’ll send her’a post-card. Startin’ta burn daylite. Get your first 100 miles down tha road. 11AM. Avoid tha noon lunch rush. 2 burgers. Get your carbs/fat energy for tha next 100 miles. 2PM. Gas/splash. This is just for fun, you’re almost home. Why? 250/300 miles/day is kool. That’sa 1000 miles in 4 days. Do a 1000/week & that’sa good tour. Plus, it gives ya Fri/Sat/Sun ta party with that locals. Tell your stories & dance with tha fat girl; remember, they know how ta cook! Now, hit tha bricks; keep tha rubber-side down:)
Ride On!
Wino Joe,USA
Joe we’re riding to Arizona the first weekend in December. Wind ’em up.
BUCK’S PRINTS–Here ye be Laddie. I’ll behaving a Knucklehead, UL, Shovelhead, KR, Sportster, and VL print availableover the next year (American V-Motor Series).
Buck
VINCENT BLACK SHADOW RETURNS– Ever hear of the famed Vincent Black Shadow? Well, it’s backfolks. Some of us “long in the tooth” folks got to ride them way back in the forties andearly fifties. Unfortunately, they went out of business in the mid-fifties. This bikeset land speed records in the late forties. Now, I’m told, they are back with FIVE,count’m, FIVE prototype models. More info for ya when I find out more.
–Gunny Sack
TIME OUT–I’m scribbling on an editorial for Cruising Rider, hammering on a tech feature on the Amazing Shrunken FXR and doing research on the history of four cylinder motorcycles. That’s enough. Oh, I skipped the big one. We received the final saga and images from Frank Kaisler to complete the vast Biketoberfest report. I hopefully will be able to complete it tomorrow.
The above shot is just an indication of some of the girls roaming Bandit’s Cantina and the reason I try to make deadlines. When I’m with her, I don’t want a damn thing on my mind but her scent. Are you with me on this one? Life is to short to drink cheap wine or not enjoy your favorite whiskey and the touch of a woman. That’s it, shut down your computer and go find her. Let’s ride.
–Bandit
November 14, 2002 Part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
Jose had to see every H-D dealership in the Los Angeles region. He bought so much memorbilia that he was awarded the above preferred customer card.
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–Hamsters at Love RideAs everyone knows I just spent the week end under the tutelage of Bikernet’s tycoon, Bandit, his plans were to make me suffer, so he called for rain, cold weather, a dresser to ride and the mysterious disappearance of his harem, but like the loco postman says, nor rain, nor , whatever…or something like that. Nothing will put me down, the dice were rolling…
Not even the jet lag, nor the hours difference would interfere with the master plan of total domination of the headquarters, the promises of a new Porsche went up in smoke when Bandit with his sickening sense of humour traded the racy car for a stinking fleet of “company” full dressers. I was waiting for a false move, and that cool ass knuckle would have been out of that door faster than you can say..gone…I quickly walked towards the Bikernet garage to ” borrow” the dual carbed Pan, but the old man was sly, he pulled some wires and made the oil light turn red. I did not want to chance it so I backed off, tell you the truth, I would have rather walked all the way to Castaic lake than ride one of those damn dressers….and that’s almost what I had to do. I awaited patiently while the sly mofo sipped his Jack, I was not defeated yet. Meanwhile the cold rain kept falling, and the farenheits kept dropping. Then in the gloomiest of hours I had my first encounter with my nemesis….yeap, the Road Kill. But wait, that was only in the first few hours..there’s more to come.
The following day (Friday) we ended up at Chicas shop in Huntington Beach, it was my revenge, after an overdose of factory bikes we landed in the Mecca of Old School choppers. The shop was full of Panheads, Shovels, Flatties and Knuckles…Haaalleeluyahh !! The Peanut tanks, springers and girders, plus many cool ass Invader wheels commanded the grounds. I soaked it all in, it was like a huge playground for chopper and old school fanatics. After a short tour, Bandit decided to leave (I assume that he wanted to torture me with the Dressers some more). So we headed out for a quick lunch and ready our wet asses for the party/concert at BB Kings in Universal studios, but before we went over by Nuttboy’s playground to cross check some of the progress on the Shrunken FXR and a heavy dose of reality, but I will explain about the card later.
To cement his plans Bandit had us meet with some Hamster friends of his, a situation that had the potential of turning ugly, and of a few rodents getting squished by my Vans, turned into a very pleasant evening. It was one of those reality checks that I will also talk about later. Bandit being the old geiser that he, wanted to leave early, before the party really started and I had a chance to play a bit with the cute waitress or any other hottie that showed up.
By this time Layla was at his side and convinced him to go and hang out at some hot spots in Long Beach… It was still raining in LA, and the night was not happening, we (Bandit) decided to call it a night (which was like 5:00 am to me) and rest for Saturday’s activities. I decided to go hide in my cave and disappear under the comforter.
Saturday morning called for the No Love Party, Jesse James and his crew at WCC get this party together, cool cars, the Wall of Death, all the Monster Garage stuff, and even some choppers managed to be there, it was really crowded and raining, so in less than a few minutes Bandit was missing, I did not notice right away since there was so much stuff going on, and so much to soak in (besides the frigid rain), when I finally was able to part the sea of admirers, I got to talk to Jesse and meet his hot, new wife Janine, just to be attacked by a new set of mobsters a couple seconds later. Sometimes (very seldom) I feel sorry for the man. He did not have a whole minute of peace while the party went on. I ended up meeting with Chris (one of Bandit’s friends) and we called trying to find him, the sly fox was long gone…
Irish Rich, from Denver, Lojack from Florida and a couple other friends were there so we did what any Chopper Freak ™ would do and stood in the rain ogling all the cool bikes that the Sinners had rode in. After a few hours I paid my respects to Mr and Mrs James, thanked them for the invitation and went back to the cave. I was fooled once more, the clock read 5:35 and it was dark, pitch black and raining, I was so screwed by the time change and did not realize I had a cluster fuck of sleep hours. Bandit’s call woke me from my nap, which in reality was bed time back in Puerto Rico. Billy Lane was MIA, so were our other “builder” friends. I was wondering if they were avoiding Bandit like the plague or merely having fun at some party that I did not know about. That night Bandit took us to another joint in Long Beach and then the phone rang, there was another party, and we headed in that direction. The guys from Hot Bike had a small party at the publisher’s house and all our friends were there, Billy, Mike Maldonado, Jesse Rooke, Stacy, Dirty Jim etc,etc. We arrived and had a good, quiet time, amongst old friends and the guys of Hot Bikes who were great hosts (thanks guys). We called it over since the Love Ride awaited the next morning. I felt like jumping out of the car when Bandit told me he had an Exfrumfrumfrumson for me to ride, but I did not know where the fuck I was so had to behave. I had nightmares of dressers and Preferred Customer cards, me dressed in yellow while branding my ” card” with a photo astride a Road King and heading towards Castaic Lake doing 15 miles per hour with a bunch of pins on my vest. I was trapped in a sterile world of HOG members while being directed by Roy with his Road Captain plaque in his lapel….talk about fucking nightmares !!!!!
Bandit sensing that I was about to buy an AK-47 and go postal gave me a break and decided to leave later than normal and avoid the crowds. I arose slowly the next morning and headed towards his section of the Bikernet mansion. Maybe his heart had been softened and the cool ass Knuckle would be waiting for me, no dice amigo. The Exfumfomfufufum was waiting for me, Hell!!!, at least it was pretty cool since it was made in Bandit’s chopper days and was bobbed. After finishing with all the clothing and jackets, and crap, the Pillsbury doughboy (yours truly) was ready to rock. It was finally sunny, but still a bit cold for this tropical soul. In a last effort to break me, Bandit “suggested” that I leave my night riding glasses…..and stupid me left them.
One thing I must admit is that the Old man rode that Road King like there was no tomorrow, me on the other hand, on a bike that I have never ridden before with highbars to the stars, had no fucking choice but to reach for the rails and follow his ass, and that’s what I did…We hauled ass down 110 and crossed LA’s Hollywood area. It’s so cool to be able to ride to all those places, there’s something of riding into “famous” places that I can’t describe. Another thing, all the hot chicks in LA were on that road that morning….Bandit’s plan was crumbling..little by little. We hooked up with interstate 5 heading North towards Castaic. Again the speedo pegged around 80 to 90 mph, we cut lanes every day in PR so I was there with them, no shaking off this home boy, no sir… We managed to make it in one piece to the lake, a lot of guys were checking the Exfrumfomfum out and asking stuff. I directed them to Bandit, mumbled something, and got outta there…fast.
We managed to walk around the grounds, all kinds of vendors were there. We said hi to old friends (who were more than surprised to see me that far West) and met with Chris and The Yellow shirted guys once more (the plans of indoctrination continued their course, to no avail) Chica was there with his VL frame stuffed with a Shovel motor as promised, a two day bike, and very cool.
We walked around and said hi, the girls from the show Motorcycle Women were there, and I swear the oriental girl Qian was checking me out…(G) Maybe they were looking for me to kick my ass, another reality check…. They must have had a much fun as we did on our ride, and it showed. Four of them hanging out and having a ball, a strong bond of ..sisterhood. I guess that the cameras did not matter, the ride was the purpose, and that’s the way it was….Just as I was heading over to ask her out Layla grabbed me and redirected my actions, I guess she was, after all, jealous of the great times we had in Puerto Rico when Bandit went around the World….Or could it be that she saved me of a beating, or making a fool of myself by inviting her to Tahiti….I guess we will never know (By the way, if you are reading this send me an e-mail…)
By then we (I mean Bandit) decided to get the hell outta Dodge, Chris and the other rodents took off with us as well, heading to Brentwood (home of the infamous OJ) and dinner.Once more I was surrounded by full dressers, and going at top speed trying to shake the short wheel based Exfrumfofum and me, once more to no avail. That night we headed back to Pedro and I got ready to hit the airport…It was over. Not before cutting every lane, car, rub, wannabe, V-rod and even animal that crossed our paths. We escaped along truck lanes that were empty and saved us time. I bounced all over the Freeways but managed to keep the Bobber upright…It was not much fun riding at night, freezing my ass, with dark sunglasses. Like always I said Fuck it and rode all the way back just by feel. I made it in one piece…Once again.
Aftermath:I had a great time, all the people I met were so cool to me it’s not even funny. Chris, Clifford and the Hamsters had the coolest Full Dress bikes I’ve seen, and they ride the shit outta them, (there was nothing much left of these dressers but the bags), but cool none the less. The guys at Hot Bike, WCC, Chica, Mike Maldonado, Johnny Suede, Chris Hill, Nuttboy, Bandit, Layla….etc,etc. I thank you all, had a great time. Funny that in the land of fake, actors and silicone, I found true friends and brother bikers, plus saw the sisterhood of the girls on the show and managed to stay away from riding a damn dresser…But man how I missed my Chopper. Maybe next year she will make the trip with me…and maybe, just maybe…It won’t rain.
–Jose, Caribbean Bikernet Tour and Travel report
Gripes, kudos or to ask me out (yes you!) mailto:Jose@ChopperFreak.com
SUPERMAX BELT DRIVES LIVES–SUPER MAX HAS BEEN IN THE BELT DRIVE BUSINESS FOR 30 YEARS. WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN OUR PRODUCTS AND THEIR DURABUILITY.
OUR PARTS COST MORE BUT THEY ARE WORTH IT. OUR MOTTO; “BUY YOUR LAST BELT DRIVE FIRST.”
IF YOU WISH TO DISCUSS YOUR INSTALLATION, CALL ME PERSONALLY..
PHIL ROSS.
OWNER/FOUNDER
661-548-6000 10 TO 5 PACIFIC
Continued On Page 4
November 07, 2002 part 5
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 4
And The Winners Are– Here are our first pick of winners for the new contest. Keep entering because we’ll be choosing a new winner twice a month. Prizes will vary as Sponsors donate products, so don’t give up!!!
George Lamb
Oklahoma City, OK
Wanted: Got all your books, I’m too fat for your t-shirts, got plenty of stickers and patches. My scoot is an 85 FXST, all I need to do is chrome my covers and convert both drives to belts, I know, too expensive, but a Bandit Bedroll or Dayroll would be cool.
Wins: Bikernet T-Shirt 4X and a Dayroll – BTW, George was the first person to enter this contest so he gets two things.
Ted E. Bear
Elizaville, NY
Wanted: canned tuna please……
Wins: Can o’ Tuna…… cause he said please.
Troy Toesning
St. Paul, MN
Wanted: Le Pera Bare Bones cool flamed grips. Bikernet T-shirts are cool. Any of Bandit’s books, Horse sub., beer?
Wins: Set of Bandit’s books
Bill Hopper
Rio Rancho, NM
Wanted: Sin Wu!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Or anything thats free is good.
Wins: Picture of Sin Wu. He didn’t say in person……..
Steven Letts
Clarklake, MI
Wanted: Sam Chopper Orwell book signed, please.
Wins:Signed copy of Orwell, because he said please.
Dale Fritz
Sun Valley, CA
Wanted: A personalized, autographed copy of Bandit’s new book. A T-shirt would be nice as well. Thanks!
Wins: Signed copy of Orwell ? you?re welcome.
Jim Sanders
Moore, OK
Wanted: I’ll take anything as a prize just so I could say I won something.
Wins: T-Shirts, now he won something.
Will McIntosh
Las Cruces, NM
Wanted: A free copy of Orwell would be badass
Wins: Signed copy of Orwell
JackVerburg
Siamous, BC Canada
Wanted: Money, beer, tight black t-shirts, a law making panties illegal.
Wins:A law making panties illegal
Bill King
Milwaukee, WI
Wanted: One of your kick-ass T-shirts so I can show off here in Oregon. 3X or 4X if possible. Keep up the GGGreat site! Ride it like you stole it!!!!!!!
Wins: Bikernet T-Shirt 4X
Terry Goode
Houston, TX
Wanted: Just knowing (as in reading email) you guys is kick enough. What do I want? Anything personal except unwashed shorts.
Wins: Washed shorts
Kenneth Urry
South Jordan, UT
Wanted: Bikernet Stuff,, shirts, bedroll, signed set of Bandit’s books, gift cert. from sponsors and a weekend trip to the Bikernet headquarters.
Wins: $75.00 gift certificate from Samson’s Exhaust. If we gave him the trip to the Headquarters we would have to kill him. Secret location ya’ know.
Mark Hendricks
Baton Rouge, LA
Wanted: To live to 120 years old. To have an old lady that never has no for an answer. I wish that I would win some, no, all the free stuff.
Wins: Free stuff, but not all. Sorry Mark?
Larry Peterson
Palatine, IL
Wanted: I wish all nations would lay down their weapons and strive for peace, and feed the hungry, shelter the homeless. Then we could all own a bike.
Wins: Signed copy of Orwell for his effort.
JOSE JUST ARRIVED–We’ve got to unleash the E-H from Century Motorcycles so our Puerto Rican correspondent has something wild to ride. It’s time to shut the computers down, break out the Jack Daniels and begin the Love Ride Celebration. We’ll try our best to sober up on Sunday to deliver the Post. Have a helluva weekend.
–Bandit
Just in case you didn’t think the Bikernet crew had a supportive family behind the operation.
November 07, 2002 part 4
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 3
OZARK ED RETURNS–First of all, everything’s just fine here. It’s starting to be winter here so it’s depressing. Riding is very cold, and it’s rained here for two weeks. I can’t get a couple of parts I need for my Shovelhead, so I’m kinda stuck on the back fender. I wanted to french in the light but I can’t get these little sharks tooth things that I needed for the bezel. I have waited for over three weeks and they are still on backorder.
Skitzo hasn’t worked on his bike for two weeks. I went to the shop on Sunday and made him do some filler work on the frame. We got trashed. Bald headed Patrick bought a new after market kit bike. (independence M/C) today. He said I can’t ride it until he gets 500 miles on it, but you watch. I’ll ride it today.
I’m still good with the juvee girl (above). She’s going with me on a big road trip tomorrow! Just two more months til she’s 21. I’ve attached a photo of the part I like. I’m really kinda bored with her but I can’t quit seeing her till something new comes along.
Titty bar Mike traded his Shovel in for one of those Big Mikes choppers in August. We have this buddy, Big Stacey, who is one of those paintless dent remove guys. He has been in france for four months doing this big hail storm thing. Sounds strange, but I guess they have hail over there, too. Well, he came home with big old pocket full of money and went out to the shop Philip works at and bought a bike just like Mike’s, with the upgrade. It has a bigger tire and a little more stretch. Mike is pissed. We gave them shit about being twinkies. He was fucking steaming. but if you’re going to buy a premade “custom bike” then you gotta expect to see some more just like it. I love it. It’s so entertaining to watch the fallout.
It’s Philip who’s so fucked up. He knew that it was just like Mike’s and he let him buy it without saying anything. I saw him Friday and we laughed so hard our sides hurt.
He introduced me to a very cute girl who works at the shop and told me it was his girlfriend. Then he said. “I can tell you because I know about your girlfriend”. I freaked. His real girl lives with the juvee girl and I thought he was serious. I figured out later he was just fucking with me, but it sent that wave up my spine. He’s got a soft spot for my girl and he would like nothing better to bust me out and get a shot a her. All’s fair i guess, but if he wanted confirmation, he was disappointed. I’ll try to keep you up to date a little better than I have been.
–Ozark Ed
IF YOU THINK LIFE IS BAD–How would you like to be an egg?
You only get laid once.
You only get eaten once.
It takes four minutes to get hard.
Only two minutes to get soft.
You share your box with 11 other guys
But worst of all..the only chick that ever sat on your face was your mother!!!So cheer up, Your life ain’t that bad!!!!Pass it around to someone who you feel can use a good lay,I mean day!!!!!
–Anders
FlatheadPower.com
ASPHALT COWBOY REPORT–I went on the Love Ride faithfully for the first eight years. I miss goingso much. We’re working hard on the movie project and everything is rolling right along. We still have some room for a couple more investors, if anyone is interested in being involved in a killer biker movie based on a Bandit story line. I’ll send a Business Plan to interested parties.
–Linda
NELSON MADISON FILMS
HELEN WOLFE TESTS DIGITAL CAMERA AT LAS VEGAS DRAGS–Here’s her efforts at the track. We miss her coverage of the drags.
Just in case you didn’t think the Bikernet crew had a supportive family behind the operation.
Continued On Page 5
November 07, 2002 part 3
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 2
BIKERNET SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM EXPANDS–Bikernet is all about Custom Motorcycles, Riding, Romance and Tech. We don’t call our program advertising. It’s a sponsorship effort, because every sponsor including our two newest members, Performance Machine and Surgical Steeds, is afforded more that just an ad space or a banner. We create a department for each sponsor and build an archive of information about their products and projects we use them on. We charge the same fee whether we have two articles and four banners on the site or a dozen articles and 25 banners. Each article is posted in their department and in the tech area, the news here, or in new products. It’s a partnership.
GOING THEEXTRA MILE: INSIDER TIPS FOR LONG-DISTANCE MOTORCYCLING AND ENDURANCERALLIES–We are pleased to announce publication of Ron Ayres’ new book, 144 pages, $19.95. Copies are now in stock and if you’d like toorder one for yourself or a friend, click onhttp://www.WhitehorsePress.com/Email.asp?CN=122101&EN=en0211&ID=GEM
This is the first book to share the proven advice of high-mileage veteranswith all riders who want to extend their range on a motorcycle. A good readthat will inspire many, we think GOING THE EXTRA MILE will be the book ofchoice for the coming holiday season.
Bikernet travel hostess.
BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT–This week’s news is brought to you by Bandit’s Bikernet’s travel service, all the way from San Pedro, the semi polluted city. Yes you heard right, I’m in California living the grand life. Bandit had a harem of big breasted blondes waiting for me at LAX, and a couple exotic cars for the entourage back to his ritzy San Pedro hacienda. All I know is that I hear muffled voices from the dungeon, I’m guessing it’s Layla and Sin Wu which have been hidden from my arrival…Have not seen the old man yet, his valet tells me that he’s getting into his Tux for the soiree tonight…
Actually all I want is the Porsche he promised and I’ll steal one of the blondes (or two) and head out for a night (or two) in Lala land….I’m wondering if that Chopper parked at the courtyard next to his Road King will be my ride for the week….(Knowing him he’ll bring a couple dressers) which I will refuse, that’s for sure…..Oh well, the week end is just starting, so let’s see what happens…
So if you are a frequent reader you might know how it goes….Sometimes I bitch and bash, sometimes I might say some positive and uplifting things….or sometimes I’m a bit brutal, but you know what, up to now, no one has seen totally brutal…but I will save that for later. Hell how can I complain tonight when I’m in Bikernet’s palace…no way…or maybe…Hell !!!
Ok here we go…Like I’ve said before about the Chopper stuff, the industry, the “lifestyle” besides building bikes…it’s the friendship, the brotherhood… yessirr… Last week I said I was coming to California and friends called and e-mailed, you know..let’s meet here, let’s meet there, stuff like that. I guess I’m lucky to call most of these people friends, to be able to hang out and shoot the shit, and mostly learn from all this Big names in this industry, and lesser known too..which is as much fun as cool. These contacts mean a great deal to a guy that comes from a tiny island in the Caribbean five thousand and more miles away from this place I’m standing today, which is the Bike Building, Chopper, Hot Rod, Mecca…no doubt about it. I do not consider myself in the same ” league” as many other industry people, nor do I see them as Supermen. I see them as friends , pretty simple, just good friends. I’m not a follower either, unless they are cute, blonde (or brunette, or red headed, or whatever) have a nice ass and heavy duty, built for comfort not speed, rack.
With the words I mentioned a few lines ago, I see that I’m earning my place….and again that famous word, RESPECT of my peers. Like I said in my interview here some time ago, you try to do your best and work hard at it….work really fucking hard… Yes, the kid in South Dakota, the friend in Australia, the new shop owner in Oklahoma, they are all looking up to someone. It’s up to all of us to pass that friendship, that brotherhood, and that Respect to all those guys, who deserve it….. People say what the fuck they want to say…but in reality we know, deep inside, who we really are, what we can do and where we want to go. It’s the feeling of ! being welcome, people offering their homes, of actually wanting to spend time talking, or hanging out….Not even knowing or caring if the courtesy would be returned. It’s like I’ve said before, our house in the Black Hills, is always open to our friends and will always be… It’s a true brotherhood…and in this fucked-up World of whatever…It’s a breath of fresh air.
And now wipe your tears and let’s go to the news….
I want to welcome Truth to the Bikernet suspects….He’s a good guy and a friend. At last I will have company on bashing the billet barges and pushin’ the shirts all over the site…Another Chopper Freak ™ joins forces against the circus that riding has become…..
BikerSpot the new motorcycle magazine from Puerto Rico is already out on the new stands…and the second edition is already in the works, they are working on the web site, so as soon as I know, you will too.
Since it’s already out in the Web, The Biker Build-off two is already in the works. Billy Lane and Dave Perewitz will be the main characters this time. Maybe I’ll join for the ride once more, if weather permits… I’ll keep you posted as this gets going.
Jesse James will host his 7th No Love Party, this Saturday…I will be there, so if any of you attend (and find us amid the sea of people) come say hi…If you feel like punching me or something, I’ll be the tall guy on the Road King.
Also the World’s Biggest single day event will take place Sunday, The Love Ride, all the way to Castaic lake , concerts, vendors and a pretty good time. Besides the parties and events that take place all weekend, it will be a blast….If I fly all the way to California it better be worth it….
What’s this a V-rod in Jose’s report?
My new Chopper for 2003 is already on the works. Bandit promised to save some space for my Scoot-as-you-build-story. If it comes out close to what I have in mind…Watch out friends!!!!I already have the frame and most of the parts. The mock-up will start as soon as I head my ass back to Puerto Rico…stay tuned.
There’s a new Chopper from BMC on the works. It’s still in the “secret” stage so I will not say anything more. Once more, you heard it here first. It’s going to be cool.
Also, keep your eyes peeled, we will be in Daytona Bike Week with a booth…and some of our friends will join…Keep checking The Horse. You’ll see, we will have the coolest Chopper booth on the lot (All of us….).
The V-Twin expo in Cinci will take place the 1,2 and 3rd of February… we are ditching Indy this year will check this one out…
That’s about it (since I keep forgetting stuff) and like Bandit says…we are burning daylight. Pop’s is ready to go, and we have to paint this town red before Billy Lane shows up and takes all the good looking chicks. I guess sometimes is good to be famous….Bandit in a Tux, the Hummer limo waiting, coin in the pocket….Shit, I guess we will get them all….yessirr…
–Jose, Caribbean Bikernet Report, currently living the life of the rich and famous in San Pedro.
mailto:chopperfreak@earthlink.net>chopperfreak@earthlink.net
HOW TO BUILD A KIT BIKE–
Stillwater, Minnesota (October 18, 2002) Its become easier and easier to build your own motorcycle with a kit from any of the manufacturer s and the new Kit Bike book from Wolfgang Publications. No longer do you have to buy a frame from one manufacturer and the wheels from another. Today you can buy a complete motorcycle or just a rolling chassis from one company.
How to Build a Kit Bike explains how to choose the best kit and then assemblethose parts into a complete running motorcycle. Four start-to-finish assembly sequences cover the construction of a soft-tail from Custom Chrome, a Y2K bike from Arlen and Cory Ness, a right side drive/250 bike from Biker s Choice, a soft-tail chopper fromAmerican Thunder. Additional chapters cover: Kit Selection, Tools, How to Title and Insure the New Bike and Drivetrain Selection.
If you own a kit or plan to buy a kit bike, this is the book you need. It s designed to help you turn that pile of parts into your very own, very cool motorcycle. 144 pages, 50% color.
The price is $24.95 plus $5.50 shipping and handling.
Available from Wolfgang Publications
1310 Sunny Slope Lane
Stillwater, MN 55082.
24-Hour order line 651-275-9411 or order off the web at wolfgangpublications.com.
Contact: Tim Remus
Wolfgang Publications
651-275-9394
Continued On Page 4
November 07, 2002 part 2
By Bandit |
Continued From Page 1
BELL TIPS FROM PAUGHCO– Pure Attitude in Looks and Sound.Are these retro, BELL TIP mufflers cool or what! Just reintroduced by PAUGHCO, the Godfather of the chopper and custom motorcycle industry, these slip-on mufflers speak pure attitude. Back in the hard-core 50s, 60s and 70’s the original BELL TIPS, FISHTAILS and SHOTGUN DRAG pipes provided the unmistakable thunder common to Bob Jobs, Choppers and Rat bikes. Using the latest in manufacturing technology and sophisticated in-house plating techniques, PAUGHCO now produces the nostalgic BELL TIP as well as a wide variety of FISHTAILS and DRAG PIPES that will add that finishing touch to any of today’s breed of choppers and bar hoppers.
BELL TIPS feature a simple slip on fit to 1 ?” pipes, steel baffles, Paughco’s flawless chrome finish, straight or upsweep styles and are available in Long and Short Tip versions. Pipes define your scooter’s image and nothing says hard-core CHOPPER better than these awesome muffs.
And get this, they retail for under a hundred bucks! For complete details call 775-246-5738 or catch Paughco on the web at www.paughco.com
THE BIKERNET CABBIE AND THE NUN–A cabbie picks up a nun.She gets into the cab, and the cab driver won’t stop staring at her.She asks him why is he staring and he replies, “I have a question to ask youbut I don’t want to offend you.”
She answers, “My dear son, you cannot offend me. When you’re as old as I amand have been a nun as long as I have, you get a chance to see and hear justabout everything. I’m sure that there’s nothing you could say or ask that Iwould find offensive.”
“Well, I’ve always had a fantasy to have a nun kiss me.”
She responds, “Well, let’s see what we can do about that: #1, you have to besingle and #2 you must be Catholic.”
The cab driver is very excited and says, “Yes, I am single and I’m Catholictoo!”
“OK” the nun says “Pull into the next alley”
He does and the nun fulfills his fantasy with a kiss that would make a hookerblush.
But when they get back on the road, the cab driver starts crying.
“My dear child, said the nun, why are you crying?”
“Forgive me sister, but I have sinned. I lied, I must confess, I’m marriedand I’m Jewish.”
The nun says, “That’s OK, my name is Kevin and I’m on my way to a Halloweenparty.”
–from Rogue
BIKERNET SWEDISH REPORT–The Malaren Run,Story by Tbear, Photos by Siver Ohlsson.Every year, they come like lemmings to the sea from all over Europe. From Great Britain, Germany, France, all over Scandinavia and the former Soviet Republics.
The reason? THE MALAREN RUN. Europe’s answer to Sturgis. Started back in 1986 by Sweden’s premier biker magazine MCM, with a mere 150 riders, the event has grown to well over 20,000 today. The run starts off in Stockholm, Sweden at MCM Magazine Headquarters. Inge Persson-Carleson, driving force behind both the Maralen Run and MCM Magazine leads the group of every type motorcycle imaginable through some of the most scenic roads in Scandinavia. 250 kilometers (approx. 125 miles) around Sweden’s largest lake, Lake Malaren, through the towns and mountains of Strangnas, Eskilstuna and V?ster?s to Enkoping.
Along the way, there are various stops for the riders. They are fed by local bike clubs and treated to music by local bands and fine Swedish brews provided by the locals who enjoy the event almost as much as do the participants. This event is a big deal in Sweden.
Not only to the bikers but the inhabitants along the route as well, who line up to see the show and cheer on the riders. Once safely encamped in the scenic area of Enkoping, The group is treated royally. Music, food, beer, bike shows and contests of two wheeled skills are the order of events. Sweden has long been known for there forte in the long bike genre and the chopper show at the Malaren Run is a rare sight to behold. Everything from custom Harleys to chopped Russian Urals can be seen there.
This years event was held the weekend of August 17th. Next year, Teddy Bear and Co. will most likely blow off the madness of Sturgis and head across the pond to join up with Inge of MCM to party hardy Swedish Style and make new friends with other builders and die hard riders there. After Laconia, Sturgis, Amsterdam and Tahiti we think we’re ready to move up to the big leagues and for choppers, it doesn’t get any bigger or better than Sweden’s annual Malaren Run.
–TBear
BIKERNET SCREW-UPS– When his 38-caliber revolver failed to fire at its intended victim during a holdup in Long Beach, California, would be robber James Elliot did something that can only inspire wonder: He peered down the barrel and tried the trigger again. This time it worked.
–from CarlR
DON NOWELL CREATIONS–In a special report due to be launched any day that our blotto web master sobers up, we will cover the fine steel art of Don Nowell. You’ve never seen anything like what Don can creates. These bikes are all billet aluminum, steel and held together with stainless fasteners.
You won’t believe it. Check his site, MotorcyceFineArt.com.
Roe vs. Wade–A blonde was sitting in class when the professor asked her if she knew whatthe Roe vs. Wade decision was. She sat there for quite a while ponderingthisvery profound question and finally sighed and said, “I think that is thedecision George Washington made prior to crossing the Delaware.”
–Rogue
SEGAL FINE ART IN THE ENTHUSIAT–Here is the article in the current issue of Enthusiast Magazine regarding the art collection. You may have difficulty reading the small text because of the format. Basically it mentions the fact that Willie G. commisioned these paintings and these are the first original works produced as a collection by H-D for an anniversary. It goes on to say that the reproductions are available through your local H-D dealer. Please call me if you have any questions.
— RC (800-999-1297)
BADLANDS PROJECT SHIFTS GEAR–Yo, dude, 6,000 words is about SIX solid pages of text – hey Bandit, this is amagazine, not a book. It would be helpful if you could condense it to about2/3 its original length. Of course you can write a brief intro about itbeing condensed, etc. I will allow enough editorial pages to make thisstory worthwhile, and make adjustments elsewhere to accommodate it…if it’sonly about 3000 to 4000 words, that is. Sound okay by you?
–Buzz Buzzelli, editor
AMERICAN RIDER
Our Badlands Book project will contain 30 stories about guys who have been in clubs for 20 years or more with photographs by esteemed Mike Lichter. Mike was recently filmed by the Discovery Channel as he photographed a veteran club member in Dallas. Watch for the Badlands Chapter in American Rider coming right up.
Continued On Page 3
November 07, 2002 part 1
By Bandit |
We’ve investigated opening the real Bandit’s Cantina. After years of research we finally found the perfect location. It’s a mere 700 miles from anywhere, off highway 666, on a small 25-mile dirt road that boards three raging streams and two rivers. The rivers, unlike any other dry lake region in the United States this year, are over flowing and vehicle crossing is virtually impossible.
The above shot depicts the state-of-the-art water pump that supplies the Cantina with spring water from the various bubbling springs that surround the property. Well, what the hell do you think? I guarantee that if you can get your bike to Bandit’s Cantina it won’t be stolen.
Let’s get to the news:
BIKERNET’S PRIEST– The Priest in a small Irish village was very fond of the chickens he keptin the hen house out back of the parish manse. He had a cock rooster andabout ten hens.
One Sunday night the rooster went missing believed stolen,so he decidedto do something about it at church the next morning.
At mass he asked the congregation, “Has anyone got a cock?”
All the menstood up. “No, no,” he said, “that wasn’t what I meant, has anyone SEEN a cock?”
All the women stood up.
“No No,” he said “that wasn’t what I meant either. Hasanyone seen a cock that doesn’t belong to them?” half the women stood up,
“No No,” he said, “that wasn’t what I meant, has anybody seen my cock?”
All thenuns, three alter boys, two priests and a goat stood up.
–Nuttboy
POP’S BIKE–Here is the picture of my Dad in about ’48 or ’49, even he doesn’t remember exactly when. He bought it after he got out of the Navy after WW2. Seems that V-twins and old sailors go together. Keep up the great work on the sight.
–Tom Conley
Montclair, CA
TWIST GEAR NEWS?–The Buell guys seem quite excited about this. Check top end and look at shift points. More info on websitewww.twistgear.net.
I ran this as an example of a release I couldn’t post. We need low resolutions Jpgs that are no biggers than 500 pixels tall or wide. And generally if you just copy and paste your wording in an e-mail to Bandit@bikernet.com, we’re good to go. Too often attachments are packed with coding that drives the girls in the back to early margaritas, if we can open them at all. Thanks.
BIKERNET SENIOR NEWS–An elderly man goes into a brothel and tells the madam he would like a young girl for the night. Surprised, she looks at the ancient man and asks how old he is.
“I’m 90 years old,” he says.
“90!” replies the woman. “Don’t you realize you’ve had it?”
“Oh, sorry,” says the old man, “how much do I owe you?”
–from Nuttboy
NEW CYRIL HUZE SPIKEE GRIPS–Unique design from Cyril Huze with extra length for added comfort. Fits all models except those with air assisted forks. Compliments the new Huze Spikee line of handlebar risers, mirrors, footpegs, velocity stacks, primary side covers. Available for external and internal throttle systems. A spike theme to develop all over your custom bike. All Spikee grips have a removable end on the clutch side for installation of a mirror directly on the grip.
–Cyril Huze
Tel: 561-392-5557
Website:
“ENTHUSIAST IN ON THE STREETS NOW– This issue is the first of four quarterly issues, all related to the 100 Anniversary. “Enthusiast” is dividing the last one hundred years into four segments of twenty five years each and detailing H-D’s history with intriguing and unique stories; ultimately ending with the present era.
This issue presents Tom Fritz’s “Great Doings”,on the cover; an official 100th work which you can order in print form with the special 100th Insignia frame package. Inside, an article explains the importance of all the 100th pieces and how the collection was born. This magazine launches a major national campaign to make riders aware of this desirable collection. ( 860,000 to be exact). Call me if you have any questions or need support materials on the 100th Anniversary Commemorative Collection.
— Ron Copple 800-999-1297
MORE NEW PRODUCTS FROM CYRIL HUZE–SPIKEE RISERS–These riser kits have a unique concave design with spike covers. They feature invisible hardware: cover hides the upper handlebar clamp bolts. For strength and security, risers are machined out of steel, and covers are billet aluminum. Then they are beautifully chrome plated. Available in 3″, 5″ and 7″ rise for 1″ or 1 1/4″ custom handlebars (bars must be 1 1/4″ diameter in the clamping area). Clamp bolts included. Cyril HuzeTel: 561-392-5557Website:
Continued On Page 2
November 1, 2002
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 LawOffices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, call us at (800) ON-A-BIKE, or visitus on the web at From TheGUNNY’S SACK You know there is no end to some of the nastiness we see in the media about riders andmotorcycles. We’ve had a few reports recently from my boss, Oregon A.I.M. Attorney SamHochberg, about what he sees on TV now and then that gets HIS hackles up. He just toldme another one: Seems that on the VERY popular NBC show “ER,” there was a scene with ayoung girl who was on the back of a bike when it wrecked. She arrived basically DOA inthe emergency room. Not much talk in the script about what CAUSED the wreck. Not ANYtalk about safety training. Just this little exchange. One doc says “What was she doingon the back of a motorcycle?” The British doctor, “Dr. Corday,” says: “What is ANYBODYdoing on a motorcycle?!” It couldn’t hurt to complain to NBC. They’re big boys, they can take it. Tell ’em yourGunny sent you, and e-mail an extra copy of whatever you write to me, if you would, atAIMGunny@aol.com. NEWS BITS’N PIECES: TORONTO, CANADA: Here’s some more media hype I saw; this one online. The headline:”Dozens of Outlaw motorcycle gang members, including some top leaders, were arrested inraids on biker clubhouses in Canada and the United States.” In Canada there were supposedly over 500 officers involved in this abomination, but thepress made it look even bigger than it really was. In the USA, the same game is beingplayed. I’m not saying I think all riders are saints. We have a few sour apples, too. Our biggest problem as I see it is much the same as the Harley parked outside a bar thateverybody sees but no one ever sees the five or six pick-ups parked there too. HARRISBURG, PA.: This is some good news. Pennsylvania Motorcyclists have “taxed”themselves to ensure safer riding. They voted in some increased funding for their stateMotorcycle Safety Program. It’s the best way to prevent motorcycle accidents, injuriesand deaths, says ABATE of Pennsylvania. And Joe Public still thinks we have a death wishbecause we ride. This bill had 68 co-sponsors. All SMRO’s (State Motorcycle Rights Associations) could take a lesson here. In Oregon wedid about the same thing a couple of sessions ago and it works. NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA: This bit comes to me (word for word) from Animal, my good buddy fromthe north country: “Each year I emcee a toy run up in New Brunswick. This year we raisedover $10000 in cash and toys which is an awesome amount for up here. $5000 of it camefrom the inmates of the Dorchester Penitentiary.” Wow! Even convicts in Canada lovekids. And why not. TOKYO, JAPAN: Government is stickin’ it’s paws where they shouldn’t be again, this timein Vietnam, and it’s about motorcycles. In September, their government put a cap on howmany bikes and bike parts they would allow Yamaha build in their Vietnam plants. I guessthey wanted to give a leg up to their locally-owned motorcycle businesses there. Niceidea, but it sorta backfired. Yamaha just said “screw it,” and shut down their Vietnamplant, at least for now. EARTH ORBIT: A biker’s wife is the pilot of the space shuttle Atlantis, at this writing. The crew is headed up to the international space station. Pilot-astronaut Pamela Melroyis the third woman to fly as a space shuttle pilot. Seems she hesitated about herhusband getting a scoot. But listen to what she said: “I thought to myself, the guy’s an airline pilot flying international and I’m a shuttlepilot. Who am I to tell him it’s not safe enough? To hold either of us back from doingsomething that we’re really excited about, because the other person would be worriedabout you, would just be wrong. We just don’t do it.” Now THERE’S a “top-flight” womanwith the right attitude! NHTSA:(National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) From these good safetycrats comesthis critical information: “{…on a national level, motorcycle deaths have for the lastfour years been steadily rising. The latest figures show that 3,181 people died inmotorcycle crashes in 2001, up nearly 10 percent from 2000, according to Rae Tyson ofNHTSA in Washington, D.C. It’s fairly obvious to me that some folks don’t take intoaccount that ridership has increased phenomenally in the last several years and many ofthese new riders – some of ’em baby-boomers who are just NOW starting to ride – haveNEVER TAKEN A RIDING COURSE! NHTSA says they are perplexed at the sudden rise and tendto blame it on states that have repealed their helmet laws. Well let me tell them this:If we had BETTER and MORE rider ed, you’d see a big DROP in accidents and death. And aLOT of these new boomer-riders have never ridden a big bike, and that’s what NHTSA’s ownstats say they’re riding. Well, if the last time you rode was on a Honda 350 in 1973 andyou get yourself up on a brand-new Fatboy, you’re just askin’ for it if you don’t get outand get some training. A WHOLE lot has changed in the past 30 years about riding. Ifwe’re all better riders and crash LESS, we can continue to tell NHTSA where to put theirstatistics. DEHLI, INDIA: So I come across this article from Reuters, and I find out that India’stransportation situation is the same as in a LOT of the poorer but up’n coming countries. In short, they all go nuts for motorcycles! Now, some folks think it’s just because thebuggers can’t afford a car, and that IS part of it. These are countries that are justnow getting invigorated with growth and change — kinda like it was here in the USA, along time ago. Bikes are THE most practical thing a person could buy there! Cheap ongas, but flashy and cool. There are a whole slew of models and wild colors — even frommajor companies like Honda — that we NEVER, ever see here in the US. Sounds great forthem — I’ll stick with my Valkyrie. GUNNY AGAIN: Remember that the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) program is in place to helpriders who have had any sort of mishap on the road. Our A.I.M. Attorneys around thecountry are here for us and they are part of our riding world, so they know of that whichthey speak. You can reach these guys by dialing 1-800-ON-A-BIKE or 1-800-531-2424. Youcan reach Sam Hochberg here in Oregon at 503-224-1106, or toll free at 1-800-347-1106. Keep the round side on the bottom.
Gunny, Oregon A.I.M. Chief of Staff