I was just sitting here when she came to the door. I’m hammering away on the keyboard, concerned that we don’t have enough images for the news this week, thinking about the Labor Day weekend and all the treachery it holds: traffic jams, Nuutboy’s party in Idyllwild, the Four Corners run in Durango, the jazz festival in downtown L.A., working on the ’48 Panhead, finishing the edit on my 20,000-word Sturgis saga, and praying that California H-D sells my Street Stalker so I can publish my next book, “Sam, Chopper, Orwell.” Hell, I need to pay the bills.

There she was, all 21 years of raging hormones in a mini-skirt. And they complain that men are the driving force behind sexual appetites. I don’t think so. Sure, our techniques are different, but women don’t have the stigma of being pushy. Where we should act with decorum and sensitivity, the fairer sex can be demanding, overt and as goddamn pushy as they want. It’s not a bad thing. I better open the door, she’s waiting. Then we’ll get to the news.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON GIVES $250,000 TO THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL–Harley-Davidson announced this week a $250,000contribution to help build the National World War II Memorial in Washington,D.C. The announcement was made at the culmination of a motorcycle parade ledby a World War II-vintage Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

“On behalf of the company and our many veteran employees andcustomers, we are proud to honor World War II veterans by donating a quarterof a million dollars to help build their long-deserved memorial,” said JimZiemer, president of the Harley-Davidson Foundation and a U.S. veteran. TheVeterans of Foreign Wars, which kicked off its 101st national conventiontoday in Milwaukee, will match 50 cents for every dollar ofHarley-Davidson’s gift.

Harley-Davidson has a long history as a U.S. military supplier. Thecompany’s motorcycles were first used for dispatching and scouting duringborder skirmishes on the Mexican frontier in 1916. During the first year ofU.S. military involvement in World War I, approximately half of all thecompany’s production went to the military. During World War II,Harley-Davidson produced approximately 90,000 WL military models.

More than 14 percent of Harley-Davidson’s U.S. employees areveterans of the U.S. military, and many of Harley-Davidson’s loyal customersalso served our country.

Harley-Davidson salutes the nation’s veterans every year onVeteran’s Day, Nov. 11, by hosting special events at its facilities in Kansas City, Mo.,Milwaukee, Wis., and York, Pa.

BANDIT’S STREET STALKER FOR SALE–That’s right, for a mere $17,000 you can own one of the first Street Stalkers to be formed out of a Fatboy. Its black out style was featured in Easyriders and rode to Sturgis 1998. The bike was hopped-up by Dave at Bartel’s H-D and runs at the top of its game for an 80-inch motor. If you want to talk to me about it, send an e-mail to bandit@bikernet.com, or go see the bike at California Harley-Davidson on Pacific Coast Highway in Harbor City; (310) 539-3366 and ask for Joel.

DON’T RIDE FASTER THAN YOUR GUARDIAN ANGEL CAN FLY–Amen, brother. I’m one of them fuckin’ wannabes and this weekend I wentafter my cycle endorsement through the MSF. On the last god damn evaluation,an exercise I smoked repeatedly during the class, I hit the gate toofast, realized my mistake and hit my brakes at the same time Icounter-steered. Locked the fuckin’ front tire up bigger ‘n shit andslammed my fat ass into the ground. Took about two layers of skin offmy elbow and gave me a hell of a bruise on my leg. All I could think ofwas thank God it was this loaner 2000 Rebel and not the Night Train Ihave on order.

Needless to say, I failed the eval. The kicker is, if I’dhave known my point score at the time, I could have rolled right throughthe mother fucker, taken the max number of points and still gotten myendorsement, as long as I didn’t dump it.

Of course in that heat,three out of 12 in the class dumped during the eval, so I wasn’talone. I think that’s why we’re getting another crack at it on Sunday.

We hope to bring the MSF course to our readers in written reports in the near future. We should all take these courses, no matter how long we’ve been in the saddle–Bandit

SIGNS YOU’RE ALL GROWN UP– Your potted plants stay alive.

Having sex in a twin-sized bed is absurd.

You keep more food than beer in the fridge.

6 a.m. is when you get up, not when you go to sleep.

You hear your favorite “party” song on the elevator at work.

You go from 130 days of vacation time to 7.

You’re the one calling the police because those darn kids next door don’t know how to turn down the stereo.

You don’t know what time McDonald’s closes anymore.

Your car insurance goes down and your car payments go up.

You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonald’s.

You don’t get liquored up at home to save money before going to a bar.

BURNING MAN FESTIVAL, RENO, NEVADA–The Burning Man Festival, an eclectic mix of offbeat art, impromptuperformance and cultural experimentation, draws 10,000 or so free spiritsto the middle-of-nowhere Nevada each Labor Day weekend. Tall as afive-story building, trimmed with neon and stuffed with fireworks, the Manis an impressive piece of work, but the real story is in the culture thathas sprung up around it. Burning Man has become a magnet for many strangeand unexpected offerings.

Surrealist sculptors and solar-powered multimedia share the stage with musicians, painters, dancers, poets andgearheads. People labor all year to construct elaborate theme camps rangingfrom potluck barter bars to full-tilt circus sideshows. Costumes abound,including the ever-popular birthday suit. -John

BIKERNET CARIBBEAN REPORT– Hey guys, just got back from the Black Hills, the 60th, crowded asever, fun as always, and the best riding. This year a group of riders fromthe Caribbean (Puerto Rico) were on a mission. I don’t know if you have seenin local news the bits and pieces of what’s going on in a small island inPuerto Rico called Vieques. Well, the U.S. Navy has beenusing 75 percent of the island for target practice for the past 60 years, not onlythat but renting it to other armies for their target practice and landingmissions also.

Just last year,some bozos missed their target and dropped a two-ton bomb on a civilianpost of observation. Needless to say, it was left looking like Swiss cheeseand a civilian guard dead. It’s not the first time that something like thishappened, but this one filled the cup.

For a year there have been hundredsof people invading the military zone, building churches, schools andbarracks, replanting, cleaning the unexploded missiles, and trying to makethe beaches usable, so the marine life could regain control of theirhabitat.

So what’s up with the Navy? Nothing, this tiny island has the largestconcentration of cancer patients in all of the 50 states and itsterritories. There has been a total destruction of the fauna and flora, theturtle species (protected by the Feds) are blown out of the water like paper ina tornado, and on, and on. All the civil disobedients were arrested andcharged with trespassing. People are still doing it anyway. Meanwhile, theNavy tries to buy silence with $40 million, which won’t buy anyone’slife, nor restore the health of young children dying of cancer…..(have youseen Erin Brokovich?).

Even the veterans of many wars are against the Navyin this one. Gore and Bush have claimed to want the peace for Vieques, butthe fight is a long and hard one for us in Puerto Rico.

We decided to ridefor the peace of Vieques on the Black Hills, armed with stickers on ourbikes and a banner. We visited Mount Rushmore, stood there and silentlyopened our banner for everyone to see and read, with our respects to themonument and our respects for the peace of the 8,000 people who live inVieques. After some snaps and answering some questions, once again,silently, we left the presidents to themselves. Time and time again we didthis, just silently and respectfully over the Black Hills. “Vieques has theright to live in peace” it read. Simple and to the point. I’m writing this in the safety of my home, while thepeople of Vieques continue to receive two-ton bomb wake-up calls 180 days a year.People are dying of cancer and radiation-related sicknesses, and civildisobedients are arrested for peace.– Saludos from the Caribbean…Jose

A LETTER FROM CORALDid ya miss me? I had a great time with my girlfriends.I needed to get away for a while and think about my friendshipwith Sin. I decided that I was going to make a serious move on her. She isso sexy and beautiful, I don’t think I can just be friends with her. Wewent to lunch the other day and I was playing with her under the table. Icould tell she was getting really turned on because she opened her legs as Islid my hand up the inside of her thigh. When we walked out to the car, Igrabbed her and kissed her. She was very responsive, pressing her titsagainst mine and pulling me hard up against her. She reached behind me andpulled my ass close to her as she ground her pussy on my thigh. She was hotand wet. We got so turned on that we forgot we were out in public! A carpassed us and we realized where we were. We both had to be somewhere elseso we reluctantly said our goodbyes.

She wants to meet tonight and “talk”about what happened. Talk about it my ass, I’m going to have her. I boughtsome toys while I was on vacation, I’ll let you know if she likes to playwith them. Hell, maybe you can come and play with us. Well, not thistime – this one is all mine, but maybe next time. Take it easy Bandit,try not to work too hard. I’ll be thinking about you while I’m eating yourlunch tonight.~Coral

AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE COMPANY UPDATE–American Motorcycle Co. Some of the people who were involved with the new Indian Co. have bought into Quantum and are now going to berunning the whole show.

They come out of Canada. Murray and Lionel. There willbe an official press release with all the details sent out Monday. Every one is real excited about this and it looks like this is what isneeded to make Quantum a go.

Keith Ruxton is working at Quantum now? Really good to havehim. He is turning all kinds of stuff around for the good.

SPRUNG SOLO SEATS–I’m trying to locate a manufacturer that makes sprung solo seats. I’m building a chopped Hog with a ’94 Evo motor on a Daytec rigid frame. I want to put a small(sorta), sprung solo seat on it so I can have about another 4 or 5 inches allowable on handlebar height.

Harley-Davidson now makes a new police model based on the lastest Dyna chassis. These bikes are available to the public for around $12,000. The solo seat on this model is sprung with 4-inch springs. I used a set on my Daytec rigid for the ride to Sturgis. I took a standard old H-D solo seat and narrowed it an inch to align the studs on it with the frame rails, then built a pivot frame under the seat and modified the existing Daytec seat mount to allow the seat to pivot there. We made stands with 3/4-inch tall studs for the springs to center over and welded them to the frame. My welds suck (I need a Tig welder) but it worked like a dream. Check the Bikernet Garage for flicks.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR–DAILYNow on Bikernet, the letters to the editor are answered and posted daily in the Your Shot section. That is, if I’m in town, sober, not in bed with …, my mom hasn’t called, the surf is up, my bike is running, she’s jumping my bones, someone gave me a new bottle of Jack, and or…–Bandit

DER “NUUTBOY– Ach tu liber! “Hitler’s dog didn’t have a nose.” “How did he smell?” “Awful!” Gott en himmel!

HOW TO SAY “I LOVE YOU” IN 9 DIFFERENT LANGUAGES?–

English . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . I Love You

Spanish . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Te Amo

French . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Je T’aime

German . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . lch Liebe Dich

Japanese . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . Ai Shite Imasu

Italian . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . Ti Amo

Chinese . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . Wo Ai Ni

Swedish . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . Jag Alskar

Alabama, Arkansas, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana and Kentucky . . . . . . Nice Tits

BOOK REPORT– I’ve been checking with my local book stores for your materials and have had no luck. I did find one place that had your custom motorcycle book, but that was it. I had printed the first chapters of “Outlaw Justice,” “Prize Possesion” and your new one, “Sam ‘Chopper’ Orwell,” and was sucked in big time and need to finish them. Is there a way to get these locally, or am I going to have difficulty finding them? — ERIC

Well, we did an inventory the other day and discovered that we have 35 copies of “Prize Possessions” and 82 copies of “Outlaw Justice” left. They are virtually sold out. Hell, I’ve got to save a few for posterity. “Sam ‘Chopper’ Orwell will be printed in September.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE BIKERNET WEB MASTER–Zebra here. Bandit is hopped up on goofballs and flying on screamers. His head is entirely scrambled. He has been deluging me in the most profane drek for several hours now. Ranting and raving about lining up some sort of all-out brawl between himself, Don Johnson and Mickey Rourke to determine who is the undisputed heavyweight champion of San Pedro. Utter balderdash. Disregard anything he sends for the next 16 hours. And for God’s sake, don’t print anything he sends you for at least two days. He could easily bring on a multi-state ATF raid with the way he’s talking right now. In fact, I may have to call in a “tip” and trigger a raid on Bikernet West, just to protect the integrity of the heavy arms and dope stash of Bikernet East.–Zebra,Bikernet.com East

ONE WISH– A man walking along a California beach was deep in prayer.All of a sudden, he said out loud, “Lord grant me one wish.”

Suddenly the sky clouded above his head and in a booming voice, theLord said, “Because you have TRIED to be faithful to me in all ways,I will grant you one wish”

The man said, “Build a bridge to Hawaii, so I candrive over anytime I want to.”

The Lord said, “Your request is very materialistic.Think of the logistics of that kind of undertaking. The supportsrequired to reach the bottom of the Pacific! The concrete and steel itwould take!I can do it, but it is hard for me to justify your desire for worldlythings. Take a little more time and think of anotherwish, a wish you think would honor and glorify me.”

The man thought about it for a long time. Finally he said,”Lord, I wish that I could understand women. I want to know howthey feel inside, what they are thinking when they give me the silenttreatment, why they cry, what they mean when they say ‘nothing’,and how I can make a woman truly happy.”

After a few minutes, God said, “You want two lanes orfour on that bridge?”

A CHILLING RUN–If you want to see the south of Chile in a Yamaha XT600 year 2000 with a professional guide, please visit us at http://www.motoaventura.com, or contact us at rbaum@entelchile.net. Thanks for your attention, Sonia Dvorachuk, MotoAventura Ltda.

MORE OLDER SCOOTS– I would like to see more info on older 4 speed bikes. I have an 84 FXST. I found a way to stuff a 160/180 series tire out back when everyone said it’s impossible, and I did it without cutting the frame. I could share the info with you, but only if you promise to someday use it on your Website.

Another thing. Amtrak has had the Autotrain for some years now. Unfortunately, they don’t accept motorcycles. I would love to take more vacations on my bike but between work and school, time is a factor. Most riders are in my position. I believe some influential people in the motorcycle community should start a campaign to help Amtrak see the light. I have started posting some info on Harley usenet groups looking for feedback from other riders on this subject. –Steven Iglesias 84 FXST

I promise–Bandit

THE STUD–Nick the Dick is a stud. Seems like the every day foul mouthed perverted bunch of assholes I ride with. Wouldn’t change a thing. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the next long story.–JohnLaw

1946 INDIAN CHIEF FOR SALE– Like some sort of dream, I was able to trade an FXR I was building for this chief. It’s not a 100-point restoration, it’s just my favorite Chief and I need to sell her to publish my next book. $24,000 and I’ll sign the puppy. For information, drop an e-mail to bandit@bikernet.com.

THE FRYED BROTHERS BAND CELEBRATION–

20th ANNIVERSARY PARTY

SEPT. 15-17

FEATURING: THE FRYED BROTHERS BAND EACH NIGHT& OTHER MUSICAL GUESTS FROM FRIDAY TIL 2 p.m. SUNDAY

DIRECTIONS—

1.FROM SACRAMENTO, TAKE HWY. 80 EAST TO FOREST HILL EXIT.(FOREST HILL-AUBURN RAVINE)

2. TURN RIGHT AT THE STOP SIGN. GO 17 MILES TO FOREST HILL.

3. WHEN YOU GET TO THE BEACON STATION – FOLLOW 9 MILES AND TURN LEFT(SIGN ON THE

RIGHT SAYS BIG RESERVOIR – GREEN SIGN ON LEFT SAYS SUGAR PINE RECAREA). GO 3 1/2

MILES AT THE FORK IN THE ROAD TURN RIGHT * THE SIGN SAYS BIGRESERVOIR &

MORNINGSTAR LAKE. APRROX 2 MILES AND YOU ARE THERE !!!It’s gonna be a great party.–Kit(http://www.fryedbrothersband.com/anniver1.html)

JUST LIKE THE BOOK– Little Red Riding Hood was walking through the woods when suddenly the Big Bad Wolf jumped out from behind a tree and, holding a sword to her throat, said, “Red, I’m going to screw your brains out!”

To that, Little Red Riding Hood calmly reached into her picnic basket and pulled out a .44 magnum and pointed it at him and said, “No you’re not! You’re going to eat me, just like it says in the book!”

HANNON RACING, ALL SMILES– Bill Hannon of Ft. Myers Beach, Fla., is not wanting to hex his new motors by grinning from ear to ear. But the track testing last weekend with George Babor twisting the throttle brought the anticipated results the team was looking for and “we’re just happy to be back on the track.”

Babor “did a super job,” according to Hannon. “As we prepare for Indy, Dan Baisley will be flying in from Portland, Or., this weekend for more testing at Gainesville Raceway. Baisley will remain on this coast as we prepare for the NHRA U.S. Nationals. We have been working very hard on this new project and both new motors have made us very happy.”

Hannon Racing is supported on their national circuit by Axtell Sales, Inc., Baisley Hi-Performance, D & G Chassis, Harley-Davidson of Ft. Myers, The Landings Realty Inc., Red Line Oil, MRE, BPM Racing Engines, Dyna Tek, RK Chain, Bandit Clutch, Vanson Leathers and Mastercam. –Hannon 941-463-2778 www.hannonracing.com

LIZETTE’S CODE–I was riding to work yesterday when I observed a female driver cutright in front of a pickup truck, causing him to have to drive onto the shoulder.

This evidently pissed the driver off enough that he hung out hiswindow and flipped the woman off.

“Man, that guy is stupid,” I thought to myself. I ALWAYS smile nicelyand wave in a sheepish manner whenever a female does anything to me in traffic and here’s why:

I drive 38 miles each way every day to work, that’s 76 miles. Ofthese, 16 each way, is bumper-to-bumper, most of the bumper-to-bumperis on an eight-lane highway. So if you just look at the seven lanes I am not in, thatmeans I pass something like a new car every 40 feet per lane. That’s seven carsevery 40 feet for 32 miles. That works out to be 982 cars every mile, or31,424 cars. Even though the rest of the 34 miles is not bumper tobumper.

I figure I pass at least another 4000 cars. That brings the number to something like 36,000 cars I pass every day. Statistically, half of theseare driven by females, that’s 18,000. In any given group of females, one in28 are having the worst day of their period. That’s 642.

According to Cosmopolitan, 70 percent describe their love life asdissatisfying or unrewarding, that’s 449. According to the NationalInstitutes of Health, 22 percent of all females have seriously considered suicide orhomicide, that’s 98, and 34 percent describe men as their biggest problem, that’s 33.

According to the National Rifle Association, 5 percent of all females carryweapons and this number is increasing.

That means that EVERY SINGLE DAY, I drive past at least one femalethat has a lousy love life, thinks men are her biggest problem, hasseriously considered suicide or homicide, is having the worst day of herperiodand is armed.

No matter what she does in traffic, I wouldn’t DREAM of flipping heroff.–Lizette Hotinger,MID-USA CYCLE PARTS INC.,(314) 351-3733

COMPARISON– Why is being in the military like a blowjob? The closer you get to discharge, the better you feel.

THE ULTIMATE HARLEY TOOL–For decades, motorcycle wags have joked that the tool kits supplied with new Harley-Davidson’s lack one critical piece: a pickup truck with which to haul the stricken bike home. Now that Harleys are reliable, the new truck isn’t required — unless you’re the Hog owner who’s got to have everything associated with the famed Milwaukee brand or the Ford owner who also rides a Hog.

There are many of both, according to Gurminder Bedi, boss of Ford’s truck vehicle center, and that’s why Ford created the Harley Edition F-150. It’s a limited-production SuperCab loaded with Harley cues — a rumpa-rumpa exhaust, black-and-orange paint, a black leather interior and 20-inch wheels (the first on any Ford production vehicle).

Ford, which has a five-year alliance with Harley, officially will not commit to sales volume. But an inside source says to expect “up to 10,000 units” for 2000.

On the two-wheeled side of the venture, a sport bike “mule” said to be powered by Harley’s first-ever liquid-cooled V-twin, was spotted testing earlier this year at Ford’s Australian proving ground. H-D is expected to launch the new engine later this year.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK–“Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have forlunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote.” — Benjamin Franklin, 1759

THAT’S IT–Ya got off easy because she’ll be back and I’m anxious to get back into the garage. Have you ever had sex on your favorite sled in the garage? It’s like getting away with something, like being exposed, with the cold concrete floor chilling your toes and your girl straddling the seat of your riding romp mobile completely naked.

I had a garage once that leaned right onto the street. It was wood like an old barn and slats were missing. Sure I tried to cover them up, but it was a holy mess. I had poured a new concrete floor in the small narrow space and hung fluorescent lights. The lights we glaring as she ran from the house to the garage in just a robe. She slipped inside and dropped the robe immediately. I’d explain the steamy happenings on that dusky fall morning, but we’d be renamed a porno site. The point is: Use your imagination this weekend. Now, let’s ride, we’re burnin’ daylight–Bandit.

“I can’t take it. I’ve made the letters in Your Shot interactive, the bikers rights interactive, the classifieds and calendar interactive, and even the news. We’ve put up more tech, you’re bullshit Sturgis competition and now I’m trying desperately to get the products back on line. What more can I do?” He said nearly in tears.

“Drag him outside men,” I shouted. “There must be shallow grave somewhere.” Just then we heard the wail of sirens in the distance. “That homeless cat living in the corner of the lot must have snitched us off.” The crew ran in all directions.

That was last night and I’ve been pretending to be working on the news ever since. In the near future we will reveal in actual photographs the Bikernet world headquarters, but we’re having difficulty getting the shots released from the photo lab. Let’s get to the news:

In Memoriam

EXCELSIOR-HENDERSON ANNOUNCES EMERGENCE FROM BANKRUPTCY– Excelsior-Henderson Motorcycle Manufacturing Company announced that it has emerged from bankruptcy and that its modified plan of reorganization under Chapter 11 or the U.S. Bankruptcy Code has been confirmed. The Company’s confirmation hearing was held on August 18,2000, and the Bankruptcy Court’s order confirming the plan of reorganization was issued on the same date.

The modified plan or reorganization was the product of intensive efforts by the Company to design a strategy that would enable Excelsior-Henderson to reorganize and obtain the required funding to preserve the future of the motorcycle. The Company currently anticipates the modified plan will become effective on or before September 15, 2000, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. As previously announced, the Company’s public stockholders and Co-Founders did not retain an equity interest in the Company going forward (in Sturgis Bandit interviewed Dave Hanlon for Hot Rod Bikes–don’t miss it).The Company’s Co-Founders, Dan, Dave and Jennie Hanlon said, “Confirmation of the plan represents the culmination of several months work. We believe the proposed plan of reorganization represents the best available alternative for the Company and its creditors. This is a great initial step in rebuilding the future of Excelsior-Henderson.”

The plan may be reviewed on the U.S. Bankruptcy Court’s website at www.mnb.uscourts.gov. A summary of the plan will be filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 8-K.

Much more will be revealed about the plan and what the Company has been through in the up coming interview in Hot Rod Bikes.–Bandit

INTERACTIVE DAILY LETTERS TO BIKERNET– It’s almost like prison. The staff voted unanimously that I be forced to answer ten letters to bikernet daily and post them. Jason, the mad scientist, web master made the software possible, and it’s up and running in the Your Shot section.

If you want to complain, ask tech questions, or announce something to the world, go to Your Shot and let us have it. You may see your letter answered the same day, the next day, or never–amazing, huh?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE–No doubt about it– Bikernet West clearly wins the Sturgis 2000 contest. Hell,you had to drink through at least three parties in Utah and Colorado whileBikernet East only had to cope with two days of rain. Riding with a massivehead takes more skill and courage than just pushing through a few rain drops.

Can’t wait for more stories– you can mention that your bros couldn’t believe howslow (like 10 miles over the speed limit) you were going for the first few days,only to see some good 100 MPH stuff the closer you got to the Jack waiting for youin Sturgis.–K.T. Rose

WILDERNESS AT IT’S BEST–It’s Rick Duffy’s Lake Road Ride,August 26th,Leaving the eastbound Truckers, weigh scale, justeast of the Port Mann Bridge on Trans CanadaHighway 1, at 8:AM.

Overnight stop in Kamloops stay at the Super 8 Motel call1 800 800-8000 to book night of 26th.

This is the great ride around the Duffy Lake Road. Ifyou have never gone around it you will love it. If youhave visitors staying over bring them along. No needto be HOG members. Just sign in the release waver…The wilderness at it’s best… Don’t forget you canonly go into the wilderness half way.Rick will guide you in and out…

MORE MOTORCYCLE COMPANY CHANGES– This is to inform you that today the employees of American Quantum Cyclewere officially told that the company has merged with American MotorcycleCompany, and that will be the new name starting today.

This is very good news as the people that bought the company are the onesthat put Indian together and will do the same for this company.

I am very excited over this and feel that is what has been needed to makethis company a serious player. Watch for some real good things to come fromthis new company.–Rogue

HEY–Did we ever officially introduce Digital Gangster in the news? We should put up a ludicrous picture as well. Maybe John T. could put something together.–Zebra, esq.

Brothers and sisters meet the Digital Gangster, Jason Douglas. Jason meet our brothers and sisters.–Bandit

MOVIE PROSPECTS–Yes here’s another lovely couple of girls who would like to play a biiiig part in the up coming biker movie, Asphalt Cowboy.

ASPHALT COWBOY UPDATE–We want to thank all the riders out there who have sent their pictures and financial help for the film. An option has now been signed to make the movie by experience Hollywood investors, and they have six months to pull it together. Until then the celliod ball is in their court. If you would still like us to consider you for a extra bit in the movie send a photo of you and your machine to Bikernet, P.O.Box 1168, San Pedro, CA 90733–1168. Keep tuned to Snake’s projector room for updates.

A LADY– opened her refrigerator and saw a rabbit sitting on one of theshelves. “What are you doing in there?” she asked. The rabbitreplied:

“This is a Westinghouse, isn’t it?”, to which the lady replied “Yes”.

“Well,” the rabbit said, “I’m westing”.

NEW PRODUCT–Hey Bandit, Even if your bike already has cruise control you can still benefit from the little gizmo they sell out at http://www.throttlerocker.com. It’s just a formed piece of plastic that slips around your throttle with a tab sticking out under the heel of your hand. That way you don’t have to maintain a death-grip on the throttle, you can just put a little pressure on that tab and open ‘er up. I called their 800 number and gave ’em my debit card number and before the charge had even cleared my account, I had the product in my hot little hand. Service like that deserves another glass of Jack. Ride on. The Professor

HELLS ANGELS WORLD RUN REPORT–It seems the local citizens from the fair town of Missoula, Montana have received a taste of what most bikers go through every day of the year. For those who don’t know what happened go to the 1%er section to read about it. There was absolutely no way there was not going to be any violence last weekend.

Everybody knows the reputation of the Hells Angels and God knows, in the old days many tried to enhance that image, Angels and non-Angels. It’s ironic that the ONLY social group to come out of this unscathed was the Hells Angels. In fact they seemed to be the pinnacles of restraint and good manners. Unfortunately there were three major factors that would not allow peace. One was a group of drunken teenagers trying to show themselves as tuff as the bikers intermixed with gawking locals. Another was a police force receiving pointers on how to handle the bikers from paramilitary thugs like the BATF, and the third, a media not just looking for trouble but wishing for it and even encouraging it with their articles. The local press for two solid weeks played up the Hells Angels visit. The papers were awash with stories of what happened in other towns designed to put fear into the minds of the locals for sensationalism and force the hand of the city officials. Interviews with locals asking questions like “Are you worried about the Hells Angels coming?” The asked if people were staying, or if their businesses would be open. With careful manipulation of words the media created an atmosphere of fear and expectancy of an upcoming clash between law enforcement and the bikers. Young adults, eagerly awaiting the excitement in what is normally a quiet town were quickly disappointed by the heavy-handed attitude of the cops preventing their fun.

This type of reporting when concerning motorcyclists has been going on since the infamous Hollister rally. BATF and FBI gave lectures to town cops designed to prime them for a confrontation, giving the impression that the invading hoards were bent on destruction. You can be sure that no mention was made that a lot of the Angels coming were middle-aged businessmen with their families. The Feds took over a hundred out of state officers with little or no interest in the town except for the prospects of going up against the infamous Hells Angels, had them outfit themselves with SWAT equipment and weapons, even threw in a couple helicopters, creating a powder-keg.

With the Hells Angels distrust of the cops, the cop’s distrust of the Angels and the young locals distrust of everybody, mixed with weapons, alcohol and possibly narcotics it is amazing something bigger shit didn’t happen. What are interesting are the responses from everybody after the fact. The police claim victory and brag that they have shown the proper way in dealing with a group labeled as dangerous to society. This is no great surprise.

The town’s people are split between support and outrage at the police response. The Angels, after being smothered by police harassment for nearly a week, are saying nothing. The supporters claim that any force necessary is justified by keeping the peace and social order. The early statistics are that $125,000 was spent to police around 500 people for three days. These numbers are expected to go up substantially. Out of this money nearly all the Angels were stopped, followed or harassed with not one single arrest with the exception of traffic tickets.

Government agencies have quietly established for themselves the right to use any means necessary to combat what they label as a terrorist group, organized crime or dangers to society. They can even legally hold you, if labeled a terrorist, indefinitely without trial. For our greater good, the tobacco companies are systematically being thrown out of business and smokers alienated.

How long before somebody decides that motorcycling should be outlawed for our safety and how many non-riders do you think will object to it. Are you listed in some database only because you own and ride a motorcycle. Eight Hells Angels were stopped, handcuffed and detained for several hours under the pretense that one of them might be wanted by the police. When it was determined that none of them were, they were released. Individual freedom is being smothered under the excuse of social peace and well being. Outsiderhttp://www.bikerlifestyle.net/

GET ME IN DA MOVIE– Nice to talk at ya. Just sending ya some pictureslike I said I would. I will send you a few includingmy 56panel. Great biker truck. Well, it will be. Just to let you know, a fewyearsback I did some commercials, in fact got principal actor in one of them.Havealso done some voice over work, don’t worry, I’m not looking to be Brando anymore, just letting ya know that I have taken direction and I know howto ride very well. I think it would be a ball to be in a movie with eitherone of my Harleys. Congrats on getting your funding for the movie, hope to betalkingto you soon…Big Mikie

WISDOM AND WHISKEY–Ya gotta rise outta my short hairs. Cut & run. Quit the job. Who needsmoney: The Fountain of Youth at the next gas stop. Tom & Huck. Jesse &Frank. The biker & the hitchhiker bitch. Well, maybe ya don’t need meafterall. And as I keep-on, keepin’on, day ta day, I’ll be prayin’ forya. If ya hit a stop that has a ‘puter, send an e-kite to post on theHOLLISTER FOREVER “Clubhouse” wall Keep therubberside down. Ride On! Wino Joe, USA

JUST IN CASE– you needed further proof that the human race is doomed through stupidity, here are some actual label instructions on consumer goods.

1. On Sears hairdryer: “Do not use while sleeping.” (Gee, that’s the only time I have to work on my hair)

2. On a bar of Dial soap: “Directions: Use like regular soap.” (And that would be how. . . ?)

3. On some Swanson frozen dinners: “Serving suggestions: Defrost.” (But it’s *just* a suggestion)

4. On packaging for an iron: “Do not iron clothes on body.” (But wouldn’t this save even more time?)

5. On Nytol Sleep Aid: “Warning: May cause drowsiness.” (One would hope)

6. On most brands of Christmas lights: “For indoor or outdoor use only.” (As opposed to what?)

7. On a Japanese food processor: “Not to be used for the other use.” (I gotta admit, I’m curious.)

8. On a bag of peanuts: “Warning: Contains nuts.” (NEWS FLASH)

9. On a Swedish chain saw: “Do not attempt to stop chain with your hands or genitals.” (Was there a chance of this happening somewhere?…Good grief)

10. On a bottle of ALL laundry detergent: “Remove clothing before distributing in washing machine.” (Hey no more swimming in the washing machine kids)

Always read those labels ……..

IRELAND CORRECTION–Nice Site! Read your Ireland news bit. But HRI.com is MITSUBISHI and harleyriderireland.com is a dead end. So I’m still lookin’ for that redheaded Colleen with the mug of Guiness!

THE BOTTOM LINE IS?–What the hell is this? As soon as I get back in town you bag ass outta here. Damn, I didn’t get a chance to see the finished product, the Blue Fandango, the Azure Fippery, the Azul de la Huevos, the Turquoise Turd, the Peacock Putz, the Sapphire Slug, the Navy Naughty, what ever the fuck you called it. No kidding, don’t wreck it until I get a chance to see it.

Oh, and don’t wreck yourself. Although, I imagine by now you’re getting damaged in some Sturgis brothel bothering the madam about towel service. I got your message about the response to the Blue Streak. I bet it looks bad. –Nuutboy

HORSE BUSINESS–I just wanted to let you know, that as a frequent flyer on BackTalk in Horse Magazine, I get sick and tired of the lame flames at you and what you’re doin’. life goes on and I for one, along with my old man, enjoy readin’ your stuff in THBC. So my response to them is fukkem! I also get sick of the shit they sling at Hammer…I’ve already told him that. if people don’t like what they see, then quit lookin’—plain and simple! can’t wait for the flick, already checked out the sneak peek…looks good, excellent background music too! Anyway…ride till ya rot…. later, Nut

ZEBRA SALUTE–Night of the Vikings…GREAT READING!!!!!!!!!Thanks Brother!!!…Gumbo

APPELLATE COURT SUPPORTS BIKERS IN STATE POLICE HELMET FLAK– Massachusetts motorcyclists roared their approval as theSouthern District Appellate Division of the District Courts overturnedthe “responsible” findings of “improper equipment” citations issued totwo motorcyclists, Timothy Kinch of Plymouth, and Daniel Zaino of HydePark, by the Massachusetts State Police. The ruling completely dismissedthe cases that State Police had filed against the bikers.

“This was a long time coming,” said Kinch, who was cited by State TrooperJack L. Garvin on November 19, 1999, in Middleboro for operating with analleged non-compliant helmet.

Kinch said it wasn’t the $35 ticket, or the six years worth ofsurcharges that had urged him on. “It was a principle thing,” Kinchsaid. “This trooper brags that he writes over 100 helmet citations eachyear and threatens riders with the towing of their bikes. In Court hemisrepresented helmet requirements and statues to the Judge. It waswrong.”

Zaino echoed Kinch. “In September I was on my way to a fundraiser for aparalyzed Hull fireman, when Trooper Valair cited me and over a hundredother riders. It was wrong. We were all wearing helmets. It wastasteless, unprofessional, and pure harassment,” Zaino said. “This wasworth the fight.”

Peabody Atty. Joseph S. Provanzano represented Kinch and Zaino at theAppellate level.

“The Appeals Court acknowledged that here in Massachusetts we use’evidence’ in Court trials, not the mere ‘opinions’ of police officers asto what is non-compliant protective headgear,” said Provanzano.

At the District Court hearing, Kinch represented himself. “Mr. Kinchdid well, but the transcripts of his and Zaino’s trials,” Provanzanosaid, “revealed Troopers Garvin and Valair completely misused the law andmay have confused the sitting Judges. These Appeals cost the taxpayers atremendous amount to rectify this misuse of their authority.”

Motorcycling groups, which included the Riders Justice Committee (RJC)and Modified Motorcycle Association (MMA) applauded the Appellate Courtdecisions.

RJC Spokesperson Georgia Sophis of Braintree stated, “This past yearthe motorcycle community banded together against this obvious harassmentof riders.” “You would not believe the horror stories we are getting. Motorcyclistsare being stopped, their personal property [helmets] seized, bikes towedand then being left with their safety in jeopardy stranded by the side ofthe road,” Sophis continued.

Sgt. Michael Valair, who cited Zaino during the Hull fund-raiser,testified on behalf of the State Police. He startled bikers present atthe Appeals hearing when by admitting to the three-judge panel thatpolice officers have no authority to seize the riders’ helmets, eventhough he has done so on many occasions and often threatened riders.

MMA Spokesperson Jimi Ricci of Waltham stated, “Most police officers andtroopers are reasonable. But we’ve heard of these two troopers, one ortwo more, and a few local police, who seem ‘hell bent’ on harassinghelmeted riders. So we banded together, hired a skilled litigator, tookthis issue to Courts and proved our case.”

HISTORY LESSON–THE FINGER– You know, like giving the finger to the cops above.

Before the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, the French, anticipating victory over the English, proposed to cut off the middle finger of all captured English soldiers. Without the middle finger it would be impossible to draw the renowned English longbow and therefore be incapable of fighting in the future.

This famous weapon was made of the native English Yew tree, and the act of drawing the longbow was known as “plucking the yew” (or “pluck yew”). Much to the bewilderment of the French, the English won a major upset and began mocking the French by waving their middle fingers at the defeated French, saying, “See, we can still pluck yew! “PLUCK YEW!”

Since ‘pluck yew’ is rather difficult to say, the difficult consonant cluster at the beginning has gradually changed to a labiodental fricative ‘F’, and thus the words often used in conjunction with the one-finger-salute are mistakenly thought to have something to do with an intimate encounter.

It is also because of the pheasant feathers on the arrows used with the longbow that the symbolic gesture is known as “giving the bird”. And yew thought yew knew everything.

SENOR CINCO PELOTAS–Whadafuck…..now your givin’ my digs to Carlos! Imusta really pissed you off or are your eyes still crossedfrom the fist upside your head in that drunken brawl? Mr. Five Ball AND SHAVED was my shit!!! Including”The Leggy One”. A weekend trade …..hummmmmm…………….that’ll cost you Sin and Coral! Rigid hah………when those long legs wrap around, you’ll learn what aruff ride is and the smile will last for a week! I’m stillsmilin’.–Breeze

Ooops–Bandit

STURGIS RIDE REPORT–Went through the storm from hell on the way out. Firsttime I ever saw it rain completely horizontal. Finelygot to a room in Faulkton SD and that’s when it reallyunleashed. Blew the bikes over and when we tried toget out to them the hotel door wouldn’t budge. Weboth pushed with everything we had and couldn’t moveit an inch against the wind. We had to go out the frontdoor at the opposite end of the building and shimmyalong the building wall to the bikes. There we stayedtill 4:30 in the morning holding up our sleds. Youcouldn’t face the wind as it took your breath away. Theride into Sturgis the next day revealed road signs blownflat to the ground, billboards demolished, thousands ofacres of corn and sunflowers looked like a steamrollerwent over them. That was just the beginning of ouradventures, Sturgis was still to come……….and that’sanother story!–FTW,Stroker

REGRETS FROM THE BADLANDS–By the time you all read this Sturgis will be OVER. I am sooooo jealous, but I have to WORK for a living, as I don’t marry for money or even know how to invest…alas, another major event slips away.

Tell Sasha that I couldn’t get Woman Rider to take a story about 30 women on the road, let alone one, so she shouldn’t feel alone. I hope her trip is safe and quite eventful.

As for me, I buried two great people here this past ten days. Jim and Sandy Formanack , owners of American Made, Inc, an after-market six-year-old bike shop, were killed when their Harley high sided in heavy rains here in South Florida. My community of bikers, all shapes and sizes, are devastated. Jim had over forty years riding experience and Sandy was his wife for over nine years now. It just goes to show you that when your life’s ride is over, the time is up. And it doesn’t matter how MUCH experience you may have. The big guy upstairs needed a mechanic and he called my friends home.

There were services with thousands of motorcycles. The headlights hung like heavy stars in the late afternoon sun. The shop, AMERICAN MADE, as of this writing continues to operate as the owners would have wanted. People have their bikes back and the work will go on. I remember when I put their annual party in Biker magazine and they were so thrilled. When I went through that awful divorce, Sandy held my hand. Jim was 56, Sandy was 45. We are in morning on the Treasure Coast. These people were top shelf, first rate and truly all American made. They will be missed dearly. Ride safe, look good and remember there are thousands of people who love you. Some you just haven’t met yet….–Diva

SHIVER–quiver,white flames rise against blue’tween my thighs!

It was terrific to spend time with you too.Sturgis/Huelet photos are being developed now and I can’t wait to startwriting my journal for bikernet.com! I didn’t get a chance to interviewJennie Hanlon because my schedule was too jammed up. I hope to speak withher at Biketoberfest in Daytona if she will be there.

The trip was tough, that’s for sure. I worked so very hard during those twoweeks and sure hope that things shine for me. I appreciate your introducingme to your industry pals and looking out for me.–Sasha

THE PROCTODOC– A proctologist walked into a bank. Preparing to endorse a check, hepulledarectal thermometer out of his shirt pocket and tried to ‘write’ withit.

Realizing his mistake, he looked at the thermometer with annoyance andsaid, “Well that’s great, just great! Some asshole’s got my pen!”

MORE ON THE BADLANDS–Well buddy looks like I missed ya. The past 4 weeks have been a blur as I did7000 miles in 4 weeks. It went something like this:Left New Orleans and headed up to Wisconsin where I picked up the kids and headed out to Colorado for a visit with my Cajun sweetheart in exile. My son caught the hell out of the brown trout (not bad for an 8 year old) and kept the camp fed. My daughter (age 6) talked us into to going horseback riding. In a hailstorm , straight up a fuckin mountain! My dark haired sweetheart kept the hearth warm and we all danced the Cajun waltz at night. Some of the asides included soaking at the hot springs and having the ranger bring my son home when a mountain lion was seen chasing deer through the campground.

After Colorado I brought the kids back to Wisconsin and turned the Jeep around and dragged the Dyna (yep, trailered) back to South Dakota. There I hung out with the Texas gang at Lake Pactola reservoir and with my Louisiana buddies at the Sturgis dragstrip. My partners raced and we changed tires and drive belts. I met a lot of good people and came to appreciate the tightness of the drag strip brotherhood. Hell, they did not even seem to care that there was a major bike week occurring.

On Wed. I rode out to Huellet WY for the festivities. Some old geezer gave me directions and I ended up in Montana before I turned around. I hit Devil’s tower and Huellet and headed back to Bear Butte lake for a dip. Sturgis at night was the usual party. One of the highlights was the lesbian bull riding escapades at the Full ThrottleSaloon. Those chicks were definitely into it. Of course we rode to Mount Rushmore and Keystone ( where I saw a few of your Hamster Buddies) . We even managed to get in some water skiing on the lake before it was all through. I rode out to Spearfish to look for ya. Honest. The red Dyna was everywhere that week so I guess it was not in the stars for us to collide.

After Sturgis I packed my rig and headed to Colorado for more time with my girl andsome more bike riding. We ended up on top of a mountain eating at an East Indian place called Katmandu with some old hippie waitress that answered every question with “Right On” . After the weekend it was time to head back through Fort Worth where I visited my FXR riding buddy and drew up plans for next summer’s riding. Then it was off to Louisiana for home and get my shit ready for another tour offshore on the oil rigs.Too bad I missed ya in Sturgis but there will be other times. Glad to hear your trip went well and the Blue Flame burns bright. –Anson

BUMPER STICKER NOTIONS– Constipated People Don’t Give A Crap.

Impotence: Nature’s Way Of Saying “No Hard Feelings”.

If You Can Read This, I’ve Lost My Trailer.

I Have The Body Of A God… Buddha

If We Quit Voting Will They All Go Away?

Eat Right, Exercise, Die Anyway

Illiterate? Write For Help

MORE STURGIS REGRETS–Well, you went to Sturgis and I didn’t. I hope the tornado didn’t do you much damage. I’m going down to clean the bugs off the bike and cry myself to sleep.–Sluggo

HEY!– You prick! I wrote you a week ago. I told you I was having a problem getting on the Hells Angles web site. If you can help me say so. If not then I won’t bother you any more you prick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Later M.F.

OGEMAW COUNTY, MI RALLY–I was told that this was the last year for the Hog rally in Ogemaw County, MI. Is that true? –Russ

Can anyone help?

SONNY’S BOOK–Hey man, thanks for putting my note to you in last weeks Bikernet news (Sonny’s book report). I showed the wife and now she thinks I’m a big shot or something. Either way she’s given me some and that’s what counts. One thing, though, she keeps screamin’ your name what’s up with that?

How is Ginger, anyway?–Bandit

TWIN CAM SURVEY–Have any of you out there ridden the new twin cam? I rode one recently and can’t see any big advantage over my ’95 Electra fixed up with a Crane 300 2B Fireball Cam, a Mikuni HSR 42 carb, stock pipes with the catalytic converters drilled out, along with a 3/4 inch hole in the rear baffle plate and a Screamin Eagle ign. module and a set of Balance Masters. The twin cam vibrates more than my ’95, and I think that my ’95 runs just as well. If you want to get the horsepower past about 50, you have to own a chain of liquor stores to be able to afford the upgrades. –George

CHOPPERS RULE–Choppers Rule, and I love your film concept…But, the plot seems a little fucking lame to me. Granted you don’t want to copy Easy Rider, but shit, your story is so bubble-gum! You asked for it, you got it….but no matter what, I can’t wait to see it. Actually a couple simple changes may salvage it though. 1. Shitcan the kidnapping bullshit “to prove his love” 2. Change the name of the bad guy club….the Satans HAHA…how about something more along the lines of The Wolves, or Snakes, or Assholes.Those two changes and lots of cameo’s by people we love…and yer on yer way to makin’ history.

Sir, yes sir. We’re all over it, sir–Bandit

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENT GOES TO STURGIS– I’m back in Taiwan now. Sorry, I missed you but, I think I had fun at Sturgis. Had to walk a lot, but also had a lot of good folks give me a ride when I held out my thumb. Interesting thing I happened to notice. I’m from Oregon originally and most of the folks who gave me a ride were from Washington! One guy, when I was leaving on the 10th, not only took me into town from Hog Heaven but asked where I had to go and then took me there. To him and all the others who gave this poser rides while at Sturgis, I thank you. One thing that was really cool was the Panzer display. I asked someone to take my picture standing next to their replica of the Captain America chopper, and the guy invited me to sit on it! I couldn’t believe it! So I did. It felt so cool. Images of open roads and long rides filled my mind. And so did an evil little voice. “Start it up! Start it up! Take off with it! Ha! Ha! Ha!

I saw an unbelievable sight walking drunkenly back to the camp the night before I left. The cops were talking to this one great looking lady who had her hands covering her breasts. I looked again and noticed all she was wearing was a cowboy hat, boots, and a patch or something placed strategically between her thighs. Or maybe she just had a really thick bush. But man, she was not only buck naked but a really good looking buck naked! And I remember thinking, “Why bother her? It’s 2 am. Who’s going to see her? My mind pleaded “Please lower your hands!” Sadly, not all the ladies at Sturgis were that way.

Food prices and such also sucked. Absurd prices for not that much food or other things. And for cryin’ out loud, two dollars for a little bottle of water!? One dollar sure, but two in that heat? Perhaps I’ll write it up for the fiction department. Got a load of pictures, maybe I’ll send you some. Hope next time I can meet up with you.–Sun

JUST SAW MY RIDE–I just saw me and my ride on your site hoping to get a part in the movie, forgot I sent them to you and just last week sent you some more, does this give me two chances to land a part in the movie? I’m the good looking guy with the long blonde mustache and the rigid ’54 pan. Anyways sorry for the making your life complicated.–Pirate

Sorry, only half a chance–Bandit

THE STURGIS COUNT–hadda make a comment on the best party anywhere…me and my buds played a lot of music on stage at the rally last week and saw and heard much more. Can’t remember when there was a party this much fun with this much to see and enjoy.

The headcount was a conservative 773,000 or so according to SD sources. Tip of the hat and thanks a million to ross and rotten and crazy George and the boys at the Christian riders tent and specially, to Woody for having the insight to make this thing happen year after year. next time. –Doc Gaskill( don’t forget to thank Steve Thorpe for organizin’ the stage left so well too!!)

AND THE WINNER IS–Maybe I’m blind but I didn’t see who won the ” name the bike” contest. could you please mention who won it?

You’re right. In the heat of building the bike and riding to Sturgis, I forgot the winner. Karley Ross, from San Pedro, California. the name, Blue Flame, was engraved on a point cover by ancient engraver C.J. before I left, along with the Bikernet Sweetheart.

WHAT IS EVERY AMISH WOMAN’S FANTASY? TWO MENNONITE!–The Gerbigs

FREE CLASSIFIEDS–Yes, that’s correct. We have free individual classifieds and personals on Bikernet, just roll into the site and post your own classified. It will be checked by some of the best looking girls on the planet, then blessed and slipped gently onto Bikernet for two, that’s right, two solid months. Keep in mind that if you have a business, there may be a charge. The Classifieds are free for the individuals. But what the hell, go for it, you might get away with the ad for awhile.

A GUY IN A MASK– bursts into a sperm bank with a shotgun. “Open the fucking safe” he yells at the girlbehind the counter.

“But we’re not a real bank” she replies. “We don’t have any money; this is a sperm bank.”

“Don’t argue! Open the fucking safe or I’ll blow your head off” She obliges and once she’s opened the safe door the guy says “Take out one of the bottles and drink it.”

“But it’s full of sperm!” she replies nervously.

“Don’t argue, just drink it” he says. She takes the cap off and gulps it down. “Take out another one and drink it too” he demands. She takes out another and drinks it as well. Suddenly the guy pulls off the mask and, to the girl’s amazement, it’s her husband.

“See? Its not that fucking difficult, is it?” he says

SAW THIS CAT’S– handmade scoot on Main Street in Sturgis,flipped him a Bikernet card, asked him to send me photos for the website. It’s atotal Mad Max bike, cost about a grand, he rode it some hellish distance, pure biker. –The Agent

TO ZEBRA–Glad to hear you made the trip successful. Congratulations on your victory.I hope that you enjoy the spoils of spoils of your defeat of Bandit and theother bikers form the west. Thanks for showing those west cost riders thatthe east has the hart and stamina to ride with and defeat the best. Goodshow.–ZebraThanks for the invitation. I read something about a ride for Nashville tobiketoberfest on the Bikernet site. I think that Bandit said he would behere signing his book. Then I read about it in the latest Hog Tales. Ithink they are calling it Thunder in Dixie. I do not know if you are comingto that event. It seems pretty backwards to Ride form Miami to Nashvilleback to Daytona. But, anyway, if you or anyone in the Bikernet staff need aplace to stay then please let me know. The doors are open to fellow bros.If nothing else, I would like to hook up with some of the staff.–RH

We might be there, but only the Bikernet West clan. Zebra is still licking his wounds in South Beach. Thanks for the offer–Bandit

YUK– What do Kodak film have in common with condoms? Both capture the moment.

My sister is asthmatic. Last week in the middle of an attack she got an obscene phone call. (pause) He said, “Did I call you or did you call me?”

Define Transvestite: A guy who likes to eat, drink and be Mary!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK–Regret,When one door closes another door opens;but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door,that we do not see the ones which open for us.

BIKERNET GIFT SHOP– Don’t order from us. That’s right, we don’t want your money. Actually, that’s not the case, but we have installed a new shopping cart system which doesn’t work with the credit card system, so we can’t take credit cards. If you need something send us a check or money order and we’ll get it out to you as soon as possible. Hopefully over the next week, we’ll have the credit card business back on line.

Thank you for your patience and understanding–Sin Wu.

MR. BANDITOI can’t stand it anymore. I’ve got to have that girl. The last time we went to the beach she let me rub her down with dark tanning oil. When I slipped my hand under her bra, I could feel her nipples tighten, and when I approached her mound it rocked ever so slightly in the direction of my probing fingertips. I asked her if she had ever been with a girl and she said no, but offered no more clues. She’s so bashful and timid. Can I go for it? Is she like that in bed?

I’m off on hiatus with some girlfriendsin Laughlin. I’m getting “blue tongue” from Sin so I needed to get away for some action. I’ll tell you about it next week.–Coral

RACE TO STURGIS 2001– Hey, I got a Sturgis Challenge for you punks–Let’s race. I’ll even give you a day head start,” Don Center barked into the phone this morning. “Let’s see if you have the balls for that.Don’s company, Iron Horse Trike Works in Rosewell, New Mexico, (505) 627-7858 builds open automotive trikes. Two models, the Python a built 350, and the Anaconda a 454 with 700 R4 tranny with overdrive. I called Zebra, but he was shaking with fear so hard that he couldn’t comment. Don’s monsters get 18 mpg with his foot in it. If we ran 5-gallon gas tanks and got 30-35 mpg, we might have a chance.

OIL CHANGE BLUES–Changing oil is a drag unless you have just the right tools and the patience it’s a fucking mess. While building the Blue Flame I noticed that Daytec had carefully welded in a bung for draining the oil under the center oil bag, sorta like on a stock Softail. I thought about it and remembered when sailing with my partner Bob Bitchin that the motors on sail boats must have their engines sucked dry. No way to drain those puppies. I thought, Marine stores must have pumps designed for just this application. Presto, I get this press release for Pela hand pumps just for changing oil. They will be carried in the new custom chrome catalog and are the best possible way to get the oil out of your bike thoroughly and without a fuckin’ mess. Plus, they don’t appear to be expensive. For more information for the bastards who stole my product idea call (800) 272-7964 or go to www.pelaproducts.com.

CARL’S SPEED SHOP STES SIX WORLD LAND SPEED RECORDS AT BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS– After a five-year absence from the Bonneville Salt Flats, Carl’s Speed Shop set six world land speed records on twin cam and Sportster powered Harley-Davidsons. Doug Morrow, piloting the Carl’s Speed Shop 113 cubic inch Sportster set the fastest one way speed in the APS/PG 2000 class at 178.248 mph with a two-way average of 166 mph.

Aboard Carl’s Speed Shop 99-inch Sportster “Top Gun” Doug set the MPF-1650 record at 158.30 mph, MPs/pg-1650 record at 158.9 and MPF 1650 record at 163.245 mpf, fastest one-way speed was 164.519.

Good friend and noted long time Harley racer Warner Riley, aboard the Carl’s Speed Shop 95-inch Twin Cam street bike, set two world records in Mps/PF-1650 class at 157.604 and 156.738 mph, respectively. The street-ridden 1999 Dyna, Twin Cam is typical of the many Harleys Carl’s Speed Shop modifies daily for it’s customers.

Congratulations, Carl, family and crew–Bandit.

LET’S GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE– That’s it. I know there’s more, but some small fisted female is knocking on the door. It’s a gentle, yet urgent tapping, and although I’m just tearing away at the Sturgis saga and need every spare second I can raise to complete it, that tempting ticking is beckoning me. Ah, the questions life poses: Whiskey, women, write or ride. Ain’t life wonderful–Bandit

If the news appears jaunted and disorderly, it’s because the dark-haired beauty attacked me on my return demanding full disclosure, and riding a rigid to Sturgis changes one’s disposition. Hell, I started hanging out at the high school again and trying to pick up teenage waitresses at Bob’s Big Boy. Better get to the news before I get in anymore trouble…

YO, WHAT’S THE WORD ON BIKETOBERFEST?– When is it? Where? What? We going? We need a lot more of those stickers. People loved them. They’re free advertising when they get stuck everywhere. I need more business cards, lose the wrong cell phone number. Drop and give me 20. Where’s the Friendly Fire link? Is it up yet? Let me know what the ETA might be for a new bike (the one you guys built for me is shot). Are we making any money yet? Where’s my gun. Over and out.–Zebra

Fuck off!–Bandit

HANNON PRO STOCK ON DYNO–After several unavoidable delays, Bill Hannon is pleased to announce, “The new bike is finally on the dyno.”

Anyone who knows Bill knows that means track time is forthcoming and more news will follow quickly at this point. “We’re pleased that George Babor will be testing for us. He has a keen “feel” for our program and will add valuable information.”

Hannon Racing, the first Pro Stock Harley Davidson team to dip into the 7 second zone, has traditionally been a team to break records and maintain a very professional demeanor.

Hannon Racing is supported on their national circuit by Axtell Sales, Inc., Baisley Hi-Performance, D & G Chassis, Harley Davidson of Ft. Myers, The Landings Realty, Inc., Red Line Oil, MRE, BPM Racing Engines, and Dyna Tek, RK Chain, Bandit Clutch, Vanson Leathers, & Mastercam. –Hannon 941-463-2778 www.hannonracing.com

WHAT– Boston HOG Chapter’s 9th Annual Benefit Run for the Ronald McDonald House

WHEN: Sunday, July 30

IGNITION TIME/PLACE: Westwood Station (off 128) at 11 a.m. SHARP.

DONATION: $15 per person (bike games, raffles, vendors, two bands, more!) Wristbands can be bought at Seacoast, Merrimack, and Boston HOG chapters on Sunday before the ride begins.

INFO: 617-387-9464

DESTINATION: Maynard Rod and Gun Club, Maynard, Mass. Activities start at noon. If you can’t make the Ride, go straight there! (Route 2 West, to Route 62 into Maynard. When you get to Maynard center, take a right and follow it to Gun Club.)

HARLEY HOLLEY QUESTION–Harley-Davidson has just released a two barrel Holley carburetor viait’s Screamin Eagle brand, part # 27973-00. Can you tell me if you knowanything about how well it will make my HOG run?–Don

Ask and you shall receive–Bandit

HARLEY-DAVIDSON POWERS UP WITH NEW SCREAMIN’ EAGLE/HOLLEY PERFORMANCE INDUCTION SYSTEM– Harley-Davidson and Holley Performance haveteamed up to design and produce an American-made performance carburetor thatwill power up Twin Cam 88 and Evolution engines.

The new Screamin’ Eagle/Holley Performance Induction System for Evolution1340- and Twin Cam 88-Equipped Harley-Davidson Models includes a two-barrelcarburetor, a unique open-plenum intake manifold and a complete air cleanerand breather manifold package.

The new induction system is built for race applications, yet has excellentdriveability and throttle response. Both carburetors use stock throttle andidle cables, but are not cruise control compatible.

The Screamin’ Eagle/Holley Performance Induction System, for 1990-99Evolution 1340-Equipped Models, is offered in both satin (P/N 27970-00) andtumble-polished (P/N 280090-00) finishes. The Screamin’ Eagle/HolleyPerformance Induction System for Twin Cam 88-Equipped Models is also offeredin satin (P/N 27973-00) and tumble-polished (P/N 28011-00) finishes and fits1999 and later carbureted Twin Cam 88-engines.

The satin finished carburetors have a suggested U.S. retail of $589.95. Thetumble polished finish retails for $679.95. Both the Evolution 1340 and TwinCam-88 versions are available at Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts andGenuine Motor Accessories dealerships nationwide.

In addition, Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories is makingavailable a Rebuild Kit (P/N 29680-00) and a Tuner’s Kit (P/N 29681-00) forthe Screamin’ Eagle/Holley Performance Induction System. The Rebuild Kitincludes all of the necessary items to rebuild the carburetor and has asuggested U.S. retail of $63.95. The Tuner’s Kit includes an assortment offuel jets, air bleeds and other components and retails for $89.95.

For additional information on the Screamin’ Eagle/Holley PerformanceInduction Systems and other Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Parts and GenuineMotor Accessories, visit the Harley-Davidson web site atwww.harley-davidson.com. To find a dealer near you, call toll free1-800-443-2153 in the U.S.A. and Canada.

A BLONDE’S CAR BREAKS DOWN ON THE INTERSTATE– She easesit over to the shoulder of the road and carefully steps out of thecar.When she opens the trunk, two men in trench coats jump out andposition themselves at the rear of the vehicle facing oncomingtraffic.They begin opening their coats and exposing themselves toapproachingdrivers.

Not surprisingly, one of the worst pileups in the historyofthis highway occurs.It’s not very long before a police car shows up. The enraged coprunstoward the blonde, yelling, “What the hell is going onhere?”

“My car broke down,” says the lady, calmly.

“Well, what’re theseperverts doing here exposing themselves by the road?” asks thecop.

And she said…

(This is good…)

(Ready?)

(Remember, she’s blonde…)

“Those are my emergency flashers.”

40 E-MAILS?–Whats the deal? Got about 40 emails in a half hour giving me the bikernet update! Is the computer stuck or something?

That way we don’t ever have to send you an e-mail again. Actually, we’re testing a new software package. If they ever get it straightened out, we’ll send you two-line reminders of new shit on bikernet every couple of weeks.

ALABAMA RALLY ANNOUNCEMENT–

Name of event: American Ironhorse Roundup

Where: Horse Pens 40, Steele, Alabama

When: Oct 6,7,8

Website: www.horsepens40.com

Contact: Kevin Joyce 205-807-1187 HP40Kevin@aol.com, Greg Collins 205-621-1750

Mail Address: Horse Pens 40, ATT: Kevin Joyce, 1211 28th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35205.

SPEAKING OF LESBIANS–Lesbians: 1. What do you call a cupboard full of lesbians? A licker cabinet.

2. What do you call an eskimo lesbian? A Klondyke.

3. What do you call 100 lesbians with guns? Militia Etheridge.

4. Why can’t lesbians diet and wear make-up at the same time? Because they can’t eat Jenny Craig with Mary Kay on their face.

I PAID GOOD MONEY– for a subscription to Iron Horse just before they went out–only got one issue. Then nothing! I love the rag , but man did that piss me off. When I saw the Horse Backstreet Choppers, I said no way, and then subscribed anyway. Oh well, that’s really all I had to say .

PAUL’S NEW RIDE–Yes, Paul Vestal a prison warden, social worker and tireless fighter for bikers’ right has a new road glide. He deserves it after riding Shovelheads for thirty years. If you ever see this guy on the road help him, even if he doesn’t need a damn thing. He should be in the Hall of Fame somewhere. He’s good people and a hard working brother.

SALUTE TO THE SHOVELHEAD BIKE SHOW–

Sunday September 24th, 2000,1:00 to 6:00 p.m.Judging begins at 3 PM At CRUISER’S Tavern,843 North Federal Highway,US Route 1,In Stuart, just North of the Roosevelt Bridge.

Wheelbarrow Benefit for the Leonard Devoe Family Trust Fund(The local director of HIS PLACE Halfway House in Stuartis terminally ill and needs our support.)

All 1966-1984 Shovelheads are welcome to enter!Best Original, Chopper, Paint, Rat, Dresser, Oldest, Latest People’s Choice, and more !!! $10.00 Entry FeeAll proceeds go into the Wheelbarrow!

KYLE PETTY FINDS RELIGION IN STURGIS–In a scene that typifies the oddity of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, NASCARstar Kyle Petty is serenaded by a gospel choir while revving his VictoryMotorcycle. Petty is in Sturgis celebrating the Victory “revival” for thelaunch of its new 2001 motorcycles.

VICTORY MOTORCYCLES LAUNCHES 2001 DELUXE CRUISER AT STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY–American-made Victory Motorcycles enters third model year with new bike and more than 200 changes to existing models

With more than a half million motorcyclistson hand, Victory Motorcycles is introducing its newest cruiser model at the60th Annual Sturgis Rally this week. The new Victory V92C Deluxe offers all the performance, power and handlingof a Victory motorcycle, as well as accessories like a windshield,saddlebags, backrest and passenger floorboards.

“The new Victory V92C Deluxe is a direct response to consumerdemands for a comfortable, accessorized cruiser motorcycle that is moreconducive to touring,” said Tom Tiller, President and CEO, PolarisIndustries Inc., parent company of Victory Motorcycles. “Victory isoffering great value to our riders with all the accessories that are nowstandard on the new Deluxe.”

Originally launched in the United States on July 4, 1998 -Independence Day – Victory is also launching new 2001 versions of itsCruiser and SportCruiserTM this week.

“With the more than 200 changes and improvements Victory has made for 2001,it’s as if we are introducing three new motorcycles, not just one,” saidTiller.

Features include a totally new, smoother, quieter transmission, an all-newclutch design, a smoother-running engine, a narrowed bike and a reduction inoverall weight – not to mention all-new colors for 2001.The new model introductions come on the heels of Victory’s entry into theUnited Kingdom motorcycle market in July. Named “Cruiser of the Year” itsfirst two years in the United States, Victory plans to shake up the UnitedKingdom’s heavyweight cruiser market.

THE MINISTER OF A SMALL CONGREGATION– was about to start hissermon when he noticed a young woman in the front row. She was wearing atight dress with her boobs almost hanging out. He couldn’tconcentrate on his message to the flock, so he dismissed the serviceand asked to speak to the woman after everyone else had left thechurch.

When they were alone, the reverend said in his sternest voice, “Just what do you mean, coming to church dressed likethat?”

“Why reverend,” the young thing replied. “All of myboyfriends tell me that they can hear the angels sing when they puttheir heads on my breasts.”

“Hmm. Well let me check,” said the man of the cloth,placinghis head between her tits. After several minutes, he raised hishead
and said, “I don’t hear any angels singing!”

“Of course not, reverend,” she said. “You’re notplugged in yet.”

TINKLE TUPPERWARE–Tinkle Tupperware is a big woman, a biker woman and doesn?t give a damn if, after a long ride on a hot summer day, she smells like a bucket of fish bait. Tinkle has always had a lust for life. Late sixties puberty and full speed ahead into the free wheeling seventies and eighties. For Tinkle there was never any question, riding hard, hanging with bikers and raising hell for the hell of it was the only way to live.

Tinkle, in her late forties now, wasn’t getting the action she used to. She knew part of it was because she weren’t no spring chicken and the years of hard and carefree living had taken its toll. But beyond that things seemed to be quieting down in general. The crowd she hung out with continued to thin out. Long time hell raisers were getting day jobs and settling down into more passive lives. The big events at Daytona, Laconia and Sturgis had become rather sedate and populated with larger percentages of weekend riders. Tank, the owner of a small motorcycle and lawnmower repair shop in town had asked her to marry him and settle down. She was seriously thinking about accepting the offer. Tinkle had never really been one to think things through and make decisions, she as a rule just went with whatever her gut said and this had always seemed to work just fine.

But things were changing and so she found herself roaring down the interstate thinking about marriage and a new and very different lifestyle. All things considered it seemed to her that the time had come and she would accept Tank’s offer. But she wanted one last tango in Sturgis. She decided that she would marry Tank when she got back from Sturgis and, as sort of a farewell to the lifestyle she had known and loved, would screw the brains out of every Bikernet representative that she could find. They had an emblem and she had a mission. -Carlos

I HAVE A QUESTION FOR WHOMEVER IS SOBER ENOUGH TO RESPOND– I am puttingtogether a chopper on a rigid frame from scratch, mostly from new parts.I am putting a 94 fairly stock EVO motor in a Daytec rigid frame using aBaker six speed.

I would like to put a mousetrap and hand shifter on thedarn thing and I’m not sure where to start looking for one. Does anyonestill manufacture these things and more importantly, where can I findspecs, instructions, etc for installation, hummmm?????

Any informationat all would just tickle the piss outta me. No, really, it would. I’mcurrently riding a ’98 Heritage. Whatever that means. Thanks forlistening. I feel better now.–Green Larry

Hey, forget the mousetrap, but a jockey shift is very possible. Call Rick at Two-Wheelers in Denver. He manufacturers a jockey shift set-up for an Evo (303) 433-7025.

OH, MY BANDIT, YOU ARE SO BUSTED– One of our Devil Doll Worshippers came across your awesome mention of our rowdy, tarty girl gang. Nice writing, I must say. You certainly have the gift of words, darlin’. And I must say, that seeing my little gothic name mentioned, made my little bones shiver with glee. You totally rock, my mysterious Bandit. Someday, someday, that’s all I will say!! Thank you.

The Devil Dolls love you. GOTHGIRL President Devil Dolls MC

BANDIT–How was your trip? Sin and I missed you, well actually Sin missed you. I was glad you were gone. She’s so hot, and since you were out of the picture we spent some “quality” time together, since she didn’t know what to do with her afternoons. I did, though.We hung out and kept ourselves entertained. Well, I don’t know how entertained she was, but I was. Last weekend we went to a day spa for a massage and mud pac. I enjoyed watching the female technician rub mud all over Sin’s succulent body. Damn, I wish I could move faster with that bitch. I only had a couple of weeks to warm her up to a thing with another woman.

I caught her checking me out when the girl began to rub me down. The swedish technician wasn’t as bashful as Sin, and was completely enjoying my 38 DDs. I could see Sin’s nipples harden as I ran my hand under the blonde’s white uniform. Damn Sin’s a hot buxom oriental and that long black hair drives me crazy. I gotta move on her before you get back.–Coral

FLORIDA RUN– Some time back, I pestered the late Dennis Stemp about my goofy concept, Project OLAF. One Lap Around Florida. I still hear his practical response, “Why?” Well, I live in the only state with a perimeter that can be ridden using only US highways the entire route, 1,700 miles give or take– a long run that takes in everything from Deep South swamps up on the Georgia border to the emerald Caribbean waters of the Keys. When I do this ride, now it’ll be with Dennis in mind. –John Siebenthaler, Creative Services, Inc. a one man advertising agency with offices is Daytona, Sturgis, Hollywood, New York City, Detroit, Chicago and Missoula Montana.

HARLEY DIVIDEND COMING– Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE:HDI) announced today that its Board of Directors approved a quarterly cashdividend of 2.5 cents per share, payable September 19, 2000 to shareholdersof record September 8, 2000. The company currently has approximately 302.6million shares of common stock outstanding.

MOVIE PROJECT RECRUIT–Hey,here’s a pic of me washing my ride and a pic of my ride,’54 pan.Is movie stardom in my future?Like the site. –Pirate

NUUTBOY RETURNS FROM IRELAND–Okay, so there I was, in the frenzy of LAX, at the British Airways Baggage Complaint Desk. It’s Friday 4:00 PM, frantic, hot and sticky. The last time I had any sleep was something like 2 1/2 days ago. I’m feeling like a zombie. One of my bags is missing, it’s on the next flight (it will be delivered at 2:00AM Sat. morn.) from Heathrow, England. The last of the frazzeled, sleep-deprived students (Yes, Scott finally made it to Arizona) are on their way home. We plan to meet again for a party, in a month. Some will make it to the party, some will be away at school, some will be off on other adventures and some will ‘have other plans.’ But we all will have lived an adventure.We left Ireland, then England, in a rainstorm, the first in weeks. Our month long stay ended in a rush to buy gifts, say goodbye to new friends, see a couple more things, packing, and a raucous party at the Brazen Head Pub on Bridge St. next to the River Liffey. We have to re-learn to look left when we step off a curb, how to flush a toilet, that you can dry clothes on a line, counting dollars instead of pounds or punts, hot water is available anytime you want, not to depend on the 123 bus to get to the City Center, no tour bus will be waiting at the Charlemont Gate, no 30-minute walk to school, no crowds of smoking and yelling adolescent Spanish/Italian students walking five abreast on the sidewalks, no five-course potato dinners, pizza, and a thousand other adjustments to life.

Travel in Europe for two weeks is tourism, after that you begin to become a resident alien. Ireland became what we made of it. Each of us had a unique experience of it. Even when we traveled together, we brought to our experience our own interpretation.As the numbness of jet-lag wears off, I (and the rest of my traveling companions) have to gear-up for the more familiar routine of life here in the states. We’ve unpacked. We paid the bills. Laundry is being washed. We are trudging through a mountain of magazines and mail. We are starting to make contact with friends.

School starts in a couple of weeks.Yet there is still that lingering feeling of what we’ve experienced- the mad-capped pub life of Dublin, the beauty of the green and verdant country side, the complex variety of cultural history and artifacts, the delightful friendliness of the Irish people and the uniquely Irish quality of life we’ve learned to enjoy. It will always be a part of our lives–Nuutboy, bikernet college professor and nail driver.

ANOTHER RUN REPORT–Just got back from Sturgis, it was good, it was bad, and a couple of times it was fuckin ugly! Maybe I’m just getting old and tired of the bullshit but the cops in Sturgis wore my ass out.

How many times can you get pulled over so the fuckin dog can sniff you for drugs…that and a sorry ass drunk that I put to sleep in the Broken Spoke. The good shit was Hewlit, want a party that was….raisin pie all the way. I think that I’ll let the trailer towing bastards have Sturgis and set up camp in Wyoming. By and large it was still a real good time…even had a guy from Easyriders spring for my dinner one night…. made up for the bullshit ticket…ride safe.–Daddy Wack

TOP 10 THINGS MEN KNOW ABOUT WOMEN–

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10. They have boobs.

HOW YA DOIN’?– I finally got on the web; and have been checking out yoursite. Ilike it. You’re doing a good job. As soon as you and Oz get some nakedwomen, it’ll be a great job!! I saw the pictures of your Sturgis bike, you’re a betterman than I. If I tried toride a rigid to South Dakota my hemeroids would be bleeding so bad I’dhave to be stopingevery 500 miles for a fucking blood transfusion.

I was glad to hear that you mayhave foundyourself a good woman. I guess I won’t tell you about the little red headI was going to in-troduce you to. How about your new honey, she have any friends who mightlike a ride on a good looking scoot? –S.T.

Naked women. Hmmm?–Bandit

NO REAL RANT–just disturbed that in the rise of the HORSEseveral writers that I truly liked have been lost–still it is kind of neat that an old Easyriders hand is on board. Hope the Horse can settle down and get some good writing going. Over the years I really got a kick out of some of the old Horse staff’s trips around the country. check out the trip through Russia–that was pretty slick—the new group seems pretty dedicated and that is what it’s going to take. I’ve been riding for well over thirty years and motorcycles are my life, so I have bought and subscribed to almost every bike magazine published. Right now I have over two thousand mags cluttering up a two bedroom apartment–adios

TWO DOCTORS–Two doctors opened offices in a small townand put up a sign readingDr. Smith and Dr. Jones, Psychiatryand Proctology. The town fathers were not too happy with the sign and theyproposed Hysterias and Posterios. The Doctors didn’t find it acceptable, andsuggested Schizoids and Hemorroids. The town didn’t like thateither and countered with Catatonics and High Colonics. Thumbs down again, by now the story was inthe papers and suggestions began rolling in: Manic-depressives andAnal-retentives.Minds and Behinds. Lost Souls and Ass-holes. Analysis and Anal Cysts, Queers and Rears, Nuts and Butts, Freaks and Cheeks, Loons and Moons.

None of these satisfied one side or the other,but they finally settled on Dr. Smith & Dr. Jones, OddsEnds.

ENTRY DEADLINE NEARS– for10th International Automotive Media Awards.The deadline for submission of entries to the IAMC awards recognitionprogram is Aug. 18, 2000. This 10th International Automotive MediaConference and Awards (IAMC) event is being held Oct. 28-30 at the LasVegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nev., immediately prior to SEMA PressDay Oct. 31st.

“We have a full schedule of activities planned,” said Walter R Haessner,executive director of IAMC. “Featured seminars are by Adobe? software andApple? computer; awards presentations will begin on Sunday Oct. 29th andconclude Monday evening Oct. 30th. All members of the automotive media,whether print, television, electronic, www, radio, or public relations, areinvited to participate. We are hearing from many new people this year, aswell as those who have participated in the past.

“This 10th IAMC should break all records,” Haessner continued. “For thesecond year, IAMC is being held as an adjunct to the SEMA Show, madepossible through the support of SEMA. The new date and venue were seen asmajor improvements by the 1999 attendees.”

Those people needing entry forms can download an Adobe? PDF from the IAMCwebsite (http://www.iamc-isvp.org/root/iamc.html). At the IAMC page, select”Conference Details.” A link is in place for anyone needing AcrobatReader?. If faxed forms are needed, or if you have any questions, pleasecontact the office at 520/622-2201. Conference registration forms are alsoavailable for non-entrants; registration without entries closes Oct. 27th;late registration is available at the IAMC, Oct. 28-30, 2000.

“An elite group of supporting sponsors?Hagerty Classic Insurance,Meguiar’s, Inc., Mercedes-Benz USA and SEMA?helps make the IAMC possible,”Haessner added. “Their involvement is very much appreciated.”

For additional information on:The IAMC and awards entry forms, contact Elaine Jordan at 520/622-2201;e-mail to iamc@iamc-isvp.org

HEY MAN–I noticed that you ain’t with Biker no more. I been reading yourstory in the horse and just wanted you to know that I don’t know what’sgoing on at ER and Biker, but it ain’t what it used to be. Lost touchwith guys like me. I ain’t hardcore, but I love to ride and been doing itsince I was 12 in 71. Spend all my money and time on the bikes, and wantto keep in touch on new stuff and events.

Please keep doing it. We allneed your perspective. Rip’s gone. Who’s left? The Horse is alright, butI ain’t that fucked up about this chopper thing. Love em, but it don’tmake you shit, if you got shocks on the back. My back can’t take ahardtail. Need a new mag with more regular guy bikes, real road info. Whatdo you think?Gonna do it?– Ted S., Little Rock

Ya never know about these things. It would have to be a constant good time, like this is–Bandit

YO, BANDIT– I hope you can help me out. I e-mailed a letter to Corbin about their Cobra seat which is for the Softtail frame as to whether or not it would fit my Atlas rigid frame or not. To date I have not heard from them, maybe you might be able to get a response from them. I really like that seat and think it would look good on my scooter.If not guess I’ll stick with the one I’ve got. I’m from the era of choppers,hardtails and apes though mine’s not chopped and it didn’t take me long to get rid of my apes,and go to pullbacks but I still run a rigid frame as the chicks seem to like the vibrations better. I hope I’m able to continue using the computers at my little,local library. I was down-loading some prison websites that featured some nude women and the prudes in this town got upset and ratted me out. –Snake

Mike Corbin was just inducted into he Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Sturgis, along with Rip and others. He’ll even be harder to catch now. He’s innovative and inventive, but tough to get on the phone–Bandit

PICOTTE LOOKS TO MOVE UP IN AMA POINTS RACE– VR 1000 Pilot 8th Overall after top 10 Finish at BIR With just two races remaining on the AMASuperbike 2000 schedule, VR 1000 pilot Pascal Picotte left BrainerdInternational Raceway on Sunday looking to improve on his eighth placestanding in overall points. Picotte finished ninth in the circuit’s 10thrace of the year, and said he is anticipating the next round at Pike’s Peak,where he led the closing stages of the race and finished second a year ago.”Pike’s Peak is a track where a good-handling bike like the VR 1000 can dowell,” Picotte added.

According to Team Manager Steve Scheibe, the team is working hard to furtherincrease the performance of the VR.”The bike ran well today, it’s run well all year — but obviously we stilldon’t have enough horsepower,” said Scheibe. “However, Harley-Davidson fansshould know we are committed to changing that.”

From a qualifying position of 10th, Picotte started strong and climbed tofifth in the early laps. However, he slowly lost ground on Brainerd’smile-long straight.”I was closing the gaps in the corners, where we were very strong, but inthe end we didn’t have enough speed,” he said. Picotte currently trailsYamaha’s Tommy Hayden (seventh) by 13 points and Honda’s Miguel DuHamel(sixth) by 16 in the standings. Scott Russell did not finish at Brainerd after a fitting on his VR’s oilline leading to the oil pressure sensor broke early in the race. Oil leakedonto the exhaust pipes and caused Russell to pull out.

DAYS INN BLOWN AWAY–MAYBE–I just got an email from a friend at Excelsior-Henderson, he just spoke to the Days Inn in Sturgis, and they told him that the Days Inn in Spearfish is closed due to the storm on Tuesday. He said the roof got ripped off. Bummer! Better call to find out the deal if you’re staying there.–Patty

Mike and Lana put on one helluva terrific Cajun fiest at the Days Inn in Spearfish last week. The food was spicy, but not that spicy–Bandit

MC CLURE BACK FROM STANTON, STURGIS AND BRISTOL–Whew, this time of year you have to remain focused, focused on racing and focused on the road. Jim McClure, Williamsburg, Va. left the IHRA CARQUEST Northern Nations, Stanton, Mi. rainout to drive straight through to the mid west mecca of Harley drag racing, Sturgis, SD.

Rescheduled for Sturgis, McClure won the rained out ADBA Atlanta race. McClure qualified unlucky 13 for the Sturgis Top Fuel field and was taken out early for the Sturgis win. But no time to cry over spilt milk, the McClure’s loaded up and headed for the S & S Nationals at Bristol, Tn, qualifying 2nd behind Bill Furr, Orangeburg, SC with a 6.713 for Furr and 6.719 for McClure.

The Bristol facility proved to be good for McClure as he took a win in the final.

August 19 IHRA Stanton, Mi. (reschedule)

Aug. 22-26 IHRA Norwalk, Oh.

Sept. 8-10 IHRA Epping, NH

McClure is supported on his national tour by Rivera Engineering, Primo Products, Red Line Synthetic Oil, ACCEL, Hampton Roads HD, Southside HD, F & S HD, S & S Cycle, Inc, Performance Machine, Axtell, Autolite & Vanson Leathers www.jimmcclureracing.com

HOLD ON– Why are cowgirls bowlegged? Cowboys like to eat with their hats on.

What’s the definition of a teenager? God’s punishment for enjoying sex.

What two words will clear out a men’s restroom? “Nice Dick!”

Why do we have orgasms? How else would we know when to stop?

WEERDO’S NEWS LETTER– We’re gonna have a monthly newsletter to keepour friends informed on what the Weerdos are up to–http://www.weerdbros.com.

Hey, if you’re in the market for a front end for your project, contact these guys. I have got to say that if it wasn’t for the quick and ready assistance of the Weerd bros, I would have never made it to Sturgis. I ran a 14 over wide glide that worked like a dream. When I needed answers they returned calls, sent brackets over night and new the answers to keep me going. Good people! –Bandit

MR. FIVE BALL–I’m innocent, I’m innocent…. is that the only thing youknow how to write anymore. If you’re not fuckin’ guilty,then I’m the Pope!

That Carlos ain’t a bad writer, what the hell happenedto the rest of his NASA story?

That’s Mr. Breeze gawdamnit! Now your just fuckin’with me! You ask me what name to use, I tell you andyou do just the opposite. I would expect no less fromyou!

I’m innocent–Bandit

SHAVED—that’s just torture. First you tempt uswith Sin Pussy, now this! I can never tell where yourlife ends and your fictional fantasies begin. Just when Ihave myself convinced that Sin Wu is a figment of yourimagination you come up with a photo (Great inkCindy, I hope you haven’t taken any offense at my funwith your last name as no disrespect is intended).Do you have anyone to hand out your Bikernet stickersat The Buffalo Chip? I could take care of that for you. OK, OK……you only want beautiful women doing it. Ihave that covered too. I could talk my Sturgis date intodoing it. A sexy six footer, with a yard of leg, hair likea midnight forest, dark glowing eyes to get lost in, andhot enough to melt the porcelain out of your spark plug!They’ll be knockin’ each other down to get to her!–Carlos

Wish I could have taken you up on the offer. Wanna trade Sin for the leggy one for a weekend?–Bandit

DID YOU KNOW–With the data now available for all markets for the full year of 1999 motorcycle registrations, Harley-Davidson’s world-wide market sharte in the 651 cc plus catagory soared another 14 percent over 1998 to represnet 26.7 of the global new motrocycle sales. Rock and roll.

Paul Yaffe Moved to new larger headquarters. Master customizer Paul Yaffe has new digs at 2211 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016, (602) 840-4205.

Bikernet is in heated negotiations to carry the Chrome Specialties line of Prison Blues and their other super-cool clothing on Bikernet. We will also offer little Joe’s Leathers since that’s all I wear anymore. That’s HAL leathers.

My mother, yes Bandit has a mother who is 79 years old and is about to take a cruise around the world. You know whose paying for it? Harley-Davidson. That’s right, she bought 100 shares in 1903. No I’m kidding. She bought the stock in 1988. A lousy 100 shares. With splits she now owns 800 shares which is worth 38,000.

Hamster in space. Damn those yuppie Hamster bastards with their high priced bikes that they never ride. At least that’s the going line about the guys in the yellow t-shirts. Seems somebody missed the fact that some 50 rodents ride to Sturgis every year. Arlen has ridden to Strugis some 20 times. Anyway at a gathering to munch on seeds and nuts it was announced that a Hamster T-shirt was launched into space. That puppy went over 17,000 miles an hour and some 26 miles into space. That gettin’ high.

Dave Hanlon interviewed for Hot Rod Bikes in the Cubs bar in Sturgis. Drunk as skunks I tried to get Dave to tell me what’s happening with Excelsior-Henderson. The rowdy racket in the bar drowned out the tape recorder and girls kept trying to drag Dave into the head. Twice a 200-car train rolled past directly behind the bar and the waitress kept opening the door next to our table to flood the 95 degree bar with the sound of thousands of bikes on Lazelle outside. If Dave told me anything I was too drunk to remember it, the tape didn’t pick it up, besides someone stomped it in the fist-fight that insued. Seems the guys at the next table thought I was taping their conversation about making a crank lab in a closet. I was, hell, I needed to make enough money to get back to San Pedro.

Watch for new Bikernet T-shirts in the near future. We’ve got a new design using the famous Jon Towle’s artwork for our patches which will be for sale in Bandit’s Gift shop next week. Check ’em out.

Fiction World Is Growing: Hot Rod Bikes has commissioned my ass to write scalding fiction monthly in the Peterson publication. They also asked me to write a history piece on mufflers. Does anyone know the history of the muffler? Help me, help me, please.

The Sturgis 2000 Bikernet Chop-off is still underway. Zebra made it there first and rode the most miles. I rode a rigid and had more fun along the way. Watch for the two sagas on the site and look over the bikes–then vote. Let us know which is your favorite, the one you hate, or well whatever you think. We had a helluva good time doing it.

OVERCOMING–A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him or her._David Brinkley

THAT’S IT–I’m not accustomed to this much work, besides I got a call from the dark-haired beauty. She’s been working out regulary and is looking so trim. She’s on her way to my arms for some afternoon delight. I need to wrap this up, put on the music, poor the wine and brush my teeth. This is what life is all about. Laying around afterwards watching the sun set over the harbor.

This weekend we’ll put the ’48 Pan back together and begin to tune the dual 42 mm Mikunis. It’ll be interesting to see if a 61-inch 52-year-old Pan will burn rubber. –Bandit

THE AIM/NCOM MOTORCYCLE E-NEWS SERVICE is brought to you by Aid to InjuredMotorcyclists (A.I.M.) and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), andis sponsored by the Law Offices of Richard M. Lester. For more information, callus at 1-(800) ON-A-BIKE or visit us on our website at <>

From TheGUNNY’S SACK

NCOM comes to PORTLAND, October 22!Mark your calendars NOW! The West Coast REGIONAL CONFERENCE of the NationalCoalition of Motorcyclists ? NCOM ? is set for October 22nd, 10 am until 7pm,followed by a party, of course, the Freedom Fighter’s Social. The conference isat the Airport Sheraton Hotel, and it’s FREE to ALL bikers. Mention NCOM for thespecial room rate of $99.00 a night, single or double or however many you canload in.

AMONG THE ISSUES on the agenda is the new proposed Federal “Anti-Gang” act,along with the Patriot Acts, and the possible effects on BIKERS. Don’t miss it ?free, on Oct. 22.

NEW YORK, NY: The SEC Starts Inquiry Into Harley-Davidson according to theAssociated Press. Allegedly, Harley announced they intended to limit short-termproduction and decrease planned motorcycle shipments. On April 13,Harley-Davidson said it would increase motorcycle shipments from last year’s317,000 units to a target of 329,000 units, below original plans of 339,000units.

The company also lowered earnings forecasts for the year, citing weakfirst-quarter sales and a GLUT of 2005 bikes on dealer floors. In response,Harley shares plunged to their lowest price in more than 14 months. TheSecurities commission started inquiries because of complains from shareholders.Harley said it is cooperating with the SEC, and noted that in light of thepending shareholder litigation, it wasn’t surprised by the inquiry.

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND: A Kiwi set the world SIDE-HACK speed record. NewZealander Glenn Hayward, driving a 1000cc machine dubbed the Flying Kiwi,shattered the 19-year-old world speed record for motorcycle and sidecar on astraight stretch of highway on New Zealand’s South Island. Riding with a 60kilogram (132-pound) weight in the sidecar, Hayward reached a two-run average of272 kph (170 mph), eclipsing the previous record of 222 kph (139 mph). Arepresentative of the International Motorcycling Federation observed the recordattempt, making it official. Y’wouldn’t find ME at half that speed with asidecar! Riding those things takes some special talent!

WASHINGTON, DC: Our unhappy dealings with Dr. Jeffrey Runge from NHTSA is endingwith his departure from that agency to become Chief Medical Officer for theDepartment of Homeland Security. Hopefully, his replacement at NHTSA will have amore open mind when it comes to the welfare of bikers on the highways. Runge hasbeen a headache for motorcyclists for the past four years. ‘Course, havin’ himinvolved in Homeland Security makes me kinda quiver too.

TACOMA, WASHINGTON: Thurston County residents who have to raise their voices tobe heard over the noise of a neighbor’s dirt bike or motorcycle now haverecourse. A county ordinance makes motorized vehicle noise illegal when itreaches 55 decibels on a neighbor’s property — about the same level as aconversation. The ordinance covers ALL noise not just ORV (dirt bikes). The boomboxes in cars and carried on teen shoulders are part of it. Now THAT we can livewithout, but just the vehicle’s OWN noise is a little different. Folks, havesome kindness on your throttle and we can avoid more laws like this one!

GAS PRICES AT NEW RECORD: This isn’t really news, but the national averages havegone crazy. Most of us SAVE bigtime on fuel when we’re on our scoots, but itstill STINGS worse and worse.

The real problem in my mind is the impact fuel costs have on the prices we payfor consumer goods. It’s way past time for us all to be writing letters andsending E-mails to our elected officials in the Federal government. The peoplecan stop this if we get mad enough to scream at Congress.

The high cost ofliving is raising hell with us all, especially those on fixed incomes. Let’s allget busy and write a letter or two.

DIESEL BIKE: There has been research for years on diesel aircraft engines. Whynot diesel engines for motorcycles? Seems like a no-brainer to me. Motorcycleshave been evolving for nearly a century. There is even electric technology.

Think about it, you would never have fouled plugs and you could still have thoseloud pipes some folks like so much, plus the advantage of even BETTER fueleconomy. Diesel fumes stink a little but what the hey! People will know we werethere because their noses know! Emissions are LOWER than gas engines, too.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: There is a big fight brewing here in the Pacific Northwest,in Washington, over a BALLOT MEASURE designed to LIMIT your access to the courtsthere!

There are enough mistakes made in the medical profession that a watchfuleye is required to FIX the PROBLEM, instead of screwing the legitimately injuredpatients.

To combat lawsuits by those patients INJURED by medical negligence,the Washington State Medical Association now has more than $3.6 million in thebank and $5.3 million pledged – all directed at taking away our right to our dayin court, IGNORING the needs of people injured by medical negligence, andprotecting insurance industry profits at OUR expense.

The people who supportthis fund: Hospitals $1.8 million, Pharmaceuticals $100,000, Insurance Industry$830,000, Med.l professionals and practices $1.7 million, WA medicalassociation. $733,000, and THIS just in Washington State.

We need to protect patients who are injured by the handful of bad doctorseverywhere who cause most of the malpractice. We need also to protect our manygood doctors from price gouging by the insurance industry.

WRITE YOUR CONGRESSMAN AND SCREAM BLOODY MURDER wherever you are. Remember totell them that TORT DEFORM is bad for EVERYONE! This stuff is nasty.

STATELINE, ID: Remember the recent kidnapping of Shasta Groeneg and the murderof her family? Bet you didn’t see it on TV, but BIKERS played a big role. Morethan 500 Harley-Davidson and other motorcycle riders came to empty their pocketson behalf of the biker’s daughter who survived the horrific abduction,

The sixhour benefit drew more than a 1000 people who donated cash at the front door ofCruiser’s Bar & Grill, a biker hangout in this town just east of the Washingtonstate line. Total receipts were not announced.

“You say bikers and people thinkof gangs, but these people are the best people in the world,” Groene said.”These people step up for anything and everything.” And you and I know it, don’t we?

THE GUNNY AGAIN: Remember, when bikers need help they are served by the bestgroup of folks on the face of this planet. Our AIM (Aid to InjuredMotorcyclists) attorneys are there for US when we need them the most, becausethey ARE us ? they ride, they KNOW what we face out there on the roads, and theylook out for our interests. Ask anyone who’s been hurt and someone else was atfault, what their AIM attorney did for them!

You DON’T hear the same sorts oflawyer stories MOST clients tell. These AIM guys really care about our welfare.Call 1-800-ON-A-BIKE, or 1-800-531-2424, or here in Oregon Sam Hochberg isalways available at 1-800-347-1106 toll free, or email at SamBikeLaw@aol.com.

Your Gunny is AIMGunny@aol.com.

Keep the round side on the bottom.Gunny, Oregon AIM Chief of Staff

AND THAT’S ALL THE NEWS THAT FITS!

Hey,

I’m innocent, I tell ya. I’m working every night on the sleek Daytec Blue Flame. I try to squeeze in a workout every other day. The joints to hit along the way to the wayward badlands are lined up and Markus came out to memorialize the bike with his photographic talents. Sometime, during the next week, you’ll be able to see the Joker Machine Blue Flame perched alongside the bristling L.A. Harbor in all its glory. It’s got 300 miles on it and it’s running fine. That’s two bikes built in three months, but do I get any slack? Not a fuckin’ bit.

Even though the pressure’s up on all fronts I just had to drop everything as the dark haired beauty strolled into the shed last night. She was seeking solace from the trials of her two job, 3-kid life, and I had the answer. I fixed her a drink as she flowed onto the couch like butter over steaming pancakes, her dark hair glistening as it cascaded over her slender shoulders. She moves around my pad like a dense fog engulfs the harbor at night, but there’s a hidden agenda. She hates men, and will not commit. Which is alright with me. Her husband of 15 years abused her and destroyed her life. She’s like making love to a female serial killer, I’m never sure when she might pull a knife and take my wind. Yet, there’s a warmth in her gaze, a soft-spoken caring nature and a nasty appetite for lust. I noticed for the first time last night as I listened to her hectic day’s activities, that everything I suggested, she disagreed with. Finally, my patience shredded, I said, “Are you going to disagree with every goddamn thing I say?” I was aching to tell her that Sin Wu never disagrees with anything, but I’m sure that would have cooked my goose forever. The mistress of darkness got to her feet slowly, took my hand and said, “I’m sorry, baby. Bad day.”I shrugged, took a slug of Jack and set the glass back on the table.”I know something we always agree on,” she said and tugged on my arm, and I got to my feet. We better get to the news. I’ve got less than 24 hours left.

SONNY’S BOOK REPORT–Just got done with Sonny Barger’s new book and it was great. When are you going to do your own story? It would sell. I have never met Sonny, but I know a few Angels. In your travels I’m sure you have met him, if so, what’s he like? –Coach

Depends on the mood he’s in at the time. As far as a book about me, forget it. The statute of limitations isn’t up just yet.

STURGIS REPORT FROM BOB ILLINGWORTH–Expect a crowd of 600,000-800,000 bikers this year. The following information might be helpful in planning your trip.

ROADS:1- Vanocker Canyon, 1 mile of gravel, (Sturgis End) very passable then acomplete new pave job all the way to Nemo Road A great ride!!

2- Boulder Canyon, heavy construction for the first four miles (Sturgis End)loose gravel, very sharp detours, 25 MPH through this area will be enforcedby radar 24 hours a day.

3- Highway 24 between Alladdin and Alva Wyoming (2 miles) heavyconstruction, single lane traffic controlled by pilot car. Very passable,check at Aladdin or Alva before crossing pass for updated road conditions.NOT RECOMMENDED IF IT HAS RAINED OR IF YOU ARE AFRAID OF GETTING DUST ONYOUR POLISHED BIKE.

4- I-90 West bound lanes closed for ten miles starting at Sturgis. Twolane traffic only.

5- I-90 East and West around Rapid City two lane traffic only, heavyconstruction. Expect massive delays around Rapid and Sturgis.

POLICE:The police have made it very clear that they intend to strictly enforce alltraffic laws with 24-hour radar. With the largest crowd ever attendingSturgis they must slow the traffic down in order to make the roads safer forall.

PS: Harley Davidson will not be marketing Beer with the Harley logo this year or as we were told. Has something to do with image. So hang on to your 99 Harley beer, it might just be worth something in the future.

BOB’S NOT DONE YET–Deadwood has announced that it will allow bikers to park on Main Street for two of the rally days. Parking will be allowed on the west side of the street on August 11 (Friday) and August 12 (Saturday) from 1pm to 2am. My guess is that if there are no problems this year, the future years could bring back full parking for bikers on Main Street in Deadwood.

Asphalt Cowboy Update– I mentioned that an option deal has been signed to produce the biker flick Asphalt Cowboy written by ex-pro football player Conrad Goodie. The story is based on one my book outlines about a bunch of freaks who ride cross-country annually. They live for the ride, the adventure and not much of anything else. The story is based on a handful of guys I knew in the early ’70s in Long Beach. Many of ’em are dead now. Some didn’t make it to the end of the run.If you wander into the movie projects section of Bikernet, you’ll see that we’re recruiting players for the movie. Below are a couple who think that they should get their shot on the silver screen. What do you think?

PICK ON WOMEN DAY ** (Every man’s struggle in vain…)I married Miss Right. I just didn’t know her first namewas Always.

Marriage is a 3-ring circus: Engagement ring, weddingring, and suffering.

The last fight was my fault. My wife asked, “What’s onthe TV?” I said, “Dust!”

In the beginning, God created earth and rested. Then Godcreated man and rested. Then God created woman. Sincethen, neither God nor man has rested.

Why do men die before their wives? They want to!

STURGIS BILLBOARDS AND SHIT– Sure, I’ve shared this masterful Jon Towle originality with you before, but there’s more. I will be packin’ Bikernet stickers from the evil mind of Jon Towle. In addition we’ll have patches for sale, so we can afford enough gas to keep riding once we get there. Also, the agent and I will be carrying ballots and collecting votes on our bikes. This is a life and death situation. If he wins, I’ll feel like shit, since I built his bike with Nuutboy, who couldn’t handle the extreme Bikernet deadlines and escaped with 30 college co-eds to Ireland, Wrench, and the assistance of Custom Chrome, Baker and Eddie Trotta at Thunder Designs in Fort Lauderdale. If I win, all will be well with the world of biking forever more. I will feel vindicated and proud to climb to the craggy pinnacle of the Devil’s Tower and shout for all the world to listen, “Let’s Ride, We’re Burnin’ Daylight.”

MO’ ON STURGIS– Excelsior-Henderson wants to invite all of you to visit with them at the upcoming Sturgis Rally. The Road Crew and Demo team will be set up at their customary spot at the Days Inn, off I-90 at exit 30, the second Sturgis exit coming from Rapid City.

Included in the events is a factory group ride from Belle Plaine to Sturgis, leaving on Friday, August 4th and arriving at the rally on Saturday afternoon.

Demo rides will start on Monday, August 7th and run through Saturday, August 12th, during the hours of 9am-4pm. The fleet will be complete with Super X’s and Deadwood’s, along with some of the factory accessories and special paint that is offered on many models.

Also on display will be their newest model, code-named the American X. Don’t miss the action

BONNEVILLE SALT REPORT–We just got back from the salt. As I mentioned earlier, Rick Vescowanted to go out to Wendover to see about picking out a course forWorld Finals.

At the far end, you may have seen an old log (telephone pole) down11 miles or so. In the vicinity of the old weathered log, there is anold rusted out barrel, barely visible in the salt. This barrel useto mark the END of the international course. When we dragged thecourse years ago, there was an old dead sheep here. We always said to”turn around when you get to the dead sheep”.

This vicinity was our starting point. From here we drove back towardsWendover and found most all the salt was quite smooth & white. Therebeing only one or two short rough spots. As we got to the end of theaccess road, the area where all the traffic drives, it is definitelyrougher, but Rick felt this could be smoothed out with the drag. Wedrove back and forth from the freeway to floating mountain trying tosee if any one area would be better than another. The overcast skyallowed us to see and the mirage was kept at a minimum.Last year, when you approached the end of the dike, the salt felt likeyou were driving over cobblestones. Well, it is all healed, andsmooth. As smooth as the salt is, you wouldn’t know you were drivingover thesame area.–Cris

GREAT TRUTHS ABOUT LIFE THAT LITTLE CHILDRENHAVE LEARNED–

1) No matter how hard you try, you can’t baptize cats.

2) When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don’t let her brush your hair.

3) Never ask your 3 year old brother to hold a tomato.

4) You can’t trust dogs to watch your food.

DRAG RACING UPDATE–Jim McClure qualified # 1 at the Atlanta Nitro Classic ADBA Nationals. But severe weather took away his chance to get even with the track that put him in the hospital for 23 days three years ago when his nitromethane powered engine exploded.

McClure ran in the 6’s each pass at the Atlanta Dragway, Commerce, Ga. qualifyng #1 with a 6.863 and taking top qualifying speed with a 207.40 mph. McClure cut his ET to 6.75 in round one defeating Sam White, Columbia, SC.

McClure maintained tremendous consistency running within a 1/10 of a second and over 203 on each pass with a top speed of 210.31 mph. In round 2, a 6.765 ET defeated Stan Verheijen of Holland.

But when it was time for the finals against Canadian Warren Hill, ol’ Mother Nature had other ideas. Several tornadoes touched down near the track and the event was called prior to the finals.

July 28 Apehangers Bar & Grill 5:30-8:30 Budds Creek, Md.

July 29-30 AHDRA Budds Creek, Md.

McClure is supported on his national tour by Rivera Engineering, Primo Products, Red Line Synthetic Oil, ACCEL, Hampton Roads HD, Southside HD, F & S HD, S & S Cycle, Inc, Performance Machine, Axtell, Autolite & Vanson Leathers. –www.jimmcclureracing.com

BROTHERS REPORT–Presently in Wis. loading up the camper to take the kids out to Colorado for a couple weeks. Then it will be a return trip to drop them off at home before I head back to South Dakota for the rally.

Looking forward to Sturgis. It has been 7 years since I last went. Time kinda gets away from a guy when he is busy with working and kids. I’m 47 years old at this point. The master plan is to pull a Bandit at age 50 and take early retirement. Find a farmhouse here in Wis. watch the grass and the kids grow and spend more timeriding and pursuing self-interests.

Will be keeping an eye out for you and Agent Z. If younotice a red DYNA pull alongside ya with LA plates it’syours truly. Enjoy your ride out.–Anson

RUMOR HAS IT–THIS IS THE TRUTH–When Neil Armstrong set foot on the Moon, he made the “One Small Step”comment that has gone down in the annals of famous quotes. He also followedthat comment with a much lesser known quote “Good Luck Mr. Gorsky.” Thiscomment confused everyone at the space center in Houston, after checkingboth the Russian and American space programs, no Mr. Gorsky could be found.

Upon Neil’s return he was questioned about Mr. Gorsky, Neil only smiled andsaid nothing. For years, every time he was questioned Neil only smiled.Finally, in 1995 at a news conference somewhere in Florida, he was againasked about the mysterious Mr. Gorsky. Neil smiled and explained that Mr.Gorsky had died and proceeded to give his explanation.

It seems that as a child Neil’s family lived next door to the Gorsky family,one day when Neil was playing outside, Neil overheard an angry Mrs. Gorskybellow, “Yea, you’ll get a blow-job when that kid next door walks on theMoon.”–E.J.

WANT ADS FROM HELL– Automatically burns toast.

Sheer stockings. Designed for fancy dress, but so serviceable that lots of women wear nothing else.

Stock up and save. Limit: one.

We build bodies that last a lifetime.

For Rent: 6-room hated apartment.

Man, honest. Will take anything.

Wanted: chambermaid in rectory. Love in, $200 a month. References required.

Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.

ZEBRA’S DRUNK AGAIN–Keep it up? Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, ha, ha, ha! You’re the sissy who needs three days just to get to Sturgis! I have exactly 2,431.8 miles to cover. I will be there in 34.7 hours traveling at an average speed of 90 miles an hour. I’ll be sure and have a Jack on ice waiting for you, motherfucker.__Zebra

RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM CHOP SHOP-Bikers, Babes, Tattoos-Wednesdays– HEY BABY, WANNA RIDE? STRAP YOURSELF ON TO RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM CHOP SHOP.CHOP SHOP, WEDNESDAYS 8PM ET US.LIVE WWW.RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM, WOODSTOCK TV CHANNEL.

So you’re surfing the net and seeing all kinds of stuff and whamRadioWoodstock.com’s got a screen full of biker babes and a roomful ofscreaming custom bikes. Oouuch. Too hot. It’s English Don’s “Chop Shop.”Smoke your tires, and head on over. Its www.radiowoodstock.com

TRAVEL HINTS–Okay this is hopefully the last email I send to you before Sturgis. (lol) If anyone is interested in checking their routes on the way to South Dakota, check out this website and enter the states your interested in for construction alerts along the way. This is a great site for this. Gives all the roads and what they’re doing, so you can ride through them or around them.

Thanks Clayton for sending this our way. Rand McNally – Plan a Trip –Patty

READER COMMENT–Homie made early Evo, with Santee frame, and the dog probably eats better than you! He was panting from the heat. He lives in the desert of Arizona. But if it makes you feel better I’ll throw him an extra dog bone today!Ride free, don’t sweat the petty stuff, pet the sweaty stuff!–Mobile 2000

CORAL’S WATCHING– Saw you at the Bike Show on Sunday, who were your friends???Sin and I went to Harold’s last night for the 9-Ball tourney and she had alittle too much to drink, so I took a chance. We were playing on the back table and I keptbrushing my tits against her. I was so frisky that a couple of the guysstarted making comments and thanking us for the show. I like testing the water with her–she is responding nicely. She was wearing these little shorts and every time she leaned over to shoot,you could see that part where leg turns to, well, she was really cute.

She’s so shy, so breaking her in might take some time. How long have you known her anyway? Tonight we’re having a slumberparty and watching old romantic movies. I suggested she invite you, but shesaid something about breaking in your bike. Do you guys really just dolunch?

Do you have different girls for lunch and dinner? I could bebreakfast! Another thing to think about, oh, I never did get my answerfrom last week, handcuffs could be fun.–Coral

WHY MEN CAN’T WIN–If you work too hard, there is never any time for her. If you don’t work enough, you’re agood-for-nothing bum.

If she has a boring repetitive job with lowpay, it’s exploitation. If you have a boring repetitive job with lowpay, you should get off your butt and find something better.

If you get a promotion ahead of her,it’s favoritism. If she gets a raise ahead of you, it’sequal opportunity (or she’s blowing the boss).

BIKERNET BABE CORRESPONDENT STURGIS REPORT– Working on getting a sponsored Confederate Hellcat for my ridewestward. Matt and I are trying to figure out how I can carry gear. I’mthinking Chase & Harper bags which are totally removable. I won’t have achase van with me. I was going to be riding with an NYC bunch but theybailed so I’m going it alone ’til Indiana when I’ll meet up with the SteelDreams TV guys who will film me. Cool.

Woman Rider does not want to do astory on my ride. I said to the editor, now what woman would jump on one ofthe hottest bikes on the marketplace and ride from New York City to Sturgisto show off the iron? Not too many ladies would lather up the chance. Ifind it hard to believe that a woman’s motorcycle magazine would not beinterested in such a unique story. Maybe I’m being too full of my idea?That’s okay, I guess. I’ll calm down, then again maybe I won’t.

Penthouse is 20 million eyeballs per month on that site. I’m in charge ofthe links and all things related to that Sturgis piece. It’s not about thenudity, it’s the allure of a hot bike and pretty ladies who ride their own.

American Iron and American Rider have other ideas for the Confederate. Ipitched Frank at Hot Rod Bikes and Mitch at Motorcyclist–haven’t heard. Iwould like some kind of motorcycle coverage besides the Steel Dreams TV.-Sasha, Bikernet correspondent from the Big Apple.

CH-SHSHSH, CH-SHSHSH… DO YOU HEAR THAT?– Listen, real close………..there. There it is again.

Hear that? Know what that is? That’s the road calling you, dude. Yes, you. Remember? You and the road. You and your scoot, thundering down the highway. Mountains on one side, open desert on the other. Small towns here and there, barely hanging on to existance. One pump gas stations, with only 87 octane. Ancient little greasy spoon diners that serve up chicken fried steak and berry pies, at counters with those round seats that spin, covered with cracked yellow vinyl.

Mini-marts that never heard of Sierra-Nevada Pale Ale. Little local bars, with beer soaked wooden floors and carved up tables, nicotine an inch thick on the walls, French tickler condom machines in the bathroom, and a 50-cent pool tables. And all the house sticks are crooked as hell, of course.

Rest stops with old Pontiac sedans, filled to the gills with Mexican kids. Teenagers in front of 7-11s that come up and talk to you about your scoot. The red and orange glow of the sunset on the desert sky, stars starting to peek out, clouds glowing like fire. Two-mile long freight trains that you see in the distance, and make you think of the song “Orange Blossom Special”. That clickety-clack freight train beat echoing in your head, making you slowly and unconsiously open the throttle more, til you’re going 90mph.

NOW do you hear it?

Yeah, that’s that highway song a-callin’, and it’s a-callin’ YOU. It wants you to jump on that bad motorscooter and pedal your sorry ass out of California and see what the rest of this country is about before you get too old to enjoy it!–TigerButt ’98 Softail

BLONDE STORY OF ALL TIME– Here’s a blonde story to end all blonde stories! A True Story…if she had killed herself-God forbid-she’d be a shoo-in for the Darwin Award.

Last summer, down on Lake Isabella, located in the high desert, an hour east of Bakersfield, California, a blonde (of course!!), new to boating was having a problem. No matter how hard she tried, she just couldn’t get her brand new 22-ft. Bayliner to perform. It wouldn’t plane at all, and it was very sluggish in almost every maneuver, no matter how much power she applied.

After about an hour of trying to make it go, she putted over to a nearby marina. Maybe they could tell her what was wrong. A thorough topside check revealed everything was in perfect working order. The engine ran fine, the outdrive went up and down, the prop was the correct size and pitch. So, one of the marina guys jumped in the water to check underneath only to come up choking on water, he was laughing so hard.

REMEMBER, this is TRUE. Under the boat, still strapped securely in place, was the trailer. –LWATTERS

LEARN MIKUNI CARBS– check out www.siue.edu/~rsutton/SR/mikuni.htm This guy has done the job right for one of the Mikuni carbs. –Rick Bates

AND NOW FROM OUR FREAKY CORRESPONDENT IN IRELAND–Last weekend I stumbled around Galway, the biggest little party town in Ireland. Every pub was aroar with jabbering tourists and fiddling and piping musicians. All the main streets (there are three) were packed with young tourists form all over Europe aching to party and puke. The rutting smell of musk & testosterone was rank in the air. Zeke the Splooty would be right at home here.

In my stumbling around I ran into Barry Ryan, an ‘older’ Irish H-D biker who has been riding since he was a kid. Ryan looked like the hard-bitten, straight talking kind of ‘old-time’ biker who wouldn’t take any shit off of anybody. He was ridding an ’86 FLH “chopped down” H-D. He said he had broken with Harley Riders Ireland in ’93 and now ran with the Tramps out of Limmerick. His view of the hog scene in Ireland was that there were plenty of riders with traditional heart who were not part of the “fuckin’ up-scale market bullshit.” Like I said Ryan is a straight talking biker.Unfortunately, I didn’t have more time to shoot the shit with him, but he said he could be contacted at HRI.COM or harleyriderireland.com Any of these guys would appreciate information about Harely-Davidson… parts, products, general information, etc.

That’s it. I’ve got to find me a green eyed, red haired, full breasted colleen to help me get a grin out of Guiness.

WAREHOUSE BLOW-OUT SALE– Check this out…. We’ve moved and when packingup everything we found some overstock and leftoveritems. Do you know what this means? Awesome itemswith gigantic savings! Just click on the link belowto view. http://DestinationURL.com/link?lk=00636007968086049116691564

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Surge Guard Protector for Automobile Electronics Protection.Protect your valuable and delicate automotive electronics with Surge Guard.

#25067 SURGE GUARD PROTECTOR…. Was $11.99 …. Sale $9.99 You won’t want to pass up our Aluminum Sockets….

#43003 SOCKET ALUMINUM 17mm …. Was $29.99 …. Sale $19.99

#43004 SOCKET ALUMINUM 19mm …. Was $29.99 …. Sale $19.99

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Mini Vac Set Mini Vacuum SystemGet into the tightest spots with this super detailing system! “Mini” cleaning tools work with full-size vacuum cleaners for suction power in previously out of reach places.

#52086 MINI VAC …. Was $9.99 …. Sale $6.99

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, Fire Chief Fire command car features realistic paint with color coordinating interior and pad-printed graphics.

#606163 FIRE CHIEF …. Was $19.99 …. Sale $12.50

Plus many more HOT items at BLOW-OUT prices! Simply follow thelink below to purchase or view any of these products – only forour email customers.http://DestinationURL.com/link?lk=00636007968086049116691564–Your friends at The Eastwood Company

NO COMPLAINTS, BUT–no complaints about your site, it’s awesome. You remember that Towle illustration in the “news” section last week of the biker holding the two screaming rugrats(god love ’em)? Well bro, that’s gonna be me very soon. That is why my scoot, ’98 Springer Softail, is in your classifieds. Surely somebody out there has a need for a lowered Springer with 15″ Apes. If I sell it soon, I hope I can get started on my own version of a homebuilt rigid chop, the only way to go I now realize. I can’t offer much, but a bottle of Jack will be on its way to Bikernet headquarters if it sells. Can’t wait to see you stomp all over that bastard Zebra’s ass on the way to Sturgis, the “Wild Blue Yonder” is fucking sweet!!!–Aric

HOWDY–I see you got a contest goin’ for a walk-on movie gig? Don’town a camera but pics have been taken of me and my bike. There someplace Ican email them instead of snailmail ?

Send ’em to bandit@bikernet.com.

NAME GAME CONTINUES– here is a name for the scoot I’m going to build:PRIME DIRECTIVE.

You are welcome to name your bike this, I will find anothername.Ride Free and Rasin Pie to Ya–Scooter

As the blue beast goes for a name,howz’ about “BLUES 4 ALLAH”. An old Dead song. Time to ride–doodah

Since this is a speed contestie: who will get there first, you’ve got to have a winning attitude.In order to convince yourself and gloat in Sturgis, how about this,BLEW BY U…. (of course there is a double entendre)–Mike, Iron Butt Dresser, Ontario,Canada

On the naming of the bomb,,,,,”Maximus Blue Sledius”. (vagina targeting homing vehicle).Oh, I got laughed at with my stock pipes, so I’m going to go with them HardKrome Double D’s. I like the sound already!!!haha. Have you ever mounted any of these bad mothers? (dgperf.com)714/630-5471 maybe you should test ’em on Maximus Blue Sledious.

HAWGSKINS–Hey, there’s a new product out there, Hawgskins. The idea is chaps for your scoot. Brendt Baker makes a line of thick black leather covers for the lower legs of your scoot, “I already had all the leather I could wear on my body, so decided to throw some on my Hawg.” That’s his reasoning, but for me I thought I’d see if they didn’t keep the nicks and dings out of my billet sliders.If you’re interested in chrome road grime protection call (505) 627-5888.

DON’T FORGET BEAU’S RIDE FROM NASHVILLE–That’s right. This will be a country star-studded ride from Nashville to Biketoberfest with stops and parties every night along the way. I’ve been invited and hope to rumble with the rest right down to the beach in Daytona. I’ll be signing my new book Sam “Chopper” Orwell. For more informations call Beau, formally the editor of Big Twin magazine, (949) 645-8036.

MAXIM MAGAZINE TIPs OF THE MONTH– Here’s an old army trick to keep you from getting blisters when you’re hiking or walking through downtown Sturgis all day long wearing boots. Take a pair of women’s nylons and put ’em on under your socks. Make sure you put on the knee-highs and not the trouser-size ones, you sissy. Blisters will be a thing of the past–Chris VanSant, Blackwood, NJ.

So the bees are killing your campsite party. Put a few cups full of beer about 30 yards away in strategic locations. Bees are attracted to the sugar. If you’re lucky, they’ll drown themselves in it before you do–Tom Carrey, Morris Plains, NJ.

Caught in a Wyoming thunderstorm? To keep the inside of your tent dry, dig a channel six inches deep and wide all around it. Use the excess dirt to build a channel running downhill, away from your tent. Then jump inside, go to sleep, and dream or hell, don’t dream, drag her inside with you–Jennifer Scott, Broomfield, CO.

THAT’S IT–With less that 24 hours to go and lunch time fast approaching there’s a soft sorta hushed knock on the door. It’s Sin wearing a painted-on bikini and a beach towel wrapped around those heavenly hips. She’s tanned to a rich golden coffee color which makes her look as healthy and fit as a marathon runner, although her sizeable overflowing chest would hinder her ability to compete. Sin hasn’t a competitive bone in her body. She’s tall but seems to walk on air. She comes bearing lunch and cold beers and talk of this girl she met at the beach again, Coral. I listen intently as I reach under the table and stroke her soft thighs gently. Then it hits me that I have a speedometer to install, and the cable I have has the wrong fuckin’ fittings. I yanked her to her feet, “No time to lose, baby. I’ve got to get to the shop down the street for a part.””No problem, honey,” She purrs. “I’ll come back tomorrow.””Tomorrow I’ll be on the road, babe. The shop will be open for few more hours. We’ve got time.”Her suddenly sad eyes brightened like the flood lights on the cranes over the harbor when the sun dips behind the Palos Verdes Pennisula. She pressed her chest against mine. I took a step backwards…To Sturgis or to hell, let’s ride–Bandit.

Hey,I’m innocent, I tell you. Fortunately a reasonable officer let me off that night and I’m back at the keyboard. Two days ago the Blue Flame was loaded into Japanese Jay’s hammered ’78 Ranchero, and we hauled out to smog-ridden, bleak, Azusa, the home of the Monks Motorcycle Club, to the Headquarters of Joker Machine. The toy grounds for the talented Joker crew is just that. A sprawling, pristine machine shop where a talented group of guys, headed by one woman, Diane, cranks out some of the finest controls and accessories on the market. This is top notch stuff, constructed in a “state of the art” facility in one dreary goddamn town. Rick, the designer, helped me install the forward controls and then we peeled down to Grease Lightening, a shop in Azusa, where the owner, Mike, installed the coated, braided steel brake lines. I was itchin’ as he performed the final bleeding operation and I felt the brakes come to life.

We returned to the coast as fast as possible and unloaded the bike in the alley behind Henry’s paint shop. The hot rod enthusiasts who hang around Henry’s came out aghast at the blue beast. The moment it hit the pavement I fired it to life, warmed it slightly and made a couple of trips around the block. On the second trip I rumbled past the Bikernet Shed/World Headquarters and there she was standing on the deck, her small hands/turned to iron fists against her waist. Her green eyes were transformed to hardened Jade stones as she peered at me and my mighty steed. “Whatta ya want to do?” she said with a quiet directness. “I just got out of the bath and I shaved.”I hit the brakes. We better get to the news:

BIKERNET STURGIS 2000 CHOP OFF–10 DAYS AND COUNTING–Agent Zebra’s bike is now in Ft. Lauderdale’s Thunder Cycles for final tweaks. Japanese Jay is out of the running due to an eviction notice. Jesse James sells everything he can build, so he’s stuck with his acid etched rat Ultra, if he plans to ride. Billy Lane from Choppers Inc. will be trucking to the Badlands and I put my first 10 miles on the Blue Flame, Joker Machine, Daytec Rigid yesterday. I discovered a shifting problem which was quickly remedied, but Breeze has me thinking about the BDL set up and I along with Wrench will be looking hard at the primary belt tension and we noticed that the starter gear is hitting the final drive belt at rest. According to Oz, I need to tighten my rear belt adjustment.

If you’re going to Sturgis, watch for representatives of Bikernet, our billboards and grab a ballot to vote on your favorite survivor. It’s a chance to ask us why the fuck we’re doing this or any questions about the bikes. Where will we be? Who the fuck knows? We’ll be lucky if we make it. If you run into one of us ask for a free sticker and we’ll be selling patches of the same masterful Jon Towle design.

DID YOU KNOW– That the average human eats 8 spiders in their lifetime at night. Hell, I have a couple for breakfast everyday just to stay in form.

Rhinoceros horn is made of compacted hair. How the hell does that work?

The Shortest war in history was between Zanzibar and England in 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after 38 minutes.

WEST COAST CHOPPERS UPDATE– Miscommunication is a bitch, which often leads to misunderstandings and bad feelings. We here at Bikernet are in the communication business, yet we stumble from time to time. The bottom line is that we’ve resolved any difference we had with Jesse James and his gang of maniacs at West Coast Choppers.

Jesse picks up some heat around the industry from time to time, but he’s the progressive young gun in this wild business and he’s bound to make a mistake from time to time. Any man would, who it working as hard as Jesse to create and manufacturer new shit constantly.

Watch for the Discovery Channel feature on the Chopper Industry and the young guns pumping there lives into it, such as Jesse.

MIKUNI SHOW COMES TO THE QUEEN MARY– This is a tough one. The Mikuni Show is actually not the Mikuni Show this year, but the White Bros show produced by Jim Gianatis. Jim, the photographer behind the Mikuni Show, produced the show to promote his calendars and Mikuni’s American operation for 10 years. It was highly successful outdoor bike show at the Santa Monica Airport for 8 years. Times change though, and people move on. Jim is trying to find a new sponsor for his Calendars and it might be the White Bros since the show this year at the Queen Mary in Long Beach will be sponsored by White Bros. But Mikuni will be there and my bike will be in their booth for part of the day and the rest of the glistening day on the harbor in the Joker machine booth.

FRIENDLY FIRES COMES TO BIKERNET– Sure, that doesn’t mean a damn thing to you, but it does to the staff of Bikernet. Over the last year we’ve had our ups and downs, our agreements and disagreements, our arguments and disruptions. Well, for the first time in history we’re going to afford the public the inner workings of a company. Yes, we will post the awful, boastful, treacherous, threatening inner memos for you to review. You’ll see what an obnoxious bastard Agent Zebra is and how nasty Jon Towle can really be. When the shit flies you’ll read it. Just don’t blame me.

OUR NEMESIS LIFTS IT’S UGLY HEAD–When folks wonder about the future of choppers, thinking of it as a passing fad, I scoff. It will live as long as the internal combustion engine. Ah, but how long will that last?

Here’s a excerpt from a recent issue of Time Magazine, “Auto and oil companies are gearing up for a battle to squelch California’s electric-vehicles mandate just as new York and Massachusetts prepare to enact equally stringent zero-emission rules. But a dirty little secret may emerge this week when scores of EV drivers converge on a public hearing at the California Air Resources Board–namely, that GM, Ford, Honda, Toyota and other companies have worked to undermine the mandate to build tens of thousands of Battery-run vehicles by 2003.”–Marget Hornblower/Los Angeles.It’s coming, brothers. Hold onto your drag pipes.

STURGIS COLLECTOR TRUCK BANKS– We’ve got it all at Bikernet. All the official Sturgis and Daytona Truck Banks are for sale right here in the gift shop.

MIKE LICHTER MOTORCYCLING PHOTOGRAPHY– Mike is one of the most renowned photographers in our industry. Based in Boulder, Colorado, Mike has shot features for thousands of magazine distribute world wide. Soon you will be able to buy prints of his work on Bikernet, but in the meantime enjoy the best motorcycle photography on the web at www.lichterphoto.com.

WE HARDLY CONDONE THE USE OF VULGAR LANGUAGE HERE AT BIKERNET, BUT ONCE IN A WHILE– “What the fuck was that?”–Mayor of Hiroshima

“Where did all these fucking Indians come from?”–General Custer

“Any fucking idiot could understand that.”–Albert Einstein

“It does so fucking look like her!”–Pablo Picasso

“How the fuck did you work that out?”–Pythagoras

“You want WHAT on the fucking ceiling?”–Michaelangelo

“I don’t suppose its gonna fucking rain?”–Joan of Arc

“Scattered fucking showers…my ass.”–Noah

“I need this parade like I need a fucking hole in my head.”–John F. Kennedy

“Who the fuck is going to know? “–Bill Clinton

EXCELSIOR-HENDERSON’S FLAWLESS HOMECOMING 2000 RALLY– The license plates told the story. California, Virginia, Texas, New Mexico, Georgia, Pennsylvania, 22 states in all. Some 135 Super X riders rode their bikes from all over this great land to be a part of the first annual X-Ride and homecoming 2000. Dozens more rode whatever brand they could just to be a part of the historic event. All told, more than 200 Super X fans participated in the grassroots rally, developed entirely by the Pioneer Chapter of the Excelsior-Henderson Riders Club, held in Belle Plaine, MN July 5-9, 2000.

The five-day event began Wednesday evening, July 5 with a welcome party at North Star Power Sports in Albert Lea, MN. Friday held a series of events that included group rides to various scenic and historic locales, factory tours and presentations on the history of the Excelsior-Henderson brand. Saturday was packed with action. Excelsior-Henderson owners could participate in a variety of activities including the national riders club organizational meeting, the Super X tech-talk, bike show and rodeo, factory tours and history presentations. Also they had the opportunity to ride five miles to the childhood farm of co-founders Dave and Dan Hanlon. There the event took on the true grass-roots feeling as X-riders gathered in a large meadow next to the farm’s old machine shed. Fenced in by enormous old oaks and pines, and many miles of dense green corn, the riders enjoyed the barrel-grilled chicken with all the fixin’s and the live band staged on the old hay wagon.

According to American Motorcycle Dealer Magazine Excelsior-Henderson have agreed to a re-structuring plan that should enable the Minnesota based heavyweight cruiser manufacturer to re-enter production later this year. I will be interviewing Dave Hanlon about the future goals of E-H in Sturgis in a couple of weeks for Hot Rod Bikes.

BATTISTINIS ARE BACK– According to American Motorcycle Dealer Magazine, following the closure last year of their Bournemouth, England based distribution business, Battistinis Custom Cycles are back in business, this time with focus on custom design, bike building and their own brand product lines. Escaping to Glasgow, Scotland, Rikki Battistini has re-started the custom bike building business that helped make his name.

Rikki and his gang of renegades are building 20 ground-up hallmark Battistinis customs, but most activity is revolving around a custom conversion service, including a workshop that will take a stock bike and make in into something that will terrify all your neighbors and cause you to lose your job. It’s so damn cold in Glasgow that all these maniacs do is work on bikes. If fact, they don’t care if they ever get outta debt, they just want to wrench to stay warm. Check their new line of products on battistini.com.

SHIT, MAY BE THE MOST POWERFUL WORD IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE–You can be shit faced,

shit out of luck,

or have shit for brains.

With a little effort, you can get your shit together, find a placefor your shit or decide to shit or get off
the pot.

You can smoke shit,

buy shit,

sell shit,

lose shit,

find shit,

forget shit,

and tell others to eat shit and die.

Some people know their shit while others

can’t tell the difference between shit and shineola.Thereare lucky shits,

dumb shits,

crazy shits,

and sweet shits.

There is bullshit,

horse shit and

chicken shit. You canthrow shit,

sling shit,

catch shit,

or duck when shit hits the fan.

You can give a shit or serve shit on a shingle.

You can find yourself in deep shit or be happier than a pig inshit.

Some days are colder than shit,

some days are hotter than shit,

and some days are just plain shitty.

Some music sounds like shit,

things can look like shit,

and there are times when you feel like shit.

You can have too much shit,

not enough shit,

the right shit,

the wrong shit or

a lot of weird shit. You cancarry shit, have a mountain of shit,

or

find yourself up shit creek without a paddle.

Sometimes everything you touch turns to shit

and other times you swim in a lake of shit and

come out smelling like a rose.

When you stop to consider all the facts,

it’s the basic building block of creation.

And remember, once you know your shit,

you don’t need to know anything else!

You could pass this along if you give a shit.

SAM ORWELL AVAILABLE IN AUGUST–That’s right. My third book Sam “CHOPPER” Orwell will be available in August if I have to rob a bank to do it. It was recently proof read by the dark haired beauty and Train a rider/English expert from Salt Lake who lifts weights like a madman and will meet up with us in Sturgis. With the details polished, the book is off to the printer. If you want one of the first copies send $14 plus $3.00 postage and handling to P.O. Box 1168 San Pedro, CA 90733–1168 or order through Bandit’s Gift Shop. This is the best book of the series, at least she said that just before we made love the other night.

STURGIS NEWS–Hi! Glad to hear the bike is getting closer to being finished. Don’t think I’d stay at the Spearfish, though. From all the stories I hear about price gouging at Sturgis, ANY hotel will be way beyond my budget, which at best can be described as shoestring. If it’s in town that would be good, I could walk to most of the events since as I told you I don’t have a bike or an endorsement for one. I figured I’d try to get a little campsite at Hog Heaven Campground. The price seems reasonable and a mile is better to walk than three like the Buffalo Chip. Think if I tried to hitch a ride back and forth everyday, that anybody would pick up a poser?

I read the article in Easyriders about that asshole Allen from Champion Sports and why they want to charge a 15% licensing fee at the Sturgis Rally. That guy is so full of shit! “A burden on the community”!? Right! For one week a year, for all the money the rally brings in, they can put up with the burden! And they want to trademark Sturgis, the Black Hills and other shit! Come on! If it weren’t for the bikers who started it all, Sturgis would be just another small town in the midwest nobody goes to! Some folks greed has gotten way out of hand, especially the corporate jerks like Allen who probably can’t tell the difference between a Panhead and an Evo! Shut the rally down? Yeah, right. Watch as the bikers go somewhere else next year with all their money and shut down the local economy! Plenty of other towns benefit from the rally and they wouldn’t be too happy if folks went else where, unless of course the rally moved to their town! Mr. Allen, and others, should be tied to a pole and bitch slapped by everyone as they ride home after the rally. –Sun Hi! It’s official. I’M GOING! Sturgis! Sturgis! Though one thing upsets. me. I took a look at the Hog Heaven website today and the damn price went up! It was about 78.50 plus tax last week when I looked which seemed pretty good. Didn’t make a reservation because I wasn’t sure yet I could go. And today I looked and it was 94.50 plus tax! What the hell happened? Can anyone say GREED!? Keep trying to make a reservation by e-mail but the damn thing won’t go through. Must be jammed by who knows how many other people so I can’t get in. Hope I don’t have to look when I get there. What ever, I’ll see you at the Full Throttle, and the beers are on me! –Sun

KING RULES OKLAHOMA CITY HALF MILE– The professional sport of motorcycle dirt-trackracing had been on cruise control for a number of years. Sure, the racingvenues would change every now and then, but, like life in a small town,things pretty much remained the same. Until this year.

The year 2000 seems to have had more of an affect on dirt-track racing thenit did on the computer world. Scott Parker, the sport’s greatest champion,fan favorite, and all-around nice guy, has retired. The AMA Grand NationalChampionship Series is now known as the AMA Progressive Insurance U.S. FlatTack Championships. And a new racing series-the Formula USA/Wrenchead.comNational Dirt Track Series-is underway.

So far Team Harley’s Rich King has found the new series to his liking. Kinghas won two of the three races run in the Formula USA series. His latestvictory came Saturday night on the half mile at Oklahoma State Fair Speedwayin Oklahoma City. King led all 25 laps, but the race was anything but easy. Chris Carrchallenged King early but King held him off-for the time being. Carr, a pitbull of a racer who is relentless in his pursuit of victory, came after Kingonce again in the middle of the race. But in his attempt to pass, Carrcrashed off the track and King remained out front. With King closing in on the victory, Jay Springsteen made a seriouslate-race charge, but King prevailed at the finish line. Springsteen wassecond, and Joe Kopp was third. Springsteen, by the way, has the early leadin the points standings in the 10-race series.

The success King has had in the Formula USA series has not transferred tothe AMA’s U.S. Flat Track series, however. After 8 of 19 scheduled events,King is in ninth place with 54 points. Chris Carr leads the series with 103points. Nonetheless, Carr should watch his back because King is poised for amidseason charge.The next scheduled dirt-track race, an AMA event, is July 22 at Lowe’s MotorSpeedway in Charlotte, N.C.

THE NAME GAME–A contest was contrived to come up with a name for the Bikernet West Sturgis 2000 contestant. Here’s another batch of entrants:

Hey Bandit, How about this for a name for your blue bomb.Blue Bayou. Get it, Blew – By – You. Or, Bad News travels fast.Hideous freak of nature. Good Boy Gone Bad. Mean Spirited. Wayward Son.Bad Attitude. Once I Rose Above The Noise And Confusion. Night Moves.These are also ideas I’m considering for T-shirts. Anyway, I’ll see youin Denver in a couple of weeks. I’ll have my new chopper ready.C-YA, Rick (Dallas Easyriders).

If Jack, weapons and contrabandare your forte, then name it Smuggler’s Blues. I’m sureGlenn Frey would approve.–Don Curran

Hey Bandit, How’s about ” Badlands Blue” or ”Malibu Blue” or ” Blue Threat”or the ” Blue Bandit” or the ever popular ” Big Bad agent Zebra AssKicking Blue Flamed Bitch From Hell”. How about ” West Coast Flame” or”Rigid Blue”. That’s all I could think of.– A loyal reader from South Dakota, Jeff Torevell.

I suggested the name Dream Wave. Ride ’em if you got ’em. –Parts

Hmmm?Your millenium chopper – Nice paint work. Very tasty.As for a name for the scoot “BLUE BALLS” ought to do.What do ya think?See ya in the Black Hills–Anson

Ciuatl, Zapata, the greatest of all bandit’s horses might be an appropriate name for your new bike. Freddie Fug is a third generation motorcycle rider. Enthusiasm for riding runs strong and deep in the Fug family. Freddie’s grandpa was buried on his 1934 Indian Chief, it seemed a shameful waste of a great machine and significantly complicated the funeral arrangements, but that’s what grandpa wanted and the family respected his final request. Freddie’s dad is in his mid seventies and still rides whenever he can get someone to kick start his 1950 Panhead and ride bitch acting as sort of a seeing eye dog, Freddie’s dad’s eyesight ain’t what it used to be. Freddie tried many bikes before he finally settled on his 1988 FXRS, far as he’s concerned there ain’t been and never will be a bike as fine.

The other Fug family tradition was being medical doctors, grandpa, who was known as Doc, had his training paid for in part by the US Army after WorldWar I and started this tradition as well. Doc set up his practice in the little Southern Maryland town of St. Mary’s and other than the time he served his country during WWII pretty much spent his entire life there. Primarily a farming community, Doc didn’t have a lucrative practice and often times was paid in produce or fodder. He made house calls on his Indian and unlike many in his field much preferred treating his patients at their homes, partly just an excuse to ride but also a way of adding a more human element to his work. Doc was loved and respected by all who knew him and even though many of the farm folks thought a motorcycle riding Doctor was a little strange they also realized they were very fortunate that he had settled in their community.

Doc couldn’t afford to send his son Carl to college, so it was the U.S. AirForce that provided his education. After serving in and being trained by the Air Force Carl started his practice in the town of Salisbury,on the eastern shore of Maryland. Carl followed in his father’s footsteps, practicing medicine in a small rural community, making house calls on his motorcycle. By the time Freddie came along the roads in the area had been much improved and visits to grandpa and visa versa were made on a motorcycle with a sidecar. As time went on, most family vacations and outings were motorcycle trips, it was a wonderful life. Freddie’s lot was a bit tougher. As an Air Calvary medic in the war in Southeast Asia he experienced horrors beyond imagination. Returning home his service to his country earned him little but resentment from his peers. Freddie did complete his education and became a doctor like his father and grand father had, but it was a hollow accomplishment, he was haunted by the memories of war and confused by others anger over the war.

He choose to work In ER at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, patching up the causalities of urban warfare kept him distracted, he wasn’t ready to settle down into a small rural practice. He rode and felt alive, but either end of the ride brought him back to numbness. Freddie would ride down Richie Highway, over the Chesapeake bay bridge and across the flat eastern shore farmland leading to Salisbury. The ride was freedom, when he arrived at his parents house he didn’t know what to say, wasn’t interested in what they had to say and could only think of getting back to Baltimore. The return to his apartment and job was the same, he felt nothing but was anxious about something he could not define. His other favorite ride was south, through Annapolis and into the wooded country roads of southern Maryland. He would ride through Calvert and St. Mary’s counties ending up at Look Out Point where his grandfather often took him as a child. Sitting in that pristine setting he would try to feel something, anything but could not and so rode back to the life that was missing something essential.

Freddie’s life was changed radically and forever one Spring afternoon. He had ridden the three hours from Baltimore to Salisbury and upon walking in the front door of his parents house, his father greeted him, in a serious tone, with “let’s ride”. Carl, with his medical bag strapped onto the fender of his Panhead, roared off down the road with Freddie in desperate pursuit. They rode through town, past the college and off into the farmland. Leaving the main road they took side road after side road until finally they reached a small river. A small barge on the other side of this river moved slowly across to them. Carl pulled onto the barge and gave the old man, who captained this vessel, a dollar, which he reluctantly accepted. Freddie followed, the two were ferried across the water and proceeded as before on the other side. The journey ended at a small cluster of shacks located in the center of corn fields and small vegetable gardens. Carl parked his bike, grabbed his bag and walked into one of the smaller dwellings, Freddie followed. Inside Freddie was immediately overwhelmed with flashbacks from things he had seen in hooches in Southeast Asia. Once the horror subsided he saw his father kneeling next to an emaciated old woman who had the most beautiful smile and sparkling eyes Freddie had ever seen. He watched his father talk in soft tones to this frail lady and could see a bond he never imagined. After some time Carl softly held the old woman’s hand smiled and they said their good byes. Outside, as they were getting back on their bikes Freddie asked his father about what had just transpired. Carl explained that the lady they had just visited was not long for this world and he wanted to see her again before she “crossed the bar”. “Her name is Lily and she worked as a cook in the White House for five American presidents. She could have used her references to run the kitchens of any restaurant in the world, she choose to return to the life and the people who meant most to her, I respect her for that choice above most people I know of.” As Carl applied his weight to the kick starter on the Panhead he looked Freddie straight in the eye and said, “you must make your choice and I pray that it is to ride and help the people who choose life over headlines.”

Freddie has a small practice in Huntingtown, Maryland, he has found himself in his patients that can’t afford medical bills and on the road that leads to happiness rather than glory. –Carlos

Can’t find my dictionary anywhere in this hovel.But isn’t “AZURE” another word for blue?Sound very feminine and sexy.–Anson

I did have one other sinceyou had so much trouble with it. BlueNightmare!!!!!!!!!–Traceman

What in Blue Blazes is the matter with you? Too much JackDaniels, can’t get your head out of her thighs orboth?!?!

That bike screams Blue Blaze. But, if you want to call it a Bomb, then you deserve to let Zebra smoke your sorryass to Sturgis. Now, what’s my prize for picking thewinning name? I don’t want one of those pleather fanny packs,and I don’t need a briefcase, that would mean I would have tocarry stuff like work around in it. How about one hour withyou, in your shack-o-shame. You handcuffed to BlueBlaze. Me witha leather whip? I promise I’ll begentle. Sin Wu has to be there too. We could both kissyour boo boos and rub ointment on you when I’m finished. Thinkabout it, could be fun.–Coral

Hey Bandit, I was thinkin’ (yeah I know) if this things goin’ to be ridden hard and fast as I expect it will, how ’bout callin’ it The Blue Mule. OK so I liberated the name from an old trucker movie from ’70’s, cut me some slack. Ride free. –Chris.

RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM CHOP SHOP-Bikers, Babes, Tattoos-Wednesdays– HEY BABY, WANNA RIDE? STRAP YOURSELF ON TO RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM CHOP SHOPCHOP SHOP, WEDNESDAYS 8PM ET USLIVE WWW.RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM, WOODSTOCK TV CHANNEL

So you’re surfing the net and seeing all kinds of stuff and whamRadioWoodstock.com’s got a screenful of biker babes and a roomful ofscreaming custom bikes. Oouuch. Too hot. It’s English Don’s “Chop Shop.”Smoke your tires, and head on over. Its www.radiowoodstock.com

SIN WU–Mr. Five Ball,Bearings are all sealed! I did put a light coat of greaseon the starter jackshaft (which they also don’t sayanything about). That’s easy though, just two sockethead bolts on the jackshaft cover. I pop it off andthrow a little more grease at it every now and then.

Blue Blaze is a good name. Even though I picked BlewButte as my entry, Azure Fadin? just sticks with me. Sounds like a race horse or something. Azure is ashade of blue about like your new steed by the way.

Man, that first ride is the coolest fucking thing isn’t it!Let me know how she feels!

NO, not Sin Wu, the bike you dumb ass! Of course you can tell me about Sin Wu too! One of my girlfriends calls her pussy “WU”. Sin Pussy…… oh my god!!!! Do you share!–FTW,Stroker

HARLEY-DAVIDSON VR PILOT PICOTTE PLACES TOP TEN AGAIN–Picotte Races to Two Top-Ten Finishes at Mid-Ohio; Russell 11th in SecondRace

Harley-Davidson VR 1000 racer PascalPicotte, continued his consistent performance in the AMA Superbike Serieswith two top-ten finishes at Mid-Ohio in Lexington, Ohio. Picotte finishedwith two ninth-place finishes during the doubleheader weekend. He sits ineighth position overall in the AMA Superbike Championship series, just onepoint out of seventh, with five points separating the seventh through 10thplace riders.”Of course we’re happy with two top tens,” said Picotte, “but we hadmuch higher expectations heading into the weekend.”

During Friday’s provisional qualifying round, both Picotte and teammateScott Russell put their VR 1000s on the front row, posting the third- andfourth-fastest qualifying times respectively in wet-to-drying trackconditions. However, after dry conditions returned during Saturday’s finalqualifying session, both riders lost their provisional starting positions. “The wet conditions actually hurt us, despite our strong qualifyingperformance on Friday, especially since we didn’t get the wet race we werehoping for,” said Steve Scheibe, Harley-Davidson VR 1000 team manager.”Mid-Ohio has a rough surface, and with the rain, we didn’t have enough timeto get things sorted out. We also recognize we’re still short on power. Butwe’re happy we’ve been more consistent.”

Picotte and his VR 1000 have indeed been very consistent, finishingevery race this year on the AMA Superbike circuit. “My crew has done agreat job of getting the VR 1000 ready to perform week in and week out,”said Picotte. “The VR has proven durable, and it’s just a matter of timebefore we’re back up on the podium.”

HEY OZ–The florida helmet thing was resolved because of me, not you or your law-fighting team. It was me and all me. I drew some nasty pictures of the Gov.. some time back and he almost sued ER over it. I had him running with fear that I would draw him again…That, is why the helmet law is gone, not from you and your boys. By the way, I invented air! –Jon Towle

HOLLISTER FOREVER–Have you checked out the new HOLLISTER FOREVER ? We got the first flixs on line by 1a.m. Sat. July 2nd. Over 50,000 bikes. Burnouts in a class restaurants; even the non-smokers had to go outside to drink. The powers-that-be shutdown our only big campsite, but it still didn’t stop the real party. The Boozefighters held their campout in the backyard of the house that was owned by the Hollister Chief of Police in 1947. Your pals can read/add comments on the “Clubhouse” wall. Y’all keep the rubberside down–Ride On! Wino Joe,USA

DA PLEDGE–When you are sad…..I will get you drunk and help you plot revenge against the scum sucking bastard who made you sad. When you are scared ………..I will laugh at you and tease you about it, every chance I get. When you are worried ………..I will tell you how much worse it could be and to quit yer whining . When you are confused I will use little tiny words to explain it to yer dumb ass. When you are sick ………..I will hold your hair so you don’t drown while you pay homage to the porcelain god. When you fall…….I will point and laugh at your clumsy dumb ass. This is my oath…….. I pledge till the end. Why you ask ……….Because your my brother. –Mobile 2000

A LITTLE INSIGHT ON US, GUYS–Behind every great man is a great woman …and behind every great woman is some guy staring at her ass!

Men have two emotions: Hungry and Horny. If you see him without a boner, make him a sandwich.

Did you hear that Viagra now comes in a nasal spray? It’s for dickheads!

Why do men always pay more for car insurance? Women don’t get blow jobs while they’re behind the wheel.

MC CLURE RUNS PERSONAL BEST, 6.492, QUALIFIES #1– Jim McClure, Williamsburg, Va. is getting it together. “The bike is running great.” McClure ran his personal best at the Car Quest Empire Nationals IHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley competition in Leicester, NY.

McClure’s first pass was nothing to write home about, but round 2McClure ran a 6.588 and his last qualifying pass was good enough to take the #1 Qualifier money from Red Line Synthetic Oil with a personal best at 6.492 ET.

In round one of elimination’s, McClure took out Jack Romine riding the Windy City Nitro entry from Chicago, Il.Despite running very consistently, McClure fell in the semi’s to reigning point’s leader, Jay Turner, Team Bulldog, Richmond, Va. in one of the closest passes of the day. Turner edged McClure on the lights with a .425 over McClure’s .469. Great race, just not Jim’s win today.

July 22-23 ADBA Atlanta, Ga.

July 28 Apehangers Bar & Grill 5:30-8:30 Budds Creek, Md.

July 29-30 AHDRA Budds Creek, Md.

McClure is supported on his national tour by Rivera Engineering, Primo Products, Red Line Synthetic Oil, ACCEL, Hampton Roads H-D, Southside HD, F & S H-D, S & S Cycle, Inc, Performance Machine, Axtell, Autolite & Vanson Leathers– www.jimmcclureracing.com

A FIRST! SMART BLONDE JOKE– A Blonde walks into a bank in New York City and asks for the loan officer. She says she’s going to Europe on business for two weeks and needs to borrow $5,000. The bank officer says the bank will need some kind of security for such a loan, so the Blonde hands over the keys to a new Rolls Royce parked on the street in front of the bank. Everything checks out, and the bank agrees to accept the car as collateral for the loan.

An employee drives the Rolls into the bank’s underground garage and parks it there. Two weeks later, the Blonde returns, repays the $5,000 and the interest, which comes to $15.41.

The loan officer says, “We are very happy to have had your business, and this transaction has worked out very nicely, but we are a little puzzled. While you were away, we checked you out and found that you are a multimillionaire. What puzzles us is why would bother to borrow $5,000?”

The Blonde replied, “Where else in New York City can I park my car for two weeks for 15 bucks?” –Modest Mike

NEW FIRE PROTECTION SUITS FOR RIDERS AND DRIVERS– Had a most interesting presentation at the USFRA meeting last nightfrom Bill Hanyon of Chapman Thermal Products on the latest fireprotection fiber for driving suits.

I have an extensive background in textiles and clothing so I feel Iam qualified to give the review. CarbonX from Chapman Thermal Products has properties that seemimpossible but it really works. A direct two thousand six hundred degree flamecharred Nomex after twelve seconds but didn’t even affect the hand under theCarbonX until after a minute. Heat transfers through the first layer offabric after that minute … that would give a very long protection time for aracer wearing a best rated, multi layer, quilted construction suit. Thedamage to a persons lungs from the flames and heat could potentially be fargreater than portions of the body exposed to the direct flames but protectedby the CarbonX suit. The fabric is made in black only. It retains all ofit’s heat protection characteristics after washing or dry-cleaning. Itis available in twill, plain weave and knit fabric construction. Thatmeans it could be used for underwear (with excellent moisture wickingproperties) for a balaclava and gloves, for a full ( breathable) driving suitincluding cuffs and neck closure, and even for areas that usually get highabrasion. They even use it in helmets and shoes. > Check CarbonX out at the Chapman web sitewww.chapmanthermalproducts.com … information that could save you lots of grief.– Wes Potter Secretary, USFRA

READER ASKED WHETHER HE SHOULD REPLACE HIS BATTERY YEARLY–They are much improved. I have a three or four-year-old gel battery in my touring chopper. The regulator shorted out, the alternator quit. I had to charge it from dead several times, it sets for months at a time without action and starts right up.I’ve heard good things about the batteries that H-D sells. I think you can be confident that it will last at least two years. Once in a while make sure it’s getting a charge from the regulator and make sure the leads are clean and you should be fine. Do that every six months and you shouldn’t have any problem.Plus Battery Tenders are wonderful way to keep you battery in top shape.–Wrench

ER READER UPSET–What has happened to you guys? You used to be a good magazine but lately it seems to me you all have become one slick, large magazine with lots of ads. Bandit you used to sign your column as Bandit now lately you’ve been closing it as K. Randall Ball. Hell I named my dog after you but now am thinking I made a mistake in doing that. What gives with changing the title to Spider’s column. Hell it was bad enough that you got rid of Mutha but at least your mag was good. Now I feel that you all have become a bunch of RUB’s, well at least there’s still your magazine Biker and Outlaw Biker for my reading pleasure as I’m going to quit reading Easyriders which is too bad because that is the first magazine I started reading. –David (Snake)Ross

David, I’m innocent. I don’t work there anymore–Bandit

VANCIL MAKES RUNNER UP–Doug Vancil, Albuquerque, NM is back on track at Car Quest Empire National’s IHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley Series. After “nothing went right” at Cordova, Il. Vancil qualified #7 at Leicester, NY with a 6.746 ET at 203.29 mph.

Vancil took the win in round one over Steve Stordeur, hired gun for Mancuso Harley-Davidson, Houston, Tx. with a 0.495, 6.722 ET at 207.27 mph winning for the Vance & Hines/Drag Specialties bike.

Vancil advanced to the final by defeating Mike Romine, Chromatic Racing, Cleveland, Oh. Winning with a 0.552 6.626 ET at 203.34 mph, Vancil earned lane choice over Jay Turner for the final

But read ’em and weep, Turner 0.434, 6.637 ET at 209.01 mphVancil 0.497, 6.596 ET at 207.08, the final was the best side by side of the meet, Turner took the light and at the big end, Vancil was runner up this week.

**August 4-6 IHRA Stanton, MI

August 7-11 ADBA Sturgis, SD

August 22-26 IHRA Norwalk, OH

The Vancil’s are proudly supported by Vance & Hines, Drag Specialties, Performance Machine, K & N, PJ 1, B & J Transmission, & Axtell.

EDDIE TROTTA’S BREAK-IN RULE–With a bunch of us gathering parts for the ride to Sturgis, I thought Eddie’s Break-in Rule was appropriate. Eddie own Thunder Designs in Ft. Lauderdale Florida. Here goes: Of course reach a serious level of completeness before you venture onto the highway. Make sure you safety check the controls, clutch, brakes and throttles. Run the bike at a fast idle until warm several times. Then, and only after you’ve made the necessary tweaks, take it for a one-mile ride. Bring it back and tweak it somemore. Take it for a 8-mile putt and tweak it again. Now, you’re ready for 50 miles and back for more tweaking, then 200 and you’re golden.

Eddies philosophy is to catch problems before you get out on the road for the long hauls. He wants to correct a component before it’s beat on for 50 miles. Of course, change the oil after 50 and 500 miles. With each interval tighten fasteners. If you follow this rule, when you set out for Sturgis, the bike will be a solid runner for the entire trip.

MOTOR MAGAZINE EDITOR DIES– Dennis Stemp, founder and editor of IronWorks magazine,died early Friday morning, July 7, in Morganton, North Carolina. Stemp, 49,had undergone major surgery for esophageal cancer in January of 1999, butsuffered a relapse earlier this spring that proved fatal.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and his two children, Vincent, 11, andsix-year-old Kenzi Marie.

Ms. Stemp will continue as managing editor of IronWorks, while sport editorDain Gingerelli has assumed the role of editor. Unfinished build projectsare scheduled for completion by various industry veterans.

Stemp began his publishing career by launching Iron Trader News inPittsburgh, PA, which in 1990 evolved into IronWorks and is currently ownedby Hatton-Brown Publishing.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the GraceEpiscopal Church Endowment, an ongoing effort benefiting the preservationof the 153-year-old stone and wood structure. Donations may be sent to:Grace Church Endowment, 303 S. King St., Morganton, NC, 28655.

RAY PRICE MUSEUM UPDATE–With construction delays, general chaos and race season in full swing, Ray Price has set the date for the Grand Opening Ray Price Harley- Davidson.The entire week of Sept. 15-24th will include exhibitions, demonstrations, and activitiesDedication of Ray Price’s Legends of Harley Drag Racing will be Sept. 24,2 pm (rain date-Sept. 25th)1126 S Saunders St. Raleigh, NC.

We still could use some black and white photo’s from late sixties and 70’s, if you want to mail them, please send them to

Mary Lou Brewton

Rt. 2, Box 80

Hardeeville, SC 29927

TRUTH–SOMETIMES STRANGER THAT FICTION–A man comes into the ER and yells “My wife’s going to have her baby inthe cab!” I grabbed my stuff, rushed out to the cab, lifted the lady’s dress, and began to take off her underwear. Suddenly I noticed that there are several cabs, and I was in the wrong one.

At the beginning of my shift I placed a stethoscope on an elderly and slightly deaf female patient’s anterior chest wall. “Big breaths,” I instructed. “Yes, they used to be,” remorsed the patient.

One day I had to be the bearer of bad news when I told a wife that her husband had died of a massive myocardial infarct. Not more that five minutes later, I heard her reporting to the rest of the family that he had died of a “massive internal fart.”

HARLEY-DAVIDSON VR TEAMLEAVES LAGUNA WITH FOCUS ON MID-OHIO–In a short weekend at Laguna Seca, the Harley-DavidsonVR 1000 Superbike Race Team faced an uphill climb, while the entire paddockmourned theloss of a fellow competitor. Jamie Bowman, of the Hooters Suzuki Team, wasmortally injured when he crashed in AMA Superbike practice on Friday. TheVR 1000 team tried to sort out suspension problems during a shorter thannormal practice and qualifying schedule due to the combined AMA and WorldSuperbike races.”We had some new suspension components that took us off track; and becauseof the short weekend, we weren’t able to take advantage of thoseopportunities before qualifying or race time,” said team manager SteveScheibe. “On a normal weekend, those concerns would have been taken care ofin time.”

Scott Russell, who qualified 14th and finished 11th, ran his best lap timesof the weekend during a race-long battle with competition accessories Ducatirider Larry Pegram for 10th. Pascal Picotte also ran his fastest timesduring the race. Picotte, who qualified 15th, ran as high as 9th before thebolt thatheld his toe shifter in place sheared off. Picotte reached down and shiftedthe bike into 2nd by hand, then soldiered on to a 12th place finish.Picotte sits 9th in AMA Superbike points and has finished every race thisseason.

The VR team heads to a double-header race at Mid-Ohio this weekend, a trackwhere both Picotte and the VR have posted strong results in the past.”I’m really looking forward to two chances at Mid-Ohio,” said Picotte.

GUN RIGHTS ALERT– Sorry to flock shoot this way but…. Senate Bill (SB) 2099 isthreatening additional gun rights and ownership. This bill will allowthe IRS to require all gun owners to pay a $50 per gun owned on your IRS1040 form beginning tax year 2000. Please contact your states U.S.Senator to voice your concerns about this bill. To it today! Count yourfire arms and multiply times $50! Scary isn’t it? Each and every year.

Do not presume that I have sent this to everyone you and I know. Presumethat your the only other one who knows and send it to all your friends.–Thanks, Roger’

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP PART II–A couple of weeks ago I ran a piece on all the bad shit sports figures get into to and the impact on society. This articulate article was written by Land Speed Louise, who is very involved in Bonneville racing. Here is the conclusion to that feature: Things had just about got to the point where I thought allprofessional sports was a load of hooey. Then I met a few land speedracers. Attended time trials at El Mirage and Muroc and met a fewmore. Watched some fine driving, enjoyed some outstanding hospitalityand reveled in the inter-team congeniality. By the time the BonnevilleSpeedweek rolled around, I had hardly noticed that I had become a fanand had found a whole new set of heroes and heroines.

It is marvelous how husbands and wives, sons and daughters, mothersand fathers, uncles and aunts, grandmothers and grandfathers, allcombine to wage war against a timepiece. The whole affair unfolds onone of planet earth’s most majestic natural wonder, a fragile,crystalline surface that has astounding resilient tenacity when itcomes to supporting high-speed time trials.

Land speed racers call themselves amateurs. Ha! Sure. Tell me anotherone. These people are as good as it gets when it comes to exhibitingprofessional competitive deportment. By nothing more than theiractions and genuine humility for a homespun sport, they embody thebest of what the American Spirit ought to represent. Aaron Copeland’s”Fanfare for the Common Man” plays in my head when I think of them. Ifthis is amateur, America needs more of this and the “professional”would do well to be more like the land speed racer.

Nothing made this clearer to me than at the 200MPH banquet, an annualparty where members who have exceeded the namesake speed, gather torecongratulate themselves, induct new members and pay tribute to thegreatest among in the sport.

Started in 1952, with a half-dozen inductees, the membership has grownto over 350, including five women. Once you are in, you are in forlife. To qualify you must set, or establish a new land speed recordabove 200mph. Many people think land speed racing is easy, that notmuch effort is required to nail 200 in a straight line. These peopleare usually the first to lick the hind quarters of defeat.

To celebrate the present and past achievement, the annual banquettakes place during Speedweek in August. Once held in a small room, theparty has expanded to include the entire ballroom where the fastestfolks on earth gather to visit with each other. During the formalportion of the evening, rounds of polite applause sound as the rosteris read.

This where I discovered a new hero. When Al Teague’s name (He is theworld record holder at 409mph, the fastest time for a wheel-drivenautomobile) was mentioned the room was electrified. At that moment,everyone began clapping, beers were abandoned and the entire room ofsome 300 people rose to their feet.

As for the man at whom the honor was directed, geez, he was in anawful state. It was obvious he appreciated the recognition, but he wasobviously uncomfortable being in the limelight. Here was guy who theentire room admired and I resolved to learn why. What I discoveredafter talking to umpteen people was he was the hero of the salt, justa regular who had a dream that he built in his mother’s one-car garageand tinkered with until he got just right. In two years, I have yet tofind anyone who had anything bad to say about the guy.Here, at long last, after a long, weary search, was a true-blueAmerican Hero. People admired him, racers tried to emulate him andfans were in awe of him every time he fired up his midnight bluestreamliner and roared off down the nine-mile course in search ofanother piece of history. As humble as he is fast, this country coulduse a few dozen more like Teague. Oh, and by the way, he doesn’t beathis cheery wife Jane, smoke dope or speed on the street. Maybe that’swhy he isn’t a household name. You think?

PRICELESS CLASSIFIEDS– 1 MAN, 7 WOMAN HOT TUB — $850/offer

AMANA WASHER $100. OWNED BY CLEAN BACHELOR WHO SELDOM WASHED.

SNOW BLOWER FOR SALE… ONLY USED ON SNOWY DAYS.

TICKLE ME ELMO, STILL IN BOX, COMES WITH ITS OWN 1988 MUSTANG, 5L, AUTO, EXCELLENT CONDITION $6800

COWS, CALVES NEVER BRED… ALSO 1 GAY BULL FOR SALE.

FULL SIZED MATTRESS. 20 YR. WARRANTY. LIKE NEW. SLIGHT URINE SMELL.

BACK TO THE GARAGE–I’ve got to get back in the shed and continue my Eddie Trotta Tweaking Process. As the sun beats through the smoldering tar paper garage roof steam rises off the lift and tension is boiling in the drawers of the tool box. Two months have passed and two motorcycles have been constructed and sent forth to pass the ultimate test to find their homes in the Badlands.

Sin Wu, I call her Sin because of her unsatiatable nature. Her name is actually Cindy, and her legs… Well, she wanders past the shed daily for the beach at the Cabrillo Cove. Last week when she knew I was too busy to spend lunch with her, she showed up with a friend, Coral. Coral sniffed around this place like a lioness checkin’ her territory. Coral has blue eyes like the sea, with golden blond hair that bounces against her shoulders. She’s is voluptuous, like a volcano is hot, yet only slightly over 5 feet tall. Where Sin is quiet and reserved, Coral is bubbly, almost giddy and I could hear her giggling in the headquarters while we wrenched. Wrench and Nuutboy said in unison that hot steamy day, “Don’t you think you better check on them?”I looked at the clock then at the project I was wrenching and said, “They’re just warming up.” I was kidding, but they weren’t. Only 10 days to go, till we ride. –Bandit

Hey, I’m telling you I was innocent. Phil Ross of Supermax belt drives was with me, he can tell you, and the dark haired beauty, well she was there, too. I’ve been working like a mad dog on the Blue Bomb for Sturgis everyday, anxiously waiting for the UPS man to arrive with more parts. With the assistance of Giggie from Compu-fire the bike is tuned and ready for a carburetor. In fact the bike was delivered today to Mikuni for the installation of a polished 42 mm Mikuni carb with a custom K&N filter. I had planned to run a ‘lil John Buttera velocity stack, but the men at Mikuni snarled at the suggestion, consequently I reversed my decision.

It was nearly midnight in the city, sure the gangsters in my lowered vehicle looked a little rough and the girls under age. I realized that my lights weren’t on, as a cabby screamed at me, honking and flashing his high beams. There was also a strange looking oriental in the back smoking an odd cigarette that filled the dark, primered car with pungent smoke that crept out of a crack in a rear window where a bullet from Agent Zebra had… well that’s another story. The tags were out of date and I wasn’t carrying any I.D. just deep pockets full of contraband and weapons. We’d guzzled a fifth of Jack between the two of us and she, well she enjoys the sweet-tooth buzz of a White Russian. I couldn’t judge her intake, only that I had to run to the market for milk a couple of times. Sure I was weaving. I fully admit it, but I could swear the asphalt was covered with snakes that appeared to be slithering into my path, trying to bite the bird’s tires. For the first time since I had the car flamed, the flames seemed to come to life in the night. But did the officers have to pull guns on us? So what if the windows are tinted and at night I can hardly see the lines in the streets. I don’t know what everybody was so upset about. We better get to the news while they’re searching the Bikernet Intergalactic headquarters. Trying to type while handcuffed to the Panhead desk is a bitch…

BEACH RIDE 2000 REPORT– I was there and responsible for the bike show, ‘cept I didn’t know how responsible I was until I arrived. Kia, a bouncy blonde in ponytails, a gray official t-shirt and wearing a set of head phones, handed me a cash box and registration forms and said the trophies were in the motorhome and the award ceremony would take place at 2:30. I looked at Sin Wu’s tits, then into those deep green eyes, she quietly took my arm, and in broken English whispered, “We help.” The woman then went to work signing people up while Beau Pacheco and his soon-to-be-wife, Vicky, and I ran 100 yards back and forth placing the bikes.

We place a half dozen near the stage in the San Buena Ventura Park and suddenly found ourselves surrounded by gray shirts and headsets all complaining about the placement of the bike–too close to the stage. We regrouped after the fight and moved the bikes.

If you’re into bike shows and showing your bike, pay close attention to the class you enter. In the future I will try to help the owners make the decision. We had guys with custom frames in the street custom category and guys with nearly stock bikes in the radical class.

Great day, perfect weather, and Brenda Fox from Bartels’ acted as the trophy girl. Sin has a full back tattoo of a beautiful woman in a kimono on her back and she spent all day sharing the vision with others while trying to keep the sun off the delicate Bob Roberts colors. I keep trying to take the kimono off when we make love, but that’s another story.

SASHA–Have you ever seen such a wonderful smile? There’s only one other woman I’ve ever met who glows like that to ride her own bike. This other woman is currently without a bike and calls me daily in her quest to find a new machine to straddle. At least I think that’s why she calls me.

Sasha here is a brilliant writer who I’ve corresponded with for some time. She has wit, description that paints powerful, tender pictures in your mind’s eye. She’s straight-forward and hard working, and will someday be a woman rider/writer who is quoted far and wide. I hope to share some of her literary genius with the readers of Bikernet soon.

BARTELS’ TECHS–Speaking of Bartels’ Dan Norman, the big guy in the service department with the tool box the size of an 18-wheeler mentioned that Twin Cam owners should be aware that their engines tend to run warmer. With hot weather all over us, owners need to run oil coolers. If you’re a Bartels’ customer Dan produces tech-related seminars. If interested call (310) 823-1112 and ask for Debi Black at extension 662.

While on the subject of tech–Joe Minton from Mikuni reminded me that heavy grease is no longer needed on wheel bearings. Light grease is just fine. Seems there’s not a lot of heat going on in the hubs, so the grease won’t melt and coat the bearing as well as a lighter grease. He also mentioned that Timken bearing end play should be between 4 and 14 thousandths. I’m in the process of making adjustments to wheel end play right now.

Phil Ross from Supermax points out that transmission alignment is crucial for belt drives. Bolt your primary to the engine and transmission while they’re loose as a goose to insure that all parties are in alignment. He pointed out that Jammer built a goofy tranny adjustment component twenty years ago that has valuable uses today in the fight for proper engine alignment.

WHERE’S BEAU PACHECO?– Good question. Well, since Big Twin bit the dust Beau’s been feeling down. Yet he’s still working at the parent company, which I can’t spell and won’t even attempt to. Sure they publish Cycle or something and Car and Driver or Road and Track. Hell, I don’t know, but he’s still there and working on a touring special which is similar to writing about one’s vacation. Whatta dream, cheer up Beau.

Beau is also involved in a major ride, Thunder over Dixie, from Nashville to Biketoberfest. He has kindly invited my sorry ass to attend this star-studded, putt from dealership to dealership across the south and into Florida. They’ll meet in Nashville Sunday, October 15th for a giant get-together at the local Harley shop. Monday they ride the crest of the Appalachians down into Chattanooga, and stop at various civil war battlefields around the legendary city, then gather at Steele Harley-Davidson for a huge party and bar-b-que. Tuesday, the itinerary calls for a putt from Chattanooga for Rosewell, Georgia, a comfortable and picturesque suburb of Atlanta, through the green undulating roads of the great Smoky Mountains. Then there’s another wild night at Killer Creek Harley-Davidson in Rosewell.

Hammered from enough Whiskey to sink a small mine sweeper and wasted from a night of mad passionate love making, we’ll crawl to our bikes for the next leg of the trip. I’ll tell you about it next week, but if you’re intrigued and would like to ride with Country Western stars call Beau and he’ll hook you up for one of the rides of your life. Hopefully you’ll have many, (949) 645-8036.

BANDIT–Last week you posted someone’s remarks about guncontrol and they made a statement something like”England has gun control and 85% fewer murders thanthe USA”.

In 1998 the population of the entire UnitedKingdom was 58,649,000 and for the United States ofAmerica 274,028,000. Could it be that their 85% fewermurders is because they have 80% fewer people? Youknow what they say “figures don’t lie”, but liars dofigure. A friend of mine from Australia describes theconditions there as total gun control. He says they havejust as many murders as we do (per capita), it is justdone with illegal guns. Another quote “when theyoutlaw guns, only outlaws will have guns”.FTW,StrokerP.S. Your running Mac? California…. you wouldn’t let goof Betamax until it was in the ground. Now your doingthe same thing with Macintosh. No, wonder you didn’tsay if you liked the Jack Daniel’s screen saver I sent ya.

Well ….. they have a Mac version too, if you want ityour just gona have to go download it yourself. I likethe “Scenes and Sayings” one the best!http://www.jackdaniels.com/just4fun/screen.asp

HORSE MAGAZINE ROCKS– Well, you be the judge, but there’s not a harder hitting rag in the industry. ‘Course, in the past they hit on everything and everybody, until there were only five readers left and they couldn’t agree on who was actually a hardcore biker and who wasn’t. I’ve been hammering out an editorial and a fiction series for the last half dozen issues and now they only have a couple of readers left. Recently the Editor gave me permission to reprint the published stories on Bikernet. There should be a couple up now and more to come, and when you get anxious to keep up with the reeling, tire tearing, chain stretched times of Vince and Chance, check out the recent issue of HORSE magazine.

THE BIG TIME COMES TO THOSE WHO WAIT– Yes, the staff of Bikernet has been patient, we’ve ate tuna from a can and shared our Corona without the lime. We’ve graciously, shared bike parts, welded our own shit to make it by, and saved our pennies to keep the Bikernet lights on. Hell, we’d rather straighten a nail to keep the walls vertical in the Bikernet headquarters, than to use up a new one.Then the other day, the call came in. The call we’d been waiting for, for so long. Harley-Davidson is now a sponsor of Bikernet. We’d like to thank Paul James and Steve Phiel for believing that a couple of veteran bikers could make a high tech web be worth more that porno and promo. ‘Cept now we need to get real jobs to pay ’em off, but we’re real proud to have the big guys on board.

SIXTH WIFE COLLIDES WITH ARMADILLO– That’s right, in a drunken stupor, after reading one of these insane ramblings about Sin Wu and the girls of San Pedro, the insanely jealous 13-year-old Lena Fairless of Dallas Easyriders caught 35 stitches in her shoulder after running head-long into a hard-as-nails armadillo. The pink Cadillac, careening at a high rate of speed toward California, was totaled. I’m lucky she didn’t make it. I would be the one getting stitches. If you’re in the neighborhood and want to meet the future Mrs. Bandit, and have a beer with Lena, at the Ice House Cafe, go to easyridersdallas.com and check out the digs. Ask Lena to show you her scar, but don’t touch it. I can be a jealous sonuvabitch, too.

STREET CHOPPER LIVES– It’s true, HOT BIKE Magazine and McMullen Argus Publishing is publishing two brand new issues of Street Chopper in the year 2000. STREET CHOPPER was one of the original custom motorcycle titles back when our minds were as twisted and twisted spokes. Watch for it.

ASPHALT COWBOY UPDATE–Conrad Goody, the star of the soon-to-be-made movie and the man who wrote the screenplay called yesterday to tell me that the screenplay has been optioned for six months. This could mean the movie could be into production in the next couple of months. We’re all excited around here and Conrad is crawling the walls. “Get down, goddamnit,” I told him. “The ink hasn’t even dried yet.”

HOT ROD BIKES MAGAZINE– Studies paints and polishes. Yep, Hot Rod Bikes magazine has a team of writers and editors polishing everything that moves in a indepth endeavor to produce the final, consummate guide to waxes, washes, polishes, brushes, sponges chamois, spray guns, spray paints and well, let’s get to the point. If you want to advertise your product or be featured in all your shinning glory on the pages of Hot Rod Bikes call Penny Osiecki at (323) 782-2790. Shit, they didn’t tell me what issue it would be featured in.

SIN WU’S WORDS OF WISDOM– Take into account that great love and great achievements involvegreat risk.

STURGIS BILLBOARD– It’s true that the landscape of the badlands is peppered with billboards promoting everything from ambulance chasers to the famous Black Hills Gold Jewelry. Ah, but a couple of new billboards will ruin the landscape. Two mighty placards will stand tall with famous Jon Towle art and the message, “Can’t Ride? Go to Bikernet.com.” Look for ’em. You’ll see ’em wherever you witness hoards of riders pulled off to the side of the road puking in unison.

AND DON’T FORGET– Sex is like air; it’s not important unless you aren’t getting any.

Don’t be irreplaceable; if you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted.

No one is listening until you make a mistake.

Always remember you’re unique, just like everyone else.

20 YEARS OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY– For the first time in 20 years, photographer Michael Lichter will be exhibiting his motorcycle lifestyle images in Colorado. From July 5-31, the Temple Buell Theatre gallery will be displaying 36 open and limited edition prints of Mike’s work taken since 1979. The prints, as large as 20 by 30 inches, are from the more than 600 stories Michael has photographed for motorcycle magazines. In addition to the theatre’s normal hours, the show will be open to the public Tuesday to Thursday, July 25-27th, from noon until 6:30 p.m. to coincide with the Harley-Davidson dealers gathering at the nearby convention center. He will also have a photographic display in Sturgis this year. For more information check www.lichterphoto.com or call (303) 449-3906

AND NOW WE PAUSE FOR STATION IDENTIFICATION– Vacation Special: have your home exterminated.

If you think you’ve seen everything in Paris, visit the Pere Lachasis Cemetery. It boasts such immortals as Moliere, Jean de la Fontain, and Chopin.

Mt. Kilimanjaro, the breathtaking backdrop for the Serena Lodge. Swim in the lovely pool while you drink it all in.

The hotel has bowling alleys, tennis courts, comfortable beds, and other athletic facilities.

Get rid of aunts: Zap does the job in 24 hours.

Toaster: A gift that every member of the family appreciates.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON, INC. ANNOUNCE RECORD SALES– and earnings forits second quarter ended June 25, 2000. The Company’s second quarter saleswere $755.0 million, an increase of 24.0 percent over the second quarterlast year. Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter were 29 cents,a 33.4 percent increase compared to last year.To read the full press release, click on the link below. http://investor.harley-davidson.com/news/20000711-17696.cfm

LENA’S GAG FOR THE WEEK–Redneck goes to a pharmacist and says: “I’ve got a hot date for tonight,an’I needs me some pertection. How much is a pack a’ dem thar rubbers gonnacost me?”

To which the pharmacist responds: “A three-pack of condoms is $4.99with tax.”

To which the redneck replies: “TACKS! Gawd a’mighty, don’t they stay on bythemselves?”

IRISH MOTORCYCLING CHAMPION KILLED– Ireland’s Joey Dunlop, five times the TT Formula One world champion, died instantly on Sunday when he crashed in an international race in Estonia. The 48-year-old was leading the 125cc race at the 3.7 mile public roads circuit on the outskirts of the capital Tallin when the accident happened on the second lap. He had already won the 600cc race on Saturday and the Superbike race earlier on Sunday. Racing at the event was canceled following the crash.

Dunlop, from Ballymoney, north of Belfast, was hailed in Northern Ireland as an outstanding ambassador for the sport. He had a record 26 TT wins on the Isle of Man — the last just over three weeks ago — spanning a 25-year racing career on the island. He began racing in 1969 and had been a factory Honda rider for the past 18 years. Dunlop, married with five children, was awarded the MBE for his motorcycling achievements and the OBE for charity work. An unfortunate end of an era.

OUR SEX LESSON FOR THE DAY–A farmer wanted to have his hens serviced, so he went to themarket looking for a rooster. He was hoping he could get aspecial rooster – one that could service all of his many hensand when he told this to the market vendor, the vendorreplied: “I have just the rooster for you. Randy here is thehorniest rooster you will ever see!”

So the farmer took Randy back to thefarm. Before setting him loose in the hen house though, he gave Randy alittle pep talk. “Randy”, he said, “I’m counting on you to do your stuff.”

Without a word, Randy strutted into the hen house. Hewas as fast as he was furious, mounting each hen like athunderbolt. There was much squawking and many feathers flying,till Randy had finished having his way with each hen.

But Randy didn’t stop there; he went in to the barn and mountedall the horses, one by one and still at the same frantic pace.Then he went to the pigpen, where he did the same.The farmer, watching all of this with disbelief, cried out”Stop, Randy, you’ll kill yourself!” But Randy continued, seekingout each farm animal in the same manner.

Well, the next morning, the farmerlooked out and saw Randy lying there on his lawn. His legs were up in theair, his eyes rolled back, and his long tongue hanging out. A buzzard wasalready circling above Randy. The farmer walked up to Randy saying, “Ohyou poor thing, look what you did, you’ve gone and killed yourself. Iwarned you, little buddy.”

“Shhhhh,” Randy whispered,”The buzzard’s gettingcloser”

NUUTBOY’S REPORT FROM IRELAND– It’s cold, wet and green. Or maybe that’s because I’ve had too much Guiness Dark Ale. Too much and you tend to get a little green around the gills. The capital city, Dublin, is a major party town. And there are H-Ds cruising the streets. Not many but they are here.

I searched far and wide to find the core of hard-core H-D enthusiasm. I found it in a tougher part of the north inner-city of Dublin. There I met Michael Doherty, owner of the H-D dealership of Ireland (2425 Blessington St. Dublin 7)

Doherty is a no-nonsense kind of guy who has been working hard to develop a market for H-D in the Republic of Ireland. He indicated that there are 4,000 motorcycles (in a country of 3.5 million) sold each year, in Ireland; few of them are H-D, mostly Japanese bikes. He said the miserable weather is the biggest limitation.

Doherty says his target customer is the “upscale” , “leisure biking” market which is the fastest growing segment. Johnny Heraty, a mechanic at H-D Ireland described the character of Irelands bikers as mainly ‘good fellas’. Though there are small bands of bikers who are eager to get drunk and crack heads; groups like the Freewheelers and Viking Nomads.

Doherty told me that what H-D riders they have in Dublin meet every Sunday morning at Thunder Road Pub and Restaurant in the main rockin’ section of Dublin called Temple Bar.

At Thunder Road I met Michael Woods, Pat King, Declan Weafer, Eamon Ross and his young son Sean. Woods explained that they all are members of Ireland Chapter One, the biggest H-D club in Ireland and affiliated with the Aire Valley H-D Club in England. They had just got back from a 2,400 mile European Hog Rally which started (or ended ?) in Barcelona, Spain. One of their biggest limitations is acquiring custom parts. There are only 2 or 3 dealers of custom parts so most of the bikes remain fairly stock. All in all it was a friendly group of guys. I’m still standing.

That’s all from Ireland, now back to you, Bandit. This is Nuutboy drinking out, er, I mean signing out.

NAME THE STURGIS BLUE MACHINE CONTEST You remember the song with the phrase, “DEVIL WITH A RED DRESS ON” well, along that line of thought, how does this grab ya for yer Bike’s name?

SINISTER BLUE BITCH

Emphasis on the sin of it all. –Larry McDermott (MAC)

There is a Louisiana snake that moves like lightning around these parts. It is blue with a pale-ish yellow stripe along its side. Goes by the name “BLUE RUNNER”. Any resemblance to your Sturgis 2000 steed is merely coincidental.–Anson

Lets see……… a name… Hummmmm!

Sapphire Slayer

Blue Ball

Blew Ball

Blue Balls

4 Ball

4 Balling

For Balling

Cobalt Killer

Cobalt Killer

Blue Bullet

Azure Fadin? (away in my mirror)

Azure Ass Getter

Prussian Pussy Getter

Prussian Pulchritude

Your buildin’ this thing for the Bad Lands rightHow bout Blue Butte….No, I got it.

Blew Butte…. Great play on words, sounds like shortfor Blue Beauty. Put a blower on that bitch and theBlew part will fit too. Let’s see Zebra’s chopperspecialist out do a blown rigid. Now you don’t seethat everyday! Not a turbo, but a blower. A friend ofmine made one for his bike. He built his own primarybelt drive with a take off on it for the blower. Bad ASHELL! Knuckle Head at that. Fuckin’ thing willsmoke the tire for a full block!

Well, it’s a tuff choice, I really like Azure Fading…no…Blew Butte….. that’s my entry

Just get the fuckin’ thing done in time for Sturgis.FTW,–Mr. Breeze

Hey man, I see two choices for namin’ that machine yer building: Hal, after the computer in 2001 a Space Odessy. Ya know, that machine seems to be controlling your life of late just like Hal did with Dave. The other possibility is Sea Biscuit, ya know, like the race horse…Sea gets the color blue inta the deal by inference and the horse name covers the ride part. I have no fucking idea what the biscuit adds except maybe a maybe some vague sexual reference to buttered buns. If I win one of your damned contests, I need to have some wheels rechromed. Thanks for the great place to visit and see that there are still some sane folks inhabiting this sorry planet. –Carlos

THE CONTEST CONTINUES. GIMME A NAME AND YOU GET A PRIZE. SEND YOUR ENTRIES TO bandit@bikernet.com. WE’LL MAKE A DECISION AS SOON AS THE BLUE BOMB FIRES TO LIFE.

LOVELY LOUISE’S SALT FLATS REPORT–On Monday July 1, 2000 Gary Allen had the opportunity to visit theSaltFlats. He gave this condition report at the U.S.F.R.A. meeting on July6.

The Salt is drying nicely. There is no water at the end of thepavement.The Salt at the end of the pavement is hard enough that someone haslefttire rubber marks on it from fooling around.

The salt on the “old international course” is sticky, it sticks totires and collects in wheel wells. Starting about 1 1/2 miles East ofthe weather station, pressure ridges are beginning to form, indicatinggood dryingprogress. The Salt appears smoother than last year with no evidence ofthepotholes we saw last year.

The Salt appears very white, probably due to the Save the Salt pumpingoperations. On Monday July 10 representatives from the S.C.T.A. andU.S.F.R.A. will meet out on the Salt to layout the racecourse for this year.

I expect to hear more firsthand Salt reports as soon as the Courselayoutand dragging operations begin. I will keep the Salt Condition Reportonthe front page of www.saltflats.com as current as possible. Check intherefor the latest Salt info.

OBSCURE FACTS–THERE WILL BE A TEST LATER– A Russian woman gave birth to 69 children from 1725 to 1765 (there were16 pairs of twins, 7 sets of triplets, and 4 sets of quadruplets).

Prince William once flushed his dad’s shoes down the toilet.

Coca-cola can be used as car oil.

Mexico City sinks about 10 inches a year.

Anne Boleyn, Queen Elizabeth’s 1st mother, had 6 fingers on her lefthand.

I AM HERE WITH INFORMATION ON A NEW ZEALAND RALLY–

The Mainland Motorcycle Club ofChristchurch, New Zealand has organized the Global Bikers Wish Rally 2000 which will replace the OldWorld RecordRally. The World Record Rally since 1992 raised over $18,000NZdollarsfor charity. In 1998 it raised $3,500NZ dollars for the Make-A-WishFoundation of N Z Trust. Make-A-WishFoundation International as well as the Make-A-WishFoundation New Zealand have approved thisrally.

This rally is a not for profit project. Our new event is the same BUTdifferent! DAVID BAILEY,Phone: 64-3-332-5235 (Home),FAX: 64-3-379-0806 (on 24 hours),E-mail: “mailto:mainland.motorcycle.club@paradise.net.nz”smainland.motorcycle.club@paradise.net.or mail to: davejohb@hotmail.com

SEX AND THE ART OF LOSING WEIGHT– Look how many calories you can burn:

* TAKING OFF THE CLOTHES

With her agreement – 12 cal

Without her agreement – 187 cal

* TAKING OFF THE BRA

With both hands – 8 cal

With one hand – 12 cal

With one hand being slapped – 37 cal

With the mouth – 85 cal

* PUTTING ON THE CONDOM

With erection – 6 cal

Without erection – 315 cal

* PRELIMINARIES

Trying to find the clitoris – 8 cal

Trying to find G spot – 92 cal

Without caring at all – 0 cal

* WHEN DOING IT Holding her up – 12 cal

Just on the floor – 8 cal

* POSITIONS

Daddy-mummy – 12 cal

69 laying – 8 cal

69 standing up – 112 cal

Trolley – 216 cal

Italian chandelier – 912 cal

* HAVING AN ORGASM

Real – 112 cal

Fake – 315 cal

* PUTTING ON THE CLOTHES

Quietly – 32 cal

Being in a hurry – 98 cal

With her husband opening the door – 218 cal

DA TUNES COLUMN–Check out Merle Haggard’s “Motorcycle Cowboy” the song and the video get right to the heart of the matter. Oz should get a tape and play it in his sleep, it might just cure him of his problem. –Carlos

A MAN FLYING KITE–A man was in his front yard attempting to fly a kite with his son. Every time the kite went up into the air, it came crashing down. This went on for a while until his wife stuck her head out of the front door and yelled, “You need more tail!”

The father yelled back, “Fuck You, I told you yesterday that I needed more tail,… and you told me to go fly a kite!”

ESCAPE FROM SAN PEDRO–The hearing won’t take place until after I’ve escaped for the Badlands. If I hide in a pack of 50 Hamsters rolling out of Cortez for Denver, they may not see me. In fact, I’m sure if I’m cool in the Badlands that I’ll be missed as just another two-wheeled fugitive until the rally is almost over. At least that’s the delicate plan. Just at the most fortuitous moment I will make my whereabouts known only to be arrested and extradited back to California. Hell, I’ll save $300 on airfare. But then what. Who cares, let’s ride. –Bandit

Hey,

Short week, short time to Sturgis, life’s bananas. I’d tell you about the 4th of July weekend, but you wouldn’t believe it. I’d tell you about the plans for this weekend, but they’re too hectic, I’d tell you about my bike build for Sturgis, but I’m frustrated, and I’d mention Sin Wu and the dark haired beauty, but then I can’t concentrate. All right I’ll touch each on a couple, er, I mean mention, then we need to get to the news.

The Sturgis project is so fuckin’ close I can taste it, but as the 4th of July rolled around shipments of parts began to dwindle and progress slowed. Giggie from Compu-fire (check the single-fire ignition tech under Custom Chrome) got sick after a quick blast to Dallas and couldn’t make it to the Bikernet Barn to assist with ignition install, wiring and electric starter components. I was dead in the water without the components. That, and a couple of parts from Custom Chrome and the bike would be one carburetor and a paint job from being ridden to the Beach Ride this weekend for its debut. Everything is that close. I’m even hanging on a couple of Joker Machine components. Gimme the parts, a few hours and we’ll hear this puppy scream to life.

There’s nothing in the world like creating a new motorcycle from the ground up. There’s nothing in the world like the touch of a woman or two, and for me the thought of seeing my first copy of Sam “Chopper” Orwell printed will make my day. Damn, let’s get to the news, I’m losing concentration:

DEVIL DOLLS MC ATTACK–Damn, just when the fireworks display diminished in the skies over the L.A. Harbor and the fireworks plans for the bedroom began to unfold there was a large banging going on inside my i-Mac. I checked the fuse, the circuit breaker, the surge protector but nothing would stop the monitor from coming to life. Wicked women flashed across the screen. The corner of the plastic casing drooped and smoked as it melted. The screen sparked as if a cherry bomb was dropped behind the monitor. Suddenly the words, “BANDIT,” flashed across the screen in jagged electric lettering, “WE WANT YOU!” Then the screen went blank. A pile of molten plastic and ashes were all that was left of my perfectly good computer. Could it have been another psycho attack. Had I forgot her birthday? Hell, I don’t know, but you’ve got to check devildolls.com. Just don’t mention my name to GothGirl, the president.

JIMS LAS VEGAS NATIONALS–AHDRA 2000– JIMS is proud to be the title sponsor of the AHDRA 2000 JIMS Las Vegas Nationals, October 19-22. The fun starts on the 19th, with a Rally and Races Kick-Off Party. The jam will be held at Las Vegas Harley-Davidson and includes entertainment, race bike demonstrations, live radio remote, manufacturers and much much more. The Rally and Races Kick Off party starts at 4 p.m. and runs through the night until 10 p.m.

Friday night is the famous JIMS Rolling Bones Party. The bash is held on the strip at the Harley-Davidson Cafe. Saturday the gates open and the motors get rolling. The smell of gas and nitro fill the air and at 10:30 a.m. qualifying starts. Sunday’s the day for the Elimination rounds. The morning starts with the “Hot Rod Bikes Magazine” Drag racing school. Any spectator can attend, and learn the ins and outs of racing. Eliminations begin at 12:30 and won’t quit until the smoke clears. For more information check out the JIMS website at www.jimsusa.com

BIKERNET WEST PAINT–Here ’tis without striping or clear coat. The Harold Pontarelli creation from Vacaville, California. (Check out the tech). And check out Agent Zebra’s competition in the Bikernet Garage.

We’ve run into a dilemma trying to figure out a name for the Blue Bomb, and that just might be it. If you have a notion drop a note to me at bandit@bikernet.com. You might be the winner of some grand prize. Here’s one suggestion:

You could call it..the MASK…as in Zebra emasculator..”to deprive of strength and vigor”.–Train in SLC.

SO, WHAT’S UP WITH MY FICTION?–So what’s up with the fiction I sent you? Was it so bad you decided to use it for toilet paper, or you just haven’t read it yet? Or maybe your just too busy having “lunch” with miss Sin Wu. And that name by the way doesn’t sound Japanese, but Chinese. You should know from your tours of duty in Nam not to fool around with Asian women, it takes all the energy right out of you! I know, my wife was Chinese! But aaahh, they are beautiful indeed, are they not? Chinese, Japanese, Thais, Koreans, Philippines, etc. Give them all to me! That’s it! Keep riding and writing,–Sun

What fiction?

VICTORY MOTORCYCLES HELPS KYLE PETTY CHARITY RIDE RAISE MORE THAN $450,000 FOR CHILDREN’S CHARITIES NASCAR driver Kyle Petty ditched his Harleyand led his sixth cross-country charity ride for children’s hospitals on aVictory Motorcycle, the Cruiser of the Year for two years running. “The Kyle Petty Charity Ride is the corporate charity of record for VictoryMotorcycles,” said Darcy Betlach, marketing manager for Victory. “We werethrilled that Kyle decided to ride the Victory V92C Cruiser this year.Victory is The New American Motorcycle – the perfect choice for the KylePetty Charity Ride Across America.”This is Victory’s second year supporting the Kyle Petty Charity Ride, andthe cause has become an annual event for many members of the new Americanmotorcycle company. Victory auctioned two customized motorcycles this yearto benefit the ride at the end of the cross-country trip. The more than$450,000 raised this year will be distributed to five major children’scharities designated by the Kyle Petty Charity Ride.

AN ACCIDENT REPORT WHICH WAS PRINTED IN THE NEWSLETTER OF THE BRITISH EQUIVALENT OF THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BOARD– I am a bricklayer by trade. On the day of the accident, I wasworking alone on the roof of a new six-story building. When Icompleted my work, I found I had some bricks left over which, whenweighed later were found to be slightly in excess of 500lbs. Ratherthan carry the bricks down by hand, I decided to lower them in abarrel by using a pulley, which was attached to the side of thebuilding at the sixth floor.

Securing the rope at ground level, I went up to the roof, swung thebarrel out and loaded the bricks into it. Then I went down and untiedthe rope, holding it tightly to ensure a slow descent of the bricks.You will note in block #11 of the accident report form that my weightis 135 lbs. Due to my surprise at being jerked off the ground sosuddenly; I lost my presence of mind and forgot to let go of the rope.

Needless to say, I proceeded at a rapid rate up the side of thebuilding. In the vicinity of the third floor, I met the barrel whichwas now proceeding downward at an equally impressive speed. Thisexplains the fractured skull, minor abrasions and the brokencollarbone, as listed in Section 3 of the accident report form.

Slowed only slightly, I continued my rapid ascent, not stopping untilthe fingers of my right hand were two knuckles deep into the pulley.Fortunately by this time I had regained my presence of mind and wasable to hold tightly to the rope, in spite of theexcruciating pain I was now beginning to experience.

At approximately the same time, however, the barrel of bricks hit theground and the bottom fell out of the barrel. Now devoid of theweight of the bricks, that barrel weighed approximately 50 lbs. Irefer you again to my weight. As you might imagine, I began a rapiddescent, down the side of the building. In the vicinity of the thirdfloor, I met the barrel coming up. This accounts for the two fracturedankles, broken tooth and severe lacerations of my legs and lower body.

Here my luck began to change slightly. The encounter with the barrelseemed to slow me enough to lessen my injuries when I fell into thepile of bricks and fortunately only three vertebrae were cracked. I amsorry to report, however, as I lay there on the pile of bricks, in pain, unable to move, I again lost my composure and presence ofmind and let go of the rope and I lay there watching the empty barrelbegin its journey back onto me. This explains the two broken legs. –Clive R Gould

Thanks Louise–Bandit

JIM MCCLURE RUNNER UP AT COLUMBUS WITH TOP MPH–Jim McClure, Williamsburg, Va. didn’t want the ADBA Columbus, Oh. race to end the way it did, but he did go home with the Top MPH award at 211 and runner up.This was a great way to prepare for next weekend’s, IHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley competition in Liecester, NY.

Unfortunately, McClure had problem in staging and could not make the call for the final round against Bill Furr, Orangeburg, SC. However, the runner up position was good enough to move McClure substantially up in ADBA Top Fuel points challenge.

July 14-16 IHRA Liecester, NY

July 22-23 ADBA Atlanta, Ga.

July 28 Personal Appearance Apehangers Bar & Grill 5:30-8:30 Budds Creek, Md.

July 29-30 AHDRA Budds Creek, Md.

McClure is supported on his national tour by Rivera Engineering, Primo Products, Red Line Synthetic Oil, ACCEL, Hampton Roads H-D, Southside H-D, F & S H-D, S & S Cycle, Inc., Performance Machine, Axtell, Autolite & Vanson Leathers www.jimmcclureracing.com

BEACH RIDE THIS WEEKEND, BE THERE– Hey, if you live in SoCal and want to party out of the blazing sun on Sunday, come to the Beach Ride, a charity ride to benefit Children. See top notch bands, bikini contests and custom bikes judged by myself. Check with any local dealership for the ride to Ventura. Don’t miss it. Be there, Be there.

PARENTING LESSONS– One day a mother was cleaning her son’s room, and in the closet she found a S & M magazine. Unsure of how to confront her son, she hid the magazine until his father got home. She showed her husband what she had found while she was cleaning. He looked at the S & M magazine and handed it back to her without a word. She finally asked him, “Well, what should we do about this?”

He looked back at her hesitantly and said, “Well, I don’t think you should spank him.”

BEER ALERT–Yesterday, a scientist for Health Canada suggested that,considering the results of a recent analysis that revealedthe presence of female hormones in beer, men shouldtake a look at their beer consumption. The theory is thatdrinking beer makes men turn into women.

To test thetheory, 100 men were fed 6 pints of beer each within aone hour period. It was then observed that 100% of themen gained weight, talked excessively without makingsense, became overly emotional, couldn’t drive, failedto think rationally, argued over nothing, and refused toapologize when wrong. No further testing is planned!–Mr. Breeze

ABATE OF VIRGINIA FREEDOM FIGHT UPDATE–ABATE of Virginia is now in the midst of a full on fight to repeal themandatory helmetlaw with the introduction and passage of a bill in the 2001 Virginia GeneralAssemblybeginning January of 2001. Sponsors are in place and Governor Jim Gilmorehas stated hewill sign the bill if it reaches his desk.

Getting the bill out ofcommittee has been thebiggest obstacle in the past and will be the most difficult task this comingsession. It isbelieved from past attempts that there is adequate support for passage fromthe memberson the floor of both houses of the General Assembly.

In February a helmet law reform committee was established to mobilize thetroops in theABATE chapters. A petition drive was launched just over a month later andsignaturesare pouring in from around the State. The Virginia Coalition ofMotorcyclists and NCOMhave both pledged to support the bill. The membership is fully mobilized,preparing towork with legislators in each district to make sure they have the true factsconcerninghelmet use, not just the medical and insurance lobby facts. Support existsfrom the leadingorganization of law enforcement bikers, the Blue KnightsWE NEED YOUR SUPPORT! If you live in Virginia, want to see the repeal ofthemandatory helmet law as happened June 18 in Florida, then join ABATE ofVIRGINIA.See the official website at www.abateofva.org or write Annie Mundyanniem@erols.com

If you live elsewhere and wish to help in this fight, PLEASE LEND YOURFINANCIALSUPPORT by sending a check to:ABATE of VIRGINIA Please note “helmet reform committee” in the memosection of your check.

C/O Dave Sutton

794 Sunnymeade Rd.

Rustburg, VA 24588

CONTEST WINNERS AND MO’ CONTESTS– Yep, here’s another couple of winners. I asked for shots of bikes a couple of weeks ago, then when I ask for something outrageous, I get bikes. What the hell, check Carlos’s putt. Some scooter, but it’ll take him a month to get to Sturgis from Wyoming. And then there’s Glen’s bike. I’m running it, cause this guy is sending me shots of his dog, his ol’ lady on the hood of his short, shots of him working out–it’s gettin’ strange, so I thought I better act fast and run his bike. Each winner will receiver a gift from Custom Chrome and an autographed copy of Outlaw Justice.

This week the contest is to name my metallic blue rigid built for Sturgis 2000. It’s a 98-inch blue metalflake chopper to the bone. Maybe Boney Blue. Hell, I don’t know, but the winner of this contest will receive a valuable prize from JIMS machine. Send your creations bandit@bikernet.com.

IN OTHER NEWS–CHOP-OFF 2000 IN FULL SWING– Thunder Cycle Design dives into the Bikernet Sturgis 2000 Chop–Off. Eddie Trotta, grand wrench wiz, who has a shop overflowing with you-gotta-be-shittin’-me masterpiece choppers has taken on the final tweaks and perfections. Bikernet West is officially fucked with this monster of metal on board. Eddie took one look at the machine and said, “Oh yeah, I can see a few things I’ll change already.” Then the entire shop burst out laughing and the motorcycle disappeared in a storm of sparking metal and blowtorch flames as the crew dove on the hapless scoot.

God only knows what it will look like when Eddie is done, but one thing is for sure, it will look, oh so good. Can’t wait to see the tweaks and pokes. Break-in is underway as well, with one mile runs between spot checks with the tape measures and wrenches. When Eddie asked what the overall goal with the chopper was, I told him, “To kick Bandit’s ass.” Eddie grinned and fondly caressed his slide ruler. Burn, baby, burn.–Special Agent Zebra

ACTUAL CLASSIFIEDS–

________________

FREE YORKSHIRE TERRIER.

8 YEARS OLD. HATEFUL LITTLE DOG.

———————————-

FREE PUPPIES:

1/2 COCKER SPANIEL –

1/2 SNEAKY NEIGHBOR’S DOG

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FREE PUPPIES…PART GERMAN SHEPHERD

– PART STUPID DOG

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GERMAN SHEPHERD 85 lbs.

NEUTERED. SPEAKS GERMAN. FREE.

————————————-

FOUND: DIRTY WHITE DOG.

LOOKS LIKE A RAT…

BEEN OUT AWHILE..

BETTER BE REWARD.

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IT NEVER DAWNED ON ME THAT THIS IS YOUR SITE– I hope everything is going great for you and that your getting a well deserved rest. My cousin and I are riding to Sturgis from Chicago this year, my first time.

You autographed a copy of “Outlaw Justice” for me some time ago, it does not get lent out. Did you ever finish “Sam Chopper Orwell?” If so, I need it. –Pete

Orwell will be in print in August. I’m as anxious as you are.

WENT FOR A RIDE THIS MORNING– at 7:00 A.M. and I was not wearing a Helmet.There were groups scheduled to go for helmetless rides all over the state at 12:01 last night.There have been no reports of any problems so far.

Florida has repealed the Mandatory Helmet Law for motorcyclist over 21 years of age if they have $10,000 of medical insurance. In most cases that covers any one who has insurance from their job or a H.M.O.There has been releases from the government, state police, city police etc. Every one got a statement.

We will wait to see what happens. I saw Highway Patrol, Palm Bay and Melbourne Police and they saw me. They did not stop or harass me. I did not come into contact with Brevard County Sheriff’s Dept.

Abate of Brevard County sent out a e-mail this morning saying the Sheriffs Dept. was going to find reasons to stop bikers without helmets. It also said it was going to stop people wearing non -D.O.T. helmets. Supposedly there was also some kind of law passed about that .

It is going to be interesting and I will keep you informed as best I can.–Rogue on watch in Florida.

WHEN WILL I FUCKIN’ GROW UP– Niles Orgille thought as he woke up and looked at the sleeping young nubile woman beside him in bed. She said her name was Amber and his eyes followed the contour of her firm young body, her auburn hair covered the pillow as a frame for her Hellenic face. Her long neck led to a sensuous collar bone and the two glorious breasts exhibiting the firmness of youth. The slow undulation of her rib cage and flat tummy led to the a tuft of pubic hair partially hidden by a glorious thigh spread at a 45 degree angle to it’s twin. “For Christ’s sake,” Niles thought, “this could be my freaking grand daughter, what the hell am I doing here?” Niles slipped out of the bed, threw on his clothes, walked out the door of the apartment and after an extended search, located his bike and headed on down the road.

Considering he was just outside of Taos and had to be in Albuquerque by 2:00 for his granddaughter’s graduation he needed to employee the full throttle approach that he enjoyed so much and here was the perfect excuse. The Confederate Hellcat that he had recently bought was up to the task at hand, with it’s merc power plant delivering some 120 HP to the rear wheel. Highway 68 from Taos to Santa Fe was Aspen and pine, cool and refreshing, Highway 25 from Santa Fe to Albuquerque was the New Magico desert landscape that Niles loved. As the man, the machine, the road and the landscape blended into one another Niles came to terms with his life. Five wives, three children, four grandchildren and he was still looking for more. Most people his age had settled into quiet lives enjoying a surrogate lifestyle dependent on their children and grand children. Niles could not be satisfied with this, he needed the blood, sweat and tears of an active life, a life of actualization not recollection.

He was the stallion in a heard of wild horses and it was command or death for him. Niles slammed on the brakes at Bernalillo, pulled into a bar, had a shot of JD, a Miller draft and headed back to Taos and Amber, that was his life, his destiny, anything less would be denying the will of whatever gods oversaw the world. Niles had finally grown up and recognized who he was and what his life was intended to be. -Carlos

NEWS BULLETIN–In Pharmacology, all drugs have a generic name, i.e.: Tylenol is Acetaminophen, Advil is Ibuprofen and so on. The FDA has been looking for a generic name for Viagra, and announced today that they have settled onMycoxafailin.

Also considered were: Mycoxafloppin, Mydixadrupin, and Mydixarizin.

MY FATBOY CAME IN EARLY–my Fatboy came in early and once the sun goes down, I’m on it. Breaking it in is a bitch, I’m dying to open it up. I also want to say thanks again, cause of you and that conversation we had a year ago, I’m a proud owner of a H-D. I’m no rich urban dude but have managed to scrape, save and beg my way into it. I’m not sure if I could throw my self down on the floor, the wife wouldn’t put up with that shit. So as promised, I’ll be sending a pic soon of the wifey after buying some shit for her so she can ride….damn I was hoping to buy other shit. hmmmm maybe the floor routine has some possibilities, eh. ha hah.

On another note: Saw your pic in the Thunder Press, you look like you should star in the movie. Put that Sin girl in too. Well when I get the chance I’ll send in my donation and buy a bed roll. Thats bad, you know still need some fucking leather riding boots. This bike was supposed to be in August/Sept.

Man I felt like a virgin again but twice around the parking lot and bamm, I was gone. Fucking grin from ear to ear.

LMRA IS HAVING ITS FIRST ANNUAL FREEDOM RALLY TO CELEBRATE LIBERATION FROM THE MANDATORY HELMET LAW. WE ARE HOPING THAT THIS EVENT IS A SUCCESS SO THAT WE CAN MAKE A STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF KEEPING OUR FREEDOM. OUR OPPOSITION HAS ALREADY SURFACED ONLY 10 MONTHS AFTER REPEAL. IT HAPPENS TO BE OUR OWN STATE AGENCY, THE LA. HIGHWAY SAFETY COMMISSION. NATURALLY WE HAVE OUR WORK CUT OUT SINCE THE DEATH RATE IN LA. HAS DOUBLED AND OUR OPPONENTS ARE QUICK TO DISTORT THE FACTS. PLEASE VISIT OUR SITE AT WWW.LMRA.NET AND COME TO THE RALLY. FREEDOM IS NOT ALWAYS FREE AND WE MUST CONTINUE TO PROTECT IT. –THANKS, ANGELO, PRES., LMRA.

FREEDOM– It’s the first of July 3 days to independance? Do we celebrate as free People or do we let big brother rule our world? As for me and mine We would rather DIE free than Live in a world that is ruled by the rich and where brothers and sisters have no rights or freedom of choice may be about time for us to have some fun and live free! F.S.F.F.F.S May The Choice Of How We Live And How We Die We Don’t Have A Lot Of Choices Left Let’s Hope We can Keep Some RIDE HARD RIDE FREE LIVE FOREVER IF NOT IN LIFE IN THE MIND’S OF THOSE THAT LIVE ON Paul W. Davis Don’t Forget The W. It’s 1 Third Of My Whole Name LET’S Ride

HIS FIRST SCAN– This is Oz’s first scan with his new Epson scanner. It’s the helmet painted to match the Dicey Knucklehead featured in our feature department. Our first feature covers a bunch of my rides over the years. Check it out and if you want your bike featured let me know. It’s not completely impossible. We’ll be looking for something different in the bikes we highlight. A wild story, some treacherous history or mechanical maladies that make your machine a standout. Send samples to Oz@bikernet.com.

AH, STRANGE BUT TRUE– In Chinese, the KFC slogan “finger lickin’ good” comes out as “eat your fingers off.”

A cockroach can live for 10 days without a head.

European women didn’t wear underwear until the 1900’s.

More than 50% of the world have never made or received a phone call.

We shed 40 pounds of skin in a life time.

We drool more than 3 pints a day.

Yo-yos were once used as weapons in the Philippines.

YOUR SITE– keeps getting better and better. I find myself eager every week to read your news. Agent Zebra lives in my section of the planet. Should he ever need a break from the concrete jungle of Miami, he’s welcome to give me a jingle and ride up. We are in the woods, not far from the beaches and even closer to the highway. There’s always good food, great people and interesting motorcycle blurbs. I know it’s not the glamour and burning white hot lights of the big city, but it’s all I got for now. Remember me when that new book gets done, you promised me a signed copy. Can you see my lower lip waaaay out there? You are still a big thick inspiration, pretty man. So glad you came into my life….

STURGIS PROJECT–Recently declassified NASA documents reveal that in the early 70’s a project was initiated to try and recapture America’s interest in the space program. After Neil Armstrong had made his historic walk on the surface of the moon subsequent NASA missions became more and more rote in the eyes of the American public. This loss of interest in the American public was seriously affecting NASA’s ability to secure funding for future missions and projects. A series of top secret meetings involving four of NASA’s senior leadership team were held. A variety of projects to recapture the interest of the American public were reviewed and three were initiated. The most far reaching and interesting of these projects was code named Sturgis.

One of the leadership team’s perceptions was that the clean cut image of the astronaut corps was not in line with the current mood of America and that the fascination with space technology had been replaced with more earthy interests. NASA would need to reshape the imagine of the astronaut and somehow bridge space technology to something the American public found exciting and could relate to. Several options were considered but one stood head and shoulders above the rest, the American fascination with the motorcycle and biker lifestyle.

The motorcycle had become a symbol for freedom, independence and the spirit of exploration through books, movies and a fierce advertising campaign initiated by AMF to save Harley-Davidson from extinction. The wild and violent perception of the biker had been tempered by AMF’s campaign and the motorcycle rider had become an acceptable and even revered part of the American tradition. The NASA leadership team decided that tapping the image of the motorcycle and biker could be the key to re-igniting interest in the space program.

Benny Profane, a lackluster astronaut with a history of raising hell was assigned as project leader, he was given four engineers and a NASA PR guy named Pirate Prentice to set Project Sturgis in motion. Benny was not initially too pleased with the assignment, he wanted to walk on the fucking moon, not ride around on a scooter impersonating Peter Fonda. A few FBI films of biker ‘love ins’ and some interviews with some horny biker babes convinced Benny that this might not be such a bad assignment after all. Too maintain secrecy the project was headquartered in a small beach community in San Pedro, close to the Rockwell plant in Norwalk. This would keep the team out of the Houston area and eyes of the press but also provide them access to Rockwell’s significant technological resources. The engineers were given a new Harley-Davidson FLT and a library of custom bike pictures to use as a basis for there design. The objective was to create a bike using NASA’s latest technology and integrate this technology into a form consistent with the current notion of a “fine fuckin’ ride.” Pirate’s task of gaining and understanding the biker lifestyle and somehow melding that into the astronaut Benny Profane would prove to be a much more difficult task. To be continued -Carlos

AND NOW FOR OUR GRUELING QUESTION AND ANSWER PERIOD– Q. What makes men chase women they have no intention of marrying? A. The same urge that makes dogs chase cars they have no intention of driving.

Q. What is the biggest problem for an atheist? A. No one to talk to during orgasm.

Q. What do you call a smart blonde? A. A golden retriever.

Q. Why does the bride always wear white? A. Because it’s good for the dishwasher to match the stove and refrigerator.

Q. Why do men snore when they lay on their backs? A. Because their testicles fall over their asshole and they vapor-lock.

STATEMENT OF THE WEEK–33 days till Sturgis..”The one week out of the year that makes the other 51 worth living..”–TRAIN

SALT FLAT NEWS UPDATE–A recent AP news wire report out of Carson City, Nevada stated FormerWorld Land Speed Record Holder Craig Breedlove was “seeking BLMapproval” for a special recreation permit at Nevada’s Black RockDesert in 2001.

Officials confirmed that 63 year-old Breedlove has not yet filed anapplication for the permit, nor has the BLM received any e-mail, phonecall, or fax from Mr. Breedlove indicating his intentions. “We do notrespond to or consider newspaper articles as an application.”As far as special recreation permits are concerned, the BLM will needto get Breedlove’s application first, which initiates the permitprocess.That process includes a variety of permit requirements that must bereviewed and settled, and the physical site must be investigatedbefore any approval might be given for land speed trials on the BlackRock Desert.

The official also noted in closing, “Before going to media, he issupposed to apply for the permit!.”

Breedlove also continues to insist that he was the first to 400mph onland, but it is well-documented, historical fact that Englishman JohnCobb was the first person to travel in excess of 400 mph on land backin 1947, when he tripped the clocks at 403mph during one of his WorldRecord runs. World Records are determined by the average of two runsmade back-to-back within a one-hour period of time.

Further, American hot rodder Mickey Thompson also beat Breedlove to400mph in 1960 with a 406 mph run. Both Cobb and Thompson’s vehicleswere powered by conventional internal combustion engines. Breedlovecan, however, claim that he was the first to set a World Land SpeedRecord in excess of 400mph, but he was the third man to travel at thatspeed.

“It is unfortunate that Mr. Breedlove continues to make this claim,”said “LandSpeed Louise Ann Noeth, author of the recently publishedBonneville Salt Flats, a 102-year history book on land speed racing,”I have repeatedly appealed to him and his public relations people toset the record straight. To continue to make such false claims is adishonor to both John Cobb and Mickey Thompson, who reached thosespeeds in the face of great personal peril. It might make snazzy PRcopy to say he was first, but it is not the truth.”

FUCKIN’ A, MAN, THIS IS THE PLACE– Just stumbled in a few weeks ago and already look forward to that damned news of yours. Finest fucking biker place on the computer I have seen yet. Your shit cracks me up man, that T and A intro, some real news, little stories that rip my ass or say right on brother and those little you’ve got your head up your ass battles. Keep throwin’ the shit at the fan brother that’s what makes the fucking world go round. Ride on brother, RC

KENTUCKY FLASH–As of July 15th the sticker & insurance requirements of the law will be gone thanks “exclusively” to the efforts, hard work, & unity of the Kentucky Motorcycle Assoc. {SMRO}, & the riders in Ky who cared enough to stand up together for their rights. The AMA had no part in it, and has only tried to kill our efforts since ’98. They made one unsolicited jester in the 2000 session that we spent a 1/2 day fixing, because they never contacted the KMA/KBA to see what course of action we were taking. For further info, feel free to contact the state office @ 1-800-68 CYCLE. Also you may want to read the article in the motorcycle trade mag. called “Thunder Press” July 2000 issue pp. 33. Thanks, RIDE FREE, Ken ” Kenbo ” Moore. ”

I’M OUTTA HERE– Next week we’ll display our billboard which will shine on two locations in Rapid City this year. But the key to any successful Badlands romp will be completing and riding the Blue Bomb into South Dakota in one piece with my brothers as my side and not pushing me, either. It’s a rigid and my partners think I’m nuts, but what the hell. I love choppers and this one should be tight and with my bony ass strapped to a sprung seat I’ll haul ass for a 100 miles a day, then rest by a pub, stretch out and have a margarita in the sun.

I’ll ponder the sun drifting off the molten asphalt, the miles ahead and the dark haired beauty I left behind. Will her and the oriental chick meet while I’m away? Will there be trouble in paradise? Will my Wyoming gal be waiting for me, will the tease from Texas chase me down? Will I have enough coin for another Margarita and a tank of gas? Ah, the questions of the road. Just got to get out there to find the answers. Ride forever, Bandit.

Zebra flew in from Miami today for another meeting with Miramax andKoppleson on the 1%er movie project. He’s working round the clock on the23rd revision. Standing hopelessly next to the bike, his eyes crossing andblinking as he nodded out against the lift, he was of little use. Wrenchworked around him feverishly, bleeding the rear brakes. Renegade cussed theAgent, slapped him, and gave him another beer, then while Zebra mumbled andstumbled away from the bike, Renegade attached the final oil lines. My dayshave been non-stop with writing assignments, working out, and trying toassist the brothers with the wrenching. I delivered the fenders and theBandit II tank to Phil Stadden, a Hamster custom painter, to have thebobbed fenders painted to match the tank.

Screw it, the Jack Daniel’s, the lights on the harbor, the glistenof chrome under smudged fingerprints, the tools scattered around thegarage, the lists of parts, the desire to go find her at this time of nightare reeling through my mind. We’ve all been there, can smell the firstblasts of exhaust as the new motor fires to life, the tingle in ourfingertips waiting for our first ride, the image as we stand back and takein the long lines of your bike complete for the first time, and the listsof things that still need to be done. It’s a rush, that first ride, asensation of wonder, achievement, glee, terror (that we forgot something),and the risk that we will, in short order, be on the freeway at 80 mph(remember the break-in period) splitting lanes on something we cobbledtogether in our garage.

I’m going to crash, get my ass up early, and get to the news:

RAFFLE SORTA CONTEST MAYBE–WHO KNOWS–BUT IF YOU ARE ONE OF THEFIRST SIX TO REGISTER ON THE SITE AND SEND ME YOUR ADDRESS TO bandit@bikernet.com YOU WILL RECEIVE THE LATEST ISSUE OF HORSE MAGAZINE,A COPY OF EASYRIDERS’ BEST BIKES, A CUSTOM CHROME FANNY PACK, A SERIES OFBANDIT BIKE POSTERS, OR A CUSTOM CHROME BRIEFCASE. EACH WEEK WE’LL BEGIVING SHIT AWAY FROM PARTS THAT DON’T FIT ON OUR STURGIS PROJECTS TOBIKERNET SHIT TO MY BOOKS. BE THERE, BE THERE, BE THERE!

EXCELSIOR-HENDERSON ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT REACHED WITH CREDITORS– The Bankruptcy Court had approved the disclosure statement to bedistributed to creditors in connection with its proposed plan ofreorganization. The plan of reorganization is the product of intensiveefforts by the Company to design a strategy that would enable the Companyto reorganize and obtain the required additional equity funding to preservethe future of the Company. As previously announced, the proposed plandescribes how the various secured and unsecured creditors will be paid, andalso describes that the Company’s current stockholders will neither retainnor obtain an equity interest in the Company going forward. The Company didnot receive a proposal from any buyer, which provided for continuedparticipation of the Company’s equity holders.

Under bankruptcy law, approval of the Company’s stockholders is notnecessary for confirmation of the reorganization plan. Accordingly, thedisclosure statement and plan will not be distributed to stockholders.Stockholders who wish to review the disclosure statement and plan mayaccess the documents on the U.S. Bankruptcy Court’s Web site at HYPERLINKhttp://www.mnb.uscourts.gov www.mnb.uscourts.gov. The disclosurestatement and related plan will be filed with the United States Securitiesand Exchange Commission on Form 8-K.

The approved disclosure statement also reflects the agreement reachedwith the State of Minnesota regarding a loan made by the MinnesotaAgricultural and Economic Development Authority. If the plan is confirmed,the Authority will receive full principal payments over a period not toexceed nine years. As previously announced, other secured creditors willreceive restructured notes. Unsecured creditors will receive, among otherthings, a pro rata distribution of cash and the right to receive an annuitystream of certain royalties based on the Company’s gross sales, subject toa maximum amount. These payments will only partially satisfy unsecuredclaims. Under the plan, E.H. Partners will contribute or cause to becontributed a substantial capital infusion in exchange for the issued andoutstanding equity of the Company upon the effective date.

The Company’s Co-Founders and Co-Chief Executive Officers, Dan and DaveHanlon said, “We believe the proposed plan of reorganization represents thebest available alternative for the Company and its creditors. It is also agood alternative for the surrounding community as we expect manufacturingoperations will resume in Belle Plaine. However, it is highly unfortunatethat all equity shareholders, common and preferred, including ourselves,lost our entire equity stake. There are a lot of shareholders andmotorcyclists who have believed in us and the Company, and it isunfortunate that we are all sacrificing. We regret that a plan could not bedeveloped by the Company and E.H. Partners, which provided for continuedparticipation by the Company’s equity holders. Regardless of theseshort-term setbacks, we remain steadfastly committed to the future ofExcelsior-Henderson, and we hope that others will also. “

FLASH–ONE MAGAZINE DOWN–Word is that Road & Track is to be no more.Seems too outrageous but our source is more credible than most. Anyoneheard anymore?I can’t believe it. We need confirmation.–Bandit

PAINTER NEEDED–Learned a lot from your “Custom Paint tech. Couldyou send me the addresses of more painters. I live in the Suffock,Virginia, area. There are no real custom painters in these parts. Remember,the party never ends.–EZ-J

THE GEORGE CARLIN THEORY– “The most unfair thing about life is the way it ends. I mean, life is tough. It takes up a lot of your time. What do you get at the end of it? A death. What’s that, a bonus? I think the life cycle is all backwards. You should die first, get it out of the way. Then you live in an old age home. You get kicked out when you’re too young, you get a gold watch,you go to work. You work forty years until you’re young enough to enjoy your retirement. You do drugs, alcohol, you party, you get ready for high school. You go to grade school, you become a kid, you play, you have no responsibilities, you become a little baby, you go back into the womb, you spend your last nine months floating … you finish off as an orgasm.”

IDYLWILD NEWS–next trip to Idylwild go out the I-10….Turn offat “The Crossroads” bar (Yucaipa)..But instead of turning in, keep headingdown “Dunlap Blvd” (back towards L.A.) about 3/4 of a mile ..You will finda fairly new scoot shop (Sanity’s Edge)…It’s a nice place w/cool peopleand HOT scoots…Take a camera (please)..He could use some EXPOSURE and youare the bro who has the connections … If one isn’t really looking theymiss it from the freeway…I sure enjoy your site and stories…Keep up theGREAT work…SCOOTER

BIG DOG MOTORCYCLES UNLEASHES THE 2000 WOLF–Leading the pack once again in 2000, Big Dog Motorcycleshas electrified the industry with the addition of the Wolf, astandard-setting model that is sure to turn the heads of enthusiasts andcritics alike. New to the Big Dog pound, the Wolf arrives in style withclean, stretched lines and a radical air dam that takes aerodynamics to anew and exciting level. Slung low and ready to pounce, the Wolf’s stretchedchassis features a hidden shock, non-stop chrome and trick 18-inch billetwheels. This rocket is finished with Big Dog designed custom fendersfeaturing built-in, recessed tail light and tag. But don’t think the Wolfis all bark and no bite. No way. The Wolf won’t keep any rider hungry formore power with a bone-crunching, pavement-burning 107 cubic inch TotalPerformance Engineering Pro Series engine. This power plant delivers topperformance, no matter the driving situation.

“We believe the Total Performance engine has brought some strongtechnical advancement to our drivetrain,” said Nick “The Knife” Messer,president of Big Dog Motorcycles. Prepare yourself, the new standard forexotic customs is here and it’s called the Wolf.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT–Dreams:Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird thatcannot fly.–Langston Hughes

Self-imageWe either make ourselves miserable or we make ourselves strong.The amount of work is the same.–Carlos Castaneda

LAUGHLIN UPDATE–Remember the desert heat of Laughlin, theglittering casinos, the wind across the highway as you leaned your bikeinto town? Neither do I, but it happened, believe me, and another event isin the planning stages.

Event dates for the 2001 Laughlin River Run will be announcedMonday, October 2nd. Discount room packages, event entry and concerttickets go on sale Wednesday, November 1st by calling Dal-Con Promotions at(714) 694-2800 or visit us online at Laughlinriverrun.com.

Hey, here’s some of the winners of the annual bike show next to theColorado River: This is wild, the winner of the Event drawing was a woman,Debbie Cacciacarne (wow, whatta name), of Rosemond, California, and thePoker Run top dog was also a woman, Jennifer Murray of Dana Point,California. The Best of Show award went to a restored 1947 Indian Chief,Richard Bunch of San Jose, California. The Best Radical Rubbermount wasJeff Wolf of Kolone, Canada. The Best Solid mount went to Hatt Hotch orFullerton, California. Best Radical Chopper went to a 1968 FL belonging toYasuyoshi Chikazawa of Huntington Beach, California. Best Mild Custom for a2000 custom to Justin Banks of Palm Springs, California. Best Street Customfor a 1996 Softail Custom by Gary Hopper, of Allen, Texas. Sportster awardwent to Verlie Sanchez, Gilbert, Arizona. Antique Best went to a goodfriend Don Whalen of Monrovia, California for his 1941 Indian Chief.Sidecar award went to William Coddington or Las Vegas and his 1946 EL, andfinally the Open Class award was handed to a 1966 BSA owned by Paul Ponkowof Henderson, Nevada.

WIRING HASSLES– Bandit, got the 1960 FL running. Something about a 40-year-old millcoming back to life that’s a great thing. Wiring was done like you sentme– works great. you are the MAN. Saw you in the Horse. Haven’t got achance to read it yet. Got miles to put on my motor but when it rains Iwill. Sorry to hear about RIP. Ride Free, Brother– Phil Hoffman

BIKERNET EAST MEETS REVTECH–Custom Chrome introduces world’s first rocket-powered Zebra. The powerplant of the Great Zebra Northern Steamer for Bikernet Chop-Off 2000. TheGreat Zebra Northern Steamer is to be a biker’s bike. No fantasylandHollywood bullshit in the way of $80,000 paint jobs or diamond encrustedspokes, no chop-shop hoopla, the Zebra Steamer is going to the root ofAmerican bike building, tight, right, fast and reliable. It’s being builtby the rider, with help from Bandit, Wrench, the Chinaman and the torquekings at Casa El Horsepower, in an anonymous San Pedro, California garage.The scoot is being designed to take a lead wrist and heavy beatings withoutsnapping, leaking, dying or crying.

Our bros at Custom Chrome, legendary for their fine products andexcellent customer service, answered our call for horsepower, durability,fit, form and function, by shipping to the Bikernet garage one 88-inchRevTech monster. The Zebra Steamer’s heart and soul arrived crated andmounted on a temporary engine stand, for simple storage prior toinstallation. And talk about ready to ride. When you get an engine fromCustom Chrome, you get an engine, one that’s ready to plug in, gas up andride, tuned and pruned. These suckers come complete with carb and ignitionsystem. It is literally bolt-in ready when it comes off the truck with anyOEM or custom frame which will hold an Evolution (see engine tech in theCustom Chrome department in the near future).

The entire system is designed on a CAD (computer assisted design)system, just like the ones used at the big automotive plants. This meansyou get the latest in engine technology available. Every component iscreated from new tooling techniques in a state-of-the-art ISO manufacturingplant. But high-tech engineering manufacturing equipment and techniquesaren’t any good without great concepts to use them on. Again, CustomChrome has put its money where its product is and created somerevolutionary new thinking in big-twins.

STURGIS 2000 CHOP-OFF EXPOSE–Hey Bandit, the site just keeps getting better. It was interesting to readthe softer side of Agent Zebra as he explained your Chop-Off dilemma. Iapplaud you for setting the story straight. So many shops forget about thecustomer. We need to support the shops that know who pays the bills.

By the way, I just got back from a fly and ride down to New Mexico. Imade a point of heading to Tombstone to check out Pat Kennedy’s shop. I’m afan of his front ends. I’d like to think a stretch front end with a 21 onmy Road King is the poor boy answer to your Cruising Chopper.–Jet CityLongrider

RADIOWOODSTOCK.COM AIRS MOTORCYCLE PROGRAM–We are a radio station on the Internet that plays 4 channels of the bestRock N Roll on the WWW.We will be airing “The Motorcycle Show” on Saturdays 8-9pm. It is hostedby English Don the Associate Editor of The Horse Magazine. He will beplaying his selections of cool, deep cut classic motor head rock & rollmusic as he talks shop.

Hoggers can get all the latest on the motorcycleworld, including current events, shows, conventions, news about races,swap meets and stories of interest. Don also goes on the road withRadioWoodstock.com and covers events like the Daytona Bike Week andWeb casts “live” from the event.If you have any questions, please call me at 212 580-0190 or e-mail meat scottm@radiowoodstock.com

DOWNED HAMSTER–I am sending a “group” update on Mike Robins’ condition. For all who don’tknow, Mike had triple bypass surgery on Wed. May the 10th. This was aresult of, and I quote, “all that good clean livin’.” I guess you know wherethat quote came from! Regardless, he came through the surgery with flyingcolors,and was released on Sunday. The surgeon was amazed, but, said he had nodamage to his heart, and should be good as new after his recovery. He isdoing excellent & would be doing a lot better if he had not gone to the shoponMonday!

After a few choice words, lots of persuasion, and a reprimand fromthe cardiologist, he decided to take a few days to rest, and heal. As youcansee, I am sending this e-mail from the shop, so….we are working a littletoday,but, under strict supervision by his private nurse! We missed Myrtle Beach,butplan on going to the R.O.T. rally in Austin, Tx. June 9th, 10th, and 11th.Thank you all for your concern, and inquiries, Sincerely, Nancy Robins

RESPONSE TO DR. DEWEY RETORT LAST WEEK–Hey Dr. Dufus, that was some response to our ownZebra. I must say, the typing y’all did was themost work you have done for the site in the lastsix months. I have some more work for you, see ifyou can even hold a firearm in your hand withoutpissin’ your pants and running home to mother.nighty-night, darling, love Jon-P.S. By the way, when Zebra reads your humor, prayto your god (you) that zebra has any humor in hisbones!

AGENT ZEBRA’S RESPONSE–Dear Dr. Dewey, do you shave yourpussy?”–Zebra

NEW CONTRIBUTOR–Hey Bandit! Sorry to hear about the cluster fuck involving WEST COAST.Guess it ain’t like the old days when a man’s word was THE word … no needfor lawyers/contracts/courts. A handshake was the final determination.

Anyway…been riding since around 1969..started reading ER when I wasstationed in the ‘Crotchback in the early-mid 70’s. (I was an Air Wingeron board the U.S.S. MIDWAY during Operation Frequent Wind/S. Vietnam Evac)Never made it to land, lost a few friends over there and more after theygot back here.

Written stuff for “HOT BIKE”, “IRON HORSE”, “Harley Women”, “HOOSIERMOTORCYCLIST”, “HOOSIER RIDER”, “THE HORSE-BackStreet Choppers” over theyears, teach the MSF Riders Course for ABATE of Indiana, certified/factorytrained Harley wrench, certified machinist, etc. Just wondered if youmight be interested in some tech stuff, input from the streets…hell,maybe a column on riding safe on the street based on my training/experienceand observations. In any case….GREAT SITE!! Wish you all the best in thefuture. Respectfully Racer

I’m proud to announce that Race will be working with us in thefuture. Initially we would like to put up a series of articles on theadvance riders’ course. For those of us that can’t eeeeeek out the timefrom the pub to take it, Race will endeavor to bring the curriculum aliveon the streets of Bikernet. We gotta keep you guys safe from the carpeople.–Bandit

SICK OF EASYRIDERS–Hey Bandit, I’m sure you’re sick of hearing about Easyriders, but Iwanted to tell ya I’ve read the rag since it started way back when. Stillhave almost every issue since number 1 except for the ones I loaned out orforgot to renew the subscription in time. Anyway, I miss your input andcreativity at ER. It’s just not the same, but I’m happy for ya doin yourown thing!!! I’ll be checkin’ in on this Web site regular. Ride Hard, DieFast–Humphrey

Never sick of Easyriders!

42 ARRESTED IN MOTORCYCLE GANG RAIDS–42 Hundreds of officers scoop up guns, cash and bikes in sweep againstthe Mongols. Three are charged with murder.

Hundreds of federal agents and Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputiesfanned out over three states Friday to drop an investigative net over theMongols motorcycle club, arresting at least 42 people in Southern Californiaand seizing dozens of illegal guns, cocaine and stolen motorcycles, theysaid.

The crackdown was the culmination of a perilous, 2 1/2-yearinvestigation in which an undercover federal agent joined the club and roseinto its executive ranks, officials of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobaccoand Firearms said.

Authorities described the Mongols as among the most violent of theoutlaw motorcycle gangs, and said its members were suspected in a widevariety of crimes that include murder, extortion, arson, weapons violationsand illegal drug dealing.

At least three of those arrested Friday were charged with murder, ATFspokesman John D’Angelo said. The three are Adrian Gutierrez, 36, of MontereyPark, and two men identified only as David Herrera and David Rivera. Most ofthose arrested were charged with narcotics or firearms violations, D’Angeloadded.

The undercover ATF agent, who was not identified, joined theMongols’San Fernando Valley branch and rose through the ranks to become clubtreasurer, according to John Torres, the assistant agent in charge of theATF’s Los Angeles bureau. Before joining, Torres said, the agent wassubjected to a background check by a private investigator working for theMongols. How a veteran federal agent managed to pass that check and remainundetected for two years in a reputedly ruthless motorcycle gang was amongthe tantalizing questions left unanswered by the federal officials, whodeclined to discuss the operation in any detail.

ODD CLASSIFIEDS–2 female Boston Terrier puppies, 7 weeks old, Perfectmarkings, 555-1234. Leave mess.

Lost: small apricot poodle. Reward. Neutered. Like one of the family.

A superb and inexpensive restaurant. Fine food expertly served by waitresses in appetizing forms.

Dinner Special — Turkey $2.35; Chicken or Beef $2.25; Children $2.00. For sale: an antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.

Four-poster bed, 101 years old. Perfect for antique lover.

QUICKIES–A man came up with a new invention, a vibrating tampon. That way a woman can be at her best when she is at her worst.

What does a 72-year-old snatch taste like? Depends…

What’s “68”? You do me and I owe you one.

What did Cinderella do when she got to the ball? Gagged!

FYI NEWS ITEM–For anyone interested in land speed racing, you might want to logonto: www.elmirage.org The new site gives you background on the ElMirage dry lakes used for, among other things, land speed racing sincethe 1930’s. The site seems to have fairly good content, but thecalendar need a bit of filling in. The site also seems to be “a workin progress” but is worth a peek.

LAUGHLIN CRITIQUE–re: bikernews (last section Golden Nugget piece) Yer a regular fuckin’Billy Shakespeare when it comes to describin’ hardbellies. –Virus

STAND BY: FLASH TRAFFIC AGENT ZEBRA-EYES ONLY–This is Suntransmitting fromTaiwan. Urgently need information from the German Feminine that only YOUcan obtain. Have bike paint job design in mind but need certain words inGerman to complete it. Ask the German Feminine how you say “Steel Horse”or “Iron Horse” in German. Once asked this of Bandit, but he must havebeen recovering from some Black Jack and drug induced bacchanal with somesweet innocent thing from the local high school playground and forgot.(No offense Bandit!) That’s it! Keep riding and writing–Sun, Bikernetforeign correspondent

NICK THE DICK MEETS ZEBRA, WORLDS COLLIDE–Dear Mr. Toole, It was so nice to see you lurking around the garageSaturday scrounging for food in the trash bins, when I was busy wrenchingmy champion steed for Sturgis. That is, after I got Bandit’s chrome-platedmess off the fuckin’ rack. And might I say you’re looking especially fatand ugly. You may want to make an appearance before the hose in the nearfuture, judging from the perfume of human offal and vomit which lingered inthe garage four hours after your much celebrated departure. And was thatsome sort of disease on your face, or are you trying to grow a beard? Atfirst I thought the Chinaman had bent over to pick up a wrench and the rearseam on his trousers had blown, then I figured it must be the plague, butBandit informs me you’re growing a beard in celebration of Sturgis. Ishall take him at his word, though I think we both know how foolish thatcan be. Have a happy divorce and may you have many more. Yours in infiniteadmiration, Don Zebra

POLITICALLY STRAIGHTFORWARD–Glad to see that some elements of what used to make ER a staple in myliterary cupboard can still be found. Good stuff. But one thing that reallychaps my hide is the apparent squeamishness I find in all of the bikermedia outlets when it comes to taking the Democratic party, particularlythat in CA, to task over “freedom of choice”. Those fucking hypocrites!Sure there are good Dem’s like Ed Vincent and a few others but it’s thedamn party that needs a good slap upside the face.

All of the blue collar union members who pay their dues to support aparty that has, and does, promote a socialist agenda (read helmet laws)needa real sharp slap in the face. As a former member of NFFE I can now sleepwith a clear conscience because I know that I am not standing on the plankthat I’m trying to lift. I suggest the rest of freedom loving union membersdo likewise. The union members have the power to change this if they willsimply tell their leadership that they’ve had enough and promise they willvote Republican ACROSS THE BOARD until the Dem’s burn that plank in theirplatform; then live up to that promise.

TOTO, I HAVE A FEELING WE’RE NOT IN KANSAS ANYMORE–A blindingflash of light, then nothing. Slowly a dim blurred gray light brightenedand forms began to emerge. The forms became objects, a night stand, alamp, an alarm clock and beyond, a wall, a window filled with the morningsblue sky and the crown of an un-manicured palm tree. With the images clearother senses began to awaken in the same fashion, a familiar smell, an achein a neck muscle, the sound of the ticking clock. Next thoughts at firstunclear and disjointed began to form.

Suddenly a primordial thought, a survival instinct evolved over millionsyears explodes “WHERE THE HELL AM I?” Frozen in a panic of selfpreservation the senses retreat and the thoughts take the full focus ofbeing. A frantic search through recent memories attempts to answer thequestion. A bar, of course, every evening ends in a bar and is the portalthat leads to the next morning. This was a new bar, a business meeting?The meeting ended but the JD kept flowing. There was a woman of course,there always is. There was something unusual about this woman, what wasit? I must be in her bed, is she still here? Slowly rolling over to seewhat last night’s indiscretions involved.

OPPOSE UNCONSTITUTIONAL GUN CONTROL–Addressed to: The President and Congress of the US

Sponsored by: Second Amendment Sisters

Web site: http://www.i-charity.net/sw.cgi/ptn/4/tfref/5046

Not only can you sign this petition online, but alsoyou may leave a comment and a link to your web site.You can also read the comments of other people whosigned this petition. So far there are 45615 signatures.

Here is a brief description of this petition:

We are at important crossroad in protecting ourConstitutional Rights. With media support and exploitationof tragedy, the Million Mom March and HCI will succeed indiminishing our absolute right to bear arms, unless amillion of US say something! You deserve safety in your ownhome and person! Let lawmakers know that our 2nd AmendmentRights are NON-NEGOTIABLE, and put to rest the notion that75% of “the American people” support gun control. Lettingsomeone else do it is no longer an option.

EAST COAST REPORT–Well, darling man:The mention of your name and good wishes brought wide grins to the angelfaces and appreciation from Mr. Barger.

It was great to meet the man. I rode with him and the chapter through thestreets of New York City tonight. I was the only biker lady. I waspositioned just after the colors and before the independents. We hauledass, with Mr. Barger and Mr. Zito in the lead. A great experience.

The line was two hours worth of signing. The boys kept things real tight.I left my bike unlocked and helmet on the seat right on the streets of NYC.Nobody touched a thing.

There was paparazzi, video cameras and more. Usually, it’ssort of sacrilege to photograph. But they had to allow it for the bookpublicity. All the sergeant of arms were totally photographed.

The publicist was so completely out of her element. She was a nice girlthough. The signing went well, but the after party was not at allrespectful towards Sonny. Not a scrap of food and these men stood forthere boss from 5p – 9p with nothing to eat. Not even an open bar. Whatkind of party is that? Not one angel is under 250lbs, I can’t imagine themgetting by without dinner.

Prez said to the gal, hey get some pizza. Hunger pangs were loud for all. Ioffered the girl a few suggestions and she only had a corporate credit card.No pizza place takes credit cards. I said, talk to the bar owner, tell himto put the pizza on a tab and you pay him. That didn’t work, I say shedidn’t work him. She was desperate, so I took her credit card and foundfood for the party. I don’t really even know the publicist. The boys werethankful. She was thankful.

Then I had a delightful moonlit ride home all alone.–Sasha, live in NewYork City.

JOB ADS YOU CAN’T MISS– “Competitive Salary” We remain competitive by paying you less than our competition.

“Join our fast-paced company” We have no time to train you.

“Casual work atmosphere” We don’t pay enough to expect that you will dress up; a couple of the real daring guys wear earrings.

EMPLOYEE EVALUATIONS–

I would not allow this employee to breed.

This associate is really not so much of a has-been, but more definitely a won’t be.

Works well when under constant supervision and cornered like a rat in a trap.

When she opens her mouth, it seems it is only to change whichever foot was previously there.

THE GOOD AGENT–Good of Agent Zebra to set the story straight.West Coast Choppers indeed! As I have read the saga of the touring chopperand the latest alternator swap under the Custom Chrome banner I have cometo realize that while Jesse is a master craftsman with metal his buildingskills possibly do not meet his rep. When read as a whole it appears thetouring chopper lacked in motor, chassis, handling, saddlebags, wiring.Where does the list end? Now the latest scoop with the demise of the BugatiBandito to be strewn in pieces and discarded. What the fucko? I wish youwell in your projects and must confess I am glad you have come to yoursenses and taken control yourself of the building phase. Your bikes werealways “out there” now take the credit yourself. I look forward to your andZebra’s bikes on Bikernet. Ride safe old stud! Anson Alexander

What’s that “old” shit?

MARVEL ENTERPRISES AND CRYSTAL SKY ENTERTAINMENT JOIN FORCES TOPRODUCE THE GHOST RIDER–Marvel Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE:MVL) andCrystal Sky Entertainment have entered into an agreement to jointly producea feature film based on Ghost Rider, one of Marvel’s most successful andedgy comic book characters. The announcement was made today by Avi Arad,President and CEO, Marvel Studios, and Steven Paul, President and CEO,Crystal Sky Entertainment.

Scheduled for production early next year, Ghost Rider is expected tobe budgeted at $75 million. Johnny Depp is being targeted to play the GhostRider. Arad, Paul and Academy-Award winning actor Jon Voight, who may alsoplay a role in the film, will produce. The Ghost Rider screenplay wasscripted by David Goyer, the writer of the acclaimed and successful Bladefilm.

Ghost Rider, who made his debut in August 1972 in Marvel SpotlightNo. 5, is one of Marvel’s premiere properties. The Ghost Rider storylinefocuses on a motorcycle stuntman, who, seeking revenge for harm done to hisone true love, makes a pact with dark forces to avenge the wrongdoing. Byday, the Ghost Rider is a motorcycle stuntman able to perform superhumantricks; by night he is transformed into a burning demon on wheels as hehunts down those who bring pain to the innocent.

START YOUR OWN BIKER RAG– Here’s information on publishing aFull Throttle Magazine in your area. Wecurrently produce editions in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and our neweststate New Jersey! We have magazine owners who know very little aboutcomputers, know nothing about the printing business, can’t type worth a damnand yet they run successful editions. All you need todo is sell ads, write local stories, take a few pictures, have a faxmachine, install a 800 telephone number and use Federal Express – we’ll dothe rest!

We support each edition by supplying editorial copy, complete layout andfuture income via national ad sales. Hopefully during the next 6-12 months,Full Throttle will add additional national ads for all editions (examples:Custom Chrome, Arlen Ness, Corbin, Pro 1, motorcycle manufacturers,Budweiser, Jack Daniel’s, Marlboro, etc.).

We will typeset, layout and print your edition here in Tampa Bay. Via thelarge number of magazines we print monthly, we have secured the lowestpossible printing and freight costs. We are able to ship 10,000 magazinesfor about $225.00 per month.

This system has been working for us for the past 6 1/2 years and itis easier than it sounds! Our Web page will show you the approximatecost of doing a Full Throttle magazine. You’ll see the costs of each itemand the costs that it takes to put an edition out. YOU make the decision ofhow many pages your book will be (40 page minimum). YOU make the decision ofhow many color pages your book will have. YOU make the decision of how manybooks you want to print. We have a few guidelines, but YOU own your ownbusiness, YOU are the boss ….

Check Out our Web page for more info at www.fullthrottleusa.com or sende-mail to fullthrottle@ij.net or call us at 1-800-889-8180

PENNSYLVAINA MOTORCYCLISTS RALLY IN HARRISBURG MAY 22– “Tell thetruth about motorcycle safety.” That’s the message motorcyclists fromacross the state will send to legislators and opponents of helmet lawreform when they gather here for the state’s annual motorcyclists’ rightsrally May 22.”We’re sick and tired of being victimized by distorted statistics, biasedstudies and big-money, high-pressure lobbying tactics used by ouropponents, who believe that the answer to motorcycle safety is to put ahelmet on somebody’s head,” said Joe Dickey, state president of A.B.A.T.E.of Pennsylvania, the commonwealth’s oldest and largest motorcyclists’rights organization.”Just two weeks ago,” Dickey continued, “The Washington Times reported thatJoan Claybrook, the head of the National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration under President Carter, has publicly apologized for usingcontrived statistics and outright lies to encourage mandatory air bags inautomobiles. The guilt finally caught up with her after 20 years andnearly 200 deaths caused by air bags. NHTSA has used the same scandalouslies to distort the record of helmets in saving lives.”The simple truth is that real-world experience in state after state hasproven that the only way to reduce the number of motorcycle injuries andfatalities is to prevent motorcycle accidents,” he said. “Common senseshould tell everyone that mandating helmet use will never accomplish thatgoal.”Dickey cited statistics from all 50 states, which show that states whichrequire the mandatory use of helmets by motorcyclists account for adisproportionate share of accidents, injuries and fatalities.In 1997, for example, mandatory helmet states, which had 62 percent of allmotorcycle registrations, accounted for 64 percent of motorcycle fatalitiesand 66 percent of all motorcycle accidents. States which have recentlymodified their helmet laws to allow adults the right to make their owndecision on helmet use have not experienced the increase in fatality ratespredicted by the opponents of personal responsibility. Governor Bush ofFlorida is currently expected to sign a bill passed by both the House andSenate that will make Florida the thirtieth state in which experiencedadult motorcyclists will have the option to choose helmet use.

For more information contact the A.B.A.T.E. of Pennsylvania state officeat 717-234-3777.

WISH I HAD SAID–

A dirty mind is a terrible thing to waste.

Lottery: A tax on people who are bad at math.

Very funny, Scotty. Now beam down my clothes.

Consciousness: that annoying time between naps.

Ever stop to think, and forget to start again?

IRON HORSE OF NEW MEXICO CORRECTION– Not Exactly a correction.Well, all right I omitted Don Center’s stats. He’s building these monstertrikes for guys who prefer or are forced to ride trikes in lieu of twowheels. They’re bad and available in a turn key fashion or kit form, so youcan put your own monster together. Don’s building an new one with a brandnew 500 horsepower power plant, which will allow any grinning customer toleap small buildings in a single snap of the throttle. His shop is actuallylocated in Roswell, New Mexico, at 1408 S. Main, (505) 627-7858. Watch,I’ll get the phone number wrong this time.

MO’ CHOP-OFF COMPETITION BAD NEWS–Dear Mr. Bandito, I’m writing to inform you that the Great NorthernSteamer, my spangled entry into Chop-Off 2000, will be operational in oneweek. This notice is to allow you time to weep and grieve properly. SoonSouth Beach will thunder with the Steamer’s new RevTech 88 as I begintesting, preparing for our friendly little race to Sturgis 2000. My Baker6-speed tranny is running smoothly, as all Baker trannys do. My Avons holdthe road like a nipple holds onto a breast.

Thanks to the Chinaman and his unusual speed on a rack, I will befinishing ahead of schedule. I will use the extra time to do fly-bys onyour rotting castle in San Pedro. As I understand it, you are still tryingto sweep together the mess made of your former motorcycle. Chortle,chortle, chuck, chuck. I pity you. Time will tell and shit will smell. Ihear Amtrak runs a train north and it comes within 20 miles of Strugis.Perhaps you should book passage before it fills up. Yours in streakingRevTech glory, Zebra

SHUT THE LID– The fog is still hovering over the harbor as Istrain to keep my eyes open. The Agent is correct, I’m running a long forthin the race to Sturgis. Jesse with all his money, mechanics and equipmentis cranking out choppers faster than Reddenbalker makes popcorn. Billy Laneis carving another frame on the pages of Horse Magazine. Zebra’sbike is nearly ready to be wired.

Yet, with little cash, no professional mechanics, milling machines andlathes, I will somehow catch the pack. Just you wait. My Samson exhaustsystem arrived today, the Roadwings wheels are laced and ready, and I stillhave a couple of nuts and bolts. I never said chrome. We’re bolting andpulling the plug for the ride. Who needs a taillight. We’ve got toride.–Bandit

My dad has a 107 Merch motor and was dying to stuff it into a chopper, so we ordered a West Coast Choppers frame.

As soon as we got it out of the box, my dad didn’t like it; he wanted something with more stretch and rake. It just so happened that I had an H-D Evo motor and tranny at the shop, and I decided to build the chopper for the showroom. Parts were ordered little by little over the next couple months. Andy at Custom Chrome and Elizabeth at Chrome Specialties were great about getting the orders out quickly. If you follow the Bikernet news section, you might have an idea of the whole build. It’s taken 2½ months.

One thing that makes a project easy is knowing beforehand what the bike will (sort of) look like and what components will be used. With that in mind,let’s get to the build.

The salty Caribbean air and chromed aluminum parts don’t gotogether. We had some parts that were new but already showed chipped chrome, including the forward controls, triple trees and grips. They were going to be powder-coated anyway, so it didn’t matter. Besides, it was dead stock that we were moving. I’m not going to mention names but anyone with a keeneye will know the manufacturer.

The first mockup was so-so. The rear fender was back ordered and thefork legs were too long. The plan was a narrow glide front end and 19-inchwheel, to make it look longer. When we received the tank (WCC CFL,which is built and sold by Custom Chrome), it was wider than expected and theskinny front end looked out of place. It was ditched and a wide glidetook its place, as well as a 21 wheel-tire combo.

The rear fender was in, a Two-eight by WCC, made for the frame. Well,the radius of the fender was too much and we could spin the 200-by-18 Avon tyrearound with the fender stuck to it. Some heavy cutting and grinding tookplace in order to free them both. I was expecting a better fit from theWCC fender. With all the “custom” work we did, we ended up with about 8inches less steel.

Spacing the rear wheels and Exile sprocket/brake proved to be ahandful. WCC has a hidden axle that looks very cool, but you have to be pretty accurate to make the right spacers, since the axle will not be able tobring the ends closer for a tighter fit. The Exile sprocket runs prettyclose to the brake bracket so a minimal spacer had to be made. Hours wereburned measuring and re-measuring the fender and bungs position before tackwelding. We guessed that the chain would have clearance problems with thefender and we were right.

Full mockup: The motor and tranny aligned pretty well with a stock H-Dprimary, but were hell to align with a BDL open primary. The motor sat veryfirmly and no shims had to be used, but there was a small gap between theplate and the cases. We left everything loose and forced the plate in. I think the tranny plate is to blame. A front regulator/oil filter plate was canned after grinding a half moon notch to fit into the frame down tubes. That’s when I came up with the idea to hide the regulator on the open belt plate. The filter stayed in factory position.

Here enters the new owner. He saw the Jesse James video (like millions of people on this planet) and went to check out the mocked-up bike. He likedit and a deal was made. Before this, the bike was for the showroom and was being built at our pace. Now a deadline was set and all hell broke loose. By theway, I want to thank my girlfriend, Yoly, for understanding my overnightersand lending a hand.

We worked all night, every day to put this bike together beforeSturgis. When all was welded in place and molded, the frame and rear fender went to the paint booth. The tank had to be worked on, moving the bung to a lower location in order to get more gas. Panic struck when I arrived at the shopand saw the color. Our guys have the good sense to always spray a samplebefore actually doing the parts. I had hoped to have the bike ready for the Jack Daniel’s BBQ. Boy was I cocky.

The new owner pretty much left me alone (which was great), only coming bythe shop to see photos of the bike being put together and asking for some parts that he would like.

The paint was my idea — tangerine with metal flake flames. As luck had it, we found a quart of paint in stock and got the project going once more. What you might see in the latest photos was done in five hours. Fitting all the parts two and three times makes life much simpler. Some stuff was still giving us a hard time, however. Yes, the chain rubs the fender a bit, the primary was still a pain in the ass to align and the spacers are not totally right, but that’s easy stuff.

One thing that’s great is the WCC oil tank, which fitted right in and saved us a lot of welding and measuring time. I expected more from WCC, fitting wise. A fender made for a frame should go “like butta,” as well as other littledetails. On the other hand, it’s a bike that needs “thought” and experienceto put together, which is anti-Bozo builders. In short, it makes you becreative.

By the time you read this, the electrics and front end (I hope!) willbe in place, the front brake and perches from PM are on the way (we know theyfit) and that’s about it. Maybe I’ll have it in time for Sturgis…I have no choice.

A really important part of every build; Nothing can get accomplished byone person. There’s a team of people always helping, even the guy who fetchesthe Cokes is worth his weight in gold. Thanks once more to all of you (inour shop and anyone’s), you know who you are.

Frame – WCC Dragon Choppers For Life rigid
Motor – H-D 80 cubic inch Evo, triple 80, 80 cubes, 80 horse, 80 torque
Tranny – H-D 5-speed
Wheels – CCI chrome, stainless spokes, 21 front, 18 by 5.75 rear
Tires – Avon 21 front; Avon 200-18 rear
Primary/ clutch – BDL open
Rear fender – WCC Two-eight (heavily modified)
Gas Tank – WCC CFL (CCI King Sporty tank)
Paint – Tangerine House of Kolor Kandy, with metalflake flames
Forward controls – Pro One chrome chipped
Triple Trees – Arlen Ness wide glide chrome chipped
Grips – Pro One chrome chipped
Electrical – Caribbean (by Guti the Guru)
Sprocket/ brake – Exile Cycles
Front brake – PM 4 piston
Perches – PM “old style”
Pipes – WCC Hellbent (2 months back order)
Carb – S&S
Ignition/Cam – Caribbean secret

Back to the Garage….