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Updating the Bikernet Experience

Hey, Here’s the deal. We’ve worked and spent an entire year to move all Bikernet Free Content (16,000 articles) onto a fast-acting, mobile-friendly, google accessible, WordPress Platform. ...
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National Roadway Safety Strategy Announced

Thursday afternoon, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg announced a new national road safety campaign. The plan, known as the “National Roadway Safety Strategy,” comes in response to increased year over year fatalities on our nation’s roadways. In 2020, an estimated 38,680 people died as a result of a motor vehicle crash. Of those, approximately 9% were motorcyclists’ fatalities. What is most alarming about the increase in fatalities, is that the total number of miles traveled on our roads decreased during the pandemic. Americans traveled 13.2% less miles in 2020 than we did in 2019, but we saw a 7.2% increase in deaths. The preliminary numbers for the first 6 months of 2021 are also troublesome. From January through the end of June 2021 an estimated 20,160 people died in crashes. That is the largest number of projected deaths in that time frame since 2006. To combat this trend the plan outlines five key objectives:
  • Safer People: Encourage safe, responsible behavior by people who use our roads and create conditions that prioritize their ability to reach their destination unharmed.
  • Safer Roads: Design roadway environments to mitigate human mistakes and account for injury tolerances, to encourage safer behaviors, and to facilitate safe travel by the most users.
  • Safer Vehicles: Expand the availability of vehicle systems and features that help to prevent crashes and minimize the impact of crashes on both occupants and non-occupants.
  • Safer Speeds: Promote safer speeds in all roadway environments through a combination of thoughtful, context-appropriate roadway design, targeted education, and outreach campaigns, and enforcement.
  • Post-Crash Care: Enhance the survivability of crashes through expedient access to emergency medical care, while creating a safe working environment for vital first responders and preventing secondary crashes through robust traffic incident management practices.
The recently passed infrastructure bill has components and funding to help achieve some of these goals. For example, $14 billion in new funding was specifically allocated for road safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also announced plans this week to increase the data it collects on crashes. The agency wants to boost the number of crashes investigated and add additional studies that examine crashes involving medium-duty trucks, pedestrians, and workers who are hit on the road. We at the Motorcycle Riders Foundation are encouraged to see that the U.S. Department of Transportation is taking a complete view of traffic safety, incorporating multiple factors to make our roadways safer. We also remain committed to the theory of crash avoidance, as a crash that doesn’t happen is always safer than one that does.

To get more detail and read the 41 page report click here.

About Motorcycle Riders Foundation: The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. See website at: http://mrf.org/
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Veterans Crisis Line

                                                 1-800-273-8255

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

 

                                     Jody Hall Annual Memorial Ride 2022

 

Joining together to remember and celebrate the life of our brother…

 

This is the third year that the American Legion Riders Post #104 gather to remember their brother,  a retired Air Force veteran with 22 years of service.

 

Today, Roadkill and the Legion Riders celebrate Jody’s life the way he would have, had he been here. Riding to remember the good times, and making some good out of the bad.

 

“Sometimes there’s just no words…”

 

Roadkill was there when Jody got married on a sailboat.   Roadkill was there the day they spread Jody’s ashes off a boat. Roadkill was there for all of the  30 years of miles in between.

 

Jody met Roadkill under the big tree at the old Jim’s Harley Dealership on Haines Road in St. Petersburg. “The Tree Gang” used to ride together back in the day, meeting under the big oak in the parking lot. They started at Post #125 for Bloody Mary Specials to kick things off, and who knows where they would end up from there.

 

Jody was one of the charter members of Post 104 Legion Riders 20 years ago, one of the earliest to establish in the area. Jody was “larger than life”. “A true brother to the core who enjoyed the good times and a good party”. Intelligence at its finest. One of the greatest guys ever. True grit – could be abrasive in personality, but was very caring underneath it all. He had a huge heart. He was even involved in Animal Rescue with his Mrs.

  

 Roadkill was there for Jody’s 50th birthday party when Jody climbed a huge oak tree out back, jumped on a branch and fell 30 feet to the ground landing on his back. Carted off to the ER he went…ever the smartass to the EMTs J

 

He was so full of life. No one under stands the how or the why. Maybe it was related to his physical complications from medical issues. Jody’s decision made life difficult for so many left behind – no one saw this coming. Jody left this world on Roadkill’s birthday. 

 

The annual memorial event this year was a Poker Run and Fundraiser with all proceeds being donated to K9s for Warriors. Over $9,000.00 was raised in Jody’s memory which will be gifted to K9s for Warriors . They are the largest provider of service dogs to veterans in the U.S., rescuing many of their dogs from high kill shelters. Their website notes that they have rescued more than 1,300 dogs so far. This year’s event really paralleled Jody’s life bringing together veterans, animals, a good party, and killer music by Wallace Blvd! The Riders will make the journey to Jacksonville, FL to present the check to the K9s for Warrior in Jody’s Name.

 

You can find out more about K9s for Warriors at the link below. Their Mission: “Determined to end veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors provides highly-trained Service Dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma.”

 https://k9sforwarriors.org

 

                                  Veterans Crisis Line

                             1-800-273-8255

 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report/September 2021

 

https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/docs/data-sheets/2021/2021-National-Veteran-Suicide-Prevention-Annual-Report-FINAL-9-8-21.pdf

 

 The future ain’t certain but the end is always near….

Let it roll…

 

 

 You are not alone.

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Black Biker History

 
I do not claim to be an expert on any historical MC stuff, but I have always found it fascinating. Being a guy who tries to emulate what others have done in the past, I have always found it to be important and respectful to learn the history of the source of my passion. One aspect of chopper history that has always fascinated me are the black chopper builders and motorcycle clubs. That being said, I’ll just spout off things that I have learned through my chopper years thus far.
 

Cliff Vaughs. Member of The Chosen Few MC.
 
 

If you don’t know who this bad mafucka was, he was the guy who designed the bikes ridden by Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper in ‘Easy Rider’. Him and another badass black dude named Ben Hardy built the iconic Captain America and Billy bikes for the movie. Hardy was a very skilled bike builder and built two “Billy” bikes and three “Captain America” bikes. Being that it was 1969, they got no credit for building arguably the most famous choppers in history.

The Chosen Few Motorcycle Club. An important piece of chopper / club culture. They were founded in 1959 in Los Angeles. “When you talk of the Outlaw Bikers you automatically think of ‘Them Crazy White Boys’ doing what a lot of folk wish they could do. Live Life Like You Want & Fuck You And Your Rules. Well Guess What?

There was some crazy Black bikers who felt the same way, and didn’t give a Fuck. Thus was born the Black Outlaw Bikers!” The first White boy to come to the Chosen Few MC was “White Boy Art.” He came around 1960, followed by “White Boy Tom”. Soon they started to attract other White outlaw riders that wanted to join them.

The Chosen Few became a multi-racial MC with chapters that were all Black, all White, half White and half Mexican, half Black and half White, all Mexican, half Mexican and half Indian, a few Asians & one Iranian dude. They were one of the first, if not the very first, multi-racial one percenter club.

The East Bay Dragons Motorcycle Club.
 
 

The baddest of the bad, in my opinion of course (mainly because they are from Oakland and Bay Area chopper influence, blah blah)……… Originally started as a car club, they made the switch to an M.C. in 1959.

Due to harassment from law enforcement, Long time friend Sonny Barger suggested they switch to a motorcycle club because bikes were more discreet than cars, easier to maintain, and cheaper to work on. In 1959, and even well into the ‘60s, although there were two Harley-Davidson dealerships in Oakland, no dealership in the Bay Area would sell bikes to black customers.

All the original founding members had to buy used bikes in order to obtain ownership of one. The Black Panthers came to The Dragons for ideas and support during their creation.

Due to the support both organizations had for each other, some of the Black Panthers eventually became members of the East Bay Dragons after the Black Panthers disbanded.

Most of the black clubs around back then rode dressers and baggers, while The Dragons rode choppers. For all of you Sons Of Anarchy fans, The Grim Bastards were loosely based on the East Bay Dragons and their relationship with the Hells Angels that surpassed racial barriers during the 1960s and 1970s. To this day, they are still an all-black, all male, all Harley- Davidson riding motorcycle club….son.
 

This section is for the ladies because I’m a helluva romantic.
 
Let’s talk about the legendary Bessie Stringfield. In the ‘30s and ‘40s, Bessie started tossing a penny on a map of the USA and riding her motorcycle wherever said penny landed.

She rode to all 48 states and traversed the country around eight times. Hotels wouldn’t rent rooms to black folks, let alone a little black woman riding a Harley probably covered in road grime, so she often slept on her motorcycle.

Can you imagine how fucking gnarly that must have been, especially in middle America? Bessie rode Milwaukee iron. She said of the 27 Harleys she owned in her lifetime, “To me, a Harley is the only motorcycle ever made.” She was such a skilled rider that she would also do stunt riding in carnival shows.

During WW2, she worked as a civilian dispatch rider. Her job was mostly to carry documents between domestic U.S. Bases. Bessie was married and divorced six times. When she divorced her 3rd husband, Arther Stringfield, he asked her to keep his last name because he knew that one day Bessie would make that name famous.

She moved to Miami in the 1950s and eventually started the Ironhorse Motorcycle Club. Of course, she felt the hardships of the racial situation at the time, but she also felt the hardships of being a woman at the time. Disguised as a man, Bessie won a flat track race but was denied the prize money after she took off her helmet.

As I mentioned before, she was a stunt rider. She would get attention from the press by riding around while standing on the seat of her bike. She was nicknamed the “Negro Motorcycle Queen” and later the “Motorcycle Queen of Miami.”

Take a moment to take all of that in and think about how much of a badass Bessie was.
 

“If It Ain’t Long, It’s Wrong”
 

Let’s talk about a man of choppers. If you are into chopped motorcycles and haven’t heard his name, you probably need to start over. For those of you that are just along for the read, let’s talk about Sugar Bear. In the world of choppers, having long springer front forks is almost a must at some point.

There have been dozens of manufacturers of these types of forks and almost all of them are floppy, sketchy, and just plain questionable. However, there are a few builders that come to my mind who made springers that are undoubtably superior to the rest: Dick Allen, Paughco, Denver Mullins, Arlen Ness, and Sugar Bear.

I have personally seen and/or owned all of these at one time, and the quality truly is mind blowing. Bear got into bikes at the tail end of the ‘60s, which led to him meeting, learning from, and befriending Ben Hardy (One of the masterminds behind the Easy Rider bikes).

Sugar Bear opened his own shop in 1971 in South Central Los Angeles and started building springer forks in lengths up to 18-inches over stock, using solid steel to construct them during a time when most springers were made out of tubing.

He was a mathematician when it came to figuring out rake and trail, which resulted in a front fork that could be ridden with one hand with no bounce and zero flop. Something that was usually unheard of with a long springer. Now it was on. He had a few advertisements throughout the years in numerous magazines, but most of his work was done by word-of-mouth.

Fame wasn’t something that he was seeking. He just wanted to make a living doing the thing that he loved, building choppers. This is something that I envy very much. As time went on and the styles of choppers changed and evolved, Sugar Bear stayed true to his roots and kept building them his way.

This led to more and more business over the years, and turned into a family affair. His son “Little Bear” now works side by side with him keeping the legacy going.

This last paragraph is from Street Chopper Magazine because I think it’s said perfectly: Sugar Bear and his choppers and infamous Springer front ends have stood the test of time. Sugar Bear is a true chopper-culture icon. His influence through the evolution of the custom motorcycle industry has left a mark and long-lasting impression on riders and chopper enthusiasts alike for decades past and for many years to come.

As an individual and devoted bike builder who has been there since the birth of choppers, it is with great pleasure to have Sugar Bear’s contributions help shape chopper history and his legacy to continue and flourish.

This is a culture that I have a huge amount of passion and respect for. Despite the stigma that the biker culture has, the era and culture of choppers (for the most part) is very color blind. I am aware of this, as are my “brothers of color”. There are so many more black clubs and people that can be talked about, but my article was strictly on those that I am personally educated enough on to be confident to share what I know with you. I try not to step over the boundaries when I talk about things as sacred as motorcycle clubs and culture.
 

 
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Beta AMA National Dual Sport Series

The Beta AMA National Dual Sport Series includes some of the most amazing single-track trail in the country, all tied together by incredible back roads through America’s countryside. Designed to provide the perfect off-road riding experience, these two-day events include ample, challenging routes that are well marked and well designed.

This series is intended for serious off-road-oriented dual sport motorcycles. For larger adventure-style bikes, consider events in the AMA National Adventure Riding Series.

AMA membership is required for these national-level events. A one-event pass may be purchased for $20 (only available for purchase at the event) or a full AMA membership for $49 (online or at the event).

One lucky series participant will win a Beta motorcycle at the end of the year. All participants in the series are automatically entered to win. See the sweepstakes rules by CLICKING HERE.

CLICK & SUBSCRIBE TO Bikernet.com FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER to stay updated on all things Motorcycle.

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AMA Supercross season 2022 is on

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Supercross Futures, an AMA National Championship will resume in 2022. Athletes can begin to qualify starting in October at select primary events spread across the country. Eligible athletes will then advance to a second round of qualifying set to take place at an upcoming Monster Energy AMA Supercross event during the 2022 season. Finalists will then proceed to the Supercross Futures AMA National Championship scheduled for Saturday, May 7 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

2022 SCHEDULE

The country will be divided into six regions and existing tracks and events will serve as the first round of Primary qualifiers – Northwest, West, Southwest, Southcentral, South, and Northeast. Riders will qualify by finishing in the top 22 in their respective primary and can enter multiple regions.

These 22 athletes will then be invited to race in a Premier qualifier which will take place on Saturday at an upcoming Monster Energy Supercross race within their respective region.

The top 4 athletes from each Premier qualifying race will then advance to the Supercross Futures AMA National Championship on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT, where 24 athletes will vie to become the 250SX Futures Class Champion.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PREMIER EVENT TICKETS

PREMIER RIDERS

Download our for 2021-2022 Premier Supplemental Rulebook for what you need to know to be a Supercross Futures Premier Rider. For series information, contact a Supercross Futures representative at 703-749-5563 or sxfinfo@feldinc.com.

2021-2022 Supercross Futures Premier Supplemental Rulebook

RACE NUMBER INSTRUCTIONS

  • Preference for numbers is based on time of registration.
  • Numbers must be clearly visible and displayed on the front number plate and both side number plates.
  • Black backgrounds with white numbers required.
  • It is required that the official Supercross Futures logo appear on the front number plate. You can obtain the logo and/or logo artwork file two ways:

DOWNLOAD & PRINT

PARENTAL CONSENT

If you are a parent of an underage rider that is not planning to attend with the minor, you must download and submit legal guardian documentation. DOWNLOAD & PRINT

CLICK & SUBSCRIBE TO Bikernet.com FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER to stay updated on all things Motorcycle.

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Hump Day Action with Thumping Wisdom

We’re not messing around…

By Bandit with Scott Adam’s quotes and Barry Green images

Bandit’s Cantina has a section dedicated to the beautiful gals that make the ride on roads and in homes worthwhile.

Check out this Article – handpicked images and select life experience wisdom for every person to ponder and wonder.

Bandit’s Note: I read a book recently by Scott Adams the creator of Dilbert Cartoons called, “How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big. It’s sorta the Story of his life, plus positive thinking suggestions, business rules and warnings, etc.

I’ve read a ton of such books over the years, but reminders never hurt, so I gave it a shot. I’ve shared it with lots of younger guys and girls who are struggling.

Toward the end I thought it might be a good notion to share the highlights, remind myself of them and put them down, so I could refer to them from time to time. So, here goes.

CLICK HERE To Check out this wonderful Feature Article in the Cantina

Subscribe to the Cantina for exclusive content by Clicking Here

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F*** Off Bikernet Weekly News for January 27th 2022

Back in the ‘80s someone came up with the FUCK OFF T-shirt and it became massively popular. Brothers were pissed. It’s all nuts, but I’m pissed.

It’s interesting that freedom works, including free speech. The original ABATE members knew that.

If you’re a Cantina Member check out the Hump Day Girls from Barry Green and quotes from the Scott Adams book about life and success. Could be helpful and share them and his book with folks who are struggling.

Ride Fast and Free Forever,

–Bandit

CLICK HERE To Read the Weekly News on Bikernet.com

Join the Cantina and get the inside scoop – CLICK To Subscribe

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FUCK OFF BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for January 27th 2022

Back in the ‘70s someone came up with the FUCK OFF T-shirt and it became massively popular. Brothers were pissed. It’s all nuts, but I’m pissed. I even have brothers ask me why I bother about CO2? If the doomsday crowd wins, we won’t ride choppers for long. One brother said I was radical right because I promoted freedom.

Finally, someone is suing the EPA because they aren’t playing by the rules. When you talk to riders and even guys in the industry, they know that fossil fuels aren’t bad. They know that everything from medicine to computer screens use Fossil Fuel technology. If they read, they know that fossil fuels are feeding plant life on earth. It’s amazing and all good.

What bothers me the most is that our society and media like Time magazine are playing this lying game. They won’t even investigate the scientific facts. When this all blows up, what will they tell their kids? “Sorry guys, there was no doomsday. They bullied me to report it like this, so I did it, no critical thinking allowed.”

I’m reading Ian Plimer’s book Green Murder. It’s a kick, and sort of a monster of a book. I just open it up every evening and read to the Redhead as she prepares dinner. I was reading about Doomsdays starting in the 1500s. He keeps pointing out that if one of these doomsday scenarios was correct, we wouldn’t be here. None of them have been correct. They were all designed to scare, or in Al Gore’s case make money.

This chapter will blow your mind. There was a guy in 1970 Paul Ehrlich, who promoted one doomsday after another. That year was big for doom and Paul. He became sort of famous, although he was never right.

Here’s a quote: Paul Ehrlich wrote in 1970: Population will inevitably and completely outstrip whatever increases in food supplies we make and the death rate will increase until a least 100-200 million people per year will be starving to death during the next ten years.” Wrong. There is currently a PhD research topic on why environmentalists are so obsessed with death, doom and gloom and get a great glee from terrifying children.

Okay, all I ask is that you ask politicians, media, schools, whatever to open-up to the other side. Let’s let the facts shine.

And now off to the news:

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM GRAND PRIZE WINNER FOR 2021 IS …Frank Hill of Kentucky!

Frank is now the proud owner of the 1946 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead Bobber Fundraiser Motorcycle!

Winner of the 1946 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Bobber, Frank Hill of Sharpsburg, Kentucky says he first learned of the National Motorcycle Museum about 20 years ago when he got hold of a copy of the J&P Cycles catalog. A story there explained the Museum and the fund raising bike program. He ordered some fund raiser tickets through the mail, and each year since he’s received a set by mail for the next bike. “Most times I would send back a $25 or $50 donation for six to 12 tickets. But this year I only donated $5 and got one ticket.” One lucky ticket!

Frank started riding about 20 years ago and has stuck to American V-Twins, had a Panzer for a bit, and a Big Dog among his several rides. He’s also had a few Corvettes along the way. He’s retired from Whirlpool Appliance and has time to ride and drive on eastern Kentucky’s fine back roads.

Frank has not yet visited the Museum which is about 600 miles from home. He says he hopes to visit as he plans to personally pick up the fabulous 1946 Knucklehead Bobber he won.

2nd Prize – $500.00 J&P Cycles Gift Card was Richard & Judy Lines of Washington

Winner of the $500 J&P Cycles gift card, Richard Lines is a heavy equipment operator based in Lynwood, Washington. He’s currently working in a huge Amazon warehouse and directs tower cranes, does rigging work, signaling, is involved in big construction projects.

Richard and Judy Lines are very supportive of charity organizations that do the kind of things they like. Preserving motorcycle history is one thing important for them, but winning a bike or gift card is not their focus. Helping to make sure the National Motorcycle Museum thrives for many years, they’ve been donating for three to four sets of tickets every year.

A motorcyclist for over 40 years, when Richard’s not working he and his wife Judy have time to go out on their 2015 CVO Road Glide. Judy is learning to ride their 2005 Sportster following in her dad’s footsteps. Though there was one Victory in Richard’s history of motorcycling he’s pretty much a Harley guy. And he’s a J&P Cycles customer with his most recent purchase a Condor chock for the family toy hauler. A couple thousand miles west in Washington state, they have 15 inches of snow on the ground, so their bike is safe in a garage. But they hope to make a journey to the Museum soon. Their $500 J&P Cycles gift card will be mailed this coming week.

3rd Prize – $250.00 J&P Cycles Gift Card was Joan Hamilton of California

Joan Hamilton won the $250 J&P Cycles Gift Card and says, “Thanks so much!” and figures spending it will be no problem at all. She and her husband George recently finished restoring a 1975 Harley-Davidson FLH and the parts they needed came from the J&P Cycles catalog. George says, “If you ask any of the folks on the J&P tech line, they’ll know my name. I have called them a lot and they have been fantastic on parts for this two year Shovelhead restoration project.”

With their home not far from Yosemite they currently have their bikes in the game room of their log cabin, safe and sound. Snow and cold temps are the norm this time of year. But they have wished for some time to get on one of their Harleys and ride east to visit the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, Iowa. Their $250 J&P Cycles gift card will be mailed this coming week.

The Museum congratulates Frank, Richard & Judy, and Joan! We wish them good riding with their winnings.

CLIMATE DOOM IS OVER—More quotes from GREEN MURDER–Did you know for decades, horticulturalists have been burning fossil fuel gas and releasing the exhaust fumes into glasshouses to increase yields. Why? Because the exhaust fumes are warm, rich in carbon dioxide and contain water vapor and the plants respond by growing bigger, better and quicker. What is it about carbon dioxide the green activists don’t know about?

To claim that there is a climate emergency due to what is effectively plant food production is the cry of the unbalanced. There is no climate emergency, climate crisis or climate catastrophe. These words flow like honey off the tongues of green activists yet not one journalist stops them and asks, “Show me?”

In the past there have been times when the carbon dioxide in the air was hundreds of times higher than now. There were no tipping points, runaway global warming or climate catastrophes. The planet is a self-correcting dynamic system. During these times of high atmospheric carbon dioxide there were ice ages as well as warm times.

–Professor Ian Plimer
Geologist
Green Murder

HARLEY-DAVIDSON REVEALS POWERFUL NEW GRAND AMERICAN TOURING,
CRUISER AND CVO MOTORCYCLES

New Models Highlight Thrilling Performance of Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin

Harley-Davidson adds performance and factory-custom style to its 2022 motorcycle line with the reveal of eight new models, each powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 117, the most-powerful factory-installed engine offered by Harley-Davidson. New models include the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST in the Grand American Touring line, the more powerful Low Rider® S, and the new Low Rider ST® Cruiser models, and four super-premium models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™).

“As part of our focus on stronghold segments, including Grand American Touring and Cruisier, the 2022 product line is designed for power and performance. Each of these new models feature the unrivalled power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117, for those riders who want nothing but the biggest and the best, building on our position as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.

Street Glide ST & Road Glide ST

Harley-Davidson elevates bagger performance and brings the purposeful style of the championship winning MotoAmerica King of the Baggers race bikes to the street with the introduction of the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST models. These hot rod baggers combine the V-Twin muscle of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain with new dark and bronze finishes. For riders who want to strafe corners in comfort, the STs feature the complete suite of Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring features including Reflex™ linked Brembo® brakes with ABS, Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system with color touch screen and navigation, cruise control and Daymaker® LED headlamps. The Street Glide ST features the iconic Harley-Davidson batwing fairing, while the Road Glide ST rolls with an aerodynamic frame-mounted sharknose fairing with dual headlamps.

Low Rider S & Low Rider ST
 

The Low Rider S and new Low Rider ST models offer the taut handling performance of the Harley-Davidson® Softail® chassis and the V-Twin muscle of a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain.

“Our customers truly inspire us and the Low Rider ST was born from seeing the incredible builds at motorcycle shows around the world,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “We took the iconic Motor Company design from the Eighties and gave it a new identity with a modern echo. Add the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a taller suspension and raised saddlebags and the Low Rider ST delivers both a dynamic visual package as well as a dramatic performance punch.”

The Low Rider S model is a performance cruiser kingpin designed for the rider seeking unapologetic power. The new Low Rider ST model offers the versatility of hard bags and a new frame-mounted fairing, plus an available Harley-Davidson Audio system powered by Rockford Fosgate.

Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO)

Premium limited-production factory custom models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™) offer the most-discerning rider a very special motorcycle designed to represent the pinnacle of style and design from the world’s most-desirable motorcycle brand. Exclusive and hand-crafted paint and designs are executed to a level of intricate quality that is unmatched in the motorcycle and automotive categories.

Each is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Other standard features include a premium Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® system, a Boom!™ Audio 30K Bluetooth® Helmet Headset, and Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, technology designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or poor road conditions. Each CVO model offers all-new paint options for 2022.

CVO Street Glide Model is a super-premium bagger for the rider who rolls loud and proud. The classic silhouette of the batwing fairing topped with jaw-dropping paint and finish details, premium audio and the pavement-peeling power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine make this one outrageous bike.

CVO Road Glide Model is designed for the rider who wants to run out front behind its distinctive dual LED headlamps, frame-mounted shark nose fairing and the unrelenting performance of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Powerhouse audio, an exclusive 21-inch front wheel, fabulous custom paint and extraordinary attention to detail complete this very desirable bike.

CVO Road Glide Limited Model is loaded with luxury and long-haul comfort, head-turning style and power that always satisfies. Premium audio, heated seats and grips, and the aerodynamic Road Glide model shark nose fairing make this motorcycle the ultimate Harley-Davison Touring machine.

CVO Tri Glide Model is a super-premium trike offering distinctive style, powerful performance and long-haul touring capability plus the added confidence of a third wheel. The CVO Tri Glide is loaded with premium audio, luxurious comfort features and an astounding finish and attention to detail, on a chassis designed from the wheels up as a trike.

Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson

Standard on CVO models and an option for all Grand American Touring models, including the Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST models, Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson is a collection of technologies designed to assist the rider in maintaining the rider’s intended path through a curve. This technology package provides the following enhancements:

Cornering Electronically Linked Brakes
Cornering-ABS
Cornering-Traction Control with modes
Drag Torque Slip Control
Vehicle Hold Control
Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, gear, accessories and more.

NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–Artist David Uhl

David did a few adjustments to “The Valkyrie”. The final image is shown below. Thanks and have a great Wednesday! Greg

Reminder that the 10% discount on this new piece run-through Sunday, then we’ll be reverting to the regular Opening Prices going forward. Thanks and have a great weekend! Greg

About two years ago, we announced a new “Aviatrix” series. The first piece in the series, titled “The Aviatrix” was a big success.

We are pleased to announce the worldwide release of David’s second piece in the series, titled “The Valkyrie”.

“The Valkyrie” – final image

David Uhl 2022

David recently stated “The Valkyrie”, maidens in service to the chief god Odin, Viking saga /story. I have always loved the pantheon of the Nordic Gods, and believe they have deep connections to Atlantean times”.

We are now taking orders for the Fine Art canvas prints in this edition. Each piece will be hand-signed by David and numbered, with Certificate of Authenticity.

If you own the first piece, The Aviatrix, you have first right of refusal for your matching edition number on this new one. And all orders placed by Sunday will receive 10% off the prices below.

If you don’t have The Aviatrix and want to collect both pieces, you still have time. As an added bonus, through Sunday if you get both we are offering special pricing on the package. Please email me if interested. Having both will also grant you first right of refusal on matching numbers as the series moves forward.

Edition specifics for “The Valkyrie”:

** Image size 24 x 24, edition of 30 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 5 Hors d’ Commerce, $1,295 framed.

** Image size 30 x 30, edition of 30 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 5 Hors d’ Commerce, $1,895 framed.

** Image size 36 x 36, edition of 10 plus 3 Artist Proofs and 3 Hors d’ Commerce, $2,895 framed.

Shipping is additional.

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
303-913-4840
Uhl Studios
https://www.uhlstudios.com

THE TIM AND LINDA LAQUAY PANHEAD COLLECTION AT THE MECUM AUCTION IN VEGAS—Auction is going on right now. There are two ‘48s and at least six more Panheads. Check it out, quick. They were into the ‘20s and ‘30s this afternoon. Bikes were going for 35-60K.

https://www.mecum.com/auctions/las-vegas-motorcycle-2022/collections/tim-and-linda-laquay-collection/

–Don Whalen
Sierra Madre Motorcycle Company

https://www.sierramadremotorcyclecompany.com/

LEGISLATIVE CORRECTION–Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board Jennifer Homedy told the Associated Press last week that a widely cited government statistic that 94 percent of serious accidents are due to driver error is misleading. She wants the Department of Transportation to stop using that statistic and instead focus on a Safe System Approach to traffic accidents. The Next City website posted an opinion piece on why road safety is about more than just crash data.

The Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) has set new guidelines to rate vehicles with partial automation systems. This includes Autopilot, Super Cruise, and other partial automation tech. The Truth About Cars says that the IIHS is impositioning drivers with its new rating system. TechCrunch claims that advanced driver assistance tech in cars today won’t pass IIHS’ new safety rating. Consumer Reports says it will reward automakers whose automation systems encourage safe driving. Streetsblog USA looks into how automakers can stop drivers from over-relying on autonomous tech in the first place.

Carjackings have soared by an alarming 510 percent in major US cities—in cities such as Chicago, New Orleans, New York, and Philadelphia. On WBBM 780 News in Chicago, an expert claimed that the City’s carjackings are not as bad as residents perceive them. Really?

Consumer Reports investigated and released its findings on the big business of bad auto loans.

Allowing 18-year-olds to drive big rigs was in the news this week. The US now allows older teens with a commercial driver’s license to drive trucks across state lines. CBS Chicago talked with folks about their concerns for this latest action. In other trucking industry news, DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg rejects hours-of-service court challenge claims. Truck drivers are also speaking out about the Biden infrastructure plan that overlooked parking, critical for driver breaks.

–NMA

SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE–
New Program in Montana

Small powersports businesses in Big Sky Country may be eligible to benefit from the Montana Down Payment Assistance Program launched this month by Governor Greg Gianforte. The program has a $37 million allocation to help existing Montana businesses finance the acquisition of equipment, the purchase of real estate or buildings with improvements, and new construction. Loans have a low fixed interest rate for 10 years and range from $250,000 to $3 million.

Program details, eligibility, and applications are available at https://investmentmt.com/Loan-Programs/Programs-and-Applications or by calling Doug Hill, director of in-state loan programs at the Board of Investments, at (406) 444-1217. For information regarding resources offered by states nationwide, the MIC continues to provide information on its COVID-19 resources page.

–MIC

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Bandit’s Cantina Episode 97: Clay’s Christmas

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Bandits_Cantina_Episode_97_Clays_Christmas.aspx

I like the way it ended. Maybe Clay will straighten up and fall in love with Nicky.

— Ann Robinson
Location: Long Beach, CA

THIS JUST IS FROM JAPAN
Sole Art Design. I’m constantly on the hunt for the odd and unusual from the mysterious Chopper Empire of metal flake and chrome.

There’s always something flying in the night in a drug-induced haze.

Hell, this chopper image held the code 666.

–Da Cat

NEW FROM THE PRISM GANG— Flash Sale
Get 30% off our Sling Shot Clutch Control kits today only!

No code necessary.

Don’t wait. The sale ends tonight, January 27, 2020, at midnight EST.

Made of Stainless Steel

Consists of both forward and backward internal lever stops. Bolts directly up to Harley big twin frames. Can be used with OEM kickstand and kickstand plate. Kickstand mounting holes are tapped eliminating the need for nuts.

Generator can be serviced without removing the assembly.

Contains replaceable brass bushings.
Can be used on an open or closed primary.
Backing plate and lever are available in either mild or stainless steel (The clutch pivot bolt comes in stainless only).

All necessary stainless steel mounting hardware is included.

Sold in raw finish. The stainless can be polished.
www.prismmotorcycle.com

TOLEMAR TAKES OVER TODD’S CYCLE— After manufacturing their handlebars for more than a decade, Tolemar, LLC has acquired Todd’s Cycle, effective immediately.

“We have been proudly manufacturing products for Todd’s in the USA for more than 10 years, making this a great transition for us,” explains Tolemar President and CEO Eric Ison. “We look forward to continuing the legacy of Todd’s Cycle, expanding on the product line and infusing new marketing efforts.”

Todd’s Cycle was created by Todd Silicato, with the goal of designing and manufacturing the best looking and functioning parts and accessories for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. That goal is something the team at Tolemar will proudly carry on with all current and future products, according to Ison. Nor will there be any disruption at the dealer level… “if anything we can respond even quicker.”

Distribution remains the same as well. Dealers can contact their Drag Specialties rep of click on www.toddscycle.com

Dealernews.com

[page break]

BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER FINDINGS–“Epidemic” vs. “Pandemic” vs. “Endemic”: What Do These Terms Mean?

COVID-19 has provided a consistent vocabulary lesson in epidemiology. Among the most important distinctions it has highlighted are the differences between the terms epidemic, pandemic, and endemic.

These words have major similarities—all three end in -demic and deal with the spread of disease. But there are key differences, including those related to scale and duration.

In this article, we’ll sort out the differences and answer these questions and others:

How is a pandemic different from an epidemic?
What does endemic mean?
Is COVID-19 endemic?

What is an epidemic?
 

An epidemic disease is one “affecting many persons at the same time, and spreading from person to person in a locality where the disease is not permanently prevalent.” The World Health Organization (WHO) further specifies epidemic as occurring at the level of a region or community.

Epidemic is commonly used all on its own as a noun, meaning “a temporary prevalence of a disease.” For example: The city was able to stop the flu epidemic before it spread across the state.

Metaphorically, epidemic is “a rapid spread or increase in the occurrence of something,” usually with a negative or humorous connotation: An epidemic of gentrification was affecting low-income communities or The hipster look gave way to an epidemic of 1990s fashion.

The -demic part of epidemic (and pandemic) comes from the Greek dêmos, “people of a district.” This root also ultimately gives English the word democracy. More on the prefix epi– later.

What is a pandemic?
 

Compared to an epidemic disease, a pandemic disease is an epidemic that has spread over a large area, that is, it’s “prevalent throughout an entire country, continent, or the whole world.”

Pandemic is also used as a noun, meaning “a pandemic disease.” The WHO more specifically defines a pandemic as “a worldwide spread of a new disease.” In March 2020, the WHO officially declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic due to the global spread and severity of the disease.

While pandemic can be used for a disease that has spread across an entire country or other large landmass, the word is generally reserved for diseases that have spread across continents or the entire world. For instance: After documenting cases in all continents except Antarctica, scientists declared the disease a pandemic.

As an adjective, pandemic can also mean “general” and “universal,” also often with a negative connotation. However, pandemic appears to be most commonly used in the context of epidemiology, which is concerned with infectious diseases.

Pandemic also entered English, through Latin, in the 1600s. Like epidemic, pandemic ultimately derives from the Greek pándemos, “common, public.” Also like epidemic, pandemic was originally used of diseases when in came into English.

What does endemic mean?

Endemic is an adjective that means natural to, native to, confined to, or widespread within a place or population of people.

Endemic is perhaps most commonly used to describe a disease that is prevalent in or restricted to a particular location, region, or population. For example, malaria is said to be endemic to tropical regions. In this context, it can also be used as a noun: an endemic disease can simply be called an endemic.

When used to describe species of plants or animals that are found only within a specific place, it has the same meaning as native or indigenous, as in This plant is endemic to this region.

It can also be applied to characteristics of a people, place, or situation, as in Corruption was endemic in that organization when I worked there.

The first records of endemic in English come from the mid-1600s. It comes from the Greek éndem(os). The prefix en- means “in or within” and the Greek root dem(os) means “people.” So the basic meaning of endemic is “within a certain people” (or “within a certain area”).

Is COVID-19 endemic?

The short answer is “not yet.” Currently, COVID-19 is not endemic and is still classified as a worldwide pandemic. The COVID-19 virus is still mutating into variant strains and widespread immunity to COVID-19 will likely take a long time to achieve.

However, most experts predict that COVID-19 will become an endemic disease after its pandemic phase, once enough people have developed immunity to COVID-19 (through vaccination or infection). In other words, COVID-19 is expected to become a recurring disease like the flu. When this will happen is hard to predict—and it will most likely vary from place to place. For more info on need-to-know coronavirus words, see our explainer on the flu vs. COVID-19.

Epidemic vs. pandemic

As we mentioned, it’s unsurprisingly easy to confuse these two words. For one, they both feature -demic, which can make it difficult to suss out which word should be used in which situation.

But, here’s a handy rule of thumb for using the prefixes of these two words: epi- and pan-. The prefix epi- is Greek and variously means “on, upon, near, at,” while pan-, also a Greek prefix, means “all.”

Knowing this, think of an epidemic as the start of something—whether a disease or a trend—spreading rapidly within a community or region, whereas a pandemic is what an epidemic becomes once it reaches a far wider swath of people, especially across continents or the entire world.

If something is spreading like wildfire, it’s an epidemic. If something has already spread like wildfire and is currently massive in its reach and impact, it’s a pandemic.

For good measure, here’s an example of each in a sentence:

The city had to close schools to contain a measles epidemic.
Although it isn’t exactly known where the disease first originated, the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic is estimated to have affected one-third of people across the entire globe.

Pandemic vs. endemic

Classifying a disease as endemic indicates a level of permanence, whereas a pandemic has a defined end (even if it seems like the COVID-19 pandemic will last forever). Due to its worldwide reach, a pandemic can lead to a disease becoming endemic (as opposed to being largely contained or eradicated through the use of vaccines, for example).

Here are examples of each word used in a sentence.

Medical experts feared that the new virus would spread beyond the country’s borders and cause a worldwide pandemic.
Polio is endemic in a few countries where its spread has not been contained.
What is the difference between an epidemic, pandemic, and an outbreak?
An outbreak is a “sudden breaking out or occurrence” or “eruption.” When referring to an infectious disease, an outbreak is specifically a sudden rise in cases, especially when it is only or so far affecting a relatively localized area.

That makes a disease outbreak roughly synonymous with an epidemic. In everyday speech and writing, people may more generally refer to the major spread of an infectious disease as an outbreak.

In official, medical, and scientific communication, however, it’s important not to confuse a local epidemic (such as a disease affecting just a city) with a pandemic, because pandemic implies the outbreak spread all over the world.

–Dictionary.com

A Note from the CYCLE WORLD Editor

For decades Harley-Davidson had the big twin bagger market all to itself. Then Indian brought the Chieftain to market, and gave those searching for American Cool an option to the tried-and-true Street Glide. Now, BMW has joined the club with its take on an American bagger with the R 18 B.

We got our hands on a Street Glide Special, Chieftain Limited, and R 18 B First Edition and headed up the California coast in search of answers. Is Harley still the top dog? Is the Chieftain the smart money? Can BMW really capture the bagger essence with the R 18 B? Read the full shootout here to find out.

https://www.cycleworld.com/story/motorcycle-reviews/baggers

Yamaha’s MT-09 got a revamp for 2021, but some fans of the CP3 triple-powered hyper-naked want more. Luckily for them Yamaha has the solution in the 2021 MT-09 SP. Our former Superbike-racer contributor Doug Toland gave the SP a thrashing to see if its fully adjustable suspension and cruise control make for a better backroad blaster. Read the test here.

Zach Bowman is the editor-in-chief of Cycle World’s four-wheeled sibling UTV Driver, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t know a great motorcycle when he sees one. So much so he emptied his pockets for a 1993 Ducati 900SS located 770 miles away. A move he came to quickly regret—until he didn’t. Check out his love letter to the motorcycle Hunter S. Thompson called the Sausage Creature.

As always, there’s more than we can fit into this email. So check out cycleworld.com for additional tests, reviews, and news.

Ride on,

Justin Dawes
Executive Editor

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK— 2013 Harley-Davidson FXSB – Softail Breakout for $12,995.00

See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=11509187

The new 2013 Harley-Davidson FXSB Softail Breakout is a premium custom cruiser that mixes premium features, fit and finishes with a wide, muscular, stance and slammed, low-slung power profile inspired by classic Gasser dragsters of the 1950s and 1960s. The Harley-Davidson® Breakout model has a stretched, slammed custom style that’s low, long and aggressive.

The 2013 Breakout Harley Softail model is driven by a powerful air-cooled Twin Cam 103™ Harley engine with 6-speed cruise drive transmission that provides more performance power for passing and hill-climbing, and a low cruising RPM for more comfortable cruising.

The big, bold Gasser wheels have alternating-position spokes with alternating Vivid Black and machined treatments. The FXSB Softail Breakout model’s Gasser wheels recall the powerful, muscular wheels of classic 1960s and 1970s dragster bikes. The new H-D® FXSB model’s Big V-Twin engine has a unique, sharp-looking Vivid Black and Chrome treatment. The massive 240 mm rear tire on the Breakout® model is the widest wheel on any Harley-Davidson® production motorcycle. The FXSB Softail® model’s fenders are chopped to the legal limit to show off the big tires and complement the sleek dragster style.

The exclusive drag-style handlebars are low, wide and offer an aggressive, lean-forward riding position. The new Breakout FXSB model sports an exclusive fuel tank medallion and premium paint treatments. Every fit, finish and tolerance of the Softail Breakout has been painstakingly crafted and engineered. The new 2013 Breakout model has a neutral balanced suspension for a fun, nimble ride. Its two-piece saddle with detachable pillion is comfortable for solo and two-up riding. Don’t miss this all new model debuting as the latest chapter in Harley-Davidson’s long legacy of motorcycle masterpieces.

Breakout to the New

Don’t just break the mold—forge your own with the latest chapter in Harley-Davidson’s legacy of freedom. A premium custom cruiser inspired by the classic Gasser drag bikes of the ’50s and ’60s, the all-new 2013 Softail Breakout model rolls with modern power, top-of-the-line treatments and lots of low-down menace.

Big wheels, big paint, big chrome, all wrapped in a refined style—the Breakout model is a true attention-grabber with a ride that’s been painstakingly engineered for fun whether you’re winding mountain roads or cruising the strip. It may be low-profile, but the Breakout® motorcycle always makes a big, bold statement.

Black and Chrome Engine Styling
Feast your eyes on the Twin Cam 103™ engine and there’s no mistaking its roots. From the classic edge of the cooling fins to the clean lines of cases and covers, this is authentic Harley-Davidson style through and through with an attention to detail you won’t find from any other motorcycle company.

And true to the rest of the Softail Breakout model’s style, its engine treatment is also a masterpiece of machine art—the Vivid Black and Chrome finishes create a stark, sharply defined pattern of gleaming light and dark: glossy black muffler covers and oil tank cover, gleaming chrome pipes and rocker covers.

3-in-1 Stop/Turn/Tail Lights

These chromed 3-in-1 lamps complement the Breakout model’s overall stylish, powerful profile while their state-of-the-art technology packs tail lights, turn and stop signal technology into each sleek, minimalist bullet.

–Dan Leadbetter
Director of Marketing
Lifestyle Cycles
(714) 490-0155

VINTAGE RIDES: SOUTH AFRICA IS CALLING–Can’t wait for this Omicron wave to end? Are you fed up with the chilly winter weather? Are you dying to jet off somewhere warm and far away? You’re not alone. Come and join one of our small groups of bikers, who’ve booked to ride across South Africa on a Royal Enfield.

As of late, South Africa is featuring heavily in the news, and unfortunately, it’s not for its natural wonders and excellent wines. After the South African variant was discovered, the country has been used as a scapegoat for the new Omicron variant. Luckily, today figures are showing that we have got over the peak of the wave.

With this pandemic, we have the impression that we are constantly taking one step forward and two steps back. In an attempt not to be overwhelmed by fear and to keep moving forward, we have just one course of action: if an opportunity opens up, we take it! Isn’t the most important thing to get things back on track?

The Rainbow Nation lives up to all our expectations with its stunning nature and lively atmosphere. South Africa boasts the very best of everything the African continent has to offer. It’s a magical place with spectacular landscapes, where you’ll no doubt enjoy an unforgettable rendezvous with nature and wild animals. We first fell for this country and Cape Town in 2018. You could say it was love at first sight! And our boss was the first of us to become besotted!

See the movie

Enjoy the warm sunshine on your face on either of these two very different tours across this vast country of contrasts. These fantastic tours will take you on secret tracks and scenic roads across Chapman’s Peak, through Blyde River Canyon and over Sani Pass. Experience the Cape of Good Hope, Swaziland’s rural charm, Kruger Park and so much more. Expect to be amazed, as our motorcycle tours in South Africa are full of surprises and chance encounters in spectacular natural settings bathed in the most magical light.

With a direct flight and not too much time difference (just two hours with the UK), these tours are perfect for those of you who are craving to get away. What are you waiting for? Let South Africa surprise you!

Vintage Rides
53 Rue Président Krüger, 69008 Lyon
teamvr@vintagerides.com
+442070316050

QUICK New Bikernet Reader Comment!–STURGIS RUN 2021

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/STURGIS_RUN_2021.aspx

I run a D & D 2 into one Boarzilla pipe on my 2015 120 CID Street Glide. It flows great, great quality, never had an issue. A little loud.

— jWllie Jim Bob
johnsonj1947@gmail.com

Pella, IA, IA

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY MOTORCYCLE HISTORY DEPARTMENT–William Harley envisioned a more potent 45 as overhead. He was tired of sport scout victories. He produced three ironhead oh 45s and one aluminum. William Davidson preferred the flathead and Harley was over ruled. The 61 EL had all priority.

This is not a Knucklehead. A one off, aluminum overhead, 52 cu inches

–from Sam Burns

LACONIA RALLY NEWS— For the 2022 Rally News with Check Twice Night, Monday, June 14th, at the Looney Bin, with “Check Twice Signs banner ad on the bottom as on Page 79 of the 2020 Rally News . . . and add the picture of YOU TOO Jenn . . . and Michelle, as used on Page 50 of the 2021 Rally News!

Recognizing greatness in our motorcycling road riding bikers rights, and safety awareness community, “Check Twice Night” in Bob Doiron’s & Bill Gannon’s memories, hosted by Paul W. Cote & Sue Hart, www.CheckTwiceSigns.com, Michelle of the Looney Bin Bar and Grill, with Charlie, Jenn, and a bunch of GREAT PEOPLE !

Join us Monday night, June 13, from 7:30-9:30 p.m., at the Looney Bin Bar and Grill, for a motorcyclist safety, rights, and riders reunion with some of the longtime gatekeepers working for our rights to ride and keeping us safe on the road. We were a flock to remember, recognize and honor, fifty (50) years since the February, 1972, with Easyriders Magazine leaders the official start of “A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments (ABATE)”, . . . pleading for bikers to come together to fight impending restrictions from the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) by joining its new national bikers’ rights organization. Keith “Bandit” Ball, Easyriders editor, was its original national coordinator.

ABATE organizations which came into existence around this same time were chartered and filled with a lot of Club members’ support, in Kansas, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and New York; and also the Modified Motorcycle Associations of California and Massachusetts, the New Hampshire Motorcycle Rights Organization, the Rhode Island Motorcycle Association, the Connecticut Motorcycle Rights Association, and the Wisconsin Better Bikers Association.

Easyriders published some phone numbers and a loose knit network of bikers’ rights activists began to grow, while today, few remember, appreciate, or take a bit for granted, the fantastic volunteer work of many protecting our / YOUR rights to ride, and that need continues 50 years later!

Come out and celebrate the 50 years longtime and recent contributions and our “spirit of the road.”

“Down Cellah” will be back with their classic live rock music with riders Cara Heredia, Charlie Beal, Frank Grasso, and Joe Sirois of “Down Cella.” Enjoy the camaraderie, music, presentations, along with great food and beverages by Michelle and the Looney Bin Team. Free admission. Pay your own eats and drink. For more info information – email Paul W. Cote at ClaimsCote@aol.com. Charlie and Paul were longtime New England District Road Riding delegates-representatives to the AMA Congress and are AMA EAGLES.

FREE ‘Check Twice – Save a Life, MOTORCYCLES ARE EVERYWHERE !’ Stickers

Following the tradition since 1982 of Bob Doiron, creator of this recognized motorcycle awareness motto, Paul and Sue continue offering FREE “Check Twice” bumper stickers to those sending a stamped, self-addressed return envelope to Check Twice Signs, P.O. Box 516, Amesbury, MA 01913. For more stickers and customized stickers, lawn signs, and other awareness products, see www.checktwicesigns.com

–Paul Cote

BORN FREE WINNER— With the exhaust routed through the frame tubes to the insanity of the single-handgrip handlebar. Builder Cliff Cavins was up for the Biltwell People’s Choice award at Born Free, which requires eligible bikes to complete a ride over the twists of Ortega Highway.

Not only did Cavins endure the 50-mile trip, he won the $10,000 prize, plus an extra $2k for running Metzeler tyres.

–Doc Robinson
Senior Editor
Heavy Duty Magazine
Australia


5-BALL RACING ACTION—Frank recently shot this model wearing the women’s pit crew vest, which is light, inexpensive and it breathes for summer rides. As it turns out, she recently posed for an Easyriders Magazine cover.

Here’s a recent tattoo from the master himself. We have pit crew vests for men and women.

–Bandit

SENIOR EDITOR REPORT–Charlie Has a CD Out and the guitar he is playing has a Bikernet sticker on it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwHPVYiKB0c

I had Tony Sanfelipo and Betsy Lister contact me about wanting Hall of Fame Rings. I gave them info on how to contact Frank.

Hopefully some of the other people who saw article will contact him as well

–Rogue

Tickets & Booth Space on Sale for the Sand Sports Super Swap on Saturday, May 21

Tickets and booth space are now on sale for the Sand Sports Super Swap at the OC Fair & Events Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., on Saturday, May 21 and can be purchased online at sandsportssupershow.com/sand-sports-super-swap.

Pre-sale tickets (ages 13+) are Half Price at $5 until May 20 when purchased online. Day of Show Tickets (May 21) will be $10. Children ages 12 & under are free.

The Sand Sports Super Show is a one-day opportunity for off-road enthusiasts to “swap” their sand toys and equipment. Sellers of new and used quads, dune buggies, motorcycles, tires, engine parts, helmets and anything for the off-road enthusiast are welcome.

Exhibitors can buy a booth and see the interactive floorplan online, by CLICKING HERE.

The Sand Sports Super Swap is open for business from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 21.

To purchase discount tickets in advance online as well as to buy a booth at the Sand Sports Super Swap, visit sandsportssupershow.com/sand-sports-super-swap.

[page break]

EPA LAWSUIT–Statistician S. Stanley Young has just sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, alleging it has illegally stacked a legally required panel of independent science advisors with agency cronies.

Past the issue of complying with the law, the lawsuit’s outcome could very well determine whether the federal government can, through the back door, regulate greenhouse gas emissions on a state-by-state basis.

The Clean Air Act requires that, when setting air quality standards, EPA seek the advice of a panel of experts known as the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC). When Biden EPA administrator Michael Regan assumed office earlier this year, one of the first things he did was abruptly and without cause fire by terse email all the members of all EPA’s science advisory panels, including CASAC. Administrator Regan also announced he was jettisoning conflict-of-interest rules (instituted by the Trump EPA) barring science advisors from being current or recent recipients of EPA grants.

Dr. Young, serving at the time on EPA’s Science Advisory Board (SAB), was one of those terminated advisors. When EPA announced it would seek nominations to reconstitute CASAC and the SAB, Dr. Young was renominated to both but was not selected to either by the agency.

Instead, EPA opted to fill the positions mostly with academic researchers with financial ties to EPA. On the seven-member CASAC, five are EPA grantees.

The new chairman, Dr. Lianne Sheppard of the University of Washington, has received over $60 million in EPA grants. Other notable grantees include Yale University’s Dr. Michelle Bell ($29 million in grants) and the University of Rochester’s Mark Frampton ($36 million in grants).

Most importantly, however, all seven CASAC members are likely to have the same point of view (identical to the agency’s) on the available science regarding fine particulate matter (dust or soot known as PM2.5) in outdoor air. This is particularly important because President Biden’s EPA has already announced that it would be revisiting President Trump’s decision to leave the federal air quality standards for PM2.5 at the level set by the Obama administration.

This decision was supported by the CASAC’s majority view in 2019 that the case to tighten the standards was essentially junk science.

What’s PM2.5 got to do with climate? Scientifically, little if anything, except that the combustion of fossil fuels results in emissions of both carbon dioxide and PM2.5. So regulatory-wise, PM2.5 could be a key means for EPA to control carbon dioxide emissions use across the country.

The Clean Air Act requires that EPA establish national air quality standards for PM2.5. States that do not attain these standards risk losing federal highway funding at EPA’s discretion. The current PM2.5 standard (12 millionths of a gram per cubic meter of air) is stringent but easily attainable in almost the entire country.

When the CASAC last reviewed the PM2.5 standard as required by law in 2019, it was pressured to advise that the PM2.5 standard should be tightened from 12 to as low as zero – that is, an impossible goal of no dust or soot in the air. The CASAC rejected that as without a scientific basis and left the standard at 12.

Now the agency wants to tighten the PM2.5 standard. However, it has no scientific basis for doing so because of the most recent CASAC review. Rather than fighting the CASAC panel, the Biden Administration simply purged the existing members and installed more pliable members. The agency will have its crony-filled CASAC rubber-stamp the agency’s already-determined conclusion to tighten the standard, which could go as low as zero.

Depending on where the EPA sets the PM2.5 standard, many or even all states will fall out of attainment and compliance with the Clean Air Act, handing EPA vast control over economic development in non-attainment areas. That control could include banning new or existing power and manufacturing plants, control over highway use and construction, and even control over agricultural production.

Given that no federal court, including the Supreme Court, is likely to second guess CASAC’s view of PM2.5 science, regardless of how off base it is, the only thing standing in the way of the Biden administration and the dire scenario laid out could very well be Dr. Young’s lawsuit.

Steve Milloy publishes JunkScience.com and is the author of “Scare Pollution: Why and How to Fix the EPA” (2016, Bench Press).

–Support JunkScience.com!
 

BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB, BOOK REVIEW–Will We Purposely Add CO2 to the Atmosphere Soon?

I finished Patrick Moore’s book. Fake Invisible Catastrophes and Threats of Doom, recently. In fact, I was unable to put it down. Moore is an ecologist and one of the original founders of Greenpeace. He parted ways with them because of “…their transition from what was sensible environmentalism, to a platform of anti-human and anti-science campaigns that were more concerned with fundraising and scaring people with mis-information….” Moore has since become a public critic of the general global warming hysteria and has dedicated his work toward researching and providing evidence of what he believes are mostly false narratives.

Moore addresses each major subject within the global warming trope by chapter. He doesn’t deny that the climate is changing. Rather, he looks at it from the perspective of geological time. From that view, the climate we humans have enjoyed for only 160,000 years is nowhere near the norm for the planet. We are in the relatively cold Pleistocene glacial period which consists of multiple warming and cooling periods and has no definitive end date that science can pinpoint.

The book discusses the political emphasis on funding for research and technology supporting the general hysteria, but I won’t go into that here. I’m confident that most readers fully understand by now that if it doesn’t fit the prevailing political and social narratives, it doesn’t get the research grants, it doesn’t get widely published, and it certainly doesn’t get good peer or Amazon reviews.

Moore explains that polar bears, undersea reefs, African trees, and other “warming threatened” forms of life on the planet actually thrive in the current climate and there are more diverse species of animal life on Earth right now than during most other eras. He explains in detail that the CO2 level and climate temperature data are not correlated in any way. There is a causative relationship only if you look from the arbitrary range of data points starting in about 1850 to the present—a mere 170 years.

One of the points that climate warming proponents do not speak about is the fact that carbon is possibly the most important element on our planet. We are carbon-based life forms. Water and carbon led to the most basic life forms, and they in turn used photosynthesis to create glucose…the sugars necessary for the energy plants and animals needed to evolve and survive. Without them, there is no us.

Moore further discusses how the level of CO2 in our atmosphere is close to an all-time low at some 415 ppm rather than at some unusually high-level that global warming proponents would have us believe. In fact, the CO2 level has been much higher than this during most of the existence of modern life. Considering geological time spans, the Earth’s atmospheric CO2 has been about 2,000 ppm with highs of some 6,000 ppm. It has dropped very low before during the peak of glacial periods. Moore adds that at about 150 ppm plants begin to suffocate.

Where did all this CO2 come from? Carbon is abundant in our planet and is released into the atmosphere through vulcanism. Volcanos have erupted since the early formation of the Earth. The more active the volcanos, the more CO2 in the atmosphere. Mammalian life has lived through millions of years with atmospheric CO2 levels at 2,000 ppm and even higher. It makes no sense that the current level of 415 ppm is somehow dangerous. On the contrary, one might argue that it is dangerously low.

If it is true that our CO2 is low, where did the CO2 go? The elements in the Earth that helped fuel vulcanism, such as uranium, radon, and others, were deposited on the planet 4.6 billion years ago and they have been decaying ever since. That is why volcanic eruptions are a relatively rare event in the present era. So, the planet is producing much less atmospheric carbon than it did millions of years ago.

Still, this implies that even though the carbon would stop increasing, it would be at some consistent level, right? Unfortunately, the level of atmospheric CO2 has steadily declined for the last 150 million years, and where that carbon has gone may surprise you.

We know that carbon is stored in fossil fuels and in living and dead plants. Did you know that plants and soil contain twice as much carbon as the atmosphere? The ocean holds 45 times the carbon as the atmosphere does. The really surprising thing is that 100 million billion tons of carbon are stored in carbonaceous rocks, such as marble, limestone, and chalk, which are the fossilized remains of ancient sea animals that could make their own protective shells. This is 118,000 times the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. These are all referred to as carbon sinks. Carbon is predominantly being absorbed rather than released into the atmosphere, and this may be the real global threat.

In geologic thinking, we are perilously close to the lowest levels of atmospheric CO2 that can sustain life as we know it, and we do not know of another natural mechanism that releases more carbon into the atmosphere. To intentionally reduce it further is to put an even greater strain on the growth of the plants that make up the foundation of all life on Earth. Perhaps this is even the natural way life as we know it is supposed to end—except for that pesky, climate-denying neighbor and his big SUV. Get the book.

I highly recommend it.

By Matt Rowe, American Thinker


NEW EASYRIDERS MAGAZINE ALERT–Sent a question to the Easyriders bunch. Wanted to know if I subscribe do I get credit for the refund I never got.

Anyway, ride safe when warm weather returns.

–A.J.

NEW AT THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–1968 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster

Harley-Davidson surprised riders with the new XL model line for 1957. And for 1958, the hotter XLH and XLCH Sportster satisfied the needs of riders looking for lighter, nimbler high performance motorcycles.

Following in the tracks of the flathead K model, which remained only in racing form as the KR750, the overhead valve XL Sportster was built on the K model.

The biggest advancement was overhead valves plus eventually electric starting on the basic H model. But the XLH options list included saddlebags, a windshield, buddy seat and riders could even opt for two ride heights by specifying 18-inch or 19-inch wheels.

Seat options varied from traditional sprung post to rigid mount in later years, and there was even the “boat tail” seat/fender unit for awhile. The magneto ignition XLCH was a no holds barred beast, strong competition for the Triumph Bonneville.

While it has played an extremely limited role in the military, or as a police mount, like its predecessors the K Model and the WL model, the Sportster has been a very flexible machine.

Properly equipped it was a light weight “sport touring” machine. Stripped, it served well at the drag strip. And men like Leo Payne were able to tune it for assaults on the Land Speed Record at Bonneville. Some riders have enjoyed chopping and bobbing Sportsters as well.

With the high-performance Buell no longer in Harley’s product mix, after over 60 years in the model line-up the Sportster lives on now as DOHC technological wonder. Recently with big changes to bring comfort, smoothness and overall sophistication, the new liquid-cooled Sportster is as cool as ever.

This great original XLCH Sportster was donated to the National Motorcycle Museum by Lawrence Allen of Sterling, IL. It’s one of several Sportsters, stock, custom and competition that you’ll see when you visit.

Specifications:

Engine: 45 Degree Overhead Valve V-Twin
Displacement: 54 Cubic Inches / 883 cc’s
Bore & Stroke: 3.00? x 3.81?
Carburetor: Tillotson
Primary: Triplex Chain
Clutch: Dry, Multi-disk
Transmission: 4-Speed, Foot Shift
Ignition: 12V Battery, Points & Coils
Horsepower: 61HP
Frame: Steel, Double Down Tube
Suspension: Telescopic Fork / Dual Shocks, Swingarm
Brakes: Drum, Internal Expanding
Wheelbase: 58.5?
Weight: 530 Pounds
Wheels/Tires: 3.50 x 19 / 4.00 x 18

ANOTHER New Bikernet Reader Comment!–CARSON CITY RUN BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for January 20, 2022

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/CARSON_CITY_RUN_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_January_20_2022.aspx

Ron Paugh doesn’t get enough press for the facility/quality and quantity of parts he builds. And Ron is one of the nicest guys in the industry. Newbies could take some lessons from him! I’ve personally dealt with Ron since the late 80’s. Ron was the first guy to recognize that Nevada/ Carson City had more to offer than L.A.

Great guy and great shop!

All the Best Ron!

— Dangerous Dan
Dan/ex-CCI VP
San Jose, CA

 

LATEST FROM LOWBROW–Be tuned & ready to hit the road!

In this free video, learn basic maintenance and keep your Ironhead Sportster tuned and ready!

For those interested, you can get the Ironhead Tune & Service DVD for only $10, BUT we also put it out here on the internet for you all, completely for FREE…

Please comment on our video and let us know what you think. Also, be sure to subscribe to the Lowbrow YouTube channel to get notified each time we release another new video! Enjoy!

WATCH IT NOW

PS – Lowbrow has everything you need to be ready for Spring! Oil, oil filters, tires & tubes, and of course loads of custom Sportster parts delivered right to your door!

 

 

SIGNED OUTLAW BOOKS AVAILABLE–SIGNED BOOK INFORMATION:

We are starting a list for signed Books, personalized upon request. The books will be brought by hand to Malaga, Spain. Where I will sign each book. There will be only be 100 books signed and numbered. The cost will be $125 that includes world wide shipping. Once arrangements for travel to Spain is confirmed you will receive an invite with a link to pay. Send request to https://www.venomvixen.org/ or hit live link in Instagram bio.
 
–Gus 

MAMA TRIED UPDATE–First, the 2022 Mama Tried Show will go back to being held in March. As you probably know the promoters had to move the date due to Covid.

Next, as we wait for further details here’s what happened in 2021. And also here’s more about the Mama Tried Show & Flat Out Friday race will now be held in December 2021. And yes there were tentative dates in February 2021. But the promoters made the decision that it was too soon and didn’t want to say that the Bike Show is a “maybe.”

And Eagles Ballroom will host the Mama Tried Motorcycle Show. Because of the quality of motorcycles at this top-shelf show is on the LightningCustoms.com’s Major Motorcycle Rallies List.

Now there are a lot of bike shows where to enter your bike you simply have to pay a fee. But this is one thing that differentiates the Mama Tried from other shows as it is by invitation only. Subsequently, you will find that the over 100 home-built motorcycles are some of the best in the Midwest. In addition, there are various brands and styles of motorcycles in the Show.

Details are still in the works, so check back.

Finally, your 2020 Mama Tried Bike Show tickets will be good in 2021.

ALERT FROM THE BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER
Here are a few of the things that water does for you:
It helps regulate your body temperature.
Water supports your digestion and keeps the process moving.
Water in the form of synovial fluid in your joints acts as a shock absorber and slows down wear and tear.
It’s crucial in controlling your blood pressure.
Water helps your immunity by flushing toxins from your body.
It helps balance your body’s electrolytes, which regulate nerve and muscle function and maintain the acid balance (pH) in your body.

–Nurse Redhead

UPDATE: SEMA APPLAUDS PUBLIC-PRIVATE EFFORT TO SAVE THE BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS
Good news, land speed racing fans! We’re pleased to announce exciting progress regarding SEMA’s “Restore Bonneville” program. SEMA and the racing community have joined forces with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its Utah Geological Survey (UGS) division, and Intrepid Potash, Inc. in a collaborative effort to restore the Bonneville Salt Flats, starting with the installation of a new water well and weather and hydrologic equipment for measuring salt growth conditions on the salt flats.

The BLM and DNR signed a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2020 to jointly pursue restoration efforts. DNR is managing the program in conjunction with the BLM, and it is operated by Intrepid Potash. The endeavor, which SEMA calls “Restore Bonneville”, is strongly supported by the Save the Salt Coalition, a SEMA-led collection of companies, organizations, individuals, and land speed racing teams.

Thanks to everyone from the automotive community who have sent letters in the past encouraging Utah and Federal agencies to spend the money appropriated to them to help restore the Bonneville Salt Flats. Federal and state funds have been released to install the monitoring equipment and to increase the volume of salt pumped onto the Bonneville Salt Flats this year to a total of up to 500,000 tons.

Stakeholders are now identifying projects to be pursued in 2022 and beyond to continue increasing the volume of salt being pumped. While the bulk of the program funding will come from federal and state appropriations, both industry and the land speed racing community will voluntarily help pay the costs. Financial contributions from the racing community are encouraged and gratefully accepted at www.savethesalt.org, a 501(c)(3) organization.

More information: SEMA Applauds Public-Private Effort to Save the Bonneville Salt Flats | Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

–SEMA

NEWS FROM SUPPORT GOOD TIMES–SGT Banners! 3×3′ and 3×2′ vinyl with metal grommets.

Get yours at
SUPPORTGOODTIMES.COM

NEW COOL TANKS FROM LOWBROW–In 1946 Harley-Davidson introduced the WR factory racer…

A 45 cubic-inch flathead designed to dominate the flat tracks and road courses in America.
 

The factory WR tanks were the inspiration for Lowbrow’s WX Tanks.
The narrowed gas and oil tanks were part of the slim profile and ‘form following function’ when it comes to a fast & nimble motorcycle.
With bolt-on fitment for 1936-1984 Harley Big Twin frames, WX Tanks are perfect for a custom Shovelhead or Panhead chopper, bobber or custom motorcycle.

Ian Smith of Americana Speed Shop really making our WX Tanks look good!

 

MORE DETAILS
PS – Check out our wide variety of unique custom gas tanks here!

IT NEVER ENDS—It’s interesting that freedom works, including free speech. The original ABATE members knew that. Against all odds, they fought for freedom to choose to wear a helmet or not. They also fought for the freedom to build choppers or custom motorcycles and they won and our industry survived. It’s not as easy to hand-build custom motorcycles in other countries.

There should be another amendment to the Constitution. Maybe it should be the 2nd amendment Plus. The FREEDOM TO BEAR ARMS AND BUILD CHOPPERS. I like that and FUCK OFF if you don’t like it.

It’s snowing like crazy in the Badlands, so shop work is not progressing, but everything else is.

With the help of Mama Tried we are posting a Black Biker history piece on Bikernet in the next couple of days. It’s interesting. I knew members of the Chosen Few. In fact, three brothers came to the Wilmington Headquarters and wanted to turn it into their clubhouse. We weren’t finished with it yet.

The famous Pandemic was loaded onto a Haul Bikes rig yesterday in 13 Palms, California for shipment to the Badlands. Hang on for more reports.

Irish Rich got heat installed in his shop from Mac Gas. He’s ready to get started on my VL to Knucklehead frame.

If you’re a Cantina Member check out the Hump Day Girls from Barry Green and quotes from the Scott Adams book about life and success. Could be helpful and share them and his book with folks who are struggling.

We are working with Frankie on several projects. He recently returned to Wilmington for a photo shoot.

I’m itching to work on a motorcycle but for now I tinker around the digs and drink whiskey.

Hang on for next week’s report. You know it’s going to be good.

Ride Fast and Free Forever,

–Bandit

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Harley-Davidson ‘Further Faster’ World Premiere Event

If you were not able to join the Global Reveal, please feel free to watch the video at your leisure

Or Save the Link Below for later.

CLICK HERE – www.h-d.com/22.

Take a close-up look at the models, parts and apparel featured in “Further. Faster.”

 

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New Harley-Davidson Cruiser Models

MORE POWERFUL LOW RIDER S AND NEW LOW RIDER ST MODELS JOIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON CRUISER LINE

MILWAUKEE, WI (January 26, 2022) – Harley-Davidson injects exciting performance and adds versatility to its 2022 Cruiser motorcycle line-up with the introduction of the new Low Rider® ST and more powerful Low Rider® S models. Both motorcycles offer the taut handling performance of the Harley-Davidson® Softail® chassis and the V-Twin muscle of a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain. The Low Rider S 117 model is an aggressive performance kingpin designed for the rider seeking unapologetic power. The new Low Rider ST model offers the versatility of hard bags and a fixed fairing. Both of these new models have a lean, performance-comes-first posture that defines West Coast custom style.

Milwaukee-Eight® 117 High-Performance Engine

The Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine with precision oil/air cooling is the pinnacle of torque and displacement from a factory-installed, regular-production Harley-Davidson® powertrain. This engine delivers outstanding performance and instant bragging rights on the street.

  • 117 cubic inch displacement
  • 125 ft. lbs. of torque at 3500 RPM for a performance boost the rider can feel with every twist of the throttle
  • High-performance camshaft is matched to displacement and air flow intended to maximize performance
  • High-performance, tuned Heavy Breather intake with forward-facing exposed filter element flows more air into the engine to produce exciting mid-range torque, and gives the motorcycle added hot rod presence
  • High-performance 2-into-2 offset shotgun exhaust is tuned to provide smooth and broad mid-range torque while producing a stirring tone
  • Dual counter-balancers reduce primary vibration at idle for improved rider comfort
  • Dealer-installed Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts Stage Upgrades from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories are available to boost engine performance even further

Low Rider ST Model

This is how Harley-Davidson does sport-touring, with style rooted in the California “tall bike” movement. The saddlebags ride high and tight, the rear suspension is jacked up, the handlebar is high, and the FXRT-inspired fairing is frame-mounted. The Low Rider ST model puts the rider in a commanding position on top of the bike, and the riding sensation is direct and reflexive. When the road trip is over, simply pop off the saddlebags to convert the Low Rider® ST model from cross-country mode to urban performance cruiser.

“A key element of this model is the frame-mounted fairing, which has a shape inspired by the classic FXRT Sport Glide model fairing favored by West Coast customizers,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “With a dominant central headlamp flanked by side vents, the genetic connection to the original FXRT remains familiar. The sharper creases and revised proportions in the Low Rider ST fairing provide a look that is intended to be modern, athletic and aerodynamically superior to the FXRT fairing. The raised fitment of the saddlebags high above the exhaust reinforces the performance of the model – the message being that these bags will not limit lean angle when the bike is pushed to the limit.”

The shape of the new frame-mounted fairing was developed through CFD (computational fluid dynamics) analysis and real-world testing. Triple fixed splitstream vents help limit rider head buffeting at highway speeds. A six-inch high windshield has a Dark Smoke tint, and the fairing holds a single 5.75-inch LED headlamp.

The lockable, rigid saddlebags feature a sleek clam-shell design that makes them easy to load and unload. The bags can be opened with one hand by a seated rider, and a damping device allows the saddlebag lids to open smoothly. The bags can be removed in seconds with an internal quick-release mechanism. Combined saddlebag capacity is 1.9 cubic feet (53.8 liters).

A deep solo seat helps hold riders in place during aggressive acceleration and cornering. A one-inch moto handlebar is mounted on four-inch pull-back risers while a low-profile textured-black console tops the five-gallon fuel tank. Instrumentation is presented by a compact digital display inset in the handlebar riser for a custom, “no gauges” look.

Ride and handling are enhanced by the chassis, optimized to reduce weight without sacrificing rigidity. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain is rigid-mounted in the frame to further enhance chassis stiffness. A 43mm inverted fork stiffens the front end for a responsive ride, and its single-cartridge internal technology keeps the front wheel planted for improved braking and handling performance. Fork rake is 28-degrees.

The Low Rider ST is equipped with a taller rear monoshock than the standard Softail® chassis monoshock (1/2-inch more stroke, 1-inch more rear wheel travel, ¾-inch higher at the seat) which raises the rear of the motorcycle. This provides improved ride comfort and increases lean angle by more than one degree, which improves dynamic performance for enhanced ground clearance and improved rider confidence during aggressive cornering. Under-seat hydraulic pre-load adjustment allows the rider to maintain optimal suspension performance for the prevailing load and road conditions. Dual front brakes with 300mm discs deliver the responsive braking demanded by aggressive riders. Standard ABS (antilock braking system) provides confident braking performance when conditions are less than ideal. Premium Michelin® Scorcher® 31 tires (Front 110/90B19, Rear 180/70B16) enhance ride and handling performance. Other features include a Signature LED headlamp, bright LED tail/brake lamps and a USB charging port.

Rugged, blacked-out styling includes Wrinkle Black finish on the powertrain, primary cover, triple clamps, top clamp, rear fender supports and tank console; the derby cover, intake, lower rocker covers, and handlebar riser are Gloss Black. The handlebar is Satin Black. The forks are anodized black. Mufflers and exhaust shields are Jet Black. Radiate cast-aluminum wheels (19-inch front and 16-inch rear diameter) are finished in Matte Dark Bronze for an intriguing contrast to the motorcycle’s dark components.

  • Accessory Audio: A high-performance motorcycle deserves high-output audio. The accessory Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® – Inner Fairing Audio Kit was designed alongside the Low Rider ST for outstanding performance and an ideal fit within the fairing. The system includes a compact 250-watt amplifier with digital signal processing (DSP) technology and a pair of 5.25-inch woofers and two remote tweeters. Connect to a mobile device via Bluetooth to play stored or streaming audio. Learn More about the Harley-Davidson Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate.

Available Paint Colors: Vivid Black, Gunship Gray

The Low Rider ST model will be available at authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships globally beginning in late March 2022.

Low Rider S Model

The Low Rider S model is a cruiser designed for riders seeking unapologetic power and willing to push their bike to the limit. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain produces five percent more torque than Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine that powers the 2021 Low Rider S model, and gives its owner instant bragging rights. Premium suspension enhances the riding experience. Straight from the factory this bike bundles the big attitude of West Coast style and unrelenting performance previously only attainable with significant investment in accessories.

The 2022 Low Rider S model is equipped with a new handlebar-mounted combination analog tachometer/digital speedometer, which replaces the tank console instruments as seen on previous Low Rider S models. The handlebar location places the gauge closer to the rider’s line of sight. A low-profile textured black tank console with FXLRS badge now tops the fuel tank. Outstanding lighting performance is provided by a signature LED headlamp and LED tail/brake lights.

The same taller rear monoshock featured on the Low Rider ST model raises the rear of the Low Rider S model for improved ride comfort and 1.3 degrees more lean angle than the previous Low Rider S model for enhanced ground clearance and improved rider confidence during aggressive cornering. Under-seat hydraulic pre-load adjustment allows the rider to maintain optimal suspension performance for the prevailing load and road conditions. A 43mm inverted fork with single-cartridge internal technology stiffens the front end for a responsive ride and improved braking and handling performance. Fork rake is 28-degrees. Dual front brakes with 300mm discs deliver the responsive braking demanded by aggressive riders, with standard ABS (antilock braking system) for confident braking performance when conditions are less than ideal. Michelin® Scorcher® 31 tires enhance ride and handling.

Other features include these key West Coast styling elements: A one-inch diameter moto bar on four-inch tall risers, a deep solo seat, mid-mount foot controls, and a color-matched mini speed screen fairing that frames the headlamp and blocks the wind when chasing down the freeway. The powertrain, front end and exhaust are totally blacked out, with Radiate cast-aluminum wheels (19-inch front and 16-inch rear diameter) finished in Matte Dark Bronze to contrast the motorcycle’s dark components.

Available Paint Colors: Vivid Black, Gunship Gray

The Low Rider S model is available now at authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships globally.

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, gear, accessories and more.

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